Author's Note : I'm baaaaaaaaaccccccckkkkkk!!! Anyway, it's been a week already since I last updated this fic and I'm glad that reviews are coming. Anyway, in the first chapters, I forgot to tell you guys that this is a sort-of songfic since it was based from a song. What else? It's actually based from the song entitled 'You First Believed' which was sung by Hoku. But the song will only be posted or seen in the last chapter.
And I also forgot to remind you that most of the characters here are OOC. Please forgive me 'bout that. I rally need to change their attitude a little to make this fic work out. Anyway, the following chapters will be about the blooming love of Akira and Kaede. Oh, at last! I would also like to say sorry for the extremely long chaps I post. Couldn't help it I guess. Well, I hope you read this chapter till the end and I might be updating the next chaps after this faster since I already have the ideas in my mind. And another thing, the first parts will basically be Sensen and Ruru's Pov then it will slightly shift to normal. Okay, time to answer reviews!
jess-miranda: Really? You love SenRu too!!! Kyaa!!! I luv them SOOOOOOO SOOOOOOO MUCH!!! They're my fave pairing in SD!!! And, arigato 4 reviewing my fic and my other fic even though I'm only a co-author there. I hope you read this till the end like To Our Dreams and Heaven of Hell. Sank YUUUUUUU!!!
Hibiki-chan: Anyway, arigato for reviewing already. And yeah, the third chaps really a long one. I'll try making shorter ones. ^-^ And, I agree, it's quite hard to imagine Ruru singing and what songs will he sing. That's what took me so long to update. Can't think really. Sank YUUUUUUU too!!!
FaNTaSY_GuRL: Oh, it's alright if you don't log in. At least I know you. Ya, he's OOc and he'll be MORE OOC on the next chaps. You'll know what I mean when you read on to the next chaps. He's gonna… oops, can't tell yet. But, it's not something hentai okay?! ^-^ 'Bout your idea, well, I've been trying to take it but I have anotherplan in mind. Thanks anyway. I'll try to see if I can place that though. But, I do hope that you'll like my own idea on what to do. Anyway, ARIGATO!!!
i_love_fanfics: Oh really? You like this? *Rave cries in background* I'm…so…*sniff*…gomen… GLAAADDDDD!!! Anyway, you're a Filipino right? One question though, Filipino or Filipina? ^-^
renei: Oh, thanks. Anyway, I know that friend you're talking 'bout. She's actually one of my closest friends and she's in the same kada as I am in too. I heard from her what happened 'bout your fics and I'm really sand and sorry bout that. She actually keeps on complaining to me 'bout what happened. Anyway, good luck on your fic and Arigato again. By the way, I also love Plue SOOOOOOOO Much! Plue's just TOOOOOOO cute!!! ^-^
Basically, that's all. Anyway don't want to say anything more since I've got nothing to say. And if by any chance you want to ask me something or e-mail me, just e-mail me at silver_rave11@yahoo.com. It's my new email add actually. So, before I crap further, here's CHAPTER FOUR which I dedicate to all my readers out there and particularly to Abby and FaNTaSY_GuRL (who always review on my fic).
Disclaimers: Slam Dunk not mine, period. Last in My Winds from Weiß Kreuz not mine too. Just borrowing the song. It belongs to its respective owner.
You First Believed
by Rave
Chapter Four: Last in My Winds
Silence. The air around me is full of silence, it's so deafening. But then, I hear a sound. A soft but disturbing sound ringing in my ears, clock sounds. Clock sounds that save me from being drowned into this sea of silence. I look up at the small object hanging in my room's wall where my savior comes from. Three hours to go, it said. Three hours…
I look at the window where the moon's rays pass through to intrude this dark world. 'The weather's nice tonight' I thought as I see the wind swaying the leaves outside softly. Yes, it really is nice, not cold nor warm, just perfect. Very perfect for this evening's event. What was that event again? Ah yes, my concert.
You heard me right. Tonight's my most awaited concert. The concert of the Japan's famous teen sensation, Kaede Rukawa. I sighed heavily as I turn to look at myself in the mirror. I couldn't see my face well since the room's lights are closed. I could only see a dark reflection of me. Why are the lights closed? Well, I prefer them that way. Especially when I go through times like this. Times, when I sit alone in my room, thinking.
I sighed heavily once again. I don't look like someone who will be having a concert a few hours from now. I'm not even excited or nervous. To tell you the truth, I feel nothing. I gradually stood up from my seat and headed towards the bathroom. This time I turned the lights on. I sure need to get ready or else that bastard woman's gonna scold and shout at me again. I walk ahead to the life-size mirror located across the large bathtub. Actually, the mirror's the door of my closet. But it's not a typical closet. Being the star that I am, I need to have a not to mention, a room-sized closet.
I study myself closely in front of the mirror. I'm no one special… Why does everyone like me that I often see them drool over me? Do I look that good? Well, maybe. They say I'm a work of art. To emphasize, a rare work of art. They say my eyes are my asset. Oh really?! But anyway, I'd like to believe them. I admit that I have beautiful eyes. I chuckle softly to myself. Chuckle? Yes, I chuckle. I'm a person too you know. Yeah, I know it's unusual for me to do that but I actually do. That is only when I'm alone of course. Why? I guess simply because there's nothing I could simply laugh or smile about. But if I do find one, well, I guess I'd be like everybody else; laughing and smiling normally.
