#7 The Station (English Version)

(For the spanish version see below)

Olivier was looking the Paris’ skyline thinking about all and nothing at the same time. From his apartment, he had a perfect view of the city. He used to sit there to enjoy the view of the city of lights especially during the sunsets. The mountain of Montmartre was illuminated and the Sacré-Coeur was shining as usual. Night had come and he did not even realize it.

He opened the palm of his hand where it was lying his silver talisman. Its screen was broken and he was not even able to read the numbers that used to appear. Life was sending him a warning or maybe it all was a metaphor about his behavior of last months. He had been playing with fire and he had finally been burned.

He whispered and laid down looking the deep sky. Moon was in its full phase and he could not see the stars above. He wondered what Claire was doing in that moment. He knew that she was about to go out with her friends and despite of they were not living together, he started to feel that he knew a lot of things about her. Was he falling in love? He had no answer.

The breach on the screen was shining illuminated by the moon’s light as it was a scar reminding him how lost he would be from this point onward. He knew, but did not want to admit, that the object will never ever show any numbers again: it all was over…

***

“Come on Olivier! We’re late as usual...”

“I won’t ever understand why you need to be on time Paul. The lesson of today really sucks…”

“Don’t be angry. It’s always you who asks me to go together. Furthermore, we need to do some stuff before starting the class.”

“Doing stuff… Like what?”

“For example, I have to deliver the homework that we had to do for today.”

“Ah, yes… I completely forgot that today was the last day.”

“What’s going on? Haven’t you done it?”

“Oh, yes! But, I gave it to the professor last Tuesday.”

“Are you fucking kidding me? You cannot be so fast. You’ve been laying on your bed the whole week watching stuff on internet. If what you’re saying is true, you have to tell me your secret of where you’ve got the time to work.”

Paul was looking at him completely lost. He knew nothing at all. Olivier overtook him; he did not only have all the time in the world, he could control it at his will. He turned back and replied to his mate.

“Sure! I have all the time in the world Paul so I can afford spending my time on internet. Come on, we’re late! The train is about to arrive.”

They both entered inside a wagon of the Paris RER train line B. It was the rush hour in the morning and the train was crowded as usual. Olivier was starting to think that maybe going with his friend at that time was not a good idea at all, but it was an effective method to wake up early. He told himself that he had to keep a normal life in order to not to raise suspicious among his friends.

Five minutes later, the train got into the Châtelet-Les Halles station where they had to alight. That station, built on the seventies, was a completely world apart: there 4 subway and 3 train lines converging and people was always moving by instinct like if they were ants working inside their nest.

In order to get to their next train, Olivier and Paul had to climb the stairs to get into a lobby which was situated just above the rails. Once there, they only had to walk towards the opposite direction and descend to take the line A train on the platform in front where they alighted.

As usual, the lobby was completely madness. People was going walking in all the possible directions towards the subway lines or entering on the train platforms. The lobby also had a lot of semicircular columns, that supported the structure, stopping people that were walking in a straight line.  Get lost there was an easy task unless you read the information panels, at least for Olivier.

Paul was heading towards the other platform crossing the lobby as fast as he could and Olivier was following him as fast as he could. He knew that his friend hated that place and he always wanted to catch the first train, even if it was impossible to enter.

“Hurry up Olivier! The train is about to come. Two minutes!”

“Okay… I follow you. Don’t you see that there are so many people…”

But before he could finish his sentence, a man rushed up to him and beat them onto the ground. That dude was holding something into his arms and he soon disappeared towards the subway gates.

“What an asshole! He could just avoid me.”

“What a way to start a new day Olivier. Give me your hand; I will help you to stand up.”

While Paul was trying to help Olivier, two security men of the Parisian subway ran toward the same direction where the guy had disappeared.

“I wonder if they are chasing him.”

“I don’t know Paul. Let’s move!”

They went downstairs as fast as they could. The train was coming into the station and people crowded together on the edge of the platform. However, a small group of people were gathering around someone. Olivier looked out of the corner of his eye; it seemed that a girl was lying on the floor crying. The doors opened and the train ejected a crowd as usual. Paul and Olivier did their best to get inside the train and they luckily found some seats on the top floor of the train. Olivier sat next to the window and then he was able to see what was going on the platform.

A young girl was being help to sand up. She was crying and shouting at the same time. Her hair was messy and her jacket was partially torn. The train slowly started to enter into the tunnel and soon they lost the view of the station. Paul was also witnessing the situation.

“It seems that someone has stolen her bag or wallet.”

“Yes, I agree with you, Paul. It must have been the dude that pushed me away on the lobby. He has to be the thief. Two security agents were chasing him…”

“I don’t think they have chased it. He was far away from them.”

“It’s a shame, poor girl…”

“What I don’t understand is why, as crowded as it was the station, nobody helped her…”

Olivier thought about that feeling during the whole journey and the rest of the day. It was unfair that nobody helped her. He hated this kind of situations. If only he had been there 5 minutes earlier…

“Hey! Are you OK? You haven’t paid attention during the whole morning. You’re like gone…”

“Paul, you know that I don’t usually pay attention during the classes.”

“Yes, but today’s different. You are in your own world.”

“Yes, well…”

“Are you still thinking about what happened this morning in the station? Come on, you can’t empathize with everyone. That happens every day.”

“Yes, but it makes my blood boil. I hate those kinds of people.”

“Anyway, you can’t help the girl now.”

Paul realized that Olivier was smiling.

“What’s going on? Why are you so happy? Two minutes ago you were angry…”

“Nothing Paul, let’s grab something to eat.”

As usual, Olivier did not pay attention again during the next class after the lunch. He had a brilliant idea in mind. He had been travelling to the past during the last few weeks just for funny. Now, he had a good idea about he wanted to do with his power.

He spent the rest of the day creating a plan: unique and without fissures. He knew exactly when he had to execute it and he even drew a map of the station. He did not want to have any loose ends.

That evening, when they were coming home, he told Paul he had to go to buy some stuff. As soon as Paul went downstairs to take the train, he remained on the lobby and started to walk towards the subway gates. He hid himself behind a column and grabbed the silver object. He activated it and pushed the buttons until the time displayed on the screen was 8:30 AM. He looked at both sides and check that nobody was watching him. He then pressed the button and closed his eyes.

Someone pushed him away and staggered falling down. He stand up as fast as he could, he had no time to waste. At that moment, the subway exchanger was infested by people moving around like lost souls trying to find their path without even realizing if they were colliding with the others. He watched over the horizon, he was a bit nervous but at the same time he kept calm. He was sure about what was going to happen and it gave confidence on himself. He checked the time again. Will he appear? He wanted to think that yes. He had to try it.

And then he saw him. A man who was wearing a leather jacket and denim trousers was passing through the gates of the RER lines towards the subway. He was tall and dark haired. His eyes were brown and he had a way of looking dead. Despite of wearing a bag in his arms, he was moving fast keeping an eye on his back. Olivier had no doubts, he was the thief.

