Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Wake up, Sunny.”

A weight rested on his chest, a soft brush followed by a tickling sensation making his face scrunch. Sunny slowly blinked open his eyes as he struggled to breathe, meeting two pitch-black ones.

“Mrrow.”

“Midnight, no.” Omori plucked the cat off Sunny’s chest, frowning. “Too fat.”

The cat wailed in offense, batting at his face. Omori tossed the cat toward the end of the bed, turning back to Sunny’s sleepy form. He leaned closer, squinting, studying carefully. After Sunny grew more awake, eyes open properly, Omori’s expression changed.

Ah. He would have to tell Mom.

“Eggs, fruit, and sausage for breakfast.” Omori helped Sunny sit up, pushing at Midnight when he came scrambling over to jump on Sunny’s lap. Sunny blearily looked around as Omori then handed over the clothes he would wear for the day. When Sunny just stared at them blankly, Omori winced.

Maybe a pajama day was okay. Or Sunny would do it after they ate. Either way, Omori gave up pretty quick, taking the clothes back and putting them on the bed before tugging Sunny out of the room, almost tripping over Midnight. The cat was definitely trying to make Omori fall. Brat.

Omori went slowly so Sunny could keep up. He tried to jump down the stairs, but Omori quickly stopped him, scooping him up and depositing him once they were safely at the bottom. Days when Sunny thought he could fly were some of the worst.

“You don’t have wings. No flying.”

Sunny gazed at him, which was a good sign. He didn’t look happy, though. Neutral displeasure. Omori managed to get him into the dining room, sitting him down and putting Midnight on his lap so there would be a noise if he tried to get up. The teen entered the kitchen, where his mom was plating the food.

“There you are, honey. Is Sunny up?”

“At the table. For now, low awareness, egret era, medium abstraction. Need to test the picture.” Omori was already reaching for a framed picture of all their friends nearby. Mom nodded along, moving toward the calendar after the food was all set on plates. She picked up the designated markers and wrote numbers under the day.

“I was certain today would be a dreaming day…”

“Could be mixed in.” Omori shrugged, grabbing the two plates for him and Sunny with the photo under his arm. Mom’s was left for her to grab after marking the calendar. He hurried back into the dining room, relieved to see Sunny was still where he was.

He placed the food in front of him, then the framed picture. Omori sat down in the nearest chair, pointing. “Our friends. What do you think?”

Sunny’s eyes swirled. He tilted his head. “Nice.”

“Purple?”

Sunny sent him a confused look. Not a dreaming day, then.

“Names?”

Sunny didn’t answer, deciding to start eating. He ignored the fork and ate with his hand. Omori shrugged, giving up. If Sunny didn’t want to talk, he wouldn’t.

“How’s the food?” Mom sat down with a serene look, coffee mug in hand. She took a big swig when she sat down, glancing over Sunny. She raised an eyebrow at his pajamas.

“Good. Like always.” Omori mumbled the last part, looking away when she smiled teasingly at him. Omori stabbed his eggs, shoving them in his mouth in a motion reminiscent of Kel’s eating habits. Keiko sighed at the sight. Why did that have to stick?

Not that Sunny had table manners at the moment. He was allowed to eat however he wanted. It was better than him not eating at all. Omori...she just gave up. Boys will be boys, as they say.

“Do you still want to go to Hero’s Bakery? Or do you think it’s a stay-home kind of day?”

Omori looked up at his mom’s question, considering. Sunny seemed to recognize everyone, whether their past, Abbi, Uni, Meido forms, or otherwise. Besides that, he was docile and wasn’t wandering. The colors behind his eyes also weren’t incredibly intense, despite his current reality state being near the egret era–the first two thousand years of his life in Headspace, or so. But that could change throughout the day.

“Yes. We’ll go. You have a meeting.” Omori almost entirely cleared his plate already, ignoring Midnight’s attempts to snatch his food. For some reason, he never went for Sunny’s food. If he did, Omori would’ve thrown the cat outside–not like it wouldn’t come back. The thing was stubborn.

“If I need to postpone, you know I will.” It was rare she got called in in the first place.

“Don’t.” Omori placed down his fork, downing the rest of his water. “I’ll watch Sunny.”

“And do your homework.” She sent him a pointed look, and Omori nodded, resisting the urge to roll his eyes. It was unbearably boring and tedious, but unfortunately, an education was required to exist as a human.

Omori really couldn’t care less. But Mom and sometimes Sunny would be proud when he did all his work. So. That was…kind of nice. It was easy anyway.

“You have the same habit that Sunny does…getting lost in your thoughts so easily.” Mom mused, and Omori resisted the urge to puff out his cheeks. He was too old for that now. Plus, then she would just pinch them really hard.

Breakfast went by fast, and soon, Omori had to make his second attempt at giving Sunny clothes to wear. While people probably wouldn’t mind if Sunny wore pajamas to the bakery, it wasn’t ideal. It was still sort of cold outside, too, despite the changing season.

“Change.” Omori held out Sunny’s most comfortable clothes. Sunny stared. The fact they always wore the same clothes in the other universe really didn’t set in until changing realities. Omori sighed, opening up his closet. Which one would he wear?

In an act of agency, Sunny suddenly approached and tugged on a wooly white sweater. Omori helped Sunny get it off the hanger and handed it over, along with an undershirt. Sunny did not care for it, tossing it to the ground.

Omori stared at the offending clothing as Sunny changed, dropping his pajamas on the ground. Omori picked them all up to put away, turning back to find Sunny had also changed into shorts. It was oddly nostalgic to see Sunny wearing the old tan shorts he often had in Headspace.

Maybe Sunny was more present than he thought if that’s what he picked.

After that, they brushed their teeth, and Mom brushed Sunny’s hair, humming as she debated what hairstyle she wanted to do. It was one of her favorite parts of the day. Sometimes, she got really intricate with them. Omori kept his hair short, but Sunny’s hair was left to grow out. Mom loved playing with it–it was one of the consistent ways she could spend quality and present time with Sunny. The only cutting she did was for his bangs, keeping them straight and at his brows.

Other than that, Sunny hadn’t visibly aged so far. When he didn’t move, he really did look like a marble statue, as he once sarcastically described before his memories returned. Unfortunately, it drew much attention–not that Sunny cared about that. Omori did, though. And so did his friends. While the attention was primarily positive, that was even worse for Omori. As Stranger once said–“Too many flies hovering around.”

Only Chimera understood him. Hmph.

“There we go.” Keiko admired the two braids, making sure his bangs were untangled, and the strands framing his face were straight. She smiled. “Look how pretty you are. You must get your looks from me.” She put a hand to the side of her face, teasing. Sunny blinked, lighting up.

“Pretty?”

“Very pretty.” She helped him stand back up, and brought him to a nearby mirror so he could look at himself. Sunny looked pleased. “Mommy did a good job, didn’t she?”

“Mhm.” Sunny nodded, and Keiko smiled brighter than she had in a while. The acknowledgment was more than she could ever want.

“Alright, let’s get you both in the car. Omori, do you have your backpack?”

“Yes.”

“Snacks?”

“Yes.”

“Sunny’s sketchbook and pens?”

“Yes.” Omori rolled his head back, and Mom finally relented. Omori never forgot anything Sunny needed, so she didn’t have to ask constantly. “I always do.”

“It never hurts to double-check.” She chided back, and after ensuring Midnight had everything he needed–including an opening in the backdoor if he wanted to go to the backyard–they all got into the car. Or, Omori had to help Sunny into it. He got him buckled up as Mom started it up, and they were off.

Omori stared out the window as they went, occasionally checking on Sunny. Sunny’s eyes followed something Omori couldn’t see. With a barely furrowed brow, Omori turned back toward the slightly dreary sky and leaned his head against the headrest.

