THE SPECTRE

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In the kitchen, Taeyong busied himself with preparing food for both himself and Yuta. He arranged canned goods and poured some juice onto the table, signaling for Ten to join them. Yuta, seated at the table, began to eat as Ten observed from the corner, unable to partake in the meal but content in their company.

Taeyong gestured subtly for Ten to join them, catching Yuta's attention. "What's that, Yong?" the little boy asked curiously.

"Oh, nothing. I just moved my hand," Taeyong replied, masking his intentions with a smile.

"I thought you were giving signs," Yuta continued, playfully guessing.

"To whom?" Taeyong inquired, feigning innocence.

"I don't know, just a guess," Yuta laughed.

"Yuta," Taeyong called, catching his brother's attention.

"Yes?" Yuta responded.

"Mom sent me a message. She said they'll be home by morning because they need to finish some work. After this, you can play, but don't go outside the gate. Later tonight, you'll sleep in my room. Understood?" Taeyong explained, outlining the plan for the evening.

Standing by, Ten observed the interaction between Taeyong and Yuta, impressed by Taeyong's sense of responsibility toward his younger brother. Even though they weren't related by blood, Taeyong assumed a parental role when their parents were away, ensuring Yuta's safety and well-being.

Yuta, displaying a typical child's resistance to directives, questioned sleeping arrangements. "Wait, I can sleep in my room," he suggested.

Taeyong, concerned for Yuta's safety, insisted, "No, my room is not close enough to yours. What if you need help? I won't hear you from there."

"But I'm turning 7 now, Yong," Yuta protested.

"I don't care," Taeyong replied firmly.

Reluctantly, Yuta agreed, "Okay, okay, I'll sleep in your room."

"Good boy," Taeyong praised, sporting a smirk.

Ten observed the scene with admiration, appreciating the brotherly bond between Taeyong and Yuta. In the absence of their parents, Taeyong took on the role of a guardian and caretaker for his younger brother, ensuring Yuta's safety and comfort.

As Yuta headed upstairs to play in his room, Taeyong took charge of the household chores, washing the dishes and tidying up the dining table. With the tasks completed, Ten engaged in conversation with Taeyong, curious about his experience of having a younger brother.

"Isn't it hard having a little brother?" Ten inquired.

"It can be a bit challenging, but I enjoy it," Taeyong admitted.

"Even though you're the one who takes care of him?" Ten pressed further.

"It's okay. I always wanted a brother, and when Yuta came into our lives, I was the happiest," Taeyong expressed sincerely.

"I also wished to have a brother. I wonder if I had a family," Ten shared, a hint of longing in his voice.

"Don't be sad. I can be your brother, just like Yuta. I know I'm the only one who can see and talk to you, but we can still be family," Taeyong reassured, offering his companionship.

"Really? You want me to be your brother even though I'm a ghost?" Ten asked, surprised and excited.

"Yes. From now on, Yuta and I will consider you our brother. Tomorrow, you'll meet my parents, and they can be your parents too," Taeyong said with a warm smile.