author's note;
WOAAAAAH I REACHED THE END OF THE STORY
i have SO MUCH to say but ill add that at the end! i wont be responding to any of the reviews for this chapter as i have a little thank you note written for the readers/reviewers already!
thank you so much, and enjoy the last chapter :)
Disclaimer: I do not own Love Live - I can only wish.
Final Chapter - Forever and A Bit More
0000000000
You are cordinally invited to witness the start of Sonoda Umi and Minami Kotori's marriage.
Wednesday, Eighth of July of the year Two-Thousand and Twenty.
Half-past Three in the Afternoon at Hilton Odawara, Odawara Japan.
Dress in formal attire.
Your presence will be highly appreciated.
x K. U.
0000000000
7 AM, July 8th
"Kotori-chan.."
"Hng.. Umi-chan, five more minutes," Kotori tossed to the side, furrowing her eyebrows in her sleep. She tugged the comforter over her shoulders, letting out a content sigh.
"Kotori-chan, time to wake up. It's your wedding day, you know?" Nozomi giggled, shaking Kotori slightly "It's time to prepare the bride."
Feeling irritated, Kotori slowly opened her eyes, confused when she saw Nozomi instead of Umi and/or Umiko.
"Nozomi..chan?"
"Still in dreamland, aren't you? It's your wedding day!" Nozomi grinned, watching Kotori's eyes instantly light up "Oh, and Umiko-chan is up, she's currently with Umi-chan."
"And why not with me..?" Kotori pouted, sitting up to rub sleep out of her eyes. As though it just sank in, Kotori's eyes widened "Oh my god, it's the day."
"It is~ Hanayo-chan and Nico-chan are downstairs, choosing breakfast. I don't know why they didn't call instead.." Nozomi murmured, then grinned again "Excited, Kotori-chan?"
"Hello! I'm here! I'm here!" Honoka exclaimed, barging into the hotel room. With a big grin, she waved at Kotori "Hi! Umi-chan brought Umiko-chan down to check the venue. On our schedule.. hm, it says to have breakfast for now and start bathing by 8 AM, then preparations start 9 AM."
"Eh? So why is Umi-chan out? Shouldn't she be eating breakfast right now, since the schedules are the same?" Kotori cocked her head at her best friend.
"Umi-chan's been up since 6 AM, to write vows. Eh, wait- you haven't written your vows to Umi-chan?!" Honoka's eyes widened. While Kotori sheepishly shook her head, Honoka sighed "Well, you should start, soon! It took Umi-chan an hour, and a dozen or so crumpled papers! I wasn't able to read the entire thing since she caught me, but.. it was very sweet~"
"Oh? Do tell, do tell!" Nozomi grinned.
"Ehh~ But, I don't want to ruin the moment where Kotori-chan would hear it for the very first time!"
"E-Eh.. Wait, wait! I need a piece of paper and a pen-!"
Watching Kotori abruptly stand up and search the drawers for a pen and paper (which she soon found) brought a smile to the lips of her two friends. Honoka tiptoed to whisper something to Nozomi's ear.
"Umi-chan's vows would definitely make Kotori-chan tear up."
"Well, we could only hope Cherry and Ai's makeup is water resistant."
0000000000
In a venue that had numerous staff working to make it perfect, Umi stood in the middle of the aisle, holding Umiko close as she pointed at the altar.
"And right here is where I'll marry your mother. You'll sit right here, beside Grandma, shortly after you hand the rings to Aunt Yui and Aunt Honoka," Umi explained to the twenty month old, who seemed to understand. Carrying Umiko with one arm, Umi shuffled to take something out of her pocket, sitting down on one of the benches. Once it was out, she opened the velvet box, showing it to Umiko with a smile "I originally didn't want you to have any accessory until you are old enough to become responsible for it. However, when I was designing your mother's wedding ring, I couldn't help but sketch a design for a necklace you would wear."
In the velvet box was a white gold chain necklace, partnered with a seashell charm that had small diamonds embedded on it. On the back, Umiko's name was engraved.
"This is a necklace you'll wear today. I've notified those who will carry you about it, to ensure it won't get lost. This seashell is the same shape as the seashell I found in Sapporo, back when we told my family about you," Umi spoke, running a thumb over the small, but noticeable, charm "With this, I hope you know how loved and wanted you are. In a way, I feel as though you were the miracle I unknowingly asked for. With you, all my dreams came true."
"Pretty," Umiko commented with a smile. She turned her head to Umi, then giggled "T'ank you, Papa!"
"Thank you as well, Umiko. Perhaps, one day you'll understand the meaning of this necklace.. Now, do you want to try it on?" Umi smiled, to which Umiko nodded to eagerly "Here we go.. Wait, how do you know I'll put your necklace on like this?"
"Papa put on Mama."
"I see.. I should really be careful what I do in front of you, no? Anyways, look here" Umi, with a huff, lifted Umiko up and turned her around so she could face her "It suits you beautifully. Eyecatching, but it won't steal others' attention from you."
"Umiko, pretty?" Umiko asked, speaking in her usual third point of view.
"Of course, you're very beautiful!" Umi smiled caressing Umiko's cheek "Now, let's go meet Yuuto and Kazumi at the playroom before going to Mama for breakfast."
"Play!"
Heading out the venue, Umi was held back when someone tapped her shoulder. Turning around, she realized it was one of the hotel crew and smiled.
"May I help you?"
"Oh, it is you! Miss, I'm not sure if you recall meeting me.. but in that grocery a little over two years ago.. You were with a woman with light brown, grayish hair?"
Umi raised an eyebrow, trying to recall who the woman was. Two years ago? Umiko wasn't born yet.. Ah!
"The one I bought infant supplies for?" Umi asked, to which the woman eagerly nodded to. With a grin, Umi continued "It's nice to see you again. If it's okay to ask, how is your child? I can't believe I'd see you again on my wedding day."
"He's doing fine, all healthy! I always told myself I needed to find you to repay the debt, so.. may I ask if there is any way I can make it up to you?"
"Hm.. I do not need you to repay me, really. I only did what I knew was right at the moment. But if you insist, then.." Umi paused for a second, then smiled as she spoke again "Please make sure everything is perfect today, it's an event my fiancée and I have only dreamt of since highschool."
Meanwhile, in the Bachelor's room..
"..in."
"No."
"What do you mean no?! Get up already!" Maki, assigned to wake the last groomsman, shook Rin, furrowing her eyebrows "Mou, Eli, why can't you wake her up?!"
"Because I'm calling the hotel staff regarding the tuxedos." Eli spoke, dialing the number on the hotel landline "Hello, is this the hotel staff? Oh, perfect. My friend is getting married today, Sonoda Umi, yes. The tuxedos we sent over yesterday to be ironed, are they ready?"
