Chapter Text
"Whenever you need me, I'll be here."
August 16th, 20XX
It's been two weeks since Basch's seventeenth birthday, yet it feels like he's still thirteen, if it wasn't for the fact that he grew inches taller and had sharper features, he would believe he's still the child he was. Struggling to accept it, Basch laid his eyes upon his hand, bending his fingers and tickling his own palm. It stayed like that for a while, repeating the movement mechanically and patiently—he wasn't the one to be patient, often emphasizing how being on time is important and if others were late, his mood would be ruined. Sure, he's stoic and tolerable about most things, but he can't help get annoyed by people with no concept of time. Basch's self-soothing method wasn't cooperating today, and he gave up in the end. Instead, he watched his sister, Erika, sitting on the couch with a book in her hand. Her eyes focused on the words itself, whatever she's reading must be good for her to focus like that, a blanket was placed on top of her lap—providing comfort and security—while the fireplace warmed them up. Observing the way she flipped a page and her lips curved slightly, he could recall when she was just a kid, now she was fourteen. Of course he was happy seeing her grow, but the times when he read her favourite bedtime story, helping her sleep after having a nightmare and seeing her speak to other kids without his help... Basch reminisced the memory.
She noticed that her brother had his eyes on her, making her stomach churn and the uncomfortable feeling reaching to her heart that makes it palpitate. She took a book tag, placing on the page she was finished and closed her book to see if he'd respond, and he didn't. Erika's voice cracks, her mouth dry, "big brother, are you okay?" Her shaky voice somehow got through his hazed state, but not in a way she expected. Basch took hurried steps to Erika, crouching down, she was taken aback—though the fact his brother has been more protective ever since… she should get used to it by now.
"What's wrong? Are you hurt?" Basch questions her, looking for scratches or maybe bruises, especially at the top of her head. He stood up, leaving his crouched position and inspected her skull, gently parting her blonde hair into two parts to see her healed laceration. She felt the cold air behind her nape, as if someone's breathing near her neck, she let out a shaky breath which made her brother more concerned. "Erika? You know you don't have to be ashamed." He let go of his sister's hair, walking off to take a hairbrush inside a drawer and undo her braids, he started at the apex to the end of the hair. Basch had the brush skimming over her scar, terrified he'd open the wound and it will require stitching again, the siblings were quiet, save for the fact Basch was humming Erika's favourite tune. The grandfather clock kept ticking, serving its purpose to tell the time, she took notice—seven twenty-three in the evening. Usually their mom would be done cooking, calling for them so the family can eat together, but lately their dad had been too busy working. It wasn't abnormal, he was an over-worker.
Once the brother was done combing his sister's hair, very much proud of his work. Erika sheepishly spoke up, "you take such good care of me, brother… I wish I can repay you."
"Nonsense, you don't have to do that, it's my duty and I care."
Still, Erika want to show her appreciation somehow. It wasn't fair that she isn't giving anything, yet taking everything, brother told her to always balance about give-and-take. How just taking is selfish and could tire the person out, while if you always give will strain you and your perspective of that person. So why? Why just let me take? She shook her head, her eyes filled with childish determination, needing to prove herself somehow. Erika spun her body to where Basch was standing, knees hitting the 'T' seat cushion with her hands atop of the sofa. She dropped her book somewhere from the movement itself, the blanket left disheveled and no longer on her lap. Erika gauged her brother's reaction, to see if his usual grouchy face morphed into something else and he was very much left flabbergasted by his sister's unwonted doings. "I insist brother! You've been so nice to me, I can't just do nothing."
He let out a long sigh, as if that would ease his worries in any way. Trying to take her words into consideration, she broke eye-contact and lowered her body to hide her face with the use of the back sofa. It was soft, the texture that the skin senses at least relaxing her tense muscles, did she go too far? Was she overbearing? Hopefully not, she can tell that Basch had his eyes on her, waiting if she was going to talk again. "Fine, but don't overexert yourself. You need to learn how to take care of yourself." Basch simply replied, pivoting to put the hairbrush back where it originally was, seeing different types of hair clips and hair ties that Erika adores.
"I will, big brother." The younger one smiled, getting off the sofa cushions, reaching for the book she dropped and placing it on the bookshelf. The siblings heard their mother call out for them in the dinner, exchanging glances before entering their dining area, entering the room beholds a feast upon them. Käsknöpfle, creamy squash paired with dozens of bread, and a jug of water. Erika sat down to her respective seat, while Basch was left grabbing utensils and plates, setting them infront of his sister. She took pieces of her desired food, thanking her mom for the meal as Basch did the same.
