Author Note: Thank you to everyone for your comments and support through the years. I apologize for the long wait! I hope that it won't be too hard to recall what happened previously.
Please note this chapter touches on aspects we don't really know about Takahashi Ryousuke, therefore I hope I managed to somewhat keep him somewhat true to his original character.
Without further delay here is the next chapter.
Chapter 37: Decisions
Ryousuke made sure Mitsu got safely in her car. She gave him a small wave then pulled out of the parking stall. He followed her to the exit of the lot and watched as she turned right to head home.
He turned his car left. He wasn't sure where he was going, he just knew he needed some time before heading home. He was feeling... He wasn't too sure what he was feeling.
Mitsu unlocked the door and stepped inside. Her mind was still wondering where Ryousuke had gone to. Usually he followed her most of the way home and then fell back and went to get fuel for his car or something.
She sighed as she headed up the stairs. Her quiet nights out with Ryousuke usually occupied every corner of her mind and her being, but tonight that overwhelming concern that someone had seen them together had been there floating between them as well.
Takahashi Emi had said that they would not force her and their son into an unhappy marriage. But if she had found out that they were secretly spending time together, would she and Fujimaro-san change their minds?
She sighed again. She had been giving into her desires and her emotions too much lately. And so had he... Takahashi Ryousuke... There was so much more to him then people realized. So much more...
"Mitsu-chan, are you ok?"
Takahashi Tsugumi was in the hallway staring at her with concern.
"Hello Tsugumi-chan. I'm fine. Finished all your home-work?" She reached the top landing with a smile.
"Not quite. I have a trig problem."
"Want some help?"
"Do you mind? Ryousuke hasn't come home yet." Her head tilted to the side slightly as a look of curiousity took over her features.
"I don't mind. Let me put away my things and I'll come to your room."
"Ok!" She took one last look at the young lady and went back to the room that was reserved for her for when she came over.
Mitsu went to her room to drop off her jacket and purse. She looked at the wall separating her room from Takahashi Ryousuke's. She shook an unknown feeling away and went straight to the teenager's room.
The girl was sitting at her desk.
"So let's see this problem of yours." She sat in the chair that was always present in her room for when Ryousuke came to help her.
Tsugumi pushed her textbook towards the young lady, "Number 22. Mitsu-chan?"
"Hmm?" She read over the question.
"Were you with Ryousuke?" She asked softly.
Mitsu froze. Was there any point in denying it? Tsugumi knew what had happened between them anyway, "I was." She looked at the teenager, "Tsugumi, have you told anyone about, umm your cousin and I?"
She shook her head, "Ryousuke asked me not to. Is something wrong?"
"No, I... I was just concerned that someone knew."
"Would it be so bad if people knew? I think everyone would be happy for both of you."
Mitsu didn't say anything. She stared at the math question. Would it be so bad to be with Ryousuke... To have everyone think it was the bethroval that made them come together. And that seemed to go against all she believed in. Freedom to choose.
"Mitsu-chan? You look angry. I'm sorry."
"Oh no! I'm not angry at you." She offered her a smile, "It's the bethroval that's all."
"Do you love him?"
Mitsu's breath caught in her throat. Love?
Tsugumi suddenly laughed snapping Mitsu from her shocked state.
"Mitsu-chan you are so smart and pretty, I don't understand how you can be so... clueless about relationships."
Mitsu frowned, "I've never actually been in one."
Tsugumi stopped smiling, "Never? Not even in high school?"
The older of the two blushed, "I was always so busy."
"What about university? Isn't the first year supposed to be a lot of fun?"
Mitsu smiled, "That's what I heard." She shrugged, "I was busy my first year."
"And you're still busy. No guy friends that turned into more?"
Mitsu shook her head.
"So..." Tsugumi seemed to be thinking some things through, then her eyes lit up, "Ryousuke's your first!"
"I think we should get to work on your math problem." She tapped the text book.
"Maybe that's why your parents set you up with Ryousuke. I mean sure your dad and my uncle were best friends, but maybe your parents thought you would always be so busy that you wouldn't even have time to open yourself to meeting someone. And they saw someone responsible in my cousin and thought he could take care of you." She laughed, "They probably thought the same thing about Ryousuke too! He's always busy." She paused a moment, "You have helped him."
Mitsu remained silent.
"Are you mad?"
Mitsu turned to her, "I'm not mad at you Tsugumi." She sighed, "I just don't know. It's frustrating." She glanced at her watch. 30 minutes had already passed. He wasn't home yet.
"You're waiting for him."
"No I'm not."
"Really?" Tsugumi was skeptical.
The two girls stared at each other, then burst out laughing.
"He's usually back by now." Mitsu stated looking at the text-book again.
"And this is not worrying about him huh?" She laughed.
"I think it's time we study!" Mitsu nudged the teenager.
"Ok ok. You guys are all about the books." She leaned forward to look at the problem then suddenly turned to Mitsu, "And about each other." She added.
"Anyway... So tell me the basic things that are important in this question?" Mitsu attempted to refocus the teenagers attention away from her relationship with Ryousuke.
It wasn't until a couple of hours later when Mitsu was getting ready for bed that she heard the FC coming home. She sat propped up in her bed with her book listening. Waiting.
It took him longer than usual to come up to his room. What had he been doing? She waited as he entered his room. She could no longer hear him. She turned to the book. What was she doing? She was letting him take over every aspect of her life!
Concentrate.
Read.
His door was opening again.
She froze. There was no knock on her door.
Something was different. The overwhelming aura was different.
Subdued...
She closed her book and placed it on the night table before laying down. What had happened?
No! She had to stop thinking about him so much. She was getting too sensitive to him. She reached over to turn off her bedside lamp and pulled the covers snugly around her.
Sleep, sleep, sleep.
Ryousuke made his way back downstairs. He went to the kitchen and poured the tea that he had prepared and carried it over to the TV room.
"Keisuke."
"Aniki! You're back." He was looking back over the couch. He watched as his brother came around and also sat on the couch.
Keisuke watch curiously, "Don't you have to work tomorrow?"
"Aa."
"And you're here. With me. Watching TV?"
"Aa."
Keisuke frowned, "What is it Aniki?"
"I wanted to watch some television."
"Really? I can't remember the last time you wanted to watch TV."
Ryousuke remembered perfectly the last time he had sat here watching TV. And Drinking... Mitsu-chan had appeared. He had been trying to get her out of his mind and yet she appeared and seemed to swamp his mind and swell his emotions. He shivered as his body recalled the feeling of her hands on his back...
He got to his feet and started for the mini kitchen, leaving his tea on the coffee table, "Would you like a drink Keisuke?"
"Hai." Keisuke didn't think much about it until his brother returned with the Sake.
Ryousuke poured them each a small cup then immediately took his and downed the drink with a grimace.
Keisuke's eyes widened with familiarity, "Aniki?" his voice was hesitant.
"Hn." He poured himself another cup.
"Why are you drinking? You don't even like it!" Keisuke exclaimed picking up his own cup.
Ryousuke did not reply. How could he tell his younger brother that he needed something to take the edge off? He lowered his cup to the table and leaned back. He moved to glance at his watch and remembered he had left it upstairs in his room, "What time is it?"
Keisuke glanced at his watch, "Almost 11."
Ryousuke nodded and reached for his tea. He quickly finished it and picked up both his mug and sake cup, "Good night Keisuke."
"Good Night Aniki." The young man watched as his brother left the entertainment room.
