Archive of Our Own

2:57PM

..A violent cough followed shortly, with insipid smoke fuming out of Basil’s mouth and nose - Kel thinking for a moment he’d let loose the joint onto the lush grass; a joint which Basil impossibly balanced on his lip. 

He tried to get a word in edgeways, but he still hacked and coughed his lungs up. Was it really that much of an unprecedented query?

..Well, Kel already knew the answer to that. Afterall, who’d expect a tough, brains-and-brawn punk like him to be in love with a scrawny, brains-but-barely-any-brawns goth like him? 

Finally - with one last dry cough to clear his smog-coated throat - Basil finally spoke up. 

“Excuse my rudeness but, you want to confess to… To Sunny?!”

“N-Not confess! I-”

“What do you mean-” Basil cut him off, only to take another swift hit of his joint; having a tendency to do that in between sentences. “Not confess? I’m pretty sure I heard you say like, ‘How should I tell Sunny I might like him?’” 

..He did, didn’t he? 

“You actually love Sunny? Like.. no joke?” 

Kel nodded, irked and immediately rue the moment he thought asking Basil was going to be a good idea… He should’ve just asked Aubrey.

Although he also didn’t think it would go well; especially with her happy-go-lucky and perfect mien of hers.. She was an admittedly good friend though.

Maybe Mari? Although, she never really paid much attention to her brother, did she? Just like Hero.. They should really learn to pay more attention to their siblings.

Hero?...As if.

God.. He really didn’t have any better choices, did he?

“Tch.. forget it.” He couldn’t deal with it. Why should he even bother? It’s not like Sunny will love him back anyway.

Why bother asking for help when it’s doomed from the beginning?

“Nah, Nah, man! C’mon, no need to hoist the sails and row away so quickly.” 

…What the fuck was Basil even saying?

“I’ll lend you some tips, free of charge!”

“..Fine. FINE!” Kel grumbled, knowing damn well Basil would be his best hope, unfortunately. “But this better not end up fucking me over..”

“That’s more like it, my shadow!” 

Kel found it better to not ask questions anymore. “So.. Do you actually love Sunny? How much? Scale from one to ten? For how long?”

“One question at a fucking time! Jesus..” Kel barked back quickly. 

“Alright! Jeez..” Basil playfully and guiltily  raised his hands. “So.. Scale from one to ten?”

“..Ten.” He looked away with a flustered scowl.

“For how long?” Basil had a large and sly smile on his face, but it held no response from Kel. “C’moooon, tell me!” 

Still nothing.

“I ain’t letting up, just saying!” Basil’s burnt and baggy eyes stared intently at Kel, who looked like he wanted to bash Basil’s head against a wall.

“...A few months.” Kel blurted out. “Probably.. Seven.”

That certainly gained a hearty but sincere laugh from Basil. “Ohoho.. Man, that long? Your heart must’ve been killing you if you’ve kept it in that long.” He took another quick puff of his joint, before continuing. “I see now what you should do!”

“Fucking hell… get on with it!”

“Patience, my confidante.” 

…

“Now, how I see it, I recommend a nice hearty letter on his birthday. Remember, it’s-”

“Tomorrow.”

“Oh wow! You remembered his birthday? You’re really in looooveee~, huh?” Basil gleefully noted. “What I mean by a hearty letter, by the way, is a love letter of course. Y’know like, you’re gonna write your feelings from..your mind n’ all.”

“Huh? A l-love letter?!” 

Punks like Kel don’t write love letters.. They’re way too cheesy.

“Won’t Sunny be disappointed if all he gets is a flimsy piece of paper though?”

“No no no no no no.. You’re missing the point, man. It’s not just some paper. It’s your heart on paper.”

…Basil was right.. Kel supposed it would be nice.

“But, if you’re really going to sweeten the deal, you gotta get him.. Flowers or chocolate. Or like, something you made yourself.”

..How much money did Kel have again?

“Don’t worry man, I’ll be your.. Um.. what’s it again?” Basil stared off into the sky, puffing on his joint again; blowing out a small hoop of smoke. “Flyman? Wingboy? Birdman?... Wingman? Yeah… Wingman! I’ll make sure everything goes well, and I can hook you up with something special from my garden-”

“I am not giving Sunny weed.” He shot a stern look at Basil, who was swift to retort.

“Hey! I don’t just grow weed.. I still got some regular ol’ flowers and shit in my zen garden, bro. Like.. Egret orchids, and white bulbs, and um… a few roses I think.” #

Those sounded a lot better than giving his - hopefully soon-to-be-boyfriend drugs.

“And for those chocolates; I’ll lend you like.. A few dollars or something.. Not sure how much a box of chocolates cost but it doesn't matter too much.”

Huh.. Basil was willing to do all that for him?...Shocker.

“And with that thing you should make yourself, I mean.. Um.. Just make something with some cardboard or paper or whatever. Make it personal, you know?”

“O-Ok?”

“And then.. Once you got all that pizazz, you gotta hand it to Sunny in person.” Kel never expected Basil to be this helpful when it came to a topic like..this.

“Unless you wanna.. Do some TV trope of leaving it at his locker or something.” He muttered under his breath, whilst digging around his jean pocket before pulling a ragged wallet, taking ten dollars out and handing them to Kel. “But you’ll owe me for this, man.”

Kel snatched the money away, half-hazardly stuffing it in his jacket pocket.

“You better not tell anyone though.. I’ll rip your fucking spine and skull out.” Kel shot his most ominous and threatening death stare just to get across the message.

“Woah bro.. Since when did you watch Predator?” And of course, the threat went over Basil’s head without anything else to add. 

“..Just don’t tell anyone.”

He really was going to go through with this, huh? God..

Part of him screamed with cries of worry and doubt; cries that begged to not go through with this, knowing it’ll just end with heartbreak and desolation. A tough punk like Kel wouldn’t mix with a gaunt goth like Sunny…

…Yet he still had some part that believed they could both prosper together, actually love each other and be there for each other…

Kel preferred to lean into the latter part of him; even if it was a little- well a little is an understatement - extremely nerve wracking.

He desperately needed something to cool down….

At least he already knew how he could. 

He snatched Basil’s joint straight out of the stoner’s mouth, much to his extreme fury.  Kel didn’t care though, just puffing on it, before unsurprisingly hacking and coughing from the pure strength.

Kel had smoked the odd grafted cigarette once in a blue moon, but it didn’t prepare him for the sucker punch that was whatever the fuck Basil grew to make his.

“ ACK.. JESUS FUCKING CHRIST! What the fuck are you growing to make these?!”

“Yukimi Daifuku, bro.” Basil smugly said, still with an annoyed tone.

“What are you-”

“Joking, bro! The hell do you think I’m growing? Weed, of course.” 

Kel swore he felt like knocking Basil’s teeth out someday…  At least whatever Basil was growing helped to settle Kel’s nerves slightly.

“I’m surprised my parents haven’t found out yet..” Basil mused, “I suppose that means stashing the raw stuff behind a patch of sunflowers worked.”

“BASIL! KEL!” 

…Shit.

“What do you two think you’re doing?” She walked over and snatched away the joint from Kel’s hand.

“Huh?! Hey! First Kel, now you Aubs?!” 

Aubrey.

“You shouldn’t be smoking something like this. Your body will hate you for it, after all.” Aubrey crossed her arms with a worried ire.

