Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Sunny stood over himself, more accurately Omori. Sunny won, he took the time to heed Mari’s hopes and try to get things right. He saw Omori standing in front of him with his knife. Omori had gritted teeth as he embraced Sunny. “What will this do?” He was starting to fizzle away. “It will set me free.” Sunny had a little bit of a smile as he saw Omori fizzle back into him. He didn’t feel better about the situation, but he at least felt he could live with it.

******************************************

Sunny woke up from his bed, he started to cry. He finally remembered the truth after 2 years, it felt like being hit by a truck. But at least he was able to remember, but the feeling good would soon have to stop. He now had to tell the truth. He knew what would come, it even made him a little scared. But he had to tell the truth, even if it cost him his friendships.

Could he even call them friends? He left them for 2 years after killing someone they cared for, that was a pretty sucky thing to do to a friend. He thought about how he’d throw the innocent into shock, Hero would definitely hate his guts and Aubrey…

Well, Sunny thought long and hard about what his crush may have thought. He wished she would allow him back as a friend, but he also found it more likely he’d be left behind as he did her.

Sunny got out of his bed and made his way out his bedroom door, he stared at the stairs, his weapon. He stared at it, he wondered why he even came upstairs. If he had just destroyed it downstairs, at the least everyone would just hate him with Mari still being alive. But he couldn’t dwell on the past, he already has been for the past 2 years. He made his tread down the stairs and made it to the living room.

He looked at the door in front of him, knowing that opening it was a point of no return. He closed his eyes and turned the knob, he felt the dry heat of the outside. It made him a little sad leaving the air-conditioned house, especially with his dark clothing, but he needed to do this. He stepped outside onto the front step of his house. Sunny stared at each edge of his street, he saw a person on the edge of the block.

She looked oddly familiar but nothing clicked for Sunny. She had a yellow coat over a white polka dot dress with a yellow bow in her hair. She looked somewhat familiar to Sunny yet he couldn’t place it. He decided to come closer and see if he could find out who she was.

******************************************

Aubrey walked past the street of her once friends Kel and Sunny’s house. She looked at the houses, remembering fonder times and how they went sour. She wished they could change, but they couldn’t. As she was thinking she heard steps coming closer to her, she looked to her left to notice a small person coming towards her. They looked pretty short, they had long black hair and were wearing formal clothing.

She felt as if she knew him somehow yet nothing clicked. He got up pretty close and his eyes went wide. He just stood there, it looked like tears were developing in his eyes. “Hello… Do I know you?” The person looked like tears were going down their cheeks. It took a bit but he eventually talked, “H-hey Aubrey.” Aubrey froze, “S-sunny?” Sunny nodded.

Aubrey was taken back. she saw Sunny, the person who had been missing in her life for 2 years. A person who abandoned her and Mari. Or was he? He was her sister, not to mention it looks like he hadn’t cared for himself for a while. “Hey Sunny… How have you been doing?”

******************************************

Sunny looked away. He knew he was doing terrible, did he want to tell Aubrey? No that would worry her more, he didn’t want to do that. “I-i’ve been fine.” Aubrey’s face showed doubt, “are you sure Sunny?” Her words for some reason made Sunny feel like he could get grace he knew was impossible. Sunny hesitated, he hesitated to speak for a long time. This was enough for Aubrey to be a little suspicious. “Sunny… Are you sure you are ok?” Sunny was crying harder, “no.”

Aubrey came closer to Sunny, she hugged him, “it’s ok Sunny. We’ve both been in a not so good of a situation.” Yet she didn’t know that he was the cause of both their troubles. “Would you like to visit Mari, Sunny?” Sunny didn’t need to think long for this. “Yes.” Aubrey nodded in response, “ok. Let’s go visit Mari Sunny.”

******************************************

Aubrey and Sunny were at the doors that led to the cemetery. Sunny looked at them, he felt a mix of sorrow and guilt. As he stood in front of the door Aubrey put his hand on his shoulder, “it’s ok Sunny, you can do it.” Sunny gulped as he opened the door.

Sunny looked at the graveyard, it looked peaceful. Felt like Sunny didn’t deserve it when he left this world. He put that to the side as they made their way to Mari’s grave. He stood in front of Mari’s grave with Aubrey. He couldn’t hold his tears in and just let them drop to the floor, he dropped to the floor. “I-I-I’m s-sorry Mar-ri!!” Sunny was sobbing over the grave, Aubrey looked worried.

She wasn’t ready for what Sunny said next. “It’s all m-my fault, why- if something just happened,… I saw it happen, I was scared… why could I not do anything!” Sunny hit the ground as he kept crying.

Aubrey was worried for Sunny, ‘he’s been blaming himself for her death for 2 years?’ Aubrey looked at Sunny, he hadn’t only never moved on, he put himself through hell believing it was his fault. “Sunny it’s ok… it wasn't your fault, you couldn’t have just looked into h…” “SHUT UP!!!” Aubrey was taken back, “S-sunny?” Sunny looked up, “I need to tell you something.”

******************************************

Aubrey was frozen, ‘Sunny killed Mari?’ She felt like she wanted to hate him, yet she couldn’t. She didn’t know what to feel, ‘would anything be that different with Mari here?’ She thought for a while. Her parents would still part, she’d still get a (bleep)-y home life. But if Mari was alive she'd probably have everyone there to help her. Sunny’s action took away her possible help, why wasn't she mad?

She couldn’t feel mad at Sunny, she just couldn’t be mad. Maybe because he was a child who just got mad at a bad time, maybe because he already put himself through hell, or maybe because if she were to push him away now he’d be truly alone again.

She didn’t like being alone, not only was she lonely she was losing herself. She started to carry a bat around that replaced the lost Mr. eggplant. She started to shoplift a while back just so she could eat, she even got close a few times to shoplifting the unnecessary. She felt how her morals were slipping under her grasp yet she couldn’t do anything. Talking to Mari helped but not as much as it used to.

“Sunny.” Sunny raised his head at the mention of his name. “I-I don’t know what to say.” He glanced away. “But I’m not mad at you. Sunny looked confused, “why?” He had tears still in his eyes. Aubrey Wiped tears from her cheek, “Sunny you did this all unintentionally. You were just trying to get away, not to kill Mari. I may be a little angry but I’m not mad at you.” Sunny was crying hard, “but I hanged her body?” Aubrey covered his mouth, “Basil hanged her body, and he doesn’t have to hurt you anymore.” It seems Basil harmed both the photo album and disgraced Mari’s memory, she would protect Sunny from that monster.

Chapter Text

Aubrey stepped outside the church and froze. Down the street, there were police vehicles and other vehicles outside Aubrey’s house. Aubrey and Sunny rushed down the street and stood next to one of the police officers,

“Excuse me?” The officer turned around and looked at Aubrey and Sunny, “yes?” Aubrey pointed towards the house, “what’s going on?” The officer looked like he was pondering a little on what to say. “Well… this house is being condemned. If you don’t know what that is, it’s a house being deemed too unsafe for living and is being taken away from the owner till they fix the problem or it’s leveled.”

Aubrey’s expression grew worried as the tape was put across the house. As someone stapled a notice on the doorstep a person burst out the door. She held a bottle in her hand, as she burst through the door. “What the f*** is going on out here on my property.” Sunny looked at the mess that was Aubrey’s mother.

The officer stepped back from the kids and onto the lawn, “ma’am, I’m here with the nearby county police and I’m here to tell you that your house is condemned. You have to leave today.” Aubrey’s mom scowled. “Don’t you get a f***ing notice?” The police officer nodded, “you do… You got one 2 weeks ago. Ma’am if you don't leave it is a crime living in a condemned house.” Aubrey’s mom scowled, “I’m not f***ing moving.” The officer came closer, “well ma’am tha…'' The Officer was cut off by a bottle smashing against his face. He started to walk back as another officer held up a gun. The other officer came closer to Aubrey’s mother as she tried to attack him but failed. The officer grabbed her arms and put them behind her back as he got out his cuffs. “You have the right to remain silent.” She dragged Aubrey’s mother as she squirmed.

The other officer was getting their face treated as Aubrey stood in shock. She had no place to stay now, let alone her mother was just taken away. She felt sad yet still felt like she deserved it. Feelings could be confusing. After the police and workers left Sunny and Aubrey were left alone. Aubrey started to cry and Sunny hugged her. “W-Why do ba-bad things keep happening to me?” Sunny kept his hug on Aubrey.

