Love So Sweet [an Ohno Satoshi love story] - Chapter 28
The month of June was rather eventful. Summer was always a busy time - Arashi’s activities started speeding up exponentially, as everyone else started to relax. Their upcoming anniversary tour was fast approaching, and there were still so many things to decide and rehearse and pull together. A new season was always guaranteed to be full of new promotions, AU KDDI being the main one. There were acting auditions to attend for the developing autumn drama lineups. Even though it seemed like a small task, Arashi still had the momentous 10th year anniversary song to complete. It had to be absolutely perfect, and show their overwhelming gratitude to all their fans, new and old.
ToGeiDa’s producers decided that they needed to pull Rina back into the show some more. So, they pulled some strings and arranged for her to be part of the musical entertainment at someone’s wedding. When she showed up, she was surprised to find that the groom was Takashi Katsuo, Ohno’s fishing buddy.
The musicians sat at the side, and began the processional music, a romantic Debussy piece. Rina pressed at the keys, the strings blended in, and she listened to the harmony it created for all those around. The wedding party marched in slowly, led by the groom. He looked handsome in his trim tuxedo, tense and jittery with excitement.
Weddings were strange situations for Rina. She liked the gathering of loved ones, the pretty décor, and the once-in-a-lifetime breathless feel. Of course, she felt happy for whoever’s wedding it was too. But yet, she wondered how two people could ever decide that they wanted to spend forever with some person. What would it be like to have a love that strong? She continued playing with feeling, lending the music to the dreamy atmosphere.
Then, it was time for the grand entrance of the bride. On the arm of her proud father, the bride was a picture of beauty in a snowy white dress. Her beaming face was shaded by a soft veil. Rina glanced up at the altar - these were the parts she remembered most at weddings. It was the moment the groom first laid eyes on the love of his life, walking towards him to choose him as hers. This man’s face was shining with victory, with absolute love.
Afterwards, the reception was a time for celebration. Sparkling champagne was uncorked and good food was served. There was a hip band playing and a dance floor too. Rina sat on the side by herself, taking a break from playing to have a piece of leftover wedding cake.
With a string of speeches, the groom Takeshi stood up at his seat. He tapped his glass with a spoon, and was handed a mic. The guests heard the clinking chime and turned to listen.
“Can I have everyone’s attention? Thank you so much for making it here tonight to support us and share in our joy. Chihiro and I are truly grateful to call you all family and friends.” He bowed, then pulled a wrinkled piece of paper from his pocket. “One of these people I consider to be a true friend is however, unfortunately unable to be here tonight. His hectic work calls him elsewhere. But he wrote a heartfelt message for us, which I’ll read now:
Ka-chan, Chihiro-san,
Go-kekkon omedetou gozaimasu! (I feel I should say this so formally because, after all, it’s amazing!) I am incredibly sorry that I can’t be there to congratulate you in person, but I have you both in my thoughts and prayers tonight.
First, Chihiro-san. The first thing Ka-chan ever told me about you was that you go skydiving. I thought, Sugoi, demo kowai! Could he handle such an adventurous woman, I wondered? [Everyone laughed at this] Please take care of Ka-chan. You are such a warm, energetic person, and I believe the perfect person he could have married. I’m looking forward to seeing you two grow into proper parents in the future!
Then, Ka-chan. Now that you’re married, you probably won’t have as much time for fishing, ne? [Another appreciative chuckle from the crowd] Please be a doting husband! I never thought I’d say this but… Put off your fishing if you must. After all, Chihiro-san is your first priority now. That said - please leave some room for your friends too.
Ma, it turns out that we’ve known each other since the third grade, ne. You were the one that inspired me to start drawing with just some DragonBall-Z characters. Through my tough teenage years - you still stayed in touch with me. Recently, you even introduced me to fishing! I’m truly grateful for all of this.
Why do I mention all this? Because you’ve always been a true friend. To everyone around you, you always lend a caring hand. You have taught me a lot - about putting my all into my endeavors, about taking things in stride, and making sure that I appreciate those people most important in my life. I count you as one of those people.
Well, this is a new journey for you two! Despite the tough times, stay strong and support each other. In the happy times, enjoy them together and the joy will double. That’s what my mother always told me anyway, and I believe her. The sincerest best wishes for your future together,
Satoshi.”
