Chapter Six
Hino Kahoko felt her life had been turned upside down in the past few days. Too many unforeseen, outrageous, unpredictable incidents happened in her surroundings, Kahoko wasn't sure she was able to handle all the changes.
First of all, due to the unexpected return of her first love Tsukimori Len, Hihara Kazuki, Kahoko's closest friend and senior started to maintain a distance from her. No, of course they were still good friends, but there was no denying Hihara had recently preferred to spend more time with his friends than he would with her. Kahoko knew she must have broken Hihara's heart and therefore she would not blame him for wanting some time away from her.
Then comes Kaji Aoi, another close friend, out of the blue, caught Kahoko unaware and confessed his affections to her. The good thing was though; Kaji had not expected anything in return. He had only wanted to let Kahoko know his heart, for he knew Kahoko's hidden secret, how her heart still has feelings for the man she once loved three years ago, Tsukimori Len.
Although in denial, Kahoko knew Kaji was right.
Look at her! The moment the name Tsukimori Len popped up in her mind, Kahoko felt her heartbeat increased, and her mind in such a big mess. Most of all, when she was reminded of the 'accident' that night, Kahoko could literally feel steam coming out of the top of her head! Why was it when she had finally decided to let go and move on, something like this had to happen?! Although it was only the slight touch of their lips, it was enough to carve a deep impression into her memory. Kahoko was reminded of the touch of Tsukimori's kiss three years ago, the intimacy and loving bond she once shared with him.
Still, all these were in no comparison to the absurd, illogical, unfounded action Yunoki Azuma took against her that night.
Arghh!! Wanting to pull her hair out, Kahoko felt she was going to die even to be reminded of it. Although it was not her first kiss, but it was nothing like Kahoko had ever experienced. It was passionate, lustful, a contentment purely physical. Kahoko covered her mouth in embarrassment and shame with the recognition that against her will and preference, her body had actually taken pleasure in the act, reminiscing over every detail of it even now.
No! It was not a kiss!
Kahoko wrapped her arms around herself and shook her head madly. It was purely an act to concur, a point Yunoki wanted to make. It meant nothing to the both of them! Unfortunately, Kahoko discovered, against her own will, whatever Yunoki did to her that night had a greater impact on Kahoko than she had liked.
"Ah, Hino-san, going to the orchestra practice now?" As Kahoko was walking towards the school gate, coming from behind her a classmate asked.
"Well, I…" Kahoko lowered her head and took a look at the violin case in her hand. To be honest, Kahoko had not the slightest desire to go to the practice today. How was she going to face Kaji, Tsukimori, and…Yu…
Wahhhh!!! Kahoko wanted to bang her head against the wall even to have that name pop up in her mind.
"Hey, Hino-san, look! That guy standing at the school gate is so cute!" While Kahoko was in her mental disaster, her classmate suddenly elbowed her in tease and whispered.
"You're right, he really is!" Another girl joined in. "Wow, and he has a bunch of flowers! I wonder whom he came for? Lucky girl!"
Following the direction her classmates were pointing to, Kahoko's eyes widened in surprise when she saw the man's face. Noticing the focuses on him, the man standing at the gate turned around and when his eyes met up with Kahoko's, a beautiful smile came onto his already stunningly handsome face. Immediately walking towards Kahoko in eagerness, the man greeted. "Good afternoon, Hino-san. How were your classes today?"
"Kaji-kun! How come you are here?" Kahoko could not help but asked in astonishment. Knowing Kaji studies in Keio University in Tokyo, it was rare for him to suddenly appear at her university in Yokohamai.
"You know him, Hino-san?" As expected, the girls that were admiring Kaji's charm a while ago asked in envy when they discovered the lucky girl they were referring to, was apparently Kahoko.
"Ah, are you both Hino-san's classmates?" Immediately greeting in politeness, Kaji beamed in charm. "My name is Kaji Aoi, nice to meet you."
"Nice, nice to meet you!" Unable to handle the beautiful attractive smile, the two girls quickly lowered their heads in shyness.
Turning back to Kahoko, Kaji asked. "Shall we go?"
"Go?" Kahoko blinked.
"To the orchestra practice." Kaji replied. "You have finished class for the day right?"
Nodding to Kaji's question, Kahoko asked in curiosity. "Have you finished for the day as well? You must have finished early today to be able to rush here from Tokyo."
"Fufu…no, I didn't come from Tokyo." Kaji smiled. "For the next few weeks we are on our prac session, so I will be attending classes at the nominated hospitals here in Yokohama instead of on the Keio Campus."
"Oh wow, that is something different." Kahoko replied. "You must be excited."
"Yes I am," A mysterious smile came onto Kaji's face. "Oh yeah, before I forget," Kaji said quickly as he passed the bunch of flowers in his hand to Kahoko. "These are for you, Hino-san."
"For me? How come?"
Seeing the puzzled look on Kahoko's face, Kaji smiled beautifully in reply. "Because I am wooing you, Hino-san."
Not expecting Kaji to openly declare his affection like this, Kahoko felt blood rushed to her face and she could feel her ears burning hot. At the same time, Kahoko's classmates all awed in envy hoping they too could have such a man pursue them, for it is any girl's dream to be pampered like a princess.
"Kaji-kun," Kahoko sighed softly to all the tenderness and care Kaji provided. "I don't know what to say, you really didn't have to…"
"Am I troubling you?" Kaji asked quickly as a saddened expression came onto his face.
