After Rui left for the hot springs, my mind couldn't comprehend what had
happened. A mixture of emotions were flowing through me like how an
electricity would when someone got shocked. I touched my lips and could
almost still feel Rui's soft and warm lips against mine. Just the thought
of the incident made my heart start beating like crazy.
There was nothing I can do except confront him and asked him what had happened. But I decided against it. What if he gave me an answer that would disappoint me? What if my question would ruin our whole relationship? Then would we be able to still be as close as we were now? Honestly, I hate my life now. It's just to complicated. But then again, I've no choice except ignore the kiss. Ok, not ignore it but pretend that it didn't happen. As hard as it may seem, but I can't risk losing Rui. I just can't.
Picking myself up from the floor, I did the only thing I do best when I'm upset or when I needed to calm down. Clean the house. I found a broom in a closet in the kitchen and set out to start giving the whole entire Hanazawa's house spring cleaning.
Hours later, I stood in the middle of the leaving room with my neat pony tail slightly messy and my clothes crumpled, looking at my so-called- masterpiece. The house was so clean, it was shinning. You could probably see your own reflection on the floors as I scrubbed it spotlessly clean. I guess if I ever ran out of work, I could make it big as a house cleaner or a maid.
Just as I was about to turn and return my broom and cleaning utensils to the kitchen, I collided into Rui and I dropped everything to the floor. Both of us bent down at the same time to start picking up the things quietly. I guess you could say I was turning as read as a tomato but I couldn't help it. I can't even look into his eyes without remembering the kiss. I reached out to pick up the sponge near his feet at the same time as he did and our fingers touched, making me jump back about a feet.
Rui looked at me without saying a word and handed me the sponge. Because I was sprawled on the floor, he offered me his hands but I got up on my own without taking it. When I glanced at him, I saw a glint of sorrow in his eyes but it disappeared when our eyes met.
"Excuse me..."I said, looking at the floor and trying to get away from him. Since my eyes were on the ground, I saw his feet not moving an inch.
"Excuse me..."I tried again, slightly louder thinking he might not have heard me the first time.
His feet did not budge. I forced myself to look up and saw him staring right at me, his face was in his usual cold mask. Expressionless. Only his eyes reminded me there was something soft and caring inside that hard shell.
"Rui...I need to put back the things in the kitchen." I held him the bucket in front of his face for emphasis. Rui didn't move and for a second, we stood staring at each other. Finally, he looked away and step aside. I took the opportunity to run to the kitchen. It only took me a few seconds to put the things away, but I pretended to be busy by arranging the already neat pots and pans just to buy me some time from Rui.
When I walked back into the living room, Rui was gone. Thinking he was in his room, I walked to the garden to get myself some fresh air. The only sound I made was my feet against the gravel. I reached the garden and sat on the swing which had become my favorite spot. Kicking the ground lightly, the swing started to move. The weather was perfect. The sky was clear and the air was cool. Maybe it was because of the gentle rocking of the swing or the calming cool air, I started to feel extremely drowsy and soon, I fell asleep.
I snuggled deeper into my blanket and sighed contentedly. Wait a minute, wasn't I in the garden? My eyes flew open to find myself in the comfort of my own room. I knew for a fact I didn't sleep walk. I sat up quickly and tried to remember if I woke up and walked back to my room.
"I carried you back here..."Rui walked into my room with a tray of green tea. "It was starting to rain and when I couldn't find you I went to the garden and saw you asleep."
"Oh..."I looked at him as he placed the tray on the table and sat down, crossing his legs.
"Come and have some hot tea..." He said, pouring the tea into the little tea cups.
I crawled to the table and sat opposite him. He handed me a cup and I sipped the warm liquid slowly.
"Tsukushi..."Rui broke the silence and I looked at him. He placed his own cup down and exhaled softly. "We need to talk."
Ugh. The four words I dreaded so badly.
"Okay..."
"What happened just now..."
"Nothing happened...."I interrupted, feeling a flush creeping up my cheeks.
"Tsukushi...."Rui said sternly, forcing me to shut my mouth. "Something did happen just now and we have to face it sooner or later."
I looked down at my hands and nodded slowly. He was right. But then again, when was he ever wrong.
"I don't want our relationship to be affected by what had happened. Look at you now...you can't even look at me in my eyes and can't even be in the same room with me for one minute without jumping out of your skin."
