I have never been this motivated about a story since "Love is Painful". And as always, I was giggling like a crazy person whenever I saw a review appear XD
Thank to the people who reviewed chapter 9:
Rain'chi
xhappily-randomx
Kelii-chan
Aznprid3x3
Amuto-4eva
S
DeathGirl742
sakuita
breeze on a moonless night
xxALICExCULLENXX
animedprincess
AnGeLXLoVe
oxCuteKataraox
babo123
Kikopie88
sylvanicara
Dark Midnight Dream
kool495
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Soccerluver04
JeaSen-chan
N e k o S o d a
Shokora 'N Strawberries
Kitty cat
Sparklillian
MW
End of List
Thank you so much for your support :) I have been motivated and I like to thank you again for the support you are giving me in your reviews :)
Also, I noticed that a couple of you said last chapter was like Special A. I was well aware of that. I noticed that when I had the whole idea mapped down but I was like "Screw it. I'm using this plot in my own way and making my readers happy." XD But I didn't intend to copy Special A. There, end of story.
Here is chapter 10 of "Crossing Paths". Enjoy! =D
X-x-Flashback of chapter 9-x-X
I leaned my head back so our heads won't be touching but it seems that Ikuto won't accept that. He used his right hand to push my head onto his. My face flushed. Yea, call me strawberry face, cherry face, any kind of face that has something to do with dark red. But isn't it natural? As much as I hate to say it, Ikuto is hot and we're foreheads and noses are touching. Our lips were an inch away on top of that!
"Do you remember the bet we had yesterday?"
"Y-Yes."
"What I want is…"
My breath hitched. It was sorta like the moment of truth or something. I wonder what it is… Even if he's sick, he has the ability to make me do whatever he wants. He could make myself me embarrass myself. Maybe he wanted me to be his slave for a week? Grovel before his feet? Run around Seiyo Records singing "Mary Had A Little Lamb"?
"…to have you for one full day."
X-x-End of Flashback-x-X
She Is Found
Amu's POV
"…to have you for one full day."
…He's kidding, right? Our eyes locked and I could tell he was serious.
"Ikuto, you're sick right now so you might have said your wish wrong. I'll give you one more chance to say it again. It's not your fault that you're sick. I understand." Well, it sorta is since he should've taken care of himself more but I was the one he caught it from. And maybe he's hallucinating.
"I'm not joking." His intoxicating breath lingered on my lips. "I want you to stay with me for one full day."
I didn't blink. I couldn't. It's like he won't let me. And I was flabbergasted by his statement. He wants me for one day? I have never seen anyone do this. The Ikuto I know would make me do embarrassing things to no end but this? So unexpected.
"F-Fine. But Ikuto, in order for you to get well, I have to give you medicine. Will you get off of me, first?"
"No." His hold on me tightened and he pressed me even more down. "Stay here with me."
"Y-You're not going to get better at this rate! Get off, Ikuto!"
He didn't budge.
"Tsukiyomi Ikuto!" Still no response. Was he asleep? I called his name again and he didn't respond. I took this as a chance and got my hands free and pushed him all the way off of me. Luckily for him, this was a king size bed so even if he rolled away, he wouldn't land on the floor since the bed is so wide.
"Mission accomplished!" I proudly whispered to myself. Let's see…when I was sick, what was the first thing my mom did?
Change my clothes.
I became tomato face again. Does that mean I have to ch-change Ikuto?!?!?!
I looked over at him and he was in a deep slumber. I shook his shoulder.
"Ikuto, can you change into clothes yourself?"
No answer.
I sighed with a blush on my face. I guess I'll have to do this by myself…
I went over to Ikuto's closet. I picked out some pajamas. A button up shirt with some pants. I grabbed a big bowl and filled it up with cold water. I grabbed a new wash cloth and soaked it with water. I headed back to Ikuto and inhaled deeply. Then exhaled. Here goes…!
"Ikuto, I'm going to change your clothes. And if you're thinking I'm a pervert, I'm not. I'm doing this for your own good," I explained, even though I knew he wasn't conscious enough to hear what I'm saying.
I started to pull Ikuto's shirt up and I saw his well-toned six pack. I couldn't help but brush my fingers over his abs. I pulled it up even more and saw his…um…nipples.
Ok, Amu. Get those perverted thoughts out of your mind. You're not going to let Ikuto influence you so stay focused on the real task: getting Ikuto changed.
"Um, I-Ikuto? Could you lift your arms up? I can't take this shirt off." Of course, talking to someone who's snoozing won't help. I lifted both of Ikuto's arms and I held it up with one hand. Well, I tried. My hands weren't big enough so Ikuto's arms kept falling but I managed. I tugged at the shirt and it finally came free from Ikuto. Yes!
