Iris
One-Shot # 01
Title: Iris
Ft: Nishikido Ryo | Aibu Saki
Plot/Description/Quote: She just needed a month to change his life forever.
“And I'd give up forever to touch you
'Cause I know that you feel me somehow”
***
I raised my left hand, my wrist watch say’s 3:30pm. It’s the time of her flight. I didn’t bother to go with and escort her at the airport, for the reason that, I might stop and plead her to stay.
Aren’t I too childish? Its just one month that we won’t see each other, but still…
I’m here, sitting alone on bench where she was sat, three hours ago. Here under the Sakura tree.
I close the book that I’m reading, and get the beer which is place beside me, and started to drink. I stood up and walk.
“It won’t hurt if you’ll cry.” Said by a very unfamiliar voice. I looked behind me, and saw a girl.
“Excuse me? Do I know you?” I ask her as I raised a brow.
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I sat on the bench under a Sakura tree, after I went to the bathroom. I fix the things inside my bag. Finally I manage to organized it within a few minutes.
My eyes roam the scenery; I appreciate this park, more every time I go here. This place brings peace to all of the people…. Or I am the one who only notice that?
My eyes caught this image of a guy drinking a can of beer; five benches away from me. He seemed in the period of melancholy. I can’t bear to see someone in that state; especially in my favorite place.
I gather my strength and walked near him.
“It won’t hurt if you’ll cry.” I said confidently. He look behind with a confuse look and said, “excuse me do I know?”
“No. But I just notice that you’re sad right now.”
He just smiled at me and reply, “kind of.”
“That’s bad then. You could tell me, if you want too.”
Again, he gave me a confused look but this time, his eyes were questioning me, ‘do I REALLY know you?’ or ‘are we that close to share you what I feel?’
Since that’s the way I understand how he stare, I lifted my hands in front of him and say, “I’m sorry I’m such a nosy person. But I couldn’t help it, since this is my favorite place; I’m not used to see people with a sad face. I feel like I endure their pains too. That’s why. By the way, I’m Aibu Saki.”
He took my hand and shook it. “Nishikido Ryo.” He said and released my hand. “So I got to go now, nice meeting you Saki-chan.”
He faced backwards and started to walk away from me. He didn’t know that I’m following him wherever he was going.
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Okay… That was weird… Having a conversation to someone whom I didn’t know, maybe I was weirder to tell my name to a stranger. Actually not a stranger, her name is AIBU SAKI. Yeah, right. I say her name as if we’re acquaintance or whatsoever.
Enough of her, back to what I was thinking earlier; Mao-chan.
I’m really confused right now. Seriously, two weeks ago she told me to wait for her. And then today, she told me not to. What the?
One month is not that long. Days end faster. I can wait. Maybe.
I continued to walk not looking behind me. I look up; saw the stop light turned to green from red.
I crossed the street and went to Ritz, my favorite hangout place. I usually go there when I feel sad, stress and etc.
I went straight to the counter, and order some drinks.
“Hey, there my man, what do you want?” Said by Nino, the owner. We became friends since I frequently go here.
“One bottle of vodka, please.” I said.
“Okay.”
I swung around my chair; I noticed that there are only few people here. Maybe because of the time, it’s only five in the afternoon. Of course, classes ended at 5 and work ends at 6pm.
I face back at the counter again, pour some vodka on my shot glass and drink.
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“You look pathetic” I sighed and said those words to him as I drank my cola.
He raised his head and looked at me. Man, he really looks pathetic! His eyes have dark circles under it. His hair was a mess. Can’t belief he turned into beggar-looking within two hours; WASTED, totally.
“What do you care?” He said groaning. “Nino! Give me another bottle of vodka here!” He shouted.
Then that Nino guy came, with a bottle, and he gave me confused look. I just shrugged.
“Thank you.” He said, with a normal tone. What’s with this guy? From drunk to seriousness again.
He was happy drinking alone, while I stare at his happy-weird face with my right hand on my cheek.
“Why are you here?” He asked, I was surprised by his question. I didn’t answer right away. Say, why am I really doing here?
“Hmm, nothing. How about you? Why are you wasting your time drinking here?” I asked him back.
“My girlfriend left me.”
Oh, that’s why his face is like that. I pity him. “Is it forever? I mean did you guys break up?”
“I don’t know. My head hurts just thinking of what she said, before she told me to wait for her, and then, now she’s telling me not to…. Oh God, that’s crazy!”
He poured another shot and drank it again.
“Maybe, she has her own reason for leaving you.”
“I don’t care! Did she ever think about how I felt when she told me that?” I didn’t answer. Instead he just chuckle. It’s really annoying. “How come you girls, always breaks the heart of the guys you love.”
“No we don’t, besides not all the girls are the same.”
“Prove me.” He snapped at me with a serious tone.
Ok then, if that’s what you want. Saki, brace you self! Here it goes!
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“I’ll be you girlfriend for the next 31 days”
My eyes open wide, the 50% alcohol of this vodka, suddenly became indiscernible. I gulped. Ok since, I dare you, I’ll justify to you that GIRLS always breaks the heart of the BOYS.
I smiled at her widely that I feel like I’m hurting my cheeks. She rolled her eyes and stood up and walked away from me.
“Bye, girlfriend.” I said teasingly.
Tss, did you see it? The game hasn’t begun, yet she’s backing off already.
One more shot, and then I’ll go.
“Is that your new girlfriend?” Nino abruptly pop put and asked. I was so surprise that I almost fell on my chair. Stupid.
“Maybe.” I said and drink again.
“Did Mao break up with you?”
“I don’t know she went overseas; she said she wanted a space.”
“Ooh.” He said while wiping the glass and he nods slowly.
“Thank you.” I said as I put the money on counter and walk away.
“You’re welcome, come back anytime.”
