(Daisies-guardin)

Rewrote this chapter!

Thanks for reading. :)

PRESENT

KOUICHI'S POV

Listening to the clock's persistent ticking drove me utterly insane. I started washing some dishes and thought solemnly to myself, I wonder what Kouji is doing right now.

CLICK

My mother had strolled through the front door holding a few bags. I smiled and I turned off the water, making sure to roll down my sleeves before she saw anything.

There's only one plate left to wash. It irked me.

I ran over perkily beaming at my mother as I took a bag from her hands. I'm excited to see my mother; I always am.

"Hi, Kouichi," she purred, shutting the front door and walking towards the kitchen.

I followed after her and spoke, "..you were at the store?"

She nodded as she put a few groceries away. She took the bag I was holding and pulled out a jug. I saw her put away a box of oats and frowned slightly seeing her tired face peek through her smiling bluff. She bundled the bags together and put them in the drawer for future trash bags.

"Thank you for doing the dishes, Kouichi," she said happily, "..such a good boy. You're always surprising me."

"I still have one plate left.." I admitted sheepishly but my imaginary tail wagged hearing the compliment.

I do them when you're not here for a reason.

She giggled at me as she patted me on my head. I couldn't help but meet her grin. She yawned, seeing the time.

"Go get some rest," I requested lightly.

"I should.. clean," she objected, replying hesitantly.

"Mother, I'll clean. Please sleep. You work," I pressed, "..I'm done with school.. I can get a job to help now!"

She always does too much. I just wanted her to slow down and smell the roses.

She glowered, "..that's so sweet. Please take some time off and relax. I know school can be stressful."

I could say the same to you.

Before I could reply she demanded in a loving voice, "..you should see what Kouji is doing."

I nodded half heartedly. She shot me one last smile. Her smile melted me. I watched her stumble slowly and exhaustedly to bed. She shut her door and I stared at the now closed door not saying a word. I exhaled heavily. My loneliness is impeccable. I missed human interaction but I couldn't bring myself to even ask my own brother to see me.

On weekends, my sleep schedule started dismantling as soon as my mother got the night shift. I wanted to sleep all day and be up all night just because I let myself cling to her. Since I went through with it I was very fatigued at school all the time. Though I kept my grades up and even graduated I only did it to keep my mother proud. I can't be a failure to her like I am with everyone else.

I found the broom and began to sweep.

This place is already so tidy, what does she want to clean?

I accumulated a nonexistent pile of dirt and opened the front door to push it outside. The air was crisp and fresh. The sun was warm. Made me regret wearing a long sleeved shirt. A thin layer of sweat started forming. It slightly stung my wrist.

"Hey."

I darted my eyes to the figure in my yard. Kouji walked hastily towards me. I couldn't help but let a smile show.

"Hi, Kouji."

I put the broom down and skipped down the front porch steps to meet him having the outward-appearance of a cheerful puppy. My fictional tail wagged eagerly. He patted my head as I turned pink lightly.

"She asleep?" He questioned but already knew the answer.

I nodded my head.

"Walk with me to get a tea? I'll buy you one, too. My treat," he smirked at me.

Where do you get money? Weird. Or maybe I'm weird for thinking it's weird. I couldn't help but think like this for a few months now.. he's a mystery.

"Sure," I muttered uncertainly.

Kouji is always so sweet to me and me only. He's projected as a quiet and well mannered boy in front of my mother but around other people he's intimidating, trouble-making and menacing. He followed me as I needed to change out of pajamas pants. Kouji diverted his eyes as I hastily changed into my jeans. I was about to change my shirt when his eyes shifted back towards me. I suddenly felt queasy and nervous.

"What?" I mumbled.

Kouji's emotion on his face was undetectable, but I sensed he was just as tense.

"Nothing," he replied.

I hesitated but decided to keep my long sleeve shirt on. I didn't want him to see my arms again. I think he knew why I kept this shirt on, too. He hasn't rolled up my sleeves to check if I've been true to the promise but he's made a huge effort to be around as much as he could. He's even skipped class and sleep just to come see me.

It's my fault he's like this, remember.

I quickly slid my shoes on and closed the front door before we left. Kouji kept close to me as we made our way towards the tea shop.

The get together is going to be crazy, I think. I'm not used to a big group of loud people wanting to talk to me. I'm not used to all the attention. I know Kouji isn't a big fan of parties either. What if I say something stupid? What if this group notices my change and nobody likes me anymore? What if Kouji wants to befriend Takuya or Izumi over me? I know I'm not the best company. Maybe I shouldn't think so negatively. Kouji isn't that type. But I can't help but feel I'm not worthy.

Kouji nudged my shoulder, "..you okay?"

"Yeah," I replied, "..I'm just a little tired."

My usual excuse.

He doesn't believe me anymore, does he?

