I don't own Love Hina. Love Hina belongs to Ken Akamatsu. The story though is a pigment of my weird imagination. I apologize in advance for all spelling and grammar mistakes.
The U Project: Identity
04
'There is something crawling under my skin, an impending doom. Can someone explain why there's a dead body beside me?'
'They say women are liars, merciless and beguiling. I say, keep them close to you. If you're lucky, you won't feel the knife driving into your heart while sleeping,'
---
It was raining. The night sky shrouded with dark clouds. Flashes of light. Thunder rattling through. The windows were open. A tall shadow by the corner.
She turned. Felt the other side empty. Opened her eyes and found him standing by the window. Naked. The occasional lightning silhouetting his shadow on the floor. And for a moment, she stayed in bed. Watched him. Admired his form.
They've been together for almost six months now ever since she met him on the operations briefing. They call him Keyu. One of the few survivors of the Field. His background was impressive and the bureau was more than happy to enlist his help. A quiet, secluded man. His team mates have passed rumours of his uncanny skills, his origins unknown, mysterious, deadly. Aside for a written record of the Field, nothing else could assert which agency he originated from. A ghost from a strange past. Drifting on borrowed time.
The truth, she sometimes finds herself fearing him. She could see it in his eyes – the madness, a merciless killer trapped within.
"Sorry to wake you," he said without turning, focused on the window.
But somehow she could see something else in him, a gentle, kind side of him, hidden and buried.
"It's one hell of a storm," he continued.
She walked towards him. Blanket around her shoulders. Shivered. The night getting colder.
"It could get worse tomorrow," she said, joining him.
"Maybe,"
"We have to reschedule,"
A pause.
"No,"
"Chance of success is minimal; weather is something we can't control,"
"True, but so are one time opportunities, we only have one shot at this and if we miss this chance, we'll loose it forever,"
Silence.
"I'm planning to quit after this,"
Surprised. This was something totally unexpected. Though she suspected. She has ignored it for a long time. Shivered. Storm raged through.
"They'll kill you," she said. Concerned more of the implications of such action to the team rather than his safety.
"I'm aware of that,"
Silence.
"You're thinking about them again, are you?"
That one affected him. A reaction she could not hold in. She felt sorry that she said it. He recovered quickly. Dark shadow over his face.
"You murmur in your sleep you know,"
Silence.
"I just hope that you get them out before they find them,"
"If you are ordered to kill me… Will you?" he asked, voice cold and ruthless.
A pause.
"Yes,"
"You're merciful. I don't deserve that,"
"I don't deserve you,"
---
"Madam would you like to have more wine?" the stewardess smiled. A bottle on her hand, waiting.
"Yes, please," She turned. Brown short hair, office crisp clothes, short skirt, clear round glasses, perfect form, beguiling smile, "Excuse me, but how far are we from Japan?"
"We'll land in two hours," glass filled, smiled then the stewardess left.
She sipped. Turned towards the window and watched white clouds pass by.
Yes Keyu. I will kill you. An order is an order. Nobody else knows of your possible whereabouts but me, nobody else knows that you may still be alive. You can't run forever. If you have to die, you'll have to die by my hands.
---
"Er?"
"Yep! That's yours Keitaro! I hope you learn how to use it!" Seta said with a silly proud smile plastered on his face.
"Er? What is this thing?" Keitaro moved closer to the table.
On the table was a small contraption. Cables littered the top, small batteries, a box and plastic wrappers. An instruction manual was laid on the chair close to Keitaro. The girls were busy preparing lunch. Haruka, Shinobu and Mutsumi were happily talking at the kitchen, sounds of plates and pots. Motoko and Kitsune were outside doing their routine exercise walk around the Hinata Apartments. Naru was busy cleaning her room upstairs. Su, Amalla and Sara were on the corner of the lounge room chatting, tossing a dizzy Tama from one pair of hands to another. It has been five days since Keitaro's return. And Hinata Apartments was alive.
"That's a mobile phone with GPS system attached to it! I know it's a bit bulky, but hey! These babies are impressive! I use it whenever Haruka and I are on tunnel excavations! Sara has one too! And these lots are made by leading manufacturers in Germany, very tough, very reliable! The best part is – I GOT IT FOR FREE! The company is sponsoring my research! HAHAHAHAHA!"
"Is that so?" Keitaro inspected the small phone with a bulky back like a small upended turtle.
Seta bent over, suddenly turned serious, voice firm and calm, eyes boring into Keitaro's, "This way we can easily track you down, no matter where you go,"
Keitaro looked up. Felt that familiar pang of guilt in his heart. He could only imagine what Seta went through during his absence. Although he never said anything nor gave any hint, he deflected answering the question. Keitaro disappeared. Keitaro could not remember. That's all there was to it. Although everybody was apprehensive, they tried their best to ignore it. Never again, I promise.