I lit a cigarette. I must focus on something so that I won’t fall asleep on the street.
Think. Think. Think.
Okay, I’ll just think of my supposed-to-be-girlfriend. Hmm. Too bad I didn’t get her number, and too bad it’s like she’s my three-minute girlfriend. I thought she’s tough, but it’s just all an act. Tsk, tsk. She’s quite cute.
---
Okay, here I am. On my so called mansion, just kidding, it’s just a simple yet clean apartment. I love this place, so peaceful.
I get my spare keys, under a pot of plant. I went straight to my bed. Good night.
[Next day, day 1]
*knock* *knock*
Okay, I might erase what I said last night. It’s rarely to have a loud visitor here. Why did the landlady, let SOMEONE noisy enter our mansion? Especially on a Sunday morning when you want to sleep all day because, there’s no class or whatsoever.
I yawn. I want to go back sleeping. I took my blanket and cover it to my face. I felt my eye lids becoming heavy.
*knock* *knock*
What the?! This time it became louder and faster.
“Will you just wait for a minute?!” I said shouting, as I walked nearer to the door. As I open the handle,
Uh-oh.
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“Good morning boyfriend. Did you have your beauty rest?” I said as I pull my luggage and kiss him on his cheeks. I went straight to his living room. Wow! It’s clean. I think I’m going to love this place. I look behind me, I saw him, and he looks stupid frozen there at the door.
“What’s that? H-how did you know my place?” He said stuttering.
“Ha, do you think I back off last night?... we’ll sad to say my dear NEW boyfriend. I went outside and just waited for you to go out and get home” I emphasized the word new.
He looked at me, surprise. “What are you doing here?” He asked.
“Well, aren’t suppose to be the GIRLFRIEND moves in together with her BOYFRIEND?” I ask. I never thought this would be fun. I tried to hide my smile.
He smirked and walked closer to me. I don’t know why, but my heart suddenly pounds faster. I can’t lose this act; I must be a cool person outside. I lift my face and put my two hands on my waist.
“Let’s make these 31 days to the fullest” He hugged me and said it in a sarcastic way.
“Sure, my dear boyfriend.” I release my hug from him and get my luggage back. I went to tour his apartment; apparently I found his room and went straight there. I sat on his bed and open my luggage, I unload my clothes. As I notice, there are many pictures of this girl, maybe it’s her girlfriend. Sometimes it’s just her alone, sometimes their together in a picture. Never mind. I’m just here to prove to him that girls are not all the same. I’m not here to critic his love life.
“Boyfriend!” I shout and laugh silently. What’s with that calling each other as Boyfriend-Girlfriend? He walked to the bedroom with the toothbrush on his mouth.
“Hmm?” He asked.
“Where am I going to put my things?”
“Wait, let me just finish this.”
Whoa, sudden change of mood again! “Okay, I’ll just prepare our breakfast.” I shouted back.
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After I finished freshen up myself. As I pass by the kitchen I saw my 31-days girlfriend cooking our breakfast, I hope she didn’t add poison there.
I went to my room and sat on my bad. I miss Mao already. Every time I see her, even in the pictures, my heart just beats faster again.
I went closer to the cabinet, beside mine, and clean it. This is usually Mao’s locker room. I laughed lightly. I mean, this is where she puts her things when she’s here.
I pull Saki’s things and put it in the cabinet. I even put her luggage in the most upper part of the cabinet.
I lay down on my bed, thinking about many things: happy memories with Mao, sad memories, fights.
I remember our first date. Nino helped me to win Mao’s heart. He even let me used his bar, ALONE. Only me and Mao. A candle light as the illuminator. It’s very romantic, she told me.
Then I confess to her that I really like her, since the first time we met. She smiled ablaze. The first and last time I saw her like that. Her smile even surpasses the dazzling light of the candle.
“Nishikido-kun, breakfast is ready.” Saki-chan said which made me jolted back to reality.
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He sat down on the chair contrary to me. I can say that his face seem bothered. I gulped. It wouldn’t hurt to ask right?
“Nishikido-kun, are you okay?” I asked politely. He stared at me and smiled sadly.
“Yeah, I’m fine. Thank you.” He said, he didn’t even bother to look at me.
Okay, fine. You said so. I took a bite on what I cook. Silence spreads the apartment. As if, there’s no one eating.
“It’s about Mao.” He said out of nowhere.
“Your girlfriend?” I asked back.
He just nodded.
“I don’t know. I’m really confused right now.” I just look at him, waiting for him to continue. And he looks at me with the chopsticks on his mouth.
“Should I wait for her?”
“It depends on you.” I swallow some rice. “People change, so does the heart.” I said.
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[Day 2]
I woke up, scratching my head. I sat down on my futon. Eh? Where is she? Did she run away?
We slept together in one room. But the difference is, she’s sleeping at my bed while I put an extra futon on the floor which I’m sitting right now.
I stood up and fold this futon. I place it inside the cabinet, to make my room clean and organized.
I went outside, I sat on the table, there’s a food already. She didn’t run away after all. After I finished eating my breakfast, I placed my plate on the sink and wash it. Soon, the door on the bathroom opened. It catches my attention. I saw her walked along the living room, with towel wrapped around her. I look away. I think we both felt embarrass.
I look at the watch, it’s already 7am, and I feel like taking a shower too. I knock on the door first; of course it would be embarrassing if I would just open it straight. What if she’s dressing right?
Knock
Knock
“Come in.” I heard her shout. I open the door. I saw her blow drying her hair. She’s dress properly. Out of curiosity, I ask her.
“Where are you going?”
“School.”
“Oh, I see. You’re still a student too.”
She just nodded.
“Where is your school?”
“Meiji.”
“Oh.... Meiji?!” I freak out. Is this girl stalking me?
