Alright! As promised, here is the second part of the previous chapter. Warning: this is Takumi all the way! I hope you enjoy it!
Aquamarine6996 - Haha, don't worry. Good things come to those who wait. Trust me, the wait will be worth it.
Guest1 - HAHAHAHAHAH! I love your Little Mermaid comparison. So close and so far... Get ready for an even more adorable chapter filled with Takumi!
The Keeper of Worlds - I am glad you enjoyed the Takumi part. You're going to love what's coming next. Im also glad you enjoyed Zoe's dream because, as you said, it may play a key part in the end of this story later on, which... I agree... will be beyond awesome! :D
Ok, so be ready for a long chapter that's worth reading. Here it is! Chapter 12!
CHAPTER 12: Memory Lane (Part II)
TAKUYA'S POV:
We spent all day going from place to place. I wanted her to experience everything again. I started off by taking her to our old school. I managed to get us inside, and we took a stroll down the halls, lockers, fields and classrooms. She smiled as I told her stories about different things that happened in several spots; like the first time Kouji met Rika. He accidentally bumped into her and made her drop her books, and Rika was outraged. They started this argument that seemed to attract everyone in the school. Those two hated each other. Or did they? They have such a weird love-hate relationship. There was a tree in the backyard where we all used to sit around and talk for hours. Jasmine was always blabbing about her dates with Kouichi, Rika kept arguing with Kouji about everything, JP kept telling us he wanted to invite out Miki but didn't know how and Zoe and me used to talk about pretty much everything. There was also that time Zoe came to watch me play in our soccer championship final. She came to every game of the season, but that day she gave me her favorite locket for good luck. I put it inside my pocket and I scored the winning goal thinking about her, secretly dedicating it to her. Those are the moments that I will never forget.
We then took a tour of our old homes. I pointed out where everyone lived and even brought her to my place. My mom, dad and Shinya were all glad to see her again, but she didn't recognize them. She was very kind to them though and she got along with my mom perfectly. Of course, my parents have always loved Zoe. My mom always used to nag me on how she wants her to be her future daughter-in-law. Ha. I wish.
After my house, we took a walk to different places we all used to hang out at; like the mall, the park, a café and a poetry-reading club; which the guys don't know that I went to. If they did, they would probably laugh at me for life. I just liked going there because Zoe loved poetry and I enjoyed being with her. Unfortunately, none of these places triggered anything in her.
"Ok", said Zoe as we made our way back to the car. "So, where are we going next?"
I chuckled and shook my head. "Izumi Orimoto, haven't you learned anything? I'm not going to tell you until we get there!"
She turned to me and put a puppy dog eye face. "Pretty please?"
I couldn't help but laugh. "Oh, no! Don't go flashing those eyelashes at me little lady!"
"Pleeeeeaaaaaseeee, Taki! Just give me a hint!"
"Nope."
Zoe sighed and sank into her seat in defeat. "Ugh… fine. You're impossible."
"Nah. I'm just awesome", I responded teasingly.
She rolled her eyes and let out a laugh. "Don't be getting a big head now, your goggles won't fit."
I laughed and handed her the bandana. "It's time."
ZOE'S POV:
A few minutes later, we arrived to our destination. As we entered the room I felt Takuya's hands beginning to untie the bandana from my eyes.
"Here we are", he said.
I opened my eyes and gasped. It was a big lounge with black beanbag chairs all around the place. There were also couches towards the wall where a couple of people were. To the left, I could see a bar with several tall chairs. In the center, there were chairs and tables pointing towards the big stage in the back. The stage had a microphone in the middle and there were spotlights pointing towards it. There was also a DJ person in the corner of the stage and a big screen in the wall.
"Oh my god," I said. "This is the karaoke place from the video!"
Takuya was smiling and nodding at me. "Glad you remember. Come here, follow me."
He took my hand and led me deeper inside the lounge. We made our way through the people and found an empty table for two near the front. We took a seat as we finished watching the last seconds of the person who was performing.
"I'll try and see if they have an opening for us", said Takuya as he stood up from the table.
My eyes widened and I quickly took him by the wrist before he could go anywhere. "Wait, what?"
"I'm going to see if they have someone next so we can give it a try."
"Ha! Ok, that is so NOT happening!"
He gave a puzzled frown. "What do you mean?"
"Takuya, I'm not singing up there!"
"Why not?"
"Because! Are you crazy? I… I cant!"
