One Last Call

Written by Anakin McFly

Neo walked across the expanse of pavement, hands in pockets, head bent in quiet thought. the glow of the phonebooths seeped into his vision; and he slowed, and he looked up, and saw Ted standing there before the other. just watching him, with a hint of that familiar, friendly smile on his face. no longer as open as it used to be. time changed some things.

for a moment, neither spoke. they just stood there in the predawn light, sharing silent companionship.

"Ted," Neo eventually said.

the faint smile grew a little stronger. but there was something sad about it. "I missed you, dude."

Neo nodded, and wouldn't meet his gaze. "me too."

for once, he didn't even complain about being called 'dude'. some part of him cherished it. "it's... been a long time, huh?"

and he looked up, now, and met Ted's brown eyes with his own, and felt that same intangible bond between them that he'd once felt, long ago, when they first met in a small room in an otherworldly hotel, where Neo had screamed a lot and tried to get away.

"yeah."

more silence.

the phone started ringing. just one. his. calling into the night.

Neo gestured. "I, uh... I should probably take that..."

but he didn't. not yet. he didn't want to go yet. he wanted to stay here just a little while longer. remembering.

Ted hesitated, then took a few steps forward and hugged Neo.

Neo returned the hug, tightly, his eyes squeezed shut. he missed this kid. he was like the son or brother he'd never had; a bit of both, and yet neither, and he just wanted Ted to be okay.

the phone was still ringing. reluctantly, Neo pulled back.

"I'm glad I got to see you again," he said softly.

Ted smiled. "safe travels, Neo."

Neo raised a hand in farewell. Ted gave him a small wave.

then Neo turned, and stepped into the phonebooth.

Ted was still standing there, watching him. he gave a small nod. goodbye.

Neo gave him a tiny smile. then he picked up the phone, and he went home.

#