All the guests at the reception clapped appreciatively. Rina mused to herself. Some sort of poignant glow had spread through her as she thought of his words. That letter, of course, had been from Ohno - from his most sincere heart. How wonderful a message to give to a friend. The ToGeiDa cameras zoomed in on her face, and were confused as to where these emotions were coming from.
Almost a month had elapsed since the break. Ohno and Rina were now able to pass by each other at work amiably, with secretly hopeful smiles, even make small chit-chat. They couldn’t help but be around each other. Neither of them admitted it to the other, but they missed each other terribly and both felt at fault. How could they patch things up? Who would take the first step? It was only a matter of time.
One dance rehearsal day - it was like any other - they were sitting by themselves on some folded chairs eating the staff bentos during lunch break, not suspecting what they were about to be dealt with. In the middle of their conversation, Ohno’s cell phone started ringing. It was his sister calling; he frowned - she should be at work at this hour. It must be important.
“Sorry, I should take this-- … Moshi moshi, nee-chan, whatsup? Why are - chotto, you’re talking too fast.” His face suddenly froze in shock, and darkened torturously in a way reminiscent of his Maou days. “M-maji?! Of course, I’ll come straight away. J-just… yes, now. I’ll be there soon.”
He hung up and immediately stood up, rushing to gather his things.
“Ohno-kun, what happened?” Rina asked with concern, following him uncertainly.
His lip quivered, and he looked absolutely disoriented. “My… my mother’s in the hospital.” he whispered hoarsely, tears threatening to spill. “I have… to go see her.”
Rina’s breath caught. “Oh m-my goodness. How - I’ll drive you, I insist. My car’s just outside.”
He nodded wordlessly. She grabbed her keys and they sped off.
On the way there, she wanted to hold his hand and tell him it’ll be okay, but it was not the proper time. He was absolutely stone still and stared out the window into nothingness. Who knew what was going through his head? Rina couldn’t imagine what he was feeling at that moment; she knew that his mother was one of, if not THE most important person in his life. If anything happened to her… Rina pursed her lips and stepped on the gas pedal.
It was a very tense twenty minutes to the hospital. Once in the impressive edifice, they immediately rushed to the front information desk. The lobby was teeming with all sorts of injured patients, sickly people, worried families and serious doctors and nurses. At the counter, phones were ringing nonstop and computers glowed with vital patient information.
“Ohno Saya-sama, please,” Satoshi muttered urgently. “I’m her son.” The receptionist was taken by surprise by the idol, but directed him to the third floor, west wing. Him and Rina hurried right away.
Satoshi’s niece Youko and a man in his early forties who was probably her father were already sitting outside the door. The man stood up.
“Ryota-san…”
“Your father and sister are in there with her right now. You can go in.”
“Thank you.” Satoshi hastened in past Rina without another glance, and shut the door behind him. From the looks of things, none of them would be coming out anytime soon.
credit: saihara
Rina stood there in the sterile hallway for an awkward moment.
“I don’t think we’ve met.” the man said politely. “Himura Ryota desu. I’m Satoshi-kun’s brother-in-law. Thank you for bringing him here so quickly.”
“Oh, iyei. I’m honored to meet more of his family. Katsumi Rina desu. I’m… a friend.” She waved at the little girl in Himura’s lap, who smiled back in confusion - Youko wasn’t sure what was going on with grandma, why everyone was so stressed.
Himura-san registered Rina’s name, and his face brightened a little. “Please, sit down, if you don’t have somewhere else you need to be.”
She complied, and settled into the slick chair. “If you don’t mind my asking, what happened to Ohno-san?”
“Car accident. Someone was talking on their cell phone and wasn’t paying attention - and hit okaa-san’s car. She was pretty banged-up, but she’s supposed to make it through alright.”
“I’m glad that she’s okay. That’s such a relief! Satoshi-kun will… be--” Her eyes grew wide as she realized what she’d said. “Iya, I mean - you all can rest easy, knowing that.”
He looked at her knowingly. “Well, you’re right too, Satoshi has had it pretty rough lately. The whole suntan thing, now he has to worry about his mother… He even told me about this girl that he really misses. He’s been thinking about her a lot, but doesn’t know if she’ll forgive him. Romance can be the worst sometimes, ne?”
Rina blushed. “I - I should go make some calls.”