I took off Ikuto's shoes and socks and tossed them on the floor. I became Miss Strawberry when I undid the button on his jeans. I pulled the jeans off from him and saw his black boxers and a...bulge. I then became Miss Cherry. I really need to cleanse my mind.
I took the cloth and squeezed it until most of the water came out. After that, I wiped his face, arms, and his other body parts. I managed to put his pants on and I buttoned up his shirt.
After all that, I dashed down to the first floor and stepped into the kitchen.
His kitchen was amazing. It had ample room and the dining room was mixed with the kitchen. The mahogany dining table was stationed on the right side of the room. The main appliances of the kitchen sat on the left. There was a stainless refrigerator…(I opened the door of it) without much food. Just some milk, eggs, fish, and some vegetables and meat. The cabinets were empty and startlingly, it was clean without a trace of spider webs. The stove was stainless steel with assorted pots and pans. In addition, there were multiple sets of silverware. Everything here is so clean…does Ikuto cleaning the house on a monthly basis or something?
Ugh…I forgot about something else. I came down here to get medicine but I got sidetracked. Let's see…Ikuto can't eat pills so liquid medicine will have to do. Does he have any though?
The refrigerator door burst open and searched for flu medicine. Luckily, I found a bottle with red liquid inside. I grabbed a spoon and a cup or lukewarm water and raced back to Ikuto's room. I set the items down on the nightstand.
"Ikuto. Ikuto!"
"Five more minutes…"
I giggled quietly. Even if he's asleep, he's still like a kid. "No, Ikuto. Up. Now. You have to eat your medicine to get better. I brought the liquid kind since you might not want to swallow pills at the moment."
I helped Ikuto up (he finally got up) and I got him right side up. He leaned against the pillow I just put behind him and exhaled deeply.
I poured the medicine onto the tablespoon and moved it to his mouth. "Open your mouth, Ikuto."
"No." He turned his head to the side.
"What? Why?"
"I don't want it from the spoon," he answered, as if I just asked the obvious.
"Then what do you me to use?"
The playful smirk I haven't seen in awhile appeared. "Your mouth."
Blood rushed up to my face. "You pervert!!" But seriously, is Ikuto high on crack or something when he's sick? Maybe he's bipolar. "Are you really sick?"
"Wha?" he asked, dazed. I sighed. There's no getting through this guy. "Whatever. Just eat the damn medicine." I forced the spoon in his mouth and he swallowed. I gave him the warm water to rinse his mouth of the aftertaste of the medicine.
He lay back down with his head on the pillow. I snatched the wash cloth from the bowl of water and squeezed it. I folded it into a rectangle and placed it on top of Ikuto's head. I fixed the quilt and he was snuggled in comfortably.
Now that Ikuto is tucked in and has eaten his medicine, I can explore his small mansion right? Plus, I needed to work on my music. I turned around to leave.
I couldn't. A hand gripped mine and I turned around with an annoyed expression on my face. What could he want this time?
I dropped my expression and replaced it with wide eyes.
"Stay with me." His expression was unbelievable. I have never, ever seen Ikuto's face like this. His eyes were sad and solemn and not a hint of a smile or smirk was on his face.
"…ok." I pulled a chair up but Ikuto stopped me.
"Sleep in the bed with me."
My hair flared out. What did he just say?? Now I was really worried about Ikuto. He's never like this. Well he is perverted but still… What the hell happened?!
I did as I was told and sat on the bed on his right side. I kicked my shoes off and went under the covers. At that moment, something warm enveloped my waist. Will I get sick again if he keeps on clinging to me? Nah, I don't think so. I already had the flu but I don't want to catch it again.
But I was also wondering about something. I was blown away by his face. It was the saddest expression I have ever seen of him. But then I thought, "Where are his parents?" Does anybody accompany him here? Isn't he lonely living alone?
I stroked his head. "Ikuto, aren't you lonely living by yourself?" I wonder if that's why he's so closed and keeps his emotions to himself.
"Not really," he responded. Was that the real truth or a lie?
"I don't know how you live like this… Where are your parents?"
He didn't say anything. I sighed. It's always going to be like this, isn't it? Questions with no answers. I decided to let this go…for now. But I then remembered what I should do.
"Ikuto, I don't mind you hugging me like this," Actually, I mind a lot. "But I have to buy some ingredients for some soup after you wake up. Will you please let me go?" It's true. When he wakes up, he'll most certainly be back to his perverted self.
He only hugged me tighter. "No. I get to have you for one full day so you can't leave."
I sighed. I don't think I can get out of this. "Fine."
His hold tautened. "Good."
