Love So Sweet [an Ohno Satoshi love story] - Chapter 19
Rina was in a state of half consciousness, between sleep, dreams, and reality. She could faintly hear the birds chirping in the park below and the city outside starting up again for another day, but she couldn’t lift her eyes open, and her body felt like jello in her warm, soft bed. Then, she was jerked out of this cocoon by her buzzing, vibrating cell phone. She yawned, crawled to the dresser and squinted at the text. It was from Ohno. Why at this hour? she wondered vaguely.
Are you doing anything right now? it read.
Well I WAS sleeping… she replied.
Oh, good. I caught you before you left. I have something to show you.
What is it?
It’s a surprise. Meet me at the train station by your house in fifteen minutes.
Rina made her way to the platform, still rubbing sleep from her eyes. Ohno was already there and greeted her with a small smile. It looked like he had just changed out of his fishing gear, for his hair was still wet and he smelled like the sea.
“You DO know that it’s 6 am, Ohno-kun…?” she asked groggily. The previous night of karaoke had exhausted her. She wasn’t exactly irritated, just confounded as to what he could possibly have to show her that couldn’t wait till later.
“Gomen, but timing is important for this.”
The bus arrived and it was empty. Ohno and Rina were actually able to sit next to each other this time without any prying eyes. Every movement they made was both exhilarating and soothing, like and sea’s steady waves.
He gently moved her head down to rest on his shoulder. “Sleep. I’ll wake you up when we get there.”
Rina nodded wordlessly and slipped back into a slumber as she leaned on his comfortable, warm frame. After about forty-five minutes, they reached their destination. Ohno softly prodded her awake, and led her off the bus. By the salty air and the rushing sound in the breeze, she could tell that they were by the shore.
“This way.” He took her hand and started leading her up a small trail on the mountainside. They passed by trees and little homes seated in the rock. Rina was tired, but Ohno spurred her on. To think perhaps she would she would follow him almost anywhere was crazy… but true. “We’re almost there. Just a little further now.”
Eventually, the slope started lessening, and they were on level ground. Here, Ohno instructed her to close her eyes, no peeking, and he’d guide her the rest of the way. She took tentative steps as he slowly pulled her the last few steps.
“Okay now - open your eyes.”
It hit her like a haze. Surrounding them was a sea of pink clouds - a whole mountainside of cherry blossom trees in full bloom. Just beyond the edge, there was the glimmering of the ocean beyond; the watery sun glinted on the waves. Rina’s breath caught in awe. It was so surreal, the world’s vast beauty. She stepped in and took in the scene with wide, appreciative eyes.
“Down below there - it’s one of my favorite fishing spots.” Ohno explained. “When I was docking this morning, I looked up and saw these peeking out of the mountain so - I guess - I thought we could have our own Hanami viewing. The first of the season.”
Rina beamed at him; he’d remembered. Her heart swelled, and she was lost for words. They took in the general splendor, letting creation (and perhaps more) speak for itself.
Then, they heard a group of seniors trekking up on their daily morning hike; these people had cameras and were taking nature pictures, admiring the scenery loudly. Snickering, Ohno and Rina quickly snuck under a low-hanging tree to avoid these “paparazzi.” This tree’s branches were so low that they were an umbrella over their faces. With this envelopment, it was like it was just the two of them.
The breeze rustled Rina’s hair, and Ohno brushed some silky strands out of her eyes. He looked down at her with the deepest gaze. Ohno slowly tilted her delicate chin up with warm, steady hands; her charming heart shaped face gazed up at him beautifully. With a pounding heart, he softly put his lips to hers. The tender, sweet touch was dizzying. Time slowed down.
Rina felt her whole body electrified and when she closed her eyes, she was his. She kissed him back, and he pulled her closer. It didn’t even matter anymore, to either of them, if anyone saw. This moment was theirs and worth any consequences.
