Something You've Read Before
Chapter Thirteen
The Glimpse
Almost bumping everyone against her way, Nonoko gave all her effort to move quicker since it was past seven and they all agreed to meet before six because the decorations were far from done and the exhibit opened at nine. They already went late last night because decorating the hallways took millennium to be finished and there were this campus guard reminding them every ten minutes that they had to leave or else they would be forced out of school. Students needed to feel literally that art was not dead and there were various outlets to express it. Apart from the Student Council, different committees joined the task to transform Alice Academy into a giant piece of abstract.
They made paper cutouts of different materials used in painting and sketching which they hanged on the ceiling of the hallways at the high school building. From old tarpaulins, they made a large blank canvas where students could write anything using paint. An abstract-painted white carpet was placed at the entrance of the school then the moment you entered the vicinity, hanging photos tied with film negatives greeted you. Standees of prominent people of the film industry starting from the 20s were used to direct people where they should be heading to catch a certain exhibit. They made it a point to produce something from recycled things and that was why paper cranes from magazines were added as design to the exhibit locations.
Apart from the contest proper, games that used drawing and acting were held and organized by the second years. Yuu had his hands full since Monday since he was the chosen overall in-charge for the sophomores. He also had his mind on the food for the judges of the film showing. It was one task after the other. Events like this made them all busy and even if camaraderie was present, there was always too much work to be done with so little time.
As Nonoko reached Alice's Circle, a dome-shaped function room of Alice Academy located at the east wing, she rapidly dropped all her materials and brought out the white and red cloths needed as borders on the three entrance doors of the Circle. Nonoko admitted to herself a long time ago that working under pressure was not her forte and even with lots of training being a student leader, she had yet to master being on time when it was vital to be on time or be graceful in finishing something under limited hours.
"You're late!" Anna yelled, her hands full from putting up carefully the artworks of past winners.
Nonoko bowed quickly to apologize and went to work immediately. "Made all of these until two am. You can't blame me, Anna. Besides, I don't see Mikan here," she stated her assessment.
Anna clicked her tongue. "You're wrong on that. She arrived with Mr. Narumi and they both are not in a good mood."
Sumire instructed the people assigned on carrying the paintings to be more careful because some of those were borrowed from the owners themselves and not the school's property. Natsume was busy coordinating with someone on the phone. The audio system they rented might be late because of car trouble and there would be not enough time to test the sound. Natsume tried to find someone who could get the audio team instead of waiting their car to be fixed. Problems ceased to exist in events like this even if it was planned meticulously, something would still get in the way.
"Oh, why?" Nonoko asked. She was quite feeling uncomfortable because no one had seen Mr. Narumi in a bad mood and for it to be simultaneous with Mikan's, something was off.
"I have no clue though."
Instead of worrying about unimportant things, they focused on their unfinished work so that they could finish on time. Lacking were just the finishing touches and after a few tests on the lights and sound, it would be good as done. They expected a larger share of audience this year and they had Ken's group to be thankful for. Students had no idea what to expect but they participated to be entertained, something that the Student Council and committees worked for immeasurably.
"Good morning, guys! Here are the flowers for Hotaru's brother," Yura announced upon entering on the untouched entrance of the Circle. She then placed the bouquet on a vase brought by Anna to prevent it from withering since their guests could arrive earlier or later than expected.
"Please, he is coming as a guest," Hotaru said, clearly annoyed on how they were treating the situation with her brother.
Yura cleared her throat. "As the head judge, you mean."
"I don't think you mentioned him, Hotaru. What's your brother like?" Nonoko asked.
Sumire interrupted the conversation with an all-knowing statement. "Oh, let me take care of that, dear Nonoko. Since I will be introducing him later, I know his profile," she began and after eyeing all her equally-curious friends, she added, "He's a psychiatrist."
This was the first time Alice Academy invited someone from the medical field and an expert on human behavior to be a judge for the Arts and Media Week. Usually, head judges were alumni of the school who were successful in the field of entertainment, arts and culture, theater, and writing. One could already saw that the choice of this year's winner could be different. Before, judges greatly influenced the vote of the students because of their reviews after watching the entries no matter how technical their explanations would be but this time, the head judge could focus on an entirely different thing.
Yura was quickly amazed. "Cool! Where does he practice?"
"At Akita. He studied medicine in Tokyo but decided to practice at his hometown," Sumire replied.
"I didn't know you are originally from Akita, Hotaru. That's a bit far from here," Nonoko commented.
"I was born and raised here in Tokyo and only visited Akita during breaks. It is far from Tokyo but that's why we have airplanes, you know," Hotaru explained.
Akita was a city surrounded by mountains. It was beautiful there during winters since literally everything was covered in ice. On summers, the temperature peaked at 38 degrees Celsius, very hot and perfect for fun water activities. It was a well-developed city but was not as busy and crowded as Tokyo or cities near Tokyo. Before the Imais completely moved to Tokyo, the parents' works were both from Tokyo and Akita. Mr. Imai needed to expand to a more advanced city and that was the start of their Tokyo journey while Mrs. Imai stayed in Akita and took care of the growing Subaru. When Subaru turned eight and the family decided to head their business from Tokyo, he refused to go with his parents and was taken care courtesy of his grandparents. After a couple of years of being an only child, Hotaru came and was born in Tokyo.
