AT THE BRINK OF DEATH

While still feeling lost, I saw Chris walking towards me. As he approached, a surge of anger pulsed through me. I didn't want to speak to him right now; I felt like lashing out, like breaking every bone in his body. But despite these violent urges, I knew I needed to be careful around him.

"Hey Sydney, I didn't see you in class, so I decided to come look for you," he said, approaching with a smile.

But as he drew closer, the smile vanished from his face. "Why are you crying?" he asked, his concern evident.

"What?" I murmured, touching my face and feeling the dampness on my fingers. I hadn't even realized I'd been crying.

"Is it your ankle? Are you feeling pain again?" he asked, his voice laced with concern.

Previously, I would have been easily fooled by his feigned concern but right now, I couldn't shake the feeling of repulsion at his pretense of kindness. I was no longer easily fooled by his facade.