[Fanfic] Stars - Chapter 15
Chapter Fifteen
“Does it hurt?” I asked, unable to help the worried expression I had. “What’s that look for? I’m fine,” he smiled at me. He had been strong, telling people he was okay and that there’s no need to be worried about him, but I couldn’t help it. We were alone in the dressing room, just the two of us, while everyone else was running around getting ready. He had insisted on performing even though his hand was in a cast.
“Stop worrying already,” he smiled, trying to ruffle my hair with his left hand. But I still stared down at his immobile hand, unable to imagine what it feels like. He had been given a headset by the staff since holding a microphone was hard for him. “You…you really scared me. If you had fallen in any other way, you could’ve…” I bit my lip to stop finishing that sentence. He didn’t say anything, so we stayed silent for a good minute. Suddenly, he pulled me into a hug. “Sorry…I mean, I’m sorry I scared you,” he stuttered a little.
I didn’t know what to say, all thought left me as I sat motionless, feeling his heart beating against my cheek and the weight of his arm around my shoulders. As if I wasn’t shocked enough, I felt him leaning on the top of my head. I don’t know how long we stayed like that, but as soon as a knock came from the door, his hold loosened. “Sakurai-san, the show’s almost starting,” said someone on the other side. “Ah, I’ll be right there,” he replied.
He got to his feet and fixed the outfit he wore and his microphone. “How do I look?” he asked, holding his arm out. I managed to get a smile out and he nodded, heading for the door. “S-Sho-san…” I stopped him before he left. “Hm?” Feeling my face burning, I had to practically push myself to get the sentence out. “Please don’t work yourself too hard,” I managed, receiving a long stare from him. Finally, he laughed and held a thumbs up before he headed out the door.
As soon as the door shut, I felt the panic and shock and confusion as well as every other emotion come crashing down on me. What just happened? It was something I wasn’t used to, especially from him. Sure, I’ve been hugged by the other guys before for one reason or another but…the way he held me just now… Shaking my head, I knew I was just thinking too much about this. It was just a friendly, almost sibling-like kind of hug, just to reassure me he’s fine…right? I didn’t feel any better with my own sense of logic…
Sighing, I grabbed at my camera and headed out, just in time to hear the fans being admitted to their seats. Memories of last year’s Annual Countdown came flooding back to me, making me feel a little better. I smiled at the staff as I walked past them, setting up my camera as I surveyed the stage settings and calculated angles. My phone shook against my ankle just as I was watching a mother and her three daughters ranging from about 25 to 16 coming in. They were excitedly pointing at the balloons in the shape of a caterpillar hanging from the ceiling, saying ‘okaa-san, okaa-san, miite, miite!’
I saw that I had received a message. Paranoia made me not want to open it, but curiosity got the better of me anyway. “You look cute out there, photographer-chan,” was what it read. I frowned, half-smiling as I tried to locate the sender’s whereabouts. Suddenly, I spotted him, waving at me from the wings of the stage. Stifling a laugh, I made a small wave back. Aiba was standing there, in his opening costume, waiting to step out when his cue comes. “That T-shirt looks good on you,” came another message.
I looked around and spotted Jun, winking at me as his costume was being fixed by the staff. He was referring to the white Dream-A-Live T-Shirt that was made for the concert. Mine had ‘Photographer’ printed across the shoulders. “Stay with us all the way!” Ohno smiled as he held up his thumb from another part of the stage. “We’re here. Right here with you, Aimi-chan,” Nino nodded once, his face serious. “Ready?” was all Sho sent, giving me a ‘V’ sign from the wings. With a big grin, I sent to all five at once, “Let’s go!”
Immediately the overhead lights went out and the audience started to scream. I readied my camera, all too familiar with what will happen next.
Without warning, a member appeared, wearing white. The name ‘Aiba’ glittered in green sequins as it sprawled across his shoulders; he stood with his back facing the audience. Next ‘Matsumoto’ appeared, name in violet glory. Next was ‘Ninomiya’, shimmering golden as the spotlight shone on him. Then came ‘Ohno’, sparks of blue glinting. Finally, ‘Sakurai’ stood in the middle stage area, red sequins twinkling brilliantly. They stood stationary for about 5 counts before the fans swelled in unified cheer as they burst out in their opening song.
