Chapter Text
It had been months since the Venomshank took what was left.
I dab a small amount of toothpaste onto the brush.
“Look look! It’s green!”
A voice fills my head. An awfully innocent voice unlike those cursed whispers.
I remember it clear as day. Brad had gotten excited over the fact my toothpaste was his favorite color.
Back then he asked all sorts of silly questions, like:
“Why does Zaskia have a coconut juicer?”
“Fishing’s boringggg. Why do people like it?”
And…
Of course questions about the Venomshank.
It hurt to think I could never hear his voice again.
I start brushing my teeth.
There must be a cure…I’ll call Monty about it.
He cured those bandits.
Why can’t he cure my son?
A knock rings throughout the house.
I wash my mouth out with water, putting my toothbrush away.
“I’m coming!”
I grab my cane. Recently I found myself leaning on it even more often.
I open the door to see Auko. He wore a cowboy outfit and was carrying a basket of different things like tea and macaroons from his shop.
And locally grown fruit..?
“Hey uh…Mayor dude. Sorry about uh your kid and all. This is from me and Tulip.”
I adjust my tie, straightening my posture.
“You and Tulip…?”
I carefully take the gift basket, looking at the unexpected gift then at the shopkeeper.
Auko was rubbing the back of his neck and looking to the side.
“Well yeah. We didn’t really know what to give you.”
He tenses, looking at the fruit.
“Was that a bit insensitive since he’s—“
“What? No no, it’s completely fine. Thank you, Auko.”
I set the basket on the side table.
“Tell Tulip that I’m very grateful.”
Auko smiles, walking away.
“Sure will! Have a good one.”
I politely give a small wave from my doorstep.
“You as well.”