It was time to attack.

He raised his leg at the moment were the man was passing by his side. The thief did not see it and he rush over him falling down onto the ground. The blow was so hard that the bag flied a few meters away from them.

Olivier stayed petrified during a second. His plan had been a success but it was not over yet. He had to finish his work. Without thinking and following his instincts, Olivier jumped on the thief at the moment when he was trying to raise up. He put his knee against the back of his enemy and grabbed his arm as hard as he could. The thief, completely immobilized, started to shout in pain.

“Leave me… please.”

“Shut up, stupid asshole! You’re just scum!”

“As soon as I see your face, I’m gonna break it!”

Olivier did not reply, he just squeezed harder the thief’s arm while he started to yell again. He then realized that a group of people were watching them as if it was a movie or something. Among the crowd, two security agents appeared: they were gasping and surprised.

“But how have you stopped him?” One agent asked him. Then, he moved him away and proceeded to immobilize the subject with handcuffs.

“How do you know so fast he was the thief?” The other questioned him.

Olivier did not answer. He just simply went to recover the bag.

“This belongs to the girl on the platform. I hope you can return it to its owner.” Olivier handed the bag over. “You guys should be careful the next time.”

“What the fuck? Explain us guy! How did you know it? It’s impossible that you saw it downstairs and then you stopped it here.”

“I saw him this morning. That’s all you need to know.”

Olivier started to walk and he got lost among the people.

“Wait young man! You have to tell us who you are!”

The agent went to stop him but he could not. Olivier had been vanished.

As soon as Olivier entered into his room on the residence he was overjoyed. He had made it!

“Can you tell me what’s wrong with you today? This morning you were depressed and now you’re happy. Have you been with a girl or what?”

“No, I haven’t. It’s something much better. Paul, I will never ever thank you enough about all you have done for me.” Paul did not understand a word. “I mean, for the economy homework of course.”

“You’re un idiot! You have only copied it and you are celebrating! Stop being so lazy and work more!”

Olivier smiled to his friend whilst he was grabbing in his pocket that silver object full of power.

#7 La estación (Spanish Version)

Olivier tenía la mirada perdida en el horizonte. Desde el balcón de su casa tenía una vista perfecta de toda la ciudad, pero aquel día no le hacía ni el más mínimo caso. Normalmente se sentaba allí a pensar y disfrutaba enormemente viendo el atardecer. Montmartre brillaba en la lejanía; ya era de noche y no se había dado ni siquiera cuenta.

Abrió la palma de su mano y contempló su talismán plateado. La pantalla estaba rota y apenas se podía leer en ella los números que algún día habían brillado. Aquello parecía una señal que la vida le estaba marcando. Una metáfora del comportamiento que había tenido durante los últimos meses. Había estado jugando con fuego y finalmente se había quemado.

Suspiró profundamente y se tumbó contemplando el cielo. La luna llena brillaba aunque a duras penas se podían ver las estrellas. Intentó imaginar qué estaría haciendo Claire en aquel momento. Aquella noche había salido con sus amigas y a pesar de no vivir juntos, Olivier se daba cuenta que cada vez pasaba más tiempo en su casa que fuera de ella. Extendió su mano y contempló el objeto plateado que tenía agarrado junto a la intensidad del cielo. La brecha que había en la pantalla resplandecía iluminada por la luna como si de una cicatriz se tratase. Muy a su pesar, sabía que difícilmente aquella pantalla volvería a mostrar horas y fechas: se había terminado todo.

***

–¡Vamos Olivier! Ya llegamos tarde como siempre...

–Nunca entenderé por qué tienes tanta prisa en llegar puntual Paul. Si total la clase de hoy es un coñazo

–No te enfades. Eres tú el que has querido venir conmigo. Además, tengo que hacer varias cosas antes de llegar.

–¿Cómo qué?

–Como entregar el trabajo que teníamos para hoy por ejemplo.

–Ah, sí ya lo había olvidado...

–¿Pero qué pasa, si tú también lo tienes que entregar?

–Ah, sí. Pero ya se lo di el martes al profesor.

–¡Venga va! No seas fantasma. Has estado toda la semana en la habitación sin hacer nada. Ya me dirás de dónde has sacado el tiempo para hacerlo.

–Bueno sí, pero de hecho me sobra todo el tiempo del mundo así que me lo puedo permitir.

Paul lo miró sin entender nada. Olivier pasó a su lado riendo en silencio. No solo no tenía todo el tiempo del mundo, sino que además lo podía controlar a su antojo. Se giró y miró a su compañero.

–Venga date prisa Paul que el tren está a punto de llegar.

Ambos entraron en un vagón de la línea B del RER de París. Era hora punta en la mañana e iban completamente apretados. Olivier se preguntaba por qué tenía que seguir yendo a aquella hora pero se decía a si mismo que no quería levantar demasiadas sospechas entre sus amigos y que debía seguir llevando una vida similar.

Cinco minutos después, el tren llegaba a Châtelet-Les Halles. En aquella estación construida en los años 70 confluían varias líneas de metro así como de tren. La gente se movía por instinto en aquella como si de hormigas se tratara. Por suerte para Olivier y Paul, su transbordo no estaba lejos. Simplemente tenían que cruzar al otro andén para coger la línea A y continuar el viaje hasta su escuela.

Para llegar al otro lado, tenían que subir por las escaleras hasta llegar a un vestíbulo que se situaba justo encima de los andenes y atravesarlo hasta el otro extremo. Normalmente estaba infestado de gente caminando en todas las direcciones ya que la disposición de las vías del tren era transversalmente opuesta al sentido del intercambiador del metro. Además, numerosas columnas de forma semicircular, que sustentaban la estructura, estaba situadas en el centro del vestíbulo impidiendo que los transeúntes caminasen de forma recta. A decir verdad, Olivier siempre se sentía perdido en aquél sitio si no miraba las indicaciones.

Paul descendió del vagón y fue a coger las escaleras mecánicas para subir al vestíbulo. Olivier lo seguía unos metros más atrás debido a la cantidad de gente que había. Ambos subieron al vestíbulo y avanzaron en la otra dirección para coger el tren.

–Vamos Olivier que el tren pasa en dos minutos, date prisa.
–¡Ya voy! No ves que hay demasiada...

Pero antes de que pudiese acabar su réplica, un hombre pasó corriendo a su lado y Olivier se tuvo que apartar para no ser atropellado cayéndose al suelo. Aquel tipo parecía llevar algo en las manos y pronto se perdió dirección al intercambiador del metro.

–¡Será imbécil!
–Qué manera de empezar el día Olivier. Vamos que te ayudo a levantarte.

Mientras Paul le ayudaba a incorporarse, dos hombre de la seguridad del metro pasaron por su lado corriendo.

–Me preguntó si tendrán alguna relación con el tipo aquel.
–No sé Paul, vamos que perdemos el metro.