As Aubrey calmed down Sunny still kept her in his arms. “You Can let go of me Sunny.” Sunny placed his arms to his sides as he looked at Aubrey. “We need to get something Sunny.” Sunny looked slightly confused, “what?” Aubrey took a deep breath, “the photo album.”

Sunny nodded, “so are we going to Basil’s house?” Aubrey looked away, “no.” Sunny was confused, “then how are we going to get the photo album?” Aubrey was nervous, “well…Sunny… It seems I also need to tell you something.” Sunny stood still, “what’s wrong Aubrey?”

Aubrey was somewhat nervous, which was odd for her. She knew Basil had what was coming for him. “Sunny… Basil vandalized the photo album.” Sunny was in shock, “Wh-What?” Sunny couldn’t believe that Basil would do that. “A-are you sure?”

Aubrey looked Sunny in the eyes, “yes… I am. I couldn’t believe he could do it, but he did.” Sunny stood in disbelief. He felt sad and a little angry about the whole situation. He felt sad that it happened and he was mad at Basil for ruining the album. “So are you just getting what’s left of it?”

Aubrey looked down at Sunny, “no… I was able to fix it. We just need to go through my house.” Aubrey shivered at her words. Sunny and Aubrey made their way to the door. Aubrey was nervous, she didn’t want Sunny to worry her. He had enough to worry about, she didn’t want to worry him more. Sunny put an arm on her shoulder, “it’s ok Aubrey. You can do it.” Aubrey looked back and saw Sunny’s supporting smile. Aubrey had a smile grow across her. Not like whatever was in there was less s***, but like she had someone to go through with.

She opened the door and the mess that was inside was shown. Sunny looked in and saw what Aubrey had to live and felt worse. He thought about how his actions stuck her in here, not having anyone to help. He put his thoughts away for a bit as he went through the door. The trash bags were spares, only about 5-6, but the smell was horrendous. Sunny nose was filled with the smells of alcohol, rotten milk, and just a general stench.

Sunny looked at the floor and saw broken glass. Sunny stood in terror as he saw dried blood that was on the glass. “Au-Aubrey…” Aubrey looked back at Sunny, “yeah Sunny?” She looked in the direction that Sunny stared at and saw the bloody bottle.

Aubrey froze, “don’t worry Sunny I’m fine.” She sounded nervous. Sunny stood still, “I left you alone during all of this?” Sunny started to cry. Aubrey tried to calm him down, “It’s ok Sunny… You had your own problems to deal with. It’s ok that I had to deal with mine.” Sunny tears dropped on the bottle. Some of the blood washed away.

“You shouldn’t have had to deal with this Aubrey. I should have been a person that went through this.” Aubrey looked worried at Sunny, “no Sunny. You pushed Mari on accident, you didn’t mean to.” Sunny stared at Aubrey with teary eyes, “but you didn’t do anything to deserve this.” Aubrey looked away.

“I’ve done some things Sunny…some stuff that makes me deserving.” Sunny was crying, “what did you do that would deserve worse than I did?” Aubrey looked away and took a deep breath. She told Sunny about how she has been stealing for the past 2 years. She talked about how she’d been carrying a bat around for about 6 months. She also may have joined a gang soon if she was left alone for any longer. Sunny came up to Aubrey and hugged her, “you still didn’t deserve that.” Aubrey was crying in Sunny’s arms. After Aubrey stopped crying Sunny let go of her. “Let's get that album Sunny.”

Chapter Text

Aubrey and Sunny climbed the ladder that led to her attic. Sunny wondered why they were going up there when he noticed that her bed was there. The room was fairly plain, with a couple of desks, a bulletin board, a poster, and a bucket next to a hamper basket. On the desks were two things, the photo album, and a television. Sunny also spotted a Space Boy poster on the wall, it reminded him of better times.

Sunny and Aubrey walked up to where the photo album was. Sunny looked up to see photos with Mari posted on the board. Aubrey looked at Sunny’s teary face “I put these up here to remember her. It’d be the day I die or get some brain disease when I forgot about her.” Sunny kept his gaze on the photos, the world was just there for him at this point.

Aubrey noticed that Sunny wasn’t really paying attention to her and decided to tap his shoulder. Sunny blinked and turned his head and looked at Aubrey, “yeah?” Aubrey looked back at him, “you ok Sunny?” Sunny turned back to photos, “yeah…I just haven’t seen the photos for a while.” Sunny had some tears appear in his eyes, “brings back some good memories.” Aubrey smiled, “why do you think I keep them up?” Sunny just smiled back, “let’s get them back in the album.” Aubrey nodded.

Sunny opened the album as Aubrey took Mari’s photos off the board. Aubrey and Sunny opened the album and placed all the photos in their place. They looked at the photos as they put Mari’s in and reminisced on better times.

When they were done there was only one photo missing. Sunny looked at Aubrey. “I don't know,” said Aubrey, “it was missing when I took the album.” Sunny looked at the description. It had to do with the treehouse. He put that in his mind for later. “Well… what now Sunny?” Sunny looked into the open air, “you can come with me to my house.” Aubrey's eyes went a little wide, “You mean… to stay in your house?” Sunny blushed a little and nodded. Aubrey’s face turned a little red, “w-well…what would your mother say?”

Sunny shrugged, “she isn’t home to say anything.” Aubrey broke out of her flustered state, “what do you mean, ‘not home to say anything’?” Sunny became nervous, “uh…well… My mom isn’t home too often anymore… maybe like twice a month at the most, every two months at the least.”

Aubrey became angry, “What!!” Aubrey was gritting her teeth, Sunny was now anxious, “w-well s-she has-s to work… so she's not around.” Sunny was moving erratically, trying to not keep eye contact. Aubrey punched the wall, “oooh that bit-” Aubrey noticed that Sunny was uncomfortable and decided to try and calm down.

She took some deep breaths, “are you ok Sunny? How have you been, with nobody in the house?” Sunny started to calm down, “Not too bad. I mostly just lock myself in my room.” Sunny was quiet. Aubrey looked concerned, “have you been eating Sunny?” Sunny was nervous, “once a week.” Aubrey breathed heavily out of her nose. She didn’t want to see Sunny like this.

She tried to get a smile on her face, it somewhat worked. “Would you want help?” Sunny nodded. Aubrey’s smile grew, “ok… then let’s help each other Sunny.” Aubrey raised her arms. Sunny and Aubrey went into a hug. They held it for a while before stepping back from each other. “Ready to go to our house, Aubrey?” Aubrey was confused, “you mean your house?” Sunny smirked, “as of a couple of minutes ago, it’s our house.” Aubrey blushed. Sunny realized what he just said and started to blush. “W-well… you ready to go?” Aubrey nodded.

Sunny and Aubrey made their way down the ladder and out of Aubrey’s house for the last time. They made their way down the street to Sunny’s house. When they saw something at the park. Basil was there, it was odd for Aubrey, she hadn’t seen him outside for a couple of months. She decided to brush it off as he saw him fall to the ground. She turned back around to see Kim standing over Basil, “I don’t know where Aubrey is nerd… I already told you. She hasn’t even taken my offer yet, why would I know where she is?” Basil was cowering, “Ok… Ok… just please stop.” Basil got up and took a few steps away from Kim. She just walked off back to her gang known as the hooligans.

Aubrey was probably going to join them if she had no one else to go to. But now she had Sunny, she didn’t need anyone else. Maybe she’d talk to them later, but for now, she had Sunny.

While Sunny and Aubrey were standing Basil looked over and saw Sunny. His eyes went wide, he ran over in Sunny’s direction. “Sunny!!” Aubrey and Sunny looked up and saw Basil coming towards him. Aubrey narrowed her gaze and hot in front of Sunny and extended her arm to block Basil.

Basil stopped a little short of Aubrey’s arm. “H-hey Sunny.” Sunny stayed silent, he still couldn’t believe what Basil did. “S-s-sunny?” Sunny stayed silent. Aubrey glared at him, “he knows what you did to the album Basil.

Basil froze, “wh-what?” Basil was afraid. “I also know what you did to Mari.” Basil was stressed out, he couldn’t talk. Aubrey stared daggers at Basil, “stay away… creep.” Aubrey walked away onto Sunny’s street.