I bit my lips, not knowing what to say, so I said the first thing that came to my mind. "Why?"
Rui didn't say anything, instead he picked up the teapot and poured the tea into our empty cups.
"Why did you kiss me Rui? Why did you kiss me and then say it was wrong? WhY?" I demanded, the words came pouring out of my mouth before I could stop them.
"Look at me Tsukushi..."Rui said softly and I slowly tore my gaze from my hands and stared into his eyes. "I kissed you because I wanted to."
His answered shocked me into silence. What on earth did he meant by that?
"Maybe it's time I cleared things up with you." He continued and I caught a tinge of nervousness in his voice. "I promised myself the very day I saw you cried for me and my happiness, I told myself that I'll protect you with all my being. That was before you found yourself falling in love with Tsukasa."
I kept quiet as I listened to him speak. He stood up and walked to the window and I turned to face his back. Unknown to him, my heart was thumping like mad.
"Even after you and Tsukasa were madly in love, I never stopped being your guardian angel. There were so many times you came running to me with tears in your eyes and a wound in your heart after a fight with my best friend. I hugged you and told you everything will be alright. I told you that Tsukasa loved you no matter what. Then the incident came where Tsukasa had to go loose his memory and I had to watch you turn from a strong and confident girl, full of life into something no different from a wilting flower."
By now, tears were streaming down my face as I remembered how every time I ran into Rui's arms and dumped all my sorrows with him. Guilt filled me as I realized how I used him.
"But Tsukushi, I never complained once. Never. When you cried, I cried with you inside. When you hurt, I hurt with you inside. I fought the urge to hurt my very best friend who is closer than a brother to me for hurting you. I fought the urge to kiss your lips every time you sat next to me on the balcony watching the sun in silence."
Wait a minute, was Rui....
"When I came back from France, I was extremely hurt by Shizuka. I thought I would never love another again. But when I looked at you, as you cried, I knew my heart belonged to you. I realized then, I did love Shizuka. But it was because she was the one who brought me out from the world I was so used to and into the world we live in now. She was the one who taught me how accept people and friends into my life and also not to cry. But you taught me how to love and to laugh. You taught me what happiness was. I loved Shizuka as a sister and somewhat of a comfort blanket."
"Rui..."I called his name so softly I doubt he heard me. even if he did, he didn't turn around. Outside was raining heavily, as if the heavens was crying with me and for Rui.
"By then, it was too late. You were in love with my best friend. I didn't want Tsukasa and you to be miserable, so I swallowed my own feelings. I wanted you to be happy and I knew Tsukasa was probably the only person who could've given you that. For so many times, I wanted to be selfish, but I couldn't, because I saw that shine in your eyes every time you and Tsukasa were together."
This was the first time Rui had spoke so much or with so much emotion. Then it hit me, Rui loved me. Rui gave me up for my happiness.
"When Tsukasa lost his memory, I told myself, I would do everything in my power to make him remember you because I couldn't bare to see you hurt anymore. But when he told you how he felt about Shigeru, I just couldn't stand there and let you get hurt anymore. For so many times, I wanted to tell you how I felt Tsukushi, but I was afraid. I was so afraid that confessing would make me loose you."
I stood up and walked to Rui. I snaked my hands around his slim waist and placed my face against his back. "You don't have to say anymore Rui...I'm sorry...I'm sorry for not caring about how you felt..." I cried.
He turned around slowly, and hugged me tightly to his chest. "I love you Tsukushi...I always had..."
That was all it took to make me cry like a baby. I felt something wet on my head and at first I thought it was the rain but when I looked up, I saw Rui's face streaming with his own tears.
"Hanazawa Rui...I love you too..."I whispered, and he bent down, kissing my lips ever so tenderly and this time, I was sure I've died and gone to heaven.
The rain hasn't stopped for hours. Rui had fallen asleep beside me hours ago. I looked down at him and couldn't help my heart from skipping a beat. The kiss and confession seemed like a dream to me. Can this guy really love me? This guy who looks like a Greek God and seemed to take almost every girl's breathe away even without looking at them? This guy who showed no emotions and seemed so cold? This guy who stood beside me when I needed him?
The answer to all those question...YES. I wanted to jump up and scream with joy but tried to stop myself from doing that because I really didn't want to wake Rui up. After the kiss, he hugged me in his arms, both of us not saying a word and watching the rain fall. I sneaked a look at him once and saw a soft smile on his face. That was when I knew he was truly happy.
