Something You've Read Before
Chapter Twenty nine
Nine and Counting
The Imai residence in Tokyo had been livelier since the arrival of Subaru and company. For years, this was the most number of visitors Hotaru encountered in their humble abode ever since they relocated here. Familiar voices echoed in the living room and last night in the dining area. Subaru made good use of the kitchen and the fridge was restocked so Hotaru had no problem in terms of where to buy her next meal. She exchanged a few nods with Izumi as courtesy, keeping their interactions brief. Izumi arrived with Youichi yesterday which was a source of shock because Youichi had no business in Tokyo so she kept her eye on the boy who behaved quietly all the while. Hotaru hated not knowing so on that airy morning, she directly asked Subaru who told her to ask Natsume Hyuuga instead since it was all his doing.
Hotaru did not like asking direct questions to Natsume. They always had this unspoken competitiveness between them and she felt like asking him would lessen his respect for her. Well, Hotaru was aware that was far-fetched and a product of her imagination but still she kept her pride on things like that. Subaru was deemed useless in answering questions, asking her Uncle Izumi was a crazier idea, and Youichi might not know anything. She grunted and gripped her phone hard while pretending to read the morning news when she was just really listening to the conversation of Subaru and Izumi. Youichi was an arm's length away from her, playing a mobile game.
"How are the preparations?" asked Subaru. He brewed the morning coffee and reheated the bread he bought on his way home yesterday. The combination of the aromas of the coffee and pastry delighted his nose and calmed his mind.
Izumi scratched his nose at the question. From Akita up to here, he was bugged nonstop about the preparations needed for the presentation and honestly, Izumi was getting sick of it. He cleaned himself, shaved his excess facial hair, reexamined his pottery, and researched about the trends. He was giving his best and yet it seemed like Subaru refused to see his efforts. "It's good," he replied in monotone.
"He slept all night," Youichi chided.
The cup half filled with coffee was placed on the glass table while Subaru's expression winced. "Izumi, we've talked about this. Don't lose this one chance that you have."
"I know, I know. It's just that…"
Subaru already knew what he was going to say next so he cut him and interjected his observation. "You're nervous. That's normal. But, you have to give your best. This can change your life."
Hotaru received a nonverbal message from Subaru to leave the place and she did without questions, dragging Youichi with her. She glanced one last time, knowingly, at the adults before finally disappearing on the living room. Rarely did Hotaru see Subaru out of his composure because he was almost always calculating and assumed what could happen that he prepared himself for everything but that was not the case today. Subaru must be nervous because he was almost seeing an end to this, a time that he desperately worked hard for. Hotaru hoped for that as well.
Peeking at the corner of his eye, Izumi waited for the young one to be out of earshot. He shifted position on the couch and crossed his legs, wearing a grim expression. When Izumi raised his eyes, he saw Subaru waiting for his next words. "Change my life? Let's see about that," Izumi mumbled then cleared his throat, asking, "What do you know about Natsume Hyuuga?"
"What do you want to know?" Subaru asked, glad for the interest in Izumi's part.
"Can I trust him?"
There was a softening emotion that lingered in Subaru's eyes. "I'm sure he explained everything to you," he stated neutrally.
Izumi shook his head and waved his hands, implying that Subaru did not understand what he meant by the question. "He said she doesn't know a thing. That she didn't ask him to come to me."
From Subaru's perspective, Natsume only wanted to surprise Mikan by giving her the wish she despaired for half of her life. Honestly, it overwhelmed Subaru a bit because accompanying a friend all the way from Tokyo to Akita was already a feat, what more be the bridge to mend your broken family. These teenagers thought they really could do anything which was advantageous in this situation but also risky when you examined it carefully. For them to went over and beyond really made Subaru believe that love could make anything possible. Subaru paused for a while and laughed on the inside. He was a big believer that a one big life event could change a person's fate 360 degrees but now he was witnessing it, he felt surreal.
"I believe him. Mikan has too much pride and not stupid to ask that of Natsume."
Boring a stare at the doctor, Izumi finally convinced himself to trust his words about the guy. "So, are they what… friends or something?" he asked.
Izumi Sakura saw Natsume Hyuuga the first time a few days after meeting his estranged daughter in years. It was obvious that Subaru kept the details about the person, only saying that he was a big help if things pushed through so he agreed to meet this Hyuuga. In Izumi's current financial state and point of desperation, anyone that could lift his burdens would be more than beneficial for him. He must admit that he reached the point wherein he considered selling the house and what was left on the family business to start anew to a different town. Far from the painful memories and feelings of longing that Akita tend to inculcate in him. Due to that decision, he received an earful from Narumi and Subaru but they barely ticked his mind until Mikan showed her face in Akita then it was followed by this practical offer from Natsume Hyuuga.
When Izumi finally met Natsume in the flesh, he wanted to smack Subaru because he let him meet a high school kid. The word had finally fallen to the point that he was meeting a guy who was still in school to solve his problems. Izumi already made a few steps backwards after giggling in frustration until he took a look at the teenager in front of him and the superior aura finally seeped in him. Natsume invited him to sit down and ordered food and when he started talking, he knew more about business than he did. The information overloaded in Izumi's mind and picked up again when Natsume stated all what was wrong in that pottery business of his. It was all true and the way Natsume said it like he had analyzed it from soil to structure amazed Izumi. He stayed quiet for a while, only wanted to listen to Natsume's rambling.