The sound of the utensils clinking into one another echoed throughout the dining room, before their mother recalled something.
"Right, I forgot to mention we're moving in a week. I think you two knew already, but I wanted to make sure." Their mother started, "It's been rough, and I figured that staying near the hospital wouldn't do any good."
Hospitals. None of them got used to it despite going in and out, the bills didn't help either, seeing the money pile up just for a few stays put a financial toll on them. It always made Erika and Basch guilty, despite none of it was their fault, they both carried shame for letting it happen that day. The mother saw their pitiful expressions, and smiled, "don't worry about the expenses, my dears. Just focus on your education and happiness, that's how you can repay us!" She continued, "speaking of education, I decided you two would go back to face-to-face classes so you can find the opportunity to make friends and socialize. I hope you two understand, for now, just relax and pack your items from time to time. We'll leave by August twenty-sixth, just ten days! Can you believe it?"
They both nodded, though Basch couldn't help but dislike the thought of moving away again. It took a long time for him to adjust last time, not to mention repressing the feelings of nostalgia that lay in his heart. If you ask him now, he'd dismiss he was ever friends with them back then, deleting photos that shows they used to be friends, even if they were pictures that Basch used to hold on to before—he figured all of it were pointless, useless even. He grew up more isolated and depend on archery to ground himself, he believed that he didn't need friends to survive.
But humans are social creatures, and no man is an island. At the end of the day, to his demise, Basch wishes he could go back and bicker with them again, frustrating him all over. Once he was finished with his supper, Basch let Erika grab his finished plate, handing it to their mom. He pinched himself, irritated that he's been up in the clouds lately. It's not like him to be disoriented, that's why he has archery as a hobby, to focus and steady himself. His skills can't just be left to waste, what was the point of it all if he was gonna end up like this? Maybe he was just tired—yeah, it's definitely from tiredness. He got up and took a ragged clothe, wiping the table until it was clean. Erika was in charge of sweeping the floor, collecting dust that was left lying on the floor, while they were doing their respective chores, their mother did the dishes. Having to do their nightly routine was all they have to do.
As they finish, Erika looked at her mom, who was drying the clean plates and utensils, tidying up their dining area. "Big brother, are you excited?" She asked Basch, returning the broom to where she found it, "we can get to meet new people!"
Her optimism brought a smile to his face, nodding in response to her enthusiasm. "I suppose a change of environment is for the better good." A white lie escaped Basch's mouth, undetected and against his will. He didn't want to let her sister down in such times like this, when they only have eachother, he wants to see Erika flourish and acquire new friends without his assistance. They've both been under their parent's roof for a long time, barely having the time to go outside and socialize. While sure, they went ahead to visit doctors, go on walks, visit family gatherings, none of them grabbed the chance to talk to strangers, staying in their bubble of safety—especially for Basch. He have been worried that his sister would be endangered if she was out of his sight everytime, thinking of the worst possible outcomes, especially it happening to her again. The boy shook his head, his negative thoughts were becoming recurrent, perhaps the stress is taking a toll on him, even Erika has the look of concern over her face.
Ruffling his hair, he put his hand on his hip, giving a futile attempt of comfort. "I'm okay, how about we get ready for tomorrow? We can go do grocery shopping together." He suggested, a grin tugging his lips the moment Erika's eyes beamed at the thought of spending time together. She really was the sunshine to his life, and he's grateful to have her as his sister, the best surprise his parents ever gave to him. Basch walked first, second came Erika who was following him from behind, he opened the bathroom light, his eyes adjusting from the sudden glow of the bulb. He sees his sister taking her toothbrush then toothpaste, wetting it first before applying the minty paste on the bristles, he then did the same. Watching their reflection mimic their actions, their habits that they have grown accustomed to, seeing their face and body—grime or clean, it wasn't there to judge.
