285 [YamaShi] Risou no Musuko SP part 3
Title: Risou no Musuko SP
Author: macymacymacy
Beta: crescentharpe
Pairing: YamaShi and others.
Genre: Family, Friendship, Romance
Rating: G
AN:
-i did try to stick with the drama's canon as much as possible.
-italics and gray font means a flashback while just italics means the words are said in English.
-this is much shorter than the first 2 parts but that's because there's no other convenient way to divide this. I've written these parts as a oneshot so basically everything is written scene after scene and I'm having a hard time trying to separate them into parts. :))
PART 1 | PART 2
PART 3
Previously on RnM SP:
[(click to open)]"Do you really need to go now, Kanon-chan?" Kanon's manager, looking harassed, asked.
"Yes." Kanon said unconcernedly.
-
Kobayashi nodded in defeat. "Yeah, she's still in middle school. But she wants to. She asked her mom to propose an arranged marriage to my mom."
"And what did your mom say? Did she agree?" Daichi asked. Mirai kept quiet, only listening to the two of them.
"She adores her. She even let her call her 'Mama.'"
-
"Do you love me?" She suddenly asked.
Daichi stared, and slowly nodded.
"How much in the world?" She asked.
Daichi couldn't help but smile a little, remembering when her mom first asked this, ages ago.
He raised his hand and gestured 'one.'
Umi grinned.
"You're number one to me, too." She said. "But, it's not bad if we love other people. It can't be just me. I'll be happy as long as I'm still number one."
There was a pause and then Daichi finally nodded, smiling.
"Okay."
"That's my boy."
-
“Suzu.” Mirai said with a smile. “Sorry for the wait.”
Suzuka smiled and shook her head. “I’ve only just finished with makeup.”
Daichi blinked at what he was looking at. The very beautiful girl was actually Suzuka.
“That’s h-her cousin, right?” Wanikawa said, gaping.
“It’s like she transformed.” Kobayashi said, his mouth slightly opened in surprise.
“She should really smile more.” Kobayashi commented.
-
"Kouji!! I found you at last!!" the girl said and ran towards Kobayashi.
"K-kanon?!?!"
And then his gaze landed on Mirai and without thinking he declared. "I can't marry you, Kanon, I love someone else!"
Kobayashi then pointed at Mirai and said. "I'm in love with Mirai!"
-
"You're with Mirai's friends and her brother?" Suzuka's grandmother asked, a bit surprised.
-
Mifune smiled as he read the mail he received.
'Niichan, oyasumi nasai.'
----------------
"What's this?" Umi asked Minoru, still half-asleep, looking at her glass.
Minoru turned after closing the door and smiled at her. Their breakfast has just been delivered to their room. They stayed in a hotel in Yarraville.
"Ohayou." Minoru greeted. "The waiter said it's hibiscus flower." He answered her.
"It's edible?" Umi asked.
"Hai." Minoru said. "I think I read somewhere that they make jams out of them."
Umi nodded, sporting a small smile. She remembered her last birthday when Daichi had given her a bouquet of edible flowers.
"I wonder how Daichi and the others are." Umi pondered loudly.
"I'm sure they're fine." Minoru assured her. "We can call them before we go for our tour. For now let's eat."
-
There was a big splash and waves were formed as Zou-san jumped from the deck to the sea. Wanikawa, and Habu, after disappearing under the waves all rounded on Zou-san, looking angry.
Mirai let out a little chuckle as she watched them from the veranda. She looked around for Hyouzoka-san, Kobayashi and Daichi but she couldn't spot them. They were probably on the shore, out of her line of sight.
"Mirai… you're awake."
Mirai turned in surprised.
"Daichi, what are you doing here?" She asked, smiling.
He shrugged, smiling as well. "I didn't feel like swimming." He said.
Daichi looked at Mirai. "Are you okay?" Daichi asked. Mirai didn't eat breakfast with them. Hyouzoka had said she was still asleep and that she looked tired so she didn't bother waking her up. After their breakfast, Suzuka told them Mirai's manager asked for Mirai to rest for today since she'll be working consecutively for the next few days so they didn't have any plans for the day for them. Hyouzoka then said that Mirai told her about going to the beach for a swim. The others was happy about that suggestion.
"Yes. I was just a bit tired, I guess. I'm okay." Mirai said. And then she frowned at him, looking worried.
"Are you okay?" She asked him.
Daichi was surprised. "Yeah, why shouldn't I be?"
Mirai purse her lips. "Well… you aren't with the others… And last night I noticed you and Kobayashi-kun seems to be avoiding each other." She trailed off.
Daichi frowned as well. He stepped forward to the veranda and stood besides Mirai, looking out to the sea.
"I'm still… bothered… about what Kobayashi---about him making you pretend." Daichi said softly, not looking at Mirai.
Mirai opened his mouth to speak but Daichi hurried on. "I know you said it's okay with you. And that should make it fine, but… I can't help it." He said, frowning.
Mirai smiled at him and looked out to the sea as well.
"You're very kind." She told him. "Everything's gonna be fine. Tomorrow will be the rehearsal for J-Kai so Kanon-san would be there as we'll be working as fellow hosts. Kobayashi-kun offered to come. He said he wasn't sure what Kanon-san would do so…" She trailed off. "I don't know if it's a good thing for Kobayashi-kun to be there but honestly, I also feel a bit worried about working with her. If Kobayashi-kun would come, do you mind coming as well? I'd feel more at ease…" She confessed.
"That's fine with me." Daichi said, feeling very much relieved somehow. "We can all go."
"Would that be okay for the others? It would be boring to just wait for me…" Mirai said. "And daddy will coming back later. He plans for everyone to go to Baird Bay tomorrow."
"Your father's returning today?" Daichi asked.
"Tonight. Though he still have work in the coming days." Mirai said. "I think it would have been better if all you go while I work but with what happened…"
"The others can come with your dad. Kobayashi and I will go with you." Daichi said.
"You'll miss swimming with dolphins, sea lions, tuna and great white sharks…" She said, looking apologetic.
"Dolphins??" Daichi said, looking excited.
"Maybe you should go with th--"
"No." Daichi said hastily. "I'll go with you. We can all go together some other time." He said.
"Sorry…" Mirai said.
"No need to apologize." Daichi said. "It's already been so much fun since day one."
Mirai looked at him and smiled.
"You're not afraid of standing by a veranda anymore…" She commented.
"As long as I don't look down." Daichi said, letting out a little chuckle.
Suddenly someone called their names. It was Wanikawa and Hyouzoka from below. Mirai waved at them.
"Kobayashi doesn't seem to be with them…" Mirai said, but Daichi has already stepped back in the house.
"They shouldn't have called me." He said, looking a bit pale. "I instinctively looked down."
-
To say that Suzuka is surprised was an understatement. But even so, she held an almost expressionless face, only her eyebrows betraying how she really felt.
She cleared her throat to get his attention.
Kobayashi sharply turned at the sound.
"Suzuka-san." He greeted, smiling sheepishly.
"What are you doing here?" She asked him.
"Er, sorry… I was just taking a stroll around the house and I saw… uhm, I was just curious." He said, putting down the brush by Sage's stable.
"You were grooming her." Suzuka said, looking blank.
"Er, yes. Sorry." Kobayashi said.
"She's not very friendly with strangers… how did you..?"
