Walking through the little hall of their apartment, Sanzo looked down at Goku's door and saw a blade of light coming out from the bottom. Sanzo then looked at his watch, and sighed. The face read 3:14 in the morning. Goku had to be awake at 6. He rapped his knuckles against the door, calling, "Hey! Goku! Time for bed!"
The boy on the bed looked up, watching the shadows move away from the foot of the door. He closed his book then turned the lamp off. The boy then settled into his bed, looking out the window. He had been thinking a lot lately. Back to when Sanzo had first found him, wandering through an abandoned monastery somewhere far away. He hadn't a name or a voice. All he really had was the clothes he had been found in, and the bruised golden irises surrounded by his corneas.
The man he had come to know as Sanzo had walked into the monastery, looking around, then saw Goku sleeping on the floor. He was able to pick up the thin little boy in his arms and carry him to a car then into the airport.
Goku had gained weight then built slight muscle. It wasn't obvious under a shirt, nor on his skin. He was simply slim. Goku's skin was a strangely toned bronze. No-one ever talked to him, because he never talked at all.
At one point, Sanzo had suggested that he speak with a counselor. And Goku went to the counselor. Little by little, the man had gotten Goku to say little bits of answers. But he and Sanzo were the only people in the world his heart knew how to trust. He needed a lot more help before he became a functional member of society.
Gojyo got out of his car, walking to the front door to his and Hakkai's house. He quietly entered the house, locking the door behind him. There was a plate of food on the table Hakkai must have made for him earlier, but he didn't feel hungry. He put the plate on the counter, deciding not to eat it. He turned and found his way to his room. He had a little too much to drink that night, but he'd made a good amount of money playing poker. He flopped on his bed, sighing. He felt empty somehow, like there was something missing. He couldn't put his finger on it, but lately it'd really been bothering him.
"Damn." Gojyo cursed quietly, rolling on his side and trying to find some sleep.
Goku went through three classes before lunch came around, and in each class, Goku wasn't called on. He never was. The teachers knew he wouldn't talk to them.
Goku never really ate with other children either. He ate by himself outside in the sun, or with his counselor. But usually the former.
Gojyo felt the sun on his face, opening his eyes. He yawned and sat up, wondering what time it was. The clock read 12:45. Maybe I should bring Hakkai lunch. He thought as he climbed out of bed, trying to ignore the headache from the previous night.
Goku usually took a lunch from home. He never trusted crowds of people. It's not like Goku was a pushover. He usually just outran the bullies. But when the fists landed, he'd start to cry. Not bawling, but silent little tears that would just plip down his face. And he would never raise a fist to fight back. He knew they'd tire and leave him.
Goku found his way out of his trance, looking around. He wondered if his counselor was around. If he was, he'd like to eat lunch with him today.
Hakkai sat in his office, sorting and looking through paperwork. I wonder how Goku's doing...
Gojyo got in his car, starting the engine and driving off to the nearest grocery store.
Goku saw Hakkai nowhere. Suddenly feeling as though someone was preying on him, he left the school, sitting by his lonesome. He loved how the sun felt on his skin. For long moments, he sat with his face turned towards the sun. When he started to feel the ebbing hunger again, he looked earthward again, deciding to eat the apple at his side. He liked his spot on the grass. It was away from prying eyes, and he knew if Hakkai wanted to talk to him, he could find him here.
Maybe I should visit with Goku for a while. Hakkai thought, stepping out of his office and going outside. He knew Goku better than to think that he would be in the lunchroom. "Ah, there you are, Goku!" He called, once he spotted the boy.
Gojyo pulled into the school parking lot, a bag of a variety of foods for Hakkai's lunch. I hope he finds something he likes...
Hearing his name, Goku looked up. Though he didn't smile when he spotted Hakkai, he didn't seem so gloomy. He waved once, then his hand went back to his apple. He wondered if Hakkai would stay a while and talk to him.
Hakkai smiled and sat beside Goku, saying, "How have you been, Goku?"
Gojyo got out of the car, carrying the bag of food. Ugh. Schools. He thought in disgust. His eyes wandered over the building as he wondered if he really wanted to go inside until he noticed a couple people sitting outside. Is that him?
Goku looked at his hands, then uttered a quiet, "Fine." He took a bite of the golden apple, and then seemed to notice its colour. He held the apple up to his cheekbone, so the crest of the apple was level with his eyes.
"...same?"
Hakkai smiled and nodded. "Just about."
Gojyo looked closer, approaching the school. Yep, that's him. He decided, recognizing Hakkai's smile.
Goku looked at the apple, then Hakkai. He rummaged through his bag with the assortment of foods, then found another apple. He was especially fond of apples. His sour green apple was a darker shade than should be, and Goku held it up to Hakkai's face, though it wasn't close enough to touch the man's skin.
"...same?"
Hakkai chuckled in amusement. "Yes, probably." He responded with a smile.
Who's he with? Gojyo wondered, starting towards the two in the grass.
Startled by the presence of a newcomer, Goku nearly dropped his apple. He retracted his arm, cradling the apple close, as though it was whimpering and crying that the one holding it had nearly let it plummet to the ground. His golden eyes flashed towards Gojyo, who was still quite a distance away, then back to Hakkai. He said nothing, and it seemed he was locked up tight again.
Hakkai noticed the tension and turned to see what was bothering Goku. "Is that... Gojyo?" He asked himself aloud with a confused blink.
Goku gently set his apple in his bag once more. He didn't like that someone new was coming to where he liked to hide away. Silently, the boy set to munching on his golden apple again, warily watching the red-haired man approach.
"Gojyo, what are you doing here?" Hakkai asked, obviously puzzled.
"That's some greeting. I was expecting more of a 'how nice of you to visit me at work, Gojyo'." Gojyo said, pretending to be offended.
Hakkai gave a confused blink.
Gojyo rolled his eyes. "I brought you lunch."
Hakkai smiled. "Thank you, Gojyo. That was very thoughtful of you."
"Yeah, yeah. Just don't get used to it."
Goku didn't like how this man spoke. He narrowed his eyes, watching how the two interacted. Though Hakkai didn't seem to mind, it was putting Goku on edge. He half-expected the man to turn and punch him in the gut.
"Of course, how rude of me." Hakkai motioned to the boy beside him, saying, "Goku, this is Gojyo. Gojyo, this is Goku."
Gojyo smiled, waving in greeting. "Hey."
Goku's eyes became narrow slits at the movement of the hand. He watched it carefully, like a cornered animal. Seeing there was no threat, he relaxed a bit, then cast his eyes up to meet Gojyo's. The bright red he saw fascinated him, and soon his eyes went from narrow slits to wide orbs. Turning away, he looked through his bag, then found a crimson red apple. He held it up in comparison to Gojyo, then looked at Hakkai.
