Moonlight

Chapter 31

Thunder clapped dangerously close when Akane exited the pharmacy. She dropped down instantly and covered her eyes, not moving an inch from her spot. Her plastic bag was left unattended and she could not care more if the relaxing balm rolls out. 

She needs to protect herself from the threat of thunders.

Her eyes were shut tightly but she felt the pelting of raindrops stop. Hesitantly, she opened her eyes and saw a pair of feet in front of her.

"Shortcake?"

Akane looked up and her eyes welled in recognition. It was Tsukishima, making a run from the rain as well. An umbrella was held over her as he looked down.

His eyes darted to the surroundings, "Did somebody hurt you? Tell me now."

"Kei!" Akane sobbed unto his shirt. He felt warm with his jacket and Akane indulged in the feeling.

"Akane... Answer me." Tsukishima held her against his chest protectively. He could not care if anyone sees them like this. His senses were heightened with possible threat.

But Akane shook her head and sniffled, "N-no, I g-got scared from the thunder. I'm sorry to make you worry."

Tsukishima took one look and had to bite himself down from blurting out why the heck is she breaking down over thunder in the middle of the pharmacy entrance. He saw her eyes glistening with fresh tears and felt the familiar clenching-unclenching actions of her fists against his shirt. 

It's not just a kiddie fear. There's something more about the thunders.

He guided her to stand properly and stooped to get her purchase. They shared the shade of the umbrella and walked silently to look for a more stable shade. Akane kept her sobs subtle, trembling from it and from the rain's cold. Tsukishima did not say a word but kept listening to her anyway. 

"Let's take shelter here for a while." Tsukishima said quietly, stopping in front of a cafe with large parasols. The inside was full of people also taking shelter so they had no choice but to stay under one of their parasols. 

Akane sat down, numb from all the thoughts that came rushing in. She did not even notice Tsukishima putting on his jacket over her nor did she hear that he was leaving to buy something from the cafe.

He glanced outside to check on his girl again and sighed. He does not want to do this but it seems he'll be needing this somebody's help after all.

To: Akiteru

Hey, if you're free can you please drop by Cafe Columbo? I'm stranded by the rain with a friend. WE need a ride.

Thanks.

He stashed his phone back inside his pocket and prepared to order. When his orders were served, he walked back out. Akane looked the worst just by being alone. Her eyes whipped up when she saw him walk out of the doors.

"Please don't leave me." She rambled continuously until Tsukishima cooed her to a stop.

"I'm sorry. I bought us something warm while we wait for my brother." He explained and gently placed a cup of warm chocolate to Akane's side.

He placed a hand over hers and drew tiny circles with his thumb. He remained quiet but wished that Akane would speak with what's going on. He knew rushing her would do more damage than help, though.

"I-I'm sorry. I probably look so pathetic right now, breaking down over thunders more than a child could ever do." She sounded like she was talking to herself but Tsukishima heard it.

"What were you doing in the pharmacy? Are you sick?" Tsukishima initiated a conversation to veer away the forming awkward atmosphere.

Akane replied, "Uncle Keishin came home drunk last night and he accidentally slept outside. He woke up this morning with a hangover and a cold."

Tsukishima chuckled at the picture of his coach sick at home. "He's a big baby, then, at times."

Akane smiled, "Yeah... I remembered my mom always fussing at him..." 

Tsukishima saw her smile drop to a grim line and a line of liquid streamed down her cheek. He wiped it away with a gentle sweep. He made sure to project a comfortable aura around him so she would feel safe around him; most especially with this touchy subject.

"My mom... The thunders took her... and dad..."