“That’s another thing,” he snarled. “I’m tired of your apologies! Every time you waste my time with one, you’re gonna start making it up to me.” “How…” Dasai’s kiss stopped the question short. Anger shot through Dasai into Kuro. The kiss came as a surprise. Yet, it wasn’t a moment before Kuro’s shoulders released their tension and he felt his fingers in Dasai’s shirt. Dasai dropped him. The anger was trying to disguise the feelings that had brought them here. Kuro dared to point out, “you might be confused on how punishments work.”

“I doubt anyone would want to kiss me,” Kuro was fumbling with worried thoughts. Dasai’s eyes narrowed dangerously! “But if I can get good now…”

“The bullying is worse than we know. And he’s doing his best to hide it, which tells me that they’re striking where Kuro can hide it. Or they were but something happened today.” “You should keep your head up if you have a nosebleed.” Kuro jumped. Blood and water flowed down his chin where it fell to the heavily stained sweater. “I-I tripped.” An excuse without being asked what happened was always a sign of a bad liar.

“Get over here, Kuro,” Dasai snarled! He scrambled to follow, making a submissive skirt around Silas and Bryson. There was a heavy bang when Dasai slammed the desk down right beside his. Kuro walked up, his eyes wide. “Uhm, si…” The deadly stare Dasai gave him stopped him cold. Without another attempt, Kuro claimed his seat. Satisfied, Dasai did the same.

The tone was sharp, but the hold was…gentle! It was the first time since they were kids that Dasai had touched him. Kuro stared blankly at the floor. The towel moved from his head because Dasai took it. The side of his finger lifted Kuro’s face, “what’s this?” He felt flushed, “I tripped.” The towel was thrown back at him. Dasai moved on past to his room. Kuro took a step back, his eyes upon Dasai’s closing door. Slowly, he turned to go prepare supper.