As the morning sun filtered through the curtains, bathing the room in a warm glow, Sunny, Basil, and their friends gathered around the table, engrossed in their latest project: designing a blueprint for the treehouse renovation. Sketches and notes sprawled across the table as they discussed ideas and improvements.
Sunny, with his eye for detail and creative flair, suggested adding a rooftop garden to the treehouse, incorporating some of his gardening skills. Basil nodded in agreement, adding practical elements like reinforced support beams and safety measures.
Meanwhile, Aubrey excitedly shared stories of how she had started making new friends, including the former hooligans, now turned into cheerful companions who helped with the treehouse project. Her journey from anger to friendship was a testament to growth and forgiveness.
Kel, recounting his life as a basketball player over the past four years, spoke of challenges and triumphs on the court, his dedication evident in every word. His passion for the game shone through, adding a dynamic energy to the group's discussions.
Hero, now a college graduate, was pursuing his dream of becoming a chef, inspired by Mari's gift of a cookbook that ignited his culinary passion. He shared stories of experimenting with new recipes and the joy of cooking for his friends, cherishing each moment as a tribute to Mari's memory and their shared dreams.
As they worked on the blueprint, laughter, and camaraderie filled the room, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences, aspirations, and the unbreakable bond of friendship that had endured through challenges and triumphs. The treehouse project symbolized not just a physical renovation but also a metaphorical journey of growth, healing, and hope for the future.
Basil then turns to Sunny"Still Sunny thanks to actually wanting to incorporate a garden for my skills there yet…how can I access the roof to maintain the plants?"
Sunny, with a thoughtful expression, suggested, "We could install a retractable ladder or a small staircase on one side of the treehouse. It'll be hidden when not in use but easily accessible when you need to tend to the garden."
Basil nodded in agreement, impressed by Sunny's practical yet creative solution. "That sounds perfect. It'll be like a secret garden in the sky," he remarked, envisioning the rooftop oasis taking shape.
Kel chimed in, "And we can add some fairy lights around the perimeter for a magical touch at night!"
The group enthusiastically discussed more ideas, each contributing their unique perspectives and skills to turn the treehouse into a whimsical yet functional space that reflected their friendship and shared dreams.
Then, Aubrey smiles "Still it's nice Sunny doesn't mind despite umm…what happened for the recent few days this week that my friends—hooligans can help in a much better time for the future once we can construct it.." As Hero nodded and spoke "How about we create a miniature version to test it out if it holds itself? Since not only do we repair it we need to renovate it?"
"That's a great idea," Sunny agreed. "We can use smaller materials to build a prototype and see how it stands up. It'll also help us visualize the final design better."
Kel added, "And we can use this as a fun project to involve Mari once she wakes up. She always loved creative endeavors like this."
Aubrey grinned, feeling the excitement of the project. "I can already imagine how amazing it will look once we're done. It'll be a testament to our friendship and all the memories we've shared."
With plans in motion and enthusiasm high, the group began sketching out the blueprint for the treehouse, discussing details like the layout, materials, and decorative elements that would make it truly special.
Sunny then pauses as he recalls the time in the past although faint. Basil agreed with that gaze of Sunny for his expression is becoming less lifeless and dead inside. Happy for Sunny yet recalls as well the bittersweetness now Mari is still asleep. Sunny asks "You sure Kel? Again we're not even sure if Mari likes well…me drawing….I still am unsure if this is my new interest to do.."
Basil placed a reassuring hand on Sunny's shoulder. "Sunny, it's okay to explore new interests and hobbies. Mari would want us to continue living our lives and finding joy in different things. And who knows, maybe she'll love your drawings. It's worth a try, don't you think?"
Kel chimed in, "Yeah, Sunny. You never know until you try, right? And if it makes you happy, that's what matters."
Sunny nodded slowly, a small smile forming on his face. "Thanks, guys. I'll give it a shot and see how it goes. Maybe it'll be a way for me to express myself differently."
