(Luminary-Guardin)

KOUICHI'S POV

My morning was spent mostly making friends with the toilet. My body aching, my stomach sore from vomiting, my vision impaired and head pounding. I was unable to even think. I've never felt this bad. Maybe I should stop drinking; or maybe not. I kind of like not having bad dreams.

Luckily I awoke after my mother had fallen asleep, but I got up to holding my mouth closed feeling like something was coming. Poor Kouji had to guide me to the toilet but I locked the bathroom door before he could follow me far. I wasn't sure if he left or stood next to the door but I didn't want him to hear me. It was just embarrassing. There was a point where I couldn't even upchuck anything and just heaving occurred. My gut burned increasingly. If I could have, I would have fallen asleep on the bathroom floor or even stayed face down on the toilet seat all day.

Happy birthday to me..

I received multiple messages from the group all wishing me a happy birthday. I didn't reply; I just felt so sick.

I ambled out of the bathroom and back to my bed, familiarly laying and stirring in my sheets. Kouji laid next to me, he was looking his phone. I positioned on my side, closing my eyes tightly, dizzy from any light. I heard my phone buzz again but I couldn't check it.

I felt Kouji move my bangs out of my face. His touch was comforting. Almost reminding me of when I was young and my mother would do things like this. Before I knew it, I fell back asleep. No dreams, just pitch black bliss.

•••

KOUJI'S POV

Earlier in the morning had been hell. Kouichi awoke practically throwing up. I let him stay in the bathroom as long as he needed. I was worried but he had locked the door so I couldn't get in. I wasn't too concerned, though. I know it was just a hangover, it was just a bad one.

Takuya had still been in the back of my mind. He promised he wouldn't tell, yet even the mere fact that he knew was unfavorable enough. It's supposed to be a secret; what we had. I didn't even know if there was anything to have. I just know I felt some type of way and sometimes I acted on it. I think I just craved some kind of affection since I've been starving from it my entire life.

I wonder what Kouichi feels? It was one thing I couldn't sense about my twin. Whether or not I did those things, he didn't seem to mind. In fact, it seemed like he just let it happen. It didn't bother me, as long as it doesn't bother him.

Am I being unreasonable? What does this mean?

I always find myself asking the same questions. These things I feel are so foreign sometimes. I wonder if what I'm doing is disagreeable?

My brother crawled back into bed lazily. I gazed at him and pushed his hair back. I wanted to see his face again. The pink on his cheeks was faint though I did notice. I smiled as he fell back asleep and a sigh of relief escaped me.

I'm sure he will feel better after waking up..

Last night raced through my mind. I have urges almost all of the time, but I only act on them when I'm intoxicated? I guess it makes sense. That's why it's called 'liquid courage'. Sometimes those urges just seemed a little too immoral. I scuffled out to the kitchen to get him a glass of water to wake up to. I saw a note on the kitchen counter.

'Hello boys! Happy birthday to you both! A little present is in the fridge for you. I'll see you tonight before I go to work!'

She signed with love and I couldn't help but smile.

But, I'm curious.

I opened the fridge and saw a cake. It looked homemade. White icing and red writing topped with a couple strawberries.

It looks good..

I made a mental note to be here tonight, just for her. I poured a glass of water and shuffled down the hallway hearing groaning. I figured Kouichi awoke and needed water, still sick. I stood in Kouichi's doorway and frowned, noticing he was still sound asleep. I placed the water on his side table before silently creeping up on Kouchi's mom's door. The horrid noises had ceased but I couldn't help this terrible feeling. I opened her door and peeked in. She laid in bed with her hands over her head, her eyes squinted in pain, her face dripping of sweat. I gulped before walking over to her.

"Hey.. you awake?" I muttered, unsure.

She nodded slightly, but didn't say anything. I felt her forehead; she was burning up.

"I'm going to get you some medicine," I spoke, but she didn't reply.

In a slight panic I raced out to the kitchen, searching the under cabinets for any fever reducers. I growled under my breath, not finding any such thing. Even the bathroom didn't hold any.

I brought her a glass of water and spoke once more, "..where is the medicine?"

She didn't speak, just laid there. I felt sick to my stomach and almost helpless. I couldn't wake up Kouichi for this. He's sick as a dog, too. I was kind of alarmed, but I kept collected.

See? This is what happens when you start caring about people. Look at me right now.. my heart is pounding..

I rummaged through the bathroom once more, finally finding the fever reducers. I even found a thermometer and for a moment I felt relief. I don't know how I missed them before. I made my way back to the bedroom quietly.

