A.N.: What's up people? This chapter will be focused on Mimi and Joe's wedding, as well as a new love triangle…but you won't find out about it until later. Now, let's start!
Disclaimer: I don't own Digimon, or any of aforementioned songs, or "Simple and Clean" by Utada Hikaru and "You Got Me" by Jason Chain.
Synopsis: Last chapter, Matt and Sora tried to convince Takeru into coming to the first day of wedding rehearsal, but to no avail. Meanwhile, Hikari didn't want to go, but ended up doing so. After being convinced by friends, the two finally made up…
..But even though they're friends again, will their road to romance resume, or will it be cut short? Let's find out!
"Second Chances are so Few"
By
Malcolm Yuy
Chapter 8: Thrown Into a Circle
..I feel so much better now. I'm glad that I was able to repair my relationship with him…
But still, what he did makes me question his integrity. Will I still be able to trust him? My love for him is beginning to waver. Because without trust, how can love exist?
This is just so frustrating. Maybe I should put love and romance in the backseat…
Before something unaccounted for comes along…
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Hikari blushed as Yolei was finishing adjustments to her gown. The brunette was examining herself in a mirror in her old room. Yolei backed off and smiled at her.
"Man Kari, you're drop dead gorgeous. T.K.'s going to have a heart attack when he sees you girl," Yolei replied. Hikari turned back to look at her friend.
"And Daisuke."
"Maybe. Don't worry though Hikari. I don't think he's going to try anything. He values your friendship too much," Yolei stated as she walked over to stand in front of Hikari. Hikari nodded.
"I hope so. But I don't know about Takeru though," Hikari said, as she cupped her chin. Yolei walked over and put her hands on Hikari's shoulders.
"I do. It's so obvious. He loves you!" Yolei exclaimed. That statement made Hikari blush. "What! You know it's true," Yolei replied after the brief moment of silence.
"I don't know..maybe. I think that's what he was trying to tell me earlier."
---"Hikari…"---
"But I don't think I should accept his confession." This startled the older girl.
"Why not? You love him, he loves you, problem solved! It would be so simple," Yolei replied.
"But it's not that simple Yolei," another voice stated, as its owner made their way into the room. Hikari and Yolei turned their heads towards the voice. "Hello Kari," Sora said.
"Hey Sora..you know, she's right Yolei. It isn't that simple. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to change clothes." Hikari then left the room adbruptly, leaving Yolei stuttering.
"But, but why not? Why isn't it that simple?" Yolei asked. Sora could only look the younger woman straight in-the-eye.
"Because, she has to rebuild her trust in him. Love cannot last without trust," Sora answered. Yolei sighed as Hikari returned, wearing casual wear.
"So Kari, ready to go?" Yolei asked.
"Go? Go where?" Hikari asked.
"Why, for girl's night out of course…"
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"Guys, I don't know if this is a good idea…"
"Oh come on Joe, you won't be a bachelor after tomorrow. Today's your last day of bachelorhood! Every bachelor does this before he gets hitched," Tai replied, as he and Matt dragged Joe towards "The Bachelor's Club," a club intended for young, single studs. Izzy pushed Joe from behind, as Takeru and Ken couldn't help but laugh at the situation. Joe turned around to face Izzy.
"Why are you helping them? You're my best friend! You're suppose to be helping me," Joe whined. Izzy just continued to smile at him.
"I know, but I have a sadistic side that likes to see you quiver in nervousness," Izzy answered. This only made everyone else laugh. Joe then turned his head to Ken and Takeru.
"Ken, T.K.,why don't you do something to help? Won't the girls get mad at you too for agreeing to this?" Ken and Takeru both looked at each other for a moment, before looking back at Joe.
"Well Yolei might, but I have it covered," Ken replied, waving his hand in a "doesn't matter" motion.
"And Hikari and I are just friends Joe, nothing more," Takeru replied.
Yet.
"Well, we're here. Prepare for two hours of party-party-party!" Matt exclaimed, as he and Tai began to dran Joe in. Joe only sighed as he was pulled along. The doors closed, leaving Takeru and Ken to themselves. Ken turned to face Takeru.
"Yolei told me everything," Ken stated.
"Oh, she did, did she?" Takeru asked. Ken nodded.
"What are you going to do?" Ken asked.
"I don't know. I really want to tell Hikari I love her, but I'm starting to have second thoughts," Takeru responded, sighing tiredly. Ken looked away from his blonde companion.
"Then maybe you should put it in the back of your mind, at least for now," Ken suggested. Takeru nodded.
"Yeah, maybe." Ken joined Takeru's side as he placed an arm around him.
"Come on, let's go inside. Joe had probably fainted by now," Ken replied. Takeru could only chuckle at that statement.
"All right." Ken then unwrapped his arm from the blonde, and was about to go inside when Takeru spoke.
"Ken?" Takeru said.
"Yeah?"
"Thanks," Takeru stated. Ken only smiled in return.
"You're welcome. Now, let's join them, shall we?" The two then made their way inside, closing the door behind them as they entered.
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"Come on Joe, you should enjoy this!" Matt replied, as he gave the older male a sharp pat on the back. Joe grunted. Tai leaned over towards Matt.
"I think this is sort of an overkill. Aren't we overdoing it?" Tai whispered.
"Yeah, it doesn't look like he can handle it," Izzy replied, joining into the conversation. Matt just waved them off.
"Nah. Besides, it isn't like he hasn't seen anything before. Right Joe?" Matt asked, elbowing Joe in the side. Joe just slumped over in his chair.
"Um, I think he fainted from all of the excitement," Izzy pointed out. Tai and Matt just sweatdropped, sighing tiredly. It was after Izzy's statement that Takeru and Ken made their entrance. The two stood behind their peers, looking over towards Joe.
"Hey guys…is Joe okay?" Ken asked.
