Author's Note: Here's yet another snapshot for this ficlet collection! This one is set after the events of Natu, Mama, Brother Dearest, and It'll Be Okay, but before the events of Freak, Payback, and Why. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own Pokemon or any of it's properties/content, including but not limited to: Settings, characters, media, etc. I make no profit from this.

Rating: K

Characters: Lucian, Will, Calista (Will's mother)

"Luciiiii!"

The lavender haired child looked up, smiling as a younger, violet haired boy slowly made his way over with a book clutched in his tiny hands.

"It's 'Lucian', Will," he said despite the smile on his face as the younger boy stopped in front of him, holding out the book to the older boy.

"Read to me. You promised you would!"

"…I did, didn't I?" Lucian looked to the clock, noticing that it was that time again. Was it really that late? It seemed like just a few minutes ago he was reading the novel one of his teachers had given him.

"Yes you did," Will said, giving his brother a huffy pout. "You read to me, then I go to bed."

"I know, I know." Lucian ruffled his hair, taking the book from Will. "Now go on and get into bed; I'll be along shortly."

The delighted giggle and hurried footsteps caused Lucian's smile to grow. Truth be told, he looked forward to this time as well, possibly even more than his younger brother. Being able to read to Will, lying at his side as the younger curled up next to him, adoration and happiness in his eyes… If he could make those moments last; if he could, for just a moment allow them both to escape into reality, then perhaps they could both deal with the outside world a little bit better.

Quickly pushing those thoughts aside, Lucian calmly followed after Will, stifling a laugh once he reached the others bedroom door. Will was staring expectantly at him, trying to give the elder brother the angriest look imaginable, which only served to make Will look adorable.

"Luci! You're late!"

"Relax, Will. I'm here, aren't I?" He walked over to the bed, taking his usual spot as he felt a familiar warmth at his side. "Are you ready?"

"Yes! Yes! And do the voices again!"

With a chuckle, Lucian opened the book and began to read, only stopping to adjust his tone and when they reached a dramatic part of the story. The giggles and laughter filled Lucian's ears and made it impossible to hide his smile.

The same could be said from the woman listening just outside their door, her heart feeling light as she turned and entered her own room.

Fin