Whisper of the Heart:
Violin
by crabby
*** this fanfic contains SPOILERS ***
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but, please... READ IT! and REVIEW IT! I worked really hard on this story/script/play/whatever!
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Characters:
Name - Age/Gender (role)
Shizuku Tsukishima - 20/female (Main character)
Seiji Amasawa - 21/male (Shizuku's object of affection)
Kotaro Sugimura - 20/male (Shizuku's best friend/Yuko's boyfriend)
Yuko Harada - 21/female (Shizuku's best friend/Kotaro's girlfriend)
Koji Amasawa - 26/male (Seiji's older brother)
Shiro Nishi - 86/male (Seiji's grandfather)
Baron - ??/male (Shiro's cat doll/treasure; main character to Shizuku's stories)
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Yasuya Tsukishima - 51/male (Shizuku's father)
Asako Tsukishima - 49/female (Shizuku's mother)
Shiho Tsukishima - 26/female (Shizuku's older sister)
Yuriko Tsukishima - 6 months/male (Shizuku's baby brother)
Ping - 25/male (Kotaro's chef partner)
Moon *has other names, but Seiji calls him Moon* - ??/?? (Squandering cat/cat with no owner)
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****All the characters belong to Aoi Hiiragi, except for Yuriko Tsukishima. I'm not sure aobut Koji's age.....bah! THIS IS MY VERSION! NO MORE COMPLAINTS!.....
Anyway..
This play takes place in West Tokyo, but how I write is all in English..."ENGLISH STYLE"!!
---which is why I created a first name for Sugimura. He-he.
Here's a review of what happened after the movie, and before this story:
-Yuko and Kotaro became a couple.
-Shizuku and Kotaro became friends again.
-Seiji, Shizuku, Yuko, and Kotaro became close friends.
-Unfortunately, Seiji had to leave for Italy right after they finished the school year and he hasn't been back since, not even a single visit.
-The three keep in touch with Seiji, but does not communicate/write very often because of violin making school.
-The three are frequent visitors at the Earth Shop.
-Shiro becomes ill and now uses a wheelchair.
-Shiho moved to Boston to practice law (got that idea from Ally.. he-he... hmn).
-Shizuku's mother gave birth to a baby boy, Kotaro. ^_^
-Shizuku took English Lit at the University of Tokyo and got a job at a book store called "Utopia".
-Yuko was forced by her father to take Medicine at the University of Tokyo; she got a job at a nearby Starbucks coffee house and has her own apartment.
-Kotaro quit college and, unexpectedly, became a chef. LONG STORY: (He found out about this talent and pleasure at age 17, when his father left (divorce). His mother, out of depression, asked him to help her cook. And he got into it. He has met with famous chefs and they put up a new restaurant that is now one of the most sophisticated and expensive restaurants in the country, *thinks of a name..* ..uhh... the "Pink Fight" and he is featured in the most popular international food magazines as the young and successful. In other words, he's a chef and a model. He has his own apartment as well. Wow! Divorce works wonders, eh?)
Just about it. (Pink Fight? UGH!---sorry, I couldn't think of anything)
Now, on with the story!!
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Shizuku's voice mail: Shizuku's voice Hi. You have reached 555-5555... at the wrong time. You know what to do.
***BEEEEEEEEEEP!***
*Seiji: Hey, Shizuku. W-what's up? Um.. --- are you there? --- 'Cause I hate answering machines... --- anyway...-- How's life treating you? --- I'm doing very well. I'm actually, eh... I'm packing my stuff right now..-- yells at someone Non adesso! Sono sul telefono! translation: Not now! I'm on the phone! --- I'll arrive tomorrow sometime in the afternoon. Watch the arrivals on TV. --- Um. I'm looking forward to having a real conversation with you again.... Anyway. I have to go. Lo vedrò domani. laughs Th-that's Italian for someone calls his name from behind ---"S-see you tomorrow". Ciao.... and that means "Goodbye"! ...slight laugh Bye. phone ruffling
***BEEEEEEEEEEP!***
The year is 2001 in Seiseko Sakuragaoka. Summer has just started.
SCENE I - At the bench, a block away from Shizuku's house - July 27, Friday - 18:06
Shizuku: running to Yuko Yukoo-----! stopped in front of Yuko, gasping for air Yuko!
Yuko: Well? looking at her cell phone, sending someone a text message
Shizuku: He called me just last night! Well, actually, he just left a message.
Yuko: enthusiastically, eyes still on her cell phone Who?
Shizuku: Seiji!
Yuko: eyes still on her cell phone Wait, wait, wait. Tell me.... tell me exactly what he said. The whole thing...
Shizuku: Uhh. He said, uhm... mimicking Seiji's voice Hey, Shizuku. How's life treatin' ya... yadda yadda clapping her hands I dunno! Then he said some farewell terms in Italian!
Yuko: dumps her cell phone onto her purse Shizuku!? So, when is he coming? holding Shizuku's arms down
Shizuku: Tomorrow in the afternoon.
Yuko: Great! Let's go get Kotaro. Maybe the three of us could buy him a welcome back gift! Let's all chip in.
Shizuku: Great idea. Let's go home and get dressed. Meanwhile, I'll be calling Kotaro at Pink Fight. He goes off in an hour!