Even after all these years, he still couldn’t daydream like Sunny could. He could only think of the present or the past, going over events. Maybe one day, he would understand creation and imagination. It seemed…far off. But Omori would keep trying. Sunny wanted him to.

For now, he’d just reminisce over the old, colorful places they’d visit. All the wonderful memories they had. It was a privilege that he could compartmentalize and handle them all, pulling what he needed and setting aside what he didn’t. It felt…unfair that he could do that when Sunny couldn’t.

Constant, pressing guilt deep down. It was Sunny who gave him the ability to live like this. And to this day, the life Sunny had to live was difficult. But Omori was happy he was still there with them. To him, that’s all that mattered.

Omori believed Sunny was happy.

And looked at him now, with his shining eyes staring out the window and seeing things Omori couldn’t possibly imagine…

…

They were family, and family took care of each other. Omori would keep getting older and stronger, reliable enough that Mom didn’t have to worry anymore, and neither would Sunny. Omori would make sure nothing bad happened to any of them.

That was his responsibility.

Even if Sunny didn’t think so, Omori knew he had much to repay. More than anyone else. So even if their friends cared too, Omori felt it was his duty to stick by Sunny’s side. He would stay diligent and make sure Sunny was safe and happy.

*

As it turned out, diligence only went so far when Omori was preoccupied with other things. It wasn’t his fault he had assignments. That was technically Mom’s fault, not his own. If not for that–

“Omori…where is Sunny?”

Omori looked up from his schoolwork, instantly on alert. Hero stared back at him with stress–exhaustion underlying his features. Omori straightened up, scanning the bakery with widened eyes, a practiced action. Hero snapped his fingers rapidly before pointing at the window. Omori turned.

He stared at Sunny through the large windows–Sunny had somehow managed to get outside again despite all their precautions. Omori swiftly got up and made his way out before Sunny could wander any further, hearing Hero sighing loudly behind him.

“Sunny.” Omori burst through the door, wind chimes ringing. The pretty sound caught Sunny’s attention, and he turned around, hands folded together calmly. He blinked, then cocked his head to the side.

“Omori?”

“Yes.” Omori approached and grabbed his wrist gently, pulling him back toward the door. Sunny followed, watching the pretty wind chimes as they re–entered the small building. Thankfully, it was the middle of the school day. Besides a few old people, it wasn’t usually busy around this time.

Old people who, once seeing Omori leading Sunny back inside, smiled at the typical sight, going back to their elderly conversations. Omori wasn’t particularly fond of old people. Or young people. Or people.

“You’ve gotta keep a better eye on him. That’s the only reason Keiko lets him be here.” Hero sighed, taking off his gloves and tossing them. Break time. “I know your school work is hard, but still…”

“I have a solution.” Omori made a motion with his hands. Hero stared blankly. Omori matched his gaze, stoic.

“Charades? I have no idea what you’re trying to say.” Hero leaned against the counter, watching to make sure no new customers came in while he was distracted.

Omori frowned, pouting. Pouting was infinitely less effective at sixteen than at twelve. “Harness.”

“What’s a harness going to do? Is he going rock climbing?” Hero ignored Omori’s glare, checking his watch. Huh. Chimera was late. That was an ominous sign. Maybe they were waiting for Aubrey?

“Leash.” Omori was said with a touch of sarcasm. Ah.

Hero put his head in his hands. “You’re still mad about that?”

Omori glowered. Right. Grudge holder.

“Maybe if you didn’t have such a bad habit of biting people, I wouldn’t have recommended it to your mom.” Hero gestured wildly, defensive. “You were barely sentient a few years ago! Extremely feral! I didn’t think she’d actually buy one! Or, uh…keep photo…evidence…” Hero began to flush, trailing off. Don’t laugh. Don’t laugh. Oh god, he was going to laugh–the image in his mind was too vivid.

Omori rose a brow, eyes flickering with annoyance. His attention was returned to Sunny when he tried to get up from his seat again. Omori ensured he stayed sitting down, holding out a hand to Hero. “Give.”

“Use your words.” Hero mocked, already handing over a tart he had prepared. Omori snatched it rudely from his hand, giving it to Sunny. Sunny was sufficiently distracted, nibbling on it like a chipmunk. “How is it, Sunny? I added extra strawberry.”

No response. Sunny continued eating. Hero didn’t mind being left hanging, already used to it after so many years. Omori kept a napkin ready, not wanting Sunny to get crumbs everywhere. Despite his new rebellious attitude, he still respected the establishment since Sunny liked being there. Hero wasn’t sure if he was proud or not. Really, the only times Omori ever behaved was if Sunny was a part of the reason.

While Sunny was the big brother and acted like it on his good days, when he wasn’t all that there, Omori kind of mothered him. It made sense. His example was Keiko, who was, in fact, a mother. It was only on especially off days anyway. Sunny’s state was just a constantly sliding spectrum, one Omori and Kel worked to categorize. They liked naming things. “Did Chimera text you about being late? He’s twenty minutes off.”

Omori hummed, quickly checking his phone. He shook his head, putting it back. He stared at Sunny for a moment longer, noticing his eyes were trailing toward the window again. Omori narrowed his own, before lifting Sunny off the chair and putting him on the counter. Hero pointed again.

“Hey! Don’t put him up there!”

It’s not that it was particularly high, but Sunny wouldn’t have the strength to hop off, unlike stepping off a chair. Hero rushed over to get him down, ignoring Omori’s eye roll. Seriously, teenage attitude was the worst.

Once Sunny was seated correctly again, he instantly stood up to leave. Omori gestured with an ‘I told you so’ look, putting him back on the counter against Hero’s will. It was at the end by the register, at least. Out of the way. Hero closed his eyes.

“Putting your brother on counters is mean.”

“Sunny.” Omori turned to him. He put a hand on Sunny’s head to get his full attention. “Am I mean?”

“Omori?”

“Yes.”

“Sometimes.”

Hero slapped a hand over his mouth at Omori’s crestfallen face. Sunny’s blunt answer left him reeling, red eyes shaking.

“I’m nice.” Omori reiterated.

“Sometimes,” Sunny said, unmoved.

“Always.”

“No.”

Omori was losing. Hero’s shoulders shook, barely able to contain his laughter. He briefly looked up and noticed a flash of black and–blond. Yup! Chimera was here. And…yeah, there Aubrey was behind him.

“When am I mean?” Omori leaned forward, frowning. Sunny’s eyes trailed around, colorful irises shifting for a few seconds before returning to stillness. The fractals stopped fluctuating, and he went back to staring blankly.

“You took away my library.” Sunny spoke with full authority. He went back to eating his tart.

Omori was at a loss for words. That was so long ago! What kind of grudge was that? Omori ignored his own tendency to hold lifelong grudges, finding Sunny’s a lot more upsetting because he was the victim.

“Yo!” Aubrey called the moment she came inside, hand around Chimera’s upper arm. Hero recovered from his amusement, waving back and then using it to press down on air. Aubrey rolled her eyes. “Yeah, yeah. I’ll keep it down.”

“I have no outlet for my rage, Aubrey.”

“You destroyed your last outlet. You’re not getting another one.” Aubrey dragged him toward the register where Omori and Sunny were, letting go of Stranger. “Hey, guys. What’s up?” She then looked over at a pencil beside Sunny. She squinted. “Did you put him on your homework?”

Omori averted his gaze. Wow.

“Your mom isn’t gonna appreciate wrinkled work.” Aubrey chided, continuing to ignore Stranger’s muttering.

“Is he okay?” Hero ended up asking, glancing warily in their direction. Aubrey reached up and pinched Stranger’s cheek, tugging.

“He’s fine.”

“Someone ruined your backpack.”

“He bumped into me by accident, and I dropped it. There just happened to be a puddle.”

“It hasn’t rained in two days. It was a setup.”

“First of all, not a setup. You just look so fucking intimidating that he was distracted and rammed into me. Second of all, puddles can last longer than that. You’re ridiculous.”

