two days after

Austin cried herself to sleep that night. It had finally caught up with her, landing in Takumi's arms and screeching until her throat was raw. Takumi cried, too, heartbroken over Alaska and how Austin was taking it.

Takumi left her briefly, running like the motherfucking fox he is to the Eagle's, telling him Austin was falling apart. The Eagle granted Takumi permission to temporarily move in with Austin. She clung to him tightly when he'd gotten back, begging him not to leave her again.

"I wouldn't dream of it, baby." He replied, holding her tightly.

There were knocks at the door, which Takumi answered hesitantly. Hank Walsten stood at the door.

"Can I see her?" He asked.

Takumi looked over at the bed. "No, she's-"

"It's okay." Austin cut him off, throwing the blankets off of her and walking over to Hank.

He offered her some weed, which she turned down. She thanked him anyway before he pulled the small girl into a tight hug.

"At least it was instant. At least there wasn't any pain. I'm sorry, Austin." He said into her hair.

Austin nodded when he let her go, wiping a single tear that had escaped.

"Let me know if you need anything." He told her. She nodded before Takumi closed the door.

Lara showed up next. Neither girls said anything as Austin dove into her arms, both crying into each other. Lara tried to comfort Austin, but failed. Austin didn't mind. They were hurting.

There was a 'town' meeting called in the gym, ordering another gathering. Takumi asked Austin if she wanted to go or if she wanted to just get the summary from Chip.

"My life doesn't stop just because hers did." Austin said. "Let's go."

There would be a bus on the way to the funeral on Sunday. Austin rocked back and forth.

Afterwards, Takumi found Lara. The three of them spotted Pudge, walking over but he ducked out of the gym quickly.