[PG-13] Angel's Wings (3/??)
Title: Angel’s Wings - Third Feather: FACADES
Author: silverdoll14
Characters: Ohmiya, Sakuraiba, brief appearance of Jun
Genre: Romance, Fantasy, AU
Chapter Rating: PG-13
Chapter - Word Count: Chapter 3 - 4 506 words
Status: Multi-chaptered
Previous Chapters: Prologue | 1 | 2
Disclaimer: I don’t own anything except the story of course. Everything is just fictional. :D
Chapter Summary: After their last trip to the shrine, Nino tried to avoid Ohno but in the end he pretended nothing is wrong. For him, façade is his only salvation for longing heart as long as Ohno was by his side.
Author’s notes: *sighs* still no beta-reader. Anyone who is interested for the job?
Anyways, I think my updates are going far from my original plans. This is quite alarming I guess. So that’s why I’ll change a bit the story summary to connect my recent updates soon. Bits by bits I’m uncovering Ohno’s past and his connection with Nino. It’s fantasy genre after all so don’t be surprise neh? Sorry for a late update but I’m quite the lazy bum. *pouts* That’s all I can say now. Read, enjoy and hopefully do comment your thoughts. I love reading comments~ Have a nice day!
P.S. I was wondering if I should make the next chapter a bit rated or not? Your choice... just add it to your comment anyways. :D
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“Sometimes, we chose to be an angel, innocent from all cruelties, but it also means to live with lies and pretenses, an incomparable suffering. -silverdoll14”
Ohno may always be in dazed especially with his sleepy eyes and pouty lips sticking out from the guy’s features but Nino knew better that Ohno was well aware about what he was trying to do between them. Ohno wasn’t the type of person who say things out loud or act in impulse with his calm composure as Nino had observed but definitely he knew Ohno wasn’t an idiot or even blind to not notice the walls he had built between them so suddenly. He figured Ohno was waiting for him to open up and maybe be able to explain their current situation even if he, himself didn’t understand at all. For that fact, Nino was more thankful that Ohno wasn’t pushy but rather patient with him.
Ever since their last trip to the shrine, when he and Ohno talked to that cliff by the forest beside the shrine, Nino kept a safe distance between them even if they were practically living under the same roof. It wasn’t because he didn’t trust Ohno or something but their last conversion really triggered something deep in his heart. He wasn’t really completely ignoring Ohno’s presence; it was just that he didn’t initiate any conversation between them at all. He avoided encountering Ohno by coming home late from work and going to work the next day earlier than originally. Hey, he admitted he was a stingy person so earning more money so it wasn’t a bad idea. On the other hand, Ohno understood somehow his sudden need of personal space even though Ohno wasn’t really interfering at all.
COMPLICATED. That’s the only word to describe their current relationship or rather situation. For almost 2 weeks, everything was the same routine with silence becoming their company. But somehow, a part of Nino wanted Ohno to make a move, to confront him, yell at him if he must or just do something about their complications but the latter seemed oblivious about that side of Nino. Though recently, a bit of changes showed up that Nino liked about.
One night, coming home late as always, a tray of food was left behind on the desk yet this time a little note was attached to it. ‘Welcome home, Kazu!’ he had read and that was enough to put a smile on his face despite the stressful work he had and then a little blush came at the mention of his nickname from his first name. Nino was more than willing to eat the tasty food prepared just for him.
On the next morning, Nino made him a breakfast in return aside for the daily allowance he usually left for Ohno to use just in case of emergency purposes or grocery matters. See, he fully gave his trust to Ohno. And this time, a little note was added aside from his daily biddings.
“I’ll be going now… Thank you for the dinner last night, Oh-chan :D” it said and like how Nino reacted last night, the same reaction came from Ohno as well.
Another week had pass and they ended up communication through those little notes with same words yet it brought smiles to each other’s faces. Still Nino knew, he couldn’t hide from Ohno forever. Sooner or later, he needed to face him.
“I’m home.” Nino murmured, coming home late once again. He wasn’t expecting a reply after all with his situation with Ohno, he figured the latter was probably in his room but then one sentence was heard and it made Nino stood frozen from where he was standing.
“Welcome back…”
Nino blinked several times, swallowing his own saliva. He wasn’t really expecting this. No, he wasn’t ready yet. “Uhm, hi?!” he said nervously. He cleared his throat then spoke again, “Have you been waiting long?” he asked, trying to sound casual as he put off his coat and removed his shoes.
“No, not really. I just can’t sleep yet.” Ohno replied, scribbling or rather drawing something on the piece of paper he was holding.
“Have you eaten dinner already?” Nino asked as he moved towards the kitchen. There, like last before, he found a tray of food in the center of the table, but this time, there wasn’t a note attached to it. Well, Ohno was still in the living room right.
“Ah, yes…” he heard Ohno’s brief reply from the living room.
“Uhm, I’ll partake now.” He shouted back. He sighed a relief hearing no reply from Ohno. Maybe he was exaggerating things. He was about to put a mouthful of rice when he looked to his front. “Whoa!” he gasped seeing Ohno, already sitting opposite him. “I -thought… but you…” he couldn’t form a coherent sentence and the only reply he got from Ohno was an amused smile. Nino just rolled his eyes and just let it be.
“Nino?” Ohno called out with a bit of hesitation coming from his voice. Nino looked up, gulping down the food he just took. Maybe Ohno did want to talk, especially on how he played with his forefingers and pouting lips.
“Ah, y-yes?”
“I was wondering…” Ohno started and Nino felt his heartbeat increasing. He wasn’t ready for any confrontation, if ever confrontation was the right term to use with what was happening now.
“What should I say? Damn! I’, not ready for this…” Nino kept chanting to his self.
“…c-can I try fishing?
“Ah, oh-chan… it’s not like that… you see I- Wait, what?” Nino cut his own words, trying to recollect if he heard Ohno right. “Come again?”