Stroking his hair out of his closed eyes gently, I bent down and kissed his forehead. Rui's eyes fluttered open and stared into mine momentarily before breaking into a gentle smile.
"Hi..."He said touching my cheeks.
"Hi yourself..."I didn't know why but I started to blush and looked away quickly.
Suddenly, I heard a weird growling sound and I looked at Rui who was now propped up on his elbows, looking slightly sheepish.
"Sorry...I'm just a little hungry..."He patted his tummy and it let out another growl. "Okay...I'm really hungry..."
I stood up and brushed my hair from my face with my fingers. "I'll go cook something...what would you like to eat?"
Rui shook his head and pulled himself to his feet before walking towards me. "Why don't we go out and eat today...my treat..."
"But...we have so much food here..." I protested but he placed a finger on my lips, silencing me.
"I want to celebrate..."
"Celebrate what?"
"Celebrate 'us'..." he replied and if I was red just now, I was redder now.
I nodded my head and he took my hands, leading me out of the room. Soon we were in his car and before I could say 'waiter', we were seated in a small but cozy restaurant being served by a friendly old lady.
"Ah...to be young and in love...how I missed those times..."She said wistfully, after placing our food in front of us.
"You seemed happy..." I told her while Rui attacked his food.
"Well...at this age...I shouldn't let old troubles bother me right? In life...you have to learn how to forgive and let go...then you'll fine true happiness."
"So aunty...I'm sure you found true happiness already right?" Rui asked swallowing his food.
She gave a soft sigh and a tinge of sadness appeared on her face. "Oh yes...and I'll never forget that time of my life...he was the best thing that happened to me...."
Before she could finish her sentence, a customer walked in, she left to attend to them but we stayed on, even after finishing our food. It wasn't until closing time that Aunty found time to talk to us again. Rui and I helped her shut her restaurant and we sat in the corner with Aunty, talking again with some cakes and coffee on the table.
She told us to call her Aunty Ikano and I could tell, she was glad to have us around to talk to. I was even more surprised when Rui joined in our conversation which he rarely did to strangers.
"Where is he now Aunty Ikano?" I asked and she sighed. She pushed her seat back and disappeared behind the counter only to reappear with a picture in her hands.
"He is in a land where he can be free..." she said softly.
The picture showed a couple in their early 20's clearly very much in love, hugging each other on a swing. I handed the picture to Rui and he stared at it for a long time.
"His name is Hikaru...as in the sun...and boy did his name suit him well. When he smiled, it was brighter than the sun itself and how he brought light into my life again...I met him in a weird manner." Aunty Ikano started her story, with a faraway look in her eyes, recalling her past.
"I had just been proposed by my boyfriend and didn't know what to do. He told me not to give him an answer yet, so I took the ring and placed it in my bag, before leaving his house. I guess I was lost in my own world and didn't hear the motorbike roaring towards me. I realized too late, and couldn't avoid it. But luckily, he swerved and I fell to the ground at the same time as he did. I crawled towards him, hoping that he was alright. Before I could reach him, he sat up and limped towards me."
Under the table, Rui took my hands in his and held it tightly. I looked at him but he was listening intently to Aunty Ikano's story but he squeezed my hand lightly, telling me that he knew I was looking. "My belongings had scattered on the ground and the first thing I saw was the empty ring box, throwing me into panic mode. I started to look around frantically when he suddenly spoke, asking me what I've lost. When I told him I've lost a diamond ring, he didn't hesitate and started to help me find it. I saw that his arm was bleeding badly and tried to stop him, but he just wouldn't listen. He was very stubborn. In the end, he found it and placed it in my hands before picking up his motorbike and ridding off without saying a word. I thought I would never see him again."
"Did you Aunty Ikano? Did you see him again?" I asked, leaning forward slightly.
Aunty Ikano smiled at me and nodded. "At that time, I was a university student and when I went to class, my best friend Kumiko ran up to me and told me that there was a new student in our class. I didn't bother much because my mind was too occupied with the sudden proposal and the accident."
Rui picked up the cup of coffee and sipped it slowly before leaning back against the chair. His hands still clutching mine, he tugged it lightly, pulling me to him. I leaned against him as he let go of my hand and circled it around my waist lovingly.
