7FMB: Chapter 17
Title: The 7 Faces of My Boyfriend
Genre: Romance
Characters: Shida Mirai, Kamiki Ryunosuke, Irie Jingi, Kamiki Yuu (Oizumi Yo), Yonemoto Mai (Kawashima Umika), Sakamoto Shougo, Kanata Hongo, Hiharu (Ohgo Suzuka), Narumi Riko, Nozomi Maeda
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Kamiki and Shida were childhood best friends. One day though, Shida had to go to another town and leave… so Kamiki promised that when they meet again, they’ll marry each other. Eight years later, and she’s back. But Kamiki is not the same. He was diagnosed with MPD and now has 7 personalities. What will Shida do?
Chapter 17: the Cultural Festival
Finally it's here. The cultural festival everyone's been waiting for.. Weeks of preparation will finally be at work. Today is just the opening ceremony and some plays and bands though. All the class will open their shops by tomorrow. That leaves one more day of preparation for their cafe as well. Everyone is pumped up and energetic.
"Good morning!" Shida looked at the side to see Yosuke peeking through his gate. "Should we walk to school together?"
She laughed and nodded. "No need to ask, right? You're always waiting for me there."
A soft blush appeared on his cheeks. "Waiting... It's just a coincidence!" He laughed embarassedly.
"Really?" She asked teasingly, enjoying seeing that small blush.
He looked away with a pout. "Anyway," He wanted to change the topic, obviously. "I was wondering if you had something to do later? We have to buy ingredients for the cake."
"Eh?" She looked at him. "Well, I don't have anything to do. But aren't you planning to help Mai-chan out? We can just get some ingredients from the class' stock, or from your club." He told her a few days ago that he was planning to surprise Mai by helping out with the cafe's cooking parts too, and wanted to ask her to make most of the cake by herself. She agreed then, because he looked really determined to surprise Mai. Why did he change his mind?
He glanced at her with a small smile. "Isn't our project more important?"
She sensed something with those words. Something she can't quite pinpoint. "Did something happen, Yosuke-kun? Did you fight with Mai-chan?"
"Hm?" He looked surprised. "No we didn't..." His eyes showed honesty. "Why did you ask?"
"Are you sad? Do you have a problem?" She had to know. It bothers her to think that he has worries he won't tell her. Through the times they've been together for this whole week, she has been able to understand how his mind works. Yes, it is full of delusions and excuses... but this was all for his happiness. His heart was still in the right place and he was just like Mikki, full of life and full of care for everyone.
A wider smile appeared on his face. "I'm not sad at all." He stopped and looked straight at her. "But I guess something did happen... Mai-chan hasn't been as possesive as she has been before. She's the same, but something is different."
Shida frowned. "Is it troubling you?"
He chuckled. "No, of course not." He smiled once again. A truly happy smile. "It's the first time I can talk to a girl like this other than Mai-chan. I feel free, for some reason. Doesn't this mean she trusts me more now?"
She nodded slowly, not quite agreeing but not in the mood to disagree. Mai is probably still scared until now, and would be protective if only Aki and the two other boys didn't interfere.
"Besides, talking with Mirai-chan is a different experience. Somehow, it's..." A soft blush colored his cheeks. "Ah, nothing."
Shida did not quite know what to make of his reaction, but she was sure something was stirring inside his heart. The end was definitely near.
...
When they arrived in their classroom, Yosuke immediately rushed to Mai's side and greeted her. Nothing unusual about that. Kanata and Jingi, on the other hand, walked to her side and proceeded to have some casual talk.
"Starting tomorrow, we wouldn't have any reason to tag her along." Kanata said irritably. "Just try your best for tomorrow." The two could almost hear the 'thank god it's done' he was thinking just then.
Giggling a bit, Shida faced him and patted him on the shoulders. "You hate talking to girls that much? You're okay with me and Hiharu-chan though." It was definitely either that, or he just really doesn't like Mai. He doesn't particularly talk to any girl though, so Shida figured that Kanata must really be allergic to girls.
Jingi laughed at that. "Maybe he doesn't see you guys as girls? He doesn't talk to girls outside of band activities, does he? In school, everyone knows he hates girls."
"I just think of you and Ojou as aliens." Kanata answered nonchalantly, looking away.
"What?! Hahahaha..." The two cracked up and laughed so much that everyone looked at them at that time. They couldn't stop laughing at Kanata though.
Soon enough, the students were told to go to the gymnasium for the opening ceremony and the different presentations from the theater clubs and such. Of course, not everyone obeyed. It was mostly only freshmen who went anyway, and some of the 3rd years who would perform. Most of the second years just stayed in their room to prepare for tomorrow.
Shida, not having much to do, decided to go walk around campus for now.
Yosuke, on the other hand, was alone with Mai in the home economics room. He asked her if she had time to spend with him, and asked if they could talk properly in this room. She was curious as to why he sounded so serious, but had a sinking feeling that she knew what he wanted to talk about.
She smiled brightly and sat on her usual seat across from him. "What do you want to talk about?"
"Mai-chan is being more and more distant... I feel so." He started. "Do you have someone else you like? Do you want to break up with me?"
Her eyes visibly widened. "What?" She knew she wasn't always around him like how she did before, but for him to actually think she likes someone else?!
He frowned. "You seem to get along well with Jingi-kun and Hongo-kun."
"Are you jealous?" she asks, though his eyes didn't have that suspicious look she had when she talked to Shida before. He probably wasn't jealous at all.
"I just want to know what Mai-chan feels. I want you to be happier and happier." he explained. This time, he smiled tenderly.
That was when she realized. Hearing those words from him, seeing that expression in his eyes, all along it's been like this. She didn't see it because she was blinded by too much love for him. He's always been looking at him with those eyes. And yet it is only now that she sees what that meant. Even with all the sweet words and loving touches, his eyes only saw her as a loved sibling. She was like a sister to him, someone to protect and someone who protects him. She was precious to him, as he was to her. But his feelings for her was not the same emotion she was feeling. Now that he has seen the world, now that he has met Shida Mirai, he sees how different it is with Mai. "I would have been happy if you were jealous." she commented.
He blinked for a while, before looking straight into her eyes. "I..."
She smiled a little, almost numb to the hurt already. "It's okay, Yo-chan. I understand. During the past few days, I understood things better. I can't always be your protector. You have to go where you're happy, to where you smile the most." She looked down, avoiding his eyes. "I'm afraid if I continue like how I did, you might come to hate me. So I'll let you go."
"Let... me go?" He understood the words, but could not bring himself to believe it. He had imagined this scene before, of her breaking up with him. It hurts, it really does. Yet the hurt is not overwhelming. It almost feels like regret.
She looked up and walked to his side. Tiptoeing a bit, she kissed him on the cheek. "Be happy, Yo-chan. For my sake as well and for hers, find what is best for you."
And after those words, she ran to the door and shut it behind her.
...
Shida Mirai was walking around the school, trying to enjoy her first cultural fest in this new school. As a starter, she decided to visit the classrooms of some of her friends. Of course, Hiharu was the first choice.
Upon arriving, the first person she saw was, surprisingly, Kanata Hongo. He was standing just outside the room, probably waiting for someone to come out. Well, waiting for Hiharu to come out, it seems. The girl soon appeared and stood beside him, greeting him as regally as she usually does when around him. She probably thinks she's really a princess when she's with him. Hiharu's eyes soon caught sight of her.
"Mirai-chan!" Hiharu smiled widely and jogged to her side. "What are you doing here?"
She couldn't help but smile. Her friend just gives her positive vibes everytime she smiles. "Just visiting. Is Kanata-san visiting as well?"