Due to their highly-intelligent personalities and huge age gap, it was hard for both siblings to be close with each other and that was why it was agreed upon that Hotaru would always visit Akita every season break. Hotaru had high regards for her brother because of his achievements and independence and ought to be like him one day. Hotaru's idolization led her to join Subaru on his clinic or when he did patient rounds. Maybe not to be a psychiatrist per se but an innovative key person at the medical field that was Hotaru's aim.
Natsume resolved the problem regarding the audio men when Ruka entered the Circle, his head switching from left to right, obviously looking for a free person.
"Has anyone seen Koko?" Ruka asked, yelling a bit since Alice Circle's diameter made it harder to hear quiet voices.
"He went back to his house because he forgot the tokens for the judges," Sumire answered.
Ruka looked hopeless. On his eyes, everyone was busy and no one could be pulled out from the venue. "I guess that couldn't be helped," he said.
Natsume lazily raised his hand, saying, "Why do you need Yome around? I could do it instead."
"Great! Ah, it's just that Mikan was all alone at the registration area at the film showing. I thought someone could give her a hand," Ruka explained, suddenly full of energy.
Ruka made his rounds to check on the overall status of the decorations, placement, readiness of the display, the food, materials, equipment when he passed by Mikan's station at The Great Hall. She claimed to be left by Yuu because he needed to manage the exceeding number of heads of the catering for tonight's dinner. They needed to divide work so she was left alone in organizing the registration of students. Overwhelmed with the number of students who joined this year, it resulted to long queues and delays. So, Mikan asked if anyone with lesser work was available to help her a bit.
Sumire had an evil smile on her face and butted in, "Yeah, Natsume should do it. Don't worry, when Koko comes, I'll tell him immediately to take your place."
Natsume regretted showing his spirit of volunteerism when he got to know the task. He did a good job in avoiding Mikan since their encounter on their team's shooting day and now he was given the chance to co-exist with her at the time he wanted to avoid her most. What was his problem? Because he noticed they were getting close and that should never happen. He didn't want to know her deeply. It was enough that they talk once in a while but recently, Natsume noticed that she was entering his life, just like what she did to the others. Natsume could not have Mikan interfere with his problems, too.
"You owe me big, Ruka."
Ruka was unfazed. "What? It is still part of your work."
So, Natsume made his way to The Great Hall with a plan to limit his conversation with Mikan. He did not expect her to be chummy also after days of ignoring her. When he arrived at the location, indeed there were already long queues and students looked impatient. He quickly stood beside her and went to work.
"What can I help you with?"
Mikan lifted her head for a second, asking, "Do you have a good penmanship?"
"Pretty decent."
She then grabbed a heavy box filled with paper and different colors of markers, placing it on Natsume's palms.
"Great. Then you can write their names on sticker papers while I facilitate giving their control number for the voting."
Natsume nodded. "Fine with me."
They started working harmoniously and in silence. The line advanced even if other female students delayed it by asking Natsume to take a picture with them. Mikan and Natsume did not look eye to eye nor did they say anything with each other. Mikan was awfully silent even on how she welcomed students, her eyes looked tired and her movements were slow. Natsume was quite annoyed on how he was more focused on Mikan than making name tags. He should be glad that Mikan was quiet and not exaggerating but then he realized he was not used to be with this Mikan. He then remembered Anna saying this morning that Mikan was not in a good mood. Something happened back at her home, maybe.
Natsume almost crippled the sticker paper he was working on, still irritated on how mindful he was when it came to Mikan Sakura.
"So, where's Koko?" Mikan asked while checking if every student had a control number.
"Went back home. Forgot the token for the guests."
Mikan only made a 'hmm' and nodded. When she finished double checking the control number, she went in front to give instructions. The only thing Natsume could do was watched her and ignore his fan girls' squeals.
"Thank you. Film showing starts this afternoon but everybody can take a look and appreciate different masterpieces at The Great Hall in the meantime. You can also drop your votes for every category starting one in the afternoon at the boxes provided at the main entrance of the high school building. I hope you all enjoy this year's Arts and Media Week," Mikan explained and faced Natsume again, "Yuu might come here anytime. He's the one in-charged with the food but I think they're almost finished. Thanks for the help."
"Okay. Good work, Polka."
Natsume almost regretted dropping the nickname he had for her because it connoted his indirect fondness of her much to his denial. But, Natsume could not take out of him his habit of complimenting someone under his leadership who really did hard work.
"Thanks!" Mikan replied with a smile, thinking it could be one of those honest statements she'd get from Natsume.
Weird thing was Natsume was glad to see her smile because ever since he saw her, not once she directed her eyes to him until that 'thanks'.
Natsume came back to Alice Circle to examine the sound system. Good thing they arrived a good hour before they opened the function room to the public, with this they could correct and check. Settling down the equipment became easier since everyone helped, they were done with their respective tasks. Natsume requested to play some piano instrumental to complement the atmosphere and the good thing was the audio men were aware of the event, prepared the anticipated songs to be used.
