Chapter 7: Yumiko's Heart

Miura Yumiko

Whoever thinks 'silence is golden' is probably a total loser. It helps no one relax when you suddenly shut up and that's like, the total opposite of what you're about. Especially when you're a renowned clown like Tobe, the prince of stupid yip yap. I mean, who ever thought this guy of all people had an off switch?!

"We're not in the trains anymore Tobe, talk," I demanded.

Tobe visibly flinched before finally looking away from the river beside us to face me with a flustered look.

"Um, sorry I just don't have much to say right now, y'know? Don't wanna give people the wrong idea either again by getting too close."

Oh, for the love of…

"Wrong idea? What do you mean by that?" I asked, knowing exactly what he meant, but I wanted him to say it to my face instead of beating around the bush.

"Um, like, the reason you yelled at Ooka and Yamato earlier for… teasing about us walking together alone today," Tobe muttered while scratching his neck.

Don't remind me. I still wanted to kick their shins for running their mouths off when our real goal was to convince our friend to come back to school.

"Yeah, well, they were wrong and I set them straight. So what's the big deal?" I asked again.

"N-Nothing Yumiko, it's just, uh…" Tobe looked away from me again, but I could see his cheeks and ears were now beet red.

I had enough of this. I stopped walking and coughed for his attention. Tobe turned after realizing I wasn't by his side anymore. He was looking down but I quickly corrected that by beckoning him to look at my eyes. The second he did, I stepped forward with my hands on my hips.

"Look, I'm just gonna ask you this straight—do you like me?" I asked him outright, as if daring Tobe to say anything but the truth. My patience's run out and I didn't want to face any lies or see him sidestep the question.

Honestly though, it was hypocritical of me to demand him to be truthful because I was holding up a phony bravado. Inside, I felt very nervous that this goof might actually feel something romantic for me when I wanted nothing of the sort. I mean, we were doing so well again as a group of friends and, sorry Tobe, you liking me would seriously kill the mood. Even Hina was starting to talk more kindly about you and now this was gonna happen? I clenched my sweaty palms as I prepared for the worst. His red face was a really bad sign—

"No! I seriously don't! Mean girls are a no-go for me, I swear!" Tobe yelled out, startling me and even people across the street from us.

...

Well okay, I can tell he's certainly not lying with the way he just spazzed out like a little kid. I sighed with relief, but still kept my brows furrowed at him as we walked.

"Okay that 'mean' comment aside, what gives? You know I don't like being ignored, especially by my own friends."

"Yeah, well, are we really friends though?" He wondered aloud.

Excuse me?

"What? Of course we are!" I yelled in his ear, a bit hurt that he would ask such a thing. Out of a bad habit, I moved to pinch his arm before he batted my hand away.

"Yeah well, those were some real mean words you used to describe me earlier, all over a dumb misunderstanding," Tobe said assertively.

"No, I—"

"In front of everyone too! Even… Ebina-san. Damn it, you really embarrassed the hell out of me there, Yu—Miura," Tobe finished roughly, quickly stepping ahead of me.

W-What was that about? I was surprised he felt so strongly about this, even going back to calling me by my family name in a moment's notice. I really didn't think much about what I said at all. It was all par for course really... but maybe I was pretty harsh to this guy—my friend—and I just didn't realize it. Made him feel small in front of the girl he still totally liked…

Shit. Yumiko you stupid bitch, why did you do that? This ugly aggressiveness was something I always used to get people to back off, only less so with my friends. Ah, but I don't want to be that kind of bitchy friend in our group anymore. I should be more considerate of Tobe and everyone else I must have frightened earlier with my temper tantrum.

I'll start with the goof walking in front of me. I reached out to his sleeve and tugged at it as gently as possible. We both stopped right next to a tree and he was nice enough to wait patiently as I gathered my words.

"...Fine, you're right. I'm sorry, okay? I don't know what came over me or whatever. I guess everyone's teasing faces just made me feel really boxed in so I lashed out, but yeah, I went overboard. I'll... say the same to everyone else tomorrow, so don't worry," I finished softly, trying my best to reassure him.

Tobe lit up like a Christmas tree, showing no shame that my sincere words reached him and then some. I suppose hearing that I'd tell Hina 'I take back everything I said' made him feel more than content.

I started walking forward again and he matched my steps, still looking at me with a toothy grin.

"Cool, we're cool. I'm sorry too. Thanks Miura—"

"Quit it. You know my friends can call me by my name," I reminded him like I was telling him to mind his manners or something.

Then the idiot went ahead and cheerfully suggested something impossible.

"Heh, then you should call me 'Kakeru' too!"

Ah, boys like you are so naive. I skipped a few steps ahead and smirked back at him.

"You wish!"

