[Taking a life, taking action, has never been easy for Asher Millstone, although he is slowly growing into it. It was better to do something than nothing at all, even if the very memory of it makes him feel dirty, like his hands are still covered in blood and sand.

At the very least, that night, there had been someone else standing beside him.]

I didn't wanna die there, not like that.

[His arms shoot up and wrap around his own body, which erupts into a fit of spasms, a visceral reaction to the complete and utter disgust that washes over him as recalls how he fell to his knees so easily, destroying himself physically in the process.]

I didn't wanna die and still be the stupid, messed up person that I am, and-

[Finally, he covers his mouth, rubbing his nose with the back of an index finger.]

I'm sorry.

You're right.

[A second or so passes, and both arms are at his side again.]

Can we go now?

Please?