A.N: Hello people! Welcome to the next revised chapter of this fic!
And now, to present the next chapter of this fic…
11/13/05- This chapter has been revised for grammar, spelling errors and for consistency.
Italicized words: Thoughts, or sometimes is the narrative… And later in this story will be lyrics for a song…
Bold words: Might be pointing out certain words, like Japanese words.
"Second Chances are so Few…"
By
Malcolm Yuy
Chapter 2: When Love Isn't the Only Thing You're Missing…
Why do I feel so…empty? I feel like a piece of me is gone…It feels like it's been so long that I've forgotten why I am who I am today…and yet, through the thoughts filtering through my head, I can slowly remember why…Why I feel like a piece of my heart's missing…And the reason why…is because of one boy…
Now, you might think it's pathetic. Me, falling apart because of one guy? I should get over myself! But lately, I'm just not in the mood to complain. Everyday, I feel like life's passing me by, which it is, and I feel like I'm missing something important in it. Or namely, someone.
I miss him. I miss being with him, and I miss everything we used to do together. How we would meet each other in the city park at night in our favorite tree, how we could talk about "nothing" forever, and how we could always rely on one another. And, I also missed out on how I could've told him, told him how I really felt about him, after all these years…
But, I was a coward…and now, I'm paying the price for it…with loneliness…
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Eighteen-year-old Hikari Kamiya had her eyes closed as she was gripping the pole of one of the bullet trains that was leaving Tokyo, and heading to Odaiba. During the past two years, the young woman had changed her hairstyle, having it grown out a little past the shoulders with a sort of wavy look, with her bangs still hung back by her pink clip. Her body had become more developed, and she had attracted a lot of men. She was wearing a red shirt, with a pink blouse, with some blue jeans and white sneakers. She had on a brown backpack, with one shoulder strap slinged across her chest. She opened her eyes sadly as she looked around at the people on the train.
How I wish I could be someone else sometimes…just so I wouldn't have to feel the pain I'm feeling right now, Hikari thought, as she looked around from person-to-person, seeing some of them make conversation with one another and be carefree. How she wished she could be that way. For her, she had to struggle making enough money to pay for rent. Luckily, she wasn't alone. Yolei also lived with the girl. The name brought different kinds of thoughts from the younger girl. Like how Yolei had a boyfriend, and she did not.
I'm so happy for her, I really am. And I'm glad that I have a friend like her by my side…but, I wish I knew what it felt like to have someone…especially him… Hikari thought, as an image of the boy of her desires arose within her mind. She tried to shake it away, but she just couldn't. She could imagine what he looked like during the last time she saw him. Blonde hair, the bangs curved downward in a messy, spiky fashion. And blue eyes, a blue that could make you sink in them if you stared at them long enough. But one of the things Hikari loved most about him was his smile, and how he would smile basically everyday. But, he was gone now, off to America to some college to study writing. And she, was stuck here.
Oh Takeru, I miss you much. I wish I could see you…I wonder…do you have someone now? Or, are you still alone, like me? Hikari pondered. She then sighed as she looked down at her feet. Well, there isn't much use worrying about it. I'll probably never see him again, Hikari thought. Right as she was finished thinking that, the train slowed to a stop, with a voice blaring over the intercom of the train.
"We have arrived at Odaiba Station. Please step back so people who are leaving can pass through. Arigato," the computer voice said. Hikari sighed as she left the pole, walking through the doors and exiting the bullet train. She made her way through the tunnel, walking up the escalator and leaving the station, emerging into the streets of her home. Today, it was a sunny day, with the sun shining brightly upon the city. Hikari looked down as she was walking.
I wish though…I wish there was some way I could see him…Just so I could tell him how I feel… Hikari thought as she walked through the streets. A few moments later, she reached her apartment complex, going inside the lobby and made her way to the elevator. She then ascended the floors, looking down through the glass towards the outside world, until it arrived at the floor she needed to be at. The doors then opened, as she walked through and made her way to her door. She unlocked it with her key, before stepping inside and closing it behind her.
"Yolei, I'm home!" Hikari exclaimed, as she walked over to a nearby coffee table and slung her backpack down upon it. She then sighed tiredly as her body collided with the soft cushion of the navy blue couch. Yolei then walked through the little hallway.
"Konnichiwa (Good afternoon) Kari-chan (1)," Yolei said happily, as she walked towards her friend. She then sat beside Hikari on the couch, and turned to face her. She was wearing a pink sweater, with blue jeans and black heels. She still wore her glasses and wore a white hairbow upon her head. She smiled at her friend. "So Kari, how was your day?" Yolei asked.
"Okay, I guess. How was yours?" Hikari asked, looking back at her friend. She noticed that Yolei seemed to be beaming.
"Great! Ken's going to take me out tonight!" Yolei exclaimed.
Well, that's why she's beaming…Ugh…Hikari thought, as she sulked in the couch. Yolei noticed this, and immediately frowned.
"What's wrong Kari? You seem down," Yolei stated, looking at Hikari. Hikari just furrowed her eyebrows at her friend in response.
"Nothing, nothing's wrong. Thankfully, none of the professors assigned me homework tonight, so I'm free," Hikari replied.
"Oh come on Kari, you're down. Do you feel like talking about it? You know, I bet Ken wouldn't mind if you went with us-"
"I'd rather not Yolei. Thanks for caring, but I'll be fine here," Hikari said as she cut-off Yolei in mid-sentence. Just as the older girl was about to say something, the doorbell rang.
"Well, that must be him. I'd better get going," Yolei replied. Hikari nodded.
"Have a good time," the younger girl simply stated. Yolei smiled as she made her way towards the door.
"I will, thanks." Yolei then opened the door, revealing Ken in a gray long-sleeved cotton shirt, with blue jeans and brown shoes. The shirt was untucked. His hair was still long, but in a different way, jetting out in some directions, with his bangs wavy in the front. "Hey Ken!" Yolei exclaimed as she hugged her boyfriend. He just smiled at her as he returned the embrace.
"Hey Yolei," Ken replied. Then he looked up and smiled when he made eye contact with Hikari. "Oh, hi Kari. How you've been lately?" Ken asked.
"Fine Ken, fine as I usually am. You?" Hikari asked in return. The young man just simply smiled.
"Good. Well Yolei, if you may, we should get going. Have a good day Hikari," Ken replied, as he and Yolei linked arms. Yolei smiled at her best friend.
"Yeah Kari, have a good day!" Yolei exclaimed. Hikari smiled as the two left.
"You too." When she could no longer see them in the hallway, the smile turned into a frown, as Hikari closed the door upon returning to her apartment. She then sat back down on the couch and turned on the TV. On the particular channel she was watching was a soap opera, of all things.