I strip myself off the only clothes that I was wearing. A simple knee-cut bathrobe in my favorite color of course, blue. Leisurely, I walk bare naked to the bathtub and plunged over into the water's welcoming soothness. (Is there such a word? Nah, never mind.) The water always soothes me. I tip my head backwards allowing the water to touch my hair. How refreshing and… relaxing. I always hope life could be as relaxing and as easy as this. No worries, pain, sadness, everything that makes life worse. But that was what life was for me. Always. I stayed there for some more time before heading to the shower and finish my bath. After a nice and cool shower, I dried myself and wrapped a towel on my waist. I pick another towel to dry my hair. As soon as I stepped outside the bathroom, I heard a faint knocking sound from my door.
"Coming."
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- Sendoh's POV -
It's 3 hours to go before Kaede's concert and I'm pretty much excited. I really can't wait. It's just 6 in the evening and his concert's still at 9. Pretty late huh? I heard from his dozens or should I say billions of fans that he loves to have concerts during evenings especially late at nights.
Well anyway, that's enough 'bout him okay? Huh? What 'bout me? Oh, I'm currently walking towards Blue Crimson Hotel. It's a five-star hotel and one of the best here in Japan and should I say it's also rather expensive. Not to mention, I've entered that place twice already. The first one was when I was 10 years old. My parents had some business in that hotel that was why they brought me along. We stayed there for about 2 weeks or so. That was when I saw a lot of stars not only local but International as well.
Well, that's not my current purpose okay. But I should say partly since, Kaede's a star and I'm meeting him. Oh, never mind. Anyway, I'm heading there now to have a glance at him. Yup. I forgot to mention that my second time around here was when he invited me. Yes, I know it's unusual for him but he said he's bored and he needed someone to play with. He's currently staying in Blue Crimson since that place is near his concert's location.
I smile widely as I see the hotel in view. I walked faster and went straight into the lobby. I asked the receptionist where Kaede was currently staying in. Usually receptionists don't give star's room numbers easily but since this receptionist and almost every crew of the hotel saw me with him last time chatting like REALLY close friends, they gave it to me easily. I smiled brightly at her partly thanking her as well. I rush into the elevator that was currently leaving. The moment I got in, the door closed. Whew! Safe at least. When the elevator reached the fifth floor, I hopped down from it giving the operator a
smile. I passed several rooms before I finally reached a room which had the number 514 imprinted on the door and the name Kaede Rukawa on the wall beside it.
I breathed hard and sighed heavily before finally making up my mind. I'm sure going to surprise him. Here goes. Then I knock softly at the door.
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- Rukawa's POV -
'Who could be fucking knocking on my door now? And of all the times THIS? Damn this person to hell!' I curse as I head to the door to welcome this do'ahou person outside whoever he or she is.
I rush faster as the knocking sound turned louder. "Coming!!!" When I reach the door, I turn the knob violently open to reveal…
"Sendoh Akira."
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- Sendoh's POV -
'What's taking him so long? I've been knocking here for about 30 seconds or something and he still doesn't answer the door. Is anything wrong? Nah, I doubt. This hotel has the strongest security in all of Japan.' I knocked louder this time thinking that maybe he was just dozing off and he couldn't hear me.
It was not long before I heard ruffling footsteps and the knob being turned. Then his face came to view. "Sendoh Akira." he said as if I was a person he never wished to see. Uh-Oh, He's glaring evilly at me. "Now tell me. What in GOD'S NAME are YOU doing HERE?"
It seems like I pretty much disturbed him from the tone of his voice. And that glare's like telling me to just disappear into thin air. I gulped hard. "Ah. Gomen. I was just checking out on you."
He leaned on the doorframe and stretched his arm to the other side in such a way that he's blocking me or preventing me from entering. "Oh really?" A playful smirk. "And who told you so? Don't you know you've disturbed me."
I gulped harder. Well, I guess I really did. I stepped back a little and observed him from head to toe. That was when I noticed that he was only wearing a towel by his waist and he had another on his hand. No more, no less. Now I get it. This is the reason why he's so mad. "Gomen really. I didn't know you were taking a bath."
"Finished." He said glaring hard at me. I watched him carefully as he raked his wet hair and sighed. "Do'ahou." (AHHH!!! I REALLY can imagine Rukawa raking his wet hair while leaning on to a doorframe and wearing only a towel on the waist. KYA!!! He looks so SEDUCTIVE!!! *Rave shakes head nonstop* Ah!!! Tasukete!!! My hentai mind's working again!!! Anyway, on with the story. =P) He got off the door and walked inside. Me? I was just staring. I just actually stood there watching him enter. I wasn't really sure if I should follow him or not.
"What are you waitin for? D'you want to stay there all the while? If you would then I would be happy to just close the door."
"Oh sorry." I walked inside the room. Whoa! It's huge and pretty, no elegant. The room was even bigger than my room. (Remember he's rich. He definitely lives in a mansion and he absolutely has a big room.) I should say even bigger THAN my parent's room. I guess this is what they call the star's suite. This is the most fabulous, most luxurious, and most practical room in the hotel. (It's like a whole house in a single room.) Only stars get to use this really and rich people. I walk towards the black leather couch and sat on it, and guess what, I sank. Wow, this is pretty soft!
