Something You've Read Before
Chapter Thirty
That Constant Thing
It was like this ever since she could remember. Kaoru had all the vivid details in her head, retelling everything like it just happened yesterday. Being born as a girl and an only child already made her life sucked at birth because the pressure was ten times higher compared to the males of their family. She had to prove herself every single time even if she had achieved more than what was expected for her. Her every movement was watched, the way she talked was taught, and her table manners learned from the best teacher. There was a time when Kaoru just sat, stared at the seams, and thought if being successful was something her family dictated her to do or the one which she dictated to herself. Then, she laughed like a maniac because whatever the answer, it was just irrelevant. There was no way she would waste her time blaming someone for how pressured she felt all these years and how she became as a person.
Her office proved to be a wide structure because of how empty it made her feel despite the furniture and being surrounded by her favorite books and magazines. The sun barely peeked this season and as the daytime got shorter, her mind had more time to wander as soon as the sky turned dark. Glowering intently at the proposal of the Student Council with the votes of The Board on the last page did not help in making a decision. Honestly, she did not want to lose this fight and even on the very last minute, Kaoru planned to make a comeback but her plans changed. She had to be flexible and diverse, after all. Grabbing the phone resting on the table, she dialed the number that directly connected to her mother. At times like this, Kaoru wanted to hear her mother's opinion even if it was a harsh one and she needed to update the elder Igarashi of the latest happenings of her life, of her family's life.
Kaoru heard two rings when she was reminded of the time when she told her mother through phone that Ioran already filed a divorce. No more than ten words were said but the booming imprint of disappointment crossed the electronic line. Actually, that was the first time Kaoru experienced failure in her life but there was no way she would let people see that. So she acted strong and unaffected when those were not her real feelings that time. Being looked up to and maintaining her reserved nature made her desperate to just explode but she had no time for that because the family business never waited for anyone. Her employees needed work and she needed to support the whole family. Kaoru forgotten about herself temporarily and focused on flourishing the company without noticing that Natsume slowly slipped from her grasp and now it seemed late to rekindle their decent relationship years ago.
The call was answered with a cold tone. Kaoru always knew how her mother's voice sounded and she heard all tones from the angry ones to the formal one. A detailed report about Alice Academy had been given by Kaoru using the tone of voice she used on speaking engagements. The name of Mikan Sakura got mentioned and a long report was also given regarding that. The reason why Kaoru was this anxious to straighten Natsume's crooked beliefs was because he would inherit both the Hyuugas and the Igarashis fortune. Being the rightful heir of two big corporations meant ending up with someone coming from the same league thus the Koizumis. They were the family closest to the Hyuugas and Kaoru promised a future of Natsume and Luna together. So, imagine the havoc that Kaoru wanted to wreak when Mikan came into the picture. The unexpected arrival of the brunette halted all her plans, diverted the once straight roads, and Kaoru still struggled in finding a detour.
Wealth was one thing but Mikan coming from a dysfunctional family with a history of mental illness worried Kaoru the most. She could never rest assured that Natsume was being taken care of properly when he was with someone who had many issues in life. What Natsume needed was peaceful living, approved by the elders and himself. Kaoru wondered what spell Mikan made Natsume drink that he was unable to see that up to now. Ioran said these two teenagers just wanted to be together. Kaoru scoffed at the unrealistic notion. That Ioran too added in her stress because of this big idea of moving out of Japan. She did not care because they barely needed and saw each other but it disturbed her so.
"I want you to put an end to this, Kaoru. I don't care how you do it."
Kaoru nodded because the command was what she just expected no less from her mother. If only Natsume appreciated all her efforts just to put a good word to the elders then maybe she had one less problem but her son just happened to be the rebellious type just like his father. The decision upon the clubs in Alice Academy began to form in her mind and realized what she should have done a long time ago. Mikan Sakura exposed all her flaws as a way of saying that these could never affect her relationship with Natsume but that paved the way to Kaoru's newest idea. Natsume was right about her bullying high school kids to get what she wanted and that it was her desperation which tarnished her image. It was high time to broaden her horizon and consider this almost failure an opportunity to get back up and end this ridiculous family war.
"I understand," said Kaoru while looking at the temperature of different places in Japan. "I am never known to be the one who lets down." She had to prepare thicker clothes.
"You better prove those words. Or else it's your son who is going to face all of us."
Although Kaoru's patience with Natsume slowly burnt out, she still could not let her son face those conservative and traditional elders. In her calculation, Natsume would take that confrontation as the final straw and could finally leave her. She just needed to get the timing right and achieve all of this as soon as possible. Right after the phone call, she went straight to grabbing her luggage and packed for a trip good for two days. She called her secretary, advising him to do the same, find a hotel and to book the earliest flight to the ends of Japan. Since Kaoru was travelling half of her life, she quickly managed to prepare everything she needed and even packed two books for her to relax her mind. Plane rides bored her wits.
After taking a warm bath, Kaoru changed into her warmest clothes and left reminders to the household staff especially when Natsume came back. Upon checking her phone, she realized what day it was today and realized that it was near. Kaoru paused a moment from walking and peek at the whole view of the house. Her face remained unreadable since the moment the call with her mother ended and one close to her could interpret it as her determined look, willing to come back victorious from her latest mission.
"This is a sudden trip. Are you eyeing a location there?" asked the secretary which broke Kaoru's musing.
"Not really. I just want to talk to someone."
Putting her phone back to her bag and resuming her stride, Kaoru went on to carry her assignment.
The timing proved to be a little weird and worrying because Natsume already expected to hear again from the principal as early as yesterday but a new day began without any news.