"Oh Hiroshi, are sure you love me? Or do you love her more?" a beautiful woman asked overdramatically, looking at a handsome young man who went by that name, before turning away in despair. "Hiroshi" gripped the woman's arm, having her spin around to meet him, face-to-face.
"Oh Yuki, there's no way I would love her more than you. I love you more than anyone else in the world!" "Hiroshi" exclaimed. "Yuki" smiled, before leaning in to give a kiss to "Hiroshi". Hikari sighed in disgust as she finally decided to change the channel.
"Well, there's nothing good on TV right now," Hikari replied to herself as she kept on flipping channels. After finding nothing to interest her on the TV, she turned it off and set the remote down on the table in front of her. She sighed tiredly. "Well, I guess I could call Daisuke…Yeah, I guess I'll do that…" Hikari then got off of the couch and went to a nearby wall, and took the phone off the wall. She then dialed a number. After two rings, someone finally picked up the phone.
"Moshi moshi (Hello, only used when someone calls on the phone), Motomiya and Ichijouchi Residence. This is Daisuke. Who is this?" a groggy voice asked on the other end. Hikari smiled when trying to form a mental picture at what the boy was doing at that moment.
Probably sleeping, Hikari grinned. She then came out of her reverie when Daisuke's voice came through the phone again.
"Hello? Anyone there?"
"Oh, sorry Daisuke, it's Hikari," Hikari responded. As soon as she finished her statement, she heard noise on the other phone, before she heard Daisuke's voice again.
"Oh, hey Kari. What's up?" Daisuke asked on the other end, smiling at hearing her voice. Even though over the years he had gotten over the girl, he still valued her as a close friend. And Hikari was thankful to him for that. Without Takeru, Daisuke had sort of taken the other boy's place as "best 'boy' friend". Also, during the past two years, Daisuke had matured immensely. It sort of reminded her of Takeru. Hikari then frowned as she thought of the blonde boy, before responding to Daisuke's question.
"Oh, I was just um, wondering if you were doing anything important right now…" Hikari trailed off, curling one of her chocolate bangs with her fingers. Well, I wonder if he thinks sleep is important. Knowing him, he probably does… Hikari thought, waiting for her friend's response on the other line.
"No, not really. Why? Do you want to ask me out?" Daisuke asked. Hikari laughed, before trying to respond to the boy.
"Yeah…right…get over yourself Motomiya. No really, I was wondering if you'd like to go out, you know, for a friend-to-friend talk?" Hikari asked, still laughing from Daisuke's comment. The boy just huffed.
"So, you don't want to go out with me. At least you still consider me as a 'friend'. Thanks Hikari," Daisuke replied sarcastically. After hearing giggles from the other line, he was satisfied, deciding to become serious. "Seriously Hikari, sure, I'd love to go for a friend-to-friend talk. Meet you at the Moonlight Café in half an hour?" Daisuke asked.
"Sure. See you then. Sayonara (Bye, for those of you who don't know)," Hikari replied.
"Bye," Daisuke answered, before hanging up the phone. Hikari hung up the phone itself, and sat back down on the couch. She then thought of her maroon, spiky-haired friend. Back when they were younger, the boy of course had a huge crush on her. He was persistent at going out with her, but she simply denied his requests. After a few years, when the two finally reached fifteen, Daisuke had decided to give up chasing Hikari, to reasons unknown, even to her. She then snapped out of her dream-like state as she looked at the clock.
"It's five-fifteen. Well, I guess I should go. I better leave a note unless Yolei gets back early, so she doesn't worry," Hikari replied to herself. She opened her bookbag, pulling out her notepad, which had different drawings in it. She kept on turning the pages upward until she came to one that was empty. She then took out a pencil and wrote a message.
Yolei,
I went out to talk to Daisuke. I hope to be back soon. I'll make sure to call you if I stay out more than what is necessary.
-Hikari
Hikari then tarred the piece of paper from the notepad, before quickly putting the notepad and pencil inside the bookbag and zipping it up, before putting it back down on the couch. She then walked to the door. Opposite of it, on its left toward a wall, was a black semi-circle table with the sharp end meeting the wall. Hikari placed the note upon the table, before making sure she had her keys, opening the door and locking it on her way out. She then left the building as she went to meet her friend…
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"Thinking 'bout him again, huh?" Daisuke asked as he took a sip of coffee. Hikari looked down depressingly at her mug. The café was dark, with yellow lights dangling from the ceiling, and lights facing the stage, where there performances. Some were bands and musicians. Others, poets with desperate souls, sharing their desolate thoughts to the world. And only these kinds of things happened at the Moonlight Café. Hikari sighed as she looked at the stage. At the moment, there was a poet, a person wearing a black turtleneck and blue jeans, with black shoes to match his shirt. On his head, the young man wore a beret, which, you could have guessed, was black. And for the moment, he was reading a desolate poem. Hikari was listening a moment, before turning her attention back to Daisuke.
"Huh? Uh no, no I'm not," Hikari replied. Daisuke just sighed in ignorance as he looked at the beautiful girl.
"Yeah you are. I can read you like a book. What's the problem Hikari?" Daisuke asked. Hikari took a few moments, composing herself.
Do you really want to tell him? Well, I guess I should…After all, he does have the right to know, since he's one of my best friends… Hikari thought, as she glanced the spiky haired boy. She then sighed as she opened her mouth.
"My problem? You want to know my problem? My problem is that I miss him dearly Dai," Hikari replied, putting her hand down upon the table. Daisuke took a few strands of her hair and played with it.
"Do you think you're the only person who does? Think about it. I bet Matt misses his brother like crazy, and without him, he seemed to get a little cold, even with Sora around. Sora misses him too, 'cause he was like a little brother to her. For Izzy and Ken, they miss having talks with him about all kinds of things. Yolei and Cody probably miss being able to talk to him about the Digital World, while Tai probably thinks of him as the little brother he never had. Hell, even I miss having him around. It was fun being competitive with him, and we had our 'moments'. But face it Hikari, he is where he is, and you are where you are," Daisuke responded, taking another sip from his mug. During his speech, Hikari had raised her head from the table and was making eye contact with the boy.
"…I'm sorry Dai…it's just that I've been so selfish lately…" Hikari trailed off. Daisuke just smiled softly as he put a hand on her shoulder, patting her comfortably.
"I know, I know…and it's okay. After all, I do know how you feel about him. I know you've felt that way about him since the day he moved to Odaiba," Daisuke stated. Hikari blushed, before smiling back at him.
"Arigato, for everything Daisuke," Hikari replied. Daisuke simply smiled in return.
"You're welcome. Here's an idea, though. Have you ever tried e-mailing him, or even calling him?" Daisuke asked. Hikari nodded. "What happened?" He asked.