With renewed determination, Sunny started jotting down ideas for his drawings, feeling a spark of inspiration and hope. The group continued their planning for the treehouse, each member contributing their ideas and expertise to make it a success.
Hero confronts Basil and whispers "Still, I am relieved you are truly still very close to Sunny since you told us for the past 4 years he only was able to contact you in the past yes despite his shut-in state?"
Basil smiled gratefully at Hero. "Yeah, it's been a lifeline for both of us. Sunny's been through a lot, and being there for him in any way I can is important to me."
Hero nodded understandingly. "You've been a great friend to him, Basil. It's not easy to shoulder that kind of responsibility, but I know you're doing your best."
Basil's expression softened with a hint of sadness. "I just wish I could do more sometimes, you know? But I'll keep doing whatever I can to support him."
Hero patted Basil's back reassuringly. "And that's what matters most. We're all here for each other, no matter what."
Kel noticed the moment between Hero and Basil as he spoke about another topic "Still Sunny!!! If you're still worried about how Mari reacted to our 'current' selves. If you like maybe sometimes I can help you get back into Violin again…"
Kel's offer brought a flicker of hope to Sunny's eyes. "That would be great, Kel. It's been a while since I played, but maybe it's time to pick it up again."
Aubrey chimed in with a smile. "Yeah, it might be a good way for you to reconnect with those memories and feelings."
Sunny nodded, feeling a renewed sense of determination. "I think you're right. It's worth a try, at least."
Kel grinned. "Awesome! Whenever you're ready, just let me know."
With plans forming for the treehouse and support from his friends, Sunny felt a glimmer of optimism for the future.
As Sunny still went back to a stoic sad expression recalling SOMETHING and his phobias as he shook to set aside his sketchbook "Yet actually, next time…for now…we can at least work on the miniature versions…I am still unsure if I can still catch up on time after not playing for years…"
Sunny's inner conflict was palpable as he wrestled with his past and uncertainties. Kel placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Take your time, Sunny. We're here for you, whether it's playing the violin or anything else."
Basil added, "And remember, the miniature version of the treehouse will give us a good idea of how to proceed. It's all about taking small steps."
Hero nodded in agreement. "Exactly. We'll tackle one thing at a time, and you'll find your rhythm again, Sunny."
Encouraged by his friends' support, Sunny managed a small smile. "Thanks, everyone. Let's focus on the treehouse for now and see where things go from there."
As they work on it for a montage of minutes. It's afternoon. During the scorching heat of the summer too as everyone is sweating and finally finished the miniature treehouse model together. As Sunny pants to speak "Woah we finished although…I wonder how we can freshen up this hour? What time is it?"
The group took a moment to catch their breath, wiping sweat from their brows. Kel checked his watch and replied, "It's almost 3 in the afternoon. We could use a break and cool down. Maybe some refreshing drinks?"
Basil nodded, looking at the miniature treehouse with satisfaction. "Agreed. Let's take a break and then brainstorm ideas for the actual renovation."
Hero suggested, "I can whip up some cold drinks. How about lemonade or iced tea?"
Aubrey chimed in, "Sounds perfect! And I'll get some snacks ready too."
As they gathered around for a well-deserved break, the camaraderie among them was evident, marking a moment of accomplishment and unity in their ongoing project.
Meanwhile, Kel took off his Orange basketball shirt to wrap around his neck like a cape like a sweat. Basil took off his gardening gloves that revealed his wounded scars and marks that Sunny and Kel had seen a few days ago and were aware of their origins to not bother. While Sunny just removed the vest part of his outfit and still has his white shirt and brown shorts. Sighing as Kel spoke first with a smile "Still it's worth it right? Especially for you both? Since you two seems the least physical and pale compare to everyone of us.."
Kel's observation brought a chuckle from Sunny. "Yeah, worth it indeed. It's good to see progress."
