Atrocities

Chapter 12

Maki spent the whole day crying and overthinking.

She felt as if nothing good could happen, and she was right. Kaito sat down on a bench outside the hospital thinking of the times when Maki was happy. He felt guilty for something he couldn't control even though he shouldn't have.

Maki walked out of the hospital with tears in her eyes, and she sat down next to Kaito. She sighed and looked at him.

"I'm sorry."

"For what?"

"For everything."

Maki felt her heart crumbling into a million pieces and getting stepped on by her selfishness. "I'm sorry for being so selfish towards you. I'm sorry I've been the way I am, but I can't risk losing you. It's too daunting."

Kaito sighed and ran his fingers through her hair. He scrummaged through his pockets and gave her a piece of paper. "Here, I made a poem for you."

Maki took the paper and unfolded it. And what she read changed her whole view on losing Kaito.

'The day we met I knew I'd stay with you

I wished upon every star in the galaxy that I'd never leave your side

I dreamed of the day we'd grow old and grey together

But sometimes dreamers have to wake up

I am afraid to die, but I'm more afraid of you doubting yourself for losing me

I am growing weaker by the day, but I am happy

I have a Starfire, and I couldn't ask for anything greater

Some stars may die when they flicker, but I will come back brighter

I'll shine bright with all the constellations just for you

I love you, my Starfire

And you must accept I can't be here for long

If you ever want to see me, just look at the night sky

You will see me, the brightest star'

Maki's eyes stung with tears. It was at that moment that she realized even though Kaito wouldn't be here, he'd still be there.

"I love it, baby." She hugged Kaito and wiped her tears.

"I'm glad."

And it was at that moment Maki realized that maybe death could sometimes be comforting.