Sasshii's OS Collection [Saving [RinoRie] 05/14]

[Shinoki]

WOOOOAH!!
*gets shot in head*
(Huhuuhu, I hope to always make your day by giving an animated comment even though this won't be as animated at the other ones before...)
...this...so sad...
guuuuh.... so hard to explain...
Death...kills... <- take it both ways~
But, perfection yaaaah!

[Sasshii]

Hey guys. Sorry, I've been missing for so long. I'm overseas right now, so it's a little hard finding time to write, that and I've been stuck on what to write for a while. This started out as Sayaka x Milky x Maachun, but I figured it would fit better as NaoNan. Well, I actually tried to write this out as fluff, but it seems that I always end up drifting away to angst somehow orz.

I appreciate all your kind comments, and yes, I do definitely look forward to your animated comments Shinoki lol ouo. Anyways, here's the fanfic.

Always [NaoNan]

“Are you getting tired?”

She nodded, but continued to row the boat.

I smiled and moved toward her, taking the rows in my hands, “It’s okay, you can rest. I’ll row.”

“I’m afraid, Nanako.” Furuhata Nao suddenly whispered to me, her voice breaking through the previous night’s silence.

I looked at her questioningly, “Afraid of what? Is someone bullying you?”

“No,” She closed her eyes and let out a small laugh before a small frown made it’s way on her face, “Afraid of my feelings.”

“What do you mean?” I asked confused.

She opened her eyes and looked at me, raising her hand she touched my face, “My feelings for you…” She trailed off, a thoughtful look on her face.

“I don’t understand.” I furrowed my eyebrows in confusion.

She lowered her hand and I immediately missed the warmth that she gave me, “I think we should stop seeing each other.”

______

“You guys weren’t good for each other anyways.” Furukawa Airi said in between bites of curry.

I sighed into my cup of coffee, “Why does everyone keep saying that?”

“Saying what?” Airi asked as if she had forgotten what she said seconds ago.

“Saying that we’re not good for each other.” I reiterated, setting the cup down after taking a small sip.

“You guys were just too different…” She trailed off, her tone unsure.

I narrowed my eyes at her, “What’s that supposed to mean?”

Airi sighed, setting her fork down, “You were way too good for her, Nanako.”

“That doesn’t even make any sense.”

“You know what I mean. She’s not like us.” She lowered her voice and gave me a look, “You parents would never approve of her.”

“Who cares if she’s not like us.” I raised my voice slightly, “I’m sick of hearing that, just because she’s not rich like us doesn’t make her any different.” Airi put a finger to her lips to signal me to be quiet. I looked around and saw that a few eyes in the cafe were on us.

“Your parents don’t see that way.” Airi paused, her gaze softening as it met mine, “I’m just trying to look out for you.”

I stopped, Airi was looking at me sincerely, her eyes kind. “Thank you, Airin.”

Airi nodded and went back to eating her curry, a small smile on her face, “Anytime.”

______

“And then she-” I was cut off mid sentence when the force of another body caused me to fall down to the floor.

“I’m sorry! Are you alright, Nanako?” That voice. I raised my eyes and saw the girl I’ve been longing to see for the longest time.

She reached to help me up, but Airi stopped her, standing in front of me protectively. “Airin, it’s oka-”

“I’ll help her.” Airi stated coldly, turning her back towards Nao and extending her hand to me, “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine,” I said, grabbing Airi’s hand in mine, my eyes not leaving Nao’s. Airi took notice and scowled at me.

“Nanako.” She whispered to me warningly.

I ignored her and stepped towards Nao. It’s been so long since I’ve last seen her but she hasn’t changed at all. The long hair that framed her face, her pursed lips, and the eyes that held so many secrets from me. Months had passed but I still found myself wanting her as much as I did before.

“Nao, I-”

“I’m sorry! Bye!” She hurriedly said, before turning and running in the opposite direction.

“Wait-” I tried to stop her but was cut off by Airi.

“Just let her go.” She advised, looking at me with hard eyes, “It’s for the better.”

I nodded slowly and turned away from her retreating back, “You’re right.”

Airi smiled at me lightly, grasping my hand tightly with hers. Her hand was warm, but it wasn’t the same warmth that kept me up until 3am nor was it the same warmth that I had longed for. No, but it was a warmth that I could get used to after a while.

______

“You still miss her, don’t you?” Airi questioned, her face holding no expression.

I turned my head to look at her confused, “Who?”

“Nao,” She looked back down at me, sadness in her eyes, “You still think about the breakup, about her.”

I frowned, of course I still thought about Nao, she was the first girl I’ve ever loved. I decided against saying that though and instead went with, “What makes you say that?”

“It’s obvious,” She said, moving her hand to play with a couple strands of my hair, “Even though you’re supposed to be with me, you still think about her.”

“Airin-”

“It’s okay,” She stopped me, “You love her a lot, I know.”

I nodded, there was no point in hiding things from Airi, she was- is my best friend, she could always read me so easily.

“I’m sorry,” She apologized, stopping her movements, “I should’ve encouraged you to go after her, as your friend,” She paused, moving her hand from my hair to my face, “I love you Nanako, enough to tell you to go be with Nao.” She dropped her hand and gave me a small smile before turning around and bringing the covers closer to her form, “Goodnight.”

“I’m sorry, Airin.” I stared at her bare back, the back that always held me up when I didn’t have enough strength to hold myself up. I reached my hand out, but stopped. “I’m sorry, I couldn’t love you.” She didn’t move and I took that as my cue to leave. Gathering all my clothes and quickly redressing myself, I silently left the apartment, throwing one last look at Airi who laid curled under the covers.

______

Shivering, I wrapped my hands around my bare arms, despite it being the beginning of spring, the air was still cold and held remnants of the winter chill. I opened my phone, the artificial light shining in my face. I glanced at the time, 12:03am, 20 minutes have passed since I left the voice mail and still no show. I closed my phone and took a deep breath, deciding that I would wait another 20 minutes before giving up hope and leaving for home.

“You’re an idiot,” A voice said from behind me. I turned around to come face to face with a scowling Nao, “What kind of person asks to meet at a park at 12am?” She brought her jacket tighter around her pajama clad body, “And while it’s still cold out as well.”

I stared up at her, surprised, “You came.”

Her scowl deepened, “Of course, I came. If I didn’t you would’ve stayed out here for God knows how long.” Even though her tone was cold, her words were warm. She sat down next to me, leaving a good couple of inches between us. “What did you want to talk about?”

I looked at her, “You know what I want to talk about.”

She glanced down at her hands sitting in her lap before meeting my eyes, “What do you want to know?”

“What did you mean that night?” The question that’s plagued me ever since. The question that prevented me from moving on completely.

She stayed quiet for a couple of minutes, staring off into the trees in front of us, “I-” She paused, her voice cracking slightly, “I still love you, Nanako.” She looked at me, her eyes honest.

“Then why?”

She looked away again, “Everyone says we’re too different from each other,” She swallowed, “I don’t want to get hurt.”

“But, what about me!” I raised my voice slightly, feeling the anger rise, “What about how I feel? Why does it matter so much about what other people think?”

Nao looked shocked at my outburst, before putting her cool demeanor back on, “I’m sorry.”

“No, I’m sorry,” I softened my voice, “But, don’t think about what other people say.” I reached for her hand, feeling her warmth underneath my fingertips, “I love you Nao, and that’ll never change. No matter how different we are.”

“I love you too, Nanako.” Despite the smile that she threw me, her eyes still looked unsure.

______

“Nanako, you’re home!” My mother greeted, as soon as I walked through the door, shoes not even off.

I smiled up at her, my mood the best that it’s been in months, “Hello, Mama.”

She ushered me into the dining room where my father also sat. Why were the two of them even awake at this time?

“Nanako.” My father greeted me with curt nod.

“Papa.”

“Come, sit.” My mother pushed me into one of the many chairs laid out around the large dining table, “Have you eaten yet?” She called over one of the maids before I could answer.

“I’ve already eaten at Airin’s.”

My mother nodded, before shooing the maid away. She took a seat down next to me, a large smile on her face, “We just got good news.”

I looked over at my father who held the same uninterested look, “What is it?”

She reached over and placed her hands on my shoulders, “You’re getting married.”

I stared at her in confusion, the words not quite processing in my mind “Huh?”

“He’s from a wealthy family like ours, well much more wealthier than ours.” She chuckled softly, “And he’s rather handsome as well, a perfect match for our, Nanako.”

I continued to stare at her, dumbfounded.

“Aren’t you happy, dear?” She noticed the look that I was giving her, “A wealthy husband and you didn’t even have to do any work.”

“Of course, I’m not happy.” I said, finding my words again, “I don’t want to get married to someone I don’t even know.”

My mother waved her hand, as if trying to wave away all of my doubts, “You’ll get to know him once you marry. I’m sure you’ll love him.”

“No,” I said firmly, “I don’t want to marry him.”

“Nanako,” My mother struggled to keep her smile, “What do you mean you don’t want to marry him? He’s wealthy, he’ll be able to support you.”

“I can support myself.” I frowned, “I don’t want to marry him.”

“Nanako,” She repeated, “Why?”

“I’m with someone else.”

“Oh!” The smile was back on my mother’s face, “Is he wealthy as well? Well, I doubt he would be as wealthy as the man we picked out, but that shouldn’t be much of a problem.”

I looked down at the table, “I’m with a girl.”

My mother looked at me in complete shock before quickly regaining her composure, “So, anyways, the wedding date is set to be in June.” She went on as if I hadn’t mentioned seeing anyone at all.

“I’m not going to marry him.” I stated again.

“I’m not quite sure what the theme is going to be, but I’ll ask around for some ideas.” She continued her babble.

“I’m not going to marry him,” I raised my voice and slammed my hand on the table, “I love her.”

That stopped her babbling as she once again turned to me in shock, “You are going to marry him, Nanako. Please.” She looked over desperately at my father, who looked as if he was barely listening to the conversation at all. “Dear, please tell your daughter the mistake that she’s making.”

“You’re going to marry him, Nanako. As long as you’re our daughter, you’re going to marry him.” He said, his voice firm.

“But, Papa-” I tried to plead, but he raised his hand to stop me.

“Nanako.” He said warningly.

I lowered my head, feeling the tears gather up in my eyes. I tried to blink them away and clenched my teeth together tightly.

My mother clapped her hands next to me in joy, “So it’s settled then. You’ll marry in June. I’m so happy.” With every word that escaped from her mouth, I found myself wanting to slap her more and more.

“Don’t look so down, dear.” She said, placing a hand on my shoulder as if trying to comfort me, “You’ll end up loving him, you’ll see. Then you’ll be thanking me.”

______

“Nanako?”

“Hm?” I hummed in response, setting the rows down for a break, the burning in my arms starting to get to me.

Nao leaned against me and I wrapped my arm around her waist, a small smile playing on my face, “Do you think we’ll be happy wherever we go?”

“As long as I’m with you, I’ll be happy.” I muttered, slipping a small capsule into her hands before slipping a similar one into my mouth.

______

“Why have you been acting so weird lately.” Nao questioned, looking up at me. The two of us were currently, sprawled out on her small bed, a textbook in front of us.

I looked back at her, “What do you mean?”

“You haven’t been the same since we got back together.” She looked down at her lap, a sad smile on her face, “Do you regret it?”

“No! Of course not!” I denied, taking her hand into mine, “I would never.”

“Maybe, I’m just imagining it then…” She trailed off, focusing her attention back onto the textbook.

“Well,” I paused, and shook my head. I had to tell her. This was something that she needed to know. “There is something that I wanted to tell you.”

Her attention was back on me as soon as the words left my mouth, she motioned for me to continue. “I’m…I’m getting married.”

“You’re what?!” She looked furious, and I wouldn’t blame her. It’s not everyday your girlfriend tells you you’re getting married to someone else.

“My parents arranged it.”

“When?” She asked, her voice cracking at the end.

“In June.”

“And what are you going to do?” Her tone cold, eyes not meeting mine.

“They told me I had to marry him or else I wouldn’t be their daughter anymore.”

“I meant about me. What are you going to do about me, Nanako?”

I looked down at our intertwined hands. I couldn’t live without Nao in my life. She meant too much to me. Without her, I didn’t even want to think about it. “Let’s run away together.”

“What?” She asked as if she didn’t hear me, despite my words being perfectly.

“I said, let’s run away together.” I repeated anyways, “Somewhere where it’ll only be the two of us. Where we can be together and be happy.”

She stayed quite for a bit before giving her answer, “Okay,” She squeezed my hand, “I trust you.”

______

Furukawa Airi was on her way back to her apartment, when she noticed a letter sticking out of her mailbox. She looked at it curiously, it was out of the ordinary that she received mail. She picked it up and stared at it. ‘Airin’ was all that was written on it, Airi recognized the handwriting immediately. She shook her head, a small smile on her face. Why was she sending her mail when she could just text her?