"Ah, why not? Oh that's right. Yumiko only calls Hayato-kun by his first name," Tobe coyly pointed out, a Cheshire smile on his face.

"Shut it! It's not like that means anything or whatever," I said, not convincing him at all.

Damn bastard laughed right in my face. It was the truth, but...

"Right. Well, I'm sure he'll be happy to see you again if his mother's okay with us coming in, that is," Tobe pointed out.

Hayato's mother? I had to admit, she's certainly someone I've always been curious about, always assuming she was some admirable, prim, and proper type.

"Ah, you mentioned meeting her, um, last week? What kind of person is she?" I asked, not bothering to hide my curiosity.

"Nice and pretty formal, I guess. I didn't really get to talk to her much or go inside, since I was kinda caught up on how young she looked and stuff," Tobe sheepishly admitted.

You're kidding me. You were distracted by how she looked 'young and stuff'? Tobe, you…

"Gross! You better keep your eyes off of her! Me coming along doesn't give you a pass to do whatever you want!" I scolded the hell out of him.

Seriously Tobe, why do you make it so easy for even your friends to look at you this way?! Unbelievable! So, what, our moms were fair game to these stupid boys too? That's sick! I'm literally going to gag right here on the sidewalk! Ew—don't even look at me, Tobe!

"I-I know that! And don't worry I only like you-know-who, it's just..." he pathetically trailed off again, seemingly blushing at the thought of Hayato's mother.

Eugh. I swear, moments like this makes me wish you'd just leave Hina alone, you... creep. Even she's never said anything about mine or Yui's dad! That's a line I'd never let her cross anyway. Tobe gave up trying to save face. Good thing too, because I wasn't going to buy any of his crap this time.

"Bah! You'll see what I mean, Yumiko," he had the nerve to say to me in frustration, focusing back on the streets ahead of us.

Tch! The only thing I want to see today is how Hayato's been holding up after all this time. We have to let him know we're all together again and by his side, if he even cares anymore. Ogling at his mother's only going to get you kicked out!

Not long after, we reached the far end of a… very well-off residential community. Many large, traditional-looking houses with yards that were securely gated. Tobe led the way to what was the biggest, walled off house of them all. Well secure enough so that all the expected vandalism was limited to the outside white wall surrounding the house.

A lot of terrible words and letters were plastered on, demanding that Hayato's family leave and rot in hell. My stomach sank at seeing the amount of vitriol abuse sent his way by people he's probably never met. It was just too shocking that I couldn't keep my eyes on it any longer. Tobe himself drew a long sigh.

At least the voice box appeared undamaged, the raging mob afforded them at least that. For Hayato and his mother to bear the brunt of it all… I can't imagine how frightening it's been without any support. Especially when the fault all lies on the man who was supposed to take care of them both, and now he's in jail awaiting trial.

"Neh, Yumiko, let me speak to it."

"O-Okay."

Tobe seemed to have recovered quickly from the horrid sight while I hesitated to do anything. Of course, it's because he's already seen all this last week by himself.

I stepped aside for Tobe to ring the bell. A few moments later we heard a tired, cold feminine voice speak.

"What is your business?"

Was that?

"Good afternoon, Hayama-san. It's Tobe Kakeru from last week, here with Hayato-kun's homework again," Tobe responded in such a respectful tone I never thought he was capable of. I mean, did he really just? Yeah, I was totally weirded out.

"Ah, Tobe-kun. I didn't expect to see you again until the end of the week. Very well, please wait a moment." the female the voice had said so in a softer tone, as if Tobe was some kind of good boy who warranted a decent level of trust. I suppose Tobe wasn't as much of a creep towards Hayato's mother last time he was here, or at least she thought so.

The gate unlocked within a minute, allowing us to step inside to what turned out to be a breathtakingly beautiful yard. Professionally trimmed hedges, a blooming cherry sakura tree, and even a small pond overlooked by a Sozu fountain! I hardly had any time to take it all in when, well, a literal goddess stepped out into the wooden engawa veranda and perfected the scenery.

And wow, what a gorgeous scenery it was.

...Quit nudging at me, Tobe. I get it already—you were absolutely right. Silky pale skin, a midnight-colored bob, and violet blue eyes?! Hayama-san turned out to be amazingly beautiful and even blessed with curvy assets most girls would kill for. She was clearly a petite bombshell, even while dressed up in that soft-looking, sunny yellow yukata, wrapped like a present by a sky blue sash.

I was in awe and quickly followed Tobe's lead, bowing at this queen-like figure with the utmost respect. Hayama-san returned our greetings with a small bow of her own, smiling at us with her full pink lips when she rose. Her voice was unsurprisingly angelic.

"Tobe-kun, thank you for stopping by again for Hayato's sake. Ah, and who's this?"