The kid was smart, that was already a given and then when he began saying about this café expansion happening outside Tokyo, Izumi finally saw the light. Natsume told him that he arranged a meeting with the owner who was looking for suppliers for the interior of the café. Izumi asked him what qualified him to be referred to the owner and Natsume said that he saw his work and got impressed with it.
"Don't sell the house. Don't move from Akita." Those were Natsume's exact words and Izumi wondered what was the relation of it with everything. "This is not only hurting you but also Mikan."
"They're together," Subaru replied.
The answer broke Izumi's reverie of the past. "Oh," he managed to say. No wonder why Natsume did not want their conversation to be broadcasted to others.
Subaru stood up, finishing his coffee. He walked near Izumi and straightened his posture to make him feel dignified. "As a father, you should be feeling that you missed a lot. Your daughter is starting to broaden her relationships now," Subaru drawled like he was scolding a child.
"I don't particularly care."
Subaru's lips thinned, patting Izumi's shoulder. The pause before his reply inferred that he was lying through his teeth. "Ready your things. Practice your presentation. We will be meeting them in a few hours."
There were three chairs formed in a triangle around the circular wooden table. Three persons occupied these chairs without words escaping their lips as they let the waiter lay down their food which looked savory and sumptuous but no one from them had the appetite to much it because of the heavy atmosphere. Ioran was caught in between the cold war between his son and ex-wife and it actually thrilled him because this was such a unique sight. He almost wanted to call Aoi to join them but he easily got over his childishness and focused on the task at hand. For days, Natsume could not get hold of his mother so he approached him and asked if he could set up a meeting and being the capable person Ioran was, he managed to do just as that.
A hard, menacing look was flashed to Ioran by Kaoru but he acted unfazed and smirked at her feelings of betrayal. He also felt weird that he could easily ask Kaoru where to see and then she'd agree. Their separation was not mutual and he knew there was bitterness in her heart but they were okay with seeing each other anyway even though they acted the opposite. It could be they reached that age where quarreling was just for immature people and that would not benefit them in any way. Kaoru specifically asked him what was the meeting for and Ioran only replied in vagueness. He almost knew that she would not show up but here she was, wearing the expression she held every single time they meet.
"I knew something was up when you asked to see me without a concrete reason," Kaoru broke the silence, removing her thick, furry scarf around her neck and placed it on the side of her seat.
Ioran smiled, deciding whether to reply her accordingly or tease her, he chose the latter. "I didn't know you wanted to see me that bad."
Kaoru glared at him. "Shut up," she spat, hated the fact that Ioran knew her so well.
"Kaoru," Natsume interrupted, making both of his parents turn their heads to him. Ioran nodded at Natsume and rose from his seat, exiting temporarily to give them more privacy.
Leaning her head to the side slightly, Kaoru addressed Natsume with sharp eyes and grinning lips. "You didn't have to use your father to lure me out, Natsume."
He knew that but Natsume wanted to see them interact anyway. It was worth the mocking because Natsume proved that his mother still got affected by Ioran's presence and taunting. Natsume ignored the remark and chose not to prolong that topic so he took the envelope in white containing the official letter of the Student Council regarding the deletion of clubs and the council itself. The process to finally producing that one-page letter was nerve-wracking and complicated. It tested Natsume's decision-making skill and way of communicating with the students. It also made him question his motives and almost suspected himself of being greedy for trying to save everything he had.
"This is from us: the students of Alice Academy," Natsume said, sliding the letter to the polished wooden table. "We want you to tell The Board that we are prepared to fight for our right and if there is someone who could determine who should go or not, it's us and not you."
It only took Kaoru a short amount of time to read the letter before placing it back on the table. This time she lost the jeering emotion and turned serious in all corners of her face. "You could have saved a lot of time if you just break up with that girl."
"How does it feel that you're unsuccessful in turning our friends around?" retorted Natsume.
"You must be feeling confident," Kaoru commented based on Natsume's firm expression.
"I hope we deal with this as Vice President of the Student Council and you as chairman of The Board."
Natsume stayed on his guard the entire time and he felt the same was applicable to Kaoru. It was a sad truth that every time they see each other, they were meant to argue about their opposing decisions, so Natsume planned to be civil this time and show professionalism. He was sure that Kaoru was more than capable of doing so.
"What do you want?" asked Kaoru finally.
"The list. Let us modify it. We already had a list of our own on which clubs indeed have the same purpose. We can work on it until approval."
"Alice Academy doesn't need a Student Council," Kaoru insisted.
Natsume let out a snort and shrugged his shoulders. "Don't act stupid, Kaoru. Each school does and I know you are aware of it. You cannot take away the fact that a higher body should govern the students for organization. Do not bully us just because we are in high school. We are better than you think."
"And have the students follow your whims, listen to your rules? They need something more approachable than a Student Council, Natsume. I am planning to incorporate the head of the clubs and faculty to be the alternative government for the school."
