A/N: Haluuuu... I tried to hurry this so I could post it on SenRu day but I feel like this chapter is inappropriate to post on a supposed-to-be happy day for every SenRu fans hehe. And also, save my favorite story for last. Hihihi.
I really appreciate your reviews, favorites and follows so thank you so much!
Caro: Sorry it took a while! Sheesh! This chapter is really hard to build haha
Ghorl: Nako maraming salamat Ghorl. Pero ndi ko alam kung mapapatawad mo ako sa chapter na ito.
"OMG I can't believe I missed this story to read": Happy you found it T-T
"Continue please. It's exciting.": Thanks so much T.T
akiraismylover: it's still raining!!! Geez! Haha Dunno if the back story is good but hopefully it is. Hahaha
Have fun reading. Don't know if it will be fun though so that's a heads up. And a long chapter too.
Months after relocation...
"Oh my chunky sausage..." The uncle jested as he munches both of his one-year old nephew's legs. "I'll eat all these meats at once." he taunted, filling the entire room with the young Akagi's adorable giggles.
A towelette was then hurled on top of his spiky head. "Knock it off Akira!" his older sister, Anika, lashed out. "How can Taki sleep if you keep on playing with him?"
"That's the purpose. I'll tire this cute little sausage by making him laugh." he reasoned then nuzzled his face between the narrowed gap of his flabby neck and shoulder. Taki's giggles grew even louder.
The mother dropped herself softly at the cushion, beside her first born, and watched her little brother playing with her kid. Her expressive stares were easily caught by the younger who returned a questioning look. "What?"
Anika smiled. "You'll be a good father, you know?"
The discerned topic made his brows furrowed. "Where did that come from?"
"Why? Aren't you planning to have one?"
He just darted her an uncaring smirk then turned back to his nephew and blew on his stomach, rewarding himself with giggles from the infant. Still, Anika persisted. "You know it's possible nowadays for couples like you and Kaede."
Akira chortled. "I'm only on my late twenties nee-chan."
"Well Takenori is still in his twenties..."
"Coz you seduced him." he joked, earning a smash on his head. He laughed on it.
"It's not like it has to happen now. But perhaps it's time to discuss it, plan for it."
This time, he paused to finally give the topic a thought. "Depends on Kaede." he mumbled.
"And if he says no?"
He dismissively shrugged. "Then no."
"That's it? Just like that?"
"Well... I don't want to impose things he's not comfortable with." he stated. "Besides, it's not like every couple requires a kid to feel complete."
"You know that's not what I'm trying to imply."
He knows exactly what his sister meant. It's just that he couldn't return any proper response to this obscure topic. He is just wishing for it to end as soon as possible. "Aaa. Too early to think about that." he voiced out, waving an arm in attempt to dismiss the topic right there and then. But the elder still persisted, making a face from his impassive attention. He simply gave it a chuckle and threw a baby pillow to her direction. "Geez nee-chan, will you stop this baby thing?"
"It's not bad to express something you are hoping for, Akira. Who knows? Maybe Kaede-kun wants to have one too."
He pondered. It's not like this didn't crossed his mind. Especially the first time he held his newly born nephew close to his heart... and the time when Kaede carried Taki in his arms. His mind began wandering the what-ifs - a picture of him and Kaede starting a family.
Rukawa has always been a man of focus. One goal at a time.
Back in high school, after his training in the All-Japan Junior high, he promised himself that he will be known as the number one player in Japan someday - which he succeeded on his fourth year. Come university, his first goal of pursuing an NBA career switched to a more probable endeavor - to graduate with a degree in culinary arts. Who would've thought? The lazy sleeping guy during classes, back in high school years, become an achiever at the end of his college life.
And now, he is thriving hard to become one of the most excellent and successful chef in the whole country. And it's most likely that once he achieved that... he will aim to be known as a prominent chef across the globe.
All this he witnessed as he grows. Through ups and downs, he was there. How he thrive for success. How he crossed every obstacles in order to reach what his mind has set upon.
And that is all the reason why he can foretell that Kaede will never accept another responsibility that could hinder his success.
His lips formed a little smile, dazing down at his nephew, playing all by himself. It is fine. Having a kid or not... He's okay with it.
It doesn't matter what he wanted... for Kaede is all that he needed.
"Why have a baby when I can kidnap this little sausage!" He scooped the young Akagi with both hands and threw him in the air. He nuzzled his nose into his cheeks after catching him. "I'll report your mom and tell the police she's crazy so I can adopt you, my young hamburger." The baby giggled loudly as if he understands what he meant. He then placed the baby and lay it down carefully. "In any case nee-chan, Kaede and I just relocate. We're still busy settling ourselves into our new home. So relax okay? If we get there... then we'll be there." he said positively.
Little did he know, he opened another interesting topic that made his sister's eyebrow arched. Arms crossed on her chest. "Speaking of relocation, did you know that Mom is so shocked to hear you just bought an apartment?"
He just scoffed at his prediction.
"Have you really thought about it carefully? Did you empty your savings to buy an old apartment?"
"Calm down nee-chan. Of course I've thought about it carefully. Relax. I know what I'm doing." he expressed positively.
"Akira, buying a house is not something to be taken lightly. You should have seek for more advice-"
"Aaah, don't worry about it." he dismissed. "You and mom should stop worrying about me sometimes. I'm an adult now. You both know me."
Anika simply sighed. What more can an older sister do but to support her only brother in his every decision. So she ended the topic right there. "Anyways, I want Kaede-kun to be my Taki's Godfather."
"What?!" he barked, scowling at his sister. "Should it be me first? I'm the uncle!"
She sticks her tongue out. "It is settled." she teased. "Besides, I love Kaede-kun more than I do on you."
He gritted his teeth. "In that case, I'm cursing you." He lifted a hand and positioned it on his sister's head, and began chanting an ill-wish. "I pray you labor twelve more Taki-kuns in one go."
A pillow hit his head. "Idiot! I'm not a pig!"
XXX
"I'm home." he proclaimed aloud as he stepped inside their new home. He removed his shoes, changed to home slippers and hanged his coat at the nearest rack. As he went further inside, he noticed the numerous unopened boxes he left this morning, depleted by numbers. Rukawa must have organized some while he's away. An enticing aroma brushes his nose, which instantly gave him the idea where he can find his loveable aspiring chef. He heads straight to the kitchen and was suprised by a gigantic mess. "Whoa. What happened in here?"