Basil nodded in agreement, though he couldn't help but glance at his scars briefly. "Definitely. And I'm grateful for your help, Kel. We wouldn't have come this far without you."
Kel grinned, a hint of pride in his eyes. "Hey, we're a team, right? We got each other's backs."
Their light banter and shared sense of accomplishment brought a sense of warmth despite the summer heat, reinforcing their bond as friends working towards a common goal.
Kel then notice Basil hiding the hands with his jumpsuit's pockets. As Sunny nudge Basil a whisper "Maybe it's also not bad you can let Kel and even me see your marks more properly…You did say it's just marks from various things of 4 years. Gardening…small strain with Aubrey and well…your own way of coping like I did.." gestures his nervous bandage hands as trying to ensure Basil to relate (and implication they both commit their own self-harm coping mechanisms)
Sunny's gentle encouragement made Basil pause, considering his words carefully. After a moment of contemplation, he slowly pulled his hands out of his pockets, revealing the scars and marks that were a testament to his struggles and coping mechanisms over the past few years.
Kel's expression softened as he looked at Basil's hands, understanding dawning in his eyes. "Basil, man, we all have our ways of dealing with things. You don't have to hide it from us."
Basil nodded, a sense of relief washing over him as he felt understood. "Thanks, guys. It's just... been a journey."
Sunny smiled softly, a silent understanding passing between them. "We're here for each other, no matter what."
Their moment of vulnerability and mutual support strengthened their bond, emphasizing the depth of their friendship and the trust they had in each other.
Kel then jokes "Hey at least compare to umm Sunny…Yours are not as hmm deep? Since Sunny needs bandages for his right?"
Kel's attempt at humor lightened the mood, eliciting a chuckle from Sunny despite the sensitive topic. "Yeah, I guess my hands are quite the sight," Sunny remarked with a small smile. "But hey, we're all in this together, scars and all."
Basil joined in, trying to add some levity to the conversation. "Well, at least we can compare battle scars now, right?"
The trio shared a moment of camaraderie, finding solace in their shared experiences and the understanding that they were there for each other through thick and thin.
Then, before Hero and Aubrey return with cold drinks and snacks. Sunny blush to say "Yet Kel…You were right when you said you played basketball a lot….so those muscles…and your height these are the things you used to promise to us kids that betting you can be stronger?"
Sunny's words brought a nostalgic smile to Kel's face. "Yeah, I remember those days," Kel replied, his tone tinged with fondness. "I used to tell you guys that I'll be the strongest and tallest, right?" He flexed playfully, showing off his muscles with a grin. "Guess I've lived up to that promise, huh?"
Basil chimed in with a grin of his own. "Kel. You've become quite the powerhouse."
As Hero and Aubrey arrived with refreshments, the group settled down to enjoy their snacks, basking in the warmth of friendship and shared memories.
Aubrey teased "Guess the heat got you boys to adjust your clothing. So…what did we miss?" As she also tries not to look at Basil's marks aware of their origins as well.
Aubrey's playful teasing brought a light chuckle from the group. Kel, still grinning, replied, "Oh, nothing much. Just reminiscing about old times and catching up on our plans for the treehouse."
Hero added, "We finished the miniature model, so now we're brainstorming how to tackle the actual renovations."
Basil, while keeping his hands in his pockets, nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we're discussing the logistics and design details. It's been quite productive."
Sunny, trying to lighten the mood, said, "And we were just admiring Kel's muscles, of course." He gave Kel a playful nudge, earning a laugh from everyone.
Hero laughs as he lend them their favorite cold drinks (especially for Kel Orange Joe) "Still , it's amazing how my bro became such an athlete. He is the most Active than all of us back when we're kids—" As Aubrey huffs "Your quite active too Hero!!! In your own way!!!"
Hero chuckled, accepting the cold drinks and passing out their favorites. "True, Aubrey. I guess we all have our ways of being active and contributing."
