Archive of Our Own

Welcome to Faraway Town."

Words the couple hadn't seen in fifteen years.

Sunny let out a quiet sigh as he tightened his grip on the steering wheel. He was nervous. Sitting beside him, his girlfriend Aubrey stared silently out the passenger-side window. In fact, she'd barely spoken throughout the entire drive. That alone was unusual for the two of them. Normally, a road trip meant hours of conversation, sharing thoughts, expectations, and stories. But this trip was different. It was the first time either of them had returned to Faraway Town since they had run away.

Their story had begun fifteen years earlier. Back then, Sunny and his older sister Mari lived a happy life alongside their friends. By anyone's standards, Sunny had what most people would call an ideal childhood. But, of course, every perfect life hides its own problems. Mari had always possessed an extraordinary talent for the piano, so much so that their parents had invested in a grand piano for her. She practiced almost every day, leaving her with very little free time. Sunny missed spending time with her, though he never admitted it openly to anyone...

Except Aubrey.

Sunny and Aubrey shared a tradition of their own. Whenever Aubrey felt overwhelmed by the problems waiting for her at home, Sunny would always be there to listen. Over the years, the swings in the park had become almost sacred to them. One afternoon, while Aubrey was venting as usual, she noticed something different about the boy quietly listening beside her.

—Sunny... are you okay?

—Yeah. Why do you ask?

—You seem... really down today. If something's bothering you, you can tell me.

—I... Alright...

Sunny confessed how much he missed spending time with Mari and how deeply it saddened him that she was always practicing. Aubrey listened quietly, doing her best to comfort him, but she knew words alone weren't enough. So she decided to speak with Mari herself. Once Mari learned how Sunny truly felt, she immediately came up with an idea. Christmas was just around the corner, and if everyone saved enough money together, they could buy Sunny a violin as a gift from the whole group.

Sunny was overjoyed when he received the violin, completely unaware that it would mark the beginning of the hardest period of his life. His lessons were incredibly demanding, leaving him mentally exhausted every single day. His relief was short-lived when Mari announced they would begin rehearsing together for the recital. The shouting, the insults, and the overwhelming pressure became unbearable. Day after day, the fear of disappointing everyone slowly consumed him. His hands burned from endless practice, a painful reflection of the state his mind had fallen into.

One afternoon, Aubrey happened to be walking through the park. She hadn't seen Sunny in quite some time; rehearsals occupied nearly every hour of his day. Now she understood how lonely he must have felt all those years watching Mari devote herself to the piano. Then something caught her attention. Sunny was heading toward the lake. Seeing an opportunity to spend time with him, she quietly followed.

When she reached the pier, she found him sitting at the edge, staring silently at the water.

—Sunny? What are you doing here?

—Huh...? N-Nothing.—he answered, startled, quickly hiding his hands behind his back.—I just came here to rest.

—I see. So... how are the recital rehearsals going?

...

—Sunny? Did you hear me?

—Yeah... They're going fine.

—Sunny...—Aubrey said as she sat down beside him.—Please... I know something's wrong. Just trust me.

She watched his shoulders begin to tremble. It was obvious he was struggling with himself.

—O-Okay... I'll tell you. It's about the recital... and Mari.

...

—I don't want to do it anymore. Mari's incredible at playing the piano... and I'm nowhere near her level. I keep making mistakes during rehearsal, and every time I do, she gets angry. She tells me I'm worthless... that I'll disappoint everyone if I ruin the recital.—The quiet sound of tears falling into the lake accompanied his confession.—I don't want to disappoint you... or anyone else. Please... forgive me.

Aubrey stared at him in disbelief.

—Forgive you? Sunny... you haven't done anything wrong. I don't care if the recital doesn't go perfectly. I don't care if you make mistakes. None of that is ever going to change our friendship.

Sunny lowered his head as quiet sobs escaped him.

—Th-Thank you... Thank you...

He hugged himself tightly, trying to hold himself together. Aubrey noticed immediately. Without saying another word, she moved closer and gave him something so simple, yet something he'd desperately needed all along.

A genuine hug.

Sunny hesitated for a moment, wondering if he truly deserved such kindness. But if Aubrey was still willing to stay by his side, then perhaps there was something in him worth believing in. Slowly, he wrapped his trembling arms around her.

—I don't want to go back... I don't want to...

Hearing those desperate words shattered Aubrey's heart. It was the very same sentence she had whispered to herself countless times.

—I know.—She gently stroked his hair.—I understand exactly how you feel. I'm here.

Sunny held her even tighter, as though silently begging her not to let go.

Aubrey found herself at a loss. She had no idea what she was supposed to do. She wasn't prepared for a situation like this, and Mari—the person who normally would have known how to help—had unknowingly become the cause of it all. For the first time, it felt like it was just the two of them against the World. 

