And they lean in.
Faces are closer than earlier, breaths mixing with each other that she could smell his breath, the soft touch of skin of his nose has sent what felt like thunder in her spine, prompting her to go further than they already were. Yet despite the closeness, she could feel the touch of hesitancy that was taking long to seal their heart's desire. Sawako knew he wanted this, too. She could see it with the way he kept on glancing to her lips and to her eyes like a permission if it's alright to go on. She could feel it with the way his breath fanned her lips as if it was teasing hers to come closer.
She wanted this. But the patience was nice and thrilling, this holding back became a challenge, it bubbled excitement in the depths of her stomach. All they need is just one push. A push to seal whatever that needed sealing at the moment. A push and –.
"Meow~"
She slipped. Sawako's eyes widened in surprise when her lips came in contact with the skin beside his lips. It gave out a soft chu, both eyes looking at each other as if asking what had happened and what went wrong. It was as if she was doused in cold water and became aware of how far what happened was from what they wanted. Immediately, Sawako pulled her head back, her lips suddenly had a ghost effect from its contact with the skin.
If his face that was already red could get any darker than the shade, she knew that her face is in the same state, too.
Sawako turned to Neko-Tobio and flicked its tail at her attention. It meowed once more, the pool of black in the feline's eyes looked bigger than usual, and looked as if it's happy her attention turned to him. And with her action, it broke the spell of whatever she shared with Tobio-kun. She cast a glance at him that was glaring at the cat.
"Oh… I… Right. "With the shake of her head, disappointed it went beyond the target, she awkwardly walked towards the cat and picked it up. She glanced at him once more, catching his eyes on hers. Sawako smiled shyly before entering the room and once she's inside, she gave the cat a disapproving look. "You came at the wrong time, Neko-Tobio." She whispered.
It just looked at her, innocence plastered on its face; it made it hard not to get mad at the interruption of the cat. She could still feel the irregular beating of her heart and her cheeks still warm at what happened. Her hand reached for her face, softly touching it. Did that really happen? She touched her lips, remembering.
Gosh, what if Neko-Tobio didn't intervene? She bit her lip, imagining how soft those lips that scowl a lot. Regularly drinking water to hydrate himself, the water moisturizes the lips she never had seen Tobio-kun with chapped, dry lips. That fact alone was already inviting, disregarding how attractive he is every time she sees him.
The cat mewled from her grasp, breaking her out from her stupor. It wanted to break free, paws pushing her chest and arm. Sawako bent down and placed the cat on the floor.
It felt new to her – that almost experience was something that she never encountered before. She knows what to do, she almost did it. She's seen from the television novellas and has been described in the books she read. Sawako has never been that close to someone. Sure, she did push her face to her siblings when they're goofing off. But that was before and they're relatives. Kageyama Tobio isn't.
Kissing is normal for romantic couples, she knows. Her mama did it with her papa and Reika-san did it with Kazue-san. It must feel great. It should be. The feeling of having to kiss that person you love, it must be.
They've been going out for this long and she couldn't help but to admit that they haven't progressed at all. Twelve months, a year, and what they had are moments that were already intimate for her. She was content with their shared silence, holding hands, head pats, and side hugs. When they're cooking or playing volleyball in the yard, or just walking around the town eating food in the stalls they could find. This long-distance is not an excuse for them not to go farther in the tactile area but it always slipped in her mind that they need some sensual touching sometimes, too.
Though, she doubted he watches porn. He's so focused on his volleyball career that his history logs would obviously be uploaded videos of volleyball matches all over the world.
Her mind reeled. To do or not to do? Which is the answer? Sawako turned to him, who was still outside. He was hunched over, leaning on the railing. She bit her lip, fingers twirling the end of her hair at the thought. It only brought her to look at his back with intent, wondering what he's thinking at the moment. He can be unpredictable at times, but more often transparent when riled up. Her bluish-green eyes trailed at his back that was broader when she looked at it properly. His shoulders were leaner, bulkier perhaps, she could make out the added muscle from his workout and training. His experience seeps out from that alone and it tells a lot about his level as a volleyball player.
Extraordinary passion. She's never been prouder at his progress.
But her heart leaped just looking at him. It was attractive, especially when his hair was kept short. And that nasty glare and scary scowl. He has always been attractive in her eyes since she first laid her eyes on him a long time ago.
To think that he's a third-year student next term. Time flew past for busy bees.
She smiled at the memory that was like a film she's seen. Her feet moved towards him, suddenly having the guts to do it. They've been stagnant in their wishy-washy shy-shy relationship. She's not going to waste any more time. But thinking about it, this anniversary has good timing to level things up.
So, she sighed and leaned on the railing beside him. "You're going to be a third-year student soon." She started with small talk.
He nodded.
Silence.
Sawako looked at him, still wondering what he's thinking. She could feel the awkwardness that coated them at the moment. Faking a cough, she asked another question. "What… What will you do after graduation?"
He glanced at her way, shifting his weight on his left foot. "I'll go pro." He said without hesitation. "I'm not going to college."
She looked at him, not surprised at his decision. Volleyball idiot, volleyball maniac, genius setter… You're that dedicated. He would still pursue professional league even if she didn't come into his life and it made her mystified still with the depth of his passion for the sport. It made her smile, her sudden urge to rile him up nudged her. "I bet you can make it a year later."
"A year?" He tilted his head, a brow raised.
"What?"
"I can make it within a year."
Heh. "Confident, are we?" She grinned, liking the fact he's catching up.
Not to her surprise, he smirked. "What do you wager?"
Oh? Suddenly, there was a challenge. He is so transparent given his competitive nature. But she already has something in mind. With what he did today? She's not going to let that be a one-time thing. "Cook for me."
Tobio-kun blinked. She took him in surprise, that's for sure. But he was up for the challenge. "If I win, let me stay over for a night."
Now, it was her turn to be surprised. Blinking, she asked. "That's it?"
"For the coming nights only."
"No sleepover, Kageyama."
She couldn't help but shake her head in amusement, remembering suddenly the words Keishin once told the lad a year ago. "You don't have to ask my permission for that, y'know."