“Aubrey.” Kel didn’t want to deal with any annoyances; not whilst his mind was trying to deal with what he’d do tomorrow.. “Piss off.”

“And what did I say about speaking like that?” Aubrey shook her head in response. “You could learn a thing or two about manners, Kel! And Basil, why are you smoking this nasty stuff again and letting Kel smoke it as well? Be a little more responsible!”

“Whuh? Aubs, c’mon. Nah. No way. Nuh uh.. Like, nope. Totally.. Absolutely..Definitely.. NOT!.” Basil just kept murmuring. “Why would I still be smoking? Aubs, I’m WAYYYY past that.. Like.. way way past.”

“..Basil. I know you’re lying!”

“Why would I lie, Aubs? I have nothing to gain from slipping a lie into your ears...” 

“Oh Basil.. You have to learn at some point! I don’t want your life wasted away just because of you smoking that.” Aubrey did sound genuinely concerned, but her words just flew over Basil, like most things.

“Dunno what you’re worried about!” Basil shrugged it off as always, uncaring. 

“Once I figure out whoever has been dealing you that stuff, I’ll make sure they won’t ever hear the end of it!” Aubrey imitated a swinging bat.

If only Aubrey knew where Basil actually got it from..

And for being the most mother-like and mature of the group; she could still have a screw loose.

“Fucking hell, would you both shut it?! If you two keep blabbering on about this bullshit, in which fucking world do you expect me to be able to concentrate on how I can confess-”

..Fuck. Kel loosened his tongue a little too much. Thank god he didn’t finish his sentence or else it would all come tumbling down.

“Bro.. You didn’t just almost say that…?” Basil covered his mouth, stifling some laughter in the process.

Shut the fuck up Basil…Shut the fuck up Basil…

“Kel? What do you mean, confess?”

Stop asking questions Aubrey… Stop asking questions Aubrey…

“Oh, right.. Um, like..”

Do not even fucking think about it Basil..!

“Kel wants to confess to-”

Kel was quick to grab Basil by the scruff of his neck.

“YOU SHUT THE FUCK UP!!” All the whilst shaking him around violently, Kel’s face heated and red with embarrassment. 

“KEL!” Aubrey almost immediately went to pry Kel away from Basil. “Why did you do that?” 

“I… Gah! None of your fucking business!” 

“You could’ve really hurt Basil!” Aubrey’s voice was a lot more stern now, genuinely filled with concern. “Basil, are you okay?”

“I..It’s.. fine… Kinda.” Basil was helped up by Aubrey. “Kinda my fault, r-really.. Still man..Ouch.” 

“Kel, apologise right this instant!” She brought Basil over to Kel. “Hug right now, and apologise to him!” 

“Tch, I’m not doing that!”

“Aww, It’s o-okay man.. I’ll start the hug if anything!” Basil jumped onto Kel and wrapped his arms around him. 

“H-HEY! Get the fuck off me!”

“Nah man.. You haven’t apologised yet. Plus, I like hugging my friends..” Basil kept his grip on Kel, much to his ire.

…Well.. Kel guessed a hug wouldn’t hurt, returning the favour by wrapping his arms around Basil too.

“..Sorry.”

“S’ okay, man.” Basil patted Kel on the back, before finally letting go.

“There we go! All's well that ends well!” Aubrey cheerily beamed, but it was quickly wiped away as she checked her watch. “Oh dear, I-I need to go, sorry!”  She ran out down the street without another moment's notice, but not before shouting out, “I better not catch you guys smoking that again!”

“Yeah, Yeah!” Basil waved off goodbye, but Kel just barely flicked his hand. “Now.. About those flowers!”

—-------------------------------------------------

God… Her head hurt like hell. How late did she stay up again..?

She glanced over at the alarm clock.

2:45PM.

The hell did she do last night to stay up so late-

…Ah right.

Writing and listening to music.. Mari really needed to control her sleeping habits.. 

Hell, she fell asleep in her regular gothic attire.

Well, not her fault she loved to just stay inside all day, and listen to her favourite bands and read her favourite gothic novels and write them herself.. She was just part of her own flow now.

Just a simple and prismatic flow that only went on and on… A transcending flow of both oblivion and rapture; a perfect mix for Mari.

Yet..her flow was broken by..

..Hm.. It felt like something partial yet still vital was lingering in the back of her mind. In the back of her mind.. Slowly creeping up to the forefront.

A birthday? But who’s…

Kel’s..? No.. It was July.. 

Who had their birthday in July?

…Sunny?

It was Sunny?... Shit. 

She forgot her brother’s birthday.. 

She actually felt really terrible now.. surprisingly.

And yesterday was such a relaxing one, just to be side-swiped by her plain ignorance… 

How could she forget about her brother’s birthday? What was wrong with her? God.. She needed to get her shit together and quickly.

What could she do, though?

..Hm..

Well, she had to make sure everyone else knew it was Sunny’s birthday, hoping that everyone else was a little more observant of the date, then she’d gather them for a party.

Something for dinner, first. Maybe Gino’s?.. Yeah, Gino’s sounds good. 

A cake? A plain, chocolate cake sounds good. Maybe she could add some extra decor to it later.

Presents? Some clothes? Maybe some music.. Or some art supplies.. Maybe a conversation-

…Conversation? Why would Sunny just want to talk on his birthday? He never was one to talk much, though.

..Or was it Mari? 

No.. Even if she did prefer sticking around indoors, she could find herself chatting for hours. 

So why did Mari feel like she didn’t talk much? Why did she feel like ‘giving’ Sunny a conversation for his birthday?

Oh well, why bother paying attention to that.. She’ll just pay attention to the guarantees for now.

Hm… Perhaps some new accessories? Posters? Attention and a conversation-

…Why was that thought back? Why? Attention as well?

Didn’t Mari already pay attention to Sunny and talk to him, admittedly not a lot? Why would he want that? She just didn’t get it..

She already gave those to her brother, just in a small quantity and quality-

…

..Wait.. Was that it?

Did she just pay too little attention to her brother?

She paid just enough, right? Sure, she spent most of her time doing anything else, but she still looked out for him..partially.

..Oh. So that’s it..

She really didn’t give a lot of attention that Sunny so desperately missed.. 

Mari felt her heart ache a little.

Is that why she forgot his birthday too?

..So why didn’t she care before? Why is she just having this revelation now?

Is it because she remembered it was his birthday? Just remembering that reminded her of how bad she was at showing any sort of care towards…

God, she truly felt terrible; she didn’t want to think about it any longer. Maybe she could just go back to her flow and let herself drift away again..Back into her oblivion and rapture of music and literature… Maybe she could ask Basil for some of his weed? She could calm down then and just forget this..

But wouldn’t forgetting just make things worse? What was she thinking? No.. She had to pay attention this time.

She couldn’t let herself bear leaving Sunny partially in the dust now. 

Perhaps she would finally give him the attention he truly deserved. Right now.

She rose up from bed and glanced over to Sunny’s bed and-

..Already gone, huh? That.. was definitely a stab in the gut; even more so once she realised she didn’t know where he could be.

Mari only hoped Sunny would be back soon.

Hm..What could she do for now..? 

Ah, right. Gather the friends. 

No party can be complete without some childhood friends (and her boyfriend!)

And of course, her first destination would be Hero and Kel.

So post-haste, she vacated her own living space and made her way to her first stopping point, rapping lightly upon the door.

