Boku-tachi no kisetsu: Our Seasons
By Yukohana
PART6 Atashi ga hoshii nowa anata dake: You're the only one I want Miko-Mitsui
It has been a week since Shohoku lost the practice game against Ryonan. And it's strange because it seems like Mitsui has been avoiding us for the past seven days, making Miko really upset. But Miko isn't the only one distressed here. Rukawa has been in the hospital for the whole week. It looks like his knees are in a serious injury. I've been encouraging Miko to go with me as I pay that snob a visit, but she's too occupied thinking. about Mitsui-kun, I guess. or maybe Akira.
"Maybe you should just approach him. If he won't come to you, then you come to him." I suggested.
Miko gave me a quick look. Although it was a real swift move of her head, I did notice her obviously heavy eyes and the bags under them became more visible. All the sleepless nights she spent thinking of that guy. those guys I mean. The price you have to pay for being liked and having to like the district's greatest players.
I sat by the window, joining her with her stargazing. I caught my reflection on the glass window. We actually have the same weighty eyes. Rukawa's condition is sure ruining my beauty. I sighed, almost forgetting the reason why I'm peeking at the raven sky, which is to comfort my cousin.
"Why is he doing this to me anyway? Is he mad? Is it because of Akira?" her voice was soft and tone as cold as the night breeze.
"Don't you still get it?!" How dense could she get? Much worse, replying me with that puzzled look. "He's jealous of Akira! Hello?" I couldn't help the sarcasm on my tone.
"Jealous?" she echoed.
"Jealous!"
"But why."
"Why? Why else?! Because it's obvious that Akira likes you and you like him too." I swear, if she denies this I'd walk out on her.
"But I like him more!" her answer was more of a complaint.
And, that, my friends, is the answer I wanted to hear. Of course, Sendoh Akira isn't only an ace player but a great guy as well, cute. yeah. But there's just more than meet-the-eye between my cousin and the former MVP. More chemistry, I must add.
"Unfortunately, your Mitsui doesn't know that. And the fact that he wasn't able to beat him on the game makes him feel inferior."
"That's not true. Like I care about that match, it's just a practice game anyway." And I completely understand the protest on her voice.
"You're not listening, dear Cousin. You know guys and their pride! The height you have to climb to reach it." I stretched my arm as if trying to touch the sky. I do hope she's getting the picture. Her itchy reaction tipped me off that she isn't. "It's his pride. He thinks he's a loser and he doesn't deserve you. So he wouldn't talk to you, nor go near you, and be friends with you as if nothing happened. Miko, he thinks he's a loser and he's standing for that belief. You shouldn't let him."
"He's not." She defended.
"That's why you shouldn't let him. because, he's not."
Miko nodded. Finally, she got what I've been trying to say. Now that she knows, the rest is up to her. Whether she'll talk to him or just let the distance between them grow. But the determination I caught in her face tells me, she is no way gonna let the gap broaden. Not on any day following tomorrow.
"My feet hurts.." I subconsciously nagged, forgetting the reason why Miko and I have been standing outside the gymnasium door for the past two hours.
"I think they're done." She replied referring to the basketball team having their daily afternoon practice.
"It's about time. It's nearing sunset!" As we heard the sound of the approaching players, Miko suddenly grabbed me by the hands and pulled me to the bushes.
"Quiet." She ordered in a whisper.
I don't get the idea of this. Honestly. "Ummm. Miko, why are we hiding?" I questioned.
Her face was blank. "I. I. I don't know." Great. So, maybe she's nervous, muddled up, and all that. okay, she's excused for now.
We watched silently as the players made their way out of the gym. The sophomores bench Shiozaki, Yasuda, and Kakuta, followed by Sakuragi, Haruko, and their friends. Captain Akagi, Vice-Captain Kogure, Ryotta, and Ayako close by. And Ojii-san with Mitsui. The other members left inside were the freshmen bench who volunteered to mop the floor of the gym.
I looked at Miko inquisitively, as if asking her of any plan so she could talk to Mitsui. She shook her shoulders, eyebrows almost meeting at the top of her nose. As we frustratingly watched them until they were out of sight. I couldn't stand the prickling branches of the shrubbery we were at, so as soon as they're gone, I jumped out and started scratching whatever part my hand touched: my face, arms, legs. oh, the irritation I couldn't hide!
"Hontou-ni gomennasai" I heard Miko breathed out.
"Oh. Miko, I didn't mean to upset you. The leaves and all the insects there. They're really." I paused as my cousin started to sob. "Oh. Miko." I held her for a hug, and picked the small leaves that got stick on her hair and her back. "I'm sorry."