I didn't know what to say as I was too nervous to speak in this second. This doesnt happen to me. I don't care about people except I suppose the people in this house. My heart is about to jump out of my chest.

"You okay?"

Dumb question.

She wouldn't answer.

"Here, take this," I held out the water and pills, my hands slightly shaking.

She reached out her hand, grabbing the pills. I watched as she laid back down, breathing harshly, and flailed her arm a bit as if she was unable to move correctly. She wouldn't even look at me.

"Do you need a doctor? An a-ambulance?" I started to stammer my words.

I was kind of glad Kouichi wasn't up right now. He would freak out just hearing the sound of alarm in my voice. She shook her head, dry swallowing the pills. I held out the water but she wouldn't take it. I didn't feel ignored; just stressed. Just the silence was ultimately unnerving.

"Fine. But you're not going to work tonight," I stated, my voice demanding.

It's hard to see her like this. She didn't respond, I couldn't tell if she nodded her head or not. I stared at her for a moment, unsure of what to do. She closed her eyes, resting and body still. I handed her the thermometer, she took it but placed it on her stomach, obviously exhausted. Her movements were so odd, though. Maybe she was just sick? I'm not used to seeing people like this, maybe that's why I'm freaking out so bad. I forced the thermometer in her mouth, as gently as possible. It beeped. Why did I even need a thermometer? I already knew she had a fever. She looked stiff and pale. I sighed, rubbing my face.

Damn.. the flu? I should let her sleep. I got her medicine. If she gets any worse I'll call the doctor.

I grabbed the small trash can from the bathroom and put it close to her bed, just in case she had to vomit. I swept up the broken glass and sighed, shooting her one last glance before leaving her room.

I peered in Kouichi's room, seeing him stir. I sat on the bed next to him and stroked his hair. His eyes fluttered open but very slightly. I smiled sadly at him, not knowing how to tell Kouichi his mother was insanely sick. Maybe I shouldn't tell him.

I'm sorry, Kouichi. Later. I just.. don't want to be alone right now. I don't want you to stress. Not on this birthday.

"Hm?" Kouichi groaned and grabbed my arm, pointing at the glass of water just out of his reach.

I handed it to him and he chugged the water.

"Hey, slow down," I warned, furrowing my eyebrows.

He gulped slower and handed the cup back to me. He laid his head down, burying his face in the pillows.

I chuckled, "..how do you feel?"

He responded, but it was so muffled in the sheets I couldn't make out a single word.

"What?" I rolled my eyes, Kouichi seeming like a child.

He picked his head up only for a moment, "..I feel.. like dying."

I laughed, "..that means you had a good night."

"What.. did I do.. last night?" He shook his head, moaning as he turned to look at me. His eyes were watery and tired, "..I feel like.. I got beat up."

I'm relieved he doesn't remember but I still want to sort of tell him everything. I just couldn't.

I'm.. kind of scared. Would he leave? Wait, why would he? I don't have an answer for this.

I felt somewhat shocked, but kept my cool, "..you don't remember?"

"I can't remember anything after playing Junpei's game.." he grumbled, face reddening, "..I think I cleaned."

You definitely cleaned...

"Well, you did get into a fist-fight," I lied, holding back a laugh, "..and went skinny dipping."

"W-hat?!" Kouichi blushed, "..did I?"

"Nah," I lightly chuckled.

"Stop.." Kouichi mumbled, his face still flushed.

He checked his phone, sighing as he typed a small reply.

I don't know why.. but.. I craved his attention on me.

"I guess we can postpone my birthday plans for you," I held back a smirk as he pouted.

Why is he so alluring, even without knowing it? He's different. I can't believe I think and act so... Wow, something is wrong with me.

"W-what?" He muttered, sitting up slightly, "..but-"

"It's up to you.." I shrugged, "..only if you feel like going out."

He cocked his head to the side, the sickness in his eyes faded to sparkling curiosity.

"Where?"

"You'll see."

He frowned, "..when?"

"Whenever."

It was his turn to roll his eyes. I grinned, feeling like I should let him have a good birthday without worrying and panicking over his mom. She was just sick, but Kouichi would dwell on it until she got better. I know him too well.

•••

Later that same day, Kouichi took a shower in attempt to lessen the after sickness. It was currently three o'clock in the afternoon and we had both been ready. Kouichi bounced down the hallway, seemingly better. I knew it was just an act, but I couldn't help but believe him.

So appealing.

He held out an envelope.