Once Sunny had finally calmed down, the two of them remained seated on the pier, letting the water brush against their feet.

—I'll be honest, Sunny... I don't really know what to do.—Aubrey admitted after a long silence.—I'm trying to think of something, but... do your parents know about this?

—They do. They trust Mari completely. They'd never believe me.

Aubrey was about to ask what kind of parents wouldn't believe their own son, but the thought died in her throat as she remembered her own parents. She understood all too well.

—The others wouldn't dare question Mari, either.

—What? Why?

—Because I don't think they'd believe Mari could ever do something like this.

Sunny lowered his gaze toward the water again.

—Then... what do we do?

Aubrey remained silent for several moments before finally speaking.

—...You know... a long time ago, I actually thought of a way to... get away from my own problems.

Sunny looked at her in confusion.

—Huh? What do you mean?

Aubrey let out a long sigh.

—I thought about running away from home once. I never did it because I was afraid you guys would come looking for me... and because I was terrified of being out there alone. But now... I'd have you with me. We could start over somewhere else.

She slowly extended her hand toward him.

—Together.

Sunny stared at her hand before gently taking it.

—Together... But... when?

—How about tomorrow morning? It's Sunday. You don't have rehearsal with Mari.

Sunny hesitated.

...

—Alright.

We'll leave tomorrow.

He glanced at his watch.

He should have been home already.

Startled, he quickly stood up and slung his backpack over his shoulder.

—I'll meet you here tomorrow.

—Alright... See you tomorrow—

She was interrupted as Sunny suddenly wrapped his arms around her.

The unexpected embrace caught Aubrey completely off guard. She slowly returned it, feeling how tightly he clung to her.

When they finally pulled apart, Sunny felt as though an icy wind had passed straight through him.

He only had to endure one more day.

Yet something deep inside kept whispering that perhaps...

This wasn't the right answer.

---

Once rehearsal had finally ended, Sunny collapsed onto his bed. He was exhausted. His fingers still burned from practicing, and no matter how hard he tried, sleep refused to come.

He stared at the dark ceiling.

*Is this really the only way?* a voice inside his mind asked.

—I don't know.—He answered himself quietly.—But... maybe I can start a new life with Aubrey... with the person I love.

*Would you really do this to Mari?*

*Your sister?*

—I think... she'd be better off without me. I'm only a burden to her.

*And what about Kel? Hero? Basil?*

—They'll be alright.

They still have Mari.

*Won't you miss them?*

—Of course I will...

But I'll have Aubrey.

She'll stay with me.

Sunny turned his head toward the other bed.

Mari was fast asleep.

A sharp pang of guilt pierced his chest as he watched her breathe peacefully.

He refused to admit it.

Not now.

He wouldn't be able to admit it for many years.

---

Sunny woke before dawn.

After making sure Mari was still asleep, he quietly slipped out of bed and crept toward the bedroom door, every movement filled with the fear of being discovered.

As he descended the stairs, each creak beneath his feet sent a rush of adrenaline through his body.

Once inside the kitchen, he gathered everything that might help them survive for a few days and carefully packed it into his backpack. He knew Aubrey barely had any food at home, so he packed enough for both of them.

Next came his savings.

Fortunately, they were all bills, making them easier to carry.

He stuffed the money into his pockets before carefully stepping outside to hide his backpack near the front door.

When he returned inside, the first rays of sunlight were already beginning to shine through the windows.

He hurried back upstairs.

Just as he was about to climb into bed again, he heard a sleepy yawn.

—Sunny...?

He froze.

—You're up early.

—Uh... y-yeah.

Mari smiled drowsily.

—Still as shy as ever. It's Sunday, you know. You should sleep in a little longer. Besides, Mom and Dad aren't home today.

—I can't... I'm fully awake now.

—I see...

She stretched before letting out another yawn.

—So... do you have plans today?

—Huh?

Mari smiled knowingly.

—I'm your sister. I know you well enough to say you've never gotten up this early on a Sunday without a reason.

Sunny instinctively looked away.

—Actually... Aubrey's waiting for me at the park.

Mari's sleepy smile slowly turned into a teasing grin.

—I see...

Is this a date?

—N-No!

We j-just—

His face grew so red that he could barely form a sentence.

Mari couldn't help laughing.

—Relax, I was just teasing you. Though... one day you really should tell her how you feel.

—I...

—Don't answer.

I already know you're terrified she'll reject you.

But I also know the two of you are wonderful friends, and even if she says no, that won't ruin what you have. You'll never know unless you try.

It's not nearly as scary as you think.

Remember?

Sunny quietly nodded.

Guilt tightened around his chest.

Thankfully, the blush covering his face kept Mari from noticing.

—I think I'm going back to sleep.—She yawned once more as she pulled the blanket over herself.—Don't worry about coming home early. Just enjoy your "date" with Aubrey.

