Promises

By: Shin Sankai


Authors Notes: Once again, I've no idea what Yokozawa's family background is like, so to add some drama into my story, I've made it all up as per usual and Yokozawa's parents are not portrayed well in this story...and they don't make an appearance. This is a long chapter and there is a sad end to it too. Just pre-warning for you all.


[Chapter 2: Making Promises]

Moving down the aisle on the Shinkansen, Yokozawa dumped his bag at his feet as he promptly sat down in his reserved seat which was closest to the window, steely blue eyes gazing at nothing. The man jolted when his phone vibrated in his pocket. Pulling it free he noticed it was Sakura-chan.

It had been less then 24 hours and she was already plaguing him via texts...not that he minded. Quickly the salesman, dressed casually in jeans, black top and a hooded jacket replied to the message, advising her he was on the train and when he'd gotten to his destination, he'd be sure to call and tell her he had arrived safely.

For now, she seemed satisfied with this and wished him a safe trip, he scrolling the message down to see a picture attached – it being Sakura-chan holding up Sorata and was waving his paw at him. Yokozawa pocketed his phone and glanced behind him, no one was there and so he reclined the chair and slouched within it, arms casually crossed over his chest while his eyes drifted closed.

He'd be travelling as far as Morioka and then he'd have to alight to get on another to get him closer to Akita where he would then hire a car to drive the rest of the way to where he needed to be. Today was going to be a draining day, even if all he was doing was travelling.


It was afternoon by the time Yokozawa turned the hatchback he'd hired up a familiar driveway before placing it in park and turning off the ignition. Stepping out and closing the door, the dark haired man made his way to the porch, bag in hand but halted in moving up the stairs when the shoji slid across and a man with a stern look gazed down at him.

"Foolish boy, why are you here?"

"What kind of question is that Oyagi?" Yokozawa stepped up onto the porch, watching the short man before him lift his head to now gaze up at him.

"You've gotten taller."

"I stopped growing years ago, perhaps you are shrinking." He watched a scowl form on the man's lips, finally taking notice it was identical to the one he usually wore. "Obviously your sister got in touch with you then?"

"Of course she did, she's quite worried about you. She said she was having difficulty finding a replacement for herself due to her work commitments and instead you get me."

"Meddlesome grandchildren." Yokozawa listened to his grandfather mumble as he shuffled back into his large home. He followed the man down the hallway and stepped into the open plan living and kitchen, instinctively glancing towards the stove almost expecting his grandmother to be standing there, cooking up a storm, but in fact...

"Have you spoken to a funeral service yet?"

"I'm about to harvest the rice." Yokozawa was not a silly man, he knowing his grandfather didn't want to accept that his wife of 50 years had passed away in her sleep just yesterday. The businessman made a pot of tea and passed a cup over to his grandfather. "Can I see her?" The elderly man nodded silently, allowing his grandson a moment with his grandmother, considering he'd not been back here for nearly a year.

Taking a deep breath Yokozawa slid open the shoji to the bedroom and found his grandmother lying in the crisp white futon. She had aged considerably over the past year. Had farm life become too much for her? He just didn't know as he kneeled at her side, looking down at her tired, yet peaceful features.

"Tadaima Obaachan." Even in his 20's he still referred to her in such a cute endearing way, she having stubbornly decided not to answer to anything else, which in turn made Yokozawa roll his eyes over all those years ago. For several long moments the businessman couldn't do anything but sit there, head bowed as past memories flashed through his mind, namely the day he had left to venture into the big wide world as he was accepted into College in Tokyo. He stood at the bus stop with his grandparents, giving his grandmother a hug and getting a slap on the back from his grandfather. Yokozawa had boarded the bus and taken a seat. When the bus began to move, he took a fleeting look back to see his Obaachan was crying. "Were you lonely when I left?"

"Of course she wasn't lonely, she had me foolish boy." Yokozawa lifted his steely blue gaze to an identical pair.

"Still, I should have come back more often." Yokozawa grunted slightly when the older man bopped him lightly on the head before ruffling his black hair, treating him like a child once more, but then to a 70 year old man, he would always be just that.

"The day you graduated from College was the proudest day of her life." Yokozawa broke his eyes from his grandmother to glance up at his grandfather. "We are not well educated and being witness to you collecting your parchment filled her with so much pride and love. She always knew her grandson was a bright boy." Yokozawa let out a soft chuckle at the comment, remembering even if he had argued with his Obaachan, she would still come and find him and give him a hug, telling him all will be alright because 'Takafumi is a bright boy'. "Since you graduated, you've been working hard at that company, making a name for yourself in the Sales Department. Knowing this, Mizuki never felt sad that you'd moved away. In fact she constantly boasted about you to the neighbours every chance she got."

"She always did like to gloat."

"Takafumi," The young man looked up once more, watching a half grin on his grandfather's lips appear, even though he knew the pain within those stubborn eyes. "Call the funeral service for me." The businessman nodded his head in agreement, taking a moment longer to say his goodbyes before rising to his feet and heading towards the house phone.


It was well past sunset by the time Yokozawa went on the hunt for his grandfather, finishing up the phone calls he needed to make and found the man sitting on the front steps of the porch, gazing up into the night sky.

"The funeral service will be here in the morning. I've asked for a quiet ceremony, nothing too fancy and over the top, just as Obaachan would want it to be. I'll also advise the neighbours personally, allowing them the opportunity to attend if they wish." The elder gentleman nodded his head in acknowledgement of what his grandson was saying. Yokozawa gazed up into the glittering night sky. "I never forget how peaceful it is out here."

"You used to say it was so damn quiet you'd die of boredom out here in the countryside."

A light chuckle broke through the chirping insects. "Well I was a hapless teenager back then. But you know, the three years I spent here, and all the times I returned during College breaks if I didn't find any part time work, this place, with you and Obaachan, it truly became my home, a place I had longed for."

"This is but a temporary place." Steely blue turned to look over at his grandfather. "One day you'll find where you need to be." The gurgling of stomachs suddenly broke the melancholy atmosphere.

"I'll make us something to eat."

"There isn't much in the fridge."

"I'm sure I'll find enough to make some fried rice at least."

"You cook often?" Yokozawa headed back into the house, his grandfather following him, observing his grandson pull out a frying pan and then opened the fridge door to inspect what was inside.

