[fanfic] Pain (Prologue ~ Chapter 7)
title : Pain (Prologue ~ Chapter 7)
pairing : Yamapi x OC (Reiko)
rating : PG-13
disclaimer : i don't own Yamapi, if i do, i'd married by him already LOL!
a/n : it's the first time i ever write a POV (Point Of View) story, so excuse me if it's not good enough, and english isn't my mother tongue languange so please bear with my poor grammar etc.the prologue setting is taken in 6 years from now. so the rest of chapters are flashback which happening around year 2005 - 2006.
Prologue :
“Tomohisa!”
I turned my head in reflect to see who was calling my name, my given name, that I haven’t heard for a long time. I get used to have anyone calling me with my last name, something like Yamashita-kun, Yamashita-san, Yamapi, or even Pi-chan.
“Tomohisa!! Where are you?”
Again, I heard the same voice calling my name! But I didn’t see anyone near me that I’m familiar with, usually only very close friends and relatives that would call me with my given name. Or could it be one of my fans? But with me wearing this big sunglasses and hat, it’s impossible anyone would recognize me.
I was still looking around the mysterious caller, when a little boy behind me run past me by and shouted, “I’m here, mama!!”. Ahhh, so that boy has the same name as mine. The boy should be around 5 years old or so, he was wearing blue shirt and dark blue pants, even his sneakers were in blue stripes. His mom must be crazy with blue color, I thought. I couldn’t see his face clearly, but he reminded me with someone I used to know, someone special, long time ago.
I saw the boy running around the park, and yet I still heard his mom calling his name (ahem, mine also) over and over again from a far. Then I caught the boy fell down the grass. I run to him instantly, I pulled my hand to his little hand, and helped him stand up. I bent down and asked, “Daijoubu desu ka?” and also helped him to clean up his clothes. I thought he was about to cry out loud, but instead, I heard him said, “Daijoubu desu, arigatou!” and gave me a smile.
“Tomohisa! Are you alright?” I heard a voice behind me. The boy shouted, “Mama!”. I stood up and turned my head to see the little boy run to her happily and his mom welcomed him with both hands and carried him. She smiled to me, and once I saw her, I swear I could feel my heart stop beating for that moment.
“Re…Reiko?” I was really surprised to meet her. The woman in front me looking back at me with clueless expression on her face. Ah sou, she didn’t remember me anymore, I felt really disappointed.
“Yes? Do I know you?” she asked, her soon was looking at me with the same confused look. I realized that I was still wearing my sunglasses, I took it off, and smiled to her. And her face turned into a shock expression.
She was still speechless, when her son started to shake her shoulder and asked, “Mama? Do you know him?” She put him down and looking at me, or should I say observing me. Well, I did the same thing, nothing much changed with her, just a different hairstyle and type of clothes, but everything else were the same as 6 years ago.
Finally a word of whisper came out, “Ohisashiburi…”
“Ohisashiburi, Rei-chan!” I replied. “How are you doing?”
“Ah, I’m fine.” Then she looked down the her son and said, “Ne Tomo-chan, why don’t you play with other boys over there? Mama will join you later.” She pointed to the sand playing area, and gave him a quick kiss on his chubby right cheek. The little boy nodded and run to the playing spot.
She looked back at me, and being quiet again.
I started, “It’s been so long ne?”
She tried to smile, and said, “Yes, around 6 years I guess.” Then she bit his lips, even her habit was still the same. She always bit her lips every time she felt nervous. She tried to calm herself and looked at her son’s direction.
“You don’t change much.” I began again.
“Are you kidding me? Of course I changed, I have a son already!” she chuckled, and how happy I was to be able to see her sunshine smile again.
“What a cute boy! He looks like you a lot!”
“Thanks, Tomo-kun!” she blushed.
And the ice broke, we sat in the bench and started talking and exchanged each other news. After a while, I started to watch over her son who was still playing around.
“Ne, Rei-chan, can I ask you something?” I turned my head to face her.
“Sure, Tomo-kun…”
“Why his name is Tomohisa?”
Her eyes widened, she faced her head on the ground. And didn’t answer my question. I got really impatient for her action.
“Rei-chan, tell me the truth, is he mine?” I demanded.
***
Chapter 1
*Flasback*
I walked in the corridor of Meiji University in lazy mood, it was my second year of studying already. And I was really relieved I managed to pass my first year successfully, especially with my tight schedules and all. I was adjusting my sunglasses when I heard whispers from the sides of the corridor, I sighed, it was another usual day in my life to hear girls in campus giggling and whispering over me. Good thing, no one approached me that day. I was in a rush to meet a new group of people at the library. I hurried myself and opened the door.
The big room was quite empty, I browsed around to see if I know anyone. Then I heard someone calling my name.
“Oii, Yamashita!! Over here!!”
I turned my head and saw a familiar face waving his hands to me. I smiled and walked to his direction. He was one of my good buddy in campus, a dude named Sato Kenichi. We supposed to meet other people for our next project. It’s a study group for company research thing. Even hearing the project made me headache already, good thing I didn’t have to do it on my own.
“Yo Sato, what’s up?” I greeted him and gave him a high five. He replied tossing my hand.
“Not cool, what took you so long?” he sulked. I laughed at his antics, he reminded me so much of my best friend Akanishi Jin in Johnny Jimusho.
“Hey relax, I’m not that late, beside the other people hasn’t arrived yet.” I took a chair beside him and sat down.
“We are so lucky to be paired up for this project after the stupid random picking names that Professor Matsuda set up!”
“Ergh, I was hoping the opposite, I’m bored with you!” I joked. And he gave me a soft punch on my left arm, and we laughed.
Then we waited for two other members of the project, we didn’t know them yet, since they were from other classes, Prof. Matsuda in charge for three classes this year, and he thought to pair up all the classes for this project to make us familiar with new faces and all. I think it’s a great idea, except that we have to wait for them in this library. And it’s almost an hour late for the appointment.
“Ne KenKen, what time u told the other two to come?” I nudged him with his nickname I gave him. Yes, it’s the same of my character’s nickname in Stand Up drama 2 years ago.
“I don’t know TomTom, one of them said they would be here at 2 pm, but it’s almost 3 pm already, let me e-mail them again.” He let out his cell phone and started writing the message. I flipped out the macro economy thick book out of boredom.
Suddenly I heard sound of shoes approaching our direction, I lifted my head from the book and saw two girls walking to us.
“Anoo, sumimasen, we are late.” bowed one of the girl, the other one followed her also.
“Ahh daijoubu desu! I’m Sato Kenichi and this is Yamashita Tomohisa. So which one is Tanaka Risa?” KenKen started the conversation.
“Atashi desu! And this is Miyamoto Reiko.” said the first girl cheerfully. She has wavy hair and wearing mini-skirt. She certainly a type of confident girl from the way she talked and dressed.
“Doumo, Miyamoto Reiko desu.” Finally the other girl said something. She’s the opposite of the first girl, her type of clothes was quite conventional. She only wore a simple shirt and jeans and she has long black hair. But something about her attracted me, and I couldn’t explain why.
“Hello, I’m Yamashita Tomohisa, please sit down.” I welcomed them. They started sitting in front of us. And we discussed about the project. They were from class B while we were from class A. The project paper should be handed within 3 months. And we thought about which company we wanted to do the research for.
“Chotto!” shrieked Risa when she saw me took off the sunglasses. We all stopped our conversation and looked at her. “No wonder, your name sounds familiar, you are Yamapi from NEWS right?” she blurted out. Oh my dear God, I hope she’s not a fan, I prayed.
“Yamapi? NEWS?” puzzled Reiko.
“Yes, NEWS is group of famous Johnny Jimusho.” explained Risa, again with her cheerful tone. Somehow it irritated me. Hyper girl definitely not my type.
“Oh, I never heard of it, is it a big company?” asked Reiko. I nearly fell down from my chair, couldn’t believe there’s actually a girl who didn’t know the existence of Johnny’s.
“Ahhh yes, Rei-chan doesn’t like showbiz stuff, books are her best friends.” declared Risa. “Of course, it’s a huuugeee company!” she started again.
“Good then, project number 1 to find the company is done, we can use it for our research.” said Reiko with victory grin.
“Good idea!” followed KenKen with more evil grin on his face.
“Chotto! I’m not sure about this … beside I think they won’t allow …” I began to panic.
“C’mon Yamashita-kun, help us! Or else we will sleep over here just to find 1 stupid company.” begged Risa with puppy eyes.
“Right, it will save a lot of time and energy if you can persuade your company to be our object of research.” added Reiko.
“Onegai, TomTom!” KenKen joined them. I felt uneasy to have this kind of pressure. But they were right, our project would start earlier if we were able to find the company soon.
“Alright, let me talk to my manager first. But I can’t promise anything.” I sighed, and excused myself to call my manager, he wouldn’t be too happy for my request. Surprisingly he didn’t say no, he said he would talk about this and let me know the result the day after.
I returned to our table and acted as if I got a bad news in front of them.
“Dou? Dou? How was it?” worried Risa.
I made a very sad face and shook my head slowly. They all seem disappointed and even KenKen who never wasted any time to talk became very quiet. I felt somehow guilty.
“Ehh, actually my manager didn’t say no, but we still have to wait for the answer tomorrow.” I cheered them and made a peace sign.
“OMG, I want to kill this brat!” KenKen stood up and ready to chase me. I run away and we started to play cat and dog game until the librarian stopped us and gave us a long lecture not to play around the library even there were no one else in that room except us. We said sorry and walked out from the library, the girls followed us and just after we closed the door, we couldn’t help our laughs anymore.
The next day, my manager said that it shouldn’t be a problem for us to do the company research on Jimusho.
***
Chapter 2
I was still changing my clothes after the photo shoot for NEWS segment in Myojo studio when I felt my cell phone vibrated inside the pocket of my jeans. I picked it up and saw a new e-mail from Risa. I frowned, this girl always has excuses to call or e-mail me lately. I knew that she has a crush on me, it’s pretty obvious and I pretended to act innocent and considered her as “normal” friend only. It’s not like she’s not attractive, she’s quite pretty with long wavy brown hair and nice body. But for me physical appearance wasn’t the main thing. Beside it never crossed in my mind to start a relationship with my busy schedules between work and study.
I heard Ryo-chan came inside the room, and saw me replying e-mail to Risa.
“Hey Pi-chan, what are you doing?” he started.
“Doh, replying e-mail of course!”
“I know, I mean for who?”
“Uhm strange, usually you never been a busybody before, I think you have been hanging around with Tegoshi way too much!” I joked.
“Haha, is it? I love Tegonyan!” smirked Ryo.
“I love you too, Ryotan!” shouted Tegoshi out of the blue from the back door of the changing room.
“You guys are crazy!” that’s all I could say and smiled at their rabu-rabu act.
I finished replying Risa telling her that I couldn’t join her to have coffee time this afternoon. Saying that I still occupied with work, which was a lie, since it’s already over, but heck she wouldn’t know this, I thought.
I said bye to the other NEWS members, minus Uchi of course. Only God knows when Johnny-san would go easy on him and made him back to showbiz world. He only made a mistake, and they all made a big deal of it. Sure he broke the law, but he’s not a criminal, we even didn’t allow to contact him during his suspended period. I missed his genkiness so much.
I walked out the Myojo building and looked at my agenda, my sister Rina asked me to pick her up at her school, and I didn’t really fancy of that idea, but I already promised her. I sent an e-mail to her and said that I would wait her at the café near her school. I drove my car and took a glimpsed at my watches, I still have enough time before her school ended. I took the free-way back to my hometown in Chiba.
And hour later, I already arrived at the café near her school. I put down my sunglasses, and ordered espresso. All the sudden I heard a noise behind me, and I saw a couple were arguing. Usually I wouldn’t care less for other people business but this time I have an instinct, and I was right. I knew the girl! She was Reiko!
She sat in front of tall guy which I couldn’t see his face as he sat opposite her. And from Reiko’s face expression I knew she was pissed of something. I couldn’t help to eavesdrop.
“How many times I have to deal with this, Hajime-kun? You cheat on me again!” shouted Reiko.
“Pssttt, low your tone, we are in public area.” hushed the guy.
“I don’t care!” sulked Reiko.
“Honey, I made a little mistake, I promise you, I won’t repeat it again.” pleaded Hajime while squeezed both of her hands.