Hiharu shook her head, eyes turning serious. "An appointment. The royal families are in turmoil. And a great friend is in need of help. It is an important matter."
Quite honestly, Shida did not understand what those cryptic words meant. So instead, she nods absentmindedly and says "If it is important, then please go on." She watches as her friend walks to Kanata's side and talked seriously once again. Hiharu's serious face is beautiful as well, but it was something that worried Shida deep down inside.
Before she could walk away, she saw someone walking up to her. Adachi Rika. "Mirai-chan, good morning!" she greets happily.
"Ah, good morning." Shida smiles her own small smile as she faced her. "You're Hiharu's classmate?"
Amusement was in Rika's eyes as she nodded. "Anyway, do you want to come with me and visit Hayato'nii-chan?" she asked, almost bouncing in excitement. Seeing this childish side of her, you can't help but think of her as innocent and cute.
Blinking, Shida pondered about it. "I'm going to the third years anyway. We could go up together. I'm visiting a friend."
Rika clapped in joy and locked her arms with Shida's. "Do you mean Narumi-san? She's Hayato'nii-chan's classmate!"
Shida had to wonder why she knew that, but decided against asking.
...
"Eh~ Mirai-chan is visiting me?" Hayato peered from his room, grinning boyishly. "I'm touched."
"Mou, Hayato'nii-chan! Are you planning to ignore me and my effort?" Rika crossed her arms, pouting.
He laughed. "Oh Rika, did you ask Mirai-chan to go here? That's very sly of you."
Averting her eyes from the two, she bowed a little and said "I'm sorry but I have to talk to Riko-chan." She promptly walked away, not even looking back at the two. She's not sure why but that Hayato really makes her feel uncomfortable. It's just a gut feeling she had ever since she met him.
Shida asked the class where Riko was, and was soon face-to-face with her. "Riko-chan, good morning!"
"Visiting classes?" Riko smiled. "I can't go around since we're all so busy here. Our class won't lose this year!"
She laughed. "Our class seems to be easy going, but we do have our secret weapons!"
"You do have the most popular guys, but we have Hayato-kun so we can fight for the prize." Riko was sporting a determined face. "Hayato-kun's been working hard lately, and all the baseball fans have been excited to support him."
Shida stared in awe at Riko. "Is Ogawa-san that popular?" she asked, not expecting that at all.
Riko nodded. "He was relatively unknown when we were in elementary, but he became popular during junior high. They say he got more handsome and he had that cool-but-nice-guy vibes going on. He's nice to kohais and acts like a mature big brother to everyone too." she explained.
"...that's unexpected," was the only answer Shida could say as she glanced at the side where Hayato and Rika were cheerfully talking.
...
After talking with Riko for a while about Iinchou and some other stuff, Shida decided to walk back to their classroom. She figured Yosuke and Mai would be finished talking by now.
Before she could reach the classroom though, a quiet sound of piano playing caught her attention. It was not Kamiki or any of his personalities playing, she was sure. She knew the kind of sound Kamiki would play. This one was more... heavy? Even before, Kamiki despised tragic-sounding pieces. He only played that when he was asked to by his piano teacher.
Curiosity getting the best of her, she walked to the music room and slowly peeked in.
Irie Jingi was playing the piano. A pained expression was on his face. His sound became more and more lonely. It almost made Shida cry just hearing it.
"Jingi-kun?" She decided to approach the boy. He's been with her through ups and downs. This is the least she can do.
Eyes widening in surprise, he looked up at her. He immediately touched his cheeks and wiped the few tear tracks on it. "ah, Mirai-chan..."
"What's wrong?" she asked, walking to his side. Her voice was calming and soft, ready to comfort him at any time.
He shook his head. "Don't worry about me." He smiled. "I have news for you. Mai-chan broke up with Yosuke-kun."
"Broke up?!" This time, it was her eyes that widened. "What do you mean? She loved him so much and was so possesive... Why?" Looking into his eyes, she knew he understood everything. He knew all that happened, and so he was pained. Mai probably talked to him. He probably comforted her at the expense of his own feelings.
"Mai-chan... she understood Yosuke. She said he finally saw what he was looking for, and it wasn't her. So she wanted to let go before he lets go of her." His smile was so, so sad. His eyes looked as if he was about to cry, but was bottling all his emotions. His hands, both of which were still on top of the piano keys, were shaking. "She said Aki made her realize that seeing Ryunosuke smile was what she wanted the most. That who she loved was not Yosuke, but the core from which he sprang." Slowly, tears fell from his eyes. It was heartbreaking, seeing him fight the tears. "She said she finally realized that she loved Ryunosuke, and this time around she'll fight for it fair and square."
Shida could not imagine how hard it must have been, to contain all these tears, to contain all these sad emotions as Mai cried to him. He probably comforted her with an understanding smile on his face. It must have hurt him so deeply, so much that he had to play the piano to release all the stress. She sat beside him and hugged him tightly, trying to comfort him as best as she could. "Someday she'll understand too, Jingi-kun. How you're the one who loves her the most. how you're the one always beside her."
...
When Jingi finally calmed down and was fine enough, he immediately went home to rest. He said he needed the energy for the festival tomorrow.
Shida, on the other hand, waited for Yosuke inside the classroom. Despite her want to walk Jingi home at least, she had to do this. It is a task she had to accomplish no matter what. Besides, she was worried about Yosuke as well. How did he take the break up?
This question was answered quite quickly. He came in the classroom, a blank expression on his face. "Let's go." he plainly said, taking his bag and walking to the door.
She followed after, arguing whether to ask about it or not.
It seems she didn't have to because as soon as they were out of the school, he opened up himself. "Mai-chan broke up with me."
"I-" She wondered what she should say. She was honestly sorry about it, but she could not bring herself to say anything. It was all awkward.
"Mirai-chan..." He stopped on his tracks and looked at her straight in the eyes. "Am I a bad person?"
She blinked. Once. Twice. "What?!" she exclaimed. "Of course not! You're very kind and you're a nice guy."
He looked down and bit his lip, looking small and helpless. "I think I am. Or maybe I'm just not normal. I've always thought I'm not normal. People would usually cry over this, right? Or they would be depressed and would want to get back again... but I..."
"What do you feel?" Shida wondered for a moment where this conversation will go.
"I feel bad for not feeling depressed." he frowned at his own words. "It's as if I've been imagining this to happen for a while and it went just as I imagined it. It's like I've been expecting it."
She patted him on the back. "Maybe this is for the best. If that's what you feel, maybe Mai-chan knows you have found another source of happiness." She didn't know if saying this was right or wrong, but it just tumbled out of her lips.
He looked at her for a few seconds, as if reading her expression. "That's what Mai-chan said exactly. Something about finding my happiness."
She smiled a bit. "Think about it later. For now, let's buy some ingredients."
They go to the nearest supermarket and buys ingredients quietly. They barely spoke, both of them lost in their own thoughts.
The next morning, Shida woke up early and prepared her things. She and Yosuke agreed to meet in front of his house early so that they'd be able to bake properly in the morning. She still felt a bit awkward and unsure of how she should act like, but she figured 'being herself' was still the best choice of action.
"Good morning, Mirai-chan!" Yosuke's smile was refreshing and real. It seems he did not feel awkward at all.
To this, she smiled and greeted back. They walked side by side, comfortably silent for the whole journey to the school. They immediately went to the home economics room and arranged the ingredients they bought yesterday.
As Shida mixed the batter, Yosuke started cutting the berries for the top of the cake. He sat in front of her as he did so. The earlier silence was cut soon though. Yosuke looked at her and watched her movements before speaking out loud. "Ne, Mirai-chan, I thought about it properly yesterday."
