August 10th
Ren's eyes snapped awake in a panic. He quickly rolled over and saw that Sumire was still asleep.
"By Parvati… I have a chance!" without making a sound, Ren tapped into his inner Joker and got out of the bed. He tip-toed to the kitchen carefully, as to not wake his sleeping beauty, or beast, as he thought she might be if she woke up.
Silently, he creaked open the door to the kitchen and slipped into the hallway, closing the door behind him. As he went to get the curry from the fridge, he heard a voice.
"Ren, what are you doing?"
"AH! I'm sorry I don't have anything ready!" Ren closed his eyes and jumped back.
"What are you saying?" The voice was Morgana's, who was currently looking at Ren, confused.
"Oh, Morgana," Ren relaxed, sighing in relief, "I thought you were Sumire…"
"She's still asleep. Anyway, you didn't answer my question," Morgana jumped onto the counter.
"I need to prepare a big breakfast for Sumire. She didn't eat last night," Ren reached back into the fridge and pulled out the curry.
"That's not good, but aren't you overreacting?"
"Considering how hungry she gets… I'm afraid. I'm really afraid," Ren gulped.
"She's so thin, though…"
"Mostly," he snickered, "But seriously, I don't know what's going to happen, so I'm going to be prepared."
"Just make me my breakfast, too," Morgana went silent for a few seconds and sighed, "She must be emotionally exhausted… yesterday was a rollercoaster."
"She'll pull through," Ren started warming the curry and making two cups of coffee, "Trust me."
"Of course I trust you! I taught you everything you now know!" Morgana stomped a paw.
"I know, I know!"
"Then again, as two thieves, we should mutually distrust each other…"
"We're partners, though."
"Fair enough point. The master thief, Morgana, and his most trusted ally, Joker!"
"And Joker's loving wife and fellow thief, Violet!" Ren flourished, holding his arms out.
"The three of us are on a mission to steal the gold medal and the heart of the world at the Olympics!"
"Yessir!"
Morgana and Ren laughed together, and then the kitchen door crept open. A shiver ran down Ren's spine as he slowly turned around and saw Sumire, half-asleep, her hair completely tousled, standing in the doorway.
"M-Morning, honey!" he cracked a smile and opened his arms, all while his heart rate exploded.
"Ren…" her stomach growled, the noise echoing in Ren's ears, "I'm hungry…"
"I've got some curry heating up right now, you don't have to worry about a thi-"
"I need food now… My eating schedule…" her voice cracked.
"Listen, Sumi, dear, last night was rough, but we've almost got a complete meal ready…" he gave her a slow nod.
In a flash of speed, Sumire dashed at him, leaving Ren without a second to prepare for the worst. As he closed his eyes and accepted his fate, he instead felt an incredible warmth against his chest.
"Thank you…"
"Sumire?"
"Thank you, Ren."
"You're welcome?" he felt her wrap her arms around him, and she nuzzled her head against his upper torso.
"I'm so needy, and you woke up early just to make breakfast for me… I feel so happy," she looked up at him, with tired lines lining her eyes.
"I'm glad you're happy," he raised a hand and patted her head, "Let's just relax today."
Sumire shook her head immediately. "I'm not going to relax, Ren. I want to practice."
"Ah. That works too."
"Thank you for understanding," she leaned up and kissed him on the cheek, which gave him butterflies.
"Want to help me finish making breakfast? The faster it's ready, the faster we can eat," he pointed his thumb at the curry pot.
"Sure!" The prospect of eating food filled Sumire's entire form with rejuvenated life. She stepped back, walked up to Morgana, and pet him, "I didn't forget about you, Morgana-senpai! We'll prepare a lot of tuna for you!"
"So cute!" Ren yelled to himself before walking up to her. The couple proceeded to finish their breakfast preparations, with Sumire preparing a massive plate of curry for herself, one so large that it would have made Sojiro consider changing his prices, or adding a new type of meal. They walked back into the kitchen and started eating, with Sumire gracefully but ferociously eating her entire plate as Ren and Morgana watching in awe.
"What's wrong, Ren? Is there something on my face?" she gave him a confused look.
"You ate that so fast… You're not going to get heartburn, are you?" he snapped back into reality and shook his head.
"Not at all!" Sumire gleefully smiled and shook her head, "That was delicious! I could really taste the love you put into it!"
"Thanks," Ren held his hand across the table, which she took, "I'll see how early I can get out on the 13th, okay? I could go in today and see if any clients would want to visit now instead of later, but I can't promise anything."
"Take your time," Sumire smirked, "Grandma and I will wait for you."
"I'm kind of nervous… I haven't met her before," Ren laughed and rubbed the back of his head.
"She's been in and out of the hospital over the past year, but she's finally been permanently released! Her heart had some problems, but medicine today just keeps getting better and better!" Sumire happily nodded, "She's super excited to meet you!"
"How much have you told her about me?"
"Just a bit. I wanted you to be able to formally introduce yourself. I told her that you were training to become a therapist, were a really sweet person, gave me the heart ring, and that you're doing everything in your power to help me win the Olympics!" she pumped her fist.
"Right on the mark," he leaned in toward her, smirking, "But did you tell her how we sleep together and how you let me rest on your lap and-"
"Ren!" Sumire skidded back in her chair, flaring up red, "O-Of course not!"