Kouji kept quiet as we approached the tea shop. There was only one person ordering ahead of us. I stared at the menu deep in my thoughts. When it came out turn to order, he took charge. He ordered a lavender tea for me and got a black tea for himself both small and iced. It was too blazing hot outside to get hot teas. We sat down at a lone table nearby a window but not around anyone else.

I sipped my herbal tea, hoping it would calm my nerves. I glanced at Kouji. He gulped a couple times, gazing out the window. I wasn't sure if he was lost in his head or actually focusing on something. I peered outside with him and noticed some cars driving by, a few buildings, a couple trees, a side walk and people strolling on it. Nothing and no one caught my eye..

..but something.. or someone caught Kouji's. I think.

Why was I thinking like this?

Two attractive girls passed by the window. They had long, dark hair like black silk. They were laughing amongst themselves. I wondered if that was what caught Kouji's eye.

I tapped my cup and started to speak, "So.."

Kouji turned to meet my eyes and raised his brow, "..yeah?"

"I don't know."

"What's wrong?"

My eyes darted down toward my tea. I watch the ice cubes float around for a moment.

Why do I feel like this? I don't want to be alone. Why am I reacting this way?

"Nothing."

Kouji furrowed his brow and rested his hand on mine, "..are you worried about tonight?"

For a second I contemplated what he meant. I had forgotten about tonight. I was more worried about something else currently.

"Kouichi, it's going to be alright.. it's just our old friends," he confirmed with a smirk, "..stupid friends."

I inwardly laughed. He's always so mean but it's almost humorous to me.

I shot him a fake smile of reassurance, "..I know. I'm okay."

He rolled his eyes; he didn't believe me.

"Really!" I pressed.

Kouji surrendered to my convincing. He exhaled slowly and peeked out the window again. I felt a pain in my chest for an instant.

Look somewhere else..

I studied him as he sipped on his tea and I watched his eyes wonder up towards the sky.

He squinted his eyes, "..I see a rain cloud."

"Oh?" I squeaked spying the same darkness forming in the clouds, "..should we leave?"

"And go where?" He retorted.

I was a little caught off guard.

What did he mean by that? He knows he's always welcome at my home. Maybe he got into argument with his stepmom or father again? I know they don't get along well but he never spoke to me much about it. Anytime I asked I got shot down. Honestly, Kouji is a trouble maker and became worse the older he got. Fighting at school, skipping class, bad manners.. his pride, anger and stubbornness got the better of him. I was the only one he ever showed his soft side to.. is it selfish I want to keep it that way?

"Let's go," he insisted, finishing his tea and standing up.

"O-okay," I mumbled, bewildered he changed his mind so quickly.

I threw our cups in a nearby trash can and scanned the clouds out a nearby window. Surprised to see the clouds were getting much darker, he lead me towards the front door. An older man stepped by Kouji, staring at his phone and they bumped shoulders. The older man grimaced as he spilled his hot tea on his shirt.

"Watch where you're going, kid," the man demanded with a venomous tone.

"Sorry!" I responded before Kouji could. I had to take control of the situation or else my brother would react vulgarly. I didn't want my brother to get into another argument with a stranger. I've seen it happen too often. I glanced to my side to see if I could grab a napkin within range.

"You watch who you call a kid, old man!" Kouji blurted roughly.

The whole restaurant heard him. My stomach twisted into a knot as the older man glared. I grabbed my brothers arm and started to pull him outside.

"Kouji, come on," I pleaded.

Kouji looked hesitant but abided. We left the tea shop before Kouji made things worse. I think the older man hissed at us on our leaving. Relieved, I hooked my arm into Kouji's.

I'm so worried about Kouji. His anger grows every day. I'm worried I'm going to see him in the back of a police car. Is it my fault he's like this? He says being twins we can sense each others emotions. I know I'm not in my right mind, but am I the cause of Kouji's anger? Am I being full of myself? Maybe he's angry with me.. because I'm selfish. Maybe he thinks I'm self-centered. Maybe he's just an angry person..

"Kouji," I mumbled, shooting my brother a somber look.

"Yeah?" He answered huffily, obviously still irritated.

"What's wrong?"

He scoffed, "..you were there!"

I pouted, "..I mean lately. Why are you so..."

His looked softened.

"..So.." I couldn't find the words.

I should have kept my mouth shut.

"People piss me off," He said as a matter of factly, staring ahead.

I'm not going to question this. Kouji has always been anti-social. Especially with strangers; he wasn't a fan of small talk or kindness. Sometimes I feel like he shouldn't be around people at all.

I felt two raindrops hit my forehead. I glanced up at the sky, realizing the formidable darkness forming all too quickly. My house was still twenty minutes away. We should have stayed in the tea shop. Kouji's head moved side to side a couple times, hunting for shelter.

One without people, I presume.

I followed as he leaded me with a quickening pace. The rain was starting the fall. I groaned at the cold raindrops hitting my neck and my wet shirt sticking and stinging my sensitive arms. Kouji didn't think twice before swiftly removing his denim jacket in attempt to shield me from the rain.