Kel, sipping his Orange Joe, grinned. "Hey, someone has to keep the energy up in this group, right?"
Basil, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up. "It's nice to see everyone in good spirits, working together on this project."
Sunny nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it feels good to focus on something positive for a change."
Then they turn to Sunny with a soft pause of a smile. As Sunny sips his cold lemonade to turns to them "What? Is it something I said?" Innocent head tilt of confusion.
Aubrey smiled warmly. "It's just nice to see you in good spirits, Sunny. You seem more relaxed lately."
Hero nodded. "Yeah, it's like the old Sunny is back, the one who used to make us laugh with his antics."
Kel chimed in with a playful grin. "Yeah, we missed that Sunny. The one who always had a funny story or a quirky observation."
Sunny blushed slightly, feeling touched by their words. "Thanks, guys. I guess working on this treehouse project has been good for all of us."
Basil added, "It's moments like these that remind us of why we're friends in the first place."
They all shared a moment of camaraderie and contentment, enjoying each other's company and the progress they were making together.
Then, Basil beams "Maybe…Hey Sunny you don't mind if we take a group picture for us for this moment? Pretty sure Mari doesn't mind we make new memories while waiting for her right?"
Basil's suggestion brought smiles to everyone's faces. "That's a great idea!" Aubrey exclaimed, already reaching for her phone to take the picture.
Sunny nodded eagerly. "Sure, let's capture this moment. Mari would want us to be happy and make new memories."
Kel posed dramatically with his basketball shirt cape, while Hero flashed a thumbs-up. Aubrey made sure everyone was in the frame, and Basil, with a rare genuine smile, stood close to Sunny as they all posed for the picture.
Click! The camera captured a moment of friendship and unity, a snapshot of a day filled with hard work, laughter, and the bonds that held them together.
YouAubrey then winks to Basil "Don't worry we can edit it later on my place Basil can paste this non-Polaroid photo in print for his album…"
Aubrey's wink and offer lightened the mood even more. "Thanks, Aubrey," Basil replied with a grateful smile. "It'll be a great addition to the album."
Sunny chimed in, "Yeah, we can make sure Mari sees how much fun we're having together, even when she's not here physically."
With plans for the picture settled, they continued to enjoy their cold drinks and snacks, basking in the sense of camaraderie and closeness that filled the air.
Then Sunny pauses and thinks to himself (will she not mind me and Basil this happy with everyone? I wonder…why am I still feeling depressingly sad? I am Happy yet those times in black space I recall won't stop) Until Kel spoke something "Either way, on with snack and drinks as we start with the broken ladder right?"
Sunny's internal struggle resonated deeply with him. Despite the happiness of the moment, his mind kept drifting to darker memories. Kel's interruption brought him back to the present, and Sunny nodded, forcing a smile as he replied, "Yeah, let's get started on that ladder. No time to dwell on the past, right?"
Basil noticed as he gently held Sunny's hand "Yes, but doesn't mean we forget it Sunny…shall we discuss what better materials for it than a simple oak wood ladder like back then?"
Basil's gentle touch and understanding words comforted Sunny, who nodded in agreement. "You're right, Basil. Let's think of something more durable this time, maybe reinforced with steel or a sturdy composite material," Sunny suggested, feeling a bit more focused on the task at hand.
Aubrey sighs fixing her hair to be tied up with Kel's help "Although…Wouldn't that be expensive a bit? Sure we have a shop for warehouse..near faraway yet Hero…is there something close we can afford those sort of needs?"
Hero nodded thoughtfully. "We could look into bulk deals or even see if there are any construction companies offering discounts for community projects. I'll check with some contacts and see what options we have," he suggested, eager to contribute to the planning process.
Kel gasped "Ohh!!! Not just Hero is a chef….You made connections to outside Faraway?"
Hero chuckled. "Well, not exactly. But I've met some people through cooking events and competitions. Networking is part of the game, you know," he explained with a grin.