“Yeah. Why? Is there any problem?” She looked at me, surprised and confused with my sudden shriek.
“I’m studying there too.”
“Really? Then I might transfer to another school.”
“You…..”
Then she just stuck out her tongue playfully. I roll my eyes and went straight to my cabinet to get my clothes.
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I can’t believe were studying at the same school. Arg. I might really relocate myself away, to avoid this guy. Stupid.
Should I wait for him, because he said so?
Fine, since he’s my so-called BOYFRIEND.
---
Pff. He’s so slow! We’re going to be late. Arg. I walk closer to the bathroom door. I knock continuously and loudly.
“What?!” He shouted.
“In case you have forgotten, we have a class. And I’m gonna be late.” I reminded him.
He went outside laughing. “Oh I forgot to tell you, my class start at 1pm.”
I rolled my eyes and kick him on his legs.
“Ouch!” He whines.
Stupid jerk. I went outside and slam the door. “Bye, girlfriend! Take care!” I heard him shout.
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[Day 6]
I woke up. It’s 8 in the morning. I look around my room. Something is different.
What the?! Where are they?!
I went outside, I saw her happily watching the TV. “Good morning boyfriend.” She said with enthusiasm.
I took the remote from her hand.
“I’m watching!”
“Where did you put the pictures?!”
“I put them in the box under your bed.”
I held her hand. “Ouch, you’re hurting me.” She said, and then I realize I was holding her wrist tightly. Slowly, I let go of it. As I stare on it, my hand mark was there and it was totally red.
I wanted to say sorry, yet. I really feel irritated at what she did so I shout at her, “don’t you dare to touch my things! Okay?!”
“I’m your girlfriend!”
“For only 31 days! Why did you take it seriously?!”
She didn’t answer. Uh-oh. I said the wrong words. She stood up; I look straight at her eyes, it’s getting watery at the same time she’s fighting her tears to avoid from flowing.
“You don’t have to say that! ‘Cause I know what is my position here! I just want you to forget her for just 31 days! I’m not doing this for myself, I’m doing this for you! So that you’ll feel the taste of happiness you’re longing for, since the day she leaves you!”
After that shouting, lessons I have receive, she runaway. I want to follow, but I realize, I wanted to cool down for a bit.
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Stupid jerk. He doesn’t have to yell it on my face. Furthermore, it’s my first time to get receive a roaring shout like that, add to the fact that he yelled straight to my face! That’s why I felt teary eyed, I know we’re I belong. Arg! He really annoys me! Ugh! I don’t think I can stand this anymore!
---
I went back on his apartment. And walk straight to his room. I pull my luggage and my clothes, I didn’t dare to organize them, as an alternative I just slam them inside my baggage. I pull my stuff outside; I saw him standing near the door and said, “Where are you going?”
“To my real home!”
“No, you stay.”
“Why should I stay here? I’m not even your girlfriend!”
He stroke his hand into his hair, irritated.
“Look, I didn’t mean to shout at you before!”
“But you’re shouting again at me.” I sob softly. “At least you could say sorry and stop shouting at me!” I can’t control it, I cried. He walked closer and hugged me.
“I’m sorry; I didn’t mean to yell at you and said those harsh… words.. I just got instantly pissed off.”
“If you want me to put it back on its original place, just say and I’ll immediately put them back.”
“No, it’s okay. You’re right. I should at least move on, starting this month. You don’t need to fixed it again.”
“Is it really okay to you?”
“Yeah, I promise.” He chuckled lightly.
“Promise?”
“PROMISE.”
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[Day 15]
I woke up; I’ve fallen asleep on the couch. I looked at my wall clock its already 11 in the evening. I sit up as I took a glance on the dining table. The food I prepare for her was not even touch.
Where in the world is this girl?! I stood up, went to the bathroom: she’s not there. I walk towards to the room: She’s not there either.
I went downstairs and outside the apartment for her.
Aha! Finally she came after 30 minutes of waiting and being restless.
“What are you doing outside?! It’s already 11:30pm! A girl shouldn’t be walking alone along the streets at this point of time!”
I shouted at her and she just stare at me. Suddenly, she stumbled; luckily I catch her with my arms. Pff. She’s stinks of liquor.
I gave her a piggy back ride. “Are you doing this as a revenge on what I did last time?” I asked her.
She didn’t answer, instead she just groans.
[Day 16]
I was watching the TV, when I heard the door open, I look at her, and she’s a total mess. I just glare at her.
“What?” She exclaimed. I didn’t answer. She sat in chair, on the dining table. “My head hurts.” She complaints as she touch her head.
I stood up, went to the bathroom to the first aid kit and get a medicine. I hand it over to her with a glass of water.
“Thanks” She murmured.
I sat on the chair across her, and glare at her again.
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“Where did you go last night?!” He asked shouting. It made me astound.
“With my friends… we just had a small drink.” I answer his question. Why am I explaining myself to him?
“Why didn’t you tell me?”
“Why should I tell you?”
He didn’t answer. Eh? Concern? I smiled. “are you that worried?”
“J-j-just give me your cell phone number!” He said stuttering not looking at my eyes.
“Fine!” I shouted at him. As I type my number to his phone. He said, “Call me if you’re going to be late. So that I wouldn’t be crazy waiting for you….. Or at least tell me if you want me to fetch you.” He said shyly.
I feel my cheeks gone reddened.
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[Day 25]
Days turned into weeks. Lately, I find myself getting much closer to her since that day. I find myself more attach and even protective towards her. We would always go to school together, talk about many things. We would sometimes hang out at Ritz.
Now, we’re watching a comedy show at the couch. She’s resting her head on my lap, I don’t mind.
“We look like a real couple now.”
“Yeah. You don’t want to?”
“What? I don’t want to?”
“Us, making look like a real couple?” I ask.
