Heart-rending memories were confining me in a small box. Cramping me by every corner with circular thoughts that spun me round and round that I no longer had direction. Followed by the lack of energy in my soul, leaving me to feel both emotionally and physically drained. Reminding me exactly when I walked down on that ancient, dusty road. Under the moon's, glorious essence. Light that resembled the bold in Mochida's eyes.
The light that reminded me where we were again.
Guiding me, to his direction.
(Satoshi): "Hey..."
(Ayumi): "Yeah Mochida?..."
(Satoshi): "Don't put this on yourself."
(Ayumi): "..."
Has it been that obvious...?
(Satoshi): "This is something you couldn't have prevented."
After he said that, I let out a gust of pain. Then gradually, I unraveled my wounds to him just as naturally as one would. Hoping that he could heal me with his remedy of wisdom.
(Ayumi): "I want to believe you but... I'm the vice president... and Nakashima, is part of this school... and she's... close to us. Close to you..."
(Satoshi): "..."
(Ayumi): "When I look back, I know I could've done something differently..."
Saying that, familiarity sprunged up on my back once again... as those words were from... the "other" Nakashima. Who immediately took form in my head. Practically saying the same thing but in sorrowful whispers.
Same hopeless words. Though our meanings of them were different. Words from two separate positions. Tied together by... my involvement. Outcomes that could've been avoided if only... if only I wasn't in the picture.
If only... I just didn't exist.
(Ayumi): "..."
Am I cursed?
Is that what I'm led to believe?
Those were the thoughts that turned the moment into a motionless eternity. Where it felt like nothing could shatter the solitary space that revolved around us... a timeless situation that kept us still. Until one sensation. Very familiar, began resting on my bandaged hand.
(Ayumi): "...!"
Just another one of Mochida's, powerful embraces. Where he lifted my hand into his own, and moved himself closer as I got lost into his hypnotic stare.
(Satoshi): "You're not being fair to yourself, Shinozaki."
(Ayumi): "I'm... not?"
(Satoshi): "In this world... there are many, many reasons for why things happen. And there are many people, with many things that are going on around them. It's just impossible to have the foresight to know."
(Ayumi): "..."
But I do have some sort of "foresight"...
(Satoshi): "For you to even think you're held accountable for... something out of your hands. Something... uncontrollable. That's not right. You can't be blamed for what happened to Naomi, or for what Shinohara's going through. None of that is on you."
(Ayumi): "..."
But if I didn't tell Nakashima what I knew... she wouldn't be in there unconscious...
I was warned!
I made that promise with my sister...
And I broke it...
It has to be my fault...!
(Satoshi): "...Hey."
(Ayumi): "...?"
(Satoshi): "You wouldn't let anybody get hurt."
(Ayumi): "What makes you say that?..."
The answer didn't phase him at all. He still continued in every bit of his conviction.
(Satoshi): "Because I've seen you taking the fall for others. When in those times, you could've just walked away like anybody else. Deep down inside you, I know you would never let somebody down! Not for your own benefits."
Part of me wanted to tell him how wrong he is. And yet...his honey-like voice, and that diamond stare... and this... embrace by his soft, handsome hands... was swallowing me into his admiration.
His... thoughts and feelings of me.
Of what... he feels and sees...
Were preserving me, into his buttery-like soul. Making me connect to him.
(Satoshi): "You are the most, selfless person I know!"
(Ayumi): "Oh gosh... I'm not that great, Mochida!"
(Satoshi): "Why aren't you?"
In embarrassment I tried hiding the sunsent tan by looking the other way. Even using the other hand to cover my cheek. Though I did, it wasn't hiding anything. He could still see me making a fool of myself.
(Ayumi): "...I can lose control too, just like anybody else! I'm far from perfect!"
(Satoshi): "Nobody is perfect."
(Ayumi): "Yeah well! I make tons of mistakes..."
(Satoshi): "Mistakes are crucial part of life. Mistakes, are what make a person."
(Ayumi): "..."
(Satoshi): "But the difference... is that... you let those mistakes shape your heart, for the better. For yourself and for others. Which is what makes you very unique."
This guy is on a whole another level...
How does he keep doing that?...
I didn't know what kind of response to give. I was paralyzed. Solid and stiff like a statue. Until Mochida reminded me of his gentle, loving strokes. Carrying on the conversation by...bringing my hand, closer to his heart.
(Ayumi): "...!"
(Satoshi): "If it weren't for you, I wouldn't be here today, Shinozaki."
Oh my god!
The smile on my face stretched so wide, my cheeks were beginning to hurt.
Delightful pangs that caused me to cave into his believes.
(Ayumi): "You really say the sweetest stuff...!"
(Satoshi): "Truth can be sweet to hear sometimes!"
(Ayumi): "Heh...heh!"
However, more was ready to be unleashed.
A force, greater than any other... brought me into complete submission.
Submission that led me to be in what I felt to be... the safest place in the world.
(Ayumi): "...!"
That place being... in Mochida's arms. Close to his heart.
The source of... what life meant to me.
But this time he had me resting on his shoulder, soon followed by his gentle strokes and words that comforted me like a stack of smooth, warm, comfy, thick blankets. Exactly how I would be feeling at home, in my bed, on a cold night.
But a bed for two. Between me, and the guy who seemed to always share the same feelings. Basked in the shadows, for me to not see visibly. But to be there, by my side whenever I doubt myself.
(Satoshi): "Please be extra careful from now on."
(Ayumi): "...Mochida?"
(Satoshi): "I can't bear to see any of you go missing... especially if it's you."
(Ayumi): "..."
Of course, that would still be haunting you...
The grip then got really tight after those words. So tight, our bodies could be just one.
(Ayumi): "..."
"Especially if it's you..."
Does that mean... I matter the most to you?
Out of everyone...
More than... Nakashima?
(Satoshi): "Don't disappear on me..."
(Ayumi): "If I'm going to disappear... it's going to be with you."
(Satoshi): "...?"
(Ayumi): "...Oh uh! I mean, uhhhh! No, not 'uh'! Just uh..."
I'm ruining this moment! Shut up!
(Ayumi): "I'm sorry! It's been a long day! Ignore me...!"
(Satoshi): "Kinda hard to ignore you when you're being this cute...!"
What did he just say?!
I knew what he said.
But my urges wanted that to be clarified. Bringing me to ask out of confusion and in denial, but also... in hope.
(Ayumi): "...You think I'm cute?"
(Satoshi): "..."
(Ayumi): "..."
The answer was right on his lips. It was right there... hesitating.
And I was waiting and waiting... and waiting.
For so long that it seemed like we were both gradually getting closer, closer... and closer into each other, as our eyes were also gradually squinting.
This... had to be it.
The moment that would change... everything.
It was right here... right in our faces.
And it seemed like nothing could stop it.
Nothing...
But...
All that build-up was put onto a disastrous, train-on-the-brakes halt, once an entirely different sound aired throughout the building.
Sound being... the school chimes...
(Ayumi): "...!"
Are you FUCKING kidding me?!
Causing us to abruptly release and dart eyes at each other. Though not for very long to where we both just faced ourselves to our own, opposite directions, from one another.
Oh my God! Oh my God! This can't be happening!
Still, I peeped at him, seeing a red, cute, handsome boy rubbing his own neck. Watching him like this had me playing with one of my pigtails. Glowing just as much as he was. Though he spoke without cracking to pressure, while for me... I was speaking in stammer.
(Satoshi): "Oh wow! Already? That was a lot quicker than I thought!"
(Ayumi): "Well um... since you didn't make it...make it back! Tell your homeroom teacher that we were um, talking...! I'll clear it up with them if anything...!"
(Satoshi): "Thanks Shinozaki! Talk to you later!"
(Ayumi): "...Se-See you around! Mochida!"
Right on cue, the door to the infirmary also opened, which was Kishinuma leaving and walking over to Mochida's side.
(Yoshiki): "Hey man, ready to go?"
(Satoshi): "Yeah! Everything worked out in there?"
(Yoshiki): "Oh yeah. She'll be okay."
(Ayumi): "..."
They began walking into an upcoming train of fresh students.
Even though they were about to disappear from my sights, Kishinuma turned his head back to me, revealing me... a small hand wave.
A rare gesture that I would ignore.
However, instead of doing that, I waved back at Kishinuma with an embarrassed smile, like if... it was a way to show him that maybe...I've been wrong this entire time...
(Ayumi): "...I guess I got a lot more to learn."
Maybe...
After all, people could do nice things and still be trouble.
But maybe that can change? Maybe there doesn't need to be anymore unneeded trouble? After today?
(Ayumi): "..."
But of course, my attention shifted to the other thoughts.
Were we really going to...kiss?
...
You think I'm cute... heh!
Cute!
...
I'm the reason why you came to school...
I'm... wonderful to you!
(Ayumi): "Heh-heh...!"
Since the sight of Mochida and Kishinuma were completely swallowed by the ongoing crowds of students, I then walked back inside the infirmary.
Right as I closed the door, Shinohara's eyes were on me, and this time... not a single tear could be seen rolling down her cheeks. Rather. Her face was completely dry, but smooth enough that her youth could have her walking on runways, while her skin being smoldered by bright, flashy camera lights.
But what caught most of my attention was that lively smile.
A smile that had me wanting to know... to understand how it's possible to come from...him.