She looked up, a small serious expression on her face. She was focusing on the batter so much. "Hm? About what?"
"About my happiness. About Mai-chan's words." he answered, eyes showing a clarity of mind. He was sure about his thoughts now, and he had tried hard to stop delusions or excuses from appearing. "I think I understand now."
She smiled, happy for him and yet not knowing what to say. "Good for you, Yosuke-kun. Can you tell me about it?"
He grinned. "But first, I want to ask you. I asked you before but I forgot what you answered. Who is that Aki-kun to you? He's the one who asked you to bake here and he seems to know you a lot, right?"
She stopped mixing and stared at him. This again?! This time though, she was ready. She wouldn't shout or act too surprised anymore. "Aki-kun is somehow like a guardian angel to me. At first, he was scary and always frowning. Even calling me stupid. But he helped me a lot so I'm really thankful to him."
"Are you his girl friend, then?" His eyes were wide.
She giggled a bit before shaking her head. "I don't think he sees me that way. We're just friends."
For some reason, he sighed in relief. He then saw his wrist watch, which showed that they had only a little time left to finish the preliminary steps of baking this. "Let's bake first then."
"Un." She nodded with a smile. Even though she was curious, they'd still have time for that later anyway.
...
They were able to make a satisfactory cake. It looked professional and delicious too. Yosuke smiled at her before hugging her in joy. "Thanks for the help, Mirai-chan."
She blushed a bit but laughed it off. "This is our project anyway, so don't say thanks." She took the tray and motioned for him to open the door. "The only thing left is for us to give this to the chairman!"
They walked side by side, with her holding the tray of cake and him holding their bags. All around them, festivities were starting. The class next door was conducting a movie showing, and in front of their own classroom was a long line of students (eighty five percent of which were girls).
Upon seeing the two, a few girls started whispering "Aki-sama came!" to themselves. Shida moved faster, scared that Yosuke would ask about it. Yosuke opened the door and assisted her as she entered.
But as soon as he looked at the tables, his eyes widened and he freezed over.
Shida looked at that direction and saw Yuu-sensei. He was looking at her with a worried expression.
Yosuke's pupils dilated and he shook from head to toe. He fell on his knees, making everyone in the room look. "Where-" When he looked up, he had that far-off expression. As if he was dreaming. It was Iinchou. "Neko-tan...?" He asked, eyes widening. "Why are you wearing..."
Before he could complete that sentence, Shougo and Kanata, both of which were wearing their costumes for the cosplay cafe, were already beside him, taking each of his arm to help him up. "Milady is looking for you." Kanata said quickly. "Let us go there." They then pulled him out as fast as they can.
Thinking fast, Shida looked at the staring people and smiled brightly. "Did you enjoy our little show, everyone?" She giggled cutely. "We have a surprise for the chairman!" She walked to Yuu-sensei's side and placed the tray in front of him. "A cake for you!"
Yuu-sensei played along and stood up, smiling as well. "That was really surprising, Mirai-chan! This cake looks delicious as well."
The whispering crowd seemed to have believed in their act, as they stopped talking about them and instead went on with their businesses.
"Follow them now, Mirai-chan. This is crucial for Iinchou. It's the time." Yuu-sensei whispered quickly before he sat down and enthusiastically took the cake from the tray. He looked around and announced, "Since this class made such a big cake, we should share it among the students!"
As the students cheered, Shida slipped out of their attention and out of the classroom.
...
"Neko-tan...?" was the first word she heard when she opened the door. His was quiet and helpless. Like a scared child. "Is that you? Why are you... human..." His eyes were wide and he was staring at her with a scared expression. It looked like he'll have a panic attack any time soon. Shougo and Kanata had walked out just as she entered so they were alone now.
"Iinchou-kun..." She started, looking at him with begging eyes. She just had to convince him to listen. He'll just have to accept the truth now that it has come to this. "Please listen."
He looked around. "This is the real world." he noted, before looking back at her. "And you're a real girl. You were the one from my dream. You're not Neko-tan."
She walked forward. "I am the Neko-tan who served you. And yes, I'm the girl from your 'dream' as well." She was only a few steps away from her, and yet he was not flinching nor running away. He looked cautious but he wasn't moving away just yet. "Iinchou-kun, your Neko-tan was never 2D. She was always a real girl. She's... I'm a real girl."
He looked down, hiding his expression from her.
"I'm sorry for not telling you sooner. But it was the only way to be near Iinchou-kun. You were scared of me... and-"
Tears were falling on the floor from his eyes. He still refused to look up at her. It was painful to see him cry.
Shida stepped forward, touching his arm gently. "I just wanted to be close to Iinchou-kun, to be able to talk with you and to know what you're going through." Memories of their late night talks flood her mind. She learned so much from him, and she knew they've built up quite a friendship because of it.
"Neko-tan..." When he looked up, instead of the sad and pained expression she was expecting, there was a small smile on his face. His eyes, despite the tears, looked happy. "I'm really... Neko-tan, I'm really happy..." He laughed a bit, wiping some of his tears,
"What...?" Shida's eyes widened. She didn't understand why he could laugh it off. She thought he would go shout at her or something along those lines. She thought he would be scared or angry. But now... why was he happy?
"Does this mean... Neko-tan, even if I say I like you, you wouldn't disappear?" He smiled at her, eyes full of hope. "The game would't end?"
Disappear...? You mean... She remembered that cold look in his eyes when he said he didn't like her at all back when she asked him. Was that because he was afraid to lose her? She giggled a bit, understanding his weird behavior at last. "I wouldn't disappear. And my real name is Shida Mirai. Nice to meet you, Iinchou-kun."
"Nice to meet you!" His smile was now a full joyful smile, from ear to ear. He looked like a child who got his present for Christmas. "Shida Mirai-chan..." he laughed a bit. "It feels weird to not call you Neko-tan... But I like your name a lot. It does feel like you more than the name Neko-tan. I've-" He looked her in the eyes, turning serious. "I've always felt that you weren't the Neko-tan I knew from the game, You were an infinite level-up from that." He clutched at his heart and sighed. "My heart feels light now, Neko- Mirai-chan. There was this... this scary feeling everytime I wanted to say I like you..."
She smiled and touched his cheek. "This ne, you can feel it right?" She playfully pinched his face. "My hands are warm, right? And it hurts when I pinch you. It's because we're both real. So don't get scared anymore. I won't disappear."
He took her hand from his cheek and took her other hand as well. Holding it with both hands, he looked down, overwhelmed by his emotions. "Thank you for everything Mirai-chan. I... I was happiest when I was with you. For the first time, it felt like I didn't need games to be happy."
Shida felt his hands tighten around her. "I'm happy to have met you too,"
Just after saying this, his grip slackened and he fell to the floor.
"Eh?!" She exclaimed, kneeling immediately beside him. "Iinchou-kun, are you okay?!"
When he sat up, his posture was straight and composed. "Iinchou's gone now."
She blinked in surprise. "Iinchou-kun is? That's..."
He stood up and offered a hand. "An idealistic personality accepting reality is not needed." he explained plainly. "He accepted it, and was happy. Thank you."
A smile graced her lips, happy despite the small sadness of Iinchou's disappearance. She had to deal with this feelings of loss, and she had to overcome them. Tomodachi-kun, Sai-kun, Iinchou-kun... all of them were important people to her, but Ryunosuke Kamiki was the most important one.
"Why don't we walk around together?" She smiled brightly. "My shift for the cafe is still later. We can visit Yuta-kun together!"
Aki looked away before nodding a bit. "Okay."
...