"Thanks to Obaachan, I'm not all that bad at it. I've been doing it a lot these past few months, helping out a...friend while his wife's been in hospital." Yokozawa felt a bit strange referring to Kirishima as a friend, but he assumed that after these past few months that is exactly what they were to each other now.

"Oh?" Yokozawa's grandfather leaned against the preparation bench, eyeing his grandson who had his back to him due to concentrating on cooking them up a quick dinner, the smell of a home cooked meal wafting through the home.

"You remember Sakura-chan?" There was a grunt behind him, his grandfather's acknowledgement that he did remember the young girl from years ago. "I ran into her a few months back, found out she's now married and pregnant and then two weeks after we met again, she ended up having a baby girl, albeit a month early."

"Sakura-chan as a Mama, I can picture it." Yokozawa nodded in agreement.

"She introduced me to her husband, we work at the same company funnily enough and somewhere along the line we've become friends. This is of course due to the fact that he's the friend I'd been helping out, because Sakura-chan...is dying." The salesman turned off the stove and placed two plates on the bench and then spooned even proportions of the fried rice onto them, pushing one across to his grandfather along with a spoon.

"I'm sorry to hear that."

"While she's been in hospital, I've been trying to help out her husband, Kirishima-san, as much as I can. He's been finding it hard, trying to adjust to pretty much being a single father to his little girl while also visiting her in hospital, keeping up the house and holding down his job which for the most part can be quite stressful considering he's an Editor-in-Chief."

"And what of you Takafumi?"

"Eh?" The man in questioned had paused from scooping fried rice into his mouth as he glanced over the preparation bench at his grandfather.

"Are you making sure to take care of yourself?"

"Of course." He knew that sceptical look off by heart from the old man and decided to get stuck into dinner considering he'd not eaten anything all day. The two men ate in silence, knowing there was much that could be talked about, but for now, it wasn't necessary.

"What time are they coming?"

"Around 8 in the morning." Yokozawa responded as he placed their now empty plates into the sink. He'd wash them tomorrow.

"I'll already be working in the fields, so..."

"I'll take care of it." The grandson responded instantly. Steely blue orbs watched his 70 year old grandfather shuffle his way towards the hallway.

"Oyagi," The man glanced over his shoulder to gaze upon his grandchild. "Did you want me to call my father, to advise him about Obaachan?"

"What do you want to do?" The elder man answered the question with a question.

"This is not about me, its about your wishes and the wishes of Obaachan. He is your son."

"He is no son of mine."

"Oyagi!"

"For what happened to you, your Obaachan and I have never forgiven your father or your mother for allowing it to occur." Yokozawa gulped down the lump in his throat. "I'm certain if he showed his face, the first thing he would endure is my rage."

"I'm alright now Oyagi." Yokozawa softly voiced, he knowing just like his grandfather that even though it had been years since that horrid beating he'd endured from his father, it was just something you never forgot. Yokozawa had woken from his unconscious state, one eye completely swollen shut, body aching all over and covered in multiple bandages as he gazed up at his grandparents. That was the day he was told he'd be living with them from now on.

"They are not welcome in this house."

"As you wish." The two men bid each other good night as Yokozawa turned off the lights and made his way to the couch. Of course he could very well reside in his old room, but he was just too tired to even move from the lounge room and instead placed his head on the cushions and closed his eyes, just for a moment he told himself.


[The next morning]

Yokozawa woke to a kettle whistling on the stove top and found a blanket thrown across his curled up form.

"You still sleep like you did when you were a kid." Yokozawa frowned at the comment as his grandfather placed down a cup of coffee and a small container of milk, remembering how he liked his hot beverage. Instead of replying to the comment which generally turned into light banter between the two men, Yokozawa let off a loud yawn. "Make sure to sleep in your room tonight." His head was ruffled again as the salesman watched his grandfather leave, dressed in overalls as he went to tackle the rice fields.

Scratching a hand through his hair, Yokozawa stretched much like a cat before picking up his phone, eyes growing wide at the missed calls and messages from both Sakura-chan and Kirishima-san. He also had a couple from Henmi, but work would just have to wait considering what needed to be done today. Even Sakura-chan and Kirishima-san would have to wait. Of course he did feel a bit guilty over it, but there was a lot to do today and when he glanced up at the clock on the wall, he immediately grabbed his bag and rushed towards the bathroom forgetting about his missed calls for now as it was already 7:30!


"The service will be held at sunset, if you feel inclined, please come and join us." Yokozawa voiced to the last of the elderly farmers in the region of where his grandparents lived. "Afterwards we will be serving some refreshments." Yokozawa bowed, thanking the couple for their condolences and made his way back to the car. He drove off down the road, one hand instantly going to the tie which suddenly felt constricting.

Pulling over to the side of the dirt road, Yokozawa flicked on the hazard lights and then leaned back in the driver's seat, eyes closing. A pounding headache throbbed behind his eyes and he desperately wanted a cigarette, but he'd stupidly left them back at his apartment and currently there was no time to drive into the small rural town about 30 minutes away just to get some. After all, he needed to get back to the farm, to see how the funeral service employees were getting along and hoping his grandfather wasn't being too difficult during this time. About an hour into discussions with the funeral employees the shoji slid across and all eyes focused on his grandfather who came to sit beside his grandson, apologising for his lateness. Yokozawa had felt very proud of the old man.

Knocked from his thoughts, Yokozawa pulled his vibrating phone from his pocket and placed it to his ear, not even bothering to glance a the Caller ID on the screen.

"Yeah?"

"Yokozawa!" Steely blue orbs snapped open, the salesman sitting up straighter in the seat at the voice on the other end.

"Kirishima-san,"

"I know you're probably busy and all, but man, would you at least tell us you're alright? Sakura has been driving me crazy with all her Taka-kun moaning."

"All the travelling from yesterday wore me out." Yokozawa got out of the car, slamming the door closed behind him as he gazed across fields of rice being harvested while a cool breeze swept through the region, ruffling his black hair and black attire.

"Where are you? It seems awfully quiet on your end."

"In the countryside, Akita Prefecture to be more precise." There was noise on Kirishima's end, Yokozawa furrowing his eyebrows. "Are you at the office?"

"Mm, its coming to the end of the cycle after all."

"Ah, good luck with that."

"You need to call Henmi, that youngster is about ready to rip his hair out...or have a coronary."

