(Cold shoulder-lil xtra)

Rewrote chapter!

KOUJI'S POV

I could just barely acquire any sleep at all. I awoke and fell back asleep multiple times. I lost count of how many dreams I had drifting in and out of consciousness the entire time. Though I couldn't remember any dreams, it felt as if I didn't want sleep but I needed it.

It was a little past eleven when I finally rolled out of bed extremely groggily. Somehow I had been asleep while my twin had left for work. I hated not having him there next to me in bed when I awoke. I almost feel wrong waking up without him. I think the worst part is that feeling of loneliness again. I had this same feeling repeatedly back at my old house when my dad had left. Yet, I made it better because I had other things to preoccupy my time. Maybe bad habits, but.. I had an idea.

I still had a few cigarettes left in the pack. I held one between my fingers and sighed, it felt stale but at this moment I didn't care and walked outside to light up. I felt guilty for doing this since I told Kouichi I would quit but what he doesn't know won't hurt him, right? Maybe I shouldn't act so careless but it was hard to think about consequences. There are times where we make promises to eachother we just can't keep. Sometimes we break them recklessly. It's okay, I thought. It's just one. It's not like I'm going to do this daily for years.

I watched the smoke swirl in the air as I exhaled slowly. It's astonishing how content and incredible I felt just from a single form of self destruction. It's especially quiet outside. There hadn't been any noise from cars passing or neighbors. It was nice considering but left me in my own rowdy thoughts. I would glance at my phone a few times as I stood outside. I hoped Kouichi would send me a message but I wasn't sure what I wanted to read. I just missed him.

Once it was time I decided to begin my way to the store. Today had been a minor flop being in solitary. Maybe I could hang around with Junpei but I've never been very social to begin with.

I wonder when Junpei is going to ask me to start. I also wonder how Kouichi did today. I hope he was thinking of me.. he hasn't left my mind once today.

Time seemed to go by quickly while enveloped in my thoughts. I ended up getting there a few minutes early. Something inside me wanted to light another cigarette while I had been waiting but that's one thing I didn't need my brother to see.

It was a few minutes passed one when I saw my brother meander out the doors. He didn't see me at first. His face looked partially disturbed.

"Kouichi," I called as he stared at me. I don't think he recognized me for the first second.

"Hi," he greeted quietly as we stepped closer to one another. I hooked my arm around him and we began to walk down the sidewalk.

"How was your first day?" I grinned at him.

His smile seemed forced, "..it was nice."

"Anything happen?" I asked, eyeing his facial movements.

"Not really," he muttered.

"Well, I'll be honest. I don't believe you."

"Already starting in on me?" He pouted.

"You make it obvious," I replied.

Kouichi frowned but didn't make a sound. The first day must have been rough for him. He could tell me everything later, I should let him relax his mind for now. Junpei threw me a little bit of money when he had came over. I think he knew how I felt, thankfully he didn't mention it to me. He didn't give it to me personally, however, before he left he brought me into a random hug. I ended up finding some money in my pocket shortly after.

I'm grateful but annoyed.

"You love tea. Want to go grab some?" I offered a comforting smile.

"Where did you.. get money?" Kouichi blinked at me with wonder.

"Don't worry about it," I chuckled. Kouichi gave me a scolding look but he seemed almost too tired to care.

Maybe it would help him open up about today if he had some calming lavender tea. The shop had been on the way home. There hadn't been a line nor anyone inside but two workers. When I handed him the tea he muttered a small 'thankyou'but it seemed dejected. I wasn't going to stand around and ignore the fact my brother seemed utterly troubled.

"Kouichi.." I started to say as he glanced at me.

"Yeah?"

"You haven't said much.." I didn't take my eyes off of him.

Kouichi didn't speak. I rested my hand on his head to gently mess with his hair but he jumped. I didn't set my hand down harshly and this wasn't sudden. Whatever made him act this way left me broken hearted. I could see his anxiety clear on his face.

"Did something happen today?"

"No."

"You sure?" I narrowed my eyes at him, "..come on. Something happened, just tell me."

"Nothing happened," Kouichi seemed annoyed at my interrogation but it didn't matter to me.

"Alright, bullshit. Spill it."

"I.. just like woke up late.." Kouichi sighed, "..I'm just a little tired."

Tired? Well, I believe that part.. he's not even stuttering.

"Did you get in trouble?"