"No, no, it's not that!" Kahoko shook her head immediately when she saw the disappointment on Kaji's face knowing he really was trying to do something nice for her. "I just never thought I deserve such kindness, I am not a wonderful person."
"Fufu…but you are a wonderful person to me, Hino-san." Smile returned to Kaji's face as he replied. Although Kaji's shameless sweet words always made Kahoko blush, he too knew when to stop as he asked instead. "Are you going to the orchestra practice now?"
Uncontrollably Kahoko gave a sigh upon Kaji's question. "I, I don't know, I don't really want to go today…"
Kaji understood immediately the reason why Kahoko hesitated to attend the orchestra practice. Although it was pure accident, Kaji knew that 'kiss' would have rekindled Kahoko and Tsukimori's feelings for each other. Taking another look at the beautiful girl before him, Kaji sighed secretly within when he saw the lost expressions in her eyes. "Sure, you don't have to go to the practice if you don't want to." In a most tender tone, Kaji suggested. "Want to go get something to eat instead?"
Knowing although Kaji's suggestion was tempting, Kahoko did not want Kaji to skip the practice too because of her. Besides, she could not picture what Maestro Schinkel's facial expression would be like if both the first seater of the second violin and viola did not show up at practice. Slowly shaking her head, Kahoko gave a sigh. "No, we should go to the practice."
With her final decision, both Kaji and Kahoko said good bye to the classmates as they walked out the school gate side by side. Other than the envious focuses from Kahoko's classmates, there was another pair of sad lonely eyes that watched the beautiful couple leaving the campus together.
"Hihara, are you going straight to the orchestra practice or do you want to join us to grab something to eat?"
Not reacting to the question addressed at him from his friends, Hihara continued to stare blankly at the direction where Kahoko and Kaji had left. Noticing the miserable look on Hihara's face, his friend gave a sigh. "Stop being so depressed, Hihara! What do you expect when you just sit back and not do a thing? Look at that guy, he came with flowers, he was all sweet and kind. I was honestly surprised how you never really spend time with Hino-san anymore."
"It is better this way…" Hihara gave a sigh.
"Better for whom?" Hihara's friend scorned. "Definitely not for you, look at you now, you are such a wreck."
Hihara made no reply to his friend's ridicule for he knew it was the truth. Hihara had decided to repress his love for Kahoko when he noticed the sealed, hidden love she had for Tsukimori revived upon Tsukimori's unexpected return. Not only so, Hihara was horrified to know, Kaji Aoi had come out of his shell and confessed his heart to Kahoko too.
Hihara actually quite admired Kaji's attitude. Knowing too Kahoko's heart lingered towards Tsukimori, unlike him, Kaji was honest with his feeling. It was worse for Hihara since he never was a person that could hide his feelings. Having to hold back the urge to want to spend every moment with Kahoko, it was slowly draining Hihara's life away. Yet, there was nothing he could do about it because he knew he would only make it more awkward for Kahoko if he lavished his feelings on her.
With such a decision, Hihara kept a distance from Kahoko hoping as time pass, his feeling for her will gradually disappear. Unfortunately, Hihara discovered, that it was impossible.
---
To Kahoko's relief, showing up at the concert hall was not too bad. Tsukimori kept to himself and did not make eye contact with Kahoko at all. Such action although saved Kahoko and Tsukimori from awkwardness, it did bother Kahoko somehow. To be treated as a stranger or appear to be invisible to Tsukimori was way worse than the original discomfort Kahoko had expected.
"Yunoki-sama has not arrived yet, he usually would be here listening to our practice."
Kahoko overheard one of the female orchestra member commented in sadness. Nodding secretly Kahoko agreed. Ever since Yunoki introduced himself as the project manager, he had not been late nor missed out a day of the orchestra practice. It was towards the end of the practice already, Kahoko still had not seen that perfect fine countenance.
It was a relief.
Kahoko felt all the nerves in her relaxed with the discovery that Yunoki might not actually show today. Knowing unlike how Tsukimori would ignore her presence, Kahoko had a feeling if Yunoki was here, he might actually approach her and tease her just to see her reaction.
Unfortunately Kahoko was wrong.
For the next four weeks, Yunoki Azuma did not show his face at the orchestra practice at all. Neither did he call Kahoko like how he usually would, nor did he suddenly pay her uninvited visits at her house. It was like; Yunoki Azuma had disappeared from her life, and that night when he kissed Kahoko so passionately, so intimately, it was like an illusion Kahoko's mind created.
To Kahoko's horror, she noticed the change within her. The dread and fear of meeting Yunoki again had now turned into desperate anticipation. A month ago, Kahoko was panicking on meeting Yunoki again after that night, after that unexpected conquering act from Yunoki. She was not sure she wanted to face him, and she was not sure whether she could forgive him for such a mean joke he played on her.
However, after Yunoki's disappearance, Kahoko realised she would look up every time a person entered the concert hall. She would also stop and listen to the conversations amongst the female orchestra members every time Yunoki's name was mentioned.
"I finally found out the reason why Yunoki-sama had not come to see us practice." Kahoko heard one of the girls gave a sorrowful sigh. "For the next months or so, he will be overseeing the opera practice instead."
"For the next months or so?" Another girl joined in the grieving. "But I guess it makes sense, since Yunoki-sama is the project manager for the entire production, the orchestra is only a part of the entire production…"
Knowing that she might actually not see Yunoki for quite a while, Kahoko noticed against her will, there was a sense of lost and loneliness that whirled up within. Although she had Kaji escorting her to the orchestra practice everyday from school, and was able to see Tsukimori at the orchestra practices, Kahoko realised, from time to time, her mind would be thinking of that evil, patronising yet mesmerising smile.