"No." She pulled herself from me, wiping her tears. "It's not you. It's me. It's me. It's Mitsui. I can't do it. I'm afraid that he might shove me away. he might not listen. It's me. my weakness. my fears."
I opened my mouth, closed it, opened it, and closed it once again. I couldn't find the words to console her. "You can't give up, Miko. If both of you will. then everything would just be a waste." That's the best I was able to pull.
"Ame. I'm sorry. I just don't know how to do it. I want to fix things up between us, I swear. I just can't get myself into doing it." Her face buried on her hands.
"Miko, if you love him, you shouldn't give up on him. you shouldn't let him go. you should let him know. because we wouldn't know what's gonna happen tomorrow, or the day after that. If something happens. if someone goes. and never comes back. I'm not saying something bad will happen. but." Am I making any sense at all? Where the hell am I taking these statements from? Couldn't be an experience, duh? A movie? Probably. What the heck, Miko has to realize that it's now or never! If this isn't fixed now. It might never ever be. What kind of cupid am I if I let that thing happen?!
". If he doesn't love you back, if he shoves you away, so what? At least you told him. at least you got that lump on your throat or the chains on your heart off. It would hurt, of course. But it would be easier to breathe. It would be easier to take the pain. And then, if you learn to take the pain, you can finally get some sleep and take those bags under your eyes off.. And then you will be more beautiful. than ever! .And Mitsui. he would just have to be sorry for the rest of his life." Huh?! I shouldn't have said that, shouldn't I?
Miko let out a loud sigh, with a tone of soft chuckle. Her lips formed into a smile, as she dried her eyes with her hands. My speech somehow has logic, alright.
"So?" I asked. "Are we just gonna stand here?"
"Thank you, Ame." She wrapped her arms around me.
"Oh, thank me later. Our goal is, not to let this day end without fixing whatever problems you and Mit-chin-kun have."
"Hai." She strongly replied, and we ran out of the campus.
Standing in front of Hisashi Mitsui's residence, we silently watched the lavender sky turned into a shade of gray. It turned out that Mr. MVP hasn't come home yet. I had suggested that we wait for him, but after almost thirty minutes of gazing at the sky, as I ponder over it. that wasn't really a brilliant idea. What if he went home drunk? I don't know about Mit- chin being a drinker, but it's a possibility. A guy upset with buddies who are known as thugs.
"What are we gonna do now?" Miko exasperatedly asked, still, eyes glued at the slowly darkening sky.
"Ano. Miko, there's always tomorrow." Excellent! Just few minutes ago I was pushing her to talk to him NOW, insisting that something might come up tomorrow, that it would be impossible to look back to yesterday. that wasn't exactly it, but THAT's what I WAS trying to imply!!! "But. of course, it would be better if you do it now."
"Come to think of it, Ame. I'm already tired. And I know you are as well." She was losing hope.
"I'm not tired!" I pretended. "Look, if he's not here, he's got to be somewhere right? He wouldn't just vanish into thin air. Why don't we look for him." If only my feet can think by itself, they've probably kicked me really hard, knocking me off unconscious by now. But I'm doing this for Miko. "Kogure's house is just nearby, and also Sakuragi's. Maybe Ryotta's or Captain Akagi's. C'mon. you wouldn't give up now, would you?"
"All the troubles I have to go through just for Mitsui! He better love me back or he'll get something he'll never forget for the rest of his life!"
"Please remind me to give Mitsui something he'll also never forget." I mumbled. Good thing, Miko was too jaded to mind me. So, Mitsui is nowhere to be found. He's not on any of Shohoku players' places, thanks to Ayako for calling the other players. He's also not with his buddies, thanks to Sakuragi who called his friend, Mito, who called whoever for that information.
I stared at my cousin. Her face was pale and eyes were weary, with the blank reaction she'd been wearing for the past week. She was lost in thought. "Miko."
"I'm tired." Her voice was trembling, waters started to form on her eyes. ".and don't tell me not to give up. because there's no other choice than that."
She was right. It was past nine in the evening already. Oba-san and Ojii- san are doubtlessly worrying to death now. Our feet are sore, plus our stomachs growling. "Alright. Maybe tomorrow."
Miko shook her head, "I don't know." She looked at me straight in the eye, "Maybe he just doesn't want to talk to me. maybe he's at home and we were just told that he isn't. Maybe."
"Do you want to check his place again?" I asked, "We can do it, if you want." As I put on the most encouraging face I have. But, silently wishing that she wouldn't want to. Frankly, I don't think I could still walk back those eight blocks. I don't think Miko can, either.
"Iya." She plainly replied and started to march ahead. "Let's go home." I nodded and silently followed her until we reach home.