For about 10 minutes, I rested on the bed and thought about today. Ikuto is definitely weird when he's sick and possibly delirious. I stifled a yawn. I must be getting really tired from taking care of Ikuto. A short nap won't hurt…
I woke up and bright sunlight poured onto my eyes. Ah, it's so bright! I turned to my right to check what time it was. It read 1:00. I turned to my back and saw Ikuto in a deep slumber. I took this as my chance to escape to the supermarket.
After I got out of the bed, I put my shoes back and darted down the steps. I grabbed my bag but stopped. How was I going to go to the supermarket? I can't walk there because it'll take more than half an hour and if I do, I have to walk back with the groceries.
An idea came and I began scouring for Ikuto's keys. I went back up the stairs to check in Ikuto's pockets and found the set of keys. There were about 6 or 7 keys.
And a key that matches my Humpty Lock.
A million questions formed in my mind. Why does Ikuto have a key that matches my lock? How did he get it? Is there a connection? What does this mean? Should I ask him about this?
I hopped into Ikuto's car (very nice by the way) and drove to the supermarket. Ikuto's refrigerator needs serious help. How can someone live like that?
I went in through the automatic doors and grabbed a shopping cart. Time for some shopping!
I grabbed many things at once: eggs, fruit, vegetables, drinks, salt, sugar, and much more. But I really shouldn't get that much since it's only for one person.
"Amu?"
My hand with some Tylenol suspended in midair as I turned to my right. Even with my disguise on (yes, I wore a hat and sunglasses), she saw through me. "Utau?" Utau was wearing jeans and a black blouse with a French beret but no sunglasses. "What are you doing here?"
"Replenishing my food supply. You?"
"Same here."
"That much food? You shouldn't get that much since it might rot away."
"It's not for me, actually. It's for a friend."
"Who?"
Should I tell Utau that I was taking care of Ikuto? I just had this bad feeling if I did tell her that. "Um, no one. But enough of that, I have a question for you." I have been thinking about this too: Is Utau a sibling of Ikuto? She was in the photo with Ikuto and Utau looks a lot like the woman in the picture above Ikuto's bed. Plus, "Onii-chan" told me to take care of Utau. Could that "Onii-chan" be Ikuto?
"Ask away."
"Are you…related to Ikuto in any way?" My voice came out in a whisper.
She didn't move nor speak. She stood there with a blank expression and slightly larger eyes than before.
Ring! Ring!
Utau got her phone out of her jean pocket and answered it. "Hello?" I heard murmuring from the other line. "Right now?" More talking. Then Utau turned around so her back was facing me. "If it's a challenge you want then I accept." Even if Utau was turned around, I could sense a smirk. "Fine, but be prepared to lose." She closed her phone but didn't turn my way. "Sorry, Amu. I have to go." And she dashed away.
"Wait!" But of course, she didn't stop. My question leaves unanswered. Is Utau the sister of Ikuto?
I opened the door and placed the load of groceries on the kitchen. I went to Ikuto's room to check up on him and he was still sleeping. I guess he's really tired.
I stashed the food away in the cabinets and refrigerator and some extra utensils and plates away. Now he won't starve at least.
I made some chicken soup for Ikuto since he'll be hungry when he wakes up. I sat on the table reading a magazine to pass the time while waiting for Ikuto to wake up. I yawned. I didn't realize I was so tired! I stretched my arms and placed my head on top of my crossed arms on the table. A little nap won't hurt…
Ikuto's POV (this is like a flashback but in Ikuto's POV. I thought you might like to see what Ikuto was thinking the whole time ^^)
The pain was unbearable. Maybe some fresh air will help…
I climbed out of my bed and got some clothes on. I went down the stairs and out the door without bothering to lock it. I couldn't. I was too dizzy.
It's probably because I didn't get so much rest or something…yea, that's it.
I went to the park and slumped against a big tree. Luckily, not many people were here.
I think I'll just take a quick nap… Who knows, maybe I'll get better.
My eyes stayed closed for who knows how long. My slumber was rudely interrupted by something shaking my body.
"Ikuto! Wake up!" Could it be? I lifted an eyelid open and groaned due to the pain I was feeling all over my body.
"Ikuto, wake up. Ikuto!" I opened my eyes fully and gazed into the honey pools of the girl I love. "Good, you're awake."
"Amu?" My voice came out as a small whisper.
"Yea. What's wrong?"
I started coughing once she said that. Ugh, this is not good… "I *cough* don't *cough* feel so *cough* great."
"Yea, I can kinda see that."
She then placed her hand on my forehead. "You're burning up!" But I wasn't paying attention to what she said. I was enjoying her cool hand on my burning head. It felt really nice…if only Amu did this more often. I felt her hand going away. No! I stopped her with my right hand.