Based on the empty council room, probably most of them thought that the problem was already resolved but for Natsume, it was not over until he saw the memorandum. Once again, Natsume went over to his e-mail and desk to check if any message slipped from his knowledge but the result was the same as before: Nothing. There came in the person he wanted to discuss this the most as he displayed a silent, looming stare to which Ruka got the gist of. The empty room suddenly became an advantage given the situation because they could talk more in private without holding back their real views regarding the situation.
Ruka sighed as an initial reaction, sharing the same worry face as Natsume's but recovered a bit quicker than expected. He had to treat this situation using a different perspective because this was not personal to him but rather an administrative conflict that presidents of any organization faced every single time. Being impatient and paranoid about not hearing from The Board this late posed no benefit to the council and the whole academy itself. Since he almost felt the same, Ruka understood how the delay in reply from The Board stirred Natsume because it meant Kaoru was cooking something up, something that they did not anticipate because too much focus had been spent on one solution only. They really needed to work on their countermeasures skill or else they would not last as a team.
"No word yet from the principal," said Natsume, breaking the nonverbal conversation.
The information was not new and Ruka could only nod. "Have you talked to Aunt Kaoru about this?"
"Based on that conversation, I am expecting an agreement. I offered her the compromise and she looked like she understood my explanation."
Ruka trusted his best friend's judgment and went on to voicing his opinion regarding Kaoru's leadership. "I wonder how this reflects her as chairman. She's been making several controversial decisions so far."
With a smirk, Natsume agreed with the statement. "That's what you get when you mix personal business with work."
Leaning back to his seat and extending his upper limbs, Ruka yawned and relaxed his breathing. "She could just be busy. I mean, she has a lot in her hands."
The seriousness in Ruka's tone made Natsume snort in laughter while Ruka went full head and satisfied himself with his own joke. "Her hands are full for sure but not an excuse to not reach her deadline. We all know how my mother is like."
Kaoru was famous for being able to perform multiple tasks at one time and when it came to her children, she surprisingly prioritized them always so there was no way they she was just too busy to relay the decision. The humor seemed to extend a bit as evidenced by their continuing giggles. Suddenly, the atmosphere lightened up and both decided to take the conversation to its logical direction. That instead of talking about their doom, they must come up with another plan that would be foolproof.
"Listen," Ruka said, "If no word comes out until Thursday, we do that."
Natsume's raised an eyebrow. "Do what?" he asked to confirm his speculation.
Ruka shrugged his shoulders, feeling his unruly blood boiling. "Your idea of setting up a student protest."
When it was first suggested, they estimated it had a 50 percent chance of happening but now the chances were getting higher due to this no reaction scheme of The Board. They had been friends for the longest time and they did a lot of stupid things together so forming this protest would just add to their list of things they did to annoy their parents. Natsume felt no fear having his best friend at his back and the Ministry of Education's letter of support although this would earn a lot of negative reaction for sure but if they convinced the students one more time, this could work. Hopefully, things would not reach that stage and Kaoru could just display her rational side once again.
It got a little stuffy when the voices died down and all was heard was the sound of the twirling water from the humidifier, smoking out a bamboo scent which was chosen to calm the mind. Ruka examined his best friend's return to silence. They were still teenagers but Natsume showed a lot of maturity in the past year, something Ruka did not fail to notice and always liked to commend about him. Today marked another year for Natsume and as Ruka's eyes were fixed on the calendar, he made a remark.
"By the way, the other day, what you did for Mikan… it was amazing. I'm sure you made her the happiest."
Natsume smiled. "Thank you for helping me, Ruka. I couldn't do it without you."
With a nod and returning his gaze towards Natsume, he replied, "Anytime. For you guys."
The hallways converted into a busy street once the bell stopped ringing with students headed to the direction where they could end the growling of their stomachs. Ruka closed the SC office and made his way to reach the cafeteria with Natsume beside him. They passed by several students who greeted them with wide smiles and some squealing in the background. Some students gradually slowed down their walking just to tail them from behind even if they were not headed to the cafeteria. Natsume plunged into the moment, taking into consideration that this was one of those normal school days when he met with friends, attended classes diligently, finished council works, and talked with Mikan after a whole tiring day. He did not feel a year older and so far, no one made him that he was a year older.
When Natsume looked at his side, he observed the movement of Ruka's mouth and how mundane his stories were about his planned trip to Fuji this upcoming break and how he was learning to make takoyaki because Hotaru challenged him to do so. All of a sudden, Natsume remembered that he needed to submit a report regarding his completion of hours from helping the Sports Club and stated his opinion of it being a good opportunity to interact with them which somehow cleared the unspoken adversary between the two most powerful student organizations in Alice Academy. Keep moving forward, Natsume reminded himself. If he stayed being closed-minded about the Sports Club, he lost the chance of cooperating with them forever and he was glad nothing of that sort happened. Because the said club was the biggest influence of the school and the main help in getting the yeses of the students, Natsume was more than thankful for having his students service spent there.
Ruka's phone beeped, displaying a nervy expression when he read the text and when Natsume asked him if he was alright, he just waived its importance and recommended to keep walking. They finally reached the ground floor after taking two flights of stairs, still having their normal conversation until they were stopped by a presence. The presence of someone who had always been smiling and delightful when you see her. Ruka had the biggest urge to make fun of the way Natsume smiled when he saw the girl but he reserved that for later circumstances when he was on the mood to tease Natsume.
Out of the blue, Mikan Sakura jumped in front of them. "Well, you two look chummy!" she greeted.
Ruka was still wide-eyed when he asked, "Where'd you come from, Mikan?"
Pointing at her right, Mikan replied, "That classroom. I saw you guys passing by and I realized that it is already lunch time. Wouldn't mind walking with you?"
Natsume pointed at the free space beside him, his face was still cold but his eyes showed excitement. "Come here, Polka," he insisted and the three resumed their walk.
"How's your day so far, Natsume?" Mikan asked with a smile then she darted her eyes to Ruka behind Natsume, mouthing words about food, everyone, and cafeteria. Ruka made one step behind to avoid confrontation with Natsume and nodded to Mikan, signifying that everything was settled.