(A/n: I remembered one episode in Hunter X Hunter wherein Kurapika sat in the train's couch [the most expensive of course being a hunter] and he sank. That was really funny. But I Love Kurapika so much!!! Gomen for always interrupting. If you don't know the anime or haven't watched it really, I hope you get to picture it. =P)
From looking around the room, I shifted my eyes in Kaede's direction. He was still in that towel and he was drying his hair while reading something on the table. (He's standing here not sitting.) I study him closely. First of all his towel was a little long and it reached his knees. But my! I can see his legs clearly. I turn a little feeling the sudden blood rush in my cheeks.
'Stop blushing you hentai! Stop! He might see you and think you're a REALLY big HENTAI lusting over him. STOP BLUSHING!!!' I slapped myself in the cheeks to ease my blushing cheeks a little. I glanced at him again. He was still facing the other direction. Meaning to say, his back's facing me. 'Yokatta.' I thought sighing heavily. I turned to study him one more time, but making sure not to look at those legs. My eyes traveled higher. That was when I noticed one thing not right. His towel had a small hole at the back exposing some skin. Particularly the skin of one of his butt's cheeks.
I gulped hard feeling my cheeks turn hotter and redder compared to a while ago. 'Should I tell him?' I cleared my throat and breathed hard before I called out his name. "Kaede." He instantly turned at the mention of his name. He was glaring at me again. I gulped one more time before I fully spoke. "Umm…your t-towel…has a…h-hole… at the b-back."
He looked at me confused before he lifted his towel a little to take a look. "What the Fuck!" he said rushing to the bathroom. I was still a little out-my-mind after saying that but after he rushed inside the bathroom that was when I realized he was totally embarrassed. Who wouldn't in that state? I grin a little remembering his flushed cheeks and surprise looks. I never knew a star this famous would wear THAT kind of towel. I laughed hard not being able to control it anymore. I was even crying and clutching my stomach.
Just in time while I was bursting out in laughter did he come out of the bathroom. He was already wearing a blue bathrobe that was about 2 1/2 inches above his knee. Gods, it was exposing his thighs! I noticed that his cheeks were flushed and he was glaring at me. But I just couldn't stop laughing even though my stomach already hurt.
"Go…G-Gomen ne… K-Kae-c-chan… I r-really… just…c-cant…h-help it!!!" I said in between laughs and ending my statement with another fitful of laughs. (Yare Yare. Aki-chan can really act stupid sometimes. -_-*)
"Do'ahou."
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"Where the hell could Sendoh be?!" Koshino complained loudly standing in front the entrance of Blue Eyes Stadium where Rukawa's concert's gonna be held.
"Calm down sempai. I'm sure he'll be here soon." Hikoichi said patting the older boy at the back. (My, even Koshino's OOC.)
"Damn him to hell! He's the one who asked me to come early then he's the one who's late!"
"I think it's his habit sempai. Don't worry even though he's late, you still have seats reserved for both of you."
"Yeah right. Oh, by the way Hikoichi, why are you here? Are you a fan of Rukawa?" Koshino said turning to face his friend and finally calming down a little.
Hikoichi placed his index finger in the side of his head in a thinking manner. He tapped his finger softly. " I guess partly yes and partly no. I'm here since my sister is here. She brought me tickets. And besides…" His eyes lit up like light bulbs. "…Rukawa's a good singer! SUTEKI!!!"
Koshino sweatdropped and sighed. "I guess that's a yes."
"Actually both Sendoh-sempai and you are lucky since you got special seats to his concert. Don't you know they really are expensive."
Koshino shook his head. "Eh? How much?"
"4,000 yen." (I am not really sure if this is really expensive. Just think it is okay?)
Koshino almost fainted as Hikoichi said the word 4000 yen. Good thing he gripped on the railing hard to avoid hitting or collapsing on the ground. "Sendoh never told me this was so expensive. I better keep this safe." he said gripping the ticket hard and making sure it won't fly away.
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" I want you to help me since you're here."
"Eh? What help?" Sendoh asked the star as he disappeared behind the bathroom door. Then he came out tagging a hanger where several clothes were hung neatly and orderly. "This." Rukawa said indicating the clothes.
"Huh? What will I do?"
Rukawa grinned. "Simple. Tell me if they look good."
"Umm…sure."
The young sensation smirked. "Good." Sendoh watched closely as Rukawa pulled in one outfit without even looking what he actually pulled out and disappeared again behind the bathroom door. He shifted his gaze to the hanger and studied the outfits from quite a distance. They were sure plenty. About 15 pairs or something. It's really hard to be a star. He stood up and rummaged through the clothes. Then one outfit caught his attention. He pulled it out to take a better look at it. The top of the garments was a silver shirt with T-sleeves or very short sleeves. They were quite short and if somebody wore it, it would definitely be cut above the abs and it would be tight. The pants were leather ones that had leopard prints on them. Sendoh couldn't tell from the look whether it was a loose one, low waisted or tight, or anything. And the very garment that caught his attention in that pair was a black shiny trench coat also made of leather that was ankle-long and had a big white cross at the back. (Weiß Cross!!!) The outfit was really cool. "Sugoi."
Rukawa entered the room wearing one of his outfits already. He noticed that Sendoh didn't notice him enter and he was staring at one of the outfits blankly.
"Oi, what're you doing?"
