A broken vase can be mended but the trace of the break will always be there. A fallen blossom will and always be a fallen blossom.
Both were surprised but they did not show it. Feeling the slight tension in the air and the stiffening of his companion, Keigo led Ryou to greet the visitors. Placing a slight force at his back the two approached Choutarou and Aiko.
Ryou took the liberty to walk slowly. He looked carefully at the girl and setting his bias aside, she is beautiful. Oval-face framed by a long onyx mane. If someone looked closely, she is blessed with amethyst eyes that will surely sparkle like gems when she stands out in the sun. She is attractive and poised, just like how all elite girls are trained. But she cannot hide the fact that she is shy because when Keigo kissed her hand, Aiko hid her flushed face. Ryou cannot help but feel amused to the girlish nature of Aiko and the flamboyant upbringing of Keigo. He stopped himself from rolling his eyes.
"Nice meeting you Wakahisa-san." Ryou said while wearing a small smile while reaching his hand out for a handshake.
"The pleasure is all mine, Shishido-san. And please call me Aiko. I don't want to stand in the formal end of my future husband's best friend." Aiko answered while delicately reaching his hand.
Trying not to flinch at the mention of husband, Ryou replied "Then please call me Ryou, Aiko-san."
Choutarou and Keigo were watching the exchange. Choutarou looking expectant of his best friend's approval to Aiko since Ryou's comment does matter- greatly. Keigo on the other hand is very much aware of the critical eye Ryou is giving Aiko and cannot help but feel sorry for the girl. He just remained quiet and observant of what is happening in front of him.
The group remained silent; Aiko feeling uncomfortable with the foreign stares of her comrades instinctively went to Choutarou's side to seek comfort. Choutarou not used to the presence of the girl's actions, was slightly taken aback and was unsure of what to do. Ryou's eyebrows cannot help but twitch, he is starting to feel irritated and somewhat possessive. Keigo was very amused of what was happening. If he could just read their minds, that will be a whole lot better. Putting aside his personal entertainment, he decided to help the trio with their dilemma. Someone has to break the ice and make each other feel welcome. The girl has been only introduced yesterday and he knows that it takes a great effort to make your fiancé's friends comfortable. Feeling generous, Keigo offered an idea- it may not be great but still it is an idea.
"Why don't we go to my house and spend the morning in the company of one another? A small picnic perhaps?" Keigo offered his best "host" smile. Ryou knowing workings of Keigo's mind looked at him darkly.
"That is a nice offer, Atobe-san" Aiko smiled expectantly to Choutarou.
Choutarou being the good natured lad, decided to allow this small gathering. Establishment of camaraderie is one thing that should be done. And small and private gatherings such as this are the best way to attain that.
"Then I take it as a yes. Ryou, you don't mind handling the transportation from here to our estate?" Keigo looked at Ryou with a slight warning of behaving himself throughout the whole morning. If Ryou can act as hard headed as he can be regarding his illness then he can do the same. If he wants deviate Choutarou's attention, then he can start now.
Ryou silently nodded and excused himself to call his personal coach-driver. Leaving them behind, Keigo, Choutarou and Aiko led themselves to the front porch. Not taking any longer, the carriage came. The door opened and Aiko took a seat opposite to Ryou. Choutarou followed his fiancé and instinctively decided to take the seat beside Ryou. Ryou gave him a pointed look and he was brought back to reality. Adjusting his position, he sat beside Aiko. Keigo not missing a thing about what happened just shook his head with all the possible things that might happen once they reached his estate.
The ride was silent. Ryou was especially thankful that the trip was also short. He just kept a neutral face and try not to act rashly especially Keigo observing his every move. He has to stick with his decision of pushing Choutarou away. He is doing what is right and even so, he cannot help but feel hurt and emotionally drained since he is hiding all of his internal turmoil. He is just thankful that Keigo knows his condition. Even though he tries to act unaffected about it, he knows he can count on him anytime.
The Atobe estate is as flamboyant as its owner. There is an unnecessarily large garden with well-tended roses and a large fountain with crystalline water flowing greeted the guests. The large wooden doors opened and the butler came out to greet the visitors.
