𝐄𝐌𝐏𝐓𝐘 ᝰ kny

six

"When happiness fades, it always carries the scent of blood."

"Haha, Takeo-kun, you're blushing!" The young boy teases , giggling as he turns red.

"N-no! I'm not!" Takeo protests , waving off Tanjiro's comforting hand. The family laughs at his obvious lies and for a moment, the snow's harsh grip, the threadbare kimonos seems distant.

You glance at the giggling family with a smile on your face. "Hey, Y/N, aren't you coming with me? I'd be much happier with you by my side!"

You look downwards, the soft descent of snowflakes making the land look like a living picture of beauty. You smile. "Of course."

Tanjiro..a soft dandelion that bloomed even with blood by his side. Untainted by the filth that flourished beside him, he had eyes that defined persistence. He was strong. He was..good. He was brave.

"I wish I could be like you, Tanjiro," you whisper, eyes blank with envy. You taste the bullets again, and when he calls your name as invitation, you grin.

You quickly hop to your feet, the ground sinking in response. You skip to  his side, turning as the Kamado's wave you both goodbye.

How long would you live like that, Tsuya? How long would you live behind shadowed corners, in fear, in jealously?

He was strong. He faced what he feared with sharp eyes and quick feet. The purest heart.

Tears fill your eyes. You swipe them away before kind maroon ones can see. You wanted to be able to face your problems head on, unafraid.

You blink. Your mouth feels dry as your vision squints back into reality. Your lips  are parted,mouth slightly open, and with growing awareness, you close it.Your pa-your aunt is calling you.

You feel sick. How long have you been here? You stand up shakily, not wanting to stay and not wanting to go. The television's image is fragmented, as if you stared at it with unblinking eyes for hours. One single phrase reverberated around your mind, snaking around any rationality.

"I wish I was just like him."