Communication [oneshot]
Title: Communication
Author: aibakawaii
Pairing: Ohmiya
Rating: PG
Word Count: 3554
Summary: Ohno takes the train to work every morning, and that's where he meets Nino. Their way of speaking is a little strange though...
A/N: Whoa I actually finished on time. Oh, but it isn't a birthday fic, I just wanted to do something for Neen's birthday (and this fic was lying around unfinished). :'D I am so tempted to title this Strangers On A Train...
Ohno hadn't noticed it, but there was a boy who always sat next to him in the train. Or stood near him, depending on how crowded the train was. He was always there in the morning, when Ohno went to work, but he left at the stop just before Ohno's stop.
Of course, there were many people Ohno recognized on the train, though he didn't talk to any of them. At first he thought it was only a coincidence that the boy chose to sit next to him everyday, but even when Ohno changed seats he'd still find the boy nearby.
Ohno knew something had to be up though, once he felt the boy's eyes on him. Ohno looked to the side, meeting the boy's light brown eyes for the first time. Ohno smiled softly in greeting then looked back to the book in his hand, his heart beating surprisingly quicker. He hadn't expected that to happen.
When the boy left the train at his stop as usual, Ohno glanced at the now empty seat next to him. However, it wasn't empty. Ohno blinked and slowly picked up the small notebook. It was ordinary, the cover only being a plain yellow colour. Without thinking, Ohno opened it and his eyes fell on a name: Ninomiya Kazunari. He went through all the pages, and to his disappointment, found them all empty.
I shouldn't be doing this, Ohno thought, frowning. He put the book into his bag, planning on returning it the next day.
--
The first thing Ohno did when he woke up was take the yellow notebook and a pen out of his bag and open it to the first page. Ohno didn't think and started to write.
Hello Ninomiya-san, this is Ohno Satoshi. We take the train together in the morning. I don't know if you've noticed, but we sit next to each other sometimes... You left your book in your seat the other day, so I'm returning it to you. I know I could just tell you all this in person, and I hope you don't get angry for me writing in this, but actually I'm not very good with speaking..
Ohno felt nervous when he entered the train. He must be stupid for writing like that in a stranger's notebook; he had no idea what kind of character Ninomiya was. And what was with that last line? Ohno could speak perfectly well.
He went to his usual seat, and placed the notebook on the next seat, hoping Ninomiya would pick it up.
A couple of minutes after, the boy appeared and sat down, taking the notebook. Ohno felt nervous, but the book hadn't been opened yet. Ohno couldn't help glance over again, noticing with a start that the boy was staring at Ohno intently.
Ninomiya (at least Ohno hoped that was his name) smiled shyly and moved his eyes elsewhere. Ohno swallowed and also looked away, feeling himself blush. What am I doing?
The next day Ohno chose a different seat, its neighbor seats already taken. He couldn't let himself get involved with Ninomiya Kazunari. Ohno didn't know why, but he just felt that it wasn't a good idea.
However, once the boy entered the train, Ohno couldn't keep his eyes off. It was the first time he dared to look at the boy for so long, but Ohno wasn't thinking. Ninomiya's hair looked a little messy, probably because of the windy day. He had a DS in one hand, and- with a little skip of Ohno's heart- the yellow notebook in the other. He wondered if the boy read his message.
Ninomiya looked around, maybe for Ohno, so Ohno looked away. When he looked back up, he found the boy sitting down in his usual seat, and Ohno felt only a tad bit sad. He scowled at his own feelings and looked away again.
When Ninomiya left, Ohno noticed almost immediately the yellow book sitting alone in the seat. Ohno quickly looked towards the doors, but the boy was already out. Hesitating, Ohno got off his seat to retrieve the notebook. He quickly opened to the page after the one with his own writing, and felt his heart sink.
'What's wrong with you?' was staring back at him from the page. Of course. Of course. Anyone would be freaked out if a stranger wrote in a notebook that wasn't even theirs. Ohno was about to close the notebook, when he noticed there was writing on the back. Ohno bit his lip and turned the page.
Just joking, haha. Nice to meet you, Ohno. You can just call me Nino, if you want.
Ohno smiled brightly, despite the message being so short. Nino, huh? Ohno felt giggly all of a sudden, and he put the notebook into his bag for the second time. He didn't think it would be too easy forgetting Nino.
--
Hey. I saw you with a DS, you like games? My mom does, she likes playing the Wii. Though, I don't know if you'd be interested in hearing about my mom. *laugh* I guess I'd rather fish than play games. Would you be interested in hearing about me too? I'm quite a boring person, I think.