"...same?"
Hakkai chuckled, nodding. "That's right."
Gojyo looked at the apple with a blink, wondering what Goku meant.
Goku set the apple beside the green one, then watched Gojyo carefully. He had to admit he was interested, but if the newcomer sat within lunging distance of him, he'd move away. The boy continued munching on his apple, keeping silent.
Gojyo handed Hakkai the bag. "I didn't know what you'd want, so I got a bunch of different stuff." He sat where he was, scowling and rubbing at his temple to soothe his headache.
Hakkai pulled out a sammich from the bag, beginning to unwrap it.
Goku narrowed his eyes, scooting himself back a few inches. He wondered for a second if Hakkai ever talked about the students he worked with with this man. Goku noticed how Gojyo put his hand on his forehead, letting his mind travel a mile a second. Putting pieces of the puzzle together, he figured that his man, Gojyo, had drank too much alcohol the night before and was suffering the consequences.
Gojyo noticed Goku scoot back, but didn't care. He knew he didn't give the best first impressions. He sighed, his hand dropping away.
Hakkai looked at him with raised eyebrows, giving him the "You drink too much," look.
Goku looked at Gojyo and put his fingers in his ears.
Hakkai silently ate his sammich as Gojyo looked at Goku with a blink, wondering what the younger boy was doing.
"Phonophobia." Goku said in his soft voice. He took his fingers out of his ears. He then pointed at his forehead. "Phonophobia."
"Oh." Gojyo nodded, understanding. "Okay." His hand wandered back up to his temple, trying to rid himself of the aching.
Goku looked up to the sky, closing his eyes as he enjoyed the sun once more. He wondered why he looked so different from Sanzo. He knew he was adopted, but they were practically polar opposites.
And what about Hakkai and this man Gojyo? How did they meet?
Gojyo looked at Goku with curiosity. He couldn't put his finger on it, but there was something intriguing about this boy. Maybe it was his unique golden eyes. Those were the most beautiful eyes Gojyo had ever seen.
Goku felt his dark brown bangs run over his eyes, and he opened them in surprise. He brushed the hair away, then noticed that the man Gojyo was watching him. Goku turned his untrusting eyes away, munching on his apple. When only the core was left, Goku jammed his heel into the soft brown soil, then picked the seeds out of the apple's spine. He put them in his little hole and then covered the seeds again. When Goku found his water bottle, he gave this potential apple tree its first drink of water. He was rather pleased, but he didn't smile. To tell the truth, Goku didn't know how. Often times, when he was at home, he'd look at the mirror and try to mimic Hakkai's. But it never really worked. Something was always wrong.
Goku hesitantly brought his gaze to Gojyo's. He wondered if this red-haired man ever smiled. If so, he hadn't yet seen it.
Gojyo's features softened, giving a friendly smile.
Hakkai ate quietly, observing the interaction between Goku and Gojyo.
Goku narrowed his eyes, getting wary. He saw the smile, but he found it fake. Then again, Goku never really saw smiles. Only from Hakkai. And something about Hakkai was genuinely fake, though Goku never could put his finger on it.
Goku had so many things he wanted to say to this man, so many things to ask, but Goku never could say more than a couple words, and even then only to the people he trusted. Why couldn't Goku just trust people?
Gojyo averted his gaze, saying nothing. So he doesn't like me. It's not exactly a first, so why does it bother me? I don't even know this kid.
Goku looked to Hakkai. His face grew sad and solemn, his golden eyes looking bruised, like they had when Goku had first come to Hakkai, when Sanzo had first found him. He pointed to himself and said, "...mean?"
Hakkai shook his head. "No, Goku. You're not mean." He replied.
Gojyo knew why Goku had asked that and felt he should say something, but stayed silent.
Goku let his hand drop and looked to the ground. He started to hum quietly, swaying. When he got nervous, or upset, he usually sang. Right now, he found he was too nervous to do even that. So he settled with humming.
Sanzo always seemed to like listening to him sing. Sanzo also liked trying experiments with different songs. He'd have Goku hear them once, then repeat them. Uncanny was Goku's ability to hear the song once, then repeat it word for word, note for note.
Goku then wondered about singing for Hakkai sometime. He felt his hand wander up to his neck, rubbing on the skin. His anxiety turned his cheeks a bright pink, and he could feel the heat bleeding out.
"Are you alright, Goku?" Hakkai asked with concern, looking at the boy beside him.
Gojyo's gaze wandered back to Goku as he wondered the same thing.
Goku nodded quickly. He put his hands to his face, turning his head away in embarrassment. He knew he had never been like this before. What was causing it now? It couldn't be the man Gojyo. Why would he be the cause of it? Goku's heart was telling him the answer, but his mind didn't believe it.
Gojyo blinked, confused by Goku's behavior. Is he embarrassed?
"Are you sure?" Hakkai asked, still worried.
Goku nodded faster, feeling his face turn red. Feeling an emotion like this was scaring Goku and he felt his throat tighten. A quick thought ran through his head, telling him that Sanzo was going to pick him up early today. But why did that matter?
Even as he continued thinking about it, he could feel the bright red flare down. He cast a glance at Gojyo, then looked away just as quickly.
Gojyo wasn't sure what to say. Something was telling him that he was making Goku feel uncomfortable, but he didn't know why.
"...Hakkai." Sanzo said, approaching them. He looked at Gojyo and suddenly hated him. Sanzo didn't bother thinking about why. It's not like he'd see this red-haired man again. He looked down at Goku, who was still covering his face. "Goku. I'm here to pick you up."
Goku looked up at Sanzo and nodded. He put his things in his bag, then stood. He bowed to Hakkai, then stared at Gojyo for long moments. He stopped only when Sanzo said, "Goku, go wait in the car."
Goku nodded and turned without a word.
Sanzo looked down at Hakkai. "Well, have you made progress with him?"
Gojyo looked at Sanzo. He didn't know why, but his mind suddenly labeled him as "asshole"
"He's not opening up to me." Hakkai answered with a sigh. "I'm still getting one-word answers."
Sanzo frowned even more than before, leaning back. "...do you think that maybe he has autism?" He asked after careful consideration. "Does he repeat words? Does he have trouble looking at you?"
"I've considered that, but I don't think that's the case." Hakkai answered, looking thoughtful.
Gojyo frowned. Goku didn't strike him as someone who would be autistic.
"Then what do you think is the case?" Sanzo asked, feeling like something was being kept from him. He didn't need more of that.
"I'm gonna go." Gojyo told Hakkai, feeling as though he shouldn't be intruding on this conversation. He got up and began to walk away without waiting for Hakkai to say anything in response.