---
Hihara Kazuki grabbed his jacket tight when an unexpected strong wind swept passed the campus ground. It was mid-December and to Hihara, this year's winter seemed colder than usual. Jogging towards the university library, Hihara hoped to hideout in the warm heated library and do some study for the up coming exams,
"Please, I have to find my laptop, my entire assignment is saved in it!"
The moment Hihara entered the warm cosy library, he heard a familiar voice talking to the librarian. Hihara felt his heartbeat raced immediately in excitement when he saw that it was Kahoko.
"I am sorry, Hino-san. But no one has handed in a laptop, nor has anyone spotted anyone suspicious, so there is not much more we could do." With a sigh the librarian shook her head and looked at Kahoko sympathetically. "But we will let you know once anyone hands in a lost laptop."
Unlike Hihara, there was no smile on Kahoko's face, but rather, Hihara noticed Kahoko was about to breakdown in tears. Forgetting that he had wanted to keep the distance from Kahoko, in haste Hihara approached the miserable girl. "Kaho-chan? What's wrong?"
"Hihara senpai…" Looking up at the tall senior that approached her, Kahoko covered her face in frustration. "I was typing out my assignment here in the library on my laptop, and I left the desk for a second just to pick up some more books from the shelf, and when I returned, the laptop was taken…" Taking in a deep breath Kahoko sobbed as she stated the disastrous news. "My months of research and notes were all saved on the laptop, and with the report due in three days, I don't even have time to re-write another one!"
Hihara felt for Kahoko immediately. As a university student too, there was no way Hihara does not share Kahoko's pain. Having your months and months' worth of work vanish like that, and not enough time to re-write it, it really would be a dead end for any university student.
"Kaho-chan," Hihara called gently as his eyes looked to the sad, depressed girl before him. Knowing although there seem to be no more hope for Kahoko, Hihara knew as a close friend and senior, he must do all he could to help her out. He knew this sort of support was something that only he could do, not Tsukimori and not Kaji. "Which paper was it for?"
"It's Music Reinvented 201."
In acknowledgement Hihara nodded. "It is the curriculum for second year students. I am sure I still have the notes and report saved on my computer. We can work on your assignment together." Cheerfully Hihara suggested. "Although I may not look like it, but I am actually quite a fast typist. Since there are less than three days now to work on the report, we might be able to get it done on time if you dictate the report to me and I type it out for you."
"But, I cannot possibly…"
"Kaho-chan," Before Kahoko could finish her sentence Hihara interrupted. "We have been friends for many years; I know you would have done the same for me if I was in your shoes."
With what Hihara said, Kahoko felt her heart greatly touched. She thought she would have lost Hihara's friendship forever, but when it was time that she needed help the most, he was there for her. He was always the help Kahoko needed at the most desperate times just like when they first met three years ago. Finally looking up at the wonderful marvelous person, Kahoko gave Hihara a sincere smile. "Thank you so much, Hihara senpai."
---
"Kazuki," With the tray of coffees in one hand Hihara Haruki knocked on his younger brother's bedroom door. "I got the coffees here."
Not long after his knock, a girl opened the bedroom door as she apologised. "Sorry for the trouble, I should have come down and picked it up myself."
Hihara Haruki smiled as he entered the bedroom, "Nah, you guys have lots of work to do. I certainly hope the coffee will help you stay awake." Placing the cups of coffee on the table, Haruki's eyes moved onto his younger brother who sat before the computer typing away.
With the scene before him, Haruki smiled secretly within. Hino Kahoko, his brother's junior, the girl that his brother had been in love for more than three years. Not sure how his brother did it, but Haruki was most impressed when Kazuki returned home yesterday with Kahoko. Not only that, the two had not left the bedroom ever since. From the look on their faces, the two probably have stayed up the entire night working on the assignment.
Well, it did not matter if the cute couple weren't doing anything romantic. After labouring through all those hours together, Haruki was sure Kahoko would be touched by his brother one way or another.
"Thanks heaps, anikiii." Hihara thanked too knowing it was basically the coffee his brother made that kept them still awake. After Kahoko came over to his house and started working on her major assignment, both she and Hihara had not rested or slept for over thirty hours now. Although he was so mentally drained and physically tired, knowing he was able to help Kahoko was all worth it.
"How much more have you guys got to do?" In curiosity Haruki asked. From the looks of it, Kahoko might be here for at least another night.
As expected, Kahoko replied with a bitter smile. "We are only half way through, but at this pace, we might be able to get it done just before the deadline."
"In that case," Haruki shrugged his shoulders. "I guess I better not interrupt." With a grin Haruki exited the room and left the two to be. Noticing the funny smile on his brother's face before he left the room, Hihara blushed as he took a look at Kahoko.
Hihara felt his heart so at peace. Compared to the past few weeks of emotional dread, this was like heaven to him. Although Hihara was so tired, it did not matter because it was him that could provide help to Kahoko in her greatest need. Not that he was taking pleasure in Kahoko's suffering, but if he could, Hihara hoped this moment he has with Kahoko would never end.
Unlike him though, Kahoko did not seem to notice as she continued to read through the book in her hand. "Ah, Hihara senpai!" Lifting her head Kahoko pointed a phrase on the book. "I would like to add this quote into the report."
