Seiji's Love Letters

Chapter 14 – August

Dear Shiharu,

It is so good to have you back after you sprained your ankle. The twins were frantic about not having you around. It was only a few days but it seemed like forever. That was the reason that we stopped by the institute to check on you. When we knocked on the door, Hayami-san told us you were not there. We were surprised when you came out onto the balcony to talk to us when you heard Aoi-kun and Akane-chan's voices. I was so relieved to see that you were okay but I was also irritated that Hayami-san lied to me. Your bright smile dissipated the irritation over the lie and soothed my anxiety over not seeing you.

Dinner on the porch and fireworks were a fun way to welcome you back. Although I don't like the way Takeru hangs around all the time, I have to admit that you have had a positive influence on him. Before this he never would have admitted that the mess in the backyard was his fault. And then he surprised me again when he apologized for frightening Akane-chan with the fireworks. Thank you for putting her at ease and helping her overcome her fears.

Your frantic behavior really surprised me when Takeru brought out the pictures from the trip to the pool. I tried to lighten the mood with a little humor but that's not exactly my strong suit. I didn't mean to embarrass you when I commented about your cute swimsuit. All I could think about was how adorable you were in the photo. I can't help wondering if I said or did something inappropriate. Please be patient with me as I navigate these feelings that I have for you.

Thank you for allowing the twins and me to accompany you to visit your parents' graves on Obon. I had several reasons for making the request. First of all, I want to be there with you this year. I remember last year you took the day off from the daycare and babysitting. When we found you waiting for us when we came home, I could tell that you needed us to be there for you. Then there is the opportunity for Aoi-kun and Akane-chan to learn about Obon and how to behave. When Aoi-kun and Akane-chan go to live with their grandparents they will be able to visit their mother's grave. For myself, I wanted to pay my respects to your parents' for all that you have done for me during this past year. I also wanted to know where your parents' graves were so I can speak to them before I declare my feelings for you.

I had not anticipated the necessity of comforting you in the presence of your parents but I should have realized after last year that you would be feeling loss more than usual this year. In the past it was the loss of your parents but this year that is coupled with the impending loss of the twins as they move to their grandparents' home in Shizouka. I know the news that the parents of the twins' mother would be taking custody of them really affected you, despite how you try to hide it. You care so deeply for Aoi and Akane that is it no surprise their eventual move to Shizouka will grieve you deeply. This move is the best situation for the twins and I know you understand that. However, I also know you are attached to them and it hurts you to know that things will change dramatically soon. I feel responsible because it is basically my decision about the twins that is the causing part of your pain. Please let me be there for you through all the changes that are coming.

Speaking of changes coming, I can't believe that Takeru came to me asking for advice about love. I guess it should have come as no surprise after all the happened with Rio. I told him that there were a lot of signs of being in love with a girl, like wanting to be with her as much as possible, doing things to make her smile, and thinking how everything she does is "right." Through the whole conversation, all I could think about was you. How I ached to show you how much I love you. The depth of my feelings caught me off guard. I was relieved when Aoi-kun interrupted us and Takeru left. I can only wonder when Aoi and Akane are going to be asking these same questions about love.

Summer is quickly drawing to a close and school will be starting for you soon. I hope we can have more fun and outings before time becomes short.

Love, Seiji