Basil stood there crying, this felt all wrong. He didn’t want Sunny to know what he did to the album. Basil was afraid then, he just didn’t want to see them. It made him fearful.

Basil looked up at Sunny who was still there, “h-hey Sunny. How are you?” Sunny shook a bit, after a while, he gritted his teeth. He turned around and left Basil. “Sunny?”

“Stay away from me!” Basil was taken back by Sunny’s screaming, he just stood there as Sunny walked away. Basil started to cry harder as he ran home.

Sunny and Aubrey walked down the street and made it to Sunny’s house. Aubrey stared at it and saw that it looked the same as always. Sunny went to the door and opened it. “Don’t you need a key?” Sunny shrugged, “never locked it.” Sunny opened the door as Aubrey thought about how that was a stupid question.

Sunny gestured for Aubrey to go first so she did. When she entered she saw the same house that she called a second home. It was dusty but beyond that, not too much mess. Sunny moved his hands to make a ‘tada’ gesture. Aubrey looked, “is there anything that’s changed.” Sunny shook his head, “besides the dust, no.”

Aubrey put her hand on her chin, “do you want help cleaning the dust.” Sunny shrugged his shoulders, “sure.” Aubrey nodded her head, “ok let’s start.”

Chapter Text

Sunny and Aubrey were inside their house, it was near the end of the summer. Sunny had left his house for the first time about a month ago and in that time nothing much happened. Sunny and Aubrey were able to clean the house, removing all the dust. They also started to learn to cook together.

Sunny’s mom kept her schedule of checking up here and there. When she was last there she was surprised Sunny was out of his room. She also was shocked by the fact Aubrey was living there. Once the situation was explained she started to understand. She didn’t do much about it and left shortly after.

Another thing that’s happened since is that Aubrey’s mother was in jail. She didn’t have a trial yet so nothing much had happened yet. Aubrey at first was a little sad so Sunny tried to cheer her up.

“Come on Aubrey, let’s go for a walk.” Sunny was smiling. Aubrey turned towards him. She was frowning. The recent turn of events didn’t make her want to do anything. “Can we just stay inside Sunny?” Aubrey went back to laying on the couch.

Sunny went over Aubrey, his hair touching her face as he leaned over. He never got it cut yet, Aubrey wondered why he hadn’t. “Come on Aubrey… we were going to help each other, right?” Aubrey looked at the ceiling, “yeah.” Sunny became happy, “well I’m going to help you.” Sunny dragged Aubrey off the couch.

“Ow,” said Aubrey as she smacked against the floor. Sunny rubbed the back of his head, “sorry Aubrey.” Aubrey got up from the floor, dusting off her clothes. Aubrey didn’t have much so she had to wear Mari’s old clothes. She at first denied it but eventually gave in. Sunny liked the way the clothes looked on her.

“Why do you want to go on a walk Sunny?” Sunny looked at Aubrey, “to help you get your mind off things.” Aubrey sighed, “ok then, let’s go.” Sunny walked an unenthusiastic Aubrey to the door as they went outside.

The weather outside wasn’t too bad. It was decently cool and partly cloudy outside, the perfect walking weather. Sunny and Aubrey made their way down the street and to the park. On the way, they saw Basil, but he got out of their way without them saying anything. He’d already tried enough times to know to stop.

They made their way in the park and through the park to the secret hangout spot. “If we’re going for a walk, why are we going here?” Sunny shrugged his shoulders, “we can walk in the forest.” Aubrey sighed, “ok.” She still seemed sad.

Sunny was thinking about ways to cheer her up as he heard the bushes rustle. Aubrey and Sunny stood still as they stared at the bush. After a little more rustling a little rabbit came out, Aubrey went starry-eyed. She went up to the rabbit slowly and started to pet it. The rabbit seemed to enjoy the petting.

Aubrey turned towards Sunny, “can we keep it Sunny?” Aubrey’s voice was filled with excitement. Sunny pondered on what to do. He looked into her excited eyes and couldn’t say no. “Sure Aubrey.” Aubrey squealed, she picked up the bunny who didn’t seem to care. She rubbed its heads with one arm as she held it with the other one. “Let’s bring it home, Sunny.” Sunny nodded and they made their way back home. They saw Basil on the way back but he still stayed away.

When they made it home they put the rabbit on a table. Sunny looked around and was able to find a carrot, a Tupperware to put water in, and a box. They sat around the rabbit and watched him, “We should probably get some more stuff for him.” Sunny turned around, “why?” Aubrey looked back, “we need to get them food, a cage, and a water container.” Sunny thought about it and nodded in response. Sunny and Aubrey looked at the rabbit longer. “What should we name it?” Aubrey thought long and hard, “how about Bun-Bun?” Sunny pondered the name, “sure.” Aubrey looked back at the rabbit. “Well, we’ll get more stuff for you later Bun-Bun.”

Chapter Text

Sunny and Aubrey walking down a street. They were going to the mall to grab some things for Bun-Bun. They had a 10-minute walk till they got to the store so they made their way starting at 10 am. “So what do we need Sunny?” Sunny looked down at their list, “rabbit food, a food and water container, and possibly a cage if we can buy it.” Sunny looked at the 80 bucks he got from when his mom left last time and thought they probably wouldn’t be able to get a cage.

Sunny and Aubrey were mostly silent beyond that for the rest of the walk. When Sunny and Aubrey got there they made their way to the mall. When they got up they looked around for a pet store. On their way past they saw a game store with a poster in front. Aubrey looked at it, “Hey, look at that Sunny.” Sunny stopped and looked at a poster for a new console. “Huh…. The playcube.”

From the information on the poster, it looked like it was released a year ago. “You always did like games Sunny, maybe we can get it later.” Sunny really wanted it, but it was 200 bucks. ‘I can maybe do some jobs,’ Sunny thought. Aubrey turned back around, “well anyway, let’s keep looking.” Sunny followed suit.

Aubrey and Sunny eventually found a pet store and entered. They went to the kart return, took a kart, and started making their way through the store. Sunny and Aubrey made their way to the food and looked at the rabbit food. “Should we get the bigger or the smaller one, Sunny?” Sunny looked at the price of the bags of food, “Let’s get the bigger one.” Aubrey nodded and placed the bag of food into the cart.

Sunny and Aubrey started to make their way to the rabbit care section when Aubrey stopped, “I need to go to the bathroom Sunny, can you wait here?” Sunny nodded, “ok, I’ll be back in a bit.” Aubrey then left and went to find a bathroom.

Sunny was waiting for a few minutes, those minutes felt fine at first. Sunny then started to tap his arm, he was starting to feel a little worried, Sunny became nervous.

Sunny decided to start to look around for Aubrey, He went to the bathrooms in the back and started to wait for her. When after a few minutes of no one coming out Sunny started to worry more, Sunny became anxious. Sunny started to look around more frantically, moving around fast to try and find Aubrey, he was having little success. Sunny kept looking, yet he still couldn’t find Aubrey, Sunny became overwrought.

Sunny was running and he saw someone coming closer to him and stopped, it was Aubrey. Sunny stepped away from the kart and hugged Aubrey, “where were you, Aubrey? I was so worried.” Aubrey wiped some tears from her face. “I went to the bathroom and came back and couldn’t find you there, then I got worried and looked around for you.” Sunny kept hugging Aubrey, “Let’s not leave each other… please.” Aubrey nodded. With that Aubrey and Sunny made their way And got the rest of their items for Bun-Bun.

When they were both done they made their way to the check-out aisle. Aubrey and Sunny were getting their things out of the shopping carts and onto the checkout counter when they heard a familiar voice. “Is that Sunny and Aubrey?” Aubrey and Sunny turned around to be met by a hug from Mrs. Rivas (Kel’s mom). “How have you two been? It’s been so long.” ( “since last I’ve se…” *bat swing* “ow”) Sunny and Aubrey looked away, it felt awkward for them to see her after a while. Aubrey was able to talk first, “we’ve been good.” Mrs. Rivas nodded, “good… good. How have your parents been?’ Aubrey and Sunny froze, they didn’t want to explain what happened, “Well…” Sunny was able to get out.

Mrs. Rivas looked embarrassed, “oh… Sorry, I asked. Didn’t know it was a touchy subject.” Mrs. Rivas looked around, “are either of your parents here?” Sunny and Aubrey shook their heads. “Did you two just come here yourselves?” Sunny and Aubrey nodded. “Would you two want a ride home?”

