Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"What is wrong with you? Why would you even THINK of doing that!?". Aubrey's words echoed loudly in my head.

"This is a joke, right?" Kel's words echoed loudly in my head.

"..." And the glare of Hero burnt inside my vision.

I think I ruined all of their lives. Maybe it sounds like I'm over exaggerating, but I'm really not. They used to be so happy, until Mari died. And Mari died because of me. And I did it because my stupid feelings took over my body. I watched as all of my friends walked out of the room.

Aubrey, with her hot pink hair that was once a shiny, dark brown. In his memories, her eyes would sparkle whenever she saw Mari. Now, her eyes are sparkling because of the tears that streamed down her face gently, as she frantically wiped them away.

Kel, with his numb face that was once brightened with a toothy smile and squeezed eyes. He would smile all the time, even in the past 3 days, he kept smiling. In fact, this might be the first time that I've ever seen him like this.

Hero with his shaking body that was once confident and strong. His body held himself up like building blocks, but right now, he trembled with every step. Maybe with anger, or shock, or who knows, but it's obviously because of the bomb I just dropped on him.

Basil, who sat in his bed rubbing his eyes. He's barely changed. His golden blond hair framed his face nicely, and his sea-green eyes blinked softly. But one thing was different this time. He was attached the IV's, covered in bandages, and he winced at the sight of me.

Basil used to smile whenever he saw me. He would embrace me, and look at me lovingly. With those soft eyelashes and pretty eyes, he would smile with his lips... But now, Basil looked saddened when he saw me. I know why, too. He remembered what happened last night, and he was scared. I don't know if he was scared of me or himself, but he was scared. I could tell behind his lips he held words that he wished he could say, but held in instead.

"Sunny?" The bandaged boy muttered, his words didn't echo in my head, though. It simply sat there. His voice calmed me. I could feel my body loosen at the sound of my name. I slowly walked to the side of his bed, and sat beside him on one of the chairs.

I hummed and looked at him. I think that my eyepatch caught his eye, because he flinched and shakily breathed in.

"I'm s-sorry." He said with his eyes filling with tears. I'm not good at comforting, so I just adjusted myself to hold his hand. He at first hesitated, but then quickly grabbed it and squeezed it tightly. It actually sorta hurt, but I wasn't going to tell him that.

"It's okay, I'm okay." I smiled. He stared. He didn't reciprocate the smile, I mean he doesn't have to... but the sight of him broke my heart. He didn't move to smear his tears that glistened on his cheek. He barely reacted to the cold drips that fell down. The heart monitor beeped and filled the room, and although I tried my best to ignore it, the noise rang through my head.

God I wish that heart monitor stopped, wait... No I don't. If the heart monitor stopped that would mean Basil's dead. I can't even imagine how I would feel if he died beside me.

Basil softly chuckled, and I tilted my head at the sound. "It's k-kind of funny. I s-said e-everything will b-be okay, but l-look at everything that's h-happened hey?" He smiled melancholically. I smiled worriedly.

"Hey... don't think that way. Ma-... My sister had this... thing she said." I said, which caught his ear because he turned to look at me.

"If it's, um... not okay, it's not the end yet." I finished. The wetness on his face bothered me, it looked out of place. I wanna fix it, hopefully it's not weird to do that though. "I'm just going to..." I mumbled, wiping his tears with the side of my pointer finger. He warmly smiled at the action as I wiped the water (gross, warm salty water is gross by the way) onto my hospital gown.

I held eye contact with him for a bit, but he quickly broke it. He turned back to look at me again, before he quickly leaned in and gave me a warm embrace. Honestly, it didn't shock me too much. What I was worried about was that he almost ripped out his IV just to hug me.

"I'm sorry. F-for everything. For h-hanging Mari, for making you a-almost d-drown, for mauling y-your goddamn e-eye oh my god I've done so much wrong.." He quickly and quietly muttered the last part quietly, but I heard. The hospital was deadly silent, anyways.

"Basil. Let's make new memories together."

His eyes widened, and he visibly showed his shock. Usually I wouldn't detect emotions so easily, but I could tell how he was feeling. Shocked, but happy. And maybe even a little bit of "finally!".

"Okay." He took a deep breath in, "Let's make new memories together, Sunshine." He took a deep breath out, and genuinely smiled. A smile that reached his eyes, a smile that could brighten the whole room, a smile that made Sunny's heart stop, a smile that stopped time itself.

I attempted to reciprocate the smile, closing my eyes the same way he did. I went in for another hug, wrapping my arms over his shoulders and holding him tight. He held back, silently sobbing into my neck, as I embraced him.

I stayed there for awhile, until the nurse practically dragged me away from Basil. "noooooo!" I dramatically reached out to him as he chuckled, something I haven't heard in a long time.

--

My Nokia phone buzzed, a text from Basil. For the past month, we've had occasional... actually, frequent conversations. Mostly about next meet up times, or life updates, and sometimes even just random conversations. I liked the random conversations, like the one we're having right now.

