Can’t stop staring.
The paper shakes in my hand. I don’t realize I’m holding it that tight until the edges crumple.
Because even in a world of glitter glue and galactic snack monsters, Benknows. Some part of him sees the truth. Feels it. The way Jav disappears for hours, comes back with shadows under his eyes. The way he moves like he’s always halfway through a war zone.
My son sees the man behind the stories.
And still thinks he’s a hero.
I sit on the edge of the bed and watch Ben breathe. Soft little huffs. He hugs a plush moon-dino to his chest like it’s a lifeline.
What am I even protecting him from anymore?
The truth is coming.
Whether I open the door or not.
And I have to decide—am I going to run like I always have? Pack up, cut ties, vanish into a quieter life where safety is a performance I rehearse every morning?
Or am I going to stay?
Stay and face the man who can’t stop lying to protect us from the very world he refuses to leave behind.
“If I can’t protect you both from my world, I’ll cut myself out of it.”
I think of him saying that on the rooftop.
Of how his hands trembled after.
I think he meant it.
I also think he doesn’t know how.
My compad vibrates against my thigh.
The screen lights up.Maliek.
I answer on reflex, voice low. “Hey.”
His voice is all silk and stress. “We need to talk. About Ben.”
I stand up, the air sucked from my lungs like a depressurized hatch.
“What about him?”
“Not now. Tomorrow. In person.”
“Maliek.”
He sighs. “It’s not bad. It’s just… important. You’ll want to hear it face to face.”
I glance back at the drawing in my hand. Jav with claws. A cape made of stars.
“What are you planning?” I ask.
“Nothing without you. I promise.”
That’s not a no.