"Now it's become better."
Mikan abruptly tore her eyes away from Ruka which Natsume spotted but did not mention. "Oh, that's real smooth . I had the best two nights of sleep, by the way. Thank you for that."
"No wonder you suddenly became quiet last night," Natsume said with a smirk.
"Sorry."
It became a habit of them to hear each other's voices before going to sleep or when they were both exhausted, exchanging messages was enough.
"Then, I heard you snoring so I figured it all out."
"I did not!" Mikan yelled, slapping Natsume's shoulder.
"Deny it all you want but I heard what I heard."
Ruka would miss seeing them together making conversations like this. He would miss high school for sure and he was not ready to leave yet even though graduation was just around the corner. Upon entering their destination, Ruka waved to their friends who already settled onto their favorite spot and saw that they had already ordered food enough for everyone. Hotaru waved back at him and patted the vacant seat beside her while Yuu returned to the table while holding the tray without wearing his usual gentle expression. The clicking sound of the metal chopsticks filled their table as Sumire distributed their ordered meal and everyone taking their respective seats. Natsume's eyes stayed on Yuu's grumpy emotion and at the same time feeling confused on why the feast already started. He needed to line up, right? Natsume then paused, his eyes grew slightly bigger and then it panned to Mikan who was grinning at him.
"The cafeteria menu is getting predictable as the days go by. Can't you Student Council people do something about this?" Yuu asked while he laid the food on the table.
Koko snapped his fingers and pointed to Yuu, saying, "Someone's cranky this morning."
Sighing and determined to change his perspective, Yuu took his seat and calmed his wits. "Do I give that impression? I'm sorry. But I am serious about the suggestion."
When Koko sensed that the problem Yuu had was not that simple, he already gave a proposition. "Well, I think the president and the vice can talk to the head cook."
Ruka did not contain any second thoughts and agreed with the recommendation. "Sure, Yuu. You can even come with us."
"That's really nice. Thanks, Ruka."
Natsume watched his friends doing their tasks naturally, acting the same as the other days but he kept his close watch to Mikan who was on the line right after she pushed him to his seat and commanded him to just stay there. He had not been successful in protesting because Sumire already sat beside him followed by Koko who waved at him with a cheeky smile. Natsume brought back his glance to Mikan already paying for the food and was accompanied by Hotaru. The brunette was definitely up to something and he had the biggest idea on what it was about.
Sumire opened her arms when she saw Mikan and Hotaru approaching the table and directed her hands on where they could place the trays. "The Photography Club's most awaited competition is today. I hope they win," she said while handing the new batch of dishes.
After putting back the tray to the rack, Mikan finally rested at the vacant seat beside Natsume, stating, "Kaname was even here earlier to send them off. He sends his regards to all of us, by the way."
"Oh, how is he?" Yura asked.
"Therapy is still ongoing. He wished to finish the sessions by next year," Mikan finished before lowering her voice and paid all her attention to Natsume. "Rice, soup, tempura, tamago. Eat up, Natsume. Today is going to be a long day."
No complaints from Natsume regarding the food but he could not help but raised his eyebrow and questioned Mikan's motives. "And why is that?" he asked which made everyone quiet.
Mikan played with the chopsticks on her hand to displace the awkwardness she felt when everyone's eyes seemed to be plastered on her. She pinched Natsume's cheeks which automatically made him frown and replied, "Just because."
The rest of their friends found the response not convincing enough and a series of groan erupted on the table while Mikan acted innocently. Natsume bored an intent gaze at Mikan which the brunette noticed, pouting at his wary emotion while she placed a piece of tamago on his mouth.
"Aaah, I really love looking at you two. Makes me believe in forever!" Sumire exclaimed but her purpose was just to redirect the topic.
Koko butted in the comment. "I think you should also think of us that way," he said.
Sumire had a big grin when she patted Koko's shoulders lightly at first until the force went heavier as she talked. "Of course, Koko darling. As long as you won't do anything stupid like breaking up with me again."
"Never gonna happen. Let's not talk about that, okay?" Koko froze at his seat, shivering from the sweet façade Sumire displayed but he could see clearly the evilness in her smile.
Sumire giggled then pinched Koko's cheeks as hard as she could making the latter winced in pain. "I just like teasing you," she admitted.
Everyone on the table laughed at the hysterics pulled out by this comedic and long term couple.
Right after lunch, Mikan and Natsume visited the library to borrow some reference books and also to study. Vacation was almost in their grasp and it meant exams week, too. They opted not to sit on the comforts of a chair and table but decided to study on the softness of the library's carpeted flooring. Leaning on the wall and with the sunlight serving as their lamp shade, the duo quietly answered exercises on English. Being on the same year served its advantages at times like this wherein they could share their lessons and teach each other. Although, mostly, it was Natsume who did the teaching because he was smart and a good teacher, facts that Mikan found unfair because in her eyes, Natsume really had everything. Seriously, the guy was good in everything he did. Choosing the safest corner in the library after a minute of discussion also gave them the benefit of being away from the strict librarian, namely Miss Memiya, whose eyes squinted when she saw them entering together. Mikan guessed that the stunt Natsume pulled last time was still fresh in the librarian's memory.
When they finished tapping their IDs and logging on the computer, they commenced their plan to split up then meet on the farthest left corner of the huge library. It only took them less than 20 minutes when they met on the decided place with Natsume already waiting for Mikan, standing with at least five books in his hands. They secured their bags on one side while they sat side to side on the floor with pens in different colors, pencils, and erasers splattered in between them. Occasional questioning ensued which made this session an interactive one. Mikan had more questions and Natsume was more than willing to answer especially in Math. When Natsume was done with the explanation, he asked her if she got it. It depended on Mikan's reply if the topic needed a further discussion. A quick, ecstatic nod from her meant that everything was clarified while a timid smile and a pleading hand meant the opposite.