The interest formed in Kaoru with regard to the school kind of astonished Natsume because he never really saw his mother paying attention to Alice Academy. She had more important business to attend to and the school was not a major property of their family. Besides, a year ago, she did not have any opinion about the school and yet here she was, involving herself to the matters of Alice Academy. But, there also laid Kaoru's weakness. She only got interested with the school because of Luna's research and Mikan's appearance in their lives that she really did not know how the system worked.
"Add more work to what they already have in hand? Have you asked even a single club president, Kaoru? Do you know their responsibilities, their duties? Managing a club with at least five members, trying to be productive at least thrice a week, that is already exhausting and then you want to burden them more with more decision-making tasks. You do not know how this works because you refused to participate in one. Running a club is one thing then what about their academics? Most of these students are aiming for top universities, mind you," Natsume narrated with a knowing look, satisfied with Kaoru's confused emotion, "Think about it, Kaoru. Think of the future generation of Alice Academy students that you will burden just because you want to pressure your son to get out of a relationship which makes him the happiest man alive."
Kaoru almost choked on her words, sensing the sincerity on Natsume's words and the possibility of his theory.
"The Board will decide on this," Kaoru said in contempt.
Natsume finally relaxed his stance, breathing normally again. "Then, may our message reach them."
Kaoru watched his son stand up, walking away from her again. She only wanted him to realize that he was making the wrong choice and it should be corrected at the earliest time. Her eyes were glued on Natsume's chair and when he passed by her, she said, "I will never approve of that girl."
Natsume refrained from taking more steps until he glanced at Kaoru and said, "I never wanted your approval, Kaoru. I just want you to let us be."
Ioran was leaning casually on the wall outside of the building when Natsume stopped in front of him. They did not say a word and only smiled at each other. Natsume pointed his head on where Kaoru was and Ioran immediately knew that he wanted him to talk to Kaoru. Stepping back to the inside of the building and seeing Kaoru unmoved from her seat put Ioran at a nervous state but not enough to make him stutter in his words or lose his touch. He walked slowly to sit on the empty chair and as soon Kaoru noticed his presence, she returned to her fiery mode and reassembled her best guarding stance.
"Natsume has grown," said Ioran. It was the summary of his observation of the past years. He barely talked to Kaoru about their children and no matter what their relationship was, be it existent or not, the only person he could talk his children about personally was no one else but their mother.
Kaoru grimaced in disbelief. "Grown to be a rebellious son? Are you proud of that?"
"I am proud that he is able to stand up for the person he loves. Isn't that what this is all about, Kaoru?"
Kaoru never had that experience. She only accepted what was fed on her so when the time came that Ioran's views varied from her, it was hard for her to accept it. She hated Ioran for allowing Aoi to follow her heart's desire and watched her in agony when it failed.
"What's the point of they are not going to end up together? No one knows what that girl wants from Natsume."
Ioran smiled sadly, hoping that his ex-wife could finally see the point of Mikan and Natsume for being stubborn. "I think she just wants to be with him and he just wants to be with her. As simple as that," he explained with a hint of longing. He anticipated Kaoru's reply and received nothing but her quiet stare at the view outside. "I am moving, Kaoru. I don't think Japan can give what I want anymore."
Kaoru got confused for a moment on why Ioran divulged such a big plan of him. Even so, she wanted to deny it to herself but she felt a pang in her heart. "And you are telling me this why?" she shot back. The regret bloomed the moment she said the last word because in reality, she wanted to know why, where, and how but her pride blocked her from asking more. Kaoru thought that Ioran might suspect her of being concerned when she chose to satisfy her curiosity.
Nevertheless, Ioran knew Kaoru well and he just smiled bitterly at her expected reaction. "We divorced but you're still family. I think I always told you that so telling you is just normal," he said then prepared for his leave.
What just happened induced headache on Kaoru and her heart felt heavier compared to the time before she walked on this café and saw her ex-husband and son waiting for her arrival. Both of them not favoring what she believed on and had plans on leaving her on her own devices. Kaoru gulped and clenched her fist. For what she was feeling like this when she had been so independent and strong as a woman all the while. Or maybe because the goal she wanted to achieve, despite giving everything she had, was slowly losing from her sight and so far from her grip. Her mother taught her how to be independent but the appeal of that faded when she built a family of her own and realized that living alone was not the happiest state a human being could be in. She only wanted to make the right decisions since that what she was known for.
The waiter asked him if it was alright to clean the table and she nodded with an annoyed face. Today made her feel different kinds of emotion and that was when she concluded that seeing Ioran was never good for her. Their talks ended up being a repeat of their bitter separation almost all of the time and yet she still wanted to see him. She was torn between categorizing Ioran whether being his wife was a good or bad decision. If convincing Natsume to cut ties with Mikan Sakura was a good choice or not. Then, she remembered Aoi and how she saved her from the misery. Kaoru closed her eyes and nodded, feeding her ego and rebuilding her confidence. Yes, she would see this until the end.