Goku saw from the passenger seat that the red-haired man was leaving. He felt as though he should wave, but he doubted he'd see the man ever again.
Goku got out of the car, leaving his bag in the seat. He wanted to walk home. And it's not like the bullies were out of school at this hour anyway.
Where's he going? Gojyo wondered, noticing Goku leave the car. He wondered if he should go after him, but didn't want him to feel any more uncomfortable.
Goku put his hands in his pockets, watching the skyline. He walked along the road, singing to himself "Did you think that your feet had been bound by what gravity brings to the ground? Did you feel you were tricked by the future you picked?..."
He liked that song. Something about it was so agreeable. Goku looked about, and saw no-one near. He figured the short way home was safe from bullies.
As he was about to turn the corner, he heard his given nickname--and flinched.
"Hey! Mongoloid!"
Three rather big children ran past Gojyo, another one coming up behind Goku. He caught Goku in a hold with his arms up over his head. Goku didn't move though. Even when the punches landed, he didn't resist. Instead, he sang to himself, "...they beat him up until the teardrops start. But he can't be wounded, 'cause he's got no heart..."
Gojyo saw the fight and scowled, running over to interfere. "Let him go, you little bastards!" He snapped, furious.
The kids saw Gojyo coming, and the one holding Goku dropped him and ran away. One called over his shoulder, "We're gonna get you worse next time, Mongoloid!"
Goku sat on the ground, wiping his tears away. He really didn't want Gojyo to see him. He was ashamed enough already. Goku felt his cheek swell where one of the boys had hit him. He rubbed the sore spot, watching the red-haired man. Goku then wondered why he had bothered to help some kid he had only just met.
Goku nodded, though he didn't take Gojyo's hand or look up at him. Goku knew that Gojyo hadn't known him long enough to know that he didn't like to touch other people. He couldn't bring his gaze up because he was ashamed of himself. Sanzo always told him, "Fight back. Don't let him hurt you like this." but Goku never could raise his fist to them.
Goku stayed on the ground, his head hanging. "...weak."
Gojyo let his hand drop away. He hadn't been expecting Goku to take it anyways. "No, you're not weak. They're the weak ones for feeling the need to bully someone who they know won't fight back just to feel better about themselves." He muttered. He had gotten his share of bullying in school, but unlike Goku, he had a sharp tongue and fought back, only getting him into more trouble.
Goku looked up at Gojyo, his golden eyes watering. "...too weak." He muttered, his head hanging once more. He let his tears drip down onto his school shirt. "...too weak." He mumbled again, pulling his legs in close to his body, as if he were protecting himself.
Gojyo's felt pained to see Goku so upset. He crouched down in front of the boy, saying softly. "Don't cry, Goku... Please don't cry." He made sure not to invade Goku's space, knowing better than to touch him.
Goku shook his head, his tears still falling. "...too weak... too weak..." He repeated, sniffling. He gripped his pants tightly, his knuckles turning white. The boy could feel all his muscles protesting at the pain radiating off his bruises. "...too weak... too weak..."
Gojyo sat down, sighing. "If you really believe that, you're letting them win." He said to Goku quietly.
Goku lifted his head, wiping his face with his sleeve. He held himself close, "Teacher. Take me to Heaven. Why make me work so hard? You know I'm slow." He quoted, rubbing his bruised golden eyes. Goku then looked at Gojyo, saying nothing.
Gojyo looked at Goku, wishing there was something he could do to make him feel better, but Goku probably didn't want to be around him anyways. Maybe he'd feel better if I left...
Goku could see the sympathy and pity in Gojyo's eyes. He couldn't make himself soften. And it hurt him. Goku's shoulders fell and he felt his eyelids droop. He hung his head, running his fingers through his hair. "...so much pain." He said softly, his fingers grasping his head tightly.
"Why are you in pain?" Gojyo asked softly, looking at Goku with concern.
Goku put his hand on his chest, on his heart. "So much pain... too much pain... too weak." He said, unable to look up at Gojyo. He felt ashamed. He hardly knew this man, and he was speaking more than he ever did with Hakkai, who honestly had tried his hardest for months to get him to say one word.
"You're not weak. Not at all." Gojyo said softly. He wished he could wipe the tears from those beautiful golden eyes, but he knew Goku wouldn't want be touched.
The boy looked up at Gojyo, searching his eyes for something. He didn't find what he was looking for, and he couldn't help his impulse to cry. Goku buried his face in his hands, curling in tighter. "Hurts... hurts so much..."
Gojyo stayed silent for a moment. "Is there anything I can do to make you feel better?" He quietly asked.
Goku slowly shook his head, his fingers digging into his scalp. "...don't know... don't know..." He ran his fingers through his messy hair once more. His head shot up, hearing his name. He then saw Sanzo motioning for him to get back in the car. Frantically, Goku scrambled to his feet, starting to run over to Sanzo. He stopped, turned back and said to Gojyo, "...thank you..." Goku then turned back and ran to Sanzo. They talked a moment, then Goku got in the car. Sanzo turned and looked at Gojyo, frowning. He slid into the car, then they drove away.
Gojyo sighed, standing. That didn't go too well. He thought, returning to his car, starting the engine and driving off.
Goku looked out the window during the car ride, thinking about the man he had just met with the crimson red eyes.
Goku looked to Sanzo and realized that the man must have been saying his name. "?"
Sanzo frowned. "Jesus, Goku. Your cheek is swollen. Did that guy do that, or the bullies?"
Goku held up two fingers.
Sanzo ran a hand through his golden hair. "Fuck. You really need to fight back, Goku."
Goku looked out the window again. He had heard that many times before. He figured he'd hear it more and more.
Goku skipped dinner, sitting in his room. He was never much of an artist, but he had found different little colored pencils to use. He set to drawing his dreams, focused and listening to the music flowing out of Sanzo's room.
Gojyo layed on his bed, unable to sleep. He couldn't seem to get his mind off of Goku. Are those brats going to pick on him again tomorrow? He wondered with a scowl. He wasn't even sure that he would even see Goku again, so why did he care so much?
Goku looked out to the stars, looking at the moon. The moon looked so bright from here. Where he used to be, he couldn't see the moon from behind the heat and haze. Now, he wondered if Hakkai and Gojyo could see the moon from where they were. The boy then turned off his lamp and got under the sheets. He wanted to have lunch with Hakkai again tomorrow.
Gojyo looked out the window at the sky. He hoped that Goku would be alright at school the next day. He wanted him to know that he wasn't weak and he could fight back, just to defend himself. He sighed and shut his eyes, trying to sleep.
Goku awoke early in the morning as he always did. Sanzo was already gone and the sun was just starting to rise. Goku always left early so that there wasn't a chance of running into the bullies. Little did Goku know that the bullies were waiting. They were pissed that Goku had gotten out of his beating, and now they were gonna make him pay.