"Oba-san!" I called as I knock on the door. It was opened, revealing our grandmother's concerned expression. "Gomen nasai, for being late." Miko was silent behind me.
Oba-san smiled. "We've been very worried. Hanamichi-kun called, and told us that you just left his place."
"We. ummm. we just." I turned to Miko, not knowing what excuse to say. Why didn't I think about this on the way?
"You were looking for Mitsui-kun, weren't you?" Ojii-san suddenly popped his head out the door. "That's what Hanamichi told us. Hohohoho." followed by his familiar a la 'Saint Nick's' laugh.
Admit or deny? I laughed instead, and looked away. I can't help lying to both of them, they've been really good to us. But if I confess, it'll be such a long story. I switched my gaze on my feet, all of a sudden, being reminded of how much they hurt. Then I noticed a pair of basketball shoes at the end of the doormat. "Asics..." I thought I was saying it on my mind, but it turned out to be a whisper, loud enough for Miko to hear.
She must've looked at it too, and echoed me "Asics."
Ojii-san and Oba-san moved aside exposing a sleeping Mitsui on the couch. "He has been waiting for you since after the practice." Ojii-san reported. We went in.
"You said you wouldn't take long, so I suggested that he stay." Oba-san added, "What kind of practice are you letting them do, Mitsuyoshi, anyway?" Oba-san jeered to Ojii-san while examining the really tired looking Mitsui.
I turned to Miko. A sweet smile was playing on her lips, something I haven't seen for days. As I myself beamed at the semblance of the sleeping figure in front. "I guess we just have to wait for tomorrow, ne?" Miko nodded. "For now, can we first eat? I'm really really hungry..." I remarked, and as if my stomach was agreeing to me, it rumbled loudly.
Hisashi Mitsui suddenly moved, and cleared his throat. Everyone looked at me, as if accusing my stomach of waking Mit-chin up. "Give me a break!" I murmured.
Mitsui squinted his eyes, and finally opened them. Realizing that he's not at his home, he jumped up. "Co.Coach." He turned crimson, scratching his head.
Ojii-san laughed. "We shall go to bed now. You can stay here for the night, Mitsui." He headed upstairs.
Oba-san followed him, "But eat dinner first before you sleep again." She smiled, "you girls, don't stay up too late, alright?"
"Hai. Oyasumi nasai, Oba-san, Ojii-san." We replied.
"Oyasumi." They replied back.
I looked at Mitsui and Miko, both staring at something interesting at their feet. "You guys would join me for dinner or what?" They followed to the dining room. No one dared to talk the whole time. I was laughing and commenting at the back of my mind as I watch the two uncomfortably take stolen glances of each other. "I'm done!" I declared, even if my stomach seems to protest. "Last person to finish will do the dishes." I took a last sip on my tea. "Such a tiring day!" I pretended to be frazzled. well, I WAS dizzy, but something will be up that I couldn't fail to witness. "Goodnight, you two!" I walked out of the room to the stairs and made my feet sound as if I already went up. Then I sneaked back to the living room, went out the door and tiptoed to the window where the two was. Heh, I'm not gonna miss this drama, would I? I held my breath, I should be as quiet as the night.
"Why were you looking for me?" they said in chorus. Silence filled the room, both were waiting for the other to speak. "You go first.", in chorus once again. This time they laughed.
"Ladies first." Mitsui said.
"Okay. I was gonna ask why you've been avoiding me for the whole week." She responded, a tinge of seriousness in her tone. But Mitsui didn't answer right away. Miko didn't keep her eyes off him, as she waited patiently for his reply.
Mitsui bit his lower lip, "I. I wasn't" Miko raised an eyebrow showing her disbelief, "Why would I come here if I want to avoid you?" he tried to sound casual.
"Uso." She answered plainly.
"Why would I, anyway?" he countered.
"Alright. Why are you looking for me?" she stammered.
"I was. I was just gonna clear things up." He paused, as if trying to pull the right words. He wouldn't want to say something wrong, not to Miko who just crossed her arms under her chest. Not the wrong words to an impatient looking Miko. "Because you might think that I'm mad."
"And why would I?" she cut him off.
"Because of what happened between me and Sendoh."
"And what did happen between you and him?"
Mitsui cleared his throat and continued, "I thought he was being rude at you, diving at you like that. and k.ki. and kissing you." he was hesitant on the last two words.
My eyes widened. This guy's really jealous!
"Kiss?! It was an accident!" Miko retorted with incredulity.
"Well. whatever. I just want to tell you that I have nothing against you and him being friends... or even more than. that" His voice was husky, not a tone of any emotion. He stood up, heading out of the dining room.