He hadn’t even existed for the longest time in her entire life; she’d gone nearly twenty years without him, and suddenly he now had a huge part of her heart without question. Now it was only the two of them in the world it seemed, there underneath the fragile falling pink petals. They were falling in love the same way. Something amazing had blossomed.
credit: sharlmiya
(Wish I could find the full scan of this :( )
Of course, life’s responsibilities and realities continued as long as the world kept spinning, and the perfect moment couldn’t have lasted forever no matter how much they would have liked it to. Ohno had to report to Johnny’s promptly for a myriad of activities, meetings, interviews, whatever was scheduled for that day. Rina had several major affairs going on that day as well, back to back.
First was the last day of recording for the Smile soundtrack with Yamashita Kousuke. Rina floated into the studio, garnering wry smiles from the other staff; they wondered what had made her morning so amazing and sparkling. If only she could tell them how perfect it really was! Getting serious though, Rina spoke to Yamashita-san on the side. She wanted to record just one more song. He agreed, and let her take some creative license. All she had in mind was to have a pure piano version of Smile’s main theme song - a simple one, but a proper finale for the evocative drama.
It was up to her this time. She entered the soundproof booth alone, and sat down quietly at the sleek piano. The melody and all the notes she could weave together were already being created. All these sweet butterflies, these almost overwhelming bouts of happiness, the kiss, gave her her own pure heart song. Now perhaps, she finally realized the connection and how to fully put it across. The emotion in the music that spoke to people, that you could close your eyes, listen and feel.
Rina continued this wave of unapologetic sincerity through her audition later that day. This was what would determine if she would have a spot to perform in the school’s annual Start of the Year recital. She took the stage with confidence in front of the panel of judges and various curious onlooker students spread throughout the theater. Some part of her had changed. Or maybe it was more of a growth. There was something in her outlook that gave her an extra boost. It was the secret of stage presence that most aspiring performers strived for and never found, that had finally adhered to her.
What was this enigma? Well if she looked to Arashi for example, they really had it. They were there for the audience as much as the audience was there to see them. They had confidence to say and do what they felt like as the moods precariously changed, and were able to maneuver around anything. Even when things didn’t go as planned, they could still present themselves how they always were; that was only a small portion of their charm.
She completed her audition as best she could, and felt sure of herself. Even if she wasn’t chosen again, she believed in her ability and would have other chances to prove it. The panel thanked and excused her; the results would be announced later that evening. As she exited the stage, they looked at their notes, collaborated amongst themselves and nodded approvingly…
“You’re not going to stay, wait around for the results?” Michiyo, who was also trying out, called after the retreating girl.
“Can’t… I have to head somewhere. Text me when you find out, if you would! Good luck!” Rina cried behind her as she jogged to her car again with cameras tagging along.
The grand opening of Orion Restaurant was planned to be a stylish affair. The brand new sign looked slick but classic on the edifice. The valet opened the passenger door, and Rina elegantly stepped out of the car to be met by a full waiting press conference excited for the latest social event. Dressed in a bright fashion-forward cocktail dress, she looked her best as she walked up the rolled carpet. Eyes following her every move to the front steps where the executive chef, managers and others were waiting. Their lovely spokesperson was here.
First, the chairman and chef spoke, talking of their aspirations for the new establishment. Then, it was Rina’s turn. Her heart was still floating on the clouds, and it clearly showed as she took the podium. The crowd hushed, and she took a deep breath.
“Welcome, minna-sama, to the grand opening of Orion. Katsumi Rina desu. We’ve been looking forward very much to this day where we can finally welcome you in.” she began with a radiant smile at the cameras. “As Chef Erizawa said, Orion has been a dream of his for many years. All of the staff have been putting their best ideas forward and collaborating to make this vision come true.
“Everything from the food, to the décor, seating, ambiance, is meant to complement one another and create an experience of comfortable luxury. Here, you can enjoy yourself with a large, noisy group of friends. Or, you can easily have a romantic date for two. An effortless but exceptional time is what we offer. All we hope for is that you will be an addition to the charm. Fresh, confident people gathering at a place made just for them and celebrating life. This is the spirit of youth.
“So without further adieu, on behalf of Orion, I would like to thank you all for coming and supporting us. Please, have a wonderful time. Now, I will hand the ceremonial sheers to Chef Erizawa and Chairman Okabe.”