Basil: Sunny, I was scrolling through Netflix n noticed you watched Neon Genesis Evangelion? Isn't that an anime???

Sunny: ...yeah?
Sunny: got a problem with it?!! >:(

Basil: I thought anime was only for girls
Basil: I mean I don't judge!! I don't believe in gender separation either!

Sunny: bas who told u that

Basil: ...Aubrey

Sunny: makes sense
Sunny: don't listen to her it's good
Sunny: I won't spoil it though

Basil: Maybe sometime we can watch it together

Sunny: woahh! Watching anime? With my favourite person in the world (no homo)?
Sunny: of course we should totally do that!

Basil: When are you free?? I'll come over some time

Sunny: u sure? it's a 2hour drive bas

Basil: it's worth it to see you! :D

Sunny: My heart is warmed by your words... you are too precious
Sunny: no homo tho
Sunny: also I'm free this Thursday and Friday, you can stay over to make it easier for you

Basil: what does no homo even mean..

Sunny: Don't worry about it
Sunny: Don't google it either

Basil: Too late
Basil: ...why do you feel the need to add that

Sunny: ......
Sunny: for funsies
Sunny: dont worry bout it
Sunny: please forget about me :,)

Basil: Should I manually text out my laughter
Basil: Hahahaha

Sunny: You type like a middle aged woman

Basil: You type like it's the end of the world, sending 100 messages per minute

Sunny: You do that too!

Basil: Look at how much you texted me today sunshine <3
Basil: ...you there?

Sunny: you started it

Basil: Yeah yeah...
Basil: I gotta go, duty calls

Sunny: cya bro o7

Basil: o7

I shut my phone and sighed. It's really quiet without my friends. Especially because I don't talk or socialise either. Also especially because my mom doesn't talk to me as much as before, even before I told her the truth. She said she always knew.

That was surprising to hear, why didn't she tell the police that? Did she tell dad that? Probably, that makes sense on why my dad left. After dad left, my mom hasn't been very talkative. She leaves messages for me to listen to, and reminders on the mirror and fridge sometimes, but usually doesn't talk in person with me.

I don't think she even notices when I'm gone. And when she does, she just tells me to stay safe and waves at me. I don't really think she cares, but she's trying her best. A lot has happened to her these past 5 years, so I'm being patient with her. I always tell her I love her and I sometimes tuck her in when she falls asleep on the couch.

Today was Wednesday, July 5th, 2002. It's been 4 years since Mari died, 32 days since I went outside after those 4 years, and 29 days since the hospital incident. Basil and I have made up, and we're close friends again. Or at least I'd consider him my close friend because, well, he's my second only friend. Kim visits her dad who (shockingly) lives in the same apartment as I do, so her and I sometimes talk.

Not as much as I talk to Basil, though. Basil is way cooler.

I walked to the kitchen carefully, making sure to not awaken the deeply asleep woman on my couch. I decided to make dinner, even though it was 7PM and by the time I'm done it'll be like... 7:30PM. I simply fried some spam, steamed some rice, and boiled a few eggs. I plated two dishes, one for myself and one for my mom (who probably would vomit it out.)

"Ma, dinners ready." I yelled, cupping my hands to spread it across the room. She groggily woke up and made her way to the kitchen. "Thank you sweetie, what would I do *hiccup* without you? I love you so much, dear." She slurred, ruffling my hair. She reeked of sweat and alcohol, and I hoped that she wouldn't get poisoning.

"...I love you too, mom." I lovingly said, as I placed her meal on the table and made my way to my room.

///

"Hey sunshine, you're finally out of that den of yours, huh? Mari and I have been making chicken katsu for dinner!" My mom called from across the room, I groaned in response, which resulted in Mari giggling.

She walked over to me, and handed me my plate. "You can't be lazy like this, Sunny! You're gonna grow unhealthy habits if you don't learn how to cook." Mari said.

"Maybe one day I can teach you how to make a few simple dishes, hm? Then you would cook for me when I'm wrinkly and old!" She chirped. Mari and mom smiled at me, not one of those fake in-genuine smiles that mom would do when she's drunk, a warm smile.

They sat on each side of me and we all ate our meals happily. The meal was warm, and comforting. It tasted perfect, and well-made. I must have been visibly pleased because my mom smiled at me. Mari did too. Why is everyone smiling at me? Whatever, the food is good and I zoned out while eating.

A lot of the time, the chair across from me would be filled in with Basil. He would come over to eat with us a lot, but recently, he's been taking care of his grandma more. That gave me an idea, and I quickly ate my food and rushed towards the door.

"I'll be back soon, mama!" I yelped before shutting the door.

While I made my way to Basil's, food in a basket for him and his grandmother, I tripped over a few stones which resulted in my knees bleeding by the time I was there. Luckily the food was okay, but Basil scolded me for it.

"Sunny? Hi! Wh- ARE YOU BLEEDING?!" He screeched, which usually would make me drop the basket and cover my ears. But this was a bit more normal for me, and some how, Basil's voice sounded soft even when he screamed in my ear.

