Under the Shaded Willow

Chapter 16: Unsteady

Spirit refused to take a bath even at the request of his older sister who was visiting from school. He said that he didn't want to be near the water. He was afraid. The memory of the unbearable burning in his chest lingered freshly in his mind, though the feeling had vanished. His sister tried to ask him what had happened but he refused to say. He didn't want to talk about it, but he wouldn't even look at Hakase as the man with black hair brought him in.

He could hear Hakase's heavy breathing, meaning that he had fallen asleep at some point that he was outside with the man. After all, he was out there with him for hours. Spirit's own father prepared three mugs of got hot chocolate and two coffees. He then say on the couch with his son and daughter, his son laying against him, while Paisley sat in one of the recliners across from them.

A few minutes later the other man came down. He had changed into what seemed like pajamas; a white sweater and black sweatpants. His hair was messy from the whipping wind outside, though he didn't care enough to fix it up. Spirit just focused on his eyes; they were nearly same eyes that belonged to Hakase. They were golden green, but the screaming difference was that they were brightly lot with life. Other than that, the man couldn't be more different aside from his facial features.

"Francis, how is your boy?" Spirit's father questioned softly as the man took his coffee.

Francis three his glance to Spirit's curious eyes.

"I believe I should be asking this little one how he is doing. My son was not the one who nearly drowned. He is okay physically, but mentally, he, uh, has never been very stable. Seeing his friend nearly die has done a great deal of harm, I put him to much needed sleep," Francis spoke before taking a sip, never taking his eyes off of the small boy.

Spirit found it slightly hard to understand the man. He had some kind of thick accent, one that Spirit had only noticed in Hakase's voice a few times. This man was Hakase's father. It was a strange sight seeing Hakase look so vulnerable.

"He... doesn't sleep well..." Spirit spoke slowly, almost hesitantly.

Francis smiled at the boy; it was a kind and gentle smile. He nodded and took another sip before speaking once again.

"That's right little one. My little Frankie does not sleep well. That is why I must take special care when inducing sleep. I have that power, it is the only ability I was gifted."

"Frankie? Are you still talking about Hakase?" Ichigo asked.

"Yes, that is my nickname for him. You see, his actual first name is Franken. He was named after his daddy, but do to certain circumstances he goes by his middle name; Hakase. Franken Hakase Stein, my lovely son."

Spirit thought to himself that it would be weird calling Hakase Franken. The name didn't seem to suit him.

"Francis is German, and Mikako is Japanese. However, Franken was given two German names and one Japanese; the name he goes by," Oliver Albarn explained.

"I'm tired, papa."

Spirit was tired, but he didn't foresee a peaceful slumber. To be honest, he just wanted to be alone. He was so confused. He felt so afraid; afraid of the boy who just a few hours ago he had sworn to protect. He wanted to forget about what had happened, to forget all about the boy. He stayed silent as his papa carried him to his room and tucked him in.

"Your mama will be home soon, Spirit. She has no idea what took place today. It is completely up to you on whether or not you want to tell her. She likely will not let you play by the tree anymore. I don't like secrets, but as I said, it is up to you," his father explained.

"I don't want mama... or Shiori to know what happened..."

"Spirit... Please be honest with me when I ask you this. Did Franken push you from the cliff?"

Spirit wasn't expecting that particular question. He didn't want to answer it, but he didn't want to lie to his father.

"No... He and I were just playing and it just happened. I fell off of the cliff."

"I see. Okay little bear, you get some sleep. I love you."

"I love you too, papa."

Spirit could tell that his father sensed his blatant lie, but also knew that he wouldn't push for answers. He watched as his father left the room, clicking the lights off before he walked out. Spirit just lay flat on his back staring at the ceiling. He missed the warmth of the other boy's body next to his. It seemed like hours had passed before everyone else headed to bed. He waited to hear the doors squeak closed. Then he rose and walked into the hallway and to the guest room where Hakase's mother was staying.

He knew that the boy was inside. The door was slightly cracked. He opened it and slipped in. He saw Hakase fast asleep on the bed. He lay on his side, his crimson hair shining in the light. He stepped lightly, coming up beside the boy. He had to stand on his tip toes to be able to reach the boy. When he could see him clearly, he lay his trembling hand on the side of his neck. The thought that he should squeeze, that he should end the boy momentarily crossed his mind. So he did, he squeezed the slightest bit, but the creek of the door startled him. He jumped, releasing his grip.

He turned to see Hakase's father standing before him. The man gavehim a frightening look before coming before him and kneeling. He took Spirit's shoulders in his large warm hands. Shaking his head before glancing to Hakase and then back to Spirit.

"He is my son, and you are my dear friend's boy. What occurred today was truly a mistake, a real tragedy; for two boys who care so deeply for each other to tear each other apart. My boy; my Frankie, he is sick. He has been sick for a very long time, but you, Spirit, you are his cure," the man spoke softly, elegant words leaving his lips as he delivered his wisdom to the boy.

"I know that he did something horrible and scary to you. Maybe something that is unforgivable in your eyes. But, Hakase, he has never cried for another person. He has never longed for the forgiveness of another human, for the touch of anyone other than his mother. As much as I hate to say it, my boy doesn't even feel so strongly for myself. You are the only one, I truly feel that you could be his saving grace... but I also feel that you could be his poison. The choice is yours to make. For now though, you must sleep."

Francis spoke the words and they seemed to pulse. It was a pulsating sensation that made him feel dizzy somehow, though they were only words. Then, the older man brought his left hand to the side of the boys head and strokes his hair. After that Spirit fell forward, his entire body going limp with unconsciousness. Francis scooped him into his arms and tucked him into bed in his own room. The two boys slept peacefully for the first time in days.

A/N: Hey everyone, hope you enjoy chapter 16 :). We're getting very close to the end of this chapter of the story. Only a few more parts left! Then the focus will be put on Book number three! Don't forget to vote and comment please! Tata for now.