“I said uhm if I could try fishing… I know I’m not on the place to asked this huge favor, especially that I’m just a free loader and you are already helping me by letting me stay here in your apartment… but lately, I really want to try fishing.” Ohno said and then a light bulb flickered above his head. “I could also find a part-time job so I can help with expenses here.” Ohno tried to bribe. A smirk found its way in Nino’s face because it was really cute may add that he couldn’t help ending it with a chuckle and a nod. “Hahaha~ if you really want to try it bad…” Nino giggled his agreement and Ohno cheered.
That night, the walls Nino had built carefully for the past few weeks came crushing in one snap of seconds. It seemed nothing really happened between them. Maybe everything was just a result of Nino’s exaggeration that he became paranoid about everything.
Or maybe, he chose to be oblivious of the sign he had already seen from the start.
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“I’m sorry… we couldn’t save him anymore…” the doctor whispered to the mother of the victim. Young Nino looked at the scene looking clueless yet he was well aware of the atmosphere coating the hallway of the hospital.
“Doc, I’m begging you… please save my boy…” the mother cried but all the doctor could do was shook his head in sadness.
“I’m really sorry…” the doctor only repeated.
It felt someone crushing his heart upon hearing those words. “You’re kidding right?” he murmured, smirking yet there was not humor lingering on it.
“I promise you Kazu… what ever happens…”
He could still remember those words coming from him years ago but now…
“NO! NO! I can’t believe it! I don’t believe it!” Nino shouted and ran away from that long hallway.
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“NO! NO! YOU LEFT ME! NO!”
“Kazu! Kazu! Wake up!” Ohno tried to wake the struggling Nino in his sleep. He just heard Nino from the other room, shouting in his sleep that’s why he quickly went inside Nino’s room.
“WHY?!” Nino screamed before his eyes opened and waking up from his sleep. A pair of strong arms encased him a second after, hauling him into a warm hug when Nino abruptly sat up.
“Sssh~ Sssh~ I’m here…” he heard Ohno’s soothing voice and Nino leaned into him, putting his hand on Ohno’s chest as he rest his head on Ohno’s shoulder. Ohno rocked their bodies softly, feeling Nino’s small sobs. “I’m here Kazu… I’m here…” Ohno chanted and Nino’s grip tightened on Ohno’s t-shirt (technically Nino’s t-shirt that he let Ohno use).
“Don’t leave me again… don’t leave me…” Nino cried. Ohno was taken aback by Nino’s declaration of ‘again’ but chose not to focus on it. Nino’s state was his first priority.
“I won’t… I promise you…” Ohno said, They stayed like that for minutes or maybe hours. There was only silence yet it wasn’t alarming but rather comforting. Nino calmed down, sleeping on the process. Ohno stayed awake and carefully laid their bodies together, face to face. He gently traced Nino’s face, from his eyebrows, to his nose, even his mole below his mouth.
“I wonder… everything seems to be on the right place yet there are still something missing parts. Somehow I know you are a part of my past Ninomiya Kazunari. I am a part of yours but why did I forget and why did you choose to forget?” Ohno whispered as he nosed Nino’s nose with utmost affection. He placed Nino’s head below his chin as the latter nuzzled under his warm. He wished this moment will last as dreamland took him.
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“Oh-chan, I’m afraid…” a black haired man with a blurry face said towards Ohno.
“Why, what’s wrong? I’m here… tell my what’s wrong?” Ohno cooed the said man as soon as they were close to each other.
“It’s time again isn’t it?” the younger one said, clutching Ohno’s white clothing and having thoughts of not wanting to let go. Ohno placed his hand on the other’s waist as he started moving their bodies like dancing to a music ony them could hear.
“Hey, it isn’t like it’s our first time you know.” Ohno tried to comfort the latter.
“I know but why do you always have to leave first…” he later pouted. Ohno chuckled and nosed the other’s nose.
“Well, it couldn’t be help plus I’m older than you. You know that cycle already.” Ohno whispered, trying so hard to convince the latter. The other heaved a sigh, a long sigh. Ohno knew what was going on with the other’s head. He put the head of the other under his chin, placing his hand on the back of the other’s head and hos other hand on the latter’s back. “Didn’t he promise this time it will be longer. This time we’ll be able to enjoy life to the fullest. Once you were reborn, I know we’ll meet on the right time and this time I wouldn’t leave you so easily… I promise you… we’ll always come back to each other…” Ohno declared. He looked down, meeting the eyes of the other that carried such beautiful orbs. “I love you, Kazu… and I promise you that.” Ohno said firm and determined. The faced looked up but this time it wasn’t blurry. It was the face of Nino with his black hair, thin lips, hazel orbs and the mole on his chin. Ohno kissed Nino’s forehead tenderly, and Nino accepted it with closed eyes, taking that promise deep inside his heart.
“Ohno-san…” someone called and the two of them looked sideways. A tall man with black hair and distinct features appeared. Like them, he sported white clothing.
“Ah, Jun-kun…” Ohno greeted.
“It’s time…” Just said with a bow. Ohno nodded. He looked at Nino, capturing his lips one last time for now. Ohno then followed Jun leaving Nin’s sight but before disappearing, he looked back to Nino.
“Kazu…” Ohno called and the added with a smile, “I’ll see you soon!” he said and Nino couldn’t but to smile back thinking the possible futures ahead of them.
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Ohno opened his eyes as the morning light welcomed him. Though confusion was visible on his face as he tried to recall his recent dream yet failed miserably. Another thing was, he was in a completely different room. He remembered clearly that he had blue curtains and the room he was staying at had yellow ones. Clearly, he was in a different room. And then he remembered what happened last night. Wasn’t he supposed to be holding into someone? He sat up, looking left and right to see if there was another presence in the room but there was none. He twisted his head a bit, trying to think hard the possibilities. Maybe Nino got mad at him for intruding into his room. Maybe Nino had gone to call the cops for robbery, trespassing or even rape. Maybe Nino…
“Morning sleepy head…” A voice interrupted Ohno’s series of scene of possibilities on his head. He looked to where the voice came from and saw Nino still in pajamas and night t-shirt while leaning his weight to the door’s frame, a smirk playing on his lips while his hand crossed comfortably over his chest.
