Finish It

JAMES

I lie curled up like a baby on the cold granite floor, trying really hard not to shiver overly much because my lady doesn’t like it. My butt and back sting from where she kicked me with her stilettos when my shivering annoyed her. I am so cold I think maybe I will freeze to death - and the idea seems like a great one. I’d be glad for death right now.

I don’t remember feeling this way before. Never until I’d been with my lady at the battlefront, and I’d seen that girl and heard that name.

James.

Until then, I think I was happy. I think I enjoyed being my lady’s pet.

But not now.

Now all I can think of is that face - the pale skin and dark hair. The wild eyes that seemed to see right through me, that seemed to see me. I can’t remember a time when anyone had even taken notice of me. And why would they? I’m just a dog. My lady said so.

But that name. James.

James.

I like the sound of it. Like how it feels in my mouth when I whisper it quietly to myself. James.