Hello everyone! MisakiShishido here. :welcome
I have finally~ decided to create a page to post my OS and random drabbles that I have thought of and penned down.
Hope you will all like 'em! :nervous
Still working hard on my ongoing fanfic, Indestructible Fire (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38523.0). Please do support me by reading and leaving a comment!
Thanks for reading everyone! XD
JuriSaku
Untitled (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38617.msg1400115#msg1400115)*NEW!*
WMatsui
Illumination - Chpt. 1 (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38517.msg1308729#msg1308729)
Illumination - Chpt. 2 (END) (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38517.msg1308787#msg1308787)
After the Show (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38617.msg1312702#msg1312702)
Realising Our Distance (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38617.msg1315731#msg1315731)
Happy Birthday, Jurina (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38617.msg1322644#msg1322644)
Welcome Home, Rena-chan (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38617.msg1328057#msg1328057)
Happy Birthday, Rena-chan
Side: Jurina (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38617.msg1342060#msg1342060)
Side: Rena (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38617.msg1342062#msg1342062)
Goodbye (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38617.msg1374086#msg1374086)
KojiYuu
Matchmaking (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38617.msg1312878#msg1312878)
AtsuMina
Matchmaking (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38617.msg1312878#msg1312878)
Takamina - The Parent (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38617.msg1317745#msg1317745)
MaYuki
Love At First Sight? (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38617.msg1356662#msg1356662)
Misc
Just Another Off Day (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38617.msg1321882#msg1321882)
After a long~ three months hiatus, I'm BAAAAAAACK!!! ... Sort of. *SHOT*
I'm pretty sure as reader you'll be able to see how rusty I am after reading this Birthday OS for Matsui Rena-san, my precious Oshi of SKE48 alongside Jurina. I can't emphasise enough how much I love them equally, though my feels towards Rena-san has strengthened a lot more (so maybe I like her a teeny weeny bit more than Jurina :v) after listening and watching her last single, 'Mae no Meri' :cry: Such a meaningful song and the WMatsui contents in it is just... FEELS EXPLOSION!!! :panic:
Hmm what else to say... ah yes. This special OS, just because Rena-san's graduating hence I have put in extra effort as compared to Jurina's *SHOT*, has two perspectives. The first one, which is the one you'll be reading right below this 'short' post of mine, is the story from Jurina's perspective. And the second one, which will be uploaded right after this, is taken from our beloved Birthday Girl, Rena's, perspective. Both have the same outcome, but both are told differently in a way there are different conversations and different emotions going on each of their side of their story. Okay I don't know what I just said but yeah just... just read both, please. :sweatdrop: :bow:
I really hope they won't sound like nonsense though. I mean really, I was all "WTH AM I WRITING" halfway through. :nervous
Please do enjoy them nonetheless as they're my comeback fanfics of sorts and do leave a comment to share your experience of reading 'em~ every comment is appreciated as they encourage me to write! Thanks! :thumbsup
Replying time~:
@wmatsuifanfic: Thanks, Taro :D
@Minami-chan: Thanks a lot for reading! :)
@TeenyTae: I'm glad to be back in the game, sort of :P Thanks for the encouragement!
@kuro_black29: Yep! That's the moral of the story~ ;) Thank you for the encouragement!
@junchan48: Hahaha glad you enjoyed my previous OS. Thanks for waiting ever so patiently, Jun-chan. It means a lot to me :cathappy:
Happy Birthday, Rena-chan
~ Side: Jurina ~
I had never been so conflicted in a long time... heck, probably never in my whole life!
Did I hear her wrong? I probably must have right?!
“I’m… going to confess to Rena-san, Jurina-chan.”
OF ALL PEOPLE…
… Why did it have to be one of my first crushes from childhood?! I could understand if it was her supposed-to-be other half, Airin, but… why did she even want to tell me? Whyyyyyy?!!!!!!!!!!
“Eh? C-Churi?”
“I’ve been with Rena-san pretty much every possible day after Airi graduated Jurina-chan… and I enjoyed my time with her so much that feelings surfaced and…! … You understand… right?”
Recalling my conversation with her like, just a few moments ago at the park after she insisted on meeting up with me after today’s hectic Handshake Event is torturing my exhausted soul right now… but wait…
What am I so frustrated about? To whom are these raging storm of feelings and emotions directed to anyways? My childhood crush Churi? Or…
… My irreplaceable partner, Rena-chan…?
What the heck am I thinking about?! I shouldn’t even be feeling this conflicted in the first place and take a chill pill and cool down!
“AAAAAAAAHHHHH!!!” I yelled out to the tip of my lungs before diving onto my bed and slamming my head straight down onto my fluffy pillow. I lied motionless, eyes tightly closed and fists balled up until suddenly my phone vibrated in my skirt’s pocket. It was most likely a call, since it vibrated longer than how it would for just a message.
I swiftly took out my phone and swiped my phone screen naturally to pick up the call without actually looking at who called and just groggily placed the phone to my ear. I didn’t really have the mood to talk to anyone—
“Good evening, Jurina. Rena here.”
I literally pushed myself up and sat down properly on my bed, crossing my legs and sitting up straight at the sound of said person’s voice. I’m glad she wasn’t around me now otherwise she would’ve seen how ridiculous I look like right now.
“R-Rena-chan! W-What’s up?”
“Did… I call you at a wrong time? You sound rather flustered. Should I call—"
“N-No no!!” I ran my hands through my hair nervously, “I-I was uh… I wasn’t doing anything really! Probably just dozing off till my phone scared the heck outta me~! Ahahahaha~~~”
“Ah… you must’ve been really tired after the Handshake Event today huh? Good job today.”
Hearing those words with her warm-sounding voice really does lift my spirits up, “… Thanks Rena-chan, same goes to you,” I smiled, “Umm so… what’s up?”
“Oh yes. I was wondering if you were free on the 27th. I mean I umm… I saw your post on the Ameblo about wanting to come back for my Seitansai… so… well… maybe we could umm… hang out?”
That’s right, I wrote that out of emotional reasons since I was busy teaching the staff members ‘Halloween Night’s’ choreography and not to mention, other miscellaneous work… and that prevented me from attending Rena-chan’s Seitansai… the fact that even Churi was able to make it…
“Just the both of us?” I blurted out and upon realizing how that could have been misinterpreted, I facepalmed myself hard.