He took a step closer towards me and took my hand into his.
"Z, don't be afraid. You heard the video. We sound incredible together. There's no need to be scared."
"I know but… I don't know how I got the nerve to do it that time."
He smiled at me and kissed my hand. "You did it because you can. You are brave enough. With a voice like yours, there's no need to be scared. Others should be feeling intimidated."
He chuckled, which made me join him. He then took his hand and brushed his thumb across my cheek while he gazed deep into my eyes.
"Don't worry, Z", he said, "I'm here. I won't let anything happen to you. Just trust me."
With that, he took my hand and led the way backstage while he talked to the DJ. I could feel my hands shaking, but Takuya's presence kept me calm. Every time he looked at me, all my fears vanished.
"Ladies and gentlemen," said the announcer, "give it up for our next performers: Takuya Kanbara and Zoe Orimoto!"
The crowd started clapping as we went on stage. I closed my eyes and let my ears be filled with music.
**Playing A THOUSAND YEARS PART 2 by CHRISTINA PERRI AND STEVE KAZEE **
[ZOE]
The day we met.
Frozen, I held my breath.
Right from the start,
I knew that I found a home for my heart beats fast.
Colors and promises.
How to be brave?
How can I love when I'm afraid to fall?
I turned to face Takuya who was smiling at me reassuringly. I couldn't help but smile back as I continued.
But watching you stand alone,
all of my doubt suddenly goes away somehow.
[BOTH]
One step closer.
He took a step towards me and turned my face towards him. He gazed deep into my eyes and smiled as he started singing the chorus.
[TAKUYA]
I have died everyday waiting for you.
Darling, don't be afraid I have loved you
for a thousand years.
I'll love you for a thousand more.
He then gave me one last smile and took a small step back. I was shaking. He had me completely under his spell right now.
[TAKUYA]
Time stands still.
Beauty in all she is.
I will be brave.
I will not let anything take away
what's standing in front of me.
(He pointed at me as he said this)
Every breath, every hour has come to this.
[BOTH]
One step closer….
[ZOE]
I have died everyday waiting for you.
[TAKUYA]
Darling, don't be afraid I have loved you
for a thousand years.
[BOTH]
I'll love you for a thousand more
And all along, I believed I would find you.
Time has brought your heart to me.
I have loved you for a thousand years.
I'll love you for a thousand more.
The crowd went wild. They were already all on their feet as the chorus and the music picked up. Takuya and I, however, couldn't part our eyes from each other. A sudden rush took over my entire body. He took a step towards me and came even closer to my face.
[TAKUYA]
I'll love you for a thousand more.
He smiled at me and we took a step even closer as we prepared to sing the last verse of the song, our faces now only inches from each other.
[BOTH]
One step closer.
When the song came to an end, people were going crazy. I could hear people cheering, screaming our names and even some whistles going around. However, I had my full attention the boy in front of me. He and I were still standing there, gazing at each other despite the song having ended. It almost felt as if we were the only two people there. I have definitely never had this feeling before.
We soon realized we were standing there for far too long. So we finally gave each other a last smile and began to walk down the stage.
"You were amazing, Z!" he said, taking me into a big embrace as we made our way out.
"Me? What about you? That was incredible!"
He smiled shyly and his cheeks went pink. "We just make a pretty good team."
"That, we do", I said, not being able to wipe the smile from my face. "I mean, that rush for singing in front of people is incredible! I never thought I would be able to do that!"
He chuckled. "I told you it was going to be great. I remember how much you loved to come here and do this with me."
I smiled again and turned my gaze down.
"Thank you for doing that."
"Like I said, anytime."
We gazed at each other some more, but I decided to break the silence.
"So… I had an amazing day Takuya."
"Me too. But it's not over yet."
I looked at him puzzled and raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"
He laughed. "I still have one more place I want to take you to. You'll see."
We went back to the car and I was blindfolded again. It started out pretty nerve wrecking for me to not being able to see where we were going. But as the day went by, I could feel myself start to enjoy it. This boy had managed to surprise me countless times in just one day. Whenever I thought I was having the time of my life, he came up with something even better. He made me feel so special. No way was he the guy Hiraki described. He was caring and sweet, not a monster.
Minutes later the car came to a stop and I knew we had arrived, since Takuya killed the engine. I heard his door open and close again. Then, my door opened and I felt Takuya's hand pulling me out of the car gently.
"We're here?" I asked.
"Not quite. It's a bit further down, but we can walk there."