...

I love you, little brother.

—I love you too...

Sunny whispered the words so softly that he wasn't sure whether she'd heard them.

He hoped she Had. 

Sunny hurried downstairs, grabbed the backpack he had hidden outside, and ran toward the park without daring to look back.

When he reached the lake, he spotted Aubrey sitting gracefully at the edge of the pier.

—Aubrey!

She turned sharply at the sound of his voice.

—Sunny! You came!

She hurried over to him, her backpack bouncing against her shoulder with every step.

—A-Are you ready?

—Hm? What's wrong? What's...?

She reached toward his face and gently wiped away a single tear that had rolled down his left cheek.

—Oh...

She smiled softly.

—I know this is painful... but I want you to know something. It doesn't matter what Mari said about you. To me, you're perfect just the way you are.

Sunny lowered his head, trying to keep himself composed.

—...Thank you.

Thank you... really.

—You're welcome.—Her eyes drifted toward his backpack.—So, what did you bring?

—Just the essentials. Food... some clothes. What about you?

Aubrey scratched the back of her head awkwardly before opening her backpack.

—Well... I brought pretty much everything I own.

Inside were only a few changes of clothes...

...and Mr. Plantegg.

Sunny couldn't help smiling.

—Don't worry. I understand. Think of it this way... starting today, we're both in the same situation.

Aubrey let out a small laugh.

—Heh... I guess you're right.

She turned toward the lake, watching the morning sunlight shimmer across its surface.

—So... where are we going?

Sunny thought for a moment before pointing toward the horizon.

—Nearby City is that way... where the sun rises.

—Then let's go there.

Sunny shook his head.

—I don't think we should.

—Why not?

—It's too close to Faraway. It'll probably be the first place they look for us.

Aubrey nodded slowly.

—Then... where do you want to go?

—Nowhere City.

She blinked.

—Nowhere City... I've heard it's really far away.

—It is.

Which is exactly why they won't think to look for us there.

Aubrey studied him for a few seconds before smiling faintly.

...

—I trust you.

Lead the way.

And so, the journey of two frightened children toward an unfamiliar and unforgiving future began.

---

More than half a day had passed before they finally reached Nearby City.

Sunny had visited the city a couple of times before, but for Aubrey, everything was new.

The first thing they did was search for somewhere inexpensive to eat. After wandering through the streets for a while, they managed to find a small restaurant they could actually afford.

As they ate, Aubrey looked up from her plate.

—Sunny... how long do you think it'll take us to get there?

Sunny hesitated.

—Um...

I don't want to worry you, but...

We'll probably get there sometime tomorrow.

Aubrey nearly choked.

—W-What!?

She immediately lowered her voice so the people around them wouldn't hear.

—B-But... where are we supposed to sleep?

Sunny looked toward the window.

—Maybe... in the woods.

I guess we'll have to get used to sleeping outside now that we don't have a home anymore.

Aubrey stared silently at her food.

...

—Right...

Do you regret it?

Sunny answered without hesitation.

—No.

I don't want to go back any more than you do.

Aubrey smiled sadly.

—Yeah...

That's true.

Still...

I'm scared of what might happen to us out there.

Sunny reached across the table and gently took her hand.

—I know I've said this a lot already...

But we're together.

That has to mean something...

Right?

Aubrey squeezed his hand.

...

—It means everything to me.

---

The two of them continued following the highway leading away from Nearby City.

Just as Sunny had expected, the trip was much longer than either of them had imagined.

By nightfall, they had no choice but to stop in a secluded part of the forest, hidden from the view of passing cars.

Although it was summer, sleeping outdoors with nothing but a single blanket did little to keep the cold away.

At first, they lay back-to-back, trying to give each other what little space they could.

But sometime during the night, instinct took over.

The need for warmth...

Not just physical warmth...

Drew them together.

When morning came, they woke almost simultaneously.

Still half-asleep, each tried to shift into a more comfortable position.

Only then did they realize...

They were wrapped tightly in each other's arms.

Their eyes shot open at the same moment.

They stared at one another, their faces instantly turning bright red.

Without saying a word, they quickly pulled apart and turned their backs to each other.

Neither of them dared mention what had happened.

Once they had calmed down, they quietly returned to the road and resumed their journey as though nothing had happened.

---

Several hours later, they finally arrived in Nowhere City.

It couldn't have been more different from Nearby City.

The streets were crowded with people, towering buildings loomed overhead, and the entire city carried a cold, hostile atmosphere.

Neither Sunny nor Aubrey thought it looked like a place where children should be living.

But fate decided to give them a chance.

One morning, after spending two days without eating, the pair was found sleeping in an alleyway by two strangers.

They asked the children what had happened.

By that point, Sunny and Aubrey no longer cared whether they were sent back to Faraway or not.