Mikan buried her face in her red scarf while her hands rested warmly on the pockets of her wool coat. She sat on the wooden bench of the park, tapping both her feet on the grassy ground while waiting for Natsume. She arrived at the spot way earlier than the meeting time and opted to look around to kill time and went happy when she discovered many activities available around the corner. Until last night, Mikan tried to make Natsume spill the purpose of today's date but he was mum about it and that made her feel uneasy and excited. Add to that the fact that Izumi finally arrived in Tokyo but sadly, Mikan heard nothing from Subaru and just ignored gracefully her offer of help and told her that if anything happened, she would be notified immediately. Watching the kids playing around her, Mikan envied them for having no care in the world and just enjoying life.
It was strategic and sweet of Natsume that he chose a park near Mikan's neighborhood wherein she could just walk her way to there but she challenged herself and took the bus that was why she arrived like an early bird. Since it was the weekend, the busyness of the park was already a given. A group of dancers was practicing at one corner while at the other side was another group of little kids enjoying a puppet show. There was also a corner in the park wherein families laid out their picnic blankets, enjoying the weather, and eating the hot food they prepared. Mikan could not see Natsume staying calm in between these people. So, where were they going? She actually waited for him to cancel because the week exhausted him with all the club fiasco and the grand meeting with the representatives of the school so she was glad that they still pushed this through.
Then, her worries all evaporated in the air when a pair of familiar boots stopped in front of her and when she looked up, she finally saw him. "Hey! You're– " she greeted, standing up.
Natsume looked smugly handsome in his boyish grin. "Late?" he supplemented.
Mikan shook her head with a laugh. "No, just in time for the bubble show! It's for children but it is visually stunning so let's take a look," she said in a level of enthusiasm like it was so long since she last saw Natsume. She grabbed him by the hand and dragged their bodies to the direction of the center of the park. "By the way, did you plan anything for today?" she asked once again.
Natsume took her hand which was grabbing his wrist and held it with his own then they walked on a normal pace. "We have at least three hours of free time before I take you somewhere."
Still no sign of telling her where they would go so Mikan dumped her curiosity and decided to enjoy the moment. "Just enough for us to eat and chill. Then if we can't think of anything to do, let's just eat again."
"I already feel sorry for the place we will eat at later," Natsume said with a smirk, receiving a light smack in the stomach from Mikan.
The rich boy nature of Natsume showed every time they were in a public place and Mikan found the innocence cute and charming. It made her feel that she knew something that Natsume did not and she wanted to tell it to his face as much as possible to annoy him. They made it to the bubble show which was fun at first then it got boring after a few minutes, at least that was the case for Mikan. For Natsume who saw a show like that for the first time, it was entertaining and not to mention Mikan's blabbering kept him interested with the varying shapes formed. They only stayed their shortly and went on to a different path. What Natsume loved about their walk was the casualness of their conversation and how light the feeling was just to talk to Mikan about random things, even the nonsensical ones.
The setting made Natsume remember the time when he walked Mikan home and back then he was sure he liked her but still quiet about his feelings due to uncertainties. Now, they were together and he could hold her hand as much as he wanted and hug her for the plain reason that he wanted to feel her presence as close as possible. He listened to her talk and explain about the unspoken rules when you decided to date in a park. Natsume had his lips thinned the entire time, nodding at every question from Mikan that needed answer. Mikan looked serious when she was talking and when he realized he was staring too much, he held her cheek. It made Mikan pause then she held his hand with a caress. They settled with just looking at each other as if they were there to comfort one another. It was a moment they shared which meant that they were happy to be just together. Starting their relationship on the rocky side was a bad omen but no one managed to set them apart so far.
Lunch time came and both of their eyes attended to the menu cards given to them. Natsume already listed mentally his order while he waited for Mikan to finish. She was reading back the menu for the third time when she raised a hand to state their orders. It was a complete meal for Mikan from appetizer to dessert and Natsume just looked amused while she was ordering. When waiting time ensued, Mikan tapped her fingers on the table and Natsume knew immediately that she wanted to ask something.
"Can I ask something?"
Just right on cue. Natsume drank his glass of water then said, "Shoot."
Mikan hitched a breath, an obvious doubt painted on her beautiful face but she asked anyway. "Your birthday is just around the corner. Is there anything you want to get that day?"
Natsume frowned. "I told you that I don't celebrate my birthday anymore."
They talked about not celebrating their birthdays anymore because of personal reasons but that was not Mikan's view on the gift giving. "We don't have to if you don't like but getting you a present is acceptable. At least that's what I think."
She was so nonchalant about it that Natsume felt the same towards the topic. He bit his fork then let it linger in his mouth for a second, eyeing Mikan, then drank his water again. "Don't you just give a person the gift? You asking me destroyed the element of surprise."
Mikan grinned. "Technically, you allowed me to ask you."
Natsume glared at her while she just giggled at his expense. "Stop playing games with me, Polka."
Even though Natsume said that menacingly, his feeling was the total opposite and then he began to assume what was up on Mikan's question. He never really thought about getting any present or surprise for his birthday. It had been that way for years and there was no reason to celebrate it all of a sudden. He remembered being greeted by his father and friends but that was the summary of every year. Natsume was forced to examine his life on that chair in pressure, trying to come up of an answer that would satisfy Mikan's anticipation. He began from material things like a book he wanted to buy or a manga collection that he was saving for but he preferred buying them using his own money. Resting his elbow on the table and tapping his forehead, Natsume just watched Mikan eat while he groveled for an idea.