“I’m tired, Hajime-kun! I think we should end this!” said Reiko with tired tone and pulled back her hands.
“No, you can’t never dump me! You won’t dare! Your secret is with me and you know the risk if you don’t obey me!” threaten him with grinning face. And her face turned into pale. She didn’t say any more words, and by that moment she noticed me. I turned myself from her and pretended to drink my coffee. I was lucky that my sister came in right on time, I hurriedly left the money on the table and pushed her out from the café.
“Oi oi, oniichan, easy yo! I thought we could hang out there a little bit. I’m thirsty.” complained Rina.
“No, we have to go home soon, I have a test tomorrow.” I lied to her. Rina just raised her shoulder and followed me to the car. I felt guilty for eavesdropping, but then I was a bit worried, her boyfriend seemed to be bad guy. And deep inside I was kinda disappointed to see the fact that she has a boyfriend already.
***
I met her at the corridor of our campus the next day, again I pretended to act innocent. She looked at me and came my worst fear ever, she walked toward me and asked, “Yamashita-kun, can we talk?” I nodded helplessly. We walked to the nearest cafeteria, and sat down in the back area.
We sat there for a while as none of us started the conversation yet. By that moment I have a chance to observe her, she looked tired, saw the big dark shadow under her eyes, it’s obvious she hasn’t got enough sleep the night before.
“Anoo…” ah we said it at the same time. We both chuckled and she started, “Sorry to interrupt your free time, Yamashita-kun.”
“Iie, it’s ok! And you don’t have to be so polite with me, we are friends, right?”
“Oh sure, what about Tomo-kun?” she suggested. I was delighted, it’s been years I haven’t heard anyone calling me with my given name.
“Cool, and I can call you Rei-chan too?”
“Of course!” she smiled. Then we have another silent moment before she spoke up again.
“Anoo, Tomo-kun, forgive me if I’m wrong, but I thought I saw you in Star Café in Chiba yesterday? What were you doing there?” My dear God, that was the last question I ever wanted to hear from her.
“Oh I live in Chiba, I was waiting for my sister to finish her school.” I tried to calm myself.
“Ah I see, but did you see me there?” then she bite her lips. Later I found out that she always did that habit every time she was nervous.
“Uhm, yes. You sat behind me right? With your friend?” I was trying to make sure if that guy was really her boyfriend or not.
“Yes, he’s my boyfriend Hajime. We had a little fight. You know, usual thing happen between couple.” A little? My heart screamed out!
“I know it’s not my business, but from I heard, it’s more than a little fight, Rei-chan!”
“Well, I found out he was cheating on me, but it’s cool, he already apologized.” she said in calm tone. I couldn’t believe this girl, how come she forgive him easily like that, frowned my mind.
“Rei-chan hear me, I don’t know much about you yet, but you deserved more than a jerk like him.”
“I thought you said it’s none of your business?” she smiled. Again, I still couldn’t believe how calm she was.
“Don’t worry, it’s all cool, I will introduce you with him sometimes. Thanx for hearing my problem. And oh, don’t forget we have a schedule to visit your company tomorrow.” she ended our conversation, waved me goodbye and left the cafeteria just like that. I felt frustrated. How I wished I could make her open more of herself to me.
***
Chapter 3
“Yamashita-kuuunnn!!” I heard a familiar voice calling my name, I frowned, since I already recognized whom the high-pitch-spoiled voice belong to. But I couldn’t ignore her since we already have appointment to visit JE building that day. I turned my head and tried to smile.
“Hi, Tanaka-san!”
“Mou, how many times I have to tell you that u can call me Risa-chan?” sulked her. I was happy that I saw KenKen and Reiko were walking toward us, at least they could save me from this kind of conversation. I waved and greeted them.
“Osoi yo, futari tomo!”
“Gomen, but we are here now, so stop your lecture and not wasting any time. Let’s go!” grinned KenKen. I smiled, of course how could I ever scold a genki person like him. I lead them to my car.
“Sugooiiiiii!!!” screamed out Risa admiring my car. “Can I sit in front seat?” she continued.
Before I could say anything, KenKen cut in, “No way, I could get sick if I sit at the back!” and acted as if he was about to throw up. I gave him a thanks signal and he winked to me. Of course it was a lie. Risa pouted but she joined Reiko sitting at the back seat at the end. Good thing no more argue from her. I started the engine and made sure everyone was ready before I drove the car to JE building.
Our journey was filled with Risa’s babbling, and beyond my expectation she spoke really fast too. I wondered how it would like if she talked with Shige and Tegoshi, must be a scary fast talking contest. I lifted my head a little to check the rear-view mirror ahead me, and I caught Reiko. Poor girl, she was forced to listen Risa. I saw her panda eyes again, I bet she hasn’t got enough sleep again last night. Then by my surprise, she looked back at me. I didn’t dare to stare back and pretended to adjust the mirror.
We arrived at JE building 30 minutes later, when we walked from the parking lot to the main entrance, we met my best friend Akanishi Jin. We did the usual handshake style that we invented during SUMMARY last year, it’s not really hard, at least Bakanishi was able to remember the whole thing, while Koki was frustrated since we refused to teach him. I introduced Jin to my friends. And Risa was speechless when she shook hand with him.
“Ahh Tanaka ne? Any relation with Koki?” asked Jin innocently.
“Baka! We all know that Tanaka is a common surname in Japan!” I whacked his head.
“Ittaiii yo! I’m just asking!” pouted Jin and whacked me back.
“Mou, you guys are so funny! Unfortunately not, Akanishi-kunnn!” chuckled Risa with her usual annoying voice.
“Anoo…” we all turned our heads to Reiko.
“Shall we go inside?” she continued. I just realized that we have been standing there for a while, I lead them inside the main entrance. I nodded to the receptionist, and she gave KenKen, Risa and Reiko visitor cards to wear on.
“Uwaaaa, this place is super cool! OH LOOK! That’s KinKi Kids and V6!” shrieked Risa and pointed to the posters near the elevator. Jin gave me the question look, the “Dude, where do you find this chick?” look. I just raised my shoulder. I hoped we wouldn’t have to bump into any senpai today.
Jin stepped out at 7th floor since he was late for the appointment with his manager already. And we stopped at 9th floor, I lead them to my manager’s office. He welcomed us with his friendly smile. And we started discussing where to begin our research. My manager suggested that we better split into two teams, since the building was really huge. When Risa about to open her mouth which I had sense that she wanted to be paired with me, my manager said, “Ok, Yamapi and Miyamoto-san please follow me! Sato-san and Tanaka-san can follow my assistant.” Risa pouted at his instruction, but had no other choice but to follow it.
***
I walked beside Reiko awkwardly, she wrote necessary info that my manager explained into her agenda, I just turned on my recorder since I already knew most of the basic info and JE history. We visited the meeting room, the cafeteria, the main office and lastly the rehearsal room. My manager excused himself since he still had many things to do, I nodded, and said that I could show Reiko the rehearsal room myself. When I opened the door, the room was filled with many kids, I just remember that day was the rehearsal day for Shounen Club.
“Kawaiiii…” I heard a soft whisper from Reiko. And I swear I could see that her eyes were glowing. My thought was she must like children very much. We waited near the door when we heard Sanche-san said to the Juniors, “That’s all for today! Don’t forget to keep on practicing, see you all tomorrow!”
“Haiiii!!Arigatou, Sanche-san!” chorused the kids.
“Rei-chan, wanna go there?” I asked. And she replied with a nod.
“Ah, Yamapi! And she is?” greeted Sanche-san.
“Hi Sanche-san, this is my friend Miyamoto Reiko, we are here to have a research on JE for paper work.”
“Doumo, Miyamoto Reiko desu.” She bowed a little.
“Nice to meet you, but gomen ne Yamapi, I can’t company you all, I have a schedule to teach KAT-TUN new ero-ero dansu on 7th floor.” regretted Sanche-san.
“Iie, go ahead, don’t let us make you late.” I smiled.
After Sanche-san left, Reiko turned her head to me.
“Ero-ero dansu? What’s that?” asked her with confused look.
“Etoo, how can I explain this, you have to look it yourself. Tell you what? I will bring you to see KAT-TUN concert next weekend, so you will figure out what is it.” I have no idea why I asked her to see a concert, it’s like asking her out, which I thought she would reject it since she had a boyfriend already. I tried to make it sounded like general favor not a date. I waited her answer impatiently, but of course I didn’t want her to know that.
“Sounds cool! Yakusoku ne?” replied her with excited tone, I was in heaven.
Then we saw few Juniors came to us. I knew some of them were J.J.Express members.
“Doumo, Yamapi-senpai!” chorused them
“Senpai? Wow that’s cool!” teased Reiko.
“Senpai, who is this lady? Is she your girlfriend?” asked nosy Yuto.
I began to panic, “No no no, this is my university friend Miyamoto Reiko!” and I could see that Reiko blushed too.
“Yes, I’m not his girlfriend, I don’t want to make his fans broken-heart.” joked Reiko. Then she bent a little so she could have face to face with the smallest boy, she patted his hair and asked, “What’s your name?”
“I’m Morimoto Ryutaro!” answered the boy with his mature voice.
“Hello Ryu-chan! And you are?” she turned her head to Yuto.
“I’m Nakajima Yuto! And this is Inoo Kei and Arioka Daiki, we are J.J.Express! But we still have other 5 members over there!” babbled Yuto.
“Ehhh, that’s make 9 members in a group? So many!!” surprised Reiko.
I coughed, “Ahem, Rei-chan, NEWS used to have 9 members too when we first formed.”
“Hontou desu ka? Wow! And now?”
“Only 8, but one member got suspended, I will explain later, so only 7 active members for a time being.”
“Sou ka…” then she turned her head to the boys again and chatted animatedly with them. I just looked at her, and thought she would be an amazing mother in the future, the way she talked with them and her gestures showed how much she could deal with kids very well. I lent my body to the wall and rested a bit, my mind went to the incident at the Star Café few days, I was really curious about her secret. What it’s all about?
“Tomo-kun?” I heard her voice calling my name, I turned my head to her.
“Yes?” I replied.
“I think we have done all our research today, and we supposed to meet Sato-kun and Risa at the cafeteria.”
“Ah ok, let’s go! I thought you still have many things to talk about with the boys.” I teased her.
“I wish! But they all must to go home!” she pouted. I chuckled at her answer.
“You must be really like children ne?” actually it wasn’t a question but more like statement.
She didn’t answer immediately, made me wondered if I asked the wrong question. She just stood there then took a deep breath before finally looked into my eyes, made me felt a bit uneasy.
Suddenly the door was opened …
***
Chapter 4
“Yoo hoo, Rei-chan!! Yamashita-kunnnn!!!” called out Risa, she waved to us. I frowned, I didn’t expect her to disturb us, still wondered why Reiko didn’t answer my simple question. But I waved back to her lazily, KenKen followed her.
“Mou, what took you two so long? We are tired waiting at the cafeteria!” Risa started her whining again.
“Doh, can’t you see they ain’t finished?” barked KenKen.
“But manager-san is gone already, so they must have finished!” insisted Risa.
“Oi oi, chill out, guys! You two are like a married couple you know! We are finished, let’s go!” I was tired to see them arguing to each other like cat and dog.
We went back to the 9th floor, we said thanks to my manager and excused ourselves. On our way to my car, Risa said that since we have finished our research project, we should celebrate it by having dinner together. I thought it was a great idea, not like I wanted to spend more time with her, but I wanted to discover more about Reiko. She hadn’t spoken any word since my last question at the rehearsal room. She became really quiet again.
Risa chose a brand new restaurant near Harajuku, it’s quite cozy and gave us warm feeling since the first step we entered it. The variation of foods were good too, it had many kinds of foods such as Japanese, Chinese, American, European, etc. I ordered niku udon, since I have been craving for it since morning. Risa insisted to sit beside me but I was lazy to deal with her, so I just let her. At least Reiko sat in front me, she ate very slowly as if she had no appetite. Risa and KenKen dominated the conversation like usual, sometimes I wondered what would happen if they became a couple?
After the dinner, KenKen stopped a taxi for Risa and him, since they lived near each other. I also waited for them to get a taxi. I couldn’t drive them home since I have promised ka-chan to sleep at home that day. I saw Reiko checked out her cell phone, I just noticed all her stuff were in blue color, her cell phone, the straps (and one of them was Doraemon!), her hand watch and the rubber bracelet she wore at her left hand. She must have loved blue color that much.