"Really?" He replied with a hint of sarcasm, frowning, "I thought you'd want to brag to her about how good of a girlfriend you are~"
Sumire puffed her cheeks and stared Ren down.
"You help me fall asleep every night, you warm me with your body…"
"Ren!"
"Yes?"
"The things I do for you are… barely anything compared to what you do for me. That's why I didn't tell her," Sumire sighed and frowned.
Ren shook his head, stood up and walked up to her. "This again? Do I need to remind you of all the things you've done for me?"
"...Only me…" she whispered to herself.
Ren bent down and pinched her cheeks. "I'll sneak some tickling into my next massage if you don't speak up."
"I don't want anyone else knowing what I do for you!" Sumire abruptly blurted out, "That's the side of me I only want you to know, you fool!" she grabbed him by the collar of his shirt and pulled him up so that he was eye level with her, "I know you think I do a lot for you, but I want to do even more! There's… so much more I want to do… But I can't yet… And it makes me feel terrible!"
"Sumire…" Ren gently grabbed her wrists, "I'm sorry."
"Don't be sorry…" she let him go only to wrap her arms around him, "I'm the fool here, not you…"
"I knew that you were serious about your promise, the one you made on our first White Day, but you really don't need to think so far ahead. I know you want to get even with me, but I'm not going to let you force yourself, okay?" Ren patted her back, "Focus on the dream, first, and then you can worry about spoiling me," he sighed and leaned back, "We're like a pair of broken records."
"I just think about it so often," Sumire took a deep breath, "Thinking about what's to come motivates me infinitely, but it also makes me so sad… Because I could do that now."
"Do what now?" Ren raised an eyebrow.
"You know what I mean… Please don't make me say it…" Sumire deeply blushed and looked away.
"Wait… You don't mean…"
Sumire slowly nodded.
"Sumire… Look at me."
She turned her head, and he saw that she was still completely red in the face, her lips quivering. He raised his hand and flicked her forehead.
"Ack-! Senpai!" she immediately covered her mouth with wild panic in her eyes.
"Well well… It looks like someone had a slip of the tongue!" Ren leaned back, laughing boisterously, "And don't even think about stuff like that, Sumire. If you think that I'm upset because you're not willing to have a kid right now…" he gave her a dead serious glare, "you're totally wrong. I'm not concerned with anything like that, and just because you don't want to yet does not make you a bad girlfriend. We all live our lives at a different pace, and your current goal is too big to jeopardize."
"I…"
Ren took her hands and gave her an affirmative nod. "I'll wait as long as it takes, so don't get upset, alright? I want to hear happy thoughts! If you can completely fight past all your negative thoughts… hmm..." he leaned down next to her ear, "I'll massage you even more, and I lay on your lap more…"
"F-F-F-Fine!" her face pulsed red again as she shook her head, "I'm sorry! I always overthink things like this, and I always have such selfish thoughts! I'll stop thinking like that, so please don't stop!"
"Thank you, Sumire," Ren kissed her forehead, "Do you understand where our priorities lie now?"
"Yes," she nodded, "I overreacted again, didn't I?"
"Don't worry about it," he patted her head, "I just want to make sure you keep moving forward with a clear mind."
"Thank you, Ren."
They relaxed for a few minutes, and then he smirked.
"You did call me senpai earlier..."
"It was a slip of the tongue, Ren, please!" she pouted, her mood noticeably better already.
"I can't ignore this, Sumire… What will we do? Now I can't kiss you all over!"
"I…" Sumire realized Ren had rigged the game from the start, "I don't want to stop cuddling you, and letting you rest your head on my lap! I want you to keep giving me massages, too!"
Ren's smirk only grew as he let Sumire realize what she was saying.
"So you're saying that you want to break the rules and avoid the penalty because you like touching me so much?"
Sumire's face fumed as she found herself stuck, unable to say no. Her heart was attempting to burst from her chest, and she could barely think properly.
"Y-Yes!" she yelled with a hint of frustration, "I do like touching you, okay!? I love the feeling because it's something only I get to know!"
Sumire looked back up at him, her cheeks completely red and puffed out, with her fists clenched.
"Said like a true Phantom Thief!" Ren chuckled, victorious, and clapped her on the shoulder, "You're so adorable, Sumire, and I'll never, ever get bored when I'm with you. Why don't you get ready for practice?"
"You're so mean, Ren…" she sighed.
"I do it because I love you~"
"..." a small smile cracked across her lips. "I love you too."
"Now go get 'em, tiger!" Ren turned her around and lightly pushed her in the direction of the bathroom.
Sumire and Ren separately showered and got dressed, preparing for the day. Ren contemplated walking in on her, but he figured she wouldn't be able to handle it, considering how much he had already teased her. Once they were both ready, Ren drove Sumire to their friend's apartment complex, and he drove to work, arriving just on time. With a few well-timed phone calls, Ren managed to pull some clients in after the ones already scheduled, with their agreement. He didn't make it to practice that day, but he now knew that he could go on the 13th.
That night, when Ren arrived home, he saw that Sumire was absent.
Ren: Is Sumire still practicing? He pulled out his phone and texted Futaba
Futaba: Affirmative charlie bravo six.
Ren: I see. Thank you, Futaba. How is she doing?
Futaba: She's performing like she's a boss character taking out low-level mobs. I can feel some kind of aura! She means business, Ren!