"Think, Natsume. Just try." Mikan was attacking the soup now.
The corner of his lips moved sideward and then he halted from tapping his forehead, resting back his elbow on the armrest of the comfortable chair. "I think I'm good," he said with glimmer in his red eyes, although it disappointed Mikan because he practically wished for nothing. Until something snapped in Natsume which also changed the falling face of Mikan. "But, maybe lunch together with all our friends then dinner with Dad."
Far from the grand gestures Mikan imagined, Natsume proved to be a man of simplicity. His personality was just like that, appreciating the smallest of things and she liked that attitude of his. It was one of his best qualities. He never flaunted that he came from a prominent family and never let anyone feel that they should obey him. It just happened that he was a natural leader, possessing alpha traits.
"Okay, that's a nice wish. Sometimes, you're so simple, Natsume. Except your taste in clothes and gadgets and car and shoes."
"You're making this up."
Mikan pouted then let out another one of her lovely laughs, saying with narrowed eyes, "Of course, I do."
After searching for a place filled with stores and food hubs, they finally reached a place in town where they had both. As they walked under the mixture of cloudy skies and strong wind, they stopped by at small souvenir shops to admire some trinkets or shirts, taking photos as memories courtesy of Mikan. No one mentioned about the problems in school or at home. It seemed that they both decided to set that aside and wallow in the intimacy of them just being together. They were just walking but it felt thrilling to the bones.
"Hey, try this." Natsume let Mikan try the drink that a lady somehow forced him to buy. It stated on the signage that it was for charity so he bought everything but only got two bottles for them.
Mikan's eyes lit up when she detected one of her favorite flavors. "Tastes like strawberry!" exclaiming then bowing at the lady who was also giving her thanks to them. She nudged Natsume on the side, praising his soft side while he stayed quiet about it.
"This date makes me feel like we're really a couple."
A crinkle appeared on Natsume's nose when the statement was heard. Mikan's pace slowed down and it took Natsume almost two seconds to match her speed. Her hand draped on his one arm while her eyes seemed to trace every step she made. Maybe Mikan said that because all they had were snippets of time and their friends were just around the corner. This time it was scheduled, they came from their homes, and they dressed up nicely. They both turned silent after that and Natsume could not help but glanced at his watch. Only an hour to go and they had to make their way to the real reason why they met today and that thought started sending tingles on Natsume. He peeked at Mikan who was still paying attention to the road but her grip on him tightened at the moment.
"Hasn't it sunk on you yet?" Natsume jested.
"It's hard to believe sometimes because you were so mean to me before," Mikan said in a childish tone.
The memory of their first encounters was still fresh in Natsume's mind causing him to roll his eyes. "Well, it's because you're so stubborn."
Mikan did not deny the observation and instead gave a humorous nod. The trait was natural for her and if she was not stubborn, maybe she really lost the will to live a few years ago.
"Then, we became friends."
When did they become friends? Mikan finally lifted her head while tracing back the very first memory wherein they acted civil towards each other. It felt so long ago when it actually happened just this year. She glanced at Natsume who walked ahead of her, hands out of his coat pocket. The people behind him served as a blurry background in Mikan's eyes and then she only knew that she lost in his mesmerizing gaze, drowning fluidly and she did not want to get back up.
"We're still friends," Natsume emphasized. That was the beauty of their relationship: its foundation was their friendship and it happened to be a strong one.
"Friends who can tell each other anything."
"Is this the part when we finally cry?" Natsume mocked with a sinister smile.
Mikan stuck a tongue out, pinching both of Natsume's cheeks while he winced in pain. He only heard her sincere laugh when he closed his eyes before snatching her hands then intertwined it with his. Then his face lost its humor and turned to a caring look, saying, "I want to be completely honest with you."
Mikan nodded at him. "Okay."
Natsume watched Mikan's anticipating eyes, feeling a little nervous that she would not receive the news well and that it might spoil their day but he went on anyway. "I kind of involved myself with your father's failing business," Natsume blurted before getting confused at Mikan's nonchalant reaction, "You don't look surprised."
The guilty smile immediately shown on Mikan's face, avoiding Natsume's inquisitive gaze. "Well, someone might have told me about it."
A scowl made it to Natsume's face, mumbling, "Damn you, Ruka. Well, it's not the surprise anyway."
Confusion buried on Mikan's face before saying, "But, I don't know the whole story!"
Natsume tried to calm himself and heaved out a sigh. "I asked Dr. Imai to pinch me a meeting with your father to assess how much of the business is worth of saving and it turned out that it is not a lost cause. Glassroots already has plans of expansion a year ago and I figured out that thru it is the best way to showcase your father's creation. And I am not saying this because I love you, but the handiwork and art of your father… it's amazing. He knows what he is doing and he's great at it."
Mikan covered the blush running on her cheeks, her heart feeling full with Natsume's every words to the point that she wanted to cry out of appreciation. "Stupid, Natsume, you didn't have to go that far." She barely managed to utter the words because she was already feeling emotional, eyes wandering to the horizon, then wiping the formed tears before it fell. Natsume closed the distance between them by a few steps, checking her reaction that she tried to hide. He gave a loving gaze and a warm smile before cupping her chin and shaking her head slowly and lightly.