“It will rain tomorrow.”

The two stopped bickering, looking over at Sunny. He sat silently like he hadn’t just predicted the weather again. She wasn’t even going to ask. Last time she did, he just mentioned a flute and crying. Incomprehensible.

“By the way, where’s Kel?” Hero looked past them. Aubrey and Kel went to the same campus and usually arrived simultaneously. Aubrey grinned, putting a finger over her lips.

“It’s a secret.”

“He’s getting a gift–”

Aubrey turned around and kicked Stranger square in the stomach. Stranger stumbled in surprise, but held his ground. His size gave him a frustrating advantage. Stupid growth spurt.

“I’ll kick your ass–” Aubrey began, already worked up. She scowled when he immediately retaliated, going for her hair. Stranger always went for her hair first, that loser–!

“If you two fight in my bakery, I will ban both of you for a week. Actually, a month. A week wasn’t enough last time.”

The two froze, Hero’s ominously polite smile making them relax and hang their heads in shame. Hero huffed, satisfied, and went back to shuffling around. He checked the ovens a distance away, preparing to set out the new batch of cookies.

“Are you helping out today? If I don’t close early.” Hero glanced at Stranger. “Is Basil in there? No offense, Stranger, but you have a lousy work ethic and terrible customer service.”

“No offense doesn’t negate your insults. But yes, I’m here. He gets bored anyway.” Basil fronted, kicking Stranger out of the driver’s seat. He glanced over at Sunny, gaze flickering, before resting into a kind smile. “Hi, Sunny.”

“Gardener?”

“Yup.”

Sunny reached out a hand. Basil’s eyebrows shot up, not entirely sure what that meant, but taking the opportunity to hold his hand. Sunny tilted his head, confirming that’s not what he wanted. He didn’t seem to mind, at least.

“I want more egret orchids,” Sunny said. So it was that. Basil didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. It was nice to be sought out for things, but also, Basil wasn’t just a gardener, but the title didn’t bother him all that much. Sunny couldn’t help it when he was like this.

“I’ll give you some later, okay? A whole bouquet.” Basil grinned, and by god’s blessing, Sunny smiled in return, soft and genuine.

Basil decided he was going to die.

‘I’ll go down with you. This is a noble way to pass.’

“I can see what you’re thinking, and I agree.” Aubrey tacked on, waving her hand after to get Sunny’s attention. Omori was staring daggers at Basil’s hand. “Hey, Sunny. And Omori. How are you two?” Aubrey put a hand on her hip, asking like they hadn’t seen each other the day before.

“Peachy.” Omori turned back to Sunny, resisting the urge to karate chop Basil’s hand. He couldn’t have Sunny thinking he was mean. That would be evidence against his case. “I can get you egret orchids.”

‘Oh, look at this. Trying to ignore our importance.’

“You would just steal them from me.” Basil scrunched up his nose, ignoring Omori’s following death glare. “Don’t listen to him, Sunny. He’s a liar.”

Sunny pulled his hand back and closed his eyes, folding his hands together.

Chimera’s hand hung in the air for a moment longer, quickly taking it back when they noticed. Their eyes widened slightly, a smile rising to counteract the wavering frown. Stranger said something wrong. They messed up.

“…Can we have some snacks before Basil starts working?” Aubrey quickly rectified the rapidly souring atmosphere, thankful that Hero caught on quick, already having cookies in hand.

“I guess...since I’m such a good mentor and boss and friend and–”

“Oh, shut up.” Aubrey laughed, grabbing a cookie for herself and Chimera. She held it up, waiting. Basil ended up grabbing it, a noticeable slouch to his shoulders. Looks like she was going to have to comfort them later. Damn. It was always risky when Sunny was like this. Aubrey spied Omori looking subdued in her profile, and tried to ignore the pang in her chest.

Tomorrow would be a better day. That was the motto they’d all learned to live by. “Sunny on mascot duty again?”

“He’s not a mascot.” Hero made a face. Aubrey didn’t believe him.

“Didn’t you start getting way more tips when Sunny started appearing here? I sure as hell noticed.”

Hero pretended like he didn’t hear her, walking off. Wow…

“You noticed, right, Basil?” Aubrey waited. Basil huffed a laugh.

“Yeah. I don’t know why. Maybe it’s because he sits there and…looks pretty? Isn’t that what Kim always says?” Basil began containing all his hair into a bun, even though he’d only be at the register. It was shocking, considering his appearance, but they all looked sufficiently strange. People got used to it. It was part of the brand or something. At least Chimera’s height wasn’t as jarring when next to Hero and Kel, who still were taller than them. Chimera was just bigger in general, though, what with his broad build.

Seriously. Aubrey still resented them for that. A few months after Sunny got his memories, they suddenly started growing again–thanks to Stranger, most likely. They went from almost equal height to Aubrey being short in comparison. Awful.

“He definitely does just…sit there and look pretty,” Aubrey said blandly after coming back from her thoughts, studying Sunny. She quickly stopped. It was rude to ogle her friend. “Sunny, do you mind it? Or do you like sitting there?”

“I’m pretty.” Sunny was looking out the window again, eyes softening. His shoulders lowered, one hand clasping the index finger of the other. Aubrey followed his gaze.

“Hey guys!” Kel’s loud voice rang out before quickly quieting when shushed by the older woman by the door. He rubbed the back of his neck, ears red. “My bad…”

She scolded him a little longer, ignoring Aubrey and Basil’s distant snickering. Sunny’s legs began to barely swing, body rocking back and forth. He straightened up further when Kel approached, grimacing from being chewed out.

“Dude, this happens so often. You need to relax.” Aubrey cackled, elbowing him. Kel grumbled something inaudible, a hand remaining in his pocket. Must be the gift. Aubrey hummed in curiosity.

“Hey, Sunny.” Kel beamed a brilliant smile to match his mood. He fidgeted, searching Sunny’s face. “How are you today?”

Aubrey probably should’ve texted him a warning, but Kel would figure it out himself anyway. Besides Omori and Stranger, Kel was the best at gauging Sunny’s state. Those two had an unfair advantage, though. They sensed it or something.

Sunny lifted a hand, then placed his palm flat on Kel’s chest.

Kel blinked. He looked down, then up again. “Yeah?”

Sunny slowly closed his hand around the fabric of Kel’s shirt, tugging. Kel stepped forward, head falling to the side. He waited for Sunny to speak or, hopefully, speak. It was hard to figure out what Sunny wanted sometimes.

“Happy.” Sunny leaned forward once Kel got close enough, resting his head where his hand previously was. The marking of Uni’s eye was warm. Kel stood still, not wanting to disturb him.

“I am.” Kel’s chest rumbled as he spoke, finally pulling the gift out from his pocket. Aubrey peeked over curiously, noticing Basil was doing the same. He’d been saving up for a while, but they had no clue what he actually got for Sunny. Usually, Basil was the most appreciated gift-wise, considering Sunny practically lived off of egret orchids.

“Uni…you have a gift?” Sunny noticed the movement, the swirl of color traveling. He smiled. He loved presents.

“I do.” Kel’s face scrunched up for a split second, swiftly moving on before any blue feelings could travel. “Do you want it?” Kel waved his hand around, grinning. Sunny pulled back, nodding.

Kel carefully held one of Sunny’s hands, bringing it forward. He turned it palm up, then placed the box in his hand. Kel lingered for a moment before pulling back. Sunny’s gaze flickered to Kel’s face, gaining that…look. Of knowing. Kel merely smiled, waiting. “Are you gonna open it?”

Sunny faced down and observed the small box. All of his movements were slow and methodical, a constant fatigue weighing him down. Most of the time, he moved as little as possible, and he carefully chose how he would move when he did, no matter how small the motion. Sunny slowly opened the box.