Ren smiled. "Kick her ass, Sumire…"
Ren: Good to hear. Tell her I said hi, and that I'm making dinner.
Futaba: "Ren is waiting for you wearing nothing but an apron at the apartment." Got it.
Ren: Never change, Futaba. Thanks.
Futaba: No problemo!
With excitement in each step, Ren changed into a tank top and shorts, putting his apron on over them, and made a large dinner for Sumire, preparing her some hot chocolate and curry. Once he finished making their meals, he went into the main room and left the door open. Another half an hour passed before he heard the door swing open, and he peeked his head out to see Sumire, out of breath, staring directly at him.
"Hey, honey," he smirked.
"H-h-h-hi!" she immediately went red in the face, "I-I hurried home because Futaba told me that um…"
"Futaba told you something? I only told her to say hi, and that I made dinner," he raised an eyebrow, playing along.
"Yes! I was super hungry, s-so I rushed home!" she laughed nervously.
"Is that so…" Ren stepped out, appearing to be wearing but an apron, "Well, you're looking at dinner."
"UMMMMMMMMMMM," Sumire's breathing intensified, her face burned even deeper red, and she felt sweat forming on her forehead as Ren walked up to her, "W-Wh-Wh-What are you saying?" she raised her hands, which were shaking.
"You know what I mean~" Ren reached his hand behind his back and undid the tie.
"W-W-W-W-W-" Sumire covered her eyes, mostly, as he took off the apron.
"Alright, now do you want some curry?" Ren pointed toward the pot.
"H-Huh?" Sumire separated her fingers and saw Ren wearing his tank top and shorts, which caused her only to shake her head and blush more, "R-Ren! Y-You can't do that!"
"Do what?" he shrugged.
"You…!" Sumire grabbed him by the cuff of his tank top and pulled him down, aggressively kissing him.
Ren fully embraced her, wrapping his arms around her, and she gripped the back of his tank top with both her hands, Once a few more seconds passed, she backed off, taking deep breaths.
"O-Oh…" Ren's cheeks turned light pink, "I didn't think you'd do that…"
"Wh-What else am I supposed to do?" she pouted, "You just keep doing these things, playing with my head! My heart can't take it!"
"So… Do you want me to stop?" he perked an eyebrow.
Her fists shook as she found herself unable to say "no."
Ren grinned devilishly as her red face fumed.
"You're so red…"
"B-Because you keep teasing me!"
"And? Tell me to stop, then."
Silence.
"I-I'm going to shower!" Sumire angrily turned around, and with a huff, made her way to the bathroom.
"She'll need a change of clothes…" Ren curled his fingers and walked into the main room, opening her dresser, "Let's see…"
"Ren…" Morgana sighed, "Please just pick out something reasonable. You've teased her enough."
"I'm not too sure about that, Morgana…" Ren found a button-up white shirt, "This should be good!"
"Hold it right there!" Morgana jumped onto the bed, "As a gentleman, I won't let you do something like this!"
"Boo…"
"Just have her wear your pajamas, or her shorts!"
"One of these days…" Ren sighed and picked out a pair of normal pajamas for her. He walked back into the kitchen and waited at the door. Once he heard the water stop running, he knocked.
"Ren?"
"I brought you some pajamas. Figured you'd want to wear something more comfortable."
"Thank you!" the door partially opened, and he handed her the pajamas.
"I really should just go in, but I think I've done enough for one night. Morgana would be pissed at me…" Ren thought to himself while smirking.
"I'll get the plates ready!"
"Okay!"
With a sigh, Ren finished preparing their dinner, sitting at the table and waiting for Sumire. She joined him, wearing her hair in a side ponytail.
"If my memory serves me correctly… that's a new look for you."
"Is it?" she patted her hair, "I've tried so many different hairstyles over the past few years…"
"Your hair grows out quickly. I remember when it reached your lower back."
"I prefer it at this length, but it was fun to try something new, going both really long and short."
"I cannot put into words how much I loved your short haircut," Ren smiled, "I wonder if I should change how I comb my hair…"
"No."
"No?" he gave Sumire a startled look, surprised by her quick answer.
"I love it just like that!" she clapped and smiled.
"Who am I to argue, then?" he raised his hands and shook his head, "Then again, ever since I was a kid I kept my hair like this. Even after combing it, it'd usually just poof out like this."
"A kid… Do you have any pictures?" Sumire's eyes sparkled.
"I do if you have some," Ren smirked.
"Sure! Let's look after we eat!"
"Fine by me."
"I haven't really changed at all…" Morgana lifted a paw, "I wonder how I age…"
"You're an anomaly, Morgana. The hope of humanity, brought to life to find me and stop Yaldabaoth…" Ren's voice trailed off.
"And now I'm your mentor! Sumire's, too!" he bragged.
"Yup. Maybe you'll age at the same rate as us, since you thought you were a human?"
"I'm not sure… I don't feel any older!"
"No matter what, you'll always be cute, Morgana-senpai!"
"Thank you, Sumire!"
The three of them finished their meals, with Ren and Sumire cleaning up and finding two photo albums in their closet. They set down the albums on the dinner table and looked them over. Ren's had a picture of him at his middle school graduation with both his parents at his side. Sumire had a similar picture, standing next to Kasumi with Akane and Shinichi behind them.
"Ren…" Sumire looked at him after looking at the album cover, "Do you ever think about reconnecting with them?"