"Sure!" Quickly turning back to face the monitor Hihara felt his ears burning hot in embarrassment as he sat up straight and started typing once again when Kahoko read out the phrase to him.
---
Ding-dong.
Hearing the doorbell rang, Hihara Haruki headed for the front entrance and opened the door. Standing outside was a youth with beautiful long hair that matched his perfect delicate beautiful face.
"Oh hello, Yunoki." Recognising the person to be his brother's best friend Yunoki Azuma, Haruki greeted.
"Good morning, Haruki-san." In a beautiful polite smile Yunoki greeted too. "Your brother and I are meeting for lunch to celebrate his birthday today, is he ready?"
"Ready?" With a grin Haruki replied. "I doubt it. He had only just fallen asleep a few hours ago from a typing marathon."
"Typing marathon?"
"Yup, they have stayed up for three days working on the report and when I went to deliver more coffee this morning, I saw the both of them finally sleeping." Haruki laughed. "From their peaceful blissful sleeping faces, I believe even the earthquake won't be able to wake them."
"Oh, who else was here?" In curiosity Yunoki asked.
"Well, go see for yourself." Pointing towards Hihara Kazuki's bedroom upstairs, Haruki teased. "But don't wake them; the poor couple deserve a good rest."
With a soft bow to thank Haruki, Yunoki headed for Hihara's bedroom as told. "Hihara? Are you awake?" With a gentle knock, Yunoki asked softly as he opened the door. The first thing Yunoki saw when he entered Hihara's bedroom was precisely as Haruki had described, a beautiful couple sleeping next to each other on the single bed, so peaceful, so serene. With Hihara's tall body already taking up most spaces of the mattress, the other girl's tiny body leaned closely and deeply into Hihara's arms.
However, Yunoki Azuma did not share the same tranquillity when he recognised the face of the girl that was lying next to Hihara. An icy coldness came onto his beautiful face as he continued to stare at the scene that looked like a beautiful painting.
"See? I told you right? Nothing can wake them up now." Coming from behind Yunoki, Haruki entered the room too and whispered in tease.
Smile returned to Yunoki's face as he asked softly, "How come Hino-san is here?"
"Oh, something about Hino's laptop was stolen, and therefore she lost all her notes and the report she had typed out. So Kazuki offered to lend her his notes from last year, and helped her type out the report while she dictates the content.' Not knowing the dark jealousy arousing within Yunoki, Haruki explained. "They literally collapsed onto the bed together after Hino sent out her completed report. But I wouldn't blame them, three days without sleeping and rest!"
"That does sound like something your brother would do," Yunoki chuckled softly. "In that case I guess I will let them have their sleep." Placing a paper bag on Hihara's desk, Yunoki turned to Haruki. "I will just leave his birthday present here."
"I will let him know once he is up that you were here." Haruki nodded in acknowledgement.
"Thank you." Yunoki gave Haruki a polite smile and turned to take another look at the sleeping couple on the bed before he walked out of the room.
---
"I am so sorry, Yunoki!"
Yunoki…? Kahoko slowly opened her eyes when she heard Hihara's anxious voice, and most of all, the name mentioned.
"No, it's not okay! We already made plans for today, and you came all the way, but I was sleeping…"
Rubbing her eyes, Kahoko slowly sat up from the bed while her mind gradually recaptures the place and time she was in. Looking around, she saw Hihara talking to someone on the phone, and from the tone of his voice, he sounded kind of anxious.
"No, no. You even bought me a present! Let me buy you dinner instead, how about that?"
Present…? Upon the word Kahoko quickly took a look at the calendar on the wall. Jumping off the bed Kahoko finally remembered that it was Hihara's birthday today, and she was apparently supposed to be the person that organises a party for the group. Due to her disastrous week, Kahoko had totally forgotten about it!
"Alright, if you say so...." With a sigh Hihara finally gave up. "But thanks for the present, Yunoki. I will catch up with you next week."
After Hihara got off the phone, Kahoko approached Hihara immediately and gave him a big bow of apology. "I am so sorry, Hihara senpai! I was supposed to organise your birthday party for today and instead I made you labour for three days with me working on my assignment. I am so, so, so sorry!"
"No, no, it's really alright!" Hihara waved his hands quickly before him to stop Kahoko from apologising. "I wanted to help you, so it wasn't like you forced me into it or anything."
"But, please, let me make it up to you!" Kahoko insisted. "How about this? Are you free tonight? Would you like to come over to my house, and I will cook up a home made meal and bake a cake for you to celebrate!"
Although Hihara felt bad to have Kahoko do something like that for him, but it was really tempting to be able to taste Kahoko's hand cooked meal. It was like a man's dream, to have the girl they love cook a heartfelt meal for them. With the thought, uncontrollably a happy smile came onto Hihara's face as he blushed in joy. "In that case, let's go grocery shopping!"
With Kahoko walking beside him, placing the groceries into the shopping trolley, Hihara felt he was the luckiest man alive. He wondered whether they looked like newly weds shopping for supplies to the house. The more he thought about it, the warmer his heart felt as he took a peek at Kahoko. How long has it been since they spent time like this? To Hihara, it no longer mattered that Tsukimori had returned from Vienna, neither could Kaji's unexpected confession to Kahoko intimidate him anymore. For he knew, it was only him that could be her friend, her support whenever she needed someone.
"Alright, here is the last dish." Kahoko said as she placed another plate of food on the dinning table.
"Wow…" Hihara gaped at the banquet before his eyes. "You, you really have done too much, Kaho-chan."
