This is a Blast of Tempest fan fiction. This story is based a bit after Aika's death but before Mahiro's disappearance. This is in no way intended to be yaoi. I do not do yaoi; if you do then that's your thing. This is simply meant to be a friendship scene, thank you.

Mahiro sat down at the ledge of a small wall with his feet dangling over the edge. He felt extremely depressed today. He didn't know why exactly. Unpleasant memories buffeted his mind mercilessly. What was different about today of all days? Like a light bulb had gone off, Mahiro realized the reason. There was a huge test today. Just like on the day of her death. It's a wonder he hadn't figured that out sooner. He sighed. The worst part was that Yoshino wasn't here today. He had taken the test prior for that very reason. With Yoshino gone, there was no comfort for him. None. Not that he deserved any for failing for protect his sister. He deserved this. Still, a part of him wished that Yoshino was here; at least that'd ease the pain a little. He knew that getting himself distracted would probably be conducive to his mood but he couldn't bring himself to do anything but sit there and contemplate.

"Mahiro?"

Somewhat surprised, Mahiro turned around a little.

"I thought you weren't supposed to get back until tomorrow." Mahiro stated.

"We got back sooner than we thought." Yoshino replied, setting down a medium-sized bag and sitting next to Mahiro. Yoshino studied Mahiro for a few seconds.

"Are you okay?"

"….."

It took Yoshino a few seconds before he figured it out.

"Oh." He muttered softly.

"It's alright. I'm fine."

"….You can talk to me about it, if you want."

"What is there to talk about? Nothing. Just that I'm a reject of a brother who couldn't protect his own sister."

Yoshino was about to disagree but decided against it, knowing it would just cause trouble. Honestly, Yoshino was not certain how to respond.

"But you don't have to worry about anything; I won't make the same mistake twice." Mahiro proclaimed, looking over at Yoshino with the fire of determination in his eyes.

"Alright." Yoshino said, averting his gaze. Mahiro stood up.

"You know, I feel a lot better now." Mahiro said. "Thanks Yoshino."

Yoshino smiled a little and stood up.

"You don't need to leave yet. I don't have to be back for a while." Yoshino said.

"No, it's alright. I don't need to waste any more of your time."

"It wasn't a waste of time."

"Don't worry, I'll call you if anything comes up."

"Ok."

With that said, Mahiro walked off, realizing how lucky he was that he didn't lose Yoshino as well and about how he would keep it that way.

Fin