"Well, sort of. Let's just say…he's currently indisposed," Izzy answered. Ken and Takeru couldn't help but laugh at the comment. That was, until they both looked over towards the dance strutting on the pole. Their jaws then dropped.
"Awesome, isn't it? Just imagine what would happen if Yolei and Kari were here…" Matt replied. Takeru and Ken gulped nervously, before shaking their heads to come back to reality.
"Um, well, um…" Takeru tried to form a sentence, but couldn't think of a single thing since his brain was like jelly at the moment. Tai and Matt just laughed at his lack of a response. Tai then turned his head, and smiled as he saw someone make their way over to them. Correction, some people.
"Hey, look who just walked in," Tai stated, as Daisuke and Cody made their entrance.
"Hey Cody, how did you get in?" Tai asked. Daisuke raced over and clamped Tai's mouth shut.
"I uh, sort of made him a fake ID," Daisuke whispered nervously. Tai just grinned at the answer.
"And the bouncer accepted it? How rich. Now Cody, could you come over here and help Joe? He's not being receptive to the entertainment," Tai said. Cody just shrugged.
"All right." He walked over to Joe and woke him up.
"Uh, what? Oh, hey guys," Joe said. The others just began laughing at him. He just grunted angrily. Izzy then put an arm around him.
"It's okay Joe, it's okay. It'll get better," Izzy said.
"Yeah, now that everyone's here. Let's get this party started!" Daisuke shouted. The others cheered, before laughing contently in the club, beginning the festivities…
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"So Kari, are you having fun?" Yolei asked as Sora and Mimi were watching the male dancers onstage. Hikari had to admit, she was having a lot of fun. But every time one of those male dancers would get near her, she would get nervous. Hikari sweatdropped as she looked over at Yolei nervously.
"Yeah, lots. Aren't you worried how Ken would react to us doing this?" Hikari asked, turning her attention towards her peers. Sora was currently handing a male dancer a few yen. She giggled slightly, before looking back to Yolei, who saw the same thing.
"Ha ha, no, not really. Ken is doing the same thing with Joe and the other guys," Yolei answered, waving the question off. Hikari just sighed tiredly, before getting up. Yolei followed her friend's movements.
"Where are you going?" Yolei asked.
"I'm going to step outside for a bit, okay? I'll return in a few minutes, so don't worry," Hikari responded. She then trekked through the crowd of other young women as she made her way outside through the back exit. She then sighed as she leaned against the wall of the club, looking up at the night sky.
Phew, I'm glad I stepped outside. It's cooler out here, Hikari thought. Earlier that evening, the girls had gone shopping, before making their way into a club called "Cowboys," a club designed specifically for women. The men in the club would wear blue jeans, cowboy boots, a cowboy hat, and a tux bowtie around their neck, as they were topless. Hikari blushed as she remembered looking at their broad chests. She then looked to her left towards the street.
I wonder what Takeru's doing right now. Probably ogling some stripper, Hikari thought, chuckling. She then stopped as her mouth formed into a frown. But seriously, what am I going to do about him? I know I love him, but with what has happened recently, I don't know what I should do. Part of me wants to tell him, desperately. But the other part of me…
..wants to wait. And maybe I should. But what if something happens when I decide to? So many things could change…
But if there's one thing I know for sure, I have to regain my trust in him, if our relationship's going to advance any further…
And if I don't, then we'll be set back…
And I don't want to be set back…
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Takeru sighed tiredly as he made his way out of the Bachelor's Club. He smiled, recounting the events that had transpired not too long ago. After Daisuke and Cody arrived, the party had gotten…more invigorated. Daisuke, Tai and Matt all pitched so the dancer could give Joe a lap dance. Takeru, Izzy, Ken, and Cody couldn't help but laugh, as Joe's face became a bright red, with his eyes rolling into the back of his head. After shaking the young man back into consciousness, the sextet moved into another part of the club into the bar, and reaccounted their adventures as heroes of the world (and Digital World, for that matter).
Now that I think about it, those days were pretty fun…when we didn't have to worry about the Digital World being destroyed, or us for that matter, Takeru thought, as he shoved his hands into his pockets, looking down at the sidewalk.
What about Patamon? Do you think he's okay? Takeru's dark half asked, making the young man conjure up a picture of his digimon partner. Takeru sighed as he looked up at the passing traffic.
I hope so.
Ugh…you just used that word.
What word? Oh yeah…hope. What about it?
We both know it's what you represent. Ironically though, I know you're starting to doubt yourself.
What! What do you mean "doubt" myself?
Don't play stupid with me. We both know what you're doubting yourself about. Hikari.
Sigh..I couldn't hide it from you, could I? It's just that…
What?
It's just that…after what happened recently, I don't know what I should do.
What do you think you should do?
I don't know…maybe…maybe I should wait…
Wait? Oh, you mean wait on telling her. Maybe…
But what if something happens? What if she finds someone else? What if she already has? What if-
"Hey Takeru!" a voice shouted. Takeru snapped out of his self-discussion to find the origin of that voice. When he found it, his eyes widened. There in casual wear, with black hair with spiky bangs, and glasses was Mark.
"Mark?" Takeru asked, catching his breath when he saw the young man. Mark could only smile as he joined Takeru's side. "Fancy meeting you here. What brings you to Japan? Aren't you supposed to be in New York?"
"No. Don't worry though, I have someone running the shop for me," Mark answered. He then continued speaking. "Maybe you don't know this, but I don't just run a One-Hour Photo shop. I'm also an up-and-coming photographer as well. In fact, I'm here to photograph a wedding," Mark answered. This caught interest in the blonde.
"Really? Well, as a matter of fact, I'm involved in a wedding myself. Which one are you involved in?" Takeru asked.
"The Tachikawa-Kido Wedding," Mark responded. This only made Takeru's eyes widen.
"Really? Get out of here! That's the one I'm involved in!" What a coincidence, Takeru thought.
Yeah, too much of a coincidence if you ask me, Takeru's dark side replied.
"Let me guess…you're an usher," Mark said.