"Please prepare a simple meal for my guest at the back gazebo." Keigo ordered nonchalantly. "Please treat this place as one of your own." Keigo told the group. "Choutarou please accompany me to the library, I have a few musical pieces bought from France that you might be interested with. We will follow you shortly, this will not take long. Ryou, I expect you know the way to the gazebo. Please lead Aiko-san there." Keigo told them- more like it posed as an order. It is a gift to have this commanding presence, even your friends cannot deny you of your "requests".
Without wasting another moment, Keigo took his lead towards the library, Choutarou trailing behind. Ryou quite unsure of what to do looked at Aiko and asked her "Are you ready?" Aiko just nodded her head and followed Ryou to the opposite direction.
The walk was quiet until Aiko decided to break the silence.
"Ryou-san, how long have you known Choutarou? I didn't have the chance to talk to him since our first meeting was something you wouldn't expect. I'm afraid that he already told you about this matter."
Ryou cannot help but smirk at her comment "Choutarou is really the shy type isn't he? I just cannot imagine that he is this timid to run away." Ryou looked at her if she is offended or not. Confirming that she is not through her smile at his comment, he proceeded.
"Since we were kids, together with Keigo, he is the usually quiet boy who opts to sit in the corner and watch everyone from afar. Considering having Keigo and I as his friends, I really cannot comprehend sometimes how he managed to stay solemn and calm.."
"Seems like you had years fro friendship behind you. No wonder he is very eager to introduce me to you. And I think you are right about being the shy type, he was really embarrassed about what he did yesterday. And came to our house earlier to apologize and make it up to me by introducing his best friend."
"I hope you are not disappointed Aiko-san. And please do forgive me about my behavior earlier. I was not really expecting this encounter soon. Tell me, how do you find Choutarou so far?"
"I really cannot answer that question properly Ryou-san. I haven't had the chance to get to know him for reasons you already know. But I think he is sensitive enough to know that he offends someone and considerate enough to offer his apologies in the sincerest way." Aiko smiled.
"Ryou-san, I hope you don't mind telling me your experiences with Choutarou. I think I am approaching the right person for this matter. You are his best friend after-all, no secrets and no doubts about everything."
Ryou expected this; she has to know something about his future husband. And who is he to deny her request. "Choutarou as you've observed is a shy boy. It took a lot of encouragement from me for him to treat me as his friend rather than his senpai, since I am a year older than him. He eventually dropped formalities and we were the same ever since. Choutarou is more of the neutralizer in the group, Keigo and I being our usual selves as rash and loud. He is more of the shock absorber whenever Keigo and I have this silly argument. But when Keigo started to manage their businesses, it is just me and Choutarou. From that time on, I began to discover Choutarou's whole being deeper. He is not just the mere shock absorber or the usual timid boy you'll see. You might even see him as a person with no spine, but he is always underestimated like that. Someone might say that I'm always the one who protects him but in reality it is the other way around. He is there silent, assuring you that he will support you in anyway he can. His company and loyalty is hard earned but when you gain his trust you will be rest assured that he is with you all the way. It is really an added bonus to anyone who is able to hear him play. I was really lucky to see him fumble when his father handed him his first violin and eventually evolve to a very talented musician. He also plays the piano and Keigo spoils him with different pieces when he arrives back from his business trips. And I am really grateful to hear him play the pieces for the first time until he reaches the point of perfecting it. He sometimes criticizes his ability to play, but I keep on encouraging him to do it again until the doubt is washed over by his pride and confidence. You should ask him sometime to play, Aiko-san. My words do his talents no justice."
"It seems that you almost grew together, Ryou-san. I sure will ask him to play, once I have the chance to, that is." Aiko smiled. "From what you told me Ryou-san, he seems a very interesting person."
"He really is, be patient with him. Choutarou is not a person to be dealt with speed. It might take time but I can assure you it's all worth it. He is really worth it."
"I see, Ryou-san. Choutarou is really lucky to have you as someone who he can trust. Your relationship with Choutarou seems overwhelming. I hope I can gain the same trust."
