Maison Billiette

“This is something obtained in place of a debt.” In the year I turned 13, my adoptive father brought home the most beautiful and unfortunate monster in the world. *** ‘No, Billie. I don’t know how to live without you.’ An ecstatically soft voice pierced my ears. Despite the gentle tone, my legs couldn’t move as if I was caught in a trap, so I couldn’t run away any further. ‘You promised that you would love me even if I break down. You said it’s okay even if I become a mess.’ The man who had gone completely crazy hugged my waist affectionately. “Even if I have to start over from scratch, everything is fine as long as I have you, Billy.” Helios smoothly lifted my chin and whispered. ...