Sendoh was snapped out of his reverie. He looked right and saw Rukawa leaning by the bathroom door with his arms crossed in front and he had a playful glint in his eyes. "Huh? Ah, Gomen. I just found this interesting."
"Baka. So, what d'you say?" Rukawa said.
Sendoh studied the younger boy from head to toe. He was wearing a fitted gray shirt that clung to him like second skin which was topped with a bloody red leather vest cut just above the waist in front while the back portion was separated into two parts and continued just below the knees. It pretty much resembled a magician's cape at the back judging from how the cloth was divided. To match it all was a loose bloody red leather pants with matching ankle-high boots. He was also wearing a belt in the neck that served as his necklace and two more belts in each sides of his arms. Sendoh looked at him one more time studying his outfit over and over again.
'My Gods! He's so HOT! I mean REALLY REALLY HOOOOTTTT!!!' Sendoh thought gulping as he continued staring in awe at the young sensation leaning against the doorframe. 'He looks SOOOOOOO SEDUCTIVE!!! I mean it! I never imagined he could wear THESE kinds of clothes!'
On the other hand, Rukawa was starting to get irritated with Sendoh. Who wouldn't? Let's just say someone's staring at you blankly for so long without saying anything. Who wouldn't be pissed or conscious? 'What's wrong with this 'ahou anyway. If something's wrong or anything he just needs to tell me. And what is that look in his eyes that I can see? Lust? What's he thinking?' Rukawa thought thinking of the L word and how perverted he might be.
"Oi. Is anything wrong with my attire? And I don't like that look on your face, wipe it off before I throw you out."
"Huh? Look? But I don't even know what look?"
Out of nowhere, a mirror was thrown at him. Sendoh stared at his own reflection for a while before turning pale blue. Uh-oh. He really needs to wipe that hentai grin now. The older ace of Ryonan shook his head nonstop trying to remove that disgusting grin and stare. Rukawa eyed him curiously then he grinned. 'If it were a different situation I might have laughed.'
After shaking his head nonstop, Sendoh threw the mirror into the couch and stared at Rukawa again. This time his smile was not hentai anymore but a friendly one. "Okay. I'm fine. Let's get on with this."
"Good." Rukawa said hiding a smile forming in his lips.
Sendoh took one last gaze at Rukawa before speaking. "Nothing's wrong with your outfit. It's fine, TOTALLY FINE."
"Hn. That's all?"
"Actually when I first saw you, I was…speechless. I never imagined tha-"
"- that I would wear clothes such as THESE." Rukawa interrupted and finished the sentence as well.
"Un." Sendoh nodded. "I thought that you were rather the…conservative type."
The famous star walked towards the baffled ace stopping about 1 foot away from him. He bent down a little to meet those unfathomable cerulean eyes. "It wasn't me who picked this. I was just forced too. They say I must look appealing to everyone's eyes."
Sendoh gulped hard at the close distance of their bodies and faces. He suddenly found it extremely hard to breathe. "I see. Anyway, you look totally fine. That outfit really brings out the best in you. And besides, it fits you perfectly considering the fact that you've got a well-fitted body to boot."
Rukawa nodded silently and moved away. Sendoh sighed hard and partially thank the gods for letting him move away or he might've not controlled himself. The young ace's eyes traveled to Sendoh's arms that were still holding the outfit he picked a while ago. "What's that?"
Sendoh was a little confused at first but when he followed Rukawa's eyes, he realized what he was indicating to. "Oh this. It's one of your outfits. Remember the one I was looking at a while ago."
"I see. Let me have that. I'll try that on next." he said grabbing the garment from Sendoh's arms and disappearing again behind the bathroom door.
After about a minute or so of waiting, Rukawa finally went out of the bathroom. He was already wearing the outfit alright, but he was holding the trench coat tightly in between. Meaning to say, he's hiding the garment underneath and his body.
"What's wrong Kae-chan? Why are you holding your trench coat that tight?"
Rukawa glared evilly at Sendoh and answered him never releasing his hard grip on his trench coat. "First of all, don't call me Kae-chan. I've already allowed you to call me Kaede and it will be until there only. And about my outfit…" Rukawa blushed heavily. He tried to look down to hide his blush but it was too late since Sendoh already saw it. "I don't think I want to wear this later."
Sendoh frowned before walking over to Rukawa. He knew that what he said a while ago was true. Rukawa really is the conservative type. The first attire a while ago was definitely something hot and seductive but it didn't reveal much. It only revealed his arms and a small portion of his navel. But talking about THIS OTHER OUTFIT is different. This outfit was hotter, more seductive looking and very much revealing. Knowing Kaede somehow, he knew he wouldn't want to wear an outfit such as THIS.
"Okay now. Remove your arms and let me see it first. That's my purpose right?" Sendoh said walking over to Rukawa.
"No."
"C'mon. I won't laugh or anything. Promise." He said making a promise gesture by placing his hand on his chest and the other one raised in shoulder level beside. "We're friends right? Trust me."
"Still a no. And don't ever think we're that close."
"Please. Okay, I admit we're not close. But at least let me see so I can tell you if it's good or not."
"No Way."
"I said yes."
"No."
"Yes."
"NO." A deadly glare.
Sendoh returned the glare. "Don't be stubborn. Remove your hands now before I remove them myself." He said glaring harder and serious at him. He was slowly losing his patience but he needs to control.
