Chapter 29 : PLEASE, STAY WITH ME
“THE 8TH FLOOR was cleared out in accordance to the Young Master’s command.”
“Did something happen?”
“I heard that the Young Master and his friends had to deal with something in private.”
“I saw it! Some guys in black suits took out a guy that is all bruised up.”
“Sshh! If you value your work don’t ever spread that news. I’m sure the Young Master will be angry if this comes out in public.”
“I’m sure the Young Master has a reason why he did that.”
“One of his friends was wronged by someone. It was Aki-sama. We all know how special his friends are for him.”
“No one died so we really don’t have to worry. Let’s go back to business before someone catches us gossiping.”
“As if the Young Master would kill someone!”
Yuma’s ears twitched as he passed by those workers. He volunteered to buy drinks for everyone. He is already aware of the bond there is between the Shiki but he’s always put in awe everytime it is being proven, taken this stalker incident as one of the prime example. He can’t help but to be amazed of the four’s bond. When someone gets into a pinch, everyone would be there to take risk just to clear that person’s name.
“I’m sorry.” Yuma called out the attention of the sales lady and he got them all with just one smile. “We were filming a movie needed in our class and Haru-senpai helped us in getting the location. Everything that you saw was part of the movie. I’m sorry for the misunderstanding.”
The girls melted at his innocent-looking smile. They all believed him and even praised him on how cute he is.
‘You are such a bishounen’ is what they all say.
“Thank you.” Yuma cheerfully said. “I’m going back to my friends now to help with the wrap up. Have a good day, onee-chans!”
The girls giggled as they wave good bye to Yuma. He felt his shoulders broadened at the thought that he was able to somehow protect the others.
“I understand why they are that close and I want to protect that fact.” Yuma thought to himself on his way back to the surveillance room
“I should quickly find out why I am here for them. There should be a connection somewhere, right?”
YUMA IMMEDIATELY distributed the drinks he bought. It seems like Miyu has already calmed down. The encounter with the stalker sure has traumatized her but it seems like she is slowly coping up. Maki and Fumie are by her side to make sure that she’s alright.
Fuyu and Natsu on the other hand are with Aki. The twins seem to have gathered it together as well. Fuyu’s knuckles are a bit swollen though and he was immediately given treatment. He sure taught that guy a lesson. He promised Haru that he would contain his anger but he ate his words and exploded like crazy. If Fumie wasn’t there then he could’ve brought more damage to Lex.
Lex was already sent to the immigration office. They don’t want the issue to be known since there is an on-going war and Lex’s country is one of their allies. Even though they know that it might not really bring that huge of a damage, it’s better to be careful so Fuyu asked for General Togawa’s assistance regarding the matter. The General is the one who will inform the U.S. Army of why someone who’s almost beaten up to death will arrive to their country. Lex will be taken home with the other troops anyway.
“It’s getting late. You should go and head back.” That was Haru on a video call with them. He is on the car and it seems like he has already picked up his fiancée. They could hear a noisy woman in the background. “I’ll have some of my drivers to bring you to your houses.”
“It’s okay, Haru. I’d like to take the subway today.” Fuyu said. “I’ll pass with the free ride.”
“Going to take some air, are we?” Haru asked and was immediately answered by a nod.
“Just give Fumie the ride back—“
“No!” Fumie stood up from her seat. “I’ll go with you.”
Fuyu’s tough act is nothing to those pleading eyes of Fumie. He let out a sigh before giving a faint smile. “Okay. You say so, Hime-sama.”
Fuyu then turned to Miyu who’s holding the canned coffee Yuma bought for them. He went to her and knelt in front of her, his action brought unease to Aki’s heart.
“You are safe now, Miyu.” He said in a calm voice. “If someone threatens you again don’t hesitate to tell me, okay?”
Miyu was moved into tears by those words of Fuyu. She wanted to contain her tears but she just produced a cute puppy face before letting go of her sobs. Fuyu smiled to her and patted her head. “You did well. Get some good rest.”
He stood up and then looked back at his girlfriend who is as surprised as Aki is. He extended his arm to her, asking for her to hold his hand. Fumie smiled at him and gladly held his hand.
“We’ll be taking our leave then.” Fuyu said, feeling a bit more comfortable now that he’s holding Fumie’s hand. “Take care on your way home. See you tomorrow.”
Fuyu and Fumie went on their way but Fuyu stopped to give Natsu a tap to his shoulder and told him not to think of what happened anymore. He also did the same to Aki but whispered something else to him that shook the guy’s core.
