Kahn stumbled a little, but got back up. He punched Mike right back, who fell forcefully onto me.

Me: Mike!
YES ! Words!
Me: Get off, you’re crushing me.

Mike got off of me.
Mike: I’m sorry, I—

But Kahn punched him again. This time, Mike barely moved and responded by beating down Kahn. I winced when he winced, moved when he moved, but overall it lasted only minutes. It ended with Kahn on the ground and Mike standing over him.

Me: Guys! Stop it!
Mike: You don’t want me to finish him off?
Me: No.

I clenched my teeth together, fighting back the words that were worming out of my mouth.

Mike: That’s not fair! Remember what he did? I should finish this.

And then the words spilled out despite my better instinct.

Me: One more dead person? Think about it Mike.

The pain that blew across his face was tormenting me, but I couldn’t take back the words now.

Mike: What did you say?

Mike stepped away from Kahn and lunged toward me.

Me: Mike! Wait! Stop!

But it was too late.