“M-morning Ni-n-no…” he stammered a bit. With how Nino was looking at him made Ohno blush that he practically looked away with his previous dilemmas long forgotten. Nino raised an eyebrow when Ohno looked away. He flinched asking his self if he did something wrong. He approached the latter, sat on his bed and casually cupped Ohno’s cheeks to make him look back at him.
“Is there something wrong, Oh-chan?” he asked concernedly and Ohno shook his head right away. Nino smiled and grabbed Ohno’s wrist gently as he lead the other to the kitchen where a breakfast for two was prepared. “Looked, I made breakfast. Let’s dig up when it still hot.” Nino said and Ohno just nod. They sat opposite each other and only silence left between them. But unlike any silence, it wasn’t heavy that you’d feel tension but rather it felt just right and oddly, up-lifting.
“neh, Oh-chan?” Nino started, trying to get Ohno’s attention. He succeeded as the latter looked at him bashfully for some reason. Nino cleared his throat. The way Ohno looked at him made him embarrassed in a way Nino couldn’t explain. But now he managed to say those words, “Thank you for last night…” and then shyly looked away before adding, “I really appreciate it.” And Nino was now blushing.
Hearing Nino’s words, Ohno couldn’t help but to beam in shear happiness. Ohno shook his head with a smile, telling with that gesture that ‘it’s okay’ and Nino nodded. Somehow, they started communicating through their eyes. When Nino caught Ohno glancing, Ohno would divert his eyes smoewhee and a soft laugh came from Nino that Ohno ended up laughing with him. After breakfast, Ohno cleaned the table as Nino washed the dishes.
“Neh, Oh-chan…” Nino started their conversation again.
“Hmmm?”
“You said you wanted to try fishing right?” Nino asked and Ohno’s eyes glimmered with excitement after hearing the mention of ‘fishing’ but then he looked away shyly for acting like that but didn’t forget to give a small nod. Nino chuckled at Ohno’s antics, with cuteness overloading he might add and it was another reason for him no to remove the smile gracing his lips knowing he pushed the right buttons.
“Well, since I’ll be having a long holiday this weekend. It wouldn’t be bad going to the beach and try fishing neh?” Nino said and Ohno’s smile got wider than before.
“Are you sure?” Ohno couldn’t help but to ask. He didn’t really want to force something on Nino right? And Nino’s nod made Ohno’s doubts long forgotten.
“Can we bring Aiba-chan along? I’m sure he’ll love to join trips like this.” Ohno said, nodding to his own statement.
“Sure, why n- Eh?”
“Thank you Kazu!” Ohno said, cutting Nino’s words. He ran to the surprised man and gave him a squishing hug and unexpectedly a kiss on his cheeks, not noticing Nino’s shocked face that dissolved to embarrassment. Nino watched as Ohno immediately called Aiba on the phone while holding the part of his face where Ohno had just kissed him. Then, it ringed to him now Ohno called him ‘Kazu’ once again. Not that he was complaining but Nino couldn’t explain the tingling familiarity each time Ohno would call him with that nickname rather than Nino yet strikingly, he longed to hear it but he rather deny that feeling.
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Aiba bit his lips not knowing what to say. He had known Sho for almost a year but just weeks ago, they did became friends or some sort like that as they gotten pretty close through phone calls and bumping ways.
He looked up towards the stairs, a familiar steps he usually took with Nino but today was a completely different story.
“Masaki, are you okay?” Sho asked and Aiba snapped back to reality.
“Ah,yes. Sorry, I’m spacing out.” Aiba had chuckle his embarrassment and Sho just smiled, hoping to ease up Aiba who he noticed to be tensed up. He took Aiba’s hand casually and took the steps up without letting go of Aiba’s hand. Upon arriving to the shrine with Aiba red as tomato for some reason, they prayed and then walked together with only silence between them though not the silence that brought tensions up but rather just their presences were enough.
When they were heading home after eating dinner along the way, Aiba packed up the courage to finally ask Sho.
“Anou… Sho-chan…” Aiba fidgeted, playing with his forefinger while he uncomfortably sat on the passenger’s seat. Sho hummed his reply with his eyes concentrated to the road.
“You see… this coming weekend…” Aiba started still not finding the right words how to ask Sho to come with them. Early in the morning, he received a phone call from Ohno saying they will try fishing this weekend and Aiba wanted to try that too. Unexpectedly, even in Nino’s dazed state the last time they went to the shrine, the latter was well aware about Sho’s existence.
“And you can bring that new friend of yours. I’m sure you wanted to tag him along and don’t deny it!” Aiba heard Nino on the phone and Aiba couldn’t help but to flush.
“Well, what about this weekend?” asked Sho, looking back to him while they stopped due to the stop light.
“Ah, yes… I was wondering if you want fishing.” Aiba said, asking his self if he did make sense with his question.
“Huh? …If I want fishing?” Sho repeated.
“No… I mean… if you want to go fishing with us?” Aiba corrected after smacking his forehead with his hand.
“You are going fishing?” Sho asked amused.
“Well, actually we’re just going to try it.” Aiba smiled shyly.
“Then how can I refuse. I always wanted to try fishing.” Sho replied with a smile and his concentration now back to the road. He then continued, “Oh, we did try fishing before but I ended up fishing tetrapod.” Sho laughed remembering his first time fishing.
“Eh? Tetrapod can be fished?” Aiba chuckled.
Sho replied with embarrassment, “Yeah, they said I’m the only one who can do it thanks to my mastered talent in fishing. “ and that cracked Aiba laughing more.
“Anou,” Sho started, being serious again. Now it was Aiba’s turn to hum as his reply. “That guy… Ohno Satoshi right?” Sho asked for confirmation and Aiba nodded. “Would he come?” Sho asked carefully.