She looked at me and sits. She burst of laughter, “w-why are you asking this?”
“I don’t know. I’m just wondering what if, we really give it a shot.”
“Ryo-chan, is acting weird again.”
“So what if I am? You’re not even answering my question.”
---
She really didn’t answer my question; instead she went to the room. While I remain confuse why she walk away.
After a few minutes. She went outside; her hands were at her back. She sat beside me again and shouted, “Ja-jang!” She showed me a red handkerchief.
I ask, “What’s that for?”
“Nothing, let’s have some fun.”
“Fun? With that?”
“Yes. Come on!” She pulled my hand, and stood up to the couch. She blind folded me, and whisper. “If you caught me, I’ll let you know my answer.”
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I was really having fun watching him following me. I cover my mouth while laughing. But I think he’s my mirth.
What’s wrong with this guy? He looks like; he really wants to know my answer.
I run towards the kitchen and shout cutesy, “Nishikido-kuun! I’m here!” Then his feet started to move, after he heard my scream. Before he came here, he was hit by the chairs, books and other things that are blocking the floor. Then I ran again towards the bathroom.
“Why are you doing this?” I ask. Then he looked at my direction and started to walk.
“I eagerly want to know your answer.”
“Why?” I ask while tip-toeing to the other side.
“I want to know, if maybe we could really try.”
“Try, what?”
“Our own relationship. Not this stupid dare.”
I stop, this time; I’m stepping again the couch.
“Ryo!” He knows where I was, this time I didn’t move around. I wait for him to stand in front of me. And face me but he didn’t, instead his back was facing in front of me. Maybe, he assumed that I ran again.
I hug him from his behind. I curled my feet on his legs and said, “Give me a piggy back ride.”
“Yes ma’am.” And we both laugh.
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Then she removed my blind fold, I started to run around our apartment while giving her a piggyback ride. Laughing together, until it became silent again.
I walk slowly, don’t know where we’re going. Her grasp on my neck started to became tight.
“Can I have your answer?”
She didn’t reply. Perhaps she’s not ready.
“I don’t think we can have our own relationship. You still have Mao. And this is just a stupid dare, like what you’ve said a while ago.”
Yeah, I remember I still have Mao. But I’m not sure if she still has me when she go back.
But I have you, right now. Will you stop thinking about this, as a dare even just for a day?
“Let’s just enjoy our remaining days.” She said as she jumps out on my back.
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[Day 28]
We were eating, talking and laughing about funny memories during his high school days, when he got punish for sleeping inside the class. Suddenly his phone rang; he rushed towards the center table.
I didn’t mean to eaves drop, but I heard him talk to the other line and say, “Okay, I’ll fetch.”
I bet its Mao-Chan. I shouldn’t intervene on other’s business. I’ll just eat here silently.
After that, he sat again, pokerfaced.
“It’s Mao-Chan.” He admits. I know, you don’t have to tell me.
“Really? What did she say?” I ask, pretending not to know.
“She asked me to fetch her.”
“Isn’t that great?” I ask happily, a bit hurt.
“Yeah.” He said in normal tone.
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[Day 31, last day]
“I guess you ladies; don’t always break the heart of the boys.” I said, teasing her. And we both laugh. “So this it.” I said sadly. And she just nodded.
Can you just stay? Can you not leave? If only I could say those words… but I can’t. ‘Cause I know that this relationship of ours, is just a game. And if I follow my heart, I might stop you. And It would be a selfish move of me.
“Yeah.” she said, trying to smile but I can see it in her eyes that she feels sad too. If you’re going to stay, I might keep you.
She offered her hand like what she did 31 days ago. I lift my hand and reach for her right hand. I shook it, and then I hugged her. My heart is taking control of me right now, and that’s what my heart is telling me too. She pull away so agile. It hurts, you know.
“I’ll go now.” I said.
“Okay, good luck.” She cheers me up.
I started to walk away.
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“So this it.” He said. And I just nodded. Maybe this is the moment you’ve been waiting for? But, can I just stay? Can you ask me not to leave? If you’re going to ask me now, I might stay with you forever. I won’t leave you. I promise you that. But… he just looks away, when I try to look at his eyes.
“Yeah.” I said, cheerfully. But it’s just all an act. I want to cry right now.
I offer my hand yet, he pulled and hugged me. I really want to cry. I hate goodbyes. I pulled away, ‘cause I might be longing for this if we stay like this a little more.
“I’ll go now.” He said. It felt like my heart broke into many pieces.
“Okay. Good luck” I said happily. It’s time to go back to reality. You must return to your original girlfriend.
My task ends here. I went to the apartment. And get my luggage and start to walk away.
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Inside the cab, I can’t stop thinking about Saki. The first we met, under the Sakura tree. The time she barge in my apartment, first fight, first night I waited for her, playing together, eating together.
“People do change, so does the heart.” I remember those words, she said it before. Now, it felt like she’s whispering it to me at this very moment.
“Just drop me off here.” I said as I pay to cab driver.
I started to run like the wind. I don’t care if I would bump into others as long as I can catch up to her.
And my instincts are telling me where she is.
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I sat on the bench under the Sakura tree, my FAVOURITE place. Also, this is the place, we first met. I took a zip of my orange juice. I stood up, pulling my luggage walking closer to the trash can. I started to walk again.
I heard someone’s footstep; it’s more of running. I turn around, I saw him standing there. Panting. I smiled. He walked closer to me.
“Hey, aren’t you going to fetch Mao-chan?” I said gladly.
“People do change, so does the heart.” He said breathless.
“I think heard that before.” I said. With all sincerity, I really think I heard that from before, but I can’t remember.
“I’m sorry, I’m late. I took forever to come here.” He said shyly. I just smiled. Gad! That’s the sweetest thing he said. He walked closer to me and we kissed.