He really didn't have to. He's always welcome in the apartment, thus the copy of the key, like always. Besides, they're old enough not to play around. In fact, she felt like they needed it. But with their focus on their own personal goals and dreams, they'd just fall asleep, exhausted with no action happening. He really didn't have to ask her but ask the adults instead.
"Ukai-san will have my head if I go ahead without permission…" She heard him mumble.
It made her smile at his consideration. Though, she doubted that would happen. Sure, Keishin looked scary because of the thug vibes but her cousin is good-natured. What bad man sings folk songs loudly when he's alone? "Oh, he won't do that. What will he say to a pro?"
"Is that surrender I'm hearing?" He raised a brow.
"Oh no." She laughed. No way, she'll back down on a challenge especially when what's at stake is Tobio-kun cooking for her in the coming days. She held his hand, wrapping her fingers with his in the process. "We'll see after the year."
He smiled. He took her by surprise when he leaned and planted a soft kiss on her knuckles. His eyes remained, looking at her as he did that and it made her heart warm at the gesture. She felt like she was struck by an arrow that pounded her heart more than before. It was rare to see him show affection, still shy and used the thrice tap in response to her I love you.
Ah. There it is again. The magic from earlier before they got disrupted was back. With their hands interlaced and their eyes looking at each other, it felt like a perfect moment. He felt different from earlier. Tobio-kun has this aura that shows off his intimidation as if saying he does not want to be disturb.
She could sense that he's going for it as well, just as she wanted to. He faced her properly, feeling his palm on her arm that wanted to pull her close. In response, she did the same and took the step forward. Her eyes leveled on his lips, feeling the tip of his nose on the crown of her head. Sawako looked up, and he looked down. One moment, he was simply staring, waiting, eyes downcast, and red cheeks. but even though it was chaste, she felt a soft pair of pink, plump skin that put pressure on hers in a second. And the next thing that happened was he pulled back a little, the tips of ears matched the color of his cheeks.
It was just a second. A millimeter second.
I felt it. Sawako pressed her lips, feeling giddy.
"Q-Quit it with that face."
She blinked. "Huh?... But you kissed me." He scrunched his nose, looking away, and she was unable to stop herself from placing a hand on his cheeks to get him to look at her again. It made him redder, given that their faces are still close to each other. But it was not in her mind yet. She really wanted to rile up, so she flicked his nose with the hand that cupped his cheek.
"Ow."
He's so cute. "What's with that kiss? I barely felt it all." She goaded.
"Eh? It was that bad?"
"I didn't say it was bad. I barely felt it, you're so quick. Are you in a hurry or something?"
"I'm not!"
She almost giggled at his narrowed brows. "Do it again, so I can respond. My eyes were open."
"You had your eyes opened?"
She pouted. "You didn't say anything about kissing. How should I know?"
And he looked baffled. "Huh? I thought… I thought you're thinking of the same thing so I initiated. Was I wrong?" The hold in her arm was gone and replaced by a confused pout.
Instead of placing his hand back in her arm, Sawako placed her free hand on his shoulder. She shook her head, ending her provocation for another moment. "Nah… by the way, I'm waiting," and closed her eyes. She could see darkness and heard him grunt. Sawako smiled, feeling his face closer. "Please, don't hurry."
Request granted; she felt the pressure on her lips. Soft, tensed lips planted on hers gave her a feeling that reminded her of the winter breeze. It made the hair on her nape stand up, goosebumps in her arms and legs. It fluttered her heart with unexplainable joy. She could feel him then – shy, hesitant, careful but eager, wanting to be reckless, and satisfied. In their short moment, she returned the pressure of her own, tiptoeing a little as she smiled on lips before separating.
When the sky painted orange, it was a cue for them to part. With the remaining days left in the week, Sawako wasn't bothered as they will meet soon. It made her excited given that they had their first kiss today. Even when she bid him goodbye, a promise of weekend meet-ups like any other weekend, gave him a kiss on the cheek, she felt excited and wished for the term to hurry and end.
She was back in her apartment after dropping Tobio-kun off at the station. Her body fell on top of her bed, too big for her, disrupting the cat that was sleeping. Throwing an apologetic look at the feline that stretched, she turned to the bed stand. Her bluish-green eyes landed on the picture frame, reminding her of the time they had their photo taken in the previous coming-of-age ceremony.
Her cheeks turned warm, remembering their kiss. It kept on replaying in her mind how his cheeks burned at close proximity, his pout, his scowl, his smirk, those blue eyes where she could see a reflection of herself and how they closed when he leaned, particularly those lips…
Oh.
Her heart felt like bursting in joy and she felt like squealing or rolling in her bed. She clutched a pillow in a tight hug with her emotions all over the place. She felt joy, embarrassment, excitement, love, and Kami-sama, she wanted to do it again. She touched her lips, closing her eyes as she relived the moment. She replayed what happened earlier in her mind like a broken record, still feeling the pressure of his lips on her own.
We kissed.
Sawako smiled at the first attempt, finding it cute with his peck when she froze in surprise with her phone beeping for an incoming call. She reached for the pocket in her pants, fishing the vibrating phone.
K. Tsubaki
Incoming call…
She swiped the green icon and placed the call on a speaker.
[Hey, Sawa-chan! You were gone early. Where were you?]
She stilled, forgetting about the plans of lunch together. "Apartment." She rubbed the belly of the sleeping cat. "Sorry about that. Tobio-kun came over."
Immediately after receiving the location of where he's at and the room number came into mind, she left the university as fast as she could without running the hallway. The fact that he was here and it was their anniversary made her forget to tell them of whereabouts due to excitement. It has slipped her mind.
[OH! Oh! It's today, isn't it? Congrats! And don'tcha worry, I couldn't make it to lunch either. I ate the sandwich you gave me earlier by the way.]
"Yes, thank you, Tsu-chan."
There was a squeal. From the background, she could hear Hana-chan telling the ginger to shut up. [You go, girl! Well, I ain't gonna keep you so… better fill us the details tom'row, 'kay?]
But he already went home.
[We're going now! I still have on practical today, tho. It kind of sucks.]
Blinking, she turned to the sky that turned into a shade of red-orange. "This late?"