Smiling in response, Kahoko replied. "This is the least I could do for you, Hihara senpai. If it wasn't for you, I would have failed the subject already." Sitting down opposite Hihara, Kahoko added. "Happy birthday, Hihara senpai."
"Thank you, Kaho-chan." Feeling his heart so touched, Hihara whispered gently. Then with a sigh Hihara added. "I am genuinely happy that I can be here celebrating my birthday with you. But I also feel really bad that I stood Yunoki up this morning when he came."
Kahoko's movements stopped immediately upon what Hihara said. Slowly looking up Kahoko asked noticing her voice shaking a little, "Yu…Yunoki senpai came this morning…? "
Hihara did not notice the uneasy tone in Kahoko's voice as he nodded. "Yes, I was supposed to meet up with him for lunch today, but when he arrived, both of us were sleeping, so he left not wanting to wake us."
Immediately Kahoko felt all the blood inside her body started to boil with the thought that Yunoki saw her sleeping next to Hihara in his bed. Most of all, having not seen Yunoki for a month now, Kahoko noticed an unexplainable sense of disappointment when she realised she had missed out on the opportunity to see the beautiful face that haunted her, constantly reminding her of the strange intimate experience they shared that night.
"Kaho-chan?" Noticing the edginess from Kahoko, Hihara called in concern. "What's wrong?"
Quickly shaking her head, Kahoko squeezed out a smile. "Nothing, I just thought it has been a while since I have seen Yunoki senpai. I wonder how he was doing."
"Oh, in that case do you want to join us next weekend for lunch? We were going meet to make up for today." Still in his simple, kind heart Hihara asked.
"No, it's alright." Kahoko declined almost immediately in defence. A little surprised with her own reaction, Kahoko asked quickly changing the topic. "Should we start before the food gets cold?"
---
So life goes on for Hino Kahoko. Still, she would attend the orchestra as normal, between her and Tsukimori was still the cold silences, and there never was a conversation unless necessary. Yunoki still did not appear to watch the practice, yet, it bothered Kahoko that disconnection between them did not seem to take away the strong memory Kahoko had of that night.
The positive thing was, Kaji still treated her with the same friendliness and care. He would make every opportunity to come visit her after school. On top of that, the precious friendship she had with Hihara returned after those few days of working intensely together. They could talk normally again, share views, spend time together without anymore awkwardness.
Just when Kahoko thought her life had returned to normal, and no big drama would happen, she received a phone call that threw her normal life routine out of its path again.
"Hino? It's me."
"Tsuchiura-kun? It's a surprise that you would call me out of your busy schedule." With the unexpected call from an old friend, Kahoko teased.
"Stop teasing me already, I really need your help." With a sigh Tsuchiura said.
"My help?"
"Yeah, are you free on Christmas Eve?"
"Let me see…" Looking through her calendar Kahoko replied. "The Christmas party Amou-chan organised is on Christmas Day, so I guess I am free."
"Great, can I please ask you for a favour?" Pausing, Tsuchiura's voice lowered slightly in embarrassment. "Would you be able to attend the Annual Music Award's night with me?"
"Annual Music Award's night?"
"Yeah, I have been nominated for an award…"
"Oh wow, congratulations!" Kahoko said immediately when she heard the good news.
"Thanks," Tsuchiura replied as he continued to explain. "But as kind of a policy, it is required that I bring a partner along…" For some reason Tsuchiura mumbled through the last few words of his sentence.
"Sorry, that you what…?" Kahoko asked obviously found it hard to catch the last few words.
With a long sigh, Tsuchiura finally repeated after he cleared his throat. "That I bring along a partner."
"Oh…" Kahoko finally understood why Tsuchiura made the call.
In haste Tsuchiura added quickly. "I know it might be an awkward request, but look at it this way, as a music student, this would be a wonderful opportunity for you to widen you view and most of all get a free meal…"
Kahoko burst out laughing with what Tsuchiura said, "Alright, if you put it that way, and of course with the fact that I am probably the only woman you know other than your mother…"
"Hino…" Tsuchiura groaned in complaint when he heard Kahoko's tease.
"Just kidding," Kahoko laughed. "Alright, what time does it start?"
---
Kahoko was really impressed when she arrived at the venue with Tsuchiura. There was literally red carpets and news crew set up, just like the Oscars! No wonder Tsuchiura was dressed in a tuxedo and he reminded her to wear an evening gown, for this indeed was the type of events that gathers all the famous celebrities.
"It's nice to see you, Tsuchiura-kun and Hino-kun." Upon the elegant voice that greeted them, Kahoko turned around quickly and to her surprise, she saw Hamai Misa standing there, and next to her was her son, Tsukimori Len.
"Nice, nice to see you again!" Kahoko gave a bow quickly in nervousness and embarrassment for the last time she saw Hamai Misa was three years ago at the Tsukimori residence, when she was once Tsukimori's girlfriend.
"Thank you for nominating me for the award," Joining Kahoko in the respectful bow was Tsuchiura as he thanked Hamai Misa, his inspiration.
"No need to thank me, Tsuchiura-kun. I know you deserve the award, and your work and performance tonight will prove it to everyone present." Hamai Misa gave Tsuchiura a smile of praise.
"Performance?" In curiosity, Kahoko turned to Tsuchiura.
"Yeah, I will be performing two pieces tonight, and also from time to time there will be other performances throughout the night." Tsuchiura explained as he turned to Tsukimori. "I guess that was one of the reasons you were here too?"