“What are you doing? Can’t you, at the very least, comfort her? What’s wrong with you?”Aki couldn’t even look at Fuyu. He remained frozen, his eyes fixed on Miyu making the girl curious. He averted his stare by looking down. His heart shook so hard, for a moment he found it hard to breathe.
It’s true. He is being careful with his actions especially towards Miyu. At some point he thought that it was to protect her from getting into more scandal with him but now that they found out that it wasn’t one of his fans who spread the rumor why is he still hesitant about going near her?
Was it because—
“You chose the other option, didn’t you?”Aki’s eyes widened in shock. He turned to Fuyu but he couldn’t speak at all. Fuyu tapped him in the shoulder again and then went out of the room with the worried-looking Fumie with him. He tried to stop Fuyu but the guy just waved at him without looking back.
What is the cause of his distance? Has he been keeping the distance to avoid Miyu getting into trouble or is it for his own cause? To not get his name dragged into this case… To not get himself into more trouble…
The door closed, leaving them behind. One by one they left the room as the drivers are already waiting in the parking lot. Maki assisted Miyu as she still feels wobbly after all that happened. Aki was taken aback when Miyu stopped in front of her and with a smile she said,
“I’m sorry for causing you a lot of trouble, Aki-senpai.” Miyu started, trying not to choke. She tried her best to look like she’s fine. “Seems like after everything I only caused you headaches… You know? This and the fanfic…
“M-Miyu…”
“I… I’m really sorry…” she bowed deeply before facing him with her bright smile. “J-Jaa… See you tomorrow.”
“See you tomorrow, Agoki-senpai.” Maki also smiled at him before going.
“We’ll go ahead, Aki.” That was Natsu giving him a light push in the back.
“Good night, Senpai.” Yuma followed them after waving at him.
Aki was left alone in the room together with a few staff members. He sat in front of the laptop where Haru is still connected to. The musician let out a sigh of frustration before messing up his hairdo.
“Fuyu said something, didn’t he?” Haru asked. He is eating something that was given to him by his fiancée.
“Haru…” he sighed once more. “Am I really acting like a coward?”
Haru remained quiet for a while. He took the time to swallow whatever he is eating.
“Well… I was expecting that you’ll be the one to assist her after that horrifying experience but you just stood there and watch. Were you that afraid? It was only us around.”
“I see… I’m really pathetic…”
Haru took a good look of the devastated state of Aki before looking at the car window.
“Aki...” he called out. “Don’t forget that there’s always a third option…”
THE TRAIN was crowded that time, probably because it is the time when workers who work overtime usually go home. And of course, to avoid having Fumie squeezed by the sea of people, Fuyu used his body to shield her from all these people who are craving for rest.
Fuyu noticed the flushed face of his girlfriend as it is the first time after a long while that they are this close to each other. The guy started to blush as well after realizing the situation they are in now. It is too crowded and if he is not strong enough then he could also squeeze into Fumie. He is currently giving the best that he can, applying all his strength to his arms so that he won’t even bump to his girlfriend. He is making sure that there is enough space between the two of them.
The train stopped and as it loaded off people more people came in and Fuyu was pushed towards Fumie. He felt his left arm almost gave in; thank goodness he managed to regain the strength.
Fumie tried to look at him but she immediately bowed her head. The faint smell of Fuyu’s cologne somehow stirs up something inside of her.
“H-How close were you and Miyu earlier?”
“Eh?” Fuyu raised his eyebrows. He couldn’t quite hear what she said because of the sound of the train accelerating. “Did you say something?”
“I-I said… How close were you and Miyu earlier?” Fumie repeated her question in a much audible voice. Surprised at the sudden question, Fuyu looked at his princess’ cute pouting face that is somehow oozing with jealousy.
“I mean… Both of you were in that small dressing room earlier… T-There was no camera so I wasn’t able to see how close you guys were.”
That’s right. Since Miyu had to change, they didn’t put any camera inside the dresser. They only planted a recording device to get more evidence.
“W-Well…” Fuyu looked at another direction. “Miyu hugged me earlier to make things more convincing. We already know that he’s following us so we had to give a realistic acting.”
“I see…” Fumie whispered. “She hugged you, huh?”
Fuyu felt sweat breaking down from his head. He keeps getting pushed by the people behind him but what makes him more hyped is the first time his girlfriend is showing jealousy. She doesn’t really show interest whenever there are girls who still attempt to confess to Fuyu but here she is getting all concerned after her bestfriend got a small body contact with her boyfriend.