"No. And who told you to-" Calloused hands held his hand tightly and removed them from his trench coat. His arms were pinned heavily on the wall by another pair of strong hands. And before Kaede Rukawa knew it, his trench coat was already open revealing the garments he was hiding. Sendoh took that opportunity to study his clothes.
On Rukawa's body was the fitted silver shirt and it was definitely cut above the abs exposing not to mention sexy and well-toned abs. (Just like Kougaiji's in Saiyuki @o@) To add more to Rukawa's embarrassment, the pants were slightly loose and it was a low waist exposing his navel as well. To top it all was a dark blue or almost black trench coat that reached his ankles and a 3 1/2 in. below the knee leather boots made from belts.
Rukawa looked away blushing hard. He tried to release his hands from the older boy's tight grip but he found it hard. "Let me go." he said looking up at Sendoh and glaring at him HARD. The ace hesitated for a moment before finally releasing the star's hands.
Rukawa pushed Sendoh roughly away to get off the wall where he was just pinned a while ago. "I've changed my mind. I don't want you to look at my outfits anymore. Now, get out." Rukawa said rubbing his aching wrists while staring out the window to let his back face the older ace.
"I'm not leaving." Sendoh answered back looking determined. He wanted to prove Rukawa that he won't get easily intimidated by his threats and he also wanted to remind him he was older.
"Leave." Rukawa repeated emphasizing the word this time.
"No."
"LEAVE."
"NO."
" I mean it. Leave now before I call the police." Rukawa said pointing to the door.
Sendoh walked over the door and opened it ready to get out. His head was down and his hair covered his eyes. But to Rukawa's surprise, he slammed it shut. " Tell me. Why d'you want me to leave? Are you proving to me you're terribly ashamed of wearing this outfit." He said in a VERY serious tone. Sendoh was sure fun to be with but when he's mad, he's REALLY MAD.
"What d'you care?"
"Huh! What do I care? So, that's how you treat your friends huh? Someone you can just reign over. Well excuse me but I'm not like that and I definitely hate that!" He said raising his voice making Rukawa a little surprised and step back. He dropped his voice as he spoke again. "When I thought all along that Kaede Rukawa was someone with a lot of pride, I think I'm mistaken. He's a big CHICKEN." he said in a mocking tone.
"Don't you dare talk to me like that! You don't know me." Rukawa answered back raising his voice a little. His head was down and his fist was rolling up into a ball.
"Yeah. I guess I have no right. But one thing remains for sure that I can prove." He slowly raised his head and stared hard at Rukawa. "You're not the prideful person I thought about. You're a big coward."
For Rukawa, Sendoh's words hurt like hell. It penetrated deep into his heart and soul. He will definitely not allow anyone to say such things to him. Never! "I'm Not!"
"Oh really?!" Sendoh walked in closer to him again. "Then of you're not, prove to me you could wear that in front of a big audience tonight."
"I can't do that." he said looking away.
Sendoh lifted Rukawa's face again to meet his eyes. "Yes you can. Look, you've been arguing with me all this time wearing what? That. If you could wear that all this time then you could do it in the concert too. I'm one of the audience like everyone else."
"…"
Sendoh backed off a bit placing his hands in his pockets. "Listen, I don't want to fight with you just because of this simple outfit. If you don't want to wear it then DON'T. I'm not forcing you. But I'm going to tell you one thing. If you really think that people around you will laugh at you or anything, that will really happen. And besides, think positive. You have a nice body and it's not embarrassing that other people see it sometimes. At least they know you have a nice one and you're proud of it."
Rukawa's features softened a little. He was starting to understand everything. He was starting to understand why Sendoh insisted him on wearing this and why he was mad a while ago. He surely understands it. "Besides, if someone ever embarrasses you or laughs at you, don't mind them." He inched closer. "Always remember there's someone out there supporting you." He stopped an inch away from him and lifted his face to stare at those deep ocean blue eyes. "And that's me."
Rukawa felt like his heart melt. He never thought someone really cared for him that way. He never thought he could find someone like Sendoh. Someone like him who's a real friend and cares for you because you are you. It was a nice feeling. A feeling of being loved and cared for. A feeling he longed for since childhood.
"Arigato." He said softly leaning his head a little onto Sendoh's shoulders. Then, he turned back to the bathroom. Sendoh smiled happily. Even though Rukawa's answer was soft, he definitely heard it. Even though it was a simple word, it meant a lot. It served not only as a form of gratitude but an apology as well.
"Your welcome."
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It was already 8 in the evening. One hour to go before the most awaited concert of Kaede Rukawa, the young teen sensation. Blue Eyes Stadium was already packed with a lot of people. Different people with different ages and status all came to watch this spectacular event. Everyone was definitely here. It seems like everyone in Japan is present here. The show hasn't started yet and the problem in lack of seats has already risen. This was definitely a big show.
"Whoa! I never knew Rukawa had a lot of fans!" Mitsui said entering the stadium.
"You never knew you were playing with someone this famous ne?" Ayako added nudging the former MVP.
Ryota laughed hard. "Never knew the former MVP was so clueless 'bout this kinds of things!"
"Urusai!!!"