She opened the envelope, taking out the plain white paper and quickly scanning it’s contents. “Nanako.” She whispered, her hand covering her open mouth, the paper dropping to the concrete floor.

Airin,

I followed your advice and went back after Nao. The two of us got back together and I’ve never been happier. The feelings that I have for her are…something unexplainable. I feel that if I tried to explain it, I would just end up soiling it with my words. Thank you Airin, for telling me to go after her. My parents however want me to get married to someone else. I can’t betray my heart, Airin, I’m sure you’re someone who knows that well enough to understand. I’ve always wanted to make my parents proud of me, but this is something that I can not will myself to do. The two of us are running away together, somewhere far, far away from here, I won’t be coming back again. Please, don’t try to follow me. I hope you understand why I couldn’t come say goodbye to you in person. I know this is something that you wouldn’t of have supported. I’m sorry, Airin. I’m sorry for not giving you the love that you deserve, and I’m sorry for doing this. You’re one of the closest friends I’ve ever had, Airin, and I’ll always cherish that. Who knows where I would be without you. I’ll always be thankful to you. I love you.

Goodbye,

Nanako.

Airi gathered herself and quickly pulled out her phone, dialing the number she already knew by heart. The phone rang a couple of times before going to the voice mail. She swore under her breath and called again, heart pounding against her chest. Nanako’s made a lot of dumb choices in the past, but this had to be one of the dumbest. Voice mail again. Airin closed her phone, giving up on trying to reach the girl’s phone and ran towards Nanako’ house instead.

______

“Look at the sunset.” Nao pointed, a serene smile on her face, “It’s pretty, isn’t it?”

I nodded in agreement, setting the rows down again. I couldn’t muster the strength in me anymore to continue rowing. The boat drifted, the waves underneath lulling my eyes closed. I struggled to keep them open.

______

Airi banged against the door of Nanako’s house frantically. Even though it was relatively late at night, she knew her parents would be home by now. She knocked again, not getting an answer. Finally after a few minutes, the door opened to reveal Nanako’s mother in pajamas, rubbing the sleep away from her eyes. “Airin?” She asked, confused, “What is it?”

“Is Nanako home?” She asked, the words rushing out of her mouth.

“Nanako?” She looked around in thought, “Nanako, said she was going to go stay with you tonight.”

Airi slammed a fist against the side of the doorway, before collapsing in front of the older women, sobs racking through her small frame.

“A-Airi,” Nanako’s mother questioned, not knowing what to do, “Are you alright? What’s wrong?”

“She’s gone,” She wailed over and over again, “Nanako.”

______

“I’ll always love you, always.” I mumbled, pressing a light kiss to the side of her head.

“Always?” She whimpered, turning in my arms, her eyes boring into mine.

“Always.” I confirmed, entwining our fingers together and closing my eyes, feeling her shallow breathing against my chest, before letting the sleep overtake me.

[Shinoki]

NAONAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Arigatou...this pairing... (;A;)/

:3 huhu, glad you enjoy the animated comments though I can't guarantee it'll be animated every time~

Okay, time to kick the Nanako-parents in the face!!!! *huhuhu, gets ready
Nanako, you should've slapped your mom then. :3
...aaaah... *pat pat Furukawa...* You can't keep restricting your puppy though.

*falls off a cliff...

“As long as I’m with you, I’ll be happy.” I muttered, slipping a small capsule into her hands before slipping a similar one into my mouth.

Suicide???? Double suicide!!????? Naaaaaan!!??????
Love versus the society around ya...

Yaaah...wonderful writing as always.
*pat pat...poor Airin...

[Sasshii]

Just a little short preview of what I'm working on now.

Airi gripped her pale hand tightly with hers, “Akane,” She cried, droplets of tears staining the white sheets of the bed, staining the white gown that Akane wore, staining Akane's white skin.

Akane lifted her trembling hand up, resting it against Airi’s face, “Don’t cry, Airin.” She spoke in a hushed tone, voice hoarse, “This is what you wanted isn’t it?” A weak chuckle escaped her lips, “I’m just a burden to you after all.”

“No!” Airi raised her voice before speaking normally, “I-I would never want this to happen to you,” She lowered her head, the sound of the heart monitor echoing in her ears, “I’m sorry. I'm sorry, Akane.”

“Don’t be sorry,” Akane dropped her hand back to her side, a small smile making it’s way to her face, “I was always meant to be a bird anyways.”

Airi laughed lightly, despite the tears that continued to fall down her face, “You’re the most beautiful bird I know, Akane.”

[Shinoki]

'tis an angst... *bows down to you...
Well, I'm looking forward to it.
(now...let's find an emoticon for that...next time...)
*thumbs up

[WantingtoCuddle]

So much furuyanagi angst on the internet lol
But it looks so good!
I'm looking forward to reading it !

[p-o-p-e-y-oppa]

Waiting patiently...

[Crossing Crossroads]

HOW DARE YOU, FRIEND.

[Sasshii]

Hey guys, sorry for the long wait. This one took me quite a while to finish, and for good reason as well, it's incredibly long. Probably the longest piece I've ever written, which isn't that long. This come in at around 7,169 words. This one shot is loosely based off the album Hospice by the Antlers, perhaps I should change the title to "Sasshi's Angsty One Shots" instead lol. Anyways, comments and constructive criticism is always welcomed and thank you as always for reading.

Also for my next OS, I'm planning to make it a horror one, but I'm a little divded on what pairing it should be. So, I thought why not let you guys decide, if you have time please vote in the poll, if you don't like any of the pairings then you may suggest your own. I only request two things, one that they must be an OT3 as the it's necessary for the plot and two I will not write wmatsui, unless there is enough demand for it. 

Wake [Furuyanagi]

“Whatcha doing tomorrow? Wanna come hang out with Kumi and me?”

Furukawa Airi shook her head, even though she knew Suga Nanako couldn’t see her over the phone, “Can’t. I start my new job tomorrow.”

Nanako made a clicking noise of disapproval, “Man, this means I have to start sharing my best friend now,” She chuckled lightly, “You’re working for the hospital aren’t you?”

Airi hummed, “Yeah, for the hospice.”

Nanako made another noise, “How depressing. Don’t get too attached Airin.”

“Yeah, yeah, I know. Don’t worry, I doubt I’ll get attached to someone in such a short time.”

“Do you know anything about your patient?” Nanako asked curiously.

Airi shifted a couple of papers around, “Not much, I just know her name and age.” Finding the paper she was looking for, she threw the rest of the papers back on her desk, “Takayanagi Akane. 22.” She read.

“So young,” Nanako said, sympathy laced in her voice, “That’s so sad.”

“I hope she’s not cute,” Airi joked, a small laugh leaving her lips, “It would be sadder if she was cute.”

“You’re horrible,” Nanako chucked, “Only thinking about cute girls.”

Airi shrugged, “I think about the important things in life.”

The two sat in a comfortable silence until a loud voice in the background yelled Nanako’s name. Nanako groaned, “Sorry, it’s my mom. I gotta go.” She shifted the phone around a bit, “I’ll call you later tomorrow, okay? Good luck.”

“Alright, thanks. Bye.” Airi clicked the end call button and tossed her phone onto the bed before collapsing onto the mattress herself. She glanced at her watch, 10:30pm. If she slept now she would be able to get 7 hours of sleep before she had to wake up and start her job. She made herself more comfortable and closed her eyes, falling into sleep

______


Airi awoke to the loud blaring sound of her alarm clock ringing in her ears. She groaned and turned to check the time, 5:30am. She closed her eyes again, before quickly reopening them and jumping out of bed. She had almost forgotten about work, too caught up in the pleasures of sleep. Airi made her way to her dresser, eyes still half closed, and picked out the scrubs in the bottom drawer before stumbling towards the bathroom.

“You’re late, Furukawa.” A stern voice reprimanded her.

“I know, I’m sorry.” Airi apologized, bowing in front of the women who towered over her.

The women clicked her tongue, “And on the first day as well, not a very good impression, I might add. I hope it wasn’t a mistake to hire you.” She continued, scribbling notes onto the clipboard in her hands.

“I promise, it won’t happen again.” Airi said, head still lowered and back arched.

“Fine, follow me then,” The women said, sliding down one of the many long corridors. Airi obediently followed, struggling to keep up with the woman’s long strides, “I take it you’ve read about your patient, correct?”

Airi nodded before realizing the woman’s head was turned away from her, “Yes.”

“Good,” She stopped, and pointed to a room on the left side of the hallway, “This is your patient’s room.” She opened the door, holding it open for Airi to walk in, “She’s still sleeping, but she should be waking up soon.”

Airi looked over at the figure, sleeping peacefully in the bed and her breath caught in her throat. She looked nothing she had imagined a terminally ill person would look and to her dismay, she was actually rather cute. Airi swallowed, eying the sleeping girl, “H-How long does she have?”

The woman glanced down at her clipboard, “About 3 months. She was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia about a year or so ago.”

“That’s something that can be cured, isn’t it? Why is she here? She should be getting treatments.” Airi argued, she didn’t really know much about leukemia, but she recalled learning a little about the disease in college.

The woman cleared her throat, “All the treatments failed. They attempted a hematopoietic bone marrow transplant after she relapsed, however her body rejected it and she developed chronic graft-versus-host disease.”

“But, there has to be treatments for that, isn’t there?”

“Yes, but they failed.” The women said, a scowl on her face, “That’s why she’s here.”

Airi nodded silently, all the other questions she had dying in her throat. She looked around the room. White curtains. White tables. White bedsheets. White floors. White walls. The only thing in the room that wasn’t white was the patient and the numerous machines that she was hooked up on. “Its very white in here, isn’t it?”

“White is calming to the patients.”

Airi nodded again, “Don’t you think patients would feel better with a little bit more color?”

The women tuned to Airi, a large frown on her face, “Do you understand the meaning of hospice?”

“Of course I do, otherwise I wouldn’t o-”

“Then you should know that there is no feeling better, Furukawa. They’re dying.”

Airi looked up at the women in shock, before lowering her head to stare at her white shoes that blended in perfectly with the white, tiled floors, “I-I’m sorry.”

“Look, she’s awake.” The women walked towards the bed, motioning Airi to follow her closer, “Good morning, Ms. Takayanagi.”

The girl in the bed squirmed around a bit before opening her eyes, “G-Good morning, Ms. Nakada.” Her brown eyes then fell on Airi, a confused look on her face.

“This is Ms. Furukawa Airi, she’s going to take care of you from now on.”

Airi stepped forward, a wide smile on her face, “It’s nice to meet you, Ms. Takayanagi. I hope we get along well.” She extended her arm towards Akane.

Akane stared at the hand, before reluctantly extending her arm. Airi continued to smile, even after noticing the ugly, blue marks that trailed up Akane’s arm.

______

“Airin! How was your first day?” The booming voice of Nanako emerged from the speakers as soon as Airi clicked accept call and brought the phone to her ear.

Airi winced and separated the phone from her ear slightly, “It was good.”

“You gotta give me more then it was good here.” Nanako whined and Airi swore she could almost see the pout that was undoubtedly on the younger girl’s face.

“It’s a hospice, Nanako. It’s depressing and not a lot of interesting things happen.” Airi chuckled, moving to sit down on the edge of her bed.

“What about the people that you met? Tell me about the girl you’re taking care of.”

“My boss is a bitch, but besides her everyone is rather nice.” Airi paused, thinking back to the girl. “She...” Airi sighed softly, she was like an angel, “She’s okay.”

“Just okay?! Tell me more about her.”

“I don’t know a lot about her, she doesn’t talk very much.” Airi explained.

“That’s no fun,” Nanako groaned, “Is she cute?”

“Very much. Even though she’s terminally ill, she’s still so pretty. She must’ve been beautiful when she was well.”

The younger girl yelled into the phone, “I wanna see her! If you say she’s pretty then she must be.”

“I would offer to bring you to work with me, but my boss already hates me. I don’t wanna give her more reasons.”

“I’m sure your boss doesn’t hate you.” Nanako assured.

“No, I’m pretty sure she hates me. She was so mean to me today, granted it was my fault I was late...but still! I apologized for being late.”

Nanako hummed in thought, “Maybe, she’s just showing you her tsun side.”

Airi let out a loud laugh at the image of the uptight and strict Nakada as a tsundere,  “I hope so.”

______


“Ms. Furukawa, do you like birds?” Akane asked, her head turned towards the window, while Airi was adjusting her IV’s.

“No, not particularly, why?” Airi answered, not pausing from her task.

“Just wondering,” Akane laid back onto her pillows, “I like birds. They always look so serene.”

Airi chuckled lightly, straightening her back, “They’re birds, it’s not like they have much to worry about.”

“I wonder if birds know they’re going to die.” Akane’s tone had changed and her face darkened, “Sometimes, I wish I was a bird wth the ignorance of not knowing.”