"Your hand feels nice *cough* against my skin." I didn't care what she thought. My body is all sore and I can't think straight. One disadvantage to a fever is that I can't think clearly. I'll do things that I may not want to.
"We need to go somewhere. Let's go to the hospital." The hospital? I don't need to go to the hospital. And it'll just cause commotion. Did she forget that we're famous? She was about to stand up but I stopped her.
"It's just a cold. There's no need to make such a huge fuss over it." I wish Amu won't worry about me. She's wasting her time worrying about me when she can be doing better things.
"And a fever. Ikuto, you need to rest! And I don't think sleeping here will help." She looked really worried. I wish she wouldn't. It makes me feel bad.
"It will help if you stay here with me." At this point, I didn't give a crap if I said anything that might embarrass me or about that I love her. I really don't care anymore. I don't want to hide my feelings for Amu that has laid dormant in my mind for as long as I can remember.
"Ikuto, where is your house?" Why can't I just stay here? I groaned, obviously not happy that I have to go home. I want to stay here with Amu's cool hand on my forehead.
I saw her get her cell phone. I closed my eyes. I was so, so tired.
I picked up bits and pieces of the conversation. I heard her say Nagihiko. Is she going to get him to drive me to my house?
I decided not to pay any more mind. I'm just going to go to sleep…but I felt someone petting my hair. And I heard Amu say, "You're going to get better, Ikuto." With her at my side, I feel better already.
I closed my eyes and began to dream…
X-x-Dream-x-X
"Hello?" I answered. I remember this. I was walking from school years ago.
"It's Utau."
"What do you want, Utau?"
"Did you hear?" That's strange. Utau would usually say "That's so mean!" or "How can you be so cruel to your sister?" Something must be up.
"Hear about what."
"Amu."
"Amu? What happened? Is she hurt??" Alert became visible in my tone.
"Mentally hurt. Ikuto, her parents died." …what? How? Why? When? Where? How is Amu coping with this? "Her parents were involved in an arson incident yesterday." Her voice cracked at the end and she started to sob. I was speechless. Amu's parents were nice and kind-hearted. When it came to Amu's future career and education, they became strict.
"How is Amu holding up?"
"It's terrible, Ikuto!" She continued to sob and cry. "It's like she's a living corpse! She's not eating or drinking and she is refusing to do anything but just lay down on her bed." My fists clenched. Amu…how did this happen? Everything was going smoothly for you but now this… I want to just hug you right now. "And Ami, her little sister, is crying of course but her condition is not as worse as Amu. Oh, Ikuto, Ami's just a little girl! She's four and that's way too young for a person to experience someone dying. And Amu is just my age! What should we do?!" I forgot that Amu had a little sister. I saw her when she was a little baby.
"Utau, calm down." I had to calm down myself. Amu's hurt and I can't do anything about it!! …Or can I? "Where are Amu and Ami staying?"
"For now, they're staying at our house. Will you come back?" Her tone became hopeful at the end.
"I'm not sure. I'll try but I don't know if I can."
"You have to Ikuto! Everyone misses you and…Amu needs you."
X-x-End of Dream-x-X
I woke up to a sudden jolt. I saw Nagihiko and Amu in the front. It seems like I'm in his car and man, my head hurts like hell.
But I almost forgot about that conversation from long ago. If it wasn't for Utau to remind me of everything that happened, I would've forgotten.
"…not a close friend." What are they talking about? Who's not a close friend?
"Girlfriend?" Nagihiko spoke.
"O-Of course not!" I felt my heart tear in two. Sure, I know she doesn't love me—or at least since April when I met her again—but it still hurts to hear it said out loud.
"I was just thinking that maybe you guys are going out since you two seem so close. Ikuto isn't that social with no other person than us and you. Heck, I think he talks more around you than us. We're his guy friends but he rarely opens up to a girl." Sorry, Nagihiko. That's just the way I am. And do I really talk more to Amu than to my other friends?
I decided to go back to sleep. Man, when you're sick, you can really sleep when you close your eyelids for one second.
"…to? …you awake?" Who could be waking me up now?? Can't I get a few hours of sleep without interruptions?
Unwillingly, I opened my eyes and looked at my surroundings. I was in my house and Amu was supporting me with her arm. When did I get in here? "Amu?"
Relief overtook her expression. "Can you walk?" Can I walk? That's a very good question…
"I'll try."
I took baby steps up the stairs.
"You're doing great, Ikuto." Man, I feel like a little kid! But can't I just rest a bit? I feel like I'm going to faint on the spot…
My foot slipped when I was halfway up the stairs. Oh, shit!