Goku walked along the road, humming to himself. He was startled when one of the boys threw him to the ground. He bounced his cheek on the dirt, wincing at the sting.
"Well, well, Mongoloid. Where's your knight with blood red hair now?"
Goku looked up at the large boy, saying nothing.
The school bell rang and Goku limped into his class.
"Goku! Where have you been!" The teacher exclaimed.
Goku looked up at her, his split lip no longer bleeding. He pointed out the window.
"Very well. Sit down."
Goku limped to his seat, then realized he didn't have his bag. Upset, he got up again, pointing down the hall to tell the teacher he was going to see the counselor. She dismissed him and Goku limped out.
The bruised boy knocked on the door with his unharmed hand, leaning against the wall. He hoped Hakkai was in his office.
Hakkai sat at his desk, sorting through papers. I wonder if I'll be seeing Goku today... Upon hearing the knock, he stood up and opened the door. "Goodness, Goku! What happened?!"
Gojyo awoke, rubbing his eyes. He yawned and sat up, rubbing an eye. He suddenly remembered the previous day, wondering how Goku was doing.
Goku looked up at Hakkai, swaying. "...down..." He said, stumbling and nearly falling over. He had a black eye, and his lip had begun bleeding again. Goku reached out, grabbing the doorknob to steady himself.
"What on earth happened?!" Hakkai asked worriedly, motioning to a chair for Goku to sit in. "Was it the bullies again?"
Goku nodded, limping his way to the chair. He sat down, looking down at his ankle. "...rougher..." Goku mumbled, rubbing his ankle. He looked up at Hakkai with his pleading 'Please don't tell' look.
Hakkai sighed. "I can't keep covering up for this, Goku. If they don't get punished for what they're doing, they're not going to stop." He said, pulling out his first-aid kit.
"..punish them... more pain..." Goku said, running a hand through his tangy brown hair. "...don't... tell Gojyo..." He added, quieter than usual. "He... would be mad..."
Hakkai blinked in surprise. 'Don't tell Gojyo'? "Alright..." He answered, wondering why Gojyo would care. He handed the first-aid kit to Goku, knowing that he would probably rather clean up himself.
Goku looked to his left hand and swallowed. "...can't..." He looked to Hakkai, lifting his broken hand. "...you?"
Goku realized he was taking a step in the right direction by letting someone touch him. But he had to admit to himself, he was a little nervous.
Hakkai was surprised that Goku was allowing him to touch him. Opening the case, he took out a cotton ball, lightly dabbing some ointment onto it. "This may hurt." He warned, pressing it to Goku's split lip.
Goku didn't react, closing his golden eyes and relaxing. His shoulders fell, trying his hardest not to pull away. He didn't want to admit to Hakkai that he was terrified. He knew that Hakkai wouldn't hurt him. But what if Gojyo dropped by, like he did yesterday? Goku didn't want to disappoint someone else.
He snapped his attention back to Hakkai, opening his eyes quickly. He looked up at his counselor, saying a quiet, "thank you."
Hakkai smiled. "You're welcome." He gently lifted Goku's hand, wrapping it in gauze.
Goku grew tense as Hakkai touched his skin. They boy reached out a hand to touch Hakkai's face, but stopped when his fingers were just inches away from the man's face. His fingers curled in and Goku's hand fell away. He couldn't do it.
"…bullies."
"What about the bullies?" Hakkai asked gently, carefully setting the bones and wrapping Goku's hand.
"…never stop…" Goku explained quietly, his gaze growing distant, though there was the illusion he was inspecting his broken hand.
The bullies held Goku down, kicking him harshly wherever there was room. When they had had their fill of that, one grabbed Goku's hair, yanking on it so that he looked up at the three older ones.
"Your eyes must be evil." The largest had taunted. "And you're the only one of your kind." His fingers balled into a fist, and he swung at Goku. Goku's lip split from the force. Blood dripped from his lip and down his chin, staining the dirt.
"Y'know, you ought to thank that man for us. 'Cause-a him, we get to wail on you twice as hard." The bullies laughed cruelly, and one kicked at Goku's ribs.
Goku's eyes went wide and he exhaled sharply as the air was forced out. He tried regaining his breath, but didn't dare give them the satisfaction of seeing him in pain.
Seemingly not noticing Goku's trance, Hakkai sighed and let go of the boy's hand. "Goku… it's okay to fight back if you're defending yourself."
"No! No, no, no, no, no!" Goku exclaimed, suddenly frantic and wide-eyed. He shook his head violently, terrified. "Never! Can't! Bad, bad, bad…!" Goku ran his fingers through his hair, a habit he had developed.
"But you can't keep letting them hurt you, Goku."
Goku found himself crying, his whole body shaking with tremors. "No… no, dun wanna…" He said with pitiful sobs choking his plea. "…dun wanna hurt…" Goku lifted his head, looking pathetic.
Hakkai grew sympathetic. "I know, Goku." He said softly. "It's not wrong to defend yourself, though."
"… don't understand…" Goku shook his head, sniffling. "I… dun wanna hurt… bullies." The boy hung his head, feeling his body throb with pain as he continued to shake.
"Goku, if they think you're not going to try to stop them, they won't stop."
"…I'll die?" Goku asked after a long pause. Sooner or later, the bullies would beat him to a bloody pulp and leave him where he was. And when that day comes, if it does, who would really miss Goku?
"No, you won't die." Hakkai answered with a frown, shaking his head.
Gojyo walked into the kitchen, looking in the fridge for something to eat. I hope that kid learns to defend himself. He thought, grabbing a beer. Gojyo then sat at the kitchen table, opening the can and taking a drink. I should visit Hakkai at work again today.
Gojyo thought about it more then arose from his seat. He left the beer on the table and went out the door.
Gojyo got in his car, driving to the school. He was determined to see Goku. He didn't know why, but he was going to find out. Gojyo pulled into the school parking lot, getting out and slamming the door shut. He walked into the school, hoping he correctly remembered where Hakkai's office was. He found his way to Hakkai's office, but heard him speaking and figured he was busy. He leaned against the wall next to the door, waiting. He watched the students walk by, crossing his arms in discomfort. He had forgotten how much he hated high schools. Gojyo wondered if Hakkai was with Goku, and if not, where Goku was.
"Then what?" Goku asked, covering his bruised eye socket with one hand. He shifted in his seat, feeling as if someone was nearby, other than Hakkai.
"Then… they'll keep bullying you."
Gojyo shifted in discomfort, wondering if it was a good idea to come.
Goku looked to the door, his eyes narrow. He pointed at the door as a way of saying 'Someone's there.' They boy stood, limping to 'his' corner of the room, sitting on the pillow that was set there.
