The next day, Richie sat on the school bus, recalling what had happened the night before.
He had stood before the piano, lost in a daze for a long time. Twilight had called him several times, but he had not snapped out of it.
"Richie, it's time to eat." Twilight knocked gently on the Piano Room door.
Richie remained silent, immersed in his memories.
Deeply worried, Twilight knocked several more times before opening the door and stepping inside.
The moment he entered, Twilight saw a lonely figure with his back to him.
Twilight had no idea what was wrong with Richie and could not begin to guess. All he could do was walk over, slowly crouch down to meet his eyes, and ask gently:
"What's wrong, Richie? Whatever happened, you can tell your father. I'll help you. You're not alone anymore!"
Richie said nothing. His gaze rested on the piano's black and white keys as the multicolored glow of the setting sun streamed through the window and fell across the instrument.
Richie's eyes met the sunset's lingering light. He remembered the years gone by, unsure how to face his life now.
"Father..." Richie choked out.
Twilight was a little taken aback, not knowing what had happened. "Yes, Richie?"
Twilight called his name gently once more. Seeing how upset Richie was, he pulled him into his arms.
Enveloped in the sudden warmth, Richie's little hands trembled faintly beneath his sleeves, still a little cold.
"Father, I... I just remembered some unhappy things from before. I'm okay!" Richie let his full weight rest against Twilight.
Twilight could tell at a glance what was on Richie's mind. "Does it have something to do with the piano? Do you not like music, Richie?"
Richie said nothing and merely shook his head, rubbing it against