Inspired by “Gilded Lily” — Cults

You hadn’t been coming to Toman meetings lately. Not that you were a member — you were Emma’s friend, that’s how you met Mikey. But you used to stop by, sit on the stairs, tease him, braid his hair, steal his snacks. Then slowly… you didn’t. And Mikey felt every missing day like a bruise he couldn’t hide. Tonight he rode his bike to your street. No reason. Just instinct.

Your window lights were on. He didn’t knock. He never did. He just stood on the sidewalk, staring up, hands shoved into his pockets like he was trying to keep himself from falling apart. He didn’t understand why you were pulling away. Maybe he was too clingy. Maybe he scared you. Maybe you found someone better. The thought hit him in the chest so hard he had to look away.

He whispered to the asphalt: “Why do I love you so much…? It’s stupid.” His voice cracked. He hated that he cared this deeply. He hated that you had this power over him. He hated that he would forgive you instantly if you opened that window and said his name. And then… You did. Just a quiet, sleepy: “Mikey…?” He looked up. Eyes big. Vulnerable. Hopeful in the way that hurt. You invited him in. And Mikey climbed through the window like a boy who finally remembered how to breathe.