"What's this?" I asked, taking it half-heartedly.

He smiled as his fictional dog tail wagged, "..open it!"

I did so and grinned lightly as I saw a birthday card completely hand drawn.

'Happy birthday, Kouji!' Written. I opened it, inside was a folded piece of paper. The inside of card read 'I made this for you! Hope you like it!' I opened the piece of paper to see a well drawn and realistic wolf complete in pencil. It was impressive; I never knew he could draw so well.

I'm flattered. He remembers I like wolves.

I glanced at Kouichi and smiled, "..thanks. What made you do this?"

He shrugged, "..um.. I'm broke."

I let out a wider grin show, "..you should keep drawing, you're really good."

He smiled, the blush on his cheeks deepening at the compliment.

"Let's go," I said finally.

I want to see more of his smile.

"..W-where are we going?"

I smirked at his curiosity, "..once again, you'll see."

•••

Kouichi looked around the subway seeing a large amount of people around us. We stood in the middle, hanging onto a single pole. He moved closer to me as someone passed him.

The subway bumped and rattled as it progressed, jerking us around a bit. We stayed as silent as possible on the way there. Too many people were around and some gave us judgmental glances. Honestly, it agitated me but it was hard to stay mad while I had Kouichi around. He didn't seem too upset at the weird looks. He actually seemed more excited.

I miss this.

I knew for awhile now Kouichi has been a little low. Sometimes even I had trouble getting him out of the dark places he was in. Something seemed to have changed. No nightmares? Getting older? I wasn't sure what did it, but I'm glad he was in a better place, mentally. Although, I did know for a fact he couldn't be one hundred percent okay. I sensed it. All I know is that we were better together.

And together.. I wanted to stay.

The subway came to a stop and I motioned to my twin to walk off the train. I lead him out of the metro and up some stairs that took us to a busy street corner. Our destination was just down the road. I felt my stomach do flips seeing him scan the area, the lights sparkled and reflected off his glossy eyes. His face lit pink, he smile broadly and full of wonder.

He stood real close to me, "..I haven't been to this part of town before."

I laughed, "..we're in the next city over."

Kouichi made an o-face and let me guide him down the street. We were just walking but it felt like so much more. It was a bigger and busier place, large buildings, lots of people and lights everywhere. We ended up turning the corner of the street and made our way down the road to a more open area, bright flashing lights and music and littered and echoed throughout.

"H-here?" He muttered and I could hear the uncertainty in his voice.

"Nervous?" I asked.

I didn't want him to be. I just want him to have fun.

He nodded, but eyes widened in awe of the amusement park in front of him. I guided him through the front gate where I paid quickly for our tickets. Tons of people cluttered the front area; mostly children and couples. Multiple rides and game stands lined the entire location.

"Where to?" I turned to him, "..we can do anything you like."

I frowned noticing as his face fell. I sensed his anxiety.

"Um.." Kouichi fidgeted with his sleeves, almost hiding behind me like a scared child.

I'm not a big fan of crowds, either.. but.. Kouichi used to like places like this.. I wish.. I just want to bring it out again.

"Follow me," I whispered.

I guided him to a desolate area behind a game stand. No one was around at that moment. I pulled a very small bottle out of my pocket, and I had just a few more.

"W-when did you get that?"

I chuckled, "..don't worry about it."

"I don't think drinking is a good idea, Kouji."

"Drinking after a hangover always made me feel better."

Sorry, Kouichi. I'm a bad influence. I know.

Kouichi took the small bottle and drank, making a sour face. I quickly chugged the other half before tossing it nonchalantly on the ground. Kouichi scolded me with his eyes but stayed quiet.

I mean, I feel better. Judging by his expression, I think he's starting to, as well. It's just to loosen up, I just want him to enjoy this.

"I have more," I eyed him deviously.

Kouichi beamed sarcastically, "..save it."

I nodded at him. I can't help feeling my heart pound at his smile. I shook out of my thoughts peeked around the corner of the stand. I saw a skee-ball stand, only one child with his dad had been playing.

"Here," I guided Kouichi to the stand, "..want to play?"

"Um.."

I hate his avoidance.. I'm trying.. I don't know what I'm trying for but I am. I don't like people either, but he's so timid even with mini games. He should have taken the other bottle, too.

I pressed a button on the machine, about six small balls rolled down the side, ready for playing. I grabbed one and tossed it, missing the targets completely. I frowned, feeling Kouichi's eyes almost pressuring me the way he watched me. I took another ball and focused on a target. Once again, I missed. Kouichi giggled and I turned to him, making a halting face. My competitive side showed.