So...

They told them everything.

To their surprise, the strangers didn't call the police.

Instead, they smiled sadly.

They confessed that they, too, had run away from home when they were young.

Then they offered the children a place to stay their names were Abbi and Hiko.

At first, Sunny and Aubrey kept their distance from them. After all, neither of them trusted adults very much. That slowly changed with time. They also discovered that the couple had experience with music, something that made Sunny visibly uncomfortable. He asked Aubrey never to mention his past with the violin.

Aubrey began to take an interest in music and asked them to teach her how to play the flute. It was the instrument she chose, something that surprised Sunny, who knew her fiery personality all too well.

One night, while Abbi and Hiko were out, Sunny watched Aubrey practicing her flute. He always found himself mesmerized whenever she played. That night, Aubrey noticed him staring. She stopped playing, made sure she had his attention, then silently glanced toward Hiko's violin.

Sunny immediately understood what she was asking.

It felt as though Aubrey were pleading with him without saying a word.

In the end, he gave in.

He picked up the violin along with the sheet music and began to play.

Sunny was extremely nervous about his performance. Halfway through the melody, he missed a note. He braced himself for criticism...

Instead, he received something else.

The gentle sound of Aubrey's flute joined his violin, perfectly complementing the melody.

When the piece came to an end, they looked at each other.

Aubrey smiled.

Her expression seemed to say only one thing.

*I'm proud of you.*

Sunny answered with a smile of his own, one born from genuine happiness—a feeling he hadn't experienced in a very long time.

The moment was interrupted by a pair of applauding hands.

Abbi and Hiko had witnessed everything.

Sunny finally confessed the truth about what he had gone through with the violin. Both of them listened with understanding. They assured him that he never had to play the violin again if he didn't want to.

But...

Something inside Sunny wanted to play again.

Not because he needed to prove his worth to anyone.

He simply wanted to support Aubrey.

From that day onward, the two children began performing together on the streets to earn money. Little by little, they built both their savings and their reputation throughout the city.

Eventually, they heard about a local music competition where musicians from across the city would perform.

Aubrey already knew Sunny would refuse if she pushed him.

So instead, she calmly asked for his help.

Despite everything the recital still reminded him of, Sunny agreed.

The day of the competition finally arrived.

Together, they gave everything they had.

When they finished, silence filled the venue.

Sunny feared the worst.

Then...

One person applauded.

Then three.

And before long, the entire audience was on its feet.

As soon as they stepped backstage, Sunny wrapped Aubrey in a tight embrace and broke down crying against her shoulder.

It felt as though an enormous weight had finally been lifted from his back.

Aubrey felt the same.

With Sunny by her side, she finally had someone who loved her simply for who she was.

For the first time in her life...

She truly felt like she had a family.

—I love you, Aubrey.

Those words were all it took for her to burst into tears alongside him.

From that moment on, life only got better for the two of them.

People throughout the city now knew who they were, and offers for performances quickly began to arrive.

Together, they created a public image through their stage personas. They adopted a more elegant appearance, wearing formal suits and dyeing their hair silver.

They also became much more reserved in public.

Only in private did they remain their true selves.

In fact...

They were happier than ever now that they were together.

That's how they lived for the next fifteen years.

They performed in competitions, restaurants, and clubs.

They had always dreamed of aiming even higher, but with only a basic education obtained through private tutoring—and without being able to use their real identities to enroll in a university—they knew their options were limited.

Still...

It never truly bothered them.

They were happy with the life they had built together.

The money they had earned allowed them to buy an apartment in a middle-class neighborhood of the city.

They also remained close to Abbi and Hiko, supporting them whenever they could.

After all...

They were the reason Sunny and Aubrey ha d the life they enjoyed today.

More than that...

They had become the parental figures neither of them had ever truly had

However...

One night, Sunny couldn't sleep.

He lay staring at the ceiling, lost in thought.

He had finally come face to face with reality.

He was twenty-seven years old.

He had now spent more years living in this city than he ever had in Faraway Town.

Even so, he still found himself wondering how Mari was doing...

How his parents were...

How his friends were.

—Hey, Sunny.—Aubrey said as she noticed him staring at the ceiling with a melancholic look.

—Yeah?—he replied, lifting his gaze to see his girlfriend walking out of the bathroom in her pajamas.

—Are you okay?

—Yeah.—He answered curtly.

Aubrey frowned.

—Don't lie to me. You've looked worried for days now. At first I thought it would pass, but every day you seem more... melancholic.

Sunny felt cornered.

He simply looked away in silence.

—Don't ignore me.—The irritation in her voice continued to grow.—Look at me, Sunny.—she demanded.

He still refused.

—What is bothering you so much that you can't even tell me? And don't you dare tell me it's nothing. I know you far too well to fall for that. Besides, don't think I haven't noticed that whenever you think I'm not looking... you get that exact same expression.