She went into the empty meeting room and explained the situation to Arashi’s manager over the phone. Arashi’s appearances for about the next week were cancelled. This was one worry that Ohno Satoshi could not mask.
Once those necessary things were done, she walked back to sit down with Himura-san. Exhausted from all the adult tension, little Youko had already fallen into an innocent carefree slumber that took her away to a simpler state of mind. Her father was stroking her baby soft hair absentmindedly.
“I don’t like hospitals, na…” Himura muttered uneasily. “They’re full of unnatural smells and… mysterious happenings in closed rooms. Don’t you think? And these chairs - couldn’t they make them a bit more comfortable?”
She smirked. “Actually, I don’t mind them. My mother’s a doctor you see, so ever since I was little I would follow her around at work. I was probably a nuisance to her, but I liked seeing her be a hero, I guess.” she said wistfully. Why had they lost that bond?
“I’m sure your mother liked having you there for some sort of support.” he nodded. “I suppose that’s why I’m here, to support my wife. I half feel like I’m being useless, just sitting out here and waiting. But… I hope she just feels reassured knowing that I’m here if she needs me.”
“Subarashi, Himura-san.” Rina smiled genuinely.
They sat out there in the cold corridor for quite awhile. Rina received a mail message from her manager, reminding her to be at her next assignment in an hour.
“Ahno, Himura-san, could you tell Satoshi-kun, that I went back home, if he asks? I’d like to stay but I… I don’t think it’s my place.”
“Of course, Katsumi-san. Thank you very much for what you’ve done for him so far, getting him here so quickly and keeping him calm and such.” he nodded. “But, one thing before you go.”
“Yes?”
“They are a very close-knit family, surely you realize this. Nanka… sugoi, deshou? I’ve worked in their company since Satoshi was in elementary school, and I would often go over to their house, but it was always on a co-worker level. It was almost intimidating for me when I first started dating Mina. Getting close to her meant having to have the approval of her family, and having to somehow become just as important to her as they are… It seemed impossible. Sometimes, she even pays more concern about her brother than me.” he chuckled a little, but he was quite serious.
“Right now, it seems like Satoshi doesn’t need anyone else but his family. Maybe at this stage, yes. But come back tomorrow sometime and check up on him. You’ll see - you have a unique place in his heart that no one, not even his mother, can substitute for. He will need your support too…”
-----------------------
Okay after dividing the parts better, the next chapter is the one I've been waiting to release lol. Hold tight everyone!
ToGeiDa’s producers decided that they needed to pull Rina back into the show some more. So, they pulled some strings and arranged for her to be part of the musical entertainment at someone’s wedding. When she showed up, she was surprised to find that the groom was Takashi Katsuo, Ohno’s fishing buddy.
The musicians sat at the side, and began the processional music, a romantic Debussy piece. Rina pressed at the keys, the strings blended in, and she listened to the harmony it created for all those around. The wedding party marched in slowly, led by the groom. He looked handsome in his trim tuxedo, tense and jittery with excitement.
Weddings were strange situations for Rina. She liked the gathering of loved ones, the pretty décor, and the once-in-a-lifetime breathless feel. Of course, she felt happy for whoever’s wedding it was too. But yet, she wondered how two people could ever decide that they wanted to spend forever with some person. What would it be like to have a love that strong? She continued playing with feeling, lending the music to the dreamy atmosphere.
Then, it was time for the grand entrance of the bride. On the arm of her proud father, the bride was a picture of beauty in a snowy white dress. Her beaming face was shaded by a soft veil. Rina glanced up at the altar - these were the parts she remembered most at weddings. It was the moment the groom first laid eyes on the love of his life, walking towards him to choose him as hers. This man’s face was shining with victory, with absolute love.
Afterwards, the reception was a time for celebration. Sparkling champagne was uncorked and good food was served. There was a hip band playing and a dance floor too. Rina sat on the side by herself, taking a break from playing to have a piece of leftover wedding cake.
With a string of speeches, the groom Takeshi stood up at his seat. He tapped his glass with a spoon, and was handed a mic. The guests heard the clinking chime and turned to listen.
