This piece was hauntingly beautiful. There’s so much to unpack, but it left me feeling heavy and yet lighter; I don’t know how to explain it. First, I want to start with the title. What’s its significance? The author said that one of the storylines is their own, so was c-ya-laterrrr the last text they received from the deceased? Was that something the two always said to each other? Just food for thought.

This was a page-turner for sure! I was enthralled the entire time, which is kind of hard to do. I want constantly holding my breath, waiting to see what was next. I gladly made it to the end, leaving me wanting more.

I loved how personal this piece was. Not only from it being a perspective piece, but even the subject matter is so personal. As soon as I read the editorial statement, I knew this would be a raw, vulnerable read. I also loved the simple format. I love picking the course of a storyline, so this was right up my alley.

I loved how realistic it was. Depicting the parts of the grieving process felt so real and relatable. Regardless of death happening, we’ve all had moments where we wished we could’ve done something different. We all play it out in our minds and guilt trip ourselves over stuff we have no control over. It definitely brought me back to moments when I’ve been there and faced death.

I found it interesting that this is from a man’s perspective. After reading, I discovered that the author is male, but for some reason, I expected it to be written from a woman’s point of view. I guess I subconsciously associate emotional and vulnerable topics with women.

When reading this, I imagined this is what a modern-day 9/11 would look like. I was only two months old when those attacks happened, so I only know what I’ve seen on screens and been today. Reading the chaos and emotions he went through made me think about what those families must’ve gone through.

On a very personal note, this made me think of my mom. My mom had to bury a child, and she’s told me how she was told to go home and get some rest after spending all her time at the hospital. The moment when the doctors call everyone into a board meeting to say to them we’ve done all we can; the ball is in your court. I couldn’t help but see my mom’s pain and life in this piece.

I’ve never written this much about a piece, which clearly indicates that this was hands down my favorite thus far. I know I’ve said that before, but I mean it this time.