Finally a taxi stopped, Risa and KenKen said bye to us and went inside. I turned left to face Reiko, and her expression was plain as usual. I was about to start a conversation for breaking the ice, when her phone was ringing. She excused herself and answered it, a minute later she returned.
“Ano, Tomo-kun, you don’t need to company me anymore, I think I should just wait for a taxi since Hajime-kun can’t drive me home.” she started.
“Ehh? No way I let you home by yourself, it’s late!” I replied with worried tone.
“No worries, stop being a babysitter! I’m an adult already.” she chuckled.
I looked at my watch, then asked, ”I still have time to drive you home, no problem at all, where do you live?”
“Chiba.” replied her shortly.
“What? Why you didn’t tell me before? We live in the same town! No more excuse, get inside the car now!” I grabbed her hand and opened the front passenger door for her. She was about to refuse my offer, but she sat in my car at the end. I let out a sigh of relief.
She seemed uncomfortable. I didn’t say anything since I knew it would only made her more nervous. So both of us fell silent on our journey home, just after I passed the intercity freeway, I turned my head to the left side and found her fast sleeping, I haven’t asked her address yet, and I didn’t want to wake her up, her face was so peaceful. I knew from her eyes she really needed a good long sleep. I was doubting where to take her, then I decided my mind.
***
I stopped the car at the beach. Wondered if I did the right thing, but then I went outside the car, I looked around the empty beach, the sea was still beautiful even at night. And the full-moon was glowing, it’s not the first time I ever went to the beach at night, I always loved this beach, it’s been like my playground since I was young. And she was the first girl I ever brought to this special place, well sort of, since she wasn’t aware of it. I sighed, and opened my phone to call ka-chan, I even didn’t know why I lied to her saying that I stayed in Jin’s house that time.
***
I didn’t sleep at all that night, I just sat at the beach looking at the sea. Thinking of my life, I have entered Johnny’s Jimusho since I was 11 years old, and I was considered lucky to get debuted when I was 18 and being the most popular member in NEWS. I also couldn’t believe myself that I managed to enter Meiji University, I thanked Koyama to introduce me to the right tuition center since study wasn’t my favorite thing in the world.
Then my mind went to my family, for this case, I wasn’t that lucky, my parents divorced when I was still young, I even followed ka-chan’s last name Yamashita rather than using otousan’s last name Manatsu, same thing with my sister Rina. I still remembered very well the day when she was born, I was only 3 years old, otousan brought me to the hospital and ka-chan showed me a little baby girl and said, “Tomohisa, this is your sister Rina, yoroshiku ne.” I looked at her and thought she was really ugly like a monkey, and I still often teased her about it. Well, new born babies never looked cute ne? Few years after, my parents divorced and ka-chan being a single parent, worked hard to support us. I rarely seeing my otousan, he was busy with his new life, and he was a strict person, he wouldn’t let me enter entertainment business, he always said it wouldn’t give me good future. So maybe this was fate, I thought. I have to cherish everything that happened in my life.
“Tomo-kun?” I heard Reiko called me. The sun was about to rise.
“Ne ne, Rei-chan, kochi-kochi! Let’s see the sunrise!” I invited her. She was clueless since she just got up from her sleep. But she sat beside me at the end. We witnessed the sunrise together, the orange light from the edge of the sea was extremely beautiful, really gave me warm feeling, and I felt like all my problems just vanished away. I wished she felt the same way. I glimpsed at her, and saw her also stunned with the magical moment of sunrise.
“Kirei deshou?” I asked. She just nodded. And we continued watching the sunrise until the sky was bright.
“Tomo-kun?” she called me softly.
“Hai?”
“Arigatou ne.” she bent her legs in front of her chest and held them with both of her hands.
“Ehh? What for?” I widened my eyes, didn’t expect her to thank me.
“For bringing me here and invite me to witness the most beautiful scene in my whole life.” she smiled while she said that.
“Your welcome! But at first I didn’t want to bring you here, I was thinking of love hotel.” I teased her. And got a whack on the head in return, of course she knew it was only a joke.
“Hentai!” she laughed, and it was the most natural laugh I ever heard from her. She continued watching the sea and playing with the sand.
“Seriously Rei-chan…” I started again. She stopped her action and looked at me curiously.
“Sorry for not asking permission for bringing you here, I didn’t know your address and you didn’t dare to wake you up.” I apologized.
“Iiyo, Tomo-kun!” she observed me, and looked surprise. “Chotto matte, you didn’t sleep at all, did you?” she demanded. I blushed, how could I explain her that my heart wouldn’t stop beating when I tried sleeping in the car beside her, and decided to stay awake.
“I told you, I prefer sleeping at the love hotel!” I joked again and run before she whacked me. And we ended up chasing each other like little kids. And it lasted for a while before we both ended up falling to the sand with me on the top of her. I lifted my weight with both of my hands between her head, both of us panting our breaths away. I could feel my heart was about to explode and her face was blushing in red. I was about to get up from her, when I saw her closing her eyes, I moved closer …
***
Chapter 5
And it was our first kiss ever, I brushed her lips into mine, it was a warm sweet kiss, she opened her eyes and blushed when I released the kiss. I also could feel the warm in my face. I suddenly realized morning appeared and soon people would come and saw us. I stood up and offered my right hand to help her up, she smiled and took my hand, when we touched I could see her blushing again.
We finally stood and stared at each other, both of us hesitated to start the conversation, again awkwardness has come between us. And by our surprise, we heard a sound of phone was ringing from my car. She stunned a while then she realized it was hers. She run to my car hurriedly, found her phone in the front seat, she looked into the front screen to see who was calling her in early morning like this, then her facial expression changed into aware one, she picked up the phone and I could hear a sound of whisper, “Moshi-moshi, Hajime-kun …”
I froze, how could I possible forget that she has a boyfriend already? And thinking that I had kissed her made me full of guilt. I could feel my body was getting weaker, and I sat in the sand, wondering what excuse I should say, I knew she didn’t reject my kiss, but still I couldn’t help feeling nervous and guilty. I was still fighting with my mind, when I heard her soft voice calling my name.
“Tomo-kun … gomen, I have to go now …” she bite her lips again.
I stood up, I looked into her eyes, and finally I could open my mouth, “Rei-chan, I’m terrible sorry!”
“Ehh? What for?” she looked confused.
“For … kissing … you …” I replied slowly then faced the sand.
“Oh that, iie daijoubu desu, it’s not your fault.” I was relieved for her response and looked into her eyes again.
“Do you get trouble from your boyfriend?”
“Uhm don’t worry, he was just wondering where I slept last night, I said I slept over at Risa’s.”
“I’m sorry that you had to lie.” I apologized again.
“Tomo-kun! Stop it! I said it’s not your fault!” replied her with high tone, I was shocked at her reaction. I went silent.
“Sorry for yelling at you, but you shouldn’t apologize for everything, coz it’s not your fault.” said her with lower tone. I nodded helplessly.
“Now I have to go, coz I said to Hajime-kun that I’m on my way home.”
“Let me drive you home!” I butted in.
“Thanks for your offer, Tomo-kun! But it’s best if I go on my own this time to avoid more trouble.” she replied calmly. I nodded again, and saw her walking to my car and took her stuff with her.
“Rei-chan …” I started again, I wanted to tell her that I liked her but after I saw her looking back at me, I knew I shouldn’t trouble her more, instead I said, “Take care ne?”
“Arigatou, Tomo-kun! Take care you too!” then she waved me goodbye. I was wondering was it our last meeting? I wasn’t sure she wanted to see me again after everything that happened between us. I sighed, I entered the car, started the engine and drove home.
***
I was wrong, I still saw her around the campus and she didn’t change at all, still greeted me whenever we passed each other in the corridors or halls. I was relieved, she pretended that nothing has happened, and I did the same thing. We had some meeting with KenKen and Risa too and discussed about our project. Surprisingly, Risa never annoyed me anymore, instead she was like changing the object of her crush to KenKen. Poor KenKen, I thought! But from my observation, KenKen seemed okay with all her over attention to him, which concluded me that he might like her too? But heck, I’m not a busybody, it’s their own business, I was glad she’s not bothering me no more.
Friday noon, after I finished my English class, I went to Johnny’s building for weekly meeting with my manager. He said that I would have a new drama this summer. Yatta!!! My heart screamed out! I really missed acting, the last drama I had was one and half year ago which was like ages ago. He handed me the script and I was surprised to see that I would have a bad boy role this time, quite challenging, usually I got stereotype character like popular boy etc, but bad boy? It would be my first time role. I smiled, and I also saw the name of my ex-high school mate Teppei in the cast, interesting!
I was still smiling in the corridor when I bumped into Jin.
“Oi Pi, here are the tickets you asked for!” he passed the tickets to me in a rush and run to the elevator.
“Ehh Bakanishi, chotto!! What tickets?” I run after him. He looked at me impatiently.
“The ticket of KAT-TUN concert you asked yourself last week! Baka!” and whacked my head before he went inside to the elevator and left me alone. I finally realized that I promised Reiko to show her the ero-ero dansu at KAT-TUN concert last week at our project research. I whacked my head, how I became such a forgetful person this week? I hesitated, didn’t know what to do, she said she would come before, but what if she refused this time? I walked to my car with much hesitation. But finally I made up my mind. A try is a worth, I thought.
I opened the flip of my phone and wrote e-mail to Reiko, written like this :
Konbachiwa Rei-chan
Ano sa, do you still want to see KAT-TUN concert with me?
As a friend of course, it’s not a date, don’t worry!
Coz Bakanishi already gave me the tickets and it’s such a waste if we didn’t go.
Ikkou yo! \^o^/
Tomohisa
My hand was trembling when I pressed the send button. Wondering if she would reply me or not. I waited and waited, still no reply from her. I nearly gave up after 30 mins, and already thought she didn’t want to go with me. I started the engine and ready to drive home, when suddenly the e-mail tone from my phone was heard. I hurriedly opened it and it was from her! It was short but made me so flew to 7th heaven.
Konbanwa Tomo-kun ^o^
Gomen I was outside, sure I still want to go!
Mata ashita!
Reiko ^_~
***
Chapter 6
I heard the alarm from my cell phone, I frowned, I grabbed the phone, and saw it was already 7 am. I was wondering why on earth I had to wake up so early in my day-off like this? Then I whacked my own head, it’s KAT-TUN concert day! And I had a plan to go with Rei-chan! I read her e-mail again, still couldn’t believe that she agreed to go with me! I was still smiling widely when my sister opened the door and gave me the question look.
“Oniichan, daijoubu desu ka? Why you are smiling like a dork?” teased her.
I threw my pillow to her and scolded her, “I AM NOT A DORK! And why didn’t you knock the door first?”
She managed to miss the pillow and grinned, “Why I should knock? Afraid I will find a girl in your room?” then she started looking at my clothes drawer.
“Ne, what are you looking for?” asked me curiously. Tho it’s not something new that Rina often borrowed my clothes. We have the same taste in fashion.
“I have a date today, uhm, can I borrow this one?” and showed me the skull printed shirt I bought with Koyama last week. It’s body-fit shirt so it might look good on her, I even haven’t taken off the label yet. I sighed, “Yeah, go ahead! I can wear something else.”
“Arigachu!” and gave a peck on my right cheek, she had to tip-toe of course. Then she opened my accessories drawer, I sighed again.
“Gomen niichan, I can’t help it! You have a great collection of accessories!” she grinned again. She has a point, I have a great passion for accessories, I even thought if I ever get retired from entertainment business I might open an accessories shop. I watched her browsed around my collection and took out the long cross necklace, she turned her head to me and asked, “My greatest brother on earth, can I borrow this one too?” with her best puppy eyes look. “Onegaiiii!” she started again. Damn, she knew well I could never resist her. She’s my only sister after all.
“Ii yo.” I gave up. And she hugged me tightly. “You are the best!” she said happily.
“Ne, who is your date?” I asked again.
“Ehhh? It’s a surprise that you asked about my date, he’s my classmate, we will watch a movie together.” She said cheerfully. Sometimes I envy her coz her life was always easier than mine, she could go out with anyone she liked anytime she wanted.
“Sou ka, be careful ne!” I reminded her.
“Hai, shinpai shinaide, I can take care of myself.” She was about walking out the door when she suddenly she turned back.