“O-Oh well umm… Churi will most likely join us too if you don’t mind. I mean, of course you won’t right, since you do like Churi a lot as well.”
… You make it sound like you like her a lot too Rena-chan… Huh?! Wait why the heck am I getting all jealous over Churi again? Come on, they’re BEST FRIENDS for crying out loud!!!
“Umm… I… I don’t know if I can make it Rena-chan but I’ll try. If not, just enjoy your time with Churi. Please don’t mind about me.”
“You’re… busy?”
Recalling an array of schedules jumbled up in my head, I let out a deep sigh, “… Mm. I think so.”
“I see… well just, let me know if you can make it for at least dinner yeah? At that—"
“Famous Melon pan shop that you really like that serves other Western delicacies? Got’cha.”
She giggled, “You really know me well.”
“Just as how you’ve seen me grow since I was a kid, I’ve been observing you too Rena-chan,” I smiled softly to myself.
“That’s really sweet of you, Jurina.”
“I deserve a kiss now don’t I?”
“Nope.”
“Man… you’re always playing hard to get, Rena-chan. Only towards lolis you let your guard down. It’s unfair~”
“Then return to being the feisty little kid you were, and try to get me then.”
“You wouldn’t drop your guard around me anyways.”
“That’s certainly true.”
We laughed heartily after our series of bickering. It’s been a long time since I had talked to Rena-chan like this over the phone. It brings back fond memories of the time where almost every phone call with her back when I was a kid was to annoy her and she would skilfully retort back, and it relaxes me.
“Well, I shouldn’t be bothering you now. Go get some rest. You have a busy day ahead of you tomorrow again don’t you?”
“And you’re enjoying your time doing whatever you want huh?”
“Hey I work too you know,” I could imagine her pouting all of a sudden, “… Just not as hectic as before.”
“Mmhmm. Kay well… Good night, Rena-chan. I’ll try my best to get back to you as soon as possible!”
“Sure. I… I hope you can make it.”
I closed my eyes, keeping my smile on, “… Yeah. The 27th is a big day for you after all.”
“Mm… Good night, Jurina.”
After we both hung up, my room instantly turned silent. I lied back down and rested my head back onto my pillow, setting aside my handphone and grabbed Brown Mama that was lying beside me and raised it above my head to look into its eyes, as if I were seeking for a solution to all the questions in my head, and in my heart.
Do I still have those awkward feelings towards Churi or even Rena-chan? I don’t want us to break apart if it’s because of something silly as a misdirected infatuation… We’re all girls...! Not like I mind or anything since I couldn’t care less about who my future partner’s gender would be as long as he or she accommodates and treats me well... And… and I’d rather we remain comrades in arms than rivals in love…
Setting the whole issue with Churi’s feelings aside, what should I do for Rena-chan’s birthday…? What can I do to impress her? And… what if I am unable to see her due to work?
Gosh… I’m a girl who just turned 18 not long ago and as an adolescent, this is a lot of personal stuff to take in~. Geez…
Hmm…… aah! Maybe I could…!
I jumped out of bed once more and went through my shelf of books about baking. Yeah, baking is my thing. So anyways, found the book I want which is pretty much all about baking bread and the like, and flipped the book to a place I had previously bookmarked to check what it was. Just looking at the page made me chuckle to myself.
“‘Must make this for Rena-chan one day!’, huh,” I read the note that was attached to the cute cat-shaped bookmark hooked onto the page, “Guess this will do.”
I closed the book and got out of my room and headed directly to the kitchen where my mom was busy preparing for tomorrow’s breakfast.
“Ju-chan?” She looked at me with surprised eyes, “Didn’t you say you were tired?”
“Yeah but something came up,” I placed the book on the kitchen top above my oven and went to the fridge to get some of the ingredients required, “I need to bake Melon pans for a certain someone who’s crazy about it.”
“Rena-san I presume?” My mom giggled.
“Yeah…” I felt my ears heating up for some reasons, “... I-It’s her birthday on the 27th.”
“I see,” My mom quickly finished up and placed what she had prepared into the fridge, “Let me know if you need any help okay? I don’t think you’ve ever baked a Melon pan after all.”
“Sure. Thanks Mom.”
Time to bake this thing!
- - - - - -
26th of July.
Tomorrow’s Rena-chan’s birthday and I’m caught up with the Odaiba live performance! Groaning about it won’t help obviously, plus… it’d be rude for my fans if I prioritise one person over everyone else…
Aaaaargh darn it… I want to see her… I want to see her…
I WANT TO SEE RENA-CHAN!!!
“Matsui Jurina-san?”
“YES?!” I looked back angrily which shocked the staff member. Realising my behavior I quickly stood up and bowed apologetically before he briefed me that it was almost time to perform. I shrugged and got up from my seat before suddenly, Churi hurriedly came in and told the staff member to excuse the both of us for a moment.
I definitely do not like the sound of this.
“... What is it Churi? If it’s about Rena-chan it can wait till after the live--”
“Tonight I have plans with her after she’s done with her performance at the 27 hour live programme . We’re going to watch a movie with Yuria till midnight.”
“Oh… is that so. Enjoy your--”
“And after Yuria leaves, I will confess to Rena-san.”
She cut my sentence again… but… this time it shook my heart for all the wrong reasons. I know I probably looked like I just saw a ghost but still, I forced myself to meet her eyes. Her serious, unwavering eyes that was full of determination.
Churi was… serious about Rena-chan.
And with that look on her face? It looked like she was ready to cut ties with me if her plan goes wrong thanks to me.
“We’ll be at the TOHO Cinemas. I wonder if you’ll come,” I sensed a tint of provocation in Churi’s tone of voice as she said that but she still had a poker face on.
I chose to remain silent and looked downwards until she turned around and left the dressing room without me. What the heck is going on? Churi wasn’t like this… she never was. That bubbly, sometimes idiotic, sometimes sister-like presence was completely diminished since yesterday when we talked. Why…?
Just because she-- no-- even I, have succumbed to the trap called ‘love’?
