I didn’t say anything.

Yes, you did.

No. I’ve been quiet this whole time. Not a word, he said.

Not a word? Nothing? he asked. Must be hearing things. Strange. I could have swore you said something.

He shook his head. Looked into the dark. Could barely make out his face. He wanted to talk but couldn’t. He was being held back. His filter wasn’t allowing it. They sat quietly in the dark.

There. Right there. You said something.  I heard you.

No.

You wanted to. I can tell. Maybe I can read minds; your mind. Thoughts come out crystal clear.

Not too clear.

How’s that?

You’re asking what I said when I’ve said nothing. Then you said you can read thoughts, minds, my mind. I think you’re full of it. You’ve heard nothing. My thoughts are silent.

Loud.

What?

You’re being loud.

Yes. Now I am. Why do I stay here with you?

Because you can’t leave. Deep down, you don’t want to leave. You’d rather stay.

I don’t enjoy this.

What?

Being here. With you.

Right.

Yeah.

Leave.

It’s too dark. I can’t find the door.

Wait until morning. When light comes. Maybe then, at that time, you’ll have a whole new perspective. Maybe. Maybe not. But be careful what you think. Be careful. I hear you.

He placed his hands over his ears. Then, over his mouth. He kept switching back and forth. Slapping himself. Throwing a fit on the filthy floor.

What did you say?

I said nothing, he screamed. I have nothing to say. Just leave me be. Will you? Leave me be.

Yes. Those are your true feelings?

Yes.

OK. Goodnight.