The culprit ignored his cries, instead, he was welcomed by a wooden spoon directing his mouth. "Taste it." Rukawa commanded, forcing his experimental yellow-colored sauce at the tip of Sendoh's mouth. Having no escape, Sendoh obliged willingly. The aspiring chef waited for his reaction, making slurping sounds while tasting the new unnamed flavor. "Hmmm. This is way way better than the pepper-ish one yesterday."
Rukawa's face brightens, "Ah finally." he murmured, celebrating in his low tone.
"How many times?" Sendoh narrowed, asking for the number of retries he had to perfect the dish he's been working on for days.
"Three."
He smiled. "Then I'll have three kisses." he said and descends to plant three quick kisses on his lover's lips. Rukawa gave him a smirk after. "Welcome home." he whispered then went back inside the kitchen.
"You know, we should start keeping things in the right order here. We'll start with the welcome home greeting." He marched to the bar counter and sat on one round stool. "First, I will say I'm home..." he jeered, lifting finger for each. "Next, you'll follow with welcome home. And lastly, the kiss. That's the ideal order, my dear." he teased. Rukawa just scoffed on it and continued tidying up the kitchen. "Have you had dinner?" he inquired.
"Ah yeah. Nee-chan won't let me go until I ate her bland spaghetti." he joked. "But I still have some space left to try your new dish you've been trying since yesterday. What is it for by the way?"
"Chef Ro asked every sous chef to present an original dish." he answered, dumping all used equipment to the sink then started preparing their dinner.
"Wait. Am I hearing it right? You didn't called Chef Ro as Chef Dumb anymore?" he chuckled. "Are you finally considering him as your mentor now? Thought you hate him to the bones."
"Not hate." he corrected, still busy on his plating. "I despise him."
Sendoh laughed.
"But he still shares his knowledge to me, though by yelling most of the time." he stated. "Also he's my key for promotion."
"Oh really? Is my beloved finally going to be a chef?"
His shoulders shrugged. "Who knows." his only reply. "How's everything with Anika nee-chan?"
"Fine as always."
"And Taki-kun?"
"Still chunky." he said followed by a chuckle.
Rukawa marched to the counter with the plates on each of his arms. He placed it carefully, aweing his boyfriend with his splendid plating. "Wow. This looks rich." he said. The raven-haired slides one stool at the other end of the counter, closed to Sendoh, sat and started stirring his meal until he felt two questionable orbs staring at him. He furrowed. "What's wrong?"
It took a while before Sendoh responded by shaking his head, "Nothing." he murmured with a quick smile then turned down to his meal. Obviously, Rukawa didn't believe him, seeing how his expression tells otherwise. "That's not a nothing."
Yet Sendoh stays quiet.
"I'll smack your head until you say it."
The frivolous threat however, made the older laugh. And he knew Rukawa won't let this pass. So he took a deep breath of courage before firing a question related to what is currently clouding his mind since he left his sister's unit. "Say Kaede, what do you think about Yanna?" referring to the red-head's new born.
Baffled about the off-topic at first, but decided to just answer it. "She's cute. Unlike his father."
Sendoh chuckled and asked another. "How about Taki?"
Rukawa took a bite on his meal before he answers. "Same. Adorable. Though he looks like Akagi-senpai more than nee-chan."
Another chuckling moment for Akira. "Don't ever tell that to nee-chan. She'll definitely snap at you."
Rukawa smirked then continued on his meal.
The older took a pause, dazing at his lover, contemplating a better way on how to divulge his intention properly without ruining his night. He swallowed twice as he ran a palm on his nape. "Uhmmm Kaede... What if we... you know..." This time he scratches his cheek with a finger.
Rukawa's eyes narrowed, confused by the odd behavior.
"I mean... you know... if ever you consider... us... I mean... plan a ba-" A loud chimed tone, however, disturbed the courage he built.
It's Rukawa's phone.
Rukawa quickly reads the message on the screen then placed it down.
"Who was it?"
"Red-head." his short reply.
"What about it?"
"Ayako-senpai organized a dinner tomorrow. You're invited, by the way." he said. "The red-head says he won't make it. He wants to catch up his sleep for Yanna's crying happens every midnight." he explained and added... "Having a baby must be troublesome, I guess."
Uncertain if fate saved him, but he knew something inside shattered. Well, it's not like he has high hopes for it. It's just that... it's disappointing.
"Aa. You're saying?" Rukawa turned his attention back to Sendoh which he responded with a pretentious grin, hiding his disappointment by beaming foolishly. "Ah. What was it? Geez, I forgot." he laughed.
Knowing how malfunctioned his memory is, Rukawa believed his claims straight away. "Doaho. We should do something about that memory of yours. It's too broken."
Fortunately, Rukawa didn't probed more. Right there, he decided that this desire will stay in his dreams. After all... Kaede's happiness is all that matters to him. "Well, my memory may be disrupted at times, but I am absolutely positive that it will never forget the important ones. Especially that one special mole hiding somewhere that I'm pretty sure no one knows its whereabouts but me."
Rukawa's brows discerned in the middle. "What mole?"
He chuckled, devouring his meal instead.
A light punch on his shoulder. "What are you talking about?"
"See? Even you don't know where it resides." he boasted.
He gritted. "Tell me now!"
But Sendoh sealed his mouth with an invisible zipper. "Bunny suit and I'll say it."
"Then don't. Doaho."
"He. He. He."
Two pair of bluish orbs, locked. One blinking in shock. One blinking in delight.
The young girl remained straddled on top of Rukawa's firm chest for a little while until she began pouncing her light weight on top of Rukawa's chest. "Waifu! Waifu! Waifu!" she cheered repeatedly. Her delicate hands waved in the air. "You are Waifu-san!" she exulted, celebrating in glee. And Rukawa just lay there... still bewildered by the unexpected twist of his morning.
"Amara!!!"
A woman's voice, coming from the door's direction, catches both of their attention.
"Mama!" The young lady quickly climbed her little form off the bed and ran to the door, passing through her mother, leaving the adults inside.
A face from the past, that's who the woman is. Too familiar for him to forget.
"I'm very sorry Rukawa-kun for disturbing you. I'll let you rest more." she said and finally left the room in peace.
After a moment of being stunned, he rose and sat at the edge of the bed. He ran his palms all over his face. How can he not noticed? With the purple walls and abstract doodles of crayons below - this is definitely a girl's room!
He sighed. Another stupid moment for him.