“Ne oniichan, why you are waking up so early? Isn’t it your day-off?”
“Urusaiiii!!” I snapped.
“Ahhh, wakatta! You also have a date, ne? ne?” she demanded.
“I AM NOT!” I denied, “She’s just a friend of mine, we will watch KAT-TUN’s concert together.” I didn’t know why I told her.
She smiled and said, “Wakatta! Good luck, niichan! Win her heart!” and she finally went out from my room.
Her last words made me thinking, I really liked her so much, but she has a boyfriend already. She couldn’t give me more than friendship and I have to deal with it. Well maybe friendship was the right thing to do at the moment, I thought. I shook my head, I should get ready, since I already promised Rei-chan to pick her up at the bus station in 30 minutes.
***
She was already in the bus station when I arrived, looking gorgeous with her white shirt, blue sweater, long skirt and soft make-up. I never saw her with girly style before, usually she’s on casual style. She was blushing when I opened the door for her. Then our journey to Tokyo started. I glanced at Reiko who sat beside me in the car, she looked a bit nervous, we were on the freeway to Tokyo.
I tried to start the conversation, “Ne Rei-chan, is blue your favorite color?”
“Is it? Why?” she asked back.
“Coz most of your stuff are in blue color, usually girls like pink ne?”
“Oh, I didn’t realize it, do you know that blue represents sadness and pain?”
“Yes, I heard of that.”
“That’s why I like it.” She smiled mysteriously. I cringed, her answer was unexpected, wondered if she joked or not.
“Uso uso! Your face is really funny! Don’t believe any single words that I said!” she laughed.
“Mou, yada yo! Don’t make fun of me!” I pouted and pretended to sulk.
“It’s because you are so serious, it just happens most of my stuff are in blue color.” She explained then she turned her face to the window, I had a feeling she was trying to avoid me again. And I wondered why? I just wanted to know more about her, she’s so mysterious.
***
We arrived in the concert hall about 45 minutes later, after I parked my car near the backstage gate, I put on scarf, hat and sunglasses. Reiko just smiled at my antics. She understood that I had to wear those to avoid fans. We made it just in time, the concert would start in 10 minutes. We entered the hall, I took off my sunnies and searched for our seats, I smiled to anyone I recognized in the special spot for guests and invitees. And by my surprise, I met Koyama and Shige!
“Yo Pi! We don’t know you are coming!” greeted Koyama.
“Oh hi, Koyama, Shige, please meet my friend Miyamoto Reiko!” I introduced her to them.
“Doumo! Miyamoto Reiko desu!” bowed Reiko politely.
“Doumo!” chorused Koyama and Shige.
“They are my group mate in NEWS.” I explained after we took our seats.
“Ah! So nice to finally meet NEWS members! Heard so much about you guys! So only two of you came together?” she asked.
“Yes, we are on a date!” grinned Koyama and pretended to hug Shige. I swore I could see her eyes widened in shock, she didn’t say anything and the whole hall turned black as the concert was about to start.
“Tomo-kun, are they gay?” whispered her.
“Haha! Of course not! They are good friends since Jr days, and a lot of fans matchmaking them as yaoi couple.” I explained.
“Yaoi? Sounds scary!” she shook her head in disbelief.
“It’s nothing, sometimes we tried to make them happy by showing more rabu-rabu act.”
“Uhm, it’s a bit weird to me, but interesting at the same time.” I just laughed at her last comment. And finally the concert stated. She focused her eyes on the main stage where 6 of KAT-TUN appeared in purple pirate suits. The opening song was GOLD, I nudged her, she turned to me, and I whispered, “Watch closely, you will experience what we call ero-ero dansu soon!” she nodded and focused her sight to the stage.
“Holy!” I heard her sudden comment.
“I told you!” I laughed.
“Ne Tomo-kun, usotsuki!” she started again.
“Eh? I’m not a liar, I have shown you there’s an existence of ero-ero dansu.”
“No, it’s not that, but you said Johnny’s Jimusho only accepted boys, why I see a girl in that stage?” and pointed to Tatsuya Ueda. I couldn’t hold my laughter anymore. It’s not her fault that she thought Ueda was a girl, coz he looked pretty with his fair skin, black stylish hair, big eyes, full red lips and small figure covered in that semi lace skirt outfit, not to forget the hat he wore.
“Rei-chan! Believe me, he’s not a girl, look at his adam’s apple!”
“But how possible a guy to be so pretty? Too much shocking things about JE that I learned today, I’m afraid my heart can’t handle it anymore.” she joked and continued watching the concert.
***
2 hours later, after the encore, I hurriedly put my sunnies as the lights would on again. I glimpsed that Koyama and Shige also did the same thing. When they passed our seats, Koyama asked, “Pi, we want to go to the backstage and greet the guys, wanna come? Reiko too.” I looked at Reiko, and she nodded as a sign of agreement. So 4 of us headed to the backstage area. I nodded to the security guard, and he gave us visitor cards, and showed us direction to KAT-TUN’s dressing room.
“Otsukaresamadeshita!!” I shouted once I opened the door.
“Ahh, Pi, Koyama, Shige, douzo, come in!” welcomed Maru, the oldest member of KAT-TUN.
“Piii, tsukaretaaa!!!” moaned Jin and clung his chin to my shoulder. Then he looked at Reiko, “Areee, Reiko-chan? Guys, come and meet Reiko, she is a friend of Pi!” then he introduced all KAT-TUN members to her.
“Good job, guys! Reiko was amazed with ero-ero dansu!” I exclaimed, and her face turned red, she slapped my hand and whispered, “I’m not!”
“Ssshhh, your secret is safe with me!” I joked.
“Nee Pi, come with us for dinner, we have to celebrate your new role for summer drama!” invited Jin.
“Ok, but the dinner is on you!” I laughed, and saw him pouted. “Jyoudan yo, it’s on me of course!” I said again.
“Yatta! C’mon guys, Pi-chan is treating us dinner, yay!!” announced Jin happily.
“Well, we will wait outside and let you all dress up.” Said Koyama. After we went outside the dressing room, Koyama and Shige excused themselves to buy some drinks. Reiko was looking nervous again.
“Rei-chan, doushita no?”
“Is it really ok for me to join you guys? I don’t really know them yet!”
“Don’t worry, they are my best friends, and they won’t eat you up!” I joked.
“Tomo-kun, I envy you…”
“Eh, why?” I puzzled.
“Because u have so many best friends.” Said her slowly.
“Isn’t normal?” I asked back.
“I never had any best friend all my life.” she said with shaky voice.
“Rei-chan…” I patted her shoulder and continued, “Do you want to be my best friend?” She looked at me with disbelief and nodded slowly.
“Ureshii na! Yakusoku ne, from now on, we will be friends forever.” and offered my pinky finger, she crossed it with hers and we were officially best friends. Now I wondered if I made the right decision?
***
Chapter 7
After our declaration of being best friends, we often spent a lot of time together, not to mention we were in the same project group. So we frequently meeting up each other. Even when I was busy filming drama, we still managed to meet up at least once a week. It made me happy tho, but still I couldn’t lie to myself how hurt my heart was each time she excused herself to receive calls from her boyfriend on our meeting. I haven’t got a chance to meet him, but I could sense he’s not a nice person, as she always looked gloomy after the phone calls.
The more we spent time together the more I was sure that I was falling in love with her. She has everything in ideal girl that I could ask for. And it’s such a pain that I couldn’t express my feeling to her. Tho maybe deep inside she realized it, and it’s possible that she has the same feeling towards me, but there’s a huge wall between us, and I have to accept that for a time being we couldn’t be together. But I was sure there still a hope for me to win her heart, someday.
***
I was ready to pack up after a long photo shoot for TV magazines, when I got an e-mail from Jin. His message was cheerful as always, I couldn’t help smiling when I read it :
“Ne Pi-chan,
Reiho will have audition in Shinjuku to enter D-Boys!
Let’s go and support him, U will be there also ^o^
Don’t say no, onegaiiii… <33 Jin”
Bakanishi! Of course I wouldn’t say no, it’s been a while since three of us hung out together. U is Shirota You, my best friend since high school days in Horikoshi Gakuen. Actually he’s a member of D-BOYS, a talent group of boys, just like Johnny’s Jimusho, so we should be rival in a way, but we didn’t care. Our friendship was more important. I have to thank him, coz he helped me a lot to catch up with my studies in school, also he gave me big influence to have more respect for my mother. I used to be rebellious and always argued with her, only U who could remind me how precious family was. I should treasure the ones I have left. U has become one of cherished people in my life. I introduced him to Jin, and they got along very well too. Reiho is Jin’s younger brother, he was too old to enter JE therefore he tried his luck to enter D-BOYS.
I hurriedly replied :
“Bakanishi,
You know well that I won’t say no!
Just tell me what time I should pick you ok?
We will have fun for sure! Mata ashita! <33 Pi”
Soon after I received another message from him. Gah, the event was earlier than I expected, that’s mean I have to get ready on early morning again, but no time to whine. Suddenly I wondered if Reiko wanted to join us or not. I haven’t introduced him to U yet, and he always complained that I only wanted to keep her for myself, that’s a joke of course. I opened my cell phone again, and typed.
I was prepared to sleep when I received her reply, it’s short :
“Gomen Tomo-kun,
I have already a plan for tomorrow,
Next time ne? Reiko”
The pain feeling of rejection came again all the sudden.
***
The audition event was extremely crowded, even tho Jin and me already disguised ourselves with hat, scarf and sunnies, fans still could recognized and followed us around. We felt bad as we seemed to steal attention of the crowds from that event. Jin even already announced in KAT-TUN J-web that he wouldn’t come, but heck our fans were smart, we couldn’t trick them at all. U couldn’t stand and watch with us since he’s a also a member of D-BOYS, he would appear on the stage soon. We cheered on Reiho, he waved and started dancing and singing while the judges examined him. He danced much better than Jin, but of course Jins’ voice is still the best. I just hoped he could make it. I suddenly remembered my own audition to enter Johnny’s Jimusho, I was only 11 years old. I was really nervous, Takki-kun was there, and he thought I was cute and chased me all over the room, I was scared of him. But later once I got accepted in Jimusho he became one of senpai I really respected to. He was the one who gave Yamapi as my nickname too.
Jin nudged me and I was back to reality. Reiho just finished performing, I gave applause. I dragged Jin out from the crowds, U said the result would only come out in the afternoon, as the judges needed time to announce the winners. We should go somewhere else, as I felt uncomfortable to have fans following us around, we shouldn’t wait in that place.
“Ne, Pi, want to go karaoke?” whispered Jin as if he could read my mind.
“Sure! Let me mail U so he can join us soon after he finish.” whispered me back.
Jin suggested that we should try a new karaoke place in Ikebukuro. Hearing this area reminded me so much when I had my first drama series ever titled Ikebukuro West Gate Park with senpai Nagase Tomoya from TOKIO, I had so much fun filmed this drama, tho I didn’t have big role there, but it was quite experience, I chuckled when I remembered that I have a girlfriend there and called her “Rabu-chan”, how ironic since I have no girlfriend at this moment.
My mind went back to reality when Jin passed me the mic. Soon after U joined us, so three of us had a karaoke festival. It was so much fun, I sang many songs that day, KinKi Kids songs and of course Southern Allstar. Two hours later when I just finished singing “Tsunami”, U reminded us that we should get back to Shinjuku.
We jumped on my car and we passed some love hotel in Ikebukuro, Jin who sat in the front seat next to me stuck his head at the window as if it was such an interesting view. Then the red light was on, I stopped the car and I whacked his head, “Bakanishi, what are you doing?”
“Iteee! Stop bully me!” whined Jin and nursed his head, he looked out the window again and this time his face turned into a very shocked expression.
“Nee, Pi-chan, isn’t it Reiko?” he asked and pointed to a love hotel. I turned my head automatically and saw the scene that I never wanted to see, Reiko went out from a love hotel with her boyfriend, I always thought their relationship was in a bad term, but seeing this, I just wanted to disappear, I lost all my hope. And most of all, it’s hurt me so much to see her in someone else’s arm.
“So this is the plan she referred to…” screamed out my heart.
“Baka!” U whacked Jin’s head again. And this time Jin didn’t protest, and he just patted my shoulder. The traffic light turned into green and I drove back my car in silent, none of them questioned me anything, they understood, and I’m so grateful to have them as my best friends.