“Oh, oh-chan… yeah… he was the one who invited me…” Aiba said unconsciously. Although Sho and oh-chan who said he finally remembered that he was ‘Ohno Satoshi’, met the last time, it seemed Sho had taken interest towards him and Aiba felt a bit uneasy about that interest. But then he chose to act oblivious about the obvious jealousy even those who was spontaneous as him could get that. As he pretended fascinated by the scene offered outside as they travelled, he didn’t really notice Sho’s happiness for the fact that Aiba was the one who personally invited him.
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When the weekday ended, the four of them gathered their things for the fishing trip slash vacation. Ohno couldn’t hide the excitement that as soon as they arrived at resort they’d be staying, he wanted to go fishing as soon as possible. Nino was able to persuade him, telling him that they would go as soon as the sun rises the next morning.
As promised, they did fishing the next day on a boat rented that was included in their package from the resort. Well, actually, only three out of four seriously fished for the fact that Nino couldn’t let go of the handrail and kept on emptying his stomach once in a while. Ohno was worried that he wanted them to go back to shore but Nino was stubborn and wouldn’t want to spoil the fun that he reassured them he was fine. After all, it would be a waste if they went back immediately, it was after all included in the package they would pay. With all the fishes they manage to catch, more like Ohno did the catching, Sho caught only tetrapods (his field of expertise) while Aiba kept losing the fish he was about to reel in, they still enjoyed their dinner around the campfire by the beach. After wards Ohno and Nino were left alone after Aiba said he would just go back to get some blanket to warm them up a bit in the night breeze and Sho volunteered to come with him.
“Are you okay now, Kazu?” Ohno asked as he looked sideways. Nino gave a weak smile but it was enough to reassured Ohno. When the chilly night breeze blew a bit, Nino hugged his arms rubbing them with hope that the little friction would at least create warmness. He felt another layer of warmness enveloped around him. Looking back, he saw Ohno’s jacket (which was still technical his again, after all Ohno was borrowing his things and Nino didn’t mind at all, not a single bit.) over his shoulder.
“Aren’t you cold, Oh-chan?” Nino asked. Ohno just shook his head. Nino just leaned in towards Ohno hoping to give warmness back.
“Kazu…” Ohno called carefully, taking a glance at Nino who was leaning at him.
“Hmmm?” Nino could just utter. Sometimes, it still surprised him how Ohno would call him ‘Kazu’ yet it felt just so right. Nino was approachable guy and everyone he met could testify to that but he was never that too clingy until now and it was with the guy he just met not so long ago.
“… will you… answer me honestly if I ask you a question?” Ohno asked cautiously. Nino sat up, looking back to Ohno, eyes to eyes.
“What do you mean?” Nino asked back instead. He could see seriousness all over Ohno’s sparkling eyes. Ohno moved his hands, encasing one of Nino’s hands between his.
“Please… will you?” Ohno pleaded. Nino bit his lower lip in hesitation but slowly he nodded. Ohno placed his right hand over Nino’s chest while his other firmly holding Nino’s hand. Nino closed his eyes as tears started forming in the corner of his eyes. In a way, Nino knew where would this lead to.
“What do you feel now, Kazu?” Ohno’s voice was heard softly through Nino’s ears.
“I don’t know… sadness? Happiness? Hurt…” Nino said and paused. When a tear traced the contour of his face, Nino almost choke when he let out last word. “…longing.”
Ohno felt a pang in his heart he couldn’t explain. He couldn’t even determine why he was doing this yet it felt just to do so in this time. Once Nino opened his eyes, flooded with tears, he just hugged Ohno tight, not wanting to let go as tears continued to pool Nino’s eyes. Ohno cradled him, Nino’s trembling body. He looked so fragile even with his out-going personality.
From afar, Aiba and Sho was about to go back and join them but choose not too as they had witness the happenings. It was quite a shock for Aiba seeing Nino like that, breaking down to tears with fear and ache. He knew Nino for almost 10 years and the last time he saw Nino break down like that was the first time he met him in the park when he got lost on a trip.
“Ah, this is bad! This is bad! I lost them! I’m lost!” Aiba panicked that one time. It was already raining that was why his phone’s signal had a bad reception. He was lost in their school field trip and there was no way he could contact his teachers or anyone. Despite the roaring thunder above the dark sky he heard a distinct sound from above.
“Why?! You promised me! You promised us!” Aiba looked up, a shadow by a cliff above was in a form of a human and when the lightning assaulted, he finally saw a black-haired boy kneeling on his knees, soaked wet in the rain and hugging his self.
“Kazu… why did you chose to forget?” Ohno asked as he inhaled Nino’s scent through his black hair. Nino sniffed and kept his silence. Ohno understood, maybe Nino wasn’t ready yet. Maybe… maybe he too wasn’t ready yet. Their surroundings created noises, from the night breeze whispering to them, waves growled as it hit the shore, and then only steady breaths prevailed as the round moon illuminated the darkness of the evening.
One moment everything was calm but when a hamburger hand cupped Ohno’s face, making him looked back to the owner. Nino’s hazel orbs met Ohno’s almond ones. No words were spoken yet there was tension when Nin’s eyes displayed anger but still the longing remained strongly pasted on those eyes. When another tear rolled down, tracing Nino’s jaw with burn, words came out from Nino’s tiny mouth.
“Why… why did you chose to leave?” Nino’s hoarse voice floated.
“If life separated us, we’ll meet again here, neh Oh-chan?”
“I, Ohno Satoshi, promise you Kazu.”
“I think I came back to fulfill a promise Kazu.”
“Maybe you are… Oh-chan…”
“I know we’ll meet again on the right time and this time, I wouldn’t leave you… I promise you… we’ll always come back to each other.”
And Ohno was left speechless under Nino’s expectant gaze. When silence was Ohno’s reply, Nino looked away, hurt evident in his closed eyes. Ohno hurriedly yet gently grabbed Nino’s chin, capturing his trembling lips with his thin ones. That moment and once again, Nino chose to pretend nothing happened. But just a kiss, pretending he didn’t mind at all the thing they just talk now and all that matter was Ohno was back to his.
“Take me back… Like you always do, Satoshi~”
Façade. Nino’s only way to cover his aching heart, pretending nothing is wrong as long he was back to Ohno’s arms.
