104

Azrael

I took pictures as Leslie excitedly stuck out his head from the train; the breeze blowing against his hair and his eyes excited with the nature scenery around Japan.

Leslie was my kid, but travelling brought out that soul in him more. No sleep for me if he was awake, talking my ears out on all the places he wanted to go.

I never want him to cry or feel lonely when I’m around.

“I can’t wait to take a lot of pictures.” Leslie said, and I sighed.

“I’ve missed hot spring baths.”

The train stopped, and we headed for one of the popular temples in Kyoto – Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.

We took a lot of pictures with a temple guide giving the history of the temple. I didn’t believe in any gods, unlike my parents and Leslie is Christian, so I couldn’t understand his fascination with temples.

“Should we buy a charm or two? Maybe a souvenir?” Leslie asked.

“Kid, these god statures aren’t for decorations and children touch things they shouldn’t. Let’s stick with the papers that won’t leave t