Ohno watched Nino pick up the book out of the corner of his eye, and watched him open it to his reply. He took a quick glance at the boy's face, glad to see a small smile.
Ohno raised his eyebrows when the notebook was left behind again. He hadn't noticed Nino write anything down, if he did at all. Ohno took it and quickly opened it, recognizing Nino's handwriting in his quick reply.
Yeah, I guess I'm what you call a game otaku. I like doing magic tricks too, I'll show you one next time. You call yourself boring? Who's the one who wrote in my notebook first? I think that's interesting enough, really.
The next day Nino sat down next to Ohno, and took out some cards. Ohno faced him curiously. Nino gave him a quick smile and began the magic trick. Ohno found himself extremely impressed, and hoped it showed in his face.
For the next few weeks (maybe it had been a month already) Ohno and Nino continued to 'talk' through the notebook. He only got more and more intrigued by the man (as he realized when learning that Nino was only 3 years younger). He also learned that Nino was a musician, a singer. He found himself wanting to hear Nino's voice more than anything, but Ohno didn't know how he could bring that up.
They never once spoke- or written- about physically speaking. Ohno figured that maybe Nino wasn't interested, because Nino didn't seem the type to hold himself back. They hadn't even ever really looked at each other. Ohno would arrive, place the notebook in Nino's seat, and wait for Nino to come. Just before Nino would sit down, their eyes would meet and they would smile at one another in greeting. Nino would take the book and read Ohno's reply, then write his reply down. Then Nino left, leaving the notebook for Ohno to take.
That was it, if not for a small magic trick from Nino, which was rare and Ohno thought he liked those days the most.
Their conversations in the notebook were nothing serious either. Ohno looked down at Nino's reply, which complained about how expensive the new DS would be. Nino would probably end up buying it anyway, Ohno thought, smiling a little.
The next day Nino didn't come. Ohno was surprised, but he didn't worry. Nino had his off days from work too, that was probably it. (Although even when Ohno had off days, he still took the train to see Nino. Of course he didn't admit that, though.) It was just the first time Nino didn't appear since they “met” and so was a little surprising.
However, Nino didn't appear for the next, and the next. Ohno started to seriously worry after a week passed with the disappearance of Nino. What could Ohno do, though? He didn't know where Nino lived, or his phone number. He didn't know much about Nino in general, Ohno realized with a sinking feeling.
On an off day, Ohno took the train and left at Nino's stop, then wondering where the hell he was supposed to go now. He wandered around the station for a while, and just when he was about to leave, a janitor grabbed his arm.
“What?” Ohno asked, slightly scared.
“Ah, sorry,” the janitor let go and pointed to the yellow notebook in Ohno's hand. “You're Nino's friend, right?”
Ohno's eyes widened. “Yes...Do you know him?” He asked slowly.
“Slightly, we've talked a few times. He told me if I saw someone with a yellow notebook wandering around looking for someone, it's probably his friend, and so I'm to pass this note to you.” The janitor handed Ohno a piece of folded paper.
Ohno thanked him, resisting the urge to read the note right away. Once the janitor walked away, Ohno fairly rushed to a seat and almost tore the paper opening it.
Sorry, I suddenly had to move back to my mom's place. She's in critical condition, I couldn't leave her. I don't know when I'll be able to go back. I'm leaving my phone number for you, call if you want.
P.S. I'm guessing that if you receive this, you care that much about me? Love you too, take care~ ♥
Ohno suddenly realized his hands were shaking, though he wasn't sure why. He felt himself smiling at the last line, his heart feeling lighter than it had been in a week. He could finally contact Nino.
But then Ohno stared at the phone number at the bottom. Was he supposed to call Nino? He couldn't do that. For some reason, he felt that if he were going to hear Nino's voice, he'd at least have to hear it in person first. Ohno couldn't wait so long, though, if Nino were to be away for as long as a month. His patience was wearing thin already as it was.
Two days later, Ohno still hadn't called. He tried to forget, tried to wait patiently for Nino's return, but it seemed like Nino was locked inside his thoughts, unable to get out. He'd even memorized Nino's number already. But every time Ohno neared the phone, he felt much too nervous to even think straight enough.
On the way to work, Ohno stood in the train. He felt awkward sitting down when Nino wasn't next to him. Besides, the train was crowded that morning. Suddenly Ohno felt a hand on his butt; he almost yelled out loud when the hand actually groped.