Title: Iris
Ft: Nishikido Ryo | Aibu Saki
Plot/Description/Quote: She just needed a month to change his life forever.
“And I'd give up forever to touch you
'Cause I know that you feel me somehow”
***
I raised my left hand, my wrist watch say’s 3:30pm. It’s the time of her flight. I didn’t bother to go with and escort her at the airport, for the reason that, I might stop and plead her to stay.
Aren’t I too childish? Its just one month that we won’t see each other, but still…
I’m here, sitting alone on bench where she was sat, three hours ago. Here under the Sakura tree.
I close the book that I’m reading, and get the beer which is place beside me, and started to drink. I stood up and walk.
“It won’t hurt if you’ll cry.” Said by a very unfamiliar voice. I looked behind me, and saw a girl.
“Excuse me? Do I know you?” I ask her as I raised a brow.
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I sat on the bench under a Sakura tree, after I went to the bathroom. I fix the things inside my bag. Finally I manage to organized it within a few minutes.
My eyes roam the scenery; I appreciate this park, more every time I go here. This place brings peace to all of the people…. Or I am the one who only notice that?
My eyes caught this image of a guy drinking a can of beer; five benches away from me. He seemed in the period of melancholy. I can’t bear to see someone in that state; especially in my favorite place.
I gather my strength and walked near him.
“It won’t hurt if you’ll cry.” I said confidently. He look behind with a confuse look and said, “excuse me do I know?”
“No. But I just notice that you’re sad right now.”
He just smiled at me and reply, “kind of.”
“That’s bad then. You could tell me, if you want too.”
Again, he gave me a confused look but this time, his eyes were questioning me, ‘do I REALLY know you?’ or ‘are we that close to share you what I feel?’
Since that’s the way I understand how he stare, I lifted my hands in front of him and say, “I’m sorry I’m such a nosy person. But I couldn’t help it, since this is my favorite place; I’m not used to see people with a sad face. I feel like I endure their pains too. That’s why. By the way, I’m Aibu Saki.”
He took my hand and shook it. “Nishikido Ryo.” He said and released my hand. “So I got to go now, nice meeting you Saki-chan.”
He faced backwards and started to walk away from me. He didn’t know that I’m following him wherever he was going.
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Okay… That was weird… Having a conversation to someone whom I didn’t know, maybe I was weirder to tell my name to a stranger. Actually not a stranger, her name is AIBU SAKI. Yeah, right. I say her name as if we’re acquaintance or whatsoever.
Enough of her, back to what I was thinking earlier; Mao-chan.
I’m really confused right now. Seriously, two weeks ago she told me to wait for her. And then today, she told me not to. What the?
One month is not that long. Days end faster. I can wait. Maybe.
I continued to walk not looking behind me. I look up; saw the stop light turned to green from red.
I crossed the street and went to Ritz, my favorite hangout place. I usually go there when I feel sad, stress and etc.
I went straight to the counter, and order some drinks.
“Hey, there my man, what do you want?” Said by Nino, the owner. We became friends since I frequently go here.
“One bottle of vodka, please.” I said.
“Okay.”
I swung around my chair; I noticed that there are only few people here. Maybe because of the time, it’s only five in the afternoon. Of course, classes ended at 5 and work ends at 6pm.
I face back at the counter again, pour some vodka on my shot glass and drink.
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“You look pathetic” I sighed and said those words to him as I drank my cola.
He raised his head and looked at me. Man, he really looks pathetic! His eyes have dark circles under it. His hair was a mess. Can’t belief he turned into beggar-looking within two hours; WASTED, totally.
“What do you care?” He said groaning. “Nino! Give me another bottle of vodka here!” He shouted.
Then that Nino guy came, with a bottle, and he gave me confused look. I just shrugged.
“Thank you.” He said, with a normal tone. What’s with this guy? From drunk to seriousness again.
He was happy drinking alone, while I stare at his happy-weird face with my right hand on my cheek.
“Why are you here?” He asked, I was surprised by his question. I didn’t answer right away. Say, why am I really doing here?
“Hmm, nothing. How about you? Why are you wasting your time drinking here?” I asked him back.
“My girlfriend left me.”
Oh, that’s why his face is like that. I pity him. “Is it forever? I mean did you guys break up?”
“I don’t know. My head hurts just thinking of what she said, before she told me to wait for her, and then, now she’s telling me not to…. Oh God, that’s crazy!”
He poured another shot and drank it again.
“Maybe, she has her own reason for leaving you.”
“I don’t care! Did she ever think about how I felt when she told me that?” I didn’t answer. Instead he just chuckle. It’s really annoying. “How come you girls, always breaks the heart of the guys you love.”
“No we don’t, besides not all the girls are the same.”
“Prove me.” He snapped at me with a serious tone.
Ok then, if that’s what you want. Saki, brace you self! Here it goes!
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“I’ll be you girlfriend for the next 31 days”
My eyes open wide, the 50% alcohol of this vodka, suddenly became indiscernible. I gulped. Ok since, I dare you, I’ll justify to you that GIRLS always breaks the heart of the BOYS.
I smiled at her widely that I feel like I’m hurting my cheeks. She rolled her eyes and stood up and walked away from me.
“Bye, girlfriend.” I said teasingly.
Tss, did you see it? The game hasn’t begun, yet she’s backing off already.
One more shot, and then I’ll go.
“Is that your new girlfriend?” Nino abruptly pop put and asked. I was so surprise that I almost fell on my chair. Stupid.
“Maybe.” I said and drink again.
“Did Mao break up with you?”
“I don’t know she went overseas; she said she wanted a space.”
“Ooh.” He said while wiping the glass and he nods slowly.
“Thank you.” I said as I put the money on counter and walk away.
“You’re welcome, come back anytime.”