I couldn’t be anymore proud of them…and the fact that I know these five men who stood up on stage, at this very moment. It was as if no matter what circle of hell I go through, they’re right there by my side. It’s my turn to repay you guys for what you’ve done for me… A small seedling of determination formed in my chest as the shutter clicked away.
---
“Wait, wait…are you kidding us or what?” asked Nino behind me. “Of course not. Why would I kid about this?” I laughed. “You just asked and everyone said ‘okay’? I find that hard to believe,” he retorted. “What I want to know is, where are we going?” asked Aiba, more excited than anything else. “I told you, it’s a secret. You’ll know once we get there,” was my reply. I was driving at that moment, in amidst questions and demands of where we’re going from my favourite boys sitting in the backseat.
Only Ohno knew of the plans and he wasn’t telling, no matter how much he was being bullied. Nino was trying to pinch his nipples now to get him to tell, but he just whacked him on the head and covered his chest with his hands, scowling. Sho was asleep in the front seat beside me, probably due to being tired and medicated. Jun was silently reading through a script while Aiba was looking out the window. “The ocean!” he announced when we got past a tunnel.
“The ocean?” Everyone turned to look at the window, wondering what we’re doing out here. My lips remained silent as I continued down the road, familiar with the scenery. It was almost the end of June, so people were busy enjoying the holidays or with summer part-time jobs. Finally, I could see the building in the distance. Pulling up to the parking lot, I turned off the engine and smiled at them. “We’re here,” I announced, gesturing to the wooden building.
“Where’s ‘here’?” asked Nino, peering at the place. “Ryokan,” I grinned. There was a mixture of reactions: shock, surprise, joy and confusion. Ohno was the first one to open the door with a calm face as he got out of the car. “W-Wait…ryokan? What if we’re mobbed?” Aiba wondered. “Don’t worry. I know the owner. This whole place has been booked by us for the weekend,” I held one thumb up with a grin. That got them animated, scrambling to get out of the car like little boys. Sho didn’t budge though even when the doors slammed closed and there was only him and I left.
Even though I felt guilty for waking him, I knew I had to. “S-Sho-san…” I shook him a bit. He didn’t budge. “Sho-san,” I tried again, just a little harder. Finally, he stirred, looking at me with bleary eyes. “W-Where…?” he stammered, straightening and looking around. “We’re here,” I smiled, “Are you okay?” He nodded, shutting his eyes a bit before opening them again. “Y-Yeah…where are the guys?” he glanced over at the backseat to find it empty. I merely pointed over to the building where they were admiring the entrance.
Nodding, he opened the door and got out. I did the same and joined the boys as they stared up at the wooden structure. “We haven’t been to a ryokan in a really long time,” said Aiba, shielding his eyes from the sun with a hand. “Then don’t stand out here, come inside,” said a voice from the entrance. I smiled as my eyes rested on the one who spoke: Takumi. “Eh?! Takumi-kun? What are you doing here?” said Nino and Aiba at the same time. “My family owns this ryokan. I usually come to help out during the summer. Senpai told me you guys needed a break from work, so I got my parents to close the place for the weekend just for you guys,” he explained, coming down the steps.
“Thanks for doing this for us, Takumi-kun,” I hugged him. “How can I say ‘no’? It’s because of them I’ve got a gateway into directing. After I graduate next year, I’ve already got jobs waiting for me. I think this is really nothing compared,” he grinned as he held me at arm’s length, “Okay, let’s get you all inside before everyone gets heatstroke. You guys are free to rest tonight. Then there’s a summer festival down at the beach tomorrow.” They looked at each other, and each of them had a grin; even Sho who was still half-asleep was smiling. Grabbing their gear, they happily headed into the building, like boys on a school trip, cheering and laughing.