"Whatever. I'll cook ramen-"
"Ramen..?" Rin spoke up, squinting her eyes as she got adjusted to the lights.
"So you don't wake up when you're shook, you don't wake up when you're called, but upon hearing ramen you rise from the dead?" Maki scoffed, rolling her eyes as she heated water up and lined up cups of instant ramen "Get up, we'll have a snack before taking turns bathing. The makeup artists will do our faces before Kotori's."
"The tuxedos are coming in ten minutes. Oh, Maki, Rin," Eli spoke up, putting on her reading glasses to check what was next on the small pad of paper "Nico and Hanayo are at the first floor of the hotel, they're grabbing real breakfast. Why not join them?"
"Nico-chan?"
"Kayochin?"
In a matter of a few minutes, the kettle was left unattended as Maki rushed to wear slippers even in her pajamas, while Rin was whining the entire time she attempted to freshen up in the bathroom.
"And.. I'm all alone. Hm.. I should probably check on Miya, where is Yui-nee?"
000000000
Meanwhile, at the lobby of the hotel..
On the way to the playroom shortly after assisting her parents and grandmother to their hotel rooms to prepare for the day, Yui's footsteps halted as her phone rang.
"Oh? Miya, look, it's your Papa," Yui said, showing the phone screen to the five month old who was comfortable in the baby carrier she wore. She brought the phone to her ear, signaling her husband to go ahead with their kids "Eli?"
"Yui-nee, good morning. How was Miya?"
"She was fine, quite hard to put to sleep but once she's asleep, she's like a log.." Yui chuckled, letting Miya grip her finger "We're going to the playroom to meet up with Umiko and Umi right now. Is it time for you to pick up Miya? The twins will be dressed up in a few hours, we just need them to unwind for now."
"Oh, perfect timing! I'll be there in a bit to pick her up. Thank you, really, Yui-nee. I'll send the payment-"
"Woah, woah, I was kidding about that. We had nothing to do anyway!" Yui reassured her, making her way to the playroom again "Just pay me with alcohol when your sister comes over~"
"Ehh, are you sure? Um, okay then! Give me just five minutes, I'll pick Miya up and we'll stay here since we need to wait for the tuxedos. I have a bag of her needs here, so no need to worry about the rest, Yui-nee. Oh, speaking of which, will you join us while we prepare?"
"Well, the twins are part of the entourage, too. They're the flower boy and girl. So I have to prepare them," Yui spoke, then looked at Miya "Miya is a flower girl too, no?"
"Yes, though I'm not sure how would she throw the petals.. Miya would be in Nozomi's hands, so I hope she can just assist her."
"Miya is a good girl, she already throws random things.. anyway, I'll get dressed in my own room, but I'll join you guys possibly an hour or so before leaving so I can get styled up too."
"Okay then. Ah, Yui-nee, I might just ask Nozomi to pick up Miya since Umiko will go to Kotori in a bit.. I'll see you in a few hours!"
"Ah, that's good! Okay, okay, see you!"
As she stepped into the playroom, Miya instantly kicked upon hearing the twins and Umiko's giggles and laughter.
"Umi! Did Umiko ease up whatever nerves were left from a few hours ago?" Yui smiled, then waved at the kids "Umiko, has Yuuto and Kazumi behaved?"
"Yes, Aunt 'ui!" Umiko grinned, nodding eagerly.
"Other than the fact Yuuto tugged Kazumi's hair shortly after I took him off the stroller, they're fine," Kazuma responded, patting little Kazumi's hair before she went crawling off again "Umi, have you eaten? The preparations start in two hours, though you'd be busy by eight."
"Well, if coffee is included, then yes, I have. And to answer your question, Yui-nee, Umiko did help me calm.." Umi nodded, then smiled at her daughter, who slid down the slide with a smile Umi would see in Kotori "Umiko is getting so big.."
"I heard from Mother and Father that you got Umiko a necklace?"
"Ah, yes, I forgot to inform you about that of all people.. Umiko, darling," Umi called out, beckoning her daughter to come. When the latter did so, Umi showed the necklace by removing Umiko's hair from blocking the pendant "A seashell. I didn't want it to be too big to steal attention from her, instead it's more like it is complimenting her appearance."
"A unique choice.. I'd get Kazumi one, but dear heavens, she's so energetic I feel as though she'd lose it in a span of minutes!" Kazuma sighed, waving at his niece when the toddler ran off again "The same goes for Yuuto.."
"It truly is a beauty.. Ah, Umi, help me take Miya off," Yui requested, looking at the baby that seemed to be irritated "Whenever I see Miya, I honestly just see a miniature Eli.."
"That's what I think, too.. but with Nozomi's mischeviousness," Umi murmured with a frown, but she instantly smiled as she cooed to Miya "Hello there, you were asleep when I took Umiko. Your parents will get you soon, don't worry. You must be missing them, no?"
"Whoa, my niece really changed you," Yui uttered, surprised at how doting Umi sounded "and Kotori. The way you talk is so similar to her talking to kids.."
"Is that bad?" Umi cocked her head, holding Miya close. The five month old snuggled into her chest, as though she was a bit tired.
"Of course not! It just further proves you two are well suited for each other," Yui smiled, then elbowed her sister lightly as Kazuma went off to play with the kids "Hey, hey. How did you write your vows? What did you think of?"
"The words.. came out smoothly. Of course memories came and inspired me, but for a specific part.." Umi paused to think, then smiled as she recalled a memory "It was a memory of when we started dating in.. highschool. It helped tremendously."
"As expected~ I can't wait to hear it later!" Yui chuckled, then turned her head to her sister "I can't wait to have another sister~ I wanted to have Kotori as a sister in law since I saw how cute you two looked as an item~"
"I'll let that slip since today is our wedding day, and.." Umi's sentence trailed off as she beamed "because I also look forward to having Sonoda Kotori in my life."
"Sonoda definitely suits Kotori's name well! But you know what other surnames suit her, too? There's Nishikino, Kousaka-"
"Yui-nee," Umi glared at her sister, covering her ears.
"Kidding, kidding! Besides, I remember seeing her doodle 'Sonoda Kotori' when she was in junior high - or was that you who wrote it? It was left to dry in the calligraphy room and-"
"Y-Yui-nee!'
Meanwhile, Bachelorette Room, an hour later..
When Hanayo and Nico eventually returned, Nozomi went ahead to take Miya, who joined their room as they got ready. The girls took turns taking care of Miya, and freshening up. The bride, however..
"Mou.. almost..!" Kotori sighed, her pen hovering over the nth paper she wrote on. Dozens of papers were scattered on the desk, but this specific paper she was writing on was the perfect one! It just needed to finally sum it up, but, much like what happened when she wrote Wonderzone, Kotori had a few difficulties..