The whole Shohoku team was invited to this concert. They didn't have a hard time entering the stadium since they had special seats tickets too. When they reached their seats, they noticed one person seated at the same aisle they were supposed to seat. Thinking that the person may be Rukawa's relative, they just ignored him or her and found their seats by looking at the numbers imprinted on the back. When everyone was seated, Kogure sat down too with Mitsui by his side. (^-^) Then Kogure noticed that the seat beside him was vacant and next to that was the man they saw a while ago.
"Ano, sumimasen, is anyone occupying this seat?" He asked.
The man one seat away turned to face him. Surprisingly it was Koshino. "It's you! I'm not mistaken! You're one of Ryonan's players right?" Kogure said a little shocked.
Koshino simply nodded. "Yes, it's me. The name's Koshino Hiroaki, but you can call me Koshino. And about this seat, Akira owns this, Ah, I mean, Sendoh. But so far, he's not yet here.
"Huh? Sendoh? But how come you have special seats tickets too?" Ryota asked leaning onto the back of Kogure's chair. He was seated behind Kogure with Ayako by his side.
Koshino looked up to face the point guard. "Rukawa gave Sendoh the tickets. Sendoh just tagged me along."
Hearing their conversation, Ayako leaned too on the back of Mitsui's chair. "Rukawa gave Sendoh tickets? That's surprising."
Mitsui nodded. "Didn't know they were close."
Then, all of a sudden, they heard someone shouting behind them. They all turned around to look. It turned out that the person was the ace of Ryonan, Sendoh Akira. Sendoh stopped in front of Koshino's seat panting hard. "Gomen Kosh. I actually forgot the promise." he said scratching the back of his head.
Koshino leaned his head to his hand while his elbow was on the chair's arms for support. "Yeah, yeah, I know. You're always like that Akira."
Sendoh chuckled a little and walked over to the vacant seat beside Kosh. When he sat down, he was a little surprised to find Shohoku's players all around. "A-re? Your Shohoku's team right?"
Sakuragi slouched in his seat beside Ayako. "Who else? We're the kitune's teammates. No doubt we're invited."
Sendoh smiled widely. "Gomen. I was just making sure."
"What's taking them so long? Is Rukawa already here?" Ryota asked slouching in his seat lazily too.
Sendoh slowly turned around to face him. "He's here. Actually, I came together with him here. He's at backstage already."
"You came with him here?" Koshino asked.
Sendoh nodded happily. "Un. I was late because I was so excited about Kaede's concert that I decided to check out on him. I went straight to where he currently stays in. In Blue Crimson hotel. Then since I was there, he offered me a ride here. He even showed me his outfits for tonight."
"Really?"
"Un. And I tell you his outfits are really awesome! Some are a little hot and revealing but they look just fine. It fits him perfectly."
Mitsui slapped the side of his head in disbelief. "Masaka. Rukawa's not going to wear SUCH clothes."
Ryota nodded in approval. "I agree with him in that one. I don't think he'll really wear SUCH."
Sakuragi laughed hard. "The kitsune wearing HOT and REVEALING clothes? That's IMPOSIBBLE."
Sendoh slouched heavily in his seat crossing his arms in his chest. "I'm telling the truth. You'll see."
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"Where's Kaede? Is he here already? The concert's gonna start in 30 minutes!" Rukawa's female manager, Leiko said pacing the room nonstop while tapping her ballpen in the clipboard between her arms. Veins were seen popping out from her head as she waited for the superstar impatiently. Suddenly they heard screaming coming from the far end of the hallway. That was definitely a sign. He WAS already here. Kaede Rukawa has arrived.
Leiko rushed outside as soon as she heard those ear piercing screams. She was not against Rukawa's fans; it was just not the time to drool over him since he was already late. He terribly needs to get ready for tonight's concert as soon as possible. Leiko made her way through the enormous crowd of fan girls and paparazzi flooding the teen singer. In the middle of this vast ocean of people was Kaede Rukawa wearing a simple white turtleneck with long sleeves reaching his wrists, black leather pants and shoes, and a silver choker with a cross pendant hanging on his neck. Men dressed in black surrounded him serving as a wall for him and his bodyguards as well. When Leiko finally reached Rukawa, she grabbed him by the arm and pulled him past the huge crowd and disappearing by the hallway.
"You're late. TERRIBLY." Leiko said still pulling Rukawa.
"I know. That's why let's hurry."
Leiko finally stopped pulling the young sensation when they reached a room with his name imprinted on the door. Kicking the door open, Rukawa's impatient manager dragged him inside and got him fixed through and through. After about a swift 20 minutes of fixing his hair and make-up, arranging his clothes and last minute preparations for the concert, everything was finally done.
Rukawa was already sitting at the waiting room all set and alone. He was wearing his first outfit for the night. It was a bluish-black shirt topped with a dark bluegreen and black zip-up vest. The zipper of the vest was open till above his abs. His pants were simply black leather ones matched with the same shoe he wore earlier. He also had accessories such as a silver watch and bracelet in either side of his wrist and two silver rings as well. The silver cross choker earlier was still in his neck. To sum it all up, he simply looked RAVISHING.
"10 minutes to go." Rukawa said glancing at his watch. He sighed. 'Why do I feel like this? I feel different. I know this is not nervousness. It's like… excitement. But… why? What am I so excited about?'