“Ta–da! It’s a necklace!” Kel shifted his weight from foot to foot, trying to contain his energy. “I saw it a few months ago and thought it was perfect for you! I was gonna wait a little longer for a special occasion, but I thought, why bother? Gifts can be given whenever!” Kel rambled, watching the way Sunny slowly lifted the delicate jewelry.

His lips parted, lifting another hand to ensure he wouldn’t drop it. It felt precious. Sunny ran his thumb over the shiny locket, appreciating the gold color. White lilies were painted within the heart’s shape, along with other specks of color, for everyone else’s flowers, out of sight.

Aubrey’s whistle rang out, resting her arm on the counter as she tried her best to see the design. “Holy shit, that looks expensive. It’s gorgeous. Where’d you get it?” Aubrey poked Basil aggressively, snapping him out of his mental chat with Stranger. “Chimera! You should totally get me one of those.”

“What? Why? That looks so expensive.”

“First of all, you’re a rich kid. Second, it’s the least you can do. Being your sister is the hardest job in the world.” Aubrey lamented dramatically, splaying out next to the register. Basil deadpanned, wanting to argue, but honestly unable to.

‘You could try.’

Stranger was the exact reason why he couldn’t argue. He’d had his moments throughout the years. The fact he got labeled a violent, unstable delinquent for the short time he tried real school…

‘I think you should appreciate how hard I work to keep us intact.’

That wasn’t any of the words Basil would choose. God, four years didn’t put a dent in Stranger’s lunacy.

‘Oh, you want lunacy? I can show you lunacy.’

No. No.

Basil covered his face, debating on rescinding into Their Space and choking him out, leaving his real body passed out. Aubrey noticed, now distracted from the necklace and focusing on keeping Basil calm. She hoped to beat the previous record for ‘Days without Basil having a breakdown.’ She had a whiteboard and everything.

The record was twenty days. Genuinely miraculous, considering.

Sunny hadn’t minded any of their antics, too busy studying the pretty pendant. Kel was puffed up with pride, sparkling eyes shining with satisfaction. “It’s not just a necklace, Sunny. You can open the small lid.” Was it a lid? Kel wasn’t sure what else to call it. He leaned forward in anticipation, resting his hands on the counter on either side of Sunny to keep himself from fidgeting.

It took him a moment to find the tiny latch, but once he did, he steadily lifted the lid and–

Kel watched the moment the realization settled in, as the first note rang out. The corners of Sunny’s lips rose as a music box sounded, fixated on the gentle music. It was a familiar tune, one he hadn’t been able to play in a long while.

Despite everything, even while in that state, Sunny could remember that duet. And for a moment, all the strange colors and visages that crowded his world began to settle, a familiar, natural environment taking up his vision.

“Do you like it?”

Sunny remained silent, cradling the necklace. Kel angled his body to see Sunny’s face and–

Oh. Oh, no. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, Sunny, I didn’t–” Kel shook, instinctively moving to hold Sunny’s face and wipe his tears. He never cried while like this. Oh god. What does he do? Was Sunny going to be okay? “I just thought–I–”

“Thank you, Kel.”

Sunny smiled, brighter than the sun itself.

Kel felt all the stress instantly leave his body, and his heart slowed. He laughed after a big exhale, shoulders slacking in relief. “Y–Yeah, yeah, no problem, Sunny. I’m glad you like it. Sorry, I thought you were sad. I…” The whiplash made him stutter, trying to regain his composure.

“Can you help me put it on?” Sunny tilted his head, and Kel nodded, ignoring his own lack of dexterity. It wasn’t a big clasp on the back, but he wouldn’t admit he couldn’t do it.

Unfortunately, his hiding it didn’t change the fact he was incapable of getting it around Sunny’s neck. He couldn’t handle the clasp, hands too big. He was also just anxious, so now his hands were clammy. Ugh. Moment ruined.

“…Pfft.”

Maybe not ruined. Kel pretended he didn’t hear Sunny’s quiet laughter, still determined to succeed. Eventually, Basil decided to put him out of his misery. “Let me help with it.” He walked over, successfully distracted from Stranger’s monologuing. Basil continued to ignore his unhinged rant, fingers brushing against Sunny’s neck as he tried to do the clasp.

Aubrey stared.

She watched a little longer.

Sunny was laughing again.

“Oh my god.” Aubrey moved around the counter, too, bumping around Kel and opening her palm toward Basil. “Give it to me. You guys are hopeless.”

Basil frowned but inevitably gave in. Aubrey instantly managed to get it on Sunny properly, mumbling about their uselessness as she did.

“That’s kind of hurtful.” Kel put his hands on his hips, sighing. “You’re so mean, Aubrey.”

“Whatever.” Aubrey made sure his braids weren’t caught in the chain, placing her hands on his shoulders afterward. “There we go. Good to go.”

She suddenly felt a burning feeling on the side of her face. She turned.

Omori stared back. Aha. That brat. Hero must’ve stopped distracting him.

“Don’t look at me like that, little beast.”

“I’m not little.”

“Oh, sure, sure.”

“I’m tall.”

“Mhm.” Aubrey turned her head close toward Sunny’s ear. “He’s not that tall. I think he’s going to stay short forever.” Aubrey whispered loudly, watching Omori’s face grow red. “He keeps trying to eat like Kel does to grow, but that’s not how genetics work.”

“Would genetics apply here?” Basil fiddled with his fringe, nose scrunching up. “He’s already sixteen, so he should’ve had a growth spurt, right?”

“Nah, it can happen later. Don’t you remember Mikhael randomly growing a few inches over the summer? That was the worst. It went right to his head.” Kel wasn’t sure why height would be a source of pride and arrogance, but he shouldn’t be surprised, considering it was Mikhael.

“I don’t know. Maybe the supernatural stuff means Omori is gonna stay the same forever. Basil randomly got huge because of Stranger, but Omori’s just Omori.” Aubrey grinned, imagining steam coming from the teen’s ears as he clenched his fists, glowering.

“I’m older.” Omori stormed forward, nudging Aubrey aside and taking her place behind Sunny. Aubrey reached out and roughly ruffled his hair, an evil grin rising.

“Oh yeah? Wasn’t it only two years ago you stopped wearing pigtails? You always denied it, but Sunny told me you copied my hairstyle. Very adorable of you.”

“I wasn’t copying you!” Omori crossed his arms, extremely unconvincing. For some reason, whenever he lied, his voice got slightly rougher. It was hilarious that he had such an obvious tell.

“It’s nothing to be embarrassed about! It was cute.” Kel said, not helping Omori’s mood whatsoever. “I’m honored to hear you’re trying to copy my diet. I wouldn’t recommend it, though. I’ve been told I eat way too much.”

“You’re a real black hole. Or maybe a garbage can.” Chimera remembered when they went to Othermart together to buy groceries for dinner, only to see Kel buying five extra hotdogs for himself. He ate eight that night. He started getting full around number five, and started eating only the hotdog and the bun around the sides, leaving the bottom as is. Like a sandwich. Freak.

“Hey, I’m not a garbage can. That’s rude.”

“It was Stranger.”

“You didn’t stop him from saying it.”

“You think I can stop him? That’s Aubrey’s job.”

“And that’s why you should get me a necklace!” Aubrey whipped around, gesturing aggressively. “Where’s my thanks for putting up with you?”

“I’ve tried to express my thanks, but you reject all my shows of brotherly affection.”

“The last time you did that, Polly grounded you for two months.”

“It’s hard to ground one part of the same body. She was determined, though.” Basil ended the thought, admiring the attempt. Besides Aubrey, she was the only other person who could wrangle Stranger. Sunny would count, but that depended on the day. Sometimes, Stranger got even more unreasonable because of Sunny.

“If you’re going to fight, take it outside. I’m tired of you all. Shoo. All of you. If you don’t, I’ll ban everyone.” Hero barged over, voice overpowering all of theirs. Everyone looked equally subdued, clambering out after Hero pointed to the door aggressively. His forearms and forehead burned, finding amusement in how they scrambled out the door.