"Hey, Natsume. Done with the registration?" Ruka asked.
"Yeah," Natsume replied.
"Good. Dr. Subaru Imai just came. It's time to welcome him."
Natsume nodded, bidding his reminders to the audio men. He then descended the platform and approached Ruka. He checked his watch quickly, noting that they still had time and Subaru Imai arrived early.
"Why? You want to make a good impression?"
Ruka blushed in guilt. "Nothing bad about that. Besides, it would be nice to know what kind of family she has."
"Sometimes, you creep me out, Ruka."
Ruka only snickered, well-aware of what Natsume meant by that. When it came to liking girls and actually dating one, these two had their fair share of experiences. They both knew when the other was interested with someone but refrained from meddling. It was an agreement they made three years ago due to an unfavorable incident and time.
"Hey, you two!" Yura called, "Dr. Imai is already here. Don't just stand there."
Yura carried safely the flowers for Subaru Imai, holding it as if it was fragile and expensive. Sumire was asking Hotaru random questions about Subaru only to be ignored but that didn't stop her, though. Ruka thought of the words of welcome he would impart while Natsume stayed relax, watching his other friends get excited. Koko was still unseen, making the welcoming committee incomplete. Hotaru remained her composure but without a doubt she was excited to see her brother and also worried because she knew one person who wouldn't be so comfortable with Subaru being around the vicinity.
Mr. Narumi happily chatted with the guest clad on plain maroon long sleeves, his black tie and pants highlighted his aura of professionalism. No one could tell that he was a respected doctor, he looked more of a company president than a physician. He shared the same color of eyes with Hotaru: violet. If Hotaru was cold-looking, Subaru emitted a very approachable aura, a need to his profession. When he saw the Student Council lined straightly, he waved at them and gave a special wave to his sister.
"Welcome to Alice Academy. I am Ruka Nogi, the president of the Student Council and this is Natsume Hyuuga, vice president, Yura Otonashi, secretary, Hotaru Imai, treasurer, Sumire Shouda, P.R.O. Our auditor is currently busy retrieving materials needed for today so pardon him for not being here. It is a great pleasure for you to accept our invitation. Thank you from coming all the way from Akita."
Subaru waved dismissively, quite unfamiliar with the warm greeting he received. "The pleasure's mine. Also, I want to see my sister and old friends. So, you are the Student Council?" he asked excitedly.
Narumi laughed, adding, "Yeah, Subaru. What? Made you remember of good old days?"
"Mr. Narumi was just a new teacher here when our batch was spearheading the Student Council. And now it is our Hotaru's time. You can say I am so proud," Subaru explained.
Hotaru's expression soured. "Ugh, you're embarrassing."
It surprised the rest of the council to witness Hotaru and Subaru talked normally. Honestly, they were not sure what kind of sibling relationship they had but they guessed it could be filled with tension or lesser emotion but what they displayed was normal. Ruka was glad to see how Hotaru acted when a family member was present.
"Forgive me but I missed you. By the way, where is Mikan?"
Clearly, Mr. Narumi was close to Subaru Imai and Hotaru was best friends with Mikan but for Natsume, it was still an odd question.
Hotaru's face reverted to seriousness. "She's busy. You see, she's a participant."
"Actually, Mr. Narumi mentioned it. The more I was convinced the see this all for myself."
"She's just around the corner. You will see her later," Hotaru said. Anyone could notice the change of her tone when she said that, like she wanted to change the topic immediately.
Mr. Narumi gestured Ruka to start their morning activities. They had to buy time until the start of the actual so event so a good way to kill it was to take Subaru Imai around campus. Surely, many things changed since his school days with Alice Academy.
"Shall we tour you around, Dr. Imai?" Ruka offered.
Mikan gazed lazily to anyone who passed by her vision as she played with her hair, no emotion attached to her face. She looked sad and all alone when Ken saw her as he travelled Alice Walk. They were supposed to meet at lunch but it was good that he found her already with the intention to save time. Ken's presence went unnoticed until he pressed the cold canned drink to Mikan's cheek, earning a shriek from her.
"Soda for the lady?" Ken asked, giggling.
Mikan rolled her eyes, hitting Ken lightly at the back but accepted the drink, muttering, "Thanks."
"Yui prepared delicious lunch for everyone. I hope you could join us."
"Sure. I won't miss Yui's cooking."
"Are you sick?" Ken asked after discerning Mikan's lack of enthusiasm.
"What?"
"You don't seem to be pumped up today. Is this because of our almost argument last week?" Ken asked, half worried because he did not want Mikan to start acting strange toward him.
Mikan snorted, shaking her head. Her confrontation with Ken had nothing to do on how she acted that day, in fact, she almost forgot about it when she saw on the invitation the head judge of Arts & Media Week. Mikan asked her father if he was responsible for it and how it made her blood boil when he said 'yes'. She hated it when her dad did things out of her knowledge then turned out it involved her big time. They had upset each other about it because Mikan was greatly against with the idea and Mr. Narumi pushed the idea more. For Mr. Narumi, there was nothing wrong with his plan.
