This chapter happens a day or two before chapter 11 of IWIHaA.
Warnings for this chapter: Mention of self-inflicted scars, emotional low, and family troubles (Kid is so innocent here it breaks my heart)
"I wasn't aware watching a movie with no sound was all the range," Shanks remarks as he enters the living room.
Kid is sprawled out on the sofa, Law curled up against him with his head on his chest, Kid's arm wrapped tightly around him. Law's arm is slung across the taller teenager's waist; the sleeve on his hoodie has pulled up to expose a scarred, olive forearm. Shanks frowns, filing it away for later inspection.
"Law fell asleep, so I muted it. I've seen it a thousand times," Kid answers.
"He looks worse for wear. A lot of schoolwork?"
"No, he's not feeling well," Kid answers. "Has difficulty sleeping and an unusually low appetite, even for him. I'm trying to take care of him because I don't think his family- I think they don't look after him enough. Maybe he doesn't let them, I don't know; I just know he needs someone to watch over him."
"Don't go too far with that, Kid. You can't save people from themselves."
"He needs protection from everyone but himself."
"Don't charge in unless he asks you to. You could make it worse for him."
"I know, dad. I hope he'll confide in me eventually."
Shanks gives his son's shoulder a squeeze.
"I hope so too, love."