Kotchi wo Muite

The sun is shining, its rays bouncing off your hair making it seem like spun gold. The color of the sky seemed to be captured in your eyes. Your vibrant spirit is like a restless bird. That is how I see you.

But do you see me?

No, I do not think so. I am so weak and shy that I couldn't even approach you, reduced to staring from behind a wall in the park. I don't think I could walk three paces without stumbling when in front of you. I feel clumsy and disorganized; I lose myself when I'm with you.

You don't know me yet. We are acquaintances and I cherish the precious short moments we spent together. We've only exchanged a few words but those are enough although they contain no value for me.

I am more fascinated with your voice and the exuberant love for life that they reveal. They are music to my ears and they sing to me whenever I am lonely.

I sighed as I watched you laugh with your pink-haired teammate. How I could have loved to be beside you and laugh with you.

But it is not meant to be… I will always be watching from afar. I cannot summon enough courage to stand beside you without my knees shaking.

I am scared that if I tell you… you might go away. Even the prospect of confessing everything is filled with apprehension. I am so scared… but I want to face you with courage. Someday, when I do have enough courage to push me through, I will tell you.

All of our friends know about my plight. It is so obvious to them but you remain oblivious. I cry sometimes when I'm alone. It hurts. This bittersweet pain of having you so near but I cannot reach my hand to touch you. It hurts me so.

But I will not tell you directly. I'd rather suffer alone. I have no right to put you through my private pain.

Worse, you might even consider agreeing to me because of pity.

I do not want pity. I'd rather save some pride for myself.

I want you to care for me out of your own will, perhaps even love me. But do not do it out of pity… it will hurt both of us.

You know what; I've been told a thousand times that I should give up on you.

But I won't.

I have learned to love you, to cherish you even though the chance of it being returned is very small. It is okay with me. Love is something meant to be given away, even though it is not reciprocated. I have given you my heart and it is in your hands for keeping.

I wouldn't give up on hoping, waiting. I believe that you will realize it someday. Come two or three or even a thousand years but my eyes wouldn't waver and my feelings will remain as fresh as jasmines in the morning.

Look this way, I am here.

I am waiting for you.

But I would not hesitate to step back if I am blocking the path of your dreams. You want so much to become a Hokage. I will support you on your dreams and hopes. I believe in you.

Even though the whole world would someday desert you, I am here.

Just look this way, even a glance would suffice. You will see me.

I will wait for you, even though it takes forever.

Why?

I could just love anyone. Shino, Kiba, or even Sasuke… but my heart chose you. You and I are meant to be.

Naruto, please look this way.

Maybe then you will see…

… That I love you.

Kotchi wo Muite

Valentine gift to Secret7

Remember, I'm always here. You're my friend. Take care, always!

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