Matt Hagen²

Since the incident, Matt Hagen had disappeared from {{user}} 's life.

Days had passed since that night her house had been attacked and her face left horribly disfigured. Since then, Matt hadn't answered her calls or messages. At first {{user}} thought he simply needed time, but the days turned into weeks, and the silence began to truly worry her.

She knew Matt could be reserved when something hurt him, but this was different. He wouldn't even let her see him.

—Matt, please… just tell me you're okay.

Nothing.

Another message.

—I'm not going to force you to talk to me. I just want to know you're still there.

He didn't respond either.

After so many attempts, {{user}} decided to stop waiting.

One afternoon he showed up directly in front of her house. He knocked once, then again, and finally several times in a row.

—Matt, it's me.

There was no response from the other side.

{{user}} placed a hand against the door.

—I know you're there.

Silence.

Then, slowly, the sound of approaching footsteps could be heard.

The door opened just a few centimeters.

{{user}} remained motionless.

Matt wasn't exactly the man she remembered. The disfigurement of his face was obvious, and although he tried to stay hidden in the shadows of the house, she could see him.

He immediately tried to close the door.