“One of the many burdens of being human,” Airi spoke softly, taking a seat in the hard chair situated next to Akane’s bed, “Does it hurt?”

“Knowing I’m going to die soon or the disease?”

“Both.”

Akane was quiet, her head still turned towards the window. Airi craned her neck to see what Akane was so focused on and saw a small bird nest nestled between the window frame and the adjacent building.

“There’s no eggs yet,” Akane smiled and turned her head to face Airi, “Life works in weird ways, don’t you think?”

Airi nodded her head slowly at the odd question, “It does.”

“Another reason why I want to be a bird.”

“Why a bird? It seems like such a random animal.” Airi asked, curiosity laced in her voice. She wanted to know everything that was running through Akane’s head.

“To be free.”

“Sometimes birds are caged though, not all birds are free.

“Birds are only caged because of people. People just love to cage animals, to limit their freedom. They don’t realize that they’re the ones who are truly caged.”

“Caged how? I like to think that we are pretty free.” Airi chuckled as she got up to check on Akane’s IV’s.

“Caged by society. Caged by emotions. Caged by knowledge. To be a bird is freedom, to have ignorance.” Akane paused, wincing as Airi tugged a little too hard on one of her tubes. Airi mumbled a quiet ‘sorry’ before continuing her work. “The only thing a bird isn’t free from is pain. But everyone feels pain...except for maybe fish.” She added as an afterthought.

Airi sat back down, “I’ve never thought this deeply about birds before.” She chuckled.

“You start to think about a lot of things deeply when all you can do is think.”

Airi’s watch let out a shrill noise, surprising the two girls. Airi fumbled with the device and clicked the button to stop the offending noise, “Looks like it’s time for your lunch, Ms. Takayanagi.”

______


“I want to see outside.”

Airi turned the page in her manga, “You know you can’t get outside in your condition, Ms. Takayanagi.” She answered without looking up from the book.

“But, it’s not fair,” Akane whined, “You would think since we’re dying anyways they would let us indulge a little.”

Airi sighed and set the manga down, “I’ll talk to Ms. Nakada later and ask if it’s okay.”

“Yay!” Akane cheered, a wide smile making it’s way to her lips, lighting up her normally pale face. “Thank you, Ms. Furukawa.”

Airi smiled as well, a warmth filling up her chest, “Call me Airi.”

Akane nodded excitedly, “Then you have to call me Akane.”

Airi looked down at her watch with a laugh, “It’s time for your dinner, Akane.”

______


“Airi, what do you do for fun?”

Airi lifted her head from the paperwork on her lap that she was working on, “That’s a random question.”

“I just want to know more about you.”

“More about me, huh?” Airi turned back to the paperwork, “What about you? Even though I’m supposed to be taking care of, I hardly know anything about you, besides that you like birds and love to whine.” She teased.

“I’m not really all that interesting.” Akane frowned, fingers playing with the white covers draped over her body. “Besides, you can go outside and live. I’ve been stuck alone in hospitals all my life.”

“Alone?” Airi echoed, “What about your parents? Don’t they come to visit you?” Looking back on it now Airi realized that for the entire month she was with Akane she didn’t get one single visitor besides the doctor and Nakada.

“My parents...” Akane paused, “I haven’t seen them in so long, I’ve forgotten what they even look like.”

Airi nodded, a small frown on her face, “I’m sorry, it must be hard on you.”

“My parents were supportive of me at first. They always showed up for every doctors appointment. They promised they would never give up on me no matter how bad the disease got.” Akane paused, clearing her throat. Airi offered a drink to which the younger girl refused, “But there were more complications, and the months turned into years. After a while I just stopped seeing them. They’ve never bothered to call or check if I was still alive.”

“Akane, I’m sorry, that’s horrible.”

Akane shook her head, “No, it’s okay. I understand them. I wouldn’t want to watch my daughter die either.”

“Even so, parents should always support their children no matter what. If they can’t even do that then they’re failing their jobs as parents. At least that’s what I believe.” Airi argued.

“I’m sure they’re still supporting me from afar. That thought is good enough for me.”

Airi blinked in disbelief, if she was in Akane’s shoes she would be livid at her parents for at least not calling to check up on her.

“I’ve spent so many years being angry at my parents, I don’t want to spend my last few months holding that grudge.” Akane smiled softly, “The first step to being free is to let go.”

The two girls sat in silence, Akane looking out the window and Airi musing over Akane’s words.

“Airi? Is it sunny outside?” Akane broke the silence.

“It is, I was sweating on my way to work today.”

“I wish I could remember how it felt to be in the sun.”

“Speaking about that, I talked to Ms. Nakada.”

Akane lifted her head, her eyes glinting, “And?”

“Well, it took a lot of convincing. A lot. I mean I had to buy her coffee every morning for the whole week and then I had to-” Airi stopped and looked over towards Akane who hung on every word that left her mouth, “She’ll let you go outside on your birthday, but only for an hour and I have to be with you.”

Akane squeaked in excitement, “Thank you, Airi!” She held her arms out towards the older girl.

Airi tilted her head to the side in confusion, “What are you doing?”

“Hug.” Akane pouted, arms still held out.

Airi looked around as if Nakada was somewhere watching her disapprovingly, “I’m pretty sure this is against the rules.”

“Airi,” Akane whined, dragging out Airi’s name, “Come on, just this once.”

“W-we really shouldn’t be doing this, what if Ms. Nakada walks in on us,” Airi blushed, struggling to hold back her laughter.

“Don’t be a pervert, Airi.” Akane dropped her arms with a pout, “It’s just a hug.”

“Fine, fine,” Airi agreed, getting up and dropping the paperwork on the table next to her desk, “But just   once and don’t tell Ms. Nakada.”

Akane nodded in excitement as she held her arms open again.

Airi sighed as she awkwardly wrapped her arms around Akane’s thin figure. Even through the gown and blankets she could still feel her bones sticking out from skin underneath her fingers.

“I’m happy you’re my nurse, Airi.” Akane breathed, laying her head against the older girl’s chest, “For once in my life I’m happy I’m sick because it means I got to meet you.”

“A-Ah, is that so?” Airi’s heart thumped against her chest and she prayed that Akane wouldn’t hear or comment on it.

“Your heart is beating so fast,” Akane teased with a small smile, “Could it be that you’re falling for me?”

“O-Of course not,” Airi stammered, breaking the hug and hurriedly returned to her seat, “I just have a weak heart is all.” She looked away at her lie.

“Sure,” Akane nodded, smile still on her face.

Airi cleared her throat and looked at her watch, “Anyways, it’s about time for your lunch, Akane.”

______



“Airin, you’re neglecting your best friend. I don’t even remember the last time I saw you.” Nanako whined over the phone.

Airi rolled her eyes and sighed, “Sorry Nannan, I’ve been so busy with work, you know with Akane’s time coming...” Airi coughed.
Nanako hummed, “Don’t forget what I told you about getting too attached to her.”

Airi clicked her tongue in annoyance, “I’m not getting attached, I’m just doing my job.”

“Sure, sure.” Nanako continued, “So what will you do when she dies?”

“Well, I would get sad, of course. Everyone would get sad if someone they knew died.”

“You know what I mean, Airin.” Nanako said, her tone turning serious, “I know how you get, I don’t want you to become like that again.”

Airi kept quiet, pondering over what Nanako told her. She thought about the way Akane smiled, showing all her teeth when Airi told her a particularly hilarious story. The way she talked so passionately about the things she believed in. The way her thin body felt against Airi’s. The bruises that decorated her body and how badly Airi wanted some magical way to take away all the pain she felt. “Shit,” Airi cursed out loud, she was getting attached.

“What?” Nanako asked in a smug tone, as if Airi had unconsciously admitted that she was right.

“Nothing,” Airi waved it off, “I’m not getting attached, okay?”

Nanako sighed loudly, “Whatever you say, Airin. I just want you to be careful.”

“I will. Don’t worry about Nanako, I’ll be fine.”

“I hope so...”

______


“Airi?”

Airi looked up to see Akane staring at her, eyes sparkling, “Akane?”

“Do you know what today is?”

Airi put a finger to her thought in mock thought, “Of course I do.”

Akane sat up a little at Airi’s answer, “You do?”

“I would have to be dumb to forget,” Airi smiled, “Today’s when the new volume of the Shingeki manga comes out!”

Akane’s smile fell from her face, “Oh,” She pulled the covers up to her chin and turned towards the window as if trying to ignore Airi’s presence.

“I’m just kidding,” Airi said, getting up and walking towards Akane’s figure. She placed a hand on Akane’s covered shoulder, “Happy birthday, Akane.” 

“That wasn’t funny, Airi.” Akane pouted, sitting up in the bed again, “I thought you really did forget.”
Airi chuckled nervously, she would never admit that she actually did forget and if she hadn’t looked at her planner before she came to work she would’ve never known. Airi cleared her throat, “So, do you know where you want to go?”

“The park!” Akane smiled brightly.

“The park?” Airi repeated, “Don’t you want to go somewhere...I don’t know, more exciting?”

“What’s wrong with the park?” Akane frowned.

“Nothing! It’s just that...I thought you would want to go somewhere...not as boring.”

“The park’s not boring,” Akane looked offended, “Besides, if we go somewhere else, I won’t have all your attention on me like usual.”

“W-What?” Airi sputtered, “You’re my patient, I would get fired if I didn’t pay attention to you.” She got up and reached underneath her seat, throwing it gently onto Akane’s bed.

Akane reached into the bag, “What’s this?”

“I brought clothes for you. It would look pretty odd if you were just walking around in the city with your hospital gown on.” Airi chuckled.

Akane nodded and pulled out the plain white shirt and a pair of blue jeans.

“Sorry, they’re my old clothes.” Airi said sheepishly.

“So this is how you dress outside of work?” Akane laughed, setting the clothes back down, “I never knew you would dress so plain.”

“T-Those are my old clothes! I don’t dress like that anymore!” Airi stuttered, her face turning a little red, “Just hurry up and put them on, I’ll wait outside.” Airi stomped towards the door and stepped out into the hallway, Akane’s laughter ringing in her ears. She leaned against the closed door, a small smile making it’s way to her face.

“Shit,” Remembering Nanako’s warnings to her last night caused the smile to fade away. Catching herself smiling at Akane’s dumb antics made her realize just how deep in she was. She had never known that she would end up growing this attached to the sick girl. Airi closed her eyes, eyebrows furrowed. Maybe it was a mistake to take this job after all. She had thought about transferring, but what would she tell Nakada for the reason of her transfer? That she ended up harboring romantic feelings for her patient? She would end up being the laughing stock of the entire hospital. She could see it now, her colleagues laughing at her behind her back, gossiping to each other, ‘have you heard about that Furukawa girl? She ended up falling in love with her dying patient. What a sicko.’ After that she would most likely be fired and with no income to pay her bills she would be forced to move back to her parents house. All their neighbors would look at her with disgusted eyes and eventually she would never leave the house again. Spiraling into depression she would become a NEET doing nothing but watching animes all day and playing visual novels. Her only support would be her parents money until she died at the tender age of 35 alone.

Airi opened up her eyes again, “I won’t let that happen to me!” She yelled, startling the nurses working at the desk.

“Shhh!” One of the nurses shushed her, anger apparent on her face.

“Sorry!” Airi apologized with a short bow, “I won’t let that happen to me,” She whispered to herself with determination. All she had to do was just separate herself from Akane a little, granted that was easier said than done as Airi’s job was to basically take care of Akane all day. The only time she wasn’t with the younger girl was from 11pm until 6am, a measly 7 hours. She sighed and rubbed her temples, she had to find a way to make these feelings go away before they got the better of her.

“Airi!” Akane yelled from the other side of the door, “I’m done, you can come in now.”

Airi took a deep breath to ready herself, before turning around and opening the door to her own personal hell.

“How do I look?” Akane questioned as soon as Airi entered the room.

The younger girl turned around and posed as if she was a model for a photo shoot. The large white shirt hung loosely over Akane’s figure, while the jeans sagged a little, the bottoms dragging on the floor. Airi stiffed a laugh, Akane looked like a little girl trying to wear her parents clothes while they were out to work, “You look, uh...I probably should just bought you small clothes instead.”

Akane frowned, “Does it look bad?”

“No, no! It looks fine!” Airi lied, “We’ll only be out for an hour anyways.”

“Well if you say so...” Akane continued frowning, pulling a little at the fabric, “I haven’t worn outside clothes for so long, I’ve almost forgotten what it’s felt like.”

Airi opened the door, ignoring Akane’s musings, “Come on, let’s go.”

Akane stopped her fussing and obediently followed Airi out the door. As soon as the two had made it out to the hallway she stopped and ran towards the window, “Airi, look!” She pointed, her face full of excitement.

Airi stood next to Akane, confused, “I don’t see anything.” 