"Would you mind letting him know I'll be unavailable for the next four weeks, but he can send emails, I'll respond to them when I get the chance to."

"Four weeks?"

"Mm, Shacho is aware and has approved three weeks leave of absence, while my fourth week is attending a business trip as previously mentioned."

"Yokozawa,"

"Ah, I better get going, I've some matters to attend to."

"Wait!" Both men were surprised at the Editor-in-Chief's sudden loud response, both hearing the desperation within it.

"What is it?"

"Ah, um, can you call Sakura when you have a moment?"

"Hm?"

"If I get home tonight and gloat I got to hear your voice and she didn't, I'll be in big trouble." Yokozawa chuckled softly at the comment, suddenly realising his pounding headache wasn't as bad as it was earlier.

"Sure..."

"And Yokozawa,"

"Mm?"

"You sound really tired, make sure you get some rest."

"Thanks." The salesman cut his conversation with the Editor-in-Chief and then scrolled through his contacts to reach 'Sakura-chan' and called her number. As it went through, lips parting to greet the woman on the other end, he couldn't do so as she was already off and ranting about stubborn men and how worried she had been. "Its good to hear your voice as well Sakura-chan." Yokozawa had dryly commented, which of course set off another tirade of ranting from the woman. It brought a slight smile to Yokozawa's lips.


Yokozawa flew up the driveway in a cloud of dust, slamming on the breaks as he parked the car and turned off the ignition. Sakura had chewed him out for a good twenty minutes before gushing about Hiyo-chan for another twenty after that. There were times when he wanted to cut her short, but perhaps she just needed someone to talk to since her parents were in transit coming back to Tokyo and Kirishima's parents had gone away for the week.

Making his way back into the house, the living room had been rearranged to look more presentable as the ceremony was being held in here. There were four bouquets of white roses, two resting on the mantle piece near a large smiling framed photo of his grandmother and the other two near the archway leading into the open planned living and kitchen. And there she was, peacefully laid out in a coffin, white rose petals surrounding her, she dressed in her favourite kimono, one she'd received from him and his grandfather for her 60th birthday. Of course it was against the norm, but it is what his grandfather wished to occur and as such the funeral staff agreed.

"Yokozawa-san?" Steely blue eyes turned to look at one of the staff.

"The catering company hired to organise the refreshments will be arriving soon. Perhaps..."

"My grandfather and I will get ready." The pleasant short man who was in charge bowed, along with his two other staff as Yokozawa left to seek out his grandfather.

"Oyagi," He called for the man, tapping once on the frame of the shoji before sliding it across. "Its nearly time for..." He paused as his grandfather stood by the window, dressed fully in traditional attire.

"Get yourself cleaned up, we must be presentable for your grandmother." Yokozawa nodded his head as he made to exit the room and head for the bathroom. "Takafumi, I've laid out yours in your bedroom." Nodding quietly the salesman headed off, only needing to wash his face and fix his wind ruffled hair.

Stepping into his old bedroom, Yokozawa glanced about to see nothing had changed. Even though his grandparents still traditionally slept in futon, when he'd moved here they'd gotten him a double bed, strewn with black and blue sheets, blankets and about six cushions. There was a large desk near the double windows, a massive bookcase littered with books on English literacy, history and mystery novels and a cupboard which contained various items of clothing which he just didn't have enough hours in the day to ever actually wear. His Obaachan had really gone overboard, but he knew she wanted him to feel comfortable while he was staying with them and this room had eventually become his sanctuary. Landscape images from various parts of Japan were hung on the walls, and resting on the desktop was a cork board with postcards attached to it, from his elder sister who had ended up travelling around the world.

Stripping from his black attire, Yokozawa pulled on his hakama, haori and the likes, dressing identical to his grandfather. He'd not worn traditional attire since the coming of age ceremony he attended with his overly proud grandparents.

Brushing his hands over the material, Yokozawa took in a deep breath, eyeing the framed photo of he and his Obaachan on the desk before moving to the shoji and sliding it across, his grandfather quietly standing their waiting for him. They nodded their heads at each other and then moved back into the living room, kneeling closest to their deceased loved one and began the funeral service which over the next several days would be occurring.


[Kirishima Residence]

"Sakura, Hiyo, I'm home!" The extremely tired Editor-in-Chief called out as he slipped off his shoes and entered the living and opened planned kitchen to see his wife humming away in the kitchen, lost in thought as she was preparing a salad to go with the curry she'd made. Today had been a good day for her. "Sakura?" He watched her jump, turning to look over at him.

"Welcome home!" She beamed him a smile. He placed down his bag and removed his overcoat, tossing it over the lounge.

"You are awfully happy today."

"Taka-kun called me." His little wife gushed.

"Did he now?" He watched her smile disappear as she eyed him silently. "What?"

"He called you first didn't he?" And there was that adorable pout he loved.

"Actually I called him." Kirishima leaned over the kitchen counter, snapping up a cherry tomato as he popped it into his mouth. "I was surprised I got through, but made sure he called you since I was sick of your moaning."

"Zen!"

"I'm joking." He grinned to his pretty wife. "Do you think he's alright?"

"What do you mean?" The handsome husband arched his eyebrow at her confused question. "Did you do nothing but rant and rave?"

"I told him about Hiyo." Sakura mumbled as she carried the salad to the dining table and listened to her husband chuckle. "Why, is something wrong with Taka-kun?"

"He sounded tired is all." Kirishima offered while going on the hunt for his daughter who was in her play pen, TV on low as it was viewing a children's program, but she was gurgling up a storm, tiny hands trying to reach Sorata who seemed to be teasing her, the feline just out of patting reach from the 3 month old. Kirishima bent down to pat the purring cat before lifting his daughter high up into the air, a gummy smile on her face as giggles echoed through the apartment.

"You missed your Papa today didn't you?"

"She can't answer you." Sakura muttered in slight exasperation at the doting man as he fussed over their little girl, not that she minded as she loved watching him. She placed curry into two bowls and then set about making up a bottle for their daughter while also not forgetting to place out food for Sorata as well.

"Don't get her too excited, I'd like for her to actually sleep tonight."

"If she wakes, I'll look after her."

"You've got work tomorrow."

"Doesn't matter, my little Hiyo needs comforting." Sakura rolled her eyes as her husband placed their daughter into her high chair, strapping her in so she didn't fall out.

