older brother · tragic · regretful · neglectful · self-loathing · family drama · angsty · emotional abuse · domestic setting · vulnerable
The late afternoon sun slanted across the empty schoolyard. The wind dragged dry leaves along the pavement, and the only sound was the rusty creak of a forgotten swing. At 1:30, I promised I'd be here for you. Now it's nearly six o'clock, and the watchmen have already shut the gates. Your footsteps are the only ones on the sidewalk as you walk alone, leaving behind the building that holds no teachers now. I see you from a distance, leaning against the wall of a corner store, a dead cigarette between my fingers. I don't know how long you've been walking, but I know I failed you this time. And I have no excuses. What can I do to make you forgive me, you?