As they settled into wearing their pajamas, Erika's being baby blue with Asters and Yellow Roses prints scattered across the fabric. She also has a matching sleeping mask with a lamb plushie, while Basch would say that she's no longer a kid, he couldn't help but let it slide. He did try to tell her that she doesn't need to cuddle with it, as she's fourteen, though the pout she gave as a response crumbled his strict demeanor. Meanwhile, Basch only wears an old T-shirt and a short for his nightwear, he doesn't need to look all cute if he's just going to slumber. If it's still comfortable to wear, it shouldn't be thrown away. He says, mostly to not spend any more money. While clothes are necessities, the blonde begs to differ, perhaps he just has a thing for saving.
Erika lie down on the soft mattress, tucking herself to sleep. Her eyes heavy that she might doze off any time now, yet she awaits for her brother to turn the night lamp on. No matter how tired she is, her worries and fear of the dark made it hard to properly get any rest. A sleepy voice broke the silence in the bedroom, and outside where cicadas are active make loud cricket noises. "Can you stay with me, just for a bit?"
Basch paused, nodding his head. "Yeah, I can." He sat at the edge of her bed, eyeing the way her breathing slowed, eyelids droop and shut down, letting her drift to slumber. He hums a tune they both used to listen on repeat, something that brought them both comfort, especially back then when Erika was hospitalized. Seeing how her cries lessened, clinging his hand while the nurses injected her with needles and did her IV. How her focus shifted to the sound of his low voice, mimicking the tune and most importantly her brother—often grouchy that it intimidated her on the first time they met—had his face relaxed. She didn't even notice that they were finished inserting the cannula into her vein until the nurses were praising her for her bravery. She awkwardly giggled, thanking Basch which made him relieved. He could vividly recall that day, now she's here, safe with him. Blanket embracing her thriving body, no longer skin and bones unlike when Basch encountered her as a child, hiding helplessly behind their mother. It didn't take long for him to learn that her biological parents died from starvation, sacrificing all their food and energy just to keep her alive, so by the time they perished, she was left alone in foster care.
Ever since, he swore to himself to protect her at all times, to guarantee her happiness despite the hardships she faced. He blinked, his body jerking backwards, it seems like he had stayed in the clouds for a while, and so he sighed. Fatigue seeped into his bones, latching themselves and traveling to his muscles. Nothing yet something weighed at the back of his spine, letting out a grumble for he was sluggish, of course it was to be expected, considering it was nearing eleven o'clock. He got up, Erika's bed creaking at the lost of heft that was her brother. She turned slightly, holding the lamb plushie close to her chest. The blonde exhaled, assured that she was dreaming, he walked to his own bed and lift up his blanket, getting himself comfortable. And so, they both shift into a different reality.
Stairs.
It's never ending.
Steps after steps after steps, to others it may seem harmless, hell—barely dangerous. Yet, one slip-up can cost you your entire life, it is estimated that a thousand to two thousand people die to stairs per year. That's why railings exist, doesn't it? It helps you latch on if you're about to fall, or if you're unsure where to put your foot. That's what Erika sees, only the moonlight illuminating the space of the room, the silhouette of the slender strips, dividing the glass. Erika peered down the railings if she could distinguish the floor, the wooden surface she was accustomed to her whole life, yet to her horror—it was just a bottomless pit. Though she spotted something was at the bottom of the stairs, were cluttered pieces of wood and broken strings, she can't make out what instrument it's supposed to be. Whether it be a guitar or violin, her gut tells her to shut her eyes tight, or else something will push her down. A familiar, disgusting emotion began to override her body, unable to think straight through the haze of her brain, she runs upon her knees trembling. Not a single piece of her limb dare to move, especially away from the railings, she will only plummet to her death if she did. Her eyes prickle with something damp, hiccuping.
It's so spacious, yet a stranger kept shoving her. All she does is tell them to snap out of it, since when did it warp into this? First, she was at the steps of the stairs, now she's attempting to de-escalate something or someone. However nothing about the figure focused on calming down, instead, it trashed, screamed, kept pointing fingers. Erika struggled to maintain her posture, the overwhelming fear of it swallowing her, and when she finally hold onto their wrist, everything stood still.
She woke up with a massive headache, her lips curved downwards and her hair sticking up to different directions. If she could recall what she dreamed, this headache would be less of a pain, though it is unfortunate for her that she has been forgetting dreams everytime she wake. Her brother's bed was tidy, a sign that he had gotten up early, Erika decided to stay in bed, relishing the radiance of the sun. While the mirage may be distant, his soothing voice wasn't, echoing at the back of her mind like it was trained to do so.
Can you see the sun? Rising over mountains?