[Yeah. Doc rescheduled 'coz of some business meeting she attended earlier. Gosh, her. No consideration at all.]
She chuckled, imagining Tsubaki rolling her eyes while slamming her fist on the table. "Oh, well I know you can do it, future physical therapist."
[Haha! Thanks, Sawa. I gotta go now, tho. Ya' better wear protection! Byeeeeee.]
Her eyes twitched. "Bye, bye."
And a beep.
Sawako sighed. She picked up her phone, swiping it home. With a look at her wallpaper – the one where they cut their hair together, she sighed once more, still lying on the bed. A moment passed, Sawako squealed and rolled back and forth in her bed. "Oh my gosh, Tobio-kun."
The cat hissed.
"Oh, sorry, Tobio."
On the following day, Sawako attended her only class after lunch for the presentation of her group's research. And on the day after was her free day to finalize miscellaneous tasks such as returning the literary books that she borrowed that she has yet to return. When done with college stuff, she began to pack and clean the apartment as much as possible. Who knows how many dusts would gather in her absence of three weeks? She pulled out white cloth to cover her furniture there.
Before the evening strike on a Friday, she went to the train station where she met up with Hana and Tsubaki to go back home to their hometown.
"I never missed Sendai like this before."
Sawako chortled.
Hana turned to her. "What? It's true."
"You sound like you've been away for a long time but we've been going home every Friday."
She began to feel a sudden weight on her shoulders, yelping at the heaviness but decided not to guess as she immediately knew who it was based on the lemon smell of shampoo and loud voice. "Yeah, yeah!"
"My ears kinda hurt…" Hana mumbled.
"Oh, sorry," said ginger but still hasn't let go of their shoulders. "Is Semisemi going to pick us up?" Hana nodded, checking her phone to contact her boyfriend. Tsubaki turned to her with a wide smile. "Is Tobio-chan picking you up? Say no and join us for a change!"
Sawako adjusted the strap of her travel bag, feeling the weight straining her shoulder with Tsubaki's arm that was on hers. The carrier cage that consisted of Neko-Tobio was in her other hold and the cat was already heavy as it is.
Date: 03/21 15:35
From: Kageyama Tobio
Subject: (No Subject)
I'm going to Coach Ukai with Hinata.
Will you be, okay?
She shook her head to Tsubaki. "I'll go. He's with Grandpa today."
Tsubaki grinned in content, turning to her cousin. "Where is Semisemi?"
"Somewhere around here."
"Then, let's go! Let's go!"
"Arms off first. You're heavy." Hana told the ginger.
To her amusement, Tsubaki clicked her tongue but did what Hana told her. "Tch. And here I thought you two are good arm cushions"
Sawako shook her head, smirking at the pouting Kawanishi. "That is not the reality, apparently."
Tsubaki narrowed her eyes, looking at her then to Hana. "I swear you two are like twins."
Blinking, Sawako glanced at the other ravenette. She caught Hana's blue eyes that twinkled in amusement with a mirror of her own smile. If anything, Hana's features reminded her of Tobio-kun with the black hair, blue eyes, attractive face with a little bit of Kiyoko but feminine. "Nah." She denied.
"Great minds think alike." Hana added.
"Are you implying I don't have a great mind? That's mean!"
"What? No."
Sawako sighed. "It's just what you think but you are actually great."
"Oh."
Hana's eyes lit up at something on the screen of her phone before turning to them. "Com'n. We've been standing here like an idiot. Shouldn't we go home?"
Date: 03/21 16:44
To: Kageyama Tobio
Subject: Hellooo
I'm home.
Date: 03/21 17:15
From: Kageyama Tobio
Subject: Re: Hellooo
Welcome home.
Hinata and I are still here.
"I'm home, papa."
Bluish-green eyes looked at her father's picture frame in the living room. The house was void of any living figure except for her and Neko-Tobio, who was out from her travel cage, when she arrived. Hitori and Suzaku would probably be at the school training while Kirin, Sawako didn't exactly know where her sister was at the moment. She was usually at home at this time, watching a novela or studying in her room. Her mama would be home anytime if she's not mistaken.
She headed upstairs with her travel bag, to the first door on the second floor was her room that has not been touched for a week. She told the triplets to miss her room when they clean for this moment. She looked at the four-cornered room in a faze. It was still brown, a little dusty, and had vacant spots, but it was still the same. She could see her list of life goals looking frail as ever, yellowish and still hanging by her door. Her list still ongoing, Sawako kept in mind to start on one as much as possible.
But first… She has to clean the room.
Summer vacation was actually cut short with the community service. Sawako spent the last two weeks of summer teaching nursery and tutoring a few elementary students in a school of her college's extension. It was a fun experience, stressful, and draining but very satisfactory. It's a practice for her as well, with teaching as her desired profession.
Golden week, Winter break, and Spring break was a different story as summer was longer than the first three.
Sawako sighed. She took her phone out of her pocket, sliding over the music and tapped play.
Tobe fly high! Ase to chi to namida de
Hikaru tsubasa de
Ima zenbu zenbu okizatte
Tobe fly takaku fly
Saihate no mirai e
She sweeps beneath her bed, the ceiling, and the top of her cabinets. She wiped her desk, the window sills, the window glass, and used a feather duster to rob her books of dirt.
Kizudarake no wakadori ga sora wo niranderu
Teikuu hikou suru yatsura ga waraou to umi no hate ga mitai
Sawako began to unpack her bag, temporarily placing her clothes back to hang on a hanger. While the others went straight to the laundry bag. She made a mental note to wash her clothes after cleaning. While doing so, she changed her bedding, curtain, and rag to match the season of spring and end of the academic year.
Kind of like the general cleaning for the New Year's.
Kokoro wo mu ni shite mukaikaze ni nori josou wo tsukete
Hoppu suteppu jampu de
"Oh, you're home."
She looked up. Sawako smiled at her mother's figure by the door. Miki was leaning with arms crossed and a disapproving look. She didn't hear her mother enter the house due to the loud music echoing in her room. She turned off the music, greeting her mother. "Oh, hey mama."