"Hello, Sunny... what's in the basket dear?" Basil's grandmother gravelly said as she waddled towards the door. "Torikatsu? Wow... your mom made this?" She said, eyes widening while she peeked into the basket.

"I really a-appreciate it, Sunny! We were just g-gonna order pizza, this is nicer!" Basil smiled, which made my heart flutter a little. I lightly blushed and attempted to cover it by looking away, which received a chuckle.

"But seriously, be careful next time you d-douche-bag! I'm not forgetting about your knees." He said, grabbing a box of bandaids from a wooden drawer.

He carefully lifted my leg and I almost lost balance while standing on my left leg. He put 2 bandages on each knee and smiled. "There! A-all better." He cheered, beaming with a dorky smile that I loved.

"Thank you for the meal, Sunny. You should go home now though." Basil's grandmother said in a honey voice. "Goodnight, Sunny." "Goodnight Sunshine!" The two said at the same time as I waved goodbye.

Once I got home, Mari stood at the door angrily. "You can't run off like that, little brother! We thought you were running away or something!" She whisper shouted. She knows that loud noises hurt my ears, so she avoids doing so. She sighs, and continues on. "Let's go to sleep, okay Sunny?" She whispered to me, lowering down to my level.

///

I miss when my mom would make me home-cooked meals, but I guess it's okay. Times change. And cooking for her is usually enjoyable, always tolerable, at the least.

While I ate in my room, I quickly shot Basil a goodnight text.

Sunny: night bas, dont go to bed at like 4am even though it is summer vacation
Sunny: love you bro (no homo though)

Basil: goodnight but I swear if you say no homo one more time I'm driving over there and ripping your head off
Basil: I love you too (homo) (im probably gonna sleep at 6am jokes on you)

Sunny: <3

Basil: <3

Placing my phone down on the table beside me on the nightstand, I turned off my lamp and turned on the projector, which planted planets and pretty stars all over my room, making my stomach feel fuzzy and my head feel heavy.

As I slowly fell asleep, I thought. I let my last thoughts rush through my head, slam against the corners of my brain, and die out. That's actually kind of how my thinking process works, by the way. Slam against wall, evaporate, and then a new one comes in, one slower than the rest.

Sweet dreams, Basil

Chapter Text

I woke up to the incessant, displeasing noise of cars rushing through the roads and sirens filling my ears. My alarm clock repetitively beeped. Ehh! ehh! ehh! the annoying clock sounded. I should really change the ringtone, if I can... I don't know.

I rustled around in my bed before finally sitting up, instantly rolling over to my phone and checking it. Nothing. Expected, but still saddening.

Something unanticipatedly ran up my nose, the smell of pancakes. I don't even really like pancakes because of their shaky texture, but that truly shocked me to the core. I stood up quickly only to sit back down cause of the blood that rushed up to my head. Goddammit.

Oh, did I mention? Having low iron fucking sucks. And I have it. And autism, but that bothers me less than low iron most of the time. It's hard for me to run, I lose breath easily, I can't stand up properly, I hate it!

Anyways... sidetracked. I went as fast as I could towards the door and quickly fixed my hair before opening the door abruptly, to see my mom struggling while cooking pancakes. I could hear her mumbles, something about me being a show off at cooking? And that she doesn't have the skills?

My thought process was interrupted by the now honey-sounding voice of my mother. "Sunny! I'm cooking! After like... 3 years, I'm cooking! Isn't that amazing dear?" My mom sweetly said, waving her hands towards me.

"T-that's amazing, but do you remember how to cook? Let alone make pancakes, which you always sucked at-" "I did not suck! I was just, unprofessional. And who cares, it tasted... homely?" She unsurely said. I would say that unsurely as well if I was so bad at cooking.

I nodded and half-heartedly smiled at her. I want to show her I'm happy, even if I don't automatically smile when I am. I am happy though, I pinky promise!

I sat at the dinner table and waited for my mom to drop the stack of pancakes on my plate. She slabbed a piece of butter as I spread it across, cutting carefully into the soft sponge. Weird. I don't like it, but it's my mom. I gotta eat it for her.

I awkwardly chewed as I falsely smiled at her. Oh my god the texture is about to bite me later. She is so horrible at cooking I gotta vomit oh my god.

"Ma? I'm not really hungry, can we put this away?" I asked timidly. She nodded.

"Do you want me to throw it or keep it?" I signed "The former" to her, before quickly shaking my hands and head suddenly and mumbling "the former" again.

"I'm sorry that I never learnt ASL, dear. I just never got to it while trying to overcome this addiction." She said, disappointed in herself. I remember when she tried to learn, she got the alphabet done. She was so happy to finally sign my name, and I was happy too. She still remember my name in ASL, at least.

"It's okay." I quietly said.