Author: silverdoll14
Characters: Ohmiya, Sakuraiba, brief appearance of Jun
Genre: Romance, Fantasy, AU
Chapter Rating: PG-13
Chapter - Word Count: Chapter 3 - 4 506 words
Status: Multi-chaptered
Previous Chapters: Prologue | 1 | 2
Disclaimer: I don’t own anything except the story of course. Everything is just fictional. :D
Chapter Summary: After their last trip to the shrine, Nino tried to avoid Ohno but in the end he pretended nothing is wrong. For him, façade is his only salvation for longing heart as long as Ohno was by his side.
Author’s notes: *sighs* still no beta-reader. Anyone who is interested for the job?
Anyways, I think my updates are going far from my original plans. This is quite alarming I guess. So that’s why I’ll change a bit the story summary to connect my recent updates soon. Bits by bits I’m uncovering Ohno’s past and his connection with Nino. It’s fantasy genre after all so don’t be surprise neh? Sorry for a late update but I’m quite the lazy bum. *pouts* That’s all I can say now. Read, enjoy and hopefully do comment your thoughts. I love reading comments~ Have a nice day!
P.S. I was wondering if I should make the next chapter a bit rated or not? Your choice... just add it to your comment anyways. :D
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“Sometimes, we chose to be an angel, innocent from all cruelties, but it also means to live with lies and pretenses, an incomparable suffering. -silverdoll14”
Ohno may always be in dazed especially with his sleepy eyes and pouty lips sticking out from the guy’s features but Nino knew better that Ohno was well aware about what he was trying to do between them. Ohno wasn’t the type of person who say things out loud or act in impulse with his calm composure as Nino had observed but definitely he knew Ohno wasn’t an idiot or even blind to not notice the walls he had built between them so suddenly. He figured Ohno was waiting for him to open up and maybe be able to explain their current situation even if he, himself didn’t understand at all. For that fact, Nino was more thankful that Ohno wasn’t pushy but rather patient with him.
Ever since their last trip to the shrine, when he and Ohno talked to that cliff by the forest beside the shrine, Nino kept a safe distance between them even if they were practically living under the same roof. It wasn’t because he didn’t trust Ohno or something but their last conversion really triggered something deep in his heart. He wasn’t really completely ignoring Ohno’s presence; it was just that he didn’t initiate any conversation between them at all. He avoided encountering Ohno by coming home late from work and going to work the next day earlier than originally. Hey, he admitted he was a stingy person so earning more money so it wasn’t a bad idea. On the other hand, Ohno understood somehow his sudden need of personal space even though Ohno wasn’t really interfering at all.
COMPLICATED. That’s the only word to describe their current relationship or rather situation. For almost 2 weeks, everything was the same routine with silence becoming their company. But somehow, a part of Nino wanted Ohno to make a move, to confront him, yell at him if he must or just do something about their complications but the latter seemed oblivious about that side of Nino. Though recently, a bit of changes showed up that Nino liked about.
One night, coming home late as always, a tray of food was left behind on the desk yet this time a little note was attached to it. ‘Welcome home, Kazu!’ he had read and that was enough to put a smile on his face despite the stressful work he had and then a little blush came at the mention of his nickname from his first name. Nino was more than willing to eat the tasty food prepared just for him.
On the next morning, Nino made him a breakfast in return aside for the daily allowance he usually left for Ohno to use just in case of emergency purposes or grocery matters. See, he fully gave his trust to Ohno. And this time, a little note was added aside from his daily biddings.
“I’ll be going now… Thank you for the dinner last night, Oh-chan :D” it said and like how Nino reacted last night, the same reaction came from Ohno as well.
Another week had pass and they ended up communication through those little notes with same words yet it brought smiles to each other’s faces. Still Nino knew, he couldn’t hide from Ohno forever. Sooner or later, he needed to face him.
“I’m home.” Nino murmured, coming home late once again. He wasn’t expecting a reply after all with his situation with Ohno, he figured the latter was probably in his room but then one sentence was heard and it made Nino stood frozen from where he was standing.
“Welcome back…”
Nino blinked several times, swallowing his own saliva. He wasn’t really expecting this. No, he wasn’t ready yet. “Uhm, hi?!” he said nervously. He cleared his throat then spoke again, “Have you been waiting long?” he asked, trying to sound casual as he put off his coat and removed his shoes.
“No, not really. I just can’t sleep yet.” Ohno replied, scribbling or rather drawing something on the piece of paper he was holding.
“Have you eaten dinner already?” Nino asked as he moved towards the kitchen. There, like last before, he found a tray of food in the center of the table, but this time, there wasn’t a note attached to it. Well, Ohno was still in the living room right.
“Ah, yes…” he heard Ohno’s brief reply from the living room.
“Uhm, I’ll partake now.” He shouted back. He sighed a relief hearing no reply from Ohno. Maybe he was exaggerating things. He was about to put a mouthful of rice when he looked to his front. “Whoa!” he gasped seeing Ohno, already sitting opposite him. “I -thought… but you…” he couldn’t form a coherent sentence and the only reply he got from Ohno was an amused smile. Nino just rolled his eyes and just let it be.
“Nino?” Ohno called out with a bit of hesitation coming from his voice. Nino looked up, gulping down the food he just took. Maybe Ohno did want to talk, especially on how he played with his forefingers and pouting lips.
“Ah, y-yes?”
“I was wondering…” Ohno started and Nino felt his heartbeat increasing. He wasn’t ready for any confrontation, if ever confrontation was the right term to use with what was happening now.
“What should I say? Damn! I’, not ready for this…” Nino kept chanting to his self.
“…c-can I try fishing?
“Ah, oh-chan… it’s not like that… you see I- Wait, what?” Nino cut his own words, trying to recollect if he heard Ohno right. “Come again?”