Basil, Sunny, and Aubrey chuckle as they speak "Obviously Kel…He is a COLLEGE student and one of Faraway's talented people here…"
Hero smiled modestly. "I appreciate the praise, but there are so many talented folks out there. I'm just doing what I love and trying to improve every day," he said, trying to downplay his achievements despite Kel, Sunny, Basil, and Aubrey's admiration.
They all hug him after some cold drinks finished aside. Basil speaks up softly "Y-y-yeah yet surely it is still impressive!!! I wonder how long we'll take to finish this small project to have time for other things to do with Sunny!!!"
Basil's stammered agreement was met with nods and smiles from the group. "We'll get it done in no time," Kel chimed in, his usual enthusiasm brightening the mood. "And then, who knows? We might have more adventures waiting for us!"
Aubrey sighs "Kel we only have 18 days left before Sunny moves out with his family to take Mari to a better hospital by the city remember?"
Aubrey's reminder brought a brief somberness to the group, a reminder of the looming deadline. "Right," Sunny murmured, his expression clouded with concern. "We'll make the most of the time we have left," Hero added, his tone determined. "Let's focus on this project and enjoy each other's company while we can."
As Sunny turns to Kel "Any ideas how long it took us last time to make our treehouse as kids together?"
Sunny's question prompted Kel to think back, a nostalgic smile spreading across his face. "Hmm, if I recall correctly, it took us about two weeks, but that was with a lot of trial and error. This time, with our experience and better planning, I think we can do it faster."
Kel's optimism brought a sense of excitement to the group. "Probably less than a week. Which sounds like getting the work done in a jiffy!!!," Sunny replied with a grin. "It'll be great to spend more time together before we have to move."
Hero headpat Sunny "Yes I am sure we can keep up the dedicated paste with proper pace and rest. We can finish it for other activities you want us to do together Sunny…" As Aubrey smugly spoke "Then you can try exploring Faraway and going outside often!!! Of course, we would compensate for helping you take care of Mari due to her being indoors right?" Referencing how Sunny usually is the one taking care of comatose Mari and his parents (whenever they are available).
Aubrey's suggestion brought a hopeful smile to Sunny's face. "That sounds like a plan," he said, nodding in agreement. "Exploring Faraway and spending time outside with everyone would be refreshing. And I appreciate your help with Mari, Aubrey."
As Kel spoke, "Count us in too Sunny!!!" Teasing out "We did help ya out too…not just Aubrey—" Sunny blushed as he stammered "I didn't mean she only has…the credit.."
Basil chuckled and interjected, "Of course, Kel! We're all in this together, supporting each other and making memories." Aubrey gave Kel a playful nudge, saying, "Don't worry, Kel. You're always a big part of our team." Hero nodded in agreement, adding, "Exactly, Kel. We're a team, and we've got each other's backs."
They chuckle as Basil adds, "Still, maybe once in the future, if ever Mari wakes up we can let her help us with interior decorations of this possible new treehouse!!!"
Basil's suggestion brought smiles to everyone's faces. Sunny nodded enthusiastically, "That would be amazing! Mari has such a great eye for aesthetics." Aubrey chimed in, "Definitely! She could add her touch to make it feel like home." Kel grinned, "Count me in for Mari's design team!" Hero chuckled, "It'll be a treehouse fit for a queen, with Mari's magic touch."
They whistle as Hero as Sunny nonchalantly spoke:" With her king Hero.." As Hero blushes and sways his arms saying "Anyways Guys enough little chat shall we prepare to get the materials for the rope used to keep the ladder foldable if not in use to climb the treehouse?"
The group agreed, and they began discussing the specifics of the materials needed for the rope and how to make the ladder foldable. They divided tasks, with Hero and Kel planning to scout for the materials while the others stayed to work on the miniature treehouse model. Sunny, Basil, and Aubrey delved into brainstorming ideas for the ladder's mechanism, excited about the progress they were making.
