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Chapter 2: The Accusation
The cold morning light seeped through the cracked window of Aoi's small, old room. His breath formed tiny clouds as he shivered under a thin blanket, trying to ignore the biting chill.
Downstairs, the sharp voices of Ren and Riku echoed through the house.
"I swear, Aoi hit me!" Riku's voice was loud and accusing.
Ren's brow furrowed in confusion. "Are you sure? Aoi wouldn't do that."
Riku smirked darkly. "You don't see what he does when you're not around."
Ren's expression shifted from doubt to frustration. "Aoi, come downstairs."
Trembling, Aoi obeyed. His face was pale, and his heart pounded with fear.
Ren stood by the door, arms crossed. His eyes flickered with suspicion.
"Is this true?" Ren demanded, voice cold.
Aoi swallowed hard. "No… I didn't touch him."
Riku stepped forward, his gaze sharp and cruel. "Don't lie to me, Aoi. You hit me yesterday. I have the marks."
Ren's eyes darkened. Without warning, his hand shot out, slapping Aoi across the face.
The sting was fierce, and Aoi's hand flew to his cheek, tears welling up.
"I warned you not to lie," Ren growled, voice low and dangerous.Aoi looked at him, heart breaking. "Why don't you believe me?"
Ren's anger wavered for a moment, replaced by something colder — disappointment.
"I have to protect Riku," Ren said, turning away.
Aoi's shoulders shook as silent tears fell.
Riku's mocking smile grew wider, enjoying the pain he had caused.
As Ren left the room, Aoi whispered to himself, "Maybe they never wanted to see the truth."
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