Let it warm your heart… may you still be patient.
Basch's voice was so distinct, it didn't blend through the noises of the birds chirping, the trees ruffling with a sense of purpose, the smell of breakfast being made downstairs. She inhales, then exhales, something her big brother taught her when she was younger. Having anxiety attacks were no joke, she would often get stuck hyperventilating, and none of the people seemed to understand except him. Kids would tease her for being a crybaby when she was unable to breathe, her legs shuddering uncontrollably that it shook her whole body. It took a while to get used to using that technique, with thoughts worming into your head like a loop hole, and despite that—Basch's words of encouragement helped her bit by bit, taking her hand and guiding her through.
Unexpectedly, the door swung open, letting out a harsh creak. Erika's thoughts had gotten derailed, her eyes fluttering open to concentrate at Basch's figure. It took a while for it to focus, as her peripheral vision was blurred due to deep-sleep. "You're awake. Sorry for barging in like that." He held the door knob, keeping the door half-opened, "I prepared egg scrambled and bacon. There's also Bread with cheese, do you need anything else?"
She shook her head, sliding off the bed and began tidying her area. She folded her blanket until it resembled a small square, placed her pillows orderly, and left her lamb plushie there. Erika beamed, despite the fact it was pretty early to be positive. "That sounds really yummy, I'll wash up first though!" Basch nodded, extending the door so there was space for the both of them, she was the first to exit, second was her brother. Laying her eyes on the stairs, something crept upon her, she was still and locked her gaze on it. It didn't take long for her to notice her heart had become tachycardiac, her eyes welling up with unwelcome tears, she couldn't ground herself—losing her sense of touch for it began to numb like static noise. It was hard to maneuver her arm and hands, the muscles stiff and locked in one place only. Erika shut her eyes, the birds chirping have morphed into nothingness, her brain silencing the noises surrounding her making her ears ring. Despite that, something—someone, reached out. It echoed, she can hear it at her left ear, then the opposite side, then none at all. Yet, she was so sure it was behind her.
"You're having trouble breathing again?"
It's voice soothes her nerve-wracking anxiety, tears ebbing away leaving her with moist eyes. She nodded, to no one particularly. All she can recognize is the way her heart was stuck in a headlock, trying to struggle free from the apprehensive uneasiness.
"It's okay. We all ..
… have those times. All you have to do… is inhale deeply, and let your shoulders loose."
The voice, whom appeared out of nowhere, spoke again. "Can you do that?" The nonstop static that grated Erika's ears began to disperse, and cautiously, she opened her eyes. A figure with blonde hair with green irises emerged from her drowsy mind. It reached it's hands, and she willingly placed hers above it. Soft; feather-light cold skin, yet when it lapped over hers, rough edges was unmistakable, she could feel the callouses gained from years of training archery. Despite that, it was the detail that put her back to reality. She can see her brother caressing her trembling hand.
"There we go, good job," Basch praised her, suddenly getting embraced by his sister who was just out of it a while ago. They both basked in the embrace, both of their hearts so close yet far, eventually Basch got shy and softly pat the back of her head. "We have to hurry, the food will get cold. I'll wait for you in the kitchen, mm?"
She let go, wiping the stray tears that dampen her cheeks. "Okay." Both of them descend down the steps of the stairs and parted into separate rooms, which Erika was in the bathroom, staring back at her reflection. Big brother takes such good care of me. He makes sure I'm okay and helps me with my anxiety attacks. I want to… Her eyes gaze on the misplaced scissors, and she got an idea. Erika grabbed the scissors, placing a huge amount of strands in between the sharp metal and snipped a chunk of it, she repeats it until the length of her hair was the same as Basch's. She felt confident with it, but now she has to clean up the mess she made. After sweeping off her discarded hair, she tossed them to the nearby trash bin and began to prepare her bath.
Erika didn't take too long to take a bath and change clothes, entering the kitchen's gateway. Basch was already eating his food, entranced by it's flavour, he didn't spot her new hairstyle until she sat beside him. When he saw this, he nearly choked on his own food, believing it was just a hallucination. so he looked once—then twice. His voice slightly raised in shock. "Erika, what happened to your hair?" He made sure to finish his food before speaking, she was shy to mention it at first, but after years of being with him. Through childhood and today, she gathered the courage.
"I.. Um…"
"Your hair was— how am I supposed to tell mom? Why did you do it?"