He took my hand and led me down a path. I could smell the ocean somehow. Were we at a beach? Yeah, I think. The sound of the waves is undeniable.
"Ok," he said stopping all of a sudden. "You can take off the bandana."
I did as I was told and slowly began to open my eyes. What I saw next stopped me dead on my tracks. We were at a small hill at one of my favorite beaches of all times. My parents and I used to come here all the time whenever we visited Japan. The view was spectacular and you could see the city nearby. In front of us was also a beautiful ivory blanket extended on the floor. There were two pillow cushions and two plate settings. There was a large basket in the middle and a burning candle in front of us.
"Oh my god", I said as I put a hand over my mouth. "Takuya…"
"Surprise", he said while flashing me one of those smiles. "I hope you're hungry because we're having dinner here."
"H-How did you do this?"
He chuckled. "The guys helped me set it up. I texted them from the karaoke bar and told them we were on our way. I waited for them to tell me it was all ready while I drove around in circles. Do you like it?"
"Like it? I love it! Thank you!"
He smiled and nodded. "Come one, let's sit."
We took a seat on the cushions as he opened the basket. There were so many things there. He took out a bottle of red wine and two glasses and a covered plastic container with some delicious-looking lobster risotto inside.
"Oh…" I said.
Takuya turned and looked at me. "Is something wrong?"
"No. It's just that… ok this is embarrassing." I was turning pink now.
He put his hand on top of mine and smiled. "Come on, Z. You know you can tell me anything."
"I just… In my head I'm sort of still that thirteen-year-old girl and… um… well… I guess I am not used to… drinking wine."
I was expecting him to laugh at me or seduce me into drinking some like Hiraki did, but he just smiled and nodded.
"I understand. That's why I brought you this, just in case." He took out my all time favorite soda.
"Wow! Thank you, Taki."
"Anytime."
We sat there and ate our food for what seemed like forever. We talked and laughed for hours as he told me stories about our adventures together.
"Takuya, can I ask you something?"
"Of course."
"Ok so… this has been bothering me ever since I found out and I guess I haven't had the nerve to ask anyone about this."
"You can ask me anything", he said as he put his hand on top of mine once again.
"Well… since you were there… what… how did my parents die?"
He stood silent for a minute and gazed down. He finally let out a sigh and gave me a crooked smile. "I figured you would ask about them sooner or later. Well, we were all at the park one day after school. It was getting sort of late and we decided to walk home. We were all together and, since your house was closest to the park, we were dropping you off first. But, when we got to your house…" I could see that he was getting nervous. He dropped his gaze and sighed once again. "We saw that the door was open. You thought it was strange since your parents never really did that. We decided to go inside because we had a strange feeling that something was wrong. When we got to the door you called for your parents but no one was answering. We searched around the house and finally found them in their room. Only… they were both really hurt."
I could feel the tears starting to form in my eyes.
"Do you want me to stop?"
I shook my head. "No. I need to hear this."
Takuya sighed and hesitated, but he decided to continue. "They were in the floor, covered in blood. Between breaths, they told us they had been attacked by a man who had robbed them. The man apparently got scared and shot them."
My tears were now running down my cheeks. I could feel a lump on me throat and I was visibly shaking. Takuya noticed and took me into his arms.
"Your parents loved you, Zoe. They told you this before the passed on. We all made a promise to them that we would take care of you no matter what."
I gave him a half-smile. "Thanks, Taki. You have surely kept your promise. It just hurts that I feel like I didn't get a chance to say goodbye."
He nodded. "I know. You just have to know that they loved you and would do anything to make you happy."
"You're right. I wish this wasn't happening, though. It sucks not being able to remember all of those memories."
"Zoe, memories are not in our minds. They're in our hearts. You suffered from a psychological disorder, but that doesn't mean you can't feel that those moments aren't real. They are real if you want them to be real. Hasn't it happened to you that all day you've seen and heard things from me and can't help feel as if you were living them?"
I nodded. "Yeah."
"That's because that I know you still have some emotional connection to those memories. You're thinking with your heart and not with your head. That's what's important."
"You're right", I smiled and put my hands on top of his. "You've been so patient with me, Takuya. I really appreciate it. I don't know how I would do this without you."
Takuya smiled and brushed my cheek with his hand. "You would because you're that strong. But I'll do anything I can to keep that beautiful smile on your face."
I smiled once again and we turned to watch the horizon once again.
