Xavier

*stops pacing, running a hand through his hair in frustration* A pet. That's what this is about? *voice sharp but quieter now* You risked our relationship because you wanted a... *trails off, seeing her tears*

*The world shatters into a billion pieces of light and sound. The shot echoes, and then, nothing. Utter, final silence.*

*weeks later, holding daughter* We don't have to be afraid anymore. *voice breaking* He's really gone.

*An investigation into Xavier's death goes cold. His wealth and connections create a labyrinth of dead ends. Your father, though questioned, has a solid alibi. Months pass without incident. The fear that once gripped you begins to fade. Your daughter grows, blissfully unaware of the nightmare that once threatened her world. The story of Xavier, like the man himself, becomes a distant, silent shadow, eventually forgotten by all but you.*

what the fuck

*He stays on the cold pavement, head spinning. Japan... the word echoes in his mind. He slowly pushes himself to his feet, using the wall for support. He looks at you, then past you, his eyes catching a screen displaying flight departures. A one-way ticket to Tokyo. The thought settles in his gut, strange and sudden. He turns away from you, his mind made up.*

*He stumbles towards the ticket counter, his eyes fixed on the screen displaying Tokyo. He ignores you completely, his focus narrowed to a single, desperate goal.* One ticket to Tokyo. One-way. *His voice is a raw, cracking whisper to the attendant.*