As she closed her eyes to ponder, she became oblivious of her surroundings (Nico and Honoka trying to coo Miya, who got terrified of Nico's facial mask) and began to think of memories with Umi, trying to get inspiration.
0000000000
"Kotori, the sunset is really beautiful, no?" Umi, third year in highschool, murmured in awe as she halted in her footsteps to gaze at the sun. She hesitated at first, but eventually mustered up the courage to entwine her hand with Kotori's with a smile
"It really is.." Kotori responded in agreement, a small smile forming on her lips as her gaze transferred from the sunset to their entwined hands "Hey, Umi-chan?"
"Hm?"
"I wish to see all the sunsets in my lifetime with you."
"Realistically speaking, there would be times we couldn't see it together. Even if we.. even if we ever get m-married or l-live together," Umi struggled to keep a stern voice, but continued "we'd probably be at work, or one would be at work while the other waits at home.. So we can't really see all the sunsets together.."
"Mou, Umi-chan! I was trying to be sweet," Kotori pouted, furrowing her eyebrows at Umi "Maybe Umi-chan doesn't want to see sunsets together with me.."
"E-Eh? Don't get me wrong, of course I do!" Umi stammered, then sighed as she looked at the ground "I'd be the happiest if my sunsets and sunrises are spent with you, or at the very least, knowing that no matter how many sunsets and sunrises pass, you and I are in.. love with each other."
"That's sweet, Umi-chan~" Kotori teased, leaning onto Umi's shoulder "Umi-chaaan~?"
"H-Hm?"
"I love you."
"..I love you, too."
000000000
"Ah.."
Kotori eventually snapped back into reality, scribbling on the last sentence to wrap up her vows. She skimmed through the vows, and with a satisfied sigh, grinned.
"All done!" Kotori exclaimed gleefully, tucking in the paper into the envelope. She placed the envelope right beside her wedding dress, and paused to gaze at the ivory white dress "It's finally the day."
"Miyacchi~ Mummy's done! Oh, my poor baby," Nozomi stifled her laughter as she made her way to Miya, picking her up from Nico's arms "Did Auntie Nico's mask scare you again? It's okay, it's okay. It keeps her skin free from the wrinkles she gets from frowning at Auntie Maki~"
"Nozomi, stop teaching my godchild things! Mou, Miya.." Nico pouted, her eyes on Miya "You'll understand when you grow older!"
Hearing that from her godmother, Miya's lips quivered before she buried her face in Nozomi's chest again.
"Kotori-chaaan!" Honoka tackled Kotori in an embrace after being freed by Nico (she was definitely not ready for a child yet, thank you) and smiled at her childhood friend "I can't wait to see you walk down the aisle! Uwaa, especially Umi-chan's reaction! Oh, right! Umiko-chan will be a major part of the entourage like in the rehearsals, right?"
"Ah, yes! She will be holding the rings as well, and I heard from Umi-chan she will be wearing a sentimental necklace.. please assist her well, Honoka-chan," Kotori nodded, then let out a shaky sigh "It feels surreal, still."
"Of course it will, but I just know today will be so memorable for you, Kotori-chan," Nozomi chimed in with a reassuring smile "You should start freshening up, Cherry and Ai will be here soon."
"Hey, Kotori, is there a specific reason as to why you wanted to have Cherry and Ai do the makeups?" Nico asked as she began rinsing off her facial mask when Hanayo exited the bathroom.
"No reason~"
"There definitely is a hidden reason," Everyone in the room thought, just by judging Kotori's tone.
Hours later, forty minutes before the wedding
2:20 PM
"Kotori-chan, beautiful!"
"Stunning!"
Kotori was finally in her wedding gown, with makeup and her hair lightly styled with waves. Though there was a photographer who came to take memorable photos (there was one with Umi, too,) the reactions of the girls were raw and authentic as the photographer took multiple photos and some short clips.
"Kotori, dear, are you-"
As Mrs. Minami stepped into the hotel room where Kotori and the girls stayed, she stopped in her footsteps as she watched Kotori, dressed in an ivory white gown, give Umiko a kiss on the cheek.
"Mama, pretty!" Umiko exclaimed gleefully, then twirled in her own baby blue dress.
"No more than you, my darling," Kotori giggled, then lifted her head up to look at whoever was at the door "Mom, you're here! Ah, you look elegant in that dress~ E-Eh, wait-"
"I'm fine, I'm fine! And thank you, but Kotori, you look so beautiful today," Mrs. Minami smiled, holding back more tears and lightly dabbing her eyes with a tissue "Dear heavens, people were right when thet said waterproof makeup is a must when attending your child's wedding."
"Dear? How's Kotori-"
Mr. Minami had quite the similar reaction as his wife, only he wiped tears away with a finger before approaching his daughter.
"Dad, don't tell me you're gonna cry, too?" Kotori chuckled, smiling to reassure her parents.
"It just feels like it was yesterday that I brought you home from the hospital, and now I'm going to walk you down the aisle to the altar.." Mr. Minami chuckled, then let out a content sigh "But I know you are in good hands with Umi. I just know it."
Ignoring the photographer's camera constantly clicking, Kotori embraced her father, careful not to wrinkle the dress or mess up her appearance in any way. Soon, Mrs. Minami joined the hug as well, and it stayed that way for a few seconds before Kotori shyly pulled away.
"Well, I guess it's really time for our little bird to soar on her own, no?" Mrs. Minami laughed, reaching out to hold Kotori's hand "My dearest Tori-chan.."
The family of the bride spent a few minutes taking photos, then the bridesmaids plus the maid of honor followed. Shortly after, though..
"I'll head down real quick, I'll come back when it's time to go to the wedding. Miyacchi is a bit fussy," Nozomi smiled as she excused herself, holding Miya close.
0000000000
Meanwhile, the bachelor's..
Umi was in an identical state as Kotori - tuxedo on, makeup on. Though, her hair was still down, which prompted the HMU artist to take a bag full of hairstyling supplies.
"What hairstyle would you like, Umi-san? You know, it would be amazing if you'd let your hair down-"
"Erm.. that.. isn't what I promised Kotori," Umi shyly spoke, cutting Cherry's sentence short "A low ponytail would do."
"You promised Kotori-chan what you'd do with your hair, nya?" Rin asked, putting on her yellow tie. Her tie, like the others, matched the color of their respective partner's flower bouquet "But.. why?"
"I'm sure Kotori forgot about it, it was a promise we made in highschool, after all."
"Then why keep it if she would barely remember it?" Maki asked, sipping water through a straw "Nth reason as to why I detest lipsticks at times - can't eat, can't drink without the risk of messing it up."
"Umi has the habit of keeping all promises, especially to Kotori," Eli teased, earning a slight glare from Umi "Vows ready, no?"
"Of course."
"Still nervous?"
"More than ever."
"Excited, though?"