"One thing I did forget to ask Taka-kun is how the heck he gets her to go to sleep so fast. Mou, its like he's a better Mama then I am!" Sakura complained while listening to Kirishima bark off hearty laughter, it filling their home.

"Its not a competition. And when he gets back, you can ask him." The little family of three got stuck into their dinner.


[Three weeks later]

"Are you sure you'll be alright?" Yokozawa remarked as he stood by the hire car, bag already on the front passenger seat.

"Who do you think you're talking to?"

"You know what I mean." Yokozawa sighed in slight exasperation. "I'll return on..."

"Don't worry about it." The salesman made a face when his grandfather interrupted him. "Your grandmother wouldn't be pleased if she knew you were missing out on work because of her."

"Please, the both of you should know how good I am at my work. Shacho has great confidence in me that no matter the time I have away, I still ensure that my Sales Team is working well under pressure."

"You gloat like your grandmother."

"If anything happens, please call me."

"Yeah , yeah..."

"Oyagi," Yokozawa placed a hand on his grandfather's shoulder, two pairs of stubborn steely blue eyes locking.

"Alright, alright, now get back to work." The elder man voiced, watching his grandchild drive down the dirt road, staying put until the back lights of the hatchback couldn't be seen any longer. His steely blue gaze looked over his rice fields and a frown marred his crinkled features. Today was the first day he truly felt isolated and alone.


Stepping back into Marukawa was almost a little odd to Yokozawa, who'd not been inside the massive building for five weeks now. His business trip, due to some communication breakdowns had taken a week longer then expected. The salesman rode the elevator to the Sales Department and when he rounded the corner his staff were all there, working hard so early in the morning.

"Welcome back Yokozawa-san!" Henmi happily voiced, gratefully accepting the souvenirs from the two bags which were for him and everyone in the team. Yokozawa had another two places (technically three if he included Shacho's office) that he needed to drop souvenirs (and his report) off at.

"I've to see Shacho and then when I get back we'll have a meeting alright?" He watched his subordinates nod their heads, they astounded at this slight difference in character. Their superior still had the same deep voice, but it seemed oddly calm. Where had the wild bear gone?

Yokozawa made his way to Emerald, noticing the Editor's were in high spirits considering the end of the cycle had not yet reared its ugly head.

"Ohayo gozaimasu," The suit clad Yokozawa glanced down to see Onodera Ritsu standing next to him.

"Here," He handed over two bags to the wide eyed younger man. "Pass them around to everyone."

"Yokozawa-san!" Onodera called out to him, but he continued on his way, stepping into the elevator as he headed for Shacho's floor, once again completely missing any sort of interaction with Takano who had just come from the other direction, coffee cup in hand.

"Oi, what are you doing standing there like an idiot for?"

"Here, these are for everyone."

"Oh?" Takano peered inside one of the bags.

"From Yokozawa-san."

"He's returned?"

"Mm," The younger man mumbled as he headed for his desk. "Why don't you go see him?"

"What for?" Takano instantly replied, heading for his own desk and the mountain of work that was piling up.

"Stubborn idiot..."

"What was that?"

"Nothing!"


"Asahina-san, is Shacho in?" Yokozawa acknowledged the President's secretary, a man of few words, but he was bloody good at his job.

"He's currently on the phone."

"Would you mind handing these to him?" Yokozawa provided his folder containing his in-depth report during his two week business trip and a single bag with some souvenirs, namely a brand of sake he knew the Shacho liked. "I'll organise a meeting with him after I have one with my subordinates."

"Very well then."


For some reason Yokozawa felt nervous as he headed towards Japun, taking a deep breath as he turned onto the floor to gaze at Kirishima's subordinates, his eyes flicking towards a familiar and currently empty desk.

"Yokozawa-san, welcome back." One of the women voiced in passing.

"Is Kirishima-san running late?"

"Oh no, he's in a meeting at the moment."

"Ah, here, these are for everyone."

"Thank you so much." The woman gushed and Yokozawa placed up his hand, not needing to be fussed over as he left the floor, heading back towards Sales.

Returning to his floor he found his subordinates crowded around the souvenirs he'd brought back from his travels. It wasn't that big a deal was it? Just sake, cake, biscuits and some random trinkets. Really, what was the fuss about?

"Shall we get started then?" He watched them jolt, turning to gaze over at him, observing him grumble slightly when his phone vibrated in his pocket, Yokozawa pulled it out to see Kirishima's name flash up on the screen.

"What is it?" He answered sternly.

"I missed you visiting me."

"I just passed along some souvenirs to your team."

"Meet me in the breakout room on your floor."

"Wait!" Yokozawa sighed as the Editor-in-Chief hung up on him. He sighed aloud before sending a message saying meeting up for a random chitchat during his first day back in the office was impossible and then quickly advised that after work he'd contact him.

"Sorry, lets go to the meeting room and talk." The salesman voiced to his team who all quietly followed him further down the hallway, each wondering what he did for the first three weeks he was away and yet no one was game enough to ask, not even Henmi for once.


[7pm that night]

Yokozawa stepped out of Marukawa, intent on getting some takeaway before enjoying a nice hot shower and a beer at his apartment, but of course that was not able to happen when a hand clapped on his shoulder, scaring the shit out of him.

"Jesus Kirishima-san, don't do that!"

"How long were you planning to work tonight?"

"Its my first day back, I had several things to take care of." Yokozawa had no idea why the hell he was offering up excuses to the Editor-in-Chief of Japun.

"Since you've ignored me all day, I think its only right you come home with me."

"Wh-What?"

"Sakura is making us dinner."

"You told her I was back?"

"Of course, she's been moping about, almost as much as Hiyo-chan at not seeing you for the past five weeks."

"Hiyo-chan is just over 4 months old, what would she know?"

"You'll be amazed at how quickly she's grown."

"Hm," Yokozawa offered as he followed the older man towards the train station.


Later that night, within the Kirishima residence, Yokozawa was sitting on the couch, stomach full from Sakura's hearty meal and the green tea cake he'd bought from a bakery for dessert. She'd burst into tears at seeing him, calling him several names for not contacting her. Of course he had, but clearly sending a few messages and partaking in one phone call a week was not satisfactory according to the petite woman. As they had moved from the dining table to the living room, Yokozawa made his way over to the play pen, eyes locking onto a pair of big brown ones, the adorable Hiyo giving him a big gummy smile, arms out as though she recognised who he was. He'd picked her up in an instant, she gurgling up a storm, tiny hands squashing his cheeks as though wanting to talk to him but at this stage she was just too young.