**** The next afternoon.
"Hey, how was work?" Hyobe asked pulling open the door of his workshop.
"It was fine." He watched Hyobe shut his door and lock it.
"So now can you tell me where we're going?"
"Back to the shop."
They entered the FC.
"What do you mean?" Hyobe strapped himself into the bucket seat.
"I've changed my mind."
Hyobe turned to stare at him, "You changed your mind?" He watched his friend start the vehicle and start down the drive, "I see. It has something to do with Mitsu-chan." The only time he had ever seen his friend change his mind like this was when it had to do with her, "Well would you mind if we just stop off at the shopping center quickly anyway? My Mother wanted me to pick something up for her."
"Aa."
They turned onto the street.
"Everything go ok today?"
"Aa."
"So what happened with Mitsu?"
"Nothing."
"But you changed your mind? Or rather she changed your mind." Hyobe chuckled, "You should just marry her Ryousuke. I don't think you're going to find anyone else like her." He turned to look out the window.
"I know. I was."
Hyobe turned on him, "You were!? Wait a minute, Past tense?"
His friend remained silent.
"So you were planning on marrying her."
"I was planning on ending the uncertainty."
"About what?"
Ryousuke turned into the shopping center's underground parking lot and started scanning for an empty spot.
"Uncertainty about what?" Hyobe repeated.
"What we are to each other."
Hyobe continued to watch him. Then he understood, "So you were going to propose to her and that would fast track if the two of you stay together or don't?"
"Hn." He signaled as he found someone vacating a stall.
"If that was your plan, what is it now? Back to the one you were on?"
"Hn."
"And what was that?"
Ryousuke hesitated after pulling into the lot and turning off the FC. He continued to stare straight ahead. He sighed.
Hyobe became concerned.
"We decided to just wait and see what happens. Either the attraction fades or one or both of us finds someone else."
Hyobe groaned, "You have completely lost yourself Ryousuke you know that? Your mind and your heart!" He passed a hand through his hair, "I've never heard such an irrational and convoluted plan from you." His friend did not respond but continued to stare at the steering wheel, "You know she's perfect for you and you're still considering the fact that the attraction will fade or you guys are going to find someone else? That being said, at least one of you is going to be heart broken!" He shook his head a little angry, "Get out of the car. Let's go."
Ryousuke turned to him. Hyobe had opened the door and was climbing out. He turned to his own door and got out. He shut the door and armed the FC.
Hyobe had already started towards the shopping center entrance and he took long strides to catch up to him.
The two of them took the escalator upstairs to the first shopping level. Ryousuke didn't ask where they were going. He simply followed his friend. But when Hyobe zeroed into a specific store, he tensed.
As though he could feel his friend's discomfort, Hyobe slowed his pace and placed a hand on Ryousuke's shoulder, "I don't know what happened to make you change your mind about marrying her, but I'm not going to let you. You're being an idiot. And I'm not going to sit around and watch you destroy yourself." He nodded towards the jewelry store before them, "So we are going to go in there and in every single jewelry store here until you find Mitsu-chan a ring."
"Hyobe-"
"You love her. Marry her."
Both young men had stopped walking.
Ryousuke studied his friend. If he proposed, Mitsu-chan could say no. That was what they had both wanted. They had not wanted to go through with the betrothal. If they didn't plan for this to go any further, why were they allowing themselves to fall deeper? If it had to end, it would be better to end it now. The longer they stayed on their current path... Who was he kidding. He was already lost. It had to end. Proposing to her would put an end to their current relationship. He was sure of it now. Her reaction last night proved she was not in the same place he had reached. He refrained from sighing and nodded.
Hyobe smiled, "Come on." They continued towards the jewelry store completely aware that the closer they got the tenser his friend became.
"Welcome." A young lady said bowing, "Can I help you find anything?" She offered politely.
"Thank you. We are just looking." Ryousuke replied.
Hyobe met the young lady's smiling face and shook his head as he raised his left hand and pointed at his ring finger then nodding towards Ryousuke.
The sales lady's face brightened, "Oh! For him? Let me show you a few that you might find interesting."
Hyobe nodded and laughed when he saw the look Ryousuke was now giving him. He clapped him on the shoulder, "She really does tear down all your guards doesn't she." He stated as he led his friend towards the counter where the young lady had just retrieved a black velvet pad from beneath the counter.
Ryousuke stared down at the Sparkling Diamond engagement rings and suddenly he felt numb. These were engagement rings. He was contemplating marriage. No. Mitsu would not marry him. He blinked and looked up at the young woman.
"This is one of our most popular styles." She informed them as she slipped it on her finger to show the two men.
Ryousuke shook his head.
The salesgirl was undiscouraged and immediately took off the ring to show him another.
After several minutes, Ryousuke glanced at his friend.
He nodded and turned to the girl, "Thank you for your help, I think we'll keep looking around for now." He and Ryousuke bowed their heads politely and walked out of the store, "There's another one around the corner."
Ryousuke followed him silently as they walked into another store.
"Welcome gentlemen, is there anything I can help you with?" A woman who was older then they were approached them.
"Hi, my friend's looking for an engagement Ring."
A large smile appeared on the woman's face, "Well! Come in come in! I'll show you various styles we offer, some are unique to our store."
"Well she is a very unique woman." Hyobe stated glancing at Ryousuke.
The woman glanced at Ryousuke then turned to Hyobe, "Your friend is shy?"
Hyobe laughed, "No. He's just quiet." He placed a hand on his friend's shoulder, "And probably nervous."
The last statement earned him a glare. Hyobe only laughed.
The sales lady was smiling as she placed the velvet display pad on the glass counter-top, "Here are a few of our most sought after rings."
Ryousuke looked down at the rings. Nothing seemed like something Mitsu would wear. Then again, there was a 98 percent chance she's going to refuse him, so what did it matter what the ring looked like? He wanted to sigh. How in the world did he end up like this. He shook his head unconsciously.
"Not any of these, ok. Let me get you something different."
Ryousuke looked up, "I apologize I didn't mean they aren't nice." In fact he hadn't meant to shake his head in regards to the rings... He really was messed up.
Hyobe chuckled beside him.
The lady glanced up at him and smiled, "It's alright, I'll show you some that are less extravagant, but still quite modern." She returned with another tray adorned with sparkling engagement rings.
Ryousuke's gaze quickly gazed over the display and landed on a particularly simple ring.
The sales woman immediately smiled upon seeing his gaze stop, "This is a classic beauty." She pulled the ring from its holder and looked at the tag, "You do have good taste! Ideal cut and clarity, colour E which represent the top 2% of all diamonds. A very beautiful stone." She offered him the ring.
Ryousuke took the offered ring between his index finger and thumb. This was the one. He looked over at Hyobe and nodded.
His friend smiled and tuned to the sales woman, "I guess he'll take this one."
The sales woman smiled and began putting away the other rings. She came back with a small dark blue velvet box. She held it open so that Ryousuke can slip it into the box.
Once out if his possession he glanced at Hyobe briefly before looking at the exit of the store. He felt ashamed. Keisuke was right. What the hell had happened to him? All he could think of right now was getting away.
A heavy hand settled on his shoulder.
Ryousuke turned to find his friend watching him. He nodded and turned to the sales woman who had begun to create the sales receipt.
**** The next morning.
Ryousuke knocked on his brother's bedroom door knowing it would be in vain. He waited.
