?Gunita?

Chapter 17: Realization

But I also would never drive them away.

It was getting hard to breath when the tears started to fall down in my cheeks.

They felt cold and sticky and dirty.

I didn't want to cry.

I don't want anyone to see this vulnerable part of me.

Third Person's POV

Hiroko was in panic.

Like, full out internal panic.

He was just gonna tell his precious little sister that she can do whatever the fuck she wants without having to worry about the aftermath.

Because that's his job as her older brother.

To make sure she's happy and safe.

It was the least he could do to make up for his mistake.

So how in the world did it escalated to this?

" 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 " kiyoko cried, her pale face reddening from the emotions she's showing right now.

Hiroko vowed to himself that if any bastard tries to make kiyoko cry, he's gonna make sure they'll suffer for a lifetime.

But he just made her cry...is the vow still valid?

He was frantically making hand gestures to stop kiyoko from crying.

He didn't want to touch her with his dirty hands without her permission. She might get mad and tainted.

Hiroko, for the first time in his life. Didn't know what to do.

Fuck it. He thought.

He set aside the consequences for now. Hiroko stood up from his seat, embracing kiyoko like how his mother would do to him before.

Soothing down her back like a gentle cradle. He didn't know what to say, nor what to do. But, he recalled something, from the deepest part of his memories.

Something that his real mother would do to him when he's crying.

" It's fine, You're gonna be just fine. Trust me on this. " He comforted kiyoko.

She flinched at first, not really used to having people hug or make physical contact with her.

But he was warm, and warm people made her feel safe.

Kiyoko doesn't know why this person makes her feel safe, Ever since the first time they met.

Not even once did he lie to her.

She felt comfort in his awkward hug.

She'd gladly take it, if it meant temporarily filling the sadness seeping out of her heart.

Warm. Kiyoko thought as her hands hugged him back. Crying her heart out to him, all that bottled up emotions.

Finally, coming undone.

Hiroko…..Could never forgive himself for making that dumb decision of hunting down and assassinating Japan's traitors to protect the honor of their family.

Kiyoko was clearly much more important than some stupid family honor and title.

I should've stayed that time, I should've just followed wherever you were when that first accident happened, I should've protected you. He bit his lips in frustration.