"You can do it," Kouichi reassured, and I nodded.

Now I feel like I'm on top of the world.

One ball after the other I began making it into targets. Kouichi lightly but excitedly clapped next to me, quietly cheering. Only a few tickets popped out. I grabbed them and turned towards the small prize stand next to it. Kouichi followed behind me as I looked at the small figurines and toys. I did see one thing, maybe he'd like it.

"Want that?" I pointed with my finger, glancing at Kouichi.

It was a small eraser shaped like a panda.

It's kind of cute, I guess.

"Um.."

"For your drawings," I grinned, and he met my smile, nodding.

I ended up getting the eraser for him and handed it to him.

He shot me a big smile, "..thanks! Best birthday present ever!"

I rolled my eyes playfully, "..yeah, me taking you to a carnival isn't the best?"

Kouichi frowned, face flushing, "..w-wait, I didn't mean it like that!"

I snickered, walking towards the back of the park. He followed me into a line as we watched the building before us flash. A few kids ran out of the back screaming. There was a man with a fake chainsaw barely stumbling behind them.

"Oh.." Kouichi looked terrified but I found it thrilling.

The sun had barely set, the park had gotten dim. I felt a slight chill in the air as a breeze blew. I observed him holding onto his sleeves and it made me wonder.

"Are you cold?" I asked.

He nodded sheepishly. Without thinking I immediately took off my jacket and place it over his shoulders. I was only left with a mere t-shirt but the wind didn't bother me like him. Kouichi is temperature sensitive; I'm not. I smiled self-satisfied seeing his rosy cheeks appear and grasping the jacket closer to his face.

Am I acting weird right now? I guess I can't help it.

He shoved the eraser in his pocket and we moved up in line. Only two turns away now. There was a sign on the front of the building that offered a haunted house and things like this didn't scare me but intrigued me. Kouichi couldn't help but fiddle with his sleeves whilst holding the jacket over him.

Kouichi is too much sometimes. Why do I feel like throwing up when I didn't drink barely anything? It happens around him a lot more than necessary. Also, I can't believe a haunted house is in this carnival when Halloween is months away; lucky for me, but unlucky for Kouichi.

We moved up again.

I like these things but I know Kouichi doesn't.. he's been like this for a long time.. whenever we watched a scary movie.. he hid his face.. and he wouldn't even go near a house when it was Halloween.. the decorations apparently startled him.. I just like the way he acted.. and how close he got.. is this wrong? Just like a scared child hiding behind me..

We moved up again. We were next.

Somehow.. I find it cute.

I saw a sign on the very front next to the door that read you had to be a certain age to go in. This made me grin. Adult haunted houses are usually the best.

I laughed seeing Kouichi's face, "..don't be scared."

"Pfft," he frowned.

"It's either this or a roller coaster."

I know he hates those more.. heights are even more terrifying for him. Adrenaline was never his friend.

"I'll go in here," he said defeatedly.

"Happy birthday," I laughed and tussled his hair.

He shot me a look as the doors opened. I motioned to see if he wanted to go first but I laughed as he shook his head. The door shut behind us and I lead the way down a dark and narrow hall. The couple in front of us had already turned the corner so it was just us. I wonder if that made Kouichi more nervous.

CRACK

A hidden shutter in the wall open loudly, lights flashing viciously. An old man appeared, creepily cackling as he held out of arms grotesquely reaching for us. Kouichi yelped and subconsciously held my arm. He dropped my jacket to the ground.

Why did I like this so much?

I chuckled at him, nothing really phasing me. He was the complete opposite. I picked up the jacket feeling him squeeze my arm.

I smirked, "..that old guy just wants to be your friend."

Kouichi closed his eyes, shaking his head.

My heart is pounding.. and I'm not even scared.

As we made our way down the hallway, two other shutters boomed open, each with some kind of creepy old person with crazy effects makeup. Every time Kouichi jumped I held back my laughs. We turned the corner to see multiple mannequins littering the small room. There was a small opening that we had to get to but Kouichi had froze in place.

"Dont be scared," I spoke, tugging his hand holding my arm.

I'll protect you.

He closed his eyes tightly and nodded, hiding closely behind me. I could feel the warmth of his body, slightly shaking. As bad as this was, I enjoyed being this close to him. I sensed he did too, maybe for different reasons right now.