Rukawa breathed in hard while closing his eyes. The feeling running through his body and currently registering in his mind is something rather…different. But it was also…refreshing and…soothing? He knew that he never felt this before. A feeling that makes your heart jump not for nervousness or fear but of something fun and relaxing. Something that makes your heart feel warm and loved. But why does this feeling come now? Why all of a sudden he starts to feel different kinds of emotions he thought he would never feel. What is this?
Rukawa leaned back in his chair holding his forehead. He was trying to stop the flow of thoughts in his mind. These thoughts were something deep and bothering. Thoughts that make him feel those rushing emotions and feelings once again. 'Could it be…' Good thing someone came in to help. Rukawa stared at the person who jut entered the room. She was wearing a bloody red halter with a black scarf wrapped around her neck. To match it was a black flared pants and 1 1/2 in. tall ankle high boots. She also had silver earrings dangling down her ears, a sliver choker with a diamond pendant at the end around her neck, and a bracelet, watch, and rings on her arms and hands. It was definitely Rukawa's manager, Leiko.
Leiko smiled at Rukawa. "It's time."
Rukawa simply nodded and quietly stood up from his seat. he dropped the book he was reading on the table and was about to head for the door when he remembered something. Leiko stopped too seeing Rukawa walk back the room and rummage through his things. "What's wrong?" she asked.
"I need to find something first." he said removing the top items in his bag to find something buried deep within. When he spotted the object shining beneath the other items, he quickly got it, fixed his bag again, and joined Leiko by the door. "What's that?"
"Nothing. It's just something helpful."
Hidden beneath Rukawa's palm was a silver brooch in the shape of a basketball. It was even colored orange. But what will strike you most is the name embedded on it. The name 'Kaede' and at the back in very small letters was a message. 'Gambatte ne, Kae-chan. -Akira'
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Shouts and claps filled the enormous stadium of Blue Eyes when Rukawa Kaede just finished another song. All the people were amazed. He didn't only sing his own songs but foreign and other singer's songs as well. The last song he just finished was entitled 'You Make Me Wanna' by the foreign singers named Blue. (Ah!!! Blue!!! My fave band!!! Duncan-sama!!!) He even had dance steps to match. The whole concert was fun. It was like a big party. Rukawa was offered a seat by one of the dancers. He sat down quietly a little exhausted.
"Arigato minna-san." he said in a friendly tone. "Well, to show you all my gratitude for coming here, I'll sing another song for you. D'you want that?"
The crowd cheered wildly shouting Rukawa's name over and over again. Rukawa couldn't help but smile a little. Sometimes, it was encouraging and fun to hear people wanting you.
He slowly stood up from his seat and wiped the sweat off his face with a handkerchief. "Okay, minna-san. I made or should I say wrote this song myself. Its partly based from experince so I hope you quite understand the meaning and lines of the song. This one's a bit sad. So, minna, I offer this song to you. Last in my Winds." Rukawa slowly stood up and the music started to play.
Doko na no ka wakaranai dare hitori mienai,
Nani o shite kita no ka kiokusae usurete.
Subete o kakusuyou ni Haiiro no kaze ga fuku.
I don't understand- where shall I go when I'm all alone; blind and helpless?
And tell me what to do once I am there and my memories all start fading?
Then when the winds pick up and blow away, and I close my eyes; my world's turned to gray...
- Rukawa's POV -
I see a lot of people. They're all here to support me. I'm glad. But somehow, I feel lonely. Yes, I do see their cheers for me and the sincerity within but they don't see me through. None of them. I look in their eyes and I see…nothing. My past was fun. I used to smile like everyone. I had a family and that's all that mattered. But now… they're gone. I don't feel like I have a place to return. A place like a heart whom I can give all the love I've hidden for years. Love… yes, that is what I need.
Last In My Winds Dust In The Winds,
Saigo no kaze no naka de shizuka ni,
Tobira ga shimatte hitori kirisa.
Last In My Winds Dust In The Winds,
Kono boku ga kieta ato mirai no dare ka ga,
Monogatari kataru darou.
Last in My Winds, Dust in the Winds
All that I hear is the silence herein
Blows shut the door forever more, left all alone in the mist-lands of lore
Last in My Winds, Dust in the Winds
And the me I knew starts fading away: all that remains someday shall be
Just a fantasy- a child's story...
- Sendoh's POV -
I look closely at Kaede as he sings. I look straight into his eyes. What I see shocks me. Pain and Loneliness. Even though he smiles outside to the huge crowd here, he's lonely inside. The song tells everything he feels. The truth of him is all in the song. Somehow, I can relate to him. Like him, childhood for me was like a fantasy, a fantasy so good that will soon fade away just like a dream. I felt like I was always alone. No one was there to receive the love I give. No one was there to give me love I wished. No One. I'm all-alone, just like him.
Ano basho ni nokoshita omoide ga yureteru,
Sono mukashi kowareta BARA no hana mitai ni.
Nagarete iku toki wa toozakaru NOA no fune,
In the place that I've left behind, there I've left my past gently swaying
All those memories, so beautiful, but like a dying rose; softly fading
Down comes the rain, turns the sky to gray, and I'm left behind- the ship's sailed away...
- Sendoh and Rukawa's POV -
Yes, I've left all my beautiful memories in the past. I tried to live now in the present but I feel like I'm still in that pain. I can't escape this painful past. I don't know why. Everyone has moved on and I'm left behind. Please somebody come and save me. Save me from falling apart. Save my heart and fill the missing love within…
Last In My Winds Dust In The Winds,
Korekara doko e yukou,
Negatta basho to wa chigau to miageta sora.