Last night is too dark for him to see. If only he's not that too occupied by all this unexpected events, he could've turned on the lights to see the whole room completely.
Nevertheless, he has to leave this place immediately.
As soon as he was out of the guest's room, or more like the little girl's room, a tiny head peeks from the couch. "Waifu-san!" she greeted in extreme energy. She must've been waiting patiently for him to come out. The young lady climbed down from the couch in haste then ran to him. "Waifu-san, sit. Sit with Amara." she commanded, aggressively pulling his coat.
But the guest kept in place.
Amara grabbed his wrist instead, pulling half of his body down. "Come! Come!"
That is when the woman from minutes ago, whom Amara addressed as her mother, appeared running from the kitchen. "Oh please Amara, will you leave uncle alone?" She then picked the young one in her arms and faced the guest with her familiar delicate smile. "Excuse my girl Rukawa-kun. Amara is just too fond of guests." she implied, pausing for a bit as she asked, "I hope you can still remember me?"
In his still vacant stare, he uttered her name from his memory "Yumi."
Yumi smiled her eyes, happy to be remembered by someone she never had a chance to get close with. Their relationship are far to be considered as friendship, but the connection they had, through the Sendoh siblings, retains a valuable respect for one another.
She brought down her child and allowed her to stand on her own. "Darling, why don't you introduce yourself to our guest?"
The vibrant kid excitingly straightened herself and pulled the ends of her dress. "My name is Sendoh Amara. I am four years old" she stated. "My papa is Sendoh Akira and my mama is Okata Yumi. It is nice to meet you." She bowed herself by curtsying politely.
The proud mother gave her applauses. "Good girl. Now, why don't you go back to the couch and watch more of Peppa so mama and Rukawa-kun could talk."
The young lady willingly complied and ran back to the couch, climbing her little body up and faced the television.
As the mother stood, she watched Rukawa's vacant reaction while eyes are still set on her daughter's location. "You don't look surprised Rukawa-kun?" she muttered. The sudden news could've caused even a slight hint of implausible reaction, but he remained inexpressive like how he has always been. Rukawa just eyed her.
"Anyways, how are you doing Rukawa-kun? It's been a long time, hasn't it?"
It took a vague moment for him to finally respond by words. "I'm good."
She smiled. "Rukawa-kun, I know I don't matter that much to you... but believe me, I am happy to see that you are doing well." she expressed sincerely which Rukawa acknowledged by a nod.
"And also..." She scratched her cheek, as if embarrassed on what she's about to say. "... about Amara-"
"It doesn't matter." Rukawa discarded her intention immediately. Finding any explanation unnecessary anymore. But the woman ignored him. She grabbed his left hand and enclosed it with her soft ones. "Allow me to say this Rukawa-kun, Akira is still and forever a good man." she began. The guest parted his lips for another attempt to stop her but the lady still continued. "Amara happens accidentally."
"Yumi, it--" But like how he always knew the lady back then, when her mouth opens, it remains open. The lady may be known for being modest but her mouth has a twenty-four-hour runtime.
"When you left, Akira lost himself." she started, silencing Rukawa instantly, knowing everything that she's about to say, is partly related to him. "I was there as a friend to comfort him. Offer any possible help I could give." she continued. "It would be a lie if I said that I am not hopeful during his darkest times. I came to realize that my feelings for him have never really gone."
"I thought I am the one who can save him from his dreadful state. But I guess, I'm too delusional to even try." A chuckle in between. "Akira is too sad to open his heart to anyone. Not even to me." She softly smiled and looked straight into Rukawa's orbs with sincerity in her eyes. "The love he once had is too precious for him to accept that it was already gone..."
Rukawa knew exactly what her words meant, but he stayed emotionless.
"Even with that one and only drunken night, Akira never opened a second chance for me." she stated. "Even so, he never left me while I was carrying our child. He was there, all through out until our Amara is born." He felt a squeeze on his hand. "Our plans may not work out the way we wanted it to be, Rukawa-kun. But with time, everything will fall into their right places, wouldn't it?"
His lips parted for a little but decided to remain irresponsive.
"What I am trying to say Rukawa-kun is... we had Amara after you two broke up. Akira had never cheated on you. For you will and forever will be in Akira's-" Her words were snapped off when a ring echoed from her bag. She startled, eyes widened in fright. "Husband." she murmured then gasped. "Oh my gosh! I forgot my husband!" she added and sprinted everywhere to sweep all her belongings. "My husband is downstairs! I totally forgot!" she exclaimed as she goes in full panic.
Before she could escaped the room, she turned to her daughter. "Darling, I have to go. I love you. Be good to papa, okay?" she said aloud, giving her flying kisses.
"Okay! Love you Mama!" she cheered.
Yumi then turned to the guest. "Rukawa-kun, please wait for Akira and don't leave my girl alone, okay?" then she stormed out of the room, without waiting for the guest's consent or most likely... refusal. He was left frozen in place.
After a while, he has regained himself back. How many surprises will there be for him to escape this unit freely?
A pull on his pants startled his form. His head shifted down to the only companion he has currently. "Waifu..." she called, pulling more of his pants. "I'm hungry." she proclaimed, tapping her belly.
The unexpected close interaction stunned him in place.
Another pull as she repeated her need. "Waifu, I'm hungry."
But his mind is still frozen to give his response.
Amara puckered her pinkish lips. "Waifu don't talk?"
The innocent mockery brought him back to reality. He cleared his throat before a smirk could form. "Uhmm... Wait... Wait for your father."
She shook her head. "Papa always late. Amara can't wait." She tapped her belly thrice. "Amara is hungry."
But Rukawa stood his ground, preventing this interaction to go further.
Hearing her desire is about to be neglected, Amara pleaded the older by her prominent bluish tantalizing gaze. Rukawa gaped in disbelief. The young lady seems to be using her cuteness to persuade him. But he won't succumb to it, instead, he darted his vacant stares back to the child. But Amara's gaze turned even more enchanting. A power he must've inherited from someone he referred to as his great weakness back then.
He sighed out, finally admitting his defeat at her cuteness. "All right."
The young lady jumped in victory. "Yehey! Waifu cooking Amara bweakfast!"
His lips escaped a brief smirk as he watched the girl celebrates in senseless victory. Recalling the same way how he was easily caved back then with the same persuasive tactics.
Now, time to make her breakfast.
When he was about to turn to the kitchen, he caught a glimpse of the girl extending her arms towards him. His brow flinched in the middle. 'What now?'
