The following week was rather strange, well... Everything was pretty much the same. Same crappy job. same fat, disgusting body, however there were no nightmares to speak of, which was odd. Not only that, but I've gotten this uneasy feeling, like someone's been watching me. The only place that felt safe, relatively speaking, was my job at the prison. Otherwise, I felt... Unsettled, as though someone was consistently dripping cold water down my back, or as though someone was prickling my shoulders with thin needles of ice.
I couldn't shake this feeling even when I turned the heat on in my house, which I was vexed to do as I absolutely hate the heat, but this chilling sensation was too much even for me. instead of being a comfort the warmth from the heating system wrapped around me like an unwanted embrace, intensifying my discomfort. It was an ironic twist of fate that I had to resort to something I despised just to alleviate the bone-chilling coldness that had taken hold of me. The air became stifling, oppressing my senses and making me feel trapped in a sweltering prison, though my job had me feeling that way anyhow. The conflicting emotions of vexation and relief intertwined within me, as I begrudgingly accepted the heat's reprieve from the haunting chill that had consumed my being.
Heading over to the fridge I found it once again empty. How could this have happened... stress eating... that's how this happened. my damnable appetite caught the better of me and strangled it. The sight of the barren shelves echoed my own sense of emptiness, mirroring the void within my soul. The refrigerator, once a source of nourishment and comfort, now stood as a stark reminder of my weakness and vulnerability.
The absence of sustenance magnified my frustration, exacerbating the mounting stress that had driven me to seek solace in food. Each time I succumbed to the temptations of emotional eating, it felt like my appetite had taken on a malevolent form, coiling around my self-control and squeezing it mercilessly. Its grip tightened, suffocating any semblance of discipline I had managed to cling to.
I cursed my insatiable cravings, for they had become my own personal tormentor. They lured me into a vicious cycle of temporary relief followed by self-reproach. The very thing that I had turned to for comfort had become a cruel captor, ensnaring me in its clutches.
As I stood before the empty refrigerator, a mix of disappointment and self-anger welled up within me. I had allowed my emotions to dictate my actions, and now I was left to face the consequences. The absence of food mocked me, reminding me of my weakness as though my stomach wasnt a big enough reminder to begin with...
Closing the fridge I looked upon my reflection mirrored in the chrome. "What did you expect? Pathetic...worthless loser." Anger took over as I felt the tears welling in my eyes. I raised my fist and stuck upon my reflection before taking a deep breath. Taking my wallet, I got into my car and headed to the local store.
I made my way through the isles, that ice cold feeling following me even here. trying not to let it bother me too much i went about my shopping. once again grabbing a couple of instant meals... a lot of instant meals, and while standing there. berating myself for the same, cheap, eating habits I suddenly heard the sound of a blood curdling screams and a loud bang ringing throughout the store that stole away my focus
Time seemed to slow as panic surged through the aisles. The once mundane shopping environment transformed into a chaotic scene of confusion and fear. Shoppers dropped their items and scattered in all directions; their expressions etched with terror.
The chilling sensation that had haunted me took on a whole new intensity, as if the frigid air had thickened with an added layer of foreboding. My heart raced, and a knot formed in the pit of my stomach, constricting my breath. The adrenaline coursing through my veins momentarily overshadowed the concerns of my own trivial shopping list.
I wasn't stupid. that was the sound of gunfire. training as a Co, and my hunting experiences with my grandpa had all but engraved that sound into my head. Swallowing the massive lump in my throat, I reached for my phone, hands trembling with a mix of fear and determination. As I dialed 911, the weight of the situation pressed heavily upon me. The palms of my hands grew clammy, and I could feel beads of sweat forming on my forehead. Each passing moment seemed to drain the color from my face, making my head feel increasingly lighter.
My voice quivered as I informed the operator that guns were being fired inside the store. With a racing heart, I provided them with the precise location and my name.
Yet, even as I conveyed the crucial details to the operator, I thought to myself, "did I even want to be saved?" I've lived my life as a cowardly nobody, but here before me is a chance to be a hero... If I die, I'd die attempting to save others. If I could save even just one life then my otherwise meaningless life would have meaning.
After giving the details of the situation I ended the call, despite the operator urging me to stay on the line I knew silence would be my ally in this endeavor
With determination fueling my every step, I pressed on towards the school supply section. As I reached the shelves lined with backpacks, I swiftly selected the sturdiest one available. Carefully, I filled it to the brim with stacks of extra-thick paper, ensuring there was a substantial distance between my body and the contents of the backpack. It was my improvised bullet proof vest, offering me a sliver of protection in this perilous situation.