"No. I maybe not jumping with joy but I certainly have enough energy. Maybe I'm a little nervous because my face is gonna be plastered in front of the whole school and they might bash my acting or whatever."
Ken understood her dilemma and he actually expected to hear that from Mikan before they started filming and not this time. All the while, he thought that Mikan was the type of person who never cared with what others say because she had always been carefree, happy, and positive but it turned out she was just as conscious as everyone.
"I can't believe you're worried about that."
"This is my first time," Mikan reminded.
"I know. But, you shouldn't care about that now. I admit I am afraid to join for the last time because I am absolutely sure they will hate whatever I present them, but I told myself that this is the only way I can ask forgiveness completely so I did it anyway."
Mikan ran a hand through her hair. "Yeah, but you have a whole group behind you back."
"May I remind you that you're not alone also. You are part of the group," Ken said, pinching her cheeks to which she groaned, "Sometimes, I think you are a totally open person but also very secretive."
"You think?" Mikan asked, removing Ken's hands on her face.
Ken laughed a little before patting her in the shoulder. "Calm your nerves. In this school, everybody hates the one being partnered with Akihiro so…"
"Yeah, and that made me really okay with everything," Mikan replied sarcastically.
Ken cleared his throat before he said, "I am planning to talk to Yura before this day ends. Chances are our current relationship won't change but I still want to do this, at least before we graduate and I think today is the perfect time."
Even now, Mikan wondered what tempted Ken to pull that antic last year. He was not a bully, certainly not a bad person, he was rational and strict and yet he let his emotions almost ruined his high school career and worst was he involved others. They were smart people too so why did they risk their reputation just to get Yura's attention. And did they think it was right to exploit someone publicly to get revenge? Human nature blurred Mikan's thinking sometimes.
"Hope it will go well so you can finally have your peace of mind. I hope the others can have the chance to talk to her, too. I mean, you were all friends once."
"Yeah, good idea. I'm sure they have lots to say to her."
Just when the mood lightened up, Mikan was horrified to see the Student Council officers who seemed to be touring Subaru Imai around. She attempted to escape the scene before she went completely noticed but Sumire already yelled her name and signaled her to come nearer to which Subaru turned his head to her direction. Natsume was automatically aggravated with Ken's presence but he did not let it became obvious.
"This is Alice's Circle. Displayed here are the entries of the past winners of Arts and Media Week. This is the first time we did something like this, just wanted to remind the students how passionate and inspiring the past winners are," Ruka narrated.
"You guys did so well," Subaru said, obviously impressed on how changed Alice Academy was.
"Well, we are a pretty balanced student council," Yura stated.
Subaru snapped his fingers then pointed at the officers. "And that reflects on your work. I am looking forward to this year's entries."
Ruka was ecstatic to hear such promising comment. He was a satisfied host in other words. Glancing at his watch, Ruka knew it was time to end the tour.
"It is almost lunch time. Ah, Natsume?"
"There is a small gathering prepared at the Alice Academy Walk. The guests are limited to us and the high school principal," Natsume cleared.
Subaru could only smile, excited to share lunch with his sister. "How refreshing. We're having lunch outdoors. Tokyo can be a bit suffocating for me because I am used to living in Akita. Being around mountains can bring out that countryman attitude in you when you're in the city."
Meanwhile, Mikan attempted to change directions but Ken was attracted in the mere presence of Yura and that was how she failed to avoid the following circumstances.
"What did Yui prepare by the way?" Mikan asked, pretending to be occupied with conversing with Ken.
"No idea."
Mikan was hopeless. "You're so informative, sometimes."
With no more hindrances, Mikan Sakura met Dr. Subaru Imai again after so many years.
"Oh! Just the person I want to see. Hello, Mikan. I missed you."
The way he greeted her made Mikan remember the first time she had met him. Subaru was just new to psychiatry that time, even with his impressive performance at the academe, internship, exams, and residency, many waited him to fail. Mikan's first impression of him was a serious, snob, overachiever and she was correct on the serious part but later she learned that was not the real Subaru Imai. He was the complete opposite. The Subaru Imai who greeted her just now, that was the real one.
Since Mikan took so long in answering and Ken saw the opportunity as a great chance to be acquainted with him, he began the conversation.
"Dr. Subaru Imai, the head judge this year. I am Ken Nagihiko, a participant of the short film competition."
Subaru eyed Mikan before shaking Ken's hand. "So, you involved Mikan in this."
"Please, don't make it sound like you know so much about our team only. This is still a competition," Mikan said. It was her fear that someone might interpret their meeting and accuse them of bribery of sorts.
"I am a fair judge, thank you," Subaru defended, "You seem restless."
"Don't use that way of talking to me," Mikan snarled.
"I'm sorry. We are on our way for lunch. Would you like to join us?"
"I'm having lunch with my teammates," Mikan informed, wrapping her hands to Ken's arm.