"Yep. In fact, I get to escort Hikari," Takeru replied. As soon as he finished his sentence, he subconsciously clamped his hand over his mouth.
Oh great, now he knows…
"Hikari? Oh, you mean Kari. She told me she was going to be in a wedding. I didn't know it was going to be this one though," Mark said. Takeru could only frown.
"Is something the matter?" Mark asked. Takeru just shook his head.
"No no, it's nothing, nothing at all…" Takeru just waved off his statement nervously. Mark then looked down at his watch.
"Well, look at the time. I must be going, so I guess I'll be seeing you tomorrow at the wedding?" Mark asked. Takeru nodded.
"Yeah, I guess so. You take care," Takeru replied.
"You too." And with that, Mark left Takeru to himself. Takeru sighed as he looked back at the traffic.
This is just great… Takeru's dark side stated sarcastically. Takeru's main personality suddenly became active.
What? There's nothing wrong with Hikari's boss being at Mimi and Joe's wedding tomorrow, is there?
Think about it doofus. Mark is the same age as we are. In the time that he has gotten to spend with Hikari, don't you think he would have some kind of attraction to her? What guy wouldn't fall for Hikari? We did. I'm pretty sure…
..he did too. But what am I going to do now? If you're right, then we know what could happen tomorrow. For all I know, he could confess to her…
..how he feels. But what are you going to do? Just a few minutes ago we were arguing about this. You said you might wait.
I said I might. I didn't say I would.
Then I guess it's decided.
Yes. I guess I have no choice but to continue where I left off before this mess began. Which means only one thing…
I have to tell Hikari how I feel…
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"Well, goodnight you guys," Joe replied, waving to Tai, Matt and Takeru. Daisuke, Ken and Cody had left as soon as the party was over, which left only the original male Digi-Destined.
"'Night Joe. See you tomorrow. And good luck tomorrow," Tai replied. Joe smiled as he parted ways with Izzy by his side, which left Takeru with his two "siblings", one being an actual sibling, with the other becoming one if everything turned the way he wanted it. Takeru was about to leave the two young men behind, when suddenly he felt himself being pulled upon. He turned to each side to see Tai and Matt looking at him.
"Where do you think you're going little brother?" Matt asked.
"To Mom's apartment," Takeru simply stated.
"Wrong-o. We're not finished with you yet," Tai replied.
"Why? What are you going to do to me, frisk me?" Takeru asked. Tai and Matt both grinned evilly as they rubbed their chins.
"Maybe," Matt replied.
"Sounds like a good proposition," Tai said. The two laughed as they took their hands off of Takeru's shoulders.
"No, but seriously, we want to talk with you," Matt said, as the three began to walk, with Takeru in the middle. Takeru glanced to his brother.
"About what?"
"My sister, what else. Now I know tomorrow is really special, since it's Joe's and Mimi's wedding and all. Are you planning on doing anything in particular afterwards?" Tai asked.
"I guess, I don't know. I want to, I really do. It's just that…" Takeru trailed off. He frowned and remembered the conversation that he had earlier with Mark.
"What? What's the problem 'Squirt'?" Matt asked, ruffling his younger sibling's hair. This made Takeru angry.
"I'm serious, Yamato!..When I was outside the club earlier, I happened to bump into Hikari's boss…"
"Kari's boss? Oh yes, I remember Kari talking to me about him. She said his name was Mark, right?" Tai asked. Takeru nodded.
"Right, anyway…let's just say we'll be seeing a lot of Mark soon," Takeru stated. This created interest in the other two.
"Why? Is Mark involved with the wedding?" Matt asked.
"Yes, as a matter of fact, he is. And I get the feeling that he has more than a employer-employee dynamic towards Hikari," Takeru answered.
"Are you going to confess to her then?" Tai asked.
"That's what I'm not so sure about. At first, I thought I might wait, but now…I think I've changed my mind," Takeru replied. Matt and Tai looked at each other briefly, before looking back to the younger Digi-Destined.
"Well, I guess there's nothing blocking you from telling her…but why did you want to wait at first? Was it because of what happened before?" Matt asked.
"Yeah. But once I talked with Mark-"
"-you began to grow defensive and jealous. I see where this is going. I've been down that road before T.K., trust me," Tai replied. Matt turned to look at Tai.
"Sorry I made you feel that way," Matt replied. Tai turned to look at Matt.
"Look man, it wasn't your fault. It was Sora's choice. And she choose you. At least you're taking good care of her, right?" Tai asked.
"Of course I am!" Matt exclaimed.
"All right then." Tai then turned to look back at Takeru. "Listen T.K. I know you want to confess to Kari so you can beat Mark to the punch, but I personally think it might not be a good idea. Considering recent events, I think you should follow your first decision," Tai suggested.
"In other words Tai, you think I should wait," Takeru said.
"Yes, I think you should. I know with Mark in the picture, you might feel tempted to do something. But you can't let your emotions get the best of you. I think that if you try something now, you might regret it later." Tai paused as he looked up at a building in the night sky, causing the two brothers to stop. It was where Ms. Takaishi lived.
"Well, here we are. Just think on it, okay Takeru? I'm just trying to look out for you," Tai replied. Takeru smiled at him.
"Yeah, I know. And I will," Takeru replied.
"Okay then. Well, I'll see you two tomorrow," Tai said, waving off to the two.
"Bye," Matt said, as the two waved off to their friend. Tai then smiled for a moment, before turning to walk back to his parents' apartment. This left Matt and Takeru to themselves.
"So I guess I'll be seeing you tomorrow too, huh?" Takeru asked, looking at Matt.
"Yeah, but I'm not going anywhere. I'm staying with you and Mom tonight, remember?" the older blonde retorted. The younger one scratched his head.
"Oh yeah. Sorry. What do you think about my predicament?" Takeru asked, wanting his brother's opinion. Matt sighed as they made their way inside.