Ambos bajaron por las escaleras y esperaron en el andén. El tren estaba entrando en la estación y la gente se apresuraba a para cogerlo. Sin embargo, una pequeña muchedumbre se amontonaba en un rincón. Olivier miró de reojo. Parecía que había una chica en el suelo, pero no llegó a distinguir bien ya que las puertas se abrieron y el tren expulsó una bocanada de gente. Ambos entraron y tuvieron la suerte de encontrar un par de asientos libres en la planta superior del tren. Olivier se sentó en la ventada y entonces lo pudo ver bien.

Una chica joven era ayudada a incorporarse. Se la vería alterada y no dejaba de lloriquear. Tenía el pelo alborotado y la chaqueta y parte del vestido desgarrado por el cuello. El tren empezó a moverse y a salir de la estación perdiéndola de vista. Paul también estaba mirando por la ventana.

–Creo que le han robado o algo así.
–Eso parece ser Paul. El tipo que se ha cruzado con nosotros debía ser el ladrón y los seguratas lo debían estar persiguiendo.
–No creo que pudieran dar con él. Les sacaba ventaja.
–Pobre mujer...
–Lo que no entiendo, es como estando la estación abarrotada de gente, nadie la ha ayudado.

Olivier quedó pensativo durante todo el trayecto y el resto del día. No estaba bien que aquella mujer hubiese sido agredida sin que nadie hubiese podido hacer nada. Si hubiera llegado a estar 5 minutos antes...

–¿Hey, te pasa algo? Llevas como ido desde esta mañana.
–Sabes que no atiendo mucho en clases.
–Ya pero hoy estás diferente. Como en tu propio mundo.
–Sí bueno...
–¿Todavía piensas en lo de esta mañana? Vamos, no empatices tanto con la gente. Eso pasa todos los días.
–Ya pero me da rabia no haber podido hacer nada.
–Da igual ahora eso ya, no vas a poder volver atrás y ayudar a la chica–. Paul observó que Olivier sonreía por primera vez. –¿Qué pasa, qué he dicho ahora?
–Nada Paul, vayamos a clase.

Como era habitual, Olivier ni prestó la más mínima atención a la clase de gestión de proyectos. Tenía asuntos más importantes en la cabeza. Había estado viajando al pasado durante semanas sin motivo aparente, simplemente por diversión. Ahora tenía algo en mente y quería hacer algo bueno con su poder.

Pasó el resto de la tarde diseñando un plan único y sin fisuras. Sabía perfectamente cuándo lo debía ejecutar y el lugar e incluso llegó a diseñar un mapa de la zona. No quería dejar ningún detalle suelto.

Aquella tarde, al volver a casa le dijo a Paul que tenía que comprar varias cosas y que se fuera avanzando. Tan pronto como Paul desapareció escaleras abajo fue en dirección del intercambiador del metro y se puso detrás de una columna. Acto seguido sacó el objeto plateado y fue pulsando botones hasta que una de las pantallas reflejó la fecha del día. La otra marcaba las 8:30 de la mañana. Miró a ambos lados y comprobó que no se acercaba nadie. Pulsó el botón y cerró los ojos.

Alguien le empujó y cayó al suelo. Se incorporó rápido: no tenía tiempo que perder. En aquel momento la estación estaba infestada de gente que iba y venía como almas en pena sin ni siquiera importarle con quien se cruzaban. Olivier oteó el horizonte, se sentía nervioso pero a la vez tenía la cabeza fría. Estaba casi convencido de lo que iba a pasar y eso le daba una cierta seguridad. Volvió a consultar su reloj. ¿Aparecería? No lo sabía a ciencia cierta ya que lo había visto fugazmente, pero debía intentarlo.

Fue entonces cuando lo vio. Un hombre con una chaqueta de cuero y pantalones vaqueros, acababa de pasar por el torno de la entrada de RER a toda prisa. Era de complexión alta y de tez muy morena. Tenía los ojos rasgados y una mirada sin vida. Se movía rápidamente pero con dificultad en su dirección; llevaba entre sus manos un bolso y miraba intermitentemente a sus espaldas. Era él, no tenía ninguna duda.

Era el momento de atacar.

Levantó su pierna rápidamente y el hombre cayó de bruces al suelo al pasar por su lado, el bolso salió rodando unos metros más allá. El golpe fue tan duro que el hombre quedó completamente aturdido.

Por un instante Olivier quedó paralizado. Su plan había tenido éxito pero todavía no había terminado el trabajo. Sin pensar y guiado completamente por su instinto se abalanzó contra aquel malnacido mientras intentaba ponerse de pie. Apoyó su rodilla contra su espalda y le agarró del brazo hacia atrás. El ladrón, completamente inmovilizado, ahogó un grito de dolor.

–Suéltame... por favor.
–Cállate imbécil. Eres simplemente escoria.
–En cuanto te vea, te las voy a hacer pagar bien caras.

Olivier no lo respondió y estiró más el brazo del carterista hacia él mientras volvía a gritar. Rápidamente se dio cuenta que un grupo de gente les rodeaba y les miraba con curiosidad sin querer acercarse. ¿Por qué la gente se comportaba siempre como meros especataores? Entre la multitud vio emerger un par de personas; eran dos guardias de la seguridad del metro que acudían jadeando. Al verle, se quedaron sorprendidos.

–¿Pero, cómo lo has hecho? –le preguntó uno de ellos. Acto seguido le apartó y procedió a esposar al sujeto.
–¿Cómo has sabido que era un carterista? –inquirió el otro.

Olivier no respondió, simplemente se levantó. Vio el bolso caído unos metros más allá y lo fue a recoger.

–Tengan. Esto le pertenece a la víctima. Espero que se lo devuelvan–. Olivier le tendió el bolso a uno de los agentes que lo aceptó con incredulidad. –Espero que la próxima vez tengan más cuidado.
–Pero chaval, ¿cómo lo has sabido? Es completamente imposible que lo hubieras visto robar y al mismo tiempo detenerlo.
– Ya lo había visto esta mañana. No necesitan saber más–. Se dio la vuelta y avanzó entre la multitud.
–Espera chico. ¡Dinos al menos tu nombre!

El agente se levantó y fue tras él pero muy a su pesar ya había desaparecido entre la muchedumbre curiosa que se agolpaba para ver el espectáculo. No lo pudo encontrar: se había esfumado completamente.

Cuando Olivier llegó a la residencia aquella tarde estaba exultante. ¡Lo había conseguido!

–¿Se puede saber qué te pasa? Llegas dando botes de alegría, ¿has estado con alguna chica?
–¡Qué va! Mucho mejor. Paul, nunca podré agradecerte lo que has hecho por mí–. Su compañero lo miró incrédulo sin entender nada. –Me refiero a los apuntes de economía claro.
–¡Menudo capullo! Has debido ir a fotocopiar lo que te dejé y vienes celebrándolo. Serás vago...