To make the day even worst, Reiho lost.
***
TBC
pairing : Yamapi x OC (Reiko)
rating : PG-13
disclaimer : i don't own Yamapi, if i do, i'd married by him already LOL!
a/n : it's the first time i ever write a POV (Point Of View) story, so excuse me if it's not good enough, and english isn't my mother tongue languange so please bear with my poor grammar etc.the prologue setting is taken in 6 years from now. so the rest of chapters are flashback which happening around year 2005 - 2006.
Prologue :
“Tomohisa!”
I turned my head in reflect to see who was calling my name, my given name, that I haven’t heard for a long time. I get used to have anyone calling me with my last name, something like Yamashita-kun, Yamashita-san, Yamapi, or even Pi-chan.
“Tomohisa!! Where are you?”
Again, I heard the same voice calling my name! But I didn’t see anyone near me that I’m familiar with, usually only very close friends and relatives that would call me with my given name. Or could it be one of my fans? But with me wearing this big sunglasses and hat, it’s impossible anyone would recognize me.
I was still looking around the mysterious caller, when a little boy behind me run past me by and shouted, “I’m here, mama!!”. Ahhh, so that boy has the same name as mine. The boy should be around 5 years old or so, he was wearing blue shirt and dark blue pants, even his sneakers were in blue stripes. His mom must be crazy with blue color, I thought. I couldn’t see his face clearly, but he reminded me with someone I used to know, someone special, long time ago.
I saw the boy running around the park, and yet I still heard his mom calling his name (ahem, mine also) over and over again from a far. Then I caught the boy fell down the grass. I run to him instantly, I pulled my hand to his little hand, and helped him stand up. I bent down and asked, “Daijoubu desu ka?” and also helped him to clean up his clothes. I thought he was about to cry out loud, but instead, I heard him said, “Daijoubu desu, arigatou!” and gave me a smile.
“Tomohisa! Are you alright?” I heard a voice behind me. The boy shouted, “Mama!”. I stood up and turned my head to see the little boy run to her happily and his mom welcomed him with both hands and carried him. She smiled to me, and once I saw her, I swear I could feel my heart stop beating for that moment.
“Re…Reiko?” I was really surprised to meet her. The woman in front me looking back at me with clueless expression on her face. Ah sou, she didn’t remember me anymore, I felt really disappointed.
“Yes? Do I know you?” she asked, her soon was looking at me with the same confused look. I realized that I was still wearing my sunglasses, I took it off, and smiled to her. And her face turned into a shock expression.
She was still speechless, when her son started to shake her shoulder and asked, “Mama? Do you know him?” She put him down and looking at me, or should I say observing me. Well, I did the same thing, nothing much changed with her, just a different hairstyle and type of clothes, but everything else were the same as 6 years ago.
Finally a word of whisper came out, “Ohisashiburi…”
“Ohisashiburi, Rei-chan!” I replied. “How are you doing?”
“Ah, I’m fine.” Then she looked down the her son and said, “Ne Tomo-chan, why don’t you play with other boys over there? Mama will join you later.” She pointed to the sand playing area, and gave him a quick kiss on his chubby right cheek. The little boy nodded and run to the playing spot.
She looked back at me, and being quiet again.
I started, “It’s been so long ne?”
She tried to smile, and said, “Yes, around 6 years I guess.” Then she bit his lips, even her habit was still the same. She always bit her lips every time she felt nervous. She tried to calm herself and looked at her son’s direction.
“You don’t change much.” I began again.
“Are you kidding me? Of course I changed, I have a son already!” she chuckled, and how happy I was to be able to see her sunshine smile again.
“What a cute boy! He looks like you a lot!”
“Thanks, Tomo-kun!” she blushed.
And the ice broke, we sat in the bench and started talking and exchanged each other news. After a while, I started to watch over her son who was still playing around.
“Ne, Rei-chan, can I ask you something?” I turned my head to face her.
“Sure, Tomo-kun…”
“Why his name is Tomohisa?”
Her eyes widened, she faced her head on the ground. And didn’t answer my question. I got really impatient for her action.
“Rei-chan, tell me the truth, is he mine?” I demanded.
***
Chapter 1
*Flasback*
I walked in the corridor of Meiji University in lazy mood, it was my second year of studying already. And I was really relieved I managed to pass my first year successfully, especially with my tight schedules and all. I was adjusting my sunglasses when I heard whispers from the sides of the corridor, I sighed, it was another usual day in my life to hear girls in campus giggling and whispering over me. Good thing, no one approached me that day. I was in a rush to meet a new group of people at the library. I hurried myself and opened the door.
The big room was quite empty, I browsed around to see if I know anyone. Then I heard someone calling my name.
“Oii, Yamashita!! Over here!!”
I turned my head and saw a familiar face waving his hands to me. I smiled and walked to his direction. He was one of my good buddy in campus, a dude named Sato Kenichi. We supposed to meet other people for our next project. It’s a study group for company research thing. Even hearing the project made me headache already, good thing I didn’t have to do it on my own.
“Yo Sato, what’s up?” I greeted him and gave him a high five. He replied tossing my hand.
“Not cool, what took you so long?” he sulked. I laughed at his antics, he reminded me so much of my best friend Akanishi Jin in Johnny Jimusho.
“Hey relax, I’m not that late, beside the other people hasn’t arrived yet.” I took a chair beside him and sat down.
“We are so lucky to be paired up for this project after the stupid random picking names that Professor Matsuda set up!”
“Ergh, I was hoping the opposite, I’m bored with you!” I joked. And he gave me a soft punch on my left arm, and we laughed.
Then we waited for two other members of the project, we didn’t know them yet, since they were from other classes, Prof. Matsuda in charge for three classes this year, and he thought to pair up all the classes for this project to make us familiar with new faces and all. I think it’s a great idea, except that we have to wait for them in this library. And it’s almost an hour late for the appointment.
“Ne KenKen, what time u told the other two to come?” I nudged him with his nickname I gave him. Yes, it’s the same of my character’s nickname in Stand Up drama 2 years ago.
“I don’t know TomTom, one of them said they would be here at 2 pm, but it’s almost 3 pm already, let me e-mail them again.” He let out his cell phone and started writing the message. I flipped out the macro economy thick book out of boredom.
Suddenly I heard sound of shoes approaching our direction, I lifted my head from the book and saw two girls walking to us.
“Anoo, sumimasen, we are late.” bowed one of the girl, the other one followed her also.
“Ahh daijoubu desu! I’m Sato Kenichi and this is Yamashita Tomohisa. So which one is Tanaka Risa?” KenKen started the conversation.
“Atashi desu! And this is Miyamoto Reiko.” said the first girl cheerfully. She has wavy hair and wearing mini-skirt. She certainly a type of confident girl from the way she talked and dressed.
“Doumo, Miyamoto Reiko desu.” Finally the other girl said something. She’s the opposite of the first girl, her type of clothes was quite conventional. She only wore a simple shirt and jeans and she has long black hair. But something about her attracted me, and I couldn’t explain why.
“Hello, I’m Yamashita Tomohisa, please sit down.” I welcomed them. They started sitting in front of us. And we discussed about the project. They were from class B while we were from class A. The project paper should be handed within 3 months. And we thought about which company we wanted to do the research for.
“Chotto!” shrieked Risa when she saw me took off the sunglasses. We all stopped our conversation and looked at her. “No wonder, your name sounds familiar, you are Yamapi from NEWS right?” she blurted out. Oh my dear God, I hope she’s not a fan, I prayed.
“Yamapi? NEWS?” puzzled Reiko.
“Yes, NEWS is group of famous Johnny Jimusho.” explained Risa, again with her cheerful tone. Somehow it irritated me. Hyper girl definitely not my type.
“Oh, I never heard of it, is it a big company?” asked Reiko. I nearly fell down from my chair, couldn’t believe there’s actually a girl who didn’t know the existence of Johnny’s.
“Ahhh yes, Rei-chan doesn’t like showbiz stuff, books are her best friends.” declared Risa. “Of course, it’s a huuugeee company!” she started again.
“Good then, project number 1 to find the company is done, we can use it for our research.” said Reiko with victory grin.
“Good idea!” followed KenKen with more evil grin on his face.
“Chotto! I’m not sure about this … beside I think they won’t allow …” I began to panic.
“C’mon Yamashita-kun, help us! Or else we will sleep over here just to find 1 stupid company.” begged Risa with puppy eyes.
“Right, it will save a lot of time and energy if you can persuade your company to be our object of research.” added Reiko.
“Onegai, TomTom!” KenKen joined them. I felt uneasy to have this kind of pressure. But they were right, our project would start earlier if we were able to find the company soon.
“Alright, let me talk to my manager first. But I can’t promise anything.” I sighed, and excused myself to call my manager, he wouldn’t be too happy for my request. Surprisingly he didn’t say no, he said he would talk about this and let me know the result the day after.
I returned to our table and acted as if I got a bad news in front of them.
“Dou? Dou? How was it?” worried Risa.
I made a very sad face and shook my head slowly. They all seem disappointed and even KenKen who never wasted any time to talk became very quiet. I felt somehow guilty.
“Ehh, actually my manager didn’t say no, but we still have to wait for the answer tomorrow.” I cheered them and made a peace sign.
“OMG, I want to kill this brat!” KenKen stood up and ready to chase me. I run away and we started to play cat and dog game until the librarian stopped us and gave us a long lecture not to play around the library even there were no one else in that room except us. We said sorry and walked out from the library, the girls followed us and just after we closed the door, we couldn’t help our laughs anymore.
The next day, my manager said that it shouldn’t be a problem for us to do the company research on Jimusho.
***
Chapter 2
I was still changing my clothes after the photo shoot for NEWS segment in Myojo studio when I felt my cell phone vibrated inside the pocket of my jeans. I picked it up and saw a new e-mail from Risa. I frowned, this girl always has excuses to call or e-mail me lately. I knew that she has a crush on me, it’s pretty obvious and I pretended to act innocent and considered her as “normal” friend only. It’s not like she’s not attractive, she’s quite pretty with long wavy brown hair and nice body. But for me physical appearance wasn’t the main thing. Beside it never crossed in my mind to start a relationship with my busy schedules between work and study.
I heard Ryo-chan came inside the room, and saw me replying e-mail to Risa.
“Hey Pi-chan, what are you doing?” he started.
“Doh, replying e-mail of course!”
“I know, I mean for who?”
“Uhm strange, usually you never been a busybody before, I think you have been hanging around with Tegoshi way too much!” I joked.
“Haha, is it? I love Tegonyan!” smirked Ryo.
“I love you too, Ryotan!” shouted Tegoshi out of the blue from the back door of the changing room.
“You guys are crazy!” that’s all I could say and smiled at their rabu-rabu act.
I finished replying Risa telling her that I couldn’t join her to have coffee time this afternoon. Saying that I still occupied with work, which was a lie, since it’s already over, but heck she wouldn’t know this, I thought.
I said bye to the other NEWS members, minus Uchi of course. Only God knows when Johnny-san would go easy on him and made him back to showbiz world. He only made a mistake, and they all made a big deal of it. Sure he broke the law, but he’s not a criminal, we even didn’t allow to contact him during his suspended period. I missed his genkiness so much.
I walked out the Myojo building and looked at my agenda, my sister Rina asked me to pick her up at her school, and I didn’t really fancy of that idea, but I already promised her. I sent an e-mail to her and said that I would wait her at the café near her school. I drove my car and took a glimpsed at my watches, I still have enough time before her school ended. I took the free-way back to my hometown in Chiba.
And hour later, I already arrived at the café near her school. I put down my sunglasses, and ordered espresso. All the sudden I heard a noise behind me, and I saw a couple were arguing. Usually I wouldn’t care less for other people business but this time I have an instinct, and I was right. I knew the girl! She was Reiko!
She sat in front of tall guy which I couldn’t see his face as he sat opposite her. And from Reiko’s face expression I knew she was pissed of something. I couldn’t help to eavesdrop.
“How many times I have to deal with this, Hajime-kun? You cheat on me again!” shouted Reiko.
“Pssttt, low your tone, we are in public area.” hushed the guy.
“I don’t care!” sulked Reiko.
“Honey, I made a little mistake, I promise you, I won’t repeat it again.” pleaded Hajime while squeezed both of her hands.
“I’m tired, Hajime-kun! I think we should end this!” said Reiko with tired tone and pulled back her hands.