"Well, no.. just a warning."

"That's what's bothering you?" I didn't sound convinced and I did this on purpose, "..anything else you want to tell me?"

"I guess.." Kouichi finally sounded honest, ".. my coworker is.. weird."

"Weird how?" I pressed further.

"Um.. It might be just me. Maybe I'm just not used to socializing," Kouichi excused.

"Was he mean to you?"

Kouichi hesitated, "...no.. he was nice."

"Weirdly nice?"

"Um.. yeah."

"So what is it then?" My voice seemed harsh, "..is he a creep?"

"Kouji-"

"Tell me please. So I don't lose my head wondering," I cut him off, blurting honestly.

"I don't know," his eyes darted to any direction but mine.

"Tell me details," I urged as we approached our house, "..is he an older man? Who is he?"

"Well.. he looked.. older.. thirties, maybe. Scary but nice-looking," Kouichi explained sheepishly.

"Scary?"

"I mean he was really tall.. intimidating."

I wanted to laugh, but didn't. Everyone is tall and intimidating to my brother. That doesn't mean anything to me.

"So what happened?" I asked again, holding the door open for my twin.

Kouichi stayed silent and I shut the door behind us. The silence went on a bit too long. I was about to speak when he finally did.

"Nothing just.. I think I'm just freaking out for no reason."

"What?" I huffed, crossing my arms. Kouichi gazed at me with low spirits.

"Kouji, it was my first day.. I was so late and I think I'm just tired.. nothing really happened," He muttered finally as he sat on the couch.

"Why are you making excuses now? You said he acted weird. Why are you telling me nothing happened?" I hovered over him, irritated.

"I'm just not used to socializing. Let's just change the conversation. Please?" His eyes begged me to reconsider pursuing any further.

"Alright. Fine," I growled lowly.

"So.. how was your day?" Kouichi mumbled.

I usually love to hear Kouichi talk.. but right now.. I hate his small talk.

KOUICHI'S POV

The next morning at six AM Kouji had woken up to the alarm along with me. He didn't really speak to me, just shot glances in my direction every once in awhile. I feel guilty for not telling him honestly why I felt so uncomfortable but I didn't even know if I had a valid reason. I just felt like it was time and I was old enough. I had to be independent and I was tired of leaning on him my entire life. Maybe I should have told him, though. Just maybe he wouldn't be acting so cold right now.

We continued the morning in silence. I took a shower, only my thoughts accompanied me at this point. Kouji sat on the couch with a mug, our eyes awkwardly met momentarily.

"Good morning," I greeted mouse-like.

He didn't reply, just eyed me. He didn't seem angry, just intensely bothered.

"You're up early.." I muttered.

"I'm walking you to work today," Kouji ordered.

"W-what? Why?"

"I feel like I should."

"But you don't need to-"

"But I'm going to."

"I'm perfectly capable of walking myself."

"I'm sorry, but after how you acted yesterday I don't trust you alone," his eyes never faltered as he stared at mine.

"Really?" I gulped.

Did I act that noticeable? I always do.. I can't keep secrets from my own twin.. he always sees right through me. But he doesn't trust me.. alone? He can't stay with me at work.. What is he thinking?

"Yes."

"What are you worried about? Nothing happened walking to work."

"But something happened at work, right?" Kouji's eyes and words pierced me.

I kept silent. The last thing I needed was an argument between my brother and I.

"I need to get groceries anyway."

"With what money?" I asked maybe a bit too coldly.

"Don't worry about it."

"Kouji-"

"I'm going."

Groceries? What a lame thing to say.. but.. I kind of want to cry. Maybe it was just too early in the morning and that's why I felt so emotional. I can't help it, at this point..

I sniffed lightly but I didn't let any tears fall. I'm done with being such a cry baby. I'm too old to do this any more.

Kouji sighed, standing and walking slowly towards me, "..I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you upset."

"You really don't trust me?" I pouted.

"It's not you, it's other people."

"Maybe you need to learn to be more trusting then."

"Maybe you need to learn you shouldn't trust everyone."

"I don't-"

"Bull shit. Something upset you yesterday and it was that damned guy and you won't tell me because why?"

"I-"

"Because you don't trust me but you trust everyone else?" Kouji spat.

"Kouji.."

He's not thinking about what he's saying, is he?

"You think some stranger has his best interest for you and I don't?"

What the hell is he going on about?