As the indoor footsteps drew near, the door creaked open and Mari was greeted with Hero’s mother.

“Mari, querido! I trust you’ve been well?” She jauntily greeted.

“I have been, Mrs.Pérez,  thank you. I hope you’ve been well too.” Mari flashed a small welcome smile as well. For spending most her time as a recluse, she still knew how to socialise fairly well.

“Indeed. May I know what brings you here?”

“I was hoping to see Hero and Kel, are they home?” 

“Oh, mis hijos, right. Hero is in his room, and my other son has scampered away.. again.” Mrs. Pérez rolled her eyes uncaringly.  “You’ll have to come back later or find him somewhere else, lo siento.”

“It’s no worry, Mrs. Pérez. May I come inside to visit Hero?” 

“Of course you may! Just, he may be a little busy, and you know how mi hijo es como cuando está ocupado!”

“Thank you, Mrs. Pérez.” Mari stepped inside of the home, and made a beeline straight for Hero’s room; one she loved to visit. After all, it was her boyfriend's bedroom.

Before even laying a finger on the door, she faintly picked up the soft clicks of a keyboard mixed with the gentle buzz of a laptop.

 “Oh Heroooo~” Mari softly called out, giving a small knock on his door, “Guess whoooo~” She patiently awaited a response.

“..Hey, Mari.” Was all she got. 

Right.. Busy.

“I’m coming in, Hero!” She called out, opening the door into the brightly illuminated room. She glanced over to see Hero, upright and stoic as ever, slaving away on a laptop.

He gave a quick glance, and even flashed a small grin; although Mari couldn’t actually tell. Nevertheless, she walked over and greeted him with a big hug. 

“Oh dear, how I’ve missed you!” She nuzzled his head, giving a few kisses,  but hadn’t got much of a verbal response from Hero, although his pretty, tanned face gained a crimson flush. 

“Me too.” He continued to type away on the small keyboard, even with his girlfriend's arms wrapped around him, although Mari never minded. She knew Hero loved her, he just never expressed it physically most of the time.  “Whatever you have to do, can you be quick? I’m busy, sorry.” His voice was a little monotonous, but it held a little sincerity; wishing to be a little more free.

“Oh, right. Sorry!” Mari gave a small cough, before stating her intentions. “Firstly, I miss you oh-so dearly, my love! Secondly, I have a proposition for you.”

“A proposition?” 

“Would you be so kind as to come to a party tomorrow-”

“No.” Mari hadn’t the chance to finish her sentence as Hero gave his swift and rather blunt answer.  “Too busy.”   

“But-”

“Sorry. Too busy.” Hero was as arrogant as ever, but Mari still loved him nonetheless. Looks like it was gonna take a bit of convincing..

“C’mon.. At least let me finish my sentence as well..” Mari playfully groaned, “I want you to come to my brother’s birthday tomorrow! I’m thinking.. 3PM?”

Hero’s hands froze, as if he was pondering the offer, “Your brother’s birthday, huh?.. Send him my regards.”

“..Hero.”

“..You’re right.” Hero reached into his pocket, and pulled out some cash. “Here. Use this to get him a present; or just give him the money itself.” 

“Ugh, Hero!” Mari felt herself bubble with frustration, but she tried her best to keep it to a minimum. “Money and presents are fine, but only if you’re in person to give them! Unless you have a genuine reason to not be present, you must be there!”

“I told you, Mari. I’m busy.” Hero shrugged it off - his hands already at work on the laptop again.

“Hero, I’m giving you this last chance.”

“Mmh, sure. Love you.” 

..Mari wished she didn’t have to pull this card out, but she hadn’t much of a choice. She leaned down to whisper into Hero’s ears;

“I’ll tell your parents about the cigarettes…” 

Mari felt Hero tense up, and with a slight tinge of hesitation, “I-I'm old enough to smoke.."

“And..I’ll tell them about how Basil sometimes hooks you up with-”

He immediately froze.

“....You wouldn’t.”

“Oh I wouuuuld!~” 

She actually wouldn’t; she just needed a good bluff to convince Hero.

For a solid few seconds, not a single of Hero’s muscles twitched.

“Think it over, Hero!~” Mari gaily sang with a wide grin.

“....F-Fine..” Hero angrily mumbled, with a slight scowl. “I’ll try to make it, but I really can’t promise anything, I’m sorry.”

“Oh, thank you! Thank you! You’re the best, Hero!” She turned his head and gave him a firm kiss on the lips, utterly delighted. “I’m sure Sunny will be so glad to see you.”

“Of course, Mari.. I’ll do it for you, I suppose.” Hero returned the kiss, his face burning more red. For being so pompous, her Hero had a soft side which shone through only for Mari.

“Oh! I almost forgot, have you seen Kel anywhere? What about my brother?”

“Tch, him?  Sólo Dios sabe dónde está ese tonto…”(God only knows where that fool is.)  His scowl almost immediately formed again, like a sour taste had just clung onto his taste-buds. “Sorry.. I don’t know. As for your brother, I have no idea either.”

Mari felt her heart drop a little.

“That’s okay, I’ll try to find them later.” Mari gave Hero one last peck on the cheek, “And thanks for at least promising you’ll try to be there. I’ll see you tomorrow!” She gave a wave, and made her way outside once more.

Now..where to next? Hm..

Ah, right! Aubrey.

Well, no point in delaying! She swiftly made her way over to Aubrey’s house; looking forward to another conversation. 

She raised her hand to knock and-

..Actually, now that she thought about it; when’s the last time she stepped foot in Aubrey’s house?

Hm.. She couldn’t quite remember. She faintly dug out the memory of climbing a ladder into a room, but that was it. 

She’d probably know more if it wasn’t for the fact that it was always Aubrey who came over, instead of Mari visiting… Hm.

Well, none of that really mattered, as Mari knocked on the door with the intention of entering anyway, and the door opened mere seconds later.

“..Hm? Good afternoon, miss.” A man, who Mari could only assume was Aubrey’s father, was there to greet her.

“Good afternoon sir. Am I right to assume you’re one of Aubrey’s parents?” 

“Yes, are you one of her friends? You look slightly familiar..” 

“Yes! My name is Mari. I was wondering if I may come inside to see Aubrey?”

“Of course, you may. She’s in her room right now, just down the hallway and up the ladder.”

Mari was allowed entry into another friend's house, and she finally remembered what Aubrey’s home was truly like. 

Fairly plain, but still modest. It looked clean, homely, safe; like most homes should look like, the smell of a mouth-watering meal hung in the air… 

Now that Mari thought about it, she was fairly hungry.. Maybe she could-

..No.. No time for that. She’ll get a bite some other time; opting to continue pushing forward and making her way to Aubrey’s room. She reached up to tap on the hatch.

“Coming!” Mari heard light footsteps approach from above, before the hatch was opened with a soft whine, and Aubrey’s cheery face peered from above. “Oh, Mari! I had no idea you were coming!”

“Sorry! I had to come on a short notice, haha..” Mari gave an awkward laugh, before asking, “May I come up?”

“Of course!” Aubrey moved out the way, allowing Mari to scale the ladder and enter what was once - Mari assumed - was an attic, now serving as Aubrey’s room.

It was well-furnished. A desk with a TV just like in Mari’s house rested on it, a corkboard hung above it. A small, hot-pink bed, with a Captain Spaceboy poster - Mari admiring the respectable taste in media Aubrey had - glued onto the wall above. A large cage with the most adorable creature (right next to Mewo, in Mari’s opinion) lay near the desk as well, a bunny happily snored the day away inside. 

