Toharu Point Of View
"Ouch! Shit!" I tried to steady the tray of coffee I was holding as my elbow knocked into the door frame of the coffee house. I let out another swear as hot coffee sloshed over the sides, scalding my hand.
6:00 am was not a good time for me. Throw in the fact that my alarm didn't go off this morning thanks to me setting it for PM instead of AM and I was officially running late. I normally didn't arrive at the bookstore until around 8 or 9, but today was the first day of our inventory and I was supposed to meet Angela at 6. I had been arriving early and staying at the store until 10 every night preparing, and I didn't even realize Saturday was here until Angela called to remind me to bring the catalog binders last night. Which I conveniently ended up forgetting and had to turn around when I was already half way into town. Now here I was rushing down the street carrying two extra large coffees. Thank goodness my book store was only two doors down from the coffee house. I noticed the interior lights of the store on and breathed a sigh of relief that I had remembered to give Angela a key.
"Oh my God, Ang, I am so sorry!" I cried as I crashed through the door, almost spilling the drinks again.
Angela let out a laugh, "Toharu, slow down." She walked out from behind the counter and grabbed the cup tray before setting it down. "Rough morning?" she asked.
"You have no idea," I replied as I tossed my jacket and messenger bag on the armchair. "But I am here."
"That you are," she said taking one of the cups. "Oohh, A Shot in the Dark. You went all out."
I smiled. "Well, they are right next door and they're the only ones who make their coffee strong enough to wake the dead. I figured we would need it."
"True especially if we want to have you out of here by six."
I groaned. "Then we better get started."
I followed Angela to the counter and noticed the stack of books piled behind it next to a box of donuts. I looked up at her and she just shrugged.
"I figured you were running late so I started getting everything together. These are all the special orders I found under the counter. Did you bring the binders?"
I nodded. "They're in my bag."
"Good. Then I guess we should get started." She pulled her long black hair up into a bun and plopped on the ground.
"Let the fun begin," I said with false enthusiasm as I retrieved the binders and joined Angela on the ground.
Truth was, I actually enjoyed doing inventory. It was the one weekend a year that we closed the store and I didn't have to deal with anyone except those whom I ask to help. Last year both Angela and Rin helped out. We even made a girls' night out of it, staying over in the store for the night. We spent the evening in our pj's, blaring music and dancing around. But with Rin planning her wedding there was just no way I could ask her. So this year it was just me and Angela. Not that I minded. I loved Angela. Next to Rin, she was my closest friend here. She started out just being a regular customer with whom I held conversations, then slowly she started helping me catalog new releases and alphabetize sections, until I finally hired her part time. Besides me, she was the only other employee. Occasionally during the summer and Christmas seasons I would hire one of the local kids, but during the off season we didn't really need any more than us two.
Around eleven we decided to pause for lunch and Angela ran out to grab us sandwiches from Subway. We sat in the armchairs eating our food and discussing Rin's wedding and the dresses for the bridal party. Like me, Angela was going to be in the bridal party. We lounged around for awhile before deciding to get back to work. The day passed relatively quickly and all too soon Angela was shouting at me that it was time to go. I looked at the clock, 5:30. Shit, I was going to be late. I quickly marked my spot in the binder and threw it on the counter. I ran into my office and grabbed my purse, letting my hair down from its makeshift bun on the way. I ran my hand through my hair, trying to calm the waves that seemed to have taken flight once released from their confines.
"Bye, Ang! I'll see you tomorrow!" I shouted, running towards the door.
"Toharu, wait! Your jacket." I skidded to a stop in front of the door and turned to see Angela emerging from the stacks. She pointed at the chair where my jacket was hung over the arm.
I hopped down the step and snatched it up. "Thanks, my keys are in the pocket. Wouldn't have gotten very far without those."
Angela smiled. "Tell Rin that I'll be a little late. Ok?"
"Yeah, sure, no probable." I said running into the door.
Shit. "Watch out Toharu." Angela said laughing.
"Yeah, I will." I said rubbing my forehead.