I lit a cigarette. I must focus on something so that I won’t fall asleep on the street.
Think. Think. Think.
Okay, I’ll just think of my supposed-to-be-girlfriend. Hmm. Too bad I didn’t get her number, and too bad it’s like she’s my three-minute girlfriend. I thought she’s tough, but it’s just all an act. Tsk, tsk. She’s quite cute.
---
Okay, here I am. On my so called mansion, just kidding, it’s just a simple yet clean apartment. I love this place, so peaceful.
I get my spare keys, under a pot of plant. I went straight to my bed. Good night.
[Next day, day 1]
*knock* *knock*
Okay, I might erase what I said last night. It’s rarely to have a loud visitor here. Why did the landlady, let SOMEONE noisy enter our mansion? Especially on a Sunday morning when you want to sleep all day because, there’s no class or whatsoever.
I yawn. I want to go back sleeping. I took my blanket and cover it to my face. I felt my eye lids becoming heavy.
*knock* *knock*
What the?! This time it became louder and faster.
“Will you just wait for a minute?!” I said shouting, as I walked nearer to the door. As I open the handle,
Uh-oh.
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“Good morning boyfriend. Did you have your beauty rest?” I said as I pull my luggage and kiss him on his cheeks. I went straight to his living room. Wow! It’s clean. I think I’m going to love this place. I look behind me, I saw him, and he looks stupid frozen there at the door.
“What’s that? H-how did you know my place?” He said stuttering.
“Ha, do you think I back off last night?... we’ll sad to say my dear NEW boyfriend. I went outside and just waited for you to go out and get home” I emphasized the word new.
He looked at me, surprise. “What are you doing here?” He asked.
“Well, aren’t suppose to be the GIRLFRIEND moves in together with her BOYFRIEND?” I ask. I never thought this would be fun. I tried to hide my smile.
He smirked and walked closer to me. I don’t know why, but my heart suddenly pounds faster. I can’t lose this act; I must be a cool person outside. I lift my face and put my two hands on my waist.
“Let’s make these 31 days to the fullest” He hugged me and said it in a sarcastic way.
“Sure, my dear boyfriend.” I release my hug from him and get my luggage back. I went to tour his apartment; apparently I found his room and went straight there. I sat on his bed and open my luggage, I unload my clothes. As I notice, there are many pictures of this girl, maybe it’s her girlfriend. Sometimes it’s just her alone, sometimes their together in a picture. Never mind. I’m just here to prove to him that girls are not all the same. I’m not here to critic his love life.
“Boyfriend!” I shout and laugh silently. What’s with that calling each other as Boyfriend-Girlfriend? He walked to the bedroom with the toothbrush on his mouth.
“Hmm?” He asked.
“Where am I going to put my things?”
“Wait, let me just finish this.”
Whoa, sudden change of mood again! “Okay, I’ll just prepare our breakfast.” I shouted back.
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After I finished freshen up myself. As I pass by the kitchen I saw my 31-days girlfriend cooking our breakfast, I hope she didn’t add poison there.
I went to my room and sat on my bad. I miss Mao already. Every time I see her, even in the pictures, my heart just beats faster again.
I went closer to the cabinet, beside mine, and clean it. This is usually Mao’s locker room. I laughed lightly. I mean, this is where she puts her things when she’s here.
I pull Saki’s things and put it in the cabinet. I even put her luggage in the most upper part of the cabinet.
I lay down on my bed, thinking about many things: happy memories with Mao, sad memories, fights.
I remember our first date. Nino helped me to win Mao’s heart. He even let me used his bar, ALONE. Only me and Mao. A candle light as the illuminator. It’s very romantic, she told me.
Then I confess to her that I really like her, since the first time we met. She smiled ablaze. The first and last time I saw her like that. Her smile even surpasses the dazzling light of the candle.
“Nishikido-kun, breakfast is ready.” Saki-chan said which made me jolted back to reality.
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He sat down on the chair contrary to me. I can say that his face seem bothered. I gulped. It wouldn’t hurt to ask right?
“Nishikido-kun, are you okay?” I asked politely. He stared at me and smiled sadly.
“Yeah, I’m fine. Thank you.” He said, he didn’t even bother to look at me.
Okay, fine. You said so. I took a bite on what I cook. Silence spreads the apartment. As if, there’s no one eating.
“It’s about Mao.” He said out of nowhere.
“Your girlfriend?” I asked back.
He just nodded.
“I don’t know. I’m really confused right now.” I just look at him, waiting for him to continue. And he looks at me with the chopsticks on his mouth.
“Should I wait for her?”
“It depends on you.” I swallow some rice. “People change, so does the heart.” I said.
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[Day 2]
I woke up, scratching my head. I sat down on my futon. Eh? Where is she? Did she run away?
We slept together in one room. But the difference is, she’s sleeping at my bed while I put an extra futon on the floor which I’m sitting right now.
I stood up and fold this futon. I place it inside the cabinet, to make my room clean and organized.
I went outside, I sat on the table, there’s a food already. She didn’t run away after all. After I finished eating my breakfast, I placed my plate on the sink and wash it. Soon, the door on the bathroom opened. It catches my attention. I saw her walked along the living room, with towel wrapped around her. I look away. I think we both felt embarrass.
I look at the watch, it’s already 7am, and I feel like taking a shower too. I knock on the door first; of course it would be embarrassing if I would just open it straight. What if she’s dressing right?
Knock
Knock
“Come in.” I heard her shout. I open the door. I saw her blow drying her hair. She’s dress properly. Out of curiosity, I ask her.
“Where are you going?”
“School.”
“Oh, I see. You’re still a student too.”
She just nodded.
“Where is your school?”
“Meiji.”
“Oh.... Meiji?!” I freak out. Is this girl stalking me?