“I’m glad to see you!” Aubrey clasped her hands together with a wide smile, “I was just finishing up some homework, and I was going to a friend's house soon, but I got some time to kill and I don’t know what to do; so I’m glad you’re here!”

“Quite busy, huh?” Mari returned a small grin.

“You betcha!” Aubrey playfully winked, jovial as always. Mari always enjoyed conversing with Aubrey, always so full of life and vigour; always having a story or two to tell. Just a great friend to talk and to be with. “What brings you here?”

“Well, I want to ask if you would kindly come to-”

“Sunny’s birthday?”  Oh wow.. She remembered. “I’d be thrilled to! I already got a present and a card for him sorted!”

Miles ahead of Mari..

“You’ll be able to make it? 5PM?” 

“Of course! As if I’d skim out on one of my close friends' birthdays, after all!” Aubrey giggled, “I’ll make sure to not be prudent!”

“Haha, I knew I could count on you Aubrey.” They exchanged a fist-bump, Aubrey glanced at her watch and- 

“2:55PM?! I’m gonna run late..” Mari hadn’t a chance to ask anything before Aubrey had begun to stuff a few items into a bag, and sling it over her arm. “I’m sorry Mari, but I really need to go!”

“Wait, before you go, do you know where my brother might be?”

“Hmm.. I honestly don’t know.. Sorry.”

Mari felt her heart drop a little further.

“That’s alright… I’ll see you tomorrow, then.”

“I’ll see you tomorrow at the party!” Aubrey slid down the ladder, before jokingly yelling, “Don’t steal anything!”

..Couldn’t Mari have walked with Aubrey for a short while? After all; she would’ve liked to talk… Oh well, not much Mari could do now but simply continue handing out invitations.

Mari made her own way out of the house, with only two more stops to make; with her second-to-last being Basil’s - So without much delay or hindrance, another cursory trip was made towards the next invitee. 

Yet, Mari felt herself slow down, but her mind spun like a whirlwind with only a single thought emitting this storm.

How would she approach Sunny?

Mari knew she still wanted to keep a greater eye on Sunny in the future, to be there for him even more; to just make sure he gets the attention and care he fully deserves. 

Just…how? How can she communicate this without stumbling her words and just exacerbating the ongoing Gordian Knot? Mari genuinely wanted to support Sunny, a lot more than she currently was. 

The prospect seemed daunting… but she’d still try to tackle it head-on, for him; hoping to be a supportive sister for him..

Just how? It was nerve-wracking to think about. 

However, she hadn’t realised how much she spaced out; snapped out by the voices of Basil…

“So like.. just tell me what kinda flowers you wanna give him and I’ll hook you up, no charge.” 

He was talking to someone…

“Well, what kind of flowers do you have? I barely know anything about flowers, I’m not the fucking botanist here.”

..To Kel? Kel was here as well? Talking about giving flowers to “him?”

Did Kel..find a boy he liked? A boy? He never seemed like the type to be homosexual..Not like that's a bad thing...or maybe it was just a relative. Maybe Mari was just jumping the gun; but she couldn’t fully confirm it unless she asked in person.

She turned the pavement corner, and laid her eyes upon Kel and Basil, both standing right outside of the latter's residence.

“Hey! Basil, Kel!”

Basil turned his head hysterically, only to rest easy once his eyes lay upon Mari, waving jauntily.

Kel was indifferent, his eyes wandering off into the distance. 

“‘Sup, Mari? What brings you to this cosy corner of the world?” Basil nonsensically mumbled. Mari could only guess he had been smoking again.

“Just wanted to ask a question or two.” She replied with another slight grin, pondering what she should ask first.. perhaps start off easy, she answered to herself. “Are you both available to attend Sunny’s birthday tomorrow?”

“Of course! I’d be down to attend. I’m sure I’ll be.. like, available? Probably..” Basil responded immediately.

“…Sure.” Kel bashfully looked away, his face.. weirdly flushed with blood; akin to someone confessing to someone else.

“I mean, of course you are bro. How else are you gonna like-“

“Basil.” Kel snapped his head towards Basil with the most tormenting and deathly glare Mari had seen in her life, and Kel didn’t speak another word. He only kept his focus on petrifying Basil.

“What? Can I not tell your crush's sister-” 

“BASIL! For fucks sake, WHAT DID I SAY?!” Kel stormed over to Basil, shoving him in the chest with not much force; but Kel definitely seemed like he wanted to use more.

“..You have a crush.. On my brother?”

“HUH?!” Kel embarrassingly squeaked like a child, his face flaring up with a raspberry flush; his mouth quivering and stuttering, trying to think of a counter-argument. “N-No I don’t! Why the fuck I’d have any feelings for that motherfucking.. Crank anyway?!” Despite the insulting language Kel used to describe Sunny; it all felt strangely superficial.

Like Kel was trying to cover something up..

“Swear to god..didn’t you already tell me that you did-”

“Shut your fucking mouth, Basil.” 

That much of a secret, huh? 

To Mari, this was… quite a shock to say the least. Kel had a crush on her brother, of all people?

Not like Mari thought Sunny would never get a partner; but out of all the people, Kel?

And not like she never thought Kel would get a partner either but..

Completely and utterly unexpected.

“Not like it matters.. Mari now knows.” Basil shrugged. “Plus, it was bound to happen sometime, man.”

“..Argh, Fine! So fucking what if I have a crush on Sunny..” Kel, ticked off; crossed his arms, all the whilst mumbling to himself. “But mark my fucking words, either of you tell a single soul-”

“You’ll sell our organs or something? Yeah, we get it, man.. We’ll be the only ones that know.” Basil spoke like he heard Kel’s threats for the thousandth time already.

“Never really expected you to be in love with Sunny but..”

Kel looked like he was expecting to be downplayed, ridiculed, and just embarrassed further..

“I’m happy that you’ve found someone you loved. I’m proud!” Mari instead patted Kel on the shoulder, genuinely happy for Kel. “And I’m sure once the time comes and you tell Sunny your true feelings, he’ll feel the same about you.”

“..Really?” Kel’s battle-hardened mien dissolved into something akin to an inquisitive child, hopeful.

“Of course, Kel. I’m sure.” Mari gave him another warm smile, one which solidified her thoughts. “Maybe you can confess to him tomorrow? I’m sure a love confession would be the best gift he can get from you.”

“That was my plan from the start.. I’m only here since I..”

“He needed some advice from yours truly, of course!” Basil lazily waved. “And of course, I told him to give your bro like.. Some flowers, chocolates.. And um.. Something from himself? Like.. y’know?” 

..Mari didn’t ‘y’know,’ but she could somewhat understand.

“Aww.. that’s really sweet of you, Basil.”

“Course. Wanna see them thrive, after all!” Basil waved it off like it was nothing, ironically.

“Well, once the time comes, Kel,” Mari placed a comforting hand on his shoulder; giving him a small, reassuring shake, ”We’ll be cheering from the sidelines!”

Mari genuinely hoped that it would all go well; as she truly wanted them to be happy.

“Plus, I think you and Sunny would make a cute couple!”

“Yeah, man.. you two would be like, the second flirty couple of the friend group.” Basil smugly stated, adding in “Maybe even more flirty than Hero n’ Mari.”

“Pfft; as if.” 

