The brief walk to the red head's destination was silent. I listened to the wind accompanied by the clicking of the taller's heels. I tried best not to think and just occupy myself with nature, willing myself not to cry. Every thought I had would eventually drift to Ricchan, it was inevitable. I had been staring at the woman's back for ten minutes then, counting all the spiky curls that I itched to brush down. They bounced freely, like the hair seen on models for fancy shampoos. I smiled lightly, thinking how ridiculous it was to be jealous over hair. In that moment, her head swiveled back to glance at me, and I turned away while wiping off the smile. Her eyes held just a hint of amusement before facing the road once more.
We eventually came to an apartment complex. I could tell by the building that the units were on the more luxurious side, but were still small and only made for two to three people. The woman led me into the elevator, still tightly grasping my hand as if I would try to leave. The thought had crossed my mind, after all, she was a complete stranger. I blamed most of it on my weak emotional state and therefore lack of common sense. However, the woman gave off a strong stench of capability and trustworthiness that I could not help but inhale. She had pushed the button labeled the highest floor, and as we ascended, the peaceful silence began to feel heavy. I resorted to staring at my feet, wondering how I was going to get out of the situation. After all, I had a lot to do. I sighed audibly, knowing that one of those things would be to call my mother and relay to her what had occurred. Then of course that word would get to Ricchan's mother, which would surely cause problems for him. I was already wearing a guilty expression, but what else was I to do? My mother was my only outlet for these kinds of things. All through high school, I was much more concerned with spending time with Ricchan than making friends. It was probably the reason I had so few. I mentally berated myself, at that rate I had a lonely life ahead of me.
I felt a strange tingle travel up my spine, and when I turned, she was staring at me unabashedly. I held her gaze, unable to back down from the teal irises. I heard the background sound of the elevator doors opening, a harsh bell piercing the night to let us know we had arrived to the correct floor. We stayed rooted in our staring contest for another minute or so before she nodded to herself resolutely, dragging me out of the elevator. We reached a door towards the end of the hall and she finally released my wrist. She began to fumble around in her purse, looking for her keys as she cursed silently. After listening for the jingle, she located them at the bottom of her large bag. I peeked in, curiosity getting the better of me. I mean, why would someone need such a large tote for? Bricks? Running my eyes over the contents, I help in a confused squeak. There were huge stacks of paper wrapped together in her purse, so bricks hadn't been too far off of a guess apparently. As she pushed open the door, I realized that they were manuscripts. As I took off my shoes and placed them at the door, I started to theorize. A writer maybe? I stored the question in the back of my brain as I was led into the television area that connected to the kitchen. The furnishings were posh and comfortable looking, the floors hardwood. I fidgeted, feeling out of place with my torn tights and frizzy hair. The woman unceremoniously dumped her belongings on the couch, not even caring that they slid off mere seconds later.
"Sit here please," she instructed, pointing to a plush rug nearby. Snapping out of my stupor, I nodded and slowly lowered myself to the floor. Sitting on such a soft surface instantly made me feel much better, although I couldn't ignore the pain still fresh in my knee. The red head smiled before marching down the hall, kicking off her heels as she went with obnoxious clacking. She knew that those were supposed to be left at the door right? I groaned internally. The whole predicament felt strange and out of a novel. I wanted to leave and go home, but something held me down on that rug. I knew I was in no condition to travel home, but I could pay for a cab or call a family member if I wanted to. Maybe in the end I was just too taken aback by the woman's aura and hospitality to refuse her. I pondered the thought for several more minutes, oblivious to the soft padding of feet approaching. When she was directly in front of me, I glanced up startled. She was holding a first aid kit as she plopped down across from me. I flinched when she tugged at my coat and nylons.
"I'm really sorry, but I need these off to properly examine your injuries," she smiled brightly, tugging a little harder at my clothing.
"O-oh, oh right," I stuttered out. I pushed my nylons down, thankful that I was wearing a dress that covered my underwear. Regardless, I still blushed like mad. The older was really brave to insist something so bold before they even knew each other's names. I stripped off my coat, revealing my absolute favorite turtle neck dress. I held in a sigh, the only reason I had worn the dress was to show it off to Ricchan. I felt a little bad considering his mom had been in the hospital, but a girl had to try when she got the chance. Plus, the dress made her feel amazing, and what was wrong with that? I smiled a little as I folded my coat. I glanced over to see the red head click open the kit, pulling out disinfectant and a cloth. She poured some of the liquid onto the towel before gently grabbing my leg. I winced as she began to dab the bleeding area lightly as she muttered her apologies for the sting. As she cleaned the area, no words passed between us. The older was focused intently on her job, and I couldn't help but stare at her face which was set it a determined frown. It was then that I finally located my voice again.
"Thank you so much for all of this, you didn't need to do it," I smiled. Her face brightened upon hearing my gratitude.
"Ah don't worry about it, you looked like you…were in pain," she replied slowly. I got the feeling she wasn't only referring to my knee. I frowned, painful memories threatening to resurface. I shook my head, focusing on the present. After she finished bandaging me, she felt up my arms and sides to make sure I wasn't hurt anywhere else. Realizing I was fine, she got up and returned with an ice pack for the bruise forming on the side of my head. I applied it, nodding in thanks as she took a seat near me again.
"Oh no! I'm so rude, I never even asked for your name," she said as she face palmed. I could see the light tint of red coloring her cheeks.
"Don't worry, it wasn't important at the time. I am Kohinata An, pleased to meet you," I said as I bowed my head. She nodded, pondering the name to herself.
"Alright, An it is," she grinned. I was a bit surprised at the lack of honorifics, but I soon understood that this woman was full of surprises, and it was best to accept it. She continued, the scarlet fading from her cheeks.
"I'm Aikawa Eri," she said confidently.
"Then Eri it is," I smirked along with my playful tone. Eri looked taken aback, but soon enough she was laughing along with me.
AN: Yay, chapter two! I hope everyone reading is enjoying this so far, please leave a review!
