Jeremy's Pov

In between classes, Michael and I went out for lunch. We went to his favorite restaurant which is a pizza shop on the corner near our college. We decided to just walk since it was such a short walk that driving wasn't necessary.

We found a booth near the back of the restaurant. I spent about five minutes staring at the menu, trying to decide what to get, while Michael was just being quiet. I guess he already knows what he wants then.

Eventually I decided on just getting a regular cheese and pepperoni pizza. I'm actually not a huge pizza fan myself, but Michael, on the other hand, loves pizza more than life itself.

After a waiter came by and took our order, my friend gave me a disappointed look. "Seriously, Jeremy? You are so boring," he said jokingly, placing his chin in his hand.

He isn't wrong

This time the voice of the squip in my head didn't startle me. I was actually kind of expecting it. But luckily, he was only in my head. I couldn't see him this time.

Leave me alone, I thought back.

Nope

I sighed.

"Jeremy? Are you alright?" Michael asked me.

I plastered on a fake smile and nodded unconvincingly. He didn't look like he believed me.

"Is it talking to you again?" he asked, sounding sympathetic.

"Yeah."

"We can go if you want, I don't mind," Michael told me.

I was quick to shake my head. He shrugged and looked back down at his phone.

You should really stop bothering your friends with your problems

My problem is you! Why won't you just leave me alone? I asked him desperately.

Our waiter came up and handed both Michael and I our drinks and food. I gave them a grateful smile and took a sip of my water.

Because you need me, Jeremy. See how fat and anxious you've become without my help?

I grit my teeth.

I have done just fine without you. I have friends, and because of your so-called help, I almost destroyed my friendship with Michael, I shot back.

I glanced over at my friend. He was happily eating his pizza, seeming lost in his thoughts. I looked out the window so he wouldn't look over and catch me staring.

You would just be better off without that loser. Think of how much more popular you could be! And I can help you.

I felt myself starting to breathe a little harder and panic.

You heard what Rich said. There's no way to get rid of me, you can only learn to live with the fact that I will always be here in your head.

My vision began to slowly blur in front of me and I started to get dizzy. I held a hand up in front of my face and tried to focus on it. Sadly, it didn't work, and I only felt worse than before.

I think I'm gonna pass out; I thought to myself.

Seconds before my vision went dark, I heard myself mumble, "Michael.."

Then I slumped down onto the table. A sharp pain went through my head, and I was unconscious.