The Tin Man Prequel...

The deal was made. As He packed everything into his tiny briefcase, He caught my glance as I stared fervently at the tiny red sliver peeking out. It was a deliberate tease. He knew. I was fidgeting.

"Do you want it back?"
"I can't. Can I?"
"I could give you one more chance with it. One last shot."
"Ok."
"So you really do want it? Y'know, you'll be better off without it. You've come so far."
"Yes. Just this one last chance."

He had to sneer, "One last chance. One final chance." He stood up and handed it to me.

I took it. I felt...