I made it to my house in one piece. I checked to see if I had any messages form Rin. Surprising not. I shook my head and walk into the kitchen, I was making Sweet Dessert Panini's, Rin's favorite. We were making Panini's in my kitchen one afternoon and we had some wine, ok we had two bottles of wine, and we decided to see what else would taste good as a Panini. After many no-goes, we found the dessert Panini. I've tweaked it over the last year, now using cinnamon bread that I bake myself instead of the sandwich bread that we used before. I looked at the clock. It was 6:00. I had made the bread yesterday so that I wouldn't be rushed to do it today. I removed the two loafs from my bread warmer and began cutting them into slices about a ½ an inch thick. The smell of cinnamon filled the kitchen. I turned on the portable stereo that was sitting on the counter. Knock Three Times by Tony Orlando came through the speakers. I smiled to myself. This song always reminded me of one of my favorite movies Now and Then.
I began singing along as I settled in to prepare the Panini's. I finished cutting the bread and moved onto slicing the bananas and strawberries. After grabbing the chocolate hazelnut spread I'd made from the fridge and popped it in the microwave to soften slightly, I danced my way to my pantry and removed the bag of marshmallows, throwing them on the counter next to the banana's but not before popping a few into my mouth. The song switched and now "Sugar Sugar" by the Archies was playing. I must have left it on an oldies station last time I was baking. The microwave beeped letting me know the spread was done. I counted the slices, 16. Making two rows of eight I began applying a layer of the spread to each slice. Next I layered the strawberries on one half and the bananas on the other. I sprinkled marshmallows on half and then taking a slice of each the banana and the strawberry I pressed them together until I had eight sandwiches. I would have to finish them at Rin's since they were to be eaten warm and I still needed the powdered sugar. I arranged the sandwiches on a platter placing them in the refrigerator and cleaned up the ingredients. I wiped my hands together and looked at the clock. 6:47. Time for my shower.
I took a quick shower mainly to wash my hair because I hadn't washed it in a week. Fifteen minutes later I found myself staring at the outfit Rin wanted me to wear. I was okay with the dress, it was simple and black, and one of the only simple things Rin had ever bought me. No, the dress was fine. It was the heels that were the issue. I don't wear heels as a general rule, I can barely walk without tripping in sneakers, I don't even want to imagine the damage I could do in 4in heels. But Rin convinced me to buy them telling me they would be perfect for this dress. I sighed and slipped on the dress. I went back into the bathroom to fix my hair, pretty much doing anything that would keep me away from those heels a little longer. I stared at my reflection. I never really knew what to do with my hair. Most days I just threw it up in a ponytail, but I promised Rin I would make an effort to be a girl for her wedding festivities. Blow drying my hair took forever and reminded me why I don't do this ever. I brushed out the curls and pulled it back forming a twist at the nape of my neck. I groaned in frustration at the stray tendrils that hung around my face, they just simply refused to cooperate. Giving up, I just let them be and focused on my make-up. I applied mascara and lip gloss. There, done.
It was time to conquer the shoes. I made my way back to where I laid them out, mocking me at the foot of my bed. I took a deep breath, prayed to the heavens that I don't break my ankle and stepped into the heels. I went without pantyhose because let's face it, I'm just not the pantyhose type of girl. I looked in the mirror. I had to admit, I looked girly. I adjusted the sleeves of the dress remembering Rin had told me that they were off the shoulder straps. The neckline actually gave me cleavage. Nice. I was ready to go. I slipped off the heels and slid on my Uggs. No way was I walking down those stairs or driving in those death traps. I made sure I had everything I needed and then with Alice's book under my arm I locked the house up after me.
~oOo~
Parking my car at the Thriftway I contemplated wearing my Uggs into the store. I could just hear Rin screaming at me and I caved. Yes, I caved to a voice in my head. I traded my comfy Uggs for the heels. It was also at this time that I realized I left my jacket on the couch. Smart Toharu. Well, at least it stopped raining. Very carefully I made my way into the store, my heels coming dangerously close to slipping on the pavement. Shit, it's cold. My teeth were chattering as I picked up a hand basket. I stood just inside the door for a few moments, bouncing in place trying to get my circulation defrosted. I got some amusing glances from the shoppers around me, most looking shocked at my attire. Yeah, eat it up. Toharu's in a dress.
I quickly made my way around the store gathering what I needed. When I was pretty sure I had everything I remembered that Sue had invited me over for dinner. It wouldn't do to show up empty handed. I was trying to come up with an idea quick since I was already at the store when I heard it. Smooth like velvet.
"Excuse me, Miss? I was wondering if I could bother you for some help?"
Was it just my imagination or was his voice slightly deeper? I almost laughed when I realized he was purposely trying to make his voice seductive. Oh, he was going to be pissed when he realized it was me.