We didn't say a word, but we were waving at each other as I walked to Nakashima's bed. Standing on the same side as Shinohara. As I began resting my arms over the bed bar, leaning myself slightly inwards, just enough that I could get comfortable.
Unexpectedly, the tone in Shinohara's voice didn't match what I saw literally seconds ago.
What I was hearing was someone who felt genuinely responsible for a mistake.
(Seiko): "Shinozaki, um..."
(Ayumi): "Yeah?"
(Seiko): "Sorry about earlier. I wasn't in the right headspace..."
(Ayumi): "No need to apologize! I get how hard it can be, staying inside this room and... not being able to see Nakashima up already."
(Seiko): "Yeah it's been really stressful."
(Ayumi): "..."
(Seiko): "..."
(Ayumi): "If you want, I could watch over her while you get some fresh air?"
(Seiko): "I'm good!"
(Ayumi): "What about a restroom break? Have you...been having trouble holding it?"
(Seiko): "Hahaha! No, I'm doing fine, Shinozaki! Really!"
(Ayumi): "Just making sure!"
She really doesn't wanna leave her...
Not even for a moment.
But she does seem a lot better now.
Which then I brought him up...
(Ayumi): "Out of all people, I never expected Kishinuma to be the comforting 'type'!"
And somehow, these were the words that brought a surge to Shinohara's vocals.
Now she was acting normal again.
(Seiko): "Oh yeah! Great guy! He really knows how to sort others out!"
(Ayumi): "Does he now...?"
(Seiko): "Yup! I can't imagine where I'd be without him!"
Suddenly, a loud smack was heard throughout the room. That being from... my hands that had slapped my face.
(Seiko): "...?"
Okay, she's going too far!
Doesn't she understand what she's saying?!...
The guy is a total nuisance!
(Seiko): "*Clears throat*"
They can't be THAT close!
I've never seen them together.
Never heard her talking about him...
There's something wrong here!
(Seiko): "Ohhhhh right! Ahahaha! I forgot! You hate him huh?"
(Ayumi): "I...no? I don't hate Kishinuma...?"
(Seiko): "Reaaaally now? So, what about those times when you were on his case? Was that just you, laaaashing out in sexual frustration?"
(Ayumi): "What...?! N-No? God no! What the hell Shinohara...!"
(Seiko): "Ahahaha!"
She seems back to being her regular self...
And this is all because of Kishinuma?
I don't believe this!
Her voice didn't change whatsoever. She just sounded hearty and jubilant like any other normal day. As the energy inside her kept channeling through the room, practically adding warmth into the atmosphere like a space heater.
The recovery was remarkable... really, what did Kishinuma tell her to have her regain this much enthusiasm? A question I had but gone in a flash once she continued the conversation from a very...bizarre angle. So bizarre that all my awe turned into confusion, but with grimace taking form of my body.
(Seiko): "Girls are seriously missing out on the perfect boyfriend!"
Immediately, I shook the bed bar...
Perfect boyfriend?!
WHAT THE FUCK!
It didn't stop there. She just kept supporting this "prince charming" image of him... fable descriptions that didn't meet reality's lenses.
(Seiko): "But then again he doesn't seem so interested in dating... he's like... TOO focused on his own stuff! Probably for the best! And that's what he deserves! The best!"
(Ayumi): "Who again...?"
(Seiko): "Kishinuma of course!"
On impulse... the bed bars shook again.
How is she able to say this without laughing...?!
She's not...joking!
Something serious must've happened between them...
Was she TRYING to date him?
Nnnnoooooo... no way!
She actually likes him!
No... no, no, no!
She has to be messing with me!
That's usually her shtick...
She has to be trolling!
(Seiko): "I think I already said too much! The look you're giving me is scaaaaaary!"
(Ayumi): "I mean, this is Kishinuma we're talking about! You have to be exaggerating a little bit!"
(Seiko): "Nope! He's actually that great of a guy!"
She's not kidding...
(Seiko): "...?"
(Ayumi): "Well if you really enjoy his company, then by all means don't let me change that! Mochida hangs out with him too so like... he can't be that bad of an influence! ...I guess."
(Seiko): "..."
She looks serious now...
Suddenly her voice went firm.
(Seiko): "Why do you keep doing that...?"
My eyes then opened up.
(Ayumi): "Doing what...?"
Though her voice was firm, it quickly lightened up. As she was trying to keep that distinctive, playful, cheeriness of hers.
(Seiko): "The bad mouthing! You keep spitting on his image every time I have something very nice to say about him!"
(Ayumi): "I don't mean to..."
(Seiko): "But you do it very often! And sometimes, too relentlessly! Too much for my liking missy!"
(Ayumi): "..."
Suddenly it was like if I was talking to my own mother... as she opened up that earnest side of hers. A side that came to her naturally, as if she raised kids of her own.
(Seiko): "Has he done something to you in the past?"
(Ayumi): "Oh no, not at all! It's just... he has a huge history from junior high."
(Seiko): "What history?"
(Ayumi): "..."
She really doesn't know?
Then I sighed and turned my attention at the door, with a mental image of Mochida and Kishinuma, still walking to their classes.
(Ayumi): "Well you know... He's gotten students involved into some crappy situations and... he's pretty sloppy when it comes to school conduct. Which him smoking and not going to classes is making the school look bad."
(Seiko): "..."
(Ayumi): "And ever since me and him first talked, actually... every time we HAD a talk, nothing changes. It's always him back to being a troublemaker! And I don't know what to do with him anymore! I've already tried so many times...but he just keeps pushing it!"
(Seiko): "..."
(Ayumi): "...That's why I can't stand being in the same room as him. He really...pisses me off."
(Seiko): "Shinozaki, I don't know what you're talking about! I haven't seen a single bad thing outta Kishinuma since I arrived here!"
(Ayumi): "Were you not in the same school as us before?"
(Seiko): "..."
All the character on her face then went blank. A look that's devoid of wanting to respond. A deadpan stare.
(Ayumi): "...?"
Even though she was staring at me like that, I was still waiting for an answer... but she was still... staring at me silently, and as intently.
And... more disappointedly. That even I began to feel guilty for something I wasn't sure of. Which she eventually gave me a one-worded response that carried the "no emotion" from her face.
Or more like... a suppressed tone. Holding back all thoughts and buried emotions behind that one word...
(Seiko): "Really?"
(Ayumi): "Huh?"
Then SPONTANEOUS energy shot through the ceiling of the room. A complete yet sudden transformation that brought the school shaking! Not that the building really moved, it was just the sudden volume in her words that had me moving.
Could be easily mistaken for anger. But it was just her usual passionate side, taking charge.
(Seiko): "Ohhhhh c'mon now Shinozaki! We just had this conversation the other day!"
Then I remembered late... which made my body jolted upwards. Even my hands were trying to move my hair away from my eyes. Nervousness that I couldn't hide.
(Ayumi): "Oh...oh yeah! That's right! You were homeschooled before... weren't you?"
(Seiko): "Hmmmm!"
(Ayumi): "Sorry! I don't mean to forget... a lot's been on my mind!"
The reaction I gave seemed to have spared me. Which led her to shut her eyes and offer an innocent, carefree smile.
(Seiko): "All forgiven!"
And then I turned away, acknowledging that I may not be so cut out being the vice president.
How embarrassing...
(Seiko): "Yeah I wasn't here. So! I wanna know what these 'crappy situations' are. Becuase to meeeeee, all I'm hearing is another case of... GRUUUUDGE! A typical, symptom from a high school girl!"
(Ayumi): "...It's not a grudge."
(Seiko): "That doesn't sound very convincing! You need to tell me every nook and cranny! Give me...the DEEEETS!"
So, I gripped onto the bars. Pushed outwards momentarily, then readjusted myself towards the bed.
(Ayumi): "Well... it's a handful of things. More than I can count the fingers on my hands."
(Seiko): "Uh-huh? List them for me!"
(Ayumi): "..."
(Seiko): "At least some of them!"
After one heavy breath, the unforgettable images in my head translated themselves into words. Unraveling loud mayhem to my ears. But to Shinohara, there was a difference in volume. As she looked puzzled, disorganized by how low my words really were to her.
(Ayumi): "There were times when a student wasn't looking, he'll go right behind them and tape a sign onto their backs."
(Seiko): "Hmm?"
(Ayumi): "Yeah, there would be students that walked through the halls, and you'd see a few of them wearing these signs on their backs. Saying stuff like, 'Please kick my butt'. And literally, some of the students actually got hurt and laughed at... becuz of those signs! Signs that he placed!"
(Seiko): "...Pfft!"
(Ayumi): "...?"
Is she finding this funny...?
(Seiko): "Sorry go on!"
(Ayumi): "And... and it's not just that! In the past he also placed buckets of water on top of doorways! So, you know when someone opens the door and walks through, the bucket falls, and they get soaked! The other school... tons of students had that happening to them..."
(Seiko): "Oof!"
(Ayumi): "There was even a time when he put, 'out of order' signs on every restroom door! As that made the students run around the entire school, wasting time and hurting their bladders... thankfully everyone caught on, or we woulda been forced to clean 'their messes'..."
(Seiko): "...Anything else?"
(Ayumi): "He used to place whoopie cushions on teacher seats..."
(Seiko): "...Heheh!"
She's not taking any of this seriously...