"Then, I mailed the pictures to Hinami and she became interested then I met with Izumi once again. The second time, I told him I will give my full support to restore the family business. I came clean with our relationship and told him why I am doing this."
"I bet he didn't say much about me," mumbled Mikan.
Natsume lowered his eyes when she said that, realizing that Izumi indeed barely asked about Mikan. He ignored the comment and brushed her hair gently. "His meeting with Hinami ended an hour ago and I think it went well. Just a few polishing. Nothing that can't be solved."
It all sounded like a dream to Mikan. She never expected that Natsume went this far to help her, to preserve her family. If Izumi got the deal then there was no need to sell the house and relocate anymore. Her tears finally fell like waterfall in her face as she clutched Natsume's coat for support. A thousand words of thanksgiving and gratefulness flooded her brain but none of those escaped her mouth due to her overwhelming emotions. Hearing Natsume explained everything so casually when in fact it changed her life at that very instant made her feel surreal, that nothing was really impossible to achieve. She knew that Natsume helped find the investor but hearing it from his mouth felt more magical.
"Natsume, why did you help him?"
No straight answer was given and honestly, Natsume thought for second if it was best to give the answer now. He heard Mikan's sniffs from crying well and he knew it was out of happiness but it was also her way of releasing her frustrations because of family problems. Natsume faked a cough, placing both of his hands on the pockets of his coat before taking another one out to wipe Mikan's tears. He was smirking at her crying stature then his mood shifted to the very core why he did everything he had done and why he felt he could do anything and that was because he loved her. Mikan valued her family so much even if it became a dysfunctional one and she swore to herself that she was going to save it and he knew that so well that was why he helped her.
"I asked him if you could finally meet your brother."
The surroundings got quiet in a glimpse. Mikan blinked repeatedly, her mouth parted a little while her limbs turned weak. "No," Mikan choked but they both knew that was a lie. It was seemingly magical because Natsume knew that was her biggest wish. Even if Izumi rejected the plead, Mikan's happiness remained just for the fact that Natsume exerted so much effort to make her dream come to life.
Natsume smiled at her. "Then, he agreed."
The process was not as easy as it sounded but the reaction on Mikan's face was all worth it. Natsume managed to bounce back from Tokyo to meeting Izumi, to negotiating with Hinami, and doing his role in Alice Academy while hiding everything to Mikan. He felt victorious when he heard Izumi's agreement to their terms and even if a somehow aggressive reaction was made by him when Natsume mentioned about Youichi meeting Mikan, in the end they reached a compromise. The happy sobs of Mikan echoed in his ears and just in time, Hotaru appeared together with Subaru and Ruka a few meters away from them and behind the group were Narumi and Izumi with Youichi on the side. The scene must be so unbelievable for Mikan because she cried louder and it was up to Natsume to caress her back. He led her by walking slowly with Mikan taking his hand and hugged him tightly.
"I think we should approach them," Natsume chirped, "And wipe your tears for now, Polka. You are about to meet Youichi. Let me warn you that the kid is really something."
In Mikan's head, she imagined this a thousand times. Her official meeting with Youichi was long overdue but the excitement never died down. She imagined they would get along but sometimes in her dreams, they seemed to clash like most siblings. When Mikan was really down, she looked forward to the day wherein she could talk to Youichi about her adult and childish problems and how they would think of a solution together and she would do the same for him. Those images inside her head and made up feelings she forced on her were nothing to the real thing. In her line of vision, Mikan saw her friends with their smiling faces and Subaru who looked like he could be emotional at any given moment. She jumped excitedly at her position and held Natsume's hand tighter. When Mikan suspected that her knees would give away, it was when she ran to hug Narumi, waved to her friends and doctor, and bowed to Izumi.
The silent treatment did not disappear and Mikan did not expect Izumi to be chummy all of a sudden but she knew that a path opened, no matter how small it was, the hope lit up brighter than before. Confusion plastered all over Youichi's face until Izumi whispered something to him then he nodded and placed on a knowing expression, staring observantly at Mikan who did not know how to approach him. Mikan stole glances at Natsume and Izumi to ask them what she should do but they encouraged her to say anything so she opened her mouth, stooping a little to reach Youichi's height but she just cried and no other words were said.
"You're that girl who looks like Mom," Youichi finally broke the ice, asking a question to himself what was there to cry about.
"She's your sister," Izumi announced with a low voice.
Mikan nodded, calmed herself and wiped her tears. She then extended her hand to which Youichi did not know how to accept but Mikan grabbed his little, cold hands either way. "Hi, my name's Mikan!" she managed to say in her usual cheery voice.
"I'm Youichi."
Mikan kept on nodding which was out of her character but really she was just so happy. "I know. Can I hug you?" she asked and did the action anyways. She felt his outerwear so she hugged him tighter but careful not to crush him just to feel that he was really there. Youichi was the last memory of Yuka and the best one indeed. She was not there when he was growing up and she was the one who took their mother away but she felt she deserved the moment anyway.
Finally, after nine years, Mikan believed that dreams do come true no matter how long it took.