Olivier sonrió a su amigo mientras tocaba aquel objeto plateado lleno de poder.

#6 The Wall (English Version)

(For the Spanish version see below)

Thomas lighted a cigarette and took a long puff. Smoking helped him to calm down when he was anxious. He still had ten minutes before she arrived. He grabbed from his cell phone from his pocket and took a look to her message. After reading it for the thousandth time, he took a long breath and stayed watching the smoke disappearing in the dark sky of Paris. It was a cold day and was starting to rain, however he thought, that in those moments, the city was shinier than ever.

The Moulin Rouge was gleaming at his back and while hundreds of tourists were taking pictures and selfies, he was just smiling: he had planned that night in detail. He knew perfectly what he should do and nothing could go wrong. He indeed had a chance to demonstrate his feelings again to Chloé and take her back forever. He knew her a lot and in consequence, he had already decided what to do that night. As always, he enjoyed to surprise her and this time he could not fail. He would not fail.

Fifteen minutes later Chloé was late as she used to be. He finished his cigarette and he threw the fag-end away. Thomas started to think that she would not come and in his mind he was afraid that in the last minute she had canceled the meeting. He tried to find her in the middle of the crowd and finally he saw her. She was as stunning as he remembered her: she was wearing a red coat with a black hat. Her curly blond hair was waving with the wind. As soon as he saw her she smiled, that made him to stay petrified. He believed that he was completely ready for their meeting, but in that moment he realized that he did not know what to do or say her.

As she was walking towards him his heart beat faster and faster. He soon saw that she was crying in silence. He tried to approach her but he could not move:  she was in front of him. Her green eyes were filled of tears and when he look into them he realized that she needed to meet him during all those 6 years.

“Chloé, I’m…”

Despite he tried to talk to her he was not able to say anything else. Chloé slapped him and immediately after she hugged him. Thomas behaved like a robot and took her into his arms as he kissed her in her cheek. Some seconds later, they separate. Thomas turned red.

“I still don’t believe it Thomas. I don’t know but I still think that it’s a dream you’re here. How long has it been: 6 years? You look like the last time I saw you…”

Thomas stared at her. He felt how her eyes were shining: she was telling the truth and was happy to see him again after so many years. In spite of that, he still was paralyzed without being able to articulate a sentence: he was in fact hopelessly in love.

“Come on Thomas. You’re not going to remain in silence. You haven’t been back for nothing. I’m sure you have a lot of things to explain.”

Chloé was trying to remain clam. She spoke with an intermittent and melancholy voice. If the whole situation was enough difficult for him, he could not imagine how it was being for her.

“I’m sorry… It has been a while since I left and I think that I was completely shocked.”

“So, don’t let me wait! Let’s move, I’m starting to freeze.”

“Yes, of course. I have reserved a table in a restaurant at the end of the street. Would you like to come with me? I think that we will be more comfortable if we speak whilst taking a glass of wine.”

Both started to walk towards the Rue Lepic. That street started in the Blanche square where the Moulin Rouge was and went up into the heart of Montmartre district. There were a lot of restaurants and cafés and Thomas enjoyed getting lost in the middle of those streets. In somehow, the Montmartre district was a small town inside the city of Paris.

They started to talk about trivial things. Chloé ask him how was his job going, if his family and friends were alright and finally if he still had his old apartment. Thomas thought that it was a stupid conversation. In other times they understood each other only exchanging looks. Now, they look like two completely strangers meeting for the first time. However, talking to her again made feel him better and was gaining confidence in him again.

After 5 minutes walking they reached the restaurant. It was not the first time they were in that place. Thomas remembered with all details that Chloé loved that place. That is why he had not hesitated to choose it.

“I remember the first time we came here. It was one of the first days we started to meet alone.”

“So you remember it?”

“How could I forget it? You know I have a good memory…”

The waiter arrived and Thomas asked for a red wine. It would be good for both.

“So how is it going your back to reality?” Chloé asked him whilst they started eating.

“Well, at the beginning it was a bit difficult. Even if a month has gone, it is still difficult for me to adapt to my new situation. But I believe it’s going better those days.”

“I understand. It cannot be easy to come back to your old life when you have been 6 years gone.” Thomas was starting to think whether if Chloé was sarcastic or not. He doubted a second but he knew that Chloé was not like this. “Don’t worry Thomas. I’m serious. I asked myself so many times what I did wrong to you when you disappeared.”

“I’m so sorry Chloé. You cannot imagine how bad I feel. It wasn’t my intention to hurt you. You know I was in love, but…”

“And…? I’m still waiting for an answer. I need to know what you have been doing all those 6 years. Mathieu told me that you met and talked him and you were amnesiac or you had a memory loss. But I don’t know, I had faith you could explain to me as I was your girlfriend.”

Chloé was staring at him with her green eyes. Thomas choked with the food. He was burdened for the question, but he could not avoid answering her. He must find explanations to his mental block whether he wanted to get her back.

“I don’t know Chloé…  I have so many memory lapses that I’m starting to believe that I still live in that day of 2010. I remember all the details of that night. It was the most important of my life: how could I forget it? We had to go to life together and afterwards I found myself alone trying to justify my behavior without remembering anything.”

“That doesn’t help me Thomas. You know I still appreciate you. I loved you so much and I’m sure your family had already explained you what happened next.

“Yes, they told me… And that’s exactly why it’s difficult to give you a proper answer.”

Thomas looked into her eyes. She did not believe him and things were going wrong. Despite of being the same age, she seemed much older and more mature than him. Time had changed her but he still was the same kid.

“If I told you that time hasn’t passed for me since that night, you wouldn’t believe me.”

“Thomas you know that this cannot be true. But don’t you worry, I’m sure that one day you will recover your memories and you would be able to explain what happened.

“Not, it’s not like this. I don’t believe I have a memory loss. There’s something else. Something I’m not able to understand. Something that escapes from my knowledge and it can’t be described with words.”

“Thomas. You don’t need to justify your actions. But don’t lie anymore.”

“I’ve never lied to you! Anyway, I don’t want to talk about this anymore. Tell me about you. That’s what I only care now.”

“As straightforward as always, Thomas. Years may have passed and you might not remember the things. But, at least, I still know you were the same boy I fell in love. I know you haven’t changed at all and this makes me happy.”

From that point onwards, the meeting began to be much better than before and they started talking more relaxed and happier. Chloé explained him everything that happened to her after he left and she was more confortable. It all went extremely well and Thomas was convinced that they would be able to have a relationship again. Listening her while she was laughing made him to be in the seven heavens.

Thomas had dreamed a lot of days with that moment. The fact that he would be able to hug her, kiss her and recover the things they used to do was simply amazing. However, there was one thing and he wanted to forget forever: the guy that opened her door the day he reappeared. He told himself that he would be just a random guy she had met and she would forget him as soon as he reentered into her life. However, he was not as courageous as he thought: he did not dare to ask her about it.