No reply. Was this even a good idea? He shook his head to push away his doubts and knocked again before pushing the door open slightly, "Keisuke."
There was a groan from the bed and as always Ryousuke took that as his queue to walk in. His brother's room still looked like a mine-field he thought as he made his way to his brother's bed. He grasped his brother's shoulder and shook him, "Wake up Keisuke. Get dressed and meet me downstairs. We're going out."
"Huh?" Keisuke lifted his head, "Out? Where?"
Ryousuke ignored his questions as he made his way over to the door again. He flicked on the lights and was rewarded with an unhappy growl.
"Aniki!"
"Get dressed." The older brother said stepping out of the room and closing the door softly behind him.
Keisuke flopped onto his back and rubbed his eyes before attempting to squint in the brightly lit room. He turned to look at his clock, "It's 6am on a Saturday damn-it Aniki!" He grumbled as he slowly got out of bed and looked for the first available pair of wearable pants and t-shirt. He grabbed his jacket off the chair and stepped out of the room.
He was surprised to see his Aniki leaning against the wall wearing his jacket waiting for him. He moved away from the wall.
"Do I have time to brush my teeth?"
Ryousuke nodded and reached out for Keisuke's jacket when his brother held it out to him. He sighed as his brother disappeared into the bathroom. He was glad when he re-appeared quicker than he had expected. He unfolded his arms and passed Keisuke his jacket.
"So where are we going?"
"Breakfast."
"Breakfast?" Keisuke repeated surprised as he slipped into his jacket.
Ryousuke nodded simply. He stiffened when Mitsu's bedroom door suddenly opened and a sleepy Mitsu clad in her gray cotton pajama bottoms and a light blue t-shirt stepped out.
"Morning." She said offering a tired smile.
"Morning Mitsu-chan." Keisuke said smiling at her
Ryousuke gave her a curt nod. He stuffed his hands in his pockets in order to fight the urge to brush her hair away from her face.
"You're going out?" She glanced at her watch then back at the two guys in front of her.
Keisuke nodded, "For some reason Aniki wants to go for breakfast." He glanced at his Aniki suddenly. He had not asked Mitsu-chan to join them. He was about to take matters in his own hands when his brother spoke.
"Forgive me Mitsu-chan," He bowed his head, "There's a matter I need to discuss with my brother."
Concern filled her eyes, "Is everything ok?"
Ryousuke nodded, "We'll be back in a couple hours if not sooner." He turned to his brother, "Let's go Keisuke."
"Ok ok." He glanced at Mitsu and shrugged, "See you later Mitsu-chan." He took quick steps to catch up to his brother.
He followed Ryousuke to the FC and got in, "It's been a while since I sat in your passenger seat." He looked around.
"Aa." Ryousuke nodded and started the engine.
"So where are we going?"
"The usual."
"Ok." He yawned and glanced at his brother, "So what did you want to talk about?"
"Later." Ryousuke's one word reply was final.
Keisuke frowned. Was something bothering him. He turned to stare out the window briefly then closed his eyes to concentrate on the feel of his brother's driving. It was just as smooth as he remembered it, with perfect clutch engagement. He hardly felt any sort of disturbance as he switched gears or made a turn and then he only felt it because he was so attuned to driving. A small smile filled his face. His aniki was still amazing.
"Do you ever plan to go back to the professional circuit Aniki?"
"Probably not. I've started my residency."
Keisuke looked at his brother in alarm, "Project D?"
"Will keep going until we achieve our goal." He glanced at Keisuke briefly. And until you are ready... He thought to himself. He turned back to the road and pulled into Family's parking lot. He parked the FC in one of the many available parking stalls near the entrance of the restaurant.
The brothers made their way into cozy restaurant. Only a few people occupied some of the more popular booths near the front widows.
"Welcome Takahashi-san." The waitress greeted a little surprised to see them this early in the morning, "Please choose any seat you wish." She bowed politely and stood aside for them to pass. Following them to the table they usually always sat at next to the windows near the rear of the restaurant, she passed each of them a menu, "Can I get you anything to drink to start?"
"Coffee." They both said at the same time.
The waitress smiled, "Hai. I'll be back with your coffee and to take your orders."
The brothers glanced through the menu quietly. Ryousuke was the first to place his on the table. He turned to stare out the window as he waited for his brother to decide.
"Well, I'm actually hungry afterall." Keisuke said lowering his menu. He looked at his brother, "So?"
"Not yet." Ryousuke answered as he glanced in the direction where the waitress was just coming back with their coffee.
"Here you go." She set the two mugs of coffee in front of them, "Ready to order?"
"Hai. I'll have breakfast combo two." Keisuke replied then looked over at his Aniki.
"Toast please."
"What would you like with your toast?"
"Lightly buttered thank you."
"Hai." She bowed politely and excused herself.
Keisuke leaned back in the booth, "Now?"
"After the food arrives."
The younger of the two looked at his brother worried. What did Ryousuke need to talk to him about that he had to ask him out of the house and that he kept putting off? His brother had always taken the most direct and logical approach. Why was he beating around the bush now?
"I don't want to be interrupted by our server when we talk." Ryousuke informed him as though he had read his brother's thoughts.
Keisuke frowned after the initial shock. How his brother knew what he was thinking never ceased to amaze him. Even if it was rather annoying sometimes.
Ryousuke sipped his coffee and stared out the window. He knew Keisuke probably wouldn't have any reservations towards him marrying Fukotomi Mitsu but he still felt a little uneasy. Perhaps it was because he wasn't used to sharing his deepest feelings with anyone.
He tried not to sigh. Then there was the decision to inform Keisuke about his intentions. It was unlikely that Mitsu-chan would accept him, but out of respect for his brother he had decided it was best to let him know about his intentions. He refrained from sighing again. At least once Mitsu rejected him, Keisuke would know why the relationship between Mitsu and himself had changed.
"Here you go. Thank you for waiting." The waitress had arrived with their breakfast.
"Thank you." The young men replied bowing their heads as they were accustomed to doing. No one could have ever called the Takahashi Brothers anything but polite. Of course Keisuke had had his moments of rebellion, but not many people knew about that aspect of his life.
"Please enjoy your meal." The waitress bowed and left them.
"It looks good." Keisuke said as he picked up his utensils and began cutting up his sausages. He took a bite and looked up at his brother who was diligently and evenly spreading butter over his toasted bread, "So now can you tell me what's going on?"
Ryousuke finished buttering his toast and lowered his knife. He glanced at his brother shortly before reaching to his side where he had rested his jacket and searched for something in his pocket. This was it. He hesitated when his hand touched the small velvet box. Maybe this wasn't a good idea. Why get Keisuke emotionally involved in all this? He glanced at Keisuke again. His Otoutou would never forgive him for not telling him of such a big decision. That was that. There was no other choice.
Keisuke watched intently as his brother pulled something out that was small enough to fit in the palm of his hand.
Ryousuke reached for his napkin with his other hand and dropped it into his lap. His eyes met Keisuke as he brought the napkin up onto the table again and slid it across it's surface towards his brother, "Don't get excited Keisuke."
Keisuke was intrigued as he reached for the napkin and pulled it towards him. His Aniki's hesitation had peaked his interest. What could stump his brother this much? He could feel a hard object concealed underneath. Excitement and confusion clouded his eyes as he brought it down into his lap. He glanced down as he lifted the napkin slightly.
A small dark blue velvet box lay in his hand.
His eyes widened and he covered it as he glanced up at his brother, "Is this...?"
