Chapter 2

Hikou seemed to be improving. For the past two weeks I've been monitoring his progression daily. His bedside frequently became my resting place as I relaxed in his silent company.

Within my heart I cemented a secret from him, a secret that troubled my soul. Betrayal brewed from coveted affairs locked away reluctantly with the confidence of another.

Vulnerability had become my worst enemy, with the sudden news of Hikou's misfortune. Two weeks ago, comfort sought me relentlessly, emotional barriers crumbling to pieces before me. My reluctance faltered, I sought out company, filled with a misery that didn't want to be alone. And she, she was the one who welcomed me; surrender was the action that my emotions told.

Her name was Kouran, the wife of Hikou. Introductions were made to her four years ago. She was a gorgeous young woman with hair cascading past her shoulders, green eyes like emerald crystals. We became good friends as a result of being close to Hikou. Compared to a little sister I cared for her deeply.

Her fallen tears, however, left me heartbroken, triggering reactions my conscience can now no longer bear.

As I sat there by Hikou's bedside, she was sitting beside me and beside him as well. Clasping both our hands she snapped me back to reality, sharpening the guilt that already pounded at my heart. All the kisses stolen under melancholy emotions no longer had a valid explanation. No resolve came to mind when it boiled down to the actions committed.

I tugged away my hands from hers reflexively, our eyes meeting in an awkward stare. My confidence dwindling left me like a coward; my lips sealed almost trembling to say what I wanted to share.

"I'm… uh… sorry."

She shied away from me bashfully, guilt overcoming her, sadness threatening to bring tears. I longed to touch her, my hands reaching for her shoulders, but I hesitated knowing where this action got me once before.

"I'm sorry too," I replied. And before she had a chance to say anything else, I silently exited the room. Now in her lonesome, I could hear her soft whimpering as I laid my back against the closed door. Her emotions seeped through like water through a crevice and it was enough to shatter me to pieces. But the remnants of courage that still resided within me were enough to make me look the other way.

I was now half a man, trust no longer being my keepsake. And I knew I had already destroyed the best friendship I ever had.


Author's comments: I meant for this chapter to be short because of the content in it. It was also meant to string you along a little bit...