Mikan stated her worry if she was bothering his own pace of study. In an instant, Natsume poked her in the forehead, saying, "No." Then her fears died down with the lifting of the corners of her mouth. In a while, Mikan found herself staring at the wall clock displayed perpendicular to the wall they leaned their backs with. Came with the clock was the date today. She flexed one knee and rested her hand on it while the other hand clutched on her notebook tightly.
"Do you think we could get in the same university?" Mikan blurted out.
Natsume halted from writing, raising his head, and completely ignoring the task on hand. "If we want to," he replied with confidence.
Mikan's gaze lowered, not sure if she should feel encouraged or pressured. "This exam season is making me think a lot of things."
"Your grammar is incorrect on number three. That is supposed to be on the present tense."
"Thanks!" Mikan quickly erased the word and replaced it with the correct one.
Natsume stole the notebook from her hand and dropped it on the top of his book earlier, becoming an addition to the ignored exercise books. They had at least more than a year to spend in high school but as they said, when you reached your second to the last year, your days felt numbered. Natsume mimicked Mikan's position and expression which made her sneer and hit his knee in a gentle way. Mikan knew it was Natsume's way of not taking the situation too seriously, that they should talk about this as positive as possible. Although the words 'graduation', 'future', 'college' had entered their conversation numerous times to the point it became normal already, the possibility of them separating in terms of distance concerned them the most.
"What do you want to be in the future?"
"I think I really want to be a teacher, Natsume. How about you?"
"I have no idea. We have one more year to decide so I'll take it slow."
They accepted each other's answer because they decided a long time ago that the future sounded scary but inevitable. Mikan slightly kicked Natsume's foot, staying quiet for the meantime but they both knew she was going to say something that could make or break this exchange. For some privileged people, like Natsume, who did not really need to be confused on what path to take because they either had a company to overtake or just freely choose because of their exceptional abilities, they somehow ended up treating the situation in a complex manner when it was really simple. Mikan considered this dilemma the price of having more than what you asked for. On the other hand, there were some people who had ran out of choices because of the financial situation or failure to identify what you were good at. Between the two, Mikan thought the first one was easier to give solutions to and the same problem Natsume was having.
"You can be anything you want to be."
Natsume smiled at the reassurance. The words were perfect for him and enough to stir his desire to identify what he really wanted to be. Taking over the huge family corporation landed on his mind but he did not want to give in to Kaoru that easily. Or, he could stay simple, doing tasks similar to what he was doing as Vice President of the Student Council. There was also one option: ditch college. Natsume instantly hated the idea of the last one because he loved being in school and learning from different people and experiences. Although, Ioran always told him that learning did not come solely from school because learning could take place anywhere.
"Thanks."
Mikan's confidence in Natsume's capability never wavered even at the most grueling times. She was definitely being honest when she stated that Natsume could be anything he wanted to be. Whatever his choice, success surely would follow. The same sentiment was not applicable to Mikan, in her opinion. She had limitations and problems and even if they had not bothered her now, reality could catch up and plaster it onto her face before she knew it. She had always been the type of person who needed to put more effort than necessary in order to achieve things and even though it was tiring, the end result always motivated Mikan to continue her journey. Mikan shook her head when she realized that in her thinking, her eyes bore on the same direction for a while which caught Natsume's attention.
Lifting her index finger as if giving a lecture, Mikan tried to give addition explanation her point of view regarding college. "And don't be pressured on getting in the same university. That's just an idea."
"Not a bad one though," replied Natsume. He did not tell it but he was thankful that Mikan's way of thinking was deeper and diverse. She was not the type to hold a person back and instead supported them with all her might. Couples usually made getting into the same university one of their relationship goals which resulted to both of them feeling pressured to achieve so which sometimes strained the relationship. The type of relationship they had was never like that. It was always a two-way street wherein anyone gave their opinions without holding back or felt scared that they could hurt one another. Mikan and Natsume both knew that whatever came out from their mouths, beautiful or not, it was stated to improve the character of each other.
Natsume tucked the stray strands of hair hiding Mikan's face behind her ear. He needed to see a change in her expression, maybe a little boost in confidence because the lost in faith became visible when they talked about university. "You, too, Polka. You can be anything you want to be. More than you know." He also said that in full sincerity and not too drown Mikan in false encouragement. Having the library as the witness of their belief for each other felt ironic for Natsume but he imagined there was no better place.
Mikan hoped Natsume did not see the blush that colored her cheeks. She knew exactly what he was trying to do, accepting the truth that Natsume was the one who always made her feel that she could do anything. Her cheeks became fuller with the happiness that suddenly drawn out from her emotions, faking a cough to renew her senses. "Can I ask you something?" said Mikan while crossing her arms and knees.
"As long as it's not a trick question," warned Natsume with an apprehensive look. He learned his lesson from last time.
Mikan found the warning rather adorable than scary, chuckling the moment she registered the meaning of it then proceeded to her question. "Can you be my date? On the wedding? It's on this coming spring. I would really love it if you are there."
When winter was over, Narumi and Serina would finally start their happily ever after and form a family of their own. That kind of a big change had good and not so advantageous effects that Mikan probably already saw but her smile contained nothing but genuine bliss so no reason to worry on that. Natsume found the request a little out of the blue but felt honored nonetheless. He knew that if there was someone who wanted Narumi Sakura to finally settle down, it was, without a doubt, Mikan. Her eagerness to push Narumi to prioritize himself this time was always present and irrevocable.
"Of course, Polka. You didn't even have to ask," said Natsume then returned his attention to the disregarded exercise book on his side and went on to answering questions.