Omori tried to linger for Sunny, but was dragged along by Basil out of spite. Hero looked out the window as they tried to keep Omori from going back inside, taking it as a challenge. Hero smiled sweetly when two red eyes met his and lowered the blinds.

God…he needed a break.

Hero stretched, closing the blind on the door, too, to maybe get Omori’s lack of object permanence to kick in. It…wasn’t precisely that, since he wasn’t a baby, but it was close. All the remaining customers had already left, and no new ones had come in when everyone was causing disturbances. Which meant it was probably time to close early. Hero was tired.

Sunny watched Hero turn the open sign around at the front door. His eyebags were prominent as he walked back toward him. As he did, he finally noticed Sunny’s face. “You okay?” Hero lowered his head, concerned. He saw the tear tracks. “Did someone upset you? Tell me which one, and I’ll ban them for a week.”

“No.” Sunny shook his head. Hero looked unconvinced.

“You sure?” Sunny never cried when he was that detached. It was worrying.

“It was happy tears, Ab–H–Hero.” Sunny shook his head minutely, trying to ground himself. He held the pendent and opened it again to let Hero listen. Hero softened at the song, recognizing it right away. Sunny closed it soon after.

“I see.” Hero patted Sunny’s shoulder, smiling. “Kel must be happy you like his gift so much. He worked hard for it.”

“I know.” Sunny clutched it a little tighter. The bickering of the others was no longer behind him and livening the atmosphere. Now, he was able to think. Sunny swallowed. “I…wish I could…repay it.” The hand began to shake. Hero quickly placed his own hand over it, forearms burning.

“Hey, it’s fine. He did it because he wanted to, not because he expected something in return. I’m sure your happiness is enough for him. You know Kel’s always been like that.” Hero pulled over Omori’s chair, sitting down and resting his legs. “This seems to come up every few months, doesn’t it?”

“This is…different.” Sunny squinted around varying shapes, the swirling fractals of his eyes brightening as memories pushed to the forefront. Fully formed pupils dilated. “You all…have saved me, in different ways…but Un…? Yellow…cat?” Sunny found it hard to focus. “He…always watched over…and waited for me. A positive force. Ray of happiness. Watching my door.”

Hero’s eyes watered. He couldn’t interrupt. He also couldn’t look away–he needed to show he was listening despite Sunny’s worsening state. Interrupting would only make it worse.

“He is different now. I miss it when he was big. But now he can talk a lot more. I like that. He is not a guardian anymore. Is he? Are you, Abbi?”

"There’s nothing to guard you from.” Hero kept a reassuring smile. He was glad he kicked everyone else out. Sunny down memory lane…was the hardest to handle. Hero just had to make sure he didn't trigger a complete breakdown.

“I see. Did I destroy it?”

“No. You don’t destroy things anymore.”

“Did Omori destroy it?”

“No. He doesn’t destroy things anymore.” Well, not exactly true. They did their best to stop him when he tried, at least. Omori could pass as an average human now, as long as he didn’t talk for too long. It was a major improvement. He actually tolerated outside people to an extent.

“Then why am I here?”

“Because you wanted to live with all of us–your family and friends. We’re here in the real world together.”

“Oh. Did I create it?”

“You didn’t make this world.”

“Oh. Okay. Do I know who did?”

“Maybe.” Hero shrugged. He wasn’t sure how to answer that one.

“I am not a Dreamer anymore. Am I?” Sunny didn’t seem sad. Or happy. Or anything at all. He just…spoke.

“You always will be one. It’s just different now. You don’t have all that responsibility. All you need to worry about is being happy, okay?”

“Am I happy?”

Hero’s eyes watered. He took a careful, deep breath, a quivering inhale. “I think so.”

Sunny stared. It was hard to hold eye contact when Sunny was like this, but it was significantly better than it used to be. The egret orchids expanded the amount he could consciously be aware of without losing himself, which was why Basil kept growing mass amounts. It was a physical issue, as well. The egret orchids kept him alive.

The greenhouse Basil’s parents built for him out of guilt definitely helped. He didn’t only grow egret orchids. It was genuinely a beautiful place. They…should go there over the weekend. Being around the flowers always made Sunny more grounded.

Hero wanted to speak up, to break the silence, but wouldn’t. He fidgeted his fingers, continuing to breathe evenly, counting in his mind. Sunny was visibly in thought. After a slow, methodic blink, he spoke.

“I am happy. Yes.”

Hero was strong. A reliable figure for the people he cared about. Hero was composed. Hero was all of those things, and cried silently, smiling.

“I’m really glad, Sunny.”

“Oh. It is raining.”

Hero glanced at the closed blinds, squinting. He could still see sunlight through the gaps. There weren’t any sounds of rain either. Unexpectedly, Sunny pushed himself off the counter. Hero launched to his feet to steady him, barely managing to catch him before he collapsed. Sunny frowned down at his body, rolling his shoulders. There was a slight wrinkle near his nose, displeasure clear.

“Be careful. It’s not high, but any weighted movement can rattle your body.” Hero pulled back, overseeing Sunny. It felt like he’d said those words thousands of times. Many of the words he’d spoken today were things he had said before.

Sunny declaring himself happy was rare, though. It was rare for him to use emotional words like those for himself, at least when he was in this mindset. Sunny shuffled a little in place before lifting his arm toward Hero’s face. Hero crouched down a tiny bit. Sunny wiped Hero’s tears with his sleeve.

Hero let him. It felt a little silly.

“Rain, rain, go away…” Sunny hummed under his breath, eyes shining. “Come again another day…”

Ah.

So that was the rain. Hero relaxed, feeling Abbi’s markings burn in recognition. It wasn’t startling or uncomfortable–rather, it felt affirming. Hero was glad a part of Abbi could still be acknowledged through him. That’s all she’d wanted.

“All better.” Sunny pulled back, satisfied. Hero chuckled, rolling his head around to stretch. It was probably time to let everyone back in, even if Sunny’s eyes were still like that. Thankfully, they were already clearing up a little.

“Do you want everyone back inside? I’ll lift the blinds, too. I think they learned their lesson.” Hero grinned at the last part, winking. Sunny’s brows rose, hands clasping together. He nodded. “Got it. I’ll tell them to thank you for pleading their case.” Hero spun around on his heel, heading toward the door. Everyone came barreling back inside the moment he opened it the slightest bit.

Wow…

“Finally!” Kel immediately went for the windows, lifting all the blinds. “I can’t believe you deprived Sunny of sunlight, too! I’ve got your back, angel.”

“Ah! You did it again! You did it!” Aubrey aggressively pointed the moment Kel finished, fiery rage poignant. “No pet names!”

“Uh, he’s not a pet, Aubrey.” Kel faced her with scorn, having the gall to look offended. Aubrey mimed strangling him, an old habit she never dropped. She was already making her way toward him when Basil grabbed her by the back of the collar, holding her in place. She waved her arms around, a decidedly immature action.

Omori was already back by Sunny’s side, circling him like a bunny would. He seemed confused about why Sunny was standing. “Sunny?”

“Abbi,” Sunny called, not raising his voice despite the commotion. He expected to be heard no matter what. And thankfully, Hero kept an ear out despite his emanating parental disappointment at Aubrey and Kel’s behavior.

“Yes?” Hero walked over, trying not to snort at Omori’s strange hovering.

“Brush my hair?” Sunny moved to sit down, likely on the floor. Omori caught it and placed a chair under him, saving him in time. Sunny just blinked, accepting the chair. Hero gave a resigned, fond sigh. He would have to redo Sunny’s braids after, it seemed. Thankfully, Keiko and Aubrey taught him a bunch of hairstyles, too.

“Alright. I just need to grab my brush from the back.” Hero patted his head and hurried off, praying that Aubrey wouldn’t start throwing things this time.