"… I got inspired.. by you. And I wanted to appreciate you somehow… doesn't it look nice?"
He mind took a step back, whether to scold her for impulsively trimming her hair or agree that it does fit her. In the end, he sighed, cheeks red from Erika's strong admire for him. "I… I supposed it does." He managed to say out loud, embarrassed.
"So big brother, when are we going grocery shopping?
Basch glanced where the clock was hung, it's hand moving every second, making a distinguishing sound. It was around ten-thirty, which means they can go outside and do their grocery shopping, if they get hungry, they can stop by at a cafe and have lunch there. He looked back at Erika, "does eleven o'clock sound nice? We can stop by at a cafe you like after strolling around the supermarket." He pierced the slice of bacon and took a bite of it, the fat having a smoky, savory taste just perfect for a quiet morning. She nodded, settled with the plan Basch suggested. They continue to eat in silence, save the times he kept taking a glimpse of her new haircut, he was relieved that it fit her and that it didn't end up looking choppy as he imagined. He didn't have the skills to fix her hair if that happened.
As they were finally read to go outside, Erika looked at her reflection—shorts reaching her knee, topped with a white blouse and a velvet wit-knitted vest top. She smiled to herself, closing her bedroom door and strutting downstairs, sighting Basch in a plain white t-shirt and black baggy jeans. He had a cap on, and a green jacket that has a white addition operator on each side of the shoulder. She tapped her brother's hand, waiting to be acknowledged, she watched him turn around and nod in approval. Before Basch opened the door, he raise a brow and questioned Erika.
"Did you turn off the electronics and pull the plug off the electric fan?"
"Yup! All of them!" Said the younger, ecstatic. He hummed, turning the doorknob and opening the door, letting her exit first before he locked the house with the keys. The sudden rush of breeze immediately greeted them with a soft howl the blow had made. Despite the wind, the sun is barely blocked by the clouds, creating a soft illuminating glow on the ground. It was a perfect day for the both of them to take a walk and talk about mundane things. They began to stroll to their designated place, they pass by familiar houses and neighbors until they reach the central area of the town. Market stall lined up one by one, busy strangers doing their own thing, until an old lady spotted them. She seemed older than seventy, using a cane to stabilize herself. "Oh-ho-ho, well if it isn't the lovely Zwingli's sons." She cooed, mistaking Erika for a young boy which was new. Their parents had a nice reputation for being modest and keeping to themselves, their hard-working father and sweet taking mother made them perceived as nice people. She signaled for the two of them to wait, grabbing a plastic of apples while Erika was left looking down at her figure. The effects of malnutrition still lingering in her body, making her look petite, Basch gaze how she awkwardly took the plastic bag filled with apples, thanking the lady for her kindness.
He lightly shook his head, "follow me," he simply told Erika, walking into a store filled with colourful ribbons. She eyed all of them, giving an odd stare to her big brother before scoffing, "don't look at me like that… choose whatever you like." It took a while, but she eventually chose the indigo ribbon, curious on what he's going to do with it. To her surprise, Basch hooked the ribbon to her hair, tying it until it was looped. "It suits you." He smiled, leaving her speechless and shortly giggling. He arch an eyebrow, "what's so funny?"
The younger's giggles fade, eyes opening with lively light-green irises. "Nothing, just… you really love pampering me."
"Don't get too used to it, once junior high school starts for you, you have to be on your own…!"
The two stared at eachother before bursting into laughter.
Entering the supermarket, a cool air thwacking them in the face. Erika shuddered, forgetting how cold the air conditioning can be, "I can't wait to move to another place…" She mumbled while Basch was grabbing a shopping cart, glancing at his phone where he wrote the grocery list. She stayed near him, tip-toeing to see what they need to buy. Vegetables, cereal, milk, bread, cheese, juices… The usual. Both of them went to the dairy aisle first, as Basch has a thing for cheese, and wanted to make sure he doesn't forget that. She just hope he doesn't relive the habit of eating them at the middle of the night like a mouse. Hell, none of them even spoke about it because of how he much he denies it happened in the first place. They skimmed through the milk section, taking one of their usual carton of milk. In a blink of an eye, there was already a wheel of cheese in the shopping cart, she dumbly stared at it.
"What's wrong?" Asked Basch, gripping the cart's handle, ready to move.
"… You usually save on money when it comes it buying things."
