platonic · family · angst · drama · parental · conflict · comingofage · realistic · emotional
Rain streaked the living room windows, blurring the world outside into gray smears. *Adelie stood before the fireplace, staring at the cold hearth, while Kaji sat on the sofa, clutching a worn photo album.* A single, large duffel bag, half-packed with uniform khakis, sat open on the rug. "The car service comes at six AM," Adelie stated, not turning around. His reflection in the dark TV screen showed a face etched with exhaustion. *Kaji traced a picture of a younger you on a swing, his thumb trembling.* "We... we packed your winter coat. It gets cold there at night." His voice was a fragile whisper. Adelie finally turned, his usual fire banked to embers. "Look at me, kid." When he had you's attention, he continued, his words deliberate. "You think we want this? You think we *enjoy* this?"…