…

Ah, she was talking about me! Quit ogling and get it together, Yumiko!

I took a nervous step forward and instinctively bowed at her again like an idiot.

"H-Hello, Hayama-san. My name is Miura Yumiko and I'm also a friend of your son, H-Hayato," I sputtered out her son's name at the end

I swear, like, I couldn't have sounded or looked more like a total loser. Damn it, I should have at least redone my makeup or fixed my hair on the way over here. I probably look like a mess!

Hayama-san drew a sleeve against the lower part of her face, giggling when I looked up at her again.

"I see, what a lovely surprise! I am Hayama Saya, thank you both for looking out for my Hayato and coming all this way."

"O-Of course! We just hope Hayato-kun is doing good," Tobe said as he stepped beside me, holding out the folder containing this week's homework to Hayama-san.

"Well, he's still doing the best he can," she replied softly, taking the folder from Tobe. "Actually, would you two like to come in for some tea?"

We both audibly gasped at how she easily invited us in, the poor woman tilting her head in confusion. A cool breeze blew past her, allowing us to take in her pleasant lavender scent while she shivered. Tobe became completely out of it while I was the first one to recover and addressed Hayama-san. Well it's more appropriate to say I tried.

"W-We don't want to inconvenience you…" I said quietly, nervously rubbing my arm. She shook her head at me and held a palm to the open front door, still maintaining that bright smile.

"Not at all, it's been a while since we've had pleasant visitors. Please, come in where it's warm," she happily insisted.

Neither Tobe nor I looked like we wanted to refuse her request, so we totally gave in. We followed her inside the large house, stepping out of our shoes at the genkan and into the white slippers provided for guests while Hayama-san slipped out of her sandals. Our winter coats were left in a nearby rack.

The interior pretty much matched the exterior traditional design, with tatami mat flooring and sliding doors. A few personal touches were here and there, a lot of flowery decor, and photos of the small Hayama family and associates. I tried hard not to stare at it all and minded my manners, gazing at my manicure like it was the most interesting thing in the world.

"Sorry for the intrusion," Tobe and I said simultaneously as Hayama-san led us into a sitting room with a modestly sized coffee table and pink, fluffy throw pillow seatings.

"Please, make yourselves comfortable," Hayama-san softly encouraged us. "I've already had some barley tea prepared, so I hope that's fine. I'll be back with the pot in a minute and fetch Hayato along the way."

"O-Oh, you don't have to make him, Hayama-san. We don't want to bother Hayato at all, especially since we came unannounced," I attempted to persuade her. But Hayama-san shook her head at my words.

"Nonsense. It would be rude of my son to keep failing to give his thanks to his friends," she said so matter-of-factly.

Well, the truth is we did want to see him and backing out now would be very stupid of me.

I nodded at her, "If you're certain, then…"

"Yes I am, thank you. My... what a beautiful and thoughtful girl you are!" Hayama-san said cheerfully, beaming as she beckoned at me like I was a little child. "It's not everyday a nice young lady comes in worried over my Hayato. Do not fret, Miura-chan, I'm happy to reunite you all."

Ah, Hayama-san was a true angel. My face was ablaze over her kind words as she left us both in the room to gather the tea and her son. After a good moment, I heard a bit of snickering next to me, which brought me out of my dazed stupor. In response, I frogged Tobe in the shoulder for being so obnoxious.

"Ow! You didn't have to hit me that hard!" Tobe cried out, little tears in his eyes.

"Shush, you're lucky I held back!" I frowned at him.

I hate that he was totally right about the way Hayama-san… how she basically made you trip over yourself just by looking your way. I mulled over what just happened, not even bothering to hide my conflicted look from Tobe.

"Dunno what's the big deal. She likes you and you totally like that she likes you, so this means you're a step closer to Hayato-kun, right?" he reasoned, as if it gave me any comfort.

His words would have been more effective if he didn't snicker again right after. I gave him a dry look this time before turning away. Tobe really couldn't have been more off. I do admit it was nice to give a decent first impression to Hayama-san—it was something I've fantasized ever since I met Hayato. Even daydreamed doing sappy stuff, like her and I cooking over a hot stove, later enjoying the dinner we prepared with Hayato sitting by my side.

And yet, although the idea still sounds lovely, I wasn't feeling that same giddiness as before. No butterflies in my stomach or even a sense of victory over finally crossing into Hayato's personal life. I was probably the first girl to visit Hayato in his home in a long time, actually meeting his mother, and yet, there really was nothing to it. Honestly, it felt no different than when I met Hina's and Yui's mother's, who were kind, gentle, bombshells themselves.

I know myself and I can say my nervousness was due to Hayama-san's beauty and the usual awkwardness anyone would feel when first meeting the mother of a friend. Now that I've gone over the line and see none of this has to do with the boy himself, I wonder if this meant that my feelings for Hayato have really…

Have they ever... I couldn't say for sure anymore.