Once again...

Silence.

—Please... talk to me.

Sunny still wouldn't answer.

Suddenly, Aubrey grabbed him by the shoulders and forced him to look into her eyes.

—Tell me! What could possibly be so serious that you won't tell me!? What could possibly be so bad that you can't even come up with one of your ridiculous excuses!?

Sunny stared at her in shock.

He had heard her yell at other people before...

But never at him.

Never with so much anger.

—D-Don't tell me...—Her voice cracked as tears began to form.—You're... seeing another woman.

A jolt of panic shot through Sunny.

—No! I'd never do that! I... I...

He struggled to get the words out.

—I'm sorry, Aubrey... It's not that. I never wanted you to think something like that. It's just... this is a sensitive subject for both of us.

Aubrey already knew exactly what he meant.

Even so...

She raised an eyebrow, pretending she didn't.

—Lately... I've been thinking about how we've spent more time living here than we ever did in...

A knot formed in his throat before he could say the name.

—Faraway.—Aubrey finished softly.—Is that what's been weighing on you so much... my little ray of sunshine?

Sunny nodded quietly.

Aubrey couldn't help smiling.

She let go of his shoulders and gently cupped his face with both hands before leaning in to kiss him.

It was a long, tender kiss.

An apology without words.

When they finally pulled apart, they looked into each other's eyes.

—If I'm being honest... I've been wondering about them too. I... miss them. And it's obvious you do too.

Sunny lowered his gaze.

—You're right... That's exactly it. I miss them... and I feel guilty for leaving them behind.

—Hey... I know I probably made this topic feel like it was off-limits, but it isn't. I think we're way past the age where I'd throw a tantrum every time it came up. We're adults now...

She paused.

—When you really think about it... fifteen years is practically a lifetime. Long enough for people to have more children... and replace us.

—W-What!? What do you mean by that!?

—...Sorry. I'm rambling. Ignore me.—She lay back down beside him.—Hey... we don't have any performances tomorrow.

—You mean...

—Yeah. We can go back to Faraway Town... and apologize for running away.

—I don't want to force you to go back and face Mari... and everyone else.

—Stop making excuses.—She lightly punched his shoulder.—Sometimes you're such a stubborn idiot. You know what? I was the one who got you out of there, and I'm going to be the one who takes you back. I don't care if I have to keep you awake all night—you *are* going to say yes. Got it?

She waited for an answer.

Nothing.

—You've got to be kidding me... You're not going to get out of this by pretending to be asleep.

She sighed.

—You're really starting to annoy me. I swear, if you're faking it, I'll dump a bucket of water on you.

She crawled closer and whispered into his ear.

—You know I'm actually capable of doing it...

Still no answer.

—Fine. Get ready.

—Alright, alright... I was pretending. Geez... sometimes you scare me...

He smiled sheepishly.

—I kind of like that.

Aubrey grinned.

—I love you too. Then it's settled! We're leaving tomorrow. Come on, help me pack.

She jumped out of bed.

—But... I never said yes.

—You said "alright" twice. That's good enough. You agreed whether you like it or not.

Sunny let out a dramatic sigh.

—It's impossible to argue with you... I'll help.

He climbed out of bed and followed her.

Together they packed food into a backpack.

Even as he did, Sunny remained buried in fearful thoughts.

Then something interrupted him.

Something warm.

A hand.

Aubrey gently caressed his cheek.

To Sunny...

Aubrey was everything he had ever wished for.

*"I could spend the rest of my life with only her. I don't need anything else."*

The thought made him feel guilty.

—I know you're scared... and I know you're trying to hide it. I just want you to know one thing.

She rested her forehead against his.

—I'll be with you tomorrow.

She smiled warmly.

—And forever.

—I know.

Sunny smiled Back.

—Thank you

And that brings us to the present, with Sunny and Aubrey arriving in Faraway Town after fifteen years.

—Park over there.—Aubrey ordered.

Once they got out of the car, the couple stood silently, taking in the town square. Hardly anything had changed.

—Should we go to the lake?—Sunny asked.

—I guess...

—Nervous?

—Of course I am! What did you expect?

—Well... I guess I'm nervous too. I don't even know how we're supposed to approach everyone without completely shocking them... Do you think they'll recognize us?

—I don't know. We haven't changed that much over fifteen years... but we don't look exactly the same either.

—Well, we dyed our hair back to its natural color. That should help.

—I hope so...—Aubrey murmured, staring at the swings. They were rusty now, their paint faded by time.

—When we come back, we can sit there for a while.—Sunny said, taking Aubrey's hand.

As they reached the lake, a wave of nostalgia washed over them. The place where everything had begun welcomed them once again with a cool breeze. Together they walked toward the dock in silence, staring into the water and realizing just how much time had passed... and how much they themselves had changed.