"Yes," Tsukimori replied mildly, his facial expression had not changed even when he saw Kahoko. "I will be performing a violin piece with my mother and another ensemble piece with other musicians."
Hamai Misa smiled secretly to herself when she saw how hard her son tried to act cold and unmoved upon Kahoko's appearance. Such an act only seemed rather unnatural to Hamai Misa. Knowing her son like no one else, she knew the colder Len appeared, the more it meant he was trying hard to not let his feelings for Kahoko show.
"Well, I guess we better go to our tables," Hamai Misa said as she gave both Kahoko and Tsuchiura a nod. "Good luck tonight and enjoy yourselves."
After the Tsukimori family left, Kahoko whispered in admiration. "She is still so beautiful and elegant; I can't wait to hear her perform tonight."
"I know," Tsuchiura agreed with Kahoko wholeheartedly. "Luckily I would have gotten mine over and done with before her turn, or else I would really be embarrassed to play after her wonderful performance."
"Oh, when will you be performing?" Kahoko asked as the two walked towards their assigned table.
"Here is the program for tonight," Tsuchiura said and passed a pamphlet to Kahoko. "You might recognise a few names on the program. They are all famous musicians."
"Wow…you are right," Kahoko exclaimed when she read through the program. "Who organised this event? This is like the gathering of all the famous music celebrities you could think of."
Pulling out the chair for Kahoko at their table, Tsuchiura replied. "It's the Urahara Group. They are very closely linked with many famous musicians."
"Urahara Group…" Kahoko tilted her head when she thought the name sounded familiar.
"Good evening, Tsuchiura-san." While Kahoko was thinking, she heard a sweet voice greeted. Looking up, Kahoko saw a beautiful elegant lady that looked very familiar. However Kahoko did not need time to remember who the lady was when she saw the face of the gentleman that stood by and escorted the beautiful lady.
"Yu…Yunoki senpai?" Kahoko stood up from her seat immediately in surprise.
"Good evening, Hino-san." Unlike her, Yunoki was still composed as he greeted Kahoko with class.
For a moment there, Kahoko thought the time had stopped. It was rather odd for her to ever feel that way towards Yunoki. Maybe because it had been so long since they last met, or maybe because it was the first time they finally see each other face to face after that passionate kiss. Whatever it was, Kahoko realised, for some reason, she could not move her eyes away from Yunoki...
Noticing Kahoko's fixed focus on Yunoki, the lady next to Yunoki gave a smile as she greeted. "I believe you are Hino-san? We have met once."
As if Kahoko finally realised how rude she was, quickly pulling her focus away from Yunoki Kahoko greeted the beautiful lady. "Good evening, Urahara-san." The moment Kahoko spoke her name, a strange, uncomfortable feeling whirled up inside her, reminding her of something she had actually forgotten…
Yunoki Azuma is engaged.
Yes, that is right, Yunoki already has a beautiful fiancée, and therefore, it confused and bothered Kahoko even more as to why Yunoki kissed her that night. Although she should have figured it out by now, it still daunt on Kahoko that to Yunoki, the kiss never contained any feeling.
"I have wondered who you would bring as your partner for the Annual Awards Night," Urahara Miyako turned to Tsuchiura and smiled in tease. "I should have known that you would bring Hino-san."
Blushing, Tsuchiura justified. "It was your company policy that I have to bring a partner. Hino and I have known each other for years and we are great friends. So this is the kind of time when we have to help each other out."
Giggling to Tsuchiura's answer, Urahara Miyako said. "You don't need to try that hard to justify, Tsuchiura-san. I was just joking." Stopping Miyako took a look at Yunoki as she added with a hidden meaning. "I know there is nothing between you and Hino-san."
Unmoved with Miyako's words, Yunoki reminded with a calm smile. "Shall we return to our tables soon? The first performance is about to start."
"I will see you around then," Miyako nodded and gave Tsuchiura a warm smile. "Good luck on your awards and performance tonight."
Kahoko felt her heart in such a big mess when her eyes followed the beautiful couple as they return to their table. She saw how Yunoki kindly pulled out the chair for his attractive future wife, and how he escorted her so well, and most of all, acted as if he had no memory of what he did to Kahoko that night, Kahoko felt a pressing pain against her chest.
The miserable depressing thoughts of how something so intimate to her meant nothing to Yunoki continued to bother Kahoko throughout the night. She could not concentrate on any of the performances, and even when Tsuchiura conversed with her from time to time, Kahoko realised she could not focus.
"Hino, Hino,"
It was not until Kahoko felt Tsuchiura tapping her did she quickly woke from her gloomy thoughts. "Yes…yes?"
"I am going backstage now to prepare for my performance. Do you want to come along, or do you want to stay here?" Tsuchiura asked.
Taking another look at the beautiful couple that sat in the other table, Kahoko replied. "I will come with you." If she could, she hoped she would not have to take another look at them, unfortunately, she found that was exactly what she had been doing all night.
"Tsuchiura-sama, you will be on after the next award has been announced. Meanwhile, please wait at the staffroom there." After Kahoko and Tsuchiura arrived at backstage, one of the staff indicated politely to Tsuchiura.
When the two entered the staffroom, they saw Tsukimori also waiting inside. The frown immediately came onto both Tsukimori and Tsuchiura's faces. After so many years, these two super gifted musicians still acted like worst enemies.
"I thought it is not yet your turn, how come you are already here?" Tsuchiura asked.
Calmly placing his violin case onto the table, Tsukimori replied coldly. "I prefer to remain at backstage and do some practice before the actual act."
