It’s cold, he said. Too cold.

Shut off the air-conditioner, she responded.

Then it’ll be too warm.

You’re never happy. Always having to complain. She opened a window and turned off the air. Maybe some fresh air would help.

Perhaps. Maybe. He sat quietly after that. Didn’t say a word. Closed his eyes for a bit. listened as she spoke.

You should get out more. She told him. You stay inside all day and night. That’s not good for you. She placed her hands on her hips and walked away. I’m going out for a while. Do you want to come? He sat still and silent. Suit yourself. She opened the door. See you later.

He got out of the chair and looked out the window. All those buildings, he whispered. All those people. Who would want to be a part of that? He continued looking down on the sidewalk. Children drawing with chalk. Bright colors of pink and orange. They drew blue clouds.

The kids know. He said. They know what’s real and what is not. Like monsters under our beds, in our closets. That’s real. He lit a cigarette. They know truth. I don’t think I ever did. Not sure.

He stuck half of his body out the window. Placed his foot on the frame. And, then he jumped.