Her mother went inside, flopping to sit down on the newly-made bed beside her. "You just came back and why aren't you resting?" The matriarch eyed the pile of cloth in the laundry bag by the door.
Sawako just smiled. She finds it hard to rest when her mind tells her to clean. It was what she wanted to do the first thing she came home that was why she insisted not to include her room when any of the triplets cleaned. But if rest is what she wants then, going to the sauna or spa or onsen would be the best bet. She could ask Kirin, Satsuki or Kiyoko to join her. Nevertheless, she's guilty.
"Silly girl." Her mother embraced her.
Sawako chuckled and hugged back. "I missed you."
"Hush. You've been coming home every weekend." But her mother kissed her forehead, agreeing with her sentiments. "I missed you, too."
Sawako thought back on what her mother said. She said the same thing to Hana earlier, only to have her words back at her by her mother. Perhaps. But yes, Hana-chan was right.
"Time flies so fast." She looked up from her mother's embrace. "You were just in your third year then, but now, it's the triplets' turn. It'll be a matter of time when you're all working like your mama."
Sawako bitterly smiled. That is true. She has three years left and she's off to work. Licensure examinations after graduation. And after her licensure exam, the oathtaking, and she can now teach at her chosen school.
"While I know you're all getting older, you're still my babies. Babies that can give me grandbabies."
She groaned. "Mama…"
"What?"
She flushed. Her mother really likes to imply that she wants grandchildren more than they push Keishin to get married. But really? They're still young to be parents! Even Grandpa Ikkei has told her and Tobio-kun that he should be around to meet his great-grandchildren.
"I had you when I was your age." Miki giggled, pinching her cheek. "Your father and I were so in love, much like you and Tobio-kun, so it was only a matter of time before we had the triplets."
Geez. She's sure that Tobio-kun hasn't thought of marriage yet, much less having children of their own. She's not sure but having kids is not yet an option. They're both busy making a name for themselves in each respective field, there was little time to actually do it. But despite what she thinks, her mind traveled back to the time they kissed. If they can do that now, they can go farther than that. The image of an adult Tobio-kun wearing a jersey of a professional team while carrying toddlers felt like a good idea but that would take a long time.
She couldn't resist but to blush.
"It's early for that." Yes, it's still early. No need to rush.
"Just making sure you'll give us grandchildren, dear." Her mother laughed.
She arched her brow. Us?
"My, Reika-san's looking forward to babies and toddlers, too. She's a doctor, y'know?"
"Oh." That has slipped her mind. It has been some time since she talked with Tobio-kun's mother, save for the occasions that brought their families together. She should drop by and ask how they were sometimes.
Her mother laughed once more, loosening her arms around her. Sawako followed. "Alright, alright. I won't bother you about that for now." The woman stood up. "Are you going to eat dinner with us or with Tobio-kun? Or both?"
It made her smile. He was so welcome in her family that he would eat dinner at their house. Suzaku would tell her when and it's apparently the nights no one was at home beside him that he couldn't bother to cook. But she'll ask. He was yet to return home today.
"I'll ask him but I'll eat here."
Miki smiled. "Okay, I'll just be in the office if you need something. Kicchan's cooking dinner, by the way."
Her sister's home? "Roger, ma'am." She watched her mama leave and disappeared when she turned a corner. Soon, footsteps of a doctorate-holder educator turned into faint sounds that were followed by a soft shut of the door. Only then did Sawako open her phone to play new music.
Tsumeato ga nokoru kurao kabushi wo kataku nigirishime
Ima orenji no hikari no naka e, Woow
While unpacking, Sawako found an old journal. It was green and thick that was a little forgotten behind her thick textbooks of various grade levels and instructional materials. Sometime through the year, she had forgotten to update. As much as it's nice to update her journal as she should, she could not lame herself for forgetting.
She flipped the pages, a little yellow but still has a lot to squeeze for the year 2013. She saw pictures of last year, their graduation especially, quotes she found inspiring, stickers she placed that matched her mood in the week, her written passages that talked about what happened.
It seems like college took me off from the journal.
With the intent to continue the year that has already passed, she began to choose pictures, opened her laptop and printer to print them for her journal. She included even the random shots of cityscapes, sunrise from her balcony, Neko-Tobio looking up at her, her lunch that was omurice, mushroom soup, banana, and milk, a four-leaf clover on a rainy season, and even Tobio-kun's sleeping face on the ride home.
Itsu ni naku ase ga mi wo hikisaku michi naru hai suteeji e
Chou awei kachime wa nee nukashite ireba ii
She managed them for the paper and felt excited when it began printing. She prepared her glue and scissors. When the first batch was done, Sawako happily sat on her chair and began to cut. The sound of scissors cutting mixed with the printer coloring the photo paper. Cut. Cut. Cut. Her floor began to have pieces of the paper executed from the template of her imitation of a polaroid. If only I had a camera for these moments…
But what she had will do. The pictures turned out well and fine, reflecting the taken moments. It'll make her entries fine and lovely.
"Ah." She looked up to see that the other batches were done and went on it.
When all was finished, Sawako took her glue and began to fill the back of the photo, according to the date it was taken. The photo of her room, Neko-Tobio in his skinny days, the main building of her college, the back of Tobio-kun when they bought appliances in Tokyo, a selfie of her and Mika-chan, Tobio-kun trying to befriend Neko-Tobio, a number of class photo, more of Tobio-kun's sleeping face, some of his pouting face, and even in the blurry photo of his embarrassed face.
Kizu wo asore habatakanu jinsei nante hakusei to kawaranai
Hito wa isshou yume to kandou kurai ikite de
Itai kurai hanero shinzou
Sawako giggled at the memory as she wrote the descriptions.
"Woah." She can't believe that most of the printed photos included Tobio-kun. If not his face of multi-versions, it's his side or back. There was one of his hands and feet.
Geez, I love you.
She smiled while pasting the rest until she could finally fill in the months she missed.
Date: 03/21 18:06
To: Kageyama Tobio
Subject: Re: Hellooo
I love you.
