HAZE | A Michael Jackson Fanfiction

V | to be human

Being in public is something that Michael surely can't do. A free space will magically turn into a sea of people the minute he shows his hat and curls in public. His image is etched into everyone's minds that they can recognize him easily even if he's wearing multiple disguises. Not to mention his recognizable voice and giggle— that one you can't mask.

But on this clear December day, while the sun is at its shining glory, paving the streets with vibrant rays, he walks beside Celestine as if they were just the two people walking.

It was puzzling, nay a mystery to him, to not get tackled down by fans and be escorted by security. Michael grew up in that kind of lifestyle, always being guided and guarded by men that are much stronger and buffer than him.

That was his life, from recording studios to hotels, big stadiums, his home at Neverland, and business meetings, and nothing else follows. He never got to spend a full day of fun outside the perimeters of his home, or even do his own grocery shopping like an abled human being.

And it's not like he's got any choice. He doesn't. Being in the limelight is his destiny, and he paid a lot of price for that, including his freedom and privacy.

But today he's like a man reborn. He's strolling down this street like it's his first time being outside. No make-up, wearing baggy clothes, comfortable cardigan, sneakers that are a size bigger, and yet no one is giving him a weird eye.

"You okay?" Celestine nudged him back from his trance as he became distracted by the new environment he's in.

"Yeah, I'm fine," he smiled widely as she looked at her. "Where are we going, by the way?"

"I'm just gonna pick up the chicken I ordered and some pasta in the grocery store," she explained as they walked through the busy streets with people rushing to get their last-minute needs for Christmas Eve.

"Is there anything else you need?" Michael asks while getting all giddy and excited, just like a kid receiving his Christmas gift.

"I still don't know yet but we'll see. I'm sure I'll remember it later," Celestine smiled as they continued to stroll down the street.

He's not worried about the sun, since they're walking in the shade. He's getting a couple of head turns, not because they recognize him, but because he looks different. It's not usual for people in the neighborhood like hers to see an injured person wearing a bandage outside.

Even so, he feels delighted and refreshed. It's a sight to see old couples sitting on the bench near the park they just passed, children running around and chasing one another, mother's carrying crying babies, and people rushing in and out of the stores before they close for the holidays.

"C'mon let's go here," she said and he just followed where she went.

They stopped and went inside a butcher shop that Michael has never been into. He grimaced slightly when he entered as the smell of fresh meat and poultry invaded his nostrils. Even if he felt bad seeing dead animals in front of him, he still treasured every moment and let his eyes roam around the store.