I Want to Die, But I Am Immortal

In a sea of chaos, it was a safe haven, a bubble of normalcy. He thought to himself, This is my paradise. The only location where I am not in actual danger.

His brief respite came to an end when the last bell rang its shrill cry, marking the end of the school day. The bubble was going to pop. Outside the school gates, he faced the dangers and uncertainties of the real world.

With their backpacks hanging over their shoulders, Joseph and Eric approached his desk. Joseph’s voice was urgent as he said, "Adam, you must accompany me.In the next town, I have a very important task to complete. I can not go by myself."

Adam was totally unprepared for the request. He had intended to head straight to the teachers’ office to confront James and find out what new trick his cunning teacher had set up. It was a huge departure from his plan to go to another town. He could not afford the risk of an unknown variable.

"No," he said right away in a firm voice. "I decline. I am unable to accompany you with anyone at this time."

Joseph’s expression dimmed. He made a begging motion with his hands clasped together. "Please, man," he pleaded. "Just ignore her for today, even though I know you have a girlfriend now. This is very significant. And the only person who can assist me is you."

Adam was taken aback by his friend’s despair. Why would Joseph beg him in this way, and what could be so important? And why specifically did he need Adam’s assistance? His mind raised a hundred red flags. He was the target. Anyone with him might also become a target. He could not risk that to Joseph.

"No," he repeated, his tone even more adamant.

Now, though, Eric jumped in. "You must leave, Adam." he said. "I’m going with him too. So what are you worried about? It will be the three of us."

Adam declined once more. However, they persisted. They would not accept refusal. They argued, pleaded, and persuaded. Adam refused to back down. It was too risky, he knew. He was aware that he needed to continue on his own. However, their unrelenting efforts was wearing him down.