“The trees! The buildings! Look at all the people, I don’t think I’ve seen this many people in one place for years!”

Airi looked out the window again. She didn’t see what was so special about any of it, they were things that she saw everyday on her way to work. Airi chuckled at Akane’s childlike behavior, “Come on, you can see all those things better outside.”

“Is it warm outside today?” Akane asked as the two of them slowly made their way down the stairs. Airi had made her way to the elevator, only to be stopped by Akane who insisted that they took the stairs instead.

“It’s average, about 19.” Airi panted, cursing her poor cardio skills. They had only walked down 3 flights of stairs and Airi was already beyond her limit. She looked over at Akane, expecting her to be tired as well, however the sick girl didn’t seem fazed at all by the exercise.

“I was wondering, what won’t you let happen to you?” Akane asked, with a curious smile.

“What are you talking about?” Airi was focusing all her attention on trying to get her heart to not give out.

“When I was changing, I heard you yelling that to yourself.” Akane jumped down the last two steps, smiling up at Airi who looked like she had run a 5 mile marathon.

“O-Oh that?” Akane waved her hand, “T-That was just me hyping myself up...you see...I wanted to uh...I didn’t want to let myself become fat! So I decided I needed more exercise.”

Akane eyed Airi, “I can see that.”

Airi nodded, a small smile on her face at the success of her lie, “What park did you want to go to?”

Akane stopped, “I was hoping you would know where to go.”

Airi racked her brain, she didn’t visit parks very often as she didn’t see a point to, however she did remember passing by this park that was relatively close by to the hospital a couple of times, “There’s a park close by that we can go to.”

“Close by? So that means we can walk then?” Akane smirked as if she saw right through Airi’s previous lie.

Airi wiped away at her sweat, “I was actually hoping we could drive there instead.”

Akane lifted an eyebrow, “But, I thought you wanted to get more exercise?”

“Oh that? I’ll uh start that tomorrow.”

“Okay,” Akane agreed, “But only because you look like you’re about to pass out right now.”

As soon as the two had made it to the parking garage, Airi wanted to throw herself on the floor and praise to the gods that the torture was over.

“Wow, look at all these cars, they look so cool.” Akane stared in awe, “Which one is yours?”

Airi lead the way, weaving between the parked cars until she stood in front of a silver Prius, “This one is mine!” She stood proudly, running her hand over the metallic exterior.

“This tiny thing?” Akane laughed, “It’s so tiny, it suits you.”

“Hey! What are you trying to say?” Airi yelled, offended.

“Nothing,” Akane tried to control her laughing, “It’s cute.”
“Yeah, whatever,” Airi scowled in an attempt to hide the growing smile, “Get in.”

“Can I open the windows?” Akane asked as soon as the two were out of the parking garage and on the road.

Airi nodded and Akane wasted no time in getting the window down, sticking her hand out the crack, “The wind feels so nice.”

“Careful, if you stick your hand out too far it’ll get hit.” Airi warned with a small smile.

Akane looked shocked and immediately pulled her hand back in, “It would be awful if they buried me without an arm.” 

After that the two sat in comfortable silence, Airi concentrating her attention on driving and Akane pressing her face against the window in wonder.

“We’re here,” Airi announced, pulling the car into the parking lot.

“Wow, this park is huge.” Akane awed.

“I thought you would like it here better,” Airi said opening the car door and stepping out, “There’s a lot of birds here, so...”

“Thank you, Airi!” Akane almost tripped onto the pavement face first trying to exit the vehicle.

“You’re welcome.” Airi smiled. No, stop smiling! She yelled to herself and immediately frowned which Akane noticed.

“Are you okay? Do you not like it here?” Akane asked worried.

“N-No, it’s not that, I was just having some uh...unpleasant thoughts.” She shuttered remembering her future if she didn’t stop now, “Do you want something to drink?”

“Some champagne would be really nice right now.”

Airi frowned and clicked her tongue, “You know you can’t drink alcohol.”

“I was just joking,” Akane squinted her eyes at Airi, “I’ll have some tea then.”

“Okay, wait over there, I’ll be back.” Airi pointed at one of the benches that overlooked a small body of water.

As soon as Akane was seated and no longer focusing her attention on Airi, Airi gave herself a small smack on the head, Akane definitely knew she was acting weird. She looked at her watch, only 20 minutes had passed since they left the hospital, that meant they only had 30 minutes left in the park until they had to start heading back to the hospital. Airi sighed, right now 30 minutes felt like too long to be left alone with Akane, but if she was lucky Akane would be too memorized by being outside to question Airi.

“Airi!” A voice called her name.

Airi turned around, expecting it to be Akane telling her something ‘interesting’ that had happened, but she was instead surprised to see Nanako jogging towards her.

“Airin, I knew it was you,” Nanako pulled the earphones out of her ears and wiped away at the sweat forming on her forehead, “What are you doing here? I thought you hated parks?”

“Oh, Nanako,” Airi cursed to herself, she had forgotten that Nanako lived near this park and often came here to jog, “I-I’m just here, alone, enjoying the sun. It’s such a nice day out, so I just thought I would come to the park to you know, uh relax and...enjoy the sun alone.”

“O...kay. Well since you’re alone...enjoying the sun, alone, that means you have time to hang out then, right?” Nanako squinted at Airi suspiciously.

“Uh, well you see, actually, I’m uh...meditating. Yeah! I’m meditating, that’s why I’m here alone.” Airi shifted her eyes towards Akane who was staring at her questioningly from the bench.

Nanako followed Airi’s eyes, “Do you know her or something?” Nanako smiled as if she had just found out a huge secret,  “Are you on a date? Is that why you’re acting so weird?”

Airi laughed comically and smacked Nanako on the back, “A date! Yeah, I’m on a date, we’re on a date, well gotta go, don’t wanna keep my date waiting.” Airi tried to wave goodbye and walk back only to be stopped by Nanako.

“Wait, wait, wait.” Nanako shook her head, “You can’t go on a date and expect your best friend to not meet her. I need to know she’s good enough for my Airin.”

“N-No, you really don’t have to, I mean she’s a little weird, I don’t think it’s going to last.” Airi cursed at herself in her head, she just ended up digging herself into a bigger hole.

“Yeah, she does seem a little weird...I mean who the hell wears that on a date? She looks like she’s dressed to do construction work.” Nanako side-eyed Akane, “And she’s so thin, she looks like the wind is about to break her.”

“Y-Yeah, well I should head back, she’s probably wondering what I’m doing.” Airi tried for a second time to leave only to her dismay be stopped by Nanako again.

“No, no, no. I still have to meet this girl, this is too interesting for me to pass up.” Nanako chuckled.

Airi sighed, there was no way Nanako was going to let her go without meeting Akane, “Fine, just don’t say anything weird.”

“Don’t worry, Airin. Trust in your best friend.” Nanako grinned, slinging an arm over Airi’s shoulder, “Why are you all sweaty?”

“Don’t ask.”

______


“You’re friend was really interesting.” Akane mentioned as soon as the two were settled back into the hospital room.

“Sorry about that,” Airi dug in her bag, pulling out a small plastic bag, “She kept on insisting to meet you.”

Akane shook her head, “It’s okay. It was nice to meet her. I feel as if I know you a little better now.”

“This is for you,” Airi said, placing the gift wrapped bag onto Akane’s blanket covered lap.

“What’s this?” Akane questioned, picking the object up and turning it around as if trying to see past the gift wrap.

“It’s a birthday present,” Airi smiled, “Happy birthday, Akane.”

Akane smiled widely, “I wold say ‘you didn’t have too,’ but that seems as if I don’t appreciate it. Thank you, Airi.” Akane lifted the tape from the paper carefully, as if she was performing a delicate surgery, until the gift was free from it’s paper shell, revealing a small, hardcore book, “A field guide to birds.” Akane read the title out loud, before breaking out into a large smile, “It’s perfect, Airi, thank you.”

Airi rubbed the back of her neck, “Well, I just figured since you liked birds, and you always look so bored sitting there doing nothing.”

Akane held her arm out, “Come here.”

“I thought we agreed I would only hug you once?” Despite her words, Airi walked over towards Akane’s outstretched arm anyways.

“I’m not asking for a hug,” Akane smirked before leaning in and planting a light kiss to Airi’s cheek, “Thank you, Airi.”

Airi pulled away, shocked at the younger girl’s actions, “Y-You’re welcome,” She stuttered, her face dark red.

______


“Ms. Furukawa, may I have a word?” Nakada stopped Airi just as she was about to enter Akane’s room.

“Of course, Ms. Nakada.” Airi replied, a polite smile on her face.

“I’ll be frank here, Ms. Furukawa, I’m worried about you.” Although, Nakada had claimed to be worried, her face was still as stoic as ever.

Airi furrowed her eyebrows in confusion, “Worried? Why? Is my performance not up to par?”

“No, no, it’s not that. Unexpectedly, you’re quite a good worker.” Nakada cleared her throat as if the compliment burned her mouth, “I’m more worried about your...relationship with Ms. Takayanagi.”

“Relationship?”

Nakada cleared her throat again, “Yes, I’ve noticed that the two of you have gotten quite close over the past months, have you not?”

“That’s true, but I don’t see what this has to do with-”

Nakada awkwardly placed a hand on Airi’s shoulder and tried her hardest to muster a sympathetic smile, however it came out rather forced looking instead, “What I’m saying is, Ms. Takayanagi doesn’t have much time left. It’s better not to get too...attached.”

Airi frowned, “I’m not getting attached.” Her voice raised slightly in annoyance, “I’m just doing my job is all. I don’t care if Akane dies or not, it’s only work to me. She’s my patient and that’s all.” As soon as the words left her mouth Airi immediately regretted them realizing that she was standing outside of Akane’s door and that the girl might have heard her. She cursed her pride.

Nakada nodded, shocked at Airi’s outburst. She fixed her already perfectly placed skirt, “Well then, I’m glad you’re able to to distinguish between work and personal life.” With those words she left, the echo of her heels clicking on the tiled floor the only reminder that she was there.

Airi took a deep breath and prayed that Akane was either asleep or didn’t hear her at all. To her dismay when she opened the door, she found Akane propped up in bed, wide awake, her head hung low, evidence that she had heard Airi’s cold words.

Airi waked towards the side of the bed, “I guess you heard me then?”

Akane nodded once, her eyes focused on the white door in front of her.

Airi sighed, “I’m sorry, Akane. I didn’t mean it like that, I just-”

“No, it’s okay.” Akane spoke in a small, soft voice, that reminded Airi of the first time they had met, “I understand exactly what you were trying to say, Ms. Furukawa. You’ve made that point very clear.”

“Akane, please listen to-”

Akane turned to lay on her side, her back facing Airi, “I’m not feeling too well. I’m going to rest now. If you could please refrain from disturbing me.”

Airi closed her mouth and at down in her usual seat, not sure what else to say. She watched the rise and fall of Akane’s back before leaning her head back and closing her eyes, “I’m sorry, Akane.” She whispered one last time.

______

When Airi got a 3am call from the hospital, she already knew what they were calling her about. Despite it, she had still hoped they were calling about to tell something mundane like that they decided to give her a day off tomorrow, “Hello?” She rubbed the sleep from her eyes.

“Ms. Furukawa?” It was Nakada and her tone didn’t help put Airi’s mind at ease, “It’s time.”

Airi doesn’t remember the last time she drove that fast.

As soon as she arrived she ran up all the way to the 7th floor, not even pausing to take a breath or to calm her throbbing heart.

“Ms. Furukawa.” Nakada called her over. For once her boss wasn’t wearing her usual scornful scowl, but instead one of sympathy, “She wants to see you.”

Airi let out the breath she didn’t even know she was holding, relived that she would at least get to say goodbye. Airi opened the door to see Akane laying motionless in bed, eyes staring up at the ceiling.

“Airi,” Her voice was rough, she attempted to lift her head up but found that she didn’t have enough strength in her to do so. Airi ran over to Akane’s side, gently pushing the girl’s head back down, before taking a seat.

Airi gripped her pale hand tightly with hers, “Akane,” She cried, droplets of tears staining the white sheets of the bed, staining the white gown that Akane wore, staining Akane's white skin.

Akane lifted her trembling hand up, resting it against Airi’s face, “Don’t cry, Airin.” She spoke in a hushed tone, voice hoarse, “This is what you wanted isn’t it?” A weak chuckle escaped her lips, “I’m just a burden to you after all.”

“No!” Airi raised her voice before speaking normally, “I-I would never want this to happen to you,” She lowered her head, the sound of the heart monitor echoing in her ears, “I’m sorry. I'm sorry, Akane.”

“Don’t be sorry,” Akane dropped her hand back to her side, a small smile making it’s way to her face, “I was always meant to be a bird anyways.”

Airi laughed lightly, despite the tears that continued to fall down her face, “You’re the most beautiful bird I know, Akane.”