My thoughts were interrupted by the sliding door opening again. In came Hayama-san with a silver tray, holding three servings of barley tea and oval cookies. Tobe and I managed to give her thanks, right before we were completely blindsided by the person who followed in behind her a few seconds later.

"Hayato-kun!"

"Hayato…"

Tobe and I clamored, anxiously sitting up straight at the sight of him. A dear friend who's always been the heart and glue of our group, a natural, popular leader who still kept everyone at arm's length, the only son of an S-tier white collar criminal, all wrapped up in this handsome, blue-eyed blonde boy.

Kami-sama, don't just stand there, Hayato. Please, say something.

"...Tobe, Yumiko, it's nice to see you two again," Hayato voice rasped, taking a seat across from me.

"...Yeah, you too bro," Tobe got out somehow.

I wanted to say hello right away but was too struck by his current state, after taking a second look. Hayato was wearing wrinkled sweats, matching too well with his haggard appearance. He looked exhausted, as if he just got out of bed, with his hair all over the place and dark bags under his eyes.

There was so much I wanted to ask and say to him, but one thing that stuck out to me is realizing that he never vanished into thin air. He just ignored all of our messages this whole time and I felt somewhat like a stranger to him now. So I couldn't help but throw out the first thing that came to mind—what came from my heart.

"We… I really missed you, Hayato," I croaked out.

The atmosphere came to a standstill. He didn't react to that, except looking indifferent. I know I said too much too quickly even though it was the truth. At the same time, I felt ashamed for being so selfish and wanting more out of Hayato.

That said, this wasn't an unfamiliar scenario, truth be told. I can't count how many times someone has said something honest and real in our group and the following silence or diversion is led by, well, Hayato.

"Hayato, I'll leave you and your friends to have some time to catch up. Use whatever means to get them home safely after. Tobe-kun, Miura-chan, thank you for looking after my son. I couldn't be more grateful," Hayama-san piped up, turning towards Tobe and I.

I was grateful for Hayato's mother being the one to break the awkward silence. We gave her our thanks again. She smiled and bowed at us goodbye before gracefully leaving the room. I stayed silent after, for fear of spouting emotional crap and getting ignored again.

"Please, help yourselves to my mother's tea and biscuits," Hayato pensively said after she closed the door.

"Don't mind if I do," Tobe responded, his hands shaking as he took a couple of cookies from the plate. Unlike him, I steeled myself. A sip of the tea and small bite of the one cookie I retrieved for myself.

"It's good, please tell her that for us later, Hayato," I commented.

I saw him nod from the corner of my eye, "I'm sure that'll please her."

"...So, Hayato-kun, I hope we're not intruding on you bro. Sorry, but we did miss ya, after all…" Tobe trailed off, glancing in my direction. I did feel a bit grateful that he backed up my words, as embarrassing as they were.

"Yes, I didn't mean to ignore Yumiko's words," Hayato started, clearing up his throat. "I was just still processing you two actually being here, that's all. Before last week, the group was…"

We had broken off weeks ago, taking sides based on gender like little snot-nosed kids on the playground. Only you wanted us to be mature and move on as a group, though in the manner of just ignoring Tobe and Hina's issue.

"Well, Tobe and I just got worried over everyone walking home alone right now, so we patched things up. Of course, we were also worried about you too," I explained, proud to reveal to him that our bond wasn't fragile after all.

Hayato gave us a wistful smile, speaking in a low voice, "I see that now. That's quite something to hear."

You'd have already known about it if you took the time to go through all of our messages. I almost wanted to point that out but thought better of it.

"Yeah, but the group ain't the same without ya, Hayato-bro!" Tobe cheered on with a snap of his fingers.

"Thanks for that," Hayato nodded, taking a noticeable deep breath and looking between us with his tilted head. "So, um… if you don't mind me asking, are you both an item now—"

Oh for fuck's sake!

"Hah?! No, stupid!" I retorted, tersely placing my teacup onto the saucer.

...Wait! I didn't mean to—

"Gah, Hayato-kun! Don't go teasing us too, you already know who's my ideal type!" Tobe squealed, cookie crumbs spilling out of his mouth onto his torso. Gross.

Hayato was totally gobsmacked and I could say the same for myself about what Tobe and I just squawked out. I've never called Hayato 'stupid' before and I'm pretty sure this is only the second time I've ever scolded him. Also, for Tobe to be so upfront and nonchalant about his heart for Hina—this was all kinda new to us. Treating Hayato, as if we're now like, more familiar with him?

What happened next was surprising. That worn face of his lit up as he chuckled. He scratched his cheek as he looked up at us.