"I… I totally forgot this was the cover," he sighed, "I talked to them last Christmas a bit. It's um… It's tough. I've barely talked to them since I moved out, and I barely did when I was home. I couldn't just forgive them for tossing me aside when I was falsely accused…"
Sumire wrapped her arm around him, and turned him to look at her. "Do you still feel the same way, though?"
"I don't," he gave her a solemn look, "I… I miss them some days. They were good to me before then, and I want that relationship back."
"You should meet with them, then," Sumire gave him a serious look, "I'll go with you."
"In person…?" he gritted his teeth, "I… I'll have to think about it."
"Calm down, Ren," she pulled his head down and cuddled him against her chest, "Just breath. They've had so much time to think about how you're innocent, right? It's been well over two years. I don't want to see you have ill will toward someone, it's not like you."
"Sumire…" Ren let himself feel her heartbeat, and started taking deep breaths.
"I know it's hard, but it's better for us to face our problems head-on, right? I ran away for a long time, but I feel better than ever now that I've faced my past and my mistakes. You were there to help me the entire time, and I'll be there to help you. I'm sure they still love you, Ren."
"I agree with Sumire, Ren. This is unlike you," Morgana spoke adamantly.
"Then… Why didn't they say anything?" his voice cracked, "All this time… They never called, or wrote… It was always me."
Sumire took a deep breath and ran her hand through his hair. "They wanted to wait until you were ready. Do you remember how you acted when you were with them?"
"I… I didn't really talk to them, but they didn't talk to me, either! I was so angry… I didn't want anything to do with them!"
"I think they wanted to give you time. They didn't know how to approach you, and that must have hurt even more. I'm sure that they'll listen to you if you ask. I'll be with you the whole time, okay?" Sumire loosened her grip around him and stood him back up, "Think about it for a while. I'll wait."
Ren closed his eyes and took one last deep breath before opening them again.
"Thank you, Sumire. I didn't mean to…"
"Don't worry about it," she shook her head, "That's why I'm here. Do you still want to look?"
"We'll save this for another time," he picked up his photo album, "That tired me out. Sorry."
"It's okay! Let's go to bed."
"You did say senpai this morning, though…" he sarcastically sighed, "But you did say you wanted to break the rules…"
Sumire grabbed him by the arm and forced him onto the bed. "We're sleeping together."
"O-Of course," Ren gulped as Sumire snuggled up next to him, locking his arm in a death grip.
"You get all emotional and try to tease me right after… Jeez…" Sumire squeezed his arm.
"Sorry about that…" he turned to look at her, "I love you."
"I love you too. Goodnight, Ren, Morgana-senpai."
"You two are a real handful… Goodnight."
The three fell asleep after an intense day of teasing and emotional outbursts.
August 13th
Ren and Sumire spent the next few days doing what they did best, supporting one another along the way. Sakiya and Hanako doubled down on their training, and Sumire joined them, having vowed to catch up. Once Sumire finished practice on the 13th, opting to leave a bit earlier, she returned to the apartment, where Ren was waiting. He wore a basic black kimono, with Morgana in his bag. Sumire quickly changed into a deep purple kimono, tying her hair up into a side ponytail. They drove to the Yoshizawa residence, where Shinichi, Akane and grandma were waiting.
"Hello, mom, dad, grandma!" Sumire waved as Ren and her stepped inside. He saw Shinichi wearing a black kimono, and Akane a red one. Next to them he saw a short, salt-and-pepper haired, older woman with glasses, wearing a grey kimono.
"Hello, Sumi-chan!" grandma walked up and hugged Sumire, "It's been a long while…" her voice trailed off as she looked up at Ren, "Oh! I see you brought your husband! Hello, Ren-kun! Sumi-chan might have told you, but my name is Uzuki Yoshizawa. It's a pleasure to finally meet you!"
An awkward silence overtook the room before Akane broke out in laughter.
"Husband? My my, Sumire. What have you been telling grandma here?"
"I…" Sumire's face went tomato red, "We're… he's not-"
"He gave you a ring, didn't he?" Uzuki smiled, "Don't be shy! He's a handsome young man!"
"Grandmaaaaa!"
Ren and Shinichi joined in on the laughter, while Uzuki looked around, confused.
"It's nice to meet you too, Yoshizawa-san," he bowed, "But I'm still only dating Sumire."
"Ohhhhhhhhh," her eyes widened in realization, "Just call me Uzuki-chan, you're basically family at this point, taking care of our Sumi-chan!" Uzuki rubbed her chin and adjusted her glasses, "Hmmmmm," she looked Ren up and down, "Well, are you two having sex, at least?"
"OBAA-CHAN!" Sumire buried her face in her hands and shook her head, while Ren's jaw dropped. Shinichi and Akane sighed.
"Mom," Shinichi held up his hand, "They're still young. Don't tease them like that."
"I'm not teasing them!" she huffed, "This is serious! Young people are doing it more these days."
"Thank you very much for thinking of me that way, but really…" Ren rubbed the back of his neck, blushing.
"Perhaps I'm getting ahead of myself," Uzuki took a deep breath, "I apologize. I got the impression that Sumi-chan and you were extremely active, considering how much Akane-chan tells me about wanting a grandchild."
"Huh? Mom!" Sumire glared at Akane with a look of betrayal.