I choked a sob, forcing all the tears to stay subdued. This wasn't how I wanted my morning to start.

I guess Kouji had a point.. though it was vague.. why would I be protecting someone I barely know and already don't like? Is it because.. I want this job so badly? Maybe I want to prove to myself I can do it on my own for once.

Kouji pulled me into a hug and exhaled roughly, "..I'm sorry. I just.. I just care.."

"Kouji, I don't need a babysitter," I muttered in his chest.

Kouji's face looked hurt, I think my words stung him, "..I'm sorry. Can I walk you back home then?"

"Okay."

•••

I stepped into the store, throwing my work vest on as I greeted my boss. He waved at me without turning his head, I think I just needed for him to see me so I could prove to myself that I could be there on time. It's weird to think like that, I guess. I walked to the back room, grabbing a couple of boxes and stacking them in the aisle I would be unpacking them in. Without hesitation I began to do so.

I hate the freezer aisle. It's so cold. I'm lucky I have a long sleeve on but even if my arms are covered my nose is frozen solid.

It's so quiet in this store.. obviously it wasn't a popular store to begin with. The most people I've ever spotted in the store had been only a few customers. Currently there might be just one or two.

I can't get over how cold it was in this aisle. Maybe it was just me.. I seem to have a temperature sensitivity. No one else gets cold?

I sat on my knees feeling the cold floor radiate through my pants. I rubbed my arm, hoping some kind of friction would cause warmth.

"Hey."

I jumped, turning up towards the voice.

"Oh.. h-hi, Mr. Mori."

He frowned, "..I told you to call me Katsu."

"O-okay," I muttered quietly, "..Katsu."

He raised his eyebrows, smirking, "..don't be a scared Koinu, I'm not that scary, am I?"

Koinu? Mr. Mori called me Koinu? Well.. that's ironic.

I fumbled with the produce I held in my hand nervously.

"Come with me," he demanded with a smile.

I stood, uncomfortably agreeing to his orders. I followed him to the back room once more. He lead me to the same corner I had been in before.

"Can you grab that box in the back?" He pointed to a box that seemed impossible to reach for someone as short as me.

If he needed it so bad why couldn't he grab it? He's tall..

"Okay.." I agreed reluctantly, walking in the corner and reaching over a tower of boxes to grab the one in the back.

"You could steal anything you want in here," he chuckled behind me, "..there are no cameras in this room."

My stomach dropped to the floor. Why did that statement make me want to vomit? I stopped what I was doing to turn behind me, seeing his arms crossed in a smug stance. Our eyes met for a moment but I spoke first.

"I wouldn't do that," I frowned.

Is he assuming I'm a thief?

Katsu huffed as he grinned, motioning with his hand for me to grab the box. I sighed to myself feeling it was an impossible task. The box was barely within my reach, how did he expect me to grab this? Did this box really matter that much?

I feel so annoyed.

I turned towards the box and stretched my hand out towards it, bending over the bigger box in my way. I can feel his eyes burning holes in my back and it made me uncomfortable. I suddenly felt a force pull my jeans upwards ever so slightly. I reached back startled, slapping the hand that pulled on my pants up. I backed up a step, my eyes never leaving Katsu.

"W-what was.." I stammered, feeling my face on fire. I couldn't hide the color on my cheeks, something his Katsu's grin made it clear he loved it.

I hated it.

"You should wear a belt," Katsu chuckled and smirked, "..your underwear was peeking out."

I don't understand him. Is he trying to help? That's not something you just do, is it? I couldn't help but I feel uneasy around him. He seemed kind and cool at first but now I just wanted to run away and hide from him.

"S-sorry," I muttered.

Why the hell did I apologize? He should keep his hands off of other people.. right? What's wrong with me? Maybe I haven't changed. I'm still a coward. Kouji would be so disappointed in me right now.

"Don't let it happen again," Katsu warned with a devious grin.

I swallowed harshly and began to make my way out of the room when Katsu grabbed my hand. I wanted to yell at him to let go and to keep his hands off of me but something about him made me submissive.

"I'm your boss, not him."

What's that supposed to mean? Those words he spoke.. were they a threat?

I couldn't bring myself to nod. I just took my hand back and paced quickly out of the room. I didn't look behind to see him again, I just wanted to get my work shift done and go home.