The guy tried to suppress his smile by biting his lips, revealing his deep dimple on his left cheek.
“W-Well…” Fuyu started, looking up at the ceiling. “You can hug me anytime if you want to. I am your boyfriend anyway.”
Looking back, the only time that Fumie initiated a hug is when Fuyu found her at the bus station in Seoul. There are times that Fuyu would surprise her with back hugs but aside from holding hands and for that one time when they were about to kiss (if only Yurina didn’t interrupt the scene), they don’t really have any intimate couple moments. They might be seen together everytime they get the chance to meet but having each other around is more than enough for them.
“Y-You don’t really have to hesitate… I’ll always be within your hugging distance…”
Fumie looked up to him after that somewhat cheesy line and their stares locked. Fuyu gulped as the wonderful scent of the girl keeps on hitting his weak spot. He thought that the scent was really gone forever after that scene on Maru’s grave but it went back at the time he went to search for Fumie. How can he just let this moment pass by without making a move? How long will he be able to suppress himself?
Then all reasons just shut down at Fuyu’s mind. Without breaking the connection of their stares, his face descended towards Fumie’s. From the girl’s eyes, his focus transferred to the girl’s appealing lips. Their faces are only an inch away, so close that they are able to feel each other’s breath.
Time seemed to stop and the noise ceased as well as Fuyu continued to make his way. But, when he thought that everything was going in accordance of the mood, Fumie suddenly turned her head to her side, completely avoiding Fuyu’s lips.
For a moment Fuyu was in a state of shock. The face Fumie made when she fended off will be hunting him for nights. She looked so scared and guilty at the same time. Confusion is so evident to her face. He could feel that she wanted to give him what he wants but it is also obvious that she doesn’t want what Fuyu wants.
What is that scared face for?“I-I’m sorry… I-I’m not ready…” Fumie’s shaky voice also added up to the daggers that have already sunk in Fuyu’s heart. Did she really feel frightened of him?
“S-Sorry… I got ahead of the situation. Sorry…”
“N-No, Senpai… I mean I’m—“
There she goes again addressing him with –senpai.
“It’s okay. Our stop is next. Get ready.”
The train stopped and the two went out of the cart together with the sea of people. The bus they rode was packed as well but Fuyu secured her a seat while the guy stood somewhere far from her after getting pushed by the other passengers.
Fumie’s fists clenched as she looks at Fuyu’s face. It has returned to its usual emotionless appearance. She has ruined the mood and made a gap between them. She’s sure that he’s disappointed but she’s more disappointed to herself. It was her duty as a girlfriend but why can’t she do anything right when it comes to skinship?
Wait… Did she just say
duty?Time was quick and it’s already their stop. Fuyu rode off first and was waiting for her, wearing a faint smile. The other girls that were there couldn’t help but to turn their heads to the beautiful guy and Fumie noticed all of those. Maybe if those girls found out that she evaded the guy’s kiss even though she is the girlfriend she would be considered a big idiot.
“Let’s go.” Fuyu called out to her but he didn’t reach his hand to her instead he pocketed his free hand while the other one carries his bag. Fumie just nodded and they went on, silence surrounding even their very step.
“Fuyu-kun!”They haven’t reached far when Fuyu was called by a familiar voice. He immediately turned to the caller. Fumie getting all curious also turned back. It was a girl with short bob hair and a cute smile that seems to highlight her eyes rather that her teeth. A smile so innocent that would make anyone want to smile with her.
She ran towards them, carrying a wrapped bento box.
“Ehhh… I thought
shomething really important came up so you weren’t able to go to work but it seems like you only went on a date.” The girl mischievously said while taking glimpse of Fumie.
“We really did something important together with our friends, silly.” Fuyu gave the girl a flick in the forehead which made her yelp. “And to tell you, this girl is really important.”
“EHHH! So she’s really your girlfriend!!?” The girl asked with geinin level reactions. “Why didn’t you tell me and
‘Tou-shan!?”
Fuyu released a deep sigh. It’s not that he doesn’t want to talk about Fumie but he just doesn’t know when to start the conversation since it has always been awkward for him to open up to anyone.
He was about to place his hand on Fumie’s shoulder but he stopped midway. His hand immediately went back to his pocket. “This is my girlfriend, Shingyoji Fumie. Fumie, this weird, loud girl is my co-worker, my boss’s daughter…
Fukuoka Haruka.“Fumie looked at the girl, her heart suddenly kicked after hearing the girl’s name. Haruka then smiled at her and reached out her hand to her.