Mikan just wanted to make sure that he saved the date on his phone or jotted it on his planner. It was a big deal for her to be with the people she cherished the most on that day because she surely would cry out of mixed emotions and needed all her support system to be intact. Time flew already and the daytime was about to end when Mikan remembered the thing she hid inside her bag to the best of her abilities. Being well-aware that Natsume did not want anything to change this year because apparently the date today reminded him of sad memories, still, Mikan wanted his preference of celebration to come to life. Pulling the bag from the side, Mikan opened the zipper and traced the box inside, pausing her movement to prompt Natsume.
"And Natsume?"
"I thought we're studying, Mikan."
Mikan winced in guilt but promised to go back to it later. She then took the box out from her bag, wrapped in olive green and presented it to Natsume. At first, he just stared at it then stared at Mikan, not saying a word which could be a bad sign. Thick sweat formed in Mikan's nape and temple despite the cold temperature, thinking that she might underestimated Natsume's dislike of not celebrating his birthday but she hoped that was not the case.
"Happy birthday," she greeted with a wide smile, "I hope you didn't even think for a second that you can stop me from giving you a gift."
Since lunch, Natsume knew what Mikan was trying to do but he chose not to bring the topic and there was no way that Mikan would let the day end without giving him something. She asked her friends to eat lunch at the cafeteria instead of dining out because it was his birthday. Everybody in the gang knew about it but no one mentioned anything about someone celebrating a birthday. Natsume had to commend them for being so discreet and for behaving like they always did.
"You…" Natsume hissed with a glare, looking keenly at the carefully wrapped gift before accepting it, shaking the box to assume what was inside, saying, "Are so stubborn, Mikan Sakura."
"Dinner with your father is next on the list, right?" Mikan continued with a laugh.
"Are we going to eat all day?"
Mikan clapped her hands, glad that Natsume was seeing it the way she saw things. "Affirmative," she exclaimed excitedly.
Study session finally ended and there were a lot of session to come until the exam season was over. After exiting the library gracefully and without getting in trouble with Miss Memiya, the two of them prepared for their next destination. They agreed to meet at the main entrance when they were done putting their things on their locker and changed their shoes. Mikan grabbed Natsume's hand when he arrived, not wanting to lose any second. They passed by the bike parking lot and also the main parking lot where Natsume's car was. He pointed out that his car was there but Mikan insisted that they would ride something else. They passed by their friends who bid their goodbyes and finally greeted Natsume a happy birthday. Natsume was only able to say a quick thanks before Mikan pulled him once again and resumed their walk. She also yelled her thanksgiving to them for their cooperation.
They kept on walking in the cold which was, fortunately, tolerable. Natsume estimated that they were at least a kilometer away from campus and had been walking for 15 minutes. Not that he was complaining but having no idea just bothered him. Still, he let Mikan led the way because he was sure she planned it all. So this was the feeling of having a girlfriend celebrating your birthday with you. It felt normal and extraordinary at the same time. They crossed three pedestrian lanes already and passed by the train station. No bike, no car, not even the train.
"Where are we heading?" Natsume asked to kill the curiosity inside him.
Mikan finally answered him. "The bus stop en route to your father's house. We've never done this before."
Natsume was a frequent lodger in his father's abode but he never went there thru bus so this idea was totally new to him. He never took one because that was the longest route out of all the mode of transportation and his car was always reliable. "Just tell me if you want to have more time with me," he teased, gripping Mikan's hand harder.
"I just want you to experience normal things."
"Look who's talking. You've never done this before either."
Mikan finally stopped from walking and dragging him. They obviously reached the bus stop. "Exactly. So let's learn together," she insisted with gleam in her eyes.
The bus arrived after about 10 minutes. In that free time, they just sat on the bench and monitored the electronic board which displayed how long the bus took. No one seemed to be coming on their direction so the surrounding was almost quiet. The copper-colored leaves fell slowly to the ground even with light winds. True, full-blown winter was near and even if winters in Tokyo were slightly warmer compared to other prefectures, Natsume still found it hard to move on some days. Mikan looked fine in this weather. When he thought about it, he never heard complain about how cold it was. Mikan seemed to notice his shivers because she just took his hands and clasped it together with hers and covered it under her scarf. She was always the one who saved him from the cold. Always.
"Have you ever thought of leaving Tokyo?" Natsume asked. He did not mean to ask her this early but the mood attracted him to.
The question arose unexpectedly but Mikan treated it as the continuation of their serious talk earlier. "Yes, but I don't think I can leave this yet. I am just so in love with this city."
Natsume acknowledged the fact that Mikan thought about leaving, nodding his head with this new information. "Why is that?" was his follow up question, standing up because the bus was finally here.
"Because this is where I met you! Plus all our friends in Alice Academy. This is the city of recovery for me. It made me realize that it will be so hard to leave Tokyo one day because if there is one place where I can found all my loved ones, it would be here."
The explanation was pretty practical and dramatic but something Natsume thought Mikan likely to say. He followed her as she stepped on the bus, tapping her card twice then chose to sit on the back part, noting the absence of passengers. "Did you rent a bus for my birthday?" Natsume asked as a joke which Mikan replied with a grunt.
Natsume felt his body temperature warmed from the heater of the bus, removing his scarf and putting it on his lap. Since the drive was long, he had more time to feel comfortable with less garments on. Mikan took the window seat, all smiles since the moment they stepped here. If Natsume remembered it right, the only time Mikan took the bus was when they went to Shirahama and nothing followed after that. She really was getting better with public transportation.
"What do you think can make you leave?" asked Natsume after settling on their seats.
Crossing her arms, Mikan enumerated in her mind the possible reasons while counting it with her fingers. "Let's see..hmm… family, I guess? Or career? I don't know. How about you? Do you think you will leave this city soon?"
Natsume rested his chin on her shoulder, saying, "I think I'll go anywhere where you are."
