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But Carl’s right He’s fucking right, goddaone

But not his toothbrush Not his aftershave stuff I walk into htstand, underneath both pillows

Nothing

I think of the e dozed off Things were okay Things were good I call hiain…and then a third ti down my cheeks

“Hey Ezra? What’s the matter, man? I’m really worried Please call I don’t believe you would just go Without some kind of…I don’t know Did your mom find out? About us?”

As soon as I hang up, I call back "Ez It’s me Are you okay? Can I come see you? Can you call me?"

I' the phone so hard it hurts my hand, when Mom cracks the door open

"Josh—"

“Did you talk to him?” I ask her

“No”

"Then get out!"

I call again, not proud that I'el I don't knohat I did wrong, but call me Please I want to know that you're okay I need to"

One ain to voice mail I hurl my phone at the

Seven

Ezra

December 10, 2018

"Okay, Mr Masters Quick song and dance, and then we'll get this started"

I nod

"Remember to lie still and let us do our jobs or your arms will need to be strapped down No one likes that" The nurse winks

My stomach pitches

“Did you give your consent to treatment?”

I nod

“Can I get a verbal yes, Mr Masters?”

I s and choke the word out “Yes”