"Certainly," Umi finally smiled as Cherry finished the low ponytail "Is it time?"
"Mm.. not yet. Yui-nee will let us know when she drops by," Eli spoke, checking the time on her watch.
The doorbell soon rang, causing Umi's head to turn to the door's direction. Rin was the one who opened it, and she was greeted by three elder Sonoda's.
"Mother, Father, Grandma," Umi smiled upon seeing them, instinctly standing up to bow. She examined her grandmother's attire for a while, noting she wore a rather familiar traditional-looking dress "That dress..?"
"Kotori designed it.. she had gifted it to me, thanking me for welcoming her into our family," Grandmother Sonoda explained, using a cane to assist her as she walked towards Umi. She brought a hand to her grandchild's face, then smiled "You have certainly blossomed into a wonderful young woman, just as I had expected when I first laid my eyes on you."
"Mou, Grandma," Umi shyly chuckled, holding onto her grandmother's hand "Um.. thank you, Grandma."
"For what exactly?"
"For accepting me for who I am," Umi smiled, squinting to get ignore the tears that were welling up "For accepting my family."
"Of course, is there any reason for me not to? A Sonoda has multiple duties and traditions to follow - and regardless of what you may think, the tradition to follow your heart exists, too," Grandmother Sonoda gently laughed, then turned to beckon the parents to join "Well, Suzune, Ushio, what are you two doing? It's Umi's last few moments as a maiden, you know."
"You are getting this, right?" Maki whispered to the photographer, smiling when the latter said yes "Good. I feel as though this is one of the rare moments of the Sonoda's like this."
The Sonoda's were never the affectionate type - their love showed in different ways. A simple "I made your favorite tea" was considered a love language for them.
So when Mrs. Sonoda caressed Umi's cheek before embracing her, when Mr. Sonoda gave her a sincere smile, Umi was overjoyed.
Twenty minutes later..
Yui, wearing a women's tuxedo, was busy talking to a few of the guests and the staff when she was notified the wedding would begin in twenty minutes, meaning the groom had to be there in five.
"Nozomi," Yui called out to the purple haired girl, who was standing at the front of the elevator "Can you notify Kotori?"
"Ah, that's why I'm going up, actually!" Nozomi smiled, holding Miya with one arm "Are you going to ride the lift with us, Yui-nee?"
"Of course. I must tell Umi as well, though I hope she hasn't escaped.." Yui sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. As they entered the elevator, Yui smiled at Nozomi "You look amazing! And aw, Miya is matching with you?"
"Yes! Kotori-chan sketched out these dresses for us, her hands are truly amazing," Nozomi nodded with a shy smile, pressing "8" on the elevator buttons "Oh, what floor are you on, Yui-nee?"
"You mean to tell me that Honoka booked the rooms for the bachelors and bachelorettes in the same floor.." Yui murmured, furrowing her eyebrows "So all this time, those two were at the same floor? Well, what's next - they're just three rooms apart?"
A few moments later..
"So they are three rooms apart."
Yui rolled her eyes as Nozomi stifled her laughter. Both of them had a hand on the doors, and with a smile and a nod, entered the rooms at the same time.
"Is it time already?" Kotori gasped.
"It's time?" Umi asked. She paused for a moment, swearing she heard her, well, soon to be wife's voice before deciding to call out "Kotori?"
"Umi-chan?!" Kotori stood up, making her way to the door only to be blocked by Nozomi "Nozomi-chan.."
"Sorry, Kotori-chan. It's bad luck if the groom sees the bride before the wedding," Nozomi giggled at Kotori's pout.
"Hey, no seeing the bride til the wedding, remember?" Yui exclaimed, then composed herself with a smile "Umi, it's time to go to the venue. Nozomi?"
"Hm?"
"The rest of the bridesmaids, including Miya, must follow in five minutes. Honoka, Umiko and Kotori, in ten. Do not, under any circumstances, let Umi and Kotori see each other just yet."
"Hey, wait-! I just wanna see a glimpse of Koto-"
"No but's! Nozomi, shut the door-"
"A-Ah.. Umi-chan?" Kotori called out, putting on lace gloves. She took a deep breath in, then smiled "I love you. See you in a few minutes."
It was silent for a while, then Umi responded.
"I love you, too. See you.."
When the bachelorette's door was finally shut, Yui moved out of the way.
It took a minute for Umi to compose herself as she put on her cufflinks, but with a deep breath in, she gave a small smile.
"Ready?" Eli asked, then chuckled "Hold on, last words as a maiden?"
Umi paused to think, then giggled.
"The life I had as a maiden was.. nice, but I do believe that a greater life, full of happiness, with my family awaits."
0000000000000000000
"Okay, deep breath in," Kazuma told the twins, who were too eager to start throwing petals. He held both of the twins, a task he found rather easy after eleven months, as they waited for the signal to start walking "Wait, Yui, when we got married - the flower kids only placed petals down for you."
"Kazuma, I told you - Umi may be the groom, but she is a lady, still. On her wedding day, a lady must walk on a path of flowers," Yui explained for the nth time as she straightened Yuuto's bow "It's the twins' job and our little cousin's job to lay petals for Umi, much like Miya and Kotori's cousins would lay petals for her."
"Ah, I see.. Also, I just noticed, but the flowers for Umi-"
"Are gray anemones, while Kotori's will be blue. Kotori is really keen on smaller details," Yui finished his sentence, puffing up Kazumi's dress "It's cute, no? Eli, how is my sister going?"
"We finally got her out of the lobby. Took a few deep breaths, and a few shoves plus covering of eyes since Kotori was on the other side of the lobby when we left, but we're here," Eli explained, walking towards them with Umi and Maki "Is she gonna walk down the aisle soon?"
"In a few minutes. Our parents are walking down the aisle along with Mrs. Minami, then Kazuma with the twins, then our grandmother will walk down the aisle with Umi," Yui smiled, making her way to her sister. She held her face - careful not to damage Umi's makeup - then gave her a reassuring smile "This is it, Umi. I'm so, so happy for you and Kotori."
"Mama!"
"Yui, we will go ahead now," Kazuma called out to his wife, earning a peck on his cheek.
"Do well. Kazumi, Yuuto," Yui fixed their hairstyles one last time, then grinned "Throw those petals like you throw the toys at home, okay?"
"Bbaaah!"
"Yes, this is it.." Umi breathed out, watching her brother in law, niece and nephew walk down the aisle. Her head then turned her head upon realizing their grandmother being assisted by a staff member "Okay.. this is definitely it now."
"It's already time?" Yui asked, straightening her own tie. She beamed at Umi, then at her grandmother "Umi, go. Good luck, and remember to take deep breaths."
"Stay calm and eloquent, Umi."
"Don't faint, I didn't bring a medic with me."
"Good luck, nya!"