It was the first time he'd been groped, but he supposed there were gay perverts after all. Ohno swallowed, wondering what to do. He was a man anyway- he had to do something as he probably wouldn't get any help.
“I know he has a fantastic ass, but it's not wise groping Oh-chan with me around.”
Ohno made a small noise of surprise at the soft, dangerous murmur from behind. Ohno quickly turned around, first seeing the groper, who looked terrified. Then Ohno saw him.
Nino. But it wasn't the playful, innocent looking Nino Ohno was used to. His light brown eyes were glaring death at the groper, who hurriedly scurried off to the other side of the train. Ohno didn't have a second thought about him.
He stared at Nino, astounded. Nino's eyes met his, but they calmed down immediately and looked pleasant again, like how they were supposed to. Nino smiled awkwardly.
“I hope you haven't been letting scumbags like that approach you while I was gone,” Nino said in a lighter voice, and now that it wasn't forwarded to the groper, Ohno felt like he was hearing the sweet voice of an angel.
“T-That was the first time,” Ohno whispered breathlessly. For some reason, it was like the first time words came out of his mouth- which was true if they were going to Nino's ears.
Nino laughed softly and grabbed Ohno's arm, leading him to their usual seats and sitting them both down.
“I did get your note, you know,” Ohno said quickly, wanting Nino to know that yes, he did care for Nino.
“Ahh, that? You didn't call though!” Nino pouted. “I was lonely, you know.”
Ohno spluttered out an awkward cough. “You- I mean- how was your mom?” Ohno swallowed nervously. Through the notebook, he could think properly for a reply, but speaking to Nino for real proved more difficult than he'd thought it would.
“Oh, she's perfectly fine now. She just collapsed from overworking, it actually wasn't that big of a deal after all,” Nino shrugged.
“That's good,” Ohno said, smiling softly. Truthfully, he was mostly glad that Nino didn't suffer a loss. He thought he couldn't stand a sad Nino.
“Hey, you have that notebook?” Nino asked. Ohno nodded and quickly took out the yellow notebook, passing it to Nino. He sadly wondered if they'd continue their notebook talking, but if Nino preferred it, Ohno wouldn't mind too much.
Nino turned to a fresh page and wrote something down. He gave the notebook back to Ohno and stood up. “I'll see you later,” Nino said, smiling, then leaving the train at his stop. Ohno gazed at Nino's retreating back, until the doors closed. He then looked down at the notebook, remembering it was there.
In Nino's scribbled writing, Ohno read: It's a bit embarrassing to say out loud, but I missed you, you know? I hope we can become friends.
Ohno stared at it, and before he knew it, started to blush. Nino was surprisingly shy, but that was cute. Ohno got off the train, satisfied.
The next day Ohno sat down and placed the notebook next to him with his reply in it, assuring that they were already friends. When Nino arrived and read his reply, he smiled brightly at Ohno. Nino leaned over to Ohno, and whispered into his ear, “Wanna go on a date?”
“E-Eh?” Ohno backed away slightly, blushing furiously. Nino burst out laughing (Ohno couldn't help noticing how much deeper than his voice it sounded; he had been expecting Nino to have light, almost feminine laughter.)
“I'm joking!” Nino's laughs subsided and he looked away, which Ohno was glad of since his face was still red. Ohno felt himself become disappointed, though he wasn't sure why. Maybe he liked Nino? He'd had feelings like this before, for crushes, although they had all been directed towards girls. Gender wasn't the case, though. Ohno barely knew Nino, it was only yesterday that he heard the boy's voice, and only today that it was confirmed they were friends.
“I do,” Ohno said softly. Nino looked at him questioningly. “A date,” Ohno said quickly, “I want a day with you.”
Ohno thought God must be on his side when Nino smiled almost immediately and nodded. He opened the notebook and scribbled something down, then gave it to Ohno. “Here are the dates for when I'm off.” Nino stood up, and Ohno realized it was already his stop. “Call me,” Nino winked. Ohno, stunned, could only stare at the spot Nino left. After a few minutes, Ohno looked down at the dates. He was glad to see that he also had the weekend off with Nino.
After work, Ohno couldn't wait any longer and he called Nino. When Nino picked up, he told him he'd be free and Nino in return said he couldn't wait (even if it was in a joking manner, Ohno felt his heart skip a beat).
“Me too,” Ohno said, slightly breathless. He waited for Nino to hang up, then put his phone away.