"Sorry for jumping to conclusions and by 'too', you mean everyone else thought the same earlier, I guess? Ah, If only I had seen that myself," Hayato pondered with a mischievous glint in his eye.

Geez, what a handsome boy. Well I'm glad you didn't see what happened earlier since I was a nasty bitch, apparently. That aside, I think this is as good an opening as any.

"Yeah, well, you can always be there the next time someone gets ganged up on, Hayato. You do have a place with us," I pointed out without hesitation. Except I unconsciously started playing with my hair when his smile faded. Hayato sighed, shaking his head at the ground.

"I'm not sure I'd be delighted to ruin what's been fixed." Hayato spoke evenly. "No, that's just not a good idea at all, Yumiko. For everyone's sake, yours included."

What, my reputation's sake? Don't give me that. Like I give a shit if Sagami or whatever bitch gets put on a pedestal over me just because I hang out with you. If I'm being real, staying at the top is just a convenience at this point, but not a necessity like… you.

A friend.

"...I was thinking about withdrawing from school all together, actually. Perhaps go overseas, where this wouldn't be too much of a big deal," Hayato admitted, looking away with a look of guilt on his face.

Ah, but it's totally not fair how you can just easily set us aside like that! Overseas planning already? Hayato, sometimes I get that the feelings we have for you aren't mutually respected and it really fucking hurts.

"I don't think it's that simple bro. I'm sorry but… I'm sure your mom is a great doctor and all but…" Tobe left his words hanging like that. Y'know, like an insensitive dummy.

"Don't skirt around the issue Tobe. I know my father was the actual breadwinner," Hayato responded in a tense tone.

Oh no.

"Tobe," I whispered sharply at him.

Tobe blinked and jolted up in his seat, rushing to correct his mistake.

"No no! I didn't mean to bring that up like that. I mean—hah!" Tobe leaned forward, clasping his hands together as if in prayer. "Okay, look I'm sorry, but I peeked inside the folder with your homework, 'cause I wanted to cheat a bit!"

W-What does that have to do with anything?! Hayato and I sat still, the both of us giving dry looks at Tobe Kakeru—our doofus friend with no sense of honor. Our reactions prompted the idiot to go overboard and pathetically perform dogeza to us both, muttering 'sorry' over and over.

"This freakin' guy…" I spoke tiredly, flicking at Tobe's head to get him to stop.

"Oh Tobe, you're as shameless as ever I see…" Hayato joined in with a note of pity.

"N-No wait! There's a bigger point to this you guys! Inside there's a letter by Hiratsuka-sensei. I kinda skimmed through it and it says… it says you can have the rest of the week off, but you are 'mandated' to come back on Monday or things will start to get bad for you, um, academic-wise," Tobe explained with his arms jiving around.

I suppressed the urge to soothe my temples. That sounded bad. Hayato really was out of options now. As sleazy as it was for Tobe to try and cheat, knowing this now only makes it more important that we convince Hayato to come back.

That said, Hayato didn't lose his cool one bit, only heaving a sigh at the news, "Ah, well, it was foolish of me to think this arrangement could last. I'm... sorry you two had to come here to deliver my work, but I do believe I'll be leaving Sobu. Meaning this—"

"And go where?" I cut Hayato off suddenly, reminding him that not even running away to another country was an option.

"Maybe overseas isn't an option anymore, but I could always stay home and try my best studying here. Without troubling kaa-san, of course," Hayato answered confidently, resting his hands on his lap.

Always trying to keep himself so calm and collected and what did we have to say against that? Nothing and it was irritating. Even I believed Hayato could do well by homeschooling himself. I scrambled to find something to dispute, but Tobe started mouthing off before I could.

"Hayato-kun, you'd be throwing away everything going down that route," Tobe urgently warned him. "Listen, if you're scared—"

"I'm not scared Tobe," Hayato retorted with a hint of annoyance.

"Y-Yeah? Well, that's not the kind of vibe I'm getting from you right now bro. You're running away like it's the best thing to do when it's totally not!" Tobe countered, having started nervously but ended strongly.

"Tobe," I whispered again, tugging at his sleeve to get him to take a step back. However, he puffed up his chest and didn't falter one bit.

Hayato cut in indignantly, "Tobe, I don't want to hear—"

"Why not? After leaving us in the dust for a week, I have to say that you're taking what you still have for granted and I don't want to let you, because that's what best buds are for!" Tobe fervently persisted.

Hayato and I were driven to silence, giving Tobe the chance to rave into an unexpected rant.

"You know how they talk about me, life of the crowd, right? But sometimes you gotta take a step back and say 'eff the crowd', they only want me when I have the best of me to give out."—he clapped his hands—"What about the rest of me or you when everything's down in the dumps? That's when the real deal, in-crowd steps in, and like hellare we gonna let you drown. Not happening while I'm here, Hayato-kun," Tobe finished passionately, pumping his chest with his fists like a gorilla.