From under the pulpit, she pulled out the giant gilded scissors which rested on a velvet pillow. She crossed with her head held high, and presented the symbol to the two beaming men before stepping back respectfully. They took the scissors in both hands, marched up to the large red ribbon wrapped around the entryway, and cut it in one big swoop. There was a flourish of applause and flashing cameras. They all shook hands, posed for cameras. Along with these important members, Rina stood at the door to usher in the restaurant’s very first customers.
Inside Orion, it was glamorous but laid-back. When you walked in, there was a high ceiling with a giant half-spherical black marble sculpture with glittering crystal constellations hanging from the ceiling. You were greeted by a pleasant waiter or waitress smartly dressed black and white, who would welcome you cordially and escort you to a spot according to your tastes. You would pass by other fashionable people sipping on wine or laughing over appetizers. The tables were organized so that there was noise and footwork control, but all you noticed was how you always had an interesting view of the city. Somewhere blending into the scene was a pianist playing artfully at a silky grand piano. Back in the kitchen, the menu had already been expertly prepped and ready to go for this first wave. Each client was seated, they ordered, and started off a wonderful night.
Naturally, there was press present as well. Rina was set to spend the whole night being interviewed by News Zero’s caster Kobayashi Mao, who was reporting on economic trends and new business strategies. Rina gave Mao and the News Zero cameras a tour of the restaurant before sitting down to a meal. Mao seemed curiously excited to meet her. She was around Sho’s age, and seemed very proper and lady-like. The two struck up a conversation after the initial questions; Mao spoke with her like an older sister, as if she wanted to know her personally.
The night danced along successfully. Everyone found their food and company excellent. The whole place hummed with lively chatter and the happy clinking of utensils. As Rina and Mao were ordering their desserts, a young, nervous looking man approached their table.
“Ahno, excuse me but - if I could - interrupt…” he started, fumbling with his hands nervously. He was dressed in a sharp suit, but little beads of sweat appeared on his forehead.
“Yes?” Rina smiled graciously. “What can I do for you? I hope there’s no problem.”
“No, no everything’s perfect… The thing is… There is something that I want to do tonight. Could you please help?”
“Hello?” Rina tapped the microphone lightly. She stood on the second story overlooking the whole vicinity. “Sorry to interrupt your meals… Is everyone having a good time?” Appreciative applause was the reply. “Good, I’m glad. This is rather impromptu, but we have - Hokusai Jiro-san and his friends, if they would come up here - they would like to perform a little song for a special someone in the crowd tonight.” Rina grinned and ushered the five men up front, who each took a mic. Hokusai, the one who had asked, looked the most uneasy, but he beamed.
“This is for Aiko-chan.”
The music started. Everyone in the restaurant ooh-ed with delight, recognizing it immediately: Arashi’s “One Love.”
As the five men danced and sang along to the well-loved song to the amusement of the onlookers, Rina watched the face of the woman who was being serenaded. She was dying from embarrassment as her friends poked at her and laughing at how absolutely insane her boyfriend was, but yet she looked like the happiest person in the world. He was willing to do that for her, and he wasn’t ashamed to tell everyone how he felt about her. How lucky that woman was, Rina thought with a smile.
“And one hundred years from now, I swear I'll love you still… There’s no way to replace this encounter that’s blossoming into a miracle…”
They finished amidst a round of applause and approving laughter.
Hokusai yelled out at the top of his lungs, “Aishiteru, Aiko! I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?”
Aiko was as red as a strawberry. She half-laughed, half-mumbled something.
“I can’t hear you~!” the man grinned widely.
She took a deep breath and shouted for everyone to hear. “Yes, I will!”
Triumphant, her love sprinted down the steps, knelt at her feet and presented her with a ring. He slipped it on her left hand as she started crying. They kissed sweetly, and everyone cheered their congratulations.
Rina clapped and hooted, delighted for the couple. She laughed when she heard someone say to their neighbor, “Guys become more attractive when they sing Arashi songs, ne!”
The next morning, Rina walked down to the kitchen and Sho was there.
“Good morning, Sho-kun~” Rina murmured in a sing-song voice. She grabbed some bread and popped it in the toaster.