"Well, after he first moved to New York, he e-mailed me. Of course, I was happy to hear from him, so I responded. Sadly though, a few minutes after I sent the e-mail, a message came back saying 'E-MAIL UNKNOWN'. It made me really frustrated. So, I did the next best thing, like you've suggested. I called him. But, I guess he or Mimi wasn't there because noone picked up. So, I left a message on their answering machine. And I've never gotten a response since," Hikari answered, taking a sip of her cup of java before placing back down on the table, resuming her expression of sullenness. Daisuke frowned at this.
"I'm sorry Kari, I really am. What makes you miss him so?" Daisuke asked.
"I miss everything about him. I miss being around him. I miss talking to him, and I miss being close to him. I miss our 'moments', and I miss the spark that I get whenever I'm near him. But the thing I miss the most about him is his smile. If I had a bad day, and I felt like shit, that one smile would light up the rest of my day," Kari described, another image of the boy of her desires smiling at her. She blushed at the thought. Daisuke furrowed his eyebrows at her. It seemed the girl had gone into dreamland.
"Helloooooo? Hikari? Anyone there? Earth to Hikari," Daisuke replied, waving a hand in front of her face. The girl didn't respond, so, he did what most people would NOT do. He shouted. "HEY HIKARIIIIIIIIII!" The yelling snapped Hikari out of her reverie, and everyone else in the café stopped what he or she was doing to look at the couple off in the corner. Hikari and Daisuke just blushed.
"Thanks for embarrassing me Daisuke," Hikari whispered, still blushing from the weird glances she and her friend were receiving from other people. Daisuke nervously smiled at the girl.
"Welcome, glad to do it. Want me to escort you home?" Daisuke asked. Hikari nodded. And with that, they left the café, as fast as they could. As soon as they were out the door, everyone resumed what they were doing, soon forgetting about the incident…
"Well, that was different," Hikari muttered, as she and Daisuke were walking in the night sky. They had spent almost three hours, talking about different kinds of things, which led to the discussion they had about Takeru. Daisuke chuckled as he had his hands in his jacket pockets.
"Well, would you expect? When I tried to get you to snap out of it, you didn't. So, I just did what I thought would help you come to reality. Needless to say, it worked," Daisuke said, smiling at the moment as it repeated itself within his mind.
"Yeah, and it embarrassed the hell out of me. I might decide never to go out with you ever again," Hikari replied sarcastically as she looked down at the sidewalk, as they were passing some trees nearby, with the moonlight radiating, casting a white light upon the trees, making them glow. Daisuke just exploded.
"What! Oh come on Hikari, I'm sorry for that! Please don't say you won't go out with me ever again!" Daisuke exclaimed, suddenly getting ahead of the girl and stopping her in her tracks, bending down and having his hands clasped as he looked up at her with his puppy eyes. She just chuckled, before falling into a fit of laughter.
"I was just kidding Dai, just kidding…Of course I'll go out with you again, but only as a friend of course," Hikari replied, as a grin was appearing onto her face. Daisuke then smiled, as he got up and dusted himself off. The two then resumed walking. For the rest of the walk, the two walked in comfortable silence, until, at last, they reached Hikari's apartment complex. Together, they ascended the floors in the elevator until they came to her floor. When they finally reached her door, Hikari turned around to look at Daisuke.
"Thanks for tonight Dai. You've really lightened my mood," Hikari replied, embracing her friend. Daisuke smiled as he returned the embrace.
"Anything for you Hikari. Just try to call or e-mail him again, okay? Maybe you two can start a line of communication," Daisuke suggested. Hikari smiled at his idea.
"Alright. Night Dai," Hikari replied, taking Daisuke's suggestion, before leaning in to kiss him on the cheek. Daisuke blushed as she opened her apartment door. She then turned around one last time to smile at him, which he returned, before closing the door on him. Daisuke then touched the spot where she had kissed him with his right hand.
Sometimes, I wonder what it would be like if we were together…Nah, best not to think about it. After all, I got over her for a reason, ne? Well, I should be going, if I want to get enough sleep for tomorrow… Daisuke trailed off in his thoughts, as he then started walking down the hallway back towards the elevator, before pressing the button and having it come up to him. The doors then opened, and the young man sighed tiredly, before pressing a button, and having the doors close on him…
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The sun arose to greet the dawn of a new day. Slowly but surely, the rays peaked in through the shutters of a certain girl's room, creaking its way over toward her bed, before finally reaching her. New warmth filled the air, as the young woman's body absorbed it, and abruptly, waking the girl up. The girl slowly opened her eyes, before turning over to her right to look at her digital alarm clock, which was sitting upon her nightstand.
"Uh, what time is it?" Hikari muttered sleepily, as she squinted to look at the time. The clock gave the time. It was seven o'five. This made the girl's eyes flutter open. "What! Seven o'five? Crap, I'm going to be late for school!" Hikari exclaimed, before jumping out of bed, and rushing outside into the hallway towards the towel closet. She quickly grabbed a towel and washcloth, before rushing back into her room to her bathroom. She then shut the door behind her as she showered. About eight minutes later, she emerged, clad in nothing but a towel, with her nightgown on the bathroom floor.
"Man, I'm going to be late…" Hikari trailed off, as she ran to her drawer, pulling out underclothes, a pair of jeans, socks, and a long-sleeved pink shirt. She rushed to get ready, and ran out of her room.
"Ohayo (Good Morning) Hikari-chan," Yolei replied, taking a sip of her own brewed coffee as she was reading the paper. Hikari rushed to grab her bookbag, before running to the coat rack to grab her jacket, which was a brown leather one. She quickly pulled it on, before pulling on her bookbag. As she was about to rush out the door, Yolei noticed something was missing.
"Uh, Kari, you're missing something…" Yolei stated. Hikari glared at her friend.
"Like what Yolei? I don't have the time to listen to you right now," Hikari complained.
"Well you should. You're missing one thing."
"And what would that be?" Hikari asked, putting her hands on her hips.
"Your shoes…" Yolei trailed off as she saw her friend run back into her room to grab her white sneakers, before quickly putting them on as she was hurrying out the door.
"I knew that. I gotta go. Sorry for being bitchy, see ya later!" Hikari quickly exclaimed as she shut the door behind her as she quickly made the way towards the elevator. Yolei only sighed as she took another sip of coffee, before resuming to reading of the newspaper.