That stupid motion aside, I think Tobe really just nailed it. Sure his words were a bit messy, but most importantly they were very raw and from the heart. Whatever strength that Hayato sapped away from me earlier with his cool vibe was replaced by the overwhelming confidence that Tobe illustrated.

I wasn't going to let this moment go, otherwise Hayato would do something to sidestep this.

I heaved a sigh and supported Tobe with a genuine tone of my own, "Hayato, Tobe's right. You still have your health, your intelligence, your… looks and all that. I mean, of course the school will look badly at you for a long, long while, but don't you dare think you'll go about it alone."

I finished that off by wagging my finger at Hayato, a bit embarrassed that I acted like I was some Onee-san when he was actually older than me by a few months. I might have gone too far by doing that, but Hayato was still at a loss for words.

"That's right. Like I said, everyone in our group wants you back!" Tobe enthused in his usual goofy tone. "Hayato-kun is still Hayato-kun, our good friend, except now you're free from everyone else for once. Well, free to be all ours, the group I mean... I guess. Um, wait no, that came out a bit weird…"

Oh no, you did not just say something cheesier than I did! Why Tobe?! That was such an embarrassing finish that even I felt the secondhand cringe from your direction. I mean, you said Hayato is 'all ours' but pointed at yourself at the same time? If Hina were here, I'd be taking her to the bathroom at this moment. Geez.

Hayato smiled at Tobe scratching his neck, probably sympathetic to his embarrassment. Wow, despite his sudden bravado and confrontational tone from earlier, Tobe still ended up lightening the mood. He really is just a big goofball with a big heart—someone not even as detached as Hayato can fully ignore.

"More freedom, huh? I don't truly believe that's the case, but to hear it from your perspective does mean something," Hayato conceded in a wistful tone.

A chink in that armor of his, visible only after mentioning freedom? That's the angle to go from here, I figured. I readjusted myself on the soft pillow seat, pushing my hair behind my shoulders as I faced Hayato to give him my final declaration.

"Like he said, you won't have to mind anyone else except us. So at least think things through, Hayato," I took a deep breath, greatly fired up by the fact that I had both boys giving me their undivided attention. "Just know that the outsiders that Tobe was talking about? They won't touch us when we're all together and we don't care what they'll say when we're not around anymore."

This time I kept my eyes locked with Hayato's to really drive it home. Seriously, I'd like to see them try and do anything to stop us from being friends. Hayato's hands trembled just for a moment and I had a feeling it was out of nervousness instead of anger. When he took control of himself again, he finished drinking the last of his barley tea in one sip.

He placed his cup back onto the saucer and spoke evenly, "I can see that you sincerely mean that, Yumiko. I have many doubts that it'll stay that way."—he paused to take a breath, his mouth curling into another smile as he looked up at us—"However, I'll… try to place myself in your care once more, starting next Monday."

Did he just? W-We did it!

"Nice!" I cried out, reaching over the table to tug at Hayato's sleeve out of happiness. Eugh, but how long has he been wearing this old thing? He's really gotta clean himself up over the weekend—

Tobe went over by Hayato and wrapped an arm over his shoulder, excitement clear in his voice, "Yosh! Ah man, I can't wait to tell everyone the good news! Oh yeah I gotta add you to the BTS group chat ASAP!"

"Ah, what are you talking about?" Hayato asked, taking the hug in stride.

"BUDDYTALK SYSTEM, bro."—Tobe 'clarified' himself in broken English—"Our walk home group setup that Yumiko and I brought everyone else in."

Hayato looked at me with a skeptical look in his face. I felt my face redden, knowing exactly what Hayato was getting hung up over.

"I didn't come up with the name, alright?! I was out voted," I muttered, looking away with a pout.

Matsuda-sensei, from my dojo, suggested nice, simple names like 'Haven' or 'Lodge' when I told him about it, but the most I got was a 'lol nah' from Tobe when I suggested them in chat. I was still pretty mad about that.

"Yeah that was me and Ebina-san, 'cause we both think English words look cool!" Tobe proudly took credit with a dumb smile. "But Yumiko came up with all the serious arrangements and stuff. You know how she is, she totally took control and bosses us around when we forget the smallest thing—"

I snapped for Tobe's attention, amazed he thought I would stand for this.

"Well, excuse me for making sure we didn't half-ass all this!" I defended myself with a surly tone. "Seriously, you and the other two dorks should take a leaf out of mine and Hikio's books for once and—"

"Huh? Books? What's studying got to do with this?" Tobe cut in, looking genuinely confused.

Studying?! This dumbass.

I was about to speak my thoughts when Hayato himself cut in with a cough.