"Well, actually…I agree with Tai. I think what he was trying to say was that he doesn't want you to do anything about Kari, because from a result that had occurred from what happened," Matt answered.
"What?" Takeru asked, not quite getting Matt's response as he pushed the button for the elevator. Once the elevator arrived, the two got in, with the doors closing in front of them. Matt then resumed the conversation.
"What I'm trying to say is that you should wait because of the diminished trust that has grown between you and Kari," Matt explained.
Diminished trust? I never thought of that, Takeru thought. "Hmm. You've got a point about that..I think I will wait," Takeru replied, changing his mind. Matt smiled.
"Good." The elevator doors then opened, and the two made their way into their mom's apartment. "Well, I'm hitting the couch. 'Night 'Squirt'," Matt said.
"'Night Matt," Takeru replied. He waved off to his brother, before making his way into his former bedroom, closing the door behind him. After changing into pajamas, he slipped into bed.
So are we going to wait now? Takeru's darker half asked.
I guess. But if Mark tries anything I'll-
Whoa, whoa, whoa! Having violent thoughts now, are we? I don't think Hikari would want that.
I know. I won't try anything.
Are you sure? Because I think I felt a little fire of jealousy burning…in your heart.
I'm not jealous. For the last time, I'm not going to do anything. Satisfied?
For now. But we'll see tomorrow, won't we? Goodnight, Takeru's dark half replied.
Goodnight, Takeru's lighter half responded. And with that, Takeru descended into the world of dreams…
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It finally arrived. The day of Mimi and Joe's wedding. Joe gulped nervously as he adjusted his tie. Joe was wearing a platinum tux with a blue formal tie, which matched the color of his blue hair. For this occasion, he had decided not to wear glasses. The ushers were wearing silver tuxes, each with a tie that matched some aspect of their facial features. Tai and Izzy both had maroon-luster ties to match their hair, while Takeru and Matt both had blue-luster ties to match their eyes. Izzy patted Joe on the back.
"Come on Joe, it's the big day! You should be happy you're marrying a beautiful woman," Izzy said, trying to cheer up the groom. Joe sweatdropped as he looked over at his friend.
"You say that now, but imagine if the roles were reversed. You wouldn't be as buoyant would you?" Joe asked, barring his teeth in an angry sort-of-fashion. Izzy just backed off.
"Gomen, gomen (sorry). I get it," Izzy replied. Tai and Matt joined Izzy's side, as Takeru and Ken stood nearby.
"Don't worry Izzy, he's just high-strung. He'll feel a lot better after this is over," Tai said, placing a comforting hand on Joe's shoulder. Joe rolled back his sleeve to look at his watch, before looking back to the others.
"Well, it's time. Wish me luck guys," Joe replied. The others nodded at him, as he left for the altar. Right before he exited the room, he happened to stumble an fall onto the floor. The others sweatdropped, before helping him up.
"Joe, I think you're going to need a lot more than luck. You're going to need a miracle," Matt suggested. Takeru and Ken just chuckled.
Joe just dusted himself off and continued where he left off, with the others following him in tow. He and Izzy then broke off from the others, and took their spots within the sanctuary. Tai and Ken left Matt and Takeru by themselves for a moment. Matt turned to face Takeru.
"So, you do remember what we talked about last night, don't you?" Matt asked.
"Yeah, I remember. Don't worry about me Matt, I'll be fine," Takeru said, giving his brother a reassuring pat on the back. Matt smiled.
"Good. Well, we better be going then," Matt replied, before making his way toward the sanctuary. Takeru sighed tiredly.
Let's get going… his dark half said.
Okay. Just give me a minute. Takeru opened his eyes, before nodding his head.
All right. Here we go. Takeru then made his way towards the sanctuary, before making his place in line. In front was the ringbarrer, followed by Matt, Tai, Ken, and Takeru at the end as they had rehearsed. Across from them, the bridesmaids were in line as well, with the flower girl in front, followed by Sora, the Maid of Honor, then by Aiko, Yolei, and finally Hikari. Takeru couldn't see them, though.
From the altar, Takeru could hear music that was being played from the piano, filling the air with its sweet melody. He gulped as he took a finger and shook the neck of his shirt.
It's time, Takeru's other side replied. And with the announcement of his inner statement, the line slowly began to move. The ringbarrer and flowergirl made their way down the aisle, followed by Matt as he extended his arm to Sora, who took it, soon followed by Tai and Aiko. Ken then moved towards Yolei, before having her take his arm. Takeru was now alone.
Oh great, now it's my turn. I hope I don't screw up, Takeru thought. As he looked ahead, he blushed as as he saw Hikari in her dress, carrying a pair of white flowers. Her hair was tied in a bun, and her bangs held back by a white hairclip. To Takeru, she was beautiful. She smiled at him as he nervously made his way over, before extending his arm. He felt his heart beat heavily in his chest as she accepted it, and the two began their march down the aisle. Takeru gave a sideways glance towards Hikari.
Kami, she's so beautiful. If she were any closer, I think my heart would explode out of my chest, Takeru thought. Thinking to himself, he sort of felt like he was getting married. Sure, he knew in reality that if he was the one getting married, he would be the one standing at the altar. But still, he couldn't help but have that feeling in his heart. And little did he know that Hikari was thinking along the same lines.
Takeru's so handsome! But I need to calm down. Remember Hikari, remember what you decided on. She then took a quick glance at her blonde companion. She then caught him glancing at her as well. The two blushed as they looked away from each other.
Sorry Takeru. But if we're going to be together, you're going to have to wait… Hikari's thoughts trailed off as the two separated, each going to the appropriate side of the altar. As soon as they got in position, the music changed. Takeru couldn't help but look at Hikari one last time before "Here Comes the Bride" began. Everyone turned their heads to look at the bride as she made her way down the aisle, her father by her side. The Digi-Destineds' faces flushed as they sall saw her.