"Morning jitters…what a bitch…"
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"Thank Kami, I made it on time," Hikari tiredly stated as she made her way towards the college campus. Out of all the schools in Japan, Hikari chose to go to the most prestigious one, Tokyo University. Originally, she and Takeru applied to go together, but of course, as we all know, Takeru had a change of plans. And as Hikari stepped into her first classroom for the day, her mind couldn't help but remind her of what happened, during that one, significant day…
---FLASHBACK BEGINS---
Ironically, the day that Hikari and Takeru had applied for college, it was a crisp, breezy autumn day. Takeru and Hikari were sitting inside her apartment, during the time she lived with her parents. The two then seventeen-year-olds were sitting on the bed in her room, basking in each other's company. The two were looking at numerous applications, to all kinds of colleges, from all over the world. After all, the two were involved in a lot of things during their years of high school, especially their senior year. Hikari looked over at the boy as he was looking over an application to New York University. She frowned.
"Hey Takeru, think of going to New York?" Hikari asked. Takeru looked up from his application to make eye contact with the girl.
"Well, maybe. Not really though. But from what I've heard about it, New York has extensive writing courses. Of course, I've also heard that they need help with their basketball team recently, and I was thinking maybe, if Mimi would let me, I could stay with her while studying there. But I don't want to bother her. So, I'm not going to apply," Takeru answered, dropping the application back into the numerous piles of applications which he had taken from the school career center. Hikari sighed in relief.
"So then, where would you want to go?" Hikari asked again. Takeru just smiled, as he picked up another application. This time, it was the one of Tokyo U. His eyes seemed to smile as he looked at her.
"Hey Hikari, you've read Love Hina right? Why don't we apply to Tokyo U together?" Takeru asked. Hikari blushed, knowing that she had read all fourteen volumes of the popular manga by Ken Akamatsu. Basically, the story was about a young man named Keitaro, who wanted to go to Tokyo U with a girl he promised a long time ago. But, unfortunately, over time, he forgot who the promised girl was, only remembering her as a "girl" and remembering their promise.
So, years passed, and at the age of nineteen, Keitaro took the entrance exam. And again, he failed, from taking it a few times before. He decided to leave his parent's house, and went to his Grandma Hina's hotel. He later realized that it was an all-girl's dorm, and met with a girl who called him a pervert. Her name was Naru. His grandmother faxed them, saying that her grandson would inherit the dorm, and run it. So Keitaro took the job as manager, while trying again and again to pursue his goal.
Well, years passed, and Naru, the girl who called him a pervert, befriended him and helped him study, since she was also aiming for the same goal, to get in to Tokyo U. Eventually, the two passed the entrance exams and became Tokyo U students. In the end, they fell in love, and got married. But of course, the protagonist had a lot of mishaps through the story, as he struggled to find his promised girl, who in the end turned out to be Naru.
As the summary of the story buzzed through Hikari's mind, the girl blushed. She then shook her head, coming back to reality. She then opened her mouth. "R-really? Alright. But why don't you apply for New York while you're at it, just to see if they'll accept you?" Hikari asked, looking away from the golden-haired boy. Takeru only grinned.
"Okay, if that's what you want. I'll promise-"
"Wait Takeru, I've just had a thought," Hikari muttered, interrupting Takeru's response. This shocked the boy.
"W-what is it?"
"I know you want to promise me that we'll go to Tokyo U together, but, what if, what if New York U actually accepted you, you know? I don't want you to miss out on something wonderful like that," Hikari replied, blushing as she said so. Takeru looked away from the girl, and towards the wall.
"But Hikari-"
"Takeru, look. I know we're best friends, and I know how much you care about me. Remember six years ago, when the Dark Ocean was trying to take me away, you told me that you cared about me?" Hikari asked, who had earlier turned away from the boy and was now looking at him. He turned his attention from the wall and back onto her.
"Y-yeah…" was all Takeru could mutter.
"Don't you remember what I said? I said that I cared for you deeply too. And I really do feel that way. I always will. And I just want you to be happy. If you want to go to New York, don't let me stop you. Besides, you'd do the same for me, right?" Hikari asked, smiling. Takeru could only nod. "Well then, if you get accepted, go. I don't want to hold you back," Hikari finished, her smile ceasing, as she continued to look at him. Takeru broke eye contact with her to look towards the floor.
"Well Hikari-chan, if that's the way you want it. But, could I still promise you something?" Takeru asked, as he wiggled his way over to the girl, and embraced her. This made the girl heat up from him being so close to her. She waved herself as she looked at him.
"Nani (what)?" She asked in return.
"If, and this'll probably happen, if I don't get accepted into New York U, then can we go together to Toudai (another name for Tokyo U)?" Takeru asked. Hikari could only smile at him.
"Of course, of course we can…"
---FLASHBACK ENDS---
And yet, Hikari didn't know the repercussions of her decision with Takeru. Little did she know that he was going to get accepted, and he did leave to go to New York U. Hikari sighed depressingly as she pulled out her textbook for class, since it was about to start. It was none other than Psychology. She then took out her notebook, flipped it to a clean page, and started taking down notes as the professor started conversing about Freud…
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Finally, later in the day, Hikari had finished her first two classes. It was now lunchtime, and the girl didn't want to go to the cafeteria, since the food there was ultra-expensive. Away from the school though, there were different restaurants, catering to anyone's specific flair for different kinds of food. Today, Hikari had a flair for Japanese, and cheap at that. And also, she felt like eating alone today. She sighed as she left the restaurant, with food-to-go in boxes as she made her way back to the school campus. Once there, she sat down on a bench and started taking out the food. One box was full of noodles, dipped in teriyaki sauce, while the other box contained sashimi. She also had some green tea to drink. She then took out the chopsticks, opened the box of noodles, and started eating her meal. As she did so, she glanced around at people, who were also eating nearby.
All of these people…well, at least I know I'm not the only one who won't pay for cafeteria food, Hikari thought, as she sucked up a noodle. As she did so, her eye caught a young man, who seemed about her age. He had brown hair, tan skin and brown eyes, and was wearing a green shirt with brown khakis along with white sneakers. He was fidgeting around a bit, until a girl ran up to him and embraced him. He hugged her back, and the two smiled at each other. The girl had black hair, pale white skin, and was wearing a sailor-type outfit, white shirt with a blue skirt, with a purple jacket on.
Must be going out, Hikari thought, as she continued to watch the young man and his "girlfriend". She then listened in on their conversation.
"So Hiroki, what was so important that it couldn't wait? I was in the middle of a Chemistry lab you know?" the girl asked, putting her hands on her hips, glaring at the young man. Hiroki blinked, as she leaned her head forward towards his face. He leaned back as she got closer.
"I just wanted to say…I just wanted to say I…"
"You just wanted to say what?" the girl asked, her voice rising. The girl seemed to be getting impatient. Hiroki sighed before answering to the question.
"I just wanted to say that I love you Yuri! There, I said it," Hiroki exclaimed, his face blushing at the moment. The girl's eyes widened in shock, before returning to their normal size and the curves of her lips transforming into that of a smile.
