"Time" by Jay Powell

I watched him run. I smiled for the first time in years.

It was a rarity, to see him. He didn’t often show up, and when he did it wasn’t for very long. Sometimes he came unannounced, a surprise visit. This was the first time he ran. Soon, he’d be gone again.

So, I enjoyed what little time we had.

He ran around the small room, touching everything as he passed. It was like a game, and when he missed the corner of the bed he stopped and made sure to hit it harder.

His eyes were bright when he looked at me. I think he noticed my smile. His lips curled into one as well. Coming closer, he patted my hand.

The nurse pulled away, knowing she had my attention.

I sighed.

She counted out several pills from a bottle, keeping up with a daily checklist.

“He was… He was running this time,” I said, my stringy voice trailing.

The nurse looked up from her cupped palm and raised a disinterested eyebrow. “Was he?” She put down an extra pill.

“You let me know if he comes back, alright?” she asked. I wouldn’t.

The medicine was placed to my right along with a glass of water.

The door shut and I listened hard for its click.

I only took two of the vile things.

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