Aubrey then noticed Sunny and Basil seemed really more engrossed and comfortable with her present as she spoke "So Uhh guys.." As they both turned confused as she awkwardly spoke "Remind me if this is out of the blue, it's cool not only you two get in contact after 4 years and all hmm….What is the dreamworld base in Sunny's dreams are like? I am just curious how Sunny perceived everyone you know. If it's based on cherishing us despite not interacting for that long…"
Aubrey's curiosity about Sunny's dream world was met with a warm smile from Sunny and a thoughtful expression from Basil. Sunny, eager to share, described how his dream world was a reflection of his cherished memories and relationships with everyone. He explained that each person had a special place in his dreams, symbolizing their unique bond and significance in his life.
Basil chimed in, adding that in Sunny's dreams, they were all portrayed as their best selves, embodying the positive qualities and memories they shared. He mentioned how Sunny's dreamworld was a place of comfort and solace, where he could relive happy moments and create new ones with them, even if it was only in his mind.
Aubrey listened intently, nodding along as they painted a vivid picture of Sunny's dream world. She found it touching how Sunny cherished their friendship and memories so deeply, even in his dreams, and it made her appreciate their bond even more.
As Sunny chuckles nervously "Although Omori is nothing like me, my colors are not as colorful as the dreamworld…." He hesitated why for a moment before shifting the subject "Hey still Aubrey….I hmm.." blushed "I sorta perceive your umm…young self as I mean attitude of dreamworld almost the same but.." Heart raced as he glanced at Basil. As he looks down. Basil sighed and spoke back to Pat Sunny to tell Aubrey "Your dreamworld Self is slightly different besides a colorful version of your childhood self you are infatuated with 'Omori'…"
Sunny's nervous laughter and blushing indicated his hesitation in expressing his feelings about Aubrey's dreamworld persona. Basil's reassurance and gentle pat on Sunny's back encouraged him to share his thoughts with Aubrey. Sunny, still blushing slightly, gathered his thoughts and spoke up.
"I see your dreamworld self as someone vibrant and full of energy, just like your real self," Sunny began, glancing at Aubrey with a soft smile. "You're always so lively and adventurous, and that reflects in your dreamworld persona. But there's also this aura of kindness and understanding like you're always there for everyone, which I think is amazing."
Aubrey's eyes lit up with curiosity and a hint of surprise as she listened to Sunny's words. She appreciated the way Sunny saw her and felt a sense of warmth knowing that her dreamworld self resonated with his perception of her.
Basil, noticing Sunny's bashfulness, added, "And in Sunny's dreamworld, your friendship with him and all of us is depicted as something truly special and enduring. It's like a reminder of the strong bond we share, even when life keeps us apart."
The atmosphere became more relaxed and filled with a sense of camaraderie as they delved into the details of Sunny's dreamworld and how each of them was represented within it.
As Basil stutters "As usual My dreamworld self compiles a photo album of the more fantastical version of our times together…" Aubrey blushed a bit as she gazed at Sunny with his calm face despite his pale complexion by the beams of the sunlight streaming at them. She said "Ahh…right right…It's interesting… that Kel is still obnoxious in that dream world based on his childhood self...Hero is there just a magical healer and cook…Mari is support…then for me.." Fix her hair "I mean Sunny, why can't you make your 'Omori' act more like you? Since he doesn't act like you at all and my version you convey in your dreams likes him?"
Sunny, feeling a bit flustered by Aubrey's question, took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding.
"Well, Omori in my dreams is like this idealized version of myself, I guess," Sunny explained, scratching his head slightly. "He's confident, brave, and able to express himself freely, which is something I've struggled with. It's like he embodies all the qualities I admire but find challenging to embody myself."
Basil nodded in understanding, adding, "Dreamworld personas often represent aspects of ourselves that we aspire to or aspects we feel are missing. Omori, in Sunny's dreams, is like a symbol of his inner strength and courage, qualities he's trying to cultivate."