Outside of Hero’s view, Aubrey was lunging for a chair. It was just for intimidation purposes. She wouldn’t actually damage the nice furniture. “Did you even ask Sunny permission to call him a name like that?”

“What? It’s just a word.”

“You know what else is a word–!?” Aubrey’s mouth was covered by Basil’s hand. He grimaced.

“Careful. Sunny’s mom told us to tone down the swearing cus’ Omori was picking up on it.”

Aubrey sent him a look of betrayal, biting his hand. He had no reaction. Damn pain tolerance. Aubrey gave up, slumping her shoulders and marching over to Sunny. She placed a hand on the back of the chair, leaning over him.

“Hey, Sunny.”

“You look like a shifty player trying to corner and pick up an innocent girl at a bar.”

Aubrey slowly turned around, looking at Kel with disbelief. Despite being the one who said it, Kel looked just as shocked as she was. Why was he looking at her like she was at fault!? “Christ. What are you learning in class?”

“We go to the same college.”

“Is that where you picked up pet names?”

“Nope. I’ve called Sunny angel for years.”

“What the hell!” Aubrey straightened up, no longer looming over Sunny like a bad boy in a romcom–thought Basil, this time. “What happened to our agreement?”

“I’m not breaking it.” Kel messed with his ear, averting eye contact. That wasn’t a very innocent expression, was it?

“You’re trying to! Did the locket have to be a heart?”

“It was just how it was sold.” Kel frowned. “What? I can’t buy Sunny gifts?”

“We agreed not to try and get with him!”

“That was so long ago, though…” Kel rolled his head around, drawing out his words. “And it’s not like I’m the only one being sweet on him.” Kel narrowed his eyes first at Aubrey, then in Basil’s direction. Basil lifted his hands in surrender.

“Don’t look at me. Stranger doesn’t listen to anyone.”

Aubrey also flared up, defensive. “What! Am I not allowed to hug him or hold his hand? Sunny likes physical contact!”

Omori watched the entire conversation unfold, looking dead inside. He debated covering his ears. Or maybe mauling them for talking about this right in front of Sunny. It’s not like he was deaf. Actually, from the looks of it, his brother was listening very intently.

“Yeah! He does! So don’t accuse me of romancing him when I do anything a best friend would do.” Kel crossed his arms, angling his head toward Chimera. “If I wanna call him a nickname, that’s also normal. They call you Aubs.”

“The difference is that it’s a shorthand of my name. Angel is very much a romantic nickname. You tried to slip it in so casually, too! You even gave him a Hero smile!”

“A what smile?”

“The Hero smile, where you sparkle a little!”

“Did you just say I sparkle? Also, what? That’s just my own smile.”

“No, I agree with Aubrey.” Basil joined in again, looking way too amused. “Maybe it’s cus’ you’re brothers.”

“I’m smiling normally! I’m just giving him a nickname! You guys are being ridiculous. I’m not breaking the promise or whatever. No one’s allowed to date Sunny, blah blah.” Kel opened and closed his hands in a parroting motion. Aubrey was held down again by Basil and–

“Romance?”

Everyone froze. They turned.

Omori stared back from beside Sunny with such a despairing look that the usual sharpness of his eyes had disappeared entirely. He looked two seconds away from faceplanting on the ground, woefully mourning the person he could be if he escaped this stupid conversation. Hero was definitely hiding in the back. It wasn’t fair that Hero didn’t have to be here for this.

They had absolutely forgotten Sunny was there. They didn’t know what to do. Sunny’s blank, neutral expression slowly began to shift. Instead of curiosity or disgust, it went straight into pure, unfiltered displeasure.

Yikes.

“I–I’m sorry, Sunny.” Kel blurted out first. Sunny hadn’t ever looked at them like that before. His heart sank into his stomach. “I didn’t mean to…I won’t call you angel again. Or other names like that. I…um, I like all of you–no matter your state. But I know it’s hard for you, and it’s not fair for me to add more complicated stuff on top of that. Not that I’m saying you're weak! You’re the strongest. It just...those kinds of feelings don’t matter at all compared to everything else.” Kel felt so awkward. This was not the way he expected that to come out.

Aubrey chewed on her lower lip, face completely red. “God, that’s embarrassing. Um. Yeah, what Kel said. The agreement or whatever, it wasn’t like…because we were looking down on you, or something. Or thought you shouldn’t get to seek that out. It was just. To avoid annoying competition, and we kinda hoped this stuff would fade…I’m sorry we made you uncomfortable.”

Basil didn’t look embarrassed at all. He just shrugged. “Listen. You’re basically a deity trapped in a regular human body. You change how you feel and what you think daily and even throughout the day, so it’s hard enough for you without having to worry about our feelings. We were just gonna wait some more years until everything leveled out.” He paused. “I can’t do anything about Stranger being like that, though. Sorry.”

Everyone pretended they didn’t hear the last part.

“…I see.” Sunny’s expression was no longer upset. Something must’ve been cleared up, the fractals behind his eyes dimming and shifting. “I understand. Romance is…hard for me to grasp beyond…the childish crushes. I do love you all. But I…don’t know if I’m capable of giving back the same…emotion. I’m sorry. I don’t know if the love is the same.”

Sunny looked heartbroken. Rejecting the people he cared about in any capacity hurt him deeply.

“We don’t expect that, Sunny.” Kel hadn’t dared step forward yet, still hearing his heartbeat in his ears. It was hard to think. “That’s why we never said anything. Really, I like being beside you in any way. I just like being close to you. There’s no need to feel bad about this.”

“Yeah! It’s not like that.” Aubrey waved her hands frantically. “You know yourself best–” Was that okay to say? “–and what you want. Before, it wasn’t…real fighting, you know? We mostly play fight. No one was genuinely mad. It’s just…it’s silly bickering, or whatever Hero calls it.” That wasn’t a lie. It really wasn’t that serious.

“And the agreement wasn’t to take away your agency or decision. It was…well, a truce, so we didn’t start getting bitter fighting over time with you. It’s not like we were battling it out. It’s really a secondary thing.” After Basil finished, Stranger must’ve felt left out and quickly blurted, “I just don’t think I should ever delve into romance, for the sake of others.”

Silence.

Omori fell to the floor, grabbing his head like he was on the verge of a mental break. “I hate this. I do not want to be here.” It was almost a whine. Maybe it was a cry for help. No one came.

“You don’t have to be here, you know. You could join Hero in the back.” Kel piped up, poking the bear.

“Not leaving Sunny with you animals.”

Ouch. The bear bit back.

“Omori.” Sunny sent him a glance of disapproval. Omori wasn’t looking. He was too busy absorbing the tile. “Don’t be rude.”

“This is stupid.”

“You cannot say that about people's feelings. They are speaking from the heart, and you are disrespecting that. How would you feel if I said your feelings were stupid?”

Omori, now being lectured, stared at the ceiling. Life wasn’t fair. “I would feel bad…”

“Right. So stop it.” Sunny focused back on his friends, sighing. “I don’t know…where to go from here. I’m embarrassed.” It was hard to tell, considering there was no flush to his skin. “I can’t even fathom why…you’d feel that way about me…”

“Hey, for all we know, it might not even be romantic feelings. We’re all still young.” Basil was shockingly the mature one this time, speaking with a level head. “Since we’re all happy and content just being friends and loving each other like this, I don’t think there’s any new direction to go. Nothing needs to change. Now you just know we care even more about you.”

“Is early twenties young?” Aubrey whispered to Kel, brows furrowed.

“I mean, considering Sunny’s technically thirty-five thousand years old…”

Aubrey smacked him. “That’s not the same.”

