"Why do you work all the time? You're still in school."

We're standing side by side in front of a tiny store, after buying two cans of Coca Cola. I don't really want to go home right after having dinner, so the two of us are stranded not far from the diner.

I don't know how I suddenly have the courage to ask him about the lingering questions I have of him. From Rosa, and now this. 

I sneak a glance to look at him, making sure that I'm not overstepping the boundaries. He doesn't seem offended by it - thank goodness.

"I really don't have a choice," then suddenly he looks at me, "Have I told you that I have a brother?"

"Yeah. That's why you always buy children's books, right?"

He absentmindedly nods, "Mhm. The little guy is sick. That's why I need to work."

"What about your parents?"

"Dad is working in another town. He occasionally sends us money, though. But sometimes it's not enough to cover Harry's medication bills. That's where I come in."

I look at him, trying to decide the right response to his answer. A sorry won't suffice. An oh is just... offensive to the whole situation. But turns out, Jo goes on.

"My mother is thankfully still with us. I just can't leave it all to her. I need to help."

"Your Mom must be proud of you."

He offers a smile, "I hope she is."

"So what's your plan after high school?"

His answer doesn't come right away. Only after a few beats, he admits that he still doesn't know what he'll do. "I'll probably work. Or maybe apply to a uni nearby."

"Ah..."

"What about you?"

"I have this one uni I'd like to apply to."

"Where is it?"

"Can't say. I'd rather not jinx it." I grin and he lifts his hands in surrender.

"Alright."

A thought involuntarily pops out, Is it fine if I want to ask further about his little brother?

But I feel like I'm already lucky to get him to open up a bit. I know I'd rather not risk it.

"How about you?" he glances at me, sipping his can, "You seem to have a hard time balancing between school and work. Why bother?"

"I figure I'm old enough to work, so why shouldn't I?"

"Simple as that?"

"Simple as that." I nod and somehow he seems quite amused with my answer. Well, it doesn't seem as important as his. Especially with his sick brother and absent father.

"Starting early," he almost seems to mumble to himself, ", that's great."

"Really?"

He looks at me, "Most of the people at my school are either partying or studying. I'm not saying the latter is bad, but we need to learn how to earn ourselves some money, don't you think?"

"Of course. We'll have to work soon, so why not learn how to do it while we can?"

Jo looks satisfied with my answer, "Exactly. Some skills can't be studied at school after all."

"True. That's why we need to have some kind of working experience before getting real work."

He doesn't say anything - he just nods in agreement. Jo shakes his can, signaling that he's finished and he's going to throw it away, "You done with that?"

I give up my can after thanking him and soon I follow him to his bike. It's getting very late. Uncle Terry probably has left with Aunt Poppy. But grandma - she's probably still awake. Her love for gossips hasn't faded though she's nearing 75 and I bet Mom doesn't mind having company while waiting for me.

Those two will probably show up in front of the door to bid Jo goodbye. I'd be very lucky if that doesn't happen.

"Sash?"

"Oh! Coming." I sheepishly follow him to his bike.

"Let's get you home. It's late."

"You said that an hour ago." I tease and he gives me a smirk.

"I'm sure your Mom won't be mad at me. She seems nice."

I facepalm at the back of his bike, "I can't believe she invited you to dinner. Sorry about that." 

"I'd probably consider dropping by some time."

Silence follows because of me staring at the back of his head with my jaw dropped and he soon looks at me teasingly from over his shoulder.

"What's wrong with that?"

"You're kidding."

"I was, but seeing how much you'd like that to happen, I'll promise to visit next time."

"Psh. You're unbelievable sometimes, Scott." A smirk graces my lips at the idea, "Or should I say, Joseph."

"Drop it, Blue."

"Such a great name. What a waste not to use it." I click my tongue, shaking my head. I like how he'd cringe at the mention of his own name, as if it's a secret that should be kept when everyone already knows.

The speeding bike bumps into something on the road. I yelp, holding his jacket for support before scowling at the sloppy driver's back.

"That's what you get for messing with Jo Scott."

I can literally hear the smugness in his voice. The boy can actually be that childish after all. 

"What a cheap trick."

"You want to see an expensive one?"

I laugh, "Weirdo."

Our banter is officially put to an end as his bike stops in front of my house. It's really quiet at 11 and I silently pray that my Mom and my gran won't suddenly open the door to excitedly invite him in.

"Thanks for the bumpy ride." 

"You're welcome, Blue."

"Off you go then. I can feel your brother already miss you at home."

At the mention of little Harry, his lips form into a genuine smile. Anyone can see how much Jo loves his little brother.

"Yeah. I should get back."

"Good night, Joseph." my smirk is the polar opposite of his scowl.

"Good night, Blue."

Then there he goes into the peaceful evening.

Just in time. Because not long after, the front door flies open to reveal my gran with Mom hovering behind her looking expectantly at where I am.

"Where's the boy, Sasha?"

"He's gone home, gran."

Gran turns to look annoyedly at Mom while I silently give thanks because of their timing, "I told you we should've waited for them by the window!"

"We'll do that next time," Mom then looks at me, "You should invite him to come in next time, hon. He seems like a sweet guy."

I agree halfheartedly before trudging upstairs.

Then next time, I have to ask him to drop me as far away as possible from my house. I'd rather not have the two of them 'investigate' poor Jo.

I almost pass Rachel's room when I see the door is slightly open. Then almost immediately, my mind remembers Jo's advice this afternoon. Though I hate to admit it, he's right. Of course, he is.

It's not my place to demand such a thing when Rachel herself doesn't want to.

I draw a long sigh, before opening the door to her room as quietly as I can.

Maybe she isn't asleep yet. But what should I say?

I don't know.

I draw nearer to her bed and after a few quiet steps, I see her face. She's sleeping peacefully and a part of me is relieved she is.

It's been some time since she can have a good night sleep.

Crouching near her, I dare myself to put a hovering hand on hers.

"I'm sorry, Rach."