Sunny and Aubrey looked at each other, they each pondered to themselves if they wanted to ask Mrs. Rivas for the favor. They both concluded the time saved was worth the trouble, “Sure Mrs. Rivas.” Mrs. Rivas took a deep breath, “Ok… Let me just buy my stuff and I’ll lead you two to my vehicle.”

After they got their stuff scanned and paid for, they waited for Mrs. Rivas who checked out her items. After she was done she came to them, “Ok you two, let’s get going.” Sunny and Aubrey followed Mrs. Rivas to her car. When they got there they put their stuff in the back of her car and got into the vehicle.

“So have you two been ok?” Aubrey and Sunny tried to minimize eye contact with Mrs. Rivas. “Well… uh…” Sunny swallowed air, “my dad left.” Mrs. Rivas frowned, “oh… Sorry to hear.” Sunny sighed, “It’s ok.” Mrs. Rivas used her mirror to look at Aubrey, “and you sweetie?” Aubrey tried not to keep eye contact, “well… my dad also left me… A-and My mom is in jail…” Aubrey had tears in her eyes. “Oh sweetie,” Mrs. Rivas’s voice sounded sincere.

Aubrey looked down, “it’s fine… Sunny’s mom was able to take me in. I’ve been living in Sunny’s house for a month now.” Mrs. Rivas sighed in relief, “well at least you have a home sweetie.” She made a turn onto their street, “if you two need any help just ask any of the Rivas family, we’d be happy to help.” Sunny and Aubrey faked a smile in response.

Mrs. Rivas pulled into the driveway and got out of the car, “Kel! Come and get the groceries!” Aubrey and Sunny got out of the vehicle and started to get out their stuff. The door suddenly bursts open revealing an orange-clothed Person. “Ok, mom.” He turned to the car and stopped, “Sunny?”

Chapter Text

“Sunny!” Kel ran up and hugged Sunny. Kel became happy, Aubrey became neutral, Sunny became happy. “Hey, Kel!” Aubrey went back into the trunk and grabbed some of Bun-Bun’s stuff, “can you help me get the rest of this Sunny?” Sunny nodded and came over to put the rest of the stuff out of the back of the vehicle.

A creak was heard from the doorway. Sunny and Aubrey looked up to see a person that, along with Kel, they hadn't seen in a long time. In the doorway stood a surprised Hero. “H-hello.” Sunny looked upon Hero and didn‘t know what he saw. He saw the same Hero that he knew yet he seemed hollow like he was missing something. “H-Hey Sunny.”

Hero was for the most part sounded okay, probably really surprised that he was seeing Sunny after so long. Sunny wondered what would happen if he told Hero the truth. He’d probably be hurt, he may even hurt Sunny. He’d deserve it, but he wasn’t as willing to let it end there as he was a month ago. Hero came out of the door, “do you need any help with those groceries?” Aubrey was quick to respond, “no thanks we got it.”

Aubrey started to make her way to their house. Sunny started to follow behind her. “Hey, Sunny? Aubrey?” They both
looked back to see Hero and Kel. Hero looked down towards the two people that he once called friends.

“Would you two want to meet up any time soon?” Sunny pondered the idea, he missed talking to Hero and Kel, He also needed to tell them both the truth. Aubrey however just turned back around and started on her way again, “maybe later, we need to get these things inside first.” Hero glanced away, “ok. Just contact us when you want to meet up.” Aubrey was already at the doorstep when he finished, “ok.” she went in the door and Sunny followed behind her and closed it.

******************************************

Sunny and Aubrey placed her stuff on the table, sighed, and went to the kitchen. She came back with a pair of scissors and started to remove the zip ties from the packaging. Sunny started to open the bag of food and came over to Aubrey. After Aubrey opened the packaging on the food bowl she gave it to Sunny, “You can fill this.”

Sunny took the food bowl and placed it on the table as Aubrey went to the kitchen with the water container. Sunny heard the Sink running as he poured the food into the bowl. Sunny placed the bowl in Bun-Bun’s box. Aubrey walked in and replaced the old water container with the new one. She then scratched Bun-Bun’s chin and started to talk to him in a pet voice, “there you go Bun-Bun. Do you like it?”

Aubrey was playing with Bun-Bun as Sunny stood behind her. “Would you want to go see Hero, Aubrey?” Aubrey stopped petting Bun-bun and turned around to face Sunny, “If he really missed us he could have done it a year ago.” Aubrey sounded cold to Sunny. Sunny sighed, “I do need to tell them the truth-” Aubrey shivered, she still felt odd about the truth. “-they deserve to at least know if we never talk to them again.” Aubrey sighed, “could we at least get it over with quickly.” Sunny nodded, even if Hero and Kel would never talk to him again, he needed to tell him the truth.

Sunny and Aubrey made their way out the door and went over to the Rivas household. Sunny walked up to the concrete and knocked on the door. The door opened and revealed Kel. “Hey Sunny! Do you need anything?” Sunny looked away, “can we talk to you and Hero… we need to tell you something.”

Kel looked slightly worried, “yeah… would you want to come in?” Sunny shook his head, ”I’d rather be in a place we could be more relaxed in… I was thinking about the hideout.” Kel nodded, “ok sure. Would you want to go now?” Sunny nodded. “Ok, let me get Hero.” Kel went inside and ran up the stairs. Sunny and Aubrey waited at the doorsteps.

After a while, two sets of footsteps were heard descending the staircase. The brothers went through the front door and were next to the dependents. “So what do you need to tell us about Sunny and Aubrey?” Sunny sighed, “we'll tell you when we get there.”

******************************************

Hero was walking behind Sunny, Aubrey, and Kel. Hero was worried. Sunny and Aubrey hadn’t been saying anything since they came over to their house to bring them to the lake. “Are you doing ok Sunny?” Sunny didn’t respond, his shoulders were dropping and his posture was small, he looked sad. Hero stayed silent and decided to continue to follow the kids.

After a bit, they made it to the park. The group made their way through the trees and arrived at the secret hangout spot. At the secret hangout spot was a sun-bleached picnic blanket. The teenagers decided to take a seat on the blanket to talk to each other.

“So, Sunny. How have you been doing?” Kel was first to talk. Sunny seemed nervous, “Uh… w-well.” Kel nodded, a slight concern showed on his face, “ok.” Hero turned to Aubrey, “about the same.” Aubrey scooted closer to Sunny, Kel looked like his gitty was returning to him, “are you guy’s a thing?” He asked in a joking tone. Aubrey stared at Kel and started to come towards him. Kel noticed and got up and started to run. “Get back here you son of a b****.”

“Language,” yelled Hero in their direction. While Kel was being chased by Aubrey, Sunny heard a rustling in the bushes. Sunny got up from the picnic blanket and walked towards the bushes. “Is something wrong Sunny?” Hero was looking towards Sunny. Sunny walked through the bushes and was met by Basil looking him in the eyes. Basil, who wasn’t ready for that, jumped and fell backward. Sunny just stared down at Basil as he got up on his own.

Kel noticed Basil and ran towards him, “Basil!” Kel ran towards the timid boy and picked him up in a hug. Aubrey had an unamused look where she stood. Sunny started to walk towards Aubrey, they stood together, their gazes locked on Basil. Hero got up from the blanket and walked towards Basil, he went in for a hug. “How are you doing Basil?” Basil nervously rubbed his arm, “uh… good?’” Hero doubted that answer, but for now, decided to put it aside and catch up with his old friends. Kel waved towards Sunny and Aubrey, “come on guys. Join the group hug.” Aubrey and Sunny looked unamused at the group, “we’re fine.”

Kel was confused, “why not?” Sunny and Aubrey were getting impatient. Aubrey sighed, “We came here to tell you something. Not to get the gang back together.” Aubrey sighed, “not like we want to be friends with him again.” Said Aubrey under her breath. Kel looked hurt by this, “come on guys… Why are you being so rude?” Aubrey scowled, Aubrey became angry, she started to walk towards Kel. Sunny grabbed Aubrey’s arm and stopped her, Sunny looked into her eyes, trying to convey that it wouldn’t be worth it. Aubrey sighed and came back next to Sunny, Aubrey became calm. Sunny became sad, “We need to tell you something.”