"LUNCH IS READY!"
It was turning to be a perfect day. Just how it used to be.
"A marvellous lunch Shinobu!" Seta commented, a content look on his face, "I wish I had this quality of food everyday rather than that disgusting…,"
Haruka's eyebrow twitched, "Seta, if you say more I'll have to send you back to Amazon the painful way,"
"Er,"
"Thank you so much Seta-san, it's nothing really, I learned so much during my assistant cook job at Tokyo University,"
"Oh yeah, I remember that. You took a part time job there before, didn't you Shinobu?" Motoko said while finishing her plate.
"Well, it's quite an experience really," Shinobu said reddening under everybody's gaze.
You have to go through all that so you can survive. So you can keep the Hinata Apartments on its feet. Shinobu… how can I ever make it up to you? Keitaro fixed his eyes on his plate. Unable to look at Shinobu.
"By the way! I heard that you called Tsuruko last night, Motoko, is that right?" Kitsune piped in.
Motoko turned red, "Er, Kitsune, I think that's what they call eavesdropping,"
"What droppings?"
"Never mind, I just asked my big sister to bring me something, she's been meaning to visit Hinata anyway, since… Keitaro's return,"
"Oh. Some more clothes I guess?" Kitsune grinned.
Motoko turned redder, "Er,"
"It's okay Motoko. I also called my mom. My sister Mei will be coming too to bring me bag of clothes," Naru said with eyes closed, concentrating on her soup.
"Oh. Does that mean, you lot gonna come back and live here at the Hinata Apartments?"
"Yes we are. We can't let Shinobu manage the place alone. And besides… our manager has returned,"
Keitaro looked up.
"That's right. I have decided to stay here too," Su added, her smile genuine. Her first for a long time. Amalla was glad to see that smile again.
"Yes. I have already ordered the pilot to return to the kingdom of Molmol and bring back clothes and other necessities," Amalla said.
"Yep! I asked them to bring some of my inventions too!"
"But Su… how about your job there?" Shinobu asked.
"It's alright. She has done more than enough actually. Here is where she belongs… like how it used to be," Amalla bowed and turned to Keitaro, "She'll find happiness here,"
"Ara, Ara, I should have brought clothes too," Mutsumi smiled.
"Mutsumi! Are you telling us that all you brought with you are watermelons?"
"Ara, Ara, I believe that's right!"
"Not again Mutsumi!"
"Uhm," Keitaro started.
Everybody became silent. Turned and waited. Anticipation on their eyes.
"Uhm. I just like to say. Thank you. I appreciate what you've done for me. And what you're doing for me…," It was getting difficult. The air seemed heavier. The attention was choking Keitaro. They've done so much for me, "I… I'd like to invite everyone to a dinner,"
Silence.
"Er, Keitaro… what are you trying to say?" Naru broke the loud silence in the room.
"Hmm. Did I just hear you say you wanted us to go to a dinner with you?" Kitsune added.
"Er, but where Keitaro?" Motoko was surprised as well. She did not expect something like this from Keitaro. Maybe she did but not after five days of his traumatic arrival. His healing so quickly... just like before.
"Uhm. There is a nice seafood restaurant somewhere near the mall… I think they call it…,"
"Oh. You mean the Ocean's Best restaurant?" Kitsune brightened.
"Uhm. I think that's the one,"
"Whoa! Are you sure? That's a very posh restaurant… five-star indeed! You have to book in advance to get in and you have to be a member too!"
"Well, I've already inquired this morning and I've already made reservations for all of us, so I just hope everybody will come,"
"Wow Keitaro! This is something, I've always dreamed of dining there," Naru glowed at the invitation.
"Sempai! Thank you so much, you're very kind," Shinobu bowed.
"I never thought I'd get a chance to get in there in my lifetime. I guess I can't pass this opportunity," Motoko agreed.
"Okay you lot! You have to remember one thing! You have to wear formal dress, I mean, we might bump into an actress or famous band in there!" Kitsune could not hide her excitement.
"Ara, Ara, I guess I have to borrow some nice clothes,"
"Er, you better borrow some from me then, I wouldn't want you to wear something from Haruka's," Kitsune said with a frown.
"What's that suppose to mean?"
---
Wow. A dinner at the Ocean's Best restaurant. I've seen the place and Kitsune's right, it's a high class restaurant, I wonder how Sempai managed to get reservations? Doesn't matter, he did what he could… Shinobu blushed, he hasn't changed.