Okay, maybe this one will change her mind!
She has to understand this one!
(Ayumi): "And oh my God! Once... he sneaked in fireworks to go off during an assembly! Which... spoiler alert! They gone off and it caused the WHOLE faculty to panic that they had to stop everything! But then afterwards, we all had to clean up HIS mess mind you! His stupid mess! And he wasn't even there to do any of the cleaning!"
(Seiko): "Bwahahaha!"
Explaining Kishinuma's history didn't help my case in the slightest. Instead, it just made everything I said seem... out of touch. While Shinohara was just there, laughing... holding my shoulder with tears falling out of her eyes.
What was I thinking?
She's literally the goddamn class clown...!
If anything... They might as well be in the same tent!
...
Oh no...!
Once her laughs became enough for me, I pulled myself away.
(Ayumi): "Shinohara...!"
She calmed down then and used one finger to wipe that one last tear, sliding it off smoothly.
(Seiko): "Ho-Hooookay! This guy is a LEGEND! We need to get selfies with him!"
(Ayumi): "Shinohara, this is really serious! Do you know how often he does stuff like this...?!"
(Seiko): "Not often enough! Were ALL these pranks from the other school? Becuz he has to do more of them! I could probably give him a few good ideas!"
(Ayumi): "Y-You don't get it! If he keeps that up, he WILL get expelled!"
That's when all the fun left the room. Leaving behind disbelief and concerns.
(Seiko): "Whaaaaat? No way! Just for silly pranks?"
(Ayumi): "It gets in the way of everyone's education, so yeah...!"
(Seiko): "Oof! Okay well now I'm concerned!"
(Ayumi): "*Sigh*"
Why can't he just get through it like every other student?
(Seiko): "So really, Kishinuma just doesn't like school! He's just trying to liven up the experience! And becuz he's not caring about himself... that's why you're always on him!"
It would be so easy to give up on him like anybody else...
Such an annoying butthead...
Noticing how long I've been stuck in thought, I released the bars and repositioned myself by resting my arms on them.
(Ayumi): "Of course I do care... as vice president, I have an obligation to make sure every student is taking the right path. But him... he's... he's tossing that future away without a second thought. Making it so hard for me to help him..."
(Seiko): "Hmm... have you talked to him about it?"
(Ayumi): "Like I said earlier. Countless times! After every talk, he always goes back to what he does like any other day! He cuts his classes! He BARELY passes his exams! He's even been caught smoking pot here! The guy just focuses on having fun more than having a future..."
(Seiko): "...Hmm."
(Ayumi): "Am I wrong for wanting him to get his life in order? I mean, I could just mind my own business and let the school handle him... but that's... that's not what I want."
(Seiko): "You want the best for him huh?"
Best for him...
That was the same, exact thing she said earlier. What she thinks about him. What she also... wants for him.
But I didn't want to admit that.
Though it had to been already obvious by my other words... by my past behaviors, my actions. I just didn't want to say that those exact words.
(Ayumi): "...For everyone yeah."
(Seiko): "..."
(Ayumi): "It's not worth ruining your life over a few, meaningless laughs... I just wish he can understand that already... understand what I'm trying to do for him..."
The room then went quiet.
And it just seemed to stay like that for a while. Long enough that I began remembering the times of Kishinuma being held back in class, where his homeroom teacher would call him out for his misbehavior. While in other memories, I would see him walking through the halls alone. Even have memories of him leaving school alone.
Loneliness, that seemed to have always stuck out to me... hinting at me, he was missing something in his life.
Not that I was stalking him!
But him getting into constant trouble... and him skipping class a lot... captured my attention. Built up this...desire to understand and... change what was wrong.
Obviously, I didn't manage that well throughout last year.
Still...
Even to this day, to this very moment, right now...
He's still on my mind.
And today, from what Shinohara has told me...
Maybe there is something I haven't seen. Something... that's always been there, inside him. Waiting to be exposed to the right people. At a certain time and at a certain place.
Just when you think you know him.
Mochida, and now knowing Shinohara too... they both must already know that secret side of him.
(Ayumi): "...?"
Suddenly, my hand felt a warm sensation.
And that was Shinohara's hand, resting over mine.
(Seiko): "I'll talk to him."
(Ayumi): "Huh?"
(Seiko): "If he's having problems listening...then maybe he'll listen to me!"
And then came... an unexpected pain on my cheeks.
Probably way more than I should be feeling and... showing. But Shinohara didn't seem to care about that whatsoever.
(Ayumi): "...Thank you!"
(Seiko): "Of course! I don't want him getting kicked out either! I wouldn't forgive myself if I just stayed back and allowed that... even when school sucks, it is important to AT LEAAAAST graduate!"
I had to ask.
(Ayumi): "Are you both really that close?"
She then released me. Then she swayed her upper body side-to-side. Seemingly trying to keep a secret to herself.
(Seiko): "You could say we are part-time chums!"
(Ayumi): "And somehow I've never seen you two together, or heard you talk about him before..."
(Seiko): "Damn Shinozaki! Making me sound like a terrible friend over here!"
(Ayumi): "I didn't mean to frame it that way! It's just...bizarre that I'm starting to learn this now!"
(Seiko): "..."
So, they are friends...
I wonder how I can get along with him too...
Make him change his troubling ways.
I had to delve into her mind.
Understand that history between them.
How it came to be.
How she has forged that impression of him, and that relationship with him.
(Ayumi): "So what's the story?"
(Seiko): "...?"
(Ayumi): "What made you realize Kishinuma is this... 'great guy'?"
(Seiko): "You really wanna know?"
(Ayumi): "It would help me understand him better as a person! Could also make me... less skeptical, and more comfortable having him around me."
(Seiko): "..."
(Ayumi): "I really want to trust him, but after what I've already gone through with him, with those talks, I dunno... I just need someone to lay out what I need to know, so then maybe... me and him could have some kind of ground we can stand on."
Judging by Shinohara's face, the gloom from earlier began occupying once again that even in the tone of her voice became depressingly low. Which just made the room feel extra colder...
Why does she look down all of a sudden?
(Seiko): "...If that's what you're looking for, I do have...an experience in mind to tell. Yeah... one particular night."
(Ayumi): "Yeah? What happened on that night?"
(Seiko): "..."
(Ayumi): "..."
(Seiko): "I wanted the pain to stop."
(Ayumi): "...?"
Pain...?
Absentmindedly I held onto my bandage and lifted it up near my chest.
(Ayumi): "You got into an accident?"
(Seiko): "No. Nothing like that! The pains weren't physical. I mean like... There was just a lot going through my mind. So naturally, I was finding ways to calm myself down! Finding things to do at home."
Little by little, her eyes were retreating from me and Nakashima. As they seemingly traced the edges of Nakashima's bed covers.
(Seiko): "..."
(Ayumi): "..."
(Seiko): "But... nothing around me worked. The things I knew... the things I used to do... ran out of their charm. My thoughts were just getting worse... the best thing I could do then was to get some fresh air!"
(Ayumi): "So you took a long walk?"
(Seiko): "Not really. I was more focused on watching the stars twinkle and dazzle!"
(Ayumi): "..."
Wasn't that her thing yesterday?
(Seiko): "Even though they are beautiful...my wishes never seem to reach them."
She's been wishing for a while...
What could she be wishing for?
(Seiko): "But the longer I idolized them, more of those thoughts kept coming... clearly it wasn't doing me any favors! So in my mind, I thought the NEXT best idea was to get the stuff adults like! You know? The stuff that gets them through endless, rough and boring days!"
(Ayumi): "Are we talking about alcohol here?"
(Seiko): "Haha! Yup!"
Then I had to ask...
(Ayumi): "But why would you need to do that to yourself? That's not like you..."
(Seiko): "..."
(Ayumi): "...You've been going through something?"
(Seiko): "..."
(Ayumi): "..."
Dramatic pause.
But staying quiet just seemed to add more pain into Shinohara's heart. Eventually, getting her to admit her greatest weakness.
The reason why...everything fell short.
(Seiko): "I had lost a very, very special part of my life."
(Ayumi): "What did you lose...?"
(Seiko): "..."
In that moment I looked at Shinohara and caught her staring at Nakashima.
(Seiko): "That's right..."
Of course...
I should've known...
Shinohara then reached for Nakashima's hand and held it into her own. Massaging her hand with her own thumb.
(Seiko): "Had days where I couldn't eat. Nights that I couldn't stay asleep. I couldn't focus on anything but her... on what we had. Wondering what I could've done differently..."
And again, those same words repeating themselves... same words what the "other" Nakashima said.
(Ayumi): "..."
What happened between you two?
(Seiko): "Anyway! That's what I was going for. So, I went to the closest store I knew. And um... well..."
(Ayumi): "...?"
(Seiko): "Believe it or not, Kishinuma so happened to be the counter guy where I went! Crazy coincidence huh?"
Rather than acknowledging the coincidence, my voice went rough and muffled. As that part of me just wanted to slap Kishinuma with a huge force of telepathy.
More like... strangle his nerves!
(Ayumi): "Did he really sell you booze?"
(Seiko): "He did."
This is soooo unbelievable...!
He's really, not any different!
Then why is she saying all that good stuff about him?
What's the reason for her praising him?
(Seiko): "But I can tell you! That boy was reaaaaaally SNOOPY!"
