Never Be Apart

CHAPTER 6

Monday. Another school day, another round of awkwardness to look forward to.

"Ate, can I go to school with you? We're starting early today," Yunji's voice greeted me, as usual, first thing in the morning.

"Fine! Are you ready?" I glanced at him from head to toe. "Okay, you're set. Let's go!" I said, throwing an arm around his shoulder. We passed by the living room, where Mama and Papa were chatting.

"Oh, we're heading out, so you two be careful on your way to school!" Papa said with a smile as he greeted us. We smiled back, kissed their hands, and gave Mama a hug.

"Take care of yourself," Mama suddenly said. Yunji and I exchanged confused looks—her tone seemed... off.

"Where are you going, Mama?" Yunji asked.

"Just nearby. We'll see each other later when you get home. Be careful, okay? We love you both," Papa answered with a smile. Yunji and I just nodded at each other, shrugged, and headed out, my arm still draped around his shoulders.

While walking to school, we ran into Natsumi and the others, so we walked together. They started chatting with Yunji about random things. We've all been close since 6th grade, and they're quite fond of my little brother. Haruki even joked once that if Yunji were older, he'd be his type since he's "ideal." I just shook my head.

When we arrived at school, it wasn't surprising that we caught a lot of attention. Of course, rumors still lingered, especially since I was with Yunji. The four of us are the only ones who know we're siblings. We almost never arrive at school together—he's two years younger, and his classes start later than mine.

Suddenly, Natsumi burst out laughing, making us all stop in our tracks.

"I overheard someone whispering that you're a pedo, Yuki. They think you're a senior dating a second-year," she said, still laughing. I grimaced but didn't move my arm around my brother's shoulder. Yunji, however, seemed uncomfortable and slipped out from under my arm.

"People seriously need to mind their own business," he said, clearly irritated. "Isn't it obvious we're siblings? And hey, even if we weren't, I wouldn't date you!" he teased me. I scowled and raised my hand to playfully hit him, but he dodged just in time.

"Yeah, well, I wouldn't date you either!" I snapped back, annoyed.