“Are you okay, senpai?” Takumi asked, helping me with the rest of the stuff that was in the car. “Yeah…just wondering if it’s safe to still stay this close to them, that’s all,” the sentence wasn’t supposed to have double-meaning but it came out that way anyway. He knew about my stalker problem…but he also knew how I felt for Sho. I had accidentally said it out loud after our PV shoot, but he didn’t laugh or make fun of me. Instead he told me that even though they were who they were, they’re still only human. “Besides, if anything happens to you, senpai, we’ll be right there with you,” he had told me.
“Stop worrying, this is supposed to be your holiday, after all. I won’t allow frowns at this ryokan while you’re here,” he joked now, carrying bags. “Thanks, Takumi-kun. Alright, let’s have fun!” I tried to sound more cheerful. We headed inside where I greeted his parents who were running the front desk. Both were so happy and cheerful, even though I had to apologize for stopping their business for a weekend, they insisted they didn’t mind at all. “They think what?!” my pitch raised a notch when he told me why they were so happy to see me. “Y-Yeah…somehow they got the wrong idea that you’re my girlfriend,” Takumi laughed.
I pressed a hand to my forehead. First, Aiba’s mom and now Takumi’s parents? This is getting scary. Maybe I shouldn’t hang out with guys so much… “Here we are,” he said, sliding the doors open to let me into the room. It was huge, with tatami mats and windows overlooking the ocean. A fuurin, which is a type of wind chime, hung at the window, making a sweet jingle every time the wind blew. “This is beautiful,” I smiled at him. “Good, I’m glad you like it. The guys have adjoining rooms, so yours is in between theirs. You can have your meals in this room, okay?” he explained.
“Thanks. Oh, and Takumi-kun…you’d better explain to your parents that we’re not a couple,” I grinned. Laughing, he left me in the room. Stretching my arms out, I wandered over to the window where I can see the ocean glittering in the afternoon sun. Summer was hot as always but the wind made it feel nice. “We’ve come to intrude~” said a sing-song voice. Turning, I saw Aiba and Ohno come in. Aiba has already changed to a yukata that’s been provided in every room. “Going to the springs?” I asked. “Mm, Riida and I want to check out the place and walk around a bit. Nino-chan is taking a nap, Jun’s taking a shower and I don’t know where Sho-chan is. Maybe at the beach or something,” Aiba replied. “You want to come with us?” asked Ohno now.
“I’m a little tired from driving so maybe later?” I smiled. They looked at each other and nodded, waving as they went off again. The sun was making me feel sleepy as I felt the wind blew in. All in all, it was relaxed atmosphere. I sat at the low table, trying to get my thoughts together. No matter what I tried to focus on, it would always drift back to Sho.
Another knock on the door made me turn. “Yes?” Sho came wandering in with a smile, obviously refreshed after his nap in the car. “This place is great, Aimi-chan. Thanks for doing this for us,” he said, taking up a seat across from me. “Well, I figured everyone could use a break away from work,” I shrugged. “I’m just surprised they let you do this though,” he smiled.
I crossed my arms over the table and leaned my cheek against my forearm, happy to see him look a little more rejuvenated. “Well, the staff and even Shachou agreed that you guys need a bit of a break. I gave him my word that you guys will be protected from fans, so he made me choose somewhere secluded. Luckily for me, Takumi-kun’s family owns a ryokan,” I explained. He nodded, letting his eyes wander around the room. The soft sea breeze blew in again, making the wind chime jingle.
“Ne, Aimi-chan…” Sho spoke up. It was a good thing too, I was falling asleep. “Mm?” Turning my gaze back to him, I could see he was looking down at his bandaged hand. “I’m sorry for making you worry.” The sentence struck me: I didn’t think it was obvious that I had been worried for him. “What are you saying? We’re all friends, right? It’s only natural for me to worry about you guys,” I laughed, trying to make it sound light.
He shook his head. “I know but still…I feel bad since you have other things to worry about,” he shrugged. He had a point; I had to admit it to myself. Here I was, supposedly on vacation, but I find myself worrying over other things instead of really being here. I guess because of that, I made him feel guilty. “It’s not your fault, Sho-san, so don’t feel bad. I suppose I can’t really forget about everything that’s happened either. In some ways…I’m kind of scared,” my eyes trailed to the polished tabletop.