—How long has it been since we've seen each other without our silver hair?—Aubrey asked.

—I think... since that party in Somewhere City last year. The one where everything got completely out of hand.

—Yeah... I remember it. Well... I mostly remember the hangover.—she laughed.

—Heh... Your natural brown hair really suits you.

—Thanks. I like your natural hair color better too. Besides, it's so much softer without all those hair products.

—Maybe I'll keep it this way... but only if you do too. Deal?

—Deal.

A few minutes later, the two of them were sitting on the swings.

—...

—Do you regret it, Sunny?

—...I regret running away from my problems.—Aubrey lowered her gaze.—But I don't regret our relationship... or everything we accomplished together. I only regret being too much of a coward to come back sooner.

—I guess it's finally time to face what we've done... Where do we start?

—Should we go to your house?

—Bah... I doubt my parents missed me.

—I think it'd be better if we went to mine.

The walk toward Sunny's old house felt like every step unearthed another memory filled with conflicting emotions. Eventually they found themselves standing before the front door.

All they had to do was knock.

A long silence followed before Sunny finally raised his hand.

—I’m coming! Who is it?

—Mari...—Sunny answered, his voice trembling.

The doorknob turned with a quiet creak.

The door slowly opened.

Mari stood before them.

She looked almost exactly as they remembered.

—No way... Sunny? Aubrey?—she asked in disbelief. They looked different, but their most recognizable features hadn't changed.

—It's... really us...—Sunny couldn't find any more words.

—Mari, we're so sor—

Before Aubrey could finish, Mari threw her arms around both of them, sobbing uncontrollably.

—It doesn't matter... Please... come inside.

Sunny barely recognized the living room.

It had completely changed.

—Henry! Come here! You're never going to believe this!

Hero walked into the room, a mug of coffee still in his hand.

—What's wrong, Mari?... Are they...?

—Yes! It's them!

—But... how?

—I don't know. But I'm sure they'll tell us, right?

—Yeah...

—Go ahead and sit on the couch. We'll be right back.

Sunny and Aubrey quietly obeyed while Mari and Hero disappeared into the kitchen.

Sunny could hear his sister crying.

He could hear Hero comforting her.

His body immediately tensed.

He began to tremble.

Aubrey noticed.

Without saying a word, she took his hand and gently stroked it with her thumb.

She was just as nervous as he was.

She feared Mari and Hero's reactions just as much.

A few minutes later, Hero and Mari returned carrying two chairs, placing them directly in front of the couple.

—We're so sorry. We know you must've been worried sick about us.

—Sunny, please... none of that matters. I know why you ran away. I was a terrible sister. I pushed you far too hard to become perfect at something I knew you didn't even enjoy. I was selfish... I didn't deserve someone like...—Tears streamed down Mari's face before she could finish.

—I know, Mari, but... we shouldn't have run away. We should've faced everything and worked it out. I'm sorry for putting you through all this...

—Sunny, stop. I'm the one who should be apologizing. I was the one who made you run away. I wasn't thinking clearly—I just wanted to protect you, and I only ended up putting you in even more danger. What happened to you two after that?

Hero answered for them.

—The day you disappeared, Mari came to me in tears. She kept saying Sunny hadn't come home since that morning. We gathered everyone to look for you, and that's when we realized Aubrey was missing too. Losing both her little brother and one of her closest friends broke her. She spent months depressed. I stayed by her side the whole time and helped her recover little by little.

He paused.

—Basil took it really hard too. He started having panic attacks, and everything got even worse after his grandmother passed away. Thankfully, we managed to help him before he did something... he would've regretted.

Another pause.

—And Kel... we made the mistake of thinking he was handling it well. One day he finally snapped. He yelled at all of us, saying he'd always felt left out because everyone's attention was focused on Mari and Basil's problems. We worked through it together, and he's doing much better now... He still has that same endless energy.

—We're sorry... We never wanted to hurt all of you like that.

—Aubrey, none of that matters anymore.—Mari said softly.—You're back... After all these years... Eventually, we all convinced ourselves that maybe... you had died somewhere. I'm so happy we were wrong.

She smiled through her tears.

—So... how have you been living all these years?

—I took Aubrey to Nowhere City.

—Nowhere!? That city's dangerous! How did you two survive there?

—For the first few months, we barely had anything. We went hungry a lot... Then two people took us in—Abbi and Hiko. They'd run away from home too, and even though they didn't have much themselves, they still gave us a place to stay. It felt good just having somewhere to sleep... And that's where they taught Aubrey how to play the flute.

—Really, Aubrey?

Aubrey nodded proudly.

—And... Sunny? Did you play too?

—I...

—He did.—Aubrey interrupted.—He played with me. Together we earned enough money to survive. We even started entering music competitions. Nowadays we're actually pretty well known back in the city.