Ryousuke motioned with his hand for Keisuke to check for himself. He watched his brother carefully.
His younger brother's gaze lowered again. Keisuke pulled the napkin with one hand and took hold of the small box with his other. He flipped the lid open carefully and right away a sparkling diamond solitaire glimmered back at him. Even in the shadow of the table, the precious rock shone brightly. He shut the box softly and covered it with the napkin before placing it back on the table and sliding it over to his brother.
Ryousuke was surprised to see the stern look on his brother's face. He pulled it back towards him and into his lap before moving to put the small gift back into his jacket.
When the small box was securely back in his pocket, Ryousuke again turned to his brother only to now see a frown on his face. Had he been wrong about his brothers feelings towards Mitsu-chan? A strange feeling was forming in the pit of his stomach. He reached for his coffee and sipped it to hide his anxiousness.
Keisuke watched in silence as his brother drank his coffee. When he decided he wasn't going to say anything, Keisuke cleared his throat, "Are you sure Aniki?" His voice was low.
"It's the logical thing to do."
Keisuke's gaze narrowed, "Logical?" He hissed.
Ryousuke looked up at him. Had he been badly mistaken about his brother's feelings?
"Logical? This isn't like one of your simulations Aniki! This is your life you're talking about!"
Ryousuke leaned back in the booth all emotions had vanished from his face. He had been wrong. This wasn't a good idea.
Keisuke recognized that look. His brother was quickly closing himself up. He sighed, "I don't understand."
His Aniki met his gaze, "I love her." He said softly.
Silence.
A large smile filled the blond man's face, "Ok!" He reached for his utensils again, "So when are you going to ask her?"
Ryousuke was taken aback by his brother's complete switch in demeanor, "Undecided." The tension seeped from his body only to be replaced by dread and sadness.
"She's going to go crazy over that ring!" He took a bite of his food, "When did you decide to marry her? We were getting worried you guys weren't getting anywhere!"
"A few days ago." He poked his toast with the knife.
"That was fast."
Ryousuke nodded simply and reached for his toast. He froze and looked up at his brother, "We?"
"Huh?"
"You said 'We were getting worried'"
It was Keisuke's turn to freeze. He looked up at his brother sheepishly.
"Who is 'we'?"
"Umm, well me and Hyobe and..." Keisuke mumbled the rest.
"Keisuke?"
The younger Takahashi cleared his throat, "Umm, you know just Satoro and some of the guys..."
Ryousuke crossed his arms, "Some?"
"Sorry Aniki! It just came up at one of the races!"
"Who else?"
"Matsumoto, Fumihiro, maybe Takumi..."
Ryousuke couldn't control the groan that escaped him. His hand went to his temples.
"If it makes you feel any better, they don't really know anything."
"You're being contradictive, Keisuke."
"They don't know anything for sure. Everyone's just kind of waiting to see if anything is going to happen between the two of you." Keisuke decided he was going to omit telling him about the small bet going on.
"I see. I assume it was Satoro who put the idea in everyone's head?"
"You didn't hear it from me."
Ryousuke nodded and picked up his toast and forced himself to take a bite.
Keisuke was relieved that his brother wasn't going to continue on the topic, "So you're ok that you've been promised to her?" Keisuke asked carefully.
Ryousuke chewed for a couple of seconds before he nodded.
"You're sure?"
"Aa."
"Alright then." He found it unnecessary to continue questioning his brother. If he said he was ok, then he was ok with it, "It's about time!"
Ryousuke chose to ignore his brother's comment. He returned the toast to the plate, "She may say no Keisuke."
"Doubt it." The younger brother stated as he continued to eat.
"Even so, respect her decision."
Keisuke looked up to study his brother, "She doesn't know how you feel..."
Ryousuke shook his head as he turned the coffee mug around in his hands, "No."
"So... How in the world did you come to this decision, if you're always studying or with us, the Redsuns or Hyobe? I've never really seen you guys together..."
The older brother took a sip of his coffee. He smiled, "That was the point."
Keisuke's eyes widened, "You're sneaky Aniki!"
Ryousuke shrugged and sipped his coffee. He turned to look out the window. Was this right? Keisuke looked so excited. What could he say so that he wasn't setting his brother up for disappointment.
"Aren't you happy Aniki?" Keisuke's voice cut through his thoughts.
He turned to his little brother and saw the concern in his eyes, "I'll feel better if you don't get too excited over this just yet Otoutou."
Keisuke frowned, "You're not feeling very optimistic about her answer are you?"
Ryousuke did let himself sigh this time, "I just don't want you to get all excited. And we're not saying anything to mom and dad just yet either."
"Ok..."
Ryousuke looked at his brother's concerned face, "Don't worry Keisuke." He smiled, "Things will work out whatever the outcome."
Keisuke wasn't convinced. His brother was going to propose because he had finally realized he was in love, but he was giving off hints that he was going to be rejected. How was he not supposed to worry?! Images of the past and of his brother racing at breakneck speed every night flashed in his mind.
"It's not like that Otoutou."
Keisuke met his gaze, "How do you know?"
"Because I have you, Hyobe, the Redsuns and Project D." He sipped his coffee, "Besides, a relationship was not exactly what I was looking for in the first place as you recall."
Was his brother down playing the whole situation? Or was he serious? He always had that serious look on his face.
"Is everything alright?" The waitress approached their table when she noticed they had both stopped eating.
Ryousuke turned to her, "Aa. We are fine. Thank you."
The waitress blushed and refilled their coffee cups.
"Thank you." Ryousuke bowed his head and she turned to leave.
Keisuke stared after the flustered waitress a moment then turned to his brother, "There's no way she's going to reject you." He declared and started eating again.
Ryousuke raised a curious brow.
"She likes you too much."
Ryousuke could only offer his brother a smile. He turned to look out the window. His gaze rested on his FC. Keisuke didn't seem to realize that liking someone just isn't enough.
**** Later that evening.
Mitsu pulled the dress over her head and down the length of her body. She turned and looked at herself in the mirror. Reaching back she pulled up the zipper as much as she could. She then tried to reach back from the top to get the zipper. No luck. She'd have to ask Emi-san for help. Mitsu walked to her door and pulled it open to peak out.
"Mitsu-chan?"
The young woman flinched and turned to the stairs where Ryousuke had just come up from, "Ryousuke-san."
"Is everything ok?" He asked raising a curious brow. She was standing hidden behind her door, peaking her head out.
"Yes. I'm fine." She looked down the hall and found the door open. Most likely Emi-san was already downstairs. She sighed and turned to the man staring at her in amusement, "I was actually looking for your mother."
"She had to go back to the clinic but will be back soon. Do you need something?"
Mitsu straightened and hesitated, "Umm..." She glanced at the empty hallway then pulled her door open and motioned for him to come inside.
Ryousuke stepped inside her room and she immediately closed the door. He turned back to look at her and his breath caught in his throat.
"Could you umm.. Help me with the zipper?" Mitsu asked shyly as she approached him lifting her hair and turning so her back was towards him. The room suddenly felt warm.
Ryousuke stood stunned a moment. The scent of Vanilla and Roses hit him as she turned her back to him.
"Ryousuke-san?" Mitsu turned slightly to look at him.
"S-sorry." He blinked and glanced down where the two sides of the silky midnight blue gown fell apart. The skin of her back looked smooth and pale in contrast to the dark material. He gently reached for the tiny zipper and slowly inched it up.