"Oh. Well, this cheese got a fifty-percent discount, I can't walk pass on an opportunity." He pointed at the price tag, it was just twenty dollars for a 5 pound. Erika couldn't help but smile, nearly laughing at her brother's silly antics. She nodded, both of them walking to a different aisle, where the root-crops were displayed, she first grabbed lettuce; tomatoes; onions. The kind of vegetables you see in sandwiches, before they left the group to focus on recovery, she used to make sandwiches and have a nice picnic with all of them. It's hard to recapture their faces and voices nowadays, though she knows that she had a fun time with all of them, especially with a girl just a few years older than her. On the other hand, Basch was inspecting which fruits were good and ripe, calculating how much he has to purchase so their groceries were cheap. He placed the goods in the basket, taking a hold of the cart's handle once again and arriving at the meat section. For Erika, she doesn't know much about meat. She can cook, yes, but not that experienced when it comes to handling poultry. Either way, the smell made her nose itch and nauseous, covering her Nasal bone and nostrils with the use of a handkerchief. She just waited for her brother to choose which one was better, and strode away, gasping for air.
They didn't take that long to finish their errands, it was eleven o'clock when they left, now it was quarter to twelve. A new record, Basch thought, normally it would take him a half an hour or two, depends if his mood was bitter. Welp, except for today it seems! He thank Erika for helping him with the task, even if all she did was give him company. "Big brother, why don't we shop for school supplies?" She suggested, holding an Eco-bag that's full of groceries. Basch looked at her, and shrugs.
"I mean, we could… but why not after we move? So we don't have to pack them by the time we're leaving this town."
"Hum, that makes more sense. When do we start packing?"
"Overmorrow, we still have nine days after all. We can rest for a little while."
She sways her arm in joy, "I wonder where we're moving to! I wanna meet new friends in school!"
The sun was beginning to set, hiding behind the mountains, giving the sky a beautiful pink-orange hue. Birds were up in the sky, possibly migrating to a different area. That reminds Erika of a certain lyric, she turned to Basch, tilting her head. "Big brother, the song you used to comfort me, where did you encounter it?"
"Oh, Remember to be Patient?"
"That's the song title?"
He nodded, shoving his hands into his pocket to reach the keys. It jingled from the sudden movement, unlocking the door to their house. He let Erika enter first, strutting to place the Eco-bag on top of the marble kitchen counter, then he placed his next to hers. They dance around the kitchen area, organizing the items into their usual places. She glanced at Basch, sorting out the vegetables, eggs, and other stuff in the refrigerator. Growing up with him, he was always diligent and strict. He taught her how to be orderly, kind, and most importantly—how to socialize. He was selfless when it came to her, giving her the last piece of food if she was still hungry, he played with her if she was bored and so much more. "Can you tell me more about it? The song?"
Closing the refrigerator's door, he dusts away the dirt off him with the use of a kitchen towel. He closed his eyes, trying to recall, "well…" Basch trailed off, she studied how he was considering his words.
"I suppose I just made up the lyrics in a random morning."
She was awestruck, her hands turning into fists and raising it near her chest. "No way! How did you get the melody then?" Unknown to her, she had pushed a button that she wasn't aware of. Basch flinched at the question and looked at her, not with the mellow love she was used to. He furrowed his brow, uncomfortable. He scratched his head, "I don't know." A failed attempt to fool his own sister. Erika's grin lowered. She watched her brother tidying up the rest of the mess.
"Let's get some rest, it's been a long day."
Erika couldn't do anything but follow her brother's orders.
August 26th, 20XX
It's the day that they move to a new place. They sat together, making space for the carton of boxes at the other side of the car seat. Erika fell asleep the whole ride while Basch gaze the car pass by the trees, buildings, and electric poles. So this is it, He temporarily closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. Just focus on your studies, nothing else, his mind told him. Being strict as ever, particularly to himself. He mentally lists the things he told himself the day before: Don't get your hopes up, make little to no friends, work on having a steady future, take care of Erika. To others, this may seem self-destructive, to Basch—it's self-sufficient. He dislikes having to meet too many people for no reason, if he has to talk to a person, they must contribute and he will too. He doesn't want to get disappointed either, believing their new school is a five-star rating on google maps, all he wants is to work hard and secure a good job for him and his family. Their car begin to slow down near their house's parking lot. Erika blinked her eyes open, jolting awake when she heard the vehicle positioning. She rubbed her eyes, taking a peep at her brother, observing their new home. Helpers began assisting their parents, unloading cartons of boxes that contained their items and necessities. Basch unlocked the car door, scooting off and letting it open so she can exit too.