"Really? Uhm, she was very tame when I first approached her…" Kobayashi said, looking at Sage. "Maybe it's because I also do horseback riding..?" Kobayashi trailed off.
"You also ride?" Suzuka asked, looking at Kobayashi with more interest.
"Uh, yes. I've had lessons when I was little. My mama said grandfather loved horseback riding."
Suzuka blinked and then nodded.
"Do you want to ride her?" She suddenly asked.
Kobayashi looked excited. "Can I?"
Suzuka nodded once more.
She couldn't help but look at Kobayashi in a new light. He is from a prestigious family. His grandfather was her grandfather's friend. He had the right background, the right upbringing, the proper manners. Unlike Suzuki Daichi.
Maybe the idea of him being her cousin's fiancé wasn't as ludicrous as it sounded.
-
"Sensei." Mifune said as soon as the phone was answered.
"Mifune." Kanbe-sensei acknowledged. "How are you?"
"Training is going fine." Mifune said simply. "How's mom?"
"She's fine. Still looking for you and Mirai but other than that, she seemed content." Kanbe-sensei said. "The doctors started on her therapy. The doctors doesn't say anything yet, but they are hopeful."
"That's good." Mifune said.
"Fuji-sanjust left. He said he'll be returning to Australia now. He--"
"Mirai's dad?" Mifune asked, surprised.
"Ah, yes. He arrived yesterday and stayed the whole day here. He brought some photo albums and home videos, saying he thought it may help her regain some of her memories. The doctors said that was promising. The doctors also interviewed him and they already have a theory of what caused your mom's state and they are making a general plan for her treatment. Earlier, Fuji-san came once more to say goodbye."
"I… didn't know he went to Japan. Mirai said he was working here…" Mifune said.
"Well, he was here." Kanbe-sensei affirmed.
Mifune nodded, and remembering he was on the phone said, "Is that so…"
"Hai."
"Well, about mom…"
"I got her."
"Thanks." Mifune said. "Call me if anything happens."
-
“Mirai-chan!” Zou-san called cheerfully, to Mirai’s surprise. This was the first time he called her.
“Hey…” She called back, waving at everyone as she approached them on the beach.
“Come and join us!” Wanikawa said.
Before Mirai could answer, Hyouzoka called back to Wanikawa. “Baka! Her manager told her to rest. Swimming isn’t what you call ‘resting,’ stupid.”
“It’s just for a little while!” Wanikawa said defensively.
“No… I think I’ll just watch you guys.” Mirai intercepted.
“Where’s Suzuki?” Someone from her side suddenly asked. She only noticed now that Habu-san was actually standing close to her.
“H-habu-san… I didn’t notice you there.” Mirai said. “Daichi’s on the phone with his mom.”
She looked around. “Where’s Kobayashi-kun?” She asked.
“Eh? I thought he was also with you…” Habu said.
-
"We don't really have plans for today. We'll just stay here for the whole day." Daichi told his mom through the phone as he walked, not really having any thoughts of where his feet were taking him.
He only realized when the call ended, that he had walked to `the back of Mirai's house. At least he was sure it was the back, though he hasn't come there before. Maybe it was the other side, opposite from where the trail to the sea was.
He turned to go back but stopped when he heard something. Turning back, he was surprised to see Kobayashi on a white horse. He gaped. Kobayashi looks very different from the Kobayashi he knew. He looked confident as he rode.
He watched as Kobayashi direct the horse to slow into a stop. Daichi was even more surprised to see Suzuka there. Kobayashi got off the horse, and said something to Suzuka. Suzuka nodded and started climbing up. Kobayashi tried to help her but he was ignored. He laughed looking nervous as he scratched his head sheepishly.
"Wow, they get along…" Daichi couldn't help but say. It was unexpected as the two seemed to be polar opposites in terms of personalities. Kobayashi lacks confidence, is tender and a bit reliant. Suzuka, on the other hand, carries herself proudly, tries to be very independent that she may come cross as cold.
Quietly, Daichi turned back. Somehow he didn't want them to know he had saw them. He had a feeling they -- particularly Suzuka -- wouldn't appreciate it.
Daichi had went to the beach after that and during lunch, Suzuka and Kobayashi joined them. Homura-san, one of the maids, set a table by the beach and they ate there.
After lunch, Daichi and Kobayashi joined their friends in the sea while Suzuka retreated inside the house. While the others played in the water, Mirai, accompanied by Homura-san, watched them.
-
Dinner was surprisingly a quiet event. Everyone save for Mirai and Suzuka were tired from the day's activities that it was relatively silent. Everyone seemed already half-asleep. Everyone woke up from their daze though, when they heard the sound of a car and Mirai had stood up, and without even excusing herself, bolted.
Suzuka followed suit though bowing curtly to them. Daichi stood up as well, smiling a little.
"Her dad's back." He told his friends and together, everyone went to the living room to welcome him.
-
As they have planned, Mirai brought Kobayashi and Daichi with her to work while Mirai's father, Fuji Naohito-san took the others with him to the Baird Bay. Mirai had told her father about what happened and though he looked worried, he accepted Kobayashi's apology.
Now, Kobayashi and Daichi were at Metropolitan Hotel where the event would be held. All around them, booths and decorations were being set up. On the stage were Mirai and Kanon and a few more people instructing them of how the show would take place.
When they had arrived earlier, Kanon was already here and she had greeted Kobayashi and Mirai cheerfully, something that made Kobayashi feel very agitated about. It doesn't seem like Kanon was planning on doing anything… not yet at least, but Kobayashi still felt it was better that he and Suzuki were here.
Though being with Suzuki was another matter. They hadn't talk since Chloe's and it was rather awkward sitting with him while waiting for Mirai. He didn't have the courage to talk or even look at the guy. It was quite clear that he wasn't happy about him at the moment.
He has an inkling of why Suzuki was that way, though he wasn't sure if his friend does; which makes it all the more complicated. He can't really tell him not to worry because Daichi himself doesn't know what he's worried about.
He isn't absolutely sure, but he had noticed how his friend had looked at him when he had said Mirai was his fiancé. He really looked angry and at the same time, confused. And it's already been two days but he still hasn't forgiven him. He was acting very odd lately. The usual Suzuki would have not been happy about what he did, but he would forgive him if he apologized; scold him maybe, but forgive him nevertheless.
Kobayashi perked up as both Mirai and Kanon walked towards them, chatting happily. There was something very disquieting about that.
"Kouji-kun, Daichi." Mirai said when she was near enough. Kobayashi mentally winced. He didn't think calling him by his first name and before his friend was a way to Suzuki's forgiveness.
"M-mirai… Kanon, er, break?" He asked them.
"Hai." Mirai said, smiling up at him. She was definitely playing his fiancé right now. He wasn't sure if he should be happy or not. "Kanon-chan asked if we could all eat together."
"Er, sure…" Kobayashi just said.
-
Kobayashi found himself seated between Mirai and Suzuki. It might have been his imagination but he felt as if there was a murderous intent coming from his left side.
Kanon was acting very friendly with Mirai and he didn't really know what to make of it.
"They especially prepared Japanese catering for us." Kanon was saying as all of them opened their bento.
"Sashimi! Yum!" Kanon said excitedly. "Ittadakimasu!" Everyone followed her.
Kobayashi started eating but Suzuki and Mirai didn't.
"Mirai-chan? Don't you like sashimi?" Daichi suddenly asked.