I spun around, not able to completely wipe the smile off my face. "Oh, I don't think there's enough help in this world for you."
His eyes widened and I watched as they traveled down my body. I was suddenly very happy that I hadn't worn the Uggs. I saw him shuffle slightly before meeting my gaze, seeming at a loss for words.
"You."
I smiled. "Me. Now did you need something or is this just a social visit?" Yeah, I was being a smart ass again. I don't know what it was about him that brought it out in me. Maybe it was his grumpiness…or his beautiful sex hair…or those blazing purple eyes…or…
"I don't need anything from you." He spat out breaking me from my trance. He turned to leave when I saw a flash of paper in his hand and without thinking I grabbed it. "What the fuck do you think you're doing?" he shouted at me.
I read over the list realizing that he must be here for Rin's dinner. The bread, the balsamic, classic Rin appetizers. I immediately knew which one was giving him trouble, but I glanced in his basket to be sure. Correct. Score one for the skirt.
"You're a man in a grocery store with a look of terror on your face. I think you do need help."
"I'm fine, thank you." He reached for the list, his fingers brushing mine in the process. I gasped drawing my hand back. His touch sent a piercing cold current through my body making it break out in goose bumps. I wanted nothing more in that instant than the grab his tie and crush him to me, to try to warm myself within him. His purple eyes sought out mine as he ran his hand through that glorious hair of his and I about came undone.
Without warning he turned and walked away. I still hadn't moved.
Breathe Toharu.
"EVOO." I called after him before realizing what I was doing. He started to turn back to me and I quickly looked at the contents on the shelf in front of me not daring to look in his eyes, or face, or any part of him at all. I didn't trust myself to not launch myself at him.
"What?"
"EVOO. It's the only thing that's on your list that's not in the basket." I picked up a random can in front of me and tossed it in my basket without looking at what it was. I was still trying to get my heartbeat under control. Walking the opposite way, I paused sensing him still standing there.
"Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Aisle 5." I said over my shoulder then continued walking. I prayed to whatever deity was above that I didn't slip and fall on my ass and let out a breath of air as I successfully turned the corner.
What the hell was that?
I glanced down in my basket. Canned beets? What? I picked up the can and placed in on the shelf next to me. I needed air and Rin was waiting.
I quickly paid for my food and shuffled my way back to my car quickly switching to my Uggs when I was in the safety of my truck. As I backed out my stomach fluttered with the knowledge that I would see Yuki again.
~oOo~
Even though Rin and Hatsuharu lived on the southern outskirts of Forks it still only took me roughly ten minutes to drive to their house. I passed the police station and saw Charlie's cruiser still in the lot. The new recruit, Eric Yorkie was leaning against it and he gave me a wave as I drove by. I cringed when I remembered Charlie telling me that Eric had "shown interest" in me. I made a mental note to tell my dad thanks, but no thanks.
As I pulled into the circular drive I noticed that I was the first to arrive. I wasn't surprised. With the drive from Seattle and Kisa's tendency to take forever to get ready, her and Shigura were always fashionably late. The front door opened and Hatsuharu came out to greet me.
"Hey darling." He drawled in his Southern accent. Hatsuharu was raised in Texas only having moved to Washington for college. He was a sweetheart and I loved him dearly.
"Hey Hat." I replied, taking his hand and stepping out of the truck. His eyes fell on my footwear and his eyebrows raised.
He leaned close to me, "Now Toharu, you know I think you look beautiful in anything you wear, but I fear Rin's wrath if you were to walk in with those on your feet."
"But wait-" I reached into the truck and pulled out the heels. "Ta-da!"
He laughed while I steadied myself on his shoulder and quickly changed shoes. I tossed the Uggs back in and started grabbing my things. Hatsuharu helped me carry everything in while he commented on my lack of jacket. Rin bombarded me in the doorway.
"Toharu!" she screeched throwing her arms around me. I stumbled slightly in the heels but luckily I didn't fall or drop my platter. "You look gorgeous." She was twirling me from side to side to get a full view.
"Well, I owe it all to you, now don't I" I teased her.
She thought for a moment, "True." she winked.
Hatsuharu came up and placed a kiss on Rin's cheek, "Honey, why don't you let Toharu put her things down?"