The young Sendoh spoke out what she meant. "Papa carries me when cooking."
In awe once again, "Uhmm... no... I-"
"No?" The girl frowned, eyes sparkling and about to tear up. And for the second time, the girl won him over. He breathed out helplessly. "Okay."
The girl brightens. "Yehey!" she jumped into his arms when he crouched half of his body down. When their faces met closely, Rukawa noticed where the kid got her eyes.
"Bwueberry Pancake!" she rejoiced, forming a smirk on Rukawa's lips. The resemblance is too uncanny.
With the girl on his arm, he heads to the open kitchen and started searching for the pancake mixture in each storage hanging above the counter. "Where's the pancake?" he asked when no certain item is found. The girl pointed at the third hanging cabinet where he found the pancake box. But his face loses its life after catching a glimpse of one particular item from his past - a blue mug but no red mug besides it.
"Waifu?" The girl interrupted his dazing.
His brows furrowed as he turned. "Call me Rukawa. Ru-ka-wa."
The girl blinked and blinked her eyes then pointed at her belly, "Hungry, waifu. Amara is hungry." Obviously, ignoring his plea.
He breathed out in surrender and just began preparing the mixture. "Hold close or you'll fall", he said. The little girl quickly clings around his neck. "Waifu is soft... unlike Papa."
A scoff escaped him, "Why? What is pap-" he paused and corrected "I mean your father?"
"Papa face... rough." she answered.
A scoff again.
After some time, he was able to finish the pancake, made them expertly with one hand. Amara then pointed at her high-chair which Rukawa took and placed it near the end of the counter. He brought down Amara and secured her comfortably. He drizzled the pancakes with blueberry syrup from the fridge. The finished plate was then pushed to the young one. "Looks yummy!!!" she said in glee.
He smiled a little, amused by the girl's shallow happiness. "Eat." he commanded.
Amara paused for a little, blinking her expressive eyes then says, "Papa always feed me bweakfast."
For the third time, the girl bewitched him again. "You... You're a big girl." he said. "You can do it."
She shook her head. "No. Papa says, Amara is a princess. Papa is a knight. Knight serves princess. So Papa feeds Amara bweakfast."
A brief smirk escaped him. The silly story never changed. Caved once again, he forked a piece and feeds it to the young one. The little girl chomped delightfully and rejoiced. "Yummy!"
His face softens just by seeing how every piece brightens her... the same kind of picture from the past where everything he does is well appreciated.
"Waifu is Amara's knight too." she added as she munched.
"Call me Rukawa, Amara." But the girl seem to not mind what he just said. She continued taking every piece Rukawa feeds her.
The main door opens which instantly took the life out of Rukawa's face.
"Oh gosh. Rukawa I'm so sorry." Sendoh hurried inside, with bulky paper bags carried in his arms.
"Papa!" The girl exulted, as if it's the first time she sees her father. Akira placed the bags of groceries on top of the counter. "I was stuck in the market..." he reasoned out. But to his surprise, his little girl stood from her high chair and jumped to his direction. "Papa!"
Two pairs of bluish orbs widened in fear. Sendoh hurried to his daughter and was able to catch her while the other adult breathed out an air of relief.
"Amara! Don't do that again!" he exclaimed, yet the girl ignored him and rather cuddled his neck. "I miss you Papa." she said in delight and plants two kisses on his cheek. His fear was instantly dispersed by his loving daughter. "I miss you too, my princess." he said, sending a kiss on her temple. "Where's your mother?"
"Gone!" she said, lacking a better term.
"She left you alone?" he asked. The girl shook her head. "Not alone." She turned around to her only company. "Waifu is here!"
He laughed sheepishly, flustered after hearing an inappropriate word. "Ahehe... Amara address our guest properly, okay? Call him Rukawa-san."
Amara pouted, displeased. "Too many sywables."
"A-ma-ra is just the same. A-ki-ra is same too." he explained.
Piqued, she pouted. "But Auntie says he's your wai-" Before the awkwardness goes deeper, he ran his enormous palm to stop her from speaking. "Just do as I say okay? Is my Amara a good girl?"
She made a face but later gave in. "O-kay." The sad adorable face quickly changes into bliss to deliver the great news she had this morning. "He cook me bwueberry pancake. It's yummy!"
"Oh." Akira roamed around the counter to the obviously used kitchen, "Rukawa, I'm so sorry for the trouble. I didn't know Yumi will-"
"I have to go." he uttered immediately.
Akira paused. Disappointment on his lips. "Uhmm. Do you want to stay a little bit for breakfast? It'll be quick-"
"I need to go." he reiterated.
A smiled of surrender. "I see."
"Kawa-san leaving?" she interrupted, finding it hard to say the firm syllables of his name. Without waiting for any response from the adults, she climbed herself down from her father and ran to the living room, grabbing something by the couch.
"Uhmm Rukawa..." Akira speaks, rubbing his nape. Rukawa gave him an eye. "About Amara... I just want to clear. I had her after we broke up-"
"It doesn't matter. I need to go."
Akira pressed his lips. "Right."
The young one is back with a mobile phone enclosed in her hands. "Kawa-san, number." she said and handed the phone to the guest.
Rukawa was surprised by the inappropriate intention from the kid. He eyed Akira which he took notice of. He scratched a cheek as he defended his over-protective self. "I taught her how to use phone for emergency purposes."
'Same as always', he thought to himself.
Without further ado, Rukawa granted the young girl's wishes. The girl is indeed persistent just like her father.
"Thank you Kawa-san." he rejoiced. He gave her a brief smile and stood. "I have to go."
Sendoh heard and sends a nod. He opened his arms to invite his child in his arms. "Amara." The child excitingly jumps in. The father and daughter followed Rukawa to escort him out.
"Uhmm, Rukawa." Sendoh called, earning Rukawa's attention. "If in any case, your stay here troubles you. Just let me know... I'll be here to explain, I promise." he muttered, a bit uneasy but it needs to be said. Troubling Rukawa is the least thing he ever wanted
Rukawa's brows met, wondering what he just said. Regardless, he has to leave. So he turned back to the exit to head out.
"Kawa-san!" Amara called. He turned and found her waving, "I love you!"
Both adults were taken aback for a moment, surprised to hear a form of deep affection on someone she just met.
Despite the confusion, Rukawa acknowledged her by a nod of his head and finally walked out.
As soon as the door closes, the father sends his daughter suspicious looks. "You love him? You just met him today. How can you say that?"
The young one just beamed.