"Uhm… it's raw so…" Mirai tried to say.
Kobayashi smiled at Mirai. "Oh, right…" He said as if he'd known about this before. "We should go ask Chelle-san for something else. You can give that to me. It's a good thing I love raw foods."
Mirai smiled at him as well. It was a genuine smile. "Thank you."
"No problem." Kobayashi said, feeling a bit embarrassed. It wasn't really acting. Mirai was his friend and there was just something about her that make you want to care for her. Probably the whole princess-aura.
-
Kanon frowned as Kouji and Mirai talked. She admits that from a guy's point of view, Mirai was very much likeable. And it seemed a fact that she and Kouji were close. But Kanon still wasn't convinced that they were in love with each other. They just don't have that kind of feel between them. Well, she supposed she could be wrong, but unless she saw definite proof, she wasn't letting go of the possibility it was all a farce.
Something stung in her as she thought that. Would Kouji really do that? Would he go that far to get rid of her? She had heard about the plans about engagement with a Sora-san before, even though she had already told both her and his mom of what she wanted years ago (Kanon felt very angry that again and again, no one was taking her seriously). Did Kouji act the same way? From what she heard… It doesn’t seem like he minded being engaged with that girl… Then why with her? Does he hate her that much?
She shook the idea immediately. Her Kouji was not like that. He wouldn't do that. He doesn't hate her, she was sure of that.
But then, does that mean he really is in love with Mirai?
No. No, he can't be. How did they meet, anyway? She'd known Kouji since she was little, she'd love him since. Her feelings can't lose to anyone else’s!
-
Mirai, Daichi and Kobayashi arrived at Mirai's house early in the evening. The others were surprisingly asleep by then, apparently tired from swimming all day (with white sharks, no less). Nothing interesting really happened with Kanon-san during the rehearsals. Mirai had thought she was rather a lovely young lady, if not a bit overconfident. She was friendly enough, though it seemed like she was pretending that Kobayashi wasn't there with them. Much like how Daichi seemed to be acting.
She didn't know why, but throughout the whole day and even now, Daichi had been very quiet and very reserved. He was just there, observing them or something. It was a bit disconcerting for Mirai.
Her father and Suzuka had joined them during dinner and her father kept asking them about their day. Mirai had really missed him. She felt somewhat complete now that he was back and that her friends were here.
In the middle of dinner, Suzuka's phone had rang and she excused herself.
"Must be mother." Fuji Naohito said as he watched his niece made her way out the dining room.
"That's who she keeps talking with?" Kobayashi, unexpectedly, asked.
"Yes." Mirai answered. "She's very close to Gran. She talks to her every day."
Kobayashi only nodded, seemingly pondering.
"So, tomorrow will finally be the event?" Daichi asked, surprising Mirai. It felt like it was the first time he talked all day.
"Un." Mirai said, smiling.
"We should all come." Daichi said.
"That's a good idea." Kobayashi said softly, looking tentatively at Daichi. "Mirai-chan, maybe Mifune-senpai would also want to come."
"I'll ask him." Mirai said.
---
The gang arrived at the hotel where the event was being held around noon. Mirai was, of course, already there. They weren't able to talk to Mirai, but she had waved at them when she saw them, right before the program started.
Mirai had told them that this event was host by the Japanese-Australian Friendship Association. She said it used to be a monthly gathering of Japanese and Australian fond of Japanese culture but as the association became bigger and bigger, the event transformed into a sort of convention. And instead of holding the usual J-Kai, it had become a larger event; a one-week celebration held annually. The event today and tomorrow was only a start of the celebration. Mifune-senpai's fight, was surprisingly also part of the week-long festivity.
From what Kobayashi had heard (from Sagara-san), Mirai being part of this year's J-Kai only made the event more bigger as even those who aren't really interested in the culture, but are fans of Mirai would've come. And since Mirai would be making a Japanese movie this year as well (a sort of a comeback in Japanese industry), they were also expecting Japanese media. Kanon's presence was also significant, though of course, among the Australians, she is only mostly known to those who are following Japanese music.
Looking around, Hyouzoka could almost believe she was back in Japan. It looked like she was in one of those anime conventions. A lot of people were wearing anime costumes or yukatas. There were lots of kids, lots of Japanese merchandise, and there were even bands playing Japanese music (though she had to admit, she could barely understand the lyrics with how the singers pronounced the words). Most of the people were Australians, but there were also some Japanese residents among them. It was a bit surreal to think that other countries regard Japanese culture as something worth having an event for. She was feeling a bit proud.
-
Daichi looked around the place, a smile plastered on his face. It was a forced smile. And he was already feeling tired holding it in place. Somehow, he felt very miserable just then. He knew he should enjoy… It was their vacation. It was his first time going to Australia, going to an event like this… He was with his friends… But he wasn't with his mom. And as he had felt the day before, the whole Mirai and Kobayashi situation just nags at him.
Earlier that day, he had finally came to terms to the cause of his disquiet. He had finally admitted to himself that he really does like Mirai… or at least that she is special to him. He had never really given thought about what he thought of Mirai, even with Minoru-san's and his mom's constant teasing. He had assumed what he felt for Mirai was simply a sort of fan thing… since he'd been her fan when he was little (well, he's still a fan). But that wasn't all. She was just different. She is different from Hyouzoka. She is different from Sora-san or from any other girls he knew. And it bothered him when Kobayashi suddenly said those things. It bothered him more when Mirai had responded accordingly, even calling Kobayashi by his first name. And now they were starting to get closer.
He realized he's jealous.
It was irrational. It was stupid. He was being a hypocrite and a jerk. Kobayashi was after all also a friend of Mirai. What's more, he's his best friend. And it wasn't like he has any claim over Mirai or anything. Besides, they are just pretending.
But still, he couldn't help but feel jealous.
"Are you okay?" Someone suddenly asked from his side and he was pulled from his thoughts.
"I'm fine." Daichi said, his forced smile back.
Hyouzoka frowned at him disbelievingly, but didn't give any other comment.
-
Kobayashi too, wasn't entirely enjoying himself. He knew he was being overly paranoid, but seeing Mirai and Kanon together somehow worried him. He probably was just being silly. Kanon isn't really that bad. She's nice, she's smart… just that she usually go out of her way to get what she wants. She can be quite scary if she wants to.
But then again, she's working right now. And though she entered the entertainment industry on just a whim, Kobayashi knew she loves her work and hopefully, she'll keep personal matters separated from her profession.
Just as he thought this, another voice whispered that if she's really professional like he thought, she wouldn’t have asked to be this event's host just so she could… he didn't know, observe Mirai? Torment him, most likely.
-
The first day was mostly just a sort of matsuri, with stores and booths everywhere. It was like a school festival.
The second day was a bit grander. Daichi wouldn't believe it possible during the first day, but it seems there were two or three times more people that came on the second day.
There were a lot more cosplayers that day and they really looked and act their characters that it felt as if Daichi and his friends were the ones out of place.
The cosplay competition was held in the morning and after that, the cosplayers are everywhere.
There was also a sort of 'idol' competition for the kids where Shimazaki Kanon performed a dance with the participants. And in the early evening, the battle of the anime bands started.
For Daichi the highlight of the day was the fact that after the cosplay and idol competition, Mirai was let off so she could also enjoy the event. So she is able to watch the battle with them.