"Coffee, Taka-kun?"

"Ah, yes please." Usually he would be helping, but as soon as he sat on the couch, Sorata had taken homage of his lap and refused to leave, purring up a storm.

"He's missed you." Kirishima voiced as he sat down, Hiyo in his arms as he'd just come from the bathroom, hair wet, dressed in black slacks and a white shirt while Hiyo was adorned in pink pyjamas. When Sakura came back over, giving her husband a bottle to feed their daughter, she sat next to Yokozawa on the couch, placing the pot of coffee on the table before absently taking hold of his free hand.

"Taka-kun, we've been quite selfish."

"What are you talking about?"

"All this time, you've been helping us out and yet not once have we ever asked how you are coping."

"Well..."

"She's right you know." Kirishima piped up, agreeing with his wife. "I've not thanked you enough for all the help you've been giving me when Sakura was hospitalised. I truly apologise Yokozawa." The salesman felt an embarrassed flush grace his cheeks as he darted his eyes away.

"Err, I'm as good as I can be considering."

"Taka-kun..."

"Really, I'm alright. I think because of the death of my grandmother, maybe I'm accepting the inevitable."

"What? When? Why didn't you tell us?" Steely blue eyes widened at the onslaught of questions.

"So much has been happening it just..." Yokozawa was suddenly hugged by an emotional Sakura and he pat her lightly on the back, eyes glancing over at Kirishima. "Really, everything is okay now. I returned to the countryside to take care of everything and to ensure my grandfather was holding up throughout it all. Its where I was for the first three weeks."

"What about your parents?" Sakura pulled away when she felt her Taka-kun go rigid at the sudden question. "Taka-kun?"

"We kind of had a falling out and we've not spoken in awhile. My grandfather didn't want them there so..." The salesman died off, really not liking how the topic of conversation was solely on him for a change.

"How long have you not spoken?"

"Since your family moved away."

"That long!" Sakura gasped aloud, eyes brimming with tears. "We really need to sit and have a long talk Taka-kun. What can be so bad that you haven't made up with your parents?"

"Well, I was disowned."

"Disowned!?" Shit, he hadn't meant to blurt that out. She was going through enough as it was without having to listen to his sob story.

"But, I'm alright, my grandparents took me in."

"How is that alright, they're your parents! They're meant to love and protect you no matter what!"

"Sakura, leave it be." Steely blue orbs glanced over to almond as Kirishima was trying to protect him it seemed.

"No, its not right at all!"

"When you moved away, I became a little messed up." He watched the petite wife chew her bottom lip at his words. "You were my first ever friend, a life line if you think about it and then suddenly it was cut. I floundered like a fish out of water, became rebellious, got into trouble and fought constantly with my parents."

"Taka-kun..."

"In the end, some nasty things were said between us and I guess just to piss off my father I ended up blurting out that I didn't mind guys and..." Yokozawa suddenly felt a bit awkward that Sakura-chan's husband was quietly listening in. "You can guess the rest."

"Your father had quite a temper."

"Mm, it ended up being directed upon me." He watched not only hers but Kirishima's eyes widen in recognition of what that meant.

"I woke in hospital, my grandparents at my side and that was the day I found out I'd be moving to the countryside to stay with them."

"Did you confess to your grandparents about..."

"Yeah, but they didn't care. All that was drilled into me was the importance of education. I was to study hard, get my degree, enter a company and make a name for myself. I was to always remember never to loose sight of who I was and in turn they would be proud to call me their grandson. And years later, here I am." The salesman let out a slight grunt when Sakura gave him one of her most tightest hugs yet, sniffling into his shoulder. "She's very energetic tonight." Yokozawa joked, receiving a grin from Kirishima who had been silently listening in from his seat, Hiyo snoozing in his lap as he was utterly amazed at the hardships the younger man had already endured.


Stepping out onto the balcony, Kirishima pressed a beer against Yokozawa's cheek, snapping him from whatever he was thinking about.

"She finally went to sleep?"

"Mm, they both have." Yokozawa nodded as he opened the can, taking a sip of the cool beverage.

"Kirishima-san, about what was spoken earlier, would you mind keeping that to yourself?"

"What is said in this household remains within these walls." Yokozawa nodded his head in kind to the older man. "I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your grandmother." The Editor-in-Chief decided to change the subject.

"Thanks,"

"How's your grandfather holding up?"

"He's a stubborn man, so its hard to tell."

"You definitely get that from him."

"Shut up." Yokozawa snapped. "I've asked a couple of the neighbouring farm owners to keep an eye on him and contact me if anything happens."

"Such a worrisome grandson."

"Well he is all I've got, besides my sister that is."

"Now I'm offended and am glad Sakura isn't awake to hear you say that."

"Huh?" Steely blue eyes widened as Kirishima took hold of his chin, his face far too close to his.

"Aren't Sakura, Hiyo and I like family to you?"

"Err..." Yokozawa's heart began to pound in his chest and both men jolted when Yokozawa's phone chimed in his pocket. "Ah, sorry..." He mumbled as he placed it to his ear. "Hello?"

"Yokozawa-kun, its Shimano Atsuko from Shimano Vegetable Farming."

"Ah, yes, good evening, is everything alright?" Yokozawa felt his eyes widen as he darted them to curious almond. "Thank you very much, I'll be on the first train tomorrow morning." He hung up and stepped back into the living room, gathering up his belongings.

"What's happened?"

"My grandfather has collapsed." Yokozawa made his way to the genkan and swapped the bunny slippers for his shoes. "Will you tell Sakura-chan for me?"

"Of course, please take care." Yokozawa nodded and left the Kirishima residence.


[Three months later]

Making his way up the stairs from the subway, bag slung over his shoulder Yokozawa headed towards a familiar apartment building which was two blocks away.

When he'd once again showed up at his home in the countryside, his grandfather had yelled at him, even if he was currently bedridden due to stress, overwork and malnutrition. He'd argued with the old man, they refusing to see eye to eye and Yokozawa had fled, staying in town at a small inn. For the rest of the night he paced the room, trying to decide what to do with his grandfather. He knew he couldn't ask him to move to Tokyo and after a sleepless night, the salesman had decided to hire a couple of the local men in the town and queried with the community health centre about getting a carer to come and check on the old man a few times a week.