Mitsu closed her eyes. Did he have to go so slow? She felt one of his hand touch her shoulder as the other slowly pulled up the zipper. His breath tickled her neck.
Suddenly she felt his hand leave her shoulder and then suddenly they were both wrapped around her waist. Pulling her against his chest. She sighed.
"Meet me at Akagi tonight?" He asked softly, his head resting comfortably against hers.
"I think your parents would notice if we both disappeared."
"After the party. I have to head over to Hyobe's. Meet me at Akagi?"
Mitsu nodded and relished in his warmth.
"Take the FC." He whispered.
Mitsu pulled away so that she could turn to look at him, "The FC? But how are you -"
Ryousuke nodded, "Hyobe will pick me up tonight. I want to show you something." He reached out for her, already missing the feel of her body against his.
Mitsu automatically stepped into his arms. The pressure of his chest pressed against her thinly clad body caused her to sigh. She pulled him closer, "Ryousuke..."
"Hmm."
"Can we stay like this for the rest of the night?"
The young man chuckled and drew back, "Maybe not just like this." He stated as he tilted her head back so that he could kiss her.
Mitsu's hands went to the back of his neck, "Mmm, you're right. This is better." She mumbled and returned the kiss.
Lost in the moment, the kiss deepened. Mitsu had unbuttoned his suit jacket so she chould reach under it and be closer to him.
Ryousuke's hands were stroking up and down her back, savouring the soft feel of her skin where he could with the mid backless dress. His hands were in her hair again, pulling it loose as he ran his hands through it. He loved the feel of her hair. The smell...
He pulled back from the kiss and looked down at her passion dazed face. He didn't doubt his face mirrored her expression, "I should go." He said softly as he slowly let go of her.
"Why?" She asked dazed.
Ryousuke smiled, "Because I respect you too much." He reached out and ran his hand through her hair, "You look beautiful."
Mitsu blushed, "You don't look too bad yourself Takahashi Ryousuke." She teased to hide her embarrassment.
Ryousuke stepped closer to her again and kissed her more gently this time, "I'll see you later Mitsu-chan."
Mitsu stared up into his eyes, "Ok." She reached up and kissed him again before stepping back and smiling at the dazed look he got again.
Ryousuke nodded clearing his head and went to the door. He glanced back at her. She stood tall, confident, in that silky dress that drapped over her body perfectly. He shook his head and pulled open the door.
Once her door closed, Mitsu went to her bed and dropped back onto it with a huge sigh. Her whole body felt flushed and she couldn't stop thinking of Ryousuke's lips and the feel of his chest against hers. She shook her head and got up. She had to get ready. Moving to stand back in front of the mirror she looked at her mass of loose hair. He seemed to like letting her hair down.
She smiled and moved to style it back in a bun. Ryousuke could take in down again later tonight.
Ryousuke stepped out of his room with his towel.
"Aniki?"
"Keisuke." The older brother answered back as he made his way past his brother and his room.
"You ok?"
"Yes. Shower." Ryousuke replied curtly and disappeared into the bathroom.
Keisuke found it strange that his brother would shower if he had already changed into his suit, usually he would have showered before hand. Unless he was taking a second shower? He shrugged it off as his brother being anal and closed his bedroom door.
Mitsu's door opened and she stepped out.
The blond Takahashi froze mid-stride and whistled appreciatively, "Wow!"
Mitsu blushed and smiled, "Thank you. It doesn't look too formal does it?"
"No. You look great. Has Aniki seen you yet?" He asked curiously.
"Umm yes. Why?" She pushed back a strand of hair that fell over her eye.
"He has?" He glanced back towards the bathroom. Suddenly it dawned on him and he laughed and offered his arm, "Let's go down."
"Ok... What's so funny." She asked studying him.
"Nothing. I just remembered something." He was still smiling, "So how did Aniki react when he saw you?"
Mitsu turned away blushing, "He didn't do anything."
"What do you mean?"
"Just that. He just stood there."
Keisuke laughed, "Like frozen?"
"Maybe." Mitsu laughed as they arrived on the main level of the house.
The front door opened and Takahashi Emi entered, "Wow you look beautiful Mitsu-chan!" She said smiling widely.
"Thank you Emi-sama."
Emi turned to her son and smiled. She stepped up to him, "And you," She reached up to straighten his tie, "You look very handsome."
"Mom!" Keisuke pulled back blushing.
Mitsu smiled. Keisuke looked cute with the blush coming to his cheeks.
"Ok, everything ready?"
Keisuke shrugged and Mistu looked about.
Emi smiled, "Where's Fujimaro and Ryousuke?"
"Kitchen!" Fujimaro's voice came floating over towards them.
"Your brother?" Emi asked.
"Showering." Keisuke replied smiling.
Emi quirked a brow curiously. She didn't quite understand why her youngest seemed amused at this fact. She turned to Mitsu and saw her also looking at him curiously.
"Alright, well people should be coming soon." She touched Mitsu's arm before moving into the kitchen to join her husband.
"Ok Keisuke-kun why do you keep getting that strange look when you talk about your brother. Have you done something to him?"
Keisuke laughed, "Not me. I didn't do anything." He threw his hands in the air and walked away.
Mitsu watched him leave then decided to join Emi and Fujimaro-san in the kitchen.
Later that evening Ryousuke walked among his parents friends and colleagues. Stopping to speak to whomever engaged him in conversation.
"Yes, I have started my residency recently." He answered smiling. His eyes caught sight of Mitsu-chan moving into his field of view. A man accompanied her as they talked.
"How long is your residency?"
Ryousuke turned to the man speaking to him, "5 years before i start my fellowship." He forced himself to keep his attention on their guest.
"Let me guess, you've decided to specialize in surgery?"
Ryousuke nodded, "Aa."
"As expected from the son of Takahashi-sama's son."
Ryousuke simply smiled politely.
"You know Yamamoto Sensei wanted to become an emergency surgeon."
Ryousuke pretended to listen as the man started telling him about Yamamoto-sensei's decision. His eyes moved away briefly as the man drew another person into their conversation. Behind their guest, he could see Mitsu-chan smiling at the man facing her. Her hand came up to tuck a rogue strand of hair behind her ear. Her companion smiled and reached up to push back some stray hair on her other side. A strange feeling swept over him. He couldn't stand to watch anymore. He turned to the speaker, "Please excuse me." Ryousuke moved away from the small group that had formed around him and went to the kitchen. He retrieved a water bottle from the fridge and took a long sip.
He definitely did not like how much attention that man was giving Mitsu-chan.
"Aniki."
Ryousuke looked up to see his younger brother join him.
"Think this party is almost done?"
"Soon." He glanced at his watch, "At most one hour."
Keisuke went to the fridge and got out a can of orange ponta, "How was the cold shower?"
Ryousuke glanced at him.
Keisuke laughed, "When Mitsu-chan said you had already seen her I figured that's why you needed another shower. A cold one I'm guessing."
Ryousuke brought the bottle of water to his lips again.
"I saw you looking at her just now." Keisuke added. His older brother sighed, "Don't worry. Mom and Dad were too busy to notice."
"She looks different."
"She's hot."
Ryousuke frowned.
"Admit it Aniki. You are so attracted to her!" He laughed.
"We should re-join the party." Ryousuke re-capped his bottle of water and placed it on the table, "Lets go Keisuke."
The brothers were leaving the kitchen when they bumped into Mitsu-chan.
