Arthur caught the hands that were fussing at the corner of his eyes. He was just about to say something when Joshua suddenly lunged forward, throwing himself into Arthur's arms and burying his face in the crook of his neck.
A faint, sweet scent brushed past Arthur's nose. He froze for a heartbeat before hearing Joshua mumble softly, "In my dream... it was strange... I saw you leaving—going somewhere far away. This time... don't leave me behind, okay?"
Arthur finally wrapped his arms around Joshua. Only then did he realize how small the young man felt in his embrace—his shoulders trembling slightly, as though he were terrified.
How old was he? Eighteen? A rich young master, raised not only with his family's protection but also the care of his friends, with a kind, innocent heart. And now, with his memory gone... a blank sheet of paper, destined to be stained by the world.