Kanata Hongo was outside Hiharu's classroom today too. But unlike the rumors around, it was not because he was courting her or anything like that. It was only because she was the one he could talk to about his problem. As Hiharu had put it, "A great friend is in need of help".
"Ouji." Hiharu bowed a bit. "Did you find the important ancient writings?"
He frowned and nodded. "Yuu-sensei let me in their house while Yosuke and Mirai were out. As we expected, it did end at that month. And he wrote some things that shows more than we know..."
An identical frown appeared on her face. "The fairy was indeed prophetic." She could almost remember that day when she and Kanata went to his house to brainstorm about this. It wasn't entirely 'brainstorming', and instead was composed of him talking and her listening.
...
..
.
Hiharu and Kanata were at the latter's apartment. She's been here before, back when her grandparents reintroduced them to each other. They did not talk back then.
But now they were back to being civlized friends. Kanata was rummaging through his things, looking for something. Hiharu was simply waiting on the dining area, sipping her tea. Her grandmother would send a driver here later so she would just wait.
"Is something bothering Ouji?" she asked, looking at her cup for some sign of good or bad luck. She heard staring into a tea cup could show her the future.
He stood up, stacks of folders on his arms. He then sat in front of her and placed the stack on the table. "Nothing much." he answered absentmindedly.
She sipped some more tea. The future wasn't seen on it anyway. Maybe she should buy a glass ball some time soon. "The fairy said something that bothered you." she said in a knowing voice. "Mirai-chan would appreciate your help, Ouji."
"I know." He almost smiled. "That's why I'm searching through the things Ryunosuke gave me. There must be a clue somewhere." Kamiki was a sweet little boy. He liked giving things to his friends as a sign of their friendship. Kanata had put everything he got in a box. It was his secret treasure. He looked through the contents. Silly little things, like a collection of dried flowers, were there. There were some letters in there too. He picked one. "Thank you for talking to them, Hongo-kun. But please take care of yourself. That group would hurt you too if you walk with me." It was painful reading through it.
"Ryunosuke was a great person." Hiharu commented, glancing at the letter for a bit before going back to her tea. "He should meet Mirai-chan. She'll protect her from those people."
He couldn't help but chuckle. "Ryu would not let Mirai protect him, because he swore to protect her." He looked through the different letters once again. He picked one and read through. "Mirai-chan stopped writing. I wonder if something happened to her? She hasn't written for a month." His eyes widened. He checked the date. It was during that time. That exact month when... "I found it."
Hiharu stood up and looked at the letter. She simply frowned and kept quiet.
They found one of the keys.
.
..
...
Shida decided that she would like to visit Hiharu first before going to Yuta's classroom. That's why she was now walking to their corridor with Aki in tow. A few paces away from the room, she stopped. "Kanata-san and Hiharu-chan are together again."
"Hmmm." Aki hummed thoughtfully.
"Are you jealous?" She teased, grinning at him.
He delicately raised an eyebrow. "Of his fiancee?" he scoffed. "Of course not. As long as Hongo looks happy, I'll be happy for him as well."
Her eyes were wide and she was gaping at him. "Fi- fiancee?! Wait... what?"
An almost amused expression appeared on his face. "No one told you?"
She shook her head. "No one!" She stared at the two, who were talking seriously as if they were discussing some business plan or something of that importance. "How can they even be..."
Aki glanced at the two as well. "It's arranged. Hongo's family saved Hiharu's family out of bankruptcy. That's why Hiharu is marrying into the Kanata family." He sighed. "I was worried about it before. But if he's talking to her now, then that means it's okay."
Shida glanced at the two again, catching Hiharu's gaze. The latter smiled and waved energetically at her. "Mirai-chan!" She rushed off to her. Kanata followed suit, glancing at once to Shida's side.
"Aki!" Kanata's face lit up and his eyes shone brightly. His smile was once again showing that love-struck expression Shida hasn't seen for a while. Aki was probably wrong in thinking that Kanata has accepted that arranged marriage. "It's been a while."
Aki smiled that friendly smile he has only for Kanata. They really are best friends, aren't they? "It is. Thank you for listening to my requests all the time." He bowed a bit.
Kanata shook his head. "It's okay." He then glanced at Hiharu before saying "I'll just tour Aki around, Ojou."
Hiharu nodded and took Mirai's hand. "You should come inside our yakisoba party!" They went inside the room, and ate a plate of yakisoba as they listened to a mini comedy act by Hiharu's classmates.
After that, Shida wandered around the school once again. There were lots of film showing and surveys, probably for those class who didn't want to exert much effort. There were all kinds of booths as well. There was even a fortune telling booth at the third years. Shida quickly scanned the third floor exhibits, too afraid that her 'lovely senpais' will see her. After which, she went to the first floor to check on Yuta's classroom.
"Mirai-chan!" A familiar voice called out. She looked back and saw Shougo and Nozomi walking to her. "We were just going to Yuta-kun's classroom." Shougo explained.
Shida smiled. "I'm going there too. Let's go together." They walked side by side. "Ah, Non-chan, did the hospital let you go again?"
"Un!" Nozomi was energetic today as well. "By the looks of it, I just have to stay there this vacation to rest and then I'll be able to go to class again."
"I'm glad for you~!" Shida congratulated her. "Ah, you haven't met Yuta-kun, right?"
Nozomi nodded. "He was never introduced to me... I do know how he looks like though."
Soon enough, they were in front of Yuta's classroom. It was a... horror house. Shougo immediately said Nozomi was not allowed to go inside, so he would not go too. They'll just greet Yuta and go on their way again. Luckily, Yuta was outside the classroom, wearing a dracula outfit.
"Yuta-kun, good afternoon!" Shida waved at him. "How's your booth?"
A large smile appeared on his face upon seeing them. "Good afternoon! It's going well. Do you want to enter?"
Shida shook her head. "My friends can't enter, so I guess I'll just go with them." Glancing at the two, she said "Ah, this is Maeda Nozomi-chan. My friend and Shougo-kun's best friend."
Nozomi bowed down. "Nice to meet you at last, Koseki Yuta-kun." She smiled. "I heard you playing tha piano! You're really good at it." She offered a hand. "I'll be enrolling next year so maybe we'll become classmates!"
Yuta smiled at her as well, shaking her hand. "I hope so! Nice meeting you!"
'Their energies jive together well!' Shida thought. She looked at the side to see Shougo glaring daggers at the floor. "Shougo-kun~ The floor didn't do anything bad at you~" she whispered with a teasing tone.
He pouted, grumbling under his breath.
...
She went back to her classroom after that and spent the rest of the day helping out in their cosplay cafe. Mai was inside their makeshift kitchen and refused to get out unless Shida or Aki was out of the classroom. She made sure to be a waitress (she was dressed as an angel) during the morning and a chef inside the kitchen while Shida was maid.
While she was walking to the gate, on her way home, she saw Aki... ah no, his way of standing was less strained... Yosuke; it was Yosuke.
"I'm sorry, Mirai-chan! It seems I fainted..." he said, frowning deeply.
She shook her head. "No..." She had to say it. This was finally the moment. "You didn't faint, Yosuke-kun."
WHAT A LONG CHAPTER. I will post the next chapter later this evening. It's in the process of being written. It's going fast though since Yaechi's part will be fast anyway.
Reread this chapter. It sucks. I'm sorry. T_T I don't know what's happening to me anymore. I expected lots for this but it turned out so bad and asdfghjkl; I hate not being able to write properly T_T
-The reason why I couldn't update was because of school. Half of my reason is stupid though: It's because I dreamt of Aki disappearing and couldn't help but cry for him. I'M SO WEIRD, SORRY.