Waiting eagerly for the weekend, Ohno was still able to see Nino on the train, and that eased his impatience- which made him wonder why he was so impatient lately when he was usually a patient man.
The two didn't talk much, sometimes Nino would only greet him, but Ohno was happy as long as he got to hear Nino's voice. It was the morning as well; both were tired. They also continued communicating through the notebook, though it was really just for fun. The day before the weekend, Ohno cheerfully got on the train.
“Good morning,” Ohno greeted when Nino got on, but Nino only gave a small wave and slumped into his seat. “Tired?” Ohno chuckled fondly.
Nino yawned loudly and nodded. He wrapped an arm around Ohno's and rested his head on his shoulder.
“Nino?” Ohno blinked, his heart beating quickly.
“Wake me up at my stop,” Nino murmured, drifting off to sleep. Ohno smiled softly, watching the younger man. Nino seemed so delicate, Ohno was afraid the boy would snap any moment, but Nino's strong words made up for it.
Ohno shook Nino slightly when his stop came, but he only cuddled closer to Ohno, a stubborn frown on his face.
“Nino,” Ohno called urgently, shaking the boy again. Nino mumbled something softly in response. “What?” Ohno glanced quickly at the doors, which were about to close.
“I don't have work today,” Nino said louder, his hold on Ohno only tightening.
“Wha- you don't?” Ohno felt slightly panicky, Nino's closeness surprising him.
“I wanted to see you,” Nino whispered. Ohno's eyes widened, then a wide, goofy smile spread on his face.
“Our date is only tomorrow, you know,” Ohno whispered back. Nino opened his eyes and looked up at Ohno, who felt his heart skip a beat.
“Oh-chan is irresistible,” Nino said quietly, smiling. Ohno flushed, unable to come up with a response. “You take everything so seriously,” Nino then said, chuckling.
“A-Ah, sorry..” Ohno muttered, feeling embarrassed. That was right; Nino was only joking. It hurt a little every time, but Ohno ignored the small knot in his chest as best he could. He was Nino's friend now, and that was more than what he could ask for already.
“Again, being serious,” Nino frowned. “I do mean it though. I like being with you.”
Ohno smiled at Nino, then looked out the window. He was happy to hear those words, of course he was, so why was the painful knot only getting tighter?
Ohno stood up, leaving Nino's hold. “See you tomorrow,” Ohno said without looking at Nino, and he quickly got off the train. Once in the bathroom at his workplace, Ohno wondered if it was possible to flush himself down the toilet.
How could he have done that to Nino? The boy had proved to be shy at first, but Nino was finally been getting more comfortable around Ohno lately. Why did he have to shove Nino away when the boy finally “confessed” his feelings like that?
Ohno sighed heavily, planning on apologizing the next day. If Nino showed up, anyway.
--
Nino didn't sit next to Ohno when he entered the train, but instead sat in another seat further away. Ohno swallowed, worried, but he immediately got up and went over to Nino.
Ohno opened his mouth to apologize, before Nino shoved the yellow notebook into Ohno's hand. Ohno frowned slightly and opened it.
I'm sorry.
Ohno bit his lip and took out his pen, quickly writing down his reply:
I should be the one to say sorry. You did nothing wrong, Nino. I have something to tell you, is that okay?
Nino read it and nodded. Ohno smiled slightly and grabbed Nino's hand, pulling the boy up. He got off the train and walked to a nearby park, stopping in front of a fountain.
“Nino, listen to me, okay?” Ohno squeezed Nino's hand softly, feeling nervous with the boy's piercing brown eyes on him.
“I like you,” Ohno confessed. “I know maybe this is too soon, that I shouldn't be acting this familiar with you, but I mean it. I want to continue learning about you.” Ohno paused nervously. “If- If you don't have the same feelings, it's okay, I won't..do anything other than being your friend.”
Nino stayed silent, his expression hadn't changed. It was hard to tell what the boy was thinking. Nino turned around to the fountain and threw the notebook into it. Ohno watched in horror as the book slowly sunk down to the bottom, all the contents ruined. Was this Nino's way of rejecting? Ohno wondered with a sharp pain in his chest.
He then realized that their hands were still connected.
Nino turned back to Ohno and smiled, almost shyly if Ohno allowed himself to think that. He kissed Ohno softly, and then Ohno knew.
Any communication was fine. They didn't need to speak to understand each other, because if one was dear to another, their feelings would get across no matter what.
Ohno hugged Nino tightly: I'm sorry. Nino chuckled softly and pat Ohno's back.
“Now how 'bout that date? You can treat me to hamburgers.”