"Shinobu?"
Shinobu was surprised. She was too busy washing the dishes that she failed to notice Keitaro standing beside her.
"Se… Sempai," Blushing furiously Shinobu bowed, forgot to wipe her hands and so the suds dripped on the floor.
Keitaro smiled. Calmly reached for a hand towel and started wiping the floor. Shinobu was too surprised to say anything. She just stood there and watched him clean the floor. And when he reached for her hands so he can wipe them dry, Shinobu managed to snap out of her reverie.
"So sorry sempai, I didn't mean to… I was just surprised that's all and that…,"
"It's okay Shinobu. I can see that nothing has changed. You're still doing the dishes just like before,"
"It's nothing really, and besides Motoko-sempai and Mutsumi-sempai helped me clean the table,"
"Well, let me help you wash the dishes. Atleast this way we can finish quicker. You should be preparing for tonight you know, the others are busy trying their clothes on,"
"It's okay sempai, there's still plenty of time,"
"Well, not for you. I've been meaning to ask you if you could come with me to the mall after this,"
"Huh? Er, what are we going to do sempai? I mean, is it something important?"
"Well. Just a surprise for you,"
"Huh?"
Shinobu never recovered from the surprise. Standing inside the famous Designer Wear shop, an hour after leaving Hinata Apartments with Keitaro, she couldn't believe that her sempai was actually buying her a dress. And it's not just a dress; it's the dress she's been dreaming of having for a long time.
How did you know that this is what I want sempai? Shinobu felt near tears. She never thought she'd have such beautiful expensive dress. She felt unreal, her world seemed in a haze, a dream, and if it is, she wouldn't want to wake up.
"This… is… too… much… sempai," Shinobu whispered. Unable to contain her own astonishment.
Keitaro presented the box. The size was perfect when she wore it the first time. Now she can have it for real. "It's okay Shinobu. You worked so hard to keep the Hinata Apartments alive… this is the least I can do. You've been through the toughest time… I guess harder than any of us… yet you managed… you deserve more Shinobu… you really do,"
Reaching for the box, Shinobu hugged it and shook. Her eyes tearing. "Thank you sempai," Wiping her eyes gingerly, Keitaro handed her a handkerchief, "I'm sorry sempai…,"
Keitaro suddenly hugged her. The box between them, but his hands managed to go around her petite waist, "I'm so sorry Shinobu for leaving you like that. I promise you… I'll never leave you again,"
And that's all Shinobu needed to hear.
---
"My goodness, you weren't kidding Kitsune when you said that Ocean's Best is a five-star restaurant," Mutsumi said with wide eye wonder.
And it was indeed a very grandiose establishment. Standing four floors high with clear thick glasses as windows around its oval shape. Silver and gold chandeliers crowned the middle. The restaurant sparkles with beauty and extravagance. It was prestigiously elegant. European designs and elaborate paintings were hanging on the walls. Stylish furniture riddled the waiting area. Classy and fashionable.
"Oooooh! This is something!" Motoko was flabbergasted. She did not expect it to be this – lavish. Her long black backless dress, hair laid down glittered the night.
"Keep it cool fellas," Kitsune whispered, trying her best to look conspicuous, her short light skirt, strapless top showing off her immaculate shoulders and bosom.
"You look divine on that dress Shinobu!" Naru stared in amazement at Shinobu's appearance.
"Do you think so Naru-sempai?" Blushing nervously, Shinobu let her eyes wonder around. She was really overtaken by the expansive beauty of the restaurant.
"Wow. I never thought I'd ever get a chance to get in here," Haruka was looking around with impressed look on her face. Her long dress trailing behind.
"I guess we're pretty lucky to be here tonight, coz I thought I saw U2 band members on the second floor," Seta said with a neutral face. Wearing his black suit and white tie.
"Really, did you really saw them dad?" Sara for the first time was behaving as composedly as possible.
"This is indeed a very fine establishment," Amalla commented coolly.
"Almost the same as the Banquet area of the palace," Su said with a striking smile.
Keitaro took all of this in, his right hand inside his pocket, wearing his usual white suit, black pants and turtle neck button long sleeves inside. He watched them look around in wonder. He watched them overtaken by the beauty of it all. This was something he had missed the most. To be here with them, to share a memorable night with them. This is the least I can do for all of you, Keitaro smiled. His heart racing with eagerness. He wasn't impressed nor felt anything on the restaurant. As elusive as to successfully get a reservation, he somehow had the feeling that he's been here before. Countless times.
"This way sir," the maître d' said.
The waiter led them to the top floor. Every now and then the group would glimpse a personality among those who were dining, celebrities and renowned people. And on the corner of the wide area was a round table with a small sign – Urashima and friends – written on it.