SCENE II - Tsukishima residence/Pink Fight- July 27, Friday - 18:15
phone conversation begins - Shizuku & Kotaro
*Kotaro: costumers chatting in tongues at the background Tomorrow? That's....tomorrow! Isn't that kind of like a last minute notice, eh Shizuku? surprised
Shizuku: Yup. We were planning that after you get off from work, the three of us could go downtown and get him a welcome back gift.
*Kotaro: plugging his left ear with his left finger What? Speak louder! I didn't hear those last few words.
Shizuku: I said that we should get---...
*Kotaro: WHAT? I REALLY can't hear you! It's these damn Chinese tourists!! looks around and smirks at the tourists
*Pink Fight Male Customer: We are not Chay-nehs! Putang ina mo! translation: Fuck your mom!
*Pink Fight Female Customer: Gago to, ah! Walang hiya! translation: This guy's an idiot! No shame!
*Kotaro: Will you guys keep it down! I'm having a friggin' a phone call!
*Ping: Calm down Kotaro. That is Imelda Marcos you are bitching at! Our V.I.P.?
*Kotaro: Hey, shut up, MAN!
Shizuku: Uhh.. Kotaro, I'll call you when you get off, alright?
*Ping: You shut up! Don't fuck with me!
*Kotaro: BABABABAbababbababa! Anyone ever told you that you look like a penis erupting semen??
Shizuku: I'm hanging up.
sound of Kotaro's phone drops on the floor; Shizuku hears swearing from the other line
Shizuku: Alrighty then.
phone conversation end
SCENE III - Downtown at a silly expensive gift shop - July 27, Friday - 20:00
Shizuku: So you gave your partner a nose bleed?
Kotaro: I almost got fired. But we talked it off and I apologized. We're buds again.
Shizuku: You just work too much! laughs You'd better give yourself a vacation, Kota!
Yuko: You're such an ass... holds up a miniature Ferrari What about this?
Shizuku: Check out the price, dim bulb.
Yuko: Oh, yah. No money. And he wouldn't want a car figure. puts it down Found something Kotaro?
Kotaro: Nada. What would he want anyway?
Yuko: Something guyish. You're a guy! You should know. What would YOU MEN want for a gift?
Kotaro: Food?
Shizuku: We'd better give him something that would last. Like a little ring or something.
Kotaro: Baseball stuff?
Yuko: He hates baseball. looking at a price tag of a scented candle
Kotaro: Well, the guy hates video games... so that goes off the list.... he is not interested in sports... he's too prudent and innocent for porno Yuko raises an eye brow.... he has a passion for music... Why not get him a cool new violin?
Yuko: He probably has a lot of those already. He DOES live in Cremona.
Kotaro: Whatever. You girls pick out whatever you want. I'll be across the street buying myself a comic book. Holler when you need me. tilts his head, getting an idea Hey, speaking of comic books.. how about getting him a whole new series?
Shizuku: Oh. Great idea.
SCENE IV - At the TV characters store - July 27, Friday - 20:12
Shizuku: Let's go get the Fushigi Yuugi series! Please? They're cool!
Kotaro: slapping his forehead That is ultra-CORNY. Seiji would use them as cup coasters! And it's for wankers! And that Miaka girl scares me.
Shizuku: Shut UP.
Yuko: You guys, stop arguing like that. something gets her attention Hey, check it out. This comic book just came into the market.
The Matrix III - Japanese Style
Kotaro: A sequel of a sequel always is a flop, babe... especially a Japanese version. sticks his tongue out
The sweet couple argue with each other while Shizuku spots a little ceramic toy figure of a Japanese boy in a kimono holding up a violin.
Shizuku: thinking to herself Amazing! Seiji would love this!
Shizuku: Yuko... what about that? pointing at the figure
Yuko: That one?
Shizuku: What do you think? It looks awesome. Hey Kotaro! Check it out!
Kotaro: Which one?
Shizuku: That one over there! What do you guys think?
Yuko: looks at the sign above it ....3-foot Violin Boy... 90,000 yen?
Shizuku: Come on, you guys.
Kotaro: It's too Japanese. Let's get something American or something.
Shizuku looks at a little tag at the end of the violin, "Turn the dial at the back, it plays music". She turns the dial and it starts to play music.
Shizuku: Oh my god.
Kotaro: Country road? My mom used to play that stupid song when I was a laddy. It's friggin' ancient! Yuko kicks Kotaro's shins OUCH!
Shizuku: I haven't heard that tune in YEARS.
flashback begins: On the way to Shizuku's apartment
15 year old Seiji: standing on his bike You write really well, you know? The one you just sang was really good. And Concrete Road was pretty good as well.
14 year old Shizuku: What? But you said that I should give it up!
15 year old Seiji: I did?
14 year old Shizuku: stomps her right foot Yeah, you DID!
15 year old Seiji: Really?!
flashback ends
Yuko: Shizuku...
Shizuku: It's a sign!
Yuko: Do you think so?
Kotaro: What's a friggin' sign?
Shizuku: Let's go get it before anyone else gets their grimmy paws on it.
Kotaro: I can pay for it. I'm filthy rich.
Yuko: laughs Great idea!
Kotaro Female Fan: Kotaro? Oh my GOD, everyone! It's Kotaro Sugimura! AAAH!
Kotaro pulls his collar; people start to crowd around him
Kotaro Female Fan #2: Sign me an autograph!
Kotaro Female Fan #3: Marry me! takes his picture
Kotaro: Oh, maaannnn.