( *¯ ³¯*)
Her first months of 2014 were easily filled. January included the team photo at the Nationals, the t-shirts they bought, the stadium, her coming-of-age ceremony with her friends and Tobio-kun while February has the group photo on the Valentine's, Kirin and Suzaku cooking with her for the event, Hana and Semi blushing, Mika making a "V" sign, a selfie with Hana when they're wearing the same dress, the reflection in the water and her shoe-clad feet with Tobio-kun's.
Now… time to catch up.
Date: 03/21 18:14
From: Kageyama Tobio
Subject: Re: Hellooo
What's up?
(*´-*)
Since when did he start using emojis? Who taught him? It was either Hinata or Hitori.
Date: 03/21 18:15
To: Kageyama Tobio
Subject: Re: Hellooo
Hehe. Nothing really.
Are you coming over for dinner?
Date: 03/21 18:15
From: Kageyama Tobio
Subject: Re: Hellooo
Yeah.
I'm on the way, actually.
Date: 03/21 18:16
To: Kageyama Tobio
Subject: Re: Hellooo
Okay, see you!
MARCH, 2014
[picture of Tobio looking at her camera in a daze on a White Day]
[picture of Tobio's cooking last anniversary]
[a mirror selfie with Neko-Tobio showing his new blue collar]
I went home with Hana and Tsubaki. I found this journal, a little old and forgotten after Mama gave me a talk about babies. I can't believe her sometimes but she looked so happy. But really, it's early to have kids. Though, I actually don't mind raising one at the right time.
[picture of a surprised Tobio by the engawa]
He came and ate dinner with us. He looked glowing. Is it love? Is it because we progressed? Or is it because he had training with Grandpa today? It was hard not to kiss him but I felt so shy. I kissed him on the cheek. Haha.]
[a selfie]
I turned 20 today! I learned new things in the past year, applying some while forgetting a few. I felt so loved than before, more content, happier and never been more satisfied of the pace in my life.
[a photo of beer, chips, and birthday cake]
To the insist of some, we had beer! Asahi, Koushi, Satsuki, Hitori and I got drunk. I swore I passed out earlier than them but woke earlier, too. Tobio-kun didn't drink and Suzacchan took a video apparently. When I watched it, I understood why he didn't. It was so embarrassing!
[group photo of the party]
[photo with the triplets]
[a selfie with Tobio and his shit-eating grin]
But he cute doe, uwu
[a photo of the book: milk and honey by rupi kaur]
His gift.
APRIL 2014
[a photo of Koushi and Satsuki passed out]
Look who passed out on another's birthday! I think there's something going on with Koushi and Satsuki. Look how cute they were!
[a photo of a sleeping Keishin].
Happy birthday, Keishin!
[a selfie with Asahi with McFloat]
For the new academic year, Asahi and I went back to Tokyo together! He stayed in the dorm.
[a selfie with a driver's license.
GOAL ACHIEVED °˖✧◝(⁰▿⁰)
MAY 2014
[group photo with kids]
[a photo of koinobori – carp streamer]
[a photo of ID: HI, I'm teacher Sawako!]
Kids are cute when they're smiling but even cuter when they're eager to learn. The idea of children came into my mind again and I could hear mama nagging me to read a book of baby names for future use. I had names in mind of each gender before she could ask me.
It makes me wonder how old will I be then? But if Tobio-kun didn't want it, then it's okay.
[a mirror selfie of new haircut]
DIY haircut with Tobio-kun part 2
[a backview photo of Mika, Suguru, and Kuroo]
I met this guy called Kuroo that reminded me of a rooster. He knows Tobio and the team which was a shock. But what's even more shocking (funny actually), is that Mika-chan believe there's a love triangle between her, Suguru-kun, and Kuroo-san.
JUNE 2014
I remembered the first time Tobio-kun went to our house. Mama once asked if Miwa-san's available for romance and dates. Takes me back to the family dinner with Keishin of when Grandpa and Kaede-obaa-san implied for him to get married.
I mean, Saeko-san and Keishin? Looks chaotic, he really dislikes ruckus, he said.
[a stolen photo of Tobio in a daze].
What are you thinking, my love?
[a rare photo of Koushi and Sawako in middle school]
Happy birthday, bestfriend!
[ a photo of the sea]
[ a photo of her bare feet in sands]
[ a photo of Sawako and Kirin twinning bikinis]
[ a photo of Neko-Tobio soaked].
SUMMER, 2014.
Blankets, hot milk, and cuddles. Cuddling usually would come into mind for some whenever it's raining. Body heat proved to be comforting and warm enough for the cold weather, it reminds you that you're never alone. I think of such, too, wishing I could cuddle with you.
[ a selfie of Hinata and Hitori with sleeping Tobio]
AUGUST, 2014
He looked so lovely, my heart can't take more or else, I'll just burst.
[ a picture of an onigiri]
Who did this? (*≧▽≦)
[a photo of a white flower]
[a selfie of Sawako and Tobio making a 'V' sign at Kazuyo's grave]
SEPTEMBER, 2014
Future talks or a topic about the future rarely come as it rarely comes to mind. When talking about the future, I am confident in myself of what I should and pursue. But nor all relationships are perfect. It may look like it as Tobio-kun agrees or is okay with my decisions in life just as how I'm okay with his. Despite that, we are still bound to disagree on a few things.
It was the first time that we fought from something small (or big). It's about where will I go after graduation, or where I'm going to teach.
He didn't like my choice (Tokyo) and insisted to go home to teach some school close to home for some reasons he has yet to share as there's still a bet ongoing between us. Tobio-kun went silent and I knew he didn't want to raise his voice. He didn't talk to me for hours. But before the day could end, he apologized, which I accepted. The hug was tighter than before and I could feel his sincerity.
In the end, he's still cute.
OCTOBER, 2014
[a stolen photo of the first-year Tobio]
[a stolen photo of the third-year Tobio]
GROWTH – this "boy" turned into a "man" and this man is getting more attractive day by day. it's really hard not to notice when his body changes like that. (blushing face)
SECRET OF THE MONTH: Would you believe me if I said he kissed me before running off? He did the same thing when I bid him goodnight two years ago.
[a blurry photo of Tobio]
I can't believe he went shy on me the next day. Oh gosh, my heart!