"I was reading a book when he walked in. It wasn't until Kumiko nudged me in my ribs did I notice he entered. There he stood, looking as gorgeous and strikingly dangerous. His piercing brown eyes, stared right at me before nodding slightly, acknowledging me. The lecturer asked him to take the empty seat next to mine which he did. In less than an hour, almost all the girls in the university were talking about him. I think he had formed his own fan club not even a month after enrolling in our university."
"He is very handsome..." I said, taking the picture from the table and looking at it again.
"He looks familiar..."Rui said so softly, only I could hear.
"Well, to cut a long story short, we became good friends and soon we fell in love. I left my boyfriend for him. I still remember the fight he got into with Hikaru. Both of them ended up with stitches in the hospital. In the end, my boyfriend told Hikaru that if he ever hurt me, he'll never let him see daylight again. What I didn't know was, Kumiko was in love with Hikaru as well."
"Wow..." I gushed out.
"One night, I didn't know why but I missed Hikaru a lot so I decided to take a cab to his place. Apparently, Kumiko chose to confess her undying love to him on that night as well. I hid behind the lamp post when I saw them both outside his house, sitting on the steps. Although I was too far to hear their conversation clearly, I saw her grab him by the neck and kissed him. All I could do was watch in horror and I felt my blood boil when I didn't see him push her away instantly."
"He kissed her back?" Rui asked.
Aunty Ikano shook her head. "No, he was too shocked at first but after when he realized what was going on, he pushed her away and saw me standing there. He tried to run after me, but I jumped into the first cab I saw. For days, he tried to contact me and explain things but I just wouldn't listen. In the end, it was Kumiko who had to explain everything to me."
"Did you forgive him?" Rui's eyes were wide with interest and I smiled secretly. It was rare to see Rui so interested in something.
"Of course I did! I married him!" Aunty Ikano exclaimed and we all laughed. "But we had to fight to do that. My parents objected strongly to him as well as his. Wherever we went, they manage to track us down and separate us. Sometimes, they manage to keep us apart for a day or two, sometimes months. But they could never make us give up on our love. One night I was really sick, because I refused to eat and was fading away fast. My parents gave in finally and talked to Hikaru's parents and they let us meet. I guess in the end, they gave in because they knew they couldn't tear us apart."
"My time with him was the most happiest of all...although short but it was filled with great memories...the road we choose wasn't the easiest off all. We had to overcome a lot of obstacles but it only made us realize how much we loved each other."
"Sometimes we need things to happen to remind us about love..." Rui said softly.
"Indeed we do...Hikaru passed away one fateful morning after we've been married for 2 years."
"Passed away?" I whispered, shocked.
"Yes...he was suffering from cancer...I was holding his hand when he took his last breathe. His last words to me was 'Thank you for loving me Ikano" but it was actually I should be the one thanking him. He taught me what true life really was...love was freedom..."
"I never found another who could replace him in my heart, that's why I never remarried. I opened this restaurant so I could always be in the place where we found happiness." Aunty Ikano wiped a stray tear and smiled at us.
"It's getting late...you kids better get home...this old lady is going to catch a few winks..." She stood up, and I helped her clear the table while Rui went to get the car.
"He loves you very much..."Aunty Ikano suddenly said to me. "I can see it in his eyes...and yours too."
She touched my hands and sighed softly. "Don't ever let the most important thing in your life go or you'll regret it. Love could be the hardest thing to find in life. Once you've found it, cherish it. You'll never know what will happen next."
"Tsukushi? Are you ready to leave?" Rui appeared at the door.
"I'll be there in a second..." I called out to him and he nodded, disappearing again.
"Thank you Aunty Ikano...you've made me realize a lot of things..." I hugged the old lady tight and she hugged me back.
"Now go...don't let this old hag take anymore of your time away from Rui..." She walked me to the door and waved us off.
"Come back anytime and keep this old lady company alright?" She told the both of us before we drove away.
In the car, I stared at Rui, all the way back to the house, trying to memorize every single feature on his face.
"What are you looking at?" He asked, taking his eyes off from the road for a second.
"Nothing..." I replied and he gave me a weird look.
"You know, Hikaru looks awfully familiar...I've seen his face somewhere...but I just can't remember..." Rui's handsome face twisted into a frown.
"Maybe he has a common look?" I said.
Rui shook his head. "No...I'm sure I've seen him somewhere..." he said more to himself than to me.
