Part 12: The Closing Door

Divine was rarely late. He planned in advance and things happened according to his schedule. But in this case he had to admit it was dumb luck he was just on time.

He caught Yusei at the door, hand on the knob, a duffel bag over his shoulder. About to leave.

He looked back at the sound of Divine's step, but there was no spark of doubt in his eyes that he could kindle into a fire, only determination.

"Don't do this, Yusei."

He shook his head. "I'm sorry, Divine."

And there it was. A slight wavering of the voice, almost too faint to hear, unless you knew Yusei as well as Divine did.

"Please, Yusei.", he had to be careful. Yusei was a powerful empath, he would know if Divine wasn't genuine about his plea. Sadness would work. He could feel sadness at seeing the boy leave that he had raised for the better part of his life. He concentrated on that emotion, let it fill him.

The bag slid from his shoulder, but he was still facing away from Divine. "I have to do this.", he insisted, but Divine could tell that his resolution was weakening.

"What about Aki, and the other kids? They need you.", he paused for a moment, letting the tension build. "I need you."

"Divine..."

He took the few steps that separated him from Yusei and pulled him around to embrace him. For a split second he thought Yusei would fight him, he was so tense. Then he went completely slack against Divine, burying his face against the man's shoulder.

"I'm sorry."

"It's okay.", he stroked his back as the younger body started to tremble.

"Forgive me!"

And Divine knew it wasn't his forgiveness he was asking for.

*

Outside, lit by the bright light of a street lamp, Jack leaned against the backside of a vacated bench, one he had shared with Yusei earlier this day. He could make out the full moon, but no stars. The city caused light pollution to a degree that made observing the night sky rather pointless.

He'd been waiting in silence, two things he wasn't exactly well known for.

"I told you he wouldn't come."

Jack cast Godwin an annoyed glance. The man stood a few paces away, arms crossed behind his back, patient as you please, ticking Jack off.

"One more hour."

Godwin nodded. "As you will."

*

But Yusei didn't show. Not that night, nor any other.

Divine knew better than to let his children wander the streets alone again.

.

.

.

He held them back when they ran. He sheltered them from the rest of the world because that was what was best for them. He trained them and made them strong when everyone else would rather see them weak and beaten. He took them away from everything that could hurt them. He gave them a purpose by making use of their powers.

They were his children, and they loved him.

.

.

.

Author's note: So, this is it. Originally written in 2009 as a birthday present for a friend. Thx to those who added this story to their favorites or one if these numerous list thingies. XD Any thoughts on the fic? If yes, please leave a comment. And thank you for reading!