NOVEMBER, 2014
[a photo of their holding hands]
I love you.
[Four movie tickets with Hana, Tsubaki, and Mika]
We watched the movie: As the God's Will. Bloodyyyyy~
[a selfie with Daichi inside the ramen store]
Thanks for the treat, Daichi! ໒( ͡ᵔ ▾ ͡ᵔ )७
[a photo of gingko leaves]
[a photo of Neko-Tobio biting on an acorn]
Hello, autumn!
[a photo of Neko-Tobio and another cat]
My baby brought home a cat! I can't believe this.
DECEMBER, 2014
Tobio-kun was invited again at the National Youth Training Camp. I can't wait for him to drop by after their dismissal. (๑꒪▿꒪)*
[a random selfie with Tobio]
Happy 18thbirthday, my love. Everything is more wonderful because of your scowls and pouts, especially when you smile.
[a photo of the old koala keychains]
[a photo of two movie tickets]
[a mirror selfie at the shoe store]
Goodbye flip phones, hello smartphones! As his 18thbirthday gift, we bought new phones and new shoes together.
[a photo of the Harukaze wearing all red]
Christmas is in our hearts.
[a photo of the Harukaze cleaning brigade]
[a photo of new paints]
Clean. Clean. Squeaky clean. Time to clean to ward off ghosts!
[a photo of Daichi sleeping with markers in his face]
[a photo of the triplets]
Happy birthday to these lovely four on New Year's Eve.
To 2014, you are my year of firsts. I had my first kiss, my first year in college ended, we had out first disagreement, I achieved one of my goal and we got more comfortable. Thank you for being good and harsh to me all the same as I cope with each struggle. Here I say goodbye for the good and bad things you and I shared.
Hello, 2015.
JANUARY, 2015
[a photo of fireworks]
Happy birthday, Asahi!
[a photo of Harukaze family with Neko-Tobio]
[a photo of Tobio wearing a kimono at the temple]
This year, I wished for the same: good health, good fortune, and good year.
[a selfie with Vabo-chan]
NATIONALS! LET'S GO, KARASUNO!
[a photo of Tobio in his Karasuno jacket]
[a selfie of Sawako and Tobio]
[a photo of their matching t-shirts]
Hi, vice-captain, I love you for being great and loser all the same.
[a groupie with Mika and Suguru]
Me as a third-wheel in the Nationals.
[a selfie with Kiyoko]
It's this cutie's birthday!
SECRET OF THE MONTH: Although they lost and ranked third nationally, the team did better than the last two years while led by Yamaguchi-kun as this batch's captain. Here's the secret, I patted his head like the old times because he's still cute, it hurts. I want to keep him from the public.
[a photo of Tobio getting interviewed]
PROUD! ( ◞･౪･)
FEBRUARY, 2015
[a photo of newborn kittens]
I'm officially a fur grandmama now. They're so cute.
[a pamphlet of a seminar about technology for education]
[HI, I'm Sawako]
[SAWAKO]
[a group photo of Sawako's class for the attended seminar]
SEMINARS. We're going to get busy, teacher. Let's do this!
GOSSIP: Is it possible for KouSatsu to happen? Even now, I'm having a little hard time to process that there's a possibility of such a thing to happen. And if it's true, I wish them happiness. Koushi and Satsuki were the masterminds in my lovelife after all.
I heard Kirin confessed! I'm really really really really curious to know what happened!
[a photo of a box with koala as design]
[a photo of the table filled with giri choko]
"The heart grows and it knows, you can glow." I think I should continue this once I'm a licensed teacher.
MARCH, 2015
Hello, spring!
[a photo of a Sakura petal]
[a photo of the kittens: Ran, Ren, Rin]
Melancholic.
That's how she felt.
Nostalgic.
That's what she knows. It's been quite some time since she last came here. Two years is long for a Karasuno alumna like her, although she visited last Valentine's in consecutive years, it's different when she could walk on those hallways again like before.
"Ah, Harukaze-senpai, you're the guardian?"
She turned to the caller of her name, Yachi Hitoka, Kiyoko's legacy, who wore the nostalgic uniform that consisted of a dark blazer, white blouse, and grey skirt. To add another layer of recognition and memory, a ribbon was pinned by her chest. Sawako smiled. "Yes, I came here with Tobio-kun's mother, actually."
"I see. It felt weird to see you here again." The girl told her, immediately blushing as if she realized something she shouldn't have. "I mean – last time… this time, we're in your place as you were and you're a visitor this time around."
The giggle escaped her lips before she could think. "Yacchan, you're so cute." She said, making the young lady blush in surprise. Sawako transferred her gaze, lingering the most at the shoe lockers that buzzed with graduating students and to the yard of happy and proud parents. "Well, you're right. It felt weird to be here after the years I left."
She turned to the manager. "You grew up so well. All of you in your batch, which makes me feel old."
The blonde chuckled. "If you're actually looking for Kageyama-kun, he's in the clubroom with Hinata."
"Oh." She blinked. "Is he cheating on me with Shoyo-chan?" But laughed when Yacchan's eyes widened in surprise. "Kidding, I'm actually going to walk around before the ceremony starts."
To her amusement, Yacchan breathed a sigh of relief. "I'll be in the gym with the others."
She nodded. "Okay."
When the blonde manager left, Sawako continued to wander around the school grounds. Hallways were her favorite as it felt more nostalgic than the others. It was less crowded but there were still students in the hall and classrooms. She could see several drawings and messages written and drawn on the boards with colorful chalks.
No wonder Keishin has a problem with nostalgia. She felt nostalgic.
Her feet stopped, her heart leaped. The sight of the red-vending machine, now turned gray, made her eyes stung with tears. It was in the year 2012 when they met and within the three years, a lot has happened. Three years of love. They met there, they confessed there – it brought them together. Now, starting today, both of them have to say goodbye to the one that was their witness of how they met.
Sawako pulled out her coin purse, smiling at the cold memory. It was still the same old koala coin purse she used in high school. She took out a yen and placed it on the slot. Automatically, she picked the strawberry milk, picked it up when it dropped, and pushed the straw through the foil to take a sip.