"And where are you going?!" Miko demanded.
"Home."
But she didn't want to let him go yet. She hasn't said what she wanted to let him know. And besides, it's obvious that he'd told her lies about the reason why he went here and waited for her. It's obvious on his voice and the look on his face. Plus, I would most likely strangle my cousin if she just let him walk away like that.
"You're the last to finish! You should do the dishes!" she shouted matter- of-factly.
I almost fell face-flat on the ground. What was that? I thought it's going to be a dramatic scene. Maybe it's part of her plan.
Mitsui walked back and started to gather the dishes. "You don't have to stay here with me." He said, rather impolitely.
"I can stay here if I want to." She sighed. "and I'm not gonna go anywhere unless you tell me the truth." She insisted.
He started his washing. "I told you."
She cut him off once again, "Are you jealous of Akira?"
He's probably gonna echo her and then deny. 'Jealous?! Of course not!'
"Akira?!" he exclaimed, "So, you're on a first name basis already!"
It would've been shorter if he said yes.
Miko chuckled. "Akira is a nice guy, he's simple, and fun to be with. I like him." She walked beside Mit-chin and leaned her lower back on the tiled sink.
"Yeah." He answered in a low voice. "And he's a great player too. I know." his voice becoming lower, almost hard to hear even from a little distance, ".I'm no match for him."
Miko's taunting expression shifted into a disappointed one. Perhaps realizing about what I said on Mitsui feeling inferior. "Aho."
Mitsui, surprised with his companion's sudden cursing, almost dropped the plate on his grip. "Nani?" he asked for confirmation.
"Aho. Baka!" her eyes started to wet, "Why did you say that?"
"What? What did I say?" almost panicking, and a little confused of Miko's reaction.
"That you're no match for him. you're the former MVP. you're." her words started to fade, ".my MVP"
Mitsui was silent.
"That's why you're avoiding me, isn't it? Because you think I like Akira coz he's a better player. coz you weren't able to beat him. " The guy kept silent. "Ame was right." She nodded.
Of course I am!
Miko wiped her tears, "Now, tell me why you're here."
"I told you." He answered.
"Tell me." She ordered.
"I don't know." quite unsure of his own answer. "I. I just wanted to see you. And ask you if I can still be your friend."
Friend?! Only that?!
"Friend?" Miko simulated his last word.
"I can't be more than that. you said already, you like him." he was apparently upset.
"Mitsui, baka yarou. I like Akira. but. You're the only one I want." She stared at her hands, "Atashi ga hoshii nowa anata dake." she said, almost a whisper.
Mitsui was dumbfounded for a moment, he then pulled Miko into a hug, "Ore...ore wa omae ga...suki desu." He assured her.
Miko gently pulled away from him, revealing a sweet smile fighting against her tear-streaked face, "And don't call that accident as a 'kiss'" she teased. "because this is what a 'kiss' is." their lips slowly met into a long and passionate kiss.
I couldn't help giggling.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Alive! I feel so alive! Hehehe. I'm still alive, minna-san! And I bring to you. the SIXTH chapter! Finally!!! Hontou-ni moushiwake-gozaimasen for having kept you waiting that long. I told you. I have loads of school works to do and exams to pass. Anyways, this chapter is quite long too, so I hope I'm forgiven. And please, don't forget to review.. Arigatou-gozaimasu!!! ^ , ^ v
JAPANESE WORDS USED: ANO is a hesitation word "um" ARIGATOU-GOZAIMASU is "thank you" AHO and BAKA are "stupid and idiot" GOMEN NASAI is "very sorry" HAI is "yes" HONTOU-NI GOMENNASAI and HONTOU-NI MOUSHIWAKE-GOZAIMASEN are "I'm really sorry" IYA is "no" JA-NE is "goodbye" MINNA-SAN is "everyone; y'all" NE is "you know; hey" OBA-SAN is "grandmother" OJII-SAN is "grandfather" OYASUMI NASAI is "good night" ORE...ORE WA OMAE GA...SUKI DESU is "I...I...love you" USO is "lie; I don't believe you"
That WAS a long day for Miko, ne?
DISCLAIMERS: Inoue Takehiko created Slam Dunk! I created Miko and Ame on my mind.
Miko-chan, I hope you liked it! Although our deal is already closed. y'know. please be reminded--- that you've already given me Mit-chin! I thought of changing the story. y'know, suddenly Miko will fall for Sakuragi, then Ame to Mit-chin. blah-blah-blah. but that basically means ruining everything up. so until the end of the this story, I'm keeping the original pairs. I still like Rukawa anyway, but not as much as I like Mit- chin now. It's all Dennis' fault! LOL!