Today was Thursday, July 6, 2002. The day Basil was going to come over. We're gonna watch my favourite tv show, and he's bringing my favourite snacks. Hopefully, if not I'll go pick em up once he gets here.

Basil is super sweet, by the way. Tooth-rotting, candy-like sweet. Me and him have been hanging out during summer and it's been great, especially when we can stay up as long as we can. Sometimes he has to leave early, which for some reason makes something in my ribs drop.

I really like him. I'm kinda obsessed, now that I think about it. I like seeing things that remind me of him, and I constantly spend money on things I think he'd like. I also own a ton of things that he gave me, usually being drawings or flowers.

I pulled out my phone for the next few awaiting texts from Basil.

Basil: Hey Sunny, am I still coming over tonight?
Basil: Does your mom know?

Sunny: yh u can come
Sunny: I didn't tell my mom but she would probably allow it
Sunny: probably....

Basil: Go tell her.

Sunny: fine 😒

"Hey ma?" I said in a slightly slurred tone. She turned her head to me and hummed a yes. "Can Basil come over? Pleeeeeaasseeeee?~" I convinced. "Ah, I didn't know you two were friends! Of course he can come over! Tell him that he is always welcome." My mom said.

It was nice to see her so familiar. I always knew she was my mom and stuff, but now she seems more caring. She's really doing better without alcohol.

"Thanks ma!" I cheered.

Sunny: I told you

Basil: She said yes?

Sunny: yes and that ur a lil shit and that u should also buy me gummies before u come
Sunny: please

Basil: I hate you
Basil: Yeah I'll go get some gummies, anything else?

Sunny: Flaming hot Cheetos

Basil: excuse me????? You eat that crap?

Sunny: u can't talk you eat tofu >:(

Basil: Tofu is better than spicy cheese formed into sticks

Sunny: tofu is wet, odourless cardboard

Basil: Cardboard is better than that... thing

Sunny: You're a disgrace to the Suzuki family

Basil: awwww, I'm apart of your family?
Basil: am I your brother?

Sunny: no.

Basil: AM I YOUR DAD?!

Sunny: NO.

Basil: Wtf am I then
Basil: The house itself?
Basil: The walls?
Basil: oh my god mega idea

Sunny: you would be my mom's son in law =)

Basil: I WOULD BE THE BASIL PLANT!
Basil: wait WHAT?

Sunny: lmaoo I'm joking dont worry lol

Basil: My GOD don't make jokes like that
Basil: I almost thought you were about to marry me

Sunny: yeah you'd probably enjoy that
Sunny: little queer guy

Basil: kys

Sunny: no u

Basil: Anyways I'm not getting you those Cheetos, what else you want?

Sunny: mmmm
Sunny: doritos

Basil: Finally, some good chips
Basil: The og??

Sunny: there's more than one flavour?

Basil: ...yeah?

Sunny: Like what
Sunny: What could there possibly be more of

Basil: relax bro I'll get you the og

Sunny: thanks pookie

Basil: Don't call me that

Sunny: sorry boo boo bear

Basil: I will poison you. With fertiliser.

Sunny: whatever u say baby gorilla
Sunny: GIRL

Basil: LOL what?!

Sunny: I MEANT GIRL

Basil: I prefer gorilla
Basil: I fit the criteria for a gorilla more

Sunny: the truth and only the truth

Basil: I'm gonna get on my way so I can be there by 1pm, that sound good?