"Really? I love you too Hiroki!" Yuri exclaimed, before embracing the boy again. Hiroki smiled as he hugged her back. The two then looked at each other, before their faces leaned close to each other. Their lips then made contact, as they shared their first kiss. Hikari looked away, blushing at seeing their display of affection.
Uh, not again. Although, I wish that I could've confessed my feelings to Takeru…Of course, there was that one time where I almost did… Hikari thought, as her mind began sending her into another one of her memories of the past. Her eyes glossed over, as the memory replayed itself in her head…
---FLASHBACK BEGINS---
This night was important to everyone, especially girls. This was the night they had planned for weeks, months, maybe even years in advance, so that this very important day would not be ruined. It was none other than the Senior Prom.
And, for this night, Hikari felt like the luckiest girl in the universe. Out of all the guys that asked her out, he finally made his move. And that he was none other than her best friend, Takeru Takaishi. Hikari smiled as she was putting on the finishing touches to her hair. Unlike other girls, who decided to wear their hair up in buns, Hikari decided to wear hers out, and basically put it in the style that she was wearing in the present. Only, it was styled to look more formal, and a little bit wavier. She had decided to wear a white ballroom gown, with a colonial-style skirt, with silver glitter faintly all over it. She also wore white heels. After she did the finishing touches on her hair, she pulled up her skirt a little as she trekked through the hallway and into the living room. Tai smiled as he looked at his sister, along with their parents.
"How do I look?" Hikari asked. Tai smiled as he looked at her. The dress had the top part of the sleeves cut, so it could show her shoulders and defined neck. It was more of a ballroom-type gown, as she also wore white gloves along with it. He grinned again.
"Kari, you look drop dead gorgeous. If that doesn't knock T.K. off his feet, I don't know what will," Tai replied, complementing his sister. Hikari could only smile.
"You look lovely honey. Knock 'em dead!" Mr. Kamiya exclaimed.
"You look beautiful tonight sweetie. I hope Takeru knows how lucky he is," Mrs. Kamiya replied. Hikari could only smile as tears came to her eyes.
"Thanks Tai, Mom, Dad," Hikari stated. Right as she finished her sentence, the doorbell rang. Tai made his way over to the door, as he looked into the peephole.
"Well my dear sister, your 'Prince Charming' awaits. Shall I open the door for him?" Tai asked. Hikari blushed at the name he called her date. She nodded her head as she smiled. "Alright." Tai then opened the door, revealing Takeru in a matching tuxedo, a white one with baby blue bow. His hair was styled the way it usually was, only a little more neat with his bangs. But, he still looked handsome. Takeru's eyes widened as he looked at the beauty before him.
"Wow Hikari, you look…you look…beautiful…" Takeru replied, suddenly becoming nervous. Hikari smiled as she walked toward him, linking her arm with his. Takeru then snapped out of it, trying to regain his composure. She looked up at him.
"Are you ready to go?" she asked.
"As ready as I'll ever be, 'milady. But, before we go, there's something I must give you," Takeru replied. His other arm, the one that was not linked with Hikari's, was curled behind his back, hiding something. He then moved it forward, revealing to the young woman what he was hiding. It was a bouquet of pink roses, and her corsage, which was white, with a pink and yellow flower in the center. Takeru smiled as he slid it onto her left wrist. Hikari smiled at it, before turning her attention to him, and accepting the bouquet. She then leaned in and gave him a kiss on the cheek. Takeru blushed.
"Well Hikari, Takeru, have a good time at the prom," Mr. Kamiya replied. Takeru and Hikari nodded as they looked at the adults.
"And only eat the healthy food," Mrs. Kamiya suggested. The two sweatdropped.
"Oh come on Mom, just for tonight?" Hikari asked. Her mom just smiled.
"Well, alright," she answered. Tai smiled, as it was his turn to talk.
"And T.K, if you hurt my sister in any humanly way possible, my dad and I will hunt you down and slaughter you until you won't be able to tell your hands from your feet. I know, I've seen us do it. Right Dad?" Tai asked, looking at his father, a grin appearing on his face. Mr. Kamiya grinned back at his son.
"Right," Mr. Kamiya replied as he looked from Tai back to Takeru. "Can we take a picture to remember this occasion?"
"Uh, sure…" Takeru and Hikari stood together, with Hikari's arm linked with Takeru's, smiling at the camera. After the flash came, Mr. Kamiya smiled, before giving Takeru a suddenly serious look.
"So Takeru, make sure she's back by eleven, okay?" The boy quickly nodded, as his Adam's apple bobbed within his throat. Mr. Kamiya smiled. "Alright. Well you two should be going now. We'll see you later," Mr. Kamiya replied. Takeru and Hikari nodded as they made their way out the door.
"You know, they were only kidding," Hikari replied, as she looked up at golden-haired boy. He looked down at Hikari, giving her a smile nervously.
"I know, I know, but it felt like they were serious…" Takeru trailed off, as they finally approached the elevator. Takeru pressed the button to go down, and a few moments later, the elevator arrived at their floor, having it open upon them, as they stepped inside. Takeru then pressed the button for the lobby. A few minutes later, the doors closed, and the elevator began to descent.
"Yeah, well, when it comes to Tai and my dad, who knows when they're serious?" Hikari questioned. Takeru just grinned at the girl.
"Riiiiiight…"
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Later that night, after they had arrived, Takeru and Hikari were strutting their stuff on the dance floor. Surprisingly, Cody had come with a girl named Aiko, and the two freshmen seemed to be hitting it off quite well. Even Daisuke seemed to be doing pretty well, even though he did not originally come with a date. For the moment, the song playing over the speakers was a slow one, meaning that it was a slow dance. Takeru and Hikari were off sitting at a table, and when Hikari heard the song, she smiled towards her companion.
"Come on Takeru, dance with me…" Hikari said seductively. This made the boy blush, the way she was looking at him, and the way she said that to him. His Adam's apple bobbed again before he tried to answer with a straight face.
"No…"
"Oh come on, I'll make it worth your while…" Hikari trailed off, as she bent over, whispering it into his ear. Takeru could feel her breath, which made his back tingle.
"O-okay then…What are we waiting for?" Takeru and Hikari then got up from their seats, and linked hands as they made their way onto the dance floor. Hikari gave Takeru another smile, and he just smiled right back at her. Once they were upon the floor, the two embraced each other, Hikari's arms around Takeru's neck, and his arms around her waist. And together, the two began to dance.
Oh Kami, I feel like I'm in heaven right now…I never want this night to end, Hikari thought, as she leaned her head upon Takeru's shoulder. Takeru smiled, as he leaned his head closer to hers. The two made eye contact, and the boy began to whisper something to Hikari.