“NO!!!” Basil became nervous. Kel and Hero stared at Basil. Aubrey and Sunny kept staring at Basil. Basil started to shrink in posture, “W-We-Well what do you mean-n-n Su-Sunny?” Basil became anxious. Sunny and Aubrey became enraged. Sunny puffed air out of his nose. “Stop acting like it didn’t happen Basil. They need to know.” Kel and Hero became confused, “what is he talking about Basil?” Basil became overwrought. He started to hyperventilate. “Uh…” Sunny sighed again, “As I was saying… we need to tell you something…”

******************************************

Hero, Kel, and Aubrey stood amongst those with bloodied hands. Kel and Hero became bewildered. Kel had no idea what was just said, he couldn’t process what Sunny had said, he also didn’t notice Basil on the floor in a ball. Hero was as confused as Kel, but was also mad. More exactly, Hero was frustrated. Fearing what he’d do he left. Kel seeing his brother leaving had one last look at Sunny and Aubrey. With tears in his eyes he looked at Aubrey and Sunny and then turned around and left. Basil, still crying on the floor, didn't move.

Sunny looked towards the floor and sighed, Aubrey just stared at him, devoid of emotion. Sunny became sad, Aubrey became neutral. “Let’s go Sunny.” Sunny nodded and they left. Basil stayed on the floor and cried, cried alone.

Chapter Text

Sunny woke up from his bed, he looked to his right to see Aubrey over him. “Come on Sunny, you need to get ready for school.” Sunny was rooted to his bed, “do I have to?” Aubrey started to drag off Sunny’s blanket, “come on Sunny! You have been to school for two years, if you wait any longer you’ll fall behind more.”

Sunny tried to grab the drag the blanket up with his feet, he was stopped by Aubrey, “come on Sunny.” Aubrey grabbed him by the arms. Sunny felt himself fly off the bed and onto the floor, he was now definitely awake. Sunny heard Aubrey a noise escape Aubrey’s mouth as she noticeably cringed. “You ok Sunny?” Sunny got up and dusted his nightclothes, “I’m good.” Aubrey nodded, “ok. I’ll leave so you can change, just make sure to come out after you’re done.”

Aubrey went out of Sunny’s room. Sunny rubbed his eyes and stretched his arms. Sunny went over to his closet. Sunny started to look through his clothes, “white and black, white and black, white and black,... ooh black and white, let’s shake it up a bit.” Sunny giggled at the reference (I know the bee movie didn’t exist in the time story takes place in… I just wanted to make a bee movie joke) Sunny got a dark dress shirt and a white sweater vest and a pair of dark gray along with underwear and socks.

Sunny made his way to the bed and placed his day clothes on it. Sunny then proceeded to slip off his nightclothes and slipped on the clothes he was going to wear for the day. After a couple more yawns and stretches he slipped through his door and towards the bathroom. When he got in he saw Aubrey brushing her teeth. She was wearing similar clothes to Sunny, a white collared shirt with a black sweater vest and a dark gray skirt. “Ohm hey Sunny…” Aubrey paused to spit toothpaste out of her mouth, “I’m done now if your trying to brush your teeth.” Sunny nodded. “Ok… I’ll wait for you at the stars.” Aubrey walked past Sunny and waited at the top of the stairs.

Sunny walked into the bathroom and started to brush his teeth. As he brushed his teeth he looked up to see him with his long hair in the mirror. He wondered if he was ever going to get it cut shorter. He probably wasn’t. Sunny gargled some mouth wash, spitted it out and wiped his face. Sunny walked out of the bathroom and stopped in front of the stairs. Sunny looked over the stairs, Sunny became nervous. As Sunny looked down the stairs he felt someone grab his hand.

Sunny looked over and saw Aubrey staring back at him. “It’s ok Sunny, I’ll have your hand.” Sunny took seep breaths and became calm. Sunny kept his eyes straight forward as Aubrey helped him go down the stairs. When he reached the floor Aubrey let go of Sunny’s hand and they went to the kitchen and went to the freezer. Sunny pulled out some toaster waffles and put them in the toaster.

After a while, they heard a ding and the waffles popped out. Sunny got a jar of peanut butter out of the cabinet and a knife from the drawer. He spread the peanut butter on the waffles and gave one to Aubrey. They started to eat it as they made their way to the door. Before going outside they got their backpacks off a wall hook. Aubrey opened the door and they both came out. Sunny pulled some keys out of his short pockets and locked the door. Sunny caught up with Aubrey and they walked to school together.

******************************************

Sunny and Aubrey stood in front of the school doors. “Are you ready to go to Jr. High Sunny?” Sunny gulped. “S-Sure.” Sunny was nervous, he hadn’t been to school in two years, and the cramping he did during the summer didn’t do too much good for his opinion either. He was able to catch up a year so he was only one behind, he could even do summer school again next summer and catch up. Aubrey was also held back a year so they were in the same class.

“Let’s go Sunny!” Sunny was dragged by Aubrey through the front doors into the hallways. Sunny looked around and saw a bunch of kids going to their lockers retrieving and putting away stuff for class, “Let’s go to our first class Sunny.” Sunny perked up, “our?” Aubrey turned around, “Don’t you know? We have the same classes.” Aubrey seemed excited, Sunny became happy. “Ok… let’s go then.” Sunny and Aubrey sprinted their way to their first class.

******************************************

Aubrey and Sunny were taking deep breaths as they made it in front of their first class for the first day of school, “You ready Sunny?” Sunny nodded and they opened the doors together. The room was mostly full beside some empty desk that hadn’t been filled yet. But those didn’t really matter, cause one of the filled desks is what caught Sunny and Aubrey’s attention. On a backward chair sat Kim, the leader of the Hooligans. “If it isn’t pinky.” Aubrey puffed her cheeks, “my name is Aubrey.” Aubrey sounded agitated. Kim chuckled, “I can call you what I want pinky.”

Aubrey was starting to get frustrated. “Why did you get cold feet pinky? You were going to join yet you didn’t. Was it him?” Kim pointed towards Sunny. Aubrey started to glare at Kim, “don’t talk of him in vain.” Sunny stood still and watched as Aubrey argued with Kim. Kim’s mischievous smile grew, “fond of him pinky?”

Aubrey was getting even more frustrated. Kim started to walk over, She laughed. “I’m guessing you wouldn’t like it if something happened to him.” Kim went past Aubrey and went up to Sunny. Kim looked at Sunny, “It would probably pain you to see this nerd hurt, wouldn’t it?” Aubrey became enraged, “you dare lay a finger on Sunny you’ll be punted into next year a******.”
Kim backed away from Sunny, “don’t worry about it.” She walked up towards Aubrey, “as long as you join the Hooligans, there’s no need to worry.” Aubrey glared at Kim with a death stare. “I’m not joining your little group, like how your not laying a hand on Sunny,” Kim’s mischievous smile stayed on her face, “what are you going to do pinky?” Aubrey was scowling she threw a fist into Kim’s nose. Sunny eyes went wide as all the kids turned their heads.

Kim took a deep breath and wiped her nose, there was blood on her sleeve. Kim seemed unreasonably calm about the situation she was in. “That’s why I want you in the hooligans Pinky. You’re a delinquent just like me.” Aubrey became furious, she wound up her fist to give Kim more than a bloody nose.

Ashe was about to punch her she felt someone drag her back. “WHAT ARE YOU DOING Y-” Aubrey looked back to see Sunny with tears in his eyes, “please stop…” Aubrey started to ease up. “Come on Pinky, you just gonna give up like that?” Aubrey took a deep breath. “Better than what I was gonna do to you. You should probably go to the nurse’s office for that. Kim laughed f or a bit then winced in pain, “I’m good. I wanted to ditch anyways. See you again pinky.”

She walked out the doors and everyone went back to what they were doing and gave some glances directed towards the two here and there. Aubrey took Sunny into a hug and had some tears drop out of her eyes. “I’m sorry Sunny,” she whispered into his ears. Sunny returned the embrace. After a bit of hugging, they went to two open desks next to each other in the middle of the classroom. As they got settled the teacher came into the classroom. “Hello students, let’s get started…”

******************************************

As Sunny thought coming back to school was going to be as boring as it was going to be. HE and Aubrey sat through history, earth science, pre-algebra, and English. They were tired and they were only on their way to lunch. Aubrey and Sunny picked a table and they opened their lunch.