'till here! Ja-ne!
PART6 Atashi ga hoshii nowa anata dake: You're the only one I want Miko-Mitsui
It has been a week since Shohoku lost the practice game against Ryonan. And it's strange because it seems like Mitsui has been avoiding us for the past seven days, making Miko really upset. But Miko isn't the only one distressed here. Rukawa has been in the hospital for the whole week. It looks like his knees are in a serious injury. I've been encouraging Miko to go with me as I pay that snob a visit, but she's too occupied thinking. about Mitsui-kun, I guess. or maybe Akira.
"Maybe you should just approach him. If he won't come to you, then you come to him." I suggested.
Miko gave me a quick look. Although it was a real swift move of her head, I did notice her obviously heavy eyes and the bags under them became more visible. All the sleepless nights she spent thinking of that guy. those guys I mean. The price you have to pay for being liked and having to like the district's greatest players.
I sat by the window, joining her with her stargazing. I caught my reflection on the glass window. We actually have the same weighty eyes. Rukawa's condition is sure ruining my beauty. I sighed, almost forgetting the reason why I'm peeking at the raven sky, which is to comfort my cousin.
"Why is he doing this to me anyway? Is he mad? Is it because of Akira?" her voice was soft and tone as cold as the night breeze.
"Don't you still get it?!" How dense could she get? Much worse, replying me with that puzzled look. "He's jealous of Akira! Hello?" I couldn't help the sarcasm on my tone.
"Jealous?" she echoed.
"Jealous!"
"But why."
"Why? Why else?! Because it's obvious that Akira likes you and you like him too." I swear, if she denies this I'd walk out on her.
"But I like him more!" her answer was more of a complaint.
And, that, my friends, is the answer I wanted to hear. Of course, Sendoh Akira isn't only an ace player but a great guy as well, cute. yeah. But there's just more than meet-the-eye between my cousin and the former MVP. More chemistry, I must add.
"Unfortunately, your Mitsui doesn't know that. And the fact that he wasn't able to beat him on the game makes him feel inferior."
"That's not true. Like I care about that match, it's just a practice game anyway." And I completely understand the protest on her voice.
"You're not listening, dear Cousin. You know guys and their pride! The height you have to climb to reach it." I stretched my arm as if trying to touch the sky. I do hope she's getting the picture. Her itchy reaction tipped me off that she isn't. "It's his pride. He thinks he's a loser and he doesn't deserve you. So he wouldn't talk to you, nor go near you, and be friends with you as if nothing happened. Miko, he thinks he's a loser and he's standing for that belief. You shouldn't let him."
"He's not." She defended.
"That's why you shouldn't let him. because, he's not."
Miko nodded. Finally, she got what I've been trying to say. Now that she knows, the rest is up to her. Whether she'll talk to him or just let the distance between them grow. But the determination I caught in her face tells me, she is no way gonna let the gap broaden. Not on any day following tomorrow.
"My feet hurts.." I subconsciously nagged, forgetting the reason why Miko and I have been standing outside the gymnasium door for the past two hours.
"I think they're done." She replied referring to the basketball team having their daily afternoon practice.
"It's about time. It's nearing sunset!" As we heard the sound of the approaching players, Miko suddenly grabbed me by the hands and pulled me to the bushes.
"Quiet." She ordered in a whisper.
I don't get the idea of this. Honestly. "Ummm. Miko, why are we hiding?" I questioned.
Her face was blank. "I. I. I don't know." Great. So, maybe she's nervous, muddled up, and all that. okay, she's excused for now.
We watched silently as the players made their way out of the gym. The sophomores bench Shiozaki, Yasuda, and Kakuta, followed by Sakuragi, Haruko, and their friends. Captain Akagi, Vice-Captain Kogure, Ryotta, and Ayako close by. And Ojii-san with Mitsui. The other members left inside were the freshmen bench who volunteered to mop the floor of the gym.
I looked at Miko inquisitively, as if asking her of any plan so she could talk to Mitsui. She shook her shoulders, eyebrows almost meeting at the top of her nose. As we frustratingly watched them until they were out of sight. I couldn't stand the prickling branches of the shrubbery we were at, so as soon as they're gone, I jumped out and started scratching whatever part my hand touched: my face, arms, legs. oh, the irritation I couldn't hide!
"Hontou-ni gomennasai" I heard Miko breathed out.
"Oh. Miko, I didn't mean to upset you. The leaves and all the insects there. They're really." I paused as my cousin started to sob. "Oh. Miko." I held her for a hug, and picked the small leaves that got stick on her hair and her back. "I'm sorry."