"You want to hear something?" I said, interrupting our silence.
"Always."
"I've been having the strangest dreams lately."
"Oh, really? What're they about?"
"Well. I'm not sure. It always starts with me running away from something. It's strange. I am in the middle of the woods, not know where to go, until a voice starts talking to me. It's a woman's. She tells me to trust the nature around me."
Takuya was now listening intensively. He nodded and signaled me to go on.
"Well," I continued, "the first time, a beam of light shined past me as if it wanted me to follow it. Then snow and thunder began to happen around me, but brought me comfort instead of making me afraid. Finally, I arrived into this dark cave, but the voice told me that darkness could be my friend sometimes. Inside the cave, there was a big flame shining in the middle of the room with…"
I stopped. Oh God.
"With what?" asked Takuya, his tone very intrigued.
"Well", I was blushing like crazy. "Your face appeared among the flames."
His eyes widened. "Really?"
"Yeah… I know. It's stupid."
"No, no! Not at all. Please, continue."
"Well, after that there was a gust of wind that surrounded me. But it felt nice. I felt safe. And then, the second dream, I was in the woods again running away from something until I saw a bright-lighted area. I followed the glow and got to this place roamed by strange creatures. There were several of them, and then two came up to me. Their names were something like Bokomon and Neemon. Something like that."
Takuya's eyes had gotten bigger. He must think I'm crazy.
"What happened after?"
"Well, five other larger creatures came up. They called themselves the Legendary Warriors. There was the warrior or thunder, ice, darkness, light and flame. I guess they were the ones that helped me through my first dream. All of a sudden, Kazemon came into the picture. I recognized her from the drawing you guys showed me. It turned out that she was the voice I'd been listening to all along. She was protecting me or something. She asked me if I had forgotten everything. When I went to ask her what she meant, I woke up. But ever since I woke up, the necklace you gave me hasn't stopped glowing."
I went to take out the necklace from beneath my shirt and showed him the glowing pendant with the symbol of wind on it. Takuya had his eyes wide and his mouth was hanging open. He definitely thinks I'm a crazy person.
"I'm sorry," I said between awkward laughs, "you must think I'm insane."
Takuya took my hand and leaned closer. "Never. I think you need to keep an eye on these dreams because I'm sure they mean something."
I laughed. "Right."
"I'm serious."
I turned and faced him. His face was straight and he was looking at me. He wasn't kidding. "Oh… yeah maybe."
Just then, my phone rang.
"Excuse me", I said as I searched for it on my bag. I saw the caller ID and realized it was Hiraki calling.
"I should get this."
Takuya nodded and I pressed the 'answer' button.
"Hello?"
"Zoe? Where are you?"
"I'm… near a beach. Why?"
"I need you to come home now. I have something to show you."
"Oh… ok, I'll be there soon."
I ended the call and saw Takuya staring at me, a hurt look on his eyes.
"That was Hiraki… I need to go."
He tightened his jaw and looked upset, but then he shrugged and smiled at me. "Of course. Come on, I'll take you home."
We got to Hiraki's apartment ten minutes later. He parked his car in front of the house and I turned to see him staring at me with a smile.
"I had a really good time today, Takuya. Thank you."
He smiled at me and nodded. "I'm happy you had fun. I enjoyed every second of it."
"Well, good night." I started getting of the car, only to be pulled back by Takuya, who had grabbed my wrist gently and dragged my body closer to him.
"Z", he said. "I don't want to be too pushy and I know you might have plans already, but… do you think we can hang out again tomorrow?"
I smiled and nodded. "Of course we can."
He smiled and pulled me in even closer. He kissed my cheek lightly and then pulled away.
"Sweet dreams, Z."
"You too, Takuya."
I got out of the car and made my way up to Hiraki's apartment, but not before I saw Takuya drove off once I was inside the building. I can't believe how amazing he is. He made this day the best day of my life by far. I can't help it. I'm falling for him. I didn't want to go. I have to tell Hiraki. I can't be with him anymore. In such a short period, I feel like I can trust Takuya like no one else. I can feel electricity run through my body every time he sees me.
I opened the door and was shocked to see what was in front of me.
"Oh my God! Hiraki…."
Oh, oh. What did Zoe see? Has her new discovered feelings for Takuya do anything to change her mind? Does Hiraki have a trick under his sleeve? Will she ever regain her memories? FOLLOW/FAVE TO STAY TUNED WITH THE NEXT CHAPTER!