The locket was small in his palm. He brushed a calloused thumb over the cover, a nail clicking it open with ease.
His brother's image was slightly worn at the edges, a corner creased and wrinkled. Though now he could indubitably afford taking a better quality one, it wouldn't be the same. This was his only picture of Mokuba from before getting adopted, and the sentiments attached to it wouldn't allow him to toss it away.
Today was his brother's birthday, and he had a peculiar request.
Perhaps it was because of their age, all the years that had passed, or their unshakable faith in each other that resulted in mutual adoration. Whatever it was, a surprised look pulled at his features when Mokuba made his innocent wish.
Everything had been carefully arranged and favours drawn upon. For this one very special afternoon, Domino was a stage.
He put on a fresh mock-neck, glad for the advances in fabric that allowed him to wear such long-sleeved clothing in the middle of summer. The cuffs slid on with familiar ease.
The old coat he had long ago retired was retrieved from the depths of his closet. It still crinkled the same, and the plush satin lining was preserved enough to retain the look of freshly-spilt blood that had helped develop his signature look. Each buckle was fastened and tightened with a brush of thin fingers.
For Mokie, he would once again take over Domino City and proclaim the dominance of his company.