Akane chuckled before falling into a fit of coughs, “Airi, I-” Another cough, this time bright red blood stained Akane’s pale fingers.

“Akane!” Airi yelled, standing up to get Nakada and the doctors to come in.

Airi’s hand gripped weakly around her wrist stopped her in her tracks, “Airi, 256.”

“W-What?”

“256.” Akane’s grip loosened and her hand fell back to her side with a small ‘thump’.

Airi shot back one more look at Akane who was still mouthing ‘256’ to her before running out the room for Nakada.

After that it was all a blur for Airi, as cliché as it sounded. All she remembers was the doctors running around Akane’s bedside yelling vitals and other medical words Airi didn’t understand. Nakada stood stoic next to her, a hand planted firmly on Airi’s shoulder as if trying to comfort her in her own way. At the end of it all, Airi remembers vividly seeing all the doctors hang their heads as if in prayer before exiting the room, leaving Akane’s white, motionless body in the center of it all. One of the doctors came up to Airi, a solemn look on his face, “You did well, Ms. Furukawa. The first one is always the hardest to lose.” He then turned to Nakada, “Ms. Nakada, if you would follow me, there’s some paperwork I need you to fill out.”

Nakada nodded, “I’ll give you some time, Ms. Furukawa.”

Airi didn’t know how long she stood there, staring at the dead body of her former patient, her former friend. Somehow, without knowing how she got there, she ended up at Akane’s bedside, seated in her usual chair. Airi reached a hand out tentatively, her skin was still warm.

“Akane,” Airi closed her eyes, Akane’s last words still echoing in her ears. 256. What was Akane trying to tell her? 256. 256. She repeated the numbers in head, trying to make sense of it. 256 could have been a number of things; was it a password? Or perhaps a street number? As far as Airi knew, Akane had never mentioned about owning something that needed a password, and Airi was also pretty sure Akane’s only home was the hospital.

“Airi,” It was Nakada again, “The doctors are going to have to take Akane to the morgue now. Are you finished?” Her usual harsh tone now had an edge of softness to it, almost like a mother speaking to her child.

Airi nodded, she didn’t know how much longer she could take staring at Akane’s figure, knowing she was gone and wasn’t going to wake up again.

Two doctors came in, bowing quickly at Airi before wheeling away the hospital bed with Akane in it out the door and away from Airi.

“Oh, I almost forgot.” Nakada spoke up again, approaching Airi, “Ms. Takayanagi asked for me to give this to you after...” She coughed, “After she passed.” She reached into her coat and pulled out the book that Airi had given Akane for her birthday.

Suddenly it all clicked together. 256. They were page numbers.

“Well, I’ll leave you to it then. I’ll be in my office if you need me, Ms. Furukawa.” Nakada excused herself, sensing that Airi wanted to be left alone.

Airi sat back down in her usual seat, and turned the pages. 254, 255, 256. A paragraph in the book was underlined several times, ‘Birds have hollow bones for a couple of reasons. The first is that their hollow bones are part of their respiratory system. The second is that hollow bones makes them lighter which makes it easier for them to fly.’ Airi stared at the paragraph, clueless as to why Akane wanted her to read this. She looked to the margins and found a couple of words scribbled in, ‘Proof that I was meant to be a bird.’ Airi chuckled lightly before reading down further, ‘Airi, don’t lose your way. I’ll always be watching over you. I love you.’

“Akane,” Airi repeated, feeling the tears well up in her eyes again. She closed the book, looking at the spot where Akane used to lay. If she was here right now she would probably smile that crooked smile at her, “Airi, why are you crying? You’re so sensitive.” She would tease before breaking out into a wild laugh. Airi smiled, the tears falling freely down her face, “I love you too, Akane. I love you too.”

[Shinoki]

Sasshii-san...sometimes I wonder are you trying to kill me?
This is too angsty yet good at the same time...

I wish it was longer...but I'm a fast reader. But it's already pretty long and all...but...
*dies...*
*slaps self x 50* (Truthfully, I did slap myself a few times...)
Le sad truth of reality... (;A;)
This Akane...in this sekai...
I haven't read anything hospice-based for a long time... (last time was a visual novel - narcissus)
But...omg...still so sad... *falls to floor...
Like somehow, Nanako's role... I really liked how it was written...

The next one-shot's horror eh?
I bet it'll still be depressing though~
Depressing is a virtue! (though it'd be interesting to see a fluff come out or something :3 )
ganbatte nee~~ (turns out I'm a sadist.)

[p-o-p-e-y-oppa]

I read this on Tumblr already but up until now, I just can't still get over it. I guess because it was too sad and I thought that it wasn't fair that Churi died. (lol) But probably because this story made me hope that Churi will be miraculously cured by some unknown force or smth. I like stories that aren't that much predictable and will make you hope for a strange twist. Although it was already mentioned that she's gonna die in 3 months, somehow I still hoped that she'll push through and will live a happy life with Airin (lolol)

Anyway, thank you for this! There are so little fanfics about Furuyanagi and I have to say, this has gotta be the best written. ☆＾▽＾☆ Write more about them, alright? lol now that made me sound demanding. But yes, I wish you do. You seem fond of the couple anyway. It didn't look pushy and the writing looked natural, as if it was really Airi.

Again! Thank you! I don't usually write long comments but you deserve a long appreciating one. I usually just comment a gif so.. here's a gif! This probably explains what I look like throughout the whole fic.

[Sasshii]

Hey guys, I got a request for a NishiKumi, so I decided to start on that before I venture onto my horror one shot. Seems like so far Rena x Churi x Airi is winning so far and I've got a rough plot of what I want it to be so please look forward to that in the future. But for now here's a preview for the Kumi x Nishi x Yuria I'm working on now ouob

______

White. All she could see was white. She clenched her eyes shut, feeling the pressure build up in her skull. The ringing in her ears becoming unbearable.

“Ni...shi...”

She opened her eyes again, the white slowly waning from her vision.

“Yuka.”

The ringing stopped, she released a breath of relief.

“Yuka.” The voice repeated a little firmer.

She turned her head towards the source of the sound, a blurry face a few inches away from hers.

“Yuka, can you hear me?”

She tried to open her mouth and answer but the words never left her throat. She closed her eyes again, the dull throbbing in the back of her head lulling her to sleep.

“Will she be okay, doctor?” A female asked, turning away from the sleeping girl.

“I wouldn’t worry, Ms. Kizaki.” The doctor placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, “Ms. Nakanishi suffered minor cranial damage due to the impact and the scans showed no permanent damage. However, we can not fully assess the damage until Ms. Nakanishi wakes up.”

“So, that means there could be something wrong with her?”

The doctor cleared his throat, “It’s hard to say right now. We will just have to wait until she wakes up.”

Yuria nodded in understanding, “Thank you, doctor.”

The doctor bowed and shot Yuria a sympathetic smile before leaving the room.

Yuria sighed and relaxed into her chair, “What am I going to do with you, Yuka?” She leaned forward, pushing aside the stray hairs that stuck to Yuka’s forehead.

[WantingtoCuddle]

yay not a kanonxkumixyuria for once
looks amazing!
Looking forward to it!

[LittleTina]

Jab. uwu Don't make me cry again.

[saeseki]

 

[Sasshii]

Hello friends! I'm back with a new OS. This one was a request for NishiKumi, and with that as a casual reminder, I'm open for requests. The only pairing I won't write is wmatsui and I generally am not big on writing pairings with Jurina. Nothing against Jurina, I just find it hard to ship her lol. But, I might make exceptions in some cases. Just PM me ouo/ Comments and criticism is always welcome and thanks for reading ouo

Recall

White. All she could see was white. She clenched her eyes shut, feeling the pressure build up in her skull. The ringing in her ears becoming unbearable.

“Ni…shi…”

She opened her eyes again, the white slowly waning from her vision.

“Yuka.”

The ringing stopped, she released a breath of relief.

“Yuka.” The voice repeated a little firmer.

She turned her head towards the source of the sound, a blurry face a few inches away from hers.

“Yuka, can you hear me?”

She tried to open her mouth and answer but the words never left her throat. She closed her eyes again, the dull throbbing in the back of her head lulling her to sleep.

“Will she be okay, doctor?” A female asked, turning away from the sleeping girl.

“I wouldn’t worry, Ms. Yagami.” The doctor placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, “Ms. Nakanishi suffered minor cranial damage due to the impact and the scans showed no permanent damage. However, we can not fully assess the full damage until Ms. Nakanishi wakes up.”

“So, that means there could be something wrong with her?”

The doctor cleared his throat, “It’s hard to say right now. We will just have to wait until she wakes up.”

Kumi nodded in understanding, “Thank you, doctor.”

The doctor bowed and shot Kumi a sympathetic smile before leaving the room.

Kumi sighed and relaxed into her chair, “What am I going to do with you, Yuka?” She leaned forward, pushing aside the stray hairs that stuck to Yuka’s forehead.

The second time Yuka opened her eyes, she was alone, the only sound the rhythmic beeping of the machine next to her. She groaned and gripped at her head, the dull throbbing was still present as ever and her entire body ached as if she decided to run an eight mile marathon last minute.

Against her better judgment she tried to sit up and winced before falling back onto the hard bed. ‘Bad idea number two’, she thought to herself, ‘the first bad idea being whatever I did to have me end up in here’. She couldn’t exactly remember what she could have done to end up here, in fact the last thing she remembered was boarding the bus to go to class. Did she end up in some kind of accident?

“Oh, you’re awake,” The nurse looked surprised when she entered the room to see a conscious Yuka, “Let me go get the doctor.”

“Wai-” Yuka tried to call out, but the nurse had slammed the door shut and was probably half way down the hallway already. Yuka sighed and stared up at the white ceiling, thousands of questions swimming around in her head.

“Ah, Ms. Nakanishi. Good to see you awake.” A man, who Yuka assumed was the doctor, walked in, “How are you feeling?”

“Like I got run over by a truck.”

The doctor let out a light chuckle before reaching for Yuka’s chart at the foot of her bed, “That’s not far from what happened.”

“I got run over by a truck?!” Yuka yelled before wincing, it wasn’t one of the wisest things to yell while harboring the worst headache ever.

“Oh no, no. It was just a minor car accident.”

Yuka frowned, “Who’s car?”

The doctor looked up from her chart, “Yours, I believe.”

Yuka’s frown deepened as she thought about all the insurance paperwork she would have to fill out after she left and how much the repairs would cos- “Wait a minute,” Yuka scrunched her eyebrows together in confusion, “I don’t own a car.”

The doctor hummed, tapping his pen against the paper, “Perhaps I was mistaken then. It must have been your girlfriend’s car then.”

Yuka let out a breath of relief, as horrible as it sounded, at least that meant she wouldn’t have to be the one filling out all that paperwork and paying for those repair cos- “Wait a minute,” Yuka repeated, “I don’t have a girlfriend.”

The doctor stopped his tapping and looked at Yuka, confused, “Ms. Nakanishi, do you know what year it is?”

Yuka scoffed, “Of course I know what year it is, it’s 2011.”

The man simply grunted and jotted down more notes onto Yuka’s chart.

“I don’t understand, what’s wrong?” Yuka was starting to question this man’s credibility, what kind of doctor was he if he didn’t even know what year it was?

The doctor didn’t look up from the clipboard until a quiet, polite knock finally lifted his head up, “Ah, that should be the nurse with Ms. Yagami. Come in.”

“Ms. Yagami?” Yuka repeated, confused.

Two people entered the room, the first one wearing the usual nurse uniform while the second one was a slightly younger looking female who was wearing casual clothes. The one in the uniform stood next to the doctor, a neutral expression on her face, while the other rushed over to Yuka’s side, startling her.

“Yuka! Are you alright? How are you feeling?” She gripped at Yuka’s hands with hers.

“Uh? Do I know you?” Yuka asked, shifting her hands out of the strangers grip. Now she really was questioning the doctor and the strange people he brought in to see her.

The girl looked scandalized at Yuka’s question and reaction, she turned towards the doctor, “Doctor?”

The doctor coughed into his hands and set Yuka’s chart down, “Ms. Yagami, if you could please have a seat? It seems some…complications have arisen.”

“Complications?” Kumi asked, taking the seat next to Yuka’s bed. Yuka moved over towards the edge of the bed not wanting to be anywhere near the strange girl.

“Yes, Ms. Nakanishi, if you don’t mind telling us, what is the last thing you remember doing?”

Yuka looked up at the ceiling in thought, “The last thing I remember I was getting onto the bus to go to class.”

“Class?” Kumi questioned, “Yuka, you graduated years ago.”

“No I didn’t. I still have another year before I get my degree.” Yuka corrected, who was this girl trying to correct her about her own life?

