A/N: Whoa, it's Chapter 10 already!

My updating days are decided: Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, except when exams come in the way.

As thanks (and apologies) for those who have been waiting for my updates, I'll be doing a double chapter today~ Thank you for your patience~

"So, Miku," Akaito started, "How's Mikuo like before he came here?"

"He's just like any other boy in his younger days," Miku said.

"What about later?"

Miku gave him a look. "Is it for a research project or something?"

"No, I'm just interested." Akaito cocked his head to one side. "Why do you ask?"

"Normally you'd ask him if you wanna know. Why ask me?"

"He told me to."

Miku nodded. Makes sense. "Okay, then. I'll tell you. In the time period after the Kagamines and I left and before he came here, Mikuo attempted suicide a few times."

Akaito blinked. "Why? He told me he wasn't alone."

"Maybe he's not alone, but he's definitely lonely," Miku explained.

"He said he had parents and friends."

"Not much difference if he didn't. No one around him cared for him. I could only reach him over the net, but he doesn't go online often." Miku sighed.

"But they stopped him from committing suicide, right?" Akaito asked hopefully.

"Nah, the one who always stops him is himself." Miku smiled sadly. "Now that I think of it, if it weren't for you, he'd still be the same today. So thank you for everything."

Akaito felt a feeling swell within him. It felt like pride and joy... He couldn't help smiling. "Aw, really?" He scratched his head shyly.

Miku smiled the smile Akaito had seen so often on Mikuo's face. "Please do watch over him in the future. You're very important to him; even more important than he is to you."

Akaito's face went red. "Sure... I'll look after him."

"You two are so close that I'm starting to envy you." Miku laughed.

Something in the past stirred behind Akaito's mind. Ah, yes. Mikuo said that they'll make the others envy their friendship... Akaito beamed. Mission accomplished!

Things like that aside, when Miku said that he's important to Mikuo, Akaito couldn't be happier. He's needed. Someone needs him.

Mikuo needs him.

Akaito smiled. He'll take good care of Mikuo. Definitely.