Hakkai glanced at the door, getting up and opening it. Seeing no-one was there, he peeked around the corner. "Gojyo? What are you doing here?" He asked, surprised.
"Just visiting you at work." Gojyo thinly lied, shrugging.
"Well, I'm a little busy at the moment…"
Goku's head perked up, hearing Gojyo. He wondered what the man was doing here. He was about to get up to greet him when he remembered his wounds. Afraid of how Gojyo would react, Goku shrank deeper into the shadows.
"Alright. Well, I'll see you later, then." Gojyo said to Hakkai, turning to leave.
"Bye, Gojyo. Sorry about this."
Gojyo sighed. He had to admit that he was disappointed that he wouldn't be able to see Goku. He quickly exited the building, walking a good distance away from the school before settling in the grass. Gojyo lit a cigarette and held it between his lips, inhaling deeply. I should probably just accept that I'm never going to see that kid again.
Goku had looked out of his corner to see Gojyo's back. How badly he wanted to see the red-eyed man, but he couldn't let Gojyo see that he had lost to the bullies again.
Goku looked to Hakkai now. He stood up and limped to him, feeling as low as dirt. He was silent for long moments as usual, then quietly asked, "I… stay with you… tonight?"
Hakkai blinked, startled by Goku's question. "At my house?"
Goku nodded. "Sanzo… gone. Long time." He didn't want to be home alone again. Especially when the bullies were meaner than ever.
Hakkai thought for a moment. "Well… alright. I'm sure Gojyo would be fine with it."
"Gojyo??" Goku repeated. He didn't know his counselor lived with him!
Hakkai nodded. "Yes. We've been roommates for a few years now."
Goku ran a hand though his hair, thoroughly surprised. Seems like he would see Gojyo again.
Gojyo lay asleep in his bed. He had returned home hours ago and had nothing better to do but sleep.
Hakkai walked into the apartment, holding the door open for Gou. "We've an extra room you can use."
Goku looked about for the spare room. He went to the one with the open door. He set his bag on the bed and sat. Suddenly, he felt weariness wash over him like a wave crashing on the beach. Before he could stop himself, he found he was fast asleep.
A few hours later, Gojyo sat on the couch, watching T.V. and completely unaware of their visitor. Hakkai had gone to bed before he could tell him.
When Goku awoke, the stars shone frostily overhead. He looked about, then left the room quietly. He had changed from his school uniform to his pajamas, and was now going to the refrigerator.
Gojyo flipped though the channels, finding nothing that caught his interest. He pulled a blanket over his shoulders, somewhat cold in only his pajama pants.
Goku found a plate of rice. Plain, white rice. He looked up and saw Gojyo on the couch. Nervous, Goku skirted around him and disappeared into the room once more, closing the door behind him.
Gojyo looked up, thinking that he head someone. He shrugged it off, and shifted his attention back to the T.V., deciding he had imagined it.
Goku facepalm'd himself for forgetting what he had originally left the room for—ice, for his eye. He quietly opened the door, then went to the freezer, covering the ice cubes with a towel. The boy looked over his shoulder to make sure Gojyo hadn't seen or heard him.
Gojyo looked to the kitchen, sure that he heard something that time. Noticing Goku, he blinked, wondering if he was seeing right. "…Goku?" He asked with a confused frown.
Goku didn't answer. He picked up the towel then pointed to it, indicating that's what he was there for. He hoped Gojyo couldn't see his black eye from there.
Gojyo blinked, still in shock. "Wh-What're you doing here?"
Goku pointed towards Hakkai's room.
Gojyo looked at Goku for a moment longer before asking, "Is that a black eye?"
Goku froze. He wanted to shake his head no, but the was a very bad liar. So instead, he hung his head and nodded miserably.
Gojyo stood and walked to Goku to get a closer look. He sighed, saying softly, "I'm sorry, Goku. This's my fault, isn't it?"
Goku looked up at Gojyo, turning pink at the sight of the man's torso. To clear his thoughts, he shrugged, as if saying 'Yes and no.'
"I'm sorry, Goku." Gojyo repeated, feeling guilty. "Are you hurt anywhere else?"
Goku nodded, Quietly and pitifully, he mumbled, "Hurt everywhere." His unharmed hand rubbed his arm gently while he turned his ashamed gaze away.
Gojyo looked at Goku with guilty and sympathetic eyes. "When did they do this to you?" He asked softly.
"Morning." The boy answered, able to set the ice on his eye now. He saw the way the man looked at him, and he found it strangely comforting.
Gojyo thought for a moment. "Well… do you want me to walk you to school so they don't do that again?"
Goku shrugged. He didn't want to impose on what Gojyo may have planned for the next day. Goku's golden iris watched Gojyo and it made Goku turn pink when he took note of the man's shirtlessness.
"Don't worry. I don't have anything to do tomorrow." Gojyo chuckled, guessing Goku's thoughts.
Goku looked up at Gojyo with shining eyes. Then, the boy bowed his head in thanks. When he looked up at the man again, his hand barely brushed against the other's as he passed and said a soft 'good night'.
Gojyo watched Goku as he walked away, then turned and went into his own room. He sighed, collapsing on his bed.
Goku curled up on top of his bed, thinking about walking to school tomorrow with Gojyo. Would the bullies dare come after him?
But the larger he thought about it, the more he realized he was thinking about Gojyo. Was that weird to do?
Goku's getting bullied and I only made things worse. Gojyo thought, pulling the covers over himself and trying to catch some sleep.
Goku found himself fast asleep on the bed, curled in tight to protect him dream-world from everything outside of it. His ankle throbbed and his ribs burned, but Goku hardly cared. Tomorrow, Gojyo was going to walk him to school and everything would be fine.
Gojyo silently hoped that him walking with Goku would make the bullies back off. He yawned and closed his eyes, quickly falling asleep.
When the morning came about, Goku had been awake a while, making breakfast for the three of them. The boy then sat at the table and rested his head on top of it. He decided it'd be okay for a little nap.
Gojyo walked into the kitchen, smelling something yummy. "You made breakfast?" He asked Goku as he grabbed a plate.
Goku made no reply, sleeping softly with his head on the table.
Gojyo chuckled quietly, sitting at the table across from Goku. He smiled, watching him sleep as he ate his breakfast. What a cute face.
Goku didn't move, though he heard the clinks of silverware. Gradually, he opened his golden eyes, looking around sleepily. He noticed Gojyo eating and asked drowsily, "…like?"
Gojyo grinned and nodded. "It's great."
Goku huffed in what might have been amusement. He lifted his head, examining his bandaged hand. Gojyo smelt like stale cigarette smoke and Goku wondered if the man had a nicotine addiction.
