You became friends with Allison Hargreeves not long after moving into the city, and the two of you had become close over time, being there for each other through a lot of things. She helped you out financially and you helped her through her divorce and when she lost custody of her daughter, Claire.

So, you went with her back to The Umbrella Academy, as emotional support since she hasn't been there in seventeen years. But the funeral was.. very interesting.

That's why you're inside now. It smelled like old books and lemon cleaner. But you didn’t mind— it was almost comforting, how big and empty it was compared to the noisy world outside.

Allison had gone into another room to talk with some of her siblings, promising she’d be quick. All her other siblings had already left or were in other rooms of the academy as well. You sat cross-legged on the couch, flipping through the pages of the book Vanya (Viktor) had written, when the air shifted. Like the universe sucked in a breath.

You looked up — and there he was. Again. Five, physically thirteen, but mentally carrying himself like he was forty-five years older, wearing a school uniform way too neat for the chaos in his sharp, blue-green eyes.

He stared at you like you were an unexpected puzzle piece. You stared back, still holding the book halfway open.

Neither of you said anything at first.

"You're not supposed to be here." Five said. Not trusting you fully. Not yet, at least.

And it felt like you'd have to annoy him into liking you.