… No. I won’t allow myself to give into this terrible trap that could ruin our friendship. I can put a stopcock on my inner feelings towards the both of them to prevent anyone from getting hurt… but as for Churi, I have to bring her back to her senses… it’s alright if she confesses to Rena-chan and all but knowing Rena-chan, she’d probably at a loss of words and if Churi jumps to conclusion due to her emotions, she might think Rena-chan rejected her and--
“Graaaaaahhhh!!!!” I yelled in frustration, trying to get rid of the stressful thoughts.
I let out a deep sigh and shook my whole body to warm myself up and put on my game face by slapping both my cheeks like how Rena-chan always does before leaving the dressing room, with mixed feelings and stressful thoughts bubbling up at the back of my head.
One thing I definitely knew was that I should do whatever I possibly can so that our friendship wouldn’t break up just like that.
- - - - - -
Getting home from work without realizing it, was already about 11pm. I quickly updated my Ameblo with a post about today and seeing the photos that I’ve taken with my fellow SKE48 comrades made me smile, despite having a 2-shot taken with Churi and a group shot with her in it, it didn’t seem like we had anything going on between us because I suppose, we were happy to have performed to the best of our capabilities at that moment that we just set aside our personal issues with each other just like that.
Guess that’s how strong our bonds are as members of SKE48. Working together overpowers our issues together. And I’m thankful to Churi for that.
“Crap… need to heat them Melon pans up,” I reminded myself after a short respite on my living room sofa and went to the kitchen to place the Melon pans into the oven, “Guess it’ll take a while since I just switched the oven on. I should get changed.”
I left the kitchen and went upstairs to my room to get changed into a simple red hoodie with black sports shorts and by the time I came back down, something smelled odd.
“... Why does it smell like something burn-- NO DON’T TELL ME.”
I rushed into the kitchen and quickly opened the oven door only to see the top of the Melon pans looking rather burnt due to the amount of sugar I coated onto it.
“C-Crap!!!” I quickly put on my kitchen mittens and pulled the tray out, checking if there was any Melon pans I could’ve rescued but to no avail, they were all burnt. I noticed the temperature was accidentally turned to max and my oven was the type to heat up really fast depending on the temperature set when I should’ve set it to a lower temperature and cursed myself under my breath.
I looked at my watch, I could finish a new batch hopefully in half an hour’s time to catch Rena-chan at the cinema. Alright. I quickly rolled up my sleeves, placed the burnt Melon pans to an empty plate and began baking once again.
As much as I wanted to prove to Churi I could make it, my feelings of wanting to at least express my gratitude to Rena-chan on her birthday especially after missing her Seitansai this year overpowered my pride.
I wanted to see her no matter what. When that clock strikes 12am, I want to express my feelings of gratitude, respect and love to her. I must. These feelings fueled up my desire to get these Melon pans done as soon as I possibly can.
Because this is the last year for SKE48’s Matsui Rena.
And it will be hard to meet up with her after she graduates…
With that in mind…
I won’t miss out this one last opportunity!!!
- - - - - -
Huff… huff… huff…
I cycled as fast as I could, getting a few horns at me by cars for my reckless cycling but I just needed to get to the cinema in time.
If I missed seeing her now…
Churi would take her away…
Wait! Didn’t I tell myself to put a stop on my feelings for the sake of my friends?!!
“OI! BE CAREFUL OF WHERE YOU’RE CYCLING, YOU PUNK!” A man yelled angrily at me when I almost ran into him.
“S-Sorry!!!!!!” I quickly replied and continued cycling through the busy night traffic and when I finally arrived, I ignored my bicycle and left it as it is, on the ground of the bicycle rack, and quickly ran towards the entrance of the cinema, where I witnessed a tense situation.
Churi had a serious expression plastered on her face, I couldn’t see how Rena-chan was reacting as her back was facing me but seeing what is going on…
… Guess Churi had just confessed her feelings…
I decided to break the silence by calling out to Rena-chan with a loud, energetic voice and she turned around promptly. I noticed Churi glancing towards me, a small smile forming on her lips with her eyes covered by the shadow of her bangs. Without a moment’s notice, she went up towards Rena-chan and pushed her onto me, making me catch her with a free arm while holding onto the paper bag filled with freshly home baked Melon pans.
“C-Chu-chan?!” Rena-chan looked back immediately, only to see Churi bowing briefly at her.
“Looks like I was right huh, Rena-san? As promised, I’ll take my leave.”
“Oh no you aren’t, Churi,” I voiced out, helping Rena-chan regain her balance before walking slightly ahead of her, looking at Churi who swiftly turned her back towards me.
“I don’t know what you bet with Rena-chan but this is ridiculous,” I shook my head and clenched my fists, “... Why is it that love has to ruin our friendship with each other?! Are you sure this is what Rena-chan wants right now, especially on her birthday?!!”
“J-Jurina…” I heard Rena-chan squeak out softly from behind me.
Churi didn’t say a word but just stood there, motionless, as if she was dumbfounded by what I had just said.
“I’ve done my share of thinking after you told me you would confess your feelings to Rena-chan…” I took in a deep breath before speaking my mind, “... I once had feelings for you back when I was a kid, Churi. I’m pretty sure you know I was pretty smitten with you even till recently whenever people tend to ask me who I’d love to date were I to be a guy.”
She had no response, but I continued anyways.
“... Also at the same time… there was that other person in my life who’s both a sister figure and my one and only true rival from the beginning of my life in SKE48 who I just fell head over heels for without realizing it. Sure, I’ll be honest that it pained me to hear her announce her graduation and I was rather miserable the period of time right after that, but... I want her to be happy. And I already knew since day one that she wouldn’t be by my side forever no matter how much I wished for that to happen,” I looked at Rena-chan in the eyes and she had a faint shade of red forming on her cheeks, which she attempted to cover by looking away from me.
“I’ll be fair and say I love you both dearly. And I don’t want my stronger feelings towards one or the other to ruin the bonds we’ve took years to cultivate! So Churi… please. Don’t make this day start off on a bad note for Rena-chan,” I begged her and bowed, shutting my eyes as tightly as I could, hoping she would turn around to face both Rena-chan and I.
Abruptly, I heard faint laughter coming from the position Churi was standing and slowly lifted myself up from the bow, only to see her laughing on with her front finally facing us.