Genre: Romance
Characters: Shida Mirai, Kamiki Ryunosuke, Irie Jingi, Kamiki Yuu (Oizumi Yo), Yonemoto Mai (Kawashima Umika), Sakamoto Shougo, Kanata Hongo, Hiharu (Ohgo Suzuka), Narumi Riko, Nozomi Maeda
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Kamiki and Shida were childhood best friends. One day though, Shida had to go to another town and leave… so Kamiki promised that when they meet again, they’ll marry each other. Eight years later, and she’s back. But Kamiki is not the same. He was diagnosed with MPD and now has 7 personalities. What will Shida do?
Chapter 17: the Cultural Festival
Finally it's here. The cultural festival everyone's been waiting for.. Weeks of preparation will finally be at work. Today is just the opening ceremony and some plays and bands though. All the class will open their shops by tomorrow. That leaves one more day of preparation for their cafe as well. Everyone is pumped up and energetic.
"Good morning!" Shida looked at the side to see Yosuke peeking through his gate. "Should we walk to school together?"
She laughed and nodded. "No need to ask, right? You're always waiting for me there."
A soft blush appeared on his cheeks. "Waiting... It's just a coincidence!" He laughed embarassedly.
"Really?" She asked teasingly, enjoying seeing that small blush.
He looked away with a pout. "Anyway," He wanted to change the topic, obviously. "I was wondering if you had something to do later? We have to buy ingredients for the cake."
"Eh?" She looked at him. "Well, I don't have anything to do. But aren't you planning to help Mai-chan out? We can just get some ingredients from the class' stock, or from your club." He told her a few days ago that he was planning to surprise Mai by helping out with the cafe's cooking parts too, and wanted to ask her to make most of the cake by herself. She agreed then, because he looked really determined to surprise Mai. Why did he change his mind?
He glanced at her with a small smile. "Isn't our project more important?"
She sensed something with those words. Something she can't quite pinpoint. "Did something happen, Yosuke-kun? Did you fight with Mai-chan?"
"Hm?" He looked surprised. "No we didn't..." His eyes showed honesty. "Why did you ask?"
"Are you sad? Do you have a problem?" She had to know. It bothers her to think that he has worries he won't tell her. Through the times they've been together for this whole week, she has been able to understand how his mind works. Yes, it is full of delusions and excuses... but this was all for his happiness. His heart was still in the right place and he was just like Mikki, full of life and full of care for everyone.
A wider smile appeared on his face. "I'm not sad at all." He stopped and looked straight at her. "But I guess something did happen... Mai-chan hasn't been as possesive as she has been before. She's the same, but something is different."
Shida frowned. "Is it troubling you?"
He chuckled. "No, of course not." He smiled once again. A truly happy smile. "It's the first time I can talk to a girl like this other than Mai-chan. I feel free, for some reason. Doesn't this mean she trusts me more now?"
She nodded slowly, not quite agreeing but not in the mood to disagree. Mai is probably still scared until now, and would be protective if only Aki and the two other boys didn't interfere.
"Besides, talking with Mirai-chan is a different experience. Somehow, it's..." A soft blush colored his cheeks. "Ah, nothing."
Shida did not quite know what to make of his reaction, but she was sure something was stirring inside his heart. The end was definitely near.
...
When they arrived in their classroom, Yosuke immediately rushed to Mai's side and greeted her. Nothing unusual about that. Kanata and Jingi, on the other hand, walked to her side and proceeded to have some casual talk.
"Starting tomorrow, we wouldn't have any reason to tag her along." Kanata said irritably. "Just try your best for tomorrow." The two could almost hear the 'thank god it's done' he was thinking just then.
Giggling a bit, Shida faced him and patted him on the shoulders. "You hate talking to girls that much? You're okay with me and Hiharu-chan though." It was definitely either that, or he just really doesn't like Mai. He doesn't particularly talk to any girl though, so Shida figured that Kanata must really be allergic to girls.
Jingi laughed at that. "Maybe he doesn't see you guys as girls? He doesn't talk to girls outside of band activities, does he? In school, everyone knows he hates girls."
"I just think of you and Ojou as aliens." Kanata answered nonchalantly, looking away.
"What?! Hahahaha..." The two cracked up and laughed so much that everyone looked at them at that time. They couldn't stop laughing at Kanata though.
Soon enough, the students were told to go to the gymnasium for the opening ceremony and the different presentations from the theater clubs and such. Of course, not everyone obeyed. It was mostly only freshmen who went anyway, and some of the 3rd years who would perform. Most of the second years just stayed in their room to prepare for tomorrow.
Shida, not having much to do, decided to go walk around campus for now.
Yosuke, on the other hand, was alone with Mai in the home economics room. He asked her if she had time to spend with him, and asked if they could talk properly in this room. She was curious as to why he sounded so serious, but had a sinking feeling that she knew what he wanted to talk about.
She smiled brightly and sat on her usual seat across from him. "What do you want to talk about?"
"Mai-chan is being more and more distant... I feel so." He started. "Do you have someone else you like? Do you want to break up with me?"
Her eyes visibly widened. "What?" She knew she wasn't always around him like how she did before, but for him to actually think she likes someone else?!
He frowned. "You seem to get along well with Jingi-kun and Hongo-kun."
"Are you jealous?" she asks, though his eyes didn't have that suspicious look she had when she talked to Shida before. He probably wasn't jealous at all.
"I just want to know what Mai-chan feels. I want you to be happier and happier." he explained. This time, he smiled tenderly.
That was when she realized. Hearing those words from him, seeing that expression in his eyes, all along it's been like this. She didn't see it because she was blinded by too much love for him. He's always been looking at him with those eyes. And yet it is only now that she sees what that meant. Even with all the sweet words and loving touches, his eyes only saw her as a loved sibling. She was like a sister to him, someone to protect and someone who protects him. She was precious to him, as he was to her. But his feelings for her was not the same emotion she was feeling. Now that he has seen the world, now that he has met Shida Mirai, he sees how different it is with Mai. "I would have been happy if you were jealous." she commented.
He blinked for a while, before looking straight into her eyes. "I..."
She smiled a little, almost numb to the hurt already. "It's okay, Yo-chan. I understand. During the past few days, I understood things better. I can't always be your protector. You have to go where you're happy, to where you smile the most." She looked down, avoiding his eyes. "I'm afraid if I continue like how I did, you might come to hate me. So I'll let you go."
"Let... me go?" He understood the words, but could not bring himself to believe it. He had imagined this scene before, of her breaking up with him. It hurts, it really does. Yet the hurt is not overwhelming. It almost feels like regret.
She looked up and walked to his side. Tiptoeing a bit, she kissed him on the cheek. "Be happy, Yo-chan. For my sake as well and for hers, find what is best for you."
And after those words, she ran to the door and shut it behind her.
...
Shida Mirai was walking around the school, trying to enjoy her first cultural fest in this new school. As a starter, she decided to visit the classrooms of some of her friends. Of course, Hiharu was the first choice.
Upon arriving, the first person she saw was, surprisingly, Kanata Hongo. He was standing just outside the room, probably waiting for someone to come out. Well, waiting for Hiharu to come out, it seems. The girl soon appeared and stood beside him, greeting him as regally as she usually does when around him. She probably thinks she's really a princess when she's with him. Hiharu's eyes soon caught sight of her.
"Mirai-chan!" Hiharu smiled widely and jogged to her side. "What are you doing here?"
She couldn't help but smile. Her friend just gives her positive vibes everytime she smiles. "Just visiting. Is Kanata-san visiting as well?"