They finished their meal and they go out in the street. Thomas suggested going for a walk around Montmartre and she accepted with pleasure. Sky was covered but it stopped raining so the atmosphere was perfect as it was not cold at all. They came across Abbesses square and sat in the nearest bench.

“Thomas, this place… We’ve been here before.”

“I knew you’d remember it. You’ve always had a good memory and that’s why I brought you here.”

“You haven’t changed at all…”

Chloé took a sad look to her left: a blue wall was illuminated by the streetlights. On the wall, there was written in withe I love you in different languages. She nodded, in some way she was sure that situation could happen.

“I know what you’re thinking Thomas, but this is not possible…”

Thomas was petrified. However, he did not want to give up so easy.

“You liked this place so much that I thought it was a good idea bringing you here.”

“I know you better than anyone and you remember well that this place was where we kissed for the first time.”

“As I said you remember all…” Thomas came closer, hugged her and he whispered to her ear. “What I say you that night has never changed. My feelings are the same. I still love you as the first day…”

Thomas started kissing her neck as he was caressing her hair. Then, he began to kiss her cheeks, he needed to kiss her lips, he wanted her. But when he tried, Chloé grabbed his chin and stared into his eyes. Smiling in sadness she moved her face away.

“Thomas, you are still the same. But what you want isn’t possible. I regret telling it to you in that way but our relationship was over a long time ago.”

Thomas did not react. She had smashed hard his heart and this one was about to crack. What could have gone wrong? He was still in love…

“Chloé, maybe 6 years have been gone. Maybe I’m not able to remember anything. Maybe I was gone without any explanation… But you must know that I still love you! I always loved you!”

“Thomas, stop it please. Don’t make it harder…”

“Even if the sky fell down, even if time stopped forever, you will always be in my heart!”

Without realizing it, he was shouting. Chloé started to cry and he made him feel worse.

“I just only want you to know that I’ve never forgotten you Chloé.”

“Me neither Thomas... I waited for you during a long time. You cannot imagine how I was…”

“So why is it not possible? Maybe someone has stolen 6 years of my life, but we are still young. We can recover our time lost. We can be happy together again!”

“You don’t understand Thomas… You think that you can disappear during 6 years and then came back from the shadows and get back your old life. Things move on and nothing is the same.”

“And why does this matter now? The important is that I’m here with you. I will tell you what it matters: that we are here toghether!”

“You’re just a stupid egoist Thomas! Do you really think that you can reappear whenever you want? That I will always wait for you? That my feelings would be the same? No Thomas. Things are not as easy as you may think.”

“But Chloé…”

“You abandoned me! And I had to rebuild my own life, not yours! Are you able to understand this?”

Cholé was crying in front of him. Thomas was pallid and he did not know what to do.

“I’m sorry Chloé. I’m so sorry…”

Thomas came closer to her and hugged her. Then he desperately kissed her. As soon as he touched her lips, she pushed him away and she slammed him as hard as she could. Thomas touched his cheek: it hurt and his heart was completely broken. He began to cry.

“What are you doing Thomas? Why are you trying to kiss me? Do you think that a stupid kiss can repair all the shit you’ve done? I asked you to respect me and you’ve not even been able to do it. Go to the hell Thomas!”

Cholé stood up and she began to walk towards the Metro station. However, Thomas hold her hand and stopped her.

“I love you Chloé. I’m sure that there’s something I could do…”

She furiously get away of him and she showed her left hand opened. She was wearing a silver ring.

“Do you see this? This is the proof that someone loves me and he won’t disappear without telling me as a rat. This ring was given to me by someone that I’m completely sure that will never ever abandon me, not like you. This means that I have someone that I’d give my life for.

“This cannot be true… Are you married?”

“Yes, Thomas. I married my husband 4 months ago. You saw him the day you selfishly decided to reappear knocking my door. But apparently, you have decided to live in your own perfect world without realizing the truth. You didn’t even dare to ask me, you were just busy trying to kiss me. You’re just an idiot.”

Thomas, fell down onto his knees. That girl was not her Chloé… He stayed there, just watching how she was walking again. He could not do anything. He was already dead. Before entering on the Metro, Chloé turned back and looked for the last time to the boy she once loved.

“Don’t contact me anymore Thomas. I beg you: forget me forever. In a few month we will be one more in my family and if you’re still insisting to see me, my husband will denounce you. Goodbye Thomas.”

Thomas saw her disappearing on the ground. This was the end, his own end. Rain began to beat him and he felt that someone was spying on him before collapsing on the floor. 

#6 El muro (Spanish Version)

Thomas encendió un cigarro y le dio una larga calada. Fumar lo ayudaba a tranquilizarse cuando estaba nervioso. Consultó su reloj: todavía faltaban diez minutos para que llegara. Tras guardar su móvil en el bolsillo después de haber leído por enésima vez su mensaje, se quedó observando desaparecer el humo en el cielo oscuro de París. Hacía frío y estaba empezando a llover, sin embargo en esos momentos era cuando creía que la ciudad resplandecía más que nunca.

El Moulin Rouge quedaba a su espalda y mientras que cientos de turistas se agolpaban en la acera de delante para hacer fotos, él no pudo evitar dejar escapar una sonrisa: había planeado con todo lujo de detalles todo lo que debía hacer en aquella cita y sabía que nada podía fallar. Ahora tenía otra oportunidad para demostrar a Chloé cuáles eran sus sentimientos y recuperarla de una vez por todas. La conocía demasiado, y sabía perfectamente cuáles eran sus gustos y qué debía decir o hacer. Siempre se apañaba para sorprenderla y esa vez no iba a fallar, de hecho no podía fallar.

Pasaron diez minutos y volvió a consultar la hora en su teléfono. Chloé llegaba tarde, sin embargo, siempre lo hacía. Apuró su cigarro y lanzó la colilla al suelo. Empezaba a preocuparse, en su interior tenía miedo de que anulara su cita. Alzó la vista en dirección a la muchedumbre y por fin la vio. Allí, estaba ella acercándose: llevaba un abrigo de color rojo con un sombrero de color negro. Su cabello rizado sobresalía y se movía con el viento. En cuanto lo vio sonrió mientras que él se quedó completamente petrificado. Creía que se había preparado bien para aquel momento, pero se dio cuenta rápidamente que no sabía qué hacer o decirle.

Quedó anonadado mirándola mientras se iba acercando. Poco a poco vio que ella estaba llorando. Intentó moverse y decirle algo pero no pudo: ella ya había llegado delante de él. Sus ojos verdosos estaban llenos de lágrimas y con solo mirarlos, notó que ella había necesitado verle durante todo aquel tiempo.

– Chloé...

A pesar de su valor, no pudo decirle nada más. Chloé le había pegado una bofetada y acto seguido le abrazó. Actuó por reflejo y la cogió entre sus brazos mientras le daba un beso en la mejilla.

Tras un rato callados, ella se separó instintivamente y le dio dos besos en cada mejilla. Thomas enrojeció.