"I think Hakkai already left for work." Gojyo said to Goku, taking another bite.
The boy nodded, yawning largely with his jaws wide open. Goku rose from his chair, going to the bathroom to change and brush his teeth, but out of habit Goku left the door open.
Gojyo stood and put his empty plate in the sink. "Do you wanna walk to school or do you want me to drive?" He called to Goku.
Goku pulled his belt through the loops, getting his toothbrush out of his mouth. "Walk." He called, fastening the belt buckle. Goku looked at his stomach, seeing that he was still underweight.
"Alright." Gojyo replied as he walked to his room, passing the bathroom on the way and trying not to allow his eyes to wander.
Goku tried to brush his hair and managed to get some of it tamed. It drooped down like it did on humid days, and Goku was a little annoyed by it, but didn't do anything about it. He fussed over his belt not being small enough for his skinny frame, trying to get it to hold his pants up properly. With the toothbrush still hanging from the corner of his mouth, Goku stepped out of the bathroom, looking for another belt of his.
Gojyo grabbed his jacket and left his room, looking at Goku briefly before going back into the kitchen.
Goku found a new belt, fastening it tightly. He rubbed at his belly, wondering why he couldn't seem to get to his proper weight. The boy went back to the bathroom, finishing brushing his teeth. He hummed to himself, swaying his hips to the tempo of the song in his head. He went back to his room to clothe his torso, not at all minding Gojyo's glance.
Damn. Why was it so hard to take my eyes off him...? Gojyo wondered with a frown as he grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge, deciding it would be best to not drink alcohol around Goku.
Goku loosely fastened his tie, not really caring about it as usual. The boy left his room, looking to Gojyo. He had his bag slung over his shoulder and his shoes were on. Without a word, Goku went to the door and opened it. He looked over his shoulder, waiting to see if Gojyo would follow.
Gojyo followed after Goku. "You have everything you need?" He asked, looking at the younger boy with a slight smile.
Goku nodded, though he didn't return the smile. He felt like a dick to not smile back, but he knew he couldn't do it.
Goku walked out the door into the grey morning fog and inhaled the air. Smells of wet grass and moist soil were in the air, and Goku let the breath out slowly. He walked to the sidewalk, then waited for Gojyo to lock the door.
Gojyo stepped out of the apartment, closing and locking the door behind him. He yawned, not used to being awake so early unless he hadn't gone to sleep at all.
Goku looked apologetically to Gojyo, lowering his gaze to his feet. He led Gojyo along the path to school, saying nothing.
Gojyo followed after Goku, guessing what he was thinking. "Don't worry about it. I shouldn't be sleeping in so late anyways. It'll do me good to not be as lazy." He told him after catching up.
Goku kept his gaze down, feeling submissive in the man's presence. He cast a glance up at Gojyo, then looked away just as quickly. Shame and anxiety aren't good emotions to mix.
Gojyo looked at Goku, saying with a chuckle, "It's okay, I don't bite."
Goku turned bright pink, keeping his gaze down. He felt the heat bleed from his cheeks again, and felt the temptation to cover his face with his hands. He didn't, but he made sure his eyes were trained on the ground.
Gojyo said nothing, wondering if he had only made things worse. He's pretty red... must've embarrassed him.
Goku said nothing still, but his hand held onto Gojyo's jacket, as if he were a child being led. It was Goku's way of saying he trusted him. This way, Goku didn't have to touch him, but he still had physical contact.
Gojyo hid his surprise, continuing down the sidewalk. Well... maybe he'll start to trust me a little more now.
Goku suddenly grew tense. He felt the presence of one of the bullies near by and his grip on Gojyo's jacket tightened into a fierce grip. He stepped closer to the man, looking around warily.
"Are you okay?" Gojyo asked softly, getting worried. He inspected his surroundings, thinking that he had heard something.
Goku looked up at Gojyo and nodded though his body was shaking terribly. He knew that the boy was tracking them in the shadows, and that they'd be at the school entrance once they arrived.
"I won't let them hurt you, okay?" Gojyo said to Goku softly, angry at the bullies for causing Goku so much fear.
Goku looked up at Gojyo and nodded, though he couldn't find it in his heart to believe him. "...after school?" He asked softly, his golden eyes wavering.
"I'll come to pick you up." Gojyo promised, looking into Goku's beautiful golden eyes.
Goku nodded, his grip loosening then dropping away. He looked at the school ahead of them, then to Gojyo. Goku bowed his head in thanks to Gojyo, then turned to the school.
"See you after school." Gojyo said to Goku as he watched as the boy walk away.
Goku looked around nervously then bolted into the school.
Hours later Goku sat outside the school, his chin rested in his palm. He looked around bleakly, feeling sore from the rough-up he received from the bullies. Goku planned on concealing it from Gojyo, so that the man didn't have to feel sorry for him. He looked up at the sun, basking the warmth for a little while longer.
Gojyo pulled into the school parking lot, getting out and walking to Goku. "Hey." He greeted with a smile. "I hope you weren't waiting long."
Goku looked up and shook his head. He stood, brushing his pants off. He looked at Gojyo, bowing in head in thanks for picking him up. He went to the car, opening the door and sliding in.
Gojyo got in the car, backing out and driving off. "How was school? You didn't get any bully trouble, did you?"
Goku shrugged. "Little." He admitted, looking out the window. He lowered the glass pane, letting the wind rush past his face.
"Damn brats." Gojyo muttered with a scowl.
Goku said nothing, sticking his face out the window. The sun and wind on his face was one of Goku's favourite sensations. He folded his arms over the side of the car, resting his chin on his folded arms.
"Are you hungry?"
Goku nodded but he pointed at his bag soon after. "Food." He said, keeping his head out the window, letting the wind play with his dark brown hair.
Gojyo pulled into the parking spot in front of the apartment. He got out of the car and closed the door, waiting for Goku.
Goku unbuckled himself, getting out of the car. He walked to the apartment door without a word, waiting for Gojyo to unlock the door. He was tense and uneasy once again, looking around for strangers. Of course, being in a new neighborhood, he didn't recognize anyone.
Gojyo followed after Goku, unlocking and opening the door. "Hakkai should be home in a few hours. He's got work to do." He said, waiting for Goku to go inside before he entered.
Goku walked inside, going to his room. He set his bag down, then went to the closet. The boy found his spare clothes, walking across his room. He knew that Gojyo wouldn't care if he changed clothes, and to tell the truth he saw nothing wrong with leaving the room open, so as he paced, he took off his shirt, pulling the 'street' shirt over his head and smoothed it out.
Gojyo opened the fridge door, looking for something to eat. "What do you feel like eating?" He called to Goku.