He didn’t interrupt, so I continued, “It’s funny, if I think about it. I have nothing to offer so why target me? What happened to me so far is merely luck, that’s all. I still don’t understand why anyone would go to so much trouble to…” Shock made me stop short as Sho held onto my hand. “Trust me when I say this because the guys feel the same way: we want to ask him the same questions. No doubt the damage has been done already, but to go this far, and for what? That’s why we’re hoping he’ll be caught soon because we have a few of our own questions to ask,” he smiled that reassuring smile.
I, in all my heart, believe him. “You’re right. I suppose there’s no point in worrying about it because nothing’s going to be solved,” I shrugged. He nodded, patting the back of my hand. After another minute, he released his hold and stretched out his arms. It’s been a while since I’ve had a chance to relax fully, and now that I have that opportunity, I wasn’t sure what to do. “Want to head over to the springs?” he asked now. I had to think about it: it was a mixed bath, so towels wrapped around your privates are necessary, of course.
I had inquired about it from Takumi earlier, so I was prepared. Feeling that the water might wash away some of my sleepiness, I shrugged and agreed. He headed out the room saying that he’ll be back in 15 minutes and we’ll go together.
As soon as the door slid shut, I felt my heart thudding against my ribcage.
It was as if he was just teasing me by being so close. Of course that’s impossible, he doesn’t know you like him. I had to pause and think: I like him? Or I just care about him because we’re friends..?
My heart knew the answer for that one. Ask a stupid question… Laughing to myself, I set about getting ready to head for the springs.
It’s too late, Sho…my heart just can’t give up and let you go anymore.
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I'm late with this!! (as usual) Gomen~~~ i said 2-3 days last time but it wasn't meant to be T__T anyways, next chapter up! Still in suspense, though technically, the one who's doing is no one 'special' if you get my meaning ^^; This is in celebration of a few things: Christmas, New Year, the fact that I managed to complete a Sho-chan mood theme for my lovely LJ (grinsssssssss) and...my birthday this Saturday~ wee~ XD Hope you enjoy this, kittens~ <3<3 i'll *tryyy* to get the next one up soon but again, no promises .___.
“Does it hurt?” I asked, unable to help the worried expression I had. “What’s that look for? I’m fine,” he smiled at me. He had been strong, telling people he was okay and that there’s no need to be worried about him, but I couldn’t help it. We were alone in the dressing room, just the two of us, while everyone else was running around getting ready. He had insisted on performing even though his hand was in a cast.
“Stop worrying already,” he smiled, trying to ruffle my hair with his left hand. But I still stared down at his immobile hand, unable to imagine what it feels like. He had been given a headset by the staff since holding a microphone was hard for him. “You…you really scared me. If you had fallen in any other way, you could’ve…” I bit my lip to stop finishing that sentence. He didn’t say anything, so we stayed silent for a good minute. Suddenly, he pulled me into a hug. “Sorry…I mean, I’m sorry I scared you,” he stuttered a little.
I didn’t know what to say, all thought left me as I sat motionless, feeling his heart beating against my cheek and the weight of his arm around my shoulders. As if I wasn’t shocked enough, I felt him leaning on the top of my head. I don’t know how long we stayed like that, but as soon as a knock came from the door, his hold loosened. “Sakurai-san, the show’s almost starting,” said someone on the other side. “Ah, I’ll be right there,” he replied.
He got to his feet and fixed the outfit he wore and his microphone. “How do I look?” he asked, holding his arm out. I managed to get a smile out and he nodded, heading for the door. “S-Sho-san…” I stopped him before he left. “Hm?” Feeling my face burning, I had to practically push myself to get the sentence out. “Please don’t work yourself too hard,” I managed, receiving a long stare from him. Finally, he laughed and held a thumbs up before he headed out the door.