Subaru wanted to tell her to take it easy on him and just be relaxed. He could tell that she was uncomfortable seeing him again. He was Mikan's source of anxiety before and even after not seeing her for almost two years, Subaru could tell that Mikan's reaction of him did not change.
"That's nice. It's good to see you belong to different circles of friends."
"Thank you for that."
If the rest thought of that as a simpleton conversation, well not for Natsume. Inside him grew a curiosity on this weird relationship Mikan and Dr. Imai had and he already smelled trouble. Natsume insisted that they must be on their way because the principal was waiting and then they went on. Ruka resumed every bit of detail he could mutter with supplemental information from Hotaru.
"You know him? That's great!" Ken jibed.
Mikan frowned, shaking her head, "No, not great."
"Why? How can you say that?" Ken groaned, surprised at Mikan's indifferent reaction, "Well, at least he has the interest in our work."
Being observed and studied was something Mikan hated because it made her feel more conscious about herself, aiming to be almost perfect with every words and action. Subaru always made her felt that way, no wonder she squirmed at his presence or felt bitter upon knowing he would come to Tokyo. For Mikan, as Subaru watched the film, he would just take notes of her verbal and non verbal behavior. She did not want to hear his comments or suggestions.
"We can win because we have everything we need to win and not because of him," Mikan stressed.
Ken smiled, aware that they could win by talent and hard work alone. He was just testing Mikan's reaction because she was uptight since morning. Although, he had no intention of really knowing what put her on such mood, he just didn't want anybody from his team to have a ruined day.
Aika waved both of her hands, gesturing them to walk faster. "Where were you guys? We were starving."
"Aha. Very tempted to dig in without you," Akihiro added.
Ken snorted. "Geez. It's barely twelve noon."
"Well, it is 12 noon in our stomachs," Hiroki said, pointing at his belly.
The only thing Ken could think of was he had no retorts when it came to his friends' growling stomachs. "Fine. We're here. So, let's start."
They already prepared a picnic style lunch. Blankets were on the grass, Yui placed the food on baskets, Akihiro was eating chips with Hiroki, Aika was putting up music. It was like Mikan watched a family gathering on a Saturday morning. The brunette quickly joined her team as Ken helped Yui distribute the food. Some ought to rehydrate first but many dug in to Yui's special onigiri. Mikan somehow felt lucky that she gained a friend who was excellent in cooking. She could cook but not as great as Yui.
No one talked about what could happen on the premier of their film. Two things ran to Mikan's mind: one, they really enjoyed the moment and wanted to talk about random things about their life outside school, and two, they purposely did not want to brought up the topic. Weeks of being with them, Mikan barely got to know how these individuals think as a group. Sometimes, they had silent agreements and Mikan would only notice it after a while. A good example was no one could suggest when it came to the script. What were written on the paper should be the only lines to be delivered. Mikan tried once revising a statement and she got a handful of comments from them. Her connection with the group was still on the ground but she had no complaints. Mikan knew it was better this way.
"What? Is it time or is it time?" Koko chirped, suddenly entering the scene at the backstage.
"Koko, it thought you're gonna skip the whole day. I barely saw you!" Sumire snarled, hitting her boyfriend on the head.
To get there, Koko faced few hindrances aside from having amnesia and forgetting the token for the guests. When he arrived at school, just as he was about to approach the ongoing tour of other Student Council officers with Subaru Imai, he was sidetracked with Yuu's call for help. Apparently, the grade school students were in disarray because of false promises. Few teachers required them to see at least one exhibit of the event but other teachers wouldn't want to give their period to serve as time for the kids to catch out the display. A few quarrels about stealing class time of one another arose and Yuu almost could not handle the situation because he did not represent the Student Council and thus Koko came into the scene.
"Sorry, hon, but those elementary kids and teachers were crazy. If only they learned the funny art of sharing. We had to distract the disappointed kids then. One glimpse of rainbow-colored candies and they started acting like zombies seeing brain. Trust Anna and her ideas next time and I'm sure it will work, more than fine."
"Oh, just shut up. Yuu and Anna will start the program soon."
Koko stuck his tongue out to get his mini revenge and played with Sumire's hair, much to the girl's annoyance. Sumire was known spending half of her morning routine just to get her hair done. It was not always a pleasant hair day for girls with curly locks.
"Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to this year's Arts & Media Week!" Yuu and Anna greeted in unison.
There had been debates on who should host the main event. Sumire volunteered and dared Koko to be her partner but the latter disagreed strongly. Yura did not want to be in the spotlight and so did Natsume. No one expected Hotaru to volunteer because she was more useful in the production. Ruka should be doing better things than hosting. They came up with Anna and Yuu because of Nonoko's proposal. The two had chemistry and this was a fun, new project from them. They agreed right away even without knowing they were partners.
Anna took a deep breath before continuing. "I am very sure everyone is excited to view the short films we have this year. I, myself, am excited. Without a doubt, this is the most awaited event of the week but before anything else let's begin the program proper."