“Nice to meet you, Shingyoji-shan. My name is Haruk—OUCH!”
Haruka yelped once again as Fuyu smacked her by the back of her head. “Why are you stretching your hand? You aren’t a westerner.”
“You’re such a killjoy!” Haruka returned the favor to Fuyu by slapping his arm. Fumie just watched as another girl interact with her boyfriend as if she’s not around. They seem so be so close to each other but here she is. She is called the girlfriend but she couldn’t even do the same thing to him. There’s an awkward feeling with every hug, a guilty feeling whenever he holds her hand. She even shunned Fuyu’s move for intimacy.
“Anyway, here!” The short-haired girl gave Fuyu the bento box. “
’Kaa-shan made shomething really delicious tonight and she kept shaying your name while we were eating so ‘Tou-shan shaid that we should give you shomething.”
“Thank you,
Shitatarazu-chan. (Lisp-chan)” Fuyu received another slap after his joke. Haruka has lisp with the syllable ‘SA’ which she always ends up pronouncing as ‘SHA’. “Tell your parents that I’m thankful. I’ll be eating it for breakfast tomorrow.”
“No worries!” Haruka gave him two thumbs up. “I’m going back now. I still have homework to finish. Nice to meet you, Shingyoji-shan~! See you around~!”
Fumie bent a little forward to set the other girl off.
“See you tomorrow, Fuyu-kun~!”
“Mhm. See you.”
After that the girl ran back to their house/store that is blocks away from the bus stop. After she disappeared from their sight, Fuyu continued walking towards the slope they climb everyday. Fumie just tailed after him.
What is even happening to her? She was doing fine as a girlfriend but why on earth is she acting like this again? Why is her heart this…
divided?“H-Her name is Haruka?” Finally she managed to spit something out to break the rule of silence.
“Yes.” Fuyu answered thriftily and then there goes silence again. They are already in front of Fumie’s house when Fuyu spoke again.
“Say, Fumie…” he called out to the girl who was about to open their gate. “I’m really sorry for earlier. Sorry for trying to kiss you without getting your permission and it’s even in public. That was stupid of me.”
“F-Fuyu-kun—“
“It’s my fault. I made everything awkward. I’m not going to do that again so rest assured. I’m really sorry for trying to rush things up.”
“B-But—“
“Good night. See you tomorrow.”
That’s all and Fuyu left wearing a forced smile on his handsome face. Fumie entered their house, dragging her feet as if their mission to save Miyu wasn’t successful at all. She’s sure that she felt jealous when Fuyu and Miyu became so close in such a tight space and then there’s this girl that’s acting so close with Fuyu as well to the point that she addresses him with –kun and brings food for him. But what’s keeping her to properly express her feelings for her boyfriend?
She went straight to her bedroom without even properly greeting her parents. Her mind is so occupied and her heart is tightening so much. She threw herself to her bed and closed her eyes but she only saw the disappointed face of her boyfriend after that scene in the train.
Her eyes opened automatically to get rid of that sad picture but what she saw first was her calendar that is hanging on the wall near her study table. A certain date is marked in red circle 17 days from now. Her face crumpled, she grabbed the nearest pillow and covered her face with it before shouting.
“Fumie, you better get yourself together!!!”
AKI ENTERED the library expecting to see the other guys. It is the last day in school before he gets busy with the intense preparation for their surprise live. He wants to give them the tickets personally so he did his best to get to school today.
He walked towards the usual area where they gather but to his surprise, all he saw was one lady sitting on that long table. It was Watanabe Miyu.
“W-What’s up? Where are the others?” Aki asked before pulling a chair for him to sit on. “I thought they are already here since they finished eating before me.” He came late since he had to check their clubroom to get some stuffs.
Miyu smiled at him, closing the book that she was reading. “I… I asked them to give me a time with you… Just the two of us…”
“Eh?” Aki couldn’t even get to sit after those words of Miyu. He looked at her once more only to see her smiling but her eyebrows are telling another story.
“I mean… I’m here to privately talk to you, Aki-senpai… I want to discuss something with you… Please take a seat…”
Feeling a little nervous, Aki finally took the seat. He thoughtlessly stared at Miyu who made the girl conscious about how she looks. She tucked her stray hair behind her ear and took a deep breath. She tried to look at Aki but she’s too embarrassed to meet his eyes.