"Oh I'm sorry." She bowed her head politely.
"Hey Mistu-chan. Escaped from that guy who's been following you all night?" He teased glancing at his brother.
The young woman sighed, "He has a lot to say."
Keisuke laughed, "Anything good?"
Mitsu pretended to ponder his question a moment.
The oldest Takahashi took the opportunity to stare at her. He stuffed his hands in his pockets suddenly to keep himself from touching her.
"Oh yes, he has a dog."
Keisuke laughed, "At least you got away."
"I'm supposed to be in the bathroom. Is the party almost over?"
"Aniki says it will probably end in less than an hour."
Mitsu glanced quickly at the quiet older brother. She had to admit, he really looked handsome in his suit. She turned away quickly, which she noticed amused Keisuke, "I need something to drink." She gave the brothers a nod and moved into the kitchen.
Ryousuke turned to his brother. Keisuke glanced back at Mitsu then met his gaze. He sighed, "Go."
The younger brother smiled and went back into the kitchen, leaving Ryousuke to join the party on his own.
Keisuke pulled out a chair and sat down with his Ponta as he waited for Mitsu to join him.
"So Keisuke-kun, I saw some pretty girls talking to you." She smiled and sat down facing him.
"Not interested."
"Distractions?"
"Those ones want me for my family."
"Oh." Mitsu sipped her juice.
He looked up at the woman in front of him. She was definitely pretty. And real. She didn't do anything extra to try to make herself look attractive to the opposite sex. And He liked that she wasn't the flirty type.
"You know, if I was in Aniki's shoes and you and I were betrothed, I'd probably marry you right away before anyone else could get you."
Mitsu almost chocked on her juice.
Keisuke laughed.
"You're going to kill me Keisuke-kun." She stood up to get a napkin, "What would make you say something like that all of a sudden?"
"Nothing I was just thinking about your situation with Aniki and how I like you."
Mitsu looked at him surprised.
The young man chucked, "Not romantically. You're just different then the other girls I've met. I can talk to you."
"Thanks. I think." She took another sip of her juice.
"Do you still like him?"
Mitsu met his worried gaze. She blushed, "Nothing has changed Keisuke." She glanced towards the opening of the kitchen, "There are a lot of girls interested in your Aniki. Don't think I didn't notice."
"I'm glad you noticed. That means you had your eyes on him! And I know he noticed that guy that kept hanging around you all night."
Mitsu blushed. How could she not notice Ryousuke? "I don't think anyone here didn't notice how all those girls fawned all over your Aniki."
"You didn't fawn all over him."
"Well you guys are kind of like my family. It would be very awkward."
"But you don't like Aniki like a brother right."
Mitsu hesitated. Keisuke was really probing tonight. She sighed in resignation, "No not like a brother."
The smile was back on Keisuke's face, "So... Why do you like him?"
"You're so inquisitive tonight."
"We never get to talk like this. You're usually studying or something." He shrugged.
Mitsu smiled apologetically, "The semester's almost over. For sure we'll get to talk more then."
"If you're like Aniki, you're still going to be busy. Hey! You're changing the subject!" He glared at her, "So why do you like him?"
Mitsu blushed and shrugged, "He's kind."
Keisuke frowned, "That's it?" He crossed his arms in dissatisfaction.
Mitsu laughed nervously, "Ok ok." She lowered her gaze to her cup, "He is kind and considerate, and gentle,"
Keisuke watched as she slowly lost herself in thought.
"He's passionate, smart, stubborn," She smiled unknowingly, "He's easy to tease and can give back what he gets." The smile disappeared, "He feels very deeply even when he doesn't show it. He'll do everything he can to care for those close to him and will try to hide his hurt..." She trembled suddenly. She was falling for him... She closed her eyes briefly. This was not good. She had to get over him. They couldn't be together. Neither of them wanted to go through with the betrothal. She opened her eyes, "We should join the party Keisuke-kun."
Keisuke was smiling when she had been listing off the qualities she liked about his brother. But somewhere near the end she lost that dream-like look.
"You don't want to hear this sappy stuff about your brother." She got to her feet.
"Is something wrong Mitsu-chan?" He also got to his feet.
"No of course not." She put away her cup and went to him. She hooked her hand at his elbow and led him back to the party, "Oh and what I told you, you are not to tell anyone."
Keisuke smiled.
"I mean it Keisuke-kun. I will seriously come after you, if you tell anyone."
"Ok! I won't say anything." He chuckled. He could keep her secret. His goal to get Mitsu -chan thinking about his brother was accomplished anyway. He stopped her as she released him and was about to enter the room, "You know what you said, about being like family?"
Mitsu nodded.
"Well, I consider you family. And I want you to be happy."
Mitsu smiled. She leaned towards him and kissed his cheek, "Thank you Keisuke-kun." She smiled as he blushed, then left him to rejoin the party.
Keisuke watched her glide back among the guests. Eyes turned upon her as she walked by them. That guy, was immediately back at her side. His hand went to the small of her back to guide her back into conversation. He frowned when she smiled up at the man. Keisuke glanced around the room to find that his Aniki was once again surrounded by girls.
"Keisuke-kun, there you are!" A voice the young man found too sweet declared. He turned to see a young woman coming to stand by him.
"So she's like your sister right?"
Keisuke smiled, "Well no. My parents are her guardians. We're not remotely related."
"Oh." The girl looked over at Fukotomi Mitsu. She had seen Fukotomi Mitsu kiss his cheek, "How old is she?"
"Just one year older than me." Keisuke answered her shrugging. He hid his smile. The girl was definitely getting the wrong idea. Perfect.
"Well that went well." Fujimaro stated as he finished loading the dishwasher.
"It did." Emi turned to Mitsu-chan who was the only other person present, "And I noticed you had an admirer all night!"
The young woman blushed.
"He's a nice young man." Emi stated nodding.
Mitsu studied her a moment. Was she encouraging her? She turned to Fujimaro who was still loading the dishwasher.
Emi smiled, "We just want you to be well taken care of sweet heart."
Ryousuke stepped into the kitchen, "I'll be with Hyobe." He stated.
His parents turned to him.
"Are you coming home tonight?" Emi asked seeing the backpack her son was carrying.
Ryousuke shook his head, "I'll return tomorrow." He had heard the conversation between his mother and Mitsu and didn't like it at all.
"Ok. Be careful."
"Aa." He glanced at his father who nodded before he turned away and left.
The three people in the kitchen were silent until they heard the front door close.
"So, do you think you will go out with him?" Emi asked curiously.
Mitsu blushed, "I don't really know him Emi-san."
"Emi, she just met him!" Fujimaro shook his head.
"I know. But they seemed to get along so well!"
Fujimaro sighed, "Let her be. Come lets go to bed." He turned to his best friend's daughter, "Good night Mitsu-chan. Don't sleep too late."
"Hai. Good night." She bowed politely as she watched the couple head upstairs. She walked over to the kitchen window. Ryousuke's white FC remained in its place at the side of the house. She wondered why he wanted her to take the FC instead of her rental.
She yawned and started upstairs to go to her room. She couldn't wait to get out of this dress. It made her feel exposed. She entered her room and reached for the zipper. Suddenly remembering she needed a little help. She sighed. She couldn't go see Emi now. She would wonder how she got it on in the first place. She sighed and tried to shift the dress around so she could reach the zipper.