An estimate of three hundred students was inside the auditorium, many of them were standing, sitting on the aisle. There were students outside who refused entry because of security purposes. Although, LED screens were provided for those who couldn't be inside, students still preferred to be on the auditorium since the experience was different and more personal. The anticipation was big for Ken's group but underestimating other contenders was wrong. Each team had great storytellers and scouted talented young actors who had experiences on the actual entertainment world. Every team had the potential to be a winner.
Subaru sat in full comfort at his chosen seat, at the center, middle row of the auditorium. He wanted to be low key as he watched the film. Even if introduced, he only made a rapid stand and went back to his seat. This was also a new experience for him so the pressure to do it right was high. After a few speeches from the key personnel of the school, the actual film showing began. Subaru wished not to be disappointed and readied his pen and paper for comments. He, too, expected the other judged to be keen with their reviews.
Mikan together with Ken and the others settled on the side, making funny predictions on how the crowd would receive their work. The editing process was indeed the most tedious and bloody stage. Almost everyone had something to say on what should be deleted and included. Mikan liked to compare it with a battlefield and Ken had the strongest voice. Very far from the Ken she was watching now. Ken was quiet, looking down at times as if trying to avoid other people's stares. Mikan guessed that even if you had lots of experience in film making, it would always make you feel nervous when large crowds like this would judge your creation.
This large mob should not be upset to, that was Ruka's main goal this year. He, too, was nervous, anticipating what could go wrong. He made deep breaths which didn't help. He trusted everyone who helped making this possible but sometime he could lose trust to himself.
"Stop squirming, Nogi."
Hotaru hated it when the president went awry. She was working smoothly, nothing went wrong technically so far, and the more she was infuriated with Ruka's manner of showing his nervousness too much.
"I can't," Ruka admitted, "I don't want to relax. I feel like if I relax, something wrong will happen."
The ice queen decreased the distance between her and the president. She then stared at Ruka's eyes which made the president's knees tremble. This was the first time he saw Hotaru up close and the anxiety he felt for the film showing transferred to his response with Hotaru's weird acts. It had been quiet for a while even though they weren't the only person in the room, Natsume was inside the technical podium and he only watched his best friend fell under Hotaru Imai's spell.
"What are you doing?" Ruka finally asked.
"Misdirection," Hotaru began explaining, "It works all the time."
Truly. Because now his brain worked chemical reactions with Hotaru's discreet action and almost forgotten about the film showing. Ruka went quiet and ran a hand to his face, knowing completely that what Hotaru did made him feel giddy all over.
Three entries were done and each one received positive comments from the audience. No one seemed to be bored yet even if each film ran for 45minutes tops. A few more shows then Ken's team was next. Natsume had a realization that if another material was shown courtesy of Ken's group, it would be partly his fault because they let him continue production. So, Mikan had better be right with that favor she asked or else Natsume would teach her a lesson or two.
The time everyone waited for came and Ken's film was up. It was entitled Chasing You. From the title itself, one could tell that it was an unrequited type of love story. The film opened with Mikan preparing for school, focusing on her clothes and things. Upon arriving at school, she yelled Akihiro's name, telling how happy she was that they had matching bags. Everyone thought that the film was a cliché and almost predictable until they witnessed the heartbreaking parts and twists that lifted the story. It started slow but the tension built up frame by frame, showing how love was never enough.
Akihiro Mori was a natural in acting, he delivered his lines the way he talked with his peers. Mikan was beautiful on screen, lighting up every scene she was in. Her bubbly personality reflected to her character well and she had chemistry with Akihiro. She struggled on tension-filled scenes as seen with her unstable eyes but she made up for it with the sad scenes. Mikan cried her heart out when she had to, she could smile sadly and happily with differences very noticeable. The audience took a rollercoaster ride with that film. A few minutes remained of the film and still no one knew how it could end. Character developments were given to each character, from the main to the side ones.
Yura kept her eyes glued to the screen, fist clenching because everything was about her. She was the main character, she related to it, her real life habits were even shown. Ken knew her so much. Aika and Yui represented her personality to the fullest extent, showing how much they knew her inside and out. When the film ended, squeals and cheers erupted from the crowd.
Ken was elated. He was lifted by Hiroki when they heard the cheers. The director almost felt like crying, thinking that winning was not vital now, this was what he waited for. He waited for reception, for a reaction and he got it in the most intense way possible. They all hugged with celebratory emotions evident on their faces. Congratulations were exchanged between teams which were astonishing but the most astonishing circumstance for Ken Nagihiko was when he saw Yura stood in the middle of the crowd, looking at him.
"Ken."
"Yura!" he yelled, running towards her.
Yura looked like she just had a good cry. She eyed the swarming people going to booth where votes casted before sniffing and said, "That film. It's amazing, it's moving and heartfelt. I can feel the sincerity and you've showed it wonderfully."
"It's for you," Ken managed to breathe out.
Mikan knew it was over then and that Ken and Yura would resolve all their differences before this week ended. Her work was done, too. She had no more reason to hang with them and that gave her a slight chest pain but all the more reason she was thankful, indeed she made new friends on a different circle. She inaudibly exited the auditorium, smiling softly as she read the text message her dad sent her. She made him proud and it made her want to cry. This was the first time in a long time that she decided to join a grand event out of spontaneity. Before, Narumi forced her out of it because she hated mingling with new people.