“I’m sorry… I know it is a little annoying to see me after everything that happened. You got involved in a scandal mainly because that person is obsessed with me and as you kept on saying, the fanfic that I write caused you to lose your cool character but let me explain myself…”
Miyu took a deep breath, the smile on her face faded as she raised her chin up to look at her senior. Then she opened up her lips.
“好きです。”
A long and faint beeping sound followed those words of Miyu. For a moment Aki couldn’t hear anything but that imaginary sound. He just stared at Miyu, eyes wide and mouth gaped.
Miyu snickered. “What’s with that look? Is it really that disgusting?” she lowered her head once again. Biting her lips to prevent tears from falling, she continued with her explanation.
“I started that fanfic not because I am a fan of BL. I made that because I thought it will be a way to keep the girls away from you. I thought it will be a way to protect you from them until you get to notice me. It sounds familiar, right?”
She gulped to push back what’s choking her. “Whichever angle you look at it, it is almost the same reason of that stalker. I tried to destroy your image so that I can keep you to myself. Because Aki-senpai…
I really, really like you…”“M-Miyu…”
“From the very first time that I heard your music I got inspired. Your voice somewhat enticed me and it felt like I have known it for a very long time. It kind of felt like it already had a place in my heart. I started to be curious about you so I took the time to read articles about you and your band. When I found out that you are studying in NeoHorikoshi I worked hard to be able to get in just to see you more in flesh. You didn’t notice that I like you, don’t you? It’s because I’m good at hiding… I’m good at acting…”
Tears dropped from her eyes which she immediately wiped by her sleeve. She forced a smile to lighten up her heavy heart.
“Hearing my own story makes me sick. I acted like a complete stalker. I took stolen pictures of you and Haru-senpai just to inspire myself in writing BL. I even read a lot of BL related things so I could write well… Just with the intent to build a fence all over you… What comes around goes around, right? I deserved what happened to me.”
Miyu stood up from her seat which somehow thawed the frozen Autumn Prince. “I thought it will be nice to tell you the truth rather than doing this pathetic stalking. Fuyu-senpai told me that he wants me to be happy and I guess confessing is one way of lifting up the burden off of my chest…”
The wind blew so hard that the curtains of the opened window were flown upwards. Miyu’s hair was also blown by the wind and the lovely scent of her shampoo brought life to the room.
“The fanfic will all be erased. Don’t worry about it anymore.” The damsel gave her final bow of apology. “I’m really sorry for everything… for the scandal… for the fanfic…
and for liking you so much… I’m sorry…”
Miyu’s beautiful face crumpled as she couldn’t hold her tears anymore. She dashed towards the door and left Aki still dumbfounded.
“What are you doing? Can’t you, at the very least, comfort her? What’s wrong with you?”Those words of Fuyu reverberated on his mind which took him off from his seat, snapping him back to reality. And as if someone lighted fire crackers on his feet, he ran outside to search for the girl who just confessed to him.
“You chose the other option, didn’t you?”“Shut up, Fuyu!!!” he shouted at his mind. “This isn’t the time for you to playback on my mind!!!”
How long has it been since he was frozen? Did he really take that much time to absorb everything that he heard? Where on earth is Miyu? How come she runs so fast?
“She likes me!” Aki told himself while running. “Miyu likes me as well!!!”
He couldn’t think of the other things that the girl said, all that his mind chose to focus on to is the fact that the girl he has feelings for a very long time is feeling the same as well. If only he has manned up long ago, the girl won’t resolve into doing the fanfic and won’t feel guilty about anything. If only he had the courage long ago then it would turn out fine today.
No matter how much he run, he couldn’t see even the shadow of the girl so he resulted into one thing. Risking his vocal chords, he took a deep breath before—
“MI—“
“Aki!”He was halted when he heard someone called him. He turned around to see the members of his band rushing towards him.
“We’ve been looking for you!” Kei stated, panting heavily. “Our manager came to pick us up for a sudden appointment. Didn’t you check our group chat?”
Aki then reached for his phone in his pocket and saw the overwhelming amount of chat notification. He didn’t even feel it vibrated while he was with Miyu.
“We better go. We are so late!”
“B-But—“
“Is there something more important than this?” Kei asked. “The release of the next single is three days from now. Get yourself together,
leader!”Aki was taken aback by those words of Kei. He calmed himself down and fixed his unruly hair. His desire to go after Miyu was there but the responsibility he has for Phantom Note felt much heavier. As their producer said, he is the face of the group. They are all important part of the band since it will never be complete if one of them goes missing but as the vocalist, he holds a much important position.