He knew though that for Mirai, the highlight of the day was when after the first band performed. Someone had tapped Mirai from the back right then. And that person turned out to be her brother. He is a little late, but Daichi knew Mirai didn't really care about that. He saw how thrilled she was.
Even with all these though, Daichi was a little disappointed because e could only watch Mirai from the back.
Currently, Mirai is standing some feet in front of him, in between Mifune-senpai and Kobayashi.
He didn't really know how it happened. When the second band started playing their first song, the crowd's tension heightened and next thing he knew, they had been separated. Kobayashi, Mirai, Mifune-senpai and Suzuka together, and he with the rest of their group.
Truthfully, he wasn't really watching the band. His eyes were strained on Mirai's back.
-
"This band really won the crowd, ne?" Hyouzoka commented.
She looked at Daichi when he didn't respond and she realized her friend weren't really paying mind to anyone but Mirai.
Hyouzoka frowned about to call her friend's attention but then she realized another thing. Someone else was looking at the young princess. A Japanese man, holding a camera. Hyouzoka's frown deepened but for a very different reason. She didn't really like how the man was looking at their friend.
She tapped Daichi for about three times before he looked at her.
"Eh? Did you say something?" He asked.
Hyouzoka tsked impatiently and pointed at the man. Daichi followed where she was pointing and then frowned. Hyouzoka knew then that she wasn't over thinking things.
"...Do you think?" Suzuki asked her.
"It's likely." She said.
They saw him raise his camera and the two looked at Mirai and their other friends.
Mifune-senpai had put his arm around Mirai's shoulders and stirred her to his front, because the wild crowd was well, getting wilder. Mirai had smiled in thanks and Mifune had let go of her.
Hyouzoka looked back at the man and sighed in relief when he saw him frowning.
"It looks like he hadn't caught any of that." Hyouzoka told Suzuki. "It'll be bad if he gets a picture of her and Mifune-senpai.”
Suzuki nodded, understanding at once. Mirai is very popular in both Japan and Australia. Granted, it was more so in Australia, but she was making a comeback in Japan. It's not known outside Mirai's family and friends that Mirai has a half-brother. And that half-brother is also slowly being known. He'd already been featured in a magazine. It wouldn't be good if their story got out.
"I'll go and tell Mirai." Hyouzoka said hastily. "Maybe you should go and get Sagara-san? Ugh, what are we supposed to do?"
But Suzuki just nodded. "I'll get Sagara-san. Tell Mirai and senpai. And Kobayashi. You know--"
Hyouzoka just nodded and started to make my way towards our friends but stopped almost immediately.
"Suzuki, they're gone." Hyouzoka said as she pulled him back.
"The man is gone too." He said, sounding worried. "Tell senpai, anyway. I'll go look for them."
Hyouzoka just nodded. 'Where did Mirai go? Kobayashi is gone too, as well as Suzuka.'
--
Mifune noticed when the girl Mirai was working with made her way to them. She'd look like she was trying to get to Mirai so Mifune had pointed her out to her sister.
The girl had gestured something at Mirai and Mirai turned to Mifune to excuse herself.
"We're being called." She had shouted to the noise. Not really hearing her, but having read her mouth, Mifune nodded.
He watched them go, feeling a little worried, though he didn't know why. After about a few seconds, Kobayashi had turned to him and distractedly said he would follow them.
"Just in case." He said mysteriously. Mifune had only manage to frown at Kobayashi before he too, left.
And then, he didn't really noticed when she, but he realized that Suzuka too, was gone. He was about to go look for them when Hyouzoka showed up.
"Where did they go?" She asked, looking both tired and anxious.
"That girl, Shimazaki called Mirai. Seems they were being called." Mifune said, feeling lost. "Kobayashi followed them, and Mirai's cousin… she just disappeared. Did something happened?" He asked her.
"There was a paparazzo." Hyouzoka said. "At least we think so," She added hastily, seeing the look on Mifune's face. "He seems to be trying to get a photo of you and Mirai."
Mifune scowled.
"Suzuki's looking for them. And I told the others to get Sagara-san. It should be okay if Mirai was called..." Hyouzoka hurried on saying.
It didn't comfort Mifune, though.
-
Mirai followed Kanon silently, back to their waiting room. But when they entered the room, no one was around.
Mirai turned to Kanon, "Who were calling for us?" She asked.
Kanon bit her lower lip.
Mirai stared at her, a bit surprised. For the first time since knowing the younger girl, she looked small, scared… very different from the young confident and outspoken girl she knew.
It doesn't really suit her.
"Shimazaki-san?" Mirai asked, looking a little worried.
"No one were calling for us." Kanon said. "I wanted to talk to you, Fuji-san. "
Mirai knew what was coming. She didn't really know what to do. She knew it was only right to tell her the truth. But she also thought it would be more appropriate if it came from Kobayashi.
"About you and Kouji." Kanon started saying, looking at the floor. "Please, can you just tell me the truth?" She asked in a small voice.
Mirai just looked at her, inwardly debating.
"You should know what I'm talking about." Kanon said, frowning.
Mirai closed her eyes, feeling conflicted. And deciding in the spur of the moment, she approached Kanon and took both her hands in hers.
"Shimazaki-san…" She started but before she could go any further, the door to the room opened.
"Kanon, Mirai-chan…"
"Kouji!" Kanon said, eyes wide in surprise.
Kobayashi looked around the room and then turned to Kanon. "I thought you were called here? Did they tell you why? They said you two are done with work today…"
Kobayashi looked from one girl to the other but neither replied.
Mirai gave Kobayashi a small smile. "Kobayashi-kun, you should tell her." She said softly.
Kobayashi stared at her, feeling conflicted. After a while he sighed in resignation and gave Mirai a nod.
He then turned to Kanon.
Kanon looked at him, waiting. Kobayashi glanced one more time to Mirai and Mirai gave him an encouraging nod.
"Kanon-chan… about Mirai and me…" Kobayashi started, looking at the floor. "I-it wasn't true… Mirai and I aren't together--"
"Mirai haven't answered Kobayashi-kun." Someone suddenly cut Kobayashi.
Mirai looked in surprise at her cousin who had just entered the room. Kobayashi was also speechless.
"Fuji-san--?" Kanon started but Suzuka continued talking.
"Kobayashi-kun has been courting my cousin for a while now. That's also why Kobayashi-kun went all the way from Japan to Australia. He also wanted to meet our grandfather. His and our grandfather knew each other, and my grandfather approves of Kobayashi-kun."
Mirai was gaping, unbelieving. "Suzu-chan, what--"
"Mirai-chan!" Someone suddenly called.
The door opened behind Suzuka and Daichi entered.
"You're all here." He said as he looked at all of them.
He stopped and frowned. "Did something happened…?"
"Why were you looking for us, Suzuki-san?" Suzuka asked.
"We have to go back." Daichi said, distracted. "We saw a paparazzo. We think he's trying to get a photo of Mirai." He looked at Mirai imploringly.
Suzuka nodded at once and took Mirai's hand and pulled her out.
"Wait, Shimazaki-san-!" Mirai tried to say.
"We have to go." Suzuka said firmly.
Mirai and Suzuka exited the room, leaving the other three.
Kobayashi turned to Kanon, not knowing how to start explaining.
But before he could say anything, Kanon ran out of the room as well.
Stricken, Kobayashi ran after her. And Daichi, looking confused followed.
As the two boys exited, the man hiding behind the closet took one last photo.