After a long 10 minutes, Mitsu finally managed to get the zipper down. She sighed heavily once she was free of the dress. She stared at it with a frown. Next time she would get something more functional. Ryousuke's dazed look came to mind. Then again, it was nice to see that look on Ryousuke's face. She smiled and went to hang up the dress and put on her stretchy pants and a sweater.
She went to her laptop and flipped it open. It was then that she noticed Ryousuke's keys to his FC. She touched them briefly and smiled before she turned back to her laptop. As expected there was an email from Satoro. And as expected, he concluded his email asking about Ryousuke-san. She glanced at her messenger and noticed him online. Opening a chat window, she sent him a message saying she was doing well. They talked for a while, Satoro occasionally dropping a Ryousuke related question and Mitsu ignoring them like she had not even read them, until Satoro decided it was time for him to get to bed.
Mitsu bid him good night then glanced at the clock. She still had 15 minutes before leaving for Akagi. She pulled out her notes and started studying.
Hyobe stared down at the engine as it idled smoothly. He glanced up at his friend who was studying his laptop, "How does it look?"
"Running at 98% efficiency."
"So, it looks like she's all set."
"Aa." Ryousuke unhooked the cables from his laptop and the SW20's onboard computer.
"Going to take it for a test drive?"
"Aa." Ryousuke moved to put the laptop away, "I won't be long. I'll have to fully test it when I get to Akagi."
"Do you want me to come along?"
"It will be fine."
"Aa. You want time alone with her." Hyobe smirked.
His friend gave him a pointed look, then continued to pack his things.
"So, if the settings are good, are you going to race her?"
"It's possible."
Hyobe studied his friend, "Shouldn't you be feeling a little excited about that? You haven't raced since your professional debut. And what? A year since you last raced in your FC?"
Ryousuke finished packing his laptop and turned to his friend briefly before he moved towards the SW20. Tonight would be the last night. He grabbed the keys from the counter and rolled them in his palm a moment. He moved to the car.
His arm was suddenly grabbed, "Hey."
"Hmm?"
"You ok?"
"Aa." Ryousuke turned away and went to get in the car.
Hyobe followed him. He watched as as the car started. Ryousuke gave him a nod and Hyobe tapped the top of the SW20 and watched as it rolled out of the garage. When the car turned onto the street, he went back to the work bench and picked up his can of unfinished cold coffee. Something about Ryousuke seemed off. He sensed nervousness and... Something. He couldn't put his finger on it. He sipped his drink and turned to put away the tools.
It wasn't long before he heard the SW20 returning. He was just closing his tool box kit, when the white toyota pulled into the garage. He turned and watched as Ryousuke turned off the engine and stepped out of the car.
"So?"
"It'll do." He shut the door and looked about. Hyobe had already cleaned up the shop. There was nothing left to do. He turned to Hyobe.
"Off to meet her now?"
"Aa. Thank you."
Hyobe clasped a hand on his shoulder, "What are friend's for."
Ryousuke nodded and turned to the SW20.
"Oye."
"Hmm?"
"When are you going to propose?"
Ryousuke ignored the excited smile on his face, "Tonight."
"Tonight?" Hyobe chuckled, "So that's why you seem a little nervous!" He started to laugh when his friend gave him an exasperated look, "Don't worry Ryousuke." He nodded to the SW20, "Get going. You don't want her to be waiting at Akagi by herself." He glanced at his watch, "She should be on her way there now."
"Aa." Ryousuke moved back to the Toyota and pulled open the door, "I'll call you."
Hyobe nodded and watched as his friend strapped himself into the bucket seat and started the engine, "Good luck." He smiled. Like he needed it. Mitsu-chan was in love with him. It was obvious. His friend was worried for nothing. He watched as Ryousuke pulled out of the garage. He turned and went to gather his things to head home. There was a couple things that he had thought of and he wanted to test it on his design before calling it a night.
Mitsu became more and more excited as she approached the top of Akagi. Throughout the whole night, it had been very hard to make sure her eyes didn't trail onto Ryousuke whenever he was in the room, or when she heard that unique and sexy tenor voice. She idly wondered how he was going to get to Akagi. Would Hyobe have dropped him off? Or maybe Hyobe was going to join them?
The thought brought disappointment. She hoped Hyobe wasn't going to join them.
Her foot let up on the accelerator as the conversation she had with Keisuke came to mind. The FC came to a full stop. Mitsu rested her head on the steering wheel. Ryousuke's FC's steering wheel. Ryousuke... She took several deep breaths...
Ryousuke straightened. The sound of his FC had come to a stop.
He hadn't heard any sounds that could have been a collision. He stuffed his hands in his pockets. He took a deep calming breath as his left hand felt and clutched the small velvet box in his pocket. He shut his eyes briefly. He had to mentally prepare himself for the outcome. When he re-opened his eyes, he turned to the SW20. Only when the sound of his FC once again echoed in the silent night, did he turn away and looked towards the entrance to the parking lot.
She would be here soon.
He removed his hands from his pocket and went to stand by the driver's side door as his FC appeared.
His stomach clenched.
He could see her eyes widen and her lips part as the FC immediately slowed.
He watched as the FC came to a stand still next to him.
"Ryousuke-san?" Mitsu was immediately out of the car. Her gaze was on the SW20 behind him as she asked the unvoiced question.
Ryousuke waited as her eyes scanned the car before turning to him. He reached into his right pocket and pulled out a set of keys, "Check the settings." He stated holding them out to her.
Mitsu slowly reached out for her keys. She stared down at the shining piece of metal in her palm. She raised her eyes to meet his. When he offered her an encouraging smile, she took the couple steps towards him and wrapped her arms around him, "Thank you!"
Ryousuke turned his face into her neck breathing deeply. His mind automatically categorizing her scent and carefully locking it away into his memory. He pulled away from her and nodded towards the SW20, "Go." He stepped back and watched as she moved towards the revitalized Toyota.
Mitsu was overwhelmed as she pulled open the door to her car. The inside looked relatively the same which meant that Ryousuke had made efforts to procure very specific parts. She moved into the Bride bucket seat and closed her eyes relishing the familiar feel. Her eyes opened and she turned to Takahashi Ryousuke who was calmly watching her.
"Take your time." He stated as he reached for the door.
Mitsu nodded and Ryousuke pushed the door closed. She watched as he stepped aside. Turning her attention back to her car, she started the engine. The familiar yet different sound sent an exciting chill through her body. Without any more delay, she put the Toyota in gear and started for the exit.
Ryousuke watched as the Tokyo Phantom left the parking lot. He glanced at his FC. He gently placed a hand on the hood then turned and walked towards the guardrail to look out over Akagi, "Be happy Mitsu-chan..." He whispered. He raised his gaze and looked beyond Akagi where the lights of the city shone in the distance.
Mitsu reached the bottom of Akagi exhilarated. She turned the car around and started back up the mountain. She couldn't believe Ryousuke-san had had her car repaired! The Damage to her car and the cost to repair it... The cost of repairs! Had Ryousuke-san paid for the repairs himself?!
She rushed back to the parking lot and parked next to the FC. She got out and walked to where Ryousuke stood at the guardrail watching her approach.
The serious look on her face worried Ryousuke. The fact that she had only done one run on Akagi also worried him. Had he incorrectly assessed her vehicle and tuned it differently? Doubt creeped into him.
Mitsu visibly saw him swallow when she came to a stop before him. He was anxious. She immediately fell into a bow, "Thank you." She stated before straightening, "The settings are good. I noticed you made some changes. They feel good."