“Are you going or n—OUCH!”
“Don’t shout at me, Kei. I heard you correctly.” Aki fixed his uniform. “Let’s go.”
The band felt some spark after with that command from their leader. They saw how his eyes primed up. He led them as they walk fast towards the gate of the school. Miyu just watched Aki leave while hiding behind the wall. If the band members didn’t arrive, Aki could’ve caught up to her since she stopped to cry on that certain intersection.
The girl tried to smile while watching her prince go back to where he truly belongs. Knowing that going out with him would never be possible, Miyu swallowed his feelings and whispered to the air…
“Good luck, Senpai…”
“GIRLS, are you ready!??”
Yuuka’s really on fire as she lighted her light sticks on. The banner that they made for Phantom Note is ready as well; it is so huge that they need to hang it out somewhere. It was good that Yuuka could only afford the upper box; they are planning to hang it there.
Aki’s younger sister couldn’t help but to be amazed at the amount of people who are in the line right now. She can’t believe that the live was only announced to the public last night at 10 o’ clock but the tickets were sold out in just 30 minutes. Yurina was right when she said not to underestimate the fans.
Everything is set, the banner and the sign boards, but the girls have one more obstacle to go through.
“Kids without guardians are not allowed to get in.” is one of the messages being flashed in the digital sign board of the venue. Since there is a curfew for kids 15 years old and below, they can’t just watch the event without a guardian. They are getting nearer and nearer to the entrance and each step they take are making them more nervous.
“You should have told your brother that we are coming. He could ask the security personnel to let us in.” Momoko said while scratching her head. She’s feeling so hot because of the wig Yuuka made her wear. The white polo topped with black suit sure doesn’t fit the weather. It is really hot and Momoko can’t complain even more. “We don’t have to dress as guys just for this event.”
And yes, they are currently wearing suits and are acting like guys to conceive their age. Yuuka’s wild imagination is really at its finest.
“For once I would like to agree with Momoko.” Yurina irritably said while trying to loosen her necktie. “This outfit is so hot I am going to die. And look at you, you look exactly like your brother that you are gaining attention.”
“What?” Yuuka looked around and she was surprised to see that most people are staring and mumbling about her. Her horrified face made Yurina crack. “Do I really look like my brother!?”
“Please, don’t complain about your clothes. Look what you all did to me.”
Everyone turned to Manaka who is standing behind them and they all lost it once more. Manaka threw a kick to Yurina’s leg which made the girl yelp but soon continued with her laugh.
“Stop that! A
grandma doesn’t have enough strength to kick people!”
The three girls laughed even more leaving Manaka speechless. In her mind she is already planning how she will strangle Yurina to death in her sleep. “I’m going to report you to Nii-san!”
“That’s the only costume that will fit your height, Manaka-chan!”
“Shut up, Momoko!” Manaka pouted.
“And why aren’t you wearing any costume?” Yurina turned to Neru who is beside her. The girl is busy taking pictures of them to add in her diary. She just shrugged her shoulders before smiling cutely at Yurina.
“I’ll tell them I am your wife. I think that’s enough—Yurina-chan!”
Neru immediately assisted Yurina who suddenly choked after hearing the word ‘wife’. Momoko’s eyebrows flinched after seeing Yurina’s reaction. She then hugged Yurina by the shoulders and pulled the girl to her side.
“I want to be Yurina’s wife!” she complained, puffing her cheeks.
“Shut up! What the hell are you girls saying?” Yurina wiped her beet red face. For that moment she felt like her sweat glands operated sbove normal.
They all stiffened when they are already in front of the entrance. The security personnel is eyeing them with his intimidating glare, surprised that some group of kids thought that they can make a fool out of him.
“No kids al—“
“Fuyu-nii-san!”
Everyone’s jaw dropped when Neru suddenly raised her hand and waved at the guy standing by a stall inside the venue. And did she just say Fuyu’s name?
Yurina’s eyes widened even more when she saw that it was really her brother that Neru called. What on earth is her brother doing here? He isn’t the type to watch performances like this.
Fuyu went to the personnel and whispered something to him. The guy looked surprised and then turned to Neru. He immediately let them pass after verifying their tickets. The personnel even looked nervous at the same time.
“What the hell was that?” Yurina asked her brother. “You should’ve said that you’ll be coming here so we didn’t dress like this!!”
Fuyu tucked his tongue out to Yurina. “You should’ve told me that you are coming in the first place. I’m not the one who needs a guardian. You should thank Neru or else you will just listen to the music outside of this arena.”
