It was nights like these that Critias hated the most. He lay awake in his bed, unable to even close his eyes for more than a few minutes. His mind was filled with unwelcome thoughts, and all he wanted to do was lower his eyelids and fall asleep. As usual, the thoughts that kept him awake were not pleasant. Tonight, his mind was focused on how alone he actually was. It was one of his least favorite topics, but for some reason he kept coming back to it. He went to sleep around nine. It was almost midnight now. Yet he lay awake, staring at the ceiling. He had to accept the fact that he wouldn't be sleeping anytime soon, so he got out of bed, took off his pajamas, grabbed the phone; wallet; and coat, then walked out the door. He didn't bother to leave a note for his mother. He doubted she would get up in the time he was out. All public transport was a bit unstable at that hour - at least the ones still running - so he decided to walk. There was no doubt where the roads would take him and before long he found himself on the seafront. Critias always found it a little disturbing at this time. Even more so with the current full moon. The shops were all closed and the surrounding area abandoned. Somehow, it was still comforting that way. The blond headed straight for the stairs that led down to the sand, his pace obviously slow once he reached that point. There was no rush now; that was where he wanted to be. He stuffed his hands into his jacket pockets to protect them from the cold ocean breeze, although the light wind still stung his nose and cheeks. Strangely enough, as much as he didn't like the cold, he didn't mind it as much when it came from the ocean. Like the city lights...... middle of paper...... moment before returning to his room, patting Critias on the shoulder as he passed. "Sleep well, darling. I'll call the Tanakas right away to let them know you won't be coming today." "N'ok..." He yawned, rubbing his eyes when he heard the door of his mother's house next door. A small sigh passed his lips, and he walked over to the light, turning it off before throwing himself onto the bed, covering himself with the blanket. He didn't bother putting his pajamas back on, too tired for that. Now that he knew he was going to sleep, he didn't care much about trying to stay awake. After a moment, though, he realized that his phone was still in his pocket, and he pulled it out, setting an alarm for later. and throwing him to the other side of the bed, letting his eyes close. Fortunately, he fell asleep quickly, his mind had nothing left to think about, and his silent snoring soon followed..