Aubrey smiled softly, realizing the deeper meaning behind Sunny's dreamworld portrayal. "I see," she said, looking at Sunny with newfound understanding. "It's like Omori is your way of exploring and embracing those parts of yourself that you want to strengthen. It's quite inspiring."
Sunny's cheeks turned slightly pink at Aubrey's compliment, appreciating her perspective. "Yeah, exactly," he replied with a shy smile. "Maybe in time, I can merge more of Omori's qualities into my real self."
The conversation shifted to discussing more dreams and perceptions, creating a sense of openness and connection among the friends as they explored deeper aspects of themselves through Sunny's dream world.
Then he nervously smiles and looks away "Although now you sorta get where I got the idea of a knife as a weapon…." Glance at now the healed arms of Aubrey that used to be slashed by his cutter from 2 days ago when she used to quarrel with Basil for the Photo Album incident. (if only she knew why Omori existed in the first place and my Dreamworld…)
Sunny's nervous smile faded as he glanced at Aubrey's healed arms, a reminder of the recent tensions and conflicts among them. He couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt for his actions, especially knowing the pain he had caused.
"Yeah... sorry about that," Sunny mumbled, his gaze lingering on Aubrey's arms for a moment before looking away. "I know it was reckless of me to use a knife as a weapon, and I'm glad you're okay now."
Basil, sensing Sunny's discomfort, spoke up to ease the tension. "We've all been through a lot lately," he said, his tone gentle and reassuring. "But what matters is that we're here for each other, supporting and understanding one another as we navigate these challenges."
Aubrey nodded, offering a small smile. "It's okay, Sunny," she replied, her voice soft. "We're all learning and growing together. Let's focus on moving forward and creating positive experiences, both in reality and in dreams."
The friends exchanged nods of agreement, a silent acknowledgment of their shared journey and commitment to healing and understanding. As they continued their conversation, the atmosphere lightened, filled with hope for better days ahead.
As Aubrey corrected "Although you're using a cutter in the real world and it isn't that deep—" she glanced with Basil a nod "Again it's my fault for being a bad old friend when you're just trying to protect Basil from my aggression at the time.."
Then Sunny held her hands and beamed a serious gaze that made her heart skip a beat as he said "Aubrey I…I meant something else to…" glanced at Basil for any sign that he [Sunny] could finally admit at least him being the true culprit of the deface photos (photos of his face in those pictures covered in black marker)
Sunny's serious gaze held a mix of regret and determination as he spoke to Aubrey. "Aubrey, I want to apologize for everything, not just the cutter incident. I know I've been distant and not always there for you when you needed me." He glanced at Basil briefly, hoping for some support or understanding.
Basil met Sunny's gaze with a nod, silently encouraging him to continue.
Taking a deep breath, Sunny continued, "I need to admit something. The defaced photos, the ones with my face covered in black marker... I did that. I was frustrated, confused, and angry, and I took it out on those photos. It was wrong of me, and I'm truly sorry for disrespecting your memories like that, Aubrey."
Aubrey's expression softened as she listened, a mixture of surprise and understanding crossing her features. She reached out to squeeze Sunny's hands gently. "Sunny, thank you for being honest. I appreciate your apology, and I forgive you. We all make mistakes, and what's important is that we learn from them and move forward together."
Basil chimed in, "We're a team, and we'll support each other no matter what. Let's focus on building positive experiences and strengthening our bond."
With a sense of relief and resolution, the friends embraced the moment of honesty and reconciliation, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead with unity and understanding.
Still, Aubrey asks "Why? Why did you not want memories around you? You were Mari's light..her precious sunshine especially back then…"
Sunny took a moment to gather his thoughts, his gaze shifting to a distant point as memories flooded his mind. "Aubrey, it's complicated... I was scared. Scared of losing those memories, of facing the pain they brought. Mari was everything to me, and when everything changed, I didn't know how to cope."