"Umi, shall we?" Grandmother Sonoda called out to her grandchild, and once Umi locked arms with her, she smiled to reassure her "You are exquisite today, my dearest Umi."
Umi could only chuckle in response, taking in a deep breath before walking ahead.
"And now, we welcome the groom and the matriarch of the Sonoda family. Following behind her is her best man and the groomsmen."
Once Grandmother Sonoda was seated in the first row and Umi stood at the left side of the altar along with the groomsmen and best man, Kotori's younger cousins began scattering petals on the aisle. Left, right, left, right - just as they had practiced.
"Miya-chan is coming next with Nozomi-chan, right?" Rin whispered to Eli, who nodded with a smile that reached her ears "Whoa.. I hope Miya-chan will do well like Umiko-chan at your wedding, nya."
"You don't know how worried I am regarding that.." Eli sighed, recalling the past month of teaching Miya to throw bits of paper at the ground, then actual petals "I'll move back to Russia with my family if Miya messes up."
"That's harsh," Maki responded, straightening her position as Nico, who was currently walking, reached the middle of the aisle "N-Nico-chan is.. looking different today."
"I heard that, you know," Nico murmured, standing on the right side of the altar "You could compliment me normally, no?"
"Hush, now," Yui reminded her kouhais with a stern expression, similar to Umi's.
Shortly after Hanayo walked down and reached the right side of the altar, Nozomi followed, holding Miya who was sucking on a white pacifier.
At the same time, Miya's pudgy, small hands continued to grab petals from the small basket and toss them in random directions.
"That's my girl," Nozomi giggled in a hush voice, then looked ahead at Eli, who seemed ever so proud "Miyacchi, Dada's watching there."
Still, Miya was too busy tossing petals - even after they reached the right side of the altar, she still tossed petals (which thankfully ran out after a few more throws.)
"How cute," Umi murmured, giving a small wave to Miya.
"Umi, look at Umiko."
Upon hearing her daughter's name, Umi's attention turned to her - the little bluenette held a pillow that had the ringbox secured on top. Her footsteps were quick, and she smiled as she looked straight ahead of her.
"Papa!" Umiko exclaimed shortly after spotting Umi, her pace getting quicker. Like rehearsed, she gave the pillow with ring boxes to Yui, though she went against the original plan of going straight to her maternal grandmother and instead hugged Umi's legs "Papa, love!"
"I love you too, now go ahead and sit with Grandma, okay? My little princess," Umi bent down, giving Umiko an eskimo kiss before pointing at Mrs. Minami, who was beckoning her grandchild all the while "Behave yourself, and I'll let you have a bit of macarons later on."
"Ma'a," Umiko nodded in a hush voice, before running towards Mrs. Minami and sitting beside her. She waved at Umi, as if to say 'look, I'm behave, so I will get macarons, no?'
"Good girl," Umi chuckled, standing straight up. She took a deep breath in, watching Honoka enter and walk down the aisle "Okay, Kotori's next.."
"Chin up, Umi-chan~" Honoka reminded her best friend in a hush voice, making her way beside Nozomi.
Soon, the bridal march began to play as the doors opened once more.
"We humbly ask the guests to please rise as we now welcome the bride."
As Umi's eyes met Kotori, it felt as though they were the only ones in that room, like the awes and murmurs of the crowd were simply white sounds in the background. Of course, the bluenette couldn't help but tear up, regardless of how hard she tried to hold it back.
For Kotori, underneath the veil, she had a rather big smile on, letting out a quiet giggle as she watched Umi wipe her tears with the handkerchief she added to Umi's suit.
The walk down the aisle was rather long and time consuming, but neither of the two minded it. Their journey to this very moment was long enough, they didn't mind waiting as long as it meant their forever was to start.
But of course, all paths lead to one destination, regardless of the time it would take to get there, regardless of the paths taken. And for Kotori, that destination would always, always, be Umi.
"You look stunningly beautiful," Umi whispered to Kotori as she took her hand. She bowed at Mr. Minami, shaking his hand.
"Take good care of her, Umi," Mr. Minami reminded her as he watched Kotori smile underneath the veil "I know she is in good hands when I see her with you."
"I will, Dad," Umi nodded, then turned to Kotori shortly after her father sat beside Mrs. Minami. Holding Kotori's hand, she gave it a few light squeezes as she uttered "..no turning back?"
"Not in this lifetime or another," Kotori chuckled, caressing Umi's hand as they both smiled, looking into each other's eyes.
"We are here today to witness the start of a new journey, the start of these two young ladies' marriage.."
Umi was the first one who read her vows aloud. It was on the lengthy side, with a few chuckles and tears here and there, but Kotori visibly loved every bit of it. Sure, she teared up at some parts (even having to wipe away some tears,) but it was Umi being.. raw and open, something the bluenette barely did, especially in front of a crowd.
"I once looked at love as something.. indecent, but looking at you, at Umiko, it's enough to make me realize how pure and beautiful love truly is. And for opening my eyes to show me the reality, I thank you. I truly cannot wait to spend the rest of my tomorrows with you," Umi spoke, holding a mic close to her mouth. She moved her gaze from the piece of paper to Kotori, the nth time since she started reading her vows aloud, then chuckled when she saw Kotori wiping tears away with a smile "Kotori, though these words alone cannot describe my love for you, let this be a way for you and for others to know how deep my love runs for you. Forever alone is not enough for me to love you - so from this day onward,
let me love you forever and just a bit more. I love you, and I'll love you until my last breath, Minami Kotori."
There was a moment of applause after Umi returned the mic to a staff. The bluenette let out a shaky breath as she smiled, her hands lightly shaking as she received the ring from Yui. She took Kotori's left hand, taking off the lace glove on it, then brought it to her lips to kiss it gently.
"I love you," Umi murmured quietly, then slipped the ring onto her finger. Once more, she kissed Kotori's hand, albeit a bit longer than the first. As soon as she looked up, Kotori was once more tearing up under the veil, which caused her to laugh softly.
"Mou.." Kotori spoke softly, wiping a few more tears before taking the mic from a staff, bringing it close to her mouth as she giggled "I just need a quick moment to compose myself, I didn't expect to cry much.."
"Told you," Honoka mouthed to Nozomi as the crowd laughed lightly.
"Okay, okay.. I'm okay now. I.. I am not so good with words, I think everyone close to me knows that. I struggle to express myself verbally, and lean onto actions to portray how I feel, so.." Kotori explained as she opened the folded piece of paper. With a smile, she looked into Umi's eyes before continuing "These are barely enough to explain how much love I feel for this woman right in front of me, but I'll start."
Similar to Kotori's reaction to Umi's vows, the bluenette teared up every now and then as Kotori read the vows. The topic ranged from their childhood, to an admiration that became love when they were young, to being young parents. The bride's voice cracked a bit, but she continued to speak words that were full of love.