Author: aibakawaii
Pairing: Ohmiya
Rating: PG
Word Count: 3554
Summary: Ohno takes the train to work every morning, and that's where he meets Nino. Their way of speaking is a little strange though...
A/N: Whoa I actually finished on time. Oh, but it isn't a birthday fic, I just wanted to do something for Neen's birthday (and this fic was lying around unfinished). :'D I am so tempted to title this Strangers On A Train...
Ohno hadn't noticed it, but there was a boy who always sat next to him in the train. Or stood near him, depending on how crowded the train was. He was always there in the morning, when Ohno went to work, but he left at the stop just before Ohno's stop.
Of course, there were many people Ohno recognized on the train, though he didn't talk to any of them. At first he thought it was only a coincidence that the boy chose to sit next to him everyday, but even when Ohno changed seats he'd still find the boy nearby.
Ohno knew something had to be up though, once he felt the boy's eyes on him. Ohno looked to the side, meeting the boy's light brown eyes for the first time. Ohno smiled softly in greeting then looked back to the book in his hand, his heart beating surprisingly quicker. He hadn't expected that to happen.
When the boy left the train at his stop as usual, Ohno glanced at the now empty seat next to him. However, it wasn't empty. Ohno blinked and slowly picked up the small notebook. It was ordinary, the cover only being a plain yellow colour. Without thinking, Ohno opened it and his eyes fell on a name: Ninomiya Kazunari. He went through all the pages, and to his disappointment, found them all empty.
I shouldn't be doing this, Ohno thought, frowning. He put the book into his bag, planning on returning it the next day.
--
The first thing Ohno did when he woke up was take the yellow notebook and a pen out of his bag and open it to the first page. Ohno didn't think and started to write.
Hello Ninomiya-san, this is Ohno Satoshi. We take the train together in the morning. I don't know if you've noticed, but we sit next to each other sometimes... You left your book in your seat the other day, so I'm returning it to you. I know I could just tell you all this in person, and I hope you don't get angry for me writing in this, but actually I'm not very good with speaking..
Ohno felt nervous when he entered the train. He must be stupid for writing like that in a stranger's notebook; he had no idea what kind of character Ninomiya was. And what was with that last line? Ohno could speak perfectly well.
He went to his usual seat, and placed the notebook on the next seat, hoping Ninomiya would pick it up.
A couple of minutes after, the boy appeared and sat down, taking the notebook. Ohno felt nervous, but the book hadn't been opened yet. Ohno couldn't help glance over again, noticing with a start that the boy was staring at Ohno intently.
Ninomiya (at least Ohno hoped that was his name) smiled shyly and moved his eyes elsewhere. Ohno swallowed and also looked away, feeling himself blush. What am I doing?
The next day Ohno chose a different seat, its neighbor seats already taken. He couldn't let himself get involved with Ninomiya Kazunari. Ohno didn't know why, but he just felt that it wasn't a good idea.
However, once the boy entered the train, Ohno couldn't keep his eyes off. It was the first time he dared to look at the boy for so long, but Ohno wasn't thinking. Ninomiya's hair looked a little messy, probably because of the windy day. He had a DS in one hand, and- with a little skip of Ohno's heart- the yellow notebook in the other. He wondered if the boy read his message.
Ninomiya looked around, maybe for Ohno, so Ohno looked away. When he looked back up, he found the boy sitting down in his usual seat, and Ohno felt only a tad bit sad. He scowled at his own feelings and looked away again.
When Ninomiya left, Ohno noticed almost immediately the yellow book sitting alone in the seat. Ohno quickly looked towards the doors, but the boy was already out. Hesitating, Ohno got off his seat to retrieve the notebook. He quickly opened to the page after the one with his own writing, and felt his heart sink.
'What's wrong with you?' was staring back at him from the page. Of course. Of course. Anyone would be freaked out if a stranger wrote in a notebook that wasn't even theirs. Ohno was about to close the notebook, when he noticed there was writing on the back. Ohno bit his lip and turned the page.
Just joking, haha. Nice to meet you, Ohno. You can just call me Nino, if you want.
Ohno smiled brightly, despite the message being so short. Nino, huh? Ohno felt giggly all of a sudden, and he put the notebook into his bag for the second time. He didn't think it would be too easy forgetting Nino.
--
Hey. I saw you with a DS, you like games? My mom does, she likes playing the Wii. Though, I don't know if you'd be interested in hearing about my mom. *laugh* I guess I'd rather fish than play games. Would you be interested in hearing about me too? I'm quite a boring person, I think.