"You make it sound like a competition Aiko-san. You are approaching him the other way. I will always be his friend and you will always be his significant half. We are different persons in his life Aiko-san. You don't have to worry about that though, with what I'm seeing now; I know you'll easily obtain his trust." Ryou smiled reassuringly.
"Thank you very much, Ryou-san. A confidence boost is what I really need right now. Thank you again." Aiko bowed his head to show her gratitude.
"You don't have to be thankful, I didn't do anything. Just be a good wife to Choutarou and he will return the same kindness you show him, even more. I'm spotting the gazebo over there but it seems we are the first ones to reach the place. I think Choutarou enjoyed himself with the pieces- immersed in his music world again." Ryou had this distant look that Aiko didn't attempt to distract him anyhow. She felt that even though Ryou assured him of Choutarou's eventual acceptance, there is still a line that she cannot cross. A relationship tested through time is much stronger than a relationship bounded by law.
Keigo handed Choutarou a folder filled with French pieces. Choutarou browsed through the folder and was amused by the foreign words dancing through the paper. The delicate pattern of notes creates the smooth symphony it represents. Keigo really knows what pieces to choose. But setting his musical preferences aside, without lifting his head, he confirmed with Keigo,
"I believe, there is something else you want to talk about Keigo. Ryou and Aiko can accompany us anyway. "
"You have been hanging with Ryou for so long. His insolence is already rubbing on you. A simple thank you will suffice, Choutarou." Keigo smirked when he saw the flushed cheeks of Choutarou.
"I'm sorry Keigo, but I am grateful with such rare gifts."
"As you were saying earlier, it is true. I have some matters that I would like to discuss with you, alone. I heard that you just met Aiko-san yesterday. And it was rather an unsightly event to watch since you fled once you knew you were engaged with her. I cannot blame you since this rather surprising for your part. But I hope you just dealt it with more maturity and thought, Choutarou. From time to time, it does not hurt to be less selfish. There is already another party involved."
"Keigo, I am greatly distressed with what I have now. I really cannot fathom the idea of getting married in a few months time. I am still in a confused state. Moreover, I am getting married ahead of you and Ryou."
"I will choose to ignore your last comment Choutarou. These are matters that you should expect especially to people of your caliber. We don't have a choice because our marriage will serve as a seal to business contracts. And it seems that you are not really confused. You are level headed, Choutarou, and these instances are not something for you to be surprised at. I think you are more of not ready to let go of things you enjoy right now."
Choutarou remained silent which Keigo took as his consent to continue.
"We are getting old Choutarou. We just have to learn to prioritize and let go of things that we shouldn't be holding onto anymore. Your approval of this arrangement means that you are willing to also accept everything that comes with it. The responsibilities and expectations you must face. It is no easy feat, I know. But you should be prepared of what is ahead. Prepared to let go of things you have now and prepared to accept other things that will come your way. Nothing is permanent in this life. Everything is fleeting.."
"Keigo, I don't really understand what you are talking about. It looks like you want me to turn my back to you and Ryou. You are my friends, the symbol of my youth and my life that I once led; I will never bring myself to forget that. I will never bring myself to let go…"
"To let go of Ryou, you mean?"
Choutarou shot his head up and made no attempt to counter his question. "Am I that obvious, Keigo?"
Taking advantage of the situation, "I think it does not stop there, right Choutarou?"
Choutarou just bowed his head to hide his face.
"You don't have to hide,
you know that. Don't worry about it, I knew it for sometime
now."
"I hope you'll never despise me as your friend."
"I am not that shallow. I know what you feel runs deep, Choutarou. Deeper than what you thought. It takes for more than just mere comprehension to understand what you really feel. But, as I have said earlier, your acceptance of this marriage will most likely revert your senses back to reality. It is really up to you whether you want to fulfill your duties as the heir and next head of your family."
"I made him promise… to not to forget. Everything will be the same just like before even after my marriage. We will still be best friends."
"How sure are you of this?"
"It's Ryou we are talking about. When it comes to loyalty and trust, I know he will never fail me."
"I see. Always remember this Choutarou; we just only destroy ourselves when we try to hold on to something that is meant to leave."
"What do you mean by-"
"Master Keigo, the meal is prepared. Sir Ryou and Miss Aiko are already there."