"Take your time...it'll come to you when you least expect it." I advised him and he shrugged.
"I guess..."he muttered, turning into the small road leading towards the house.
There was nothing I can do except confront him and asked him what had happened. But I decided against it. What if he gave me an answer that would disappoint me? What if my question would ruin our whole relationship? Then would we be able to still be as close as we were now? Honestly, I hate my life now. It's just to complicated. But then again, I've no choice except ignore the kiss. Ok, not ignore it but pretend that it didn't happen. As hard as it may seem, but I can't risk losing Rui. I just can't.
Picking myself up from the floor, I did the only thing I do best when I'm upset or when I needed to calm down. Clean the house. I found a broom in a closet in the kitchen and set out to start giving the whole entire Hanazawa's house spring cleaning.
Hours later, I stood in the middle of the leaving room with my neat pony tail slightly messy and my clothes crumpled, looking at my so-called- masterpiece. The house was so clean, it was shinning. You could probably see your own reflection on the floors as I scrubbed it spotlessly clean. I guess if I ever ran out of work, I could make it big as a house cleaner or a maid.
Just as I was about to turn and return my broom and cleaning utensils to the kitchen, I collided into Rui and I dropped everything to the floor. Both of us bent down at the same time to start picking up the things quietly. I guess you could say I was turning as read as a tomato but I couldn't help it. I can't even look into his eyes without remembering the kiss. I reached out to pick up the sponge near his feet at the same time as he did and our fingers touched, making me jump back about a feet.
Rui looked at me without saying a word and handed me the sponge. Because I was sprawled on the floor, he offered me his hands but I got up on my own without taking it. When I glanced at him, I saw a glint of sorrow in his eyes but it disappeared when our eyes met.
"Excuse me..."I said, looking at the floor and trying to get away from him. Since my eyes were on the ground, I saw his feet not moving an inch.
"Excuse me..."I tried again, slightly louder thinking he might not have heard me the first time.
His feet did not budge. I forced myself to look up and saw him staring right at me, his face was in his usual cold mask. Expressionless. Only his eyes reminded me there was something soft and caring inside that hard shell.
"Rui...I need to put back the things in the kitchen." I held him the bucket in front of his face for emphasis. Rui didn't move and for a second, we stood staring at each other. Finally, he looked away and step aside. I took the opportunity to run to the kitchen. It only took me a few seconds to put the things away, but I pretended to be busy by arranging the already neat pots and pans just to buy me some time from Rui.
When I walked back into the living room, Rui was gone. Thinking he was in his room, I walked to the garden to get myself some fresh air. The only sound I made was my feet against the gravel. I reached the garden and sat on the swing which had become my favorite spot. Kicking the ground lightly, the swing started to move. The weather was perfect. The sky was clear and the air was cool. Maybe it was because of the gentle rocking of the swing or the calming cool air, I started to feel extremely drowsy and soon, I fell asleep.
I snuggled deeper into my blanket and sighed contentedly. Wait a minute, wasn't I in the garden? My eyes flew open to find myself in the comfort of my own room. I knew for a fact I didn't sleep walk. I sat up quickly and tried to remember if I woke up and walked back to my room.
"I carried you back here..."Rui walked into my room with a tray of green tea. "It was starting to rain and when I couldn't find you I went to the garden and saw you asleep."
"Oh..."I looked at him as he placed the tray on the table and sat down, crossing his legs.
"Come and have some hot tea..." He said, pouring the tea into the little tea cups.
I crawled to the table and sat opposite him. He handed me a cup and I sipped the warm liquid slowly.
"Tsukushi..."Rui broke the silence and I looked at him. He placed his own cup down and exhaled softly. "We need to talk."
Ugh. The four words I dreaded so badly.
"Okay..."
"What happened just now..."
"Nothing happened...."I interrupted, feeling a flush creeping up my cheeks.
"Tsukushi...."Rui said sternly, forcing me to shut my mouth. "Something did happen just now and we have to face it sooner or later."
I looked down at my hands and nodded slowly. He was right. But then again, when was he ever wrong.
"I don't want our relationship to be affected by what had happened. Look at you now...you can't even look at me in my eyes and can't even be in the same room with me for one minute without jumping out of your skin."
I bit my lips, not knowing what to say, so I said the first thing that came to my mind. "Why?"
Rui didn't say anything, instead he picked up the teapot and poured the tea into our empty cups.