Akira smiled. "You like Kawa-san?" he asked, mimicking his kid. Amara nodded in haste. "Papa is happy."
He sniffed. "You think so?"
She nodded.
"How about Amara? Is she happy?"
"Yes! Because Papa is with me!" she said and hugged his neck in a tight embrace. Sendoh chuckled and kissed her. "You're my angel you know that?"
"Yes! Amara is Papa's angel!"
His face softens, "Who is more handsome? Kawa-san or me?"
The young Sendoh twists her lips, pondering deeply. "Papa!"
"Very good!" he said with a high five. "A bit hurt when you think about it, but it's okay." he teased. Amara giggles as if she understands. "How about we watch Moana tonight?" he asked.
"With popcorn?"
"Only one cup okay?"
"Three." she said, struggling to lift three of her fingers. He furrowed playfully. "Two. Final."
"Okay." she exulted. "I love you Papa. Yestewday and still." she said, following what her father taught her.
He softened. "I love you too, my princess." Then turned to the door where his guest had left. "Yesterday... and still."
A glass of red wine, out the balcony, is where Rukawa decided to spend his night to relax his mind. Watching the busy streets of Tokyo, hued by the lights coming from buildings and vehicles down below. Good thing, his unit is on the best level to watch the night view of the city.
He took a sip of his wine and allowed the balmy cool breeze to accompany him. Letting him unwind peacefully to contemplate and recall how the angel he met this morning, enchanted his whole being.
Sendoh Amara.
A sweet young kid with an angelic face that will surely capture everyone's heart who meet her. Chitter-chatter just like her mother. Working her mouth tirelessly, talking like they've known each other for years. That sunny vibe, however, that sweet and charming curl on her pinkish lips... and that friendly aura surrounding her are definitely inherited from her father. Most of her, physically and the way she expressed herself, evidently resembles Sendoh Akira.
A gentle smirk formed across his lips, while his thumb caresses the mouth of the wine glass. This is satisfaction. A picture of acceptance on how everything turned out better... despite his years of absence.
The doorbell suddenly rang, interrupting his peace. His brow arched, wondering who will visit him in the middle of the night. 'Eiji?' he thought. For no one knows where he temporarily resides but him and Eiji alone. Still, he is not scheduled to return to Japan this soon. So who would the guest be?
He went inside, placed the glass at the counter, and headed to the door. For safety, he peeked at the peep hole first. His eyes widened in disbelief and gave no more time to widely open the door and welcomed his uninvited guest. "Tohru?" One of his great friend from the past.
"Kaede? Is it really you?" His four eyes scanned him from head to toe before he wrapped his arms around his long-time friend. "Oh gosh Kaede. You're alive." he exclaimed, feeling the longing from his tone. He moved back and scanned him again. "Where have you been? What happened to you? We are all worried about you Kaede."
But none of his numerous questions entered his mind for he is still bewildered by his sudden presence. "How did you know where I live?"
Hanagata smiled. "Sawakita Eiji called me." he revealed. "I am not sure how he gets my number... but it's good that he did."
'Eiji...' he thought, melted. It's not like he really needed to see anyone from his past. It's not even part of his plan... but it seems Sawakita still worries about him. He sighed a little and opened the door widely to welcome his old friend. "You can come in."
"Hold on." Tohru smiled. "I'm not the only one Sawakita called." He turned to his right and revealed his old colleagues from the past - Ayako, Miyagi, Haruko and the red-head monkey.
He stood still, uncertain how to react. All he knows is, that somehow, he missed this people.
Ayako approached him first. "It's good to see you again, Rukawa." she said and gave him a hug. "Ayako-senpai..."
Miyagi followed through and gave him a light punch on his shoulder. "You should've called us doaho." he joked, patting his shoulder. "Miyagi-senpai."
Haruko hugged him right after. "Rukawa-kun, I'm happy you are back." He sends her a quick smile. They both turned to the red-head who is still in distance. Haruko smiled. "Give him some time, Rukawa-kun." she mumbled and went inside with the other three.
It took a moment for Sakuragi to approach, but darted vivid stares down at him. "Don't get me wrong. My wife forced me to come here." he voiced out in a cold tone then went inside, walking past him.
Rukawa watched the red-head as he stepped inside. No point to rebut this cold treatment against him, for it is clearly understandable.
It is well-known how they hated each other back then. Insulting and exchanging curses whenever they meet. But in serious moments, they have each others back. They are each shoulders to rely on...
And he took it all for granted when he left without a single word to a person he once called, brother.
"Why you didn't tell me?" Rukawa asked the other line. He excused himself to his bedroom to call Sawakita.
"Surprise!" Sawakita joked.
He scoffed. "Doaho."
"Ah, meeting your friends won't hurt you, K."
He surrendered a sigh. The man is always right.
"How're things there?" Eiji inquired, instantly reminding him about the unexpected turns of his yesterday. "Eiji... there's something you need to know..."
A deep sigh from the other line was heard after his narration. "I gave you a ride..." he muttered.
"I wasn't expecting it..."
A long pause before the other line speaks. "So... how was she?"
He smiled. "Adorable."
"And you?"
He paused, dazing through the window, finding the right words to say. "I'm... I'm okay."
"I am here. A call away. Remember that."
"I know."
"Let's talk in the morning K. All you need to do now is to enjoy the night." Sawakita says.
"Eiji..." he called before he hanged up. "Thank you... for everything."
"You don't need to. I'll fly back to Japan as soon as I can. I'll see you soon." he said, ending the call.
"Are you back for good?" Ayako volunteered to help him prepare utensils for his guests. Good thing, Tohru brought a large sushi platter. Otherwise, it'll be troublesome for him.
"Temporary."
"So you're going back to America after the project?"
He nodded.
"You've met Sendoh?"
He paused for a little, then bobbed his head.
"Did you know... about Amara?" she mumbled. He eyed the lady, but refused to respond. Instead, he continued working his hands to organize the plates.
"Mitsui sends his regards... and would like to apologize once again."
"It's all in the past."
Ayako smiled. "We were all worried about you Rukawa." she stated. "None of us know where to find you... especially him." Rukawa knew he was referring to Sendoh. "I know you. You are a man of reasons. But never forget, the people you've left were deeply hurt." she added. "We... were all hurt." Then she turned to the balcony, eyeing the red-head who refused to join the circle. "Especially him..."
He dazed down at the plates. Nothing he can do at this point but to stay in silence.