Shizuku and Yuko giggle
SCENE V - Kotaro's apartment - July 27, Friday - 21:10
Kotaro: It was a good buy, guys... carries the box with the statue in it to the corner of his living room
Shizuku: Seiji's worth it.
Yuko: Ooooh. I can't wait to see his face when he sees it!
Kotaro: Yeah.
Shizuku: Those adolescent girls were all over you, Kotaro!
Kotaro: Awwh...stop, you're embarrasing me..
Yuko: You're every 12-year-old's dream! .... You know, I trust you, Kotaro.
Kotaro: I would never cheat on you.
Yuko: Kotaaa.... Could you please get me glass of water? I'm tired.
Kotaro: Sure, babe. walks to the kitchen
Yuko: That Kotaro....
Shizuku: I'll go play Kota's new Joseph Arthur CD.
Yuko: Mm-hm. That would kick.
Kotaro comes in with a tray of 3 glasses of water. Kotaro and Yuko snuggle up and make out (blablabla) while Shizuku sits on the corner, listening to Joseph Arthur, thinking about Seiji
Shizuku: thinking to herself It's been 6 years since I last saw him. 6 YEARS! Our only means of communication was through letters and the internet. I miss him. I love him. I need him. Oh, JESUS. I hope he's okay. I hope he never changed. I hope...---
Yuko: Shizuku?
Shizuku: Huh?
Kotaro: We've been saying your name over and over, but you've just been staring at the wall, honey-pie. Cloud 9?
Shizuku: Oh. Sorry. I was just thinking.
Yuko: About Seiji?
Shizuku: What if he changed? I... I don't wanna see him!
Yuko and Kotaro exchange confused faces
Yuko: Why not?
Shizuku: I don't know! I'm scared! hands on her face; shaking her head
Kotaro: sits next to Shizuku; puts his arm around Shizuku Hey, hey. You're just nervous. You'll get over it when you see him. Why don't you just trust that he will not be a jerk?
Yuko: sits next to Shizuku Yeah. Just relax. He's a good guy, Shizuku.
Shizuku: 6 YEARS is a very long time, you guys.
Kotaro: Does he seem different to you in the letter he writes?
Shizuku: I don't know...
Yuko: Shizuku, why don't you go get some rest? You've been working all week.. well, WE'VE been working all week.
Kotaro: Are you guys sleeping over?
Yuko: Guess we have to. Shizuku's going nuts. And I'm feeling a little lazy tonight.
Kotaro: Aiight. Take the guestroom.
Shizuku: Thanks, Yuriko.
Kotaro nods at Shizuku
SCENE VI - Kotaro's Ferrari - July 28, Saturday - 16:51
Kotaro: sings horribly I wonder how, I wonder why. Yesterday you told me 'bout the blue, blue sky and all that I can see is just a yellow lemon tree....lalalala
Yuko: Come on, Shizuku. Stop trembling.
Shizuku: I wonder how he looks like now? Taller? His voice sure did change on that answering machine.
Kotaro: slaps the wheel Jesus, shit. Finding a parking space here is so impossible! Why don't I drop you guys off at the front? I'll meet you inside.
Yuko: Okay. You know where Seiji comes out, right?
Kotaro: I'll just ask a buncha people. Don't worry.
Yuko: Oh, GOD.
SCENE VII - Inside the Airport - July 28, Saturday - 17:15
Yuko and Shizuku watch the line of passengers coming through the door where Seiji's plane is from, waiting for him
Shizuku: Where is he?
Yuko: I don't see him anywhere.
Shizuku: Ugh. I hope he comes.
Yuko: Hey, you're not nervous anymore!
Shizuku: I'm STILL nervous. Do I look okay? I mean, is my hair messy? Am I sweating?
Yuko: No, no, no! You look great!
Seiji comes in with a large sports bag and a violin case, looking for them
Yuko: There he is, Shizuku. pats her shoulder
Shizuku: What? Where?
Yuko: Over there. points at him
Shizuku: Oh my GOD.
Shizuku and Yuko watch Seiji checking his watch
Yuko: Call him over, Shizuku.
Shizuku: You do it!
Yuko: Shizuku...
Shizuku: Yuko glares at her then smiles Oh, GOD.
Yuko: Go on ahead.
Shizuku grabs Yuko's arm and walks to Seiji from behind; Shizuku taps his shoulder with her finger
Seiji: turns his head; stares at Shizuku
Shizuku: Hey, uh, Seiji.
Seiji: long pause Shizuku? Is that you? H-hello!
Yuko: Welcome back, ol' buddy!
Seiji: Yuko.. Yuko! You look great. I missed you guys. gives them both a quick hug, drops his things
Shizuku: Seiji... I missed you, too.
Seiji: Oh, Shizuku. It's good to see you. It's good to hear your voice again!
Shizuku: thinking to herself Those brown eyes.. Oh, my GOD. I get lost in those beautiful brown eyes.
Seiji hugs Shizuku
Seiji: It's been so LONG!
Shizuku: thinking to herself Warm.. feels different.. he's so much taller..
Seiji: 6 years..
Shizuku: smiling I missed you so much.
Kotaro runs in, gasping for air
Seiji: Kotaro? slowly pulls away from Shizuku, holding her hands
Kotaro: Seiji. Long... time... no see!