“J-Jurina-chan you… you sure have grown…!” She said in between giggles.
“C-Churi?”
“Chu-chan…?”
“I guess…” She wiped away her tears with her thumb, “... in that retrospective, I’ve lost to you,” She nodded, “You’re right… I was so blinded by these improper yet strong feelings in me towards Rena-san I forgot what’s more important…”
“No one has lost, Churi. But… I definitely won’t let love get in the way of our friendship with each other,” I grinned.
“Mm. Thank you for opening my eyes, Jurina-chan. I really apologise for my behaviour towards the both of you. Especially to you Rena-san, since it’s your birthday…” Churi bowed apologetically.
“It’s alright, Chu-chan! You’re making it sound too serious…” Rena-chan scratched the back of her head nervously until Churi returned to her normal standing posture.
“Ack, that reminds me!” I handed the paper bag of Melon pans to Rena-chan who shot me a surprised look on her face, “Before they get too cold. Here. Happy 24th Birthday, Rena-chan!!!” I flashed her my best grin.
She took a look at the paper bag and then at me, “T-Thanks Jurina. What’s in-- E-EH?!!!” Her eyes shot wide open and her mouth agape, which was the priceless reaction I was hoping to see and she gave me a look that I could’ve swore I saw her eyes shining under the moonlight.
“M-Melon… pan?!!”
“I uh…” I fiddled with my fingers nervously, “... I kinda baked them myself. It’s my uh, second attempt ‘cuz my first attempt kinda…” I cringed at the thought of what happened at home before coming here, “... burned up. It was edible but it looked--”
“I-It’s…” Rena-chan cut my sentence but she kept staring at the pan after she had bitten on it with her sentence unfinished. I stared at her, eager to know how it tastes like in her opinion.
“Horrible…!” She laughed, shedding a tear or two while laughing, “Yet, I think this is the best Melon pan I’ve eaten in my lifetime! Ahahahaha!!!”
“Which is it?! Bad or good?!!” If there was a table to flip, I would have, after hearing such a contradicting answer from Rena-chan. Plus, why is she laughing hysterically while in tears?!
“AAAH! Stop laughing, Rena-chan!” She seemingly ignored me until I grabbed the paper bag off her hands while she continued laughing her socks off. I took a new piece of Melon pan and gave it to Churi, “Wanna try one? I made extras actually and I doubt Rena-chan could finish this whole paper bag of Melon pans if it’s ‘horrible’,” I motioned her a pout but Rena-chan was still laughing crazily.
Churi smiled at me wryly before taking the Melon pan I offered her and took a bite, “... J-Jurina-chan this is… this is really good!”
I felt my heart aflutter at Churi’s comment. On the other hand…
“Hey Rena-chan you done laughing yet?”
Apparently she stopped and managed to get a breather after a short while of bizarre, hysterical laughing out of the blue. She went up towards Churi and I before looking at me in the eyes and smiled.
“It’s obviously delicious, Pâtissier Jurina. Thank you so much. I just didn’t expect this kind of birthday gift from you this year, and the fact you’re wearing so plainly that you could blend in with the crowd, it just made me laugh,” she explained, starting to giggle away again which made me roll my eyes in response.
“Yeah yeah, you’re welcome,” I shrugged before turning around, “I’m going home now. Another hectic day awaits for me tomorrow but I’ll try to make it for dinner with you both yeah?”
Churi called out to me, “D-Don’t you want to spend time with Rena-san too tonight? I’m staying over at her pla--”
I raised my hand and waved it slightly before tucking both hands into the pockets on my hoodle, gesturing it was okay as I walked towards the bicycle rack, until I felt a force from behind, and a weight clinging onto me from behind.
“... Jurina… there’s something I’ve been wanting to tell you… I wanted to save it for tomorrow because I thought we wouldn’t be able to meet today... ” I heard her whisper softly but still in an audible tone of voice as she grabbed onto the fabric of my hoodie from behind, burying her head comfortably onto my back.
“Then can’t it wait till tomorrow?” I whispered back, slowly twisting my head backwards only to be stopped by Rena’s hand that forced me to keep my head looking in front..
“Don’t look at me right now... “ She sighed, “... You see Jurina… I… I li--”
I cut her off, “Thanks Rena-chan. I think I know what you’re about to say,” a wry smile formed unknowingly on my lips, “But as I said previously to Churi… let’s remain as close friends and enjoy our remaining time together as partners till you graduate and of course, maintain our friendship even after you leave, okay?”
I felt her lift her head off my back but her hands still clasping tightly onto my hoodie, “I really wonder what has gotten into you Jurina. At the surprise party, you thanked me professionally when I expected a hug from you like everyone else. And now, you’re… you’re so different that I don’t know if it’s a good thing or a bad thing.”
“I guess it’s maturity kicking in, Rena-chan. I can’t stay the hot-blooded ‘kid’ I’ve always been with you always keeping me in check you know,” I chuckled awkwardly, earning a light whack on my back.
“Don’t sound so self-conceited, idiot,” she chuckled softly as well, “... But this ‘new’ Jurina, I like her a lot too.”
I felt heat rising to my cheeks and quickly pulled my hood over my head before clearing my throat, “M-Mm. A-Anyways, I’m leaving--”
“Jurina,” she grabbed my hand hard and pulled me twirling around to face her and… and…
… Pecked me on the lips.
“I owe you a kiss after all since the call last night,” she winked, “If I were the one spinning you in KissDatte I’d do a pretty good job, don’t you think?”
I blushed, “Y-Yeah yeah w-whatever!” I quickly ran towards my bicycle and straightened it up before getting onto it, “H-Happy birthday once again, Rena-chan! Enjoy the rest of your night with Churi…!”
She smiled brightly and waved at me, “Thank you, Jurina! See you tomorrow!”
“Alright!” I exclaimed one final time before pedaling away right after, touching my lips that had just met Rena-chan’s soft, Melon pan-tasting ones and I couldn’t help but grin all the way home.
I wonder if everything that has transpired tonight has left a memorable mark in Rena-chan’s memory?
Because I really hope it does.