“What are you doing here in the first place? And how did
this girl know your contact details?”
“Are you pertaining to me?” Neru cutely pointed to herself.
“Are you serious with that question, Yurina? My friend is performing today and this is the time he needs support more than anyone else.” He then placed his hand on top of Neru’s head which delighted the girl. “And this girl is my friend’s sister and I used to tutor Neru before. Looks like Neru is the only one who used her head about this curfew matter.”
“No way!!!” Yurina shouted.
Fuyu’s eyes narrowed. “What’s up with that reaction?” He looked at everyone and he almost snorted after his eyes landed on his youngest sister. Manaka started sobbing after seeing the look on his brother’s face. She threw him the light stick that she’s holding before running towards the rest room.
The little grandma bumped to Fumie but it seems like she didn’t recognized her. Yurina’s face immediately turned sour at the sight of the girl.
“That was Manaka-chan?” Fumie asked Fuyu. She went to the rest room while they were waiting for the kids to come. “Why is she dressed like that and—oh!”
She was more surprised when she saw the three girls wearing suits. She turned to Yuuka and curiously asked, “Aki-senpai?”
“I am not my brother!!”
Fuyu just sneered and then Momoko started to cling unto him again. When Manaka finally finished wiping the grandma makeup off of her face, they already went in. Yurina noticed that strangely, her brother isn’t holding Fumie’s hand that time. His hands are pocketed which is really not his style.
The girl’s eyebrows met.
“Something happened… I’m sure of it…”
THE LIVE is closing to its end and the hype of the audience can’t be tamed. Phantom Note has already performed their new single and fans can’t help but to fall in love with it for the wonderful arrangement and heart-clenching lyrics.
They also performed their all-time favorite songs and presented the CD covers of the single. There was a seat prepared for everyone even to those who are in front of the stage but it doesn’t seem necessary since everyone chose to stand up and be taken away by the music.
“They are really the best band! Right, Fumie?” Miyu, who is wearing a mask, asked Fumie. She risked her life just to watch this live. She can’t imagine what will happen to her once Aki’s fans recognize her.
“I agree with you! This is the first time I saw them perform up close! Aki-senpai and his band are amazing!”
“I’m glad that the band is doing fine.” Miyu murmured to herself but audible for Fumie to hear. Her swollen eyes are still noticeable even in the dark.
They are sitting by upperbox as well. Probably Aki gave them those tickets to avoid them getting squeezed by the fans on the floor. The arena was then filled with cheer once again when the staged lighted up again after a short break.
Phantom Note are now wearing shirts that says thank you to their fans for the support. The members’ faces then flashed on the screen one by one as they enjoy the view of the fans cheering for them. Their eyes looked all misty which moved the audience to a louder uproar.
Aki expressed how grateful he is for the fans with a shaky voice which made the fans tear up. His avid fan girls are already crying while shouting for his name.
“Thank you very much for staying with us even after that rumor. Thank you for trusting and believing on me after everything that happened. That was a really tough time for us…
Honto ni arigatou gozaimasu!”
The band took a 90-degree bow which was received by the audience with a clap. They raised their heads up wonderful smiles are pasted on their faces before picking up their instruments.
“This is the final song that we will give you for tonight. I know that you are all going to shout for encore later but I’m saying it ahead, this will definitely be the last for tonight.”
The audience laughed at him but then their main guitarist started to play as if on cue.
“This last song is on the B-Side of the single and I personally wrote this song.” Aki started plucking his guitar as he continues to talk about the song. The look in his eyes felt a bit more intense and the fans couldn’t help but to notice that.
“Actually… this song is for the girl I have been in loved with for a long time now…”
Gasps were heard from the audience. Everyone was surprised and Miyu is one of those. Aki is in love to someone? How come she didn’t know anything about it? The people in the audience fell quiet because of the shock but it seems like the band members already knew that this was coming. They are only looking at Aki with proud faces.
“Before I came to my current label, I auditioned for other agencies but I kept on getting rejected. No one believed on what I can do so after another failed audition I just found myself in a CD store in Harajuku listening to synthesized music. I already thought of giving up that time but then…”
The cute smile that slipped out of Aki’s face melted the heart of the audience. When did he become even more handsome? Was it because he is really in love?
