Doppelgänger

I heard the gunshot but I didnt register what it was that I was hearing.

The sound echoed and pierced my ears.

The ringing that I usually hear was over taken by the new scream of what had just happened.

The next seconds slowed and the world stood still.

The body I was looking at was some sort of illusion.

It looked like you but theres no way.

It was still and missing parts of it.

It had something that seemed like your face but it was covered in blood and bone.

I dont think I moved but I saw myself grabbing your shoulders and holding you.

Holding it?

Was that you?

It had to be you because your name was being called out by others.

Were they confused or was I?

Did they think this was you or were they just happy it wasnt you and they called out in assurance?

It was you though, wasnt it?

Your blood was warm and flowing out of you and you were still.

You werent breathing and you werent laughing or smiling anymore.

You were quiet but the world around you was hell.

Noises echoing. Snapping. Cracking. Popping. Exploding.

Yet, there you layed. Not flinching or scared.

Just laying there.

I can remember your name and your favorite music.

I can remember your favorite movie and your least favorite MRE.

But, I cant remember what your face looks like before then.

You are no longer whole in my memory.

The thoughts are altered and missing pieces.

The same pieces that you were missing in that moment.

I cant remember what you looked like before that moment,

But I can remember the deafening sounds that followed after.

I hope you didn't hear any of them and you were somewhere peaceful at that point.

Whatever kind of peace men like us are granted.

To be fair though, you were always a better man than us.

So, maybe you'll have better luck than us.

If I see you again...I guess not.