With his arms crossed, Tsuchiura mocked. "You have not changed one bit, still a paranoid elite."
"There is nothing wrong with being careful." Not bothering to look at Tsuchiura, Tsukimori argued back.
Kahoko smiled bitterly to the scene before her, she kind of understood what it meant when you can't have two geniuses exist at the same time. On the other hand, Kahoko knew only they understood each other perfectly. Their sincere attitude towards music, the same kind of passion they inherit.
Luckily before the two boys engage into further argument, the staff came to announce that it was Tsuchiura's turn. With that, the three followed the staff to backstage.
"Good luck!" Kahoko gave Tsuchiura the thumbs up.
"Thanks," Winking back with a confident smile Tsuchiura waved before he went on stage.
Kahoko felt her entire soul captivated the moment such magical music was produced from Tsuchiura's fingers. Knowing already Tsuchiura to be a very gifted musician from back in their high school days, it was spectacular how much more Tsuchiura had improved and progressed in the past three years. With the thought, Kahoko took a look at Tsukimori and found a confirming and approved look on his face. It must have pleased Tsukimori somehow to know his long time rival had also successfully pursued music into a deeper and higher level just like him. With a smile, Kahoko's eyes moved back onto the stage and felt somewhat envious of how the two musicians who were once her ensemble companions have grown so much compared to her.
"Hino,"
To Kahoko's surprise, before Tsuchiura start to perform his second song, Tsukimori suddenly called from beside her. Turning to him, Kahoko found a most concerned look on Tsukimori's handsome face as he looked straight into her eyes. "Did something happen between you and Yunoki senpai?"
Kahoko's whole body jumped as if she was electrocuted with Tsukimori's absurd and arbitrary question. Immediately her mind shut down and all the blood in her body started to flow in reverse order. "No…nothing!! I mean, why anything would…no, of course nothing! Why...I mean, it's not like, no wait…what, what do you mean?!"
Tsukimori did not respond when he saw the state of panic and confusion Kahoko was suffering from. Upon such reaction, Tsukimori knew the answer to his own question. Ever since he accidentally saw the photograph Urahara Miyako dropped, he had been bothered by the odd and 'unhealthy' relationship Kahoko has with Yunoki. Most of all, Tsukimori noticed throughout the evening, Kahoko's eyes continued to look over at Yunoki and Miyako, there was such lost, hurt expressions showing through her eyes.
Noticing how Tsukimori's eyes had not looked away, and for the first time ever since his return from Vienna, Tsukimori finally openly displayed his care and concern for her. In shame, Kahoko exhaled deeply and apologised. "I am sorry, I was not making any sense…"
"Its fine," Tsukimori said. "I know I did mention before that I no longer have the right to interfere with your personal life, but I wanted you to have genuine happiness, because you deserve that."
"Len…"
"I do want you to rethink what you are doing," Tsukimori gave a sigh. "Yunoki senpai is an engaged man. Falling in love with him will only bring you more sorrow."
Not expecting Tsukimori to say that, Kahoko lifted her head. "Fall in love with Yunoki senpai…?" Kahoko could not believe what Tsukimori was telling her. "No, no way! I couldn't possibly fall in love with him, I know he is engaged! There is no way anything can ever happen between us!" Kahoko stopped all of a sudden when she heard those words coming out of her own mouth.
In that case, why was she so annoyed that the kiss meant nothing to Yunoki?
Biting her lower lip in frustration, Kahoko realised it was because that kiss had a deeper meaning to her. It frustrated Kahoko to know that something that meant nothing more than a cruel joke to Yunoki caused her to lose control over her emotions for so long, yet it did not even remain in Yunoki's memory.
Seeing that same lost, perturbed expression appearing on Kahoko's face again as it had throughout the entire night whenever Kahoko would look at Yunoki, Tsukimori felt his heart constricted in pain. Slowly reaching out his hand, he overlapped it with Kahoko's soft tiny hands. "Kahoko…" Holding it tightly in his own, Tsukimori whispered tenderly the name that he told Kahoko that he should no longer use. "If you were to fall in love again, I wish it was not Yunoki senpai..."
Not expecting that, Kahoko lifted her head and when her eyes met up with Tsukimori's magical beautiful hazel eyes, she could not look away again. How long has it been since she felt this close to Tsukimori? Why was Tsukimori suddenly so tender tonight? With a sad lonely smile, Kahoko whispered. "If was I was to fall in love again, it would be…"
"Tsukimori-sama!"
Suddenly one of the staff approached the two in haste. As a reflex, both Tsukimori and Kahoko immediately let go of each other's hands. Trying to look calm and normal, Tsukimori turned to the staff. "What is it?"
Tsukimori frowned when he saw the pale look on the staff's face knowing it must be bad news he has for him. As expected, the panicked staff explained. "There was a small accident just now when one of the boxes collapsed, and the two musicians who will be performing the ensemble piece with you later tonight were injured in the accident."
"How bad were their injuries?" Tsukimori asked.
"It was nothing major, but it was unfortunate that the injuries were on the hands." With a sigh the staff replied. "We would need to find replacement for them immediately; would you be able to find anyone?"
Tsukimori frowned even more with the outcome. "It would be impossible to find someone in such a short time. Majority of the musicians here already have their own piece to perform and most of all, this is an ensemble piece. It is not possible to just put two other musicians on the spot without practice."
"What's wrong?" While Tsukimori was conversing with the staff, Tsuchiura had finished his performance and returned to backstage. With his question, the staff patiently explained the whole disaster again.