She loved the way he said that but Mikan had always been inclined to realistic thinking. "Or we should also be prepared that time will come that distance can separate us. And maybe that's not a bad thing. Maybe that's for growth."
Natsume buried his head on her neck completely. "I like the way how you see things, Polka."
Mikan was sure that this questioning of leaving the city did not suddenly pop in Natsume's head. He was going through something with this and she was willing to wait for him to tell about it. Mikan tapped Natsume's head with accurate gentleness, leaning her cheek to it slightly. "You don't have to limit your choices, Natsume. Not because of me. Not because of anyone. Never do that," she stated in a soothing voice. And maybe her words caused Natsume to hug her tightly. "This talk about the future is really amazing and mature but can we focus on where we are now? Hopefully, we find the right bus stop."
Good thing that technology helped millions of people find their way to their destination. It said on the map that they were near their stop and with that being said, the two admired the view from their seat as the bus slowly filled with people with every stop they made. Funny how when their talk was on the intimate part, they had the bus all to themselves. Mikan took some photos using her phone, directing Natsume how to pose and what to do. Natsume did the same for her and on the remaining photos, they were both in it together.
"How does it feel that you're a year older?" Mikan asked as she scanned the pictures.
"Age is just a number. But today is amazing."
Mikan raised a hand in midair and tapped her chest. "No need to thank me. I know I'm amazing."
Natsume snorted at her mockery. "Whatever, Polka."
The road suddenly became familiar as they finally got off from the bus, thanking the online map for its real content. From there, they did not need a map because Natsume knew where exactly to go.
"We'll walk from here," Mikan announced then began to move forward.
Natsume carefully watched her back, glued to his postion, clenching his fists. "Dad is leaving Japan, Mikan."
So, this was about Ioran Hyuuga. The mere mention of the truth caused Mikan to stop from walking, even taking her a longer time to face Natsume. "Really? Where is he going?" asked Mikan, wondering what Natsume's opinion about this. From the many times she met Ioran, it did not occur to Mikan that the Hyuuga was unhappy in this place so this came really as a surprise.
"He has not told me yet."
"So, the questions earlier are about this. How do you feel?"
"Honestly, I wanted to be mad at him but you got me on the growth thing," Natsume answered truthfully, "I saw him talking to Kaoru again and can you believe it? I actually wished they get back together because I know they still feel something. I felt it from their interactions, their exchange of looks. Is that selfish of me?"
Mikan shook her head. "For nine years, I pray for a complete family. There is nothing wrong with what you're feeling. If anything, I'm surprised that you want them to get back together."
"There are reasons for their divorce but I can't stop thinking why can't they move on permanently so there must be something."
Natsume went back to the time when his parents quarreled over nonsensical things, always updated on one another, acting like they hated it each other but acted timid when they were in front of one another. What was also the explanation for them still being single? And the looks they gave when they all met in this restaurant. Natsume could not stop thinking about it even if he knocked his head multiple times to get a grip of reality.
"Do you think it's love?" Mikan said the words in his mind out loud.
"Dad said what he feels for Kaoru is a different kind of love. Even now, I don't know what exactly he meant by that."
"You will always love a person but the romance might not be part of it anymore," Mikan explained, her face turned nostalgic, "Tell me what I can do for you," she asked.
Natsume held her hand, resuming their journey. "Making me realize things is more than enough, Polka."
"Do 19-year olds think like this always? You're so old, Natsume!" Mikan mocked, running ahead of him.
"You!"Natsume yelled, going after her.
On how Mikan communicated with Ioran regarding this feast, Natsume had not asked yet but he definitely made it a mission to know before the day ended. Ultimately, they reached their destination. It took longer than the normal but they arrived without problems and that was the important thing. Mikan expressed her joy on that bus ride, saying that she never felt scared even for a second. Of course, Natsume was more than glad to hear that. He wanted nothing but complete recovery for her because being scarred for the rest of your life could really take a toll and burn your desire to do something worthwhile. Her cheerfulness obviously skyrocketed after meeting Youichi and telling him that she was his sister. When Natsume saw that touching reunion, he knew all his effort was put in the best use and he could just replay the scene all over his head and feel touched by it.
Natsume did the honors of knocking on Ioran Hyuuga's wooden door but did not wait for him to open the door and just punched in the code. They both caught Ioran running towards the door, wearing an apron and eyes were wide with the appearance of his guests.
"You're here! Finally!" Ioran exclaimed and waved his hands as a gesture to come inside.
"Thanks for having me!" Mikan greeted, removing her shoes and changing to the household ones.
"Anytime, Mikan. Help me prepare the food?" asked Ioran. With a dash, Mikan went to the kitchen with a resolute look.
"How did you arrange this dinner?" Natsume asked as he placed their coats and scarves on the hanger, changing his shoes to slippers also. He slumped himself to the most comfortable couch in his father's house and rested his tired body.
"Oh, Natsume, my son, you're so stupid sometimes," Ioran said in snickers then spared a glance at Mikan who was preparing the plates, "I'm just a call away."
"Yep!" Mikan yelled from the dining area.
"I don't know how to feel about that," Natsume mumbled to himself which Ioran heard, earning a smack on the head from him.
Setting the table finished in a short amount of time with all of Natsume's favorites cooked and plated. Natsume used to do nothing on this day so having Mikan and Ioran for this occasion freshened things up. The dinner appeared sumptuous but knowing Ioran, he managed to bring the best taste using the cheap ingredients. Although, the elder Hyuuga spent a little bit on the wine because it set up the mood for him. He let the two youngins taste the wine and it produced the most satisfying expressions from them, praising Ioran's taste in choosing the best drink.