And so I present to you, Rena's take on her B'day OS :lol: Oh right, I didn't mention it in J's take of the story but yes there's a loooooot of dialogue in this 2-Version OS. Please bare with 'em :bow:
Ah yes yes, I should take the chance to talk about my ongoing fic, Indestructible Fire (http://forum.jphip.com/index.php?topic=38523.0). Yes well, an update will HOPEFULLY be posted soon because I'm still rather unhappy with how it is at the moment but hopefully I can get an update up before July ends. For all you reader out there who's still supporting this weird fic of mine, I really thank you for your patience. I just hope I'm able to deliver. ><
That aside, please enjoy and do leave a comment~ thanks! :thumbsup
Happy Birthday, Rena-chan
~ Side: Rena ~
Soon, I’ll be 24 years of age. Time really does fly…
After I had announced my graduation, it felt like a huge burden had been lifted up from my shoulders but despite that, seeing all the people around me who played a huge part of my life success till today crying because of me, it sort of pained me inside. But I am sure they still mean well and want me to succeed even if I’m not a member of SKE48 anymore.
If I could name the people who were really shaken by my sudden announcement, I would say both Jurina and Masana… both of them, including me, are the only remaining first generation members after all. Especially for Jurina… I’m an irreplaceable existence in her life as she has told me numerous times these recent years. She took it the hardest since she apparently has been crying out of emotional distress and even during the 'Coquettish Juutai Chuu' Handshake Event she ended up crying until I needed to be by her side to consult her.
Churi knew about my announcement in advance but chose to remain smiling as ever, though when we filmed ‘Mae no Meri’, guess she couldn’t keep up smiling all the time… same goes to everyone else… and Jurina.
Jurina huh… I DID accidentally somewhat confess my feelings towards her during that ANN special that night but I’ve always been thinking if I actually liked her more than what I meant on the surface…
But then there’s Churi who has been really close to me these days to the point I have already named her my best friend who would always be there to give me a shoulder to lean on. I really like her too but… what kind of like is really questionable now…
I would say the same for Airin but we haven’t been meeting up as of late so… hmmmmm…
Suddenly, my phone broke me out of my enigma and I quickly picked it up, noting who the caller was.
“Chu-chan?”
“Yaho~ Rena-san!” Hearing her bubbly-sounding voice instantly made me smile in response.
“Anything the matter?”
“Well~ I was wondering if you wanted to go to the movies tomorrow after work. It’s been a long time since we’ve caught a late night movie~ Yuria suggested it actually!”
“Sure! That sounds like a great idea. I’m surprised Yuria was the one who suggested it though.”
“Apparently she wants to talk to you about some things personally plus, catch the movie we have decided on~”
“What movie are we watching?”
“It’s-a-se-cret~” Churi teased with her bird-like voice.
“Geez… Churi you’re such a meanie you know?” I pouted.
“Oooh~ That rhymes!” She laughed heartily over the phone.
“I’m hanging up!”
“N-No wait w-wait!” She controlled her laughter as quickly as she could and exhaled deeply before continuing, “R-Rena-san… umm… this is going to sound weird but do you have someone you like?”
If I were drinking water at that point of time I probably would’ve sprayed it out. But instead, I choked really hard, “W-What?!! Chu-chan! I’m still a part of SKE48 you know?!”
“Oh come on of course I know that! I mean… umm… gosh I knew it’ll sound weird…” She let out a sigh.
“Spill it.”
“Okay okay! I meant like… u-us members! I-Is there anyone you fancy?”
“Hmm? Yeah plenty. Though you know me... they’re mostly new kids like Rara-chan and--”
“... I meant really ‘like’... like you know… Kojima Haruna-san and Oshima Yuko-san? I heard rumours they’re actually together in private… like… together ‘together’,” she whispered in a secretive tone though knowing full well we’re on the phone.
“You mean if I have someone I umm… like ‘like’ of the same gender?”
“M-Mmm.”
What a question to ask Churi. I wonder what has gotten into her… but this is interesting so maybe I should do this.
“Well~” I placed an index finger on my chin, smirking away, “If I were to like ‘like’ someone, it’d most probably be you, Chu-chan~.”
“H-Hey! I’m being extremely serious here, Rena-san!!!” I could imagine her flailing her free arm around like a kid who just got bullied and that made me laugh.
“Sorry sorry!” I exclaimed, trying to contain a laugh that accidentally burst out of my lips but I managed to calm down slightly after, “I… I don’t know if I have anyone I ‘like’ that way to be honest. I mean… I had. But I kind of let those feelings go alrea--”
“It’s Jurina-chan isn’t it?”
I choked on her statement.
“I’m right aren’t I?”
“... Tell me how you could resist her charms back then during Kataomoi and KissDatte please, and I was still considered a growing adolescent at the time, so you can’t blame me for having haywire feelings towards whichever gender. Not only that… she’s always been clinging to me back when we were in the same Team… so it just… happened,” I explained and slumped back onto my sofa to relax my tensed muscles.
“Why did you give those feelings up?” Churi’s tone of voice turned serious all of a sudden.
I slowly shut my eyes to shield my sight from the blinding light shining directly at my face, “... Huh? Why should I continue them? We’re both girls. We’re ages apart. And…” I let out a puff of air, “... I don’t think Jurina’s into that. She may be the infamous kissing monster but she’s still a normal, straight young adolescent in the entertainment business.”
“You never know Rena-san… especially if you don’t make it transparent or ask.”
“I did! I mean.. I didn’t mean to but didn’t I accidentally blurt it out on ANN that night?”
“And boy was Jurina-chan happy about that. Yes, you did. But it just seemed like a normal ‘like’ or in the eyes of the fans, long-awaited ‘WMatsui fanservice’. I mean, didn’t Jurina-chan note that it would make the fans happy because of your answer or something?”
I groaned in defeat.
“Rena-san I…” She mumbled to herself before I heard a ‘pak!’ sound on the phone which sounded like a slap, “... S-Sorry. This whole conversation got kinda muddy huh?”
“... Yeah. What’s wrong Chu-chan? You know you can tell me anything you want in your mind if it’s seriously bothering you…” I was concerned for her.
“I-It’s nothing… Ah right…! Let’s have dinner on the 27th! Your restaurant of choice!” Her glum-sounding voice suddenly sparked up energetically which worried me a lot.
