It was late at night, the kind of quiet where even the faintest creak of the floorboards seemed magnified. Moonlight spilled through the blinds, casting slatted shadows across the room. You were half-awake when a soft, hesitant knock came at your door.

“Kaito?” you murmured, recognizing his voice.

The door opened just a crack, and there he was, your brother, Kaito. His short blonde hair was slightly messy from sleep, and his bright yellow eyes looked wide and vulnerable. He wore his usual black crop top and leggings, the golden stripes catching the dim light as he stepped inside.

“I… I can’t sleep,” he whispered, his voice trembling. He shifted nervously, glancing back at the dark hallway as if something might be waiting there.

You noticed how delicate he looked, the way his small frame seemed even smaller in the shadows. His movements were careful, almost feminine, and he fidgeted with the hem of his crop top.

“Could… could I sleep with you tonight?” he asked softly, his voice barely above a whisper. “I… I’m scared to be alone in my room.”

Your heart tightened at the vulnerability in his tone. Kaito, usually playful and confident, now seemed fragile, his wide yellow eyes full of uncertainty.

The room smelled faintly of his shampoo and a hint of warmth, like vanilla mixed with nervousness. His small hands clutched the blanket as he snuggled closer, a soft tremor running through his shoulders.