“I said uhm if I could try fishing… I know I’m not on the place to asked this huge favor, especially that I’m just a free loader and you are already helping me by letting me stay here in your apartment… but lately, I really want to try fishing.” Ohno said and then a light bulb flickered above his head. “I could also find a part-time job so I can help with expenses here.” Ohno tried to bribe. A smirk found its way in Nino’s face because it was really cute may add that he couldn’t help ending it with a chuckle and a nod. “Hahaha~ if you really want to try it bad…” Nino giggled his agreement and Ohno cheered.
That night, the walls Nino had built carefully for the past few weeks came crushing in one snap of seconds. It seemed nothing really happened between them. Maybe everything was just a result of Nino’s exaggeration that he became paranoid about everything.
Or maybe, he chose to be oblivious of the sign he had already seen from the start.
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“I’m sorry… we couldn’t save him anymore…” the doctor whispered to the mother of the victim. Young Nino looked at the scene looking clueless yet he was well aware of the atmosphere coating the hallway of the hospital.
“Doc, I’m begging you… please save my boy…” the mother cried but all the doctor could do was shook his head in sadness.
“I’m really sorry…” the doctor only repeated.
It felt someone crushing his heart upon hearing those words. “You’re kidding right?” he murmured, smirking yet there was not humor lingering on it.
“I promise you Kazu… what ever happens…”
He could still remember those words coming from him years ago but now…
“NO! NO! I can’t believe it! I don’t believe it!” Nino shouted and ran away from that long hallway.
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“NO! NO! YOU LEFT ME! NO!”
“Kazu! Kazu! Wake up!” Ohno tried to wake the struggling Nino in his sleep. He just heard Nino from the other room, shouting in his sleep that’s why he quickly went inside Nino’s room.
“WHY?!” Nino screamed before his eyes opened and waking up from his sleep. A pair of strong arms encased him a second after, hauling him into a warm hug when Nino abruptly sat up.
“Sssh~ Sssh~ I’m here…” he heard Ohno’s soothing voice and Nino leaned into him, putting his hand on Ohno’s chest as he rest his head on Ohno’s shoulder. Ohno rocked their bodies softly, feeling Nino’s small sobs. “I’m here Kazu… I’m here…” Ohno chanted and Nino’s grip tightened on Ohno’s t-shirt (technically Nino’s t-shirt that he let Ohno use).
“Don’t leave me again… don’t leave me…” Nino cried. Ohno was taken aback by Nino’s declaration of ‘again’ but chose not to focus on it. Nino’s state was his first priority.
“I won’t… I promise you…” Ohno said, They stayed like that for minutes or maybe hours. There was only silence yet it wasn’t alarming but rather comforting. Nino calmed down, sleeping on the process. Ohno stayed awake and carefully laid their bodies together, face to face. He gently traced Nino’s face, from his eyebrows, to his nose, even his mole below his mouth.
“I wonder… everything seems to be on the right place yet there are still something missing parts. Somehow I know you are a part of my past Ninomiya Kazunari. I am a part of yours but why did I forget and why did you choose to forget?” Ohno whispered as he nosed Nino’s nose with utmost affection. He placed Nino’s head below his chin as the latter nuzzled under his warm. He wished this moment will last as dreamland took him.
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“Oh-chan, I’m afraid…” a black haired man with a blurry face said towards Ohno.
“Why, what’s wrong? I’m here… tell my what’s wrong?” Ohno cooed the said man as soon as they were close to each other.
“It’s time again isn’t it?” the younger one said, clutching Ohno’s white clothing and having thoughts of not wanting to let go. Ohno placed his hand on the other’s waist as he started moving their bodies like dancing to a music ony them could hear.
“Hey, it isn’t like it’s our first time you know.” Ohno tried to comfort the latter.
“I know but why do you always have to leave first…” he later pouted. Ohno chuckled and nosed the other’s nose.
“Well, it couldn’t be help plus I’m older than you. You know that cycle already.” Ohno whispered, trying so hard to convince the latter. The other heaved a sigh, a long sigh. Ohno knew what was going on with the other’s head. He put the head of the other under his chin, placing his hand on the back of the other’s head and hos other hand on the latter’s back. “Didn’t he promise this time it will be longer. This time we’ll be able to enjoy life to the fullest. Once you were reborn, I know we’ll meet on the right time and this time I wouldn’t leave you so easily… I promise you… we’ll always come back to each other…” Ohno declared. He looked down, meeting the eyes of the other that carried such beautiful orbs. “I love you, Kazu… and I promise you that.” Ohno said firm and determined. The faced looked up but this time it wasn’t blurry. It was the face of Nino with his black hair, thin lips, hazel orbs and the mole on his chin. Ohno kissed Nino’s forehead tenderly, and Nino accepted it with closed eyes, taking that promise deep inside his heart.
“Ohno-san…” someone called and the two of them looked sideways. A tall man with black hair and distinct features appeared. Like them, he sported white clothing.
“Ah, Jun-kun…” Ohno greeted.
“It’s time…” Just said with a bow. Ohno nodded. He looked at Nino, capturing his lips one last time for now. Ohno then followed Jun leaving Nin’s sight but before disappearing, he looked back to Nino.
“Kazu…” Ohno called and the added with a smile, “I’ll see you soon!” he said and Nino couldn’t but to smile back thinking the possible futures ahead of them.
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Ohno opened his eyes as the morning light welcomed him. Though confusion was visible on his face as he tried to recall his recent dream yet failed miserably. Another thing was, he was in a completely different room. He remembered clearly that he had blue curtains and the room he was staying at had yellow ones. Clearly, he was in a different room. And then he remembered what happened last night. Wasn’t he supposed to be holding into someone? He sat up, looking left and right to see if there was another presence in the room but there was none. He twisted his head a bit, trying to think hard the possibilities. Maybe Nino got mad at him for intruding into his room. Maybe Nino had gone to call the cops for robbery, trespassing or even rape. Maybe Nino…
“Morning sleepy head…” A voice interrupted Ohno’s series of scene of possibilities on his head. He looked to where the voice came from and saw Nino still in pajamas and night t-shirt while leaning his weight to the door’s frame, a smirk playing on his lips while his hand crossed comfortably over his chest.