(Ayumi): "Snoopy?"
(Seiko): "Yeah! When he was checking out my items, he noticed the bottle and tried making conversation about it! And when he realized what I was ACTUALLY buying, he didn't want me to have it anymore! Apparently, I would, 'throw it out'!"
Then I leaned closer to her.
(Ayumi): "What did he do then?"
(Seiko): "He put the bottle back where it belonged. But we were checking out other brands! And after leaving the aisle, my hands were suddenly carrying PACKS of them!"
(Ayumi): "Packs of bottles?!..."
(Seiko): "No! Just packs of cans!"
That's not any better!
While this conversation carried on, I kept giving horrified faces. Meanwhile, the snowballing, disappointment physically kept my voice cold and low. So low, my stress could be literally heard lumping in the room. And yet, these changes seemed non-existent to Shinohara. She just kept singing her bright, yet naive tune.
(Ayumi): "So he had you buying more...?"
(Seiko): "No! That was on me! I figured carrying more would make me look cooler in-front of him since you know! Kishinuma is a cool guy!"
Opposite of cool!
That's like the last person to impress! Ever!
(Seiko): "And having more of them on me well, if I liked them... then I had more to drink! Ha!"
(Ayumi): "..."
He STILL sold you booze... BOOZE! Why the hell would he let you drink in that condition?
(Seiko): "I think they were called... Horoyoi? Sour White or whatever?... Honestly, they tasted kinda crappy! Maybe becuz I'm not an avid drinker... ha! It was my first time after all!"
(Ayumi): "I'm failing to see what good he's done for you here..."
(Seiko): "Oh there's more to the story!"
(Ayumi): "Okay..."
(Seiko): "Well after I paid... I decided to offer him one for his amazing service! Which we ended up drinking them right outside! Talking and laughing... having a really good time getting to know each other!"
(Ayumi): "And then?"
(Seiko): "But we couldn't be out there all night. He still had his shift! And I couldn't afford being caught out late again! So we said our goodbyes, and we wandered off to our own directions. He worked! I walked home."
(Ayumi): "..."
(Seiko): "Yup!"
Nothing else?
(Ayumi): "Is that really all?"
(Seiko): "..."
Asking that question seemed to have drained that little bit of vibrant energy Shinohara just had. All gone. Leaving behind that same, shattered person.
(Seiko): "Nothing was gonna change..."
(Ayumi): "...?"
(Seiko): "Being at home... wouldn't fix anything. So instead of going back... I just hid myself somewhere and... thought things over. Thinking and... drinking. But after one can, led to another..."
(Ayumi): "You were still drinking?..."
Shinohara's hand then began shaking. Probably the same hand she used for consuming them.
(Seiko): "Until I probably had none left on me yeah... I was drinking myself stupid."
(Ayumi): "Shinohara... but why?"
(Seiko): "I couldn't bring those home anyway. And I really didn't want to feel that way anymore..."
(Ayumi): "..."
(Seiko): "Though, eventually... someone came to me."
(Ayumi): "...?"
(Seiko): "...Naomi."
(Ayumi): "She was there?"
I moved closer and waited.
Waiting and waiting, that it seemed like she was never going to say anything. But looking at her, tears were wanting to fall out of her eyes. Which she gradually turned her attention away from Nakashima with a short, gentle quiver.
(Seiko): "No... I thought it was her, but it was actually Kishinuma... the drinks were making me see and hear stuff that wasn't really there. I was too out of it, you know? But um, he found me like that. And he carried me to his apartment. And for the remainder of that night, that's where I was sleeping."
(Ayumi): "At his place?..."
(Seiko): "Mmhmm."
(Ayumi): "Carried you? All the way there?"
(Seiko): "He sure did."
(Ayumi): "..."
This is totally unexpected...
(Seiko): "Oh but the day after... *Sigh*"
(Ayumi): "Did something else happen?"
(Seiko): "..."
(Ayumi): "...?"
(Seiko): "I had to come up with an explanation for not coming home that night... without mentioning what really happened but... seeing my dad...waiting for me outside. I just...couldn't lie to him."
(Ayumi): "Was he mad at you?"
(Seiko): "No... he was in tears."
(Ayumi): "..."
That must've been really hard...
I wouldn't want to see my parents that worried...
Long silence. And noticing how deafenng it became, I glanced at her and caught the glum still glossing over her worn out face. Undoubtedly, she had to be reliving that day, over and over... which she did keep speaking about her father. That moment.
(Seiko): "When he saw me, the first thing he did was hug me. Repeatedly telling me... to never do that again..."
(Ayumi): "..."
(Seiko): "Becuz of me, he literally didn't get any sleep. He even called in squads from every department, having them search for me, all night around the city. Even though he literally had an army under his command, none of them could figure out where I was."
(Ayumi): "An army...? Squads...? Departments...?"
Suddenly her voice was building up that missing warmth.
(Seiko): "He's part of the law enforcement. Chief superintendent to be exact!"
Whaaaaaa...
(Seiko): "Very busy man too! He usually comes home very late! But yeah! That's part of his job."
(Ayumi): "Wait, wait, wait... that's really cool to know your dad is like... in charge! But uh... isn't that a bit extreme for him to send police officers after you? Couldn't he just have called your phone?"
(Seiko): "The battery died somewhere along the way."
(Ayumi): "Ah okay, that makes sense..."
(Seiko): "Yeah he did everything he can."
(Ayumi): "..."
She literally has the NPA in her back pocket!
Not many people can say that!
(Seiko): "He even checked by Naomi's house and God! I'm surprised she doesn't know!"
(Ayumi): "She doesn't know about... what happened to you?"
(Seiko): "Yeah. I don't think she does... I never got asked about it. Her mother probably kept it from her... but if Naomi knew, we both know how she'd react!"
(Ayumi): "..."
Blame herself constantly, huh.
Since this was around the time they had already separated?
(Seiko): "It would be a never-ending story."
Then we both just looked at Nakashima. Noticing ourselves a smile that formed on her own, resting face.
(Ayumi): "Looks like she's having a good dream!"
(Seiko): "Heheh yeah! Such a cutie..."
The moment could've ended right there.
But then, Shinohara continued to open my mind to something... worthwhile.
Every word being said in that... overwhelmed tone. Just as she kept rubbing the bed bar.
(Seiko): "You know... Every time I look back at that night."
(Ayumi): "...?"
(Seiko): "Kishinuma did more than just take care of me... he... he saved my life, Shinozaki."
(Ayumi): "Saved you?..."
Her hands then gripped tightly, which I could feel the tremendous amount of force she was putting on the metal. Probably the same amount of weight that she's been carrying all by herself.
Who knows for how long...
(Seiko): "Becuz you know... with the news about that... killer on the loose... that was the perfect night to... never see the day of light again."
Oh shit!
(Seiko): "To never... see you guys...to never see my family...to never see Naomi and let her know...what happened between us was never her fault."
(Ayumi): "..."
(Seiko): "Can you imagine how much blame she would put on herself? For the rest of her life? God... I mean my family too would feel as responsible and horrible and..."
The words stopped. As if she was trying to suppress certain memories relating to them?
Memories of a similar situation?
(Seiko): "But me and Naomi... we were on bad terms and... it would've broken her. But thankfully, she doesn't need to go through that!"
Shouldn't she be more relieved about her own life?
But as I thought that Shinohara grabbed for Nakashima's hand. Holding it in her own, and in a way... showing me what mattered more. Which also reflected back to the "other" Nakashima. And her wishes. And the fate of that "other" Shinohara and how she reacted to the loss of her dearest friend.
(Seiko): "Yeah, she doesn't have to go through what my dad experienced."
(Ayumi): "..."
She's really more concerned about her than herself...
(Seiko): "For that night, I'm so, so grateful for Kishinuma! Just a pure, pure soul! And there's nothing that can convince me otherwise! That guy...deserves so many blessings...!"
I sighed. Then spoke in confliction without really putting too much thought in my next words. Which I sorta put myself into... Kishinuma's shoes. In a way, confusing myself for me as him... but then, admitting what I really thought what he did wrong.
(Ayumi): "None of that would've happened though."
(Seiko): "...?"
(Ayumi): "Still, that's great he was there for you. Great that he didn't leave you out there. But that all could've been avoided if he just didn't sell you those drinks-"
(Seiko): "He was doing his job, Shinozaki."
(Ayumi): "..."
(Seiko): "I came to the store for something I wanted. I bought those drinks. And I drank them. That's all on me. Not him."
Yet again, another sigh out of my system.
(Seiko): "I get it... it's hard forgetting the bad history you have between each other. But you should give him a chance! Or at least... acknowledge what he did for me!"
(Ayumi): "..."
She's not wrong.
She made her own choices...
That wouldn't be his fault regardless.
...
And if he didn't care, he would've just left her behind...
He didn't leave her.
He took responsibility. He took care of her.
(Seiko): "Sooo...?"
(Ayumi): "You're right."
(Seiko): "...?"
(Ayumi): "I am always looking to blame him for everything...and that's something I do need to quit doing... even if he's done careless things in the past, he's not a bad guy. I do need to cut him some slack."
(Seiko): "And if you do! Sometime on this weekend, I'll get him sorted out! How about it?"
Wait... is she really now turning that into a deal now?
This is part of her personality.
(Ayumi): "Deal!"