“Hell.. could bring my camera round, take a picture.. y’know, like you two are like, getting married? Parents bought me a crazy expensive camera a week ago; best shit on the market!” 

Meanwhile, Kel hadn’t spoken yet, yet his disconcerted and hesitant scowl was deforming into a hidden, flustered leer.

“T-Thanks guys..” Kel’s gruff voice had formed into a still coarse but more soft cry. “I-I should get going.. I need to go buy the…y-you know what.”

Kel had began to trod down the street, yet not before departing with some advice, “Any of you squeak, I-I’ll fucking kill you!” His voice was back its stalwart self, but his face was of optimism. 

They both waved Kel farewell for now, as he disappeared around the street corner.

“..Never really expected Kel to just.. Come out like this out of the um..the green?”

The blue..

“But hey.. Good for him..” Basil chewed on his tongue as he spoke, a rather odd habit of his, “Anything else you gonna say?”

“Oh, right! Do you have any idea where my brother might be?”

Basil..?

“Not a clue, soz.”

“Oh.. That’s okay.” Mari felt her heart drop a little further. “Well, I’ll be going now. I’ll see you tomorrow, Basil!”

“See ya’s, Mari.” Basil waved her off, as Mari made her way to her final destination…

..The one destination she didn’t know the whereabouts of.

Sunny.

Maybe if she paid more attention, Mari would pick up on Sunny’s favourite spots.. Another stab in the heart to Mari.

She could only wish to find him soon, to patch up the wound and be there for him properly…

Perhaps the hangout spot? Maybe Hobbeez? Gino’s?..

…Maybe he will be back home? Sunny was never one to stray too far for too long unless it was dire.

Well, home was the most likely option after all, yet Mari still had to buy her gifts; so she might as well stop by Hobbeez and check it out…

….and like a curse, he wasn’t there; another heart sinker. She at least managed to pick up something Sunny might like, so that's at least something.

Maybe the hang-out spot would bear more fruit..

…Yet Mari was only greeted with the quiet hum of rushing water and the odd shrill cry of birds. No-one at all.

Another heart sinker. 

Only one place she could check now.. But at least it was an area she was confident in finding Sunny; their own home.

Before that, she quickly made a pit-stop at a friend's house. A friend who could be extremely helpful in making one of Sunny's gifts.

After that small ordeal, she had nowhere else but home to go.

………

……

……

Mari made sure to tuck away her gifts with consideration of the hiding place; obviously not wanting Sunny to find them ahead of time.

Climbing the flight of stairs and peering into her and Sunny’s room.. Bingo.

Sunny was lying in bed, nose deep in a book; ears drowned in music from the Ipod which rested on the bedside table. 

Most likely why Sunny didn’t budge when Mari pried the door open slightly.

Well, she wasn’t gonna get any results from just standing here, so she let herself into the room.

“Hey, Sunny.”

Sunny stirred slightly, removing an earphone but keeping his eyes glued on the book.

“Hey, Mari.” Without much else to add.

“How are you?”

“Good enough. You?”

“I’m fine.”

..Yep.. The usual conversation between Mari and Sunny. 

“Hey.. I want to talk to you about something. If you’re not too busy, at least.”

..And of course, an awkward silence ensued, like neither of the siblings knew what to say next.

“..About what?”

Mari didn’t quite know how to answer that. Sure, it should be obvious but the required words just didn’t form in her mind at all. She opened her mouth to speak, but all that came out were incomplete words.

“Um.. Well, it’s..” 

C’mon Mari.. Just spit it out, already…

“I..I don’t know how to say what it is.. But I know what I want to say. Can I sit down?”

Without much of a word, Sunny shifted over, allowing Mari to sit down on his bed.

“So.. What is it?” Sunny took out his other earphone, and lay down the book as well. “You seem like you’re gonna tell me a secret from the fucking fourth grade..”

..Harsh.

“Well… It’s about us. And how I’ve.. not been the best possible sibling.”

Sunny looked like he wanted to have a go at Mari there and then, spite etched into his eyes, yet he held back.

“I’ve never really realised but I haven’t ever given you much attention, apart from shopping obviously but even then.. I don’t know why I only did that then.”

Sunny’s eyes only continued to flood with quiet ire; but Mari pressed on.

“I just wanted to say..” Mari took a sharp intake of the breath, knowing how much could go wrong just from saying this.. 

“I’ll try to be there for you more.”

“That’s a fucking surprise and a half.” Sunny spat only seconds after Mari spoke those words. “If only you did that sooner. I appreciate the help, not.”

His words were spiteful, filled with scorn and ire which bubbled and only expanded.

"Maybe if you didn't nuzzle so close to your fucking boyfriend, and actually gave me some form of care.. I wouldn't be so miserable." He was unmoving, but his face and mannerisms were of an untamed animal lashing out. "Maybe if you weren't so fucking immersed in your books and music; which I fucking INTRODUCED YOU TO..I'd be a functioning member of society or whatever." More spite simply welled up and flowed in his words. "Maybe, and just FUCKING maybe… If you had paid a smidgen of attention and had treated me as a proper brother, I wouldn't be loathing my existence every time I saw you." 

..what?

"Maybe I would hate myself less for being less than half as 'perfect and talented and smart and pretty' as everyone perceives you as. Maybe I'd hold a little worth- hell, at least a little self worth, but noooo.. You fucking didn't." His words stung even more now, like someone had yanked on an exposed nerve. "Now you think making amends now will fix it? No. It's too fucking late. I fucking hate myself. I'll never be as good as you, and I don't want to look at you anymore, Mari. I-"

Sunny froze - only just becoming aware of how much baggage he just let loose - his mouth quivering, eyes wide awake and breath shaky from exhaustion and uncertainty. 

His eyes glistened with tears, which left red streaks down his cheeks; as he spat with a stifled sob, “Just… go away.”

Did she really pay that little attention to her brother.. to not notice his inferiority complex and his self-worth issues? That was a stake of words driven into Mari’s heart, her stomach felt uneasy just from learning this; like she had consumed an undercooked steak. 

If she really was more attentive, this whole situation would’ve been nipped in the bud. 

“..I..I’m sorry, Sunny.” Mari felt her own tears well up.

“W-Why..? Why now? Out of all days..” He spoke with a soft whimper. His voice was always husky and toned down, but it was especially blue in the moment. “Why..Mari?”

Mari had to contemplate her next words, knowing that it could extinguish the building fire or just fuel it further….

…And after a few silent seconds, with only the sound of Sunny’s strangled sobs to fill the air, she spoke up.

“It’s your birthday tomorrow.” 

…

…

“What the fuck..does that have to do with this..?”

“I barely remembered it until this morning, and I felt horrible. I never felt so horrible before, yet then I remembered how horrible I was. I just.. remembered how little I ever looked out for you, and how I never gave you the attention you deserve.” 

Sunny’s mouth quivered to open, but remained shut.

“I did do that when we went shopping, and when you practically introduced me to goth culture..” Mari laughed half empty, half wry, “Yet, I know it isn’t enough. I really should’ve been there for you more, and I’m so sorry I haven’t been. I want to try to fix what I can.. that’s why it’s now. I know it doesn’t excuse that it wasn’t earlier, but I want to try now at least. I want to promise you, brother; I’ll be here for you, I promise you that Sunny.”

“Why… Why now? I..” Sunny’s tears continued to flow as his hoarse voice cried.