– Me parece increíble volver a verte Thomas. No sé, pero todavía no lo puedo creer. ¿Qué han pasado: 6 años? Parece que sigues igual que la última vez.

Thomas, se quedó observandola. Notó que sus ojos brillaban: sabía que decía la verdad y que estaba contento de volverlo a ver. A pesar de ello, seguía paralizado y sin poder articular ninguna palabra: sabía que seguía enamorado de ella perdidamente.

– Vamos, no te vas a quedar callado todo el rato. Estoy segura de que tienes demasiadas cosas que explicarme...

Notó que Chloé, a pesar de aparentar tranquilidad, hablaba con una voz triste y entrecortada. Si ya de por sí era difícil para él, no quería ni imaginar por lo que estaba pasando ella.

– Perdóname... Ha pasado mucho tiempo, y creo que me he quedado paralizado al verte.

– ¡Pues no me hagas esperar más! Vamos a movernos o cogerás frío...

– Sí claro... He reservado en un restaurante un poco más arriba de la calle. ¿Me acompañas? Creo que será mejor que hablemos en un lugar más tranquilo...

Empezó a caminar de forma automática hacia la rue Lepic. Aquella calle salía de la plaza Blanche donde se situaba el Moulin Rouge y subía tortuosamente por la montaña de Montmartre. En ella había bastantes cafés y restaurantes y a Thomas le encantaba perderse entre aquellas callejuelas tortuosas. De alguna manera pensaba que el barrio de Montmartre era un pueblo completamente diferente dentro de la ciudad.

Empezaron a hablar de cosas bastante banales. Chloé le preguntó qué tal le estaba yendo el trabajo y si se adaptaba bien, después por su familia y finalmente qué tal estaban sus amigos. A Thomas le parecía bastante estúpida la conversación. En otro tiempo con solo de mirarse ya habrían sabido cómo estaba el otro. Ahora, parecían dos completos desconocidos que quedaban por primera vez. Sin embargo, el hablar con ella le hizo sentirse mejor y fue ganando confianza poco a poco.

Al cabo de 5 minutos llegaron al restaurante. No era la primera vez que iban a aquel sitio y Thomas recordaba perfectamente que a Chloé le había encantado. Es por ello que no había dudado en cogerlo.

– Recuerdo que una vez vinimos aquí Thomas. Hacía poco que habíamos empezado a salir juntos.

– O sea que lo recuerdas...

– ¿Cómo no me iba a acordar de ello? Sabes que tengo buena memoria...

El camarero llegó y Thomas pidió un vino rojo. Le vendría bien a los dos para retomar  la confianza perdida.

– ¿Entonces cómo va tu vuelta a la realidad? – Le preguntó Chloé mientras ambos empezaban a comer.

– Bueno, es un poco duro. Me cuesta un poco adaptarme a esta situación. Pero poco a poco va mejorando la cosa.

– Entiendo. No debe ser fácil llevar desaparecido 6 años y volver a tu vida real–. Thomas se preguntó si Chloé estaba siendo sarcástica con él. Dudó un instante, pero sabía que no era su estilo. – Tranquilo Thomas, lo digo seriamente. Muchas veces me pregunté que hice mal para que desaparecieras.

– Lo siento Chloé. No era mi intención hacerte daño. Sabes que estaba muy enamorado de ti, pero...

– ¿Pero y qué? Aun no me has explicado que has estado haciendo todos estos años. Mathieu me comentó que habías hablado con él y que tenías amnesia o algo así. Pero no sé, confiaba en que me lo pudieras explicar.

Chloé lo miraba fijamente con sus ojos verdosos. Thomas se atragantó con la comida. Se sentía abrumado con tanta pregunta, pero debía encontrar respuestas de la nada si de verdad quería recuperarla.

– No sé Chloé... Tengo muchas lagunas en mi cabeza. Me acuerdo perfectamente de aquella noche. Fue la más importante de mi vida. Debíamos irnos a vivir juntos y de repente me encontré solo y sin saber justificar nada.

– Eso no ayuda Thomas. Ya sabes que te quise mucho, y supongo que tu familia ya te ha contado todo lo que pasó después...

– Sí, me lo explicaron todo y es por eso que se me hace difícil de darte una respuesta creíble.

Thomas la miró a la cara. Sabía que no lo creía y que iba mal la cosa. A pesar de tener la misma edad la veía mucho más mayor que él en todos los aspectos. El tiempo la había hecho madurar. Él sin embargo estaba exactamente igual.

– Si te dijera que para mí el tiempo no pasó aquella noche no me creerías.

– Thomas, sabes perfectamente que eso no es posible. Pero no te preocupes, seguro que algún día podrás recordar lo que pasó.

– No, no es eso. No creo que tenga amnesia. Hay algo que no entiendo, que se escapa a mi conocimiento, que no se puede expresar con simples palabras.

– Thomas. No hace falta que te justifiques. Pero no me mientas más por favor.

– Nunca te he mentido Chloé. Da igual, no vamos hablar de esto. ¿Cuéntame cómo estás tú? Eso es lo que me importa ahora.

– Siempre tan directo Thomas. Habrán pasado los años y no te acordarás de las cosas. Pero sé que eres el mismo chico que antes y el saber que no has cambiado me hace feliz.

A partir de ese momento la cita empezó a remontar y empezaron a hablar distendidamente. Chloé le explicó casi todo lo que había pasado desde entonces y parecía que iba recobrando la confianza que había perdido. Todo iba viento en popa y Thomas cada vez estaba más contento. Estaba convencido que la podía recuperar y oírla volver a reír hacía que se sintiese en las nubes.

Había soñado muchos días con aquel momento. Con el hecho de poder recuperar las cosas que hacías juntos, abrazarla y oler su pelo. Sin embargo, había una cosa que su mente había encerrado y que quería olvidar para siempre: el día que la fue a ver, había otro chico en su casa con ella. Se dijo a si mismo que sería algún novio que tendría y que desde ese mismo día lo iba a dejar. Ahora bien, no tenía el suficiente valor para preguntarle si aquello era verdad.

Acabaron la cena y ambos salieron del restaurante. Thomas le propuso dar un paseo por los alrededores de Montmartre a lo que ella aceptó gustosamente. El cielo estaba cubierto pero la atmósfera era fantástica. No hacía mucho frío a pesar de ser noviembre y podían disfrutar de una noche templada. Pasaron la plaza de Abbesses y se sentaron en un banco próximo.

– Thomas, me suena este sitio...

– Sabía que me dirías eso. Tienes buena memoria y por eso te he traído aquí.

– No has cambiado nada Thomas.

Chloé miró con melancolía a su izquierda: un mural de color azul oscuro se alzaba delante de ella. Sobe él, estaba trazada con un color blanco la frase “me gustas” en muchos idiomas. Ella bajó la cabeza. De algún modo esperaba que aquella situación fuese a ocurrir.

