Everything's Not Okay

Try Harder

I've been walking since I left.

That was around five hours ago. I know that sounds like the dumbest thing ever, and I still think I'm hallucinating because there is no way in hell I've been walking that long. I've been doing this for years, I should know. Right?

The wind blows a little harder than usual and I shiver. I should've taken something warmer than what I'm wearing, but it'll have to do for the rest of the week. It's my fault that I got kicked out anyway, I never should've went to the hospital. I knew what was gonna happen, but I haven't seen my best friend in weeks. 

I'm always disappointing someone

I pass a cafe and my stomach grumbles. This wasn't here the last time I was in town. Curiosity gets the best of me that I stop in front of the large window to take a peek. Except for the fact that the place is open this early, it seems like a cozy cafe. The place has brick walls and a black carpet, which is a nice touch. The orders are listed on chalk boards with vibrant colors. There's a large couch, tall tables, and 3 booths. The ceiling is black and has stars drawn in white. I know I've been staring for a while since the lady at the register waves at me. I take another look at the chalk board before swiftly walking away. I can't afford any of it and if the lady was to notice that then she'd kick me out. I'd rather save her the trouble by leaving myself. 

I zone out and just carry on. I don't know how I remember the way especially since I haven't been here in a while, but somehow someway I make it back to my favorite alley. Not exactly favorite, but at least no one I know will find me here. I see people in sleeping bags and big coats laying on the ground. The walls are still decorated with the same little kid drawings, which I've asked them to take down because it's always embarrassing to see. I can see a little boy, who must be new, gasp and run to the end of the alleyway. I stand confused until he comes back with someone else.

"Mr. Sho?" I grin.

"Is that really you, Kid?" The man has on the same hat and gloves I left him with.

"Yup." I take a running start and give him a hug that has him stumbling back. He rustles my hair before breaking the hug.

"Let me guess, you're not visiting." He's not really asking a question, more like making a statement, so I don't answer it.

"Is he new here?" I nod my head in the direction of the younger boy. He's behind Mr. Sho's legs and I can't help, but smile.

"Yup. This little rascal came about a month ago. He was originally planning on stealing from us, but I told him he can't steal from people who don't have." His laugh fills me up with warmth. He's like a grandpa to me, but I could never mention that to Mr. Eto. He gets jealous easily, ya know? Grandpa wars or something. "Ya should've seen the look on his face!" He takes the boy's hand. "After that he kept coming until he finally stayed with us."

The boy's brown hair covers his face that I could barely see his eyes. He needs a haircut, but it's kind of cute this way. 

"Hi there, I'm Denki, but everyone calls me Kid." I kneel to the ground so were at the same eye level. This kid is short and that's coming from me.

"Kid?" He tilts his head to the side that some of his hair falls with the motion. Now I could see his grayish green eyes. 

"I don't know if they rearranged the letters or just forgot my name, but I'm okay with either." I shrug because I honestly don't know.

"Ethan." He points to his chest.

"Nice to meet you Ethan." I take my hand out for him to shake which he does after a while of staring at it.