“No, you can’t never dump me! You won’t dare! Your secret is with me and you know the risk if you don’t obey me!” threaten him with grinning face. And her face turned into pale. She didn’t say any more words, and by that moment she noticed me. I turned myself from her and pretended to drink my coffee. I was lucky that my sister came in right on time, I hurriedly left the money on the table and pushed her out from the café.
“Oi oi, oniichan, easy yo! I thought we could hang out there a little bit. I’m thirsty.” complained Rina.
“No, we have to go home soon, I have a test tomorrow.” I lied to her. Rina just raised her shoulder and followed me to the car. I felt guilty for eavesdropping, but then I was a bit worried, her boyfriend seemed to be bad guy. And deep inside I was kinda disappointed to see the fact that she has a boyfriend already.
***
I met her at the corridor of our campus the next day, again I pretended to act innocent. She looked at me and came my worst fear ever, she walked toward me and asked, “Yamashita-kun, can we talk?” I nodded helplessly. We walked to the nearest cafeteria, and sat down in the back area.
We sat there for a while as none of us started the conversation yet. By that moment I have a chance to observe her, she looked tired, saw the big dark shadow under her eyes, it’s obvious she hasn’t got enough sleep the night before.
“Anoo…” ah we said it at the same time. We both chuckled and she started, “Sorry to interrupt your free time, Yamashita-kun.”
“Iie, it’s ok! And you don’t have to be so polite with me, we are friends, right?”
“Oh sure, what about Tomo-kun?” she suggested. I was delighted, it’s been years I haven’t heard anyone calling me with my given name.
“Cool, and I can call you Rei-chan too?”
“Of course!” she smiled. Then we have another silent moment before she spoke up again.
“Anoo, Tomo-kun, forgive me if I’m wrong, but I thought I saw you in Star Café in Chiba yesterday? What were you doing there?” My dear God, that was the last question I ever wanted to hear from her.
“Oh I live in Chiba, I was waiting for my sister to finish her school.” I tried to calm myself.
“Ah I see, but did you see me there?” then she bite her lips. Later I found out that she always did that habit every time she was nervous.
“Uhm, yes. You sat behind me right? With your friend?” I was trying to make sure if that guy was really her boyfriend or not.
“Yes, he’s my boyfriend Hajime. We had a little fight. You know, usual thing happen between couple.” A little? My heart screamed out!
“I know it’s not my business, but from I heard, it’s more than a little fight, Rei-chan!”
“Well, I found out he was cheating on me, but it’s cool, he already apologized.” she said in calm tone. I couldn’t believe this girl, how come she forgive him easily like that, frowned my mind.
“Rei-chan hear me, I don’t know much about you yet, but you deserved more than a jerk like him.”
“I thought you said it’s none of your business?” she smiled. Again, I still couldn’t believe how calm she was.
“Don’t worry, it’s all cool, I will introduce you with him sometimes. Thanx for hearing my problem. And oh, don’t forget we have a schedule to visit your company tomorrow.” she ended our conversation, waved me goodbye and left the cafeteria just like that. I felt frustrated. How I wished I could make her open more of herself to me.
***
Chapter 3
“Yamashita-kuuunnn!!” I heard a familiar voice calling my name, I frowned, since I already recognized whom the high-pitch-spoiled voice belong to. But I couldn’t ignore her since we already have appointment to visit JE building that day. I turned my head and tried to smile.
“Hi, Tanaka-san!”
“Mou, how many times I have to tell you that u can call me Risa-chan?” sulked her. I was happy that I saw KenKen and Reiko were walking toward us, at least they could save me from this kind of conversation. I waved and greeted them.
“Osoi yo, futari tomo!”
“Gomen, but we are here now, so stop your lecture and not wasting any time. Let’s go!” grinned KenKen. I smiled, of course how could I ever scold a genki person like him. I lead them to my car.
“Sugooiiiiii!!!” screamed out Risa admiring my car. “Can I sit in front seat?” she continued.
Before I could say anything, KenKen cut in, “No way, I could get sick if I sit at the back!” and acted as if he was about to throw up. I gave him a thanks signal and he winked to me. Of course it was a lie. Risa pouted but she joined Reiko sitting at the back seat at the end. Good thing no more argue from her. I started the engine and made sure everyone was ready before I drove the car to JE building.
Our journey was filled with Risa’s babbling, and beyond my expectation she spoke really fast too. I wondered how it would like if she talked with Shige and Tegoshi, must be a scary fast talking contest. I lifted my head a little to check the rear-view mirror ahead me, and I caught Reiko. Poor girl, she was forced to listen Risa. I saw her panda eyes again, I bet she hasn’t got enough sleep again last night. Then by my surprise, she looked back at me. I didn’t dare to stare back and pretended to adjust the mirror.
We arrived at JE building 30 minutes later, when we walked from the parking lot to the main entrance, we met my best friend Akanishi Jin. We did the usual handshake style that we invented during SUMMARY last year, it’s not really hard, at least Bakanishi was able to remember the whole thing, while Koki was frustrated since we refused to teach him. I introduced Jin to my friends. And Risa was speechless when she shook hand with him.
“Ahh Tanaka ne? Any relation with Koki?” asked Jin innocently.
“Baka! We all know that Tanaka is a common surname in Japan!” I whacked his head.
“Ittaiii yo! I’m just asking!” pouted Jin and whacked me back.
“Mou, you guys are so funny! Unfortunately not, Akanishi-kunnn!” chuckled Risa with her usual annoying voice.
“Anoo…” we all turned our heads to Reiko.
“Shall we go inside?” she continued. I just realized that we have been standing there for a while, I lead them inside the main entrance. I nodded to the receptionist, and she gave KenKen, Risa and Reiko visitor cards to wear on.
“Uwaaaa, this place is super cool! OH LOOK! That’s KinKi Kids and V6!” shrieked Risa and pointed to the posters near the elevator. Jin gave me the question look, the “Dude, where do you find this chick?” look. I just raised my shoulder. I hoped we wouldn’t have to bump into any senpai today.
Jin stepped out at 7th floor since he was late for the appointment with his manager already. And we stopped at 9th floor, I lead them to my manager’s office. He welcomed us with his friendly smile. And we started discussing where to begin our research. My manager suggested that we better split into two teams, since the building was really huge. When Risa about to open her mouth which I had sense that she wanted to be paired with me, my manager said, “Ok, Yamapi and Miyamoto-san please follow me! Sato-san and Tanaka-san can follow my assistant.” Risa pouted at his instruction, but had no other choice but to follow it.
***
I walked beside Reiko awkwardly, she wrote necessary info that my manager explained into her agenda, I just turned on my recorder since I already knew most of the basic info and JE history. We visited the meeting room, the cafeteria, the main office and lastly the rehearsal room. My manager excused himself since he still had many things to do, I nodded, and said that I could show Reiko the rehearsal room myself. When I opened the door, the room was filled with many kids, I just remember that day was the rehearsal day for Shounen Club.
“Kawaiiii…” I heard a soft whisper from Reiko. And I swear I could see that her eyes were glowing. My thought was she must like children very much. We waited near the door when we heard Sanche-san said to the Juniors, “That’s all for today! Don’t forget to keep on practicing, see you all tomorrow!”
“Haiiii!!Arigatou, Sanche-san!” chorused the kids.
“Rei-chan, wanna go there?” I asked. And she replied with a nod.
“Ah, Yamapi! And she is?” greeted Sanche-san.
“Hi Sanche-san, this is my friend Miyamoto Reiko, we are here to have a research on JE for paper work.”
“Doumo, Miyamoto Reiko desu.” She bowed a little.
“Nice to meet you, but gomen ne Yamapi, I can’t company you all, I have a schedule to teach KAT-TUN new ero-ero dansu on 7th floor.” regretted Sanche-san.
“Iie, go ahead, don’t let us make you late.” I smiled.
After Sanche-san left, Reiko turned her head to me.
“Ero-ero dansu? What’s that?” asked her with confused look.
“Etoo, how can I explain this, you have to look it yourself. Tell you what? I will bring you to see KAT-TUN concert next weekend, so you will figure out what is it.” I have no idea why I asked her to see a concert, it’s like asking her out, which I thought she would reject it since she had a boyfriend already. I tried to make it sounded like general favor not a date. I waited her answer impatiently, but of course I didn’t want her to know that.
“Sounds cool! Yakusoku ne?” replied her with excited tone, I was in heaven.
Then we saw few Juniors came to us. I knew some of them were J.J.Express members.
“Doumo, Yamapi-senpai!” chorused them
“Senpai? Wow that’s cool!” teased Reiko.
“Senpai, who is this lady? Is she your girlfriend?” asked nosy Yuto.
I began to panic, “No no no, this is my university friend Miyamoto Reiko!” and I could see that Reiko blushed too.
“Yes, I’m not his girlfriend, I don’t want to make his fans broken-heart.” joked Reiko. Then she bent a little so she could have face to face with the smallest boy, she patted his hair and asked, “What’s your name?”
“I’m Morimoto Ryutaro!” answered the boy with his mature voice.
“Hello Ryu-chan! And you are?” she turned her head to Yuto.
“I’m Nakajima Yuto! And this is Inoo Kei and Arioka Daiki, we are J.J.Express! But we still have other 5 members over there!” babbled Yuto.
“Ehhh, that’s make 9 members in a group? So many!!” surprised Reiko.
I coughed, “Ahem, Rei-chan, NEWS used to have 9 members too when we first formed.”
“Hontou desu ka? Wow! And now?”
“Only 8, but one member got suspended, I will explain later, so only 7 active members for a time being.”
“Sou ka…” then she turned her head to the boys again and chatted animatedly with them. I just looked at her, and thought she would be an amazing mother in the future, the way she talked with them and her gestures showed how much she could deal with kids very well. I lent my body to the wall and rested a bit, my mind went to the incident at the Star Café few days, I was really curious about her secret. What it’s all about?
“Tomo-kun?” I heard her voice calling my name, I turned my head to her.
“Yes?” I replied.
“I think we have done all our research today, and we supposed to meet Sato-kun and Risa at the cafeteria.”
“Ah ok, let’s go! I thought you still have many things to talk about with the boys.” I teased her.
“I wish! But they all must to go home!” she pouted. I chuckled at her answer.
“You must be really like children ne?” actually it wasn’t a question but more like statement.
She didn’t answer immediately, made me wondered if I asked the wrong question. She just stood there then took a deep breath before finally looked into my eyes, made me felt a bit uneasy.
Suddenly the door was opened …
***
Chapter 4
“Yoo hoo, Rei-chan!! Yamashita-kunnnn!!!” called out Risa, she waved to us. I frowned, I didn’t expect her to disturb us, still wondered why Reiko didn’t answer my simple question. But I waved back to her lazily, KenKen followed her.
“Mou, what took you two so long? We are tired waiting at the cafeteria!” Risa started her whining again.
“Doh, can’t you see they ain’t finished?” barked KenKen.
“But manager-san is gone already, so they must have finished!” insisted Risa.
“Oi oi, chill out, guys! You two are like a married couple you know! We are finished, let’s go!” I was tired to see them arguing to each other like cat and dog.
We went back to the 9th floor, we said thanks to my manager and excused ourselves. On our way to my car, Risa said that since we have finished our research project, we should celebrate it by having dinner together. I thought it was a great idea, not like I wanted to spend more time with her, but I wanted to discover more about Reiko. She hadn’t spoken any word since my last question at the rehearsal room. She became really quiet again.
Risa chose a brand new restaurant near Harajuku, it’s quite cozy and gave us warm feeling since the first step we entered it. The variation of foods were good too, it had many kinds of foods such as Japanese, Chinese, American, European, etc. I ordered niku udon, since I have been craving for it since morning. Risa insisted to sit beside me but I was lazy to deal with her, so I just let her. At least Reiko sat in front me, she ate very slowly as if she had no appetite. Risa and KenKen dominated the conversation like usual, sometimes I wondered what would happen if they became a couple?
After the dinner, KenKen stopped a taxi for Risa and him, since they lived near each other. I also waited for them to get a taxi. I couldn’t drive them home since I have promised ka-chan to sleep at home that day. I saw Reiko checked out her cell phone, I just noticed all her stuff were in blue color, her cell phone, the straps (and one of them was Doraemon!), her hand watch and the rubber bracelet she wore at her left hand. She must have loved blue color that much.