Hiharu shook her head, eyes turning serious. "An appointment. The royal families are in turmoil. And a great friend is in need of help. It is an important matter."
Quite honestly, Shida did not understand what those cryptic words meant. So instead, she nods absentmindedly and says "If it is important, then please go on." She watches as her friend walks to Kanata's side and talked seriously once again. Hiharu's serious face is beautiful as well, but it was something that worried Shida deep down inside.
Before she could walk away, she saw someone walking up to her. Adachi Rika. "Mirai-chan, good morning!" she greets happily.
"Ah, good morning." Shida smiles her own small smile as she faced her. "You're Hiharu's classmate?"
Amusement was in Rika's eyes as she nodded. "Anyway, do you want to come with me and visit Hayato'nii-chan?" she asked, almost bouncing in excitement. Seeing this childish side of her, you can't help but think of her as innocent and cute.
Blinking, Shida pondered about it. "I'm going to the third years anyway. We could go up together. I'm visiting a friend."
Rika clapped in joy and locked her arms with Shida's. "Do you mean Narumi-san? She's Hayato'nii-chan's classmate!"
Shida had to wonder why she knew that, but decided against asking.
...
"Eh~ Mirai-chan is visiting me?" Hayato peered from his room, grinning boyishly. "I'm touched."
"Mou, Hayato'nii-chan! Are you planning to ignore me and my effort?" Rika crossed her arms, pouting.
He laughed. "Oh Rika, did you ask Mirai-chan to go here? That's very sly of you."
Averting her eyes from the two, she bowed a little and said "I'm sorry but I have to talk to Riko-chan." She promptly walked away, not even looking back at the two. She's not sure why but that Hayato really makes her feel uncomfortable. It's just a gut feeling she had ever since she met him.
Shida asked the class where Riko was, and was soon face-to-face with her. "Riko-chan, good morning!"
"Visiting classes?" Riko smiled. "I can't go around since we're all so busy here. Our class won't lose this year!"
She laughed. "Our class seems to be easy going, but we do have our secret weapons!"
"You do have the most popular guys, but we have Hayato-kun so we can fight for the prize." Riko was sporting a determined face. "Hayato-kun's been working hard lately, and all the baseball fans have been excited to support him."
Shida stared in awe at Riko. "Is Ogawa-san that popular?" she asked, not expecting that at all.
Riko nodded. "He was relatively unknown when we were in elementary, but he became popular during junior high. They say he got more handsome and he had that cool-but-nice-guy vibes going on. He's nice to kohais and acts like a mature big brother to everyone too." she explained.
"...that's unexpected," was the only answer Shida could say as she glanced at the side where Hayato and Rika were cheerfully talking.
...
After talking with Riko for a while about Iinchou and some other stuff, Shida decided to walk back to their classroom. She figured Yosuke and Mai would be finished talking by now.
Before she could reach the classroom though, a quiet sound of piano playing caught her attention. It was not Kamiki or any of his personalities playing, she was sure. She knew the kind of sound Kamiki would play. This one was more... heavy? Even before, Kamiki despised tragic-sounding pieces. He only played that when he was asked to by his piano teacher.
Curiosity getting the best of her, she walked to the music room and slowly peeked in.
Irie Jingi was playing the piano. A pained expression was on his face. His sound became more and more lonely. It almost made Shida cry just hearing it.
"Jingi-kun?" She decided to approach the boy. He's been with her through ups and downs. This is the least she can do.
Eyes widening in surprise, he looked up at her. He immediately touched his cheeks and wiped the few tear tracks on it. "ah, Mirai-chan..."
"What's wrong?" she asked, walking to his side. Her voice was calming and soft, ready to comfort him at any time.
He shook his head. "Don't worry about me." He smiled. "I have news for you. Mai-chan broke up with Yosuke-kun."
"Broke up?!" This time, it was her eyes that widened. "What do you mean? She loved him so much and was so possesive... Why?" Looking into his eyes, she knew he understood everything. He knew all that happened, and so he was pained. Mai probably talked to him. He probably comforted her at the expense of his own feelings.
"Mai-chan... she understood Yosuke. She said he finally saw what he was looking for, and it wasn't her. So she wanted to let go before he lets go of her." His smile was so, so sad. His eyes looked as if he was about to cry, but was bottling all his emotions. His hands, both of which were still on top of the piano keys, were shaking. "She said Aki made her realize that seeing Ryunosuke smile was what she wanted the most. That who she loved was not Yosuke, but the core from which he sprang." Slowly, tears fell from his eyes. It was heartbreaking, seeing him fight the tears. "She said she finally realized that she loved Ryunosuke, and this time around she'll fight for it fair and square."
Shida could not imagine how hard it must have been, to contain all these tears, to contain all these sad emotions as Mai cried to him. He probably comforted her with an understanding smile on his face. It must have hurt him so deeply, so much that he had to play the piano to release all the stress. She sat beside him and hugged him tightly, trying to comfort him as best as she could. "Someday she'll understand too, Jingi-kun. How you're the one who loves her the most. how you're the one always beside her."
...
When Jingi finally calmed down and was fine enough, he immediately went home to rest. He said he needed the energy for the festival tomorrow.
Shida, on the other hand, waited for Yosuke inside the classroom. Despite her want to walk Jingi home at least, she had to do this. It is a task she had to accomplish no matter what. Besides, she was worried about Yosuke as well. How did he take the break up?
This question was answered quite quickly. He came in the classroom, a blank expression on his face. "Let's go." he plainly said, taking his bag and walking to the door.
She followed after, arguing whether to ask about it or not.
It seems she didn't have to because as soon as they were out of the school, he opened up himself. "Mai-chan broke up with me."
"I-" She wondered what she should say. She was honestly sorry about it, but she could not bring herself to say anything. It was all awkward.
"Mirai-chan..." He stopped on his tracks and looked at her straight in the eyes. "Am I a bad person?"
She blinked. Once. Twice. "What?!" she exclaimed. "Of course not! You're very kind and you're a nice guy."
He looked down and bit his lip, looking small and helpless. "I think I am. Or maybe I'm just not normal. I've always thought I'm not normal. People would usually cry over this, right? Or they would be depressed and would want to get back again... but I..."
"What do you feel?" Shida wondered for a moment where this conversation will go.
"I feel bad for not feeling depressed." he frowned at his own words. "It's as if I've been imagining this to happen for a while and it went just as I imagined it. It's like I've been expecting it."
She patted him on the back. "Maybe this is for the best. If that's what you feel, maybe Mai-chan knows you have found another source of happiness." She didn't know if saying this was right or wrong, but it just tumbled out of her lips.
He looked at her for a few seconds, as if reading her expression. "That's what Mai-chan said exactly. Something about finding my happiness."
She smiled a bit. "Think about it later. For now, let's buy some ingredients."
They go to the nearest supermarket and buys ingredients quietly. They barely spoke, both of them lost in their own thoughts.
The next morning, Shida woke up early and prepared her things. She and Yosuke agreed to meet in front of his house early so that they'd be able to bake properly in the morning. She still felt a bit awkward and unsure of how she should act like, but she figured 'being herself' was still the best choice of action.
"Good morning, Mirai-chan!" Yosuke's smile was refreshing and real. It seems he did not feel awkward at all.
To this, she smiled and greeted back. They walked side by side, comfortably silent for the whole journey to the school. They immediately went to the home economics room and arranged the ingredients they bought yesterday.
As Shida mixed the batter, Yosuke started cutting the berries for the top of the cake. He sat in front of her as he did so. The earlier silence was cut soon though. Yosuke looked at her and watched her movements before speaking out loud. "Ne, Mirai-chan, I thought about it properly yesterday."