“Morning.” he replied, sipping his coffee. His gaze curiously followed the girl as she skipped around preparing her breakfast. “You sure are cheerful today…”
Rina beamed at him and inwardly laughed mischievously. “I got a spot in the concert!” That wasn’t the only reason why she was so chipper… She felt like she should continue to keep her relationship with Ohno a secret, for the time being. If she told him now he might just pop a vein in his infamously stiff neck. Sho wasn’t ready for the news just yet.
“Sugoi! Omedetou! I’ll be looking forward to it. And how was the opening?”
“It was amazing. Everything went smoothly. Orion’s off to a good start. They’ll definitely come back, I think.” she said, munching on some toast. “And the sweetest thing happened; this guy proposed to his girlfriend last night by singing and dancing along to “One Love.” He sang Matsumoto-san’s part, and the guy who was in your place kept getting out of tune.” Rina chuckled and hummed it to herself.
Sho smirked sheepishly, then turned a little serious. “… I heard that my coworker was assigned to interview you?”
“Kobayashi-san? Yes. She spoke of you a bit too. She thinks you’re very gentlemanly, ne.”
He smiled tightly. “What did you think of her?”
“She was nice. Kind of perky, but nice.” Rina shrugged.
“Ah, sou?” Sho looked a little disappointed by her response. “She said she was very pleased to finally meet you.” he said carefully.
“… Eh? Finally?”
“She, err, knows that you’re my cousin.”
Rina raised an eyebrow and stared at her cousin. “What? You told her? I thought no one but people closest to us were allowed to know.”
“Mao is close to me. We’re - dating - we have for about two years now.”
How exactly was Rina supposed to react? Sho didn’t look particularly happy about the fact, and she had no idea why he wouldn’t be. “Oh… I had no idea. That’s cool… Nn. Two years is a long time, ne.”
“Mhm. Well she’s coming over for dinner tonight, if you’re going to be home...” He took a long draught of coffee and pursed his lips. In actuality, Sho really wasn’t all that excited about their relationship. Not unhappy necessarily, but going on two years, it seemed to be getting old. Things were stagnant, and it took too much effort to try to rekindle the same passion. Yet, at the same time, two years was a long time, and it had become a real commitment, something he had stuck with steadfastly and put a lot of effort into. Wasn’t this how adult relationships were supposed to be, familiar and predictable, although monotonous? Sho hated breaking commitments.
-----------------------
So, they finally kissed, ne? How about that? :D
Are you doing anything right now? it read.
Well I WAS sleeping… she replied.
Oh, good. I caught you before you left. I have something to show you.
What is it?
It’s a surprise. Meet me at the train station by your house in fifteen minutes.
Rina made her way to the platform, still rubbing sleep from her eyes. Ohno was already there and greeted her with a small smile. It looked like he had just changed out of his fishing gear, for his hair was still wet and he smelled like the sea.
“You DO know that it’s 6 am, Ohno-kun…?” she asked groggily. The previous night of karaoke had exhausted her. She wasn’t exactly irritated, just confounded as to what he could possibly have to show her that couldn’t wait till later.
“Gomen, but timing is important for this.”
The bus arrived and it was empty. Ohno and Rina were actually able to sit next to each other this time without any prying eyes. Every movement they made was both exhilarating and soothing, like and sea’s steady waves.
He gently moved her head down to rest on his shoulder. “Sleep. I’ll wake you up when we get there.”
Rina nodded wordlessly and slipped back into a slumber as she leaned on his comfortable, warm frame. After about forty-five minutes, they reached their destination. Ohno softly prodded her awake, and led her off the bus. By the salty air and the rushing sound in the breeze, she could tell that they were by the shore.
“This way.” He took her hand and started leading her up a small trail on the mountainside. They passed by trees and little homes seated in the rock. Rina was tired, but Ohno spurred her on. To think perhaps she would she would follow him almost anywhere was crazy… but true. “We’re almost there. Just a little further now.”
Eventually, the slope started lessening, and they were on level ground. Here, Ohno instructed her to close her eyes, no peeking, and he’d guide her the rest of the way. She took tentative steps as he slowly pulled her the last few steps.
“Okay now - open your eyes.”
