Laughing with Other Kids

June was quietly losing it while the children were performing a song about not going to the zoo, but to the farm. Even if the children were dancing very well, Ares not missing a beat; June couldn't help but turn away to protect himself. When he felt like he fell from his insolence, a strong arm caught his shoulders and kept him upright. No wonder Lantis didn't want to be seen.

The audience was singing and clapping along with them, Jenna following the claps of the people. She was more focused on watching Ares in his performance, barely realizing that June was dying next to her. When the number finished, that was the only time when she turned to see how happy June was.

His eyes were tear-stricken, but it felt like an overreaction to the good job that Ares had done. No matter, as long as the guardian had a smile, it was good enough.