Goku would have shrugged, but he knew Gojyo wouldn't see him. He pulled his pants on, walking from the room. He fastened his belt through the loops, standing behind Gojyo and observing the fridge's contents. Goku waited until Gojyo noticed him before he would shrug.
Gojyo glanced behind him at Goku, stepping to the side so that he could see the fridge better.
Goku shrugged upon inspecting the fridge. He pulled the belt as far as it would go and his pants still fell a little. Goku was a little irked by that, but he didn't say anything about it, or even think about it.
He went to the couch, sitting down. He turned on the T.V., finding the Discovery Channel.
Gojyo blinked, realizing that he was staring at Goku. He brought his gaze back to the fridge, asking "No preferences?"
Goku shook his head no, hardly caring if Gojyo saw or not. He turned the volume down on the television so only the ones on the couch could hear it. He lay back, watching the screen with great interest.
Gojyo took out some leftover chicken and rice from the fridge, putting it in the oven to warm. He crossed his arms and kept his eyes on the T.V. screen, not allowing them to wander.
Goku's eyes traveled the screen, observing every image. This week was Myth Busters, and Goku liked to watch them experiment. He liked everything on Discovery Channel except for Shark Week. Something about sharks terrified him. If he knew the word, he'd know his phobia.
He heard the burner turn on in the kitchen behind him and vaguely wondered what Gojyo was cooking.
Minutes later, Gojyo pulled out the food, serving it onto two plates and bringing them both to the couch. He sat beside Goku, being sure to give him his space, and handing one plate to him.
Goku took the plate offered to him, silently thanking Gojyo for giving him his space. He watched the T.V., thinking about everything they said, predicting whether or not it would work. Beside him, he had a dry erase board and the marker to go with it. He wondered if Gojyo had noticed it.
Gojyo glanced at the dry erase board, wondering what it was for, but saying nothing. He took a bite of his rice, watching what was on T.V.
Goku set the bowl on the table to the side of the couch, then picked up the dry erase board. He pulled the cap off the marker and wrote on the board. When he finished, he presented Gojyo with a dry erase board that said "This is how I try and communicate with Sanzo."
"Ah." Gojyo nodded, now understanding. He guessed that Sanzo was the man that had picked him up from school a few days ago.
Goku nodded, erasing what he had wrote and set the board in between them with the marker on top. Goku then leaned forward to grab his bowl again, munching on his rice rather cheerily.
Gojyo took a bite of his chicken, feeling somewhat guilty that he didn't have much to entertain Goku with.
Goku watched the screen, almost entirely absorbed into it. When he pulled himself away, he set the bowl in his lap and picked up the board again.
"There is going to be a play that my class is doing."
"Do you want to be in it?" Gojyo asked, looking at Goku.
Goku thought about the question, then erased his words. He wrote again, making sure not to smear with his palm.
"I want to interact with the others."
Gojyo smiled softly. "Why don't you ask the teacher to give you a part?"
Goku shrugged, erased. He wrote lighter when he heard the marker squeak.
"The teacher doesn't like me. She thinks that I belong in a school for the mentally challenged and that I'm a nuisance when I come to class late."
Gojyo frowned. "Well, your teacher's stupid. What's the play going to be?"
"It's based off of ideas from the students. She's going to take the best idea and make it the play. Even though I read at a higher level than the rest of the students, and write better essays, I have no doubt she will pass mine anyway."
Goku sighed, then showed Gojyo the board.
Gojyo looked at Goku sympathetically. "Do you think it would help if Hakkai talked to her?"
Goku shrugged, clearing the board.
"I doubt it. She's prejudiced against me. Why, I don't know. Could be anything. My 'autism', my eye colour, my weight. Who knows. But, I suppose Hakkai could try."
Gojyo sighed. "Well, don't worry about that know-nothing moron." He said to Goku. "There's no reason she shouldn't like you."
Goku blinked in surprise. He had never heard that before. He erased his words then wrote "What makes you say that?"
Gojyo shrugged. "Well... I've never met anyone like you before. You're not mean, you're not selfish or fake. You're just... you." He smiled. "And I like that."
Goku blinked once more. "You don't find me strange, or out-of-place? Secluded or hidden?"
Gojyo shook his head. "You are different. But not in a bad way. It's good to not be like everyone else."
"I was taught that uniformity is what everyone strives for. But I was also taught by others that I can't become part of normal society."
Goku looked to Gojyo, wondering what he really thought.
Gojyo sighed, looking thoughtful. "Sometimes people will confuse you like that. That's why a lot of the times, all that matters is what you teach yourself."
"How can I teach myself when I hardly know anything?" Goku wrote, considered erasing it, then showed it to Gojyo.
"Goku, you're not a stupid kid." Gojyo said to Goku with a smile. "And I'll be here if you ever need help."
"Why? You only just met me, and already you're willing to do something like that?"
"Well... You remind me a little bit of myself when I was in school. I got bullied too. They didn't like my hair and eyes. Plus, I was kind of asking for it. I was pretty cocky." Gojyo chuckled. "And to be honest... I really like you." He admitted with an embarrassed shrug.
Goku turned bright pink, his eyes widening. To be honest, he never really thought about infatuation. He had never found anyone who talked to him. But now... his brain was listening to his heart.
Goku erased his words and rewrote, "You like me?"
Gojyo turned slightly red as well and nodded, unsure of what to say.
"Why?" Goku asked, putting the board aside.
"Like I said, you're not like anyone I've met before. I feel like... I don't have to pretend to be someone else around you."
Goku looked down at his white board, bright pink at this new information. His golden eyes looked around, thinking about all of this. From what he could tell, Gojyo definitely knew his way through relationships. He cast his eyes towards Gojyo, saying nothing.
Gojyo looked at Goku with a soft smile. With Goku looking so cute, he had to hold back the urge to kiss him, not wanting to make him uncomfortable.
Goku felt his eyelids droop, watching Gojyo's body movement. Suddenly, Goku had the feeling that he should test Gojyo secretly.
He turned to the white board, writing down "Does anything I do make you uncomfortable?"
Gojyo shook his head. "No. I'm just worried about making you feel uncomfortable..."
Goku frowned. He used his sleeve to erase the previous words. Thinking about his next question, he finally ended with "How do you mean?"
"Well..." Gojyo thought about how to phrase it. "I know you don't like being touched..." He stopped, getting embarrassed again.
Goku narrowed his eyes. He cleared the board with his sleeve, and then wrote rather quickly, "Unfamiliar hands will not come near me."
"I know, I know." Gojyo sighed, averting his gaze.
Goku frowned.
"You seem disappointed."
"Do I?" Gojyo shrugged. "I was guessing as much."
Goku tilted his head. "Expected...?" He asked, setting the board on his lap.
Gojyo nodded. "So I'm not surprised."