Sunny: Alright
Sunny: See you soon baby gorilla

Basil: I want to strangle you
Basil: bye sunshine

I placed my phone face down, and then slammed my face down as well.

~~~

The idea of being Mrs. Suzuki's son in law KILLED me. Being Sunny's best friend even after what I've done? A happy ending. Being his husband? I will, quite literally, die from happiness. Unfortunately it was a joke, even though I wish it wasn't.

Sunny invited me over to have a sleepover. Would it still be called a sleepover even though we're older? Maybe not. So what would it be called? A stay over? That sounds weird. I'm sticking to sleepover.

I'm probably overthinking this. We're gonna be hanging out, watching "anime" as friends. Everything is fine. He probably does this with his other friends too, not just me! I'm not special, or privileged, or deserving...

NO! Don't think that way! Mrs. Matella said not too, she said to learn to appreciate yourself and the truth of life. Be positive, but true, Basil!

Anyways. I'm at the store now, and I realised that I haven't asked what type of gummies he wants. I'm not gonna message him first, though. I've been doing that way too much. I'm sure I can figure this out... he likes simple candies.

Maybe gummy worms? But then does he like sour or not? Fuzzy peaches? He doesn't like peach flavoured things. Gummy bears? I hate those... then what the fuck should I get him?!

My mind rushed with the idea of candy, and I ended up irrationally buying 6 separate bags of gummies. Well... he likes gummies so he can have all of them. I would buy him all the gummies in the world if I had the money, but I kinda don't, and am currently using my allowance.

Honestly, I do get a shit load of allowance money. 500 dollars every month. That's basically income money! I guess my parents just want to have some sort of connection to me, even if it's through money. I do appreciate though.

So yeah, if I want to, I will spend my 500 dollars on Sunny. Because so what?! It's my money!!

Annnyyywaysss.... We'll be watching Neon Genesis Evangelion, which I googled on and it's a Mecha anime about a group of teenagers who are brought together to control special robots, called Evangelions, Evas for short, to battle monsters known as Angels. Why are they called angels? I don't know.

All I know is I'm watching this with Sunny. Suzuki. Sunny Suzuki. My best friend, partner in crime, crush, childhood friend, and the person whose eye I removed. Yay!

I'm worried that Mrs. Suzuki won't be happy with me over. Too late now, I bought 6 packs of gummies and am now on my way towards his address. He lives in a 30 story condo building and he's on the 27th floor.

And wow, once I get there I finally realise how tall 328 feet is. 30 stories is tall, because I could tell I would die if I jumped from the balcony. Not saying I would jump on purpose, just... saying?

I called Sunny. Whoops. Just realised that the last time I called him instead of texted was 2 weeks ago, wow. Whatever. I'm hanging out with him now, isn't that enough?

"Hello? T-this is Sunny." He said in a heavenly, admirable voice.

"H-Hi! Hi Sunny, it's B-Basil. I'm downstairs!" I stuttered in my whiny, high voice. I hate my voice so much, but Sunny says he likes it, so I don't comment on it. Even if it's unbearable to hear my cracky voice overtake his angelic one.

"I'm coming down."

"O-okay." AAAAAAAAH! I HATE MY VOICE!

As I waited, people stared. Do they think I need help? I don't need help, I'm waiting for my best friend. Shut up. He appeared through the elevator door and sped walked towards me, as he quickly opened the door with his key fob and I slid inside.

Before I could say a word, he embraced me warmly and pressed his chin into my neck. I quickly understood and held him tightly back, waiting for him to let go. Although I never wanted him to let go. I could stay here for hours, if he wanted me too.

Sunny let go around a hot minute later. He held onto my hand though. Smiling preciously at me, as I stupidly stared back.

"Hi Basil, it's been awhile." He said. His single eye caught my attention, though. I haven't seen him in awhile, but he looked healthier, in a way. Less skinny, thicker hair, brighter smile, tanner skin. Overall nicer.

And more attractive.

...

shut up brain.

He had a sunflower on his eyepatch, which made me smile. "Hi. I bought 6 different types, each different brands, gummy packs." I said. He looked baffled, and rose an eyebrow to that information. He snatched the plastic bag and checked the snacks which I have spent 20 dollars on.

"...t-twenty dollars on gummies?" he started, pausing at the end.

"Worth it." He finished.

Yes! Approval! My favourite thing in the world. Especially approval from Sunny. So apparently the 6 packs on gummies were worth it, which is good, but still. Can he really eat all that sugar? Does he have like... a sugar addiction or something?

"I'm on the 27th floor."

"I know" I mumbled, which he chuckled at.

"Well, let's go then, ready?" He said, already dragging me alone by the wrist. My wrist hurt, but I don't care. Sunny is the one holding it so I am simply going to ignore the wounds that have probably opened up because of the sudden stress.

I winced slightly, which he seemed to slightly notice but ignore.

On the way up, there was a child with his mother. They were going to the 21st floor. The child looked at me funny, so I looked back. Sunny strangled a laugh and pressed his lips tightly together. He glanced at me as if trying to tell me to stop. What did I do??

The kid started to tear up. Oh my god, did I just stare a child into crying? Is he going to tell on me? Wait no, that's not the right phrase... is he gonna tattle-tail on me?! I was shocked, but the mom seemed to not notice the water that welled on the corners of his eyes.

And then the waterfalls came. Streams of long, wet marks came across his cheeks and Sunny could not hold in the laughter he held deep inside. Letting out a hearty laugh as I apologised to the mother, she simply sighed.

"It's okay, this kid cries all the time. He's a prissy, don't worry! Have a nice date, boys." She smiled, as she walked out. I flushed at the words and Sunny laughed.

"Why'd she think we're on a date?" I asked.

"We're still holding hands." He answered bluntly, as if it were obvious. Actually, that makes sense. Is it weird for teenagers to hold hands as just friends? I guess I never thought about that, especially cause we did it all the time when we were younger.

"And why did t-the little guy start crying? I didn't do anything!"

"Basil... you were death staring him." He answered. Actuallyyy, I was staring at him cause he stared at me. His fault not mine.

"n-not on purpose..." I muttered into my throat, as he laughed through his nose which made me lower my head further. That stupid laugh noise that made my heart flutter that made me want to jump off a cliff that made me want to cry was so annoying.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we got to our... HIS condo. I walked into the messy but aesthetic home. I could see a cat arched across the couch and I would've ran up to it if Sunny's mother didn't greet me.

"Basil! It's been so long, dear! How are you?" she welcomingly said.

"I-I'm d-doing good, t-thanks Mrs. S-Suzuki!" I stumbled across my words. In a stupid way, not the cute type by the way.

"That's good. Tell me if you boys need anything." Sunny groaned and dragged me into his bedroom, in a possessive way. That's fine, it was sorta cute in a way. Uh oh, I could definitely feel my scars sting now. Haha, that's not good!

"AND KEEP THE DOOR OPEN 3 INCHES, SUNNY WHITE SUZU-" Sunny White Suzuki slammed the door.

"...your middle name is white?" I stifled a laugh through the comment.

"Shut up." He quickly responded, chuckling childishly.

Sunny's room was splattered in colours, mainly because of his posters, but also because of a few large canvas with bright paint splattered across of it. One of the art pieces (or shall I say, masterpieces?) was a draft, and it looked a lot like... me.

I don't know if he meant to make it look like me, but he did. Blonde hair, flower crown, blue eyes, come on! That has to be me, right? I'm not gonna ask, though. That would be awkward, especially if it wasn't supposed to be me.

Glow in the dark stars scattered across the ceiling, each being a new shade of yellow. His television was placed on top of a tv stand, and he dropped on to a bean bag comfortably. I came over after I took off my socks and sat beside him.

"Mmmmh, I have a blanket if you want to be more comfy." He suggested.

"Yeah, sure." I accepted. He searched underneath the bed to find a regular, fluffy blanket, unlike the star designed one on his bed. He threw it on to me and grabbed one side, as I grabbed the other. It fit perfectly between us.

I leaned again his bean bag in attempt to get cozy, until he wrapped an arm around me and pulled me closer.

Oh my fucking god.

He was close. Really goddamn close. Like, about to cuddle and shit close. Oh my goodness. I need to think of something else. Anything else. SNACKS! Where are the snacks? Let me get the snacks.

"Where are t-the snacks?" I timidly asked, face red. He nodded his head towards a corner of the room and I stretched over to reach it. I grabbed the bag and threw it over, resulting in packaging arbitrated across the floor in front of us, which we quickly opened bags to snack upon.