"Hikari…do you know how beautiful you look right now?" Takeru asked, complimenting the girl. Hikari blushed, as she looked at the boy, especially into his blue eyes. She felt like she was getting caught into his spell.
"Really Takeru?" she asked in return. He nodded with a smile upon his face.
"Really…And I just want to say that I…that I…" Takeru muttered, trying to keep his composure. Hikari took her head off his shoulder, and looked up at the boy.
Is he going to say what I think he's going to say? Oh Kami, I hope so. I've been waiting for this for so long, Hikari thought, as she looked at the boy patiently. Take your time Takeru, take your time. Just please, please say the words… Hikari continued to look at him, as he looked at her. He then looked away.
"It's nothing…Never mind," the boy managed to say, almost sadly. A worried look appeared on the girl's face, and she could've sworn that tears were beginning to form in her eyes. She then looked away as well.
Well, if he can't say it…then I guess I will, Hikari thought. She then tried to open her mouth so she could speak, but no words would come out. Takeru noticed this, as he turned his attention from whatever he was looking at and back upon her.
"What, what is it? Is there something you want to say Hikari?" Takeru asked, worried what the girl was going to say. As hard as Hikari was trying to get the words out, it just seemed like something…something was holding her back. She then sighed, as she regained her willpower.
"I just wanted to say…Arigato Takeru-kun (2). For everything. For being there for me these past six years, and for being there for me when we had our adventures in the Digital World. You mean a lot to me Takeru," Hikari muttered. She screamed at herself on the inside though. Idiot, idiot, idiot!
"You're welcome Hikari-chan. You mean a lot to me too. Just like when I was there for you, you were there for me. There's something I want to tell you, but, not here though. Can we go outside?" Takeru asked. The girl nodded. The two then stopped dancing, not even realizing that the slow song had ended long ago and was now replaced by a fast, upbeat one. The two parted from each other, but still held hands as they left the building, making their way outside. Once outside, Takeru sighed as he looked down at the ground, before turning solemnly to look at Hikari. Hikari was beginning to get nervous again.
Is he trying to tell me again? Please Kami, please let him say the words this time, Hikari thought, as she looked nervously upon the boy. He tried to smile, but this time, he just couldn't. He then looked away. He then began to speak.
"Remember, a little while ago, when we were applying for colleges together?" Takeru asked, not once even looking at the girl. Hikari nodded as she looked away from him. "Well, do you also remember how we promised each other that if I didn't make it into New York U, then I would go with you to Tokyo University?" he asked once again. Hikari continued to nod. And slowly, she started to realize where this was going. But, she didn't want to hear what he was going to say.
I don't want you to go Takeru, not when we're so close…so close…to being together, Hikari thought, as tears started to reform in her eyes. She didn't want to cry. Not now. She wanted to be strong, for him. Takeru then looked at her.
"Well, I just wanted to tell you that I…that I got…that I got accepted," Takeru replied. Hikari knew this was coming, but the girl couldn't help but still feel astonished. She gasped, as the tears could no longer be held back. They fled, as they made their way down her face, down onto her cheeks, until one solitary tear dropped onto the ground. Takeru couldn't help but notice this. "Hikari…are you…crying?" he asked. Hikari shook her head.
"No, I just got…something in my eye, that's all…" she trailed off as she wiped her eyes. The boy just frowned at her.
"You're lying. Please tell me. Tell me how you feel," Takeru said. The girl just burst into tears as she heavily embraced the young man.
Tell you what? Tell you how I feel about you? Tell you how I'm hopelessly in love with you? Or, tell you how I feel about you getting accepted into New York U? Hikari thought coldly, as she looked up at the person of her desires. She shivered as the tears continued to fall, and Takeru frowned as he wiped them from her eyes. He then cupped her chin, and made her look him in the eye.
"Tell me Hikari, please…Just say the words, and I won't go to New York. I'll go with you to Tokyo U," Takeru stated. As much as Hikari wanted to, she knew that if she told him not to go to New York, then she would be selfish. And, she would also be going back on her word. So, she shook her head.
"Takeru…as much as I want to…I just can't…You…you should go…to New York U…after all, we promised that we would only go to Tokyo U if you didn't get accepted, didn't we? And the matter of fact is, you did. So, go…" Hikari trailed off. As much as Takeru didn't want to admit, tears were starting to from within his eyes as well.
"Are you sure Hikari? 'Cause you know much I care for you. If you want me to, I'll-"
"No Takeru-kun, I am sure. You should go," Hikari replied, cutting the boy off in mid-sentence. The boy glanced away from her, as he looked down towards the ground. It almost looked as if he was disappointed. Hikari didn't know what else to say, and slowly, an awkward tension began to fill the air. Takeru then looked from the ground to Hikari's majestic face, and cupped her right cheek with his hand. Hikari blushed, but smiled at him. He leaned in close.
"Thank you Hikari-chan. Thank you for being a good friend, and for always caring about my well being…" Takeru trailed off, as he embraced the girl. Hikari was in shock, but soon snapped out of it as she wrapped her arms around him in return. She looked at Takeru.
"You're welcome Takeru…and thank you for also being there for me. I know…I feel…that we should spend what time we have left with one another, I mean, if you want. 'Cause I'll miss you when you're gone," Hikari replied, whispering the last part to herself. But of course, with Takeru being in close range, he had heard. And he smiled.
"Of course I want to spend time with you Hikari…You're my best friend after all. Now, come on, let's return to the prom, shall we? Don't we want to show everyone who's the best couple here?" Takeru asked, grinning, as he was trying to lighten the mood. Hikari smiled back, as the effects of his smile were working upon her. The two then linked arms, as they began to walk back inside.
"Hai, let's…"
mnmnmnmnmnmnmnmnmnnnm
"Well everyone, it's time for me to go," Takeru said, as he stood in front of the terminal. All of the Digi-Destined who still lived in Japan had come and given the boy a going away party earlier that day, which had pleased the young man a lot, making him thankful for having such wonderful friends. He embraced his parents first.
"We'll miss you sweetie," Ms. Takaishi replied, as tears formed in her eyes. Mr. Ishida was trying to be strong for his ex-wife, as the two embraced the kid.
"Yeah son, good luck there. New York's tough," Mr. Ishida replied. Takeru smiled as he and his parents broke their embrace.
"I'll miss you too Mom, Dad. And Dad, thanks. I think I'll need it," Takeru replied. He then moved on to his brother, as the two also embraced. The two then parted, and made eye contact.
"I'll miss you Squirt," Matt said, as he ruffled up Takeru's hair. Takeru got frustrated.
"Hey! I'm not a little kid anymore Matt! Or should I say Ya-mat-o?" Takeru asked. Everyone laughed at the comment, while Matt just blushed.
"Why you…Uh, never mind. Even though I'm mad at you right now, I still love ya anyways. And say hi to Mimi for me, okay?" Matt asked. Takeru nodded as he smiled.