"Whoa!" I heard Amu cry.
Ugh, I have to maintain my balance…but I can't! I'm just too weak at the moment… I'm sorry, Amu.
Arms then wrapped around my waist, holding me up. Is Amu holding me up? My chin was resting on her shoulder. I turned to my right and saw Amu's face. I breathed heavily. Thank you, Amu.
"I-Ikuto, we're almost there." She pushed me away—much to my disappointment. I really wanted to just stay in her frail, yet sturdy arms. I began climbing up the steps.
She dragged me to my bedroom and kicked open the door. She then stopped. What was she stopping for? I noticed her looking at the picture frames. Amu, look at that later! I really need to go my bed and rest…
"Unn…" Hopefully that got her attention.
It did. "Ah, sorry Ikuto! I was looking at something. I'll put you to bed right away." Good. Sadly, I have a dizzying spell. My whole head was spinning and my whole world was spinning. I rocked back and forth and eventually toppled over Amu and onto the bed. I heard Amu say something but I was much too dizzy. I couldn't even see her clearly!
I then felt something touch my forehead. I opened my eyes to see what it was and Amu's forehead was touching mine. A blush made its way and onto her face.
The lightheadedness faded. Was it because of Amu's touch? For some reason, I feel better when Amu makes contact with me. She's like my Tylenol or Advil.
She leaned back but I used my right hand to push her back to me. I don't want her to go. I love her and I don't want her to leave! I also don't want to lose her touch… I suddenly had an idea.
"Do you remember the bet we had yesterday?"
"Y-Yes," she stuttered, obviously blushing.
"What I want is…" I saw her breath stop. She looked anxious. Don't worry, it's not that bad. Well to me it isn't. "…to have you for one full day."
She gaped at me. After a few moments of silence, she spoke. "Ikuto, you're sick right now so you might have said your wish wrong. I'll give you one more chance to say it again. It's not your fault that you're sick. I understand." Are you freaking kidding me?? She actually thought I was joking??
"I'm not joking." I blew hot breath onto Amu's lips. "I want you to stay with me for one full day."
She didn't blink nor talk. She just…stared at me. Is she that surprised? She finally broke the silence. "F-Fine. But Ikuto, in order for you to get well, I have to give you medicine. Will you get off of me, first?"
"No." I pushed her down further, if that was possible, and hugged her tighter. "Stay here with me." I nuzzled my nose in the crook of her neck and eventually fell asleep.
"…to. Ikuto!"
"Five more minutes." I really need to sleep. I heard her laugh quietly.
"No, Ikuto. Up. Now. You have to eat your medicine to get better. I brought the liquid kind since you might not want to swallow pills at the moment."
She helped me sit up and leaned against the upright pillow. I exhaled slowly.
"Open your mouth, Ikuto." I saw her move the spoon towards me.
"No." I turned my head away. I don't want to eat the medicine.
"What? Why?"
"I don't want it from the spoon." Despite me being sick, I always enjoyed making Amu blush. This is a perfect opportunity and who knows, I may feel better after this.
"Then what do you me to use?"
I smirked. It's been a while since I last did this. "Your mouth."
She blushed 10 shades of red. Mission complete. "You pervert!!" I then felt the pain coming back. "Are…lly…ick?"
"Wha?"
I heard her sigh. "Whatever. Just eat the damn medicine." She shoved the spoon in my mouth. I'm actually really saddened. I wouldn't mind mouth-to-mouth feeding…
I lay back down and I felt a wet cloth on my head. That felt really good. She arranged my quilt so I was comfortable.
I saw her turn around to leave. Panic welled up inside me. No! Don't leave, Amu! I did the first thing that I thought of and seized her small hand. She turned around, noticeably aggravated. She then replaced her facial expression with wide eyes.
"Stay with me." I put on the saddest look I could muster. I don't want Amu to leave. I don't want to be alone. I want Amu by my side. I don't want her to leave my side.
"…ok." She grabbed a chair but I stopped her with my next sentence.
"Sleep in the bed with me." Her face turned red but she did as she was told. She laid down on my right. I hugged her, content in this position.
She patted my head and asked me something. "Ikuto, aren't you lonely living by yourself?"
"Not really." That was half true. I actually like living by myself but I often want someone to accompany me during some nights.
"I don't know how you live like this… Where are your parents?"
I didn't answer. Amu will find the answer soon enough. In fact, she already knows the answer. She just doesn't know that I'm the son of them.
"Ikuto, I don't mind you hugging me like this." I smiled to myself. "But I have to buy some ingredients for some soup after you wake up. Will you please let me go?" I don't care about that Amu! I don't want food—I want you.