The doctor nodded his head and picked up Yuka’s chart again. Yuka wondered how many more times he would repeat this action, she decided she would keep a count from now on, “I see. Do you happen to know who this young lady over here is and her relation to you?” He motioned towards Kumi.

“You remember don’t you, Yuka?” Her voice was borderline pleading and Yuka felt a small wave of guilt rush over her.

“I’m sorry, I don’t. I’m assuming we’re friends though, right?” Yuka offered, she had hoped that including the last part would pillow the negative of her not remembering the other girl.

Despite Yuka’s best efforts, it didn’t work, and Kumi made a face that looked like she was about to burst into tears any second.

The man simply nodded again and scanned Yuka’s chart with his eyes, “It seems like you have a case of retrograde Amnesia, Ms. Nakanishi.”

“Amnesia?” Kumi asked before Yuka could even open her own mouth to do so.

“Yes,” The doctor set the chart down, Yuka made sure to add one point in her head, “Ms. Nakanishi, if you don’t mind telling me what the year is again?”

“2010.”

Kumi’s face told Yuka all she needed to know.

“The year is 2014, Ms. Nakanishi.”

“You don’t remember anything that’s happened in the past 4 years, Yuka?” Kumi asked, her voice desperate.

Yuka shook her head, a little shocked at this revelation. 4 years had passed by her and she couldn’t remember any of it at all, “Is there anyway for me to get my memory back?”

The doctor looked grim as he shook his head, “I’m afraid that right now there is no medical way to solve this. It’ll have to just come naturally to you.”

“Naturally? But this is 4 years of my life I can’t remember! 4 years is a long time to forget. I mean what do I even do? Am I even friends with the same people anymore?” Yuka looked desperately at the doctor, maybe if she really begged he would surprise her with some kind of cure all medicine that he’s been hiding.

Unfortunately for Yuka, the doctor didn’t break into a laugh and give her a shot of some kind of potion that would restore her memories, instead his face stayed grim, “I’m sorry, Ms. Nakanishi.”

“Don’t worry, Yuka, I’ll try my hardest to help you remember.” Kumi added in, nodding her head in determination.

Yuka looked over at the other girl and for once in the span of 15 minutes that she knew her, she was thankful that Kumi was here, “Thank you.”

The doctor cleared his throat, “It seems that aside from your memory loss, you should be clear to go home today, Ms. Nakanishi.”

Well at least she could go be miserable in the comfort of her own home.

The man spoke quietly with the nurse for a few minutes before turning his attention back to the two girls, “I’ll go get started on the paperwork for that and bring it back here for you to sign,” He addressed Kumi, “I take it you’ll be taking care of her for the time being?”

Kumi simply nodded in response.

“Excuse me then.” The doctor said before opening the door and leaving, the nurse following closely behind him.

“I’m sorry I don’t remember you.” Yuka said, breaking the awkward silence that had hung between the two of them.

Kumi shook her head, “No, it’s fine. It’s not your fault.” She said with a small smile.

Yuka smiled back, now that she had a closer look she realized that the other girl was actually quite cute. Yuka coughed into her hand, now wasn’t the time to start thinking about cute girls, “So, I take it I was right and that we’re friends, right?”

Kumi looked to the side, “Something like that.”

Yuka hummed and sat up slightly, she wanted to know about this girl and more about the old her, “We must be really close for you to volunteer to take care of me. What’s happened to my parents?”

“Your parents…they’ve uh,” Kumi struggled with finding the right words.

“Are they alright?” Worry made it’s way to Yuka’s face as she sat up a little straighter.

Kumi waved her hand with a small chuckle, “Oh no, they’re fine and healthy, it’s just that…You don’t really talk to them anymore.”

“I don’t?” Yuka cocked her head to the side, “I thought my relationship with my parents was always good.”

Kumi made a noise, she wasn’t exactly fond of lying to Yuka, well technically she wasn’t lying she was just stretching the truth a little. It was true that Yuka and her parents had a falling out, but the circumstances weren’t really one of mutual understanding.

“Okay, Ms. Nakanishi,” The door opened and the doctor walked into the room, a pile of papers in his hands with the nurse quietly shuffling in behind him, “Here are the papers you need to sign and then you can go home.” The doctor split the stack in half before handing them over to Yuka.

Home. Yuka wondered if she still lived in the same house or if she had moved somewhere else.

“These are for you,” He handed the other half to Kumi who took them with a grateful smile and immediately started to flip through the pages.

Yuka turned towards her own papers, the font was microscopic and the Yuka wondered why they even bothered making font that tiny. She flipped through the pages, not even bothering to fully read the words and quickly signed wherever she was required to. She cheered herself on as she got to the last page in under 3 minutes and quickly signed her name one last time before pushing the papers away from her with a victorious smile.

“Finished?” The doctor asked. Yuka nodded and handed the papers up to the doctor. She glanced over at the other girl who was chewing on her top lip and carefully reading through the papers.

Yuka leaned forward and gently nudged Kumi, “You don’t have to actually read it you know,” Yuka whispered, keeping her voice low so the doctor wouldn’t hear her, “They just put a whole bunch of nonsense in there.”

Kumi chuckled and for a split second Yuka thought it was a rather cute laugh that she wanted to hear more of, “Well you never know, I could be signing over your kidneys and you would never know,”

“Can they actually do that?” Yuka asked, horrified.

Kumi shrugged, “Who knows, but I would rather read to make sure you get to keep all your internal organs.”

Yuka turned back to the doctor, trying her hardest to keep a serious face, she cleared her throat, “Er, can I see those papers again?” Yuka decided it was better to be safe than sorry.

______

“Is this where I live now?” Yuka asked in amazement once the two had stopped in front of an unfamiliar, white house.

Kumi simply nodded, fishing around in her jacket pocket for the house key, “We live together.”

“This is new,” Yuka said, glancing around the area. It seemed the be a relatively nice suburban area, “How long have we lived together?”

Kumi pulled the key out and unlocked the door before pushing it open, “Just a year.”

Yuka stepped into the house after the other girl. It was rather small inside, only housing a tiny kitchen that was connected to the living room and off to the side were two closed doors. Yuka looked at the doors, quizzically, she assumed one of them led to the bathroom while the other one was a bedroom; but if there was only bedroom, then where did she sleep?

Just as Yuka was about to ask, Kumi beat her to it, “I guess I should probably tell you this now,” She shrugged her coat off, draping it over one of the chairs, “We’re more than just close friends.”

Suddenly it all clicked together for Yuka, “O-Oh, so we’re…”

“Dating.” Kumi finished for the other girl with a sheepish smile, “Sorry, I wanted to tell you earlier, but I thought it would be better to tell you in private.”

Yuka nodded, this was definitely new. Kumi was her girlfriend. This girl that she knew nothing about was her girlfriend, “How long?”

“Two years,” Kumi answered, taking a seat on the couch.

Two years, Yuka was dumbstruck. She still couldn’t believe it. Yesterday she was happily living off by herself and now she had a girlfriend of two years that she was living with. “Wow,” Yuka took a seat next to Kumi, making sure to leave a good couple of inches between the two of them.

Yuka looked over the other girl who was mindlessly playing with the hem of her shirt. She decided to look on the bright side, at least her new, not so new found girlfriend was cute.

“H-How did we…meet?” Yuka questioned curiously.

“I was a freshmen in college,” Kumi smiled softly down at her hands, “And you had just started teaching,” She chuckled, “It was all really cliché really. I always stared at you in class and you always paid extra attention to me. You asked me out when the semester ended.”

Yuka smiled as well, “I sound smooth.”

Kumi let out a small laugh, looking up at the older girl, “You were,” She turned her attention back to her lap, “You asked me to move in with you after you…” She paused, gripping the end of her shirt tightly.

“After I?” Yuka looked at the younger girl quizzically, confused by her sudden behavior change.

“After you…moved out of your apartment,” Kumi let out a forced laugh, “I couldn’t say no after you already bought this house. You were always making impulsive decisions. It’s one of the things I love…and hate about you.” Kumi stood up from the couch and stretched her arms out, “Enough about that. Are you hungry?”

Yuka nodded, surprised at how fast Kumi changed the subject. She still had millions of other questions she wanted to ask, but judging from the other girl’s reaction, she decided it would be best if she kept them to herself for now.

______

After Kumi had left for her classes Yuka decided to go out and explore for a bit. She wondered around aimlessly for what seemed like hours until she stopped at a small cafe, deciding to relax for a bit before her long trek back home.

“Welcome!” A short, stubby man wiping down one of the numerous tables shouted at Yuka, a large smile on his face.

“Ah, hello,” Yuka greeted back, surprised by the sudden noise.

“You can order up at that counter,” The man pointed before resuming his work.

“Thanks,” Yuka said, walking up to the counter.

Behind the counter stood a single girl with her back turned towards Yuka, it looked like she was playing around with something on the table.

Yuka cleared her throat, “Uh, excuse me?”

The girl quickly turned around, dropping a couple of coffee beans on the floor, “Ah, sorry-” When her eyes met Yuka’s her demeanor quickly changed, the smile fell from her face replaced with a scowl, she crossed her arms and narrowed her eyes at Yuka, “What are you doing here?”

“…Ordering coffee?” Yuka was taken aback by the sudden change, “Do I know you or something?”

The girl opened her mouth before quickly closing it. She looked just as surprised as Yuka did “No,” She answered after a few seconds, the smile making it’s way back to her face, “It’s been a long day is all. What can I get you?”

“Okay…” Yuka looked up at the signboard that hung above, dismissing the girl’s odd behavior for now, “I’ll have a cappuccino,” She ordered the first thing that caught her eye, not knowing what the other beverages were.

“One cappuccino,” The girl said to herself and turned around quickly getting to work.

Yuka stared at the girl’s back as she busied herself with the machines. It was obvious that the two knew each other, but she couldn’t quite place her anywhere. Then again, if Yuka had met her during the four years she lost, it would make sense she couldn’t remember her. She sighed, why was this girl trying to hide that they knew each other?

“Here you go,” The girl placed the paper cup filled with the hot liquid in front of Yuka.

“Are you sure I don’t know you?” Yuka asked again in the small hope that the girl would drop the act and reveal who she was for Yuka’s sake.

The girl stared at Yuka’s face and rubbed her chin with her free hand in mock thought, “Nah, I would’ve definitely remembered someone like you,” She said with a grin before turning her attention to the register, “That’ll be 2.20”

Yuka reached into her pocket and pulled out the correct amount of money before taking her coffee, she shot one more glance at the coffee girl before turning for the exit.

“Have a good day!” The girl called, large smile on her face.

______

“I’m home,” Kumi announced, closing the front door behind her.

Yuka looked up from the random crossword puzzle she was working on, “Welcome home.”

Kumi dropped her bag onto the couch and walked over to Yuka, looking over her shoulder at the puzzle, “How was your day today?” She asked before turning her attention to the mail in her hands.

“I met this really interesting girl at the coffee shop today,” Yuka hadn’t meant to say it but thoughts of

the coffee shop girl had been swirling around in her head all day, she had to tell someone and it had just so happened that the only person she could tell was Kumi.

“Oh?” Kumi seemed uninterested as she shifted through the envelopes in her hand before throwing them onto the table, “You like coffee now?”

Yuka made a face, “No, I was just bored sitting around waiting for you. We talked for a bit, it was…fun.” Fun would be the last thing Yuka would call their conversation earlier but Kumi wouldn’t know if she stretched the truth a little.

This seemed to perk Kumi’s interest, “Oh?” She repeated, an unamused smile making it’s way to her face, “What was her name again?”

Yuka frowned, “She hasn’t told me…at least not yet.”

Kumi tried to hide the small scowl that had graced her lips, but Yuka could clearly see it from where she sat, “That’s too bad.” Her words suggested sympathy but her tone screamed the opposite.

Yuka nodded in agreement, making it her goal to get the coffee shop girl’s name the next time she saw her thinking that if she got her name there might be the odd chance she would remember her.

“Yuka,” Kumi took a seat next to the older girl and leaned onto her shoulder, “I have a free day tomorrow,” Kumi took Yuka’s hand with hers, mindlessly playing with her fingers, “We should go on a date.”

“A date?” Yuka gulped, still not used to the sudden intimacy.

Kumi nodded against the other girl’s chest, “We haven’t spent time together in a long time, just the two of us.”

“We haven’t?”

“No,” Kumi stopped playing with Yuka’s fingers and instead opted to play with the buttons on Yuka’s sweater instead, “You were busy with your work, and I was finishing up finals. We hardly had any time together.”

Yuka was conflicted, on one hand she wanted to make her girlfriend happy, but on the other hand she really wanted to see the coffee shop girl again. Yuka sighed and put on her best smile, “Okay,” She knew she would never hear the end of it if she refused, “Let’s go on a date tomorrow.”

“Really?” Kumi smiled up at Yuka and for a fraction of a nanosecond Yuka swore she could have felt her heart skip a beat.