Ohno watched Nino pick up the book out of the corner of his eye, and watched him open it to his reply. He took a quick glance at the boy's face, glad to see a small smile.
Ohno raised his eyebrows when the notebook was left behind again. He hadn't noticed Nino write anything down, if he did at all. Ohno took it and quickly opened it, recognizing Nino's handwriting in his quick reply.
Yeah, I guess I'm what you call a game otaku. I like doing magic tricks too, I'll show you one next time. You call yourself boring? Who's the one who wrote in my notebook first? I think that's interesting enough, really.
The next day Nino sat down next to Ohno, and took out some cards. Ohno faced him curiously. Nino gave him a quick smile and began the magic trick. Ohno found himself extremely impressed, and hoped it showed in his face.
For the next few weeks (maybe it had been a month already) Ohno and Nino continued to 'talk' through the notebook. He only got more and more intrigued by the man (as he realized when learning that Nino was only 3 years younger). He also learned that Nino was a musician, a singer. He found himself wanting to hear Nino's voice more than anything, but Ohno didn't know how he could bring that up.
They never once spoke- or written- about physically speaking. Ohno figured that maybe Nino wasn't interested, because Nino didn't seem the type to hold himself back. They hadn't even ever really looked at each other. Ohno would arrive, place the notebook in Nino's seat, and wait for Nino to come. Just before Nino would sit down, their eyes would meet and they would smile at one another in greeting. Nino would take the book and read Ohno's reply, then write his reply down. Then Nino left, leaving the notebook for Ohno to take.
That was it, if not for a small magic trick from Nino, which was rare and Ohno thought he liked those days the most.
Their conversations in the notebook were nothing serious either. Ohno looked down at Nino's reply, which complained about how expensive the new DS would be. Nino would probably end up buying it anyway, Ohno thought, smiling a little.
The next day Nino didn't come. Ohno was surprised, but he didn't worry. Nino had his off days from work too, that was probably it. (Although even when Ohno had off days, he still took the train to see Nino. Of course he didn't admit that, though.) It was just the first time Nino didn't appear since they “met” and so was a little surprising.
However, Nino didn't appear for the next, and the next. Ohno started to seriously worry after a week passed with the disappearance of Nino. What could Ohno do, though? He didn't know where Nino lived, or his phone number. He didn't know much about Nino in general, Ohno realized with a sinking feeling.
On an off day, Ohno took the train and left at Nino's stop, then wondering where the hell he was supposed to go now. He wandered around the station for a while, and just when he was about to leave, a janitor grabbed his arm.
“What?” Ohno asked, slightly scared.
“Ah, sorry,” the janitor let go and pointed to the yellow notebook in Ohno's hand. “You're Nino's friend, right?”
Ohno's eyes widened. “Yes...Do you know him?” He asked slowly.
“Slightly, we've talked a few times. He told me if I saw someone with a yellow notebook wandering around looking for someone, it's probably his friend, and so I'm to pass this note to you.” The janitor handed Ohno a piece of folded paper.
Ohno thanked him, resisting the urge to read the note right away. Once the janitor walked away, Ohno fairly rushed to a seat and almost tore the paper opening it.
Sorry, I suddenly had to move back to my mom's place. She's in critical condition, I couldn't leave her. I don't know when I'll be able to go back. I'm leaving my phone number for you, call if you want.
P.S. I'm guessing that if you receive this, you care that much about me? Love you too, take care~ ♥
Ohno suddenly realized his hands were shaking, though he wasn't sure why. He felt himself smiling at the last line, his heart feeling lighter than it had been in a week. He could finally contact Nino.
But then Ohno stared at the phone number at the bottom. Was he supposed to call Nino? He couldn't do that. For some reason, he felt that if he were going to hear Nino's voice, he'd at least have to hear it in person first. Ohno couldn't wait so long, though, if Nino were to be away for as long as a month. His patience was wearing thin already as it was.
Two days later, Ohno still hadn't called. He tried to forget, tried to wait patiently for Nino's return, but it seemed like Nino was locked inside his thoughts, unable to get out. He'd even memorized Nino's number already. But every time Ohno neared the phone, he felt much too nervous to even think straight enough.
On the way to work, Ohno stood in the train. He felt awkward sitting down when Nino wasn't next to him. Besides, the train was crowded that morning. Suddenly Ohno felt a hand on his butt; he almost yelled out loud when the hand actually groped.