While they were eating they received a couple of stares from other students along with accompanied whispers. As they continued eating some other people came to the table, more exactly the hooligans. Including Kim, whose nose was bandaged. “Hello again Pinky,” she sounded different with the wrappings covering her nostril. Along with Kim sat a larger dude, a larger girl, and a dude in a blond wig and unbuttoned dress shirt.

Aubrey scowled. “Looks like Pinky is not happy to see me.” The tall boy nudged her in the shoulder. She gave the larger dude a stare then sighed, “Ok…” She turned to Aubrey. “Look… I am sorry for threatening your boyfriend. That wasn’t cool, I get why you did that to me.” Aubrey gave a stare towards Kim, “yeah… I don’t believe that.” Kim sighed. “Look… I want you to join the hooligans,... you guys seem lonely, Just trying to help.” With that Kim gestured to the other Hooligans to leave and they went on their way. Aubrey And Sunny just finished their lunch, pondering the offer.

Chapter Text

Aubrey and Sunny exited the school doors they started to make their way on the walk home. They thought they heard someone behind them but decided to ignore it. They couldn’t ignore it longer when someone came and wrapped their arms around them. “Have you two made a choice yet?” behind them was an eager Kim wrapping her arms around the two of them.

Aubrey stared at Kim, “no we didn’t. Now leave us alone while we walk home.” Kim darted her eyes in Aubrey’s direction. “You don’t have someone picking you up?” Aubrey sighed, “yes.” Kim seemed concerned, “It’s like a 30-minute walk to Faraway. Is this like what you’ll have to do for the full school year?”

“Yeah, and?” Kim stopped and held the two back, “no you aren’t.” Aubrey looked slightly agitated, “what do you mean?” Kim started to drag them. “Hey! What are you doing!?” Vance saw Kim dragging the two over.

‘What are you doing Kim?” Kim stopped in front of Vance, “They don’t have a person driving them back, I’m taking them with us.” Vance sighed, “mom’s not going to be in a good mood already because of your nose.” Kim swiped in the air, “Come on… no teacher saw me got punched or even knew what happened. All they know I fell directly on my nose, and so does mom.” Vance just stared back, “you can try if you want, but you know what may happen.” With that, a vehicle pulled up and rolled down a window, “Kimberly! Vance!”

Kim motioned for Aubrey and Sunny to follow them and the 4 walked up to Kim and Vance’s mother’s car. “Hey sweeties... who are they?” Ms. Rodler pointed at Sunny and Aubrey. “Oh, those are Sunny and Aubrey.” Mrs. Rodler raised an eyebrow, “is there a reason they’re here?”

“They don’t have a car taking them home today so I was going to ask you if they could come with us.” Mrs. Rodler looked at Kim before looking back at Sunny and Aubrey, “Is that true?” Sunny and Aubrey nodded, “It’s ok if you can’t,” said Aubrey, “we were just going to walk home anyway.” Ms. Rodler pressed a button to open her vehicle’s passenger door, “It’s ok… just don’t make a mess.” And with that, the 4 kids went inside the van.

Ms. Rodler shifted the vehicle into drive and they drove off, “So Sunny and Aubrey… Where do you live?” Kim interjected, “They are the house on the end of our street.” Mrs. Rodler seemed surprised, “the Suzukis?” Kim looked back at Sunny, he gave a thumbs up. “Yes, they are.”

“Well, he is,” pointed out Aubrey, “I’m just staying at his house.” Ms. Rodler nodded, “How’s your mother Sunny?” Sunny looked away, “she’s been busy with work so she’s not home all the time.” Mrs. Rodler was focused on driving, “ok.”

The car ride was mostly silent after that. When they made it home Ms. Rodler turned back around, “Has your nose had any problems, Kimberly?” Kim shook her head, “It’s not fully healed but it should be good.” Ms. Rodler turned back around and put the vehicle in park. She switched the key off then turned back around, “Do you have any homework you two need to do?” They shook their heads, “no we don’t mom.” Ms.Rodler turned back around and opened her car door, “ok… I’ll let you lose, just be careful Kimberly. And make sure she doesn’t do anything bad Vance” Kim nodded, “ok mom.” Vance nodded as well

With that, the four children exited the vehicle and stood outside. “So,” said Kim, “what would you want to do?” Aubrey sighed, “go home.” Aubrey started to walk over to her and Sunny’s house. “Wait!” Aubrey stopped and turned around. “Could we come with you?”

Aubrey looked over to Sunny, he shrugged his shoulders, he didn’t really oppose the idea. She sighed, “you may.” Kim became happy, Vance stayed neutral. “Come on… just follow us.” Kim and Vance joined Sunny and Aubrey on the way inside their house. When they got up to the door Sunny got out the keys for the door. They heard a creak while Sunny put the key in the lock. They didn’t think much of it as Sunny opened the door and they all went in.

Kim and Vance looked around the living room. They didn’t see much around besides a television, a couch, and a box. Kim pointed to the box, “What’s in the box?” Aubrey shrugged her shoulders, “A rabbit.” Kim’s eyes went wide and she went over to the box and saw the rabbit. While Kim looked at the rabbit someone knocked on the door. Sunny went over to the door and opened it to reveal a somewhat saddened Kel on the other side of the door.

“Hey Sunny.” Kel sounded tired; he had some bandages on his arm. Aubrey turned around to see him, “what do you want Kel?” Aubrey’s voice was spiteful. Kel came inside, “can I stay here for a bit?” Kel seemed nervous. Aubrey scowled a little, “Why?” Kel went to his knees, “Please!” Vance and Kim started to stare at Kel. Kim walked away from the rabbit and towards everyone else, “is he ok?” Kel shook his head.

Sunny looked at Kel and became empathetic. “Sure Kel.” Kel turned to Sunny, with tears in his eyes and hugged him. “Thank you Sunny.”Sunny returned the hug in return Aubrey sighed, she turned around and went to pet bun-bun. She looked slightly calmer after doing so. Vance looked at the bandages on Kel’s arms, “you got in some fights kid?” Kel looked away, he seemed nervous, it looked like he was crying. “I wouldn’t like to talk about it.” Vance nodded.

Aubrey came back over to everyone else. She gave a stare to Kel and sighed, “I’ll allow you to stay here for now.” Kel smiled, “thank you Aubrey.” With that the talking attitude died down and Aubrey sat down on the couch. Sunny soon joined her and they started to hug on each other. Kim and Vance decided to look around and went into the dining room, leaving Kel to be some what alone. Kel just settled on a chair in the living room and sat there, glad taht someone excepted his forgiving nature.

Chapter Text

Sunny woke up (?) up from the couch. It looked to be night and Aubrey wasn’t on the couch, Kel seemed to have left also. Sunny got up and became afraid. Sunny walked around the house. He checked the kitchen and dining room and could only find food. He checked the music rooms and closet and found what they usually should have. He checked his mother’s bedroom to find nothing there. And he checked his and Aubrey’s bedroom to only see his bed. Sunny was alarmed, he didn’t know what to think. He ran down the stair and ran out the door. He ran towards Aubrey’s abandoned house, not noticing that no one was around him. Sunny came down to Aubrey’s street and saw her.

Sunny saw Aubrey in front of her house, he ran up to her and hugged her. He was then met by a push coming from somewhere knocking him away. “STAY AWAY MURDERER!!!” Sunny sat afraid on the floor as an angry face stared him down. She turned around walking into the house as it crumbled over her. From the house’s rubble rose something.

Sunny watches in horror as the abomination stared him down. It was similar, but it had something horribly off about it. It was split down its middle, only held together in some parts by stretched threads ready to break. The thing taunted him, saying how no one could care for him. The thing told him how he was alone, and it was right. A blade dropped in front of him. “It would be better for you to just die.” Sunny agreed with the voice.

As the voice taunted him more and gained more and more of a shape he drove metal into his chest, falling into his fluids.

******************************************

Aubrey was in the middle of the secret hideout. She was crying as a creature loomed over her. This creature was her, but it didn’t act like her. This creature had spikes protruding out of her, its red eyes pierced her soul. “It’s just payback, why is it so hard?” A spike ladened bat rested in front of her. Above her stood a replica of Sunny, he looked so peaceful. “He caused you so much trouble. Why wouldn’t you cause some for him?” Aubrey couldn’t believe this was the person she was.

