Atrocities

Chapter 9

12:00 AM

Maki gently shrugged Kaito's shoulder, awakening him.

"Psst, baby, it's time to go." Maki said.

Kaito groaned and rubbed his eyes. "Go where baby girl?"

Maki sighed. "The park. Remember the plan?"

"What plan?"

Maki rolled her eyes. "You're a dumbass. Look. I'll explain everything to you once we get there."

Kaito and Maki quietly walked into the hallway. They stared at the exit doors with a hint of fear. "What if they hear us?" Kaito whispered.

"They won't as long as we're quick about it."

Kaito nodded, and like that, they were gone.

The summer breeze felt calming. The muggy wind slowly caressed their hair and the sound of crickets singing completed their midnight stroll.

Kaito looked at Maki for a quick moment. Not a long one, but just enough time to let Maki know he had some concerns about their little 'plan'.

"You're staring. I'm assuming you have questions?"

Kaito pursed his lips.

"Yes."

"What are they?"

Kaito looked at the ground.

"Why are you so protective over me?"

Maki stopped in her tracks and flared at Kaito. Confusion and anger were painted on her face.

"Excuse me?" She groaned.

Kaito sighed with regret and rubbed his arm. "Sorry. Really. I appreciate all you do for me, I do. I just wish you didn't underestimate my independence."

Maki's brows furrowed. "I don't, Kaito. I don't." 

Kaito sighed, and once they reached the park, he plopped down on a bench next to Maki.

Maki started at the stars thinking of how all those brought specks could be her teammates watching over her. Experiencing the trials and tribulations throughout her journey of healing Kaito.

Kaito nuzzled her shoulder.

"I'm sorry, baby."

Maki sighed and kissed his head. "Don't be. I know I can be a lunatic sometimes when it comes to your well-being, but it's only because I care."

Kaito looked at his palms, calmly tracing the cracks in his hands. "I know. But sometimes even the weak have to defend themselves."

Instead of encouragement, Maki felt horror.

"The weak?" She said with a tremble in her voice.

"Yes, my Starfire. I'm growing weak. But I know that you're strength will blend beautifully with mine. So please stay strong for me. That's the only way I'll live."

Maki just stared at Kaito. She then closed her eyes and let all her tears flow.

"I will, Kaito. I promise."