“I saw a girl handing out tissues during that breezy autumn day and she was in a maid outfit, probably because it was the theme of their shop. She was working really hard, flashing a smile to everyone, to those who receive the tissue and even to those who flatly rejected her. I could see that she’s getting really cold not only because of the weather but also because of the cold shoulder that other people are giving her…
For some unknown reason I went to see her work everyday. I made ‘going to the music store’ as an excuse but the truth is I just really wanted to see her smile. I know, I know… I was like a stalker back then but seeing her move forward despite all the rejection she was receiving, I thought that I should stop sulking and continue with my passion. If it wasn’t because of her then probably I won’t be here on this stage today.”
“I can’t believe he is saying this...” Yuuka whispered to herself. Her brother is seriously opening up this thing to the public? At the release of their new single? Right at this moment?
“But then one day she just disappeared from her usual spot. I asked the maid café where she was working about her and I found out that she was escorted by a modeling agency. I was amazed but I didn’t doubt that because I think that she is really beautiful and charming. So when I found out that she’ll be working in this industry I worked harder to get into the same industry where I know she will shine. And then I was discovered by my producer while I was singing on the streets of Harajuku with my guitar.”
A shy smile struck the hearts of the fans. Aki looked at them but bashfully covered his face due to embarrassment. He was cheered by the audience to continue with his story.
“But yeah, since I am here now I won’t be able to make my move to her. I don’t want her to be judged and I value everyone’s feelings as well. I don’t want to disappoint anyone of you so for now, I will set this feelings aside to focus on giving you more wonderful music. But for now let me say this…”
Aki took a deep breath and look at the area where Miyu is sitting. He knows where she would be since she was the one who picked the seat for her.
“I bet
you didn’t know because I am
good in hiding my feelings but
I really like you. From the very start I’ve been into you. But since I won’t be able to stand up with this feelings for now… I can’t properly receive your feelings as well… I’ll be selfish… Until that day when I can properly hold you in my arms… I want you to
please, stay with me.”
The intro of the song entered and then Aki started to sing. His husky voice added by the right emotion he is pouring out to the song made everything so perfect. The sound of the instruments is in proper balance as well sending everyone into a fluttering feeling.
( Please Stay With Me by YUI vid:
translation:
http://www.kiwi-musume.com/lyrics/yui/holidaysinthesun/pleasestaywithme.html )
The live ended with the B-Side song becoming the anthem of the whole fandom. The fans can’t help but to sing it as they were going out of the venue. They didn’t care about Aki being in love with a girl. He appealed to them with sincerity and he did delivered great music together with those emotions which they consider as a job well-done for the musician.
This is the third option that Haru was talking about.
Be honest and tell yourself that you can’t let any of it go. Be selfish. That idea had a trace of business mind on it but it somehow worked out.
Radios were flooded with requests for the song and their digital sales are skyrocketing as well. Phantom Note has certainly taken the whole country by storm.
Miyu was then pushed inside the dressing room of the band by Maki and Yuma who dragged her to the backstage. The two were cheering on her like crazy. The band was surprised to Miyu but as is they already know what’s happening, the members went quiet waiting for what is going to happen, hiding their silly smiles. The others are all present together with the little sisters. If only Aki could ask to leave them alone he had already shouted at them to get out but his heart is racing that he can’t even say a word.
Miyu looked at him with teary eyes which were then followed by her wonderful, gummy smile.
“Aki-senpai…” she called, freezing Aki even more.
“I’m staying.”
What happened next was riot as the members of the band and their friends started to throw confetti all over, rejoicing at the wonderful outcome of their story.
For Aki that is enough… To know that the person he loves will be staying with him through his journey in this world of music he believes he can reach anything… no matter how high it is.
END of STALKER ARC.“IT’S only a few days left! Are you sure you can make her come back!?”
The shout of the boss echoed throughout the whole office sending the employee in front of him deeper into the mud of embarrassment.
“I’ll be bringing her back.” The guy in black suit answered.
The boss scoffed at him. “If you won’t be able to bring her back I’ll have you pay for the cancellation of her contract. You are such a shame. What happened to you, Mr. Genius?”
The employee’s fist balled but he kept his head down. “I promise to take her back.” he stressed.
“Anyway, I don’t even care about that girl because she looks useless from the very start. You only forced her to be taken in.” The fat guy laughed and put his cigarette off. “With this I can have you work for me like a dog forever...
Kato Kenta-kun....”TBCI know you all got tired of reading to so I will reply to comments in another post. Thank you all for reading, leaving likes and commenting!
Thank you very much.
Topic: The Waste of a Wish - [ANNOUNCEMENT] (Read 148934 times)