Last In My Winds Dust In The Winds,
Chinmoku ni mi o makase chiisaku mebaeta,
Kanashimi o itsukushi mou.
Last in My Winds, Dust in the Winds
Where shall I go when I cannot return?
Ask myself why, turn to the sky, ask if it's wrong; can't I pray for a home?
Last in My Winds, Dust in the Winds
Tried not to speak, but I cry out in pain; all that is left deep within me
Is a sadness that whispers so softly...
(Last in My Winds...)
Last In My Winds Dust In The Winds,
Saigo no kaze no naka de shizuka ni,
Tobira ga shimatte hitori kirisa.
Last In My Winds Dust In The Winds,
Kono boku ga kieta ato mirai no dare ka ga,
Monogatari kataru darou.
Last in My Winds, Dust in the Winds
All that I hear is the silence herein
Blows shut the door forever more, left all alone in the mist-lands of lore
Last in My Winds, Dust in the Winds
And the me I knew starts fading away: all that remains someday shall be
Just a fantasy- a child's story...
- Sendoh and Rukawa's POV -
My sadness destroys my heart. Please my savior, come and save me now. Show me a place where I can return. A place where I can see the happiness I longed for. A place where I can finally love. Please hear my heart's plea. I am just here, waiting for you.
-Normal POV-
The music ended and the crowd cheered louder. Some were sniffing and crying since the song was really lonely. Rukawa looked around. No one heard his call. No one. Then out of nowhere a small blue light caught his eyes. He turned around to meet those eyes.
'Those eyes are the same as mine. They have the same feeling I can see. I can feel those eyes filling me with warmth and…love. This eyes. This eyes must be my savior.'
Rukawa looked up to see the owner of the eyes. He smiled recognizing the person. His beloved savior, Sendoh Akira. "Arigato." he said softly nodding at him. Then the concert went to an end.
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"Rukawa!!! That was great! Congratulations!!!" All of Shohoku's players shouted as they met the ace backstage after he had changed into that casual clothing he wore earlier when he arrived. Mitsui hooked his arm on his shoulder while pouncing his head. Ryota hooked his arm too and was punching his sides lightly.
"Arigato sempai." he said blushing beet red.
"Oi! Oi! Let him go! He can't breathe!" Ayako said pouncing the two on the head.
"Congratulations Rukawa." Kogure said walking over to him handing him a bouquet of flowers. Rukawa accepted it heartily. "This came from the whole team. We really don't know what to give you. Hope you don't mind."
"No, it's fine. Arigato minna-san."
"Hey! Doesn't this call for a celebration?!" Sakuragi shouted unbelievably.
Everyone shouted. "Yay!"
"Okay. My treat." Rukawa said "Hop in the car now. I know a perfect place to go."
"YATTA!!!" they all answered hopping into Rukawa's limo.
Rukawa stopped short seeing Sendoh and Koshino appear in front of him. "Congratulations Kaede." Sendoh said walking closer. Koshino stepped back a little allowing the two to talk.
"Arigato."
"That last song was nice but lonely. That's what you truly feel right?"
Rukawa's head snapped up hearing those words. "What d'you mean?"
"C'mon, don't deny it anymore. I can tell it from the look of your eyes when you sang that song. We feel the same."
Rukawa was a little shocked to know that the ever-so-happy Sendoh was a lonely as he was. He never really knew anything about him. "You know, I guess we'll get along well. I feel comfortable with you." Sendoh added smiling at Rukawa.
"I think so too. " He answered smiling back and hugging Sendoh in a friendly way. Sendoh was a little surprised but he hugged him back. "Arigato." Rukawa whispered before pulling off. Then he noticed that something was shining on Sendoh's chest. It was the same basketball brooch he gave to him. "You also have one huh?" he said.
"Oh, this. Yeah. I really like this brooch."
"Me too. " Rukawa said pointing onto the brooch on his chest. "So, why don't you join us? We'll be celebrating. My treat."
Sendoh's face lit up. "Really?"
"Aa. You can bring Koshino along too."
"Yatta! You heard that Kosh. We could come to the celebration!"
"Hai, hai."
And so, Koshino hopped in the limo first. Sendoh and Rukawa stared at each other before laughing. Sendoh hooked his arm on Rukawa's shoulder and they both went inside to their friends. And the partying began that ended early in the morning. It was definitely the most memorable concert for Rukawa and Sendoh as well.
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Author's Note: Yatta! The fourth chapter is finish. Um guys, I hope that wasn't sappy enough. The party will end there and no more continuation of the party in the next chap. And by the way, Sendoh and Rukawa aren't boyfriends yet there okay. They're still friends but a little closer compared to when they first met. Don't worry love will bloom soon. And by the way, for those of you waiting for hentai, sorry to say but I'm planning to let this stay as PG-13 only, Maybe last chap I guess. I'll see. Till here only. I'm so tired already, and don't forget to review. Please! I desperately need inspiration. Ja!
Next Chapter Trailer: Sendoh and Rukawa's fun times together… Will love bloom already? ^-^ Wait a second, who is this girl? Hmmm, does she have anything to do with SenRu's relationship? Read and Find out on the next chapter!!!