"Oh, of course. Follow me." She turned and led the way to the kitchen while Hatsuharu stayed in the living room. I placed the platter on the island and turned to look at Rin. She was dressed in what at first looked like an old-fashioned Mary Tyler Moore type dress, but this was more stylish. It was all black with thin straps and a low cut neckline, four buttons trailed down the tight fitted top to where the met the waist of the full bodied skirt. She had black patent heels on her feet. The white belt that was cinched around her waist and a pearl necklace were her only accessories.
"Is that an A.B.C. original?" I asked already knowing the answer.
She did a little twirl and giggled. "Do you like it? It's something new I'm going for."
I began putting my things in the fridge, "I love it, of course." A.B.C. by Rin was Rin's fashion line. A.B.C. "What's all this?" Rin asked going through my bags.
"Just stuff for dessert. I'm going to need to use your toaster oven later to heat these up." I gestured to the platter.
Rin tried to peek under the foil but I slapped her hand away. She pushed out her lower lip. "Fine. Whatever. It's not like I care what's there."
I rolled my eyes, "Rin."
"No, don't worry about it. It's cool." She walked over to the stove and started stirring one of the pots.
"Fine." I groaned. She jumped up, clapping her hands together and ran back to the island, eyes wide like a kid in a candy store. I slowly lifted one edge high enough so that she could peek under.
"Oohh Hat is going to love you."
I smiled covering the platter back up, "I remembered they were his favorite. So what are you making for dinner."
"Shrimp scampi with angel hair pasta."
"Sounds delicious. What can I do to help?"
Rin looked around the kitchen. "There's nothing really left. I'm just waiting for Yuki to get here with the vegetables."
"Yuki?" I asked innocently.
"Yeah." She nodded. "Mom and Dad were going to pick them up on their way over, but Dad got stuck at the hospital and doesn't know if he'll make it on time. So, Shigura and Kisa are picking up Mom and Yuki is getting the last minute necessities. Speaking of which, he should be here any minute. I talked to him not too long ago and he said he was leaving the store." She paused, looking at my grocery bag then to me. "Were you at the Thriftway tonight?"
I shrugged, "Yeah, why?"
"Toharu, did you see my brother?" she asked advancing on me.
I moved to the other side of the island. "Maybe."
Rin followed me, "Maybe? It's a yes or no question."
"Yes."
She stopped, "Toharu, were you nice?"
I looked at her, "Rin, I am always nice."
Her eyes narrowed, "Oh yeah, I remember how nice you were last time."
"What? Oh Rin, I'm sorry. But I wasn't mean this time, I swear." I crossed my fingers over my heart and gave her my best doe eyed look. She gave me a look that told me she didn't believe me. "I even helped him."
"You helped him?"
I nodded, "Yeah. He was having trouble with an item on the list and I very helpfully pointed it out. See? Me" I pointed at myself. "Equals good Samaritan."
"You're a good Samaritan now?" Hatsuharu asked walking in.
"I've always been a good Samaritan." I huffed.
Hatsuharu kissed my cheek, "Of course you have, darlin."
I stuck my tongue out at him and he just laughed. Rin went back to stirring the noodles.
"Hey Hat, can you get down the wine glasses for me?" she asked.
"Of course." He walked into the side cabinet and began grabbing the glasses off the top shelf. I leaned against the island and watched them work. A few minutes later the doorbell rang.
"That should be Yuki. Toharu, can you get the door?"
I looked at Rin, she was busy draining the pasta and Hatsuharu was still in the cabinet. I pushed myself off the island.
"Fine." I walked out to the living room as the doorbell chimed again. "Impatient much?"
"Be nice!" I heard Rin shout from the kitchen followed by Hatsuharu chuckling.
I stopped at the door, one hand on the handle and took a deep breath. You can do this, Toharu. I threw my shoulders back and opened the door just as the bell rang again.
"You know, we did hear you the first two times."
His eyes widened then narrowed. "You." He hissed out again.
"So you keep saying." I put my hand on my hip tilting my head to one side "You do realize I have a name right? You can't just go around calling people 'You', it's kind of rude."
"You're calling me rude?" he asked taking a step towards me.
"Well, if the shoe fits…" I trailed off.
"Toharu!" Rin called from the kitchen.
I rolled my eyes and leaned against the door, gesturing to the inside, "Won't you please come in?" I asked in a sugary voice. "May I take your coat?"
He clenched his jaw and strode past me. I closed my eyes as he scent washed over me. This was going to be an interesting night.