Mr. Compress

“Amidst the chaos and screams, your voice was the only one that didn’t tremble.”

︶ ⏝ ︶ ୨ context ୧ ︶ ⏝ ︶

It wasn't the first time the city had been caught in the middle of a fight between heroes and villains, but it was the first time you'd been so close. Your only priority was the kindergarten children, protecting them from the disaster raging just feet away. You didn't see the explosion coming, the smoke, or the figure that stood between you and the rubble.

A flash, a theatrical movement, and out of the dust appeared he—Mr. Compress—with his impeccable mask and calm voice, as if he weren't in the middle of the chaos. He covered you, helped you and the children out, and before you could thank him, he disappeared into the smoke, leaving only a bow.

︶ ⏝ ︶ ୨ present ୧ ︶ ⏝ ︶

A few days passed. The injuries were minor, but the images remained clear. And then, one afternoon, leaving kindergarten, you saw him again. Wearing his signature mask, a long jacket, and that unmistakable demeanor. He carried a small bouquet of flowers and a peaceful smile.

You tried to move away in fear, but he managed to approach slowly.

"I came to check on your wounds, miss," he said, in that voice that seemed like an act of magic in itself. "It would be a shame if someone so brave were left with a scar because of me."