It was the first time he'd been groped, but he supposed there were gay perverts after all. Ohno swallowed, wondering what to do. He was a man anyway- he had to do something as he probably wouldn't get any help.
“I know he has a fantastic ass, but it's not wise groping Oh-chan with me around.”
Ohno made a small noise of surprise at the soft, dangerous murmur from behind. Ohno quickly turned around, first seeing the groper, who looked terrified. Then Ohno saw him.
Nino. But it wasn't the playful, innocent looking Nino Ohno was used to. His light brown eyes were glaring death at the groper, who hurriedly scurried off to the other side of the train. Ohno didn't have a second thought about him.
He stared at Nino, astounded. Nino's eyes met his, but they calmed down immediately and looked pleasant again, like how they were supposed to. Nino smiled awkwardly.
“I hope you haven't been letting scumbags like that approach you while I was gone,” Nino said in a lighter voice, and now that it wasn't forwarded to the groper, Ohno felt like he was hearing the sweet voice of an angel.
“T-That was the first time,” Ohno whispered breathlessly. For some reason, it was like the first time words came out of his mouth- which was true if they were going to Nino's ears.
Nino laughed softly and grabbed Ohno's arm, leading him to their usual seats and sitting them both down.
“I did get your note, you know,” Ohno said quickly, wanting Nino to know that yes, he did care for Nino.
“Ahh, that? You didn't call though!” Nino pouted. “I was lonely, you know.”
Ohno spluttered out an awkward cough. “You- I mean- how was your mom?” Ohno swallowed nervously. Through the notebook, he could think properly for a reply, but speaking to Nino for real proved more difficult than he'd thought it would.
“Oh, she's perfectly fine now. She just collapsed from overworking, it actually wasn't that big of a deal after all,” Nino shrugged.
“That's good,” Ohno said, smiling softly. Truthfully, he was mostly glad that Nino didn't suffer a loss. He thought he couldn't stand a sad Nino.
“Hey, you have that notebook?” Nino asked. Ohno nodded and quickly took out the yellow notebook, passing it to Nino. He sadly wondered if they'd continue their notebook talking, but if Nino preferred it, Ohno wouldn't mind too much.
Nino turned to a fresh page and wrote something down. He gave the notebook back to Ohno and stood up. “I'll see you later,” Nino said, smiling, then leaving the train at his stop. Ohno gazed at Nino's retreating back, until the doors closed. He then looked down at the notebook, remembering it was there.
In Nino's scribbled writing, Ohno read: It's a bit embarrassing to say out loud, but I missed you, you know? I hope we can become friends.
Ohno stared at it, and before he knew it, started to blush. Nino was surprisingly shy, but that was cute. Ohno got off the train, satisfied.
The next day Ohno sat down and placed the notebook next to him with his reply in it, assuring that they were already friends. When Nino arrived and read his reply, he smiled brightly at Ohno. Nino leaned over to Ohno, and whispered into his ear, “Wanna go on a date?”
“E-Eh?” Ohno backed away slightly, blushing furiously. Nino burst out laughing (Ohno couldn't help noticing how much deeper than his voice it sounded; he had been expecting Nino to have light, almost feminine laughter.)
“I'm joking!” Nino's laughs subsided and he looked away, which Ohno was glad of since his face was still red. Ohno felt himself become disappointed, though he wasn't sure why. Maybe he liked Nino? He'd had feelings like this before, for crushes, although they had all been directed towards girls. Gender wasn't the case, though. Ohno barely knew Nino, it was only yesterday that he heard the boy's voice, and only today that it was confirmed they were friends.
“I do,” Ohno said softly. Nino looked at him questioningly. “A date,” Ohno said quickly, “I want a day with you.”
Ohno thought God must be on his side when Nino smiled almost immediately and nodded. He opened the notebook and scribbled something down, then gave it to Ohno. “Here are the dates for when I'm off.” Nino stood up, and Ohno realized it was already his stop. “Call me,” Nino winked. Ohno, stunned, could only stare at the spot Nino left. After a few minutes, Ohno looked down at the dates. He was glad to see that he also had the weekend off with Nino.
After work, Ohno couldn't wait any longer and he called Nino. When Nino picked up, he told him he'd be free and Nino in return said he couldn't wait (even if it was in a joking manner, Ohno felt his heart skip a beat).
“Me too,” Ohno said, slightly breathless. He waited for Nino to hang up, then put his phone away.
Waiting eagerly for the weekend, Ohno was still able to see Nino on the train, and that eased his impatience- which made him wonder why he was so impatient lately when he was usually a patient man.