Narumi, Subaru, and Izumi were having their own conversation on their own picnic blanket, enjoying the afternoon snack although Izumi had the tendency to be agitated once in a while, glancing at Mikan and Youichi who were on the swing, talking seriously from the looks of it. Hotaru enjoyed the weather, closing her eyes when the wind hit her face, and appreciating the calmness nature could only provide. She watched silently as Ruka and Natsume talked about things only boys wanted to talk about: games, sports, and haircut. From time to time, she glanced at the Sakura siblings who were catching up with the nine years they lost and looking forward for the years to come. Hotaru felt a stirring emotion in her heart, glad that her best friend never needed to hide again just to see Youichi. It also amazed her how Natsume Hyuuga was able to achieve all of these in a short amount of time.
"You've given her everything already," Hotaru suddenly said in the middle of the conversation, making the two boy stopped from their current topic.
Natsume did not want to admit it but being praised by Hotaru Imai could still make you feel something. "She deserves it," he replied.
Hotaru agreed with the reasoning, also having the same rationale in her mind on why she chose to be with Mikan all these years. "Listen, if you plan to marry her in the future, I wouldn't even dare to object."
Ruka almost choked on his drink when he heard that and when he glanced at Natsume, he almost laughed when it was obvious he was trying to hide his blush.
"I'll make sure to remember that, Imai," Natsume muttered, feeling slightly embarrassed.
Ruka smirked at his best friend's reaction as he eyed Hotaru who did not look like she was joking when she said that. "I better be the best man," chided Ruka.
From the view on Mikan's swing, everything seemed to peaceful. Her conversation with Youichi was flooded with awkward silences, sudden shifts in topic, too much talking on her part. She loved children but did not know how to deal with one who was supposed to be your brother. She learned a lot from what grade he was in, how he was doing in school, and how he liked the life in Akita but for more personal questions, Mikan decided there was still a next time. Glancing at her watch, she realized that time went by so fast and if she was not mistaken, Youichi and Izumi were bound to board a train tomorrow morning. She said he could ask her any questions but so far he had none.
Swinging quietly and in slow motion, Mikan stared at a distance until her eyes were set on Izumi. "Has he ever mentioned me?" she asked, knowing the answer would only induce sadness to her.
Youichi tried to trace her sight and found it was directed to their father. "No."
"But, did you ever feel that we are related?"
There was always this missing piece in the story that Youichi never solved when it came to stories about his mother or Izumi's prime years. He felt there was always something, someone left not mentioned because Izumi would pause then think about the next thing to say and that happened a lot of times. Who knew the missing puzzle was his own sister? He saw her before and always wondered why their meetings only lasted seconds and now he knew.
"I don't know but what I know is that you always make Daddy sad."
The honesty shocked Mikan until she realized what Youichi meant. "I tend to do that, don't I?" she muttered.
Youichi displayed an innocent look until it turned into an alarmed one because he knew Mikan misinterpreted his earlier statement. "Then again, he has always been sad."
"It's my fault that he's like that and why you never met our mother," Mikan admitted, afraid that Youichi already had the same mindset as their father. She closed her eyes in an attempt to fight back the tears and opened them until she was successful then glanced at her brother who never changed his emotion.
Youichi sighed. This had been going on his family for almost a decade and anyone got tired of this probably. "Really? Did you cause the accident?" he shot back.
Mikan nodded with a frown. "I forced us to go to that trip on that snowy day."
"Did you cause the snowfall?"
"No, how can I do that?" Mikan retorted, confused one where the questions were heading.
"The slippery road?" Youichi asked.
"No, of course not."
"Were you the driver?"
Mikan snorted because she was just eight then, saying, "That's not possible."
"Then, why is it your fault?" Youichi asked while extending his arms and legs. His hands travelled to the ropes of the swing, staring at Mikan as if he was assessing how to explain his opinion. "I had an accident at school once. We were playing in the hallways and I happened to slip on the stairs. My leg was broken and I missed six weeks of school. No one blamed Moriko for inviting us to play and even I did not get angry at him. No one wanted that to happen. It's an accident."
It rendered Mikan speechless for a moment until she attained her grip again and managed with, "Wow, Youichi, you sound like an–"
Youichi smirked, knowing his sister's next word and said it ahead of her. "Adult? It's because I've never really been around kids my own age. I had to be responsible enough to take care of Daddy."
He was not bitter about it. Children were not capable of feeling that anyway until they grew up and realized they carried all the burden of the past. Youichi had not decided what to feel about Mikan. It was not that easy to make your system believe that you suddenly had a sibling that you have to accept and love but it was a lie to say he was never curious about Mikan. He became extra curious when she visited months ago and Izumi went ballistic over it. Right there and then, Youichi knew that Mikan was someone important to Izumi. About the story of the accident, no one completely told Youichi about it but as he glanced at Izumi who was watching them, no doubt that the story would come in later.
"Hearing you, I think we have it all rough," Mikan said as she stopped the swing then smiled, "Mom was the best, by the way."
Youichi nodded. That was one thing that Izumi made sure he knew. "I had a feeling she was."