My hold tightened. "No. I get to have you for one full day so you can't leave."
She sighed, knowing she lost. "Fine."
"Good," I said.
We just laid there, our bodies touching. This is a good time for a nap…
X-x-Dream-x-X
Amu, Utau, and I were in the park. Utau brought our camera to take some pictures. Amu was wearing a cute pink sundress and sandals. She had two X clips tying up two mini pigtails. Utau was wearing a white dress. For myself, I had on shorts and a T-shirt. It was summer—July to be exact—and we were playing the scorching heat.
"Utau! Could you take a picture of Onii-chan and me?"
"Sure, Amu."
Amu dragged me to a spot under a huge tree. "Stand right here, Onii-chan!" The little girl stood on my right and wrapped her arms around my waist. "Say cheese, Onii-chan!"
Utau took the picture but she did look a little mad. That's to be expected of an overly protective and obsessive sister. If it was with another girl, Utau would've exploded.
"Utau! Could you take one more?"
"Ok, Amu, but I want a picture with Ikuto!"
"After this. I promise." Amu had a wide grin planted on her face.
"Okay fine. Ready, on the count of three. 1…2…" Amu wrapped her arms around my neck and her soft tender lips touched my cheek. My mouth hung a bit open. I was shocked. "…3!" A flash appeared. Utau just took a photo of Amu kissing me. Utau's mouth went to the ground.
"Amu…!" Utau threw the digital camera at me and I caught it before it reached the ground. I looked up and saw Utau chasing a squealing, delighted Amu. I looked at the camera and saw the first picture Utau took of Amu and me.
Amu had her eyes closed with the biggest smile and I had a subtle smile.
I went to the second picture.
Amu had her eyes closed and if you look closely, my face was a bit red.
X-x-Second Part of the Dream-x-X
"Ikuto! You really came back!" Utau jumped on me and I fell to the ground. "Stop doing that, Utau!"
"Ikuto!" I looked up to see my two parents—Tsukiyomi Aruto and Tsukiyomi Souko.
"How is she?" I asked, straightforward. I saw tears develop on my mother's face. I became frightened. Is it that bad?
"Come this way, son." I pried Utau off of me and I followed my father to the guest room. He opened the door and my heart broke from what I saw.
"Amu…"I whispered. I slowly began walking to her. Amu was hugging her knees to her chest and she rocked back and forth. You could see tear stains on her cheeks. Her hair lost its shine.
"Amu," I spoke, louder this time. She didn't look up.
I turned towards my father. He said, "She's been like this for a week." I averted my gaze back at Amu. I sat down in front of her so I was facing her. She still didn't look up.
"Amu."
She finally looked up and my sapphire orbs met her glassy eyes. Her eyes have lost its radiance that I still remember years ago. Where has the Amu I loved gone?
"Who…are you?" she asked, in a voice that I don't recognize.
Her question pierced my heart. "Don't you remember me? You always called me "Onii-chan" when we were little."
"Onii-chan?"
"Yes, Onii-chan. Don't you remember me? I'm Ikuto."
"Wakaranai…wakaranai…"
"Amu, you must remember me. How can you forget??" How can she forget me?
"Wakaranai. Wakaranai! Wakaranai!!" She pressed her hands on her head and ducked her head.
"Ikuto." I turned my head and saw my father with a solemn expression. "Amu is traumatized. On top of that, she fell down on the streets headfirst. The doctor said she had a slight case of amnesia. It also doesn't help that she's in trauma. So she may not remember you… She doesn't remember half the stuff Utau and you did with her when she was little! The doctors aren't exactly sure what exactly happened in her head…"
I had my head down low. She forgot about me? But how? "Could I have some time alone time with Amu?"
"Of course."
He shut the door and let us be. Amu looked at me with a blank expression.
"Amu," I started. "I'm very sorry to what happened to you." I held her to my chest. Her knees went down so I held her as close as possible. "Even if you don't remember me, I'll always be there for you no matter what." One single tear fell down my face. "I just want you to know that I love you." I turned my head to the left and kissed her cheek. But I tasted a wet, salty substance. I pulled myself back and looked at Amu.
She had tears trickling down her face. "Amu…" I noticed that her eyes received some of its sparkle back.
"Onii-chan…" My heart filled with hope. Did she remember me? "I don't remember him." My hopes shattered. "But I feel like he's important to me. But…" She brought her hands to her head again. "I…just can't remember him!!" She bowed her head down low and concentrated. "I'm trying but my head hurts whenever I try to remember anything!"
"Then don't."
She looked up at me. I don't want to see Amu in pain. I'm happier when she's happy.