She looked up, a small serious expression on her face. She was focusing on the batter so much. "Hm? About what?"
"About my happiness. About Mai-chan's words." he answered, eyes showing a clarity of mind. He was sure about his thoughts now, and he had tried hard to stop delusions or excuses from appearing. "I think I understand now."
She smiled, happy for him and yet not knowing what to say. "Good for you, Yosuke-kun. Can you tell me about it?"
He grinned. "But first, I want to ask you. I asked you before but I forgot what you answered. Who is that Aki-kun to you? He's the one who asked you to bake here and he seems to know you a lot, right?"
She stopped mixing and stared at him. This again?! This time though, she was ready. She wouldn't shout or act too surprised anymore. "Aki-kun is somehow like a guardian angel to me. At first, he was scary and always frowning. Even calling me stupid. But he helped me a lot so I'm really thankful to him."
"Are you his girl friend, then?" His eyes were wide.
She giggled a bit before shaking her head. "I don't think he sees me that way. We're just friends."
For some reason, he sighed in relief. He then saw his wrist watch, which showed that they had only a little time left to finish the preliminary steps of baking this. "Let's bake first then."
"Un." She nodded with a smile. Even though she was curious, they'd still have time for that later anyway.
...
They were able to make a satisfactory cake. It looked professional and delicious too. Yosuke smiled at her before hugging her in joy. "Thanks for the help, Mirai-chan."
She blushed a bit but laughed it off. "This is our project anyway, so don't say thanks." She took the tray and motioned for him to open the door. "The only thing left is for us to give this to the chairman!"
They walked side by side, with her holding the tray of cake and him holding their bags. All around them, festivities were starting. The class next door was conducting a movie showing, and in front of their own classroom was a long line of students (eighty five percent of which were girls).
Upon seeing the two, a few girls started whispering "Aki-sama came!" to themselves. Shida moved faster, scared that Yosuke would ask about it. Yosuke opened the door and assisted her as she entered.
But as soon as he looked at the tables, his eyes widened and he freezed over.
Shida looked at that direction and saw Yuu-sensei. He was looking at her with a worried expression.
Yosuke's pupils dilated and he shook from head to toe. He fell on his knees, making everyone in the room look. "Where-" When he looked up, he had that far-off expression. As if he was dreaming. It was Iinchou. "Neko-tan...?" He asked, eyes widening. "Why are you wearing..."
Before he could complete that sentence, Shougo and Kanata, both of which were wearing their costumes for the cosplay cafe, were already beside him, taking each of his arm to help him up. "Milady is looking for you." Kanata said quickly. "Let us go there." They then pulled him out as fast as they can.
Thinking fast, Shida looked at the staring people and smiled brightly. "Did you enjoy our little show, everyone?" She giggled cutely. "We have a surprise for the chairman!" She walked to Yuu-sensei's side and placed the tray in front of him. "A cake for you!"
Yuu-sensei played along and stood up, smiling as well. "That was really surprising, Mirai-chan! This cake looks delicious as well."
The whispering crowd seemed to have believed in their act, as they stopped talking about them and instead went on with their businesses.
"Follow them now, Mirai-chan. This is crucial for Iinchou. It's the time." Yuu-sensei whispered quickly before he sat down and enthusiastically took the cake from the tray. He looked around and announced, "Since this class made such a big cake, we should share it among the students!"
As the students cheered, Shida slipped out of their attention and out of the classroom.
...
"Neko-tan...?" was the first word she heard when she opened the door. His was quiet and helpless. Like a scared child. "Is that you? Why are you... human..." His eyes were wide and he was staring at her with a scared expression. It looked like he'll have a panic attack any time soon. Shougo and Kanata had walked out just as she entered so they were alone now.
"Iinchou-kun..." She started, looking at him with begging eyes. She just had to convince him to listen. He'll just have to accept the truth now that it has come to this. "Please listen."
He looked around. "This is the real world." he noted, before looking back at her. "And you're a real girl. You were the one from my dream. You're not Neko-tan."
She walked forward. "I am the Neko-tan who served you. And yes, I'm the girl from your 'dream' as well." She was only a few steps away from her, and yet he was not flinching nor running away. He looked cautious but he wasn't moving away just yet. "Iinchou-kun, your Neko-tan was never 2D. She was always a real girl. She's... I'm a real girl."
He looked down, hiding his expression from her.
"I'm sorry for not telling you sooner. But it was the only way to be near Iinchou-kun. You were scared of me... and-"
Tears were falling on the floor from his eyes. He still refused to look up at her. It was painful to see him cry.
Shida stepped forward, touching his arm gently. "I just wanted to be close to Iinchou-kun, to be able to talk with you and to know what you're going through." Memories of their late night talks flood her mind. She learned so much from him, and she knew they've built up quite a friendship because of it.
"Neko-tan..." When he looked up, instead of the sad and pained expression she was expecting, there was a small smile on his face. His eyes, despite the tears, looked happy. "I'm really... Neko-tan, I'm really happy..." He laughed a bit, wiping some of his tears,
"What...?" Shida's eyes widened. She didn't understand why he could laugh it off. She thought he would go shout at her or something along those lines. She thought he would be scared or angry. But now... why was he happy?
"Does this mean... Neko-tan, even if I say I like you, you wouldn't disappear?" He smiled at her, eyes full of hope. "The game would't end?"
Disappear...? You mean... She remembered that cold look in his eyes when he said he didn't like her at all back when she asked him. Was that because he was afraid to lose her? She giggled a bit, understanding his weird behavior at last. "I wouldn't disappear. And my real name is Shida Mirai. Nice to meet you, Iinchou-kun."
"Nice to meet you!" His smile was now a full joyful smile, from ear to ear. He looked like a child who got his present for Christmas. "Shida Mirai-chan..." he laughed a bit. "It feels weird to not call you Neko-tan... But I like your name a lot. It does feel like you more than the name Neko-tan. I've-" He looked her in the eyes, turning serious. "I've always felt that you weren't the Neko-tan I knew from the game, You were an infinite level-up from that." He clutched at his heart and sighed. "My heart feels light now, Neko- Mirai-chan. There was this... this scary feeling everytime I wanted to say I like you..."
She smiled and touched his cheek. "This ne, you can feel it right?" She playfully pinched his face. "My hands are warm, right? And it hurts when I pinch you. It's because we're both real. So don't get scared anymore. I won't disappear."
He took her hand from his cheek and took her other hand as well. Holding it with both hands, he looked down, overwhelmed by his emotions. "Thank you for everything Mirai-chan. I... I was happiest when I was with you. For the first time, it felt like I didn't need games to be happy."
Shida felt his hands tighten around her. "I'm happy to have met you too,"
Just after saying this, his grip slackened and he fell to the floor.
"Eh?!" She exclaimed, kneeling immediately beside him. "Iinchou-kun, are you okay?!"
When he sat up, his posture was straight and composed. "Iinchou's gone now."
She blinked in surprise. "Iinchou-kun is? That's..."
He stood up and offered a hand. "An idealistic personality accepting reality is not needed." he explained plainly. "He accepted it, and was happy. Thank you."
A smile graced her lips, happy despite the small sadness of Iinchou's disappearance. She had to deal with this feelings of loss, and she had to overcome them. Tomodachi-kun, Sai-kun, Iinchou-kun... all of them were important people to her, but Ryunosuke Kamiki was the most important one.
"Why don't we walk around together?" She smiled brightly. "My shift for the cafe is still later. We can visit Yuta-kun together!"
Aki looked away before nodding a bit. "Okay."
...