Seiji: Last time I saw you, you had on longer hair! But you look great in the food magazines!
Kotaro laughs; everyone walks to the Airport's coffee shop just around the corner
Seiji: to Shizuku How's grandpa?
Kotaro Female Fan: Hi KOTARO!
Kotaro waves his hand and winks at his female fan
Shizuku: He's doing fine. He's in his home right now, up at the Earth Shop, in a peaceful slumber.
Seiji: Grandpa told me to open the Earth Shop and take charge for the whole summer.
Shizuku: That's great.
Seiji: ...he's so old, now.
Yuko: But he isn't alone. We visit him all the time.
Seiji: How much longer can he last?
A moment of silence; Kotaro taking out a cigarette
Shizuku: He'll be okay.
The four walk to Kotaro's car, Seiji's arm around Shizuku's shoulder; Kotaro's hand holding Yuko's and Seiji's violin case in the other
SCENE VIII - Below the Earth Shop in Nishi's room - July 28, Saturday - 19:30
The four watch Shiro sleep; Seiji's hand over his grandfather's forehead
Seiji: Thanks for the wonderful gift, you guys! You really shouldn't have.
Kotaro: Anything for our best buddy!
Yuko: I'm glad you like it!
Seiji: Like it? I LOVE it!
Yuko: laughs Shizuku picked it out for you! Thank her.
Seiji: Shizuku. Thank you so much.
Shizuku: Your welcome. smiles at Seiji
long pause
Shizuku: Seiji, you look tired. Why don't you rest?
Seiji: I'm fine...grandpa needs---
Kotaro: Yeah, aren't you jetlagged?
Shizuku: Come on.
Seiji: long pause I think I do need some sleep. You guys watch him, okay?
Yuko: Sure.
Shizuku: Yeah. Go get some sleep.
Seiji exits; shuts the door
Kotaro: He looks different.
Yuko: I think he looks really handsome. Don't you think so, Shizuku?
Kotaro: Ehh..
Shizuku: Nah. He looks the same.
Shizuku: thinking to herself Of course, I think so, you ding-dong! Oh, those brown eyes. Those lovely lovely---
Yuko: Shizuku?
Shizuku: thinking to herself ---lovely eyes. And his hair. I just want to touch it and rake my fingers through those raven locks..
Kotaro: Hey, SHIZUKU!
Shizuku: Wha?
Yuko: whispers to Kotaro She's staring at the wall again.. to Shizuku So? Shizuku. Do we have any plans for tomorrow?
Shizuku: I don't know. Maybe the day after. Seiji's might be a little jetlagged.
Kotaro: Let's give him a day's rest.
Yuko: But I only have free time on Sundays.
Kotaro: Just tell your boss that Monday is important. Or.. I can send her an autographed picture!
Yuko: Of WHO??
Kotaro: Yours truly! I'm rich and famous, remember?
Yuko: Oh, geeze.
Shizuku: Okay, okay. Tomorrow.
Yuko: Great. Let's chat with Seiji tomorrow. First thing in the morning.
Shizuku: Hey, guys. I'll just use the washroom. I gotta pee REALLY BAD.
Shizuku walks out of the room and runs into the bathroom and quickly shuts the door
Shizuku: Aaahhhh. a VERY long pee
Seiji: knocks on the bathroom door Shizuku? Is that you in there?
Shizuku: slaps her forehead I'm... I'm almost done!
Seiji: No, no. I was just checking. Take your time. crosses his arms; leans on the wall
Shizuku: No, really I'm almost done. flushes the toilet There! I'm done! I'm outta here!
Shizuku opens the door
Shizuku: It's all yours.
Seiji: Shizuku?
Shizuku: Yeah?
Seiji: long pause Nothing.
Shizuku: long pause Okay.
Seiji: smiles at Shizuku Later. closes the bathroom door; turns on the faucet
Shizuku walks two steps and the plans for tomorrow popped into her head; walks back to the bathroom door and knocks
Seiji: Yeah?
Shizuku: I almost forgot. Are you free tomorrow? I mean, are you exhausted? Well, because.. pause
Seiji: Uh-huh?
Shizuku: The three of us want to hang out with you tomorrow. I mean, we haven't seen each other for 6 years, eh? laughs; slaps her forehead
Seiji: Sure! I'm as lively as the queen bee! thinks to himself Fuck! I shouldn't have said that..
Shizuku: laughs nervously Great! We'll pick you up at noon!
Seiji: turns off the faucet; opens the door; wipes his face with a face towel Noon is fine.
Shizuku: We'll be out for the whoooole day! So be prepared. But, oh, yah...Kotaro will be working the whole day... so we might have dinner at his restaurant.
Seiji: Me? At the famous PINK FIGHT RESTAURANT??? I'm looking forward to this!
Shizuku and Seiji exchange smiles; long pause
Seiji: So, I'll see you. I need some sleep.
Shizuku: long pause, their eyes on each other's I'll go tell the guys to go home.
Seiji: I'll go with you.
SCENE IX - Outside of the Earth Shop (driveway) - July 28, Saturday - 19:45
Yuko and Kotaro get into Kotaro's sportscar
Yuko: It was nice seeing you again Seiji.
Seiji: You, too. I missed you all so much. I missed my country! It's good to see urban crap again! laughs
Kotaro: I would love to go to Italy, though. I have the money, but I've got no free time!
Seiji: The food there, rocks.
