Sharpay had stood with Ryan in the back by themselves, fingers intertwined tightly. Ryan had reflected on their pale fingers, noting the basketweave pattern, and thinking on the fact that this was the most tender moment he'd had with his sister in a long time. He didn't think there'd be another moment of perfect sibling solidarity for a long while even in such depressing circumstances.
The moment came again all too soon, though.
He was curled on his bed, his arms wrapped around his sister, his chin resting on her head. His eyes would flick now and then to their fingers, intertwined.
It reminded him of an old photo of them that sat on their mantle in the living room, holding hands. Sharpay had been smiling up at the camera but his eyes were set firmly on her. Its how it would always be. Sharpay would look out into the great wide world and that audience that was always applaud for her and he would be content to follow behind and take care of her. It had become his duty.
Tonight, he was on duty. He was whispering soothing words into Sharpay's ear. Even as the hideous stomping caused her to jump and cringe. Even as his own back straightened and he tensed, ready for anything, despite the fact that he was far too small to take on most things. "It's okay," he whispered, "Hush now."
They both watched the door, eyeing it suspiciously. That oak door was something to be feared. It was where the map and safety ended for them, and beyond that, there were monsters. The monsters, though, wanted in.