"Anyway," Ayako's tone turned to a cheerful one. She brought up a card and handed to him. Hesitant but he took it. A birthday party invitation.
"You've missed six birthdays of my son so you're not allowed to skip this one out!" She divulge firmly, sending Rukawa her usual commanding tone.
Another smile from the lady. "Everyone will be there, Rukawa..." she added. "I mean, everyone."
The sliding door of the balcony opens with Rukawa stepping outside.
Sakuragi felt his presence towered beside him, but with distance.
Both remained in silence, allowing the noise from the streets to take over.
"It stinks here." Rukawa started.
"Tch. This place reeks of your ugly smell." Sakuragi rebutted.
"The wind coming from your side stinks."
"Your foxy face seethes me."
"Your face leveled up to an ape."
"Giant stupid ugly fox!"
"Filthy pig with a pea-brain!"
"Aa--" Lost of words to say, Sakuragi just turned his head away. "Hmp!"
An amount of deadpan silence until the fox speaks, "There's a giant Barbie Doll House I bought from America."
The red-head's ear flickered, hearing a toy his daughter wishes for a long time.
"I heard, a cute little girl in red hair wishes for it. But her ugly and penniless father can't afford it."
Sakuragi abruptly turn to defend himself. "Who told you I can't afford it?! I can even buy ten more!" he boasted. "I'm just teaching her how to live a simple life." his excuse.
"Aaaa. Maybe I should gift it to another girl instead? Since her filthy father vex me..."
"Don't you dare neglect my daughter a gift you owed for six years, dimwitted fox!" But what Rukawa blurt out next, silenced him in awe. "If I tell you everything that happened... the reason why I left... will you promise to keep it to your grave?"
He gaped.
When he first heard Rukawa has returned to the country, anger is what he can only feel. He wanted to search for him wherever the hell he is hiding and give his pretty face the strongest punch he could ever give. But deep inside, seeing him in good condition, makes him forget the pain of losing a brother...
"I won't promise anything, but I am here to listen..."
From Rukawa's apartment, to the car ride on their way home, Sakuragi has never uttered a single word. His mind remained clouded by all the details Rukawa brought out back in the balcony. It is certainly a story full of dreadful pains.
"I'm glad you've made peace with Rukawa-kun, Anata." his wife uttered to snatch his attention while they both wait for the green signal across the street to light up. "You surely missed him." A joke she purposely said to ridicule his husband. But to her surprise, her husband just reached for her hand and gently squeezed it. "What's wrong, Anata?" she asked, seeing his eloquent stares.
"I'm just reminiscing..."
"Reminiscing?" she wondered. "About what?"
He smiled. "About how great my life turns out when you married me."
His once-in-a-blue-moon romantic lines burned Haruko's face in deep red. "A-a-anata?"
His wife's blushing face, melted him. "Why don't we sleep in Yanna's room tonight?"
Haruko felt warm at the idea, giving his hand a gentle squeeze. "I would love that, anata. Yanna would love it too."
A meeting is scheduled to be held in ES Corp. building to further discuss the plans A-Sen Builder prepares to start the hotel project.
On their way to the elevator, Uekusa noticed the odd aura of his boss. Previously, when a scheduled meeting involves his ex-lover, Sendoh normally looks agitated, uncomfortable and most of the time... nervous. This time however, is the exact opposite. He's clearly in a sunny vibe. "Great morning Sendoh? You seem to be in a good mood."
As expected, the CEO turned to him in full beam. "A big project is about to excel our company's image, Uekusa. Anyone would be in a great mood."
Yet, Uekusa felt a different reason.
After some time, Rukawa stormed inside the meeting room to meet the A-Sen representatives. He immediately asked for the meeting and presentation to start which Sendoh and Uekusa did so as requested. All through out the meeting, Sendoh noticed Rukawa's keen of expressing his ideas about the restaurant of the hotel instead of the whole structure, which felt odd for some reason, knowing he is now working as a CEO's assistant instead of pursuing his dream as a renowned chef.
After their presentation, the ES Corp representative began reviewing all the construction activities, including the breakdown of materials, costs and professional services fees, extensively. He divulged firmly that all materials must and should be in high-grade which A-Sen Builder's representative assured of.
"Your service fee seems low." Rukawa said, pointing particularly on one section of the lump-sum contract. The CEO did the liberty to explain. "To express our gratitude with ES Corp., we are offering a considerable amount of our service fee--"
"Discard it." Rukawa implied which baffled the A-Sen Builders' representatives. "Pardon?" Normally, clients are appreciative when reduction to the total construction price is adhered to.
"A cut on your service fees only gives me an impression that you won't give me your 100% service--"
"No. Of course not. That's not how we do our business, Rukawa. A-Sen Builders strive hard to be transparent with the customer as much as possible."
"Then give me your full contract price. A cut on your service fee won't win ES Corp. Your 200% service will..."
"Rukawa, I sincerely apologize if that's how it looks like, but it wasn't..."
"Then discard it. Use this contract wisely, Sendoh." He slides the contracted documents back to the A-Sen. "Be smart. ES Corp is a big company. No need to back down in terms of money. All we need is your commitment to this project."
Uekusa and Sendoh are still in disbelief. It's the first time a client refused a price cut.
"Is everything clear?" Rukawa repeated when no reaction was sensed from them. With that, Sendoh took the document back and slides it to his assistant. "Crystal." he replied.
"The meeting is done." Rukawa says and started pulling out his notes to start his work inside the same meeting room. "I'll wait for the revision. Send it to me as soon as possible." he commanded which the A-Sen Builders acknowledged along with the commitment date of the revised documents.
Uekusa excused himself first, leaving the big bosses inside.
Sensing he is not alone inside the room. Rukawa looked up. "Is there anything we've missed?"
He paused, hesitant to ask a personal question at first. "Rukawa, how did you end up as an executive assistant? What happened to your dream?"
His face turned cold. "That's none of your concern."
Sensing he's off boundaries, he apologized. "Sorry. I was just--"
"If you have no other concerns about the project, you may leave." he demanded. He grabbed his executive bag on the seat beside him, to search for his reading glasses.
Sendoh scratched a cheek, "Actually, I want to ask if you want to have lunch with me?"
The unexpected invitation startled his form, making him lose his grip on his bag. All the things inside fell to the ground, including one particular velvet cube which rolled itself to Sendoh's shoes.
He gaped.