As soon as the door shut, I felt the panic and shock and confusion as well as every other emotion come crashing down on me. What just happened? It was something I wasn’t used to, especially from him. Sure, I’ve been hugged by the other guys before for one reason or another but…the way he held me just now… Shaking my head, I knew I was just thinking too much about this. It was just a friendly, almost sibling-like kind of hug, just to reassure me he’s fine…right? I didn’t feel any better with my own sense of logic…
Sighing, I grabbed at my camera and headed out, just in time to hear the fans being admitted to their seats. Memories of last year’s Annual Countdown came flooding back to me, making me feel a little better. I smiled at the staff as I walked past them, setting up my camera as I surveyed the stage settings and calculated angles. My phone shook against my ankle just as I was watching a mother and her three daughters ranging from about 25 to 16 coming in. They were excitedly pointing at the balloons in the shape of a caterpillar hanging from the ceiling, saying ‘okaa-san, okaa-san, miite, miite!’
I saw that I had received a message. Paranoia made me not want to open it, but curiosity got the better of me anyway. “You look cute out there, photographer-chan,” was what it read. I frowned, half-smiling as I tried to locate the sender’s whereabouts. Suddenly, I spotted him, waving at me from the wings of the stage. Stifling a laugh, I made a small wave back. Aiba was standing there, in his opening costume, waiting to step out when his cue comes. “That T-shirt looks good on you,” came another message.
I looked around and spotted Jun, winking at me as his costume was being fixed by the staff. He was referring to the white Dream-A-Live T-Shirt that was made for the concert. Mine had ‘Photographer’ printed across the shoulders. “Stay with us all the way!” Ohno smiled as he held up his thumb from another part of the stage. “We’re here. Right here with you, Aimi-chan,” Nino nodded once, his face serious. “Ready?” was all Sho sent, giving me a ‘V’ sign from the wings. With a big grin, I sent to all five at once, “Let’s go!”
Immediately the overhead lights went out and the audience started to scream. I readied my camera, all too familiar with what will happen next.
Without warning, a member appeared, wearing white. The name ‘Aiba’ glittered in green sequins as it sprawled across his shoulders; he stood with his back facing the audience. Next ‘Matsumoto’ appeared, name in violet glory. Next was ‘Ninomiya’, shimmering golden as the spotlight shone on him. Then came ‘Ohno’, sparks of blue glinting. Finally, ‘Sakurai’ stood in the middle stage area, red sequins twinkling brilliantly. They stood stationary for about 5 counts before the fans swelled in unified cheer as they burst out in their opening song.
I couldn’t be anymore proud of them…and the fact that I know these five men who stood up on stage, at this very moment. It was as if no matter what circle of hell I go through, they’re right there by my side. It’s my turn to repay you guys for what you’ve done for me… A small seedling of determination formed in my chest as the shutter clicked away.
---
“Wait, wait…are you kidding us or what?” asked Nino behind me. “Of course not. Why would I kid about this?” I laughed. “You just asked and everyone said ‘okay’? I find that hard to believe,” he retorted. “What I want to know is, where are we going?” asked Aiba, more excited than anything else. “I told you, it’s a secret. You’ll know once we get there,” was my reply. I was driving at that moment, in amidst questions and demands of where we’re going from my favourite boys sitting in the backseat.
Only Ohno knew of the plans and he wasn’t telling, no matter how much he was being bullied. Nino was trying to pinch his nipples now to get him to tell, but he just whacked him on the head and covered his chest with his hands, scowling. Sho was asleep in the front seat beside me, probably due to being tired and medicated. Jun was silently reading through a script while Aiba was looking out the window. “The ocean!” he announced when we got past a tunnel.
“The ocean?” Everyone turned to look at the window, wondering what we’re doing out here. My lips remained silent as I continued down the road, familiar with the scenery. It was almost the end of June, so people were busy enjoying the holidays or with summer part-time jobs. Finally, I could see the building in the distance. Pulling up to the parking lot, I turned off the engine and smiled at them. “We’re here,” I announced, gesturing to the wooden building.
“Where’s ‘here’?” asked Nino, peering at the place. “Ryokan,” I grinned. There was a mixture of reactions: shock, surprise, joy and confusion. Ohno was the first one to open the door with a calm face as he got out of the car. “W-Wait…ryokan? What if we’re mobbed?” Aiba wondered. “Don’t worry. I know the owner. This whole place has been booked by us for the weekend,” I held one thumb up with a grin. That got them animated, scrambling to get out of the car like little boys. Sho didn’t budge though even when the doors slammed closed and there was only him and I left.