"Why did you kiss me Rui? Why did you kiss me and then say it was wrong? WhY?" I demanded, the words came pouring out of my mouth before I could stop them.
"Look at me Tsukushi..."Rui said softly and I slowly tore my gaze from my hands and stared into his eyes. "I kissed you because I wanted to."
His answered shocked me into silence. What on earth did he meant by that?
"Maybe it's time I cleared things up with you." He continued and I caught a tinge of nervousness in his voice. "I promised myself the very day I saw you cried for me and my happiness, I told myself that I'll protect you with all my being. That was before you found yourself falling in love with Tsukasa."
I kept quiet as I listened to him speak. He stood up and walked to the window and I turned to face his back. Unknown to him, my heart was thumping like mad.
"Even after you and Tsukasa were madly in love, I never stopped being your guardian angel. There were so many times you came running to me with tears in your eyes and a wound in your heart after a fight with my best friend. I hugged you and told you everything will be alright. I told you that Tsukasa loved you no matter what. Then the incident came where Tsukasa had to go loose his memory and I had to watch you turn from a strong and confident girl, full of life into something no different from a wilting flower."
By now, tears were streaming down my face as I remembered how every time I ran into Rui's arms and dumped all my sorrows with him. Guilt filled me as I realized how I used him.
"But Tsukushi, I never complained once. Never. When you cried, I cried with you inside. When you hurt, I hurt with you inside. I fought the urge to hurt my very best friend who is closer than a brother to me for hurting you. I fought the urge to kiss your lips every time you sat next to me on the balcony watching the sun in silence."
Wait a minute, was Rui....
"When I came back from France, I was extremely hurt by Shizuka. I thought I would never love another again. But when I looked at you, as you cried, I knew my heart belonged to you. I realized then, I did love Shizuka. But it was because she was the one who brought me out from the world I was so used to and into the world we live in now. She was the one who taught me how accept people and friends into my life and also not to cry. But you taught me how to love and to laugh. You taught me what happiness was. I loved Shizuka as a sister and somewhat of a comfort blanket."
"Rui..."I called his name so softly I doubt he heard me. even if he did, he didn't turn around. Outside was raining heavily, as if the heavens was crying with me and for Rui.
"By then, it was too late. You were in love with my best friend. I didn't want Tsukasa and you to be miserable, so I swallowed my own feelings. I wanted you to be happy and I knew Tsukasa was probably the only person who could've given you that. For so many times, I wanted to be selfish, but I couldn't, because I saw that shine in your eyes every time you and Tsukasa were together."
This was the first time Rui had spoke so much or with so much emotion. Then it hit me, Rui loved me. Rui gave me up for my happiness.
"When Tsukasa lost his memory, I told myself, I would do everything in my power to make him remember you because I couldn't bare to see you hurt anymore. But when he told you how he felt about Shigeru, I just couldn't stand there and let you get hurt anymore. For so many times, I wanted to tell you how I felt Tsukushi, but I was afraid. I was so afraid that confessing would make me loose you."
I stood up and walked to Rui. I snaked my hands around his slim waist and placed my face against his back. "You don't have to say anymore Rui...I'm sorry...I'm sorry for not caring about how you felt..." I cried.
He turned around slowly, and hugged me tightly to his chest. "I love you Tsukushi...I always had..."
That was all it took to make me cry like a baby. I felt something wet on my head and at first I thought it was the rain but when I looked up, I saw Rui's face streaming with his own tears.
"Hanazawa Rui...I love you too..."I whispered, and he bent down, kissing my lips ever so tenderly and this time, I was sure I've died and gone to heaven.
The rain hasn't stopped for hours. Rui had fallen asleep beside me hours ago. I looked down at him and couldn't help my heart from skipping a beat. The kiss and confession seemed like a dream to me. Can this guy really love me? This guy who looks like a Greek God and seemed to take almost every girl's breathe away even without looking at them? This guy who showed no emotions and seemed so cold? This guy who stood beside me when I needed him?
The answer to all those question...YES. I wanted to jump up and scream with joy but tried to stop myself from doing that because I really didn't want to wake Rui up. After the kiss, he hugged me in his arms, both of us not saying a word and watching the rain fall. I sneaked a look at him once and saw a soft smile on his face. That was when I knew he was truly happy.