Their house was two-stories tall, with a roof attic, it has a front yard where they can put in flowers, maybe even plants that bear fruits like tomatoes. They saw strangers piping in and conversing with their parents, most likely welcoming them in the neighborhood. Erika, finally coming to her senses, tugged on Basch's sleeve. He side-glanced her, "What's wrong?
"What time is it?" She simply asked, prompting him to look at his phone, checking the time. He turned to reply. "One in the afternoon," pocketing back his device and walking inside the residence, it was spacious and clean. Not to mention the layout reminded him of his very first house. They both wandered around, letting the professionals transport the heavy furniture and handle packages. He saw the kitchen area, being an open modular design where you can openly cook for guests. It made him recall when he was new at cooking, and Roderich was supervising him to not burn the field down. In the end, he made overcooked eggs and corn-beef, the taste of it long gone in his memories.
Forcing himself to snap out of his recollections, picking the skin of his nails. "We can pick out our own bedrooms, I heard mom say this house has four rooms and two bathrooms."
"Really? No wonder this house is so huge!"
Erika clasped her hands together, beaming at the thought of decorating her own space. She can visualize it being painted with soft-pink, filled with laces and adorable imagery. The top of one of her drawer being adorn with her antique tea sets and picture frames of her childhood, that included the group. She hasn't seen that photo for a while, since Basch hid it somewhere to forget about them, and that she doesn't understand why. They used to be so close, often playing every day in their house or the brunette's. At least that is what she remembers. She couldn't contain herself, basically buzzing with excitement, she drags Basch upstairs to view the vacant rooms and choose. First was obviously a master bedroom's which they didn't bother contemplating about since it's reserved for their parents, second had a window in the middle upon entering, they can see the roof and road, alongside the curb with the neighbor's house. The third room had a windowsill, which Erika look forward to ever since she was little. She whipped her head towards Basch with undeniable love for the room they were in. He couldn't stop the chuckle that rose within his throat. She squealed rushing to sill rail and gazing down at the workers helping them move their belongings, outsiders minding their own business while some were having small-talk with one another. Erika blinked, "ah! That reminds me! We should go shopping for school supplies, right?"
He placed his index finger and thumb finger on his chin, pondering about it, he did say that they were going to after they moved. But not this early, even so, they can stroll around the town to make themselves familiar—two birds in one stone—he might say. "I'll ask mom and dad first, you can come along."
Luckily, both of their parents were approving of this. Basch has shown multiple times that he was capable of basically everything, from chores to fixing broken items, and even handling when the situation has gotten out of control. So if they both end up getting lost, he can make a way out of it. The two was walking around the city center, Basch using google maps to find the nearest mall or more better, a popular retail store, so the items are affordable that he won't faint by a sheer price tag. Erika brought an tote bag in case they bought too much, though hopefully it wont be the case. Ten minutes in, they ended up in a decent mall with just the right amount of people—not too crowded, but not empty either. They were looking around for general store so they can begin their shopping when Erika's peripheral vision detected someone familiar. She decided not to ask her brother about it, knowing he will disregard it and continue on what they're here for, she pressured herself to make sense of that person's looks. They wore a cream coloured polo topped with a brown short overcoat, they also wore a black baggy jeans and black slip-on shoes. Now, who usually wears like that in their group? She doesn't remember, they all had children's clothing when they were a kid—obviously. So now that they all grown up, it's hard to tell. It's not the loud one for sure… unless he turned out to be sophisticated. Erika stopped staying up in the clouds, her view shifting at the amount of everyday items displayed upon her.
They went to the section where school supplies were stacked neatly, back to school adornments displayed at every corner as if kids were excited. Only Erika is, that's for sure. She looked at cute notebooks, and one that caught her eyes were the one in elegant flower theme. While the older one grabbed a basket, she took enough and placed it in. Basch couldn't bother about the aesthetics, just taking whatever notebook can last long and is sturdy to last another year if he doesn't finish the pages. Aside from notebooks, they spotted pencils, pen, folders, even bags. He was more inclined to a black messenger bag so it wouldn't easily get dirty, while the other admired the pink Fjallraven Kanken bag. They spent time talking about what-ifs in school as they take the items they need. When they finally got to purchase their stuff, Basch helped Erika put it inside the tote bag, and looked at the time on his cellular device. Three o'clock. Neither of the siblings had lunch yet, just heavy breakfast for the trip. They took a trip around the mall, seeing different types of restaurants and cafe. Enamored by the never ending visuals, Erika picked out Chouchou Café, rich and charming pastries laid out inside the display case. She couldn't stop herself, waltzing in with her brother's hand on hers, deliberately dragging him.