“S-Sure… I’ll tell you which restaurant after the movies tomorrow? And umm…” I glanced to the side to check the time on my clock on the wall near my kitchen area, “... you don’t mind if I invite someone else do you?”
There was a brief pause and I could sense Churi’s hesitance but she agreed at the end and we bidded farewells and good nights to each other before hanging up. I am really worried about Churi… just what was on her mind when she began trailing off to discuss about love matters with me?
… Not to mention… the feelings I had for Jurina that I sealed deep into the depths of my heart, never to resurface, is starting to want to burst out again thanks to that…
“This won’t do,” I massaged my temple to 'wake' myself up and proceeded to dial Jurina up.
Probably talking to her would help in pushing the feelings back down.
“Good evening, Jurina. Rena here.”
“R-Rena-chan! W-What’s up?” She sounded rather flustered. Maybe I caught her at an inconvenient time?
“Did… I call you at a wrong time? You sound rather flustered. Should I call—"
“N-No no!! I-I was uh… I wasn’t doing anything really! Probably just dozing off till my phone scared the heck outta me~! Ahahahaha~~~”
I raised my eyebrow suspiciously at her comment but didn’t bother to press on, “Ah… you must’ve been really tired after the Handshake Event today huh? Good job today.”
“… Thanks Rena-chan, same goes to you. Umm so… what’s up?”
“Oh yes. I was wondering if you were free on the 27th. I mean I umm… I saw your post on the Ameblo about wanting to come back for my Seitansai… so… well… maybe we could umm… hang out?” I curled my locks around my index finger mindlessly, kind of hoping for a positive answer from Jurina.
“Just the both of us?”
“O-Oh well umm…” I gulped, feeling rather nervous all of a sudden, “Churi will most likely join us too if you don’t mind,” I looked at a photo frame on a coffee table right next to where I was sitting which had Jurina, Churi and I back then after the end of the first season of SKE48 Magical Radio Show and smiled, “I mean, of course you won’t right, since you do like Churi a lot as well.”
“Umm… I… I don’t know if I can make it Rena-chan but I’ll try. If not, just enjoy your time with Churi. Please don’t mind about me.”
That answer made me frown involuntarily, “You’re… busy?”
“… Mm. I think so.”
“I see…” I shrugged, “Well, just let me know if you can make it for at least dinner yeah? At that—"
“Famous Melon pan shop that you really like that serves other Western delicacies? Got’cha.”
I giggled, “You really know me well.”
“Just as how you’ve seen me grow since I was a kid, I’ve been observing you too Rena-chan.”
My lips formed a smile at her comment, “That’s really sweet of you, Jurina.”
“I deserve a kiss now don’t I?”
“Nope,” I deadpanned. Such a playful kissing monster she has always been.
“Man… you’re always playing hard to get, Rena-chan. Only towards lolis you let your guard down. It’s unfair~”
“Then return to being the feisty little kid you were, and try to get me then,” I smirked.
“You wouldn’t drop your guard around me anyways.”
“That’s certainly true.”
It was nice to laugh so merrily after bickering with her when we haven’t done so in such a long time. She really can get rid of the annoying problems in my head even if it’s for a fleeting moment, and I’m glad I have her as a support for this.
Looking at the time once again, it seemed like time to call it a day, “Well, I shouldn’t be bothering you now. Go get some rest. You have a busy day ahead of you tomorrow again don’t you?”
“And you’re enjoying your time doing whatever you want huh?”
“Hey I work too you know,” I pouted, “… Just not as hectic as before.”
“Mmhmm. Kay well… Good night, Rena-chan. I’ll try my best to get back to you as soon as possible!” She said in a cheerful tone of voice.
“Sure. I…” I clenched my fist eagerly, ”I hope you can make it.”
“… Yeah. The 27th is a big day for you after all.”
“Mm… Good night, Jurina.”
All I could do now was pray she could make it… I had something to tell her that would relieve a huge burden off my shoulders before I graduate.
Which is my awkward feelings towards her.
- - - - - -
Today’s the day right before my birthday and I have work with AKB48 for the 27Hour TV programme. After our performance, we were allowed to either stay on to watch other artistes perform or return home but right after I changed into my casual wear, I was surprised when Takamina-san stood in front of my dressing room door with a cake and gathered everyone who was present to perform that day to celebrate my birthday in advance. I’m really touched by their actions and wishes too. We had our photos taken as a group and shared the delicious cake slightly after.
“Welcome to being 24 like me, Rena!” Takamina-san laughed after we had taken a photo together, “Though it’s still a day earlier, so I guess you can still enjoy a few hours left as a 23-year-old.”
It’s actually still hard to believe such a huge presence in the history of the 48 Group being the same age as you. I respect Takamina-san a lot, as both a leader and a Senpai that gave both Jurina and I advice when we needed it back when we were still green.
“Thanks a lot, Takamina-san.”
“Unfortunately Jurina and the other SKE48 Senbatsu members aren’t here huh,” She crossed her arms, frowning as if it was on my behalf.
I shook my head, “It’s alright. Jurina and the others did their best at the Odaiba live and that’s more important. For the sake of the fans.”
“Heh, that’s rather humble of you,” She grinned and gave me a light smack on my shoulder, “Anyways, great job today! See ya around~”
“You too, Takamina-san!” I bowed briefly before leaving the premises and taking our designated cab directly to the cinema to meet up with Churi and Yuria.
- - - - - -
“Thanks for today, Rena-hyon! Churi-san, you too!” Yuria bowed.
“No problem~! I’m glad you didn’t mind coming with us!” Churi said happily.
Yuria greeted me "Happy Birthday" in advance as she had to leave due to a curfew that was given to her by her parents that particular day and gave me a small boxed present. She had also thanked me for being a good senpai to her despite the fact I had weirded her out till the point of trauma and she did apologise for the exaggeration made. But I in response, apologized about that since… it IS sort of weird to see a senpai ramming her forehead at a metal bar of a costume rack before a performance…
She left shortly after, leaving both Churi and I alone at the entrance of the cinema.
“So… shall we go--”
“B-Before we go,” I looked confusedly at Churi who just cut me off, “... There’s something I want to tell you, Rena-san.”
