[right][h2][color=8493ca]Caught in a Snare[/color][/h2][@DaftJive][@Tlazolteotl][/right]

[color=8493ca]Damien paused his struggle, his breath heavy. Exhaustion overshadowed any embarrassment from being perceived in such a vulnerable state. His eyes searched the floor for an answer he wasn't sure how to find. He drew in an unsteady breath before speaking. [b]"I want..."[/b] 

When Damien spoke again, the words that he formed with his mouth did not match what was outwardly expressed. What he mouthed was [i]"I want to die,"[/i] but what his voice said was, [b]"I want peace."[/b]

Damien startled, surprised. He tried again. [s][i]"I want to be dead."[/i][/s] [b]"I want to feel free."[/b]

[i][s]"I wish I had killed myself!"[/s][/i] [b]"I wish I could just [i]live!"[/i][/b]

Damien sat in silence for a moment. His lip trembled and tears welled in his eyes when he finally looked up at the moth. [b]"I want my friends to be safe,"[/b] he choked. [b]"And my mom-... I want her to have everything she needs."[/b] He looked out past the vines. He could see the frenzy of papers and phone calls just on the other side. [b]"I don't want to live like that anymore,"[/b] he said quietly. He let out a strained, painful sigh. [b]"I can't. I need to, but I can't."[/b]

Damien felt hopeless. And [i]sad.[/i] He felt so heavy with sadness that ached to the bone. The chains seemed to weigh down heavier on his body. A hint of blue brushed the bottom of the flame atop his head. [b]"I'm stuck,"[/b] he whispered. Tears flowed faster. [b]"I don't know what to do. I'm trapped."[/b] He bit his lip, fighting back a sob, as he returned his gaze to the floor.[/color]