The top floor was more elaborate than any other floors. A big sparkling golden chandelier in the middle, white soft lights on the surrounding walls, soft music, a band playing. The middle area was a space, with silver flooring and intricate lighting. A dance floor.
When everybody was settled properly on their seats, the band started playing jazz music, then the entrée was delicately served.
"Auu! I feel so nervous," Shinobu started. She couldn't hold the smaller spoon properly.
"Aw! It's okay Shinobu, don't feel nervous, besides, you look gorgeous on that outfit of yours," Kitsune smiled.
"Sorry, it's just that I've never been to this kind of place before. And I think the woman sitting on the next table is the famous actress…,"
"Really?" Kitsune quickly turned, her eyes open, "Oh yeah! You're right Shinobu!"
"Shinobu. Don't worry. Just be yourself, everything will be fine," Motoko said, her eyes closed, calmly sipping her soup.
"I could really use a smoke right now," Haruka piped in.
"I think there is a smoking area somewhere in the balcony," Seta said, having seen the sign on their way to the table.
"This is really something Kei-kun… it's very kind of you to take us all here," Mutsumi said bowing slightly towards Keitaro.
"It's nothing really. Just enjoy the night… everyone,"
The main meal was fantastic. Tender lobster meats were served with fragrant sauce. Side dish vegetables were aromatic and fresh. Smaller sets of caviars were also served and they were concluded with finely prepared desserts.
A few moments later, the band started performing romantic tunes, then one by one, the diners stood in pairs, dancing serenely in the middle.
"Well, the night's not going to get any younger," Seta stood with vigour, bowed ceremoniously then offered a hand to Haruka, "Will the kind lady dance with me tonight?"
Haruka smiled, "Certainly, dear kind sir," She stood and they disappeared into the dance floor.
Keitaro watched the two leave the table. His hands on his chin, felt happiness he had not felt for a long time. I miss all of you… all of these. Then suddenly he felt something heavy in the air, looking around he found the girls staring at him.
Er! I never thought about this, I just realised that I'm the only guy left and they're all here waiting? Who should I pick first?
"Come on, Sara!" Su started suddenly dragging Sara along with her and joined Haruka and Seta.
Okay… calm down. I must stay focused --- now who should I pick first?
Then without another thought Keitaro held the hand of the nearest girl. Motoko was astounded.
"Er?" Motoko could not hide her embarrassment. The soft light only piqued her reddening colour.
"Uhm. I… I would like to ask you for a dance,"
"Sempai?" Shinobu started. Her eyes full of hope and enthusiasm.
Keitaro turned and smiled to all of them, "Don't worry, I'll be back in a few minutes, I will dance all of you… now Motoko, shall we?"
Motoko let herself be led on to the dance floor. Her world swinging by around her. She felt joy and bliss. And as soon as Keitaro's arms went around her waist she felt spasm of mixed excitement and fear. Looking into his eyes, she was lost. She felt content. Her heart racing with absolute pleasure. They swayed around the floor, into the mood of the romantic soothing melody.
He has grown taller. He's as tall as I am now. His arms felt – strong. His slim yet strong, my dear prince... Motoko let her head fall into his shoulders, didn't mind the stares of others, they look like lovers in the dark. Hearts close to one another, beating the same rhythm. I don't care what they say… I'm so sorry Naru, then out of the blue she whispered, "I love you…,"
Keitaro froze.
Something felt wrong. For some reason, Motoko expected something different. But she felt something's amiss. Looking up, she saw Keitaro staring out in space, his eyes focused on something – someone behind her. Then she turned and found another face staring directly at them a few feet away – surprised, horrified and absolute astonishment look etched the stranger's facade.
Then the stranger screamed into the harmony of the music, "My God! You're supposed to be dead!"
But Keitaro's eyes were looking at something else. His eyes were focused beyond the stranger's figure. The face means nothing to him or his words. He felt danger slithering in the air. Then he heard what he fears the most in a crowded area like this. Guns. Four nondescript men in a column, strategically positioned, small holes like darts protrudes from within their long coats.
Keitaro quickly dropped onto the floor, dragging a shocked and confused Motoko with him.
They open fired.
Sorry about this guys and gals. This chapter is basically a filler to keep the story moving forward. I know it's boring and all, so I hope you forgive me. The next ones will be action-packed, I have already closed some past stuffs for the girls… this time its all about Keitaro's past. It will hit the Hinata like a tidal wave. Anyway… thank you so much for all those who never tire of reading this small fic of mine. I appreciate all of the support! See ya next chapter!
Cheers!
nivremous