“Yeah. Why? Is there any problem?” She looked at me, surprised and confused with my sudden shriek.
“I’m studying there too.”
“Really? Then I might transfer to another school.”
“You…..”
Then she just stuck out her tongue playfully. I roll my eyes and went straight to my cabinet to get my clothes.
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I can’t believe were studying at the same school. Arg. I might really relocate myself away, to avoid this guy. Stupid.
Should I wait for him, because he said so?
Fine, since he’s my so-called BOYFRIEND.
---
Pff. He’s so slow! We’re going to be late. Arg. I walk closer to the bathroom door. I knock continuously and loudly.
“What?!” He shouted.
“In case you have forgotten, we have a class. And I’m gonna be late.” I reminded him.
He went outside laughing. “Oh I forgot to tell you, my class start at 1pm.”
I rolled my eyes and kick him on his legs.
“Ouch!” He whines.
Stupid jerk. I went outside and slam the door. “Bye, girlfriend! Take care!” I heard him shout.
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[Day 6]
I woke up. It’s 8 in the morning. I look around my room. Something is different.
What the?! Where are they?!
I went outside, I saw her happily watching the TV. “Good morning boyfriend.” She said with enthusiasm.
I took the remote from her hand.
“I’m watching!”
“Where did you put the pictures?!”
“I put them in the box under your bed.”
I held her hand. “Ouch, you’re hurting me.” She said, and then I realize I was holding her wrist tightly. Slowly, I let go of it. As I stare on it, my hand mark was there and it was totally red.
I wanted to say sorry, yet. I really feel irritated at what she did so I shout at her, “don’t you dare to touch my things! Okay?!”
“I’m your girlfriend!”
“For only 31 days! Why did you take it seriously?!”
She didn’t answer. Uh-oh. I said the wrong words. She stood up; I look straight at her eyes, it’s getting watery at the same time she’s fighting her tears to avoid from flowing.
“You don’t have to say that! ‘Cause I know what is my position here! I just want you to forget her for just 31 days! I’m not doing this for myself, I’m doing this for you! So that you’ll feel the taste of happiness you’re longing for, since the day she leaves you!”
After that shouting, lessons I have receive, she runaway. I want to follow, but I realize, I wanted to cool down for a bit.
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Stupid jerk. He doesn’t have to yell it on my face. Furthermore, it’s my first time to get receive a roaring shout like that, add to the fact that he yelled straight to my face! That’s why I felt teary eyed, I know we’re I belong. Arg! He really annoys me! Ugh! I don’t think I can stand this anymore!
---
I went back on his apartment. And walk straight to his room. I pull my luggage and my clothes, I didn’t dare to organize them, as an alternative I just slam them inside my baggage. I pull my stuff outside; I saw him standing near the door and said, “Where are you going?”
“To my real home!”
“No, you stay.”
“Why should I stay here? I’m not even your girlfriend!”
He stroke his hand into his hair, irritated.
“Look, I didn’t mean to shout at you before!”
“But you’re shouting again at me.” I sob softly. “At least you could say sorry and stop shouting at me!” I can’t control it, I cried. He walked closer and hugged me.
“I’m sorry; I didn’t mean to yell at you and said those harsh… words.. I just got instantly pissed off.”
“If you want me to put it back on its original place, just say and I’ll immediately put them back.”
“No, it’s okay. You’re right. I should at least move on, starting this month. You don’t need to fixed it again.”
“Is it really okay to you?”
“Yeah, I promise.” He chuckled lightly.
“Promise?”
“PROMISE.”
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[Day 15]
I woke up; I’ve fallen asleep on the couch. I looked at my wall clock its already 11 in the evening. I sit up as I took a glance on the dining table. The food I prepare for her was not even touch.
Where in the world is this girl?! I stood up, went to the bathroom: she’s not there. I walk towards to the room: She’s not there either.
I went downstairs and outside the apartment for her.
Aha! Finally she came after 30 minutes of waiting and being restless.
“What are you doing outside?! It’s already 11:30pm! A girl shouldn’t be walking alone along the streets at this point of time!”
I shouted at her and she just stare at me. Suddenly, she stumbled; luckily I catch her with my arms. Pff. She’s stinks of liquor.
I gave her a piggy back ride. “Are you doing this as a revenge on what I did last time?” I asked her.
She didn’t answer, instead she just groans.
[Day 16]
I was watching the TV, when I heard the door open, I look at her, and she’s a total mess. I just glare at her.
“What?” She exclaimed. I didn’t answer. She sat in chair, on the dining table. “My head hurts.” She complaints as she touch her head.
I stood up, went to the bathroom to the first aid kit and get a medicine. I hand it over to her with a glass of water.
“Thanks” She murmured.
I sat on the chair across her, and glare at her again.
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“Where did you go last night?!” He asked shouting. It made me astound.
“With my friends… we just had a small drink.” I answer his question. Why am I explaining myself to him?
“Why didn’t you tell me?”
“Why should I tell you?”
He didn’t answer. Eh? Concern? I smiled. “are you that worried?”
“J-j-just give me your cell phone number!” He said stuttering not looking at my eyes.
“Fine!” I shouted at him. As I type my number to his phone. He said, “Call me if you’re going to be late. So that I wouldn’t be crazy waiting for you….. Or at least tell me if you want me to fetch you.” He said shyly.
I feel my cheeks gone reddened.
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[Day 25]
Days turned into weeks. Lately, I find myself getting much closer to her since that day. I find myself more attach and even protective towards her. We would always go to school together, talk about many things. We would sometimes hang out at Ritz.
Now, we’re watching a comedy show at the couch. She’s resting her head on my lap, I don’t mind.
“We look like a real couple now.”
“Yeah. You don’t want to?”
“What? I don’t want to?”
“Us, making look like a real couple?” I ask.