"...Did I hear that right? Hikitani-kun got roped into this as well?" Hayato asked, scowling at the idea.

"Yeah since Monday. Pretty stoic kinda guy that Hikitani-kun is, nothing like the lame pervert everyone said he was," Tobe spoke in a fond, reassuring tone. "Though if you ask me, sometimes it feels like he doesn't want to be there! Crazy right?"

Really Tobe, you just got that? No you're not crazy, you just totally lack any kind of self-awareness.

Hayato sniggered at Tobe's assessment, "Ah, Tobe, that's not strange to think at all. Hikitani-kun is… that guy is just—"

"He's reliable," I quickly piped in Hikio's defense. That surprised us both, actually. Maybe Hayato wasn't going to say anything bad, but still, the thought of him softly insulting Hikio just rubbed me the wrong way.

Hayato was the first to collect himself and nodded in agreement with me.

"You don't have to tell me, I know he is. Anyways, I'll get you two a cab home."—he raised a palm as I was about to protest—"Ah no, don't even argue with me on that, Yumiko. The sun's down and it's the least I could do."

Well… okay. I'll just ask the driver about the fare later so that I can pay you back someday!

As Hayato was dialing the car service, Tobe stirred, "Wait, Hayato-kun, um, I wanted you know that… about your dad—"

No!

Hayato quit typing, jerking his head over in Tobe's direction in one quick motion. His baggy, dark eyes fixed in a piercing glare, matched with flaring nostrils and an angry, quivering mouth.

"Stop right there, Tobe," Hayato began icily, clenching a fist until his knuckles turned white. "Listen, I'll indulge in what you and Yumiko have revived, but don't think you can suddenly ask about my family's personal business. Alright?"

He glowered at the both of us now, like a cornered animal ready to lash out. Needless to say, we were both freaked out—frightened at this side of Hayato.

A number of things happened after Hayato remained relentless with his scary look. Tobe and I stuttered out apologies, though Tobe was the one who took most of the blame. Hayato finally came to his senses, gripping at his trembling fists until he calmed down and forgave us. Neither of us said anything or reached out to Hayato as he started dialing on his phone again, with a sullen expression on his face. He decided he needed some fresh air and we were free to join him, so we gathered ourselves and our gear by the front door and followed him out, leaving the suffocating, tense atmosphere behind.

Hayato waited outside with us for some idle chat about schoolwork and Tobe finally got around to adding him to the BTS group chat. Once the luxury black car he ordered finally arrived, we said our goodbyes and settled into its fine leather seats. Tobe gave the driver our addresses, insisting that I get dropped off first.

Hayato stepped outside his gate and glanced at the car we were in before turning to his wall. He observed the markings and hateful posts with an unreadable expression. He remained that way for a long time, not going back inside until I could just barely see him at all as the car drove off further and further. Now I wouldn't be seeing Hayato until Monday. Still though, what was the best way to describe today's results? Three steps forward, two steps back.

Tobe and I made strides today when it came to Hayato, though I think Tobe himself is the one who actually broke through at least one of his barriers. That is, until he pushed his luck trying to explore a territory even I knew was impossible. Still, I couldn't help but admire Tobe for his boldness. Apologies to our other friends for my harsh words about him from earlier are definitely in order.

Hmph, I couldn't help but feel a bit jealous. Hayato forgave Tobe as quickly as he broached the subject of his father. Sure these boys were best friends, but would Hayato have shown me the same kindness if I had done the same? Surely our connection would have afforded me at least that much?

…

That's funny, to think as if I had any grasp on Hayama Hayato before today, when all it ever amounted to was a superficial friendship and a one-sided crush. It always felt like a tear in my stomach that he was so far out of my reach, especially when I sincerely wanted him to learn everything about me and the stupid moon at one point.

Not… not anymore, I think. Well, he can lean on me all he wants and I'll still get flustered by the pretty boy no matter what. But his spot in my heart doesn't feel like a bed of roses anymore, not so much different than the corner I have reserved for the goofball sitting next to me. Except at least I've never felt a loss with Tobe as I did with Hayato. I kept thinking back to how indifferent he was when I confessed to missing him. That was selfish of me, to put him on the spot immediately after our reunion. That pathetic fangirl within me reared its ugly head for one last, desperate attempt at creating a moment with Hayato, and she was snuffed out with 'golden' silence.

I'm such a stupid bitch. I already knew the answer, but I asked Tobe to let me tag along today anyway. All I wanted to do now was curl up in my room with a bowl of ice cream to fill the void. Maybe tomorrow I'll eat a parfait or two after school, I haven't had one of those in a long while…

"Haha, Yui's too much sometimes!" Tobe suddenly piped up.