“Can I have everyone’s attention? Thank you so much for making it here tonight to support us and share in our joy. Chihiro and I are truly grateful to call you all family and friends.” He bowed, then pulled a wrinkled piece of paper from his pocket. “One of these people I consider to be a true friend is however, unfortunately unable to be here tonight. His hectic work calls him elsewhere. But he wrote a heartfelt message for us, which I’ll read now:
Ka-chan, Chihiro-san,
Go-kekkon omedetou gozaimasu! (I feel I should say this so formally because, after all, it’s amazing!) I am incredibly sorry that I can’t be there to congratulate you in person, but I have you both in my thoughts and prayers tonight.
First, Chihiro-san. The first thing Ka-chan ever told me about you was that you go skydiving. I thought, Sugoi, demo kowai! Could he handle such an adventurous woman, I wondered? [Everyone laughed at this] Please take care of Ka-chan. You are such a warm, energetic person, and I believe the perfect person he could have married. I’m looking forward to seeing you two grow into proper parents in the future!
Then, Ka-chan. Now that you’re married, you probably won’t have as much time for fishing, ne? [Another appreciative chuckle from the crowd] Please be a doting husband! I never thought I’d say this but… Put off your fishing if you must. After all, Chihiro-san is your first priority now. That said - please leave some room for your friends too.
Ma, it turns out that we’ve known each other since the third grade, ne. You were the one that inspired me to start drawing with just some DragonBall-Z characters. Through my tough teenage years - you still stayed in touch with me. Recently, you even introduced me to fishing! I’m truly grateful for all of this.
Why do I mention all this? Because you’ve always been a true friend. To everyone around you, you always lend a caring hand. You have taught me a lot - about putting my all into my endeavors, about taking things in stride, and making sure that I appreciate those people most important in my life. I count you as one of those people.
Well, this is a new journey for you two! Despite the tough times, stay strong and support each other. In the happy times, enjoy them together and the joy will double. That’s what my mother always told me anyway, and I believe her. The sincerest best wishes for your future together,
Satoshi.”
All the guests at the reception clapped appreciatively. Rina mused to herself. Some sort of poignant glow had spread through her as she thought of his words. That letter, of course, had been from Ohno - from his most sincere heart. How wonderful a message to give to a friend. The ToGeiDa cameras zoomed in on her face, and were confused as to where these emotions were coming from.
Almost a month had elapsed since the break. Ohno and Rina were now able to pass by each other at work amiably, with secretly hopeful smiles, even make small chit-chat. They couldn’t help but be around each other. Neither of them admitted it to the other, but they missed each other terribly and both felt at fault. How could they patch things up? Who would take the first step? It was only a matter of time.
One dance rehearsal day - it was like any other - they were sitting by themselves on some folded chairs eating the staff bentos during lunch break, not suspecting what they were about to be dealt with. In the middle of their conversation, Ohno’s cell phone started ringing. It was his sister calling; he frowned - she should be at work at this hour. It must be important.
“Sorry, I should take this-- … Moshi moshi, nee-chan, whatsup? Why are - chotto, you’re talking too fast.” His face suddenly froze in shock, and darkened torturously in a way reminiscent of his Maou days. “M-maji?! Of course, I’ll come straight away. J-just… yes, now. I’ll be there soon.”
He hung up and immediately stood up, rushing to gather his things.
“Ohno-kun, what happened?” Rina asked with concern, following him uncertainly.
His lip quivered, and he looked absolutely disoriented. “My… my mother’s in the hospital.” he whispered hoarsely, tears threatening to spill. “I have… to go see her.”
Rina’s breath caught. “Oh m-my goodness. How - I’ll drive you, I insist. My car’s just outside.”
He nodded wordlessly. She grabbed her keys and they sped off.
On the way there, she wanted to hold his hand and tell him it’ll be okay, but it was not the proper time. He was absolutely stone still and stared out the window into nothingness. Who knew what was going through his head? Rina couldn’t imagine what he was feeling at that moment; she knew that his mother was one of, if not THE most important person in his life. If anything happened to her… Rina pursed her lips and stepped on the gas pedal.
It was a very tense twenty minutes to the hospital. Once in the impressive edifice, they immediately rushed to the front information desk. The lobby was teeming with all sorts of injured patients, sickly people, worried families and serious doctors and nurses. At the counter, phones were ringing nonstop and computers glowed with vital patient information.
“Ohno Saya-sama, please,” Satoshi muttered urgently. “I’m her son.” The receptionist was taken by surprise by the idol, but directed him to the third floor, west wing. Him and Rina hurried right away.