"Now now, I wasn't lying when I told her!" Akane winked.
"I'd love to see some great-grandkids, myself," Uzuki laughed.
"Mom! Obaa-chan!" Sumire puffed her cheeks.
"What? Do you not want to have beautiful babies? When I was your age, grandpa and I would have done it… In fact, people in our day would have already done it ten times before getting married..."
"Now now, mom," Shinichi waved his hand, "Sumire has some things she wants to do first."
"T-That's right!" Sumire took a deep breath, "Please listen to me!"
Uzuki calmed down and gave her a warm smile, "I'm sorry, Sumi-chan. Your mother here must've told me some overblown stories…"
"I'm sorry…" Akane drooped her head.
"I… I do want to… do stuff like that one day! But… Before I do that," Ren saw her expression become firm, reminiscent of Violet, "I'm going to fulfill the promise Kasumi and I made, the same promise I extended to Ren; the one we're working toward, everyday."
"Sumi-chan… I see," Uzuki lifted her hand and patted Sumire's head, "You've become such a strong young woman. How you spoke just now reminded me of Kasumi-chan… Let's go visit her."
"Yes… We should go," Sumire nodded.
"Indeed. Lead the way, Sumi-chan."
"I'll drive," Shinichi nodded and motioned to the door.
"Those are the manners I like to see!" Uzuki patted his back.
"Thank you, mom…"
Akane, Shinichi, Uzuki, Sumire and Ren made their way outside, driving to the Aoyama Cemetery. They stepped inside and walked through the graveyard, taking in the changed colors of the leaves. Sumire grabbed a bucket and filled it with water, and took charge of the cleaning process, wiping Kasumi's grave clean, brushing off the leaves, and planting the incense. The cherry blossom tree under which her grave resided was ripe with green leaves. Once she had finished, she stood up and looked at the group.
"Would you mind if Ren and I spoke to her first?"
"Not at all," Akane took a step back, "We'll have you speak first, then Ren-kun, mom, and then Akane and I."
"Thank you, dad."
Sumire took a deep breath and turned around, clapping her hands together and bowing her head.
"Hi, Kasumi. A lot happened in the past week, but you know that. I competed against Sakiya for a spot in the Cluj-Napoca World Cup Challenge and lost. It wasn't even a close competition… The only apparati I nearly matched her in was the ribbon. Other than that, I wasn't even close. The competition helped me realize something, though. Sakiya helped me realize that I need to stop crying all the time, because crying won't get me anywhere. It's hard, and I'm probably still going to for a while, but I'm dedicated to moving forward. I have Ren by my side, and the bond we share is what will help me climb to the top. I know I'll be able to win the gold by the 2024 Olympics. I'm not going to tarnish our dream by trying before I'm ready in 2020. When I'm ready, I'm going to perform in the finals and sweep the event clean. The entire time, Ren will be watching me, and we will become the champions of our world. The only time I'll allow myself to cry is from tears of joy. Please continue to watch over me until then, Kasumi."
Sumire exhaled, opened her eyes, and lowered her hands. She stepped back, and Ren stepped up, doing the same thing.
"Hello, Kasumi. I'm afraid I don't know you that well, but I know how important you are to Sumire. I'm doing everything in my power to accomplish our dream, so you don't have to worry. A long time ago, she told me that you said you performed best knowing that someone you loved was watching you. Coach Hiraguchi and her both told me that they believe the same thing, and that I'm that person. I'm not the type of guy who can just watch, though. Of course, if it helps Sumire, I'll absolutely do it, but I always want to do more. When she wins the Olympics, which she will, I'm going to be the best husband and father I can be. I'd like it if you watched over her then, too. So, for now, thank you."
Ren opened his eyes and stepped back, and noticed Sumire hiding a blush. Uzuki stepped up next.
"Hello, Kasumi-chan. I'm sorry for being absent the past couple of visits. My old heart just isn't what it used to be. Sumi-chan has told me about how she's been doing, following the promise you two made, dating that fine young man, Ren-kun, and practicing her heart out. I'm so proud of her. I'm sure that you wouldn't mind if she found her happiness before you, Kasumi-chan. I would have loved to see you two grow up together… You were always so close. Sometimes, we have to deal with the hand fate dealt to us, though. I miss you and your grandfather every day, but like Sumi-chan said, instead of crying, I'm not going to cry about it. Now that I'm feeling better, I'm going to help Sumi-chan fulfill the dream you share. I love you, Kasumi-chan, and I'll visit again soon."
Once Uzuki finished speaking with Kasumi, Akane and Shinichi spoke to her. Their speeches were relatively quick, with both of them mentioning how they also want to support Sumire and Ren. Sumire cleaned up after they finished, and the group drove back to the Yoshizawa residence.
"Grandma, would you like to make dinner with me?" Sumire stretched as they all finished stepping inside.
"Of course, Sumi-chan! How often do you cook for Ren-kun?"
"We cook for each other pretty equally, since we both work and practice late! It really depends on who gets back to the apartment first."
"I see. Oh, young love…"
"He loves making curry! It's his specialty!" she smiled and nodded.
"Curry? Interesting… I'd like to try it sometime!"
"Curry and coffee is my game!" Ren cracked his knuckles.
"We need to change, though…" Sumire looked at her kimono, "Ren, you brought our spare clothes, right?"
"Of course!" Ren stepped back outside.