They agreed on that one thing and it was a good start. Mikan stood up to exercise her limbs because all the drama sucked in her energy and the cold started seeping in her layered of clothes. She looked at Youichi who seemed unaffected and must be used to this weather because winters in Akita were on a different level. She inhaled long and deep and exhaled it slowly with both hands at fists. So far, everything was handled accordingly. No unnecessary drama or a sudden interruption of their lovely reunion. Mikan took a good look at her brother one more time which always succeeded in making her tears come out from her brown eyes.
"I don't know how to handle sibling conversations. Honestly, I don't know what else to say but believe me, all my life, I've been waiting for this moment to come."
Standing up, Youichi pointed where Natsume and the others were waiting. "Your boyfriend there," he said with a small smile.
Mikan followed where he pointed and glanced back. "Natsume?"
"He's annoying," Youichi said with a pout.
"Did you talk to him?"
The memory of Youichi's first meeting with Natsume came back to him and he could not help but shake his head. "He went to our house and asked if Dad was in and has been stubborn ever since."
Mikan rubbed her chin. "You don't talk like you're nine, really."
"I'll take that as a compliment," Youichi said, smiling at her.
Like the nine years had passed by so quickly, time on that day went on, leaving a feeling that two hours was just a few minutes. Everyone was in a circle, preparing to go since the picnic was over and the sun already hid behind the clouds. Izumi maintained his distance with Mikan but acted normally with the rest. Mikan barely noticed the avoidance because she was greeted by Ruka and Hotaru and Narumi pulled her into a side hug.
"Youichi, we should go. We have an early train."
The nine-year old nodded at his father. He stepped toward Mikan, looking up while Mikan had to adjust and kneeled to the ground. "I guess I'll see you around," said Youichi.
Mikan only nodded with a smile and waved goodbye at him as Izumi took Youichi's small hand and walked away. The brunette gathered her courage when she understood that this day should not end with her only forming a family bond with her brother because their father was just there. She ran a few steps and yelled, "Daddy! Thank you!" Mikan hoped that Izumi heard that well enough as she kept on waving her hand to their retreating figures.
"Savor the moment, Mikan. This definitely turned things around."
"This is the best therapy so far, Subaru."
Mikan said that but Subaru knew that she did not need it anymore because he knew she would always be better than her bitter experiences. There was a proud feeling in him as he stared at Mikan who handled the situation excellently and also gave his compliment mentally to Izumi for not acting like an antagonist in today's reunion. "We'll go ahead, Mikan," he said.
"Take care, Hotaru, Ruka."
Hotaru enveloped Mikan in an embrace. "See you on Monday, doofus." It was different compared to other Hotaru's tone of voice. This time Mikan felt that she was not the only emotional about this, others too who invested their time and effort to make this day come true and nothing could be said less that of Hotaru's role in her life all these years.
"See you, Hotaru," said Mikan in between the hug, "Thank you."
"We'll go ahead," Narumi announced then whispered to Mikan, "I think you and the Natsume Hyuuga need more time to talk."
Today was supposed to be their first date outside their comfort zone but it turned out that was just a bridge to a more life-changing event. Turning to Natsume who was acting nonchalant about everything that happened even after everyone went home and the only ones left were them. Taking it all now, Mikan suddenly had a debate in her mind on what to say to Natsume next. Overflowing feelings of appreciation was definitely there but also that fact that he kept things from her… Mikan laughed on the inside. Of course, she was nothing but happy that Natsume was consistent in supporting her even if he had his own way of doing it. Crossing her arms and putting on a betrayed look, Mikan went on to sit beside Natsume.
"What?" he drawled, wondering what came up to her suddenly.
"Tell me what got into your mind when you did this."
Natsume raised an eyebrow, thinking if it was a trick question or something that she seriously needed the answer to. "Anything for you, right Polka?"
Mikan remembered that promise, lowering her head to bottle her emotions. "You always make me cry for the best reasons. What did I do to deserve you? No, don't answer that or your ego might just inflate to the galaxies."
A hearty laugh escaped Natsume's mouth as he watched Mikan's face reddened with the cold. Everything was worth it when he saw her reaction upon laying her eyes on Youichi. Natsume's exhaustion and worry all vanished at that very moment, convinced that he did the right thing for the most perfect person.
"I love you so much," Mikan said and gave him a peck on the lips.
"One more," Natsume pleaded with an amused smile although he was quite taken aback by the kiss. There was no hesitation on Mikan and kissed him again on the lips, slower this time and deeper. When she broke off the kiss, Natsume did not let her widen the distance and said to her, "Again."
Mikan narrowed her eyes. "That's already two," she insisted but Natsume shook his head.
"Make that three and I love you, too, Polka."
End of Chapter
The moment I finished conceptualizing this story back in 2012, I already imagined the tearful reunion of Mikan and Youichi. It's nice to finally see it published after seven years. But, gosh, Mikan and Natsume are getting so cheesy. Hahahahaha. So sorry for the slow updates. You know it's the holiday season and in our country this is usually the busy season for everything: parties, work, family events. I can't even start to read the book that was given to me. Anyways, I hope this made up for the wait. Thank you for being a big part of my 2019! I did not have any hopes when I got back to writing but you guys made me realize how much of a story can affect your mood. The same thing happens to me whenever I'm reading a book or a fan fiction or just watching a movie. Merry Christmas and have a great 2020 ahead!