Can't Keep It A Secret Forever (part 3)

Can't Keep It a Secret Forever (part 3)

They were all looking at him.

Every trolls' gaze was focused on him.

He could see them whispering. Pointing. LOOKING at him.

Branch hated being watched. That's why he made the fear bunker and planted all the cameras around the village. So he'd be the one with the advantage. He'd be the one watching.

And to make things worse, a few of them had that look on their face. That look Branch despised so much.

Pity.

That look they gave him when his grandmother first died.

Pity.

That look they gave him when he told him why he had gone grey all those years ago.

Pity.

That look they gave him when that stupid song that ruined his whole life came on.

He didn't need their pity.

He didn't want their pity.

He wanted to be a normal troll.

And he thought meeting all the new tribes could make that dream a reality, but no. His past ruined that too.

And- wait, did he say all of that out loud?

Branch felt his heart stop.

No, no, nonono. I did NOT just do that.

The look spread from troll to troll.

Branch stepped backwards, desperate to escape all these sad faces and open arms.

I never should have come.

Poppy stepped towards Branch, "I'm so sorry Branch, I-"

"No! Didn't you hear my accidental speech?"

Poppy paused, "Yes, but I-"

"Then why are you doing it still? Why are you treating me like some injured cuddlepup?"

"I just want to make sure you're okay!"

Tears rolled down Branch's face, "I'm FINE,"

He looked over at the delegates and sighed, "I'm sorry Lownote. Holly. Dante. Val. Synth…." His voice cracked on the last name, "I'm sorry you had to see me like this,"

Then he spun around and ran off.

Tears streamed down Poppy's face, "I just wanted to help him,"

Holly walked over and placed a hand on her shoulder, "Maybe you're not the right troll for that,"

Poppy turned to Holly, wrapped her arms around her and sobbed.

Synth stood stunned. He didn't realize how… sad Branch was.

I've gotta go after him.

There ya go! Part 3. Still not really done, but this part was SO MUCH BETTER than part 2. You guys good with some Brynth?