"You chose a good one, Sumi-chan," Uzuki patted her back, "I'm proud."
"Oh he's just lovely, Uzuki-chan!" Akane giggled.
"He's responsible, caring, and he has a good sense of humor!" Shinichi added.
"Mhm!" Sumire nodded, and Uzuki, Shinichi and Akane went to change. Ren returned a few seconds later with their spare outfits.
"Uzuki-chan is definitely a character, Sumire," Ren clapped her shoulder and laughed.
"Grandma is… Definitely more…" she paused trying to find the right word, "...open, but she means well!" Sumire waved her hand with a relieved smile.
"I like her."
"You already know how she feels about you," she sighed.
"You two aren't wearing anything scandalous, hmm?" Uzuki emerged from the hallway, "Not that I care. I actually would encourage it. Now go change," she walked up and started pushing Sumire and Ren.
"H-Huh? You want us to change together?"
"What else would you do? You live in the same apartment, right!?"
"W-Well-"
"There you go!" Uzuki pushed Sumire into her old bedroom, and Ren let himself be pushed in. The door closed behind him.
"Um…" Sumire, with a beet red face, looked Ren up and down, "So… Uh… should I change first, or you? I-I'll turn around…"
"Eh," Ren started taking off his kimono.
"R-Ren!" Sumire spun around and closed her eyes.
"Why are you so flustered?" he raised an eyebrow and smirked, "Unless. Did you not wear underwear?"
"Y-You aren't supposed to when you wear a kimono! Everyone knows that!"
"Is that so…" he smirked.
"J-Just hurry up and change!"
"I wonder who told you that…" Ren quickly changed into his casual outfit and turned around, "You can go now."
Sumire didn't say anything, opting to just stay quiet and change. She kept her eyes on Ren the entire time, hoping he'd turn around. He never did.
"I'm done now…"
Ren turned around and saw her in the outfit he had picked out, her blue shirt and tan shorts.
"You look disappointed."
"Wh-What?" her frown turned into a shocked look.
"You were frowning," he walked up to her, grinning, "Did you… want me to turn around?"
"L-L-Let's go eat!" she blushed and walked to the door.
"She's shy, timid, and aggressive…" he whispered to himself before following her. They joined the family, with Uzuki and Sumire preparing dinner, okonomiyaki with a side of miso soup. Ren sat with Shinichi and Akane at the dinner table, with the two joining them once everything was ready.
"Ren-kun, why don't you tell me a bit more about yourself, from your perspective," Uzuki gave him a warm nod.
"Sure," he nodded, "I was a pretty normal kid until I reached high school. If you look into my past, you'll find that I was falsely accused of assault. That has long been disproven, so you don't have to worry about me being a delinquent."
"Falsely accused, hm? That's a shame. Nothing I've seen has indicated that you would be that sort of person. You take such good care of Sumi-chan... " her face remained warm and welcoming.
"It was an unfortunate situation, but it led to the best circumstances. I got sent to Shujin Academy, which Sumire was attending. We met on a train on my third day or so, and the rest is history. I was the top of my class, in love with the prettiest girl in the world, and taking all the bad press I got in stride."
"He really was cool, grandma!" Sumire giggled, "He wouldn't let anything take him down, and he tried asking me on a date when we first met!"
"Ah, a man of culture. I appreciate your boldness, Ren-kun."
"What can I say?" he shrugged, "She stole my heart, but it wasn't as easy to steal hers. We didn't start dating until January of 2017."
"I was the one to confess," Sumire blushed, "But he immediately reciprocated."
"Yep. I've been teasing her ever since."
"As you should," Uzuki nodded.
"Don't encourage him!"
"We weren't able to be together for long, since I got shipped back home in March. We texted and called basically every day, though. During the summer, I came by and spent some time with her over break, and then I graduated in March 2018. We've lived in the same apartment since. Now, I'm going to college to become a therapist, and helping her toward our dream. We have a cat, too. That's really it, though."
"A cat? I'd love to see it!" Uzuki laughed, "Thank you for sharing, Ren-kun. I look forward to the great-grandkids."
"Obaa-chan!" Sumire planted her face on the table.
"I know it will be some time, but I'll wait. Akane-chan here is the most excited."
"I certainly won't say I'm not!" Akane smirked.
"Mom!"
"That's enough, you two. Let's eat," Shinichi sighed.
"Fine~" Akane played innocent, and the group ate their dinner together. Not long after, Ren and Sumire prepared to leave.
"I hope to see you again, Ren-kun, Sumi-chan!" Uzuki waved to them as they stepped out the front door.
"It was a pleasure meeting you, Uzuki-chan," Ren bowed, "Sumire is lucky to have such a nice grandma."
"How charming! You remind me of my husband!"
"Shinichi was like that when he was young, too," Akane laughed.
"Was I?"
"Absolutely!"
"I'll see you again, grandma, mom, dad! The next time we meet, I'll be an even better gymnast!" Sumire gave them a resolved nod.
"I look forward to it! Goodbye!"
The three of them waved as Ren and Sumire closed the door behind them. Content with what they accomplished for the day, they drove home in blissful silence, fed Morgana, told him about Uzuki, changed, and laid down in their bed.
"What's next?" Ren wrapped his arm around Sumire and pulled her in to cuddle.