She's so beautiful. I hope I can be as beautiful as her someday, Hikari thought as she smiled at Mimi. Mimi smiled at everyone, and her father was smiling as well. Once she finally reached Joe, Mr. Tachikawa handed her off to Joe, giving the groom a smile before doing so, in which the groom graciously returned. Mr. Tachikawa then joined Takeru's side, and the priest smiled as he looked at the lovely couple before him. He then began to speak.
"We gather here today to witness the beautiful union of two people in holy wedlock one Tachikawa Mimi and one Kido Jyou. These two have been brought here today to declare and promise their love in the eyes of God. Now Jyou, will you take Mimi's hand and recite your vows?" The priest asked. Joe nodded as he extended his left hand to take hold of Mimi's right, taking the ring from the ringbarrer, looking into Mimi's eyes, with her looking into his in return. The whole audience was concentrated on these two.
"I, Kido Jyou, promise to do everything in my power to love, honor and cherish you, Tachikawa Mimi. I vow to always be by your side, and help you in any way that I possibly can. I pledge my reliability, trust, and above all, my heart." Joe smiled as he ended the sentence with a smile. Tears came to Mimi's face, and the other girls were beginning to become emotional as well. Joe slid the wedding ring onto Mimi's wedding finger. The priest then turned to Mimi.
"Jyou has announced his vows to you, Mimi. Would you respond to these vows?" the priest asked. Mimi nodded as she took the other ring from the ringbarrer, and held it near Joe's wedding finger.
"I, Tachikawa Mimi, affirm to love, honor, and trust you, Kido Jyou. I vow to remain by our side, and encourage you in good times and bad. I pledge to you my credibility, my sincerity, and above all else, my soul." Mimi sniffled as she smiled at Joe, who returned her smile, as she slid his ring onto his wedding finger. The two, hand-in-hand, turned back to look at the priest.
"The vows have now been affirmed. We now move into confirmation." The priest then turned to face Joe again. "Jyou, do you take Mimi to be your lawfully wedded wife, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, 'till death do you part, for long as you both shall live?" The priest asked.
"I do," Joe replied. The preist then turned to Mimi.
"And do you Mimi, take Jyou to be your husband, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, 'till death do you part, for long as you both shall live?"
"I do," Mimi affirmed. The priest then looked towards the audience.
"Is there anyone who wishes to speak against this union? If so, speak now, or forever hold your piece." As the priest finished his statement, a stillness in the sanctuary came as everyone looked around silently, before turning their attention back onto the couple.
"Well then, by the power vested in me, and in this holy church, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride." Everyone watched with frequency as Joe and Mimi turned to each other. The two smiled at one another as Joe lifted the veil, wiping Mimi's tears of joy away from her face. He then leaned in, closing his eyes as their lips made contact, with Mimi's arms wrapping around Joe's neck. The crowd cheered and hoorayed as Joe's arms clutched Mimi's side. The two then parted, and turned towards the crowd.
"May I present to you, Mr. And Mrs. Kido Jyou!" The priest shouted. The whole crowd erupted into cheers and applause, as the newlyweds made their way down the aisle, before exiting the sanctuary…
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…So far, the reception had been pretty fun, since Mimi and Joe decided to do karaoke. And with Matt's band for backup, the songs had been from moving to the utterly ridiculous. For example, Matt and Sora sung in a duet dedicated to the newlyweds. Daisuke and Tai, on the other hand, both alternated in singing "I Wanna Know" by Daniel Beddingfield.
Ken and Yolei did a decent rendition of "I've Had the Time of My Life" from the movie Dirty Dancing, while Cody and Izzy surprisingly did a great version of "I'll Never Fall in Love Again."
And now, it was Hikari's turn. She smiled as she approached the mic. She decided to sing a single.
"Hello everyone. I'd like to give my congrats to the happy couple over there. May you two have the happiest of days together," Hikari said. Everyone else "awwwwed" as Mimi and Joe smiled at the young woman.
"I'm going to sing 'Simple and Clean' by Utada Hikaru," Hikari replied. She then turned to the band.
"Ready?" she asked. The others nodded.
"Ready whenever you are," one of the guitarists responded. Hikari nodded.
"All right. Let's go!" Hikari exclaimed. The music then began. The way it was played reminded everyone of the remix. Everyone began clapping as Hikari moved to the beat. She then put the mic to her mouth, and then began to sing.
"You're giving me, too many things
Lately, you're all I need
You smiled at me, and said:
'Don't get me wrong I love you, but does that mean
I have to meet your father?'
When we are older you'll understand
What I meant when I said 'No, I don't think,
Life is quite that simple.'
When you walk away, you don't hear me say,
'Please, oh baby..don't go!'
Simple and clean is the way that you're making me feel tonight
It's hard to let it go
The daily things that keep us all busy
All confusing me
That's when you came to me, and said,
'Wish I could prove I love you, but does that mean
I have to walk on water?'
When we are older you'll understand
It's enough when I say so
And maybe some things are that simple
When you walk away, you don't hear me say,
'Please, oh baby..don't go!'
Simple and clean is the way that you're making me feel tonight
It's hard to let it go
Hold me
Whatever lies beyond this morning
Is a little later on
Regardless of warnings the future doesn't scare me at all
Nothing's like before
Hold me
Whatever lies beyond this morning
Is a little later on
Regardless of warnings the future doesn't scare me at all
Nothing's like before…"
Hikari closed her eyes as she finished her song. As she opened them, they had caught sight of a particular person. She blushed as he saw him smile and clap, but the smile did not just radiate within his face, but also in his eyes as well. Hikari blushed as she stepped off the stage, with Takeru following her movements. As soon as she went back to her seat, Takeru sighed as he got up. As he approached the stage, he gulped nervously. Sure, he had Matt's band to back him up, but he was still nervous. He took the microphone as he looked at the crowd.
