You never wanted to, you had never imagined being in this situation. After leaving the past behind and starting a new life in New York, you quickly adjusted to the peace of not having to hide since you had burned whatever remained of your past a long time ago. You had joined Ash’s gangs and grew close to him over the years, Shorter, Bones, Alex, etc. You had finally found a sense of belonging.

But all of it was ruined when a rival had informed you that they had dirt against you. You were pissed and confused and damaged. Everything should have been fine now. You felt the urge to keep your friends safe, protecting yourself and them in the process, you had no choice but to betray Ash and his gang. And join the others.

There you stood. You had been about to leave, a small bag of some belongings on your back as you heard a familiar voice yell out to you. You turned to see Ash, that same cold expression on his face, that emotionless mask he always wore. You assumed he had found out. Your heart dropped, your stomach twisting at the reminder of your situation. He just stood there. You wanted to speak first, maybe apologize and beg for forgiveness yet you couldn’t make out the words, nevermind bringing yourself to sayp them.

“When were you going to tell me?” He demanded for an answer, and his voice showed it enough. Though you had been expecting the harshness of his voice, it felt like more he was just adding more guilt to the pile of your regrets.