A tentative smile reached his lips, "You're welcome." He replied softly.
She had a strange feeling something wasn't right with him. He didn't seem like himself. Almost... Unsure of himself?
She moved to wrap her arms around him, "I can't believe you did this for me." She rested her forehead in the crook of his neck and sighed. She felt his arms circle around her and his head drop onto hers.
"How much was the repairs? I have to pay you back."
"There is no cost Mitsu-chan."
The young woman pulled away, "Ryousuke-san, I can't let you pay for the repairs."
Ryousuke reached out to stroke her cheek, "The repairs did not cost anything Mitsu-chan."
She stared at him with the expected confusion, "How?" She turned to the SW20, "Is that a different body?"
"Ryousuke shook his head, "No. It is your car Mitsu-chan." The young woman turned to him, "Hyobe helped me." He explained.
"You and Hyobe fixed it?" She stared up into his face searching.
He nodded.
Emotion welled up inside her and she reached up to press her lips to his. She felt him resist her only briefly before he tightened his hold on her and the kiss deepened.
Ryousuke savoured the taste of her, the feel of her body pressed intimately against his. Although he wanted desperately to be in the moment, to forget everything else, somewhere in the recess of his mind, the weight of the small velvet box in his left pocket reminded him that this would most likely be the last time they would be like this together. He stepped back to put some distance between them. He stared down at Mitsu as her eyes slowly opened. He offered her a smile and nodded towards the cars.
"I believe you challenged me."
The glazed look in Mitsu's eyes instantly vanished. A wide smile appeared, "Really?"
Ryousuke nodded.
"Coming out of retirement?"
Ryousuke chuckled, "Tonight only." His hands were still around her waist, "Well?"
"Let's go!" She laughed and tip toed to quickly kiss him before going back to her car.
Ryousuke watched her a moment. He loved how happy she looked. He hoped that she would be just as happy after tonight.
"Oh! Forgot." Mitsu came back towards him, "You might need this." She gave him the keys to the FC.
Ryousuke looked down at the keys.
"Are you ok?" She asked suddenly.
The young man smiled, "Just part of my plan to distract you. I'll even take the lead so you can study me."
Mitsu laughed, "You're going to regret that. See you at the bottom Takahashi Ryousuke!" She went back to her car.
Ryousuke couldn't help smiling after her as he went to the FC and got in.
Mitsu glanced out her window at Ryousuke who still had a small smile on his face as he started his own vehicle. Unknown to her, he was trying his best to make sure he appeared normal to make her night an enjoyable one. He couldn't let her see how nervous and defeated he already felt even before confirming what he believed her answer would be.
She watched as he glanced at her with a nod and drove towards the exit. Mitsu quickly put the SW20 in gear and darted after the white FC.
Several runs later, they pulled up into the parking lot again.
Ryousuke turned the key and pulled it out of the ignition before climbing out of the car and moving towards Mitsu who was already out of the SW20 and was making her way towards him. He shut his door as he watched her approach.
Mitsu threw her arms around Ryousuke's neck, "I conceed defeat." She tilted her head slightly and smiled, "But only for today." She stood up on her tip toes and pressed her lips against his. She pressed further against him when she felt his hand on her waist and another to her neck. Her body melted when he kissed her back.
"Mitsu..." Ryousuke managed to whisper as he pulled his lips from hers a brief moment before he kissed her again.
"Hn?"
Ryousuke kissed her deeply one more time before he gently pushed her away from him, "Are you thirsty?"
Mitsu looked at him confused, "Thirsty?" He was thinking about being thirsty?
Ryousuke smiled and kissed her forehead before turning back to his FC. He pulled open the door and grabbed a backpack from the back of his seat. He closed and locked the FC before turning to Mitsu and taking her hand, "Come."
The young woman smiled and followed him. They stepped over the guardrail and off to the left towards the trees, "I take it you have been here before."
"I come here to study sometimes."
"Study?"
"It's quiet," He turned to her, "and it has a nice view. We are almost there."
They walked another minute or so until Mitsu could see a slight clearing. Ryousuke released her hand and lowered the backpack to the ground. He opened it and pulled out a blanket that he set on the grass. He turned to Mitsu who was watching him with a smile, "What is it?" He motioned for her to come sit on the blanket.
Mitsu shook her head, "Nothing." She moved onto the blanket and sat down.
Ryousuke joined her and pulled out two cans of milk tea from the backpack. He popped one open and handed it to Mitsu.
"Thank you." She watched as he opened his own and looked towards her. She brought the can to her lips and sipped. He watched her a moment longer then turned to look out at the horizon and sipped from his own drink.
"What's bothering you?" Mitsu turned to him.
Ryousuke's eyes met hers. Then swept over her face. His hand reached up to touch her face, her hair. He leaned towards her and pressed his lips to hers. She responded to him immediately. He was glad. He didn't want her to worry about him. He deepened the kiss.
Mitsu reached up for him. She craved to be closer to him, to feel him against her. Warmth. Strength. Excitement.
Ryousuke lost himself in the moment. He shifted slightly and the feel of the small box in his pocket brought back the realization of what he was going to do tonight. He pulled away and realized that he had leaned her back and down on the blanket and was slightly atop her. Her eyes opened and looked up at him in a daze. He kissed her forehead and rolled onto his side and continued to look at her and stroke her hair.
"Are you going to tell me what's bothering you?"
Ryousuke chuckled, "Since the night I met you, I knew you would be trouble."
Mitsu feigned surprise, "Trouble? How am I trouble?"
Ryousuke smiled and leaned in to kiss her. When he pulled away from her he breathed, "You see me." He leaned it to steal another kiss.
When they broke apart to breath, Mitsu caressed his face, "How can anyone not see you..." She pulled him down for another kiss before she pulled away, "So?" She watched as the man before her retreated slightly. Something was definitely wrong. She touched his cheek.
"I want you to be happy Mitsu-chan."
"I know." She frowned, "I am."
Ryousuke sighed and pressed his forehead to hers, "I don't want to hurt you. I want the best for you. Believe me..."
"I know." She caressed his face again, "I know you do." She reassured him. She was beginning to worry, "What's going on?"
Ryousuke pulled away. She was worried, "Please don't worry about me Mitsu-chan. I will be fine." He gave her a smile and knew that she saw through it when she remained frowning. He got to his feet and held a hand out to her as she sat up.
Mitsu took his hand and Ryousuke pulled her to her feet. His hand cupped her face and he kissed her deeply. They pulled apart breathlessly. Their kisses always left them breathless.
"I will be fine ok?"
Mitsu nodded, "Ok." She saw him smile before kissing her again.
"Mitsu-chan?" He whispered her name between kisses.
"Hmm?"
Ryousuke brushed his tongue against her lip, "I love you..." He declared softly as he removed his lips from hers.
Mitsu stiffened and pulled back. Had he just... She blinked back the daze his kisses usually brought on. She watched as Ryousuke took a step back and suddenly lowered himself down on one knee as he moved to hold something out towards her.
She gasped and covered her mouth. Was he? Her eyes travelled nervously to the small velvet box he was holding out to her. She watched as he moved to open it and immediately the diamond shined brightly at her.
"Fukotomi Mitsu," Ryousuke looked up at her, "Will you marry me?" The blood rushing through his veins pumped wildly and loudly in his ears.
To be continued...
Thank you for reading and a big thank you to those who have stuck by this story since the beginning.
Hugs.
CelicaChick.