Memories.
MARCH, 2015
Really, memories. Very nostalgic.
[a photo of Tobio and Reika-san before the ceremony]
[a photo of a button from Tobio's gakuran]
[a group photo of the third years – Tobio, Hinata, Tsukishima, Yamaguchi, and Yachi]
[a photo of the triplets after the ceremony]
CONGRATULATIONS IN GRADUATING! Mama was away on a seminar in Shizuoka, so I had to be the stand-in. I can't believe they're graduating now.
"Ugh, women are scary."
Sawako laughed. She took a glance at her brother – disheveled and his white shirt was wrinkled. All of his buttons in his gakuran were ripped and gone, a testament of what he has gone through to his so-called fangirls that desired his buttons before he could disappear in the school grounds. Apparently, Hitori snitched on his whereabouts.
"You're living with three." Kirin pointed out by her side.
Suzaku rolled his eyes, glancing a little at her direction; which she smiled and ruffled his hair. "It's different. They're not family."
"You looked worse, Suzaku dear." Reika-san said to the youngest Harukaze.
"Tell me about it, Reika-oba." The lad sighed.
Sawako, amused, shook her head. She turned to look for the setter, finding him by her sister's side while looking at the camera. Due to the almost similarity in their nature, she was not surprised to find him getting along well with Hitori, setting aside the fact that they shared class together in their junior and senior years. The two seemed to be looking through the photos she took with the camera she bought, making her smile at how transparent he was through his displeased pout.
She saw his eyes flickered at her, widening the curve of her lips. She caught the pink that dusted his cheeks and the upward curve of his lips to her direction. The eldest of the Harukaze watched him take a glance once more at the camera before he left Hitori to her own and approached her.
"Hi.".
"Hello," He greeted with a smile that became natural. It was hard to believe that he used to scare some children with a shit-eating grin. Now, it made him look so beautiful more than ever, like the calm before the storm or the beauty of the winter.
Her hand reached for his, automatically wrapping fingers with each other. Sawako felt his big hand – bigger and rougher – feeling the pride bubbling in her heart at his growth.
"Remember the bet?"
"Of course," he answered, smirking with confidence.
It's only a matter of time before the bet will come to its end. It's almost a year now and with how time flies so fast, she knows that she's losing. She knew that he would make it.
Tobio-kun
03/18/15 Wed 14:24
Tobio: I won.
Sawako: Huh?
Tobio: I got accepted.
Sawako: Accepted in what exactly?
Tobio: Pro team.
Sawako: ∑(ﾟﾛﾟ〃)
Sawako: Really?!
Tobio: Yes.
Sawako: OMG! I'm so proud!
Sawako: Since when?
Tobio: They called just now.
Sawako: I love you. (๑ơ ₃ ơ)
Sawako: Okay, you won. When will your training start?
Tobio: April.
Tobio: I can stay over?
Sawako: As long as the adults approved.
Tobio: d(ﾟｰﾟ )
She pressed a button that turned off her phone. The screen faded into black, catching a faint reflection of herself through the screen. She could see the smile on her lips that strained her cheeks.
He made it. Her teeth showed. He really did it within the year as he said.
She should've been not surprised as she already could see it coming. She may not have seen him up-close on how he worked hard but she could see the fruits of his labor in his body and performance with the tea, and the matches/ Aside from that, he has been consistently invited to attend the Youth Camp, a good sign that they won't turn their back on him and his talents as he deserved.
He did it! I should prepare something to celebrate…
Giddy, she sat on her bed, feet scrambling to fit into her white slippers in a hurry to deliver the news to her family. Sliding the door open, she hurried to the living room where they were.
"Mama! Tobio-kun made it pro!"
[a selfie of Sawako making a 2 and 1 with her fingers]
I turned 21. Like last year, we had drinks (sake instead of beer), chips, and cake. Unhealthy? We know. But is this what adulting felt like? I still don't like sake but it has this taste that pushes me to be more honest and bolder yet I know, it's just me in a drunk stupor.
Koushi and Satsuki strikes at it again, and to my surprise, Kicchan drank, too! Who's next, Succhan?
[a mirror selfie with Tobio inside the parlor]
Despite saying that cutting on our own save's money, this time we went to Miwa-san's and got our hair trimmed. It's our second anniversary. We went to an amusement park!
[a photo of cotton candy]
[a photo of the roller coaster]
[four photos from the photo booth]
[a photo of the fireworks with Tobio as the foreground]
[a photo of the train]
[a photo of their white matching shoes]
TO TOKYO! – to Tobio-kun's favor, Mama and Reika-san approved of his choice to stay over at the apartment for his training in Tokyo. And every weekend, we'll go home together. As long as there's no "funny business" as Keishin calls it, he can stay for the night and the nights to come with me.
Besides, It saves money and train tickets. Who knows what will happen if he's too tired and misses to drop off at the station? We'll be worried sick, then.
APRIL, 2015
[a stolen photo of Tobio in the balcony]
Here is to a new beginning.
Sawako contented, flipped on the next page, finding just two more blank leaves. She stood up from the cushion going to her study table's drawer where was sure she kept her spare notebooks. When she opened the wooden drawer, she found two.
"Ah, Tobio-kun?" She turned to the lad, remembering he's into writing with his volleyball log.
"Yes?" His head popped from hiding, obscuring her vision from seeing how he looked when he cooked by the fridge.
She has come to the point that she's okay with him maneuvering the kitchen and cooking their breakfast. Lunch and dinner were impossible for him starting today as he would not be present by noon and would come home tired and hungry by night. Despite who was the winner in their bet, Tobio in the apartment gave Sawako half a load of what to do.
"You mentioned you need a new notebook, right?" She came towards him, catching a whiff of eggs getting fried in the frying pan. "I have a spare."
"I did. Thanks."
She stood there, hands behind her back and watched him wait for the butter to melt in the other pan. The rice was already cooked, and he even had the toasts done. To her surprise, the kitchen wasn't messy and looked clean instead. It was far from the newbie chef he was.
"What are you doing?"
Sawako raised a brow at the thin line of his lips. So early in the morning. "Watching you cook." She grinned.