“Whoa what’s with the serious mood, Chu-chan?” My face that was filled with smiles turned solemn after noticing how serious Churi looked like at that point of time. Just what could it be that made her turn from a cheery bird to a… a serious… eagle…?
“Rena-san I…” She took a deep breath, “... I have feelings for you!”
My mind went blank.
Like literally… blank. I felt my heart skip a beat and I just didn’t know what was going on around me at that split moment. I didn’t know what to say. I just felt numb.
“I-I’m sorry… if this is too sudden…”
I see now… no wonder she asked if I liked anyone currently…
“... I don’t expect to hear your answer now…”
But Takayanagi Akane is my best friend, above anything else…
“However… if Jurina-chan comes when the clock strikes 12am… I’ll give up on these feelings of mine.”
“... W-What did you just… say…?” That last statement snapped me out of it.
“There’s five minutes left till 12 am I right? If Jurina-chan pops out of nowhere before 12am, I will give up on my feelings towards you. This is something I decided for myself when I made the decision to confess to you today, Rena,” She lowered her head, hands balled up into fists and I could notice her trembling.
I really didn’t know what to do at that moment… my whole body didn’t respond to me. It didn’t want to move when my mind thought of moving towards Churi. I wanted to voice out whatever that was jumbled up in my mind and yet my lips stayed shut.
I wasn’t sure what she meant by Jurina coming as well… though everything came together when said person broke our momentary silence with her ever energetically loud voice.
“Rena-chan!”
I turned around to look at the source of the voice. She had beads of sweat dripping down her face and her hair was messed up. She was breathing rather heavily too, still trying to regain her composure.
When I was about to say her name, Churi pushed me onto said person, but thankfully due to her fast reflexes, she caught me with a free arm.
“C-Chu-chan?!” I looked back immediately, only to see Churi bowing briefly at me.
“Looks like I was right huh, Rena-san? As promised, I’ll take my leave.”
“Oh no you aren’t, Churi,” Jurina voiced out demandingly, helping me regain my balance before walking slightly ahead of me, looking at Churi who had swiftly turned her back towards us.
“I don’t know what you bet with Rena-chan but this is ridiculous,” she shook her head and clenched her fists, “... Why is it that love has to ruin our friendship with each other?! Are you sure this is what Rena-chan wants right now, especially on her birthday?!!”
“J-Jurina…” I squeaked her name out softly from behind her, surprised at her comment. Jurina was spot on though… I definitely didn’t want all this to happen… not today...
Churi didn’t respond and instead just stood there as if she was dumbfounded by Jurina’s words.
“I’ve done my share of thinking after you told me you would confess your feelings to Rena-chan…” she took in a deep breath, “... I once had feelings for you back when I was a kid, Churi. I’m pretty sure you know I was pretty smitten with you even till recently whenever people tend to ask me who I’d love to date were I to be a guy.”
Jurina paused briefly to see if Churi had any response, but no, she didn’t react whatsoever, causing Jurina to continue talking her mind.
“... Also at the same time… there was that other person in my life who’s both a sister figure and my one and only true rival from the beginning of my life in SKE48 who I just fell head over heels for without realizing it. Sure, I’ll be honest that it pained me to hear her announce her graduation and I was rather miserable the period of time right after that, but... I want her to be happy. And I already knew since day one that she wouldn’t be by my side forever no matter how much I wished for that to happen.”
She looked at me with such warmth in her orbs that it just made me blush unconsciously. Feeling the heat rise on my cheeks, I quickly looked away from her.
“I’ll be fair and say I love you both dearly. And I don’t want my stronger feelings towards one or the other to ruin the bonds we’ve took years to cultivate! So Churi… please. Don’t make this day start off on a bad note for Rena-chan,” Jurina bowed right after she ended her sentence. I looked on towards Churi, hoping she would finally turn back to face us. That was when I saw Churi’s body language that made her look like she was laughing and lo and behold, she started laughing at our direction, causing Jurina to rise from her bow.
“J-Jurina-chan you… you sure have grown…!” She said in between giggles.
“C-Churi?”
“Chu-chan…?”
“I guess…” She wiped away her tears with her thumb, “... in that retrospective, I’ve lost to you,” She nodded, “You’re right… I was so blinded by these improper yet strong feelings in me towards Rena-san I forgot what’s more important…”
“No one has lost, Churi. But… I definitely won’t let love get in the way of our friendship with each other.”
“Mm. Thank you for opening my eyes, Jurina-chan. I really apologise for my behaviour towards the both of you. Especially to you Rena-san, since it’s your birthday…” Churi bowed apologetically but the moment she rose up, she had the look of relief flashing across her face which was reassuring to see.
“It’s alright, Chu-chan! You’re making it sound too serious…” I scratched the back of my head nervously.
“Ack, that reminds me!” Jurina, at the spur of the moment, handed me a paper bag and that made me look at her in surprise, “Before they get too cold. Here. Happy 24th Birthday, Rena-chan!!!” She grinned widely at me.
I glanced at the paper bag and then right back at Jurina, feeling rather speechless at the sudden turn of events, “T-Thanks Jurina. What’s in-- E-EH?!!!”
I couldn’t believe my eyes and I knew my jaw dropped when I saw my beloved food in the paper bag. Its heavenly scent, slowly drifting into my nostrils, filling me up with happiness inside.
“M-Melon… pan?!!”
“I uh…” I returned to look at Jurina, fiddling with her fingers nervously, “... I kinda baked them myself. It’s my uh, second attempt ‘cuz my first attempt kinda…” she cringed, “... burned up.”
I took a bite while she was busy explaining and…...
“It was edible but it looked--”
“I-It’s…” I knew that curious pair of puppy-like eyes were on me.
“Horrible…!” I burst out laughing, tears of joy just seeped out of my eyes without realising it, “Yet, I think this is the best Melon pan I’ve eaten in my lifetime! Ahahahaha!!!”
“Which is it?! Bad or good?!!”
I’ve eaten tons of Melon pans to know that this is made by an amateur. But for Jurina to have gone out of her comfort zone and bake Melon pans for the first time for me for my 24th birthday is just sweet and touching that I kept help but tear up a little because of it. If anything, this was baked by the one and only, Matsui Jurina… and in my book, this is the best Melon pan I have eaten… it’s made with all her heart and soul, and I can feel that. It isn’t like all the commercial Melon pans I’ve eaten that taste really good but yet they’re made for thousands and thousands of people…
Jurina’s first and second attempt of making Melon pans have been made for me… and she allowed me to try them first.
