"Have you ever thought of going to high school, Haruki?" The man before me asked.
"Come on brother... You know I can't." I retorted.
"Study a bit and you'll be fine." He told me.
"But I'd rather play with you, brother!" I shouted.
He extended his arm forward and locked his index and middle finger together. As he raised them higher, I closed my eyes...
*Thud*
"Forgive me, Haruki. Next time, okay?" My brother lied as he poked me in the forehead.
He always said that phrase. It was the same everytime...
Maybe it's because I'm only in junior high. Or, maybe it's because I'm so utterly useless at anything academic related. My brother always seemed to ignore me.
He has always been distant.
I remember asking father last year about Rukiha's disassociation with us and he was also unsure. Mother also didn't know... But I don't like thinking about anything related to her now.
Big bro was leaving like usual. I tried to follow him before but he disappeared when I wasn't looking. I'm powerless. Once he leaves... Hell will return.
"Uh. Rukiha, c-can you stay... No, nevermind. See you later, bro." I called out.
He didn't even look back.
I stared at his back as he vanished out of this desolate house. Rukiha was tall and had long black hair knotted in a bun. He wore a black cloak that contrasted with his scary crimson eyes.
The subtle peace was over.
"Haruki. What is this?"
That cursed voice summoned my presence. It chilled my body much more than any blizzard could. I know my options. They're the same everytime. I can stay quiet and ignore the voice or I can investigate what the voice wants from me. The only issue is that both conclusions result in the same pain.
"What is it, Mother?" I reluctantly questioned.
My mother. Our dna is linked, we share the same blood, the same family name and yet... Ever since dad mysteriously died, she has been a lunatic.
"Do you think this is a joke?" She erupted.
"No, Mother." I mustered.
"Zero out of 100 again! How can one be so dumb?" She screamed.
"I'm trying, trying really hard."
My attempt at deception was easily read.
"Haruki. Go to your room. You will study till tomorrow morning." Mother screeched.
"B-But what about dinner...?" I whimpered.
"Kids that do not follow their parents wishes do not deserve dinner." Mother reprimanded.
It doesn't make sense, it's foreign, it's alien.
I don't study nor do I even bother listening in class. It's not my fault! Everyone at home ignores me when I ask for help and the adults at my school think I'm worthless for not understanding immediately.
Following my instructions, I retreat to my room. Whilst returning, I hear my mother make a statement that shatters my soul.
"I wish Haruki would be more like Rukiha."
It's been two years since my mother went insane. I'm in middle school now! Although, I do not attend any lessons.
Nothings changed.