Kotaro: Exactly.
Seiji: But, hey, your half-naked pictures are all over the Italian food magazines!
Kotaro laughs
Shizuku: So, we'll see you tomorrow.
Seiji: Yup. long pause Well, I gotta go check on grandpa. Bye, you guys.
Shizuku, Kotaro and Yuko: Bye, Seiji.
Seiji walks inside the shop
Kotaro: Hop on, Shizuku.
Shizuku: hands in her pockets; shaking her head No. I think I'll walk home.
Kotaro: But it'll be a long way. And it's dark out. Just ride with us.
Shizuku: Thanks anyway, Kota. I just need to be alone for a while. I haven't had a long walk in a long time! slight laugh
Kotaro: Oh, well. Suit yourself. Walk safely, babe. We'll see you tomorrow.
Yuko: Bye!
Shizuku waves her arm as Kotaro drives off with his loud Ferrari, Kotaro's waving hand sticking out the window; walks down the steep hill with a smile, odd enough to be stared at in public
Shizuku: thinking to herself It's been a long while since I walked down this steep road. My god. I had no idea growing up would be this hard.. always looking back in the old joyous days, but never actually going back, desperately wanting to...
Shizuku: thinking to herself, smiling I remember the time Seiji tried to take me up this hill with his bike...
flashback begins: Seiji and Shizuku on Seiji's bike up the steep hill
14 year old Shizuku: Should I get off?
15 year old Seiji: pants; peddles slower I'm fine! We're almost there, Shizuku! Just a bit more!
14 year old Shizuku: This is silly! jumps off the bike I don't want to be a burden to you. I'll help by pushing you up!
15 year old Seiji: Alright! It's for the best! pants
they reach the top; Shizuku drops her hands to her knees; Seiji, exhausted
15 year old Seiji: Shizuku! Get on, quick!
Shizuku gets on the bike; both bike off through the suburbs; the paperboy watches them
flashback ends
A tear slides down Shizuku's right cheek; she remembers Seiji's secret spot and walks back up to it
flashback begins: Seiji's secret spot
15 year old Seiji: holding out his hand to Shizuku under a tree Want me to take that coat?
14 year old Shizuku: takes his hand No, thanks. I'm fine. jumps down a big step
15 year old Seiji: runs to the edge Over here!
14 year old Shizuku: Wow! The clouds look like the ocean from here!
15 year old Seiji: This is my secret spot. We came in just in time.
They did come in just in time. Shizuku got to see the sun rise and the clouds part beautifully. Shizuku looks at the amazing view of the city with awe
flashback ends
Shizuku arrives at the secret spot and sits down at the same spot Seiji proposed to her, crying, her face buried to her knees
Shizuku: thinks to herself Did he forget? Or is he as frightened to look back on it as I am?
Shizuku looks at the view: the train running across the city, building lights, light traffic
flashback begins: Seiji's secret spot
15 year old Seiji: Grandpa told me what happened to you. You know, the story you wrote? I never supported you. I only thought about myself.
14 year old Shizuku: Don't blame yourself. If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't work as hard. Right now, I understand myself more than ever. I'm going to do better in school. I've decided to stay in high school.
15 year old Seiji: Shizuku. Uh. I know this isn't the right time and age, but, ....
Will you marry me?
Shizuku is shocked
15 year old Seiji: B-because I'm pretty sure I'll be a successful violin maker...
flashback ends
Shizuku suddenly hears the bushes shrugging from behind
Shizuku: terrified Who's THERE??
no answer
Shizuku: takes out her sharp envelope opener and holds it in a stabbing position I said, WHO'S THERE?
The stranger jumps down the big step from the dark. Shizuku, frightened, watches his big figure come closer and closer. Shizuku then lunges her envelope opener at him
Shizuku: AAAgghh! pushes him to the ground and stabs his right shoulder twice
Stranger: What the fuck? his right shoulder is bleeding; tries to get up but Shizuku is on top of him
Shizuku: What are you doing here?? holds both his arms down
Stranger: Get off of me! badly hurt
Shizuku: Who the fuck are you?
Stranger: Wait, wait, wait! I don't mean any harm!
Shizuku: Shut up!
Stranger: I come in peace! God!!
Shizuku: furiously You were trying to jump me, were you? You were gonna fucking RAPE me!!!??
Stranger: No!! Let me explain! I swear to you, I won't hurt you!
Shizuku: WHAT??
Stranger: I was just going to watch the scenery!!
Shizuku: BULLSHIT!
Stranger: Fuck, get off of me, for the love of GOD!!!!!!!!! I'm bleeding like a bitch giving birth!!!!!! Do you see me holding any weapons, bitch??
Shizuku: Shut the FUCK up! sticks her blood-stained envelope opener to his neck, leaves it there, stands up and kicks his left rib
Stranger: OUCH!!!!!! Fuck! Fuck! FUCK!! holds his rib
Shizuku quickly jumps up the big step and runs away, frightened
Shizuku runs to the Earth Shop and knocks on the door, ringing the doorbell again and again, rapidly
Shizuku: Seiji! Help! Seiji! Shit! Shit! SHIIIIIIIIIIIIIIT!!
The porch lights open and Seiji opens the door and looks at the frightened Shizuku
Seiji: Shizuku! You'll wake grandpa! What is it? What's wrong?