Katsu didn't show his face around me for the rest of the day. I put away so many boxes it became a pretty easy job to find where everything went. Anyone that walked by made me nervous. I peered out of the corner of my eye but none of them were Katsu. I felt relief knowing I was in the presence of customers; never did I want to be around random strangers so much. I actually felt safe around them. I saw a couple coworkers walk by. I noticed all the piers I saw had to be in their forties or so.

Is Katsu picking on me because I'm so young? That's not fair.. or maybe.. maybe other people my age have worked here but he scares them off? Honestly I wouldn't doubt it. If I didn't need this job so badly I would leave, too..

Katsu said not to be scared but.. he's frightening and he knows it.

When the shift ended I didn't think twice to head for the doors. I tore off my vest and held it in my shaking hands as I stepped towards the front. Katsu surprised me by standing by an end cap by the front doors. My heart beat began to quicken as our eyes met. I stood frozen in the walk way as he made his way over to me. I frowned as I noticed his eyes scan me up and down.

"Can you work tomorrow morning? We just had someone quit," he asked.

This surprised me; he sounded genuine.

"Oh.. um.. sure," I muttered, though I wish I hadn't agreed.

I knew I wouldn't get a lot of shifts when I started. It was only the second day and I didn't think picking up shifts was going to happen so soon.

"Thanks. See you tomorrow, Koinu," he smiled widely, a kind smile appeared on his face. I knew better, I felt his sinister intent. He raised his hand and I flinched though I felt immediately dumb.

He only waved goodbye to me.

My breathing ceased, feeling my face once again begin to heat up. Even if I was in public I still felt uncomfortable around him. I turned to leave, not realizing I was walking right into my brother. I didn't notice Katsu and Kouji's eyes had met until now. Luckily Katsu had walked away before Kouji could speak to him.

"Hey," Kouji gripped my shoulders to steady me. He furrowed his brow, studying my face.

"Hi," I muttered trying to keep my face as low as possible. I knew how I looked, I felt it. I didn't want him to see it, though. I don't want to hear him say I told you so.

I peeked upwards seeing my brother narrow his eyes at me.

"Why'd he call you that?"

..here comes the questions..

I grabbed his hand and began to walk as far away from that store as I could get before being questioned so harshly. The last thing I wanted was a confrontation between those two.

"Kouichi?" Kouji's voice was cold, "..are you going to answer me?"

I bit my lip, I couldn't find an answer for him.

I can't act like nothing happened. Kouji knows me too well.. the psychic connection we share leaves me vulnerable.. he knows everything.. if I tell him nothing happened.. we will fight.. I don't want a fight.

"Who is that guy?"

"Um.. my b-boss.. I think."

"You think?" He held my hand tighter, now guiding me to a lesser known alley. No person was in sight, I only saw one car pass in the road.

I leaned back on the brick wall of the building. My head pounded. I mentally thanked the tall building behind me for blocking the sun.

We're going to have this conversation whether I like it or not, aren't we, Kouji? You didn't bring me to an unpopulated ally for no reason.

"Start talking."

This is so awkward.

"I d-don't know-"

He abruptly hit the wall next to me, only inches away from my head. I jumped startled at his movements. I stared deeply into his angry eyes.

"Don't give me that bullshit. Speak."

This is crazy.. he can be so angry without knowing much at all.. he senses everything with me.. sometimes I wish I didn't have a twin.. can I keep a secret just for once?

"Okay.. fine.." I exhaled slowly. His face was so close to mine I could feel his warm breath on my face, "..I'll tell you everything but.."

"But what?"

"..you can't make me quit."

"Why the hell not?" Kouji grit his teeth, "..what's so bad you would think I'd make you quit?"

"He-"

"He what?"

I frowned, "..let me talk!"

"Then spit it out already! I'm going insane over here," Kouji fists began to shake. He leaned them both on the wall, both opposing sides of me. His face begged for answers.

My heart quivered and ached for him. My poor brother.

"His name is Katsu Mori."

Kouji kept silent. I think his name made him think about the stuffed animal as well.

"He says he's my boss."

"He says?" Kouji glowered.

"Yeah. I think he's just.. like.. my manager.." I trailed off, still unsure of the meaning behind Katsu's statement.

"'Koinu'. What the hell is that?"

"..that's what he.. uh.. calls me.."

Kouji huffed, "..what the hell?"

"..I know.. it's weird.." I gulped.

"Is this the same weird person from before?"