Finally a taxi stopped, Risa and KenKen said bye to us and went inside. I turned left to face Reiko, and her expression was plain as usual. I was about to start a conversation for breaking the ice, when her phone was ringing. She excused herself and answered it, a minute later she returned.
“Ano, Tomo-kun, you don’t need to company me anymore, I think I should just wait for a taxi since Hajime-kun can’t drive me home.” she started.
“Ehh? No way I let you home by yourself, it’s late!” I replied with worried tone.
“No worries, stop being a babysitter! I’m an adult already.” she chuckled.
I looked at my watch, then asked, ”I still have time to drive you home, no problem at all, where do you live?”
“Chiba.” replied her shortly.
“What? Why you didn’t tell me before? We live in the same town! No more excuse, get inside the car now!” I grabbed her hand and opened the front passenger door for her. She was about to refuse my offer, but she sat in my car at the end. I let out a sigh of relief.
She seemed uncomfortable. I didn’t say anything since I knew it would only made her more nervous. So both of us fell silent on our journey home, just after I passed the intercity freeway, I turned my head to the left side and found her fast sleeping, I haven’t asked her address yet, and I didn’t want to wake her up, her face was so peaceful. I knew from her eyes she really needed a good long sleep. I was doubting where to take her, then I decided my mind.
***
I stopped the car at the beach. Wondered if I did the right thing, but then I went outside the car, I looked around the empty beach, the sea was still beautiful even at night. And the full-moon was glowing, it’s not the first time I ever went to the beach at night, I always loved this beach, it’s been like my playground since I was young. And she was the first girl I ever brought to this special place, well sort of, since she wasn’t aware of it. I sighed, and opened my phone to call ka-chan, I even didn’t know why I lied to her saying that I stayed in Jin’s house that time.
***
I didn’t sleep at all that night, I just sat at the beach looking at the sea. Thinking of my life, I have entered Johnny’s Jimusho since I was 11 years old, and I was considered lucky to get debuted when I was 18 and being the most popular member in NEWS. I also couldn’t believe myself that I managed to enter Meiji University, I thanked Koyama to introduce me to the right tuition center since study wasn’t my favorite thing in the world.
Then my mind went to my family, for this case, I wasn’t that lucky, my parents divorced when I was still young, I even followed ka-chan’s last name Yamashita rather than using otousan’s last name Manatsu, same thing with my sister Rina. I still remembered very well the day when she was born, I was only 3 years old, otousan brought me to the hospital and ka-chan showed me a little baby girl and said, “Tomohisa, this is your sister Rina, yoroshiku ne.” I looked at her and thought she was really ugly like a monkey, and I still often teased her about it. Well, new born babies never looked cute ne? Few years after, my parents divorced and ka-chan being a single parent, worked hard to support us. I rarely seeing my otousan, he was busy with his new life, and he was a strict person, he wouldn’t let me enter entertainment business, he always said it wouldn’t give me good future. So maybe this was fate, I thought. I have to cherish everything that happened in my life.
“Tomo-kun?” I heard Reiko called me. The sun was about to rise.
“Ne ne, Rei-chan, kochi-kochi! Let’s see the sunrise!” I invited her. She was clueless since she just got up from her sleep. But she sat beside me at the end. We witnessed the sunrise together, the orange light from the edge of the sea was extremely beautiful, really gave me warm feeling, and I felt like all my problems just vanished away. I wished she felt the same way. I glimpsed at her, and saw her also stunned with the magical moment of sunrise.
“Kirei deshou?” I asked. She just nodded. And we continued watching the sunrise until the sky was bright.
“Tomo-kun?” she called me softly.
“Hai?”
“Arigatou ne.” she bent her legs in front of her chest and held them with both of her hands.
“Ehh? What for?” I widened my eyes, didn’t expect her to thank me.
“For bringing me here and invite me to witness the most beautiful scene in my whole life.” she smiled while she said that.
“Your welcome! But at first I didn’t want to bring you here, I was thinking of love hotel.” I teased her. And got a whack on the head in return, of course she knew it was only a joke.
“Hentai!” she laughed, and it was the most natural laugh I ever heard from her. She continued watching the sea and playing with the sand.
“Seriously Rei-chan…” I started again. She stopped her action and looked at me curiously.
“Sorry for not asking permission for bringing you here, I didn’t know your address and you didn’t dare to wake you up.” I apologized.
“Iiyo, Tomo-kun!” she observed me, and looked surprise. “Chotto matte, you didn’t sleep at all, did you?” she demanded. I blushed, how could I explain her that my heart wouldn’t stop beating when I tried sleeping in the car beside her, and decided to stay awake.
“I told you, I prefer sleeping at the love hotel!” I joked again and run before she whacked me. And we ended up chasing each other like little kids. And it lasted for a while before we both ended up falling to the sand with me on the top of her. I lifted my weight with both of my hands between her head, both of us panting our breaths away. I could feel my heart was about to explode and her face was blushing in red. I was about to get up from her, when I saw her closing her eyes, I moved closer …
***
Chapter 5
And it was our first kiss ever, I brushed her lips into mine, it was a warm sweet kiss, she opened her eyes and blushed when I released the kiss. I also could feel the warm in my face. I suddenly realized morning appeared and soon people would come and saw us. I stood up and offered my right hand to help her up, she smiled and took my hand, when we touched I could see her blushing again.
We finally stood and stared at each other, both of us hesitated to start the conversation, again awkwardness has come between us. And by our surprise, we heard a sound of phone was ringing from my car. She stunned a while then she realized it was hers. She run to my car hurriedly, found her phone in the front seat, she looked into the front screen to see who was calling her in early morning like this, then her facial expression changed into aware one, she picked up the phone and I could hear a sound of whisper, “Moshi-moshi, Hajime-kun …”
I froze, how could I possible forget that she has a boyfriend already? And thinking that I had kissed her made me full of guilt. I could feel my body was getting weaker, and I sat in the sand, wondering what excuse I should say, I knew she didn’t reject my kiss, but still I couldn’t help feeling nervous and guilty. I was still fighting with my mind, when I heard her soft voice calling my name.
“Tomo-kun … gomen, I have to go now …” she bite her lips again.
I stood up, I looked into her eyes, and finally I could open my mouth, “Rei-chan, I’m terrible sorry!”
“Ehh? What for?” she looked confused.
“For … kissing … you …” I replied slowly then faced the sand.
“Oh that, iie daijoubu desu, it’s not your fault.” I was relieved for her response and looked into her eyes again.
“Do you get trouble from your boyfriend?”
“Uhm don’t worry, he was just wondering where I slept last night, I said I slept over at Risa’s.”
“I’m sorry that you had to lie.” I apologized again.
“Tomo-kun! Stop it! I said it’s not your fault!” replied her with high tone, I was shocked at her reaction. I went silent.
“Sorry for yelling at you, but you shouldn’t apologize for everything, coz it’s not your fault.” said her with lower tone. I nodded helplessly.
“Now I have to go, coz I said to Hajime-kun that I’m on my way home.”
“Let me drive you home!” I butted in.
“Thanks for your offer, Tomo-kun! But it’s best if I go on my own this time to avoid more trouble.” she replied calmly. I nodded again, and saw her walking to my car and took her stuff with her.
“Rei-chan …” I started again, I wanted to tell her that I liked her but after I saw her looking back at me, I knew I shouldn’t trouble her more, instead I said, “Take care ne?”
“Arigatou, Tomo-kun! Take care you too!” then she waved me goodbye. I was wondering was it our last meeting? I wasn’t sure she wanted to see me again after everything that happened between us. I sighed, I entered the car, started the engine and drove home.
***
I was wrong, I still saw her around the campus and she didn’t change at all, still greeted me whenever we passed each other in the corridors or halls. I was relieved, she pretended that nothing has happened, and I did the same thing. We had some meeting with KenKen and Risa too and discussed about our project. Surprisingly, Risa never annoyed me anymore, instead she was like changing the object of her crush to KenKen. Poor KenKen, I thought! But from my observation, KenKen seemed okay with all her over attention to him, which concluded me that he might like her too? But heck, I’m not a busybody, it’s their own business, I was glad she’s not bothering me no more.
Friday noon, after I finished my English class, I went to Johnny’s building for weekly meeting with my manager. He said that I would have a new drama this summer. Yatta!!! My heart screamed out! I really missed acting, the last drama I had was one and half year ago which was like ages ago. He handed me the script and I was surprised to see that I would have a bad boy role this time, quite challenging, usually I got stereotype character like popular boy etc, but bad boy? It would be my first time role. I smiled, and I also saw the name of my ex-high school mate Teppei in the cast, interesting!
I was still smiling in the corridor when I bumped into Jin.
“Oi Pi, here are the tickets you asked for!” he passed the tickets to me in a rush and run to the elevator.
“Ehh Bakanishi, chotto!! What tickets?” I run after him. He looked at me impatiently.
“The ticket of KAT-TUN concert you asked yourself last week! Baka!” and whacked my head before he went inside to the elevator and left me alone. I finally realized that I promised Reiko to show her the ero-ero dansu at KAT-TUN concert last week at our project research. I whacked my head, how I became such a forgetful person this week? I hesitated, didn’t know what to do, she said she would come before, but what if she refused this time? I walked to my car with much hesitation. But finally I made up my mind. A try is a worth, I thought.
I opened the flip of my phone and wrote e-mail to Reiko, written like this :
Konbachiwa Rei-chan
Ano sa, do you still want to see KAT-TUN concert with me?
As a friend of course, it’s not a date, don’t worry!
Coz Bakanishi already gave me the tickets and it’s such a waste if we didn’t go.
Ikkou yo! \^o^/
Tomohisa
My hand was trembling when I pressed the send button. Wondering if she would reply me or not. I waited and waited, still no reply from her. I nearly gave up after 30 mins, and already thought she didn’t want to go with me. I started the engine and ready to drive home, when suddenly the e-mail tone from my phone was heard. I hurriedly opened it and it was from her! It was short but made me so flew to 7th heaven.
Konbanwa Tomo-kun ^o^
Gomen I was outside, sure I still want to go!
Mata ashita!
Reiko ^_~
***
Chapter 6
I heard the alarm from my cell phone, I frowned, I grabbed the phone, and saw it was already 7 am. I was wondering why on earth I had to wake up so early in my day-off like this? Then I whacked my own head, it’s KAT-TUN concert day! And I had a plan to go with Rei-chan! I read her e-mail again, still couldn’t believe that she agreed to go with me! I was still smiling widely when my sister opened the door and gave me the question look.
“Oniichan, daijoubu desu ka? Why you are smiling like a dork?” teased her.
I threw my pillow to her and scolded her, “I AM NOT A DORK! And why didn’t you knock the door first?”
She managed to miss the pillow and grinned, “Why I should knock? Afraid I will find a girl in your room?” then she started looking at my clothes drawer.
“Ne, what are you looking for?” asked me curiously. Tho it’s not something new that Rina often borrowed my clothes. We have the same taste in fashion.
“I have a date today, uhm, can I borrow this one?” and showed me the skull printed shirt I bought with Koyama last week. It’s body-fit shirt so it might look good on her, I even haven’t taken off the label yet. I sighed, “Yeah, go ahead! I can wear something else.”
“Arigachu!” and gave a peck on my right cheek, she had to tip-toe of course. Then she opened my accessories drawer, I sighed again.
“Gomen niichan, I can’t help it! You have a great collection of accessories!” she grinned again. She has a point, I have a great passion for accessories, I even thought if I ever get retired from entertainment business I might open an accessories shop. I watched her browsed around my collection and took out the long cross necklace, she turned her head to me and asked, “My greatest brother on earth, can I borrow this one too?” with her best puppy eyes look. “Onegaiiii!” she started again. Damn, she knew well I could never resist her. She’s my only sister after all.
“Ii yo.” I gave up. And she hugged me tightly. “You are the best!” she said happily.
“Ne, who is your date?” I asked again.
“Ehhh? It’s a surprise that you asked about my date, he’s my classmate, we will watch a movie together.” She said cheerfully. Sometimes I envy her coz her life was always easier than mine, she could go out with anyone she liked anytime she wanted.
“Sou ka, be careful ne!” I reminded her.
“Hai, shinpai shinaide, I can take care of myself.” She was about walking out the door when she suddenly she turned back.
“Ne oniichan, why you are waking up so early? Isn’t it your day-off?”