Shizuku collapses and Seiji catches her
Shizuku: tears in her eyes Someone tried to jump me!! In the dark!
Seiji: Oh my goodness. looks around the area Get in! Get in! closes the door and locks the locks that go with it
Seiji: What happened out there?
Shizuku: I was just...
Seiji: What?
Shizuku: thinking to herself I can't tell him I was at his secret spot!
Shizuku: I was...
Seiji: Come on, tell me. Just take a deep breath. And relax.
Shizuku takes a deep breath; Seiji leads her
Shizuku: I was... quickly pointing her finger behind her there.
Seiji: Where?
Shizuku: Somewhere at the edge.
Seiji: What were you doing there??
Shizuku: I just wanted to see the scenery. thinks about the stranger saying the exact same excuse
Seiji: It's too dark to be around here, Shizuku. There are a lot of perverted psychos going around these streets.
Shizuku: I'm sorry I woke you.
Seiji: No problem. I never even slept yet. I can't seem to get some sleep.
Shizuku: Thank god.
Seiji: laughs Anyway...
Shizuku: ....
Seiji: You can sleep over. You can take my room. I'll take the couch downstairs.
Shizuku: ....thank you. I'm really, really scared right now.
Seiji: I know. Get some sleep. smiles patiently
Seiji leads her up to the guestroom and fixes her bed
Seiji: There you go.
Shizuku lies down and covers herself with the blanket
Seiji: Sleep tight. Don't worry. You're safe, now. walks to the door
Shizuku: Seiji!
Seiji: Yes?
Shizuku: Can you please stay here until I sleep?
Seiji: grabs a chair and puts it beside the bed and sits down on it Sure.
Shizuku: Thanks.
Seiji watches her sleep quickly and walks to the couch, turns on the lamp and reads a book to sleep
SCENE X - Kotaro's apartment - July 29, Sunday - 9:00
Kotaro: Yuko. Seiji called. He says Shizuku's at his place.
Yuko: eyes widended Whoa! Really?
Kotaro: Hey, they didn't sleep together or anything...
Yuko: Awh..
Kotaro: Shizuku was almost jumped by some psycho.
Yuko: No kidding!? What happened?
Kotaro: I don't know.. that's just about what he told me.
Yuko: Oh, man. Let's call her parents. They've been calling here dozens of times, looking for her.
SCENE XI - Pink Fight - July 29, Sunday - 13:00
Shizuku: He snuck up behind me. So, just before he tried to jump me, I stabbed him with my envelope opener. There was blood everywhere! It was easier than stabbing a dead chicken!
everyone laughs
Kotaro: Then what? drinks his coke
Shizuku: Then I told him to stay away from me, of course. So, then I kicked him hard and ran away.
Yuko: Wow. Was he a big fella?
Shizuku: Oh, absolutely. He was at least puts her hand high over her head this tall!
Yuko: You're strong, girl!
Kotaro: Oh, come---ON! She can't be that strong! The guy must've had a bad leg, or something!
Yuko elbows his rib
Kotaro: I was kidding, yeesh.
Shizuku: thinks to herself Then again, he never did try to hit me..
waitress enters scene
Waitress: Here are your orders, table Coyote. Hello Kotaro. puts food on the table
Kotaro: Hello, Fei.
Waitress exits
Seiji: Table Coyote? scratches his head
Kotaro: Yes. We name our tables after animals. That was my idea! Snazzy, eh? Numbers are too boring.
Seiji: Far out.
Kotaro: thinks to himself Far out?
Seiji: Kota, you did a good job on this restaurant! It looks great! And it's world famous!
Kotaro: Thanks, man.
Yuko: So, Seiji.. can you speak some Italian?
Seiji: Well, a little...
Kotaro: Say something.
Seiji: Like what?
Kotaro: I don't know.. like.. "where is my cat?" or something.
Yuko: Yeah, say that!
Seiji puts his fingers on his forehead
Seiji: Dove il mio gatto e?
Yuko: WOW.
Shizuku: Do you speak it fluently?
Seiji: Si. Un po'. translation: Yes. A little bit.
Kotaro: Wait, wait.. "si" means "yes", right?
Seiji: Yep.
Kotaro: evil laugh That is so cool! I have a bunch of Italian chums in the kitchen. Maybe you can talk to them.
Seiji: slight laugh Cool.
Shizuku: You've only lived there for almost 6 years? Do people learn that fast?
Seiji: It depends. slight laugh If you really want to learn it, you learn faster. If you're not very interested, you don't learn at all.
Shizuku: I would love to speak such a romantic language.
Seiji: Of course, I had an Italian class. But, I guess, I was the only Japanese kid there. So the books were all in English. And you know how terribly rusty my English is!
Yuko: That's tough.
Seiji: REAL tough. eats his carbonara
Yuko: Oooh. I would love to go to Cremona someday!
Kotaro: Hey, maybe we could all go there. We could all see the life of a violin maker!
Ping: from the kitchen Kota! Your shift!
Kotaro: Aw, man! I gotta go, you guys. Seeya tonight! Seiji, don't flirt too much with the girls, ah-kay? Bye Yuko kisses Yuko, Shizuku! ....I'm coming! jogs to the kitchen
Seiji: slight laugh I won't.
SCENE XII - Pink Fight - July 29, Sunday - 13:47
Shizuku: You brought some pictures?