"I'm going to keep practicing, and I'm not going to slow down. Saki-chan and Hanako-chan have the World Cup Challenge soon, and I'm going to help them prepare, just as much as they help me," she ran her hand along his chest.
"Hanako is going to the World Championship in September, too. You're all such hard workers."
"Yes! Depending on how she does, she might be the second Japanese woman to go to the Olympics!"
"Does that not scare you?" Ren asked her seriously, "What if she wins the gold?"
"That's okay," Sumire shook her head, firm in her tone, "What matters is that I win the gold for Kasumi and our sakes. Sakiya is the one I need to worry about, since I'm probably going to compete alongside her."
"Huh… Didn't you want to be the first?"
"I do, but I'm not going to stop Hanako-chan. She told us that she didn't care what kind of medal she won. All she wants to do is go and say she went."
"Ahhhh. Well, I'll support you no matter what."
"Thank you," Sumire nuzzled her head against him, "Goodnight."
"Goodnight, Sumire."
The three of them fell asleep, with their immediate future goals in sight.
Meanwhile, on August 22
Sakiya and Hanako stood in their hotel room, with Murakami and Hiraguchi having driven them from the airport to the hotel. Hanako changed into her pajamas in the bathroom, and found Sakiya wearing her pajamas, giving her a confused look as she walked back out.
"Hanako-chan, why are you afraid of changing in front of others? Whenever we practice, you always sneak off to the showers, and here you changed in the bathroom."
"Oh!" Hanako blushed, not anticipating Sakiya's forwardness, "That's because… Um…"
"You have a stellar body, and nothing to hide!"
"I-It's not…" Hanako stepped back, reluctance written all over her face.
"It's not?" Sakiya took a step forward.
"I… I don't like it…" she shook her head in response, "it's… it's not a gymnasts body…"
"Not a gymnasts body?" Sakiya tilted her head, "But you are a gymnast."
"I am… but… my bust…" Hanako's face dropped lower, and she frowned.
"Ohhhh…" Sakiya's eyes widened in realization, "You think your breasts are too big?"
Hanako sighed, beet red in the face. "Yes…"
"Hanako-Chan…" Sakiya took a deep breath, "I've known you for nearly a year. You're one of the best rhythmic gymnasts I've ever seen and worked with. Your passion and drive to perform are nearly unmatched, and I can guarantee that. Nobody else is going to chastise you because your body's a little bit different. You have the talent to prove them completely wrong. Don't worry about things like that. Besides, I bet Futaba loves 'em."
"Futaba-chan?" Hanako gave her a confused look, "I'm happy that you think of me like that, Sakiya-Chan, but I'm not sure what you mean…"
"You don't? Eh, I'll let you figure it out," Sakiya shrugged, "I mean what I say, though. Would you mind if I vented a bit more, while we're at it? I've actually wanted to talk to you one-on-one for a long while."
"Um… Thank you, Sakiya-Chan," Hanako took a deep breath, "I'm best friends with Futaba-Chan, so it makes sense that she likes me! I like her too!"
"Ohhhhh, you're like that. I'll just let you figure it out. It's not really my business, anyway," she shrugged again.
"As for your venting, go ahead, Sakiya-Chan!" Hanako smiled and clapped.
"Okay…" Sakiya sighed, "To tell you the truth, and I've been wanting to say this for a while, but I'm jealous of you. Ever since we met, I've seen this gap between us that I just can't shrink… You're good, too good, Hanako. I want to catch up, but I don't know when I finally will. I want to be the first Japanese woman to win the gold in rhythmic gymnastics, that's all."
"Sakiya-Chan… You too…?" Hanako slightly choked on her voice.
"Me too?"
"Every other gymnast I worked with has been so distant, and I never understood why. Now, I think it's because they were jealous. What am I supposed to do, though? I just want to perform my gymnastics routines, that's all. I'm happy that I can represent Japan, and that I can win medals, but I'm not doing this for that. I'm serious when I say I'm only doing this because I love gymnastics!" She raised her voice, but didn't speak in anger, "I don't know what else to say! They always tell me there has to be another reason, but why does there need to be? I don't understand…"
"I never said I dislike you, Hanako-Chan," Sakiya smiled at her, "Quite the opposite, in fact. I admire you, and I want to learn from you. All the fault for my jealousy lies on my lack of skill. It's not your fault at all. Don't worry about my feelings, okay? I just wanted to tell you how I felt. If anything, I want you to teach me what you know, so I can take my shot at the Olympics in 2024. I'm changing my nation right now, so I won't be able to go to the 2020 Olympics. It's up to you to do us proud, all right?"
"You want me to teach you?" Hanako's eyes sparkled, and her mood completely changed, "I'll teach you! I'll show you everything I know! I mean, I sort of have started doing that, but I can do even more! I want to be a gymnastics instructor after I finish university, but I'll help you to reach the Olympics! I'll help Sumire-Chan, too! You two have the same goal, right?!"
"We do," Sakiya nodded, "We're both going for the gold, and we're serious about it."
"Right! Two rivals, shooting for the sky!" Hanako posed, raising her arm up and holding her hand in a peace sign.
"That's right! I'm sorry if any of the things I said made you angry, too!"
Don't be sorry, Sakiya-Chan," Hanako shook her head, "you wanted to help me by telling me how you felt. You should say thank you instead! I want to be more comfortable with my body, but I'm not sure how to…"
"It takes time for you to accept your body," Sakiya posed, "but once you do, you feel amazing. I'm confident and beautiful, and I know it. Ryuji loves it, too!"