The brunette took one last look at the energetic auditorium and took a candid photo with her phone. This was something she would treasure for the rest of her life. The moment she went out of the box was the moment she proved to Subaru that she was doing fine. And that was why Narumi invited the doctor in town.
Mikan found her peace at their classroom. Students went home gradually after casting their votes and hearing the judges' commentaries. The sun was blinding but it did not hurt her eyes anymore. Burying her face on the desk, Mikan worried about what Subaru would say. Probably, he would ruin her uplifted mood again. He was an expert on that.
"What is the troublemaker doing all alone here? Your team is celebrating, thinking you've won."
Her mouth hand open, eyes widened, and she couldn't think of a single thing to say. Natsume being there caught Mikan off-guard and it looked like he really searched for her. The Vice President went to sit on the desk across her, looking bored and handsome at the same time. Mikan took her time before getting her composure back and reply.
"Wrong. They are just happy that they are done with this. What are you even doing here? Weren't you avoiding me because I attract too much trouble?"
Natsume glanced at the window, answering, "Dr. Imai asked me to find you."
"And what you followed his instructions? That's new."
"You are under my committee, if you can still remember."
"Just admit that you want to see me," Mikan sneered which sent discomfort to Natsume and then she had to add, "To mock me."
Natsume almost felt guilty on her first statement and he was afraid that she noticed what he denied on himself all along. Avoiding her was close to impossible because they belonged to the same group, she liked his best friend and his best friend liked her best friend which was convoluted and the perfect recipe for disaster but he couldn't stay away and he couldn't be completely honest with her.
"Please tell him that I will see him later," Mikan asked nicely.
"Even if you're uncomfortable with his presence?" Natsume asked, quite disappointed of Mikan's answer.
Her friends noticed her being under the weather since morning and it was only Natsume who asked her straightly about it. Mikan hated to admit it but Natsume could be one heck of an observer and advisor.
"Who said that?"
Natsume shrugged his shoulders. "I can see it and it's unlikely for you to act apathetic to a person."
It was clear that Natsume could be one of Mikan's downfalls. He paid attention to her despite avoiding her, he had his own way of dealing with people and he didn't care if he hurt the person but Mikan was fine with that, even continued her association with him. Right there and then Mikan wanted to kick Natsume's butt and yell at him to make up his mind about her. She wanted to stop receiving mixed signals only to be let down at the end. Should they be friends or not? Should they stay away fromeach other or just be good kids and live harmoniously?
"Do you think that we didn't notice? Of course we did. Not that I care but it is annoying when you treat me like paper," Natsume explained.
"But, you treat me like paper," Mikan countered.
Natsume rolled his eyes, grunting at his expense. It was stupid that they compared their predicament to a paper. "I don't treat you like paper. I said I wanna keep my distance."
But he simply couldn't. They were bounded by some invisible string, always leading him to her, catching her on the most vulnerable moments. Mikan became aware of it, too. They did not have the best relationship among their group but she was willing to develop and enhance it for the sake of peace of mind.
"I met Hotaru because of Subaru. He and my father are very close. Dr. Imai reminds me of the past. And I hate my past," Mikan confessed, almost sounded like she was about to cry. When she heard silence, Mikan shook her head, regretted telling him that. "Why am I even blurting this to you? Ugh, wrong choice of person."
"No, go on."
"What did you say?" Mikan asked, dumbfounded.
Natsume practically offered his support for her. If there was something Mikan could not tell to her closest friend, then she could tell him, her almost friend.
"You can tell me. If you think this is a right place and time, then tell me."
Mikan eyed Natsume for a while, thinking if it was right to trust him. She heaved a deep breath, accepting his offer. "I wish he was not here today because today was supposed to be a nice day. Today was the premiere of a new achievement and my dad had to talk to you guys to invite him."
"That kind of thinking is self-centered."
Mikan felt offended and quickly retorted to her defense.
"Maybe but that is what reality is for me."
Nothing was clear for him and if that statement from Mikan did something, it only made things vaguer for Natsume. He had no choice but to deal with Mikan's drama with a short pep talk. First, he poked her in the forehead, hard. Natsume always wanted to do that just to see her reaction and he would always do that to her when she's potentially at fault.
"Then, let's change your reality, Polka," Natsume suggested, "It is clear that you can't tell me this thing about the past which makes you so upset but right now that film you made, you shot for weeks, the script you had memorized so you could deliver you lines effortlessly, that film had been applauded by the audience. You missed that reality because you are focusing on your past."
Natsume patted her in the head before disheveling it. "Don't worry too much," he added. Like lightning, his words sent tons of realization to Mikan and she was easily touched by his concern.
"You're right. I am so stupid," Mikan replied, removing Natsume's hand from her hair and held it for a while.
Taking notice on the softness of her hands, Natsume suddenly became aware of the intimacy of the moment and he hated Mikan for looking so innocent, unaware of what she did to him.