"No." She pulled herself from me, wiping her tears. "It's not you. It's me. It's me. It's Mitsui. I can't do it. I'm afraid that he might shove me away. he might not listen. It's me. my weakness. my fears."
I opened my mouth, closed it, opened it, and closed it once again. I couldn't find the words to console her. "You can't give up, Miko. If both of you will. then everything would just be a waste." That's the best I was able to pull.
"Ame. I'm sorry. I just don't know how to do it. I want to fix things up between us, I swear. I just can't get myself into doing it." Her face buried on her hands.
"Miko, if you love him, you shouldn't give up on him. you shouldn't let him go. you should let him know. because we wouldn't know what's gonna happen tomorrow, or the day after that. If something happens. if someone goes. and never comes back. I'm not saying something bad will happen. but." Am I making any sense at all? Where the hell am I taking these statements from? Couldn't be an experience, duh? A movie? Probably. What the heck, Miko has to realize that it's now or never! If this isn't fixed now. It might never ever be. What kind of cupid am I if I let that thing happen?!
". If he doesn't love you back, if he shoves you away, so what? At least you told him. at least you got that lump on your throat or the chains on your heart off. It would hurt, of course. But it would be easier to breathe. It would be easier to take the pain. And then, if you learn to take the pain, you can finally get some sleep and take those bags under your eyes off.. And then you will be more beautiful. than ever! .And Mitsui. he would just have to be sorry for the rest of his life." Huh?! I shouldn't have said that, shouldn't I?
Miko let out a loud sigh, with a tone of soft chuckle. Her lips formed into a smile, as she dried her eyes with her hands. My speech somehow has logic, alright.
"So?" I asked. "Are we just gonna stand here?"
"Thank you, Ame." She wrapped her arms around me.
"Oh, thank me later. Our goal is, not to let this day end without fixing whatever problems you and Mit-chin-kun have."
"Hai." She strongly replied, and we ran out of the campus.
Standing in front of Hisashi Mitsui's residence, we silently watched the lavender sky turned into a shade of gray. It turned out that Mr. MVP hasn't come home yet. I had suggested that we wait for him, but after almost thirty minutes of gazing at the sky, as I ponder over it. that wasn't really a brilliant idea. What if he went home drunk? I don't know about Mit- chin being a drinker, but it's a possibility. A guy upset with buddies who are known as thugs.
"What are we gonna do now?" Miko exasperatedly asked, still, eyes glued at the slowly darkening sky.
"Ano. Miko, there's always tomorrow." Excellent! Just few minutes ago I was pushing her to talk to him NOW, insisting that something might come up tomorrow, that it would be impossible to look back to yesterday. that wasn't exactly it, but THAT's what I WAS trying to imply!!! "But. of course, it would be better if you do it now."
"Come to think of it, Ame. I'm already tired. And I know you are as well." She was losing hope.
"I'm not tired!" I pretended. "Look, if he's not here, he's got to be somewhere right? He wouldn't just vanish into thin air. Why don't we look for him." If only my feet can think by itself, they've probably kicked me really hard, knocking me off unconscious by now. But I'm doing this for Miko. "Kogure's house is just nearby, and also Sakuragi's. Maybe Ryotta's or Captain Akagi's. C'mon. you wouldn't give up now, would you?"
"All the troubles I have to go through just for Mitsui! He better love me back or he'll get something he'll never forget for the rest of his life!"
"Please remind me to give Mitsui something he'll also never forget." I mumbled. Good thing, Miko was too jaded to mind me. So, Mitsui is nowhere to be found. He's not on any of Shohoku players' places, thanks to Ayako for calling the other players. He's also not with his buddies, thanks to Sakuragi who called his friend, Mito, who called whoever for that information.
I stared at my cousin. Her face was pale and eyes were weary, with the blank reaction she'd been wearing for the past week. She was lost in thought. "Miko."
"I'm tired." Her voice was trembling, waters started to form on her eyes. ".and don't tell me not to give up. because there's no other choice than that."
She was right. It was past nine in the evening already. Oba-san and Ojii- san are doubtlessly worrying to death now. Our feet are sore, plus our stomachs growling. "Alright. Maybe tomorrow."
Miko shook her head, "I don't know." She looked at me straight in the eye, "Maybe he just doesn't want to talk to me. maybe he's at home and we were just told that he isn't. Maybe."
"Do you want to check his place again?" I asked, "We can do it, if you want." As I put on the most encouraging face I have. But, silently wishing that she wouldn't want to. Frankly, I don't think I could still walk back those eight blocks. I don't think Miko can, either.
"Iya." She plainly replied and started to march ahead. "Let's go home." I nodded and silently followed her until we reach home.