—I bet you both have a beautiful house now!

—Well... we own an apartment. We've lived there for seven years.

—Both of you? In the same apartment?—Hero asked.

—Uh... yeah. We forgot to mention it... Sunny and I are together.

—I knew it! I knew you'd do it someday, little brother! I'm so happy for both of you!

—Thanks... Mari.—Sunny answered, looking away.

—Well... you probably figured it out already, but Henry and I are married now.

—Seriously!?—Sunny and Aubrey exclaimed together.

—Yep. Two years ago, I proposed to Mari. Best decision I've ever made.

—I’m glad you've both been happy... despite—

—Sunny, don't worry about that. Yes, what happened hurt us... and honestly, I'm still a little upset. But it also made me realize what a terrible sister I'd been.

—...Thank you, Mari.

—Will you two be staying?

—Huh?

—I don't mean just tonight. Are you staying in Faraway? You can sleep here if you'd like.

—We'd love to. We want to see everyone... and Aubrey wants to see her old house.

—Oh... Aubrey... your house is up for sale now.

—What? And... my parents?

—We don't know much, but people say your father left your mother because she didn't seem to care that you disappeared. Your mother died from an overdose about a year ago... and no one knows where your father is now.

—...I see...

—Speaking of that, Mari... where are Mom and Dad?

—Mom... grew resentful toward your father and me. Eventually, she left us. And Dad... passed away five years ago.

—How... did he die?

—Cancer...

Neither Sunny nor Aubrey knew how to feel. They had always considered their parents neglectful, yet hearing what had become of them stirred emotions they couldn't quite put into words.

—I'm sorry you had to hear it like this. I think we'll give you some time to process everything. In the meantime, we'll call Kel and Basil.

An hour later, the two of them were lying on the couch, waiting just as Mari had asked.

—Well, well... so it really was true.

A vaguely familiar voice broke the silence.

They turned to see a tall, broad-shouldered man whose goofy smile immediately gave away his identity.

—I guess you're Kel... right?—Sunny asked as he stood up.

Without warning, Kel wrapped him in a crushing hug.

—I can't believe it... It's really you! We missed you guys so much!

—I know... I'm sorry, but...—Sunny wheezed as the hug squeezed the air out of his lungs.—Could... could you let me breathe?

Kel immediately let go.

—Oh! Sorry! I'm just... way too excited! I mean, you're actually here! After all this time, you're really here!

After taking a deep breath, Kel grinned.

—You two haven't changed much.

—And you still have that same dumb face.

—Heh... I missed you too, Aubrey.

Aubrey glanced around the room.

—Where's Basil?

—He's in the kitchen. He... still hasn't completely processed that you're really here. You should probably go talk to him.

The two of them nodded before quietly walking toward the kitchen door.

Just before entering, they stopped as they overheard the conversation inside.

—Basil, I know this is hard to accept, but believe me... it's real. They're here.

—I know they are, Mari... I just don't know what I'm supposed to feel. Fear? Anger? Happiness?

—I understand. When I opened the door and saw them, I started crying because I was so happy... but part of me also wanted to slap them for every single day I wondered if they'd died somewhere because of me. But then... I realized I hadn't been a good sister to Sunny either... Sorry. This isn't about me. None of this was your fault.

—I still blamed myself... just like everyone else did. Even now... I don't know if I should blame them.

—You probably should.—Sunny interrupted softly.—Hi, Basil.

—Hi, Sunny... Aubrey... You two look exactly the same.—Basil said with a nostalgic smile.

—We've been hearing that a lot.—Aubrey replied, trying to ease the tension.—You look... different.

Basil ran a hand through his long hair.

—Yeah. I grew it out. My wife likes it this way.

—Wife?—they both asked at once.

—Yeah. I got married. You probably don't know her—her name's Mincy. I met her after you disappeared. She became my friend during the lowest point of my life... and eventually we fell in love.

A faint smile crossed his face.

—I guess... thanks to you two, I ended up meeting the love of my life... and the mother of my future child.

Sunny and Aubrey stared at him in complete shock.

—Basil... you're...

—Going to be a father. Yeah.

For the first time since they'd entered the room, Basil looked them directly in the eyes.

—I know it probably seems like I'm avoiding talking about you running away... but I've learned that sometimes it's better to focus on the good things. You're back... and honestly, that's more than I ever thought I'd get.

A tear slowly rolled down his cheek.

When he finished speaking, he stood up, walked the few steps separating them, and pulled both of his old friends into a warm embrace.

—Well, what are we all standing around for? We should celebrate!—Kel interrupted, completely shattering the emotional atmosphere.

—Do you always have to ruin the moment?—Aubrey asked with an annoyed sigh.

—That's just Kel. You'll get used to it.—Hero laughed.—Still... he's right. The whole group's together again. We should celebrate.