Kanata Hongo was outside Hiharu's classroom today too. But unlike the rumors around, it was not because he was courting her or anything like that. It was only because she was the one he could talk to about his problem. As Hiharu had put it, "A great friend is in need of help".
"Ouji." Hiharu bowed a bit. "Did you find the important ancient writings?"
He frowned and nodded. "Yuu-sensei let me in their house while Yosuke and Mirai were out. As we expected, it did end at that month. And he wrote some things that shows more than we know..."
An identical frown appeared on her face. "The fairy was indeed prophetic." She could almost remember that day when she and Kanata went to his house to brainstorm about this. It wasn't entirely 'brainstorming', and instead was composed of him talking and her listening.
...
..
.
Hiharu and Kanata were at the latter's apartment. She's been here before, back when her grandparents reintroduced them to each other. They did not talk back then.
But now they were back to being civlized friends. Kanata was rummaging through his things, looking for something. Hiharu was simply waiting on the dining area, sipping her tea. Her grandmother would send a driver here later so she would just wait.
"Is something bothering Ouji?" she asked, looking at her cup for some sign of good or bad luck. She heard staring into a tea cup could show her the future.
He stood up, stacks of folders on his arms. He then sat in front of her and placed the stack on the table. "Nothing much." he answered absentmindedly.
She sipped some more tea. The future wasn't seen on it anyway. Maybe she should buy a glass ball some time soon. "The fairy said something that bothered you." she said in a knowing voice. "Mirai-chan would appreciate your help, Ouji."
"I know." He almost smiled. "That's why I'm searching through the things Ryunosuke gave me. There must be a clue somewhere." Kamiki was a sweet little boy. He liked giving things to his friends as a sign of their friendship. Kanata had put everything he got in a box. It was his secret treasure. He looked through the contents. Silly little things, like a collection of dried flowers, were there. There were some letters in there too. He picked one. "Thank you for talking to them, Hongo-kun. But please take care of yourself. That group would hurt you too if you walk with me." It was painful reading through it.
"Ryunosuke was a great person." Hiharu commented, glancing at the letter for a bit before going back to her tea. "He should meet Mirai-chan. She'll protect her from those people."
He couldn't help but chuckle. "Ryu would not let Mirai protect him, because he swore to protect her." He looked through the different letters once again. He picked one and read through. "Mirai-chan stopped writing. I wonder if something happened to her? She hasn't written for a month." His eyes widened. He checked the date. It was during that time. That exact month when... "I found it."
Hiharu stood up and looked at the letter. She simply frowned and kept quiet.
They found one of the keys.
.
..
...
Shida decided that she would like to visit Hiharu first before going to Yuta's classroom. That's why she was now walking to their corridor with Aki in tow. A few paces away from the room, she stopped. "Kanata-san and Hiharu-chan are together again."
"Hmmm." Aki hummed thoughtfully.
"Are you jealous?" She teased, grinning at him.
He delicately raised an eyebrow. "Of his fiancee?" he scoffed. "Of course not. As long as Hongo looks happy, I'll be happy for him as well."
Her eyes were wide and she was gaping at him. "Fi- fiancee?! Wait... what?"
An almost amused expression appeared on his face. "No one told you?"
She shook her head. "No one!" She stared at the two, who were talking seriously as if they were discussing some business plan or something of that importance. "How can they even be..."
Aki glanced at the two as well. "It's arranged. Hongo's family saved Hiharu's family out of bankruptcy. That's why Hiharu is marrying into the Kanata family." He sighed. "I was worried about it before. But if he's talking to her now, then that means it's okay."
Shida glanced at the two again, catching Hiharu's gaze. The latter smiled and waved energetically at her. "Mirai-chan!" She rushed off to her. Kanata followed suit, glancing at once to Shida's side.
"Aki!" Kanata's face lit up and his eyes shone brightly. His smile was once again showing that love-struck expression Shida hasn't seen for a while. Aki was probably wrong in thinking that Kanata has accepted that arranged marriage. "It's been a while."
Aki smiled that friendly smile he has only for Kanata. They really are best friends, aren't they? "It is. Thank you for listening to my requests all the time." He bowed a bit.
Kanata shook his head. "It's okay." He then glanced at Hiharu before saying "I'll just tour Aki around, Ojou."
Hiharu nodded and took Mirai's hand. "You should come inside our yakisoba party!" They went inside the room, and ate a plate of yakisoba as they listened to a mini comedy act by Hiharu's classmates.
After that, Shida wandered around the school once again. There were lots of film showing and surveys, probably for those class who didn't want to exert much effort. There were all kinds of booths as well. There was even a fortune telling booth at the third years. Shida quickly scanned the third floor exhibits, too afraid that her 'lovely senpais' will see her. After which, she went to the first floor to check on Yuta's classroom.
"Mirai-chan!" A familiar voice called out. She looked back and saw Shougo and Nozomi walking to her. "We were just going to Yuta-kun's classroom." Shougo explained.
Shida smiled. "I'm going there too. Let's go together." They walked side by side. "Ah, Non-chan, did the hospital let you go again?"
"Un!" Nozomi was energetic today as well. "By the looks of it, I just have to stay there this vacation to rest and then I'll be able to go to class again."
"I'm glad for you~!" Shida congratulated her. "Ah, you haven't met Yuta-kun, right?"
Nozomi nodded. "He was never introduced to me... I do know how he looks like though."
Soon enough, they were in front of Yuta's classroom. It was a... horror house. Shougo immediately said Nozomi was not allowed to go inside, so he would not go too. They'll just greet Yuta and go on their way again. Luckily, Yuta was outside the classroom, wearing a dracula outfit.
"Yuta-kun, good afternoon!" Shida waved at him. "How's your booth?"
A large smile appeared on his face upon seeing them. "Good afternoon! It's going well. Do you want to enter?"
Shida shook her head. "My friends can't enter, so I guess I'll just go with them." Glancing at the two, she said "Ah, this is Maeda Nozomi-chan. My friend and Shougo-kun's best friend."
Nozomi bowed down. "Nice to meet you at last, Koseki Yuta-kun." She smiled. "I heard you playing tha piano! You're really good at it." She offered a hand. "I'll be enrolling next year so maybe we'll become classmates!"
Yuta smiled at her as well, shaking her hand. "I hope so! Nice meeting you!"
'Their energies jive together well!' Shida thought. She looked at the side to see Shougo glaring daggers at the floor. "Shougo-kun~ The floor didn't do anything bad at you~" she whispered with a teasing tone.
He pouted, grumbling under his breath.
...
She went back to her classroom after that and spent the rest of the day helping out in their cosplay cafe. Mai was inside their makeshift kitchen and refused to get out unless Shida or Aki was out of the classroom. She made sure to be a waitress (she was dressed as an angel) during the morning and a chef inside the kitchen while Shida was maid.
While she was walking to the gate, on her way home, she saw Aki... ah no, his way of standing was less strained... Yosuke; it was Yosuke.
"I'm sorry, Mirai-chan! It seems I fainted..." he said, frowning deeply.
She shook her head. "No..." She had to say it. This was finally the moment. "You didn't faint, Yosuke-kun."
WHAT A LONG CHAPTER. I will post the next chapter later this evening. It's in the process of being written. It's going fast though since Yaechi's part will be fast anyway.
Reread this chapter. It sucks. I'm sorry. T_T I don't know what's happening to me anymore. I expected lots for this but it turned out so bad and asdfghjkl; I hate not being able to write properly T_T
-The reason why I couldn't update was because of school. Half of my reason is stupid though: It's because I dreamt of Aki disappearing and couldn't help but cry for him. I'M SO WEIRD, SORRY.