"Well first, I'd like to congratulate Mimi and Joe on getting married. You two deserve each other. I'm certain that we all wish the best of luck to you in the future," Takeru stated. As he finished his statement, everyone cheered. He then looked at the happy couple, who were smiling back at him as they had with Hikari earlier. He glanced to Hikari, before looking back at the couple.
"This song is about a young man whose love for a woman is causing him to act..unusal. This song is entitled 'You Got Me,' by Jason Chain." Takeru then tapped his foot three times, as soon as he tapped it the fourth time, the band began to play. He moved to the rhythm of music as well, keeping his eyes closed as he did so, before beginning to sing. People also began to clap to this song.
"Something's been creeping into my head
Turning my thoughts into a dizzy red
Something's been messing up my bed
Stealing my dreams, and now I'm getting no rest
Find you were gone, I guess I must be wrong
You got me walking backwards, you got me thinking sideways
You got me talkin' circles; you got me losing my way
You got me crossin' every line,
You got me just in time
Something's been hiding in my heart, twisting my soul
And pulling me apart
It must be you, 'cause no one else can do this
You got me walking backwards, you got me thinking sideways
You got me talkin' circles; you got me losing my way
You got me crossin' every line,
You got me just in time"
The song then erupted into the guitar solo. Takeru opened his eyes as he looked at the crowd, and looked from one Digi-Destined to another, until his eyes landed on Hikari's. The two stared into the other's eyes, and Hikari smiled at him. Takeru blushed and smiled back, and then continued singing.
"You got me walking backwards, you got me thinking sideways
You got me talkin' circles; you got me losing my way
You got me walking backwards, you got me thinking sideways
You got me talkin' circles; you got me losing my way
You got me crossin' every line,
You got me just in (just in, just in, just in, just in)
You got me walking backwards, you got me thinking sideways
You got me talkin' circles; you got me losing my way
You got me crossin' every line,
You got me just in time…tiiiiiiimmme…
Just in time…"
Takeru opened his eyes as he finished his song, looking straight at Hikari. Hikari caught his gaze, as everyone around them was clapping at the young man's performance. The two kept on looking at each other…until Takeru felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned his head to see Izzy.
"That was a prodigious performance T.K. Now if you could move off the stage, we can commence with the throwing of the bouquet and the garter," Izzy replied. Takeru blushed.
"Right." The young blonde then stepped off the stage. Joe and Mimi smiled at him as he passed by them, as they were making their way onstage.
"Mimi, step to the front if you please," Izzy said. Mimi nodded, stepping forward with bouquet in hand. "Okay girls, crowd around, but not too much. We don't want any of you to get injured," Izzy said. All of the young women crowded around in a few feet ahead of the stage. Mimi smiled as she turned around, her back facing them, before turning her head to look at the crowd.
"Ready?" Mimi asked.
"YES!" the crowd of women responded. Mimi giggled as she turned her head back around to look at her husband.
"Well then, catch!" The bouquet was then launched into the air, and many of the girls gasped as they saw it heading towards them. As soon as it reached arms' length, the war began.
"It's mine!"
"No, it's mine, you can't have it!"
"Says you!" Amongst all of the yelling and screaming, everyone stopped as the bouquet had found its match. Hikari stood bewildered as she held it.
"Huh?" Hikari blinked as she looked at the beautiful array of flowers that she currently held. The rest of the girls either grumbled or sighed tiredly as they stepped aside to reveal her to the newlyweds.
"Well well well, congratulations Kari. Looks like you've caught the bouquet," Izzy stated, as Hikari blushed at the obvious remark. She then walked to the stairs.
"Now it's time for the garter. Guys, if you please," Izzy replied. The men then made their way to where the women just were a few moments ago. Joe could only smirk as he twirled the garter with his index finger, already standing at the front.
"Ready gentlemen?" Joe asked. The men simply hoorahed. "Okay then! Here it goes…" Joe then used his hands to sling-shot the garter into the air. Takeru, who was in the crowd, eyed that item with desire as it was coming towards him.
It's mine! He mentally shouted, as he tried to grab it. The garter landed on his hand for a moment, before flying off towards someone else. Takeru's eyes widened as he missed his chance.
No! Oh well, Takeru thought as he inwardly sighed. The guys semmed to calm down as Izzy spoke into the mic.
"Well, it looks like we have a winner. Please join Kamiya-san if you will," Izzy replied. Takeru turned to see who had caught the garter. As soon as he saw who had obtained it, his eyes widened.
Mark? Yep, it was Mark Poi himself, twirling the garter. In the midst of recent events, Takeru had forgotten that Mark too was at this wedding as the photographer. This only surprised Hikari as she saw the dark-haired young man, who apparently was too concentrated on the wedding, and upon a certain someone to notice him. Her eyes widened as she looked at him.
"Mark?" Hikari replied, as Mark made his way up to her. He simply smiled at her.
"Hey Kari. I didn't know both you and Takeru would be here," Mark replied, as he joined her side. Matt walked up to Takeru's right side, and whispered into his ear.
"Who's he?" Matt asked.
"He's Hikari's boss," Takeru simply stated. Matt looked back up to the two, who were chatting amongst themselves, enjoying the moment.
"Bummer."
"Now if everyone would clear the floor, it's time for the bride and groom to have their first dance," Izzy replied.
"That's my cue. Sorry." Matt then walked away from Takeru, as he and Sora made their way onstage. Takeru could only sigh as he glanced to Hikari and Mark.
Well, that's life…I can't do anything about it, Takeru thought.
Do you really believe that though? His dark half asked.
I don't know. I promised Matt that I wouldn't try anything, Takeru thought.
The music began as everyone watched the newlyweds. Taker looked at Joe's back, and imagined that he and Hikari were in Joe and Mimi's place. His lips started to curve upward at the thought. His other side then decided to interrupt.
Stop it. It's not going to happen, Takeru's negative side replied. Takeru's fantasy halted as Mimi and Joe returned to his sight. He sighed.
Why are you so negative? Takeru asked.