(Seiko): "Then let's seal it!"
(Ayumi): "...?"
(Seiko): "C'mon! Let's seal the deal!"
Shinohara's arms were out, which was an unlike gesture to do here... but it prompted me to go into her and hug.
(Ayumi): "A handshake woulda been fine too!"
(Seiko): "Hugs are universally better!"
We laughed, then thoughts of the student council came to mind. Leading us to break apart.
(Ayumi): "Hey Shinohara, I'm gonna go for now, okay? I have some managing to do!"
(Seiko): "Okie-dokie! Catch you later!"
After leaving the room, gradually I walked to student council. However, there were those other thoughts I began having.
(Ayumi): "..."
He saved her life...
...
I need to learn what I could do to prevent what happened in the other world.
(Ayumi): "..."
Sachiko Ever After Charm...
The Shinozaki estate...
Heavenly Host Elementary...
The hallways were empty, but once I made it past the student council door, the activity inside the classroom was ACTIVE. Numerous students were seen sitting down, writing and filling out paperwork, while the others were planning future field trips and events for festivals. Some standing around, gossiping drama and talking about school assignments. Some were even enjoying their leftover goodies from yesterday's tea session. All-in-all, overwhelming, warm activity that distracted me.
Only for a bit.
(Ayumi): "..."
I need to check again...
Once I was at my seat, I pulled out my tablet and from there, used Naho's app once more. But this time... using the "database" tab that kept gathered information in one, separate place.
I tapped the search bar and then...
Few types in, results came up, only to find myself several lists that didn't contain the name, "Sachiko". Or even any descriptions relating to the other important things said from the "other" Nakashima.
Just the same as earlier.
(Ayumi): "There has to be at least something..."
I doubled checked, tried different terms aaaaannnnd...
Nothing.
What I was looking for just didn't exist.
Or at least... it hasn't yet.
But there were plenty of other "charms" on the list with lengthy history, summaries, instructions and warnings. Then there were other historical events relating to a "book of shadows". And underneath, information that also involved family hierarchies who had obtained this chronological artifact.
(Ayumi): "..."
Sis talked about this book!
The book that's been passed down generation to generation, by other mages who practiced witchcraft!
Keeping record of countless, black arts!
Sharing and adding, revising... expanding the book!
A timeless artifact!
I wonder though... would sis happen to know if our family... had it?
...
I wonder if there's something inside that relates to the charm.
To... "Sachiko".
I then screenshotted the screen for a "bookmark" in case if I ever needed this.
(Ayumi): "..."
I didn't stop there. I actually started opening up numerous articles about the shutdown of "Heavenly Host Elementary". Articles that are about 20-30yrs old. And through them, I found similar connections to what the other Nakashima has told me. That being the Principal, Takamine Hanagihori, committed suicide by jumping off the roof of the school building. And that he did have a son named Yoshikazu Hanagihori, a man who also worked for the school. A man who also lost his ability to speak, and as well, lost his identity that resorted to him living out a mindset of a child... due to some corroding "mental illness" he developed in his last couple of years of his life.
Before all that he was just an average man who taught classes. At same school where his father was in. But after the time of the son developing that said, "mental illness", events led him to become the "culprit" of a gruesome crime that involved the abduction and murder of a few children. The same children that enrolled in Heavenly Host Elementary. Which the son was caught by directly having a pair of bloody scissors in his hands, belonging to the crime scene. Which led him to be sentenced to a mental hospital. Though his stay wasn't very long, as he ended up escaping, undetected, and what followed for his fate was similar to his father's. Death by hanging himself. In the school's basement.
(Ayumi): "..."
Sudden mental illness...
The principal going insane... speaking in tongues and scribbling all over his office walls.
Suicides... at the school...
Murdering... children...
Their bloodline has to be cursed!
But here it states... his son kidnapped the children and was responsible... for their murder.
This isn't matching what Nakashima said...
She said "Sachiko"... not the principal's son.
Then I dug up the incident reports of the "kidnapped" children, which mentions they were found deceased in a small room, beneath Heavenly Host Elementary. Bodies that turned up dissected with other nasty details I didn't want to read through. Though the reports concluded that the cause of death for each of them was due to the removal of their tongues. Enormous amount of blood loss was what caused them to die, apart from the other, horrifying mentions.
However, a very important detail grabbed all my attention.
In the report, it also stated that there was "one survivor".
(Ayumi): "...Survivor."
Sachiko... Shinozaki?...
...
A name that shouldn't be there. But it was.
Even though the news had already struck me in confusion, another... sudden change took over the room. An encompassing presence that turned the air heavy. Enormous pressure, coming to me in waves but being sent towards my head.
A brutal, unforgiving force of pressure.
(Ayumi): "...!"
What the hell!
The pain was beyond all the other headaches that I literally had to drop everything and try to survive from it.
Why am I... so sensitive to this energy?
It has to be...the same force from earlier!
The rubbing wasn't easing the pains. Every time, the strokes had added more head-hammering agony, worsening my breathing which caused me to hyperventilate.
Loud, loud gasps.
There was nothing to stop this...
I was at the mercy of this familiar force...
(Ayumi): "...!"
Though, the sensations began to fade. Eventually giving me back control of my own life.
(Ayumi): "*Pant* *Pant* *Pant*"
What the fuck...
That had to be the worse one...
Never in my life it's been that bad...!
...
Whoa, my eye!
What the hell!
Even when that massive headache was gone, my right eye had difficulties staying open. As it took me a minute to recover back to normal. Thus, making me question more what I got me, and Nakashima involved...
(Ayumi): "..."
The presence... has to be the same one from earlier...
It has so much power behind itself... it's even affecting me this badly... and yet, it seems to be taking note of what I'm doing...
...
Is it... Sachiko?
Whether or not if it was her, I continued staring at my tablet screen. Pondering over what new details I learned.
(Ayumi): "..."
So... if she's the survivor...
That doesn't make any sense...
...
Are we related?
Shinozaki is in her name...
And if she's a "survivor", that would mean she was a student here... and maybe her mother, worked in the school?
My hands were now on the tablet. Immediately typing as I researched Sachiko's name, finding that there was literally no ample... actually, no other information that could be found about her. Neither for her family. It's as if... they lost their... "existences".
(Ayumi): "..."
That's unbelievable... tragedies like these, media would be haunting her for the rest of her life!
How come there isn't any information beyond that? About her or her family?
...
Could it be due to some similar case of "the curse" to those who died in that "other world"? Did it somehow "backfire" against her? And against the rest of her family, to some kind of degree?
...
Nakashima said the principal... is the one who murdered Sachiko and her mother... assuming he hid their bodies as well.
That's the "truth".
But how could I even prove that without her word? Where can I even start?
...
There has to be so much more information that I wasn't told...
I really would've had to been there.
For a while, I kept adding information that seemed relevant into a personal document. Saving URLs. Citing resources. Brainstorming. Though I gathered a lot of new intel, I knew I couldn't figure everything out through one sitting.
I needed to spend all-nighters researching elsewhere. I needed to "explore" areas outside of what I knew. If that meant literally leaving my hometown, in search for clues or proving what I was told. But what I knew... is that I needed help.
I couldn't do this all by myself.
And for greater reason...
(Ayumi): "*Sigh*"
Even if we don't do the charm... other people will still do it.
Innocent people who will die. Innocent people who will be erased from existence.
All because of... Naho.
...
I have to stop her!
Warn her!
I need to get her attention somehow!
Suddenly my hands were typing an e-mail to her... however, before I could send...
But... wouldn't that attract the same, supernatural force?
If I wrote to her about every, specific detail?
Couldn't it worsen our situation? Worsen Nakashima's?...
The e-mail in my screen then... disappeared, as I discarded it.
(Ayumi): "*Sigh*"
Sis hasn't called back, or even messaged...
Has she?
Having that thought, then I checked our inbox.
And guess what?
No DMs.
She was dead silent.
Besides the other conversations and notifications that were blowing up on my phone. Her responses never came through. Other students were actually messaging me. But the one person who I needed to hear from, never replied.
But that wasn't all...
The display on the inbox showed that the messages were delivered but weren't opened yet.
Meaning my messages were never read. The same messages I left this morning. After all this time.
(Ayumi): "..."
What is she doing?...
She can't be this busy to not read her messages...
...
She could probably be out somewhere, with no signal?
That does happen when she's helping out there.
But it's been too long!
What time is it?
(Ayumi): "Huh? Already?"
Being that occupied made me lose track of time that I finally realized that school was almost over.
Less than an hour before the final chimes kicked in.
(Ayumi): "..."
I really hope Nakashima is awake by now...
I can't bear to see Shinohara like that again...
"Shinozaki!"
(Ayumi): "...?"
Who else could've it been?
it was no other than Suzumoto, as she leaned herself towards the desk.
Somehow, I didn't recognize her before, but I did now. And noticeably nobody else was in the room.
Everybody must've left for the day.
But seeing her definitely wiped those apprehensions away. As her gleeful smile, reminded me that our future will remain perfectly normal. A future... of us without ever doing that "charm".
Even if I didn't successfully stop Naho... at least, we would be okay.
We don't have to lose anybody we know.
As long as we don't do the charm, everything would be okay for us.
Right?...
(Mayu): "Hi-Hi!"
(Ayumi): "Oh um, hey there Suzumoto! How have you been?"