It hit her like a haze. Surrounding them was a sea of pink clouds - a whole mountainside of cherry blossom trees in full bloom. Just beyond the edge, there was the glimmering of the ocean beyond; the watery sun glinted on the waves. Rina’s breath caught in awe. It was so surreal, the world’s vast beauty. She stepped in and took in the scene with wide, appreciative eyes.
“Down below there - it’s one of my favorite fishing spots.” Ohno explained. “When I was docking this morning, I looked up and saw these peeking out of the mountain so - I guess - I thought we could have our own Hanami viewing. The first of the season.”
Rina beamed at him; he’d remembered. Her heart swelled, and she was lost for words. They took in the general splendor, letting creation (and perhaps more) speak for itself.
Then, they heard a group of seniors trekking up on their daily morning hike; these people had cameras and were taking nature pictures, admiring the scenery loudly. Snickering, Ohno and Rina quickly snuck under a low-hanging tree to avoid these “paparazzi.” This tree’s branches were so low that they were an umbrella over their faces. With this envelopment, it was like it was just the two of them.
The breeze rustled Rina’s hair, and Ohno brushed some silky strands out of her eyes. He looked down at her with the deepest gaze. Ohno slowly tilted her delicate chin up with warm, steady hands; her charming heart shaped face gazed up at him beautifully. With a pounding heart, he softly put his lips to hers. The tender, sweet touch was dizzying. Time slowed down.
Rina felt her whole body electrified and when she closed her eyes, she was his. She kissed him back, and he pulled her closer. It didn’t even matter anymore, to either of them, if anyone saw. This moment was theirs and worth any consequences.
He hadn’t even existed for the longest time in her entire life; she’d gone nearly twenty years without him, and suddenly he now had a huge part of her heart without question. Now it was only the two of them in the world it seemed, there underneath the fragile falling pink petals. They were falling in love the same way. Something amazing had blossomed.
credit: sharlmiya
(Wish I could find the full scan of this :( )
Of course, life’s responsibilities and realities continued as long as the world kept spinning, and the perfect moment couldn’t have lasted forever no matter how much they would have liked it to. Ohno had to report to Johnny’s promptly for a myriad of activities, meetings, interviews, whatever was scheduled for that day. Rina had several major affairs going on that day as well, back to back.
First was the last day of recording for the Smile soundtrack with Yamashita Kousuke. Rina floated into the studio, garnering wry smiles from the other staff; they wondered what had made her morning so amazing and sparkling. If only she could tell them how perfect it really was! Getting serious though, Rina spoke to Yamashita-san on the side. She wanted to record just one more song. He agreed, and let her take some creative license. All she had in mind was to have a pure piano version of Smile’s main theme song - a simple one, but a proper finale for the evocative drama.
It was up to her this time. She entered the soundproof booth alone, and sat down quietly at the sleek piano. The melody and all the notes she could weave together were already being created. All these sweet butterflies, these almost overwhelming bouts of happiness, the kiss, gave her her own pure heart song. Now perhaps, she finally realized the connection and how to fully put it across. The emotion in the music that spoke to people, that you could close your eyes, listen and feel.
Rina continued this wave of unapologetic sincerity through her audition later that day. This was what would determine if she would have a spot to perform in the school’s annual Start of the Year recital. She took the stage with confidence in front of the panel of judges and various curious onlooker students spread throughout the theater. Some part of her had changed. Or maybe it was more of a growth. There was something in her outlook that gave her an extra boost. It was the secret of stage presence that most aspiring performers strived for and never found, that had finally adhered to her.
What was this enigma? Well if she looked to Arashi for example, they really had it. They were there for the audience as much as the audience was there to see them. They had confidence to say and do what they felt like as the moods precariously changed, and were able to maneuver around anything. Even when things didn’t go as planned, they could still present themselves how they always were; that was only a small portion of their charm.
She completed her audition as best she could, and felt sure of herself. Even if she wasn’t chosen again, she believed in her ability and would have other chances to prove it. The panel thanked and excused her; the results would be announced later that evening. As she exited the stage, they looked at their notes, collaborated amongst themselves and nodded approvingly…
“You’re not going to stay, wait around for the results?” Michiyo, who was also trying out, called after the retreating girl.