Sendoh's face loses its life after seeing the item at the tip of his shoes. He slowly bent half of his body down and picked up the elegant cube with one hand. He stood and placed the fallen item in the middle. "I'll... I'll take that as a no." he said, bowed his head and stormed out of the room, leaving a speechless Rukawa inside.
The elegant cube kept flashing inside Sendoh's head. Disturbing him continuously as he drove around to head home. Since then, he wasn't able to focus on his work. He even cancelled all his meetings for the day. Unsure what to feel. Indecisive on how to react. But one thing is for sure - something inside him... felt defeated.
The cube only represents one thing and just by thinking about it... his inside burns.
He gripped hard on his steering wheel. Jaw clenching. Brows furrowed.
Only one thing can help him at this time of grievance. He revved up and turned to a different direction.
After having his nightly shower, Rukawa went out and sat at the edge of his bed while drying his hair with a towelette. He caught a glimpse of the blue elegant cube on top of his bed side, shone by the lampshade. A thing he forgot to remove from his bag last Saturday which eventually caused a bad comprehension.
"Six months... and nothing more."
He threw his back on top of his bed, running his fingers over his almost dry hair. His eyes soulfully opens, darting at the ceiling.
He could've said something. A clear explanation perhaps.
But he chose to remain in silence.
His phone vibrates on the other bed side, breaking his peace. He sat up and extended his lengthy arm. To his surprise, almost gaping in shock - Sendoh Akira's name is on the screen.
He froze.
Indecisive if it needs to be answered. Perhaps, he mistakenly dialed his name? Or maybe his daughter is currently playing on his phone?
He let the first call passed without him taking it.
For an obvious reason, he felt like waiting for the second rang to happen. As if praying for it to be true. But minutes have passed and there's no second call from the same person.
He breathed out and place the phone back to the bed side. He surrendered and turned around, but his phone rang once again... startling his whole form. He gave no second thought and grabbed the phone.
"He-hello?"
A long pause from the other line... then a chuckle. "Hmmm... There he is."
His brows met. Confused, but he knew what this tone indicates - a drunk Sendoh.
"Is this Mr. Rukawa Kaede?"
"Are you drunk?"
"Drunk?" A scoff. "Am I?" A mocking laugh.
"Where are you?"
Another chuckle. "Shhh... secret."
"Where's Miboshi?"
"Yukio? Probably in some gay bar..." he laughed.
Rukawa quickly head to his closet and pulled out a pair of clothes. "Where are you?"
"That's none of your concern, remember?" he said, mimicking his words.
"Where are you Sendoh?" he repeated, wearing his clothes while struggling to hold on his phone.
He scoffed. "Why? Are you going to fetch my drunken-self just like before? Naaah. Don't worry. I can drive myself home."
"Don't you dare Sendoh! Where are you?"
"Hmmm... the usual? If you still know where it is..." A sarcastic laugh.
"Don't go anywhere. I'm coming for you." With that, he ended the call right away and stormed out of his unit.
When he reached the usual place, he found Sendoh laying his head on top of the bar counter.
He breathed out before he approached his drunken state. "Sendoh..." he called in a whisper.
Upon hearing his name, uttered by a voice he never forget, he lifted his head and beamed. "Wow! You really came." Cheeks with hints of blush. Eyes droopy, almost falling.
Rukawa reached an arm. "I'll take you home." he muttered but Sendoh swayed the arm and called the bartender instead. "Hey, Shizu! This is the person I'm talking about..." he said aloud, pointing his thumb at the man beside him. "The one who got sick of me..."
The raven-haired just pressed his lips. "Sendoh..."
The bartender then approached. "Rukawa-san." he acknowledged the man from his memory. "I tried to call Miboshi-san but I can't reach him. He's been drinking straightly. I tried my best to stop him but he refuses." he added. "It's been a long time since Sendoh-san got drunk like this. I never thought it will happen again."
Everything he hears is relating to him, but he chose to ignore all of it. He gave the bartender a nod. "I'll take it from here." he said and hanged Sendoh's coat in his arm. He waited for the bartender to leave first before he tried to convince Sendoh again. "Sendoh, let's go."
"Pfft." A scoff. "Where? I sold our apartment, remember?" he chuckled. "But you won't know that, since you're not here..."
He remained still. Ignoring everything thrown at him. He forced an arm around his neck and pulled his weight up, dragging him out the bar. "Let me go..." Sendoh helplessly murmured in his drunken voice. But Rukawa ignored him, dragging him still until they are out the premise. "I'll drive you home." he mumbled.
"Leave me be..." he speaks out in a petulant tone, heavy eyes almost closed.
He sensed Rukawa fishing a car key from his coat. He let out a mocking chuckle, knowing the meaning of it. "I won't step inside his car..." he murmured, but this time, in clenched jaw. Yet his words didn't sink properly in Rukawa's mind. His focus is to take Sendoh home as safe as possible, whatever it takes.
"I said..." Sendoh gritted firmly and yelled from his lungs "I said I can drive myself home!!!" He pushed Rukawa intently off of him. His wobbling body slammed against the wall, his only support to stand on his own, while Rukawa almost lost his balance but managed to stand his ground.
"I am not fucking drunk." he exclaimed as he pulled himself up, struggling to walk on his own.
Rukawa stood firm, accepting whatever insults he'll hear. All he cares for right now is to take Sendoh home, safe and secured.
Attempting once again, he pulled an arm to help but Sendoh snapped it away and held it hard instead, pulled and spun their bodies around until Rukawa's back was forced against the wall.
"Why are you back?! Why do you have to come back?!!!" he uttered aloud, directly to Rukawa's face, who remained tight-lipped. He grasped his shirt in tightened fists, piercing his deep glares unto him. "I'm asking why'd you come back?!" he repeated. "Why won't you answer?! Why do you keep hiding things from me?!"
He parted his lips, but no words escaped him.
"You've been treating me coldly the moment you came back! Acting as if you have nothing to apologize for! Treating me as if I'm some kind of trash you never really cared for!" He gritted more, grasping more of his shirt. "And now you're worried about me?"
Yet, he stood still, emotionless as he has always been .
"I've gone so crazy, asking myself multiple times - What have I done wrong? Am I not enough? Are you sick of me? Have I not given you everything?" His lips shaking in mix of anger and pain. Then the cold glares weakened. "I gave you my all..."
Yet, he remained inexpressive. Accepting all the hurtful words being thrown at him.
"People kept asking. People keep worrying. Am I okay? Am I doing fine? And that shitty thing about moving on!"