"When I look at you, I sometimes think 'I love this person too much.' It feels as though a lifetime with you is not enough - so in the next, I'll definitely, surely do my best to find you again," Kotori laughed lightly as she read her vows. She then smiled as she reached the last few parts, then looked into Umi's eyes as she continued "Umi-chan, I hope you know this by now - how you and Umiko-chan complete me. From this day until my last breath, I look forward to all of the sunsets and sunrises I'll see as your wife. To the life you and I will share. Sonoda Umi, thank you for choosing a future with me. I love you more than words can describe it,
and I know that every passing day, my love for you would only grow more and more."
The crowd erupted with applause as Kotori returned the mic to the staff, while Umi lightly dabbed tears away with a soft handkerchief, careful not to make a mess with her face.
"You've got a way with your words now, don't you?" Umi teased, though her expression turned into a soft smile as Kotori reached out to put the ring on her left hand.
"Learned it from the best," Kotori responded, putting the ring onto Umi's finger with a shaky hand. Once it was placed, she ran her thumb over it with a solemn smile "I love you. I really, really do."
"Do you, Sonoda Umi, take Minami Kotori as your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold in sickness and in health, in richer and for poorer, til death do you part?"
"I do," Umi held her chin up, caressing Kotori's lace-covered hands.
"And do you, Minami Kotori, take Sonoda Umi as your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, for better or for worse, to love and cherish, til death do you part?"
"I do," Kotori nodded rather eagerly as she lightly squeezed Umi's hands.
"With this, I now pronounce you Mrs. Sonoda Umi and Mrs. Sonoda Kotori. You may now kiss the bride!"
The crowd once more applauded and cheered - albeit longer than the first two cheers - as Umi lifted the veil, revealing Kotori, who, despite being teary-eyed, smiled ear-to-ear as she met Umi's eyes.
"Finally," Umi breathed out before cupping Kotori's face. She first kissed the latter's forehead, then finally on the lips.
(But of course, it was the bride who deepened it.)
"Hey, hey-!" Yui laughed as Umi's hands dropped to Kotori's waist while the bride leaned a bit backwards "Save it for your honeymoon!"
It was Umi who pulled away first, as usual. Ignoring the camera's flashing lights and everyone else in the venue, she caressed Kotori's cheek before putting her forehead against hers.
"I love you," Umi spoke, lost in those amber eyes once more.
"I love you, too," Kotori giggled, then hugged Umi tightly. She leaned against her chest, then smiled at Umiko who was looking at them "Umiko-chan!"
"Mama?" Umiko tilted her head, then smiled as her parents beckoned her to come. She hopped off of the bench, then ran towards Umi, who lifted her up to give her a kiss on the cheek "Eheh, Papa~!"
"Now, please look here, Sonoda family! Shortly after this, we request the bridesmaids, maid of honor, groomsmen and best man to have their photos taken with the newly-weds."
It took a while to get all photos taken, but in every photo, the newlyweds smiled brighter than anyone else had ever seen them before.
00000000
Reception, 2 AM
By the time it was 10 PM, some guests who were a bit too young or too old to join the after-reception party had already left. It included the kids, who ended up in the hotel room that the Sonoda's and Minami's shared.
(Mainly because both sides of grandparents wanted to take care of Umiko.)
Of course, there were guests that stayed. Colleagues, batchmates from highschool (and even some from their own universities!) as well as a few of their relatives stayed to celebrate alongside Kotori and Umi. But around thirty minutes ago, they began leaving due to partners (or themselves) being too drunk, or simply because they were worn out. By 2 AM, it was simply μ's, Tsubasa, Yui and Kazuma left behind.
And once more, Rin and Honoka raided the stage.
"Honoka, like I said, down--!"
"Umi-chan, Umi-chan, relax~" Kotori laughed, a little on the intoxicated side as she placed a hand over Umi's chest, trying to distract the bluenette "Honoka-chan.. Honoka-chan and Rin-chan don't mean harm~"
"Kotori, you're too soft on them, really," Umi sighed, her gaze softening as she looked at Kotori.
"Y'know, I once thought Kotori would end up with Honoka," Nico, drunk and leaning on Maki's shoulder, murmured to girlfriend "but realizing it now.. Sonoda has been gay for Kotori since I saw them when they were first years."
"Took you that long? I wasn't there to see it on their first year, but the moment I saw them, it was pretty obvious," Maki raised an eyebrow, visibly cringing when she saw Nico holding the bouquet once more "Eugh. I still can't believe a midget like you caught that."
"And you're mad I caught it? Hmph. If you won't propose to me, then fine! Someone else will!"
"H-Hey, I never said I won't--!"
"May the heavens help those two tsuns take the next step," Eli sighed, returning to the table while holding a tray thatbhad a few shotglasses and a small plate with lemon and salt. She could only smile softly when Nozomi raised an eyebrow at her "Just one last?"
"It's good you tolerate your alcohol well, unlike those two," Nozomi could only chuckle, looking at Honoka and Rin who slurred the lyrics of Anemone Heart. She then turned her attention to the bickering lovers with a mischevious grin "So, when's the wedding?"
"Nozomi--!"
A few hours earlier..
"It's the moment all maidens have been waiting for! All the single and/or dating women, please stand in the middle to try and catch the bride's bouquet! Who knows, perhaps you are next?"
Nozomi laughed lightly as she watched Maki try to hold Nico back from joining the small crowd that had Hanayo, Honoka and even Yukiho in it.
(Keyword: try)
"Catch that bouquet, Kayochin~!" Rin exclaimed, pumping her fist up in the air as she cheered for her girlfriend.
"Nico-chan, do you seriously believe in those--"
"I'm not listening about beliefs to the girl who believed in Santa for fifteen whole years!" Nico scoffed, shaking Maki's hand off before joining the small circle "Oh, Yuuki-san, you're here too?"
"Gotta try my luck with relationships somehow," Yuuki sheepishly chuckled after being spotted in the same small circle.
"Alright, Mrs. Sonoda Kotori! Please toss your bouquet on the count of three! One,
two,
three!"
There were a few squeals, and Kotori got a little confused as to who caught it when Umi visibly stifled her laughter.
"Hah!"
"Nico-chan?' Kotori turned around, chuckling as she clasped her hands "Congratulations, Nico-chan, Maki-chan!"
"Shit," Maki swore quietly, earning a smack on the shoulder from the protective Papa!Elichika ("Umiko and Miya can hear you!")"What-- Nico-chan, hurry, put it down--"
"Hell no!"
"Weren't you whining to me the other day about how you have no idea how to propose to Nico--" Eli's sentence was cut short when Maki gripped her shoulder, causing her to yelp in pain.
"Please never speak of that."