Of course they argued when Yokozawa relayed his decisions to his grandfather, the man advising him not to be so meddlesome.

"How can I not butt in, you're all I've got left!" Yokozawa had yelled, kneeling at his grandfather's side, the man refusing to look at him. "Oyagi, you need help." When crinkled eyes finally turned to look up at him, the salesman pressed on. "It won't necessarily be forever, just for now, until you get back on your feet and are capable of looking after yourself again."

"I'm not incompetent."

"I never said you were, but you've not been eating and the harvest is wearing you out. Some local men in town have agreed to help with the harvest and the carer I've hired will be coming three times a week to cook, clean and keep you company."

"I don't need a carer."

"She's quite pretty." Yokozawa was pleased when the elderly man chuckled.

"You're lucky your grandmother isn't alive to hear you say you've got me a young and pretty carer."

"And you're lucky she's not alive to see you like this." The two of them had fallen silent before Yokozawa felt his grandfather pat him on the knee.

"Arigatou, Takafumi." The salesman nodded his head, this time certain he would not leave until his grandfather was settled and comfortable in the new routine he'd organised for him.

Yokozawa buttoned up his coat, autumn was now here, the crisp evening air sending a shudder through his weary body. Starring up at the tall building, Yokozawa called a familiar number, hoping he wasn't interrupting anything.

"Yokozawa!" Came the cheery voice on the other end of the line.

"Good evening Kirishima-san."

"How goes the countryside?"

"Ah, well...I've returned."

"You have, why didn't you say so?"

"Err...surprise?"

"Indeed it is. So where are you?"

"Um..."

"Hm?"

"Near your place." He listened to the Editor-in-Chief chuckle over the line. "Missed us that much did you?" Yokozawa couldn't answer as he felt his cheeks flush. "Come on up, I'll meet you at the door." The men hung up and Yokozawa picked up his pace, hoping when he did arrive the redness in his cheeks would have disappeared.


"Welcome back." Kirishima grinned at the man, taking the souvenir bag with thanks while waiting for Yokozawa to remove his shoes and place his bag on the ground.

"I've a present in there for Hiyo as well."

"Thanks," Kirishima pulled another teddy bear from the bag, it almost looking identical to the one he'd gotten when she'd just been born, only it was white instead of brown. "This will go with the others, but you know, she's really attached to the one you bought for her when she was first born."

"Is that right?" Yokozawa followed the man into the living room, gazing about at how quiet it was, his eyes moving down to Sorata who meowed up at him, he bending to scratch behind his ears for a moment. Rising to his full height, Yokozawa made his way over to Hiyo who was sitting up all on her own and shaking a rattle as hard as she could, seemingly liking the chime it was making. "She's really grown."

"I know and you won't believe what she did the other day." Yokozawa arched his eyebrow as Hiyo was lifted out of her play pen and placed on the floorboards, her big brown eyes locking onto Sorata and away she went, scurrying after the fleeing cat.

"She's crawling!"

"Isn't it awesome?" The doting father voiced happily, a massive grin on his face.

"It is." Yokozawa couldn't help but agree as he observed the youngster loose interest in Sorata and came crawling over to him, sitting up on her own to give him a big grin. "Hiyo-chan is amazing." He bent down and picked her up. "Is Sakura-chan with her parents?"

"She's bedridden." He turned his steely blue gaze to Kirishima who took a seat on the lounge and listened to him let out a loud sigh. "She'd been hospitalised again and was discharged just yesterday."

"Why didn't you tell me?" Yokozawa sat next to the man after placing Hiyo back into her play pen, she going back to amusing herself with her rattle and building blocks.

"You had enough on your plate worrying about your grandfather."

"And the results?"

"The tumour is continuing to grow and is now spreading to other organs. Sensei believes she has about four months left."

"Eh?"

"Sakura was trying to be strong, but even she was taken aback that she would not be here for Hiyo's 1st birthday."

"Kirishima-san..."

"She has some good days, but mostly she's far too ill to do anything now. My parents have been helping a lot and Sakura's are renting an apartment close by, wishing to stay by their daughters side until the very end."

"Can I...see her?"

"Of course, though she might be asleep."

"I won't disturb her." Yokozawa made his way to the master bedroom, softly clicking open the door to see the room was doused in pale light coming from a bedside lamp. He quietly made his way over to the bed and carefully sat down, but his movements woke the sleeping woman as she turned over to look at him.

"Taka-kun," A tired smile graced her lips. "Welcome home."

"Sorry, did I wake you?" Sakura shook her head, hand out as she pat the bed.

"Lay down with me." Kirishima stood near the slightly ajar door, suddenly eavesdropping into the conversation that was occurring.

"You know I can't do that."

"Why?"

"You silly girl, a bedroom is a sanctuary to a couple, asking another man to lie with you, how do you think Kirishima-san will feel? This spot is his." The man watched Sakura shuffle to the side he had been sitting on, eyebrow arching as she turned her back to him, flicking up the blankets as she pat the side she had been lying on.

"Your stubbornness knows no bounds." He received a slight grin from the woman as he moved to her side of the bed, but did not lay beneath the covers and instead on top of them.

"We used to do this all the time."

"Mm, you'd end up in my room, crying over some horrible boyfriend."

"There were some pretty terrible ones."

"Many didn't meet your standards when you finally got to know them."

"Well no one was matching up to Taka-kun, he would always take care of me."

"And what a pain you were." Yokozawa received a smack on the arm at that comment.

"Taka-kun, did you ever love me?"

"What kind of stupid question is that?" In truth, the salesman was pretty surprised by it.

"Well, we never got together."

"That's because what we had was much deeper then needing to be boyfriend and girlfriend."

"It wouldn't have worked anyway."

"Oh?"

"I never saw you that way and I think my taste in guys is quite similar to Taka-kun's." Yokozawa chuckled slightly at the comment.

"Kirishima-san is handsome." The light haired businessman found the topic odd now that it started to revolve around him. And he wasn't sure if Yokozawa was being serious or not.

"You can't have him." Almond eyes watched as the salesman flicked his wife cutely on the forehead.

"I never said I did want him, besides, I think I'm still hung up on my previous love."

"But its been months now!"

"True, but I've never really had time to think about the breakup considering I've been looking after these selfish Kirishima's and my ill grandfather."