(Mayu): "Great! Too great actually! Rehearsals have been knocking it out of the park lately! We might as well reschedule the performance to this weekend!"
(Ayumi): "Wow really?"
(Mayu): "Check out our ticket sales!"
In hand Suzumoto revealed her phone, and on the screen had this special menu where it shown the number of tickets and seats that were left open at a place called... "Shinbuki-za".
A huge theater that's located within the shopping district region. But speaking of "huge"... my jaw literally dropped to the numbers I was seeing.
I even blinked a few times to make sure my eyes were not misreading the screen.
(Ayumi): "Over a thousand seats?!"
(Mayu): "Massive ain't it? I think it's out-staaaaaanding! So outstanding hehe!"
(Ayumi): "Well yeah! These are large numbers! Larger than last year!"
(Mayu): "Yup, yup, yup!"
The girl was extremely excited. She even hugged her phone like a proud mother.
(Mayu): "It's gonna be really hard beating that expectation this time around! And with so many people watching us, gosh! It makes me feel really small thinking about it... makes me feel really nervous too!"
I got up and went to her. Rested my hands onto her arms. Which the touch caused her to tiptoe in shock.
(Ayumi): "You guys have so much talent, and that's not going away because the size of the room!"
(Mayu): "...Hehe!"
(Ayumi): "All of your dedication, your efforts... has brought you guys to this point. As long as you remind yourselves those things, there will be nothing that'll stop you guys from achieving anything."
(Mayu): "..."
(Ayumi): "Self-awareness is a part of how people succeed. Whenever you're feeling lost, you just gotta remember all that time and practice you put into this!"
(Mayu): "That's so true...!"
Suzumoto then grabbed her own cheek.
Whispering.
(Mayu): "...You always give the best pep talks! Thank you, Shinozaki!"
(Ayumi): "Hey, I wouldn't be where I'm at without you! You've done a lot of helpful things for me too! Don't think I forgotten!"
(Mayu): "Hee-Hee!"
Our smiles made the room seemingly brighter.
Not even a metaphor. Brighter light came through the windows and gleamed at several parts of the flooring. Shining across us as I released Suzumoto, to then pack up everything into my school bag. Though a question lingered itself over my shoulders. Another reminder that used my friend to get to me. To remind me... my hands were not done "packing everything" away.
(Mayu): "You know I didn't ask about your day! How's it been for you?"
I didn't know if I wanted to be honest, but Suzumoto seemed to have already knew just by my hesitation, as she followed up with that timid stare, looking as if she asked the wrong question.
Not that she has said anything wrong. But for her personally, it seemed she was crossing a line.
Apart from her physically crossing the bright lighting of the room, where her shoes were covered by the shade. But now were shining right along with my own pair.
(Mayu): "Shig told me you and Nakashima were going through something this morning."
(Ayumi): "Did he?"
(Mayu): "Not too long ago. But um! Things must be better now if you're here!"
And since she already knew, there was no point to pretend.
(Ayumi): "Not really."
(Mayu): "...?"
(Ayumi): "Nakashima still hasn't woken up..."
(Mayu): "Oh..."
Suzumoto then glanced across the room, looking hopeless and lost.
In her voice, even the discomfort could be felt hanging over her.
(Mayu): "Gosh I didn't think it was that bad... is she still in school or...?"
(Ayumi): "She's still at the nurse's office... we're hoping it's not any more serious, but you know... hours are already almost over and that probably means she needs to be moved to a different place. Probably to a hospital room by how things are..."
(Mayu): "I don't get it... is she in some kind of coma?"
(Ayumi): "The nurse hasn't specified... she just keeps insisting to let Nakashima rest. Though, her mother mentioned that she's been lacking sleep."
(Mayu): "That's it...?"
(Ayumi): "That's it."
(Mayu): "..."
(Ayumi): "..."
(Mayu): "How insane... for all this to happen after last night! Where did we go wrong?"
If only I can tell you.
(Mayu): "...I can't imagine what her mother's going through! Poor mom..."
(Ayumi): "I feel concerned for Shinohara too."
(Mayu): "...?"
(Ayumi): "She's been keeping Nakashima company, ever since she first found out. Being there practically all day, by her side. Never leaving the room."
(Mayu): "Gosh! I thought Shig was exaggerating!"
(Ayumi): "That's no exaggeration. During lunch time, she didn't even want to leave to go get her food!"
(Mayu): "She didn't eat anything...?"
(Ayumi): "Oh no she did! But only because I brought her a tray. If I didn't, she would be starving herself."
(Mayu): "Why would she do that to herself? Nakashima's not going anywhere! The nurse's job is to take care of the students!"
(Ayumi): "..."
Shinohara really does have a problem with the nurse.
But then again, that could've just been her emotions... just like when she snapped at me.
I stared at the door, gave a soft sigh, while I had a mental image of Shinohara tending to Nakashima's, unconscious body.
(Ayumi): "A lot must be going through her mind. I guess she's scared of the fact that...she could never see her friend again."
(Mayu): "They both do seem very close! I mean, they were practically rubbing themselves to our faces last night!"
(Ayumi): "Ohhh they were!"
(Mayu): "Shig should take notes from them..."
(Ayumi): "Haha! What?"
(Mayu): "Oh um...! Look at the time! School's almost over! We should get going!"
This girl sucks at hiding her feelings!
(Mayu): "To the infirmary?"
(Ayumi): "That's where we're going!"
So, we exited and locked the door behind us, and gradually walked to the infirmary, side-by-side, witnessing clear hallways.
No sign of anybody walking around.
Eventually we've reached to the destination. However, instead of barging into the room, we remained outside while I peeked through the doorway glass, catching an interesting scene.
(Ayumi): "...Oh that's something!"
(Mayu): "What's going on...?"
(Ayumi): "Nakashima's awake!"
(Mayu): "Oh?"
And there Suzumoto peeked through the glass and saw the scene for herself.
(Mayu): "Awww! They're cuddling!"
Sis doesn't need to come over anymore!
What relief!
So much relief...
(Mayu): "I think we should leave them be!"
(Ayumi): "We could... buuuuuuut I have to confirm if everything's okay!"
(Mayu): "Ah Shinozaki! That's not cool! We can see them perfectly fine from over here!"
(Ayumi): "My hands already on the haaaaandle!"
I didn't want to ruin the moment, but we had to make an appearance.
So, with the other hand I tapped on the door to give them a fair warning, then I opened it slowly, catching a big glimpse of Nakashima trying to sit up quickly, as for Shinohara was holding onto her friend's side and trying to keep her in the same position.
A bit of a tug-of-war that resulted Nakashima to freeze in-between.
(Mayu): "...!"
(Naomi): "Seiko...!"
(Seiko): "Heheh!"
(Ayumi): "Are we interrupting something?"
I wanted to laugh but the scene before us was too cute, and oddly mesmerizing enough that I got lost in thought for what I was trying to process. Realizing that these were two "friends" who were in the same bed, in positions that would make them out as if... they were lovers. And by looking at them, each of their faces were glowing red. Meanwhile Shinohara just reeled Nakashima back to lying down that made them look "perfectly" positioned as what you would expect from a couple.
More accurately, like a boyfriend and girlfriend would be put together.
Even the words that followed between them were not like anything considered what friends "say and do".
(Seiko): "The blankets weren't keeping her warm, so we agreed to make like a fire and craaaackle POP!"
(Naomi): "...!"
Nakashima then just faced the other direction, completely avoiding all eye contact as she spoke in a timid, muffled tone. While Suzumoto laughed in the background.
(Naomi): "Yeah... um, it's been too cold!"
(Seiko): "That's what happens when you sleep in all day, sleepy head!"
(Naomi): "I didn't plan on being here you dork...!"
Playful banter.
Just something you would expect between these two, yet... they were still cuddling, and blushing.
Though they gradually sat themselves up.
(Ayumi): "Welcome back to the real world! We were wondering when you'd be up!"
Nakashima then looked down at the sheets, seemingly deep in thought as if those words were making her question the validity of reality. Maybe she was still trying to accept that she was no longer in that slumber?
Or maybe... the "dreams" she had, were something keeping her in check?
Dreams that were... not just your average dreams.
(Ayumi): "..."
She had to gone through something similar...
(Seiko): "That's right! Snow White is finnnnaaaaally awake! Thankfully nobody needs to be put into a hospital! What relief!"
(Naomi): "...Was I really out for the entire day?"
(Mayu): "School's practically almost over sooooo...!"
(Naomi): "I still can't believe it's really been that long..."
(Seiko): "Believe it missy! When Shinozaki woke up but you, we had no idea what to think! The nurse had repeatedly told us you were just 'resting' but I... it was getting harder for me to believe that! The hours were going by and *Sigh* God it was getting so hard to NOT freak out!"
(Naomi): "..."
(Ayumi): "Everyone was really worried about you!"
(Mayu): "Mhm!"
(Seiko): "Tell her you guys! Let her know how worried I was!"
(Naomi): "Heh Seiko!"
(Seiko): "Seriously! I was so, so worried for you Naomi!"
Shinohara then squeezed Nakashima tightly as they both laugh. Meanwhile, Suzumoto let out a few laughs herself, but for me I brought out my phone and started texting Mochida.
Typing away so fast that my phone almost slipped of my hands!