“M-morning Ni-n-no…” he stammered a bit. With how Nino was looking at him made Ohno blush that he practically looked away with his previous dilemmas long forgotten. Nino raised an eyebrow when Ohno looked away. He flinched asking his self if he did something wrong. He approached the latter, sat on his bed and casually cupped Ohno’s cheeks to make him look back at him.
“Is there something wrong, Oh-chan?” he asked concernedly and Ohno shook his head right away. Nino smiled and grabbed Ohno’s wrist gently as he lead the other to the kitchen where a breakfast for two was prepared. “Looked, I made breakfast. Let’s dig up when it still hot.” Nino said and Ohno just nod. They sat opposite each other and only silence left between them. But unlike any silence, it wasn’t heavy that you’d feel tension but rather it felt just right and oddly, up-lifting.
“neh, Oh-chan?” Nino started, trying to get Ohno’s attention. He succeeded as the latter looked at him bashfully for some reason. Nino cleared his throat. The way Ohno looked at him made him embarrassed in a way Nino couldn’t explain. But now he managed to say those words, “Thank you for last night…” and then shyly looked away before adding, “I really appreciate it.” And Nino was now blushing.
Hearing Nino’s words, Ohno couldn’t help but to beam in shear happiness. Ohno shook his head with a smile, telling with that gesture that ‘it’s okay’ and Nino nodded. Somehow, they started communicating through their eyes. When Nino caught Ohno glancing, Ohno would divert his eyes smoewhee and a soft laugh came from Nino that Ohno ended up laughing with him. After breakfast, Ohno cleaned the table as Nino washed the dishes.
“Neh, Oh-chan…” Nino started their conversation again.
“Hmmm?”
“You said you wanted to try fishing right?” Nino asked and Ohno’s eyes glimmered with excitement after hearing the mention of ‘fishing’ but then he looked away shyly for acting like that but didn’t forget to give a small nod. Nino chuckled at Ohno’s antics, with cuteness overloading he might add and it was another reason for him no to remove the smile gracing his lips knowing he pushed the right buttons.
“Well, since I’ll be having a long holiday this weekend. It wouldn’t be bad going to the beach and try fishing neh?” Nino said and Ohno’s smile got wider than before.
“Are you sure?” Ohno couldn’t help but to ask. He didn’t really want to force something on Nino right? And Nino’s nod made Ohno’s doubts long forgotten.
“Can we bring Aiba-chan along? I’m sure he’ll love to join trips like this.” Ohno said, nodding to his own statement.
“Sure, why n- Eh?”
“Thank you Kazu!” Ohno said, cutting Nino’s words. He ran to the surprised man and gave him a squishing hug and unexpectedly a kiss on his cheeks, not noticing Nino’s shocked face that dissolved to embarrassment. Nino watched as Ohno immediately called Aiba on the phone while holding the part of his face where Ohno had just kissed him. Then, it ringed to him now Ohno called him ‘Kazu’ once again. Not that he was complaining but Nino couldn’t explain the tingling familiarity each time Ohno would call him with that nickname rather than Nino yet strikingly, he longed to hear it but he rather deny that feeling.
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Aiba bit his lips not knowing what to say. He had known Sho for almost a year but just weeks ago, they did became friends or some sort like that as they gotten pretty close through phone calls and bumping ways.
He looked up towards the stairs, a familiar steps he usually took with Nino but today was a completely different story.
“Masaki, are you okay?” Sho asked and Aiba snapped back to reality.
“Ah,yes. Sorry, I’m spacing out.” Aiba had chuckle his embarrassment and Sho just smiled, hoping to ease up Aiba who he noticed to be tensed up. He took Aiba’s hand casually and took the steps up without letting go of Aiba’s hand. Upon arriving to the shrine with Aiba red as tomato for some reason, they prayed and then walked together with only silence between them though not the silence that brought tensions up but rather just their presences were enough.
When they were heading home after eating dinner along the way, Aiba packed up the courage to finally ask Sho.
“Anou… Sho-chan…” Aiba fidgeted, playing with his forefinger while he uncomfortably sat on the passenger’s seat. Sho hummed his reply with his eyes concentrated to the road.
“You see… this coming weekend…” Aiba started still not finding the right words how to ask Sho to come with them. Early in the morning, he received a phone call from Ohno saying they will try fishing this weekend and Aiba wanted to try that too. Unexpectedly, even in Nino’s dazed state the last time they went to the shrine, the latter was well aware about Sho’s existence.
“And you can bring that new friend of yours. I’m sure you wanted to tag him along and don’t deny it!” Aiba heard Nino on the phone and Aiba couldn’t help but to flush.
“Well, what about this weekend?” asked Sho, looking back to him while they stopped due to the stop light.
“Ah, yes… I was wondering if you want fishing.” Aiba said, asking his self if he did make sense with his question.
“Huh? …If I want fishing?” Sho repeated.
“No… I mean… if you want to go fishing with us?” Aiba corrected after smacking his forehead with his hand.
“You are going fishing?” Sho asked amused.
“Well, actually we’re just going to try it.” Aiba smiled shyly.
“Then how can I refuse. I always wanted to try fishing.” Sho replied with a smile and his concentration now back to the road. He then continued, “Oh, we did try fishing before but I ended up fishing tetrapod.” Sho laughed remembering his first time fishing.
“Eh? Tetrapod can be fished?” Aiba chuckled.
Sho replied with embarrassment, “Yeah, they said I’m the only one who can do it thanks to my mastered talent in fishing. “ and that cracked Aiba laughing more.
“Anou,” Sho started, being serious again. Now it was Aiba’s turn to hum as his reply. “That guy… Ohno Satoshi right?” Sho asked for confirmation and Aiba nodded. “Would he come?” Sho asked carefully.
“Oh, oh-chan… yeah… he was the one who invited me…” Aiba said unconsciously. Although Sho and oh-chan who said he finally remembered that he was ‘Ohno Satoshi’, met the last time, it seemed Sho had taken interest towards him and Aiba felt a bit uneasy about that interest. But then he chose to act oblivious about the obvious jealousy even those who was spontaneous as him could get that. As he pretended fascinated by the scene offered outside as they travelled, he didn’t really notice Sho’s happiness for the fact that Aiba was the one who personally invited him.