"What do you mean?" I asked, anticipating something dumb. All he did was chuckle as I felt two buzzes coming from my pocket.

I retrieved my phone and noticed a handful of notifications from the BTS group chat, with the most recent ones from Tobe. I scrolled past his 'LOL' and thumbs up emoji directed at Hikio's number to find out that Yui got off at the wrong stop around a half hour ago. My stomach sank over her well-being until reading that she had been safely escorted home by none other than 'Hikki'. Relief washed over me and I sent them both a cute smiling cat sticker.

"Man Hikitani-kun keeps impressing me, you were totally spot on about that guy," Tobe commented with a grin.

Duh, I'm always right. Even though I had to force him, Hikio's pretty reliable and it's time that… ah… Hayato.

'Hello there, sorry to interrupt. I'm glad to hear you arrived home safely, Yui.' Hayato messaged the group chat.

I only hummed in response, keeping the chat open since I knew Tobe and the others would start yapping away over Hayato finally coming out of hiding and messaging everyone again.

I giggled—it actually happened. Everyone except Hikio jumped in at Hayato's sudden revival. They bombarded him with questions about his health. He answered them all and said he would give everyone proper apologies when he came back to Sobu on Monday. Heck, they absolutely lost it a second time when he revealed that.

I smiled at everyone's joy one last time and closed the chat. Whatever shittiness I felt before was tucked away for me to deal with on another day. Right now, I should have nothing but positive vibes. Even in the worst conditions possible, Tobe and I managed to get our friend back. Mission success.

Ah, I can't help but realize that Matsuda-sensei was probably right about people my age having it too easy. I mean, I was about to rationalize eating junk like ice cream and parfaits just because of Hayato being distant. No, I should keep to my diet and training regimen and not kill my streak just because I wanted to cry. I got what I wanted in the end and it's little compared to the goals other people in Chiba are suffering and fighting for.

I looked out at the window to see the night sky shrouded with clouds, thinking it was about that time that our, um, town's hero was about to set off again. I breathed easy, hoping Kami-sama would lend him strength for another long night. I guessed Huntsman was maybe around his early twenties, not more than five years older than me, but his responsibilities and goals were totally beyond what a dumb teenager like me could handle. A man whose ambition is to serve as a broken city's savior deserves all the prayers people could spare him.

Hopefully someday soon, if Chiba recovers fast enough while he holds the line, Huntsman will get back so much more than that.

A/N: My apologies for the long wait. You might have noticed this chapter is much shorter than the others; this is because it was originally a part of the "main" story chapter that I decided to split it off from. It's basically now a side story that I wanted to write because of Yumiko and Hayato's later involvement in the story. Thanks for reading this.

The much longer story chapter, all in Hachiman's POV, will come out either tomorrow or the day after tomorrow. So stay tuned for that. Huge event incoming.

Some people had questions in their reviews. I'll answer most of the recent ones, even ones dating back all the way from like September lol, right here and now.

misterfishy: Yes, the beginnings of the Bat Family exists. I've talked about the inclusion of the Bat Family and my ideals for the ages of Bruce and the Robins in this story before with 502nickster and we've disagreed on my final decision, but this is the way I want to have it: So currently Hachiman is 17, Jason is 15, and Richard is 20. Bruce started being Batman at age 18. At age 19, Bruce met a 14 year old Richard Grayson who became the first Robin. He operated as Robin for 5 years until breaking off and becoming Nightwing at age 19, when Bruce was 23-24. A 14 year old Jason comes into the picture. Since then, Jason's become the second Robin for close to two years, making Bruce a bit over 25 currently. Bruce started contact with Huntsman after Jason's first year. If you or anyone else got more questions or even have a problem with it (it's cool) feel free to PM me about it and I'll happily go more in depth. Thanks for the review!

AlimeLover123: Thanks! Of course Shizuka likes Hachiman. He's her favorite student after all. Lol but if you mean will she like him more than that in this story? It's possible. Tbh I think hachiman already has a one-sided crush for her that he even he hasn't realized.

Guest asked if it's dropped. Nah I'm just slow. Another guest asked if I'll have a Mr. Freeze type character. No plans as of yet, though I do hope people realize that the Yukinoshita and Hayama parents truly do love their kids and mostly created the criminal empire for their children's futures. I always liked that gray and selfish aspect of Mr. Freeze's motivations. Though this can be done for any villain, really. Sorry if I disappointed you. It was also asked if someone else will find out about Hachiman's identity as Huntsman? Of course. I already got two in mind but don't expect that in the next few chapters or so lol. Another guest said I'm meandering. Ah well, can't do much about that.

Thanks for all the reviews. Sorry that I didn't respond to all of them. I'll try to PM people from now on, though be sure to check your inboxes regularly since I don't think this site has fixed the PM/email notifications yet.