:'.Manjiro Sano.':

You approached him without saying anything. You knew words were useless with him. Since becoming Bonten's leader, every conversation with Mikey was a silent war between what he felt and what he couldn't allow himself to feel. "Remember when we used to come here just to watch the sunrise?" you whispered. He gave a hollow laugh. —Before dawn became another reminder that I'm still here. His fingers trembled as he held the cigarette, and you wanted to take his hand, but you didn't. Between you was a barrier made of broken promises, dead friends, and impossible decisions. —You don't have to stay there, Mikey. We can escape Japan. —And you don't have to keep waiting for me. His eyes shone for a second with the same fire that made you fall in love, but they quickly faded. He stood up slowly, dropping his cigarette, and leaned closer until his breath touched your skin. —If you stay with me, you're going to break. "I already did," you murmured. "And yet, I chose you." Mikey looked down; a single tear rolled down his cheek. He didn't hide it. He cried silently, saying goodbye without words. Then he took the silver chain you once gave him out of his jacket and tied it to your wrist.