Satoshi’s niece Youko and a man in his early forties who was probably her father were already sitting outside the door. The man stood up.
“Ryota-san…”
“Your father and sister are in there with her right now. You can go in.”
“Thank you.” Satoshi hastened in past Rina without another glance, and shut the door behind him. From the looks of things, none of them would be coming out anytime soon.
credit: saihara
Rina stood there in the sterile hallway for an awkward moment.
“I don’t think we’ve met.” the man said politely. “Himura Ryota desu. I’m Satoshi-kun’s brother-in-law. Thank you for bringing him here so quickly.”
“Oh, iyei. I’m honored to meet more of his family. Katsumi Rina desu. I’m… a friend.” She waved at the little girl in Himura’s lap, who smiled back in confusion - Youko wasn’t sure what was going on with grandma, why everyone was so stressed.
Himura-san registered Rina’s name, and his face brightened a little. “Please, sit down, if you don’t have somewhere else you need to be.”
She complied, and settled into the slick chair. “If you don’t mind my asking, what happened to Ohno-san?”
“Car accident. Someone was talking on their cell phone and wasn’t paying attention - and hit okaa-san’s car. She was pretty banged-up, but she’s supposed to make it through alright.”
“I’m glad that she’s okay. That’s such a relief! Satoshi-kun will… be--” Her eyes grew wide as she realized what she’d said. “Iya, I mean - you all can rest easy, knowing that.”
He looked at her knowingly. “Well, you’re right too, Satoshi has had it pretty rough lately. The whole suntan thing, now he has to worry about his mother… He even told me about this girl that he really misses. He’s been thinking about her a lot, but doesn’t know if she’ll forgive him. Romance can be the worst sometimes, ne?”
Rina blushed. “I - I should go make some calls.”
She went into the empty meeting room and explained the situation to Arashi’s manager over the phone. Arashi’s appearances for about the next week were cancelled. This was one worry that Ohno Satoshi could not mask.
Once those necessary things were done, she walked back to sit down with Himura-san. Exhausted from all the adult tension, little Youko had already fallen into an innocent carefree slumber that took her away to a simpler state of mind. Her father was stroking her baby soft hair absentmindedly.
“I don’t like hospitals, na…” Himura muttered uneasily. “They’re full of unnatural smells and… mysterious happenings in closed rooms. Don’t you think? And these chairs - couldn’t they make them a bit more comfortable?”
She smirked. “Actually, I don’t mind them. My mother’s a doctor you see, so ever since I was little I would follow her around at work. I was probably a nuisance to her, but I liked seeing her be a hero, I guess.” she said wistfully. Why had they lost that bond?
“I’m sure your mother liked having you there for some sort of support.” he nodded. “I suppose that’s why I’m here, to support my wife. I half feel like I’m being useless, just sitting out here and waiting. But… I hope she just feels reassured knowing that I’m here if she needs me.”
“Subarashi, Himura-san.” Rina smiled genuinely.
They sat out there in the cold corridor for quite awhile. Rina received a mail message from her manager, reminding her to be at her next assignment in an hour.
“Ahno, Himura-san, could you tell Satoshi-kun, that I went back home, if he asks? I’d like to stay but I… I don’t think it’s my place.”
“Of course, Katsumi-san. Thank you very much for what you’ve done for him so far, getting him here so quickly and keeping him calm and such.” he nodded. “But, one thing before you go.”
“Yes?”
“They are a very close-knit family, surely you realize this. Nanka… sugoi, deshou? I’ve worked in their company since Satoshi was in elementary school, and I would often go over to their house, but it was always on a co-worker level. It was almost intimidating for me when I first started dating Mina. Getting close to her meant having to have the approval of her family, and having to somehow become just as important to her as they are… It seemed impossible. Sometimes, she even pays more concern about her brother than me.” he chuckled a little, but he was quite serious.
“Right now, it seems like Satoshi doesn’t need anyone else but his family. Maybe at this stage, yes. But come back tomorrow sometime and check up on him. You’ll see - you have a unique place in his heart that no one, not even his mother, can substitute for. He will need your support too…”
-----------------------
Okay after dividing the parts better, the next chapter is the one I've been waiting to release lol. Hold tight everyone!