Stroking his hair out of his closed eyes gently, I bent down and kissed his forehead. Rui's eyes fluttered open and stared into mine momentarily before breaking into a gentle smile.
"Hi..."He said touching my cheeks.
"Hi yourself..."I didn't know why but I started to blush and looked away quickly.
Suddenly, I heard a weird growling sound and I looked at Rui who was now propped up on his elbows, looking slightly sheepish.
"Sorry...I'm just a little hungry..."He patted his tummy and it let out another growl. "Okay...I'm really hungry..."
I stood up and brushed my hair from my face with my fingers. "I'll go cook something...what would you like to eat?"
Rui shook his head and pulled himself to his feet before walking towards me. "Why don't we go out and eat today...my treat..."
"But...we have so much food here..." I protested but he placed a finger on my lips, silencing me.
"I want to celebrate..."
"Celebrate what?"
"Celebrate 'us'..." he replied and if I was red just now, I was redder now.
I nodded my head and he took my hands, leading me out of the room. Soon we were in his car and before I could say 'waiter', we were seated in a small but cozy restaurant being served by a friendly old lady.
"Ah...to be young and in love...how I missed those times..."She said wistfully, after placing our food in front of us.
"You seemed happy..." I told her while Rui attacked his food.
"Well...at this age...I shouldn't let old troubles bother me right? In life...you have to learn how to forgive and let go...then you'll fine true happiness."
"So aunty...I'm sure you found true happiness already right?" Rui asked swallowing his food.
She gave a soft sigh and a tinge of sadness appeared on her face. "Oh yes...and I'll never forget that time of my life...he was the best thing that happened to me...."
Before she could finish her sentence, a customer walked in, she left to attend to them but we stayed on, even after finishing our food. It wasn't until closing time that Aunty found time to talk to us again. Rui and I helped her shut her restaurant and we sat in the corner with Aunty, talking again with some cakes and coffee on the table.
She told us to call her Aunty Ikano and I could tell, she was glad to have us around to talk to. I was even more surprised when Rui joined in our conversation which he rarely did to strangers.
"Where is he now Aunty Ikano?" I asked and she sighed. She pushed her seat back and disappeared behind the counter only to reappear with a picture in her hands.
"He is in a land where he can be free..." she said softly.
The picture showed a couple in their early 20's clearly very much in love, hugging each other on a swing. I handed the picture to Rui and he stared at it for a long time.
"His name is Hikaru...as in the sun...and boy did his name suit him well. When he smiled, it was brighter than the sun itself and how he brought light into my life again...I met him in a weird manner." Aunty Ikano started her story, with a faraway look in her eyes, recalling her past.
"I had just been proposed by my boyfriend and didn't know what to do. He told me not to give him an answer yet, so I took the ring and placed it in my bag, before leaving his house. I guess I was lost in my own world and didn't hear the motorbike roaring towards me. I realized too late, and couldn't avoid it. But luckily, he swerved and I fell to the ground at the same time as he did. I crawled towards him, hoping that he was alright. Before I could reach him, he sat up and limped towards me."
Under the table, Rui took my hands in his and held it tightly. I looked at him but he was listening intently to Aunty Ikano's story but he squeezed my hand lightly, telling me that he knew I was looking. "My belongings had scattered on the ground and the first thing I saw was the empty ring box, throwing me into panic mode. I started to look around frantically when he suddenly spoke, asking me what I've lost. When I told him I've lost a diamond ring, he didn't hesitate and started to help me find it. I saw that his arm was bleeding badly and tried to stop him, but he just wouldn't listen. He was very stubborn. In the end, he found it and placed it in my hands before picking up his motorbike and ridding off without saying a word. I thought I would never see him again."
"Did you Aunty Ikano? Did you see him again?" I asked, leaning forward slightly.
Aunty Ikano smiled at me and nodded. "At that time, I was a university student and when I went to class, my best friend Kumiko ran up to me and told me that there was a new student in our class. I didn't bother much because my mind was too occupied with the sudden proposal and the accident."
Rui picked up the cup of coffee and sipped it slowly before leaning back against the chair. His hands still clutching mine, he tugged it lightly, pulling me to him. I leaned against him as he let go of my hand and circled it around my waist lovingly.