“AAAH! Stop laughing, Rena-chan!” She suddenly grabbed the paper bag off my hands and that made me try my very best to stop laughing to hide the touched tears that were continuously flowing.
“Hey Rena-chan you done laughing yet?”
I finally stopped and managed to calm down once I saw Churi with a piece of Jurina’s homemade Melon pan. Seeing Churi munch down on it bite after bite with a satisfied smile on her face just shows how good it actually tastes despite the amateurism. I shot Jurina a smile when I walked up to the both of them.
“It’s obviously delicious, Pâtissier Jurina. Thank you so much. I just didn’t expect this kind of birthday gift from you this year, and,” I scanned her from top to bottom, “the fact you’re wearing so plainly that you could blend in with the crowd, it just made me laugh,” I started to giggle away again after making up an excuse to cover my actual reason for laughing so hard.
“Yeah yeah, you’re welcome,” she shrugged before turning around, “I’m going home now. Another hectic day awaits for me tomorrow but I’ll try to make it for dinner with you both yeah?”
“D-Don’t you want to spend time with Rena-san too tonight? I’m staying over at her pla--”
She had already started to walk away coolly but raised her hand and waved it slightly to gesture we can go on without her when Churi called out to her. I looked at Churi and she just nodded at me, mouthing a “Go!” that made me dash towards Jurina, pushing myself onto her from behind.
“... Jurina… there’s something I’ve been wanting to tell you… I wanted to save it for tomorrow because I thought we wouldn’t be able to meet today... ” I spoke softly, grabbing onto the fabric of her soft, red hoodie, burying my head comfortably onto her back.
“Then can’t it wait till tomorrow?” She whispered back tenderly, and before she could turn her head around to see me, stopped her with my hands and turned her head back to the front.
“Don’t look at me right now... “ I sighed and let my arms fall to my side, “... You see Jurina… I… I li--”
“Thanks Rena-chan. I think I know what you’re about to say,” she cut me off, “But as I said previously to Churi… let’s remain as close friends and enjoy our remaining time together as partners till you graduate and of course, maintain our friendship even after you leave, okay?”
If my memory serves me right… countless rumours throughout the years have been spread about Jurina’s crush on me despite proclaiming her undying love for Churi, which she definitely affirmed a moment ago. Yet now… now she had rather have friendship triumph anything else eventhough I gave her a chance. Eventhough I just wanted to test her resolve to see if it can be shaken.
Jurina... you really have grown as Churi said... haven’t you?
I lift my head off her back, and placed my hands back onto her hoodie, tightening my grip, “I really wonder what has gotten into you Jurina. At the surprise party, you thanked me professionally when I expected a hug from you like everyone else. And now, you’re… you’re so different that I don’t know if it’s a good thing or a bad thing.”
“I guess it’s maturity kicking in, Rena-chan. I can’t stay the hot-blooded ‘kid’ I’ve always been with you always keeping me in check you know,” She chuckled awkwardly, making me whack her lightly on a whim.
“Don’t sound so self-conceited, idiot,” I chuckled, “... But this ‘new’ Jurina, I like her a lot too.”
She pulled her hood over her head and cleared her throat immediately after my statement. I guess she’s embarrassed by it? Haha… she’s still so adorable when she’s all flustered up like that.
“M-Mm. A-Anyways, I’m leaving--”
“Jurina,” I called out to her commandingly, there was a reward I wanted to give her after seeing how valiant she acted today. I tugged onto her hand hard and spun her around to face me and gave her a peck on the lips. No matter how I try to deny it, she WAS my first kiss way back when, so another kiss wouldn’t hurt, especially if it is to thank a renowned kissing monster.
“I owe you a kiss after all since the call last night,” I winked, “If I were the one spinning you in KissDatte I’d do a pretty good job, don’t you think?”
I could see her blushing furiously despite the fact she was trying to hide her face complexion under the shadow of her hood, all thanks to the light from the lamp post at the bicycle rack area, “Y-Yeah yeah w-whatever!”
She quickly ran towards her bicycle and straightened it up before getting onto it, “H-Happy birthday once again, Rena-chan! Enjoy the rest of your night with Churi…!”
I returned a smile to her and waved, “Thank you, Jurina! See you tomorrow! Be careful!”
“Alright!” Her voice slowly trailed off as she pedaled away from my sight.
- - - - - -
I relaxed my shoulders and went back to where Churi was waiting for me and she was hugging onto my paper bag of Melon pans, giving me a silly grin on her face.
“W-What?” I asked, feeling uncomfortable as if she was teasing me.
“Nah~ I just thought that I should’ve finished up these delicious Melon pans since you were being so dishonest to Jurina-chan from the get go~”
“Leave them alone!” I tried to snatch the paper bag off Churi’s hands but she kept evading my attempts at doing so, “H-Hey! They’re my birthday presents!”
“And they’re my snacks~” Churi stuck out her tongue, “If you wanna save your precious Melon pans, you have to chase after me first~!”
Churi begun running off, “W-Why you… C-Chu-chan, get back here!!!!!!”
“Happy birthday Rena-san~!!!!!” Churi yelled out a few ways ahead of me as I ran after her, a smile forming on my face.
“You’ll be sorry you’re doing this once we’re back at my place, Takayanagi Akane!!!!!!”
What an eventful start to my first day of being 24-years-old.
And it wouldn’t have happened without my precious best friend and my one and only partner who has been by my side since the start of my idol career.
Though it was a rocky start due to a problem called ‘love’,
I thank God it didn’t turn out for the worst.
What if Jurina didn’t come? Would I have decided to date Churi after I came to my sense? Or would I have rejected her due to my lingering feelings towards Jurina? … What if Jurina ended up fighting Churi over me at that moment instead of her blurting out words of wisdom?
Those were questions that remained in my head the remainder of the night as Churi slept soundly beside me. I just couldn’t help ponder about the possibilities of other outcomes but…
… I’m glad this is the best ending-- no-- beginning, to the 24-year-old me.