Yuka nodded before quickly looking away, “Y-Yeah.”

“Ah, I’m excited now,” Kumi stretched out onto the couch, laying her head on Yuka’s lap, “What should we do?”

“Whatever you want,” Yuka replied simply, head still turned away.

Kumi hummed and reached her hand up, turning Yuka’s head to look at her, “Let’s get coffee then,” Her smile was innocent, but the glint in her eyes said otherwise.

______

Yuka closed her eyes, inhaling the scent of coffee. What was she doing here?

Kumi had left for her classes and Yuka was alone at the house, bored and somehow that all lead to her ending up at the same coffee shop again.

After Kumi and Yuka had their date here yesterday without meeting the coffee shop girl, Yuka told herself she would stop going before it seemed borderline stalkerish. She couldn’t help it though, this girl knew something and Yuka was determined to find out what it was. Thoughts of the coffee shop girl had plagued her all last night and Yuka brushed it off as determination to finding out who she really was.

“Ah! You again?” The girl said with a large smile, “I didn’t think I would see you again so soon.”

“I guess I can’t stop myself from a good cup of coffee,” Yuka chuckled nervously, looking up at the signboard despite already knowing what she was going to order, “I’ll have a cappuccino.” She made a face, recalling the horrible, bitter taste that wouldn’t leave her mouth for hours.

“Gotchu!” The girl saluted before turning around and working on Yuka’s drink.

Yuka chuckled at the girl’s childlike response, “Cute,” She said under her breath before quickly slapping a hand over her mouth, hoping the other girl hadn’t heard her. That was not what she had meant to say.

“Hm?” The girl lifted her head from her work. The small smile on her face already told Yuka she had heard.

“I-I uh…I said…” Yuka stumbled over her words, not knowing how she would cover this up.

Thankfully, the girl seemed to pity Yuka and her pitiful stuttering and handed her, her finished drink,

“2.20”

Yuka quickly reached into her pocket and pulled out the money she had already set aside for the coffee before handing it over to the coffee girl, “What’s your name?” The words had slipped out of Yuka’s mouth before she could stop them.

“Yuria,” The girl said with a grin as if she was expecting the question

“Yuria,” Yuka repeated, that name didn’t bring back any memories at all, maybe the other girl was telling the truth after all. She sighed and took a tentative sip of the coffee before instantly regretting it. She tried her best to suppress a gag and swallowed the liquid with a small smile as to not seem suspicious.

“What about yours?” Kumi asked.

“My what?” Yuka swallowed again, the vile taste spreading around her mouth.

“Your name,” She giggled into her hand, “I told you mine so it’s only fair if you tell me yours.”

“O-Oh, right!” Yuka felt the heat rising up to her face from embarrassment, “Yuka.”

“Yuka,” Yuria echoed, “Yuka, Yuka, Yuka. Nice name.” She smiled, extending her hand out towards Yuka, “Nice to make your acquaintance.”

Yuka set her coffee down and grasped Yuka’s hand with hers, hoping the other girl wouldn’t notice how sweaty her palms were, “Nice to meet you, Yuria.”

______

“Yuria.” That was the first word that had left her mouth when she came home and spotted Kumi diligently working on something at the kitchen table.

Kumi’s grip on the papers in her hands tensed, she looked up at Yuka and immediately loosened her grip when she noticed the older girl looking at her curiously, “Huh?”

“That’s her name,” Yuka tried to suppress the smile she knew was making it’s way to her face. She wasn’t particularly happy about meeting Yuria, Yuka told herself, she was just happy to get to talk to someone who wasn’t Kumi. She loved talking to Kumi however after a week of only talking to the other girl was starting to get a little mundane.

“Who’s?” Kumi asked, but the hard edge in her voice suggested she already knew who.

“The girl from the coffee shop,” Yuka wasn’t trying to brag, or maybe she was, all she wanted was to voice her excitement. She wanted to yell it to all her friends, unfortunately, it just so happened that her only friend right now was Kumi…and hopefully Yuria soon.

“Oh,” Kumi cleared her throat and shuffled the papers into a neat pile and set them back onto the table, “You saw her today?”

Yuka nodded, the dumb smile present on her face. She slid her jacket off and hung it on one of the empty hooks, “I think you would like her.”

“I really doubt that.”

Yuka turned around surprised, Kumi was standing a few inches behind her, she hadn’t even heard the younger girl get up, “What are you-” Yuka’s words were cut short by Kumi pressing her lips against hers.

Yuka broke the kiss, gently pushing Kumi away, “What are you doing?”

Kumi pouted, stepping closer to the taller girl, “I’m allowed to kiss my girlfriend, aren’t I?”

“I-It’s not that, you just caught me off guard and-”

Kumi leaned in, causing Yuka to take another step back, “Can I kiss you?”

Yuka shifted her gaze, embarrassed at the thoughts that were running through her mind, “O-Okay.”

Kumi wasted no time in pressing her lips against Yuka’s again, wrapping her arms around the taller girl’s neck. Yuka closed her eyes and hesitantly returned the kiss, moving her lips against Kumi’s.

It wasn’t until Yuka felt Kumi gently pulling at her shirt that she broke away from the kiss again, face flushed and breathing uneven, “W-What are you doing?”

“What does it look like I’m doing?” Kumi asked, frustrated with the numerous buttons on Yuka’s shirt. She eventually gave up, and lifted her own shirt above her head before throwing it off to the side.

Yuka quickly averted her gaze, shocked at Kumi’s bold actions, “I-I don’t think we should be doing this.”

Kumi brought her hand up to Yuka’s cheek and gently turned her head to look at her. Yuka swallowed hard, trying her best to keep her eyes focused on the wall behind Kumi and not on the topless girl in front of her. “Yuka,” Kumi trailed her hand down Yuka’s arm to grip at her hand. She moved closer and pulled Yuka’s hand to cup at her own breast, “Please.” She whined, her voice desperate.

Yuka felt her heart pound in her chest and the sight of the younger girl in front of her. She didn’t know what came over her, but she leaned forward, capturing Kumi’s lips with hers in a heated kiss, squeezing the younger girl’s cloth covered breast with her hand, earning her a soft whimper.

“Just once,” Yuka whispered against the other girl’s lips, her voice hoarse with desire. She pushed Kumi up against the wall behind her, feeling her warm body pressed up against hers, “Just once.”

Kumi nodded against Yuka’s neck, gripping the back of Yuka’s shirt between her fingers, “Just once.”

______

When Yuka woke up the next morning, she was alone. She stretched out and lifted herself up, glancing around the room she noticed Kumi’s bag was gone. Yuka laid back down and concluded that she was probably off to school. Yuka smirked to herself, with Kumi gone that meant she could go see Yuria without having a million questions thrown at her. Yuka stumbled out of the bed and made her way towards the bathroom.

Yuka shivered when the cold January air hit her face as she left the apartment complex. As she started walking, her mind wandered. A couple of days had since passed by since her accident and despite Kumi’s best efforts at trying to help her, the majority of the four years was a giant question mark to her and her relationship with Kumi was all over the place. Yuka sighed to herself, “What am I doing?” She muttered to herself quietly. She knew that these continued meetings with Yuria did nothing to help her relationship, but seeing the other girl made Yuka feel something she couldn’t quite put her finger on. Rather, Yuria had piqued her interests.

“Welcome!” One of the baristas sweeping the floor greeted as soon as Yuka stepped foot into the cafe.

Yuka gave a curt nod and stepped towards the counter where a smiling Yuria was waiting for her.

“Come to see me again?” Yuria teased.

“No, I just like the coffee here,” Yuka teased back, pulling her wallet out.

Yuria hummed and grabbed one of the paper cups before turning around to start preparing Yuka’s drink.

“You didn’t even ask what I wanted.”

“A cappuccino, right?” Kumi shot a confident smile over her shoulder, “You’ve ordered it every time you come in.”

Yuka coughed into her hand, embarrassed, she had to make sure to order something different next time she came, “Er, yeah.”

Kumi turned back to her work, “Do you work around here?”

Yuka shook her head, she didn’t even know where she worked but she decided to omit that part out, “I live close by.” With my loving girlfriend who’s done nothing but care for me despite my memory handicap, yet here I am talking up another girl instead of waiting for her to come home. Yuka decided to omit that part out as well.

Yuria nodded, “I live close by too,” She turned around, handing the hot cup Yuka, “I’m surprised I’ve never seen you around here before.”

“Y-Yeah, I don’t leave my house often.” Yuka cursed herself as soon as the words left her mouth, now she probably seemed like a weird shut in. If Yuria thought it was weird, she didn’t show any signs of it on her face and Yuka breathed out, taking the cup from Kumi, “Well, bye then.” She turned on her heel desperate to leave.

“Wait,” Yuria called out causing Yuka to turn back around, “Will I see you tomorrow?”

“There is a high possibility that you might.” She called back before leaving the cafe, a wide smile on her face. She sipped at her coffee before making a face, in all her excitement she forgot that she didn’t even like coffee.

______

Yuka plopped down onto the bed, glancing over at the clock. She was only out for an hour and a half and Kumi didn’t usually come home for another 4 hours. She stared up at the ceiling for a few minutes before closing her eyes and letting sleep eventually wash over her.

“What do you think about that one?” Yuka pointed to an especially extravagant ring in the display case.

The girl standing next to Yuka waved her hand in dismissal, “Too big and flashy. Kumi doesn’t like stuff like that,” She clicked her tongue, “How is it that I know your girlfriend better than you?”

“Because you’ve known her longer than me. What about that one?” Yuka pointed at another ring that was much smaller and simpler.

The girl placed a hand under her chin in thought, “I think that should be fine,”

Yuka called the clerk over, “I’d like this, please.”

The clerk nodded and opened her mouth but Yuka couldn’t hear the words that were coming out. She leaned in closer, “What was that?”

“I said, is it just me or has Kumi been acting weird lately?” Yuka blinked, the clerk in front of her was gone, instead the girl she was talking to earlier sat in front of her.

“How so?” The words automatically slipped out of Yuka’s mouth.

“She doesn’t seem herself anymore. I thought the two of you had gotten into a fight or something,” The girl shook her head and took a small bite of her salad, “Maybe it’s just me.”

Yuka closed her eyes. She could feel Kumi’s hard gaze on her as she apologized profusely, “I can’t do this anymore, Yuka.”

Yuka gripped Kumi’s arm tightly, “Kumi, please. I’m sorry, I’m so sorry.” Tears flowed down Yuka’s eyes, blurring her vision, “I don’t love her, I swear. I-I don’t know what came over me.”

Kumi didn’t waver, her eyes cold, “You already made your choice.” She slipped the ring off her finger and placed it in Yuka’s hand before turning around towards the door.

“Yuka?”

Yuka opened her eyes, she was sprawled out on bed.

“Yuka.” The voice repeated firmer.

Yuka turned her head to the side, a figure laid next to her, “Yuria.”

Yuria shifted closer to the older girl, running a hand down Yuka’s cheek, “Yuka.”

She leaned forward but Yuka stopped her. Yuria looked at her questioningly. “We shouldn’t do this. I’m engaged.”

Yuria laid a light kiss against Yuka’s neck, “Please,” Yuria pressed her body against Yuka’s, “Just once.”

Yuka closed her eyes and entangled one hand in Yuria’s hair, pulling the girl down and meeting her lips in a kiss, “Just once.”

“What do you think you’re doing?”

Yuka opened her eyes, the girl from before was in front of her again, “Mizuki, I-” The words left her mouth without her even knowing.

“You better stay away from her, Yuka.”

“I can’t, I-I made a mistake, but I only love her-”

“Don’t you dare!” Mizuki yelled, she raised her hand and slapped Yuka hard against the face. Yuka stumbled back a bit from the force, surprised. Students walking aimlessly around the campus stopped and watched the scene unfold before them. “Stay the hell away from her.” She spat before walking away.

“What do you want?”

Yuka blinked, her vision was blurry, “Kumi, I’m sorry.” She slurred into the phone, tears stinging at her eyes.

“Are you drunk?” Her previously cold tone turned into worry, “Yuka, where are you?”

“I-I’m gonna come see you,” Yuka clumsily started the ignition.

“Yuka, stop.” Yuka could hear the rustling of clothes in the background, “Where are you?”

Yuka rested her heavy head against the steering wheel, “I’m so sorry,” She repeated, over and over again.

“I forgive you, alright?” Kumi whispered gently, “Just please, don’t drive, okay? Don’t go anywhere.”

Yuka picked her head back up, her motivation coming back to her, “I want to see you.”

“I’ll find you, okay?” Kumi’s voice was strained.

Yuka took her foot off the break, she knew Kumi was lying, she wouldn’t come see her. She was just making excuses, “I’m coming to you,” Yuka focused all her attention on keeping her voice from faltering.

