Ch. 2
Frank was still in his room, studying. He thought of checking on his little brother again but he wasn't sure. He was debating whether to check on him or leave him alone for a while. I'll check on him again, he decided. Maybe finally he needs me, he thought as he got up the second time. He cautiously opened Joe's bedroom door and saw his little brother sprawled on the bed, napping. He must be exhausted after all that sobbing, he thought as he quietly came over to him. He moved him in a much more comfortable sleeping position, unfolded a blanket on the end of the bed and put it on top of Joe's sleeping form, tucking him in properly. He then made his way to the door, closed it quietly behind him, and went back to his room. He sighed. I wish I can know what's wrong, he thought. If only he can talk to me! He went back to his studying, but he couldn't focus. He was concerned about his little brother. Did something happen that made him this tensed? He wasn't sure.
Meanwhile, Joe opened his eyes, sat up, getting out of the covers Frank put on him and looked around him. He forgot what happened for a while, then he remembered. He was tensed. Tears formed in his eyes as he remembered what happened at school today. His sobbing started all over again. God, he just did not feel good at all! He was tensed. Life was just not fair! Nobody would understand him. No one would care. Not even Frank! He sobbed even harder.
In his room, Frank heard Joe's sobbing and quickly rushed to his room to comfort him. He would give him all the comfort he needed.
He grabbed his little brother in a hug and soothed him softly, "it's okay, buddy shhhh" even though he didn't know what's wrong. This time, Joe did not bother to pull away. He stayed in his brother's hug for a long time, sobbing into his shoulder. Frank kept rocking him gently, reassuringly until he felt his little brother's body relax into his arms, hiccupping sobs only left.
Finally, when Joe calmed down, Frank took his brother's hands in his, and said soothingly, "Now little brother, whatever is the matter? I won't be able to help you when you don't tell me. I love you, and I just want to help you. Please talk to me."
Joe looked down, and said softly, "But you won't understand"
Frank was horrified. Why would his brother think that? Didn't he trust him? "Joe" he said firmly, but softly with gentle affection. "Of course I'll understand you, little brother. What made you think of such thing? You know I'm always there for you."
Joe looked down again, feeling ashamed for not trusting his trustworthy big brother. "Sorry" he said, softly.
"That's alright, Joe" Frank said, putting his hand on his little brother's arm. "Now whatever's the matter? I'm listening"
What do you think of my first two chapters so far? Please review. It would be very much appreciated.