Why is it always in these crucial moments I find myself hesitating? Crucial moments that do not permit hesitation. Yet, I’m overcome by such. The thoughts present in my mind do not translate to my fingertips. Pull the trigger! He’s right there! My body harbors no inclinations to follow through. Shaking, frustrated, I force myself to keep eye contact with the figure in front of me.
“Doctor, why the uncertainty?”
Gritting my teeth in defeat, I reluctantly lower my weapon. I can’t do anything like this.
Sensing my weakness, the other man strides confidently to my side. His pale hand reaches out and guides my jaw in his direction. I don’t react – no, I can’t react. I’m frozen. Gently, his lips brush against my own. They’re cold, soft. A kiss of finality, a view of the end.
His lips leave mine and he reaches down to my armed hand. He lifts it up and firmly plants the end of the barrel to his forehead.
“Just one shot, Doctor Tenma. That’s all it takes.”
His hold on my hand remains, I feel his fingers softly caress my own, as if encouraging me to pull the trigger. I gulp down nervously. This isn’t how it was meant to be. Seeking death so desperately, seeking to escape this world guilt-free, should I really grant him such a wish? He and I both know there are far worse fates than death, however, does he even deserve the chance to repent for everything’s he done?
“Don’t do it, Tenma!” a woman’s voice cries out. I turn my head, it’s Nina. She’s shaking, scared. She looks resentful, as if she’s responsible for this whole mess. And that’s all it takes. I collapse to the floor in a confused mess, I clutch the gun to my chest as tightly as possible.
I want to scream. I want to shout. I want answers. I want instructions. I want… I want to end this mess once and for all!
The last thing I hear is a gunshot.