Seiji takes out an envelope
Yuko: Lemme see! sticks her arm out
Seiji: Whoa. Don't wreck them, Yuko. gives the envelope to Yuko
Yuko: flips through them and stops at a picture of a frowning Seiji sitting on a bed Is this your apartment?
Seiji: Yes. Messy, eh?
Yuko stops at a picture of Seiji's backside, carving a violin, then stops at a picture of him with a beautiful woman
Yuko: Who's that? pointing at the woman
Seiji: Oh, her? That's Elise. She's from Australia. She was in my Italian class.
Shizuku: fake smile Is she your girlfriend or something?
Seiji: knows what she's thinking God, no. She's just a friend.
Yuko stops at a solo picture of Elise
Seiji: You see the building behind her? That's the violin school where I get my training.
Shizuku: It's beautiful.
Seiji: Four years left and I'm outta there.
Shizuku: You're in training for 10 years?
Seiji nods
Shizuku: That's long.
Yuko stops at a picture of an unfinished violin, then a picture of a guy sticking out his middle finger
Yuko: Heh. Who's this little rebel?
Seiji: That's Bartolomeo... or Bart. He's a good friend of mine. He's kinda odd. He reminded me of Kota.
everyone laughs; Yuko stops at a picture of Seiji, Shizuku, Yuko, Kotaro and Shiro at the Earth Shop.
Seiji: Now, how did that get there?
Yuko: Oh, wow! I must be about 15 years old or something in that picture!
Seiji: I... I took that picture everywhere I went on my first year there. I was a bit lonely.
Yuko gives Shizuku a "That's so sweet!" face; Yuko stops at a picture of Seiji, Elise and Bartolomeo, arms on each other's shoulder
Seiji: That was taken just last month.
Yuko stops at a picture of Bartolomeo in a soccer outfit
Yuko: Ha-ha! This Bart guy looks cute!
Seiji: That picture was taken last week..
Yuko: Look at his muscles! He's Italian, right?
Seiji: Yeah. He's a really good violin player.
All the other pictures aren't important; Seiji puts them back into the envelope and keeps it
Shizuku: Italy is so beautiful! Why didn't you send us any pictures before?
Seiji: Well, I was a little embarrassed. I didn't have much friends. And I had no life. slight laugh
Shizuku: Yeah. It's hard getting used to a new environment. Especially if you don't speak their language.
Seiji: Exactly.
SCENE XIII - On the way to Pink Fight - July 29, Sunday - 18:47
Seiji: I had a great time, you guys.
Yuko: screaming hysterically Aaahh!!!
Shizuku: What's wrong?
Yuko: Nothing. I just felt like screaming.
Shizuku: People are staring at you.
Seiji scratches his head
Yuko: I just hate my job! My school! And my DAD!
Seiji: I'm sure you don't. Uhm, where do you work?
Yuko: ..Starbucks.
Seiji: Well, that's a good place to work..
Yuko: BAH! I hate that place. I'm so sick of coffee... latte...BAH-BAH-BAHHH! That place is so friggin' poshy... I hate it! And the customers are such artsy fartsy posin' shitheads!
Shizuku: Calm down, Yuko.
Yuko: I think I need a rest. You guys go on without me.
Shizuku: grabs Yuko's arm, glares at Yuko furiously But, YUKO. You're going to make Kota very angry.
Yuko: I don't care! I think I'm gonna puke!
Seiji: Is she okay?
Shizuku: She's just a little... right thumb down down there.
Yuko: I gotta go. Tell Kota I'm dead and don't any of you try to call me! I'm SICK!
Shizuku: whispering YUKO! Don't leave me with Seiji..
Yuko: I'm really sick, okay? My head is... is... is REALLY painful,... ah-kay? I'm so sorry.
Yuko yanks Shizuku's arm off and walks away
Seiji: Wow. Is she always like this?
Shizuku: She's just a bit stressed out. She's just sick of her life being so perfect. laughs
Seiji: slight laugh I see.
long pause
Seiji: Everyone looks different, eh? I mean, everyone changed.
Shizuku: slight laugh How?
Seiji: Yeah. I mean, Kota dyed his hair into this blondish color.. Yuko looks stalky and more attractive slight laugh..
long pause
Seiji: And you... you look beautiful.
Shizuku blushes
Shizuku: I'm still the same 14 year old girl you met through the library check-out cards. laughs
Seiji: ...the same 14 year old girl I fell in love with?
Shizuku says nothing
Seiji: You don't... you don't remember... do you? nervous
Shizuku looks at him
Seiji: The time in... you know, the sunrise... I--
Shizuku: I think about it everyday.
Seiji: You do?
Shizuku: Every day. Every minute. I thought you'd never mention it.
Seiji: I still love you, you know---
long pause
Seiji: blushing I sang your song in Cremona every day. I played the tune on my violin... I missed you like a bitch.
Shizuku: I..---
long pause
Shizuku: Thank you. takes his hand
Seiji: thinking to himself Thank you? Does she love me? God, she didn't say ANYTHING yet.. Come on, Seiji!.. Just ask her! ASK ASK ASK ASK HER HER HER HER! ASK HER!
Seiji: Uh, Shizuku..
Seiji: thinking to himself Go....AHEAD. She'll say yes. She will. Oh, man.... she's holding my hand...
Seiji: Do you love me, too?
Seiji: thinking to himself There!! I did it! Happy????