"What replacements would you need and for what song?" Tsuchiura frowned too when he heard the bad news.
"Another violinist and flutist, it is for Mozart's Symphony No 40."
With what the staff said, immediately Tsuchiura looked up at Kahoko. "You can do it right?"
"What?!" Kahoko stepped back in shock. "No, no, no, I don't think so."
Unfortunately Kahoko noticed Tsukimori also looked at her upon Tsuchiura's suggestion. "It might work. We have practiced this piece before when we worked on the ensemble three years ago."
"But we will still need a flutist." The staff interrupted as if Kahoko had already said yes.
With a smile Tsuchiura reminded. "There is no need to worry about that, there is actually another person present tonight who was once in the ensemble that played the same piece too. I am sure even after three years, he would still be able to perform the song without struggle."
---
"You need me as the replacement flutist?" Yunoki asked in surprise when the staff approached him for help.
"We are terribly sorry to have to put you on the spot, Yunoki-sama." The staff gave a big bow of apology. "There was really no one else we could find and according to Tsukimori-sama and Tsuchiura-sama, you have once performed this piece in the ensemble three years ago."
"It might actually be quite interesting to hear you perform, Azuma-san." The old man that sat next to Miyako spoke up with a big smile. "I have heard from my daughter that you once were chosen as the candidate of the Annual Music Concur in Seiso Gakuin, it is a pity that I have never heard you play."
Although Yunoki was unwilling to perform flute before people knowing how sensitive his grandmother could get, but since the request came from his future father-in-law, Yunoki knew his grandmother would then see it only as an action to service an important client. Standing up from his seat, Yunoki gave the elderly man a polite bow. "Urahara-san, in that case I shall try my best."
Following the staff to backstage, Yunoki's eyes lightened up in amusement when he saw the member of the ensemble. The moment the female violinist saw him, he noticed the gleam in her eyes changed as she quickly looked away pretending she did not see him and continued on with her practice.
With an observant smile, Yunoki stated. "I guess you have become the last minute replacement too, Hino-san?"
"Yunoki senpai," Before Kahoko replied, Tsukimori interrupted coldly as he passed the music score to Yunoki. "Do you need these or can you still remember it off by heart?"
Yunoki's eyebrow lifted slightly when he sensed Tsukimori was keeping him away from Kahoko. Gently receiving the music score from Tsukimori, Yunoki replied, his face still beaming with the professional, beautiful smile. "Unfortunately I am not as gifted as you and Hino-san, I might be the one to destroy the ensemble tonight."
Not bothering to talk to Tsukimori anymore, gently taking out the flute handed to him by the staffs, Yunoki started the tuning and warming up of the fingers. The moment Kahoko heard the beautiful elegant sounds that came from Yunoki's flute, secretly Kahoko took a look at Yunoki.
To be honest, Kahoko still does not know how to act in front of Yunoki. Hoping she was able to get by tonight without having to converse with Yunoki, Kahoko never predicted this outcome.
"Okay, should we try to go through it once?" The cellist in the ensemble suggested.
Taking a deep breath Kahoko convinced herself to stay calm. Unfortunately when she found herself standing between Tsukimori and Yunoki, Kahoko found it impossible to concentrate. With her part slightly off the tempo compared to everyone, the group stopped immediately.
"I am so sorry," Kahoko apologised immediately. "I am a little nervous…"
"I guess it's not too bad considering you haven't practiced with us before.' The violist of the group quickly comforted.
"Shall we try again?" The cellist asked.
"Take a deep breath and try to relax, Hino-san." With an encouraging smile Yunoki suggested. "I am also finding it hard to catch up since it has been a while. But I believe it will all come back to us."
Not expecting the comforting words to come from Yunoki, Kahoko felt her heart moved greatly. Secretly taking a look at Yunoki, Kahoko discovered that unlike the other times, this time Yunoki was actually genuinely helping her.
"Try to follow my lead, and relax your shoulders even more." Coming from her other side, Tsukimori whispered.
A stream of warmness flowed through Kahoko when she received the advice and comfort from the two boys. Although time had altered the relationships between the three of them, in a time like this, Kahoko felt she had returned back to the high school days where they all worked together to achieve the same recognition.
Slowly closing her eyes, Kahoko allowed her fingers to take over, and her mind entered into such calm and tranquillity. Like magic, this time round the practice sounded spectacular and amazing. The cellist and violist exchanged a look with each other when they discovered, they actually sounded even better than the original members! Seriously, where did these two 'replacements' pop up from??
---
"Congratulations on winning the award," Kahoko congratulated Tsuchiura after he returned to the table from receiving the 'Best Original Music Score' award showered in cheers and applause.
"Thanks," With a smile Tsuchiura sat back into his seat. "But I wasn't as excited as when I heard you guys perform tonight. Like how I remembered, you guys were still amazing together."
Blushing, Kahoko complained. "It's all your fault for putting me on the spot like that. I thought my job was only to help you meet the policy so you could enter tonight's venue?"
Laughing Tsuchiura replied, "I guess I really owe you big time. So do you want to leave soon or are you going to stay for the dance?"
"Isn't the event finished?" Kahoko asked remembering on the program, Tsuchiura's award was supposed to be the last one.
"Well, the formal part is," Tsuchiura answered. "After this is the celebration where the ball starts."
Just as Tsuchiura explained, the master of ceremony announced that the ball has officially started, and already many couples entered the dance floor when the music started playing. While Tