OUTRUN THE TRUTH {OMORI AU} (OLD)

Visiting Aubrey

KEL carefully neatened up his bed, showing his dedication to keeping things orderly. Standing with his hands on his hips, he released a sigh that seemed to signify both accomplishment and maybe a touch of exasperation. With a sense of purpose, he walked over to his small desk and grabbed his toothbrush.

As he made his way to the bathroom, he passed by MEWO who was wagging his tail and looking up at him with bright, expectant eyes. KEL couldn't help but smile at the sight of his loyal friend.

'Hey there, MEWO,' KEL greeted warmly, his voice infused with affection. MEWO's tail wagged even faster, and he gave a happy bark in response. KEL reached down and ruffled MEWO's fur, enjoying the softness under his fingers and the connection he shared with him.

MEWO leaned into the touch, his tongue lolling out in a canine grin. KEL's smile widened as he continued to give MEWO's fur a gentle ruffle. It was a simple yet meaningful interaction – a moment of companionship and shared joy.

After a moment, KEL reluctantly pulled his hand away and stood up, the warmth of his interaction with MEWO lingering in his expression. 'I'll be back in a bit,' he said, his tone affectionate, a smile playing at the corner of his lips. MEWO responded with another happy bark, his tail wagging as if comprehending the sentiment. With a final pat on MEWO's head, KEL continued on his way to the bathroom.

Stepping into the bathroom, he placed his toothbrush on the sink's edge and turned on the faucet, the steady flow of water filling the space with its soothing sound. As the bristles of the toothbrush absorbed the moisture, his mind naturally wove a path through the tapestry of the past few days, leading him to thoughts of AUBREY.

KEL's eyes met his reflection in the mirror, his thoughts solidifying into a decision. He knew he needed to visit AUBREY in the hospital, it was the least he could do for her. With his determination undiminished, KEL exited the bathroom and descended the stairs, the gentle morning sounds enveloping him as he moved. His steps were deliberate, a reflection of his purposeful stride. Upon entering the kitchen, he noticed SUNNY's parents engrossed in their own conversation at the breakfast table.

KEL's instinct was to maintain a certain distance from them, avoiding unnecessary interaction. He moved quietly, selecting items from the refrigerator for his breakfast – a yogurt carton and a piece of fruit. Taking care to avoid drawing attention, he prepared his meal, aiming to keep his actions unobtrusive.

Seated at the kitchen counter, KEL's emotions swirled. The tension in the house was almost palpable, an uneasy current beneath the surface. He concentrated on his meal, focusing on his plate while the morning noises hummed around him, his thoughts accompanying the backdrop of the day's beginning.

Having completed his breakfast, KEL placed his now-empty plate to the side and rose from his seat, the clink of cutlery the only sound in the room.

Purposefully sidestepping any prolonged eye contact with SUNNY's parents, he collected his belongings with a measured air, progressing toward the exit with a calm demeanor. Even as he felt their silent intrigue and scrutiny, KEL held firm in his resolve to limit his interactions.

Allowing his gaze one final sweep of the room, KEL stepped over the threshold, immersing himself in the revitalizing outdoor atmosphere. The morning sun enveloped him in warmth, and he inhaled deeply, his determination catching fire like an ember roaring to life. With his focus honed on the impending hospital visit, he pushed forward, each step charged with renewed purpose.