?Gunita?

Chapter 17: Realization

IS HE REALLY MY BROTHER?!

(ノಠ益ಠ)ノ彡┻━┻

sigh.

I sipped on the tea he poured earlier. It's really good.

Tastes like tea.

" Kiyoko, " He called.

When I looked at him, he was sitting comfortably in the chair. A small smile is present in his lips and eyes, looking back at me with sincerity and determination.

I hummed, " ??? " He didn't seem ready to say what he wanted to say.

I put down the cup and took a bite on one of the scones.

He took a breath, " You can do whatever you want, don't worry about the consequences. You just need to choose what makes you happy. " He said in one go.

My mind went blank.

Am I really even allowed to do that?

What if someone important to me goes away again, because of how selfish I am?

I don't think I can handle another heartbreaking scene.

I promised myself that this time I'd be happy.

I don't know how to be happy, without worrying about the consequences of my actions.

I just got him, an older brother that I've always wanted. I don't want to lose anyone.

Not again.

My mind was in shambles, thinking of a nice way to respond. But I don't know what to do.

I was still staring at him. But my mind was far off.

He sighed, a smile adorning his lips, " Don't think about anything else. You just need to choose whatever makes you satisfied and happy. Your Big brother will handle the consequences for you. "

My eyebrows frowned.

I felt my nose and eyes burn.

Don't cry kiyoko. Don't cry.

Why the heck is this making me emotional?

It's not like……

maybe, it is. The first time, someone from my family actually cares about me.

*Hic

" But you're also….gonna leave me once you see the consequences— I just got a big brother— You promised me— that…" I trailed off, wiping away the tears that had gathered in my eyes.

They were starting to feel heavy, along with the heavy feeling of loneliness in my heart.

My chest tightened, the feeling of something restraining my heart made my stomach churn in misery. It hurts, it hurts, it hurts—

" You still have to make it up to me— You promised me— So I can't— I also can't lose you, not you too " My eyes were blurry and my nose feel stuffy.

Someone—please make it stop hurting.

I can tell how pathetic I look right now. I would never beg for someone to love and give me affection.