"You could've said you wanted to eat here," Basch yawped, the warm yellow light illuminating the area. "Anyways.. what do you want to order?" He asked her, a grin on her lips. She pointed at the strawberry Fraiser, his eyebrows rose in shock.
He asked her, slowly. "The whole cake?"
"Just a slice! We can even share, big brother."
"Oh, um, sure. It's been a while since I had sweets. I'll order us that and iced tea."
As he opened his wallet, Erika went to go find a seat and remained there, looking forward to the treat. Her mind stepped back to the stranger she faintly recognize, as if the cafe would have connections with them— does it? Her legs leisurely swing, resting her head with the use of both her palms. Sweets like macaronis bring her back to her fuzzy childhood, the crunch of the outer shell as her tongue was overwhelmed with sweet tastiness. Who used to be the one that brings them from time-to-time in picnics? Was it the blonde haired one? Biting her tongue exasperation, Basch was already infront of her with the delicacies! Her soured mood flipped immediately, thanking him for ordering despite the trouble. She grabbed her fork and took a piece the cake and eating it, she squeals at the flavour. "Do you know which school we're going to?" Erika asked the moment she swallowed her food.
"Yes, mom has enrolled us already, so we can take a break at the weekends. I heard the school is Hetalia High? A weird name if you ask me."
"Maybe they're just creative, big brother! You never know if they're trying something new. You should be like them sometimes, hehe."
"I am creative." He weakly replied. "Sort of…"
"Even though I'm the youngest, I shall set myself to be a good idol for my sometimes boring big brother!"
Basch looked away from Erika, embarrassed. "I am not boring." She pointed the fork towards him and giggles. "Sure you are."
"Finish up your food will you?" He spoke back, "and don't play with your utensils…"
"Soorrryyyy…" She resumed eating her pastry, the strawberries giving a nice slightly tangy kick with their original sweetness. The sponge cake paired with pastry cream melting in her tongue.
Basch sighed, biting the fruit of the Fraiser cake, not bad, he thought. He continued munching on it, not realizing he enjoyed the taste of it. He would definitely come here next time, if he decides to treat himself—which is barely, their father's overworking tendencies really rubbed on him. Just before he can register it, he already finished his plate of cake, he was flustered himself. A seventeen year old enjoying sweets… Not ideal for him, that's for sure. He grabbed the cold iced tea and drank it. "So…" Basch bit the inside of his cheek, trying to make small talk. "At the first day, I'll be helping you where your classes are and talk to your adviser about your condition, the second day— you can come to me if you're still confused about the layout. It's orientation week after all, once you're used to it, good."
"I can join clubs, right?" She tilt her head, taking a sip of her drink.
"What kind of question is that? Of course, I'm not in control of your life."
Her mouth was shaped like an 'o,' debating on what clubs she should enter. She had multiple choices, sports not included, considering her injury. Maybe something she's used to the whole time, like picnics. If only there are picnic clubs, the closest thing to a picnic is tea club. They both finished their food, satisfied. "I think I'll join tea club, what about you?" — "Archery club." Simple as that, Basch had no other thoughts in mind than his hobby that he picked up during childhood. And that's fine with him, he wants to become more skilled in it, and practice his focusing so he doesn't end up negligent like his past self. She can't do anything but nod her head, either way.
"I'm excited… I hope we can make beautiful memories."
Basch looked at her, his face tender and smiling. He exhales, letting himself cool down. This feeling, what does it remind me of? Inner thoughts plagued his mind again, a bittersweet recollection of what it was like to wish the time to move so-so slowly, so he can cherish everything that his eyes casts on. From the road trip to devouring a soft-spongy cake toppled with fresh strawberries with his dearest sister. Just like when he wanted the friend group to last forever. Just like when he wasn't full of guilt.
And despite his efforts, it looks like he never learned his lesson in the first place.