Even though I felt guilty for waking him, I knew I had to. “S-Sho-san…” I shook him a bit. He didn’t budge. “Sho-san,” I tried again, just a little harder. Finally, he stirred, looking at me with bleary eyes. “W-Where…?” he stammered, straightening and looking around. “We’re here,” I smiled, “Are you okay?” He nodded, shutting his eyes a bit before opening them again. “Y-Yeah…where are the guys?” he glanced over at the backseat to find it empty. I merely pointed over to the building where they were admiring the entrance.
Nodding, he opened the door and got out. I did the same and joined the boys as they stared up at the wooden structure. “We haven’t been to a ryokan in a really long time,” said Aiba, shielding his eyes from the sun with a hand. “Then don’t stand out here, come inside,” said a voice from the entrance. I smiled as my eyes rested on the one who spoke: Takumi. “Eh?! Takumi-kun? What are you doing here?” said Nino and Aiba at the same time. “My family owns this ryokan. I usually come to help out during the summer. Senpai told me you guys needed a break from work, so I got my parents to close the place for the weekend just for you guys,” he explained, coming down the steps.
“Thanks for doing this for us, Takumi-kun,” I hugged him. “How can I say ‘no’? It’s because of them I’ve got a gateway into directing. After I graduate next year, I’ve already got jobs waiting for me. I think this is really nothing compared,” he grinned as he held me at arm’s length, “Okay, let’s get you all inside before everyone gets heatstroke. You guys are free to rest tonight. Then there’s a summer festival down at the beach tomorrow.” They looked at each other, and each of them had a grin; even Sho who was still half-asleep was smiling. Grabbing their gear, they happily headed into the building, like boys on a school trip, cheering and laughing.
“Are you okay, senpai?” Takumi asked, helping me with the rest of the stuff that was in the car. “Yeah…just wondering if it’s safe to still stay this close to them, that’s all,” the sentence wasn’t supposed to have double-meaning but it came out that way anyway. He knew about my stalker problem…but he also knew how I felt for Sho. I had accidentally said it out loud after our PV shoot, but he didn’t laugh or make fun of me. Instead he told me that even though they were who they were, they’re still only human. “Besides, if anything happens to you, senpai, we’ll be right there with you,” he had told me.
“Stop worrying, this is supposed to be your holiday, after all. I won’t allow frowns at this ryokan while you’re here,” he joked now, carrying bags. “Thanks, Takumi-kun. Alright, let’s have fun!” I tried to sound more cheerful. We headed inside where I greeted his parents who were running the front desk. Both were so happy and cheerful, even though I had to apologize for stopping their business for a weekend, they insisted they didn’t mind at all. “They think what?!” my pitch raised a notch when he told me why they were so happy to see me. “Y-Yeah…somehow they got the wrong idea that you’re my girlfriend,” Takumi laughed.
I pressed a hand to my forehead. First, Aiba’s mom and now Takumi’s parents? This is getting scary. Maybe I shouldn’t hang out with guys so much… “Here we are,” he said, sliding the doors open to let me into the room. It was huge, with tatami mats and windows overlooking the ocean. A fuurin, which is a type of wind chime, hung at the window, making a sweet jingle every time the wind blew. “This is beautiful,” I smiled at him. “Good, I’m glad you like it. The guys have adjoining rooms, so yours is in between theirs. You can have your meals in this room, okay?” he explained.
“Thanks. Oh, and Takumi-kun…you’d better explain to your parents that we’re not a couple,” I grinned. Laughing, he left me in the room. Stretching my arms out, I wandered over to the window where I can see the ocean glittering in the afternoon sun. Summer was hot as always but the wind made it feel nice. “We’ve come to intrude~” said a sing-song voice. Turning, I saw Aiba and Ohno come in. Aiba has already changed to a yukata that’s been provided in every room. “Going to the springs?” I asked. “Mm, Riida and I want to check out the place and walk around a bit. Nino-chan is taking a nap, Jun’s taking a shower and I don’t know where Sho-chan is. Maybe at the beach or something,” Aiba replied. “You want to come with us?” asked Ohno now.