“It was a joke.” Kel pouted, suddenly realizing the comedic nature of the whole situation. They awkwardly stood around and confessed while Sunny sat up in his chair, staring at them all. Omori was on the ground at his side, glowering at nothing. It should be mortifying in hindsight, but honestly, they were used to openly communicating about tough subjects. Speaking of, “Where’s Hero, by the way?”

“Amazing subject change, Kel. Really smooth.” Basil hit him with a thumbs up and easy smile, ruining the natural segue by pointing it out. Kel’s lips pressed into a thin line. What was that revenge for? What did Kel do?

“Getting a brush.” Sunny seemed fine changing the subject. The prior conversation was over and done with, anyway. He appeared to momentarily lose himself again after the reminder of the brush. “To brush my hair. It’s relaxing.”

“I can get him.” Kel stalked toward where Omori was on the ground and got him to his feet, ignoring Omori slumping like a dejected cat. It was kind of like how Midnight acted. However, their cat seemed to only really like Sunny. Maybe Omori was too similar, and they clashed.

Right. Hero. Kel quickly went to the door not far away and opened it.

Hero was standing innocently, holding a hair brush. “Oh, hi. I was just coming back out. I hope you guys didn’t destroy my bakery.”

“…You totally eavesdropped.”

“Whatever do you mean, dear brother?”

“Eugh.” Kel made a gagging sound, turning away. “Whatever. It’s not like you didn’t know already.”

“It all worked out. I’m proud of you guys for being honest.” Hero patted Kel on the back, shamelessly admitting he was listening to the conversation. He went over to Sunny and got a chair behind him, sitting down. “Alright, after I brush, do you want your hair like before or something else?”

“Same.”

“Braids it is.” Hero started to undo Keiko’s work, sending a silent apology her way, even if it did happen often. Thanks to it, he was Sally’s favorite brother since he could style her hair cutely. Speaking of Sally, she’d been bugging him about coming to the bakery again to sit with Sunny. She was convinced he was a real angel, which…was definitely Kel’s fault, in hindsight.

Aubrey watched Hero undo the braids, glancing at the bakery door with a skeptical frown. “Should you be closing early so often…? Basil didn’t even work today, even though you asked. At this rate, you’re gonna go bankrupt.” It was their designated hangout spot now, so having it disappear would be tragic.

Basil piped up before Hero could respond, looking distinctly smug. “I mean. It’s not like it’ll go down when I’m funneling in money. Hero actually doesn’t need to work at all.”

“You’re not wrong, but…” Hero gave him a pointed look, sighing. “I like working here and baking. It’s not good to be stagnant. Plus, you all like being here, and I get to make Basil work even though he’s a rich kid. Most of all, it’s good for Sunny and Omori to get out of the house. This is a peaceful, open place. And you guys can also work here if you need to after you graduate.” Hero gestured to Kel and Aubrey, smiling. Omori frowned.

“What about me?”

“I don’t want you near customers.” Hero deadpanned despite Omori’s affronted look.

“I’m not that bad.”

“Right. You’re worse.” Hero got a cackle from Aubrey for that one, and Omori fumed silently at the slight. Hero was one of the people he couldn’t argue with. Maybe it was Abbi, or perhaps it was just because Hero always managed to talk around him. Omori eventually just stopped trying.

If he could, he would attack physically. But Sunny was getting his hair brushed. If Omori interrupted, Sunny would certainly scold him or be sad and upset. The second was the worst possible outcome.

Ignoring the third, even worse emotion, fear.

Omori shook his head.

That…rarely happened anymore. Omori was more mature now, but…for some reason, even though he was getting older, he couldn’t control his emotions. Mom said it was a human thing. He just hated how feeling things made him feel physical pain, like some kind of faulty feature.

Omori didn’t handle pain well. He wasn’t used to it, still, what with his body being abnormal, both strength and recovery. ‘There is no normal life that is free of pain,’ or something along those lines. Omori just hoped he could make Sunny’s free of it.

“Hey, I didn’t mean it. You’re just intense and kind of intimidating. But that can be a good thing! You balance out Sunny like Aubrey balances out Chimera.” Hero corrected himself, misunderstanding Omori’s expression and amending his words. Omori blinked back to attention, still blank-faced. Hero wilted. “I mean it! You always talk about protecting Sunny, so being strong and tough is good, right?”

“Yeah! A lot of people are just scared of your coolness, little buddy.” Kel waltzed over, resting his arm on Omori’s head and leaning his weight in. Omori could handle it. “You and Sunny are like yin and yang…right? Is that the words? The black and white circle balance thing?”

‘The yin and yang applies more to me and you, does it not?’

This wasn’t about them. “I believe so,” Basil spoke up, then saw Omori beginning to look annoyed again under Kel’s arm, clearly hating the way it emphasized his short stature.

‘Omori needs to be humbled every once in a while.’

Humbled may not be the right word.

‘No, it is. All his time with Sunny has gone to his head. Now he thinks himself Sunny’s main caretaker.’

Isn’t…he?

‘That’s his mother.’

Once she started working again, Omori did kind of take up that role.

‘She works from home to homeschool Omori.’

…Right, thanks for the explanation he obviously knew. Working from home still meant being preoccupied. Omori had to take up some of the caring for Sunny, especially since Sunny only reliably recognized Omori fully.

‘Means nothing to me. Omori is still too overbearing.’

Oh, Stranger’s sure one to talk. Overbearing? That’s his middle name at this point.

‘Don’t sass me!’

“You good?” Aubrey poked Basil, who looked like his soul was slowly being sucked out of him. Basil rubbed Stranger’s eye out of spite, shrugging.

“Probably. I’m not.”

“Great!” Aubrey ignored Stranger’s add–on, slapping them on the back. “It’s getting late, so we gotta head home anyway.”

“Oh, you’re right.” Hero finished up Sunny’s hair, checking his watch. Sunny played with his braids, looking satisfied, while Omori quickly scribbled over his homework, completing it. It conflicted with him doing it slowly earlier, like it was a challenge. Did he pretend? Hero shook his head. Omori did a lot of strange, inexplicable things. Better not to question the behavior. “Do you need help getting home?”

“Mom’s picking us up in a few minutes.” Omori butted in, extending his hand for Sunny to take. Sunny did and stood up. The sight of Omori being taller than Sunny was still strange, even if it happened gradually.

Kel leaned toward Hero, grinning. “Do you think he’ll have another growth spurt? Maybe he’ll get as tall as us.”

“God, I hope not. He doesn’t need to be any scarier.” Hero tried to imagine Omori reaching their height and got such a terrible full-body shudder that he almost made an audible sound of discomfort. “The tallest he could get is probably around Aubrey’s height.”

“Two Aubrey’s running around…” Kel snickered to himself, ignoring Hero’s eye-roll.

Sunny glanced around, gaze landing on the door. Omori stood before him, hoping that Sunny would forget the door existed by blocking his vision. Unfortunately, Sunny still had object permanence and attempted to go around him.

“Mom will be here soon.” Omori held Sunny’s arm, shaking his head. “Wait.”

“I want to go look.”

“At what?’

“You wouldn’t get it.” Sunny frowned with displeasure, and Omori mirrored the expression.

“I always get it.”

“No you don’t.”

“Yes I do.”

“No you don’t.” Sunny reached up and pinched Omori’s cheek, tugging. Omori succumbed to his fate. Stupid baby face. “You didn’t notice Dorothi on the way here…” Sunny’s gaze shifted to the side. “She was running fast…”

Omori remained silent. He just let Sunny mess with his face. There was no response he could give that wouldn’t upset Sunny.

“I think I saw your mom’s car drive by!” Aubrey shouted and immediately rushed over. She wrapped Sunny in a big hug, grinning. “We’ll see you later, Sunny!”

“Hey! Why do you get the first goodbye hug!?” Kel rushed over right after, pulling Sunny from Aubrey’s arms and hugging him next. “Bye, Sunny! See you soon!”

“…Soon?” Omori’s eyes slanted, head angling to the side. “Seriously?”