Only one place came to Sunny's mind.

—Is Gino's Pizza still open?

—Somehow. Yeah it is. 

—Then what are we waiting for!?—Mari exclaimed.—Dinner's on me.

The day had been incredible.

At least, that's what Aubrey thought.

Everything had gone well. Everyone had welcomed them back with open arms, the food had been delicious, and they had spent hours sharing stories with one another.

And yet...

—Why can't I sleep...?—she whispered to the ceiling.

She tossed and turned restlessly.

—I need some air.

Carefully, trying not to wake Sunny, she slipped out of bed. Once downstairs, she quietly opened the sliding glass door leading to the backyard and sat on the threshold. In silence, she gazed at the old treehouse.

—Can't sleep?

—Wha... Su...? Oh... Mari.

—Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you.—Mari said as she sat beside her.—I take it you can't sleep either.

—Yeah...

—Late-night thoughts?

—Yeah.

—Can I ask why?

—You know... I was the one who convinced him.

—...What?

—The day he told me everything... about how much he was suffering because of the recital... I told him we should run away. I didn't tell him to refuse to play. I didn't tell him to stand up to you. I told him, "Run away with me, Sunny. Leave everything behind... because all you need is me."

She let out a bitter laugh.

—God... I was so selfish.

—Aubrey...

—Please... let me finish.—Her eyes had already begun to glisten.—Those first few months, before we became musicians... we were starving. Every day I kept telling myself, "Congratulations. You managed to lead Sunny to his death." The only reason we're alive is because someone took us in.

—Please don't blame yourself.

—I know you're going to say you were a terrible sister. And it's true... maybe part of me wanted to make up for the damage I'd caused when I told you how lonely Sunny felt because you never had time for him. But... that wouldn't be the whole truth.

Tears streamed freely down Aubrey's cheeks.

She no longer bothered trying to hide them.

—I've never admitted this out loud before... but part of me just wanted to run away so I could have him all to myself.

She lowered her head.

—I'm sorry... I'm truly sorry, Mari.

—I caused all of this.

Without warning, Mari wrapped Aubrey in a tight embrace.

As she gently stroked her hair, she whispered,

—It's okay... We're not going to blame you.

Aubrey's sobbing stopped almost instantly.

—I... don't understand.—Her voice had become so hollow that it startled Mari.—Why won't you blame me? I didn't want to come back... but Sunny needed it. He couldn't sleep anymore. The guilt was eating him alive. I didn't want to face all of you... I didn't want everyone to hate me.

She clenched Mari's shirt.

—But instead... you welcomed me back with open arms.

—I don't understand...

—Maybe we should blame you.—Mari admitted quietly.—But so much time has passed. We've all grown up.

She smiled sadly.

—I'll never approve of what you two did... but I'm not going to waste the chance to have you back in my life.

She hugged Aubrey once more.

—That doesn't mean I'm not still upset with both of you.

Aubrey couldn't help laughing through her tears.

—Thank you... for taking care of Sunny all those years.

Aubrey chuckled.

—That idiot would've been completely hopeless without me...

She wiped away her tears.

—...Thank you.

—You don't have to thank me.

—I should probably try sleeping again.—Aubrey stood up.—Thank you... I really needed this.

She smiled faintly.

—And... thanks in advance for helping us recover our identities tomorrow.

—Don't mention it. Though afterward, I expect you two to introduce me to Hiko and Abbi.

—Of course.

Aubrey began walking back toward what had once been Sunny's parents' bedroom.

—Good night, Mari.

—Good night.

When Aubrey entered the room, Sunny was still lying in bed.

But...

Something had changed.

Something so subtle that only she could notice it.

She climbed onto the bed, knelt beside him, studied his face for one last moment...

Then smiled.

—Hey.

—I know you're awake.

Sunny slowly rolled over with a defeated sigh.

—...How did you know?

—You may be quiet... but you never move around in your sleep. Even when you have nightmares, all you do is tremble.

She tossed the blankets over his head.

—How much did you hear?

She narrowed her eyes.

—And don't even think about lying.

Sunny pulled the blankets off, revealing a small pout.

—Everything.

He sighed.

—I wanted to step in... but I decided it was something you needed to work through on your own.

—Smart decision, my dear Sunny.—Aubrey said as she lay down beside him.—Though... I would've preferred telling you everything myself in some beautiful, emotional scene.

—Sorry...

—Enough worrying.

Without warning, Aubrey grabbed him and pulled him against her, refusing to let go.

—You know I don't like being used as your teddy bear.

—You've never been very good at lying.

Sunny let out a quiet laugh.

—Heh... You really do know me that well.

Aubrey smiled warmly and gently rested her chin atop his head.

—Go to sleep, my little sunshine.

She held him just a little tighter.

—Sleep well.

—...Good night.