-
TBC
extra:
Author: macymacymacy
Beta: crescentharpe
Pairing: YamaShi and others.
Genre: Family, Friendship, Romance
Rating: G
AN:
-i did try to stick with the drama's canon as much as possible.
-italics and gray font means a flashback while just italics means the words are said in English.
-this is much shorter than the first 2 parts but that's because there's no other convenient way to divide this. I've written these parts as a oneshot so basically everything is written scene after scene and I'm having a hard time trying to separate them into parts. :))
PART 1 | PART 2
PART 3
Previously on RnM SP:
[(click to open)]"Do you really need to go now, Kanon-chan?" Kanon's manager, looking harassed, asked.
"Yes." Kanon said unconcernedly.
-
Kobayashi nodded in defeat. "Yeah, she's still in middle school. But she wants to. She asked her mom to propose an arranged marriage to my mom."
"And what did your mom say? Did she agree?" Daichi asked. Mirai kept quiet, only listening to the two of them.
"She adores her. She even let her call her 'Mama.'"
-
"Do you love me?" She suddenly asked.
Daichi stared, and slowly nodded.
"How much in the world?" She asked.
Daichi couldn't help but smile a little, remembering when her mom first asked this, ages ago.
He raised his hand and gestured 'one.'
Umi grinned.
"You're number one to me, too." She said. "But, it's not bad if we love other people. It can't be just me. I'll be happy as long as I'm still number one."
There was a pause and then Daichi finally nodded, smiling.
"Okay."
"That's my boy."
-
“Suzu.” Mirai said with a smile. “Sorry for the wait.”
Suzuka smiled and shook her head. “I’ve only just finished with makeup.”
Daichi blinked at what he was looking at. The very beautiful girl was actually Suzuka.
“That’s h-her cousin, right?” Wanikawa said, gaping.
“It’s like she transformed.” Kobayashi said, his mouth slightly opened in surprise.
“She should really smile more.” Kobayashi commented.
-
"Kouji!! I found you at last!!" the girl said and ran towards Kobayashi.
"K-kanon?!?!"
And then his gaze landed on Mirai and without thinking he declared. "I can't marry you, Kanon, I love someone else!"
Kobayashi then pointed at Mirai and said. "I'm in love with Mirai!"
-
"You're with Mirai's friends and her brother?" Suzuka's grandmother asked, a bit surprised.
-
Mifune smiled as he read the mail he received.
'Niichan, oyasumi nasai.'
----------------
"What's this?" Umi asked Minoru, still half-asleep, looking at her glass.
Minoru turned after closing the door and smiled at her. Their breakfast has just been delivered to their room. They stayed in a hotel in Yarraville.
"Ohayou." Minoru greeted. "The waiter said it's hibiscus flower." He answered her.
"It's edible?" Umi asked.
"Hai." Minoru said. "I think I read somewhere that they make jams out of them."
Umi nodded, sporting a small smile. She remembered her last birthday when Daichi had given her a bouquet of edible flowers.
"I wonder how Daichi and the others are." Umi pondered loudly.
"I'm sure they're fine." Minoru assured her. "We can call them before we go for our tour. For now let's eat."
-
There was a big splash and waves were formed as Zou-san jumped from the deck to the sea. Wanikawa, and Habu, after disappearing under the waves all rounded on Zou-san, looking angry.
Mirai let out a little chuckle as she watched them from the veranda. She looked around for Hyouzoka-san, Kobayashi and Daichi but she couldn't spot them. They were probably on the shore, out of her line of sight.
"Mirai… you're awake."
Mirai turned in surprised.
"Daichi, what are you doing here?" She asked, smiling.
He shrugged, smiling as well. "I didn't feel like swimming." He said.
Daichi looked at Mirai. "Are you okay?" Daichi asked. Mirai didn't eat breakfast with them. Hyouzoka had said she was still asleep and that she looked tired so she didn't bother waking her up. After their breakfast, Suzuka told them Mirai's manager asked for Mirai to rest for today since she'll be working consecutively for the next few days so they didn't have any plans for the day for them. Hyouzoka then said that Mirai told her about going to the beach for a swim. The others was happy about that suggestion.
"Yes. I was just a bit tired, I guess. I'm okay." Mirai said. And then she frowned at him, looking worried.
"Are you okay?" She asked him.
Daichi was surprised. "Yeah, why shouldn't I be?"
Mirai purse her lips. "Well… you aren't with the others… And last night I noticed you and Kobayashi-kun seems to be avoiding each other." She trailed off.
Daichi frowned as well. He stepped forward to the veranda and stood besides Mirai, looking out to the sea.
"I'm still… bothered… about what Kobayashi---about him making you pretend." Daichi said softly, not looking at Mirai.
Mirai opened his mouth to speak but Daichi hurried on. "I know you said it's okay with you. And that should make it fine, but… I can't help it." He said, frowning.
Mirai smiled at him and looked out to the sea as well.
"You're very kind." She told him. "Everything's gonna be fine. Tomorrow will be the rehearsal for J-Kai so Kanon-san would be there as we'll be working as fellow hosts. Kobayashi-kun offered to come. He said he wasn't sure what Kanon-san would do so…" She trailed off. "I don't know if it's a good thing for Kobayashi-kun to be there but honestly, I also feel a bit worried about working with her. If Kobayashi-kun would come, do you mind coming as well? I'd feel more at ease…" She confessed.
"That's fine with me." Daichi said, feeling very much relieved somehow. "We can all go."
"Would that be okay for the others? It would be boring to just wait for me…" Mirai said. "And daddy will coming back later. He plans for everyone to go to Baird Bay tomorrow."
"Your father's returning today?" Daichi asked.
"Tonight. Though he still have work in the coming days." Mirai said. "I think it would have been better if all you go while I work but with what happened…"
"The others can come with your dad. Kobayashi and I will go with you." Daichi said.
"You'll miss swimming with dolphins, sea lions, tuna and great white sharks…" She said, looking apologetic.
"Dolphins??" Daichi said, looking excited.
"Maybe you should go with th--"
"No." Daichi said hastily. "I'll go with you. We can all go together some other time." He said.
"Sorry…" Mirai said.
"No need to apologize." Daichi said. "It's already been so much fun since day one."
Mirai looked at him and smiled.
"You're not afraid of standing by a veranda anymore…" She commented.
"As long as I don't look down." Daichi said, letting out a little chuckle.
Suddenly someone called their names. It was Wanikawa and Hyouzoka from below. Mirai waved at them.
"Kobayashi doesn't seem to be with them…" Mirai said, but Daichi has already stepped back in the house.
"They shouldn't have called me." He said, looking a bit pale. "I instinctively looked down."
-
To say that Suzuka is surprised was an understatement. But even so, she held an almost expressionless face, only her eyebrows betraying how she really felt.
She cleared her throat to get his attention.
Kobayashi sharply turned at the sound.
"Suzuka-san." He greeted, smiling sheepishly.
"What are you doing here?" She asked him.
"Er, sorry… I was just taking a stroll around the house and I saw… uhm, I was just curious." He said, putting down the brush by Sage's stable.
"You were grooming her." Suzuka said, looking blank.
"Er, yes. Sorry." Kobayashi said.
"She's not very friendly with strangers… how did you..?"
"Really? Uhm, she was very tame when I first approached her…" Kobayashi said, looking at Sage. "Maybe it's because I also do horseback riding..?" Kobayashi trailed off.