“Urusaiiii!!” I snapped.
“Ahhh, wakatta! You also have a date, ne? ne?” she demanded.
“I AM NOT!” I denied, “She’s just a friend of mine, we will watch KAT-TUN’s concert together.” I didn’t know why I told her.
She smiled and said, “Wakatta! Good luck, niichan! Win her heart!” and she finally went out from my room.
Her last words made me thinking, I really liked her so much, but she has a boyfriend already. She couldn’t give me more than friendship and I have to deal with it. Well maybe friendship was the right thing to do at the moment, I thought. I shook my head, I should get ready, since I already promised Rei-chan to pick her up at the bus station in 30 minutes.
***
She was already in the bus station when I arrived, looking gorgeous with her white shirt, blue sweater, long skirt and soft make-up. I never saw her with girly style before, usually she’s on casual style. She was blushing when I opened the door for her. Then our journey to Tokyo started. I glanced at Reiko who sat beside me in the car, she looked a bit nervous, we were on the freeway to Tokyo.
I tried to start the conversation, “Ne Rei-chan, is blue your favorite color?”
“Is it? Why?” she asked back.
“Coz most of your stuff are in blue color, usually girls like pink ne?”
“Oh, I didn’t realize it, do you know that blue represents sadness and pain?”
“Yes, I heard of that.”
“That’s why I like it.” She smiled mysteriously. I cringed, her answer was unexpected, wondered if she joked or not.
“Uso uso! Your face is really funny! Don’t believe any single words that I said!” she laughed.
“Mou, yada yo! Don’t make fun of me!” I pouted and pretended to sulk.
“It’s because you are so serious, it just happens most of my stuff are in blue color.” She explained then she turned her face to the window, I had a feeling she was trying to avoid me again. And I wondered why? I just wanted to know more about her, she’s so mysterious.
***
We arrived in the concert hall about 45 minutes later, after I parked my car near the backstage gate, I put on scarf, hat and sunglasses. Reiko just smiled at my antics. She understood that I had to wear those to avoid fans. We made it just in time, the concert would start in 10 minutes. We entered the hall, I took off my sunnies and searched for our seats, I smiled to anyone I recognized in the special spot for guests and invitees. And by my surprise, I met Koyama and Shige!
“Yo Pi! We don’t know you are coming!” greeted Koyama.
“Oh hi, Koyama, Shige, please meet my friend Miyamoto Reiko!” I introduced her to them.
“Doumo! Miyamoto Reiko desu!” bowed Reiko politely.
“Doumo!” chorused Koyama and Shige.
“They are my group mate in NEWS.” I explained after we took our seats.
“Ah! So nice to finally meet NEWS members! Heard so much about you guys! So only two of you came together?” she asked.
“Yes, we are on a date!” grinned Koyama and pretended to hug Shige. I swore I could see her eyes widened in shock, she didn’t say anything and the whole hall turned black as the concert was about to start.
“Tomo-kun, are they gay?” whispered her.
“Haha! Of course not! They are good friends since Jr days, and a lot of fans matchmaking them as yaoi couple.” I explained.
“Yaoi? Sounds scary!” she shook her head in disbelief.
“It’s nothing, sometimes we tried to make them happy by showing more rabu-rabu act.”
“Uhm, it’s a bit weird to me, but interesting at the same time.” I just laughed at her last comment. And finally the concert stated. She focused her eyes on the main stage where 6 of KAT-TUN appeared in purple pirate suits. The opening song was GOLD, I nudged her, she turned to me, and I whispered, “Watch closely, you will experience what we call ero-ero dansu soon!” she nodded and focused her sight to the stage.
“Holy!” I heard her sudden comment.
“I told you!” I laughed.
“Ne Tomo-kun, usotsuki!” she started again.
“Eh? I’m not a liar, I have shown you there’s an existence of ero-ero dansu.”
“No, it’s not that, but you said Johnny’s Jimusho only accepted boys, why I see a girl in that stage?” and pointed to Tatsuya Ueda. I couldn’t hold my laughter anymore. It’s not her fault that she thought Ueda was a girl, coz he looked pretty with his fair skin, black stylish hair, big eyes, full red lips and small figure covered in that semi lace skirt outfit, not to forget the hat he wore.
“Rei-chan! Believe me, he’s not a girl, look at his adam’s apple!”
“But how possible a guy to be so pretty? Too much shocking things about JE that I learned today, I’m afraid my heart can’t handle it anymore.” she joked and continued watching the concert.
***
2 hours later, after the encore, I hurriedly put my sunnies as the lights would on again. I glimpsed that Koyama and Shige also did the same thing. When they passed our seats, Koyama asked, “Pi, we want to go to the backstage and greet the guys, wanna come? Reiko too.” I looked at Reiko, and she nodded as a sign of agreement. So 4 of us headed to the backstage area. I nodded to the security guard, and he gave us visitor cards, and showed us direction to KAT-TUN’s dressing room.
“Otsukaresamadeshita!!” I shouted once I opened the door.
“Ahh, Pi, Koyama, Shige, douzo, come in!” welcomed Maru, the oldest member of KAT-TUN.
“Piii, tsukaretaaa!!!” moaned Jin and clung his chin to my shoulder. Then he looked at Reiko, “Areee, Reiko-chan? Guys, come and meet Reiko, she is a friend of Pi!” then he introduced all KAT-TUN members to her.
“Good job, guys! Reiko was amazed with ero-ero dansu!” I exclaimed, and her face turned red, she slapped my hand and whispered, “I’m not!”
“Ssshhh, your secret is safe with me!” I joked.
“Nee Pi, come with us for dinner, we have to celebrate your new role for summer drama!” invited Jin.
“Ok, but the dinner is on you!” I laughed, and saw him pouted. “Jyoudan yo, it’s on me of course!” I said again.
“Yatta! C’mon guys, Pi-chan is treating us dinner, yay!!” announced Jin happily.
“Well, we will wait outside and let you all dress up.” Said Koyama. After we went outside the dressing room, Koyama and Shige excused themselves to buy some drinks. Reiko was looking nervous again.
“Rei-chan, doushita no?”
“Is it really ok for me to join you guys? I don’t really know them yet!”
“Don’t worry, they are my best friends, and they won’t eat you up!” I joked.
“Tomo-kun, I envy you…”
“Eh, why?” I puzzled.
“Because u have so many best friends.” Said her slowly.
“Isn’t normal?” I asked back.
“I never had any best friend all my life.” she said with shaky voice.
“Rei-chan…” I patted her shoulder and continued, “Do you want to be my best friend?” She looked at me with disbelief and nodded slowly.
“Ureshii na! Yakusoku ne, from now on, we will be friends forever.” and offered my pinky finger, she crossed it with hers and we were officially best friends. Now I wondered if I made the right decision?
***
Chapter 7
After our declaration of being best friends, we often spent a lot of time together, not to mention we were in the same project group. So we frequently meeting up each other. Even when I was busy filming drama, we still managed to meet up at least once a week. It made me happy tho, but still I couldn’t lie to myself how hurt my heart was each time she excused herself to receive calls from her boyfriend on our meeting. I haven’t got a chance to meet him, but I could sense he’s not a nice person, as she always looked gloomy after the phone calls.
The more we spent time together the more I was sure that I was falling in love with her. She has everything in ideal girl that I could ask for. And it’s such a pain that I couldn’t express my feeling to her. Tho maybe deep inside she realized it, and it’s possible that she has the same feeling towards me, but there’s a huge wall between us, and I have to accept that for a time being we couldn’t be together. But I was sure there still a hope for me to win her heart, someday.
***
I was ready to pack up after a long photo shoot for TV magazines, when I got an e-mail from Jin. His message was cheerful as always, I couldn’t help smiling when I read it :
“Ne Pi-chan,
Reiho will have audition in Shinjuku to enter D-Boys!
Let’s go and support him, U will be there also ^o^
Don’t say no, onegaiiii… <33 Jin”
Bakanishi! Of course I wouldn’t say no, it’s been a while since three of us hung out together. U is Shirota You, my best friend since high school days in Horikoshi Gakuen. Actually he’s a member of D-BOYS, a talent group of boys, just like Johnny’s Jimusho, so we should be rival in a way, but we didn’t care. Our friendship was more important. I have to thank him, coz he helped me a lot to catch up with my studies in school, also he gave me big influence to have more respect for my mother. I used to be rebellious and always argued with her, only U who could remind me how precious family was. I should treasure the ones I have left. U has become one of cherished people in my life. I introduced him to Jin, and they got along very well too. Reiho is Jin’s younger brother, he was too old to enter JE therefore he tried his luck to enter D-BOYS.
I hurriedly replied :
“Bakanishi,
You know well that I won’t say no!
Just tell me what time I should pick you ok?
We will have fun for sure! Mata ashita! <33 Pi”
Soon after I received another message from him. Gah, the event was earlier than I expected, that’s mean I have to get ready on early morning again, but no time to whine. Suddenly I wondered if Reiko wanted to join us or not. I haven’t introduced him to U yet, and he always complained that I only wanted to keep her for myself, that’s a joke of course. I opened my cell phone again, and typed.
I was prepared to sleep when I received her reply, it’s short :
“Gomen Tomo-kun,
I have already a plan for tomorrow,
Next time ne? Reiko”
The pain feeling of rejection came again all the sudden.
***
The audition event was extremely crowded, even tho Jin and me already disguised ourselves with hat, scarf and sunnies, fans still could recognized and followed us around. We felt bad as we seemed to steal attention of the crowds from that event. Jin even already announced in KAT-TUN J-web that he wouldn’t come, but heck our fans were smart, we couldn’t trick them at all. U couldn’t stand and watch with us since he’s a also a member of D-BOYS, he would appear on the stage soon. We cheered on Reiho, he waved and started dancing and singing while the judges examined him. He danced much better than Jin, but of course Jins’ voice is still the best. I just hoped he could make it. I suddenly remembered my own audition to enter Johnny’s Jimusho, I was only 11 years old. I was really nervous, Takki-kun was there, and he thought I was cute and chased me all over the room, I was scared of him. But later once I got accepted in Jimusho he became one of senpai I really respected to. He was the one who gave Yamapi as my nickname too.
Jin nudged me and I was back to reality. Reiho just finished performing, I gave applause. I dragged Jin out from the crowds, U said the result would only come out in the afternoon, as the judges needed time to announce the winners. We should go somewhere else, as I felt uncomfortable to have fans following us around, we shouldn’t wait in that place.
“Ne, Pi, want to go karaoke?” whispered Jin as if he could read my mind.
“Sure! Let me mail U so he can join us soon after he finish.” whispered me back.
Jin suggested that we should try a new karaoke place in Ikebukuro. Hearing this area reminded me so much when I had my first drama series ever titled Ikebukuro West Gate Park with senpai Nagase Tomoya from TOKIO, I had so much fun filmed this drama, tho I didn’t have big role there, but it was quite experience, I chuckled when I remembered that I have a girlfriend there and called her “Rabu-chan”, how ironic since I have no girlfriend at this moment.
My mind went back to reality when Jin passed me the mic. Soon after U joined us, so three of us had a karaoke festival. It was so much fun, I sang many songs that day, KinKi Kids songs and of course Southern Allstar. Two hours later when I just finished singing “Tsunami”, U reminded us that we should get back to Shinjuku.
We jumped on my car and we passed some love hotel in Ikebukuro, Jin who sat in the front seat next to me stuck his head at the window as if it was such an interesting view. Then the red light was on, I stopped the car and I whacked his head, “Bakanishi, what are you doing?”
“Iteee! Stop bully me!” whined Jin and nursed his head, he looked out the window again and this time his face turned into a very shocked expression.
“Nee, Pi-chan, isn’t it Reiko?” he asked and pointed to a love hotel. I turned my head automatically and saw the scene that I never wanted to see, Reiko went out from a love hotel with her boyfriend, I always thought their relationship was in a bad term, but seeing this, I just wanted to disappear, I lost all my hope. And most of all, it’s hurt me so much to see her in someone else’s arm.
“So this is the plan she referred to…” screamed out my heart.
“Baka!” U whacked Jin’s head again. And this time Jin didn’t protest, and he just patted my shoulder. The traffic light turned into green and I drove back my car in silent, none of them questioned me anything, they understood, and I’m so grateful to have them as my best friends.
To make the day even worst, Reiho lost.
***
TBC