Beautiful boy

~2~

Kiyoshi sat down outside his veranda, nestled in the serene embrace of his traditional Japanese estate. The paper in his hands crinkled softly as he read the letter from Kazuo, his older brother. The calligraphy was elegant, a reflection of Kazuo's meticulous nature. The ink seemed to dance on the parchment, weaving tales of camaraderie and duty. Kiyoshi's eyes traced the characters repeatedly, finding solace in the familiarity of his friend's words. He sighed, a mixture of weariness and determination settling in his chest.

The moon hung overhead, a glowing orb casting its silver light upon the world below. Kiyoshi's gaze shifted upward, a nostalgic smile tugging at his lips. Memories of a childhood promise echoed in his mind, a promise made under the same celestial guardian.

"Do you think I can reach it?" Young Kiyoshi pointed to the moon, his eyes filled with innocent wonder.

"I think you can," a woman, her voice gentle like a lullaby.

"When I grow up, I promise to get the moon for you!" Determination etched in his young features.

she, a melody of warmth and love. "Alright, Kiyoshi... you can get the moon for me."

The memory brought a bittersweet twinge to Kiyoshi's heart. He folded the letter with care, tucking it into the folds of his kimono. Tomorrow would bring challenges, yet tonight, under the moon's watchful gaze, he found fleeting comfort.

Meanwhile, Toshio stirred from his slumber, the first rays of dawn painting the room in a soft golden hue. He had an early morning client meeting, an opportunity to delve into the intricacies of the human mind. Toshio was a psychologist, specializing in trauma therapy. His days were filled with stories of resilience and pain, each client a chapter in the vast tapestry of human experiences.

As he prepared for the day, Toshio couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The prospect of unraveling the layers of a new patient's psyche intrigued him. With his patent book and glasses in hand, he made his way to the designated room, a space where healing conversations took root.

The door creaked open, revealing a young girl in the organization's uniform. Her eyes held a guarded vulnerability, a silent plea for understanding. Toshio's empathetic nature kicked in as he greeted her with a warm smile, mindful of her apprehension towards physical touch.

"What's your name, sweetheart?" Toshio's voice was soothing, a gentle melody in the room.

"Miyako," she replied, her voice soft yet filled with unspoken turmoil.

Toshio noted her name in his book, along with her age. "Miyako-chan, I'm Toshio. I'll be your psychologist, here to support you on your journey towards healing."

Their conversation flowed, each word a bridge between the pain Miyako carried and the hope for a brighter future. She shared her reasons for joining the organization, the weight of duty conflicting with her longing for home. Tears welled up in her eyes, emotions cascading like a turbulent river

"I want to go home," Miyako's voice trembled with raw emotion, her hands gripping the edges of reality.

Toshio listened with empathy, guiding her through the storm of emotions. He offered comfort in the form of understanding and validation, a lifeline in her sea of uncertainty.

After hours of therapeutic dialogue, Toshio sensed Miyako's need for rest. He bid her farewell with a promise of continued support, a beacon of hope in her journey.

The day progressed, filled with moments of introspection and connection. Toshio's lunch break brought him to the communal dining area, where he shared a meal with fellow residents of the estate. Kazuo's absence was noted, a reminder of the demanding nature of their roles as protectors and healers.

As the sun began its descent, Toshio prepared to embark on a new chapter. His conversation with Kazuo earlier had planted a seed of change, a request that held both challenge and opportunity.

"Please... I'm asking you... a simple favor," Kazuo's words echoed in Toshio's mind.

The request was unexpected yet tinged with a sense of trust. Toshio weighed the pros and cons, contemplating the path ahead. The prospect of staying with Kiyoshi, of delving into the intricacies of his brother's past and present, intrigued hi

With a determined nod, Toshio accepted the offer, ready to embrace the unknown. As he gathered his belongings and bid farewell to familiar faces, a sense of anticipation coursed through him.

The journey to Kiyoshi's estate was a quiet one, the landscape passing by like scenes from a contemplative dream. Toshio's thoughts swirled with curiosity and introspection, a blend of emotions propelling him forward.

Arriving at Kiyoshi's estate, Toshio took in the tranquil surroundings. The traditional architecture stood as a testament to time, a haven amidst life's tumultuous currents. He knocked on the door, a symbolic gesture of embarking on a new chapter.

Kiyoshi greeted him with a mixture of surprise and gratitude, but it seemed cold. the evening air carrying a sense of camaraderie. As they exchanged pleasantries, Toshio felt a sense of purpose settle within him. The days ahead promised revelations and connections, threads weaving together in the tapestry of their intertwined lives.