Chapter Text
Mari loved her little brother.
Of her earliest memories, she remembers standing at his doorway, holding hands with her mother as they looked to a crib beneath the window. Tiny giggles and incoherent babbles filled the room, and Mari sent her mother a questioning glance.
The grand window above the crib had been opened to let light in, crimson curtains waltzing lazily with the summer breeze. Outside, Mari could hear the trees whispering softly, gossiping with curious leaves as rays of sunlight capered about the floor. Before she'd even seen his face, it felt like the universe was telling her.
Don't worry, he'll be perfect.
As they crept closer, the hand unoccupied by her mother pulled her over the edge to peak inside. The little girl's eyes met pale, chubby cheeks tinted pink, framed by round eyes and unruly hair as dark as her own. She stuck a tentative finger into one of his cheeks, testing the resistance before startling as the baby abruptly latched on.
Grasping her finger, he stared silently as if studying her face. She wasn't sure what expression to put on, so she smiled as gently as she could. At the sight, the baby returned it instantly, resuming his joyous giggles as he jerked her finger about in his excitement. Mari guessed by his grip that he'd grow up to be a very strong boy. She turned to her mother, asking for a name.
Sunny.
Mari understood.
It was perfect for him.
Barely having met him, she knew his name would reflect the person he'd surely become. Bright and warm, a source of light to those around him. Now, like a gift from the universe itself, Mari had a sun of her own.
From that day on, she knew it'd be her duty to protect him. To be his guardian, mentor and loving older sister. This was her new little brother, her new family. In that moment, as giggles sounded in her ears, she made a promise to herself. Mari was never going to let him down. She was always going to be there for him, keep him safe, and love him.
Just like a good big sister should.