We mazed through the mannequins, and nothing had moved. We even bumped into one and it barely rocked back and forth. Apparently they were all just lifeless dolls. Kouichi exhaled, relief visible. Right before we reached the opening there was two mannequins that came alive and reached out their hands, yelling something I couldn't understand.

Kouichi ran to the door, hindering and cowering as another tall man walked by. He was dressed just like a murderous clown. Kouichi hid his face in his hands and once again I held back another laugh. I took his arm and made our way through a similar hallway. This one filled with creepy carnival music and you guessed it; clowns. One clown ran by us, honking his nose. Kouichi jumped and I couldn't help but grin widely. Even something so puny could scare him.

Hilarious.

Kouichi peered around the corner of another hallway, it was mostly pitch black except a single rotating light. We shuffled through the hall, him burying his face close behind me. We got closer to the door but all of a sudden a man appeared in the light, something about the rotation of the light made it seem more intimidating than it had been. Kouichi kept his eyes closed and faced hidden. The man never moved.

Stupid.

There was another room filled with chained up and hanging ripped bodies; all blood and gore. People dressed up as evil surgeons and nurses trounced around asking us if we needed a check up. This made me chuckle but Kouichi shook his head 'no' into my arm. The opening at the end of the room read 'exit' and Kouichi practically pulled me to it.

There was another hallway. Kouichi seemed ready to go, dragging me by my arm down the hallway. Seemingly there wasn't anything to worry about. Kouichi burst through the door, finding nothing but the outside. I could see relief on his face. Suddenly we heard a loud noise behind us; a man with a chainsaw maliciously ran towards us. I took Kouichi's hand and darted in a safe direction as the man followed for only a few feet.

Are we having fun, Kouichi?

The chainsaw man had stopped, I'm guessing there was only some feet of room he could go because his job told him not to go too far. After all, it was a kids amusement park. They probably planted things like this to keep adults happy while the children play on stupid merry-go-rounds.

"Never again," Kouichi pouted at me, panting and holding his chest.

I chuckled, I could tell his heartbeat was relentless, "..it wasn't that bad."

"Can we.." he pleaded, "..do something nicer?"

I smiled at him, nodding. It's all just fun and games, I hope he knows that. I offered my jacket again and Kouichi took it. Something about the way he put it on over his sweater made my heart skip a few times. I ignored it and I searched the areas with my eyes for a moment. I noticed another game booth and motioned towards the stand. I gazed at him gently, hoping for a positive reply.

"Looks f-fun," Kouichi muttered shyly.

My smile widened as I rested my hand on his shoulder, leading him toward the booth. It was a water gun game, nobody was at the stand but a single little boy with his mom. Seeing this made me feel a bit guilty.

I sat down at the stand, patting the seat next to me. I watched as the little boy finished and the stand master gave him a prize. He picked out a tiger stuffed animal and his mom seemed proud of what he had won. I started the game and it was an easy one to follow. Shoot the water in the target; get a high score.

Kouichi seemed to enjoy the game more than I anticipated but I frowned seeing he had less points than I did.

"You did great," he spoke, smiling.

His pink cheeks had me content. The man pointed at a case of prizes, none that I'd see Kouichi would take. He also motioned to the wall of large prizes for me. I saw a wall next to it of even bigger prizes. I saw Kouichi look at something and I knew what I wanted.

"Can we put our points together?" I whispered to the man.

The man shrugged, "..normally, no. But I will for him."

I frowned seeing the man smile wickedly and pointing his creepy finger in my brother's direction. I breathed harshly trying to keep my composure. Usually I would have said some kind of vulgarity to someone as unpleasant as that man was but for Kouichi's sake I shut my mouth.

"Thanks," I faked a grin at him and pointed to the one thing Kouichi eyed.

The man grabbed it and began to hand it to Kouichi. I immediately grabbed it from the man and handed it to my brother. If I wasn't so annoyed right now I could enjoy my twin's face a lot more. Something inside me had felt extreme euphoria seeing Kouichi's face light up with joy though I couldn't express it. His face blushing, his smile widening, he practically bounced in place as I handed him an extra large dog stuffed animal.

I don't know why but it reminds me of Kouichi.

"T-thanks!" He exclaimed merrily to me, his familiar imaginary tail wagging.

"Yeah.." I felt breathless as I spoke.

I didn't know my heart could skip this many beats. Am I okay? I lead him away from the stand and down the park a bit more.

"You okay?" He said quietly.

I nodded. I didn't want to ruin this moment no matter how irritated I felt.