Telling him that everything was good again. Letting him know that Nakashima was awake and that we could go home without any more worrying.
No more than a couple minutes, Mochida and Kishinuma... and even Morishige, came through those doors.
Conveniently those three were already together, as Mochida explained from the text that they met each other outside of the school grounds.
But now we were all together in one room.
(Naomi): "Wow, so many visitors..."
Shinohara then bumped herself into Nakashima's back and whispered into her ear.
Which we can all still hear mind you!
(Seiko): "...And they're all here, just for you!"
(Naomi): "...Not this again!"
(Seiko): "Oh wow... you're right! This is totally like, deja vu!"
A reference to how they were acting last night?
Perhaps.
However, the moment escalated.
To where Mochida made his way to Nakashima, and from there, pulled her in for... something I was hoping to not see.
(Naomi): "...!"
A hug...
(Satoshi): "Are you alright?"
(Naomi): "Ye-Yeah I am fine! Heh!"
(Mayu): "Awwww!"
(Seiko): "Careful now Naomi! Your hands are going to the wrong places!"
Clearly Nakashima wasn't even touching him.
Just another one of Shinohara's teases.
(Naomi): "...Oh lord!"
Although this was a sweet scene, the pounding in my head was getting worst since all my attention had been on Mochida, who at the moment was being "occupied" by someone else in his arms!
Arms that should only belong to me dammit!
Or maybe the pain was due to another reason.
(Ayumi): "..."
Is it stalking us right now?...
While they were all talking and laughing in the background... a sudden... shadow began hanging over me. A pure shade of...discomfort that had an eerie feeling of... everything was going to change. For the worst.
Even the floor felt like it was quaking... like if everybody who was in this room, would fall somewhere, deep into the Earth. But sent... to another world.
(Ayumi): "...?"
Hesitantly, I turned to the source...
And... the suspension left my body. Realizing that the shadow was based off Kishinuma's body.
(Yoshiki): "This room is getting kinda crowded in here! Don't you think so, Shinozaki? Wanna head out?"
(Ayumi): "All good!"
That can't be paranoia...
No, not after everything!
Some point, we realized we had very little time left before school was over.
And from there we gathered out of the room and met the nurse down the hall. Along with an older woman who was beside her, staring at Nakashima.
Which we all had already stopped but as for Nakashima, she took a few steps forward. Staring back at the woman as intently.
(Hiromi): "Oh my! Looks like I've been out of the loop! There she is!"
(Mrs. Nakashima): "Naomi!"
(Naomi): "Mom!"
Without any hesitation, Nakashima went to her mother's arms, leading to a hug that seemed endless.
(Mrs. Nakashima): "You should've listened!"
(Naomi): "...?"
(Mrs. Nakashima): "You had a choice to stay home today!"
(Naomi): "Oh... Oh yeah! Heh!"
(Mrs. Nakashima): "Starting next week, you're going to be sleeping early, every...every night! And that's not a choice!"
(Naomi): "...Mom! Please don't do this in-front of them!"
(Mrs. Nakashima): "Heheh! How are you feeling now honey? Everything better?"
(Naomi): "Feeling some bed sores... but I'm doing well!"
After the back and forth between mother and daughter, a third voice slipped in. That being the nurse, speaking in a calm and nurturing manner, like she usually does.
(Hiromi): "Seems like I'm not needed anymore! I'll be heading back to my office then! If any of you have questions, or any concerns, call me! My line is always open!"
(Mrs. Nakashima): "Thank you for looking after her, Mrs. Imada!"
(Hiromi): "Mmhm!"
The nurse then started walking to the direction we came from, waved at us, smiled and then disappeared from our sights. And turning back around, Nakashima and her mother were no longer hugging. They both were turned to us, but as for Nakashima's mother, her eyes were on Shinohara.
And for Shinohara, she began waving. But she also seemed... overly fidgety at first glance. Even her voice had some shakiness to it. You could say Shinohara must be meeting one of her longtime idols.
(Seiko): "Hi...Hi Mrs. Nakashima! It's been quite a while since we last talked!"
(Mrs. Nakashima): "It sure has been deary! You should come over sometime!"
(Seiko): "...Heheh!"
Her mother seems really sweet!
(Mrs. Nakashima): "Are all these your other friends?"
(Naomi): "Umm...!"
And instinctively I stepped in-front, bowed and introduced myself just like in any other parental meeting!
(Ayumi): "We actually are all friends here, Mrs. Nakashima! I'm Ayumi! Ayumi Shinozaki! Vice president of the student council!"
Then everyone else began bowing and introducing themselves one-by-one. Starting with Suzumoto.
(Mayu): "Mayu Suzumoto! Leader of the drama club!"
(Sakutaro): "Sakutaro Morishige. The treasurer of the student council. The one who puts together, manages funding for the school."
Even Kishinuma bowed!
(Yoshiki): "Yoshiki Kishinuma. Just sticking by like everyone else."
(Satoshi): "Satoshi Mochida! Not in any clubs at the moment but I do my best for all my classes!"
(Mrs. Nakashima): "Ohhhh! So, you're that boy my daughter likes talking about!"
(Naomi): "...Mom!"
Mochida kinda jumped... as for the rest of us, Kishinuma could be heard laughing in the background. Nakashima had this huge color of red all over her cheeks that she faced her body towards her mother, hiding her reactions and speaking in such a low, bashful voice. That we could still hear perfectly fine even if she was trying to hold it back in whisper.
(Naomi): "...I can't believe you just told them that!"
(Seiko): "Oh Naomi! Everyone already knew this! That isn't even worth spilling your tea over!"
Though Nakashima seemed helpless, she was actually saved by a familiar melody that played through the hallways. Summoning open doors, loud footsteps and vibrant voices of everyday talk, echoing from every direction.
Which we left the building. Now standing outside by the front gates of the school.
All eight of us!
Though it wasn't very long as Nakashima and her mother were farther apart from us.
Ready to leave for the day.
(Mrs. Nakashima): "It's nice meeting every one of you! I hope you kids have a great one!"
(Naomi): "Bye everybody!"
(Seiko): "Later Mrs. Nakashima! Later Naomi! I'll be texting you!"
(Naomi): "Heh...!"
Then it was just us six. Though Suzumoto and Morishige were slowly walking to a different direction that was more towards the city.
(Mayu): "Well guys! Me and Shig are off to our own routine! Catch you guys on Monday!"
(Sakutaro): "Pleasure being with all of you. Have a great weekend. Stay safe."
We said our goodbyes to them too and waved.
Now there were just us four.
However!
One smaller student wearing a pink headband, rushed to Mochida's side. Hugging his side.
(Yuka): "Big bro!"
(Satoshi): "Yuka, hey! How was school?"
(Yuka): "It was alright!"
(Seiko): "Ah there's the little one! We were wondering where you were!"
(Yuka): "Big sis!"
And just like that, Yuka then flung herself into Shinohara's open arms.
They've gotten that close already?
After last night?
(Yuka): "We gotta do something together this weekend! Last night was the MOST fun we had in a while! Ain't that right, big bro?"
(Satoshi): "It definitely was fun!"
(Seiko): "Well let me tell you, kiddo! If I got nothing planned, I'll be texting your brother, okay?"
(Yuka): "Yessss! Please let him know when you can!"
After their hug, Yuka rushed up to me, eagerly talking in big eyes, with her hands folded under her own chin.
Although, the innocence inside her recognized that something... was not right.
(Yuka): "How about you, Shinozaki-wait... wh-wh-what happened to your hand?! When did THAT happen?! Did Kishinuma do this to you?..."
(Yoshiki): "...Funny."
(Ayumi): "Haha! No no... I did this to myself! But don't you worry! There's no pain!"
(Yuka): "Well ah, it looks painful! Kinda scary looking too!"
And then... Shinohara wrapped her arms around Yuka again. However, this time, she lifted her high into the air.
This had to been something new for Yuka as her body began wiggling. She even tried pulling down on Shinohara's sleeves.
(Yuka): "Aaaaah! Shino-Shinohara! This is too high!"
(Seiko): "You have nothing to fear when you have me around! Sweet, summer child of mine! Your innocence will be PROTECTED!"
Though quickly, Yuka stopped squirming. Her body was then gently swinging as Shinohara began making airplane sounds.
(Seiko): "Woooooosh! Wooooosh!"
(Yuka): "Hahaha!"
For a while they were having fun. Long enough that another, certain, small student showed up before our eyes. A student wearing a junior high uniform that resembled Yuka's blue smock, white collar flap and pink bow attached, with the only difference being that there is a pink bunny with crossbones sewed on the lower side of this girl's dress. A personal customization that probably has been done by herself.
Then there were her physical traits.
Short, brown hair with long bangs. Green eyes. Tinge of orange in her skin. Seemingly the same height as Yuka.
(Ayumi): "...?"
Though the girl didn't speak yet, already there was more of this "familiar" feeling.
Not by the moment, but by the girl's existence. Even when we never talked or seen each other... a part of me kept "remembering" something that I just couldn't see in my memories.
"Yukes?! You have an OLDER SISTER?!"
Undoubtedly, she recognized Yuka. Even had a nickname for her. Assuming they were really close friends.
(Yuka): "...Satsuki?"
(Seiko): "It's official! I'm now part of the family!"
(Satsuki): "Huuuuuuh?!"