"Oba-san!" I called as I knock on the door. It was opened, revealing our grandmother's concerned expression. "Gomen nasai, for being late." Miko was silent behind me.
Oba-san smiled. "We've been very worried. Hanamichi-kun called, and told us that you just left his place."
"We. ummm. we just." I turned to Miko, not knowing what excuse to say. Why didn't I think about this on the way?
"You were looking for Mitsui-kun, weren't you?" Ojii-san suddenly popped his head out the door. "That's what Hanamichi told us. Hohohoho." followed by his familiar a la 'Saint Nick's' laugh.
Admit or deny? I laughed instead, and looked away. I can't help lying to both of them, they've been really good to us. But if I confess, it'll be such a long story. I switched my gaze on my feet, all of a sudden, being reminded of how much they hurt. Then I noticed a pair of basketball shoes at the end of the doormat. "Asics..." I thought I was saying it on my mind, but it turned out to be a whisper, loud enough for Miko to hear.
She must've looked at it too, and echoed me "Asics."
Ojii-san and Oba-san moved aside exposing a sleeping Mitsui on the couch. "He has been waiting for you since after the practice." Ojii-san reported. We went in.
"You said you wouldn't take long, so I suggested that he stay." Oba-san added, "What kind of practice are you letting them do, Mitsuyoshi, anyway?" Oba-san jeered to Ojii-san while examining the really tired looking Mitsui.
I turned to Miko. A sweet smile was playing on her lips, something I haven't seen for days. As I myself beamed at the semblance of the sleeping figure in front. "I guess we just have to wait for tomorrow, ne?" Miko nodded. "For now, can we first eat? I'm really really hungry..." I remarked, and as if my stomach was agreeing to me, it rumbled loudly.
Hisashi Mitsui suddenly moved, and cleared his throat. Everyone looked at me, as if accusing my stomach of waking Mit-chin up. "Give me a break!" I murmured.
Mitsui squinted his eyes, and finally opened them. Realizing that he's not at his home, he jumped up. "Co.Coach." He turned crimson, scratching his head.
Ojii-san laughed. "We shall go to bed now. You can stay here for the night, Mitsui." He headed upstairs.
Oba-san followed him, "But eat dinner first before you sleep again." She smiled, "you girls, don't stay up too late, alright?"
"Hai. Oyasumi nasai, Oba-san, Ojii-san." We replied.
"Oyasumi." They replied back.
I looked at Mitsui and Miko, both staring at something interesting at their feet. "You guys would join me for dinner or what?" They followed to the dining room. No one dared to talk the whole time. I was laughing and commenting at the back of my mind as I watch the two uncomfortably take stolen glances of each other. "I'm done!" I declared, even if my stomach seems to protest. "Last person to finish will do the dishes." I took a last sip on my tea. "Such a tiring day!" I pretended to be frazzled. well, I WAS dizzy, but something will be up that I couldn't fail to witness. "Goodnight, you two!" I walked out of the room to the stairs and made my feet sound as if I already went up. Then I sneaked back to the living room, went out the door and tiptoed to the window where the two was. Heh, I'm not gonna miss this drama, would I? I held my breath, I should be as quiet as the night.
"Why were you looking for me?" they said in chorus. Silence filled the room, both were waiting for the other to speak. "You go first.", in chorus once again. This time they laughed.
"Ladies first." Mitsui said.
"Okay. I was gonna ask why you've been avoiding me for the whole week." She responded, a tinge of seriousness in her tone. But Mitsui didn't answer right away. Miko didn't keep her eyes off him, as she waited patiently for his reply.
Mitsui bit his lower lip, "I. I wasn't" Miko raised an eyebrow showing her disbelief, "Why would I come here if I want to avoid you?" he tried to sound casual.
"Uso." She answered plainly.
"Why would I, anyway?" he countered.
"Alright. Why are you looking for me?" she stammered.
"I was. I was just gonna clear things up." He paused, as if trying to pull the right words. He wouldn't want to say something wrong, not to Miko who just crossed her arms under her chest. Not the wrong words to an impatient looking Miko. "Because you might think that I'm mad."
"And why would I?" she cut him off.
"Because of what happened between me and Sendoh."
"And what did happen between you and him?"
Mitsui cleared his throat and continued, "I thought he was being rude at you, diving at you like that. and k.ki. and kissing you." he was hesitant on the last two words.
My eyes widened. This guy's really jealous!
"Kiss?! It was an accident!" Miko retorted with incredulity.
"Well. whatever. I just want to tell you that I have nothing against you and him being friends... or even more than. that" His voice was husky, not a tone of any emotion. He stood up, heading out of the dining room.
"And where are you going?!" Miko demanded.