Just as Natsume expected, Mikan devoured the food in front of her and she definitely made the chef for the night happy. Natsume liked this bonding formed between his father and his girlfriend because it kind of stepped up their relationship. Mikan never skipped a food from the appetizer to the dessert. Ioran said that he also prepared snacks in case they wanted to watch a movie or play a game to which Mikan expressed her extreme delight because more food. After the dinner, Mikan volunteered to wash the dishes and asked of them to stay on the living area to relax. Natsume knew that this was Mikan's way of letting them have their time to talk about matters that they missed the chance of chatting the last time they saw each other.
Ioran gazed at the reddish fire from the fireplace while clutching on his wool blanket before throwing Natsume one and saving the extra blanket on the table for Mikan later. At times like this, Ioran barely used the heater to save electricity and he liked the traditional feeling the fireplace radiated. He had not seen Natsume since their sort of family reunion a week ago and that already felt like eternity. He poured himself a hot cocoa, immersing himself to the heat from the cup before sipping it until his taste buds tickled from the right sweetness.
"Has Kaoru changed her decision about the clubs?" Ioran began the conversation.
That brought Nastume to a sour mood. "No news yet. I am starting to think that she's brewing something else."
"Or she just stopped and surrendered," Ioran said with a laugh.
Natsume rolled his eyes. "Which would never happen."
"Right," Ioran said quietly then said his greeting, "Happy birthday, Natsume."
Natsume looked at his father's eyes. "Thanks," he muttered, "I really appreciate it."
Ioran did not pass the opportunity to ask his son. "What made this year different? You stopped celebrating your birthday a long time ago."
"Tell me about it," Natsume said while getting a cup of cocoa himself. He remembered the day Mikan asked him the trick question. "Have you thought about where you are going next?" he asked.
Ioran sneezed and apologized because it ruined the mood while Natsume only threw a pillow at him as a reaction. Ioran wondered how other people took him seriously during speeches and volunteer works while his own son was always annoyed for his antics. To be asked about his next plan meant that Natsume was interested in his big decision to move out of the country. When he told about it to Natsume, the latter had the impression that he was just moving to another city or a more isolated place compared to Tokyo and not to another country. So the astonished look from Natsume, even though it was just a quick one, embedded in Ioran's mind since then because it proved to him that he still had this effect to Natsume.
"I have made my decision. Next step will be organizing everything from lodging, community, finances before I finally settle."
"Or you could just plan once you're there. Wherever that is," Natsume suggested.
Ioran almost spat his drink at the advice because he certainly could not afford to be spontaneous at a time like this. "Quite an adventurous suggestion but I am not young like you, risky and fearless."
Natsume shrugged his shoulders. "Just a thought," he said nonchalantly.
Ioran extended his neck to check if Mikan was still busy because he did not want her to hear his next words. Staring at the fireplace and wearing a small smile with his droopy eyes, Ioran sniffed and drank another sip from his cup, asking, "Do you want to come with me?"
"What?" Natsume sounded incredulous and he found the offer quite unbelievable also.
"Studying overseas can open your eyes to different ideas and insights. It's going to be a lot harder than staying here but it's going to change your life forever."
Natsume gauged if his father was being serious or not and judging from the way Ioran looked, he was not being humorous. It actually scared Natsume, the thought of leaving everything behind and it showed in the tremors of his red orbs. He was not used to see such a strong recommendation from Ioran that was why he got flustered. "You just want someone to do the chores for you," Natsume said to subside the emotion inside him. But, he was thinking of the what ifs.
"Really funny. Ha. Ha." Ioran knew that he caught Natsume in the act but would not budge. "Won't you consider it, Nattie?" Ioran asked in a teasing manner.
It was like Natsume got cornered in an interview that whatever he said could be used against him. Then, he was reminded that this was his father he was talking to and he could be as truthful as possible. Looking down at his warm cup, he traced the lid and said, "I don't have the reason to relocate now."
"So, if you find one, you probably will." Ioran was like that, too. Five years ago he did not imagine leaving Tokyo ever despite the divorce and the weird relationship the Hyuuga clan had with Yuka. He lost the trust of Aoi and did his best not to lose Natsume also. He had all the reason to stay. Now, he felt he conquered everything and Tokyo just wearied him or it saddened him to the point that he wanted to get away. Ioran was still on the process of finding the sole reason but as of the moment, he was firm to change his usual scenic view to a foreign one.
"I like it here." The tone of Natsume's voice was calm and sincere on that one. Tokyo was far from perfect but he enjoyed his time here.
"Yes, I can see that," Ioran acknowledged as he glanced at Mikan whom he considered the major reason why Natsume said no outright. He took a deep breath, accepting his defeat in persuading his son and said, "I'll accept your 'no' for now."
Natsume stared at his father, trying to decode what was on his mind and what was behind his jokes. It was good timing to mention Kaoru but Natsume stopped himself because he figured that Ioran would not be leaving if he found light in his strained relationship with Kaoru. So, Natsume raised his cup to perform a toast, saying, " I hope you find what you're looking for."
Ioran wished for the same as well and though it was risky, the excitement boiled in his blood. He knew that Natsume already became a reliable person who would fight for his beliefs and that was comforting to see because Ioran felt no worries in leaving his son.
"Well, I've invested a lot of money and sold lots of things so this better be worth it."
Natsume shook his head in disbelief of Ioran's jokes. His father did not say a word after that which meant he was thinking. Natsume was thinking also. This must be what Aoi exactly felt when Ioran moved out of the house and it was a strange, sad, and happy feeling. Surely, he would miss Ioran and wished him to be just around the corner, teaching kids how to read and write, but Natsume wanted to be his biggest supporter when it came to finding purpose and happiness. All these in Natsume's mind, he did not plan on saying out loud because Ioran's good in accusing him of being sappy and he did not want this moment to turn into those crying fest.
Suddenly, a notification alert rang on Natsume's phone, causing him to check his e-mail immediately. He read the subject carefully and the content twice to assure himself that he did not get a word wrong. He clenched his fist after and displayed a victorious emotion.