“I’m sorry for being so ignorant.. But I really do want to be there for you more than before, and if I knew you had self-worth issues, I would’ve been there earlier.. But it’s still my fault for being such an ignorant sister. I’m proud of you Sunny, you’re a smart and pretty brother and I haven’t a doubt you’ll do just as well - maybe even better - as me in life. With all my heart, I promise you that.”

….

…

…

…

Silence. A heavy, dismayed solitude drowned the screams of Sunny’s and Mari’s minds.

Then..

…Comfort, as Sunny leaped to grip Mari in an incessant hug, burying his head in her shoulder, dampening her clothes with dismayed seawater.

“I..I’m sorry..for being so rude..” He gasped in between sobs, “I’m sorry..”

“It’s okay, you were right to be mad at me,” Mari comforted Sunny, wrapping her arms around Sunny, “I’m sorry for being so ignorant.”

“I’m sorry..Mari.”

 Sunny sounded vulnerable - Mari felt vulnerable.

They were both vulnerable one way or another, but that didn’t matter.

What mattered is Mari finally made her promise, and she intended to keep it.

No matter how vulnerable they became, she’d be there for Sunny, and Sunny would be there for her.

The future seemed brighter now, and it was beautiful.

…The birthday party was tomorrow. Mari hoped everyone would come over, sure that it would really lift Sunny’s spirits up.

She especially hoped Kel would be there too.

—-------------------------------------------------------------

…Sunny felt dreadful as he stirred awake from his slumber, waking up to silence and songbirds - admittedly not the best way to start his birthday. He rubbed the sleep out of his eyes and arose, shooting a glance to the other side of the room, only to be met with another empty and well-made bed.

Mari was already gone.

..Mari.

He thought she’d be there to greet him for his birthday.. 

Guess not.

..Sunny thought back to yesterday; and those promises his sister made.. it warmed his desolate heart.

It was already a pleasant memory, despite being not so long ago.

He gave a glance towards the alarm clock and-

2;55PM.

…Huh. 

He didn’t remember performing anything so exhausting that it forced his body to rest for so long.

Well, Sunny supposed crying was exhausting.

What could he do for now though? 

He hadn’t a clue…

For now, Sunny clambered downstairs and into the kitchen…

And a small cupcake lay on the table along with a note.

‘Happy birthday, little brother. I wish I could stick around, but I'll be incredibly busy for a while today, I am sorry. I should be back around 5PM, so I shouldn’t be too long. For now, I hope you can enjoy this cupcake as your ‘cake.

• Mari.

P.S; You’ll get an actual cake later, don’t worry!’

The cupcake seemed to be a plain one, with some chocolate frosting and a few sprinkles to go along; although Sunny didn’t feel like eating it right now, so he stored it away in the fridge for now.

…But what now?

…Maybe he could still rest? He was still exhausted.

Might as well..

…

3:46PM

Well.. he didn’t think he’d sleep for that much longer. 

It didn’t matter to Sunny; just glad he wasn’t so jet-lagged anymore.

Just what to do now..?

He did have a book he wanted to wrap up..

…

4:30PM

Sunny pleasantly enjoyed the read; even if the last chapter was a little drawn out.. Even then, reading the woeful ramblings of Henry Jekyll to finally leave the story at an end was enjoyable.

..Now what? There was still plenty of sunlight to burn, maybe he could go visit his friends?

4:50PM

..No one. Not a single of them were at home.. So where the fuck were they?

..Did they all go on some trip without Sunny?..

Well, he thought maybe they thought Sunny wouldn’t want to come along.

Didn’t make it any less dismaying to be left with nothing to do.. And to be alone.

As much as he isolated himself, Sunny never enjoyed solitude all too much- Hell, he despised it sometimes.

..What now?

6:10PM

Well that was pointless.. Walking around just got Sunny tired and hot.. He headed back home; a long, frigid bath was in order.

6:40PM

To call it mitigating was an understatement; the bath being everything Sunny needed in that moment, his head no longer ablaze from the cider radiance he had to endure outside, one which shone through the bathroom window as he went slack in the bathtub, no longer drenched in sweat but drenched in a navy coolness of the boreal sea.

Hell, he already spent a solid half hour just letting his mind go adrift as his body settled comfortably in the waters.

Alas, it was time for him to depart.. Such a sweet sorrow. 

He stepped out and donned his towel, heading to his room to dry off and dress up in his clean, gothic attire.

6:47PM

Hm.. He felt famished.

Might as well have that cupcake now; he thought to himself as he pulled it out of the fridge.

..It was fairly good. It was sweet, chocolatey and nice whilst it lasted; which wasn’t for long, as Sunny ravenously devoured it whole.

6:49PM

Sunny went back to his room, unsurprisingly unsure of what he’d do next..

That pretty much summed up the whole day so far.

.. Click..

A soft click rang out from downstairs, almost inaudible, followed by the muffled creak of a door.

“I’m back, Sunny!” Mari cried from downstairs; he heard her footsteps shuffling… but he couldn’t tell if he heard more or if he was just imagining it.

..Then some hushed conversations muffled yet still audible rang through the house. Did Mari bring a guest? 

He didn’t have much time to ponder, as the stairs creaked, and eventually the door opened to reveal Mari, who smiled brightly. She had a small bag wrapped around her arm, and an envelope in the other.

“Happy birthday, brother.” She walked over and wrapped her arms around Sunny, “I’m sorry for having to leave for so long. I hope you’ve been able to keep yourself busy in the meantime.”

“It’s okay, Mari.” Sunny returned the hug, “At least you’re back. Thanks for that cupcake.. By the way. It was nice."

"That's good to hear. I got you a few presents." Mari handed the card over to Sunny, who proceeded to carefully open it, a cutesy and gothic birthday card lay inside. He opened it up, 

"A macabre birthday to the most important (and gloomiest.. joking!) brother to ever life. 

Have a great birthday. 

• Mari."

Sunny felt a small tear in his eye well up as he read the card, going to prop it up on his bedside table - and returning to Mari; awkwardly hugged her again as a silent 'thanks.' 

The hug lasted as quickly as the previous, only a few seconds needed to express his gratitude before he unwrapped his arms from his sister once more.

"As for your first gift, I noticed how your necklace seems a bit dirty and chipped."

Mari was right. The paint job was scratched, the shrink plastic was too curled, the chain was rough.

"Well, I have a close friend who works with hard enamel quite quickly so.." Mari rummaged around in the small bag she carried, withdrew a small item, "I had her make a request of mine."

She slipped a chain onto her finger and opened her hand, and out came a new necklace; almost identical to Sunny's current one except much more refined and higher quality.

The chain was smooth and shiny, and SOMETHING was expertly shaped, painted and refined; although looking at it made his stomach knot slightly.

Yet, Sunny wasn't going to look the gift horse in the mouth.

He took off his old, rugged necklace and donned the new, shiny one. The chain felt smooth and slippery on his neck with an impressive gleam, and the same went for the centrepiece itself. 

“..Tell your friend I love it when you see her next time.”

Mari glanced at her watch, and her smile widened further. 

“I have one more gift for you, brother. Come with me.” Mari led Sunny out of his room and down the stairs. 

Before entering the living room, she shielded his eyes and helped him in. 

“Um.. Mari?”

As Mari raised her hands..

“Surprise, little brother.”

“SURPRISE!”

Sunny could barely process what happened before a bright flash consumed his eyes.