"Okay." Takeru moved on to Sora, who was standing next to Matt. She was in tears as she bearhugged the boy.
"Sora, a little too hard on the hug…" Takeru replied. Sora released it.
"Oh, sorry. I'll miss you, you know. You're like the little brother I never had," Sora replied.
"I know, and I'll miss you too. Take good care of Matt for me, will you?" Takeru asked. Sora smiled, as she wiped her tears.
"I will." Takeru then moved on to Daisuke, Yolei, Ken and Cody. Takeru talked to Cody first.
"Well Cody, what can I say man? You're one of my best friends, and you were my DNA Digivolution partner. Take care," Takeru said. Cody nodded.
"You too T.K," Cody replied. Takeru nodded as he moved to Ken and Yolei.
"Well you two, I thought it would take forever to get you two together. But now I'm glad you are together. Take good care of each other," Takeru replied. The two nodded, and embraced him.
"Good luck T.K," both of them said in unison. Takeru nodded as he separated from them. He finally made his way over to Daisuke.
"What can I say man? You've been a worthy rival all these years, ne? You always kept me on my feet Dai, and during our escapades in the Digital World, you've also been a worthy leader. I don't know where I would've been without you, as much as I don't want to admit it," Takeru replied, with a grin on his face. Daisuke only smiled back.
"Thanks for the one compliment you've ever given me," Daisuke said sarcastically. The two boys laughed, as they had their shoulders around each other. They then stopped, and both of their faces turned serious.
"Oh, and Dai, there's one thing I want you to do for me. Call it a favor, if you want. I want you to watch and protect Hikari for me, okay? Make sure she's all right," Takeru whispered, as if passing something sacred down from him to the next generation. Daisuke only nodded.
"Sure thing T.P." The two then laughed, before Takeru moved on to Izzy and Tai.
"Well T.K, it's been prodigious working with you," Izzy said, smiling. Takeru smiled back at Izzy.
"You too Izzy, you too." Takeru then turned his attention towards Tai. "Well Tai, I also want to say thank you. Thank you for everything. For being the leader during our first adventures in the Digital World, and being my second big brother if you will," Takeru replied. Tai could only smile as he gripped the young man's shoulder.
"As well as I'm concerned T.K, you are my little brother. Now, there's only one thing missing to make it actually legal, but I hope you work it out with her. Don't forget about us, alright?" Tai asked, whispering the last part to the boy. He could only nod.
"I won't." Takeru then looked around, trying to look for the last person. He then felt a tap upon his shoulder, and turned around to meet the girl of his desires. He blushed as he looked down upon her. "Well Hikari, this is where we say goodbye. For now at least," Takeru said. Hikari frowned as she suddenly embraced him.
"But, I don't want to say goodbye. How 'bout, 'See you later?' We'll keep in touch with each other, won't we Takeru-kun?" Hikari asked, looking up at him. Takeru could only sigh.
"I'll try Hikari, I'll try. It depends on how busy we are. But, I promise to keep in contact with you," Takeru replied, smiling at the girl. The two embraced again. The airport intercom then blared as the two hugged each other.
"Last call for Flight 578-A, departing to New York City. I repeat, last call for Flight 578-A, departing to New York City…" an airport attendant replied over the intercom. Takeru and Hikari pulled back to give each other one last glance.
"Well, bye, for now. I'll miss you," Hikari said, as she leaned in to give Takeru a kiss on the cheek. Takeru blushed as he gave her one back. Hikari blushed too.
"I'll miss you too Hika," Takeru replied. The two then parted, as he turned his back upon his family and friends, and made his way towards the terminal. They waved toward him as he left, and he waved back, before turning back to go into the terminal. Hikari couldn't take it as tears were streaming down her face.
"Takeru, wait!" Hikari shouted. She ran towards him, and knocked into him, but luckily, he caught her in his embrace. He looked down upon her in worry.
"What is it Hikari?" he asked. Hikari looked into his eyes. His bright, blue eyes. The eyes of Hope. She tried to say it, but as hard as it was, the words wouldn't come out.
"I…I…I just wanted to say…have a good time in New York…" Hikari stated, frowning, looking away from him. Takeru just smiled at her.
"Don't worry about it. I will," Takeru responded. The two then parted, as Hikari left him to return to her family and friends, while Takeru took one last look at her before going into the terminal. The door was then closed upon him, and Hikari wept on her brother, as he heavily embraced her.
"I can't believe he's gone…I can't believe he's gone…"
---FLASHBACK ENDS---
Hikari's mind returned to reality as the bell rang, signaling everyone who had lunch that their lunch was over and that they had to return to class. Hikari sighed as she got up, and hurried to her next class so she wouldn't be late…
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Hikari sighed heavily as she entered her apartment. Another tiring day of classes, and another day filled with homework and studying for exams. When will it ever end? Hikari asked herself, as she situated herself within the couch, again placing her backpack upon the couch. She hung her head back as she looked up at the ceiling. She then crooked it back down to look down upon the table, staring at her bookbag. Well, better get to it, she thought, as she opened her backpack. She pulled out the materials she needed, and started doing her homework. As soon as she started writing on her notepad, the door opened as Yolei entered, and had a furious look upon her face as she situated herself on the couch besides Hikari. Hikari looked over to her friend.
"What's wrong Yolei?" Hikari asked.
"What's wrong? You want to know want to know what's wrong!" Yolei asked. Hikari just gave Yolei a blank stare.
"Yes."
"Well, okay. The problem is my parents won't give me an advance," Yolei stated. For being nineteen, Yolei still worked at one place. Her parent's convience store. It had been that major source of income that paid for apartment rent. Hikari also had a job as well to pay for the utilities, and to have extra money for themselves. She was a film developer at a nearby One-Hour Photo shop.
"How much money are you asking them for?" Hikari asked.
"Uh, fifty-thousand yen," Yolei answered. (Fifty-thousand yen is about three-hundred dollars in U.S. currency, while one-thousand yen is roughly six dollars in U.S. currency)
"Fifty-thousand yen? What do you need that much money for?" Hikari asked, now completely distracted from doing her work and much more interested in why her friend needed a lot of money. Yolei sighed.
"Um, you see, I've ran a little behind in paying apartment rent…" Yolei trailed off. Hikari glared at her peer.
"Nani? Why are you looking at me like that? Yolei asked.
"Yolei, what's the real reason you asked for an advance from your parents?" Hikari asked, placing her hands upon her hips. Yolei sighed tiredly.
"Am I that obvious?" Yolei asked. Hikari only nodded. Finally, out of nowhere, Yolei clutched onto Hikari for dear life. This frightened the younger girl.
