I do not own Fruits Basket. All of its characters, including those mentioned in this fanfiction, belong to Natsuki Takaya.

Chapter 1: Hold on

I have to study now, mom. There's a quiz tomorrow.

I feel guilty about leaving you with all the dishes. We usually do them together. It's more fun that way.

But you told me this is what I should do, mom. 'Study hard,' you said. So I won't let you down…

--

I feel so pathetic. I fell asleep while studying!

But you wrapped a blanket around me last night, and it's making me feel better.

Thank you, mom.

I slept in and you've already left. I didn't get to greet you 'good morning,' or see you off.

Oh well. I'll see you after school!

--

No…

This can't be happening…

You can't go yet, mom. I need you.

Hana-chan…

Uo-chan…

We all need you. We'd miss you too much if…

You've always told me… that I needed to be strong. And I'll do just that. It's all I can do right now…

But please… be strong for me, too?

Please hold on…

Please try…

Please live…