Tie Dyed Shirt By D.I. Jolly

Johnny looked at his friend.

“I trusted you.”

“I know, and for that I am sorry.”

The two men stared at each other, one feeling malicious sorrow the other, helpless pity.

“I… I still don’t understand.”

“In the same way that the scorpion who asks the frog for a ride across the river will sting him, knowing they will both die. This is simply, in my nature.”

Silence fell until finally Johnny let out a breath and announced.

“Bullshit! Metaphors are nice and all but come on, you’re a person like I’m a person. I’m sure you want there to be some higher meaning but there really isn’t. Just tell me, why’d you set my shirts on fire?”

Josh sighed.

“Man? Really? They were so embarrassing. And not just for you but for me and for everyone else. Everyone who saw you, was embarrassed.”

“That’s not true! they’re awesome. They show off how open-minded and chilled I am.”

“No, they showed off how much of a fashion victim you are, and how much you hope hippie chicks think you’re cool.”

They stared at each other for a few moments.

“But did you really have to set them on fire?”

“I think you know the answer to that.”

“Ok, but did you have to set them on fire … in our kitchen?”

Another silent moment passed between them.

“I will admit, I regret that the house burnt down, but I still think that ultimately, I made the right decision.”