~~~

Feel my wrath, you mortal Swedish berries. You shall perish under the roof of my mouth, and melt in the abyss of my stomach.

Your pain shall immense while I slowly chew you, letting you get pierced each stabbing moment. May my teeth rip your internal organs apart, leaving your remains across my tongue. Let my fingers strangle the breath out of you.

May you feel true, terrifying pain in your last moments of life.

The television played as Basil focused, eyes flashing between the subtitles and shapes and colours. I could tell he was most interested in Shinji, one of the main characters. I didn't have to read the captions because I understand and speak fluent Japanese (although I don't read as well).

The noises of guns blasting and people screeching filled the room. The twos arguments reminded me of Aubrey and Kel, a power duo if you ask me. Basil and I talked about this before. He says that Aubrey and Kim are better, while I think Aubrey and Kel would be more suited.

We had valid arguments, but I think the only reason we agreed to disagree was because we were siding with our friend. He's good friends with Aubrey, I'm good-ish friends with Kel. We're close enough for me to know he likes her.

I hope that he understands that she might not like him though. I'm pretty sure she's lesbian, but I don't really know or want to ask.

The first 19 episodes past and each one leaves Basil more shocked than the last. He kept reaching for the remote to play the next, but I pulled it away.

"Noooo... gimme!" He whined, in his sweet, honey-like voice.

"It's late Bas. 12:00am."

"I yawn... don't care! 'm not tired!" He sleepily said. His voice sounded like candy. Like gummies. Tasty gummies that are expensive, like 10 dollars per bag. That's real expensive, but it's worth it if we're talking about Basil.

"You're about to sleep. The next episode is too shocking for you to handle. You can watch tomorrow, Bas."

"...where do I... sleep?" He slurred, now fully leaning into me and nuzzling into my chest. Woahhh, if he doesn't stop doing that my stomach might pop out of my body. In a good way...? If there is a good way?

"Either in bed with me or on the carpet."

"mmm... bed. Sleep next to wall please. Wall comfy." The blond yawned once more. I stood up, and walked over to the bed waiting for him.

...

He didn't get up.

"Get up... we're going to bed now."

"Pick me up." EEH?! I CAN'T DO THAT! My limbs will fail me! I'll drop him! HE'LL DIE! "Basil, I can't do that! I'm too weak!" I whisper shouted.

"Waaaahhh... just try! Too tired to move..." He said, as my face plastered with red blush. I took a few breathers, walked around in circles, waited a long time for him to move, until I realised he could whine and pout like a baby all night.

"Fine! I'll try." I said in defeat. Okay. Let's do this.

I walked towards him and got ready to scoop him up, or attempt to. I crouched down to his level to meet face to face with a smiling toddler. He was too cute, sickeningly adorable. I inhaled deeply, until I realised he was relatively light.

I easily picked him up. Either I was super strong or he was as light as a feather. Basil chirped happily as I tucked him in and rested beside him. "You're super light, are you eating okay?" I asked worriedly.