"I was reading a book when he walked in. It wasn't until Kumiko nudged me in my ribs did I notice he entered. There he stood, looking as gorgeous and strikingly dangerous. His piercing brown eyes, stared right at me before nodding slightly, acknowledging me. The lecturer asked him to take the empty seat next to mine which he did. In less than an hour, almost all the girls in the university were talking about him. I think he had formed his own fan club not even a month after enrolling in our university."
"He is very handsome..." I said, taking the picture from the table and looking at it again.
"He looks familiar..."Rui said so softly, only I could hear.
"Well, to cut a long story short, we became good friends and soon we fell in love. I left my boyfriend for him. I still remember the fight he got into with Hikaru. Both of them ended up with stitches in the hospital. In the end, my boyfriend told Hikaru that if he ever hurt me, he'll never let him see daylight again. What I didn't know was, Kumiko was in love with Hikaru as well."
"Wow..." I gushed out.
"One night, I didn't know why but I missed Hikaru a lot so I decided to take a cab to his place. Apparently, Kumiko chose to confess her undying love to him on that night as well. I hid behind the lamp post when I saw them both outside his house, sitting on the steps. Although I was too far to hear their conversation clearly, I saw her grab him by the neck and kissed him. All I could do was watch in horror and I felt my blood boil when I didn't see him push her away instantly."
"He kissed her back?" Rui asked.
Aunty Ikano shook her head. "No, he was too shocked at first but after when he realized what was going on, he pushed her away and saw me standing there. He tried to run after me, but I jumped into the first cab I saw. For days, he tried to contact me and explain things but I just wouldn't listen. In the end, it was Kumiko who had to explain everything to me."
"Did you forgive him?" Rui's eyes were wide with interest and I smiled secretly. It was rare to see Rui so interested in something.
"Of course I did! I married him!" Aunty Ikano exclaimed and we all laughed. "But we had to fight to do that. My parents objected strongly to him as well as his. Wherever we went, they manage to track us down and separate us. Sometimes, they manage to keep us apart for a day or two, sometimes months. But they could never make us give up on our love. One night I was really sick, because I refused to eat and was fading away fast. My parents gave in finally and talked to Hikaru's parents and they let us meet. I guess in the end, they gave in because they knew they couldn't tear us apart."
"My time with him was the most happiest of all...although short but it was filled with great memories...the road we choose wasn't the easiest off all. We had to overcome a lot of obstacles but it only made us realize how much we loved each other."
"Sometimes we need things to happen to remind us about love..." Rui said softly.
"Indeed we do...Hikaru passed away one fateful morning after we've been married for 2 years."
"Passed away?" I whispered, shocked.
"Yes...he was suffering from cancer...I was holding his hand when he took his last breathe. His last words to me was 'Thank you for loving me Ikano" but it was actually I should be the one thanking him. He taught me what true life really was...love was freedom..."
"I never found another who could replace him in my heart, that's why I never remarried. I opened this restaurant so I could always be in the place where we found happiness." Aunty Ikano wiped a stray tear and smiled at us.
"It's getting late...you kids better get home...this old lady is going to catch a few winks..." She stood up, and I helped her clear the table while Rui went to get the car.
"He loves you very much..."Aunty Ikano suddenly said to me. "I can see it in his eyes...and yours too."
She touched my hands and sighed softly. "Don't ever let the most important thing in your life go or you'll regret it. Love could be the hardest thing to find in life. Once you've found it, cherish it. You'll never know what will happen next."
"Tsukushi? Are you ready to leave?" Rui appeared at the door.
"I'll be there in a second..." I called out to him and he nodded, disappearing again.
"Thank you Aunty Ikano...you've made me realize a lot of things..." I hugged the old lady tight and she hugged me back.
"Now go...don't let this old hag take anymore of your time away from Rui..." She walked me to the door and waved us off.
"Come back anytime and keep this old lady company alright?" She told the both of us before we drove away.
In the car, I stared at Rui, all the way back to the house, trying to memorize every single feature on his face.
"What are you looking at?" He asked, taking his eyes off from the road for a second.
"Nothing..." I replied and he gave me a weird look.
"You know, Hikaru looks awfully familiar...I've seen his face somewhere...but I just can't remember..." Rui's handsome face twisted into a frown.
"Maybe he has a common look?" I said.
Rui shook his head. "No...I'm sure I've seen him somewhere..." he said more to himself than to me.
"Take your time...it'll come to you when you least expect it." I advised him and he shrugged.
"I guess..."he muttered, turning into the small road leading towards the house.