"Did he treat you bad in the past?" Natsume asked, disconnecting his hand from hers. When Mikan replied with an expression of disbelief, he revised the question, saying, "Okay. That may be not the right question because if he did, you wouldn't be best friends with Hotaru Imai. But, Polka, snap out of it. Seriously, why do I always find you when you're so emotional?"
Mikan only giggled, thinking he was always at the wrong place and time. "Thanks. That means a lot. I know you dislike me for Ruka but I think it is safe to think that you don't dislike me as a friend."
Natsume did not reply because the only thing on his mind was his appreciation of her sweet smell and equally sweet smile.
Subaru gestured Mikan to sit on the empty swing beside him. His work with the school was done but his main reason for coming to Tokyo had yet to be finished. He actually did not expect Mikan to agree see him because he usually exploited her feelings, unbalancing her emotions leading her to instability. But, that was his way of doing things ever since. He was aggressive with his treatment, impatient and straightforward. He always wanted to get the results as soon as possible.
"The film you made is a declaration of forgiveness and love for someone, right?" Subaru asked for clarification.
Mikan gained momentum on her swing and replied, "That's the main theme."
Subaru let out a sigh of relief as if stored it for years. "Good job, Mikan. I was worried that you will have a hard time here in Tokyo but I think everything fell right into place. I may be an aggressive doctor who will force you to face your fear and you've criticized me a lot because of that but now I am glad I took that risk."
"I still hate you," Mikan said, encompassing emotion on her tone.
Subaru was aware of Mikan's perception of him but if that cruelty led her to be this participative in school, then would choose the same method over and over again.
"Nothing changed, then? Between our special connection?" Subaru asked, hoping that they stayed the same.
"You're still a weird doctor," Mikan muttered under her breath.
She liked calling him that, her little way of getting back to him. Honestly, Mikan never saw Subaru as Hotaru's brother that she needed to respect but always saw him as her doctor, as her psychiatrist.
"Honestly, I am glad that Mr. Narumi invited me. I didn't have second thoughts. This was my chance to see if you're doing well. Hotaru doesn't tell me a thing and she knows you will be upset if you find out that I've been asking you."
Mikan felt shivers on her spine. "You are a stalker doctor."
Subaru let out a heartily laugh. "Don't make it sound like I'm a perverted old-geezer."
But, Mikan had fun with some of his psychotherapies, when he was not being conventional and professional. Grueling memories made the majority of her experience under his care but she did not miss the fun parts and the emotional ones that led her to be braver.
"What is your evaluation of me for today?" Mikan asked. She wanted to ask that all day long.
Subaru frowned, making metallic noises using his swing. "I did not come here as your psychiatrist. I came here as a concerned friend."
"If that is so, then can I ask you something?"
"Anything," Subaru swiftly replied.
Mikan closed her eyes before watching the sky. Her lips formed a thin smile, tainted with sorrow which was not missed by Subaru's clinical eyes. "How are my father and Youichi?" Mikan asked, scared of the answer she might hear.
"They're doing okay," Subaru responded casually.
"That's really nice to hear," Mikan said in relief, "Listen, I've been planning to confess to this boy I have a crush on every since. It's alright for me to do that, right?"
Subaru almost forgot that Mikan was in her teens, growing old, out to experience admiration and love. There was no way he would think of that as a bad idea so he encouraged her even more, telling her his heartfelt support.
"Of course, you are free to express yourself in any way you want."
Mikan was ecstatic, placing her hands on her mouth to stop herself from screeching. She stomped her feet repeatedly and went to serious mode. "There's high chance that he'll reject me because I think he likes another girl but I am prepared. I just want to be able to do something before the chance completely escape my hand."
"You will do well. Tell him everything."
Mikan nodded repeatedly, feeling excited of the turnout.
"I will. Oh, gosh, I'm feeling nervous already."
Upon coming to Tokyo, Subaru expected a struggling Mikan, the one who had been always conscious to be neutral with everyone. She surprised him with how great she was on that film, with this budding romance she mentioned, and her calm way of asking about her loved ones back at Akita. Far from the crying and always yelling he had as a patient years back. Subaru prayed that her improvement will continue and that Hotaru would guide her all the way, until the end.
"Daddy!" Mikan greeted as she ran to Narumi, giving him a tight hug.
"You guys had a good talk?" Narumi asked.
Subaru nodded, standing up. It was almost time to go. "Yeah, we did. Mr. Narumi promised to introduce me to faculty members. We didn't have the time earlier because the Student Council stuck me in a tight schedule."
"Have fun then."
Narumi hugged his daughter tightly one last time then said, "See you later, my dearest daughter."
"See you later, Dad."
It almost came as a whisper but Narumi was glad she called him 'Dad' ever since he met her at Subaru Imai's facility seven years ago.
End of Chapter
Thank you for the reviews last time. I appreciated it so much, jumping with joy each time I read one. This chapter slowly introduced what kind of past Mikan has, the new characters involved, her improving relationship with Natsume and planned confession to Ruka. I hope you will stay tuned because I wanted to make it as unpredictable as possible. Thank you so much!