Shizuku: Of course. I love you. I'm... I'm sorry I didn't say it sooner giggling nervously! Silly me! I love you.
Seiji: holds her shoulders then brushes his fingers onto Shizuku's cheek Then love me.
Shizuku: smirks I don't understand.
Seiji: thinking to himself She must have the wrong idea! I don't wanna have SEX yet! Yeesh! I would never do that to her!
Seiji: Well, what I mean is... I want you... well... this is kind of hard to say..
Seiji: thinking to himself Say it... "I want you to be my girl."..
Seiji: Shizuku, I... I...
Shizuku: Yes.
Seiji: What?
Shizuku: Yes. I will be your girlfriend. I am your girlfriend.
Seiji: thinking to himself AAHH!! BRAVO, Seiji! BRRAAAAVO! You didn't say a word.. but it WORKED!!
Seiji: Th-thank you.
Shizuku: Thank you?
Seiji: And... I love you.
Shizuku: I love you, too!
Seiji: And... I got you something.
Shizuku: You did?
Seiji: Uhm.. wait. Wait..
Seiji searches his pockets and finally finds it
Seiji: Here. Here it is. hands her the gift: a small jewelry box
Shizuku: smirks What is it?
Seiji: Go ahead. Open it.
Seiji: thinks to himself Open it! PLEASE! NOW!
Shizuku opens it: it's an expensive pearl necklace
Shizuku: It's gorgeous. Thank you. No one's ever given me anything like this before. Ever.
Seiji: I'm glad you like it.
Shizuku: Like it? I love it!
long pause
Seiji: So, you wanna try it on?
Shizuku: Of course!
Seiji takes the necklace and hops behind her. He puts her soft hair aside and puts the pearl necklace around her neck quickly
Seiji: It looks good on you.
Shizuku: Oh, gosh. It must be really expensive.
Seiji: It was actually. But it's worth it if it's for you.
Shizuku: Thank you. Thank you very much. You're so sweet.
Seiji hugs her, she hugs back. He picks her up and spins, the two laughing happily. Then they walk to Pink Fight hand in hand
SCENE XIV - Earth Shop front porch- July 30, Monday - 9:00
Seiji: taps the ashes of his cigarette Oh, man.
Seiji: thinking to himself Shizuku loves me. God. I want to kiss her so bad.
Seiji's cigarette burns short and he drops it on the ground and steps on it to stop the burning
Seiji: thinking to himself She deserves so much more. Much more than a stupid pearl necklace.
Seiji's older brother enters; he parks his car on the side of the street
Koji: Seiji! Wassup.
Seiji: takes his hand and gives him a quick, brotherly hug Koji! I missed you, man!
Koji: How long have you been staying here?
Seiji: Three days. I'm sorry I didn't call right away. I had to see grandpa. And I hung out with my friends, well, they work and stuff..
Koji: I see. I understand. I worked anyway.
long pause
Seiji: So, hey. How have you been? Violin making school is tougher than a thought.
Koji: Fine, really. Life is good.
Seiji: Nothing interesting? No adventures? slight laugh
Koji: Well... yes, actually. I had an accident.
Seiji: What? What happened? walks around Koji's car I don't see any scratches.. and..
Koji: Not with my car, you boob. My shoulder. unbuttons his shirt and reveals a large bandage on his right shoulder
Seiji: Dang. What happened?
Koji: Some girl stabbed me with a knife! buttons his shirt Talk about PMS!
Seiji: When did this happen?
Koji: A few days ago.
Seiji: Was there a reason why the bitch did that?
Koji: Well, she thought I was some perv trying to rape her.
Seiji: slight laugh That sucks.
Koji: Uh-huh. So how's Shizuku? That girl you like? slight laugh
Seiji: Well, we're SORT OF like a.. a couple, now. I guess.
Koji: You guess?
Seiji: Well, yes. I confessed my feelings to her last night. Well,.. again.
Koji: laugh Seiji, Seiji! You little infant!
Seiji: BAH!
Koji: I would like to meet her someday, you know.
SCENE XV - Earth Shop/Tsukishima residence - July 30, Monday - 9:15
phone conversation begins - Seiji & Shizuku
*Shizuku: Hel-lo?
Seiji: Shizuku? Is that you?
*Shizuku: Oh, hello, Seiji! Good morning.
Seiji: How was your day?
*Shizuku: My day hasn't even started yet. slight laugh
Seiji: laughs Oh, yah!
*Shizuku: So? Why did you call?
Seiji: I..
long pause
*Shizuku: Seiji?
Seiji: Yes, I'm still here. Um... ---- well.. my brother, um, you know, he came here to visit..
*Shizuku: Really? I've never met your brother.. or your family. Well, except your grandfather..
Seiji: Yeah. I know. Um. Would you like to meet him?
*Shizuku: Um. Sure. Of course! But.. I have to work today. Maybe tonight?
Seiji: Great. Where shall we meet?
*Shizuku: Pink Fight.
Seiji: We'll pick you up at around 8?
*Shizuku: You driving?
Seiji: No, my brother is driving.
*Shizuku: Great!
Seiji: Oh, and take Yuko with you, too! And if Kota is free, he can join us as well.
*Shizuku: Yes! Okay! It's all set!
Seiji: Great.
*Shizuku: Okay. I gotta go, now. I have to be at work in an hour.
Seiji: Alright.
phone conversation ends
Seiji: