From Chains

Chapter 11: Regret

"No, you didn't. They were monsters, not people. I never want you to think about them again, and don't second guess yourself. If it weren't for you, I wouldn't be here right now."

"Mm."

"Also, I don't want you to worry about being handcuffed. That won't happen again."

"How come?"

"Because now I know how terrifying it is."

"I'm not scared when you handcuff me. I mean... I was at first, but I don't mind anymore. I trust you, Master."

I won't betray your trust, Pip.

Heavy boots stomp around on the other side of my curtain. "In here?" I hear a deep voice. Two policemen step into my room. Shit.

Pip moves back on the chair next to my bed.

"You the guy who got stabbed?" one asks.

My face goes pale. "Yea."

"How'd that happen?"

"I got mugged," I lie.

"What'd the guy look like?"

"Tall, brown hair, bearded," I make up a bunch of characteristics.

They glance at each other. "We're going to need to see some ID."

"He took my phone-ID."

"What's your name then?"

"Robert Tims." I glance at my hand to make sure I'm not shaking.

He types my name into his tablet.

Pip's glaring at them. I snap my fingers at her. I don't need them to be any more suspicious than they already are.

"Robert Tims ain't a real person."

"I assure you that I am. I'm from Craddeck, and they don't share their population info with others."

"And what are you doing here?"

"I'm just passing through. I'm on my way to Geburn."

They glance at each other again.

"We'll file a report for the mugging, but we need your fingerprints."

"Yes of course." I give them my hand and they stamp my fingerprints into their machine.

"We'll be in touch." They disappear behind the curtain, and I hold my breath as their footsteps fade away.

I wasn't born yesterday. They're going to compare my fingerprints to the truck I abandoned at the crime scene.

"Pip, help me up."

She pulls me to my feet, and I have to use her to stay upright. Whatever medication they gave me is still in my system. I grab my jacket, and we sneak out of the hospital.

She ploughs forward, but I quickly pull her back. "You need to wait for the walk signal." I point to the traffic light.

"Oh um... yes, Master."

I reach for my keys on instinct, but my pockets are empty. I've lost my truck, my gun, my phone and my wallet. I've got nothing but the clothes on my back. I've got to call my sister. I wish I was calling to tell her that she's going back to study, but everything has fallen apart, and I need her help.

"Let's go." I point to a middle-aged woman, and Pip helps me reach her.

"Good morning, I'm Robert. I've lost my-"

"Get away from me, you creep." She hurries across the road.

I let out a long breath.

There's a thin man down the street. Pip helps me reach him.