"You also ride?" Suzuka asked, looking at Kobayashi with more interest.
"Uh, yes. I've had lessons when I was little. My mama said grandfather loved horseback riding."
Suzuka blinked and then nodded.
"Do you want to ride her?" She suddenly asked.
Kobayashi looked excited. "Can I?"
Suzuka nodded once more.
She couldn't help but look at Kobayashi in a new light. He is from a prestigious family. His grandfather was her grandfather's friend. He had the right background, the right upbringing, the proper manners. Unlike Suzuki Daichi.
Maybe the idea of him being her cousin's fiancé wasn't as ludicrous as it sounded.
-
"Sensei." Mifune said as soon as the phone was answered.
"Mifune." Kanbe-sensei acknowledged. "How are you?"
"Training is going fine." Mifune said simply. "How's mom?"
"She's fine. Still looking for you and Mirai but other than that, she seemed content." Kanbe-sensei said. "The doctors started on her therapy. The doctors doesn't say anything yet, but they are hopeful."
"That's good." Mifune said.
"Fuji-sanjust left. He said he'll be returning to Australia now. He--"
"Mirai's dad?" Mifune asked, surprised.
"Ah, yes. He arrived yesterday and stayed the whole day here. He brought some photo albums and home videos, saying he thought it may help her regain some of her memories. The doctors said that was promising. The doctors also interviewed him and they already have a theory of what caused your mom's state and they are making a general plan for her treatment. Earlier, Fuji-san came once more to say goodbye."
"I… didn't know he went to Japan. Mirai said he was working here…" Mifune said.
"Well, he was here." Kanbe-sensei affirmed.
Mifune nodded, and remembering he was on the phone said, "Is that so…"
"Hai."
"Well, about mom…"
"I got her."
"Thanks." Mifune said. "Call me if anything happens."
-
“Mirai-chan!” Zou-san called cheerfully, to Mirai’s surprise. This was the first time he called her.
“Hey…” She called back, waving at everyone as she approached them on the beach.
“Come and join us!” Wanikawa said.
Before Mirai could answer, Hyouzoka called back to Wanikawa. “Baka! Her manager told her to rest. Swimming isn’t what you call ‘resting,’ stupid.”
“It’s just for a little while!” Wanikawa said defensively.
“No… I think I’ll just watch you guys.” Mirai intercepted.
“Where’s Suzuki?” Someone from her side suddenly asked. She only noticed now that Habu-san was actually standing close to her.
“H-habu-san… I didn’t notice you there.” Mirai said. “Daichi’s on the phone with his mom.”
She looked around. “Where’s Kobayashi-kun?” She asked.
“Eh? I thought he was also with you…” Habu said.
-
"We don't really have plans for today. We'll just stay here for the whole day." Daichi told his mom through the phone as he walked, not really having any thoughts of where his feet were taking him.
He only realized when the call ended, that he had walked to `the back of Mirai's house. At least he was sure it was the back, though he hasn't come there before. Maybe it was the other side, opposite from where the trail to the sea was.
He turned to go back but stopped when he heard something. Turning back, he was surprised to see Kobayashi on a white horse. He gaped. Kobayashi looks very different from the Kobayashi he knew. He looked confident as he rode.
He watched as Kobayashi direct the horse to slow into a stop. Daichi was even more surprised to see Suzuka there. Kobayashi got off the horse, and said something to Suzuka. Suzuka nodded and started climbing up. Kobayashi tried to help her but he was ignored. He laughed looking nervous as he scratched his head sheepishly.
"Wow, they get along…" Daichi couldn't help but say. It was unexpected as the two seemed to be polar opposites in terms of personalities. Kobayashi lacks confidence, is tender and a bit reliant. Suzuka, on the other hand, carries herself proudly, tries to be very independent that she may come cross as cold.
Quietly, Daichi turned back. Somehow he didn't want them to know he had saw them. He had a feeling they -- particularly Suzuka -- wouldn't appreciate it.
Daichi had went to the beach after that and during lunch, Suzuka and Kobayashi joined them. Homura-san, one of the maids, set a table by the beach and they ate there.
After lunch, Daichi and Kobayashi joined their friends in the sea while Suzuka retreated inside the house. While the others played in the water, Mirai, accompanied by Homura-san, watched them.
-
Dinner was surprisingly a quiet event. Everyone save for Mirai and Suzuka were tired from the day's activities that it was relatively silent. Everyone seemed already half-asleep. Everyone woke up from their daze though, when they heard the sound of a car and Mirai had stood up, and without even excusing herself, bolted.
Suzuka followed suit though bowing curtly to them. Daichi stood up as well, smiling a little.
"Her dad's back." He told his friends and together, everyone went to the living room to welcome him.
-
As they have planned, Mirai brought Kobayashi and Daichi with her to work while Mirai's father, Fuji Naohito-san took the others with him to the Baird Bay. Mirai had told her father about what happened and though he looked worried, he accepted Kobayashi's apology.
Now, Kobayashi and Daichi were at Metropolitan Hotel where the event would be held. All around them, booths and decorations were being set up. On the stage were Mirai and Kanon and a few more people instructing them of how the show would take place.
When they had arrived earlier, Kanon was already here and she had greeted Kobayashi and Mirai cheerfully, something that made Kobayashi feel very agitated about. It doesn't seem like Kanon was planning on doing anything… not yet at least, but Kobayashi still felt it was better that he and Suzuki were here.
Though being with Suzuki was another matter. They hadn't talk since Chloe's and it was rather awkward sitting with him while waiting for Mirai. He didn't have the courage to talk or even look at the guy. It was quite clear that he wasn't happy about him at the moment.
He has an inkling of why Suzuki was that way, though he wasn't sure if his friend does; which makes it all the more complicated. He can't really tell him not to worry because Daichi himself doesn't know what he's worried about.
He isn't absolutely sure, but he had noticed how his friend had looked at him when he had said Mirai was his fiancé. He really looked angry and at the same time, confused. And it's already been two days but he still hasn't forgiven him. He was acting very odd lately. The usual Suzuki would have not been happy about what he did, but he would forgive him if he apologized; scold him maybe, but forgive him nevertheless.
Kobayashi perked up as both Mirai and Kanon walked towards them, chatting happily. There was something very disquieting about that.
"Kouji-kun, Daichi." Mirai said when she was near enough. Kobayashi mentally winced. He didn't think calling him by his first name and before his friend was a way to Suzuki's forgiveness.
"M-mirai… Kanon, er, break?" He asked them.
"Hai." Mirai said, smiling up at him. She was definitely playing his fiancé right now. He wasn't sure if he should be happy or not. "Kanon-chan asked if we could all eat together."
"Er, sure…" Kobayashi just said.
-
Kobayashi found himself seated between Mirai and Suzuki. It might have been his imagination but he felt as if there was a murderous intent coming from his left side.
Kanon was acting very friendly with Mirai and he didn't really know what to make of it.
"They especially prepared Japanese catering for us." Kanon was saying as all of them opened their bento.
"Sashimi! Yum!" Kanon said excitedly. "Ittadakimasu!" Everyone followed her.
Kobayashi started eating but Suzuki and Mirai didn't.
"Mirai-chan? Don't you like sashimi?" Daichi suddenly asked.
"Uhm… it's raw so…" Mirai tried to say.