"The decision's out," Natsume announced, alerting Mikan who just finished her task.
"Really? What does it say?" Ioran asked, getting up from his seat.
Natsume's eyes still glued on his phone, reading in his mind the e-mail coming from The Board's address. "The Board agrees to our recommendation," he stated.
Ioran clapped his hands. "Congratulations, son."
"You heard that Mikan?" Natsume said with enthusiasm.
Mikan nodded with a smile on her face and ran to Natsume, giving him a big hug. "Thank God," Mikan muttered, "I was so worried."
Another notification sound came, making Natsume read it while Mikan was still hugging him. Natsume's expression changed into a somber one, looking at his father who sensed that the news must not be all good.
Izumi was starting to feel suspicious about the location of his home. If it got listed on a tourist site or advertised as an important place of work because he kept on getting visitors without an appointment. Ever since he got the deal with Hinami, he collaborated with different people who also visited his shop just to match the overall décor of the café to his work but there were really random visitors whose intentions were questionable. He was working on a sketch for the plant pots when Youichi called him from downstairs, saying that there was a pretty lady who liked to talk to him. Ioran thought it was his lucky day to gain another client so he strode quickly to meet her. The aura exuded by the woman made him feel inferior but he chose not to be obvious about it. He tried to read her intentions, even displayed a welcoming smile and offered his and to give a good, lasting first impression but the woman was unfazed. Izumi blamed it on the mess of his house that this woman might found a bit unprofessional but he just had no time to arrange the house because he had been busy with his new project.
The visitor said she was from Tokyo, the owner of this big corporation. Izumi asked if she was interested with his products but the lady said that she was not there for that kind of business. The lady introduced herself as Kaoru Igarashi Hyuuga and that she got his address through Hinami since their families were really tight. Another person with the surname of Hyuuga but unlike Natsume, this woman made Izumi feel apprehensive. He offered a seat but Kaoru said she preferred to talk in his office so they landed on the shop which was cleaner than before. It was fortunate that the heater in the shop worked or else they froze to death already. Izumi noticed the secretary waiting outside and the type of car which told him that this Kaoru indeed was a big shot. If she was not here for business, Izumi failed to come up with an idea on what her purpose was.
Kaoru's main reason of flying from Tokyo to Akita was revealed in a minute. She laid her background and purpose of coming. Izumi only listened to her talk as he clutched his thick jacket. The iciness of her tone and they way she delivered her lines with much intimidation were proof enough to say that Kaoru Hyuuga was meant to destroy his good mood. She mentioned about him not having a stable job and how the shop was unsustainable. She mentioned a lot of things, giving emphasis on how he was not fit to be a parent. Izumi hated her being and he cursed him in his mind. Not only Izumi felt offended, insulted, and ridiculed, he also felt that her attacks were personal and not really for Youichi's sake. The last straw was when Kaoru brought up Yuka and how her loss was so tragic that it affected his way of life and even sent his eldest daughter to depression. That was when Izumi almost stood from his seat from angriness, losing his composure.
"Tell your daughter to stay away. I want your whole family to stay away."
Izumi asked, "Why? What's the matter?"
"Your daughter is not fit for my son," Kaoru clarified.
The comment really annoyed Izumi for many reasons. One, he did not care about the relationships his daughter had. Two, he did not give a damn if Natsume was supposed to be with someone coming from the same class. Three, he did not know why he was being bothered with this when he did not care about Mikan. Sure, he let Mikan meet and greet Youichi after almost a decade but that did not mean that he wanted to mend their relationship. Now, he was getting involved with this relationship problem when he had nothing to do with it. Kaoru warned him to take this seriously or else consequences could arise. There was no speck of humor or forgiveness in her voice and Izumi actually felt scared by her presence.
Kaoru said that Youichi could be taken away from him. Izumi snapped at the threat but unable to speak back. Everything on him screamed unreliable and the government easily discerned people who were unreliable and mentally unstable. Kaoru displayed a devilish smile, aware that she finally got his weakness. Izumi was still in debt, no stable income, his house was a mess, and his own welfare was doubtful.
"What I'm saying is that the decision is entirely up to you. I am not rushing you but what I'd like to emphasize is that anytime they can come here and do an assessment and if they find you unfit, I am really sorry to whatever happens after that."
Izumi pointed at the door. "Get out," he commanded with a loud voice.
"Please consider my offer. I am willing to bargain as long as you do your part."
Kaoru displayed an annoying and fake courtesy as she left the shop. With her laid the future of Youichi and Izumi and even if Izumi wanted to deny it, he knew that even if he passed the assessment, this Kaoru Hyuuga would do everything in her power to fail him just to get what she wanted. Izumi groaned as he hit the table with his fist, his head aching as he realized that it was Mikan again. She entered this complicated relationship, broke a family tradition, and offended one of the pillars of the country when it came to business. One problem after the other and he thought he was getting back on track.
"Another new face?" Youichi's voice echoed in the wooden room, detecting the change of demeanor of his father.
Izumi ignored Youichi's question and headed back to the house, straight to the telephone and dialed the numbers written on a sticky note on the table. "Can I speak to Miss Nogi please?" Izumi asked as his breathing steadied slowly.
End of Chapter
Sorry for the delay and my awful habit of updating slowly for the past months. Honestly, I've been restructuring in my mind the path of this story and I have been struggling because of the changes I made as I returned in writing. I apologize but now I can say that I am slowly getting back up. I wish I could reply to your questions on when I am gonna update but most of the messages I received were from not logged in accounts so I could not reply but I really want to say that I am writing and working on the next chapter almost everyday. Also, I have been busy with life, online classes, work, spending time with my family and took lots of vacations to renew my senses. I hope you enjoyed this chapter. See you on the next one! Tell me anything. : )