Because, I'm your negative side. I do everything I can to instill doubt in everything that you do. You just haven't heard me speak. Until now. What are you going to , Takeru? Either way, you're screwed. Takeru sighed again as the song ended, and Mimi and Joe left the dance floor. Izzy approached the mic again.
"Wasn't that a spectacular dance for our newlyweds? Give them a round of applause," Izzy said. Everyone cheered and hoorahed at the newlywed couple, who just blushed as they smile and waved at the crowd. "Now it's time for Hikari Kamiya, a mutual friend, and our photographer, Mark Poi, to share a dance, since they caught the bouquet and the garter respectively. Get on the dance floor you two," Izzy announced. He then stepped off-stage as Matt and his band began to play one of their slow songs. Takeru then turned his attention back towards himself as he saw Mark and Hikari approach the dance floor. He purposely glared at Mark.
I don't think that glaring's going to do anything, his dark side said.
I don't care. I'm screwed anyways, right? But then again, you are too. After all, you are a part of me, Takeru thought.
To each his own. Takeru was suddenly knocked off-guard as he felt a hand collide softly against his back. He shook his head as he turned to look at Izzy. "Oh, hey Izzy," Takeru said.
"Hey T.K. How do you think this day has been?" Izzy asked, as the two turned their attention towards the dancing couple.
Takeru smiled. "It's been great. Mimi's beautiful, and Joe looks sharp beside her. They really do deserve each other," Takeru stated, as he quickly glanced at the newlyweds. Izzy happened to catch where the young man's brief attention was turned to.
"I'm..I'm glad you think so," Izzy stated, his tone of voice seeming to lose its contentment. Takeru turned to look at his peer. Right as Izzy was about to answer, there was a hand on Izzy's shoulder. The two turned to find the newlyweds looking at them. Joe and Mimi were smiling at them.
"Ah, Jyou-kun, Mimi-chan…enjoying the reception?" Izzy asked.
"Of course we are Koushiro-kun," Mimi answered.
"Thanks for everything Izzy," Joe replied. Izzy smiled at his friend.
"Hey, this is what being the Best Man's all about, right? I'm glad you guys are having a great time," Izzy replied. Mimi and Joe smiled.
"Well, we're going to get ready to leave for the honeymoon, so we won't see you again until the last dance. We'll see you two later," Joe said. The two nodded.
"Okay, later then." Izzy and Joe then shook hands, before he left for his bride, leaving Izzy and Takeru alone again. Takeru turned back to the dance floor.
"Man, this is a long song…" he turned his attention back to Izzy. "Sorry Izzy. What were you going to say?" he asked. Izzy sighed.
"Well Takeru, I am glad for Joe and Mimi, I really am. It's just that..I wish I was in Joe's shoes, that's all," Izzy answered. He thought back to their earlier days. "Remember how after we defeated MaloMyotismon, Mimi visited frequently during the next few years?" Takeru nodded. "Well you see Takeru, I became quite infatuated with Mimi. We would send e-mails to each other a few times a week, and when she would visit, we would spend some time together. It was wonderful," Izzy replied, replaying those memories of the yesteryears in his head. A bitter smile came upon his face.
"Then what happened?" Takeru asked. Izzy sighed.
"One day…"
---FLASHBACK BEGINS---
Izzy was sitting at his pineapple laptop, still wearing his high school uniform. He removed his tie and unbuttoned the top button of his shirt as he was accessing his e-mail. He then saw one that stood out from the spam, and mail that other fellow Digi-Destined would send him. The one that stood out to him was the one from Mimi.
"Mimi," Izzy uttered, as he felt his cheeks grow hot at the mention of her name. He opened the e-mail, and began reading its contents.
"Hey Izzy, how are you? I'm doing good, as always. I miss you and the others, though. New York is great, although I can't wait to see you and the others again. I have lots of gifts for everyone, and I think you'll like the one I got you. At least, I hope so…
How is everyone else doing? I hope they're doing okay…
..Um, there's something I want to tell you, but I sort of feel…embarrassed..Well, here it goes…I think I'm starting to like someone. Even though he's nerdy, I think he's funny, and that he's always nice to me. I really like him.
Izzy…no, Koushiro-kun…the guy I like…
is Jyou…"
---FLASHBACK ENDS---
"Wow, I'm really sorry Izzy. I don't know what to say," Takeru replied. Izzy frowned.
" It's okay Takeru…it's just that…that afterwards I felt so..depressed and empty. I was about to tell her how I felt too. But, I didn't. Instead, I ignored the fact that I loved her. I sucked it up, and…I helped Mimi get together with Joe," Izzy stated. This statement stunned Takeru.
"But why didn't you tell her how you felt? You don't really know what would've happened, right?" Takeru asked. Izzy shook his head.
"Takeru, think about what you just said. Mimi is in love with Joe. If I responded, telling her that I loved her, she would've rejected me on the spot!" Izzy silently exclaimed. He then looked to Hikari and Mark.
"But as far as I know, you and Kari still have a chance. I could be wrong, for as well as we both know, Kari might like Mark instead," Izzy said, with Takeru grunting at the mention of the other man's name. Izzy then turned to look at Takeru.
"What are you trying to say, Izzy? That I should confess to Hikari how I feel?" Takeru asked.
"Hai. I think you should. I just don't want you to turn out like me," Izzy said, looking at Hikari and Mark as they finally ended their dance. Takeru looked at them too.
"Don't worry, I won't," Takeru replied. As the two finished their discussion, the two noticed Hikari and Mark walk towards them. Takeru then put on a smile.
"So, you two enjoy your dance?" Takeru asked.
"Yeah. But man, I feel tired. I'm just going to lay back and finish taking pictures, so, if you'll excuse me…" Mark turned to Hikari, and took her hand, kissing it. Hikari blushed, as Takeru became unnerved at the scene. "Hikari, it's been a pleasure. I'll see you at work on Monday," Mark said. He then turned and walked up to Takeru, and bent to whisper in his ear.