"Understood. Please let me live, I have a child," Eli winced.
Back to the present..
"Hmm, I'm still thinking about it--"
"Acacia Heart, my lonely-- Eh?" Honoka stared at the mic, realizing it no longer worked "Hello? Hello?"
"I said stop," Umi shrugged her shoulders, holding a plug. Ignoring Honoka and Rin's pout as they left the stage, she finally relaxed her shoulders.
"Umi!" Yui approached her younger sister, her cheeks tinted pink "Congratulations once more! I'd want to stay more, talk about some of your childhood stories -"
"Please don't, your best man speech that had embarrassing stories of my childhood was enough."
"- but today was so long in every way I could think of.. Oh, right, your honeymoon is this weekend, yes?" Yui asked, to which Umi nodded to with a faint blush -- and Yui knew her all too well to know that alcohol wasn't the cause of that blush "Two week long honeymoon, no~? Have the best time of your lives~ Oh, but Umiko should stay with her grandparents tonight.. judging by how drowsy Kotori already is, I don't think she'd wake up when Umiko needs her.."
"Ah, you're right.." Umi nodded in agreement, watching her wife who was now seated beside Nozomi nod in agreement absentmindedly with heavy eyes as the purple-head talked "We should call it a night already, no?"
"Tsuu-- I'm not.. drunk!"
"I'm taking you back to the room, I ordered strawberries and bread in advance.." Tsubasa sighed, putting Honoka's arm over her shoulder. She gave a small smile to Umi, pausing in her tracks to shake the bluenette's hand "Congratulations, Umi-san. Once more, on behalf of Honoka, I do apologize for her behavior.."
"I only wanted to celebra'e!"
"I know, I know.." Tsubasa nodded, trying to hush Honoka's whines "Honoka and I will head back to our room now. Oh, but please do not worry -- I only intend for her to finally have her much-needed rest after a night of.. well, partying."
"I do know she'll be okay with you. Honoka, goodnight," Umi chuckled as Honoka simply saluted to her. She turned to Yui, who leaned on Kazuma as soon as he came to her side "I take it you will take her back to the hotel room similar to Honoka and Tsubasa-san?"
"Exactly the same," Kazuma nodded with a chuckle "I've noticed all of the guests have left. It's only us now, no?"
"Indeed.. Actually, I'd need to bring Kotori back to our hotel room, too," Umi sighed, crossing her arms "But you two go ahead, I'd still need to talk to the girls before we go back."
"Mhm, alright, alright. Well, then, goodnight, Mrs. Sonoda," Yui teased, which Umi simply chuckled to before she went towards Kotori.
"Umi-chan, good timing!" Nozomi beamed upon spotting Umi approaching them "Rin-chan and Hanayo-chan are heading back. Well, Maki-chan is heading back with Nico-chan too.. I think all of us are? Besides, you and Kotori-chan deserve to rest after a long day."
"I do intend to bring Kotori back to our room to rest.."
"Just to rest?" Maki asked with a teasing tone, cringing when Umi glared at her "Geez, sorry, sorry."
"Hm? But, Umi-chan and I will rest, though?" Kotori stood back up, going to Umi's side. She smiled softly when she felt Umi drape her tuxedo coat over her exposed shoulders "Well, in our own way, of course~ And thank you, Umi-chan."
"That rest includes a bed, pillows and blanket," Umi insisted, her cheeks getting more and more pink.
"Well, something else can happen with the same items, Umi.. Anyways, we should really get going," Eli nodded in agreement, then drank the last shot before sucking on a lemon "Hanayo, I'll help you out with Rin."
"Well, what about me and her?" Maki shot a look at Nico, to which Eli only shrugged her shoulders to.
Twenty minutes later..
In the end, Eli did assist Hanayo with Rin while Nozomi fetched Miya, all while Maki pushed Nico on a cart til they reached their room.
The newly-weds, on the other hand, were the first to arrive to their room.
"Finally," Umi thought, letting out an audible sigh as they reached their room.
"Umi-chan, I'll go change in the bathroom~" Kotori smiled to her wife, holding her nightwear close as she went towards the bathroom "Ah, you change here while you wait for me! Well, you can also change in front of me since I've seen it quite a lot--"
"I-I'll change while you change, thank you," Umi instantly responded, to which Kotori just laughed at.
"Is it just me, or was Kotori's voice a bit.. deeper?"
Umi shook her head, getting any and all impure thoughts out of her mind.
"I must admit though.. Kotori's tolerance towards alcohol can be deceiving. There are times she's out after just a few shots, and times she just.. becomes more and more teasing and.." Umi voiced out her thoughts quietly as she shuffled out of her attire, changing into a silk pajama set "..flirty, too."
"But hey, what if we actually do something else instead of resting-- No! Kotori must be extremely tired, such feelings should be put aside..!"
"F-For now, at least!"
"Did you say something, Umi-chan?" Kotori called out from the bathroom.
"N-Nothing at all!" Umi responded, shaking her head. With a more hush voice, she continued "How.. how shameless, Sonoda Umi..!"
"But they said that you must consumate the marriage on the wedding night and.. isn't that now?"
"It isn't always that way..!" Umi scolded herself quietly as she buttoned up her pajamas. After a minute or two debating with herself quietly, she made her way to the bathroom door, knocking on it twice "U-Um, Kotori.. Do let me know when you're done so we can head to bed together."
"Almost done, love."
"I really feel like you're planning something when you call me petnames.." Umi gulped, putting her thoughts aside.
As soon as Kotori opened the door, Umi gasped with eyes wide open.
"Ehh, that reaction makes me feel bad," Kotori huffed, crossing her arms across her chest "I'm not sure if this would consider as lingerie, it's more like a short nightgown with a seethrough part that shoes my stomach.. it doesn't really show anything indecent, maybe I should've went for something else.."
Realizing it was once more one of those days Kotori felt insecure about her body, about marks across her stomach that were proof she bore a child, Umi frowned as she gulped before putting her hands on her wife's waist.
"You're really beautiful. I, um, I like it this way. It isn't too indecent, but.." Umi's cheeks burnt up as she realized what she was about to say, but sighed as she couldn't think of anything else "..it's enough to leave some for my mind's imagination.."
"How shameless, Umi-chan," Kotori teased, though visibly happy with Umi's response. Her hands soon trailed to Umi's top, unbuttoning the first two buttons "I have something else in mind other than, well, resting. Would you like me to demonstrate it?"
With a gulp and pink cheeks, Umi nodded.
A few r̶o̶u̶n̶d̶s̶ moments later..
Comfortable underneath the covers, Umi hummed as she ran her fingers through Kotori's hair while the ashen-haired snuggled deeper into her chest. Umi paused, smiling when her own wedding ring glimmered due to the night lamp.
"Umi-chan?" Kotori yawned, putting a hand on Umi's chest.