"Gomen," The two of them fell quiet and Kirishima had thought they'd fallen asleep and took another quick peek inside, observing his wife take hold of Yokozawa's hand.

"Taka-kun, do you think Zen will ever forgive me?" Almond and steely blue widened at this odd question.

"What do you mean?"

"For not telling him that I was sick before becoming pregnant with Hiyo."

Yokozawa gulped down the lump in his throat. "What's done is done, nothing can change that."

"That doesn't answer my question." Sakura pouted.

"He's your husband, what do you think?"

"He's not blamed me once."

"And there is your answer."

"But..."

"Sakura-chan, in sickness and in health, isn't that what you promised each other? Kirishima-san loves you dearly. You're his precious wife and the mother to his precious daughter. That will never change." There was a small sob, two pairs of eyes growing wide as Sakura tried to cover her face with the blankets. "Hey now, we'll have none of that, where is the cheeky Sakura-chan I know and love gone?"

"I'm so scared!" Yokozawa's heart constricted in his chest, he sitting up as he faced the sickly woman, his large warm hands brushing away her tears. "What do I do Taka-kun, I don't want to die!" She curled her blanketed body around the sitting man.

"I'm sorry, I'm so sorry Sakura-chan." Yokozawa continuously muttered, leaning over as he rested his forehead against the weeping woman's temple, right hand rubbing her back while he mumbled sweet nothings into her ear.

Kirishima stepped away from the door, moving back into the lounge room, quickly eyeing his daughter who was still amusing herself, now lying on her stomach, hand between the bars of her play pen as she was patting Sorata. The feline had finally given up steering clear of the youngster and in actual fact appeared to like his little girl petting him. The light haired businessman made a beeline for the balcony, sliding the glass door open as a crisp cool evening hit him right in the face, he leaning over the railing, trying to get his breathing and emotions in check. He had to remain strong, he couldn't loose it in front of his suffering wife.


Kirishima didn't know how long he stayed out there for, finally coming to sit on a small stool as he leaned against the glass panelling, watching as the heavens opened and it began to rain.

"Kirishima-san, what are you doing out here?" Almond orbs darted to the sliding door, seeing Yokozawa standing there, worry evident in his eyes.

"I needed some fresh air."

"Sakura-chan has just gone back to sleep. I made sure she took the medicine that was on the bedside table."

"Thanks," He watched the salesman hesitate to leave him be and ended up leaning forward, dropping his head in his hands as he looked down at his slipper clad feet. "Did you know Sakura-chan and I cannot sleep in the same bed anymore?"

"Eh?"

"Its because of me."

"Kirishima-san,"

"I'm so afraid," The Editor-in-Chief finally acknowledged. "I'm so afraid that if I fall asleep beside her, what if she wakes up the next day and doesn't recall who I am."

"How is that possible, you're her husband!" Yokozawa tried reasoning with the man.

"Sensei said the tumour is spreading. And eventually it will spread into her brain. She'll loose her ability to talk, function and recall who we all are. Sooner or later, she'll have to be hospitalised, living out the last of her days in a stark white room, but I think Sakura fears that even more then anything else. She's constantly in pain, but I know she'd rather be here with us." Yokozawa crouched beside the man, his hand resting at the back of his head. "I'm trying desperately to keep it together, to remain strong for her, but I don't know how much more I can take."

"The both of you are hurting and you need to tell her how you feel. She'll never ridicule you about being scared, because she too is just as frightened."

"I know,"

Yokozawa tilted his head at the response, eyes slightly wide when he finally understood that his and Sakura's conversation from earlier had been overheard. He hoped the comment he made about the man being handsome hadn't horrified the man, but considering they were both on the balcony and the husband was confessing to him, he assumed he'd taken it as a joke. "Have you thought about creating a memory album?" Kirishima turned to look up at the younger man before him. "I've heard that families who are going through what you and Sakura-chan are going through make memory albums, filled with photos and messages to their loved one and they keep it beside them so if...when...the time comes, its there to help."

"I see..."

"Maybe it too will help you."

"Maybe..."

"Kirishima-san," Almond eyes turned to look up at him. "I know she's quite weak, but maybe the two of you need to get away, to feel like a married couple again. I can take care of Hiyo-chan or you can have your parents do it, either way, maybe what the both of you need is to go somewhere that's meaningful to the both of you, to a place where it all began. Perhaps you both need that, to be together in that moment, not worrying about her illness or how scared the both of you are, just be you and Sakura-chan once more."

"That sounds like a good idea." Yokozawa nodded his head as he stood to his full height.

"Talk with her about it and discuss it with Shacho as well. Considering how lenient he has been for me in regards to my grandfather, I'm certain he'll extend the same hospitality to you. And if you need my help with Hiyo, then just send me a text."

"Hai,"

"And Kirishima-san," He stole the man's attention for a moment more. "Don't stay out here too long, you may catch a cold."

"Such a worrisome mama you are." Kirishima stood up, grinning slightly at the grumpy look on Yokozawa's face.

"Take back your side of the bed Kirishima-san. Sakura-chan is waiting for you." He watched the light haired man nod, possibly a blush gracing his cheeks at having blurted out such private matters to him, a man he'd only know for just over 7 months now. "Sorata and I will take our leave now. Thank you for looking after him all this time."

"Oyasumi nasai." Both men voiced in unison as Yokozawa exited the Kirishima Residence, his jacket over Sorata's cage once he stepped out onto the wet streets, it protecting his feline companion from the heavy rain as he quickly flagged down a taxi to take him back to his apartment.


[Four months later]

Everyday was a blessing to those that knew Sakura as her four month limit had come and gone. Kirishima had spoken to the Sensei who had advised him that it was just an approximation, but the inevitable would in doubt occur eventually. He had advised the man to think about placing her in hospital, but as much as Kirishima thanked the good man, he just couldn't do such a thing unless Sakura asked him to.

Yokozawa was currently lounging on Kirishima's couch, flicking through channels with Sorata on his lap. The Editor-in-Chief had finally organised to spend a night at the hot springs resort he had proposed to Sakura at. Even though she was now wheelchair bound, too weak to stay up on her own two feet now, the smile on her face could not be removed when Kirishima had suggested they go there together. She had worried about Hiyo, but the husband had already lined up the perfect babysitter: her Taka-kun.