"He loves it too?" Hanako gave her an innocent look.
"Oh Hanako-Chan… you'll understand one day. Now that I got all off my chest, I'm going to sleep. Goodnight," Sakiya crawled into her bed.
"Okay! Thank you for being so open with me, Sakiya-Chan! Goodnight!" Hanako sat on her bed kicking her feet in the air. She sat for another minute, thinking about what Sakiya said.
"Futaba loves 'em…? I don't know what she means, but speaking of Futaba-Chan, we get to finish that romantic-comedy show when we get back! I can't wait! Oh, I need to sleep!" She laid down and closed her eyes. A minute passed, and she hadn't fallen asleep. Instead, she found her heart racing as images of Futaba appeared in her mind. Several more minutes passed before Hanako managed to calm herself down as she focused on Futaba's smile, telling herself that if she did good during the performances, she'd get to talk to her about the results. To get good results, though, she needed to sleep. Thus, she fell asleep. All the while, Sakiya found herself unable to immediately fall asleep, discreetly pulling out a book. After opening it, she realized that she couldn't focus on reading, either.
"I told Hanako that Ryuji loved my body, but… is that all? I still don't understand. I like him a lot, and I'm having so much fun with him. This is so much more than any other relationship I had! Anytime I dated a boy before, he ran off before I could even take off his pants! They couldn't keep up with me when I exercised, and they all left when I wanted to do more. Ryuji doesn't, though. He keeps up with me and enjoys it! It's great, it really is… but is this something I want to commit to? I'm here to win the gold, even if that's years away. Do I have time to fall for someone…?"
Sakiya found herself unable to answer the question, and she drifted off late into the night.
The next few days passed quickly, with Sakiya and Hanako performing very well in the qualifications, scoring high and making it to the finals. Neither of them slowed down after Sakiya's win against Sumire, instead intensifying their training routine alongside Sumire with the help of their coaches. It paid off, and they received improved marks in all their performances. On the 24th after all the qualifiers had finished, the All-Around individual placements were released, with Linoy Ashram claiming first place, Hanako placing third, and Sakiya trailing behind in 10th. The next day, the 25th, they performed in several of the finals. Linoy Ashram claimed first for the hoop and ribbon, fourth with the ball and second with the clubs. Hanako performed well, participating in all of the finals, claiming second in both hoop and ball, third for clubs and fourth for the ribbon, proving all the training she has with Sumire and Sakiya proved worthwhile. Sakiya trailed behind Hanako again, only participating in three of the four apparati finals, placing eighth for hoop, fifth in the clubs and ribbon and not qualifying for the ball finals. As Hanako received her medals, Sakiya gripped her fist and grit her teeth, chastising only herself for not even taking home one. Once they returned to the hotel, Hanako video-called Futaba.
"Futaba-chan!"
"Yo, Hanako-chan! Great job today!"
"Thanks!" Hanako felt her heart begin to rush as she saw and heard Futaba.
"How is she awake to pick up…?" Sakiya calculated the time difference mentally.
"Futaba-chan changes her sleep schedule to match when they broadcast the performances!" Hanako turned and answered with a smile.
"Who needs sleep?" Futaba yelled from the phone.
"I'm getting better with the ribbon, Futaba-chan! I almost placed high enough to take home a bronze medal! If I keep practicing, I might be able to during the World Championship!"
"No ifs, Hanako-chan," Sakiya crossed her arms.
"Why are you listening, Sakiya? Get outta here!" Futaba shooed her.
"I don't have anywhere to go! Besides, this is relevant to me!" Sakiya walked up behind Hanako, staring down at the phone.
"Bah!" Futaba stuck out her tongue, "Anyway! We should celebrate when you get back, Hanako-chan! I know you're gonna want to practice starting as soon as you get back, but we need to finish that show!"
Hanako's heart started beating faster with excitement. "Of course! I'll make some time to watch it, I promise!"
"Everything is proceeding exactly as I have foreseen…" Futaba curled her fingers together mischievously.
"Hanako really kicked ass out there, Futaba," Sakiya pumped her fist, "Linoy Ashram is still an entirely different beast, though. Between her and the Russians, Hanako has a run for her money."
"Well in that case, we just gotta train more! I'll support you anywhere, anytime, Hanako-chan!"
"Thank you both!" Hanako clapped her hands, "Sakiya and I need to sleep now, Futaba-chan! We have an early flight in the morning!"
"Roger that! I'll see you both soon!" Futaba saluted and hung up.
"Well, you said it," Sakiya walked over to her bed and laid down, "Goodnight."
"Mhm!" Hanako walked to her bed, "Goodnight!"
As Hanako fell asleep, she found herself thinking of Futaba again, which made her heart beat fast, which in turn made her even more excited to return to Japan. The following morning, Sakiya, Hanako and their coaches woke up early for a flight back to Japan, arriving on the 27th. Once they arrived back at the apartment complex, they were both greeted by Futaba and Ryuji, who congratulated them for the second and first time. The day came to an end with them beginning their cycle anew, with Sakiya motivated to work harder than ever, and Hanako practicing to give the best performances she could at the upcoming World Championship, looking forward to finishing watching that romantic comedy with Futaba.