"'m fine... you fine too hehe." He said, pinching my cheek pulling it outwards. This little shit is going to be the death of me. Although it is sweet, I am tired as fuck. I groaned loudly and slapped his hand playfully, which resulted in laughter.

He snuggled up close to my chest. HE SNUGGLED UP. OH MY GOD! He almost instantly fell asleep, too. How do I know? Because he was drooling on me and lightly snoring. I held him from the back and played with his hair.

Hey, tonight was a really good night, huh? I got to spend time with my favourite person with my hyper fixation on screen. That's kinda the best thing ever. And I also had my favourite snacks, too! Although I think the extra 5 packs was a bit much...

As I kept my hands over his shoulders, I thought about why he was my favourite person. To be honest, I don't know. Maybe because...

He's Basil.

Chapter Text

I couldn't sleep. Nope! Couldn't sleep at all. Especially not with this pretty boy's hair against my neck in a way where I want to peel my skin off, and how the blanket isn't covering me properly, and how... oh my god I forgot to take off my socks. I guess I'm sleeping with socks on... wow.

I kinda just... stayed there. Conscious. Unmoving, and still. The boy breathed slowly on me but I gasped quickly. The AC made a familiar humming noise that just seemed to bother me even more, and right now I wished I could disappear.

I also just realised how cold it is in here. I'm gonna freeze in here alone. Except for Basil, so technically I will die with the best person alive.

Dying is a really weird concept. There's so much that could happen in our aftermath, that we will never know of in our lifetime. We could go to heaven, or we could become spirits, or we could simply... perish. Not live. Unaliven. Die.

Death could be a comforting void. I like that idea, an empty, infinite, everlasting darkness that hugs us warmly as we sleep peacefully. Maybe it's like dreaming, right? You completely forget about the dream itself, but you know it happened.

I wonder if Basil believes in reincarnation, that seems like a Basil thing to believe in. I looked over to Basil. His hair looked minty grey in the dark, although the stars slightly brighten him up.

His eyelashes are softly pressed against his skin, as his rosy cheeks sit on the pillow comfortably. And his hair was messy. Really messy. His blond, thick hair splotched across the bed unorganisedly and I giggled at the appearance.

Man, I don't even know where I got to the point of admiring my homie. Why am I counting his freckles? Why he so pretty? Why does life have to bless me with this angel from god himself?

I glanced over the clock that moved suddenly in time. When did it become 6AM? And is my mom ALREADY awake? I listened to the pats she left when she stepped, the humming she made while walking down the hallway.

Now the question is, should I move from this comfortable, cozy mess? Or should I stay and hold onto Basil until he awakens?

...