“I’m a little tired from driving so maybe later?” I smiled. They looked at each other and nodded, waving as they went off again. The sun was making me feel sleepy as I felt the wind blew in. All in all, it was relaxed atmosphere. I sat at the low table, trying to get my thoughts together. No matter what I tried to focus on, it would always drift back to Sho.
Another knock on the door made me turn. “Yes?” Sho came wandering in with a smile, obviously refreshed after his nap in the car. “This place is great, Aimi-chan. Thanks for doing this for us,” he said, taking up a seat across from me. “Well, I figured everyone could use a break away from work,” I shrugged. “I’m just surprised they let you do this though,” he smiled.
I crossed my arms over the table and leaned my cheek against my forearm, happy to see him look a little more rejuvenated. “Well, the staff and even Shachou agreed that you guys need a bit of a break. I gave him my word that you guys will be protected from fans, so he made me choose somewhere secluded. Luckily for me, Takumi-kun’s family owns a ryokan,” I explained. He nodded, letting his eyes wander around the room. The soft sea breeze blew in again, making the wind chime jingle.
“Ne, Aimi-chan…” Sho spoke up. It was a good thing too, I was falling asleep. “Mm?” Turning my gaze back to him, I could see he was looking down at his bandaged hand. “I’m sorry for making you worry.” The sentence struck me: I didn’t think it was obvious that I had been worried for him. “What are you saying? We’re all friends, right? It’s only natural for me to worry about you guys,” I laughed, trying to make it sound light.
He shook his head. “I know but still…I feel bad since you have other things to worry about,” he shrugged. He had a point; I had to admit it to myself. Here I was, supposedly on vacation, but I find myself worrying over other things instead of really being here. I guess because of that, I made him feel guilty. “It’s not your fault, Sho-san, so don’t feel bad. I suppose I can’t really forget about everything that’s happened either. In some ways…I’m kind of scared,” my eyes trailed to the polished tabletop.
He didn’t interrupt, so I continued, “It’s funny, if I think about it. I have nothing to offer so why target me? What happened to me so far is merely luck, that’s all. I still don’t understand why anyone would go to so much trouble to…” Shock made me stop short as Sho held onto my hand. “Trust me when I say this because the guys feel the same way: we want to ask him the same questions. No doubt the damage has been done already, but to go this far, and for what? That’s why we’re hoping he’ll be caught soon because we have a few of our own questions to ask,” he smiled that reassuring smile.
I, in all my heart, believe him. “You’re right. I suppose there’s no point in worrying about it because nothing’s going to be solved,” I shrugged. He nodded, patting the back of my hand. After another minute, he released his hold and stretched out his arms. It’s been a while since I’ve had a chance to relax fully, and now that I have that opportunity, I wasn’t sure what to do. “Want to head over to the springs?” he asked now. I had to think about it: it was a mixed bath, so towels wrapped around your privates are necessary, of course.
I had inquired about it from Takumi earlier, so I was prepared. Feeling that the water might wash away some of my sleepiness, I shrugged and agreed. He headed out the room saying that he’ll be back in 15 minutes and we’ll go together.
As soon as the door slid shut, I felt my heart thudding against my ribcage.
It was as if he was just teasing me by being so close. Of course that’s impossible, he doesn’t know you like him. I had to pause and think: I like him? Or I just care about him because we’re friends..?
My heart knew the answer for that one. Ask a stupid question… Laughing to myself, I set about getting ready to head for the springs.
It’s too late, Sho…my heart just can’t give up and let you go anymore.
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I'm late with this!! (as usual) Gomen~~~ i said 2-3 days last time but it wasn't meant to be T__T anyways, next chapter up! Still in suspense, though technically, the one who's doing is no one 'special' if you get my meaning ^^; This is in celebration of a few things: Christmas, New Year, the fact that I managed to complete a Sho-chan mood theme for my lovely LJ (grinsssssssss) and...my birthday this Saturday~ wee~ XD Hope you enjoy this, kittens~ <3<3 i'll *tryyy* to get the next one up soon but again, no promises .___.