"Hiyo," Yokozawa called out to the 11 month old who was happily splaying her grubby hands on the glass sliding door and windows, using it for support as she stood up on her two legs. A couple weeks earlier she'd started to walk, a few uncertain steps here and there before falling back onto her bottom. It had sent tears spilling down Sakura's cheeks while Kirishima filmed it on his phone so he could show everyone in the office, a massive grin spreading from ear to ear on his face. "Hiyo," The salesman called again, the little girl turning to look over at him, a massive grin on her lips as she dropped to her hands and knees, more confident in her crawling as she speedily made it over to the lounge, happy to be held by the man as Yokozawa stood her up on his thighs, she giggling up a storm.

"Nii-Nii!"

"Eh?" Yokozawa sat up instantly, receiving a hiss from Sorata who leapt off the couch and trotted off into the kitchen to where his food bowl was.

"Hiyo, what..."

"Nii-Nii!" Again she voiced and placing the youngster on the couch, the salesman fumbled for his phone as he found his video recording application and after several agonising moments of trying to coax Hiyo into talking again, she finally started chanting instead. "Nii-Nii!" He watched her slowly get off the couch, stomping her way around the apartment before turning to look up at him, arms raised wanting to be hugged as she called for her Oniichan.

"Your Mama and Papa are going to be really surprised." Yokozawa muttered as he sent the video straight to Kirishima's phone. "And hopefully not too jealous since your first words weren't mama or papa..." Yokozawa muttered as he finally picked up the little girl, taking her towards the kitchen so they could decide on what they would be having for dinner.


[Hot Springs Resort]

Kirishima listened to his phone chime beside him while he rested on the porch outside of their room, gazing upon the lit up koi pond and garden, Sakura within his arms, her back against his chest and a blanket covering her yukata clad body.

"I thought you were going to turn that off?"

"Sorry." The husband picked it up to turn it off, pausing when he noticed it was a video message from Yokozawa. "Its from your Taka-kun."

"Has something happened to Hiyo?" He held the phone in front of Sakura, so the both of them could watch the video of their angelic daughter chanting her first words. They watched on as Yokozawa's hand came into view, waving at the little girl who waved back, a massive grin on her face, a couple of her baby teeth starting to show.

"She's so adorable, just like her Mama." Kirishima hit play again, watching his wife trace her finger over the screen.

"You're a great father Zen."

"What's this talk about all of a sudden?"

"Our girl...is perfect. She'll do just fine with you and Taka-kun watching over her."

"Sakura..." He wasn't a silly man, he'd known her breathing had begun to slow down, she having difficulty drawing in oxygen now.

"Don't dress her like a boy either, make sure she gets to wear pretty dresses and frilly skirts."

"Mm,"

"And even if you're busy with work, try your best to come home and give her more love then she'll ever be able to stand."

"Oi, do you want her to hate her papa?"

"She won't, she'll dote on you, like you do her."

"How do you know?"

"She's my little girl, I know." He listened to her couch heavily, it shaking her fragile body and all he could do was hold her closer, eyes closing as he hoped it would end soon. "I love you...so very, very much, but you already know this."

"Sakura and Hiyo will be the only girls I'll ever love."

"That's a bold promise, considering how good looking my husband is."

"I'm not joking Sakura." He heard a light chuckle.

"You'll find love again, of this I am sure."

"Never!" Kirishima felt her move and helped her to rest on her side, so she could turn her head to look up at him, those tired brown eyes locking onto his almond gaze.

"I want you to be happy, the both of you."

"That is not going to be easy."

"I know, but promise me you'll try to be, not only for Hiyo but for you as well."

"Hai,"

"I know its meant to be all about us, but can I selfishly bring up Taka-kun?"

Kirishima pressed his lips to his wife's warm forehead. "I'm surprised you even bothered to ask since from the first day we met I've had to endure you talking about him non-stop." Another tired chuckle escaped her lips as she took in a shuddering breath.

"As you grieve, please remember to ask how he's doing."

"He's a big boy."

"Taka-kun may appear strong, but deep down, he's still that sweet innocent boy I remember from years ago. His heart is fragile and his self confidence is low, so make sure to look after him."

"Honestly, the things I promise my silly little wife." He watched her grin up at him and this time he pressed his lips to hers. "Thank you for loving me, for giving me the years we had together." He felt her shudder in his arms and all he could do was wrap her within his embrace that little bit more. He gulped down the lump in his throat, feeling the wetness of her tears on his arm which she hugged closer to her face.

"Zen...I..." He shushed her quietly.

"Its okay now, you've been so strong Sakura, its okay now." And just like his words were a blessing to her mind, body and soul, every passing minute her breathing started to slow until there was no movement at all. When her hand dropped from his arm, tears blurred Kirishima's vision as he cradled his petite wife to his larger body. Letting out a shuddering breath, the Editor-in-Chief glanced down at his wife's sweet face, dry tear marks on her cheeks, eyes closed and a ghost of a smile on her pink lips. She truly looked like she were sleeping, but of course he knew otherwise.

He didn't want to let go, but every ounce of his being knew he had to. He carried her to the futon and placed her beneath the covers, pressing his lips to her forehead before stumbling towards the phone in order to contact reception, they springing into action at his news.

As someone from the staff remained with Kirishima while they waited for ambulance services, all the man could do was sit by his wife's side, holding her lifeless hand. She was now resting within eternal sleep, free from the illness that had plagued her body for nearly two years.

He pulled his phone out, looking at the background image of his little girl and with shaking fingers, sent a message on his phone.


[Kirishima Residence]

Yokozawa had just put Hiyo in her cot, finally succeeding in getting her to bed.

She had been crying for awhile and he just couldn't settle her. He'd tried giving her a bottle, changed her nappy, checked her temperature, placed on some soft music, cooed to her as best he could, nothing appeared to work. His last resort was taking her for a drive in the car, doing several laps of the streets in the neighbourhood which appeared to have worked for when he glanced at her through the rearview mirror, her head was slumped, eyes closed and her tiny hands which had been clutching the brown teddy bear he'd given her had loosened at it fell to the floor.

Making his way onto the balcony for a cigarette, the salesman felt his phone vibrate in his pocket and pulled it out.

'She's gone.'

Was the simple and heart wrenching text, it sending Yokozawa to his knees, unlit cigarette all but forgotten as his own vision blurred, tears falling onto the screen.

"Sakura-chan..."


To be continued...