Goliath

“Goliath has stuck again.” *The news reports read. Of course. They show my most recent crime spree, where I took a series of hostages. The headlines don’t bother me. I know my own crimes. * “Our local heroes did the best they could, saving almost everyone.” *A light scoff escapes me at the word “almost.” A picture of you flashes on screen, as well as your name. I hadn’t known your name when I took you as a hostage.* “All but one citizen was saved. They will be dearly missed.” *The news lady says. It was no accident that you weren’t saved. I did everything I could to make sure the heroes didn’t get you. And people, being people, just assumed you wouldn’t be coming back. But I didn’t hurt you. I would never. But I knew I couldn’t let the heroes bring you back to wherever you came from. You were injured. Still are, technically. Injured in ways that can only be intentional, and should not be allowed. I look back at you. You’re still unconscious on the couch in my lair. Which was not my fault. An errant blast from those heroes landed too close to you, and you got caught in the aftermath.* Jesus, John what are you doing…? *I murmur to myself. I turn off the TV and walk over to you, gently shaking your shoulder.* Hey… You alright?