"Yolei, what's up?" Hikari asked. Yolei just cried into Hikari's shoulders.
"The real reason why I wanted the advance was because there was this killer dress that I wanted to buy for Ken-kun. You see, next week, Ken's going to this very formal party at an acquaintance's house. An actual house, Hikari! And I've been invited, since it's a guess plus one. I want to make a good impression for Ken-kun," Yolei replied. Hikari frowned. But then, an idea came to her.
"Well Yolei, I could lend my money to you for the dress…" Hikari replied. Yolei looked at her friend excitingly.
"Really? Thanks-a-million! You're the best friend in the universe!" Yolei exclaimed, hugging Hikari again. Hikari was starting to feel numb.
"Yolei, please stop…you're cutting off circulation," Hikari muttered. Yolei blushed as she pulled away.
"Gomen (sorry). Thanks a lot Hikari!" Yolei then raced off, leaving Hikari to herself. She then concentrated on resuming with her homework…
"Man, homework sucks…"
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It was a clear night out in Odaiba, the stars shining brightly. There was also a full moon, and on this particular night, Hikari was out, gazing at the stars. Earlier that night she had awoken, and no matter how hard she tried, she just couldn't go back to sleep. So, she had gotten up, gone to the sink in kitchen/living room, and poured herself some cold water to drink. After doing so, she had gone outside to the balcony, and gazed up at the stars. One star in particular was shining tonight, and it was a bright yellow. Hikari smiled depressingly at it.
That star…it reminds me of your hair Takeru…I don't know why…I don't know why I can't stop thinking about you…but then again, I probably do. Probably 'cause I love you. Only if there was some way I could tell you… Hikari trailed off in her thoughts, looking from star to star, not realizing that the balcony doors behind her had opened, and someone else had stepped out to join her.
"They're beautiful, aren't they?" Yolei asked. Hikari nodded. "I know they're made of gas, and are also are forms of plasma, but I can't help but be fascinated by the wonders of it," Yolei replied to herself. She then looked over to Hikari. "So, what's eating you?" Yolei asked.
"It's…it's…I…I don't know if you want to hear it," Hikari replied. Yolei crossed her shoulders as she gave her friend a glare.
"Try me," Yolei replied. Hikari sighed tiredly.
"It's Takeru. I just keep on wondering how he is in New York. I wonder if he remembers us, remembers me…Oh Yolei, I just miss him so much!" Hikari cried, her emotions beginning to get the better of her. Tears started to stream down her face, and the poor girl just frowned, her sadness being poured out for the entire world to see. Yolei put a comforting hand on Hikari's shoulder.
"Then why don't you do something about it!" Yolei exclaimed in question. This made Hikari wipe her tears as she looked at her friend.
"Like what? Try to contact him? That wouldn't work!" Hikari exclaimed back. Yolei just shook her head.
"No, that's not what I meant. Why don't you go to him? Transfer yourself there," Yolei suggested. This brought up a whole new set of hope in the girl, who was devoid of it when it came to love. But a question arose within her. She looked down, before looking up again at Yolei.
"But what about you? How are you going to be able to pay utilities and have extra money for yourself?" Hikari asked, worried for her friend. Yolei bit on her lip.
"Well, that's a good question. I could ask Ken and Dai if I could move in with them, or vice-versa. Besides, they need help as it is. I'll be fine," Yolei replied.
"But what if-"
"But what if nothing! Hikari, go. There's nothing stopping you. Go be with him. He probably needs you as much as you need him," Yolei replied, cutting the other girl off in mid-sentence. But Hikari had another question within herself.
"But what if he doesn't love me? What if I go there to confess my feelings and he doesn't feel the same way? What if he has found someone else? Then I would've gone there just to ruin our friendship! I don't know what to do!" Hikari exclaimed, as tears were starting to make their way out her eyes again.
"Well, you don't have to tell him right away. Why don't you get to know each other again, and see if there's anything there? You'll know when the feeling's right. I did when I was with Ken, and I'm fairly certain you were when Takeru was here too," Yolei answered. Hikari nodded.
"I guess…I just want to say, Thank You Yolei," Hikari said, as she turned to hug the girl. The older girl smiled as she returned the embrace.
"No problem Kari. After all, what are friends for?"
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Time passed, as Hikari had gotten a transcript to transfer her records over to New York University. After meetings over the computer and the phone, Hikari was finally accepted as a student there. Now, there was only one more problem she had to deal with, and everything would be set.
Living costs.
Hikari knew that since New York was one of the richest cities in the world, apartments there would be very expensive. She knew that it would be almost hard to impossible to find out an affordable apartment for her to live in. So, she did what anyone else would do. Call people who she knew lived in the area. She had first called Joe, but Joe said that he barely had any room as it was. So, that only left one other person for Hikari.
Mimi and Takeru themselves.
And last time Hikari tried to call, noone had answered, and noone had responded to her message, which had been left upon their answering machine. Hikari sighed, before typing in the number. There were a few rings, and a few moments later, a phone on the other line had picked up.
"Hello, Tachikawa Residence, Mimi speaking…" Mimi replied on the other line. Hikari smiled as she answered.
"Mimi, it's me, Hikari," Hikari responded.
"Oh, hey, it's you…How are you?" Mimi asked in return.
"I'm…okay. How's Takeru?" Hikari asked again.
"He's…all right…" Mimi answered. Hikari could tell by the tone of Mimi's voice that something was up.
"Well Mimi, I was wondering…if I could stay with you and Takeru…You see, I'm coming to New York, for him…and I wondered if you had a spare room…" Hikari trailed off. A few moments later, Mimi responded.
"You need a spare room here? Yeah, I do. Sure, you can stay…This'll make Takeru happy when I tell him…" Mimi replied.
"No, don't tell him! I want to keep it a surprise," Hikari exclaimed.
"What? You want me to keep it a surprise? Well, okay…" Mimi trailed off. Hikari had a sigh of relief.
"Good. I'll e-mail you the details. What's your e-mail address? Uh huh, thanks. Well, I better go. Can't wait to see you!" Hikari exclaimed.
"Can't wait to see you either! See you soon…Bye!" Mimi replied. The girl then hung up the phone. Hikari smiled as she hung up the phone as well. It grew even wider as she thought of what would happen once she got there.
"Next stop, New York City…"
Finally, we've reached the end of that chapter!
(1) The prefix –chan is used to denote friendship, also for someone you're familiar with.
(2) The prefix –kun is also used for friendship and familiarity. Both –chan and –kun are used interchangeably, but –chan is usually used for females and –kun is used for males.
Next chapter: The story finally moves along as Hikari makes her way to New York. Will Takeru welcome her with open arms, or will the tension between the two intensify?
Ja ne!
-ATLANTA ROCKS!
Oh yeah, and please review!