– Sé perfectamente que estás pensando Thomas... Pero no puede ser...

Thomas quedó petrificado. Pero se recompuso e intentó reaccionar.

– Sé que te encantaba este sitio y supuse que sería una buena idea traerte aquí.

– Te conozco mejor que nadie Thomas y sabes perfectamente que este es el sitio donde nos besamos por primera vez.

– Tienes buena memoria Chloé...  –Thomas se acercó a ella y la abrazó. Acercó su boca a la oreja de ella y empezó a susurrarle. – Seguro que te acuerdas perfectamente de lo que te dije aquella vez. Mis sentimientos por ti no han cambiado. Te sigo queriendo como el primer día...

Acto seguido empezó a besarle en cuello mientras la abrazaba. Poco a poco se fue acercándose a ella. Necesitaba besar sus labios. Pero cuando lo intentó, ella le cogió dulcemente de la barbilla y le apartó de su cara.

– Thomas. No has cambiado nada pero te he dicho que no puede ser. Me sabe mal decírtelo así pero lo nuestro acabó hace mucho.

Thomas no reaccionó. Habían golpeado fuertemente su corazón y éste se empezaba a resquebrajar. ¿Qué había podido ir mal? Él todavía la quería...

– Chloé. Pueden que hayan pasado 6 años. Puede que no me acuerde de nada. Puede que desapareciese sin querer... Pero debes saber que te sigo queriendo...

– Thomas, para por favor. No hagas más difícil esto...

– Te quiero tanto como desde el primer día. Aunque el cielo se cayera, aunque el tiempo se detuviera en un instante. ¡Sabes que te querré siempre!

Se había exaltado mucho y estaba gritando. Chloé empezó a llorar en silencio y eso hizo que se sintiera aún peor.

– Sólo quiero que sepas que no te olvidé nunca Chloé...

– Y yo tampoco Thomas. Te esperé durante mucho tiempo. No te llegas a imaginar cuánto.

– ¿Entonces por qué no puede ser Chloé? Puede que nos hayan robado 6 años juntos pero somos jóvenes todavía. Podemos recuperar el tiempo perdido. ¡Podemos ser felices juntos!

– No entiendes nada Thomas... Te crees que por desaparecer y regresar de entre las sombras todo es tan fácil. Que todo continuará igual.

– ¿Y eso que más ya da ahora? Lo importante es que estoy aquí. Que estamos juntos. Que no te he olvidado en todo este tiempo.

– ¡Eres un completo egoísta Thomas! ¿Te crees que puedes desaparecer y reaparecer a tu antojo cuando quieras? ¿Qué voy a estar siempre esperándote? ¿Qué todo seguirá igual que cuando tú lo dejaste? No Thomas no. Las cosas no son como tú te crees.

– Me abandonaste y tuve que rehacer mi vida. ¿Es que no lo entiendes que no puedes reaparecer así como así? – Chloé estaba llorando amargamente y apenas podía mirarle a los ojos. Thomas no se esperaba aquello, no sabía reaccionar.

– Lo siento Chloé. Lo siento mucho...

Thomas la abrazó y puso una mano sobre su pelo. Se acercó a ella y le dio un beso en la boca. Así como sus labios hicieron contacto, ella se apartó rápido y le clavó una bofetada. Thomas se llevó la mano a la mejilla: el golpe le escocía de dolor y su corazón había sido atravesado rompiéndose en mil pedazos.

– ¿Se puede saber qué haces Thomas? ¿Por qué me besas? ¿Te crees que un beso arreglará toda la mierda que hiciste? Te he pedido que me respetases y ni siquiera dándote una oportunidad para explicarte lo has hecho. ¡Vete a la mierda Thomas!

Chloé se levantó y se dirigió a la parada de metro pero Thomas la cogió de la mano y la retuvo.

– Yo te quiero Chloé. Yo siempre te he querido. Seguro que hay algo que puedo hacer...

Ella le apartó violentamente y se le mostró su mano izquierda extendida. Thomas se dio cuenta que llevaba un anillo plateado en su dedo anular.

– ¿Ves esto de aquí? Esto es una prueba de alguien que me quiere de verdad y que no va a desaparecer sin decirme nada como una sabandija. Esto me lo dio alguien que nunca me abandonará como lo hiciste tú. Esto es a lo que estoy atada y por lo que daría mi vida.

– No puede ser... ¿Estás casada?

– Sí, Thomas. Me casé hace 4 meses y no lo has querido ni ver a pesar de que ya viste a mi marido la noche de tu aparición majestuosa. No me has preguntado nada sobre ello y encima pretendías que te diera un beso. ¿Pero tú de que vas?

Thomas cayó de rodillas al suelo. Aquella no era ya su Chloé... Se quedó mirándola como se alejaba dirección al metro sin poder articular una palabra. Antes de entrar en la boca Chloé se giró y miró al chico que una vez había tanto querido.

– No me vuelvas a contactar más Thomas, te lo ruego: olvídame. En unos meses seremos uno más en la familia y se me sigues contactando mi marido te denunciará... Hasta nunca Thomas.

Thomas la observó internarse en la boca del metro. Sintió que la lluvia lo empezaba a golpear y notó que alguien lo miraba antes de desplomarse inconsciente en el suelo.

#5 The Drawer (English Version)

(For the Spanish version see below)

Thomas came back home very tired: his job was exhausting. He had begun working again one week ago and it looked like it had been passed ages since last time he had worked. Although, in some way, it was true. After discussing with his old boss, he had been readmitted in his old company holding the same position he had when he disappeared. The vast majority of his old colleagues had been left or promoted instead. Now, he was 6 years older and he had the same experience as before. Sometimes he became frustrated for the situation, but at least he was happy to get back his old job in order to rebuild his life. He thought the job would keep his mind busy during a few hours.

He also continued living with his parents event though he did not discard the idea of moving alone again, but at the moment, he preferred to save some money. He had the titanic task of restarting his life from scratch. However, the question was: Would he be ready?

After talking to Mathieu he remained stunned the following days. During last weeks, things and revelations had been gone so fast, that he had not been able to realize what was going on with his life. He never thought about how Chloé felt after he went gone. It was something that tormented him every day. During the last month, he told himself she was a traitor that left him in the lurch. He believed that she cheated on him since the moment he saw her with another man. However, it was actually him who betrayed her. He knew it  now and he could not accept that fact, so instead of facing it, he tried to keep his mind busy to forget his own problems.

He dropped his bag on the floor and he realized that a recent photo was hanged on the wall. In the picture he and his friends appeared sharing a beer. Thomas imagined that his mother printed it in order to make him feel better. The picture was taken a few days ago when he met again his old friends: Adriano, Marc, Albert and Grégoire were his best pals alongside Mathieu. 