“We’re coming over for dinner. Keiko invited us.” Hero flashed a charming smile, doing nothing to appease Omori’s frustration.

“Again?”

“What? It’s been two days! That’s so long!” Kel wailed melodramatically, still clinging to Sunny, who allowed the hug to happen. Chimera gently tugged Kel off for their hugging turn, eyes curving happily at the contact.

Sunny looked up at Chimera's face, blinking slowly. “You…got taller.”

The joyful glow to their face waned, but they were no less happy. “Mhm. I’m not twelve anymore.”

“Or sixteen.” Sunny reached up, turning around in the hug to return the gesture. Chimera froze, then melted into the embrace, squeezing him carefully. Sunny’s memory seemed to be getting better, or rather, he could look at a more extensive range without deteriorating now. Recognizing them as having been sixteen while still in such a state…

Kel moped beside Aubrey, who looked happy for her brother. She kicked Kel in the shin for being grumpy at not getting a reciprocated hug. “You already got your moment with Sunny earlier with the locket! Don’t be greedy.”

Chimera tried to ignore their banter, distracted until Sunny pulled back, reaching up to poke their face. He smooshed around their features, a twinkle behind his eyes. “Why so big?”

“You can blame Stranger for that." Basil huffed, shaking his head. “I look a little scary, don’t I?”

“No. You look…very pretty.” Sunny patted their cheek one more time, brushing some loose hair strands behind their ear. “Kind and reliable.”

While Chimera’s skin was marred by gray and black markings, the scars never fading, the red that took over his features was just as bright as it used to be. “O–Oh. Okay. Okay. Yeah, thank you! Um, so I–well–”

On cue, the door to the bakery opened with a chiming melody, and Keiko peeked in. “Sunny? Omori?”

Omori ran over and grabbed her hand, pointing at Sunny and Chimera. “Sunny’s being harassed.”

“I’m not harassing Sunny!” Chimera’s voice cracked, still a beet red. Aubrey’s cackling gradually increased in volume while the commotion pulled Sunny’s attention away. He put his hands on his hips.

“Omori…don’t trick.”

“Not tricking.” Omori lifted his chin, closing his eyes to avoid seeing Sunny’s scolding look. Keiko sighed at their antics, shaking her head. When Sunny wandered over, Hero quickly pulled him in for a side hug, grinning.

“See you soon! We’re bringing some food, and so is Polly. She makes a killer salad.” Hero peeked at Keiko’s reaction, seeing her light up.

“Polly’s coming too? Oh, that’s wonderful. I haven’t seen her in a while…” Keiko put a hand to her cheek, a soft smile forming.

Aubrey and Chimera traded a dubious look.

“Last week.” Omori corrected. “Not long.”

“Oh, don’t be like that.” Keiko playfully smacked his arm. “Tone down the teenage angst. What’s wrong with spending time with friends and family?”

“Less is more,” Omori said. Keiko looked like she was trying to withhold a laugh. He was so quick with his responses.

“It’s good to cherish.” Sunny corrected, ruffling Omori’s hair. That spelled immediate defeat for Omori, who instantly became docile.

They all meandered out of the building, Hero closing up shop before everyone headed home. The dinner started shortly after, Omori noting that his home was invaded with barely any time to recover from their prior interactions.

Sunny only had to give him a single glance to silence his complaints.

Dinner together was often and almost a tradition. Sometimes Hero’s family would also come, Sally joining along, happily chatting to everyone and running around. Sunny and her would often wander together, sometimes pointing at the same invisible things.

The implication was…slightly unsettling, but Hero quelled any worries by saying Sally probably thought they were playing pretend. Any relief was then squashed by Stranger correcting it and saying children were much more sensitive to supernatural phenomena.

At least that night went without a hitch. A simple dinner with fewer people and Polly strategically sitting beside Keiko, despite Omori’s glower. She’d gotten good at avoiding Omori’s sabotage attempts–she was long used to it thanks to Chimera and Aubrey, who used to do the same.

For what reason? She still didn’t exactly know. Maybe it had something to do with them liking Sunny?

Along with good food, laughter filled the room until night fully set in, and everyone had to go home. It was Hero and Kel’s turn to help them with dishes, and everyone else watched a show while they waited.

Goodbyes were short and sweet because they would see each other the very next day. Still, when saying goodbye…

“I love you.”

Sunny would say it to each, along with his farewell, as if it’d be the last time he said it. A heartfelt yet bittersweet habit that had formed before his memories returned. Except now, instead of it being in case of death, it was worry over being unable to express it the following day, or who knew how many more after.

As the years passed, though, those scary days grew less and less frequent. Sunny’s perception of reality shifted constantly throughout his time awake, usually ending in a mostly lucid state. It was more than anyone could hope for.

They were all happy, even during those hard times. Because now, always, there was hope underlining the sorrow and difficulty.

Omori had just been about to turn off the lamp in the room before noticing Sunny’s position, standing and gazing right out the window. The curtains remained open as the moon shone through, and Sunny’s pale eyes trailed across the stars.

“What are you watching?”

“…Something,” Sunny said, leaning forward.

“Can you show me?”

Sunny glanced at him and nodded. Omori stood right beside his brother, looking in the same direction.

Stars and the moon.

A clear sky.

“There, beside the moon.” Sunny didn’t point. “Something white.”

Omori leaned forward, touching the window to peer out at the sky. He looked around the moon, wondering. Then, it was apparent.

Right there, a bright round dot.

“Is that a star?”

“No.” Sunny finally lifted his hand, placing it on the glass, just like Omori. “It failed.”

“Failed?”

“It could’ve never been a star.” Sunny didn’t look away from the sky. Omori stared at Sunny, instead. “Maybe less of a failure…and more misguided hope. It could never have become a star. Yet it still tried.”

Sunny pressed his head against the barrier, eyes lidding and never breaking his gaze on that speck of light.

Omori reached out and placed a hand on Sunny’s head. He carefully patted his hair, and looked back to the night sky.

The moon shone bright, reflecting in his red eyes.

“It’s okay. It’s the biggest there, next to the moon. We found it easily. It’s already so bright. I’m sure…that light is appreciated.”

Sunny was quiet.

“And even if it’s not a star…that only means it is something else.”

Sunny blinked as tears fell, and stared at the speck in the sky as Omori hugged him.

“It’s still up there in the sky, surrounded by others.”

Sunny didn’t move.

“It wasn’t meant to be a star. And that’s okay. All it’s meant to be…is happy.”

“…Okay,” Sunny whispered, body beginning to slack with fatigue. After another delicate pat, Omori gently guided Sunny to his bed, helping him lie down. He wiped Sunny’s tears and brought the blanket over him. Sunny blinked tiredly, still gazing toward the window. Omori moved, grasping the edges of the curtain.

“Don’t…”

Sunny’s quiet voice made him stop.

“I like…the light.”

Omori’s hand shook, and he pulled it back. He nodded and stepped toward his own bed. He wondered if he should go grab Midnight to make Sunny feel better.

But when he turned back around, Sunny was already fast asleep, facing toward the moonlight shining into the room.

Omori watched him a little longer, then again turned toward the window.

…

To Omori, Sunny was like the North Star.

To all of them, maybe. Not just the brightest star in the sky, but a guide, always there and shining.

Right now, though, Omori couldn’t see that star.

But the spot next to the moon, bright and round…

…

To be a star…was to be separated from them. Unreachable.

Sunny had done many things. Sunny had lived many different lives. Sunny had created and destroyed countless times. Sunny had been a god with unbelievable power.

Sunny loved with all his heart and gave everything up.

…

Omori laid down, and faced the light, too.

…

There was already a moon and a sun.

They just needed to be people.

People who felt, lived…

And people who dreamed.

…

“Goodnight, Sunny.”

Omori closed his eyes, and fell asleep, looking forward to what the next day would bring.