68 Oh. That Guy. (1/2)

Arius stood in the garden, and he thought about that discussion. 'No one is completely whole'? Right, Eirik did say that. Although Arius didn't know if he could agree.

He didn't really like being by himself, but sometimes he needed some space to think. He realized he wasn't alone though, when a small slender hand reached out and tapped him on the shoulder. As if by reflex, he grabbed the hand and held it.

”Need something, Zuna?” Arius smiled at the girl who's expression turned a little complicated.

”Do you think I'm messed up?” Zuna paid no attention to the blatant affection Arius showed by holding her hand.

”Aw, is Zuzu feeling insecure?”

She paused for a moment and then scoffed. ”Do I have to say it out loud for you to get it?”

”Wait.” Arius was taken aback, thinking that Zuna would never admit to it. ”You have insecurities?”

”It's only natural!” Zuna was put off by the question and her eyebrows furrowed.

”Why would you ask me? Why not Eirik?”

”Dad wouldn't care even if I was brain dead! So what he thinks of me doesn't matter!” Zuna truly knew Eirik the best.

”But what I think does?” Arius had on a stupidly joyful expression.

”Yes.” Once again, Zuna was not afraid to admit to her true feelings.

”Okay. I think...” Arius looked down at her hand, noticing the details, like her chipped nails and the small scars that took form on her knuckles. ”You're reckless, simple minded, irrational, obnoxious, and arrogant.” Each word ignited anger in her heart, but she let him continue until she heard him say, ”However… I wouldn't have it any other way.”

”Oh…” Zuna pulled her hand back and turned to walk away. ”Thanks then.”

Arius felt compelled to chase after her, and in the end decided not to as he watched her leave so casually. He had to wonder if she was really that dense, or if she just didn't care about his feelings.