"Home."
But she didn't want to let him go yet. She hasn't said what she wanted to let him know. And besides, it's obvious that he'd told her lies about the reason why he went here and waited for her. It's obvious on his voice and the look on his face. Plus, I would most likely strangle my cousin if she just let him walk away like that.
"You're the last to finish! You should do the dishes!" she shouted matter- of-factly.
I almost fell face-flat on the ground. What was that? I thought it's going to be a dramatic scene. Maybe it's part of her plan.
Mitsui walked back and started to gather the dishes. "You don't have to stay here with me." He said, rather impolitely.
"I can stay here if I want to." She sighed. "and I'm not gonna go anywhere unless you tell me the truth." She insisted.
He started his washing. "I told you."
She cut him off once again, "Are you jealous of Akira?"
He's probably gonna echo her and then deny. 'Jealous?! Of course not!'
"Akira?!" he exclaimed, "So, you're on a first name basis already!"
It would've been shorter if he said yes.
Miko chuckled. "Akira is a nice guy, he's simple, and fun to be with. I like him." She walked beside Mit-chin and leaned her lower back on the tiled sink.
"Yeah." He answered in a low voice. "And he's a great player too. I know." his voice becoming lower, almost hard to hear even from a little distance, ".I'm no match for him."
Miko's taunting expression shifted into a disappointed one. Perhaps realizing about what I said on Mitsui feeling inferior. "Aho."
Mitsui, surprised with his companion's sudden cursing, almost dropped the plate on his grip. "Nani?" he asked for confirmation.
"Aho. Baka!" her eyes started to wet, "Why did you say that?"
"What? What did I say?" almost panicking, and a little confused of Miko's reaction.
"That you're no match for him. you're the former MVP. you're." her words started to fade, ".my MVP"
Mitsui was silent.
"That's why you're avoiding me, isn't it? Because you think I like Akira coz he's a better player. coz you weren't able to beat him. " The guy kept silent. "Ame was right." She nodded.
Of course I am!
Miko wiped her tears, "Now, tell me why you're here."
"I told you." He answered.
"Tell me." She ordered.
"I don't know." quite unsure of his own answer. "I. I just wanted to see you. And ask you if I can still be your friend."
Friend?! Only that?!
"Friend?" Miko simulated his last word.
"I can't be more than that. you said already, you like him." he was apparently upset.
"Mitsui, baka yarou. I like Akira. but. You're the only one I want." She stared at her hands, "Atashi ga hoshii nowa anata dake." she said, almost a whisper.
Mitsui was dumbfounded for a moment, he then pulled Miko into a hug, "Ore...ore wa omae ga...suki desu." He assured her.
Miko gently pulled away from him, revealing a sweet smile fighting against her tear-streaked face, "And don't call that accident as a 'kiss'" she teased. "because this is what a 'kiss' is." their lips slowly met into a long and passionate kiss.
I couldn't help giggling.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Alive! I feel so alive! Hehehe. I'm still alive, minna-san! And I bring to you. the SIXTH chapter! Finally!!! Hontou-ni moushiwake-gozaimasen for having kept you waiting that long. I told you. I have loads of school works to do and exams to pass. Anyways, this chapter is quite long too, so I hope I'm forgiven. And please, don't forget to review.. Arigatou-gozaimasu!!! ^ , ^ v
JAPANESE WORDS USED: ANO is a hesitation word "um" ARIGATOU-GOZAIMASU is "thank you" AHO and BAKA are "stupid and idiot" GOMEN NASAI is "very sorry" HAI is "yes" HONTOU-NI GOMENNASAI and HONTOU-NI MOUSHIWAKE-GOZAIMASEN are "I'm really sorry" IYA is "no" JA-NE is "goodbye" MINNA-SAN is "everyone; y'all" NE is "you know; hey" OBA-SAN is "grandmother" OJII-SAN is "grandfather" OYASUMI NASAI is "good night" ORE...ORE WA OMAE GA...SUKI DESU is "I...I...love you" USO is "lie; I don't believe you"
That WAS a long day for Miko, ne?
DISCLAIMERS: Inoue Takehiko created Slam Dunk! I created Miko and Ame on my mind.
Miko-chan, I hope you liked it! Although our deal is already closed. y'know. please be reminded--- that you've already given me Mit-chin! I thought of changing the story. y'know, suddenly Miko will fall for Sakuragi, then Ame to Mit-chin. blah-blah-blah. but that basically means ruining everything up. so until the end of the this story, I'm keeping the original pairs. I still like Rukawa anyway, but not as much as I like Mit- chin now. It's all Dennis' fault! LOL!
'till here! Ja-ne!