“Can’t… I have to head somewhere. Text me when you find out, if you would! Good luck!” Rina cried behind her as she jogged to her car again with cameras tagging along.
The grand opening of Orion Restaurant was planned to be a stylish affair. The brand new sign looked slick but classic on the edifice. The valet opened the passenger door, and Rina elegantly stepped out of the car to be met by a full waiting press conference excited for the latest social event. Dressed in a bright fashion-forward cocktail dress, she looked her best as she walked up the rolled carpet. Eyes following her every move to the front steps where the executive chef, managers and others were waiting. Their lovely spokesperson was here.
First, the chairman and chef spoke, talking of their aspirations for the new establishment. Then, it was Rina’s turn. Her heart was still floating on the clouds, and it clearly showed as she took the podium. The crowd hushed, and she took a deep breath.
“Welcome, minna-sama, to the grand opening of Orion. Katsumi Rina desu. We’ve been looking forward very much to this day where we can finally welcome you in.” she began with a radiant smile at the cameras. “As Chef Erizawa said, Orion has been a dream of his for many years. All of the staff have been putting their best ideas forward and collaborating to make this vision come true.
“Everything from the food, to the décor, seating, ambiance, is meant to complement one another and create an experience of comfortable luxury. Here, you can enjoy yourself with a large, noisy group of friends. Or, you can easily have a romantic date for two. An effortless but exceptional time is what we offer. All we hope for is that you will be an addition to the charm. Fresh, confident people gathering at a place made just for them and celebrating life. This is the spirit of youth.
“So without further adieu, on behalf of Orion, I would like to thank you all for coming and supporting us. Please, have a wonderful time. Now, I will hand the ceremonial sheers to Chef Erizawa and Chairman Okabe.”
From under the pulpit, she pulled out the giant gilded scissors which rested on a velvet pillow. She crossed with her head held high, and presented the symbol to the two beaming men before stepping back respectfully. They took the scissors in both hands, marched up to the large red ribbon wrapped around the entryway, and cut it in one big swoop. There was a flourish of applause and flashing cameras. They all shook hands, posed for cameras. Along with these important members, Rina stood at the door to usher in the restaurant’s very first customers.
Inside Orion, it was glamorous but laid-back. When you walked in, there was a high ceiling with a giant half-spherical black marble sculpture with glittering crystal constellations hanging from the ceiling. You were greeted by a pleasant waiter or waitress smartly dressed black and white, who would welcome you cordially and escort you to a spot according to your tastes. You would pass by other fashionable people sipping on wine or laughing over appetizers. The tables were organized so that there was noise and footwork control, but all you noticed was how you always had an interesting view of the city. Somewhere blending into the scene was a pianist playing artfully at a silky grand piano. Back in the kitchen, the menu had already been expertly prepped and ready to go for this first wave. Each client was seated, they ordered, and started off a wonderful night.
Naturally, there was press present as well. Rina was set to spend the whole night being interviewed by News Zero’s caster Kobayashi Mao, who was reporting on economic trends and new business strategies. Rina gave Mao and the News Zero cameras a tour of the restaurant before sitting down to a meal. Mao seemed curiously excited to meet her. She was around Sho’s age, and seemed very proper and lady-like. The two struck up a conversation after the initial questions; Mao spoke with her like an older sister, as if she wanted to know her personally.
The night danced along successfully. Everyone found their food and company excellent. The whole place hummed with lively chatter and the happy clinking of utensils. As Rina and Mao were ordering their desserts, a young, nervous looking man approached their table.
“Ahno, excuse me but - if I could - interrupt…” he started, fumbling with his hands nervously. He was dressed in a sharp suit, but little beads of sweat appeared on his forehead.
“Yes?” Rina smiled graciously. “What can I do for you? I hope there’s no problem.”
“No, no everything’s perfect… The thing is… There is something that I want to do tonight. Could you please help?”
“Hello?” Rina tapped the microphone lightly. She stood on the second story overlooking the whole vicinity. “Sorry to interrupt your meals… Is everyone having a good time?” Appreciative applause was the reply. “Good, I’m glad. This is rather impromptu, but we have - Hokusai Jiro-san and his friends, if they would come up here - they would like to perform a little song for a special someone in the crowd tonight.” Rina grinned and ushered the five men up front, who each took a mic. Hokusai, the one who had asked, looked the most uneasy, but he beamed.