His brows narrowed. "Get out of here. You're distracting me."
And she laughed. "Fine, stingy." He's so cute. "I'll just place this inside your bag, okay?"
He huffed.
His bag was found at the foot of the study table. Sawako was on her knees as she zipped it open. Three face towels, a bath towel, a Ziplock for a sweat-drenched shirt, knee pads, extra pair of socks, extra shorts, his journal, a small pencil case which only had one mechanical pencil inside, an extra underwear, and a sports bottle. With the bulge on the side of the bag, he also had his volleyball shoes prepared.
Sawako placed the other notebook beside his old journal. As a bonus, she placed three protein bars in the other compartment which she took inside the fridge before she zipped his bag close.
Today is the start of her first day training in the V. League while she'll have her first day as a third-year on the third day of the week. For the meantime, she is to accommodate his needs and support him with this new rank in the volleyball world. Although she believes he'll do just fine, she'll do her best with what she can.
Besides, they're basically living under the same roof in the same room, eating the same set of meals and sharing the same water. The bed they bought when she first moved was big enough to fit three people to their parent's dismay. Though, it does not mean much when he's supposed to be in the apartment before dinner and Sawako going home in the afternoon. So, something as funny business won't happen between them when they're exhausted.
But still, it's amazing to have such an amazing partner that has a high probability to participate against the world. in a year or two, five years later… In ten years, his name and face will be all over the world. He will be known as one of the setters from Japan – that ferocious setter with killer serves and is still called the King of the Court.
It might get lonely while she waits for him seeing as after Neko-Tobio and Neko-Sawa (Kirin named the female cat) had kittens, it was better for her cat to stay in Sendai.
"Breakfast is ready."
She smiled at his announcement, nodding at understanding. Sawako cleaned the table, prepared and helped him set.
"You have everything?"
He nodded. His bag was zipped open, hands rummaging inside to make sure he really did have everything as he told her non-verbally.
"Your wallet?" He tapped the pocket of his pants. Satisfied, Sawako nodded. "Okay, you're good."
Tobio-kun nodded again.
After eating their breakfast, Sawako did the dishes while he rested and did some checking over his bag. It was at his point of time that Sawako walked him to the door when he's about to leave. She nodded, satisfied that he has not forgotten anything at all.
"Do you want anything?" He asked. "Anything I can bring home tonight."
Oh? Sawako raised a brow at the student question. It's the first time, probably, that he asked, which is charming, but he really should get going now. Despite that, she couldn't keep herself from teasing him again. "Anything is fine."
He grunted in disbelief. She almost laughed at the twitch of his eyebrow in amusement. "Please, specify anything."
There are a lot of things called anything for Sawako. She could ask for a new book or a new set of school supplies. But that would be a bother to him as he would be tired by then. She could ask for a cake or two servings of Takoyaki but that would take time.
Ah. She clicked her fingers. "Don't worry about anything. I'll order pizza later."
Tobio-kun blinked, then nodded. "Okay. I'm going out."
With that, he left. Sawako waved him goodbye with a small engawa. She stood there wearing house clothes – a t-shirt and sweatpants – looking close to a wife with the live-in arrangement they had. Carefully, he closed the door. The click was heard not long after and Sawako whistled.
"Time to clean~"
Like what any other people would do, a practice perhaps to a life of repetition, Sawako took a sweeper to clean the balcony.
On that day…
Tobio-kun
04/06/15 Mon 15:22
Sawako: Before you go home, can you drop by at the convenience store and buy me some menstruation pads?
Sawako: I'm running low in stock.
04/06/15 Mon 16:44
Tobio: Menstruation pads?
Menstruation pads?
Tobio looked up from his phone. As per her request, after training feeling refreshed and still wearing an old Karasuno jacket, stood before the first convenience store, his eyes laid. Actually, it was right across the training center. But… menstruation pads? Like pads for menstruation just like knee pads for the knees?
What is menstruation again?
"Welcome!"
He nodded at the clerk that greeted him when he entered. Blue eyes looked left to right, searching for the product that has Menstruation pads on it. But he couldn't find any and he would be looking aimlessly not even having any idea what it looked like. He approached the clerk. "Excuse me…" He asked.
"Yes, sir?"
"Where can I find menstruation pads?"
"Sir?' For some unknown reason, the clerk blushed. She tilted her head to the side, eyes widening in surprise.
It disturbed him. He didn't recall doing this chore to Miwa-nee-san before. It's a first and like any other first he had, it made him embarrassed. He scowled at the clerk not to ponder any longer at his request and she flinched. She led him to an aisle when he didn't answer. They went past the chips and sweets and soon, they stopped by the aisle of facial cleanser, facial skincare, some girly stuff that Sawako-san even owned.
"I-I-It's here," said the clerk.
He looked at her. She flinched. Raising a brow, he gave her a short bow. "Thank you." And he watched her brisk walk away from him. Weird. The clerk may be, but he chose to ignore his surroundings and turned to look at the product she pointed at.
Blue eyes landed on violet, blue, pink, red, and yellow packs with a butterfly logo. He took one and examined if it's really what he's looking for as asked. His brow twitched, feeling his cheeks burn. "Regular. For superior dryness and protection. Cottony soft cover. Non-wing?" He read. These are menstruation pads?
Unsure yet sure, still embarrassed, wants to go home, and get on with it, Tobio proceeds to the counter. He placed the product there, which the cashier (another female) scanned while giving him a hard look. Tobio scowled, not liking the situation he was in, especially when someone or some two giggled at his back.
"Have you seen him?"
"Yeah. Why would a guy like him buy pads?"
"Girlfriend, perhaps?"
"Or a pervert?"
Tobio slammed the money on the counter, casting a quick glare at the pair of young ladies giggling. He then grabbed the paper bag of what he assumed to be menstruation pads and left.
note:
At long last.
I did everything I could. I'm grateful for the continuous support this fic receives. I'm grateful, thank you!
The next chapter will be the long-awaited chapter. I originally wrote it in Sawako's POV so I'm in the middle of rewriting it seeing as it's Tobio's turn next. I can't wait to hear your thoughts!
Please review!
See you next week!