"Onii-chan isn't important. Forgetting him might be better." Another tear slid down my face.
X-x-End of Dream-x-X
I woke up and reached for Amu.
Except she wasn't here.
I sat up and the cloth fell from my head. I glanced towards the clock. It read 2: 48 p.m. This time, I didn't feel any ache in my head. I was just hungry and sore. I got out of the bed and looked down.
I smirked. Amu changed my clothes. That perverted little kid.
I took my time going to the kitchen. But where was Amu? Did she really leave? But she promised that she would stay with me for one full day…
I don't know why I didn't remember Amu when I saw her hanging out with her friend in April. I guess a part of me doesn't want her to feel pained when she sees me or tries to remember me. Another part is that I want to forget. I was afraid she might reject my feelings.
I started my journey down the sinuous staircase.
I thought it might be easier if Amu and I had a fresh start. Utau promised she wouldn't get in the way and would keep it a secret.
I reached the doorway of my sanitized kitchen.
But deep inside, I didn't want a fresh start. I didn't think Amu would love me and I promised to myself that I will make her fall for me just like when we were little.
I found my target. Hinamori Amu. She was sound asleep with her head over her arms on the table. She must be cold. I grabbed a blanket from the living room and placed it over her. I sat down on a chair, right across from her.
I can't take it anymore. I miss her hugs and kisses. I want her. I need her.
I used my hand to move her hair out of her face. I stroked the side of her face tenderly.
I want her to be mine. I want to make her blush. I want to tease her.
Her eyes fluttered open.
But most of all…
"Ikuto?"
I want her to be happy.
"Hi."
"Are you hungry? Wait 5-10 minutes. I'll reheat the chicken soup."
She went to the stove and turned the knob to high. She then took a thermometer (where did she find that?) and held it in front of my mouth. "Open your mouth." I obeyed and she stuck it in my mouth, under my tongue. We stayed like this for about a minute when we heard a beeping noise. She took the thermometer out and scanned the results.
"38.1 degrees. Still sick but better than before." (A/N: That's 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit.)
"I guess."
We sat quietly for the next 5 minutes. All you could hear were birds chirping. I stood up to get something for Amu to eat since she has been taking care of me. But wouldn't she have gotten something to eat already? But being the polite person she always was when it comes to these things, she may not have eaten.
I opened the fridge door.
"Holy crap."
"What is it?" she asked urgently.
I turned around and faced her. "What the hell did you do to the refrigerator??" All the shelves had food. Even the sections on the fridge door had some.
"Oh, that. I refilled your fridge because it was almost empty. Did you know that you only had milk, fish, eggs, and a little amount of meat and vegetables!"
"So?" I replied. Who cares if my refrigerator is overflowing with food? I can survive with what I had before. Amu's exaggerating.
"So? So?? Ikuto, you need healthy food and enough of it each day! You can't skip meals or decide to eat fish everyday! That's why I filled it up."
"Amu, you're overreacting. I've been able to live thanks to my 'empty refrigerator'. Besides, I can't eat all this. It'll go spoiled before I even eat half of it!"
"Well, I thought someone else might be living with you."
"Someone…else?" Did Utau tell Amu about us??
"Yea. Well, I'm not exactly sure. You have a room with purple walls and a desk filled with music items. I assumed someone was living with you. Or maybe it was a guest room. Besides, your friends can help you eat it all up."
I sighed. I'm happy that she doesn't know about Utau and me but I can't believe she went and did that! It's way too much food and how much was it anyways? "Thanks, I guess. How much was it?"
"It's on me. You don't have to worry about it."
"Amu. Tell me the price," I slowly spoke.
"I told you, it's on me!" she protested.
I smirked. If she wants to be stubborn, I'll just have to break her defenses. I strode gracefully to her and loomed over her, our faces just two inches apart. Her face immediately reddened.
"I'll ask you again. How much was it?"
"I-I told you. You don't have to pay for it!" She leaned back but I simply moved with her.
"Don't think you can get away. Just tell me the price."
"N-No! I-Ikuto, I t-told you. It's fine."
"I don't think so."
"Ikuto—oh hey, look! The soup's done!" She ducked under me and scurried to the stove. Damn. And I was so close!
"Here." She set a bowl of steaming soup in front of me. I sat down and she sat down right next to me.
"Thanks. And I'm going to make you tell me the price."
She stuck out her tongue. "Not a chance."
"I will." I resisted the urge to kiss her. Her lips were just so tempting…it doesn't help that she had her tongue sticking out as well.
I inhaled the aroma of my food and I sipped it from the spoon. "It's good."
"Glad you like it." She smiled widely. I looked down at my food and a glance of my arm. Aha…
I lifted my head up. "Amu."