He sighed, his voice filled with a mix of sadness and regret. "I thought by erasing those photos, I could erase the pain too. But I realize now that it was a mistake. Those memories, even the painful ones, are a part of who we are. They shape us and remind us of the love and laughter we shared."
Basil added softly, "Sunny was hurting, and he didn't know how to express it. He thought by hiding those memories, he could protect himself from the grief."
Sunny nodded, grateful for Basil's understanding. "I'm sorry, Aubrey. I should have talked to you all about it instead of trying to deal with it on my own."
Aubrey reached out, placing a comforting hand on Sunny's shoulder. "Sunny, we're here for you. We're a team, remember? We'll help each other through the tough times and cherish the good memories together."
With Aubrey's reassurance and the support of his friends, Sunny felt a weight lifted off his shoulders. It was a step towards healing and accepting the past, knowing that he didn't have to face it alone.
Then as they hug they have a flushed expression. As Basil sighed. Sunny speaks up "Seriously….Do I deserve being around Mari? She won't no…you guys want me really around her once she wakes up?" Aubrey is slightly confused while coaxing his hair and spoke: "Whatever how bad Mari's 'accident' and we all don't know why she got that moment that night by the stairs…yet deep down I think she just hopes we can get that recital at that time.."
She continued "Just, learn to be in the present okay? The ME now and everyone else doesn't mind the current Sunny…Despite there's parts of you that are the same…get it?"
Aubrey's words resonated with Sunny, and he nodded, a soft smile forming on his lips. "You're right, Aubrey. I need to focus on the present and who I am now, not just dwell on the past or fear the future."
Basil added, "And Mari, she wouldn't want us to be divided or harbor doubts about each other. She's always been the one to bring us together, to remind us of the joy in our friendship."
Kel chimed in, "Exactly! We can't change the past, but we can create new memories and cherish the ones we have. Mari would want us to be happy and united when she wakes up."
Hero nodded, "And I believe in you, Sunny. You're a vital part of our group, and Mari would be glad to see us all supporting each other."
Sunny felt a warmth in his chest, a sense of acceptance and hope. "Thank you, everyone. I'll do my best to be present and cherish our moments together."
As they stood there, embracing each other, they knew that no matter what challenges they faced, they would always have each other's backs and be there for Mari when she finally woke up.
Then, Basil blinks "Wait when did you guys get here—" As both Sunny and Aubrey comically let go of their almost intimate platonic hug (both conflicted beyond the conversation of their own racing hearts)
The sudden interruption made Sunny and Aubrey jump back, their faces flushing with embarrassment. Aubrey quickly straightened her hair, trying to regain composure, while Sunny cleared his throat, avoiding eye contact with the others.
Kel chuckled, "Whoa there, lovebirds! What's with the cozy moment?"
Hero grinned, "Looks like we missed quite the scene!"
Basil blushed, still slightly dazed, "I...uh...we were just talking, and then suddenly you guys were here."
Aubrey laughed nervously, "Yeah, just catching up and reminiscing about old times."
They all exchanged knowing looks, understanding that some conversations were best kept private. The moment passed, and they continued with their plans for the day, grateful for the bond that held them together through thick and thin.
Sunny hides his face with his bandaged hand saying "Kel…w-w-were just making up more properly…nothing LOVEY dovey…hehe…"
Sunny's attempt to downplay the situation only made everyone chuckle even more. Kel grinned mischievously, "Sure, sure, Sunny. We believe you."
Aubrey playfully nudged Sunny, "Don't worry, they won't tease us too much...maybe."
Hero added with a laugh, "Just a friendly reminder that we're all here for each other, lovey-dovey or not."
Basil nodded in agreement, "Exactly. No need to be embarrassed. We're like family, after all."
With the tension eased and laughter filling the air, they resumed their activities, enjoying the warmth of their friendship and the shared memories that bound them together.