The two didn't talk much, sometimes Nino would only greet him, but Ohno was happy as long as he got to hear Nino's voice. It was the morning as well; both were tired. They also continued communicating through the notebook, though it was really just for fun. The day before the weekend, Ohno cheerfully got on the train.
“Good morning,” Ohno greeted when Nino got on, but Nino only gave a small wave and slumped into his seat. “Tired?” Ohno chuckled fondly.
Nino yawned loudly and nodded. He wrapped an arm around Ohno's and rested his head on his shoulder.
“Nino?” Ohno blinked, his heart beating quickly.
“Wake me up at my stop,” Nino murmured, drifting off to sleep. Ohno smiled softly, watching the younger man. Nino seemed so delicate, Ohno was afraid the boy would snap any moment, but Nino's strong words made up for it.
Ohno shook Nino slightly when his stop came, but he only cuddled closer to Ohno, a stubborn frown on his face.
“Nino,” Ohno called urgently, shaking the boy again. Nino mumbled something softly in response. “What?” Ohno glanced quickly at the doors, which were about to close.
“I don't have work today,” Nino said louder, his hold on Ohno only tightening.
“Wha- you don't?” Ohno felt slightly panicky, Nino's closeness surprising him.
“I wanted to see you,” Nino whispered. Ohno's eyes widened, then a wide, goofy smile spread on his face.
“Our date is only tomorrow, you know,” Ohno whispered back. Nino opened his eyes and looked up at Ohno, who felt his heart skip a beat.
“Oh-chan is irresistible,” Nino said quietly, smiling. Ohno flushed, unable to come up with a response. “You take everything so seriously,” Nino then said, chuckling.
“A-Ah, sorry..” Ohno muttered, feeling embarrassed. That was right; Nino was only joking. It hurt a little every time, but Ohno ignored the small knot in his chest as best he could. He was Nino's friend now, and that was more than what he could ask for already.
“Again, being serious,” Nino frowned. “I do mean it though. I like being with you.”
Ohno smiled at Nino, then looked out the window. He was happy to hear those words, of course he was, so why was the painful knot only getting tighter?
Ohno stood up, leaving Nino's hold. “See you tomorrow,” Ohno said without looking at Nino, and he quickly got off the train. Once in the bathroom at his workplace, Ohno wondered if it was possible to flush himself down the toilet.
How could he have done that to Nino? The boy had proved to be shy at first, but Nino was finally been getting more comfortable around Ohno lately. Why did he have to shove Nino away when the boy finally “confessed” his feelings like that?
Ohno sighed heavily, planning on apologizing the next day. If Nino showed up, anyway.
--
Nino didn't sit next to Ohno when he entered the train, but instead sat in another seat further away. Ohno swallowed, worried, but he immediately got up and went over to Nino.
Ohno opened his mouth to apologize, before Nino shoved the yellow notebook into Ohno's hand. Ohno frowned slightly and opened it.
I'm sorry.
Ohno bit his lip and took out his pen, quickly writing down his reply:
I should be the one to say sorry. You did nothing wrong, Nino. I have something to tell you, is that okay?
Nino read it and nodded. Ohno smiled slightly and grabbed Nino's hand, pulling the boy up. He got off the train and walked to a nearby park, stopping in front of a fountain.
“Nino, listen to me, okay?” Ohno squeezed Nino's hand softly, feeling nervous with the boy's piercing brown eyes on him.
“I like you,” Ohno confessed. “I know maybe this is too soon, that I shouldn't be acting this familiar with you, but I mean it. I want to continue learning about you.” Ohno paused nervously. “If- If you don't have the same feelings, it's okay, I won't..do anything other than being your friend.”
Nino stayed silent, his expression hadn't changed. It was hard to tell what the boy was thinking. Nino turned around to the fountain and threw the notebook into it. Ohno watched in horror as the book slowly sunk down to the bottom, all the contents ruined. Was this Nino's way of rejecting? Ohno wondered with a sharp pain in his chest.
He then realized that their hands were still connected.
Nino turned back to Ohno and smiled, almost shyly if Ohno allowed himself to think that. He kissed Ohno softly, and then Ohno knew.
Any communication was fine. They didn't need to speak to understand each other, because if one was dear to another, their feelings would get across no matter what.
Ohno hugged Nino tightly: I'm sorry. Nino chuckled softly and pat Ohno's back.
“Now how 'bout that date? You can treat me to hamburgers.”