Stay.

~~~

I woke up to Sunny petting my hair lovingly, and honestly usually I would love that, but that scared the SHIT out of me at that moment. I quickly began trembling and he stopped.

"Basil?" He groggily whispered. I looked up at his doe, dark brown eyes. Sorry, eye. His hair covered his scar, but you could still ever so slightly notice it. his head shaded me from the light of his lamp.

"morning..." I mumbled. Was I drooling on him? Oh my god, that's embarrassing. I looked over to the clock. 9AM. I usually wake up earlier than that... hopefully Sunny isn't leaving bad reputation on me. I would like to continue being a morning bird.

He smiled warmly in response to my voice, which personally confused me. Why you smiling bro? My voice sounds like Dobby from Harry Potter.

I sat up lazily. Goddamn my posture is horrible, when did it even get this bad? I could smell one thing, though. Bread. One of the best foods in this world, also known as delicious crispy goodness. I like mine golden brown, but Sunny likes his practically burnt.

///

Sunny invited me over to have breakfast with him. And his family, of course. It was sweet of him to do so, but I told him that I had to take care of my grandma.

She forced me to go.

Once I got there, the smell of toast and other ingredients filled the room. The smell of honey, chocolate, banana (ew), egg, and faint avocado dragged me into the kitchen quickly. All three of them were packing their piece of bread with toppings.

"Basil! It's so nice to see you! I didn't know you were coming over, we didn't toast any bread for you. You can do so now if you want!" Mari chirped as she waved her hand.

"T-thanks... sorry f-for coming so a-abruptly." I said politely. Sunny's mother just nodded and smiled while slathering her, almost plain, bread with chocolate and banana. Mari's held honey, chocolate, and powdered sugar, which honestly looked amazing. I couldn't see Sunny's because Mari was blocking it.

I moved to the toaster and warmed my bread, it dinged loudly that rang in my ears, but I grabbed the piece of toast none the less.

Sunny motioned for me to come over to him, and so I did. Stepping on my tippy toes carefully, (which by the way isn't to be quiet, it's just because I want to) I looked over Sunny's shoulder to see him shape his egg into a cat.

How the actual fuck did he do that? And why did he put so much detail into it? Is he trying to show it off to me?

But that wasn't the only thing I noticed, his toast was practically burnt. Extremely brown, and smelt like fire. Holy crap. His mom and him are practically opposites when it comes to toast, his being dark and hers being light.

"Why is it so black..." I mumbled beside him.

"...racist..." He mumbled back snarkily... wow. That was a mean one.

"I-... never mind. It looks cute, can you do that with avocado?" I asked, showing my (normal, and not burnt) piece of toast. He nodded with an almost completely emotionless face, but I could see the slight bit of pride.

'Proud of what?' you may ask, and there is two answers to that question. 1) He's proud of his joke, which no-one laughed at. Maybe he liked my response? or 2) He's happy that he can make the cat toast again, and for me as well.

"Thanks, Sunny." I smiled, as he faintly blushed while decorating my toast. Why did he blush? Now I can't answer that, but I can say that it was funny enough for me to laugh at his reaction which he responded in an even bright red appearing on his face.

He giggled back and Mari rose an eyebrow at him. He swatted her face away from him. The cat that he did for me was much better than the one he did for himself. More effort, I would say.

"No fair! He made you a cat toast but not me? You're beloved sister doesn't get a cat toast but little Basil here does?" She crouched down to Sunny.

"Maarrriiii... stop!" He whined as she poked his cheek lovingly. Haha. I'm the only other person who gets a cat toast. Nice.

"I-I'm proud to b-be the second person t-to own a cat t-toast!" I joked, as Mari pouted and Sunny smiled.

"I'm the first." Sunny said.

"I'm the third!" Mari said, biting into Sunny's gross piece of toast. "Blehh! How do you like your toast like this, little brother? It tastes like wood!" She complained. " 's good." He replied, biting into it out of her hands. I finally started eating mine and it tasted good.

I kept thinking that it looked too cute to eat, but now I can finally bite it and it tastes amazing. I'm just a little confused why he didn't give Mari a cat toast, but he did for me.

///

I wonder if he'll let me have more of those cat toast... I also wonder if he still knows how to make cat toast. It's been so long since I've even thought about that.

Sunny scooped me up and carried me to the kitchen, before dropping me unexpectedly and running over to the counter.

"FUCKING B-" Oops. Sunny's mom is here. You can't swear, you dumbass.

They turned their heads to look over at me, and Sunny quickly picked me up and placed me more gently. He apologetically smiled and pointed towards the kitchen, which resulted in me looking.

Woahh... I have no fucking idea what that is!

"My mom's making Gyeran-ppang, basically sweet bread with egg inside it." Sunny said, basically reading my mind. Okay, that sounds pretty damn good. I nodded.

"Sounds good. Is it ready yet?" I asked, he nodded. The fluffy, pancake like bread smelt amazing up close.

He grabbed a piece and leaned over to eat it. "Hot hot hot!" He yelped. Me and his mom laughed, hers more abrupt than mine. She picked up a piece and gave it to me. "Eat it slower than Sunny, it's better when you take your time."

I held it in my hand for a little, before taking a small bite than was followed by many more munchs. It tastes good. Like heavenly goodness, of sweet and savoury mixed together into a lovely soft meal.

I don't know what i did to make her laugh, but she did. "You're just like you've always been, such a sweetheart, and so polite!" She ruffled my hair and pinched my cheek. This is humiliating.

Sunny stuck his tongue out at me and continued to eat. I'm gonna beat his snarky pretty ass. That little shit will suffocate under my hands.

"Sunny, when does Basil here have to leave?" His mother asked, Sunny shrugged, and she looked back at me. I don't like home. I live by myself, and no one really visits, not even Aubrey. I wish I could move in. "What time do your parents want you home?"

"Well I... I live alone miss. I do-"

"は？嘘じゃないよ？彼は本当に一人暮らしですか？" She said. (Eh? Seriously? Does he really live alone?)

"はい、ナンデ？" Sunny says. Am I being excluded? Are they talking about me? (Yes, why?)

"彼は若すぎるよ！彼を引っ越しさせる。" (He's too young! Make him move in.)

Sunny looks shocked. I'm still out of this Japanese conversation and completely confused. The two of them now share an eye arguement, until Sunny ends in defeat and looked over to me.

"Do you wanna stay over a few nights...?" He lazily said, before his mom hits the back of his head and he smiles. His grin twitches as he practically pleads for me to say yes.

"Y-yeah, but it's okay! I don't want to be a bother..." He cups his hand over my ear and whispers "My mom wants you to stay over this summer... so she doesnt mean a few days... she means a month."

...What?

His mom wants me to move in? Why? Has she been planning this? Why would she do this? What the heck?

This is so random. I can't even tell if he's joking or not. Why is she looking at me like that? Am I supposed to respond?

"...o-okay... I-I'll stay f-for a bit." I smiled. What the snickerdoodle?

Sunny smiles. "Mom, should he stay in my room or get the guest room?" "Your room would be better. Make him feel welcome!" She smiled and walked out the door. "I'll be back soon. じゃあね!" His mom yelled through the door.

"...am I moving in?"

...

"Yeah."