“Yuka!” Kumi yelled over the phone, her voice turning frantic, “Stop, don’t you-”

Yuka pressed the end button and threw the phone in the backseat. She pulled out of the parking lot, ignoring the constant vibrating that came from her phone.

“Yuka!”

Yuka opened her eyes, her breathing heavy. She gripped at her chest and glanced around the room. She was back in her room.

The door opened and Kumi poked her head in, “Oh, you’re home.” Kumi stepped into the room, throwing her bag down on the floor, “Are you okay? You’re sweating.”

Yuka brought a hand to her face. She inhaled and exhaled slowly, her heart was still beating fast against her chest. She remembered.

“Do you not feel well?” Kumi asked, her face concerned. She walked towards Yuka, placing the back of her hand against her forehead.

Yuka shook her head, “I’m fine,” She struggled to keep her voice steady, “I just had a bad dream is all.”

Kumi nodded, too tired to bother asking any further, “I’m going to shower, okay? I brought you food.” The younger girl said, squeezing Yuka’s shoulder lightly before leaving the room.

Inhale. Exhale. She remembered. Yuka buried her head into her hands, “Oh god,” She muttered quietly to herself. Before she was so desperate to get her memories back, but now that she had them back she wished that they would leave again. Yuka raised her head. That coffee shop girl. Yuria. She knew her all along. Yuka knew there was something off about her from the minute they had met. Yuka threw the covers off her body. She couldn’t tell Kumi she remembered, not now at least, it seemed like while she was in this state of ignorance, Kumi forgave her. She wondered if Kumi would continue to stay with her if she pretended to never remember.

No, that wasn’t right. She had to tell Kumi she remembered eventually, so that the two of them could talk this out. But first she had to confront Yuria about this.

She walked out of the room and into the entrance hallway where her jacket hanged. She reached into the left pocket, feeling the cool piece of metal that laid inside it. She closed her eyes and clenched her fist around the ring. It was real.

______

When Yuka woke up the next day she was surprised to see Kumi next to her for once.

“You don’t have class today?” Yuka was a little disappointed since this meant she couldn’t go see Yuria like she had planned without Kumi knowing what she was doing.

“…starts at one,” Kumi mumbled into her pillow, eyes still closed and half asleep.

“Oh,” Yuka swallowed, “Uhh..”

Kumi opened one eye, “What’s wrong?”

Yuka shifted her gaze, “I-I was just wondering,” She took a deep breath, “Can I hold you?” Yuka mentally slapped herself, that was not what she wanted to say at all but the words fell from her mouth anyways.

Kumi looked just as surprised as Yuka did but despite her shock the younger girl nodded and moved closer, draping her arm around the older girl’s waist, “You’re going to see her, aren’t you?”

Yuka nodded, hesitating before bringing her hand up to the back of Kumi’s head, absentmindedly playing with the strands of her hair.

“Don’t leave me,” Kumi pleaded quietly against Yuka’s neck, tightening her grip on Yuka’s shirt, “Not again.” Yuka stayed silent, listening to the girl’s uneven breaths.

She pressed a light kiss against Kumi’s temple, “I won’t,” Yuka inhaled sharply, feeling the guilt weigh down on her chest.

By the time Kumi had left for her class it was already half past one. Yuka sighed, it had taken a lot of effort to get the younger girl to even get out of bed. She smiled dumbly, despite the cold wind that whipped away relentlessly at her face she still felt warm.

“Welcome!” The same barista from yesterday greeted as soon as Yuka stepped foot into the cafe.

“Good morning,” Yuka greeted back with a small smile.

She walked up to the counter where Yuria was waiting for her with a large grin, “You came.”

“Yuria,” Yuka dropped the smile, her tone serious, “Why didn’t you tell me?”

Yuria cocked her head to the side in confusion, “Tell you what?”

Yuka lowered her voice, “That you knew who I was. That we…you know…had an-”

“Affair?” Yuria finished with a small smirk.

Yuka glanced over at the barista a few inches away who was trying his hardest to pretend he wasn’t listening in, “When do you get off work?”

“Why?” Yuria followed Yuka’s eyes to her co-worker who was stumbling around with the broom, “Planning on seducing me again?”

“Stop,” Yuka hissed, “I just want to talk to you, privately.”

Yuria looked happy despite the frown on her face, “Fine, I get out at two.”

Yuka nodded, looking down at her watch, “I’ll wait for you then, okay?”

“Okay,” Yuria fiddled with the stack of paper cups, “Do you want me to make you something? Cappuccino?” She offered, this time with a genuine smile.

Yuka shook her head, grateful that at least she could at least drop the act, “I don’t like coffee.”

______

“Yuka?”

Yuka perked up from her position on the couch, “Welcome home,”

Kumi dropped her bag on the floor and slipped her jacket off, hanging it up next to Yuka’s.

“Kumi, I think we should talk.” Yuka said in the strongest voice she could muster.

The younger girl kept her back turned to Yuka, her hands still on her jacket, “About?”

“Our relationship.” Yuka clenched her fist, feeling her nails dig into her skin.

“What about it?” Kumi’s voice wavered as she spoke.

Yuka unclenched her fist, her palm red and sore, “I think you already know.”

Kumi turned around to face Yuka, tears already streaking down her face, “You’re leaving me for her again, aren’t you?”

“What did you want to talk about?” Yuria asked, taking a seat on one of her chairs. The two had left the cafe and headed to Yuria’s apartment as it was closer.

Yuka cleared her throat, “How come you didn’t tell me we met before after you knew I had amnesia?”

Yuria smiled sadly, “I was really happy when I first saw you again, you know? Well I didn’t act like it but I thought you were coming to tell me you wanted to get back together.” She swallowed, “But when I found out you didn’t remember, I was even happier. I know that sounds messed up, but I thought like this we could start over again, that this time you would fall in love with me first,” Yuria paused, “I can still hope, can’t I?”

Yuka stared at the younger girl sympathetically, it seemed like she couldn’t even breathe without hurting someone, “I’m sorry, Yuria. It’s never going to happen again, though.”

“Then why are you here?”

Yuka was taken aback by the question, “W-What?” Why was she here? She didn’t even know the reason why herself. She had told herself it was because she wanted to hear the truth from Yuria herself, but after a while that seemed to make little sense to her.

“Why are you here, talking to me?” She repeated, a small smirk on her face, “You remembered what happened, so why did you need to confront me for?”

“I-I just wanted to talk,” Yuka stuttered, feeling her reservations start to break.

“If you never came to see me again, I wouldn’t have chased after you. Now you’re giving me a reason to.” Yuria chuckled, standing up from her seat, “Tell me,” She stepped towards Yuka, lowering her voice until it was above a whisper, “Tell me you don’t want me.”

Yuka lowered her eyes, clenching her jaw tightly, “I don’t want you,”

“Bullshit,” Yuria took another step, “I know you, Yuka. We’re the same. I understand you better than she ever will.” Her voice softened as she raised a hand to Yuka’s face, running her hand down her cheek, “She’s still with you because she thinks you’re going to change, but I know better, you’re never going to change and I accept that.”

“Stop,” Yuka tried her hardest to muster the strongest voice she could, but she could feel her walls collapsing.

“If you really loved her you would leave her before you hurt her more.” Yuria whispered, pressing her lips hard against Yuka’s. The other girl eagerly returned the kiss despite her conscious screaming at her not to. Yuria pulled away from the kiss, “You’re always going to want me, Yuka.” She breathed against her ear, “I have you wrapped around my finger,” She trailed light kisses down her neck, sucking at the skin.

Yuka closed her eyes,“Y-You’re wrong.”

“Oh?” Yuria stopped her movements, her eyes boring into Yuka’s, “Tell me you don’t want me again,” Yuria dragged her hands underneath’s Yuka’s shirt.

“I-” Yuka’s breath hitched as Yuria groped at one of her cloth covered breasts, “I want you.”

“I’m sorry, Kumi. I really am.” Yuka lowered her head, gripping at the fabric of her shirt, “But…I can’t help how I feel about her. She…She makes me feel all sorts of things I never imagined I could before,” A sad smile made it’s way to Yuka’s lips, “When I’m with her it feels like my heart is in overdrive a-and it gets kind of hard to breathe and I get so nervous I-I sometimes find it hard to think of the right words I want to say without sounding like an idiot. It feels like nothing else matters when I’m with her.” Yuka frowned, trying her hardest to maintain her composure It wasn’t a lie, she really did feel that way, but it wasn’t with Yuria.

Kumi wiped at her eyes with her sleeves and tried to smile although she couldn’t hold it for long, “I understand how you feel, Yuka.”

“You do?” Yuka raised her head.

“I do,” She confirmed, more tears falling from her eyes, “Because, it’s the same way I feel about you.”

“O-Oh.” Yuka was at a loss for words and it showed on her face. Please don’t make this harder for me.

“It’s not fair,” Kumi stood up straighter, “I met you first, we were friends first, I fell in love with you first, I had you first. I had you, Yuka. You don’t know how happy that made me. You were mine…and I was yours. I was always yours. Even when you were chasing after her, I never stopped being yours,” She didn’t even bother at wiping away her tears anymore and just let them freely fall down her face, “For this girl…to just come in and steal your heart without even trying. Do you know how bad this hurts?” Her voice cracked as her cries turned into sobs, “I had you.”

Yuka stood there as she watched Yuria drop to the floor, head buried in her hands. She desperately wanted to reach out and hold the other girl in her arms, but she didn’t know if she even had the right to comfort her anymore, “Kumi, I-”

“Don’t.” She tried her hardest to muster the strongest voice she could but Yuka could still hear the vulnerability in it, “Don’t apologize. You don’t deserve to apologize to try and make yourself feel better about this.” Her voice started to break again as the words left her mouth, “Please. Just leave. Just go be with her.”

Yuka reached a hand out but quickly retracted it, “Okay,” She said softly, her voice quivering. It took all the strength she had to turn on her heel and leave the room. ‘Do this for her’, Yuka told herself, wiping away at her own tears, ‘it’s for the best.’

Kumi didn’t move from her spot even as she heard the sound of the drawers opening and the rustling of clothes being hurriedly packed. She remained staring at the wall in front of her blankly, feeling the tears sting at her eyes even as she heard Yuka talk to someone quietly over the phone. Kumi told herself that Yuka would come back to her even as she watched Yuka’s retreating figure close the front door behind her. “Don’t leave me again, Yuka.” Kumi whimpered to the empty room.

______

“I take it, it didn’t go over so well?” Yuria asked as soon as Yuka entered the vehicle after throwing her bags in the back.

Yuka shot Yuria a look, prompting the younger girl to turn her head back to the dashboard and start the engine.

“Do you think I’m doing the right thing?” Yuka asked after a few minutes of silence had passed by.

Yuria shrugged her shoulders, “You shouldn’t ask me. I’m biased.” She grinned.

Yuka sighed and leaned back into her seat, “I don’t want to hurt her anymore.”

Yuria nodded in understanding.

“Sorry, you probably don’t want to hear all about this.”

“No, it’s okay. If it helps you then I don’t mind listening.”

Yuka shot the younger girl a thankful smile, “Maybe this whole amnesia thing was for the better. If I didn’t get it, I would’ve never left Kumi and I would’ve continued to hurt her over and over again.” Yuka leaned her head against the window, watching the street through the windshield, “She deserves better than me. I love her, but I can’t promise her that I’ll never stray.”

Yuria nodded again, “And what about me?”

“What about you?” Yuka glanced over at the other girl.

“What am I to you?” Yuria asked after a few minutes of silence.

Yuka chuckled dryly, “You’re the one I stray to.”

Yuria swallowed, her eyes focused on the road, “I’m glad though,” She smiled, taking one hand off the wheel and placing it over Yuka’s, “That you still chose me.”

Yuka gave the best smile she could muster, her other hand playing with the ring in her pocket, “Me too,” She closed her eyes, feeling the cold metal between her fingers. Yuka inhaled deeply and turned her face towards the window so Yuria wouldn’t see the tears that fell down her face.

‘I’m sorry, Kumi.’

[Shinoki]

...I knew it...it was gonna be sad kinda...
I wanna punch Nishishi???
But, I know then, I'd be a bad person...
YURIA!!!!!!! *redirects punch to Yuria...
somehow, wow...
*pat pat Kumi... (;A;) just wanna cry with her

I should stop hoping for a happy end...
Well, so life
and those tiny details nod nod...
...falling out with parents...and stuff...
thumbs up! as always~

[kuro808]

That hurts for Kumi but letting go was difficult but to redo time was going to be the toughest thing to ever do

[LittleTina]

YOU HAVE NO RIGHTS TO MAKE ME CRY. WHY. TWO FICS AND I CRIED FOR BOTH

sobs into dogs  ;A;/

[sakura_drop_]

This KumiNishiYuri thing... 

mah NishiKumi haato, you broke it 

It was really good, I love angst so I really approve and hope to read more angsty works of yours