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When the weekday ended, the four of them gathered their things for the fishing trip slash vacation. Ohno couldn’t hide the excitement that as soon as they arrived at resort they’d be staying, he wanted to go fishing as soon as possible. Nino was able to persuade him, telling him that they would go as soon as the sun rises the next morning.
As promised, they did fishing the next day on a boat rented that was included in their package from the resort. Well, actually, only three out of four seriously fished for the fact that Nino couldn’t let go of the handrail and kept on emptying his stomach once in a while. Ohno was worried that he wanted them to go back to shore but Nino was stubborn and wouldn’t want to spoil the fun that he reassured them he was fine. After all, it would be a waste if they went back immediately, it was after all included in the package they would pay. With all the fishes they manage to catch, more like Ohno did the catching, Sho caught only tetrapods (his field of expertise) while Aiba kept losing the fish he was about to reel in, they still enjoyed their dinner around the campfire by the beach. After wards Ohno and Nino were left alone after Aiba said he would just go back to get some blanket to warm them up a bit in the night breeze and Sho volunteered to come with him.
“Are you okay now, Kazu?” Ohno asked as he looked sideways. Nino gave a weak smile but it was enough to reassured Ohno. When the chilly night breeze blew a bit, Nino hugged his arms rubbing them with hope that the little friction would at least create warmness. He felt another layer of warmness enveloped around him. Looking back, he saw Ohno’s jacket (which was still technical his again, after all Ohno was borrowing his things and Nino didn’t mind at all, not a single bit.) over his shoulder.
“Aren’t you cold, Oh-chan?” Nino asked. Ohno just shook his head. Nino just leaned in towards Ohno hoping to give warmness back.
“Kazu…” Ohno called carefully, taking a glance at Nino who was leaning at him.
“Hmmm?” Nino could just utter. Sometimes, it still surprised him how Ohno would call him ‘Kazu’ yet it felt just so right. Nino was approachable guy and everyone he met could testify to that but he was never that too clingy until now and it was with the guy he just met not so long ago.
“… will you… answer me honestly if I ask you a question?” Ohno asked cautiously. Nino sat up, looking back to Ohno, eyes to eyes.
“What do you mean?” Nino asked back instead. He could see seriousness all over Ohno’s sparkling eyes. Ohno moved his hands, encasing one of Nino’s hands between his.
“Please… will you?” Ohno pleaded. Nino bit his lower lip in hesitation but slowly he nodded. Ohno placed his right hand over Nino’s chest while his other firmly holding Nino’s hand. Nino closed his eyes as tears started forming in the corner of his eyes. In a way, Nino knew where would this lead to.
“What do you feel now, Kazu?” Ohno’s voice was heard softly through Nino’s ears.
“I don’t know… sadness? Happiness? Hurt…” Nino said and paused. When a tear traced the contour of his face, Nino almost choke when he let out last word. “…longing.”
Ohno felt a pang in his heart he couldn’t explain. He couldn’t even determine why he was doing this yet it felt just to do so in this time. Once Nino opened his eyes, flooded with tears, he just hugged Ohno tight, not wanting to let go as tears continued to pool Nino’s eyes. Ohno cradled him, Nino’s trembling body. He looked so fragile even with his out-going personality.
From afar, Aiba and Sho was about to go back and join them but choose not too as they had witness the happenings. It was quite a shock for Aiba seeing Nino like that, breaking down to tears with fear and ache. He knew Nino for almost 10 years and the last time he saw Nino break down like that was the first time he met him in the park when he got lost on a trip.
“Ah, this is bad! This is bad! I lost them! I’m lost!” Aiba panicked that one time. It was already raining that was why his phone’s signal had a bad reception. He was lost in their school field trip and there was no way he could contact his teachers or anyone. Despite the roaring thunder above the dark sky he heard a distinct sound from above.
“Why?! You promised me! You promised us!” Aiba looked up, a shadow by a cliff above was in a form of a human and when the lightning assaulted, he finally saw a black-haired boy kneeling on his knees, soaked wet in the rain and hugging his self.
“Kazu… why did you chose to forget?” Ohno asked as he inhaled Nino’s scent through his black hair. Nino sniffed and kept his silence. Ohno understood, maybe Nino wasn’t ready yet. Maybe… maybe he too wasn’t ready yet. Their surroundings created noises, from the night breeze whispering to them, waves growled as it hit the shore, and then only steady breaths prevailed as the round moon illuminated the darkness of the evening.
One moment everything was calm but when a hamburger hand cupped Ohno’s face, making him looked back to the owner. Nino’s hazel orbs met Ohno’s almond ones. No words were spoken yet there was tension when Nin’s eyes displayed anger but still the longing remained strongly pasted on those eyes. When another tear rolled down, tracing Nino’s jaw with burn, words came out from Nino’s tiny mouth.
“Why… why did you chose to leave?” Nino’s hoarse voice floated.
“If life separated us, we’ll meet again here, neh Oh-chan?”
“I, Ohno Satoshi, promise you Kazu.”
“I think I came back to fulfill a promise Kazu.”
“Maybe you are… Oh-chan…”
“I know we’ll meet again on the right time and this time, I wouldn’t leave you… I promise you… we’ll always come back to each other.”
And Ohno was left speechless under Nino’s expectant gaze. When silence was Ohno’s reply, Nino looked away, hurt evident in his closed eyes. Ohno hurriedly yet gently grabbed Nino’s chin, capturing his trembling lips with his thin ones. That moment and once again, Nino chose to pretend nothing happened. But just a kiss, pretending he didn’t mind at all the thing they just talk now and all that matter was Ohno was back to his.
“Take me back… Like you always do, Satoshi~”
Façade. Nino’s only way to cover his aching heart, pretending nothing is wrong as long he was back to Ohno’s arms.