The Town Plaza

Ella

I rest my arms aroun him from behind and think, swallowing.

Kyle

Apa knocks before walking in, flashing a smile and coming to sit beside us.

"I made cookies with Ewa, Apa!" I exclaim, smiling at him.

Ella

I don't say anything when he comes in and point to the note on the table, not letting go of Kyle.

Kyle

Apa looks at Ewa questioningly before picking up the note and going pale. I stay where I am, watching him.

"W-who gave you this?" he looks up at Ewa.

Ella

"A guy at the park," I say expressionless, "He almost took Kyle. But...But I got him back."

Kyle

Apa swallows and looks at me for a little before setting the note down and sitting back, "Are you two okay?"

Ella

I don't say Anything and swallow again, looking down.

Kyle

Apa sets a hand on the side of her face and turns her to look at him, "I'm sorry you had to go through that and see the note. I-I'll tell you everything, I swear. Just... tell me if you're okay."

Ella

"Fine," I murmer, "And you don't need to explain anything. Just...I don't even want to know."

Kyle

Apa studies her before nodding and looking at me, staying quiet.

Ella

I let go of Let go of Kyle and let him go to his father, running a hand through my hair as I rest my elbows on my knees, still looking down.

Kyle

I sit on Apa's lap and watch Ewa, wondering what's wrong with everyone.

"S'my half-brother," Apa whispers, "That's who they're talking about in the note. He's... mentally ill, so he stayed with those like him. He's been causing problems."

Ella

I nod and tuck some hair behind my ear, "Okay."

Kyle

Apa nods and takes a deep breath, looking at her, "He's a good kid though. My parents weren't good to him. That's how he got sick, I think. I-I gotta help him."

Ella

I nod and bite my lip, looking up, "Alright."