He's so nice.

Just ahead was a large opening.. a tunnel. I saw a road sweep above it and only a sidewalk ran though the actual tunnel. It looked dry, quiet, peaceful.

How have I never seen this?

My hair was soaked even from the denim shield. Water droplets from my hair fell into my eyes and I blinked a few times. I shook off his jacket trying to dry it. My brother, more saturated, took back the jacket and threw it over his shoulder. Kouji peered down the tunnel as we stood, sheltered and dripping.

I guess we're going to wait out the storm here..

I'm glad he brought me here. We would have been sopping wet if we ran to my house.

"You're going to catch a cold," I frowned at my brother.

He chuckled, "..in this heat?"

Well, he has a point.

"Look," he motioned with his finger.

There's a light at the end of the tunnel. We met each others eyes both with completely different views. He strived for adventure. It petrified me.

I shook my head of all the excess water and wiped my face on my sleeves. Kouji started to walk down the tunnel. Unsurely, I followed behind him. I stuck to him like a small, scared child. It was dark and there was nobody around. Not even a trace of interaction. The only sounds were of rain falling and thunder growling lowly. A shiver ran down my spine, my wet clothes clinging to my skin. Goosebumps formed down my arms and I hid what discomfort I felt.

"Kouji, are you really not cold?"

Kouji smirked, "..it's too hot outside, the rain felt great."

It's cold to me..

"Kouji.."

"Yeah?"

"Are you.." I trailed off, unsure of my own honesty.

Kouji wore a concerned face, "..what?"

I hesitated to ask, "..back at the tea shop.."

Koujis footsteps were slow paced. They intimidated me.

"..What were you staring at?" I asked and immediately felt regret.

I really should learn to shut my mouth.

Kouji's face twisted into puzzlement.

I guess I need to explain myself now.

"Through the window.. there was a lot of people.. were you maybe.. looking at p-people.." I couldn't look at him as I rambled.

Why did I care? Why do I need to know so bad? I'm so weird. He thinks I'm weird, too.

"Did you see the girls.." my heart palpitated as I finished mumbling.

At first, Kouji kept quiet. It was a deafening silence. I felt remorse wash over me.

I need to shut my mouth.

Kouji cut the tension with a small chuckle.

Why is he laughing?

"Not at all," Kouji stated.

I'm so stupid. If he was looking at girls, why would he tell me? Why do I care? I'm selfish, I think that's my problem. I'm an idiot.

"Then w-what were you thinking about?" I asked timidly.

"The party," his tone was affirming.

"Hm?" I was somewhat intrigued yet I still felt embarrassed, "..what about it?"

Kouji smiled not answering.

Before I knew it we had reached the end of the tunnel. Aside from the rain falling blurring my vision of the environment, I could make out a park, lake and playground. The rain watered the soil gifting a drink to the thirsty flowers. I'm surprised no one was around. This spot is positively gorgeous. The sidewalk split off in both directions to overlook a lake. On either side there was swing sets, benches and more.

Does he care that I was being such a fool?

I huddled next to my brother for warmth. The question was still on my mind.

BEEP

A low alert sounded. Kouji smoothly snagged his phone from his pants pocket, flipped it open and read. I leaned my head to peep but Kouji turned his phone away.

"Kouji.." I pouted.

"It's just Takuya," he teased, grinning.

"What did he say?" I murmured.

Kouji rolled his eyes jokingly, "..the dummy wants to know how many bottles to bring."

"Bottles?"

"Alcohol," Kouji smirked, not surprised at my innocence.

"W-what?" I faltered my words, "..Kouji, you know I don't.. I m-mean I just never have-"

"Kouichi, you'll be fine," he replied. I studied Kouji's face as he examined the rain.

Well.. there's a first for everything, I guess.

"We're graduated. One drink won't hurt," he nudged my shoulder.

I felt anxious.

"Plus, I'll be there."

My stomach fluttered.

Was this Kouji's attempt to make me feel better? I feel nauseous. I can feel my gut twisting. Why do I feel like this? I am not suitable enough for answers. My worthiness has dried out. I think ever since I left the digital world I've been all used up. Like I have nothing left.. like I am nothing.

I glanced at Kouji. He turned towards me and I diverted my eyes. I felt pressured and on edge. I sighed, relieved to see the rain slowly subsiding. Faintly a mist, I stepped out into the open. The sun was unseen, covered by clouds. The air was muggy and humid and the wind had been chilled.

Kouji wore a smug look as he held his phone to his face, "..I told Takuya to bring two bottles."

My cheeks grew hot.. "..why t-two?"

"You're right. Two bottles between five people isn't a lot. I should tell him to bring three."

I gasped and Kouji laughed.

I hate his teasing.

"Let's get you home, Kouichi."