"..yes."

"Tell me everything," Kouji took his arms back and crossed them.

"Yesterday.. he just.." I explained unsurely of how to speak it. I showed him, patting my own head. Kouji winced ever so slightly seeing my motions; I know it irritated him knowing he's always done that same thing to me.

But the difference is... Kouji only does it.. for good reasons..

"He doesn't even know you, why is he touching you?" Kouji growled.

"..I don't know.."

"What else happened?"

"..um.. today.. he.." my face began to flush to think back to it. I wasn't sure if Katsu was trying to help or not; or if he had gross intentions.

"He what, Kouichi?" Kouji questioned through his teeth.

"..um.. he.. pulled up.. my.. uh.." I looked down, this word want so awkward to say, "..pants."

"Wait. What the fuck?" Kouji's face fell, "..that's a little too weird.. yeah, okay, you're definitely not going back there."

"Kouji! I told you! I have to do this-"

"No," Kouji's voice turned seriously venomous, "..you're not going back."

"You can't make me quit."

Why am I fighting to keep this job? Do I really want to prove to him that bad that I can be independent? I guess so.

"Bullshit. I'll lock you in a damned room if I have to."

"We need this job, Kouji. We need groceries and-"

"I have a job!" He said bluntly.

"Y-you do?" I felt shocked. This took me by surprise.

Why am I just hearing about it?

"Yeah, I do," Kouji sighed aggressively, "..but that's not the point. You need to quit. Or I'm going to jail."

"Why?" I frowned.

"I'll kill him."

"No, you won't," I held his trembling fists in my hands feeling the urge to roll my eyes.

"Can't we call the cops?" He seemed panicked but it was slight.

"And say what? He hasn't done anything."

"He touched your pants-"

"Not on camera," I sighed, "..there wasn't a camera in that room apparently."

"How do you know?"

"He told me there weren't."

Kouji shook his head, "..bastard."

I sighed. His eyes were glued to mine.

"Isn't this harassment? Can't you tell a superior?"

"Kouji, I don't think he will believe me. I've only been there for two days, who knows how long Katsu has been there?"

I felt Kouji fists shake violently in my hands. Before I knew it he suddenly pulled his fist out and punched the wall once more. I frowned hearing him growl. I grabbed his hand seeing his freshly bloody knuckles.

"You're going to quit," Kouji demanded.

"I don't need to.. I was okay all day.. he's not around me for more than a minute.."

"Stop making excuses, what the hell do you want to stay for?"

"Bills.. money-"

"I told you I have a job. You don't need to-"

"Do you really have a job? Where?" I said coldly, "..who hired you?"

Kouji frowned, I think my words hit a nerve.

Why is Kouji saying he has a job when he doesn't? Or does he? If he does, why won't he tell me? I'm so confused.

"Exactly. We need this job-"

"Can't you just find a new job? Or just stay at home? I'll make all the damned money," Kouji brought my into a hug, it surprised me so much I dropped the vest on the ground.

"Kouji-" I began but got cut off hearing him exhale violently.

"Please."

My heart began to ache. I hugged him back, feeling myself begin to give into his begging, "..fine.. but.."

"What?" Kouji whispered.

"..let me find a new job.. before I quit this one."

"Kouichi-"

"Just trust me for once."

We gazed at each other in the eye for a minute. I think he surrendered seeing that he turned away first.

Kouji growled, "..fine.. but I'm walking with you to work."

"Okay."

"I want him to see my face."

"W-why?"

"So he knows I'll kill him if he does anything stupid again."

"Kouji, don't act crazy-"

"I'm not. I'm fucking serious."

"Okay, okay. Just.. d-don't hurt yourself again," I sighed as I mentioned his hand, the knuckles weren't bleeding as much as I thought. I think it's because all of his blood rushed to his head. His face was red and his eyes matched.

Kouji.. just relax..

I tugged in his shirt, giving him a reassuring smile. His face fell, his hands cupped my face. Kouji's thumb carassed my cheek and I laid my hand on top of his, pressing his rough skin onto on cheek. He planted a kiss on my forehead, then pulled me into another embrace. My head rested on his chest as he laid his chin on my head. I could feel his warm breath brush my hair. My heart skipped from the contentment he brought me. I heard him swallow a few times before speaking.

"Call me tomorrow.. if you feel scared.. okay? Promise?"

"I promise."

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