Bestowing in a short stride inside of this barren home belonging to a close friend recently made me feel, hollow.

Discovering the area rather shortly, the initial aspect inside the house I noticed was how the eyesore flooring remains incomplete with old stains amongst lingering dirt. Appears as though the aged carpet was discarded after subsisting there for ages of how unsanitary the ground looks.

Interested in what the previous owners were committing to this place, did they discontinue intentionally? A probability in today’s society nowadays. Although the idea seems conspicuous by speculation.

I also believe the last residents of this lodging seem well manage for how certain sectors looked unscathed with no burned stains from a shortage of maintenance. Messy and jagged painted walls clear from holes or dents. Absent of debris before leaving.

Updating the home. Apparent from the opening of nonexistent application of proper flooring to conceal the stained tiles and cheap white curtains covering up wide windows. What made them stop redecorating this delightful home in a lovely town? It’s so peaceful. Getting at a home like this for cheap ain’t easy. Practically a steal! Compared to reaching out for a diamond fish amongst thousands of stonefish screaming expensive.

What was their explanation? Intentions? Are they okay? Curious about what their plans of design were so I can achieve their dream home from how much they managed about the lack of abandonment residing alone. Such a nice home. I don’t mind the drive. Far from family. Who probably are worried occasionally now that I’m a grown adult, but I do keep in touch to let them know I’m safe.

I quietly took a seat in a lone wooden chair covered with dust in the dining room with light beaming over heavy-looking, sturdy boards enclosing the window. Then an old friend texted me who I considered to be.

Void for a gaze. Flipping over my device to see two adults and a child photo card behind the transparent phone case, then turning my phone back around to read the message sent about an hour ago.

From Crush ❤️:

“Haven’t you remember us yet? I miss you.”

I replied with a frown, “No, I’m sorry.”

My heart twists tightly.

Was I that important to them?

My frown tugs harder at the mere thought of hurting someone who meant something to me once. Mouth being tug to go down like when dentists put machines to prevent you from your mouth to move. Helping you smile brighter.

It only made my mouth darker.

I hesitate to close my eyes. They started to sting soon the longer they stayed closed. Recollection of fatal, fatigue body covered in fresh crimson, smiling, in a crash before blacking out.

My chest aches.

Weakly uttered out with no one around to hear my pain and see the newly operated tears that I didn’t bother halting in an echoed home that isn’t mine.

Though something felt familiar as if a presence is here with me.

More tears started to flow, I let them free.

“I miss you, mom.”