"Have fun. You don't know how lucky you are," Mark replied, before walking off, catching Takeru off-guard. He watched Mark as he faded into the crowd.
Who does that guy think he is? An angry Takeru thought. He didn't notice that Hikari came up from behind, as she touched his shoulder. When he felt her touch, he turned around to look at her.
"Something wrong, Takeru-kun?" Hikari asked, looking concerned for the young man. Takeru shook his head.
"No no, nothing's wrong Hikari-chan. Is there something you want?" Takeru asked, scratching the back of his neck nervously. The girl could only grin.
"Well, I was wanting to know…if you'd like to dance with me," Hikari answered. Takeru smiled.
"Of course. I would be delighted," Takeru said, as he took Hikari's hand. He then turned to face Izzy. "Will you be okay Izzy?" Takeru asked.
Izzy smiled. "Yeah, I'll be fine. You two kids should go have a prodigious time," Izzy said, waving the two away. Hikari and Takeru smiled.
"Okay, if you say so…" the two then left Izzy by himself. He then watched the two as they approached the dance floor.
"Oh, how I wish to be a teenager again…"
nmnmnmnmnmnmnmnmnmnmn
Takeru could only smile as he and Hikari made their way onto the dance floor, joining the other couples who were currently engaged in a slow dance. Takeru felt his cheeks redden as Hikari wrapped her arms around his neck, with him wrapping his arms around her waist. Hikari blushed as she felt his hands around her mid-section. Takeru looked down at her.
"It looked like you and Mark were enjoying yourselves. Did you talk any?" Takeru asked, trying to make friendly conversation. On the inside though, an inner battle was being raged: one between his mind and his heart.
"Yeah, we did. We've become quite close since I began working for him," Hikari answered. This made Takeru curious as he arched an eyebrow. Hikari laughed at his expression.
"No, not that close. Although, we have met each other before," Hikari mentioned. This comment only brought up more interest for Takeru.
"Really? Where? When?" Takeru asked, coming off as nervous.
"Do you remember the 'Digimon World Tour', as Daisuke affectionately called it?" Hikari asked. Takeru nodded. That was the time when gates from the Digital World opened all around the world, and he, along with the rest of the Digi-Destined, left Japan to close them. In fact, that was how he had met Catherine.
"So?" Takeru said.
"Well, when I went with Izzy to Hong Kong, we helped a trio of brothers who were in a battle against a renegade digimon," Hikari replied.
"Let me guess. Was Mark one of them?" Takeru asked. Hikari nodded.
"Yep. And after we helped the others there, he and his brothers asked me out on a date," Hikari responded, giggling.
"And what did you say? Did you accept?" Takeru asked.
"No, I didn't. I told them that I was interested in someone else," Hikari answered, blushing. This intrigued her blonde companion.
"Really? Were you really interested in someone else?" Takeru asked. Hikari nodded. "And who was that, may I ask?" Takeru asked. Hikari blushed.
"It was…it was…I plead the Fifth," Hikari stated. Takeru could only chuckle.
"You do know we're not in America, right Hikari? But, if you don't want to tell me, I'll understand," Takeru stated. He thought that it would be best not to push her.
It was probably Daisuke though, he thought. Ironically, the young man did not know how wrong he was.
"Thanks, I appreciate it." Hikari then moved to place her head on Takeru's chest, hearing his heartbeat. She smiled as she closed her eyes. "Takeru-kun, I was wondering…would it be okay if we stayed like this?" Hikari asked. Hopefully, he would understand the hidden meaning of that statement. Little did she know…he did.
Is she asking me to?... his light half asked.
Yes…but, what are you going to do? Are you going to keep your promise to Yamato…
..or will I take Koushiro's advice? I don't know. When Takeru finished that sentence, two people popped into his head. One being Matt, and the other was Izzy.
"Look Takeru, you promised me…now honor that promise," Matt said, glaring. Izzy shook his head.
"Takeru, do want to achieve happiness? Or do you want to be lonely? Don't listen to him! After all, he has Sora," Izzy answered.
"But he's my brother. Look Koushiro, I want to confess, but I need to honor Hikari's wishes. We just went through a terrible situation that I don't want to be reminded of. I do love Hikari, and I want to be with her, but with what I've kept from her, I've hurt her. I need to 'rebuild her trust first', as a friend, as Yamato said, before anything else can progress. Love can wait," Takeru said.
Izzy and Matt looked at him for a moment, before smiling at him.
"I'm happy that you made the right choice. Good luck." Izzy then disappeared. Takeru looked at Matt.
"Onii-chan (older brother)?" Takeru asked.
"Hai?"
"Do you think I've made the right choice?" Takeru asked. Matt nodded.
"You've followed your heart Takeru. Of course you have made the right choice. Now, tell her. And don't worry, everything will be all right," Matt responded.
Matt then disappeared from Takeru's mind, and it flashed back to the matter at hand. Hikari was now looking up at the boy with a concerned look upon her face.
"Takeru, did you hear me?" Hikari asked, looking up at the young man. Takeru nodded, as he smiled at the young woman of his dreams.
"Yes Hikari, I heard you. And…it's okay. I just want you to know…I'll do anything for you," Takeru stated. Hikari's eyes widened.
"Really? You would?" she asked.
"Really!" and the two smiled at each other, as they continued dancing amongst the crowd, enjoying each other's presence. Takeru closed his eyes as he reveled in this moment. However, one thought kept on repeating itself in his mind as he did so.
But did I really make the right choice?...
Now, Mark is thrown into the mix! How will Takeru deal with this? And since Hikari and Takeru have both taken a step back, will this detour become an eventual road hazard? Well, you'll find out in the next chapter!
Damn, I believe that this is the longest chapter I've ever written. I would have separated it into two smaller ones, but I believe that they fit more cohesively as one.
Remember to read and review. And until the next chapter, ja ne!- Malcolm Yuy