He remembered what they talked about: Marc was married to his long-term girlfriend. Albert was now living on the East Coast of the United States and was dating an American girl. Grégoire had left his old job and had created his own Start-up specialized on Internet trading and now he was starting to be an important businessman. And finally, Adriano, who had been the playboy of the group, he was living in Madrid with his girlfriend.

“You know guys? I have to tell you something great: Taylor is pregnant!” Albert was very happy and he wanted to share his joy with his old friends.

“Congratulations! We are going to have another dad on our group!” Mathieu wished him.

“I didn’t want to tell you until we were both sure but now I can. I’m glad I came to France from the States to tell you. I’m happy to see all my old friends gathered all together again.” He took a look to Thomas and smiled. “It looks that this month we are only having good news!”

“Do you have any ideas in mind about his or her future name?” Marc asked. Thomas noticed Marc’s wedding ring and a question came to his mind.

“Even either he or she is a boy or a girl, we have already decided the name. But we aren’t going to tell you until the baby’s born. It would be a surprise for everyone!”

“But, wait a moment Albert. Are you going to have a son and you are not even married?”

“Of course he’s married!” Adriano told them. “We made a great party last summer in the States. We even went to Las Vegas!”

“Sorry Thomas. I was so excited about sharing with you the news that I completely forgot to tell you that I married Taylor last year. But anyway, I’m happy you are back! You have to come to New York to visit us. You are invited!”

“Thanks Albert but I don’t really want to bother Taylor if she’s pregnant.” Thomas realized that he had no idea about who Taylor was. He had never seen her.

“Well guys, I think I have to go. I have an important meeting tomorrow morning with a new potential investor that wants to enter as a shareholder and I have to discuss with him the terms .” Grégoire took his coat and shake hand with Marc.

“Really? I’m happy for you. It looks like the company is taking off.”

Marc hugged Grégoire and the rest stood up to say him goodbye. All of them except Thomas, he remained sat near the table in silence. He felt as he was no longer part of the group. He was out of place, like a fish out of the water. He was only listening them whilst they were chatting and in the most of the cases he had no idea what they were talking about. He had missed Mathieu, Marc and Albert’s weddings; Grégoire had been running his own business for last two years and finally Adriano had moved to Spain and he was living with his new girlfriend. 

Thomas felt that people were no longer his old friends. They had evolved during the last 6 years and he was still the same. Some of them were already married and had children. It looked like that everyone had been chosen his own path while he was struggling to recover and repair the pieces of his own life. He asked himself how his life would have been if he had not disappeared: “Would he be married to Chloé? Would he have children with her?” Nobody could know.

His new cell phone vibrated and he came back to present. It would be probably his mother telling him she would be late for diner. Thomas grabbed his phone and checked the message. It was sent from an unknown number.

Hi Thomas. I’m glad to know you are OK. I’m sorry if I am a bit straightforward but I’d like to meet you again. I think it would be good for both of us if we talked again face to face. There are some things I would like to know and I’m sure you have your own questions too. Write me back if you want to see me. I hope you are doing well. 

Chloé.

Thomas raised his eyes and he looked into the mirror of his room. For the first time in one month he was smiling. Maybe, he would be able to recover all the pieces and rebuilt his old life.

***

“Olivier, can you tell me what that object exactly is? You are always wearing it and I’d like to know what it is. I’m just curious.”

Olivier turned back and he kissed her on the lips. They were both completely naked and a small breeze was coming in through the window. He started to think that they spent a lot of time together at his place and in most of cases they finished undressing each other.

However, he did not care. In fact, he liked it.

Claire was staring at him with her beautiful blue eyes whilst he was lying on the bed. Her blond hair covered his face as she approached to kiss him. He felt as he was in heaven.

“You say that silver thing with some buttons?”

“Yes, the same one. It’s strange because it isn’t the first time I catch you looking to it, but I cannot understand what it exactly is!”

“It was a gift of an old friend. It’s a clock that tells you a day and the hour.”

“Really? Its shape is weird…”

“Well that’s actually what makes it so special.”

“Oh, I’m sorry the screen is broken then…”

“Don’t you worry. I will repair it one day!”

She jumped on him and she started kissing him. He let her to kiss his ear and then his neck.  With Claire near his side, everything looked like easier. He loved the way she kissed him, her blond hair, her blue eyes, her smell… He was already in love but he did not care. He knew that she was the right girl he had been looking for.

They made love two more times and finished completely exhausted. Claire was sleeping whilst Olivier was caressing her hair. A few minutes later, he stand up, grabbed that silver objet and went to the window. His apartment was on the 7^th floor of a building near the Buttes Chaumont park and despite of being small, he had some perfect views of the whole city of Paris. Sun was going down and the Eiffel tower was starting to shine. Montmatre was also illuminated at his right. He took a cigarette and he lighted it. He liked smoking whilst he was looking the sunset on the horizon.

He extracted the silver object form his pocket and he contemplated it. He knew perfectly that it was not a portable clock and how he had to run it. Olivier closed his eyes and remembered the first time he saw it inside that wooden box. At that moment, he would have never imagined what he would be able to accomplish…

“Olivier, come here and take a look. There is something on the bottom of the wall. It’s like a drawer encrusted on the wall. We can open it!”

“Paul, we have just arrived to our new room in that residence for students. This is our last year and you are already breaking the wall. Sometimes I don’t get you…”

Paul extracted the drawer from the wall. Powder was covering him and he immediately started to cough. They found inside the drawer a small silver object with 4 buttons and 2 screens.

“Olivier, it looks like someone had left his old MP3 player inside this drawer. I bet it happened 10 years ago because nowadays nobody would utilize that thing. Hold it, I give it to you. I don’t care about it. I’m going to buy some food. Do you want me to buy something?"

“No, thanks. I have to continue cleaning. You’d better do it the same."

“Ok, as you wish…”

Paul left the room and Olivier continued arranging his books on the shelf. Al flashlight coming from that drawer caught up his attention and he took it. Without even knowing why, he grabbed that objet and held it into his hands. It was a bit weird to be an old-fashioned MP3. There was no hole to plug the headphones and it does not look like he had a battery or something similar. He decided to leave it as they found it but whilst he was trying to put the drawer in his place it fell down. A paper appear from the nothing: the drawer aparently had a double bottom. Olivier took a look to the paper. Something was written on it and he cleaned the powder that was on it.

To you, the one that has found my biggest secret, I deliver that infinity objet that will let you discover times and situations that no one would ever understand. 

To you, I bequeath one part of me, of my soul, of all the things I lived. But I must warn you: this is a cursed machine, no matter what you do; the past will catch you to take back its debts as it did to me. That is why I have to get rid of it: it is time to start my on life without being tied to my own fate. 

To you, I will give you a last advice in order to avoid the curse that is killing me: don’t try to know your past; don’t try to get answer from it: built your own life. Don’t repeat my mistakes, don’t let the past catches you…

I’m sure you will be able to find how the machine works by yourself and, if sometimes you will have to face a problem, just follow the lights. They will guide you until the final answer.

The prisoner