As gunshots continued to reverberate throughout the store, growing alarmingly closer, I hastened my pace towards the sports section. There, I spotted a solid baseball bat resting against a rack. Without a second thought, I grabbed it firmly, feeling its weight reassuringly in my hands. Doubt and anticipation wrestled within me. I could say I was doing this for others but really I was doing this for myself.
The words ``Death comes for us all '' echoed in my mind, a somber reminder of life's fragility.That doesn't mean I liked it, did i really have nothing better to do? I recalled the words of a murderous loli from one of my favorite series, summoning both fear and resolve. Today was indeed as good as any other to die and confront the looming threat, even if it meant putting my own life on the line. I'll find meaning, i'll finally do something good! The mixture of anxiety and strangely excitement surged through me, heightening my senses and sharpening my focus.
With the backpack acting as a makeshift shield and the bat as my weapon, I steeled myself for what lay ahead. I knew the risks, and that was fine, a sense of meaning dove me forward. I took a deep breath, grounding myself in the present moment, and prepared to face the unknown with unwavering determination.
"It's now or never." I whispered to myself, channeling my courage and resolve. Time was of the essence, police were on their way... If I was to make any meaningful difference it would have to be before any help arrived... a part of me regretted calling, if only to buy precious seconds before they appeared on the scene.
With a couple of baseballs securely tucked into the deep pockets of my sweatpants, I continued my mission, cautiously moving through the store in search of the shooter. Every corner turned and every aisle crossed heightened my senses, as I remained vigilant for any signs of danger. As I progressed, I stumbled upon injured individuals scattered throughout the store, their pain and fear evident in their eyes.
Without hesitation, I offered assistance, gently dragging them out of plain sight to safer areas. I whispered words of reassurance, urging them to stay strong and promising to return for them once the immediate threat had been neutralized. If I could save a few lives in this endeavor all the better, A few people however were beyond saving, their lifeless corpses dotting the aisles was a cold, bone chilling reminder that had me second guessing my efforts.
'You're pathetic, worthless, no good nobody. Jumping in like a hero. What makes you think you could save these people when you can't even save yourself... Stupid, useless, ignorant fat blob. shooting you would be as easy as hitting the broad side of the barn, just drop the bat and run. Leave these people to die while you still have the chance.' These insults were thrown about inside my head, my heart twisting at their cruel truths.
I was all those things... I didn't want to stay that way... even if I died... I could die protecting others.
The distant sound of sirens pierced the air, carrying with it a faint sense of relief knowing emergency services. With that relief came a sense of urgency, if i didn't do something now then what did I stay in the store for?
Time remained a crucial factor, and I couldn't rely solely on external aid, not that I wanted to. I had to find the shooter and neutralize the threat before more police arrived, and more lives were lost. With a deep breath, I steeled myself for the task at hand, Shaking my head to remove the vicious thoughts plaguing my mind. focusing on my immediate surroundings and listening keenly for any indications of the shooter's whereabouts.
The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.
The store seemed eerily quiet, so quite i could hear my heart punching through my chest and into my ear drums, this silence was punctuated only by sporadic sounds of shuffling and muffled cries. The gravity of the situation hung heavily in the air, amplifying the urgency of my mission.
As I ventured deeper into the heart of the store, ready to face whatever awaited me,the weight of my task settled upon my shoulders, but I embraced it.
Eventually I spotted my prey As I crouched behind the shelves, my heart pounding in my chest, matching the rapid rhythm of my breath. Time seemed to slow down as I calculated my next move. The shooter was inching closer to my location, his footsteps echoing faintly through the store.
I cautiously peeked around the corner of the aisle, carefully studying his movements. He was armed and dangerous, but I couldn't let fear consume me. I had to stay focused, relying on my instincts and quick thinking to take him down before he could cause any more harm, or rather, which was my immediate concern, before police got here.
Luckily it appeared most of the customers had now either cleared out through the back, or have hidden themselves away. Meaning i didnt have to worry about any one getting in the way.
Gripping the bat tightly, I planned my approach. I needed to gain the element of surprise. With each passing second, the tension built up inside me, but I knew I had to remain patient. As he turned down another aisle, I seized the opportunity and swiftly moved ahead, keeping my footsteps silent.