I chuckled to myself seeing my twin struggle with holding the large plush toy. It was about about sixteen inches. I watched him squeeze and snuggle the plush almost reminding me of a kid. I don't know why but I was elated. I felt my cheeks heat and redden. I did my best to hide my face though.

I feel.. I feel weird.

There had been no line at the Ferris wheel. I'm guessing not a lot of people cared for it, though it was surprising. This park is for kids but maybe the kids are over Ferris wheels? I glanced at Kouichi and his brow furrowed.

"You don't want to?"

"It's.. high," he frowned.

"It's this or a roller coaster," I teased and gave him the ultimatum from before.

He groaned, "...this."

"Hey.." I placed a hand on his shoulder, feeling slightly in the wrong, "..we don't have to."

"N-no, it's fine!" He mumbled, smiling encouragingly.

I nodded slowly.

I hope he's not doing things because he feels like I'm forcing him.. I want him to have fun.. for himself.. not me.

A man had helped us onto the Ferris wheel cart, the seat just big enough for us both and even Kouichi's new stuffed animal friend. He wedged it between us and I couldn't believe how soft and pillow-like it had been.

The bar of the seat pulled down and locked. Kouichi's eyes widened with alert when the cart jerked, moving slowly. I could see my twin's face fall into nervousness as the cart crept up higher and higher. I pulled out the small bottle from my pocket and handed it to him. He took it hesitantly, frowning at the height gained. I drank the rest, but I hope what liquid I gave him would calm him.

"Kouji.." he muttered, "..I feel bad."

"What's wrong?" I asked, "..sick?"

He shook his head, "..I'm scared."

"It's just a Ferris wheel-"

"No, I mean.." he struggled to find words, ".. I just have a bad feeling."

Half of me didn't know what he was mentioning and the other half of me knew.

Ignore it, Kouichi. Have fun.

I wrapped my arm around him, resting my hand on his shoulder. I gave his shoulder a gentle squeeze. He gazed at me only for a moment and I sighed; he looked somewhat defeated. I just wanted him to have a good birthday. I held him tightly and shook his shoulder.

"Hey, it's going to be okay," I reassured, not even believing my own words.

This twin telepathy sometimes left me confused.

The cart jerked and rocked making Kouichi whimper with concern. I chuckled, silently jealous of the stuffed animal being between us. I just wanted to be as close to him as possible. He clutched the stuffed animal, finding solace in some material and stuffing.

I glared at the bottle in my hand, empty and groaned, throwing it outside the cart.

"K-Kouji!" He glanced below him but turned pale.

He hid his face in the stuffed animal.

"Dont look down!" I laughed, "..and plus, it didn't even hit anybody."

I couldn't care less if it did.

I moved my hand on his back, in effort to calm him.

I was always so angry.. even as a child. No one comforted me.. except Kouichi. Why is he the only one that could? I figured dad would.. but he turned into an asshole and now I hated him.. my whole family had been silent.. my friends consisted of idiots.. even if someone cared enough to help relieve the pressure I felt, I still would be enraged.. always. Kouichi doesn't realize how much he helps me.

We ended up back at the bottom, waiting for the ride to come to a complete stop. I helped him out of the cart and I could feel his relief as he stepped onto the ground. We took a few steps away from the ride before he poked my arm.

"Aren't you cold?" He turned his head to the side.

"Nope," I smirked.

Even if I was I don't think I could take that jacket back. There's so much joy in watching him wear it. Weird, I could feel butterflies in my stomach watching him play and flip the ears of the dog plush.

I lead him to a unpopular area, seeing Kouichi feel more comfortable around a lesser crowd. His face lit up, seeing a fun house full of lights and delightful music. I loved the way his eyes sparkled from the illumination. I saw only one kid in line. He seemed old enough to wander around this park without parents. I glanced at Kouichi. He wanted to go in the house; his eyes showed this.

Finally. It happened, finally. Something good happened tonight.. I just wanted Kouichi to have fun and he is.. he wants to go in that place, I feel it. I'm glad he's excited about something. When I said I miss this, I couldn't lie. The enthusiasm he had for certain activities thrilled me. Although my personal schemes involved wickedness and adrenaline, his had been light-hearted and joyful. After so long of seeing Kouichi in dismay.. and I couldn't do anything.. I am now.. I'm helping now.. and I'm happy.. that he's happy.

I glanced at Kouichi, ready to ask him if he wanted to hop in line now but instantly grew rage seeing the pure fright in his face. I gripped his hand tightly as if it was a safeguard. My eyes traced to what Kouichi had seen. It wasn't fake murderous clowns or even roller coasters.

It's them.