“Happy Birthday, Sunny!” A cheery voice sang.

“Happy birthday.” A dull, but happy voice said.

“Happy Birthdays, my guy!” A slurred but chill voice cheered.

“Happy birthday..” A grumpy, but somewhat ecstatic voice said.

Sunny’s eyes finally adjusted, and he saw the voices.

Aubrey, Hero, Basil and Kel.

“W..What?”

“Looks like you saw a ghost bro, you good?” Basil smugly said as he stared at his camera, “Now.. that is just a masterpiece of a photo..”

The living room was converted into some sort of dining room. The couch was moved to the side, and a table with some chairs replaced it. Some bunting hung from the ceiling, and the smell of fried food hung in the air.

“Happy birthday, brother.” Mari squeezed Sunny in her arms, as Sunny stared at his friends, most of them brightly smiling; And Sunny wasn’t sure how to feel..

..He felt tears well up in his eyes as Mari continued to squeeze him.

“Sunny? Hey, what’s wrong?” Aubrey approached with a concerned frown, being the first to notice Sunny’s tears.

“I..”

..

Sunny could only smile shyly. 

“It’s.. nothing.” 

Sunny felt so.. Happy. All his friends came for his birthday?

He felt cared for.. He relished this moment already.

“I’m glad you guys a-are here.”

“Of course we are bro, like, you think I’m gonna skimp out on a friend’s birthday?” Basil blew a raspberry, “As if!”

“Yeah. I only came because I was… forced to..” Kel grumbled, hands tucked away in his jacket, gaze averted elsewhere. Basil and Mari stifled a laugh; like they were hiding some forbidden knowledge which would crumble Kel’s mien.

“Oh c’mon, Kel.” Aubrey scoffed, “Don’t be like that! You should be there for your friend's birthday! Always!” 

“Tch, whatever!”

“Well, we’re here now. No point complaining again, Kel.” Hero spat harshly; Sunny almost forgot how blunt Hero could be.

“Lo que sea... Gilipollas.” He scoffed back.

“Now, now boys.. There’s no need for a fight, especially right now.” Mari let go of Sunny to try settle the Pérez brother’s nerves. “C’mon sweetheart, could you do your girlfriend a favour and behave on my brother’s birthday?”

“..Of course. Sorry, honey.” 

“Thank you!” Mari pecked Hero on the cheek; Kel rolled his eyes at the sight.

“C’mon guys, let’s eat before the pizza gets cold.” 

“Basil, you could learn to be a little patient, it wouldn’t hurt.”

“He’s got a point.. Plus, I’m fucking starving.” Kel mumbled, taking his seat at the table.

“Me too bro.” Basil took his seat as well.

“Sunny? Are you hungry as well?” Mari asked.

..Now that Sunny thought about it, he was famished- No, ravenous.

All he really had today was some cereal and that cupcake.

“Sure.” He shrugged.

“Alright! Everyone, take your seats!”

They all seated themselves around the table; Hero next to Mari, Basil next to Aubrey and Sunny next to Kel.

Kel seemed strangely embarrassed to sit next to Sunny, but he didn’t pay much attention to it.

Mari opened up the box of pizza, and everyone took their own slice, along with a small portion of fries and a glass of pepsi - excluding Kel, who bought his own bottle of Orange Joe.

It was just the usual Gino’s pizza. 

Greasy.. Probably not so good for the body..

But still damn good.

“Is it just me or is this pizza.. More greasy than usual?” Aubrey asked with a disgusted frown.

“It's Gino’s, Aubrey. It’s always this fucking greasy.” Kel huffed, cheeks with an indistinct dark hue which only Sunny noticed. He wasn’t sure whether to point it out. 

“Could’ve made some myself.. Would’ve been ten times healthier and elegant than this shit.” 

“..Honey. You live off of Instant Noodles.” Mari rather bluntly said.

“You can’t even make a bowl of cereal; that’s how inept your cooking skills are.” Kel double-downed, which Hero only responded with a glaring scowl.

“I thought as brothers, you two would get along!” Aubrey puffed, shaking her head before adding, “You need to learn to be nice to each other.” Kel only scoffed, Hero rolled his eyes, and Mari nodded in agreement.

“Now, Now. Let’s not get too moody on Sunny’s birthday.” Mari looked to settle the brewing tension.

“I mean.. If you and Sunny are goths.. Aren’t you like always moody?” Basil mumbled, Mari shooting a quick frown at him.

“Sorry… Didn’t actually mean it. Let’s all be civil and make sure Sun-Sun has a good party!”

Sunny felt a small smirk rise on his face as he chowed down on his food; He was having more fun than he expected. They only continued to chat and share banter as they all ate - Even if they all felt like a year was taken off their lifespan from how nauseatingly greasy the food was.

After a few chatter-filled minutes, everyone had consumed their meals. 

“Now, Sunny.. Do you want to open your gifts now or have your cake first?” Mari brought forward this important question..

As much as Sunny wanted to see what kind of cake they had in store for him,  he held more interest for whichever gifts they brought; Plus, he needed to make space for the cake and he was already full.

“..Gifts.”

“Very well then! I already showed you mine, excluding one secret; but that’ll be for later.” Mari gave a small smirk, “Who wants to present their gifts first?”

Basil opened his mouth to speak, yet Aubrey cheerily interjected, much to his annoyance. “Me! I’ll give you my gifts first, Sunny!” She skipped over to a small hot pink gift bag and handed it to Sunny.

It contained a birthday card and a neatly wrapped rectangular box. Sunny decided to first open the birthday card.

Twenty dollars lay inside, and the card was signed;

“A happy birthday to a great friend! Have a great one filled with joy! - Aubrey”

A simple but still impressive Chibi Sunny was doodled onto the page as well, with an arrow noting it as a ‘great friend.’

 Sunny couldn’t help but smile. “It’s cute. Thanks.”

Next, Sunny took the large box out and carefully unwrapped it; only showing a dark box with a fabric feel to it. A zipper shut it close, so he unzipped it to reveal a large selection of drawing tools - Ranging from pencils of varying graphite thickness to colourful pencils of every hue; an eraser and sharpener to boot as well.

“I really like your drawings, even if the subjects are a little too dark for my taste..” Aubrey nervously chuckled, but perked back up to stay positive, “You’re still an amazing artist, so I thought you’d like an art pack!”

Sunny mouthed a quiet yet still grateful ‘thank you,’ interrupted when Aubrey went in to hug him tightly; ‘fracturing’ his rib cage, before finally unwrapping her arms and letting him breathe.

Ow.. A-At least she didn’t mean no harm..

“Now.. Before my vibe is rudely warped..” Basil walked over with a flimsy plastic bag, sharp corners jutting through the infirm seal. “For the birthday bro, here ya go!”

Sunny opened up the flimsy bag to reveal a plain envelope and a small, amateurly wrapped box. The envelope had a firm piece of card paper signed with; 

“Happy B’day, Sunso! May it be more than adequate! - Basil,” adorned with a simple and poorly-drawn Sunny giving a thumbs-up, and thirty dollars to boot.

“I know bro, my talents and skills are like, almost in your league!” Basil smugly smiled, proud of his drawing skills. 

Next, Sunny unwrapped the box, and pried it open; revealing a pair of iron grey stud earrings, which gleamed with an impressive shine. He held them up to his ear lobe, and they seemed to fit surprisingly well.