"Hm?"
"I love you a lot."
"I love you too," Umi responded with a small chuckle, planting a kiss on top of her head "I cannot wait to see the rest of life's wonders with you."
"I feel the same way," Kotori nodded, smiling as she saw her wedding ring. Eventually, her eyes fluttered close as Umi continued to hum a soothing tune while long, slender fingers ran through her hair.
Before Umi fell asleep, she looked down and examined Kotori's face, brushing away stray strands of hair.
"How fortunate I am to have you in my arms once more," Umi murmured, planting a kiss on her forehead before closing her eyes, a small but satisfied smile on her face.
000000000000
EPILOGUE
One year (plus a few months) later..
"Umiko, Kotori, I'm home," Umi announced as she took off her shoes, leaving it on the shoerack of their genkan.
"Papa, Papa..!"
A little girl, around three years of age, ran towards Umi, who swiftly carried her with one arm.
"And how was my Umiko while I was away? Been good?" Umi smiled warmly, giving her daughter a little eskimo kiss.
"Umiko and Mama maked dinner!" Umiko nodded with a grin.
"You made dinner with Mama? Great job!"
"Umi-chan, welcome home!" Kotori, wearing an apron, happily skipped to Umi. She gave her a chaste kiss on the lips, and laughed at Umiko's reaction "Why the sour face, ma cherie?"
"No kissies.."
"Are you jealous?" Umi teased her daughter, who paused, then nodded with a pout "Why so? Mama loves me, so of course, she'd kiss me too. Is it not allowed in front of Umiko?"
"Mama loves me, not Papa!"
"I'm pretty sure Mama loved me before you. Isn't that right, Kotori?"
"Now, now," Kotori took the little one from Umi's arms, and soon placed her down "You know I love you and Papa dearly, but there's a little difference."
"Like wha'?"
Ah. Umiko's at that age where she asks about anything and everything already. Kotori pondered for a moment, then grinned.
"Mama and Papa kiss Umiko-chan on the forehead and cheeks, right? And sometimes, the hands?" Kotori asked her daughter, who nodded "I don't kiss you on the lips because that's where I kiss Papa~"
"Kotori.. isn't it too early for Umiko to know--"
"You'll know more when you're a bit bigger, but for now," Kotori pondered for a moment, then smiled "Why don't you take Mr. Lion and his friends back inside? You left them on the swing, remember? It might rain, they'll get soaked, and they'll be so sad that Umiko-chan forgot about them.."
Umiko's little amber eyes widened with worry, and she hurriedly ran to the living room, dragging her little wagon behind her as she headed for the garden without uttering a word. She has to save Mr. Lion and friends from the coming rain!
(Umi checked the weather forecast afterwards -- no rain coming.)
"Responsible, isn't she?" Umi smiled, then frowned at Kotori "And what you said earlier.. I'm sure there is some other way to tell Umiko--"
chuu~
The ash-haired girl giggled, watching Umi stammer a response after she kissed her briefly.
"Isn't it true? I'm the only one allowed to kiss you on the lips, right~? Unless.." Kotori's lower lip quivered, and she somehow made her eyes tear up as she looked up to Umi "Umi-chan has an affair?!"
"N-No! Kotori!" Umi instantly waved her hands in front of her, then she took a deep breath in before reaching out to hold Kotori's face, using her thumbs to wipe her tears away (please remind Kotori to thank Nico for teaching her how to act) She couldn't help but smile once more when Kotori kissed her palm in return, feeling the softness of her hand overlapping Umi's calloused one "You know you're the only one I love.. Though, I thought Umiko's hands are the ones you kiss?"
"I can kiss all of you too, you know.." Kotori pouted, then chuckled "After all, you've been mine for over a year now~ So all of you is all mine to kiss~"
"No more returning me?" Umi teased, raising an eyebrow.
"And definitely no refunding! I'm definitely happy having you as my dearest wife," Kotori exclaimed happily, then scrunched up her nose "Mm.. go ahead and bathe before we have dinner. I'll go help Umiko-chan with her crew."
"Alright, alright," Umi nodded with a sigh, though she stood for a moment as she watched Kotori approach the entrance to their garden.
Umi beamed after hearing the familiar tune Kotori was humming, loosening her tie as she made her way up the stairs.
"Took a while, but I suppose I finally did press the love button."
- - - - - -
I want a button for love (clicking and ordering,) let's start~!
At the beginning we got a little closer, I reflect on the happiness that came from meeting
Forever (baby,) forever (maybe)
I won't forget how my heart pounded
It's always okay, our meeting invites tomorrow
We stop and gaze at one another..
did I click the button now?
side-notes:
So many things to say but so little words to explain it ;; As this story comes to a close, I would like to thank the silent readers, the guest readers, to those who favorited/followed this story and to the readers who left a review;
NozoGartenEli
IamGayandaSinner
ChiPee21
Guest/Kimmikim
tzumisa9
Magiclapras
Yominaumi
Guest
Susy Collen
Guest/Chap
voidtv88
toyguy32
blinkkittylove
luvanofate
SockyCake
K. Yahiro
(plus a few more!)
And especially to:
Hiei's Curry: For leaving reviews and being there since the beginning, thank you! I hope you continue to enjoy my stories :DD
DirayGon: For leaving constructive reviews and being a great help during the first few chapters! I do hope you enjoyed this story
RotundApple: For leaving some of the best reviews I've read (also for introducing me to the salute 'emoji' o7)
Prince Ushio and Nitsuy: For becoming a friend of mine!
Fallen and MakAndChiz: For being one of my moots on Twit and supporting most of my stories :3
It's a lil bittersweet, knowing that 'Baby, Maybe' will no longer be my top priority, that it's complete. Its semi-sequel, the series of short stories of Muse as parents, 'Babies, Definitely' will be released soon -- I do hope you guys check it out sometimes as it will have some parts of Baby, Maybe that I chose not to include here as it wasn't an important part of the book, as well as a glimpse of Muse being parents.
Baby, Maybe is my first book, my first fanfiction. I got bored one day, wrote a few parts of the first chapter and the epliogue, then --while tipsy-- uploaded it. After all.. two exes together again cause of a pregnancy from a supposed one-night stand sounded fun for me, even though it is slightly OOC for the chosen ship. I even wanted to discontinue it, but I knew the feeling of reading a story and feeling disappointed that it was discontinued, so I still wrote it. The first ten chapters were cringy, I didn't exactly know how to write well -- but thanks to everyone's reviews, suggestions and criticism, I was able to complete this. Once more, thank you, but dw cause I'm fixing the other chapters a bit lol
See you at 'Babies, Definitely'? But even if I won't see you there, thank you for reading 'Baby, Maybe', and enjoy reading all the other fanfics in the world!
Stay safe and take care!
- zumi