"You were expecting more once the relationship between us strengthens though, am I right?" Goku wrote, presenting Gojyo with the board.
"Honestly... I wasn't sure that you wanted a relationship." Gojyo admitted.
"... You mean a romantic relationship?"
Gojyo hesitated and then nodded, shyly keeping his gaze away as his cheeks turned a light shade of pink.
Goku made a face, like he was thinking.
"You seem troubled to find you're homosexual."
Gojyo blinked in surprise at Goku's bluntness. This kid doesn't beat around the bush... "I... I dunno. I guess that and I'm not sure that you like me..." He admitted.
"I hardly know you. I don't know anything about you, except that you used to be bullied as well." Goku wrote then set it on the couch between them. He leaned forward and grabbed his rice, deciding to eat it before it got cold.
Gojyo resumed eating, saying nothing. The awkward silence was beginning to make him feel uncomfortable, but he didn't know what to say.
Goku knew that he found himself attracted to the red-haired man as well. He bit his bottom lip, then picked up the board and moved it aside. Quietly, Goku moved from one end of the couch to practically next to Gojyo. He said nothing and wouldn't even glance at him, watching the Myth Busters try and reenact setting gasoline aflame with a cigarette.
Gojyo blinked in surprise, looking at Goku and then back to the TV. It made him happy that Goku was sitting closer to him, but he wondered if Goku was doing it because he wanted to or to make him feel better.
Goku glanced at Gojyo, his golden eyes shining. He looked back to the T.V., and he yawned. He stretched forward, then rested his chin on his palm.
Gojyo finished his food and set the plate on the coffee table in front of him. "Tired?" He asked Goku.
Goku snoozed softly, his eyes closed. He held his head up barely, his heavy head tilting to the side as he slept. As habit, Goku slept when he came home. He found sleeping erased all feelings, so by sleeping, he no longer felt lonely.
Gojyo smiled, looking at Goku. He's so cute, he thought with a chuckle. He yawned, beginning to get sleepy himself. He leaned his head on the armrest, closing his eyes and shortly after, falling asleep.
Goku flicked one eye open, gazing over at the man. He sat up, looking to the T.V. He picked up the remote and turned off the television. Goku then looked back to Gojyo, looking over his features. He stood up, walking off to find a blanket. When he found one, he laid it over the sleeping man. He bent down, leaning close to give the man a kiss, stopped, and pulled away. Goku didn't want that. Not yet at least. He turned and walked into his room, closing it partially.
Gojyo snuggled close into the blanket, curling up in a ball. He slept soundly, slowly breathing in and out.
As the hours passed, Goku spent them in his room, writing in a black, leather-bound book. He kept a candle burning on the bed-side table. The boy looked out to the night sky, then back to his journal. He idly wondered if Hakkai was home, and if Gojyo was awake.
Gojyo yawned, waking up. He sat up, wondering what time it was and where the blanket came from. I'm still pretty tired... He thought, getting up and walking to his room.
Goku looked out to the moonlight. He knew that no-one was awake, so he figured it was time he returned home.
After everything was packed up, Goku put his jacket on, then walked out of his room. He noticed that Gojyo's door was open. Goku crouched, waiting to see if the light would turn off or if the man would close the door. He didn't want Gojyo to know that he was leaving to go home to Sanzo.
Gojyo walked to his dresser, taking out a pair of pajamas from the drawer. He slipped out of his pants and into the pajama pants, yawning again.
Goku narrowed his eyes, peering into the dark. He didn't see any noticeable change in the room, so he remained where he was.
Gojyo walked to the door to close it and noticed Goku. He blinked in confusion, asking, "What are you doing?"
Goku sighed, standing up. He went to the front door and pointed.
"You're... leaving?" Gojyo asked quietly. He didn't want Goku to leave him.
Goku nodded. "Sanzo… home." He said in his soft tone. If he was gone any longer, Sanzo would be furious.
Gojyo was silent for a moment. He knew he would miss Goku if he left and who knows when he would next see him. "Do you need a ride home?" He finally asked.
Goku shrugged. "Too painful... for you?" He asked, quieter than ever. He tried to lift his gaze but found the task damn near impossible. He kept his eyes trained on his feet, ramming his hands in his pockets.
Gojyo smiled somewhat sadly. "Don't worry about me. I'll be fine." He thinly lied, shrugging it off.
Goku narrowed his eyes. He could see the lie hiding within the smile. Though, the boy said nothing about it, he turned and went to the front door, making sure to grab his white board and marker.
Gojyo watched Goku, asking softly, "Can I take you home?"
Goku stopped at the front door, his hand on the doorknob. His brain had done the math, and he knew that letting the man take him home would probably hurt him a lot. Goku's hand slid off the doorknob. He looked over his shoulder to Gojyo, saying nothing.
"...please?" Gojyo asked quietly, looking pleading.
Goku turned his head away. He sighed, then nodded. He unlocked the door quietly, then opened the door wide so Gojyo could follow him out.
"Thank you." Gojyo said as he followed after Goku, grabbing his car keys from the table before leaving the apartment. He unlocked the car, getting inside.
Goku slid inside the car, turning on the little light beside the "oh shit" handle. He uncapped his marker and wrote on the board, "You're not going to be okay, are you?"
Gojyo started the car, pulling out of the parking space. "I guess I'm about to find out." He finally answered.
He looked down to the board, clearing it then putting it in his bag. Goku leaned towards the window, watching the stars as they drove.
"You're gonna need to tell me where to go."
Goku sat up, turning the light off. He glanced around then pointed to a street then pointed to the right.
Gojyo looked at the road, turning right. "Will you be okay walking to school tomorrow?"
Goku shrugged. He really couldn't say. Maybe he would, maybe he wouldn't. As they drove on, Goku pointed to an exit sign. The exit would take them out of the larger, busier part of town and off towards the farmland.
Gojyo sighed. He really didn't want Goku to get hurt again. He said nothing though, driving out the exit.
Goku let them drive until a house with the lights on came into view. Goku pointed to the house, then grabbed his bag, ready to get out of the car.
Gojyo stopped at the house, looking at Goku. "See you later." He said with a smile.
Goku opened the door to get out, stopped, then looked back to Gojyo. He leaned forward, stopping only when his face nearly touched Gojyo's, his lips barely brushing the man's. He stayed there a moment, then pulled away and got out of the car. He walked up to the door, opened the door and disappeared inside without a word.
Gojyo sat frozen in his seat, stunned. ...did I imagine that? He wondered in shock. He blinked, realizing he had been touching his lips. With a smile, he turned the car around and drove off.
When Goku heard the car drive away, he slid down the door, his heart racing. He fingered his lips, wondering why he didn't go all the way like he had wanted to. The boy gave a lengthy sigh, his head bumping against the door.