"Hmm?"
"Did you change my clothes?"
Her face became flustered. She turned many, many shades of pink and red. I smirked. I just love teasing her.
"N-N-No. O-Of course n-not!"
"Your face doesn't say that."
She groaned in irritation. "Ok, fine! I did. There, happy?"
I smirked. "Did you like what you saw? Especially down there." I know she will call me a pervert. That's what I love about her. She makes me happy. I don't care if she calls me a pervert—well, sorta but I have to admit, I am one.
"Y-You are the biggest pervert I have ever met!!" See? What'd I tell ya.
"I know." My Cheshire grin appeared.
She sighed. "You'll never change will you?" Did I see her smile for a second?
"Of course not." I drank the last of my soup. "Did you eat anything yet?"
She nodded.
"Well, what do you want to do?"
"We are doing nothing until you are 100 percent better. Got it, mister?"
Here I am in my bed when I could be doing other things. But no, Amu has to act like a mother and tend to my fever. But I'm not complaining about the second part. I like—no, want—her to stay with me and heal me with her mysterious powers. I don't think a normal person can have their fever drop by a couple of degrees in just hours.
Amu was about to leave when I grabbed her from behind. She let out a shriek and fell on the bed with my head right above her. "You said you would stay with me, Amu." She madly blushed and repositioned herself. She lay down under the covers as I hugged her close to my chest. She was facing me so it was much better this way.
"Is this really necessary?"
"Of course."
I closed my eyes while Amu was singing a song.
I know there's something in the wake of your smile
I get a notion from the look in your eyes, yeah
you've built a love but that love falls apart
your little piece of heaven turns too dark
"What song is that?"
"A song I just composed a couple of days ago."
"Where did you get the idea?"
"Well, I had a dream one recent night. There was a little boy and I was around 6 or something." I froze. "I don't know who he is or how he looks like but I feel like…I have loved him in some way." My heart melted.
"Do you remember how he looks like?"
She shook her head. "All I know is that he had a violin with him and he kissed my forehead." Her face turned red. I remember that day…
"Sing more. I like it."
She giggled. "I'm glad you like it but that's all I have. I'm going to brainstorm some more or start another idea."
"Don't. I like the tune you were humming."
"Thanks." She smiled. I closed my eyes again and I felt her stroke my hair. I fought back the urge to kiss her. How much longer must I wait?
After a few minutes, I heard deep breathing. I opened my eyes and saw Amu sound asleep. I smiled. She looked like an angel…
I caressed the right side of her face.
"Amu, you really are the girl who I truly love."
I moved a bit to get more comfortable and hugged Amu tighter and my eyelids closed…
Amu's POV
My eyelids fluttered open and I saw Ikuto's face just an inch away from mine.
"Eep!"
Ring tone.
Where is my cell phone? I tried to move but Ikuto strapped me to him very tightly and protectively. I forcefully moved his arms and succeeded. I got out of bed and snatched my phone from my bag. Huh, it's 12:43? We slept for about 7 hours?
I checked in my inbox and found one unread. I opened it up and almost dropped my phone.
Hinamori-san, we have found her. We have some bad news, however. Please come to the police station ASAP.
Tears streamed down my face. I was overjoyed. I turned back to Ikuto. What was I going to do about him?
I scribbled a note down and placed it on Ikuto's pillow. I brushed some hairs from Ikuto's face and sighed. "I am so sorry…"
Ikuto's POV
I woke up to a sudden chill. I reached forward for Amu.
But she was not there.
I snapped my eyes open and sat up. Amu was not here. I looked at the clock and it read 2:30 a.m. I then noticed a piece of paper lying on the pillow where Amu's head was. I picked it up and it read:
You probably know I'm missing since you found my note, right? I am so sorry but I had to go. I know I didn't stay for 24 hours with you and I'll make it up to you someday but not soon. I know that much.
Although you're really perverted, you're really caring and nice on the inside. Because of that, I trust you with a secret I'm keeping from everyone. I just found out at midnight when I received a text message. Ikuto…
My sister was found.
End of Chapter
Translations:
Wakaranai - I don't know
AH! That took a long time! And you readers better be grateful because I'm missing two-thirds of the season finale of "One Tree Hill" to finish this chapter since I can't another day.
Hope you enjoyed that and I'm sorry if Ikuto was OOC or there were plot holes but I'm really tired!And this was a long chapter too. But don't expect long ones for the next chapters. I may shorten it to 15 pages at the max for the other chapters (excluding author's note and such). I'm not sure. Let's see what will happen.
And I'm DEFINITELY updating "Unexpected Love" next cause it's been more than three months!!
Review? :D
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