Kobayashi smiled at Mirai. "Oh, right…" He said as if he'd known about this before. "We should go ask Chelle-san for something else. You can give that to me. It's a good thing I love raw foods."
Mirai smiled at him as well. It was a genuine smile. "Thank you."
"No problem." Kobayashi said, feeling a bit embarrassed. It wasn't really acting. Mirai was his friend and there was just something about her that make you want to care for her. Probably the whole princess-aura.
-
Kanon frowned as Kouji and Mirai talked. She admits that from a guy's point of view, Mirai was very much likeable. And it seemed a fact that she and Kouji were close. But Kanon still wasn't convinced that they were in love with each other. They just don't have that kind of feel between them. Well, she supposed she could be wrong, but unless she saw definite proof, she wasn't letting go of the possibility it was all a farce.
Something stung in her as she thought that. Would Kouji really do that? Would he go that far to get rid of her? She had heard about the plans about engagement with a Sora-san before, even though she had already told both her and his mom of what she wanted years ago (Kanon felt very angry that again and again, no one was taking her seriously). Did Kouji act the same way? From what she heard… It doesn’t seem like he minded being engaged with that girl… Then why with her? Does he hate her that much?
She shook the idea immediately. Her Kouji was not like that. He wouldn't do that. He doesn't hate her, she was sure of that.
But then, does that mean he really is in love with Mirai?
No. No, he can't be. How did they meet, anyway? She'd known Kouji since she was little, she'd love him since. Her feelings can't lose to anyone else’s!
-
Mirai, Daichi and Kobayashi arrived at Mirai's house early in the evening. The others were surprisingly asleep by then, apparently tired from swimming all day (with white sharks, no less). Nothing interesting really happened with Kanon-san during the rehearsals. Mirai had thought she was rather a lovely young lady, if not a bit overconfident. She was friendly enough, though it seemed like she was pretending that Kobayashi wasn't there with them. Much like how Daichi seemed to be acting.
She didn't know why, but throughout the whole day and even now, Daichi had been very quiet and very reserved. He was just there, observing them or something. It was a bit disconcerting for Mirai.
Her father and Suzuka had joined them during dinner and her father kept asking them about their day. Mirai had really missed him. She felt somewhat complete now that he was back and that her friends were here.
In the middle of dinner, Suzuka's phone had rang and she excused herself.
"Must be mother." Fuji Naohito said as he watched his niece made her way out the dining room.
"That's who she keeps talking with?" Kobayashi, unexpectedly, asked.
"Yes." Mirai answered. "She's very close to Gran. She talks to her every day."
Kobayashi only nodded, seemingly pondering.
"So, tomorrow will finally be the event?" Daichi asked, surprising Mirai. It felt like it was the first time he talked all day.
"Un." Mirai said, smiling.
"We should all come." Daichi said.
"That's a good idea." Kobayashi said softly, looking tentatively at Daichi. "Mirai-chan, maybe Mifune-senpai would also want to come."
"I'll ask him." Mirai said.
---
The gang arrived at the hotel where the event was being held around noon. Mirai was, of course, already there. They weren't able to talk to Mirai, but she had waved at them when she saw them, right before the program started.
Mirai had told them that this event was host by the Japanese-Australian Friendship Association. She said it used to be a monthly gathering of Japanese and Australian fond of Japanese culture but as the association became bigger and bigger, the event transformed into a sort of convention. And instead of holding the usual J-Kai, it had become a larger event; a one-week celebration held annually. The event today and tomorrow was only a start of the celebration. Mifune-senpai's fight, was surprisingly also part of the week-long festivity.
From what Kobayashi had heard (from Sagara-san), Mirai being part of this year's J-Kai only made the event more bigger as even those who aren't really interested in the culture, but are fans of Mirai would've come. And since Mirai would be making a Japanese movie this year as well (a sort of a comeback in Japanese industry), they were also expecting Japanese media. Kanon's presence was also significant, though of course, among the Australians, she is only mostly known to those who are following Japanese music.
Looking around, Hyouzoka could almost believe she was back in Japan. It looked like she was in one of those anime conventions. A lot of people were wearing anime costumes or yukatas. There were lots of kids, lots of Japanese merchandise, and there were even bands playing Japanese music (though she had to admit, she could barely understand the lyrics with how the singers pronounced the words). Most of the people were Australians, but there were also some Japanese residents among them. It was a bit surreal to think that other countries regard Japanese culture as something worth having an event for. She was feeling a bit proud.
-
Daichi looked around the place, a smile plastered on his face. It was a forced smile. And he was already feeling tired holding it in place. Somehow, he felt very miserable just then. He knew he should enjoy… It was their vacation. It was his first time going to Australia, going to an event like this… He was with his friends… But he wasn't with his mom. And as he had felt the day before, the whole Mirai and Kobayashi situation just nags at him.
Earlier that day, he had finally came to terms to the cause of his disquiet. He had finally admitted to himself that he really does like Mirai… or at least that she is special to him. He had never really given thought about what he thought of Mirai, even with Minoru-san's and his mom's constant teasing. He had assumed what he felt for Mirai was simply a sort of fan thing… since he'd been her fan when he was little (well, he's still a fan). But that wasn't all. She was just different. She is different from Hyouzoka. She is different from Sora-san or from any other girls he knew. And it bothered him when Kobayashi suddenly said those things. It bothered him more when Mirai had responded accordingly, even calling Kobayashi by his first name. And now they were starting to get closer.
He realized he's jealous.
It was irrational. It was stupid. He was being a hypocrite and a jerk. Kobayashi was after all also a friend of Mirai. What's more, he's his best friend. And it wasn't like he has any claim over Mirai or anything. Besides, they are just pretending.
But still, he couldn't help but feel jealous.
"Are you okay?" Someone suddenly asked from his side and he was pulled from his thoughts.
"I'm fine." Daichi said, his forced smile back.
Hyouzoka frowned at him disbelievingly, but didn't give any other comment.
-
Kobayashi too, wasn't entirely enjoying himself. He knew he was being overly paranoid, but seeing Mirai and Kanon together somehow worried him. He probably was just being silly. Kanon isn't really that bad. She's nice, she's smart… just that she usually go out of her way to get what she wants. She can be quite scary if she wants to.
But then again, she's working right now. And though she entered the entertainment industry on just a whim, Kobayashi knew she loves her work and hopefully, she'll keep personal matters separated from her profession.
Just as he thought this, another voice whispered that if she's really professional like he thought, she wouldn’t have asked to be this event's host just so she could… he didn't know, observe Mirai? Torment him, most likely.
-
The first day was mostly just a sort of matsuri, with stores and booths everywhere. It was like a school festival.
The second day was a bit grander. Daichi wouldn't believe it possible during the first day, but it seems there were two or three times more people that came on the second day.
There were a lot more cosplayers that day and they really looked and act their characters that it felt as if Daichi and his friends were the ones out of place.
The cosplay competition was held in the morning and after that, the cosplayers are everywhere.
There was also a sort of 'idol' competition for the kids where Shimazaki Kanon performed a dance with the participants. And in the early evening, the battle of the anime bands started.
For Daichi the highlight of the day was the fact that after the cosplay and idol competition, Mirai was let off so she could also enjoy the event. So she is able to watch the battle with them.