I found the perfect spot, a concealed nook near the end of the aisle. I positioned myself, my muscles tensed, ready to strike at the right moment. The adrenaline coursed through my veins, sharpening my senses and heightening my awareness of every sound and movement around me.
Seconds turned into minutes, and it felt like an eternity. The anticipation gnawed at me, but I maintained my composure. Finally, I heard his footsteps approaching. He was just around the corner, unaware of the danger lurking nearby.
With a surge of determination, I braced myself, tightly gripping the bat, my knuckles turning white. As he rounded the corner, I lunged forward, wielding the bat with all my strength. The crack of impact reverberated through the air as the bat connected with his face.
The shooter stumbled backward, disoriented and momentarily incapacitated. It was my chance to seize control of the situation. A chance I squandered. I honestly didn't think this plan would have worked, excitement flooded my system, but i didn't have any other plan than to whack him as hard as i could. and in that brief moment of relief and trying to quickly think on what to do next the shooter recovered.``FUCKING PUNK!" he screamed aiming his pistol in my direction he let off a couple of shots, a bullet grazed my cheek and id be damned if that didnt put my balls up my throat, it probably would of hurt if my mind wasnt so focused on staying alive.
As the shooter regained his senses, his eyes filled with rage and a twisted determination. The sound of his voice, laced with anger and adrenaline, pierced through the air, fueling my own adrenaline in response. I cursed myself for underestimating the situation, realizing that my hasty plan had put me in even greater danger. "Hey, I know you're pissed about the bat thing but how about letting me go huh? let bygones be bygones?" My plea was only met with gun fire, causing me to yelp out in fear, whatever courage I had mustered was soon dwindling away with my anxious fear filled laughter.
Instinct took over as I dove for cover behind a nearby display, narrowly avoiding the hail of bullets that whizzed past me, a few hitting my make shift vest. The intensity of the situation escalated, and I could feel the weight of the moment pressing upon me. Fear mingled with a determination to survive as I quickly assessed my options.
I needed to regain control and turn the tide in my favor. Searching my surroundings, my eyes fell upon a metal shelving unit nearby. With a surge of desperation, I lunged towards it, using it as a makeshift shield to protect myself from the incoming gunfire, bullets flew through the metal, but i was provided with enough cover and luck that none had hit my location.
Each gunshot reverberated through the store, causing chaos and panic among the few customers who were still present, in hiding and paralyzed by fear. The shooter, now fully focused on me, continued his relentless assault, firing round after round in my direction. The fear that gripped me was growing stronger as I kept thinking of ways to try and get out of this mess.
As I huddled behind another shelving unit, my mind continued its race, searching for a way out of this perilous situation. I knew I couldn't stay pinned down forever. Time was running out, and I needed to act quickly. Getting in close wasn't going to do me any good, my bat, useless, and so were the balls I had tucked away in my sweats, tossing them away i bit my lower lip, my breathing becoming unsteady.
What was I thinking? How could I be so reckless? Fear was overpowering my courage, and my vision was beginning to close in on its-self i even felt as though i could cry, as a matter of fact i could feel the hot droplets beginning to form on the edge of my eyes. My mind was starting to go into complete panic. Taking a deep breath, I attempt to muster my courage and scanned the area for any potential weapons or escape routes. That's when my eyes caught sight of a fire extinguisher hanging on the wall nearby. A spark of hope ignited within me as I realized it could be the key to turning the tables.
With a burst of adrenaline, I made a split-second decision. Timing my move carefully, I waited for a momentary lull in the gunfire before making a dash towards the fire extinguisher. Bullets whizzed past me, narrowly missing their mark as I focused solely on reaching my new objective. A Spray of gunfire rang out through the air, how I wasn't being hit was beyond me, but that didn't matter, I needed to get to the fire extinguisher, though... with that thought, came. "JUST HOW MANY BULLETS DO YOU FUCKING HAVE!"
Grabbing the extinguisher off the wall, I yanked it free, feeling its weight in my hands I turned to face the shooter, my eyes widened as I was face to face with the barrel of the gun pinpointed between my eyes... my heart stopped... this was it... I was going to die. closing my eyes I braced myself for death.
What a way to go, rather fitting for a loser like me... attempted something great only to be slaughtered like a wild animal. Dumbass, weakling, idiotic piece of human garbage... look at where trying to be brave gets you..
CLANK!
"UGH!" came the cry of the shooter.
What... was that?