She had to escape this. She tried to get up and run, but when she stood she couldn’t move her feet. “Come on… you’re just delaying the inevitable.” The other Aubrey put her hand on Aubrey’s shoulder, Aubrey could feel a liquid flowing down her shoulder. “You know what you are. Why not live up to it?” Aubrey’s crying increased, the pain in her shoulder felt like burning needles were stuck into her arms.

Aubrey picked up the bat. She couldn’t take the pain anymore. She readied the bat and swung. What lay in front of her was a corpse with a torn chest. “See… it’s in your nature.” Aubrey fell to her knees. She wrapped her arms around him. “I’M SORRY!!” Something started to leak out of Sunny’s wounds. A shadow started to form above her and Sunny’s corpse. It looked as if she and Sunny were split down the middle and then stitched down the middle. “You’re all alone.” Its words made Aubrey shiver. “You’re all alone, and it’s all your fault.”

Aubreys looked at Sunny’s corpse. She started to feel indescribably hollow. As if nothing else mattered now that Sunny was gone. “You can reunite with him.” Aubrey looked up to the creature, it now had a gap down its middle. It only was held by thin threads, “you can figure out how.” Aubrey looked at her bat, perhaps this was her way to go with Sunny. Forgive herself for what she did and being with him I the same action.

Aubrey took a deep breath as she lowered the bat to the floor. “Forgive me Sunny for doing this to you…” The bat flew up to her face. She fell to the floor and her face leaked.

******************************************

Sunny and Aubrey jolted up on the couch, Kel was looking over them. “Are you two ok?” Sunny and Aubrey were both breathing deeply as they sat up in the darkroom. Their clothes were drenched in sweat. They both started to cry and held onto each other. “I’m sorry Sunny.” “I’m sorry Aubrey.”

Kel was confused at why they were apologizing but decided to put it off to the side for now, “would you guys want me to get you guys water?” Sunny and Aubrey nodded their heads as they held onto each other as if the other would evaporate if they let each other go. Kel left them alone as he went to the kitchen to grab them a cup of water.

Kel walked into the kitchen. He checked the cupboards for some glasses. For the most part, he found instant meals and dried foods that somewhat concern Kel but he continued his search for a water glass. Once he finally found a glass he went over to the fridge and filled the glasses. After Kel was done he brought the glasses over to Sunny and Aubrey. He walked back into the living room and set the glasses in front of Sunny and Aubrey. “Here you guys go,” Kel spoke in an upbeat tone to comfort his friends.

Sunny and Aubrey picked up the waters, still keeping one arm around each other. Aubrey and Sunny took a sip in unison. They placed down the cups and sighed. “Thank you Kel,” Suny sounded calmer. “Your welcome Sunny.” Aubrey looked away, “Thank you Kel… and Sorry for being rude earlier.” Kel smiled, “you're welcome, and no need to worry about it.”

Kel took a seat near the two and they just sat. “Are you two ok?” The two looked up at Kel. “yeah,” said Aubrey. “Are you ok Kel? Kel eyes darted away, Kel became nervous. “Ye-yeah... I’m ok.”

Kel, Sunny, and Aubrey sat in awkward silence not wanting to talk about what happened.

Chapter Text

Sunny and Aubrey woke up in the morning after a rough night. From the looks of it Kel, Vance, and Kim already left. Aubrey woke up first and was met by Sunny’s sleeping face. Aubrey wanted to stay here forever, it helped her forget about last night. She sat there a bit before Sunny started to wake up.

When Sunny opened his eyes he was met with Aubrey’s smiling face, “Morning Sunny.” Sunny smiled, “Morning Aubrey.” They stopped hugging each other and got off the couch and stretched. “Want to go eat Sunny?” Sunny nodded. “Ok, let’s go get some food.”

Sunny and Aubrey walked into the kitchen and grabbed some waffles from the freezer. As Sunny popped the waffles in the toaster he looked at a clock and noticed that it was 10 am.
“Oh shoot…” Aubrey looked at Sunny confused then looked at where he was looking and then kept staring there. After a bit she just shrugged her shoulders, “it’s just one day. It’s not that bad if we accidentally sleep in one day.” Sunny relaxed a bit, “ok.”

Aubrey looked around the room, “so… What do you want to do today Sunny?” Sunny shrugged his shoulders, “don’t know.” Aubrey thought for a bit, “hmmm... “ Aubrey looked at the TV in the living room, “want to watch a movie?” Sunny nodded. “Ok, let’s find a movie to watch… where do you keep the VHS tapes Sunny?” Sunny stared into the distance for a bit, “I think they’re in the closet, in a cardboard box.” Aubrey nodded her head, “ok. Let’s get them.”

Sunny and Aubrey walked over to the closet and checked for some boxes. They looked around and found a box marked ‘VHS’s’. “Is this it Sunny?” Sunny came over and checked the box, “yeah it’s that one.” Aubrey tried to lift it up but it was a bit heavy, “can you help me Sunny?” Sunny nodded and came over to the box.

Aubrey and Sunny lifted the box and carried it to the living room. After setting it down they open the box to see what movies were inside. One of the movies was about a mouse named Stuart. There was another about a scientist that made a jelly dude. After going through the box a bit more they found a movie they both agreed on watching. After looking through all the VHS tapes Sunny and Aubrey pulled out the Iron Giant.

“Did you ever watch this before Sunny?” Sunny shook his head. “Ok… Let’s just watch it then.” After they turned on the television and slipped the VHS into the VCR. They sat on the couch and watched their movie.

Chapter Text

Aubrey and Sunny were sitting on the couch letting the hours go by. They didn’t really have anything to do, so they just sat there waiting for something to happen. As they sat around, they heard a phone ring and they looked to the wall to see the phone buzzing. “Hello… is this Aubrey?” Aubrey could tell it was Kim’s voice. Aubrey went over to the phone and picked it up, “Yeah Kim?”

Aubrey heard some shuffling on the other side of the phone, “Would you want to come over to the park, Kel and the rest of us are going over there.” Aubrey looked over to Sunny, “Would you want to go to the park Sunny?” Sunny gave a thumbs up.

Aubrey turned back to the phone, “we should be able to come over.” Aubrey heard some more shuffling on the other side of the phone, “Ok… We are going over now. We’ll see you there.” The sound when the line closed was heard and Aubrey placed the phone on its stand. “Let’s get ready to go Sunny.” Sunny got up off the couch and made his way to the stairs and Aubrey hurried behind him. When they got to the stairs Aubrey held Sunny’s hand, as they made their way up the step Sunny closed his eyes. “It’s ok Sunny, I’m here to guide you,” Aubrey spoke words of comfort as she and Sunny ascended the staircase.

“We’ve reached the top, Sunny.” Sunny opened his eyes and they were on the top of the staircase facing the bathroom door. “Do you want to change first, Sunny?” Sunny shook his head, “you can go in first.”

“Ok Sunny.” Aubrey opened the door and went into the room, she closed the door behind her (not locking it). The sounds of drawers opening and closing could be heard on the other side. Sunny heard the sound of fabric dragging across human skin. “Are you still there, Aubrey?” Aubrey turned her head up on the other side of the door, “Yeah I am, Sun-bun.” Sunny went back looking at the door waiting for Aubrey to be done.

Sunny heard footsteps and looked up as the door opened, He looked up slightly higher to meet Aubrey’s eyes. “I’m done Sunny. You can go in and change now.” Sunny nodded and walked into the room. After Sunny closed the door he got a new pair of clothes out of the closet and placed them on his bed. He took off his clothes and threw them into the hamper basket. He went back over to his bed and started to change.

“Are you still there Sunny?” Sunny heard Aubrey’s voice outside his door. “Yeah, I’m here Aubrey.” Aubrey sighed on the other side of the door, “Ok.” After Sunny slipped on his sweater vest he went over to the door and opened it. “Ready to go Sunny?” Sunny nodded.

“Ok… let’s go.” Aubrey and Sunny went to the staircase and repeated the thing they both have done for the past few months. Aubrey held Sunny’s hand and they descended the stairs with Sunny’s eyes closed.

Once they made it to the ground floor, they made their way to the front door. They put on their shoes and left the house. Sunny made sure to lock the door behind them. “Onward… to the park, Sunny!” Aubrey and Sunny started their walk to the park. On their way there they saw a black-haired kid in suspenders pass by them and they wondered who it was.

