The past had to catch up eventually

[hotshotlightning]

I scowl and hoist my bag further over my shoulder as I stalk out of the school. I wouldn't have minded having detention if I'd actually done something to warrant it, but no. Oosugi-sensei never listens; I think he hates me almost as much as he hates Kisaragi.

I turn right as I reach the gates, checking my watch to see just how late I am and I sigh at the result. Wonderful. I'm not going to make it back before everyone else gets home.

Goosebump prickle at the back of my neck and I turn to look behind me, see what's there. I recognise who they have to be almost immediately. I still have nightmares about them occasionally but I haven't had one for months and I never thought I'd see them again. All of that flashes through my head in an instant but before I can react a weird-smelling cloth is pressed against my face, covering my mouth and nose and leaving me no choice but to breathe in whatever's on the cloth. My vision swims and I can feel my knees starting to give way.