As I cautiously opened my eyes, a mixture of confusion and relief washed over me. The shooter's grip had loosened, and his body crumpled to the ground, revealing the tall, slender man, with sleek obsidian colored hair. who had come to my rescue. He held the bat,the same bat I had tossed away, firmly in his hands, his eyes burning with determination.
"Are you okay?" the stranger asked, his voice filled with urgency. His presence brought a glimmer of hope, a chance for survival that I had thought was lost.
I nodded, unable to find my voice in that moment. The adrenaline still coursed through my veins, and I quickly released the hold on my breath, gasping rapidly for air, coughing out the strain in my throat.``Oh god... I thought I was dead.
"You quite frankly should be... what the hell were you thinking? Always keep a weapon on hand! never throw it away!" His tone was harsh and strict like a pissed teacher telling off a disobedient student for the eighth time
an odd lecture to give someone you just met but a surge of gratitude replaced the resignation that had settled upon me just seconds ago.
"I don't know who you are, but thank you," I managed to utter, my voice trembling slightly.
He offered a brief nod, his gaze scanning the surroundings to ensure there were no remaining threats. "We're not out of the woods yet," he replied, his tone steady and focused.
Not out of the woods? but there was only one shooter...
It was then at that moment that a police squadron had entered the building.
As the police squad entered the building, their uniforms and badges bringing a sense of authority and safety, the tension in the air began to ease. The officers swiftly assessed the situation, their training evident in their coordinated movements.
My savior quickly raised his hands, the bat dropping to the floor as a sign of surrender. With a calm and steady voice, he gave his name, Albert V Fritz, explained the events that had transpired, detailing mine, was he watching the entire time? and his courageous intervention and the imminent danger we had both faced.
I'd be lying if i said i wasn't at least a little bitter, i felt as though my moment of glory was stolen... a part of me thought it would have been better to have died than be saved by Albert... Now I was just another victim that needed to be saved... What a freaking joke.
The police cautiously approached us, their guns drawn but lowered, recognizing that we were not the immediate threat. They assessed our well-being, ensuring we were unharmed and able to cooperate. Once satisfied, they directed us to move away from the scene, guiding us to safety while they secured the area.
As we reached a safe distance, the chaos of the situation began to settle. The realization of the magnitude of what had occurred slowly sank in. We were survivors of a violent attack, fortunate to have crossed paths at such a critical moment.
The police took our statements, carefully documenting every detail. They commended our bravery and quick thinking, recognizing the crucial role we played in neutralizing the shooter. We both answered their questions, recounting the events as best we could, despite the haze that lingered from the adrenaline-fueled encounter.
Though, i say we, my mysterious savior Albert, seemed to have done more than I.... all i did was make things worse, at least thats how I felt... stupid, idiotic, reckless, moron... what if the stay shots would have hit someone other than yourself.
Pathetic, worthless, dumbass. I had all the insults in the world I could hurl at myself... I tried to do good, or at least have a good death and I couldn't even do that right... had he not been there I would of died in that moment just before police arrived.
As the weight of my self-criticism bore down on me, I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by a sense of guilt and self-doubt. The pain in my cheek and the throbbing sensation in my gut served as a painful reminder of the consequences of my impulsive actions.
Albert must have sensed my inner turmoil, for he placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. His touch conveyed understanding and compassion, cutting through the haze of self-blame that enveloped me.
"You're being too hard on yourself," he said softly, his voice filled with empathy. "Yes you were stupid, and things could have gone worse, but they didnt, and In moments of chaos, it's natural to react on instinct. You did what you thought was necessary to protect yourself and others. We both survived because of it."
To be honest i wasn't really trying to protect others, but I wasn't about to let him know that.
"But I could have endangered others," I murmured, my voice filled with fake, remorse. I couldn't tell him or anybody I secretly wished to be in the spotlight of glory, or to at least die in the pursuit of something courageous.
Albert shook his head gently. "You couldn't have predicted every outcome. What matters is that we made it out alive, and now we have an opportunity to learn and grow from this experience."
He was being awfully caring for someone I just met... rather suspicious...
I wish I could say his words had struck a cord with me, but I was too busy wallowing over what could have happened. i just offered a smile saying.``Yeah... Sure'' He smiled back, but his eyes soon diverted in another direction, as though he were staring intently towards the sky... I followed his eyesight but saw nothing.
"What'cha staring at?" I asked, tilting my head.
I thought I heard albert click his tongue as he responded. "Nothing"