"Then, let's go Choutarou. We should not keep them waiting."
Second time that day, Keigo was salvaged from explaining to them the things that isn't worth discussing since why do you have to point out things that is blatantly obvious? What have I done in my past life to be accompanied by dense people?
The meal was fine. Nothing too extravagant (by Atobe's standard) and nothing to complicated. Aiko seemed to loosen up somehow. And Choutarou and Keigo have Ryou to be thankful for. They both wondered what he has done to make her feel at ease. And it seems that she is more determined in getting to know Choutarou. Time flew by and the small picnic is almost over.
Ryou is feeling some disturbing pain in his chest- not again, he thought. He is pleading to all the deities up above to hold this attack for just a few minutes. Just enough time to address Choutarou and Aiko good bye. He knows Keigo is more than willing to offer him shelter for the night. He just has to survive the remaining time before they bid good bye.
Keigo feeling the discomfort of Ryou looked at him calmly, trying to convey his questions through one look. And Ryou responded a rather distressed looked which sent warning signals to Keigo to do something. Ryou is now having a coughing fit. And it sounds like uncontrollable, beyond the repair of just drinking water. Choutarou is eyeing Ryou with concerned eyes. He approached Ryou and tried to soothe him by gently rubbing his back. In ordinary times, this would have been comforting and relieving.
Ryou continued to cough until the not so foreign taste of blood lingers his mouth. He tried to cover his mouth tight and tried to remain conscious so as not to raise any hint regarding his condition. Keigo eyed Ryou warily and tried the best that he could to ease the situation. He led Aiko to the receiving area telling her to look at the new painting collection of the family which was recently bought in France. Aiko giving Ryou and Choutarou a worried glance approached them with concerned –filled eyes.
"I'm fine Aiko-san, I will just stay here for a while." Ryou managed to answer Aiko's concern. Then he looked at Choutarou who never left his side.
"Go ahead, Choutarou. You don't want to miss the new paintings Keigo bought from France."
"I'm sure Keigo will generously offer another time for me to see those paintings. Aiko, I will meet you in the receiving area. I will accompany Ryou here to make sure that he is alright."
Stubborn as always, Ryou thought, he tried to wash down the taste of blood and gulped large amount of water to push the pain aside, even for just a few minutes. He has to get this pretention over with. He has too, he does not know for how long but it needs to be fast.
"I'm fine Choutarou; let's accompany them to the receiving area where the carriage awaits." Ryou said while standing up. If one looks closely, one can see how much tension and pressure he is putting in his arms. He tried to walk slowly making it look like he is enjoying the view, but the truth is, he cannot manage to walk fast because he is dizzy. To make things more normal, he placed his arms around Choutarou's shoulder and tried to mess his hair.
"You silly brat, worrying over nothing!" Ryou said while giving off a casual laugh. He noticed that Choutarou is still worried and concerned whether he is fine or not.
"You don't have to worry, I am fine." Ryou gave him his reassuring look which earned him a smile from Choutarou.
The paintings are a truly marvelous sight, and Keigo did not waste anytime in explaining the paintings he just invited them there to distract everyone from Ryou. The carriage is there after a few minutes. While Aiko is riding the carriage, Choutarou gave Ryou a questioning look.
"Are you not coming with us, Ryou?"
"You go ahead, I will be staying here for the rest of the day since I have nothing to do at home. I decided to skip what I have to do at work and just resume tomorrow."
"I see. See you tomorrow then."
"Yes, see you tomorrow Choutarou."
The doors of the carriage closed. Keigo and Ryou are waving goodbye.
"I nearly thought Choutarou
will know all about your illness, Ryou."
"I'm telling you,
not in this lifetime."
The carriage began to move, moving towards the entrance of the estate.
Ryou cannot hold it any longer and began his coughing fit again. Keigo held him by the shoulders for support but it seems not enough. They both fell onto the marbled floor. Ryou continued coughing until blood was trickling down his chin. Keigo was shouting for help and soon faces where surrounding them. None of them he knew, most of which where servants of the house. But there was one face that was mortified and stricken with fear, a face he knew so well… Choutarou.
