Michael tapped his dry knuckles against the door. It was so hot his blonde hair stuck to his neck, and the guitar that rested against his back weighed him down. He needed to see Matt, even though he was certain that he'd never be forgiven. He had only come to hear of Vicki's death a few days back. He felt guilty thinking it, but the death of his younger sister didn't bring him as much grief as the thought of his brother being alone. Even without being there, he knew his mother wasn't. Kelly Donovan was never the type to stick around for too long. Then again, so wasn't he. He drew in his breath and tapped his foot nervously as the door swung open. And then everything was silent.
The conversation was awkward at first, but Michael could tell that Matt was repressing his anger, and he couldn't really blame him.
"So…uh, how's school Matt?"
'Honestly, Michael? How's school?' He thought. There were more important things to discuss, but Michael knew they would have to wait until the morning…That was, if Matt let him stay the night.
"Alright, let's cut the crap. Why are you even here? You made it pretty clear that you didn't want to be, the night you left" Matt's arms were folded across his chest. His voice shook with anger.
"Matt, you know I'm sorry for leaving. And I'm here because I know you've been alone for some time now…I heard about Vicki."
Matt scoffed, his eyes flying to the ceiling above them. He nodded to himself, as if there was something he'd known all along.
"I get it now. You come when Vicki dies, you say sorry like you give a crap and then you walk out that door and come back when the next shit event in my life happens. I know your game plan, Michael"
"No, you think you know why I'm here, Matt. I'm not planning on leaving soon at all. I'm here because I care about you, and I want to redeem myself in your eyes"
Michael's own eyes stung with tears, but he forced them back until his throat hurt.
"Not planning on leaving soon, huh? Well then you'd better change your plans, because I'd like you to get out, please."
Matt pulled the door in with a hand and gestured towards the open with his other, leading his brother out. Michael bowed his head for a second, a weak smile appearing on his face when he lifted it.
"I understand. Uh, take care, Matty" He said in a barely audible voice. He stepped out and disappeared down the footpath, Matt's eyes following his every step.