She looked at me and sits. She burst of laughter, “w-why are you asking this?”
“I don’t know. I’m just wondering what if, we really give it a shot.”
“Ryo-chan, is acting weird again.”
“So what if I am? You’re not even answering my question.”
---
She really didn’t answer my question; instead she went to the room. While I remain confuse why she walk away.
After a few minutes. She went outside; her hands were at her back. She sat beside me again and shouted, “Ja-jang!” She showed me a red handkerchief.
I ask, “What’s that for?”
“Nothing, let’s have some fun.”
“Fun? With that?”
“Yes. Come on!” She pulled my hand, and stood up to the couch. She blind folded me, and whisper. “If you caught me, I’ll let you know my answer.”
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I was really having fun watching him following me. I cover my mouth while laughing. But I think he’s my mirth.
What’s wrong with this guy? He looks like; he really wants to know my answer.
I run towards the kitchen and shout cutesy, “Nishikido-kuun! I’m here!” Then his feet started to move, after he heard my scream. Before he came here, he was hit by the chairs, books and other things that are blocking the floor. Then I ran again towards the bathroom.
“Why are you doing this?” I ask. Then he looked at my direction and started to walk.
“I eagerly want to know your answer.”
“Why?” I ask while tip-toeing to the other side.
“I want to know, if maybe we could really try.”
“Try, what?”
“Our own relationship. Not this stupid dare.”
I stop, this time; I’m stepping again the couch.
“Ryo!” He knows where I was, this time I didn’t move around. I wait for him to stand in front of me. And face me but he didn’t, instead his back was facing in front of me. Maybe, he assumed that I ran again.
I hug him from his behind. I curled my feet on his legs and said, “Give me a piggy back ride.”
“Yes ma’am.” And we both laugh.
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Then she removed my blind fold, I started to run around our apartment while giving her a piggyback ride. Laughing together, until it became silent again.
I walk slowly, don’t know where we’re going. Her grasp on my neck started to became tight.
“Can I have your answer?”
She didn’t reply. Perhaps she’s not ready.
“I don’t think we can have our own relationship. You still have Mao. And this is just a stupid dare, like what you’ve said a while ago.”
Yeah, I remember I still have Mao. But I’m not sure if she still has me when she go back.
But I have you, right now. Will you stop thinking about this, as a dare even just for a day?
“Let’s just enjoy our remaining days.” She said as she jumps out on my back.
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[Day 28]
We were eating, talking and laughing about funny memories during his high school days, when he got punish for sleeping inside the class. Suddenly his phone rang; he rushed towards the center table.
I didn’t mean to eaves drop, but I heard him talk to the other line and say, “Okay, I’ll fetch.”
I bet its Mao-Chan. I shouldn’t intervene on other’s business. I’ll just eat here silently.
After that, he sat again, pokerfaced.
“It’s Mao-Chan.” He admits. I know, you don’t have to tell me.
“Really? What did she say?” I ask, pretending not to know.
“She asked me to fetch her.”
“Isn’t that great?” I ask happily, a bit hurt.
“Yeah.” He said in normal tone.
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[Day 31, last day]
“I guess you ladies; don’t always break the heart of the boys.” I said, teasing her. And we both laugh. “So this it.” I said sadly. And she just nodded.
Can you just stay? Can you not leave? If only I could say those words… but I can’t. ‘Cause I know that this relationship of ours, is just a game. And if I follow my heart, I might stop you. And It would be a selfish move of me.
“Yeah.” she said, trying to smile but I can see it in her eyes that she feels sad too. If you’re going to stay, I might keep you.
She offered her hand like what she did 31 days ago. I lift my hand and reach for her right hand. I shook it, and then I hugged her. My heart is taking control of me right now, and that’s what my heart is telling me too. She pull away so agile. It hurts, you know.
“I’ll go now.” I said.
“Okay, good luck.” She cheers me up.
I started to walk away.
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“So this it.” He said. And I just nodded. Maybe this is the moment you’ve been waiting for? But, can I just stay? Can you ask me not to leave? If you’re going to ask me now, I might stay with you forever. I won’t leave you. I promise you that. But… he just looks away, when I try to look at his eyes.
“Yeah.” I said, cheerfully. But it’s just all an act. I want to cry right now.
I offer my hand yet, he pulled and hugged me. I really want to cry. I hate goodbyes. I pulled away, ‘cause I might be longing for this if we stay like this a little more.
“I’ll go now.” He said. It felt like my heart broke into many pieces.
“Okay. Good luck” I said happily. It’s time to go back to reality. You must return to your original girlfriend.
My task ends here. I went to the apartment. And get my luggage and start to walk away.
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Inside the cab, I can’t stop thinking about Saki. The first we met, under the Sakura tree. The time she barge in my apartment, first fight, first night I waited for her, playing together, eating together.
“People do change, so does the heart.” I remember those words, she said it before. Now, it felt like she’s whispering it to me at this very moment.
“Just drop me off here.” I said as I pay to cab driver.
I started to run like the wind. I don’t care if I would bump into others as long as I can catch up to her.
And my instincts are telling me where she is.
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I sat on the bench under the Sakura tree, my FAVOURITE place. Also, this is the place, we first met. I took a zip of my orange juice. I stood up, pulling my luggage walking closer to the trash can. I started to walk again.
I heard someone’s footstep; it’s more of running. I turn around, I saw him standing there. Panting. I smiled. He walked closer to me.
“Hey, aren’t you going to fetch Mao-chan?” I said gladly.
“People do change, so does the heart.” He said breathless.
“I think heard that before.” I said. With all sincerity, I really think I heard that from before, but I can’t remember.
“I’m sorry, I’m late. I took forever to come here.” He said shyly. I just smiled. Gad! That’s the sweetest thing he said. He walked closer to me and we kissed.