Once they made it they saw the Hooligans hanging around the swings. Kim saw Aubrey and Sunny at the entrance and waved towards them. The rest of the Hooligans noticed Sunny and Aubrey and greeted the two. Kel got up from the sand, stopping his arm wrestling match with Mikhael. “Hey guys, how are you?” Kel seemed cheerier than he was a month ago. Ever since Hero started his college in the winter season, Kel seemed to be happier overall. Aubrey and Sunny were worried about what Hero may have done but decided just to care for their friend for now. “We’re good Kel.”

Mikhael got up from the sand, “Are you just going to give up on our battle of strength Kel?!” Mikael had exaggerated movement, you could tell he was joking. Kel chuckled a little, “not at all my dear opponent, just greeting our friends.” Kel also exaggerated his movements. Sunny and Aubrey still couldn’t quite understand how this slightly unlikely friendship happened, but it still happened.

Kim, Vance, and Charlene were playing a card game, they had candies of various colors in the middle and 5 cards each. “I’ll get 2 cards,” Vance looked somewhat confident. Vance handed in two cards and Charlene gave Vance two from the deck. Kim smirked, “I’ll keep my cards.” Vance raised an eyebrow, “You sure Kim?” Kim kept her smirk, “I’m sure.” Vance looked back to his hand, “Ok then.” After that was done Charlene started to speak, “Reveal your hand in 3… 2… 1… show your hands.” All three of them placed down their cards.

Vance’s deck consisted of a jack of clubs, a jack of hearts, a 4 of diamonds, a 5 of clubs, and a 5 of hearts. Kim’s hand consisted of a 2 of clubs, a 2 of diamonds, a two of spades, a 7 of diamonds, and a 7 of hearts. “I’ve beaten ya’ Vance.” Kim had a large grin on his face. Vance was looking at Charlene’s desk, “but Charlene has beaten you,” Kim looked over to Charlene’s deck and looked in awe. The deck that Charlene got was a royal flush. Charlene pulled in the candy closer to her as Kim still looked in awe, she was also a slight bit disappointed.

With that game over Kim, Vance, and Charlene got up from the grass and came over to the rest of the group. “Hey Aubrey!” Kim was very cheery. “Hello Kim!” Aubrey greeted her back. Charlene waved towards Sunny, he waved back. “So what are we doing today Kim?” Kim shrugged her shoulders, “We were just going to play some games.”

‘Ok. What are we going to play?” Kim thought for a moment, “I think we were going t-” “Hey!” The group looked over to see two people with black hair. One of them looked to be Basil who dyed his hair. The other was the artist girl from school, if Sunny could remember her name was Mincy.

“Are you the ones bullying Basil?” Basil was cowering behind Mincy. The rest of the Hooligans were confused, barely even knowing Basil themselves. Kim was first to talk, “What are you even talking about nerd? We barely even know him.”

“Well, I know that it was at least one of you.” Mincy sounded somewhat timid like she wasn’t one to talk out a lot. Kel looked uncomfortable when he looked at Basil. Kel just kept quiet for the time being.

Aubrey and Sunny looked at Basil with spite, Mincy took notice of this. “Is it you two?” Aubrey rolled her eyes, “And if we are?” Mincy furrowed her eyebrows. “So it was you two.” Kel grew a frown. “You better stop doing that to Basil,” Mincy sounded mad. “We don’t do anything to him as long as he doesn’t bother us. So just do that and we don’t care.” Aubrey stared down Mincy.

Mincy tightened her fist, “That’s not what I’m asking. I’m saying leave Basil completely alone, stop being a looming threat over my friend.” Aubrey narrowed her eyes, “We won’t bother him as long as he leaves us alone.” Mincy got closer, she started to grit her teeth a bit, she stopped 2 feet in front of Aubrey

They stood still for a while staring at each other, Mincy looking slightly up into Aubrey’s eyes. “Stop bullying Basil,” MIncy’s teeth were shown. “No,” Aubrey’s face didn’t show emotion. MIncy had enough of trying to defend by words and decided to defend by actions. Mincy raised her fist and punched Aubrey in the face.

Aubrey was sought off guard by this and wasn’t able to dodge. She wasn’t knocked to the floor but the punch did cause her to stumble. Aubrey then picked a decently sized stick off the ground, using it to attack. She prepped the stick like a bat and swung at Mincy. Mincy was able to dodge the first few times, taking steps back for each swing. She eventually backed up so far that she knocked into Basil.

With this advantage Aubrey took the opportunity to drop the stick and pushed Mincy over, taking Basil with her. They both fell over one top of another with Aubrey looming over them. ‘Go away, and don’t bother me or my friends.” Aubrey was pissed, there was a red mark from where Mincy’s fist met Aubrey’s face on her cheek.

Mincy and Basil got up and walked away from the Hooligans, those who were in mixed opinion on what happened. Vance, Charlene, and Kel didn’t really like what this confrontation could do for what people thought of them. Meanwhile, Kim and Mikhael were amazed at what Aubrey did. Sunny just stood but no matter what side anyone was on they were all silent.

Aubrey scowled picking up the stick she used to fight breaking it in two. She started to walk away out of the park, Sunny followed without the need for words. They passed the streets and made it to their block, going back to their house.

When they got inside Aubrey got on the couch and grumbled. Sunny sat next to her and kept his hands in his lap. As Aubrey’s angry mood stayed prevalent Sunny wrapped his arms around Aubrey which she took notice of. Aubrey took a deep breath and calmed down a little, “thanks, Sunny.” Sunny just stayed silent and kept hugging Aubrey. Aubrey after a bit held on to Sunny. They kept this snuggling going for a couple of hours.

Chapter Text

Aubrey and Sunny sat together at the foot of the fireplace. They wrapped themselves in a blanket and were currently sitting in front of a warm fire. The outside world was currently covered in a layer of snow and ice, so the inside was really the only place unless one wanted to make a snow person or have a snowball fight. At the current moment, Aubrey and Sunny just wanted to hug each other.

After a while of snuggling Sunny and Aubrey heard the sounds of a car pulling up. Sunny after a while begrudgingly got up from his seat to go to the door. His mother was coming home soon, with all the work she had been doing for the last bit, she had enough vacation time to spend Christmas and a few extra days with Sunny and Aubrey. But instead of coming out to see his mother’s car, no one was in the driveway.

Sunny was confused and wondered what he heard but looked over and noticed a certain person coming out of their vehicle next door. Sunny saw Hero exit his car, Sunny ducked back into his house. The noise caught Hero’s attention and he looked over at Sunny’s house. He didn’t see anything out of the ordinary so he just went to the front door of his house.

“Is your mom not here Sunny?” Sunny shook his head. “Then who was it, Sunny?” Sunny looked away, “Just a door-to-door salesman.” Sunny didn’t want Aubrey to worry about anything Hero might do to them just yet.

“Ok. Wanna snuggle more?” Sunny nodded, he came over to Aubrey and they snuggled till they fell asleep.

******************************************

Sunny laid silent on a hardwood floor. Behind him stood the eldritch horrors he called nightmares, they clawed at his backing wanting him to turn around. He didn’t pay attention to them though, a feeling of warmth wrapped in his arms gained his attention. “ComE ON SUnNy… It’’’’’’s MaaRI.” Sunny could see a jaw near his foot. Sunny kept his attention on the pink glow in his arms. As something crept into Sunny’s he closed his eyes, waiting for it to pass. He was met by the world-shaking as he slowly started to wake up.

******************************************

Sunny woke up on the floor, he was tired. Sunny heard knocking on the front door. After Sunny stretched a little he walked over to the door to see who it was. “Who is it?” Sunny heard the shuffling of keys on the other side of the door. “It’s mommy, Sunny.” Sunny then heard the lock turn. The door opened to show a tired Mrs. Suzuki with some bags in her hand. “I got some take-out for dinner honey, I would cook but work held me longer today. Could you go get Aubrey so we can eat dinner?”

Sunny nodded and went over to Aubrey and started to lightly shook her awake. After a while, Aubrey slowly started to toss a little and eventually woke up. “Wha… Oh, hi Sunny,” Aubrey yawned. “Is it morning already?” Suny shook his head, “no. It’s time for dinner.” Aubrey rubbed her eyes. “Ok,” Aubrey got up from in front of the fireplace and they made their way to dinner.