The Space Between Us (S2) || Five Hargreeves x Reader

☕️ Chapter Seven ☕️

When we got back to Elliott's, I told the both of them, more specifically Five, that I would be on the roof, instead of resting my leg, like I should. I wanted to 'take a breather.'

So, here I am, up on the roof, looking down at the oh-so beautiful alleyway below. I sigh and look up at the stars, which are much more beautiful than the alleyway below me.

As I'm looking at the stars, something quite sad comes to my realization...the day Ben died, in 2006, is coming up soon.

I look down at my hands. "I could've helped you, but I was too late. I'm so sorry. I didn't see you in time..."

I feel myself tearing up, as I remember the funeral we had for him. Dad was extremely harsh on us that day.

On the verge of crying, I grab my umbrella and open it once I get outside. I'm not exactly sure why we have to use umbrellas. I mean, it's only snowing, but Dad insisted. Then again, he has always liked umbrellas.

I had quite the crying breakdown at the base we were at after I saw it happen with my own eyes. When we got back to the Academy, I didn't talk to anyone. I've basically kept to myself.

All of us, excluding Pogo and Dad at the moment, gather around the coffin. I choke back a sob, as Klaus comfortingly puts an arm around my shoulders. On instinct, I lean into him.

Eventually, Pogo and Dad join the circle. "Your father is ready to give the eulogy, children."

"The world is full of injustice." Dad says, starting his speech. "Good people die along with the bad. This cosmic equation will never change, unless evil itself is wiped from existence. Thankfully, there are powerful forces pushing back against the wicked and the iniquitous, individuals who have the strength to pull together against insurmountable odds to face adversity with unblinking courage and not to hesitate to sacrifice themselves for another."

I sniff as quietly as I can, let out a deep breath, and wipe my tears away on my coat sleeve.

"Unfortunately." He continues. "None of you are such people. Despite years of training and weeks of preparation, you allowed Number Six to die on this mission."

Allison gasps and looks at Dad. "It wasn't our fault!"

"Excuses?!" Dad asks. "I will not hear them!"

I hang my head. "It's not an excuse for them. She's telling the truth. It wasn't their fault, however, it was my fault..."

"Precisely." Dad nods. "The Umbrella Academy has failed one of their own, the consequences of which are dire. Hold onto this feeling, children. Let it fester in your hearts, so there is never a next time."

Tears keep flowing down my cheeks, as I look over at Dad. 'You're the shittiest father in the world.' I didn't say that in his head of course or I would've been in so much trouble.

"Training will be cancelled today out of respect for your brother." He announces. "We resume tomorrow at six a.m." He leaves to go inside, Mom and Pogo following, leaving all of us outside.

'When you die, I hope you rot in hell, you sick son of a bitch.' I mentally curse our father.

"It wasn't anybody's fault." Vanya assures.