“This is for Aiko-chan.”
The music started. Everyone in the restaurant ooh-ed with delight, recognizing it immediately: Arashi’s “One Love.”
As the five men danced and sang along to the well-loved song to the amusement of the onlookers, Rina watched the face of the woman who was being serenaded. She was dying from embarrassment as her friends poked at her and laughing at how absolutely insane her boyfriend was, but yet she looked like the happiest person in the world. He was willing to do that for her, and he wasn’t ashamed to tell everyone how he felt about her. How lucky that woman was, Rina thought with a smile.
“And one hundred years from now, I swear I'll love you still… There’s no way to replace this encounter that’s blossoming into a miracle…”
They finished amidst a round of applause and approving laughter.
Hokusai yelled out at the top of his lungs, “Aishiteru, Aiko! I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?”
Aiko was as red as a strawberry. She half-laughed, half-mumbled something.
“I can’t hear you~!” the man grinned widely.
She took a deep breath and shouted for everyone to hear. “Yes, I will!”
Triumphant, her love sprinted down the steps, knelt at her feet and presented her with a ring. He slipped it on her left hand as she started crying. They kissed sweetly, and everyone cheered their congratulations.
Rina clapped and hooted, delighted for the couple. She laughed when she heard someone say to their neighbor, “Guys become more attractive when they sing Arashi songs, ne!”
The next morning, Rina walked down to the kitchen and Sho was there.
“Good morning, Sho-kun~” Rina murmured in a sing-song voice. She grabbed some bread and popped it in the toaster.
“Morning.” he replied, sipping his coffee. His gaze curiously followed the girl as she skipped around preparing her breakfast. “You sure are cheerful today…”
Rina beamed at him and inwardly laughed mischievously. “I got a spot in the concert!” That wasn’t the only reason why she was so chipper… She felt like she should continue to keep her relationship with Ohno a secret, for the time being. If she told him now he might just pop a vein in his infamously stiff neck. Sho wasn’t ready for the news just yet.
“Sugoi! Omedetou! I’ll be looking forward to it. And how was the opening?”
“It was amazing. Everything went smoothly. Orion’s off to a good start. They’ll definitely come back, I think.” she said, munching on some toast. “And the sweetest thing happened; this guy proposed to his girlfriend last night by singing and dancing along to “One Love.” He sang Matsumoto-san’s part, and the guy who was in your place kept getting out of tune.” Rina chuckled and hummed it to herself.
Sho smirked sheepishly, then turned a little serious. “… I heard that my coworker was assigned to interview you?”
“Kobayashi-san? Yes. She spoke of you a bit too. She thinks you’re very gentlemanly, ne.”
He smiled tightly. “What did you think of her?”
“She was nice. Kind of perky, but nice.” Rina shrugged.
“Ah, sou?” Sho looked a little disappointed by her response. “She said she was very pleased to finally meet you.” he said carefully.
“… Eh? Finally?”
“She, err, knows that you’re my cousin.”
Rina raised an eyebrow and stared at her cousin. “What? You told her? I thought no one but people closest to us were allowed to know.”
“Mao is close to me. We’re - dating - we have for about two years now.”
How exactly was Rina supposed to react? Sho didn’t look particularly happy about the fact, and she had no idea why he wouldn’t be. “Oh… I had no idea. That’s cool… Nn. Two years is a long time, ne.”
“Mhm. Well she’s coming over for dinner tonight, if you’re going to be home...” He took a long draught of coffee and pursed his lips. In actuality, Sho really wasn’t all that excited about their relationship. Not unhappy necessarily, but going on two years, it seemed to be getting old. Things were stagnant, and it took too much effort to try to rekindle the same passion. Yet, at the same time, two years was a long time, and it had become a real commitment, something he had stuck with steadfastly and put a lot of effort into. Wasn’t this how adult relationships were supposed to be, familiar and predictable, although monotonous? Sho hated breaking commitments.
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So, they finally kissed, ne? How about that? :D