(Seiko): "Ahaha! We're not related! But if we were! This cutie patootie would be in reaaaaal trouble! The amount of loving she'd get at home would probably be counted as abuse!"
(Yuka): "...!"
That doesn't sound right!
(Satsuki): "Oh I agree she's really cute! Too bad she's been trying to ditch me for her brother!"
(Satoshi): "...?"
(Seiko): "Ohhhh leaving your friends behind, little one? Really?"
(Yuka): "No I don't do that! She's supposed to be doing her research paper!"
(Satsuki): "Don't you mean, 'ouuuuuur' research paper?"
(Yoshiki): "Pffttt!"
Kishinuma undoubtedly was enjoying this sort of "karma" brought by last night. While me and Mochida were pretty much letting them talk, not saying really anything.
(Seiko): "Why are you letting her do that alone?"
(Yuka): "Well ah, she's doing one part! I'm doing another! Satsuki, stop making me look bad...!"
(Satsuki): "Then don't rush out of school for your brother without telling me the plan! Don't you wanna pass your classes, Yukes? I can't do everything for you!"
Yuka then moved over to her mischievous friend and tried covering her mouth. Though it wasn't going to happen. The other girl was faster than Yuka, leading Yuka to miss and wave her hands in the air.
(Yuka): "Stop talking!"
(Satsuki): "Now that's the energy you need to put on OUR research paper!"
(Seiko): "Heheh..."
The bantering in its own was oddly familiar, even Shinohara seemed to have the same thought. Just as she dimmed her eyes and softly smiled to herself. A smile that could be represented that... the world finally had its peace. And that maybe... everything was settled once and for all. That there doesn't need to be anymore investigating over what I've "experienced" this morning.
Even if I felt that way, the other thoughts undoubtedly kept me held hostage, from completing feeling "free".
The shackles were still there, holding me down to that reality we could potentially suffer if I wasn't any more careful. Like after today...
Those were my thoughts, while having them, Mochida took a few steps closer and caught the little duo's complete attention. Reeling back that innocent, mundane, fun mood of this moment.
(Satoshi): "Do you happen to be... Mizuhara?"
The girl then introduced herself gleefully.
(Satsuki): "That's right I'm Satsuki Mizuhara! And you must be the 'big bro' little Yukes loves telling stories about! The brother she apparently will CHASE down to the depths of the Earth!"
(Yuka): "Of course I will! That's my big bro and I love him!"
Though with that being said, Yuka immediately covered her own mouth and turned towards a direction where we couldn't see her face.
(Satoshi): "Heh, well I am her brother! Nice to finally meet you!"
(Satsuki): "Likewise, likewise! What about everyone else here? Are all of you friends?"
(Seiko): "Except for me! I'm Yuka's BIG SIS! Seiko Shinohara!"
Mizuhara looked at Yuka in confusion.
(Yuka): "No, she's still playing along... we're not step-siblings either."
Then Shinohara moved over to me and rested her hand on my shoulder.
(Seiko): "Right at this corner we have ourselves the PRESTIGIOUS, student council vice president...!"
Then I waved and smiled while I tried not to laugh.
(Ayumi): "Ayumi Shinozaki?"
Shinohara, yet again moved... but this time to Kishinuma by standing behind him and resting both of her hands on his shoulders. Still impersonating a fighter announcer of some kind.
(Seiko): "Don't forget about this corner over here! The one! The only! Yoshiki Kishinuma! The legend who can rekindle any restless soul! By providing the fun they are desperately missing in their lives!"
(Yoshiki): "Yo."
(Satsuki): "Are they going to fight or something? Hahaha!"
Eventually, after our small talks, Mochida, his sister and Mizuhara began walking away together, waving at us.
(Satoshi): "Nice being with you guys!"
(Yuka): "Bye-Bye!"
(Satsuki): "BUH-BYE guys!"
(Seiko): "Later you three!"
(Ayumi): "See you, Mochida! See you, Yuka! See you, Mizuhara!"
(Yoshiki): "Later."
Another set of our farewells and eventually, they disappeared behind complexes.
Leaving behind just us three.
Me, Shinohara and... Kishinuma.
(Ayumi): "..."
This would literally be the perfect time for Shinohara to get Kishinuma to open up, and go over what we talked about earlier...
And looking at Shinohara, she just smiled at me and tilted her head towards Kishinuma. Undoubtedly hinting at me to do something... as she began gradually walking away from us.
(Yoshiki): "...?"
(Seiko): "I had fun chilling with the two of you, but there are a couple errands I need to run!"
Shinohara!
The face I made must've been the reason why she giggled. But that didn't stop her. She kept moving further and further away from us...
(Yoshiki): "Take care of yourself!"
(Seiko): "I will! Later you two!"
(Yoshiki): "Later, Shinohara!"
I didn't say a word. I just waved with a forced, half-smile that didn't hold for so long. Which was just...
Me and... Kishinuma.
Some students were still walking out through the school gates. Even though they were, nobody I knew could be seen in the crowd. So I had to abruptly leave on my own accord.
The awkwardness was just too much for me.
(Ayumi): "I guess this is where we split!"
(Yoshiki): "..."
(Ayumi): "See you next week!"
After today... yeah, I didn't need to keep stressing myself.
This had to be the most reasonable decision I've made.
Though, a part of me felt like... I was betraying what me and Shinohara agreed on.
Another promise... being broken already.
Even the "other" Nakashima's words were reminding me of that promise too.
(Ayumi): "..."
Having those thoughts, I stopped.
Took a sigh, but then I began hearing footsteps being made behind me, coming towards my direction.
(Ayumi): "...?"
Weren't just footsteps, even a voice penetrated the quiet, peaceful atmosphere. The one that made my heart race around the street.
(Yoshiki): "Hey Shinozaki."
(Ayumi): "Huh?"
I turned to catch Kishinuma, who also stopped. While I faced at him with tension pulling on my bag strap.
(Ayumi): "What's up?"
(Yoshiki): "Let's walk together."
(Ayumi): "...!"
Those were the words I never expected to hear from him. Words that were supposed to be for someone else and yet... he said them. To the one person he couldn't get along... EVER, in the past.
Not like I never wanted to make things right. I did try back then. But this... his attempt here, right now, caught me by surprise.
Yet I was being... complicated.
Maybe because I didn't know how to handle this moment.
This was completely new to me.
(Ayumi): "Why...?"
(Yoshiki): "Why not?"
(Ayumi): "...We don't need to walk together."
(Yoshiki): "But I want to."
(Ayumi): "..."
It wasn't necessary for him to try forging a bond between us.
But a selfish part of me really wanted to see what else he would do.
A part of me that wanted to keep pushing him, just to see... how far he would "sway" me.
(Yoshiki): "I know, we got bad blood already. But after today, after what happened to you and Nakashima, I think it's best we walk together. For your sake."
That's really on your mind?...
(Yoshiki): "What do you say?"
(Ayumi): "Kishinuma, I'm not gonna drop dead on the road. I'll be fine! Thank you for the thought though!"
Before I could turn around, his next words brought me back to his attention.
The adrenaline inside me was already running... running and running that I felt out-of-balance.
(Yoshiki): "No."
(Ayumi): "H-Huh? No what...?"
(Yoshiki): "I'm not leaving you alone."
(Ayumi): "...?!"
He took a few steps closer, and I took a few back, staring at him in... wonder.
His eyes didn't even get phased by anything. They were bold, direct... focused for an objective he has.
(Yoshiki): "If I abandon you, and if something happens again... I won't be able to face myself. I need to be by your side."
What is this idiot saying?!
He can't say this stuff!
...
What does that even mean, coming from him?...
(Yoshiki): "Please, let me be with you Shinozaki."
(Ayumi): "..."
He's really doing this...
I then started grinding my foot on the ground, while my hands were behind me.
(Ayumi): "We can...walk together, I guess."
(Yoshiki): "Alright!"
(Ayumi): "But uh... I got somewhere important to be! It'll be a while before I could return home so um, you should probably reconsider your options-"
(Yoshiki): "That's okay. I'm free today."
(Ayumi): "O-Okay..."
So weird...
I couldn't say no.
Not that I wanted to.
Seeing this out of Kishinuma... amazed me.
And I just couldn't fathom how. Why. This was happening.
Kishinuma couldn't actually be this concerned for my well-being.
(Ayumi): "...Well uh, let's get moving then!"
(Yoshiki): "Lead the way."
Who would've thought we would be paired like this?
Over today?
And from there, I walked towards a path I normally wouldn't take. And Kishinuma followed right alongside me. Every step. Every brush of the wind. Every second spent to a direction that embarked a... strange timeline of events.
Familiarity was even still dancing in the wind. Keeping me focused on that... strange sensation, incubating inside me all day.
(Ayumi): "..."
Have we already done this before?
That's it for now folks! I apologize for not getting this out sooner! I gotten extremely lazy during the polishing phase and just decided to BINGE watch myself some E-Celebs dealing with their dumpster fire situations, then watching some shows and enjoying some video games lol! Expect the next chapter to drop when it's... well when it's done! There are no exact "deadlines" for when a chapter will be completed so I won't give an exact date. These should always be written naturally with no rush. Thank you all for reading! Reviews and PMs do help me get into the mood! Not needed but knowing what my readers are thinking can do wonders for the writer!