He knew though that for Mirai, the highlight of the day was when after the first band performed. Someone had tapped Mirai from the back right then. And that person turned out to be her brother. He is a little late, but Daichi knew Mirai didn't really care about that. He saw how thrilled she was.
Even with all these though, Daichi was a little disappointed because e could only watch Mirai from the back.
Currently, Mirai is standing some feet in front of him, in between Mifune-senpai and Kobayashi.
He didn't really know how it happened. When the second band started playing their first song, the crowd's tension heightened and next thing he knew, they had been separated. Kobayashi, Mirai, Mifune-senpai and Suzuka together, and he with the rest of their group.
Truthfully, he wasn't really watching the band. His eyes were strained on Mirai's back.
-
"This band really won the crowd, ne?" Hyouzoka commented.
She looked at Daichi when he didn't respond and she realized her friend weren't really paying mind to anyone but Mirai.
Hyouzoka frowned about to call her friend's attention but then she realized another thing. Someone else was looking at the young princess. A Japanese man, holding a camera. Hyouzoka's frown deepened but for a very different reason. She didn't really like how the man was looking at their friend.
She tapped Daichi for about three times before he looked at her.
"Eh? Did you say something?" He asked.
Hyouzoka tsked impatiently and pointed at the man. Daichi followed where she was pointing and then frowned. Hyouzoka knew then that she wasn't over thinking things.
"...Do you think?" Suzuki asked her.
"It's likely." She said.
They saw him raise his camera and the two looked at Mirai and their other friends.
Mifune-senpai had put his arm around Mirai's shoulders and stirred her to his front, because the wild crowd was well, getting wilder. Mirai had smiled in thanks and Mifune had let go of her.
Hyouzoka looked back at the man and sighed in relief when he saw him frowning.
"It looks like he hadn't caught any of that." Hyouzoka told Suzuki. "It'll be bad if he gets a picture of her and Mifune-senpai.”
Suzuki nodded, understanding at once. Mirai is very popular in both Japan and Australia. Granted, it was more so in Australia, but she was making a comeback in Japan. It's not known outside Mirai's family and friends that Mirai has a half-brother. And that half-brother is also slowly being known. He'd already been featured in a magazine. It wouldn't be good if their story got out.
"I'll go and tell Mirai." Hyouzoka said hastily. "Maybe you should go and get Sagara-san? Ugh, what are we supposed to do?"
But Suzuki just nodded. "I'll get Sagara-san. Tell Mirai and senpai. And Kobayashi. You know--"
Hyouzoka just nodded and started to make my way towards our friends but stopped almost immediately.
"Suzuki, they're gone." Hyouzoka said as she pulled him back.
"The man is gone too." He said, sounding worried. "Tell senpai, anyway. I'll go look for them."
Hyouzoka just nodded. 'Where did Mirai go? Kobayashi is gone too, as well as Suzuka.'
--
Mifune noticed when the girl Mirai was working with made her way to them. She'd look like she was trying to get to Mirai so Mifune had pointed her out to her sister.
The girl had gestured something at Mirai and Mirai turned to Mifune to excuse herself.
"We're being called." She had shouted to the noise. Not really hearing her, but having read her mouth, Mifune nodded.
He watched them go, feeling a little worried, though he didn't know why. After about a few seconds, Kobayashi had turned to him and distractedly said he would follow them.
"Just in case." He said mysteriously. Mifune had only manage to frown at Kobayashi before he too, left.
And then, he didn't really noticed when she, but he realized that Suzuka too, was gone. He was about to go look for them when Hyouzoka showed up.
"Where did they go?" She asked, looking both tired and anxious.
"That girl, Shimazaki called Mirai. Seems they were being called." Mifune said, feeling lost. "Kobayashi followed them, and Mirai's cousin… she just disappeared. Did something happened?" He asked her.
"There was a paparazzo." Hyouzoka said. "At least we think so," She added hastily, seeing the look on Mifune's face. "He seems to be trying to get a photo of you and Mirai."
Mifune scowled.
"Suzuki's looking for them. And I told the others to get Sagara-san. It should be okay if Mirai was called..." Hyouzoka hurried on saying.
It didn't comfort Mifune, though.
-
Mirai followed Kanon silently, back to their waiting room. But when they entered the room, no one was around.
Mirai turned to Kanon, "Who were calling for us?" She asked.
Kanon bit her lower lip.
Mirai stared at her, a bit surprised. For the first time since knowing the younger girl, she looked small, scared… very different from the young confident and outspoken girl she knew.
It doesn't really suit her.
"Shimazaki-san?" Mirai asked, looking a little worried.
"No one were calling for us." Kanon said. "I wanted to talk to you, Fuji-san. "
Mirai knew what was coming. She didn't really know what to do. She knew it was only right to tell her the truth. But she also thought it would be more appropriate if it came from Kobayashi.
"About you and Kouji." Kanon started saying, looking at the floor. "Please, can you just tell me the truth?" She asked in a small voice.
Mirai just looked at her, inwardly debating.
"You should know what I'm talking about." Kanon said, frowning.
Mirai closed her eyes, feeling conflicted. And deciding in the spur of the moment, she approached Kanon and took both her hands in hers.
"Shimazaki-san…" She started but before she could go any further, the door to the room opened.
"Kanon, Mirai-chan…"
"Kouji!" Kanon said, eyes wide in surprise.
Kobayashi looked around the room and then turned to Kanon. "I thought you were called here? Did they tell you why? They said you two are done with work today…"
Kobayashi looked from one girl to the other but neither replied.
Mirai gave Kobayashi a small smile. "Kobayashi-kun, you should tell her." She said softly.
Kobayashi stared at her, feeling conflicted. After a while he sighed in resignation and gave Mirai a nod.
He then turned to Kanon.
Kanon looked at him, waiting. Kobayashi glanced one more time to Mirai and Mirai gave him an encouraging nod.
"Kanon-chan… about Mirai and me…" Kobayashi started, looking at the floor. "I-it wasn't true… Mirai and I aren't together--"
"Mirai haven't answered Kobayashi-kun." Someone suddenly cut Kobayashi.
Mirai looked in surprise at her cousin who had just entered the room. Kobayashi was also speechless.
"Fuji-san--?" Kanon started but Suzuka continued talking.
"Kobayashi-kun has been courting my cousin for a while now. That's also why Kobayashi-kun went all the way from Japan to Australia. He also wanted to meet our grandfather. His and our grandfather knew each other, and my grandfather approves of Kobayashi-kun."
Mirai was gaping, unbelieving. "Suzu-chan, what--"
"Mirai-chan!" Someone suddenly called.
The door opened behind Suzuka and Daichi entered.
"You're all here." He said as he looked at all of them.
He stopped and frowned. "Did something happened…?"
"Why were you looking for us, Suzuki-san?" Suzuka asked.
"We have to go back." Daichi said, distracted. "We saw a paparazzo. We think he's trying to get a photo of Mirai." He looked at Mirai imploringly.
Suzuka nodded at once and took Mirai's hand and pulled her out.
"Wait, Shimazaki-san-!" Mirai tried to say.
"We have to go." Suzuka said firmly.
Mirai and Suzuka exited the room, leaving the other three.
Kobayashi turned to Kanon, not knowing how to start explaining.
But before he could say anything, Kanon ran out of the room as well.
Stricken, Kobayashi ran after her. And Daichi, looking confused followed.
As the two boys exited, the man hiding behind the closet took one last photo.
-
TBC
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