"You want to know the truth? You want to hear how pathetic I am?" he said, pushing him further to the wall. "Then listen to my drunken and honest self!" The angry glares however, weakened as he revealed his honest feelings from the depth of his heart. "I can't... move on. I haven't moved on... And I don't know how to move on!" He broke down, landing his head on Rukawa's shoulder. "How can I?" he whispered. "When you were my world..."
Rukawa gaped but closed his lips back. He kept himself firm. He has to be firm. He has to refuse succumbing to this feeling of yearning he's been holding back for so long...
After some dreadful silence, Sendoh moved himself back, freeing Rukawa from his hold. His face has calmed as he lifted and faced Rukawa with a forced curve on his lips. A smile not coming from his gentle self... but a smile filled with hurt and pain. "I was dead when you left me..." a scoff. "... walking home drunk can never kill me anymore."
Rukawa jaded, losing the clenched fists he's been holding firmly.
Sendoh reached and gave Rukawa a tap on his shoulder before he left him alone. An indication that this will be the last time he will hope for this...
The last time he will try to hold on to this...
The last time he will fight for the love he cherished for a long time.
And Rukawa just stood there. Allowing the time to pass by as he dazed down the ground with his mind filled by Sendoh's painful words...
"Few days..." A familiar voice from a distance needless to see. For he's too weak to even lift his head. "Not even a week and Akira is back to his helpless state." Yukio voiced out. He walked and stood in front of the younger one. "I was never wrong about you. A selfish brat you have always been." he said, adding more to his perturbed mind. He leaned closer to his ear. "Give him a big favor Rukawa if you really care that much. Keep yourself away from him, and let him live a better life." He moved back and snatched Akira's coat from his grip. "Without you in it..." His final words and hurried to Akira's direction.
And he was all alone once again. Finding it hard to search for the strength he lost his hold...
Yukio sat at the edge of the bed, watching the drunken form of Akira, sleeping peacefully on his bed. He reached and caressed his face. "I was there. I was here. I am here." he whispered and laid down his head on top of Akira's chest. "So why can't it be me?"
Rukawa dazed down at the blue velvet cube with two pieces of round silvers stuck inside, watching how it sparkles their beauty and elegance.
He turned to the location of his closet and marched to it. He opened and stared down at the safe vault inside. He unlocked it and revealed the two most important items of his life. The two things he always hold onto wherever he goes.
His Nana's urn...
And another piece of his past which he bought two months before he chose to walk away...
"Rukawa!"
The raven-haired turned to where his name was called and found the lady he phoned this morning to ask for her help. One of his confidant - Ayako.
Ayako bent down her body to catch for air. "I made it on time."
Rukawa dulled his eyes. "You didn't." he corrected and showed his wrist watch. "You're fifteen minutes late."
The woman just laughed sheepishly. "Am I? Oh come on, you're just early."
He simply rolled his eyes but to be honest, he is grateful. Ayako is always someone he can rely on important things.
"So, shall we?"
The pair went inside the nearest sophisticated boutique close to their rendezvous. The guy politely opened the door and let the woman in. At first glance, the internal is really captivating at a woman's perspective. "Sweet." Ayako murmured to herself. She walked further inside to start what the younger asked her to do. She began checking out the shimmering items displayed inside a glass stall, searching for the right pair for the couple dear to his heart. After some time, Ayako pointed at a certain pair of silver rings. "Look Rukawa, how about this one?" Seeing Rukawa's furrowed expression, she considered it as a 'no'.
She marched to the other stall and looked for a better pair. That's when a crew approached them. "May I suggest? Madam?"
"Oh."
"I guess you are looking for couple rings?"
"Yes. Would you mind taking me to your best one? The guy is very picky." she joked, pointing at the guy behind her. The crew chuckled but leads them to another stall at the farther left.
"Ayako-senpai..." Rukawa called, asking for her attention.
"Shhhh. Let's hear him first before you complain." she said, silencing the younger. The crew presented them one frosted ring and a smaller one with seven pieces of diamonds. "Oh no. Not for us. We're not a couple." Ayako corrected. "We are actually looking for couple rings... for both men."
"Oh I see. I apologize ma'am."
"No need." she said in her most friendly smile. Then she felt the young one tapping her shoulder with a finger. "Ayako-senpai..."
"Shhh. Let's wait for his suggestion." For the second time, she didn't let Rukawa butt in.
"Here ma'am." The crew took out a pair from the stall and placed it carefully on top of the tempered glass. Ayako was bewitched at first glance. The silver rings with same size have etched in the middle, where the lower part is frosted. "Rukawa look..." she exulted without looking back, but waving her hand to command the young one to walk closer. "This pair is so beautiful. It fits you and Sendoh perfectly."
Rukawa gave the shining pairs a look but pouted on it.
Ayako furrowed upon seeing his unreasonable reaction considering the pair is the most elegant she has ever seen. "You don't like it? I promise you... Sendoh-kun will definitely love it."
"Ayako-senpai, I don't need two. I only need one."
"What do you mean you don't need two? A couple ring must be in-" She halted after realizing what he meant. She gasped in disbelief. "Oh my gosh! Is it for real? Are you going to propose to Sendoh?"
Rukawa's eyebrows met. "Isn't that what I asked your help for?"
"But you said you're gifting him rings."
"Ring, Ayako-senpai. Not rings. Singular." he corrected. "Why do I need two to propose-" All of a sudden, Ayako cried in tears, surprising the younger. "Ayako-senpai?"
The lady friend took out a hanky and blew on it. "I can't believe my baby boy is all grown up deciding on his own and about to get marry..."
He dulled. "I don't have his approval yet..."
But the lady continued sniffing. "You were just drinking your powdered milk yesterday in a clear baby-flo bottle and now you're proposing?" she cried again.
"Please stop."
"I just changed your diaper yesterday..."
"Ayako-senpai..."
He broke down to his knees, grasping on the silver ring that could've emit a beauitful eternity. "I'm sorry..." he uttered in a frail whisper, regretting the decision his weak self made six years ago.
A chance he released from his hold.
A love he failed to fight for.
A heart he turned his back to protect...
A man so precious, yet he shattered...
A life of endless happiness that could've been blooming beautifully...
Still, he chose to walk away...
"I'm sorry... Akira..."
A/N:
Let's talk on twitter - rokudaimelove
But don't nag, complain or start an argue with me there. I just want to get in touch with more SenRu fans. Hihi.
akiraismylover - please forgive Akira! Hahaha Chu.