They would make a great addition to his hoop piercings.

“These are pretty cool. Thanks Basil, I appreciate it.”

“Of course, bro! Glad you like the drip, Sunsun.”

Basil wrapped his arms around Sunny as well; shattering his already fractured rib-cage into various jagged shards as he gasped for air.

Thankfully, he didn’t keep up the second bear hug for long, uncoiling himself and giving a snarky thumbs up.

Next in line, Hero stepped in with a navy blue bag, handing it to Sunny.

“Happy birthday, Sunny.” He said with a small but still warm smile, placing a hand on his shoulder as well. 

First, of course, Sunny opened the envelope, finding a plain and simplistic card containing twenty dollars and a message;

“Have a good birthday, Sunny. Wish you the best. - Hero.”

It was plain, but still meaningful.

He looked deeper into the bag, and pulled out a fresh sketchbook. It had a jet black cover with a mesmerising gold and crimson pattern; which matched Sunny's gothic aesthetic. 

“The sketchbook was one of my higher quality, unused ones. Mari did all of the painting on the front. Basically, a gift from me and Mari.” Looks like Hero remembered that Sunny was artistic. Lucky for him, his current sketchbook was almost full.

“..I appreciate it, Hero.” Sunny went in to hug Hero, squeezing him as tight as he could; Which  was barely that tight considering he was still reeling from Aubrey’s and Basil’s bear hugs. Hero somewhat reluctantly returned the hug, before prying Sunny off him. “Hope you have a good one.”

And last, but not least, was Kel..

..Who was unmoving. He refused to budge, a letter in his hands and a bag by his feet, Sunny unable to quite make out what was inside.

“I’m not giving you shit until after I leave.” Kel grumbled, gaze averted.

“Don’t be like that, Kel! That’s not nice of you.”

“Bite me, Aubrey! He’ll still get his gifts, just not yet..” Kel mumbled to himself, shooting a fatal glare at Aubrey. Yet, his face was strangely a faint red.

“Dios mio.. Give him the gifts, Kel.” Hero scowled, his warm smile replaced with a distinct disgust.

Only Basil and Mari stayed mute, almost like they already knew the answer to Kel’s sudden hesitation.

“..Fucks sake, alright!” Kel stormed over to Sunny, somewhat carefully placing the bag at Sunny’s feet and handing him the letter yet before Sunny even had a chance to examine the envelope itself, Kel whispered with a low growl, “Do not even think about checking them out right now. You do that in front of them, you’re dead meat.”

He backed away, folding his arms; face even more alight and red.

..Sunny found this look amusing. He wanted to see if he could push it further.

Sunny pried open the envelope, which immediately made Kel stare him down with quite possibly the most life threatening, blood curdling stare Sunny had ever seen in his life… and he just pressed on.

It was a firm piece of card, and it contained a wall of text; tenfold compared to everyone else's birthday cards. 

“Sorry, not sorry this letter will be a practical novel. Sunny, you’re a freak. You dress like a complete freak, you barely ever talk, you have less emotions than a bag of rocks… But I like how you’re a freak. You stand out among most of these fucking plebs.. And it’s cool. I like how you dress as well. I like your art, your fashion, your way of talking.. It’s cool.

What I wanna say is..”

Followed by various crossed and scribbled out words and sentences, illegible and manic.

“..I have a crush on you Sunny. I love you.. But I still hate you. And love you..

..I hate emotions. I love you, asshole. 

• Kel.”

…

…

…

…

“Sunny..?”

Kel had a crush… on him? 

…

“..K-Kel-”

“Shut up..” Kel was fueled with ire; embarrassed and hopeless. He lowered his gaze and his face was gloomy. “Go on… Make fun of me and laugh at me.. Fucking get it over with-”

..

…

“S…S…Sunny.?” Kel felt a warmth envelop him as foreign fabric rustled against his jacket. He felt his shoulder gain weight as Sunny rested his head upon it, lightly sobbing to himself..

But he sounded happy.

Kel felt his ears go alight.

"..I..I love you too, Kel.".

..Kel's ears burnt up even more as he felt tears stream down his face in seconds. He felt Sunny's warmth spread into Kel.

For being such a gothic freak, Sunny felt so warm and comforting.

And for being such a stone-cold and apathetic punk, Kel was quite the softie.

Hero's glare was pure bewilderment; whilst Aubrey's was a disarray combination of confusion but joy. Mari and Basil only looked on with a wide smile, happy that Kel's confession ended on a high note.

He felt he could stay glued in Sunny's arms. He felt at peace, and his buzzing mind was laid to rest. He would do anything to preserve it.. 

… SNAP!

"....BASIL." 

"Sorry bro, it was like the perfect moment, y'know?" Basil shrugged, eyeing up his camera's screen. 

"I AM GOING TO FUCKING KILL YOU!" 

"Hehe.. Good picture, Basil." Mari chuckled to herself as she looked at the screen with Basil, impressed with how he captured the moment.

"Excuse me, can I have an explanation for that?" Hero jutted in, still unsure of the situation.

Kel shot a glare at the room, a warning to everyone to not speak a word; Yet Basil's lips were too loose.

"Kel and Sunny are like, in love with each other now."

That was strike three. Basil's dying tonight.

Hero and Aubrey took in this information, leaving the air empty and tense. Kel felt like Hero was going to belittle him even further now. 

"..Well. You've managed to impress me for the first time in a while." He adjusted his glasses, sighing softly. "You both find peace with each other; good for both of you." 

Certainly a surprise.. but a welcome one to Kel.

"Aww, you two are in love? That's so adorable! I wish the best for you both!" Aubrey cheered.

Everyone was so supportive, and the duo couldn't help but smile and cry more. 

"Jesus… S-Stop making me cry so much, asshole.." Kel chuckled in between sobs.

"Aha.. Not m-my fault you're not as tough as you think you are.." Sunny mused, glancing down to the bag as well.

"Oh, right. I-It's just some chocolates and flowers." Kel averted his flustered gaze, "And something..else. You can see now."

Kel uncoiled himself from Sunny hesitantly, and Sunny reached for the bag.

A small bouquet of black roses, and a box of chocolates wrapped together with a simple bow - Along with a small, paper man which seemed to be folded. Sunny slid out the paper man and unfolded it, revealing two paper men; both drawn to resemble Sunny and Kel.

"I…I love it." Sunny carefully slid it back into the bow. 

"I'm glad.." Kel averted his gaze further, almost to the point Sunny could barely see his rouge face. Yet, with what little he saw, his face asked one question.

Sunny was more than ecstatic to answer it for him.

He twisted Kel's head to face him, and firmly kissed him on his pleasantly soft lips. Kel's face immediately went crimson with blood and embarrassment and joy. 

"HUH!? H-HEY! I.. WHY THE HELL DID YOU DO THAT?!" Kel embarrassingly squeaked; a noise barely anyone ever heard from him.

Sunny couldn’t help but laugh, and feel flustered like hell himself.

Today was possibly the greatest birthday ever. And he knew every other birthday would be the greatest.

Hell, everyday would be the greatest.

As long as that softie of a punk was with a gothic freak like him, he’d always feel at peace. He’d always feel unstoppable.

And he’d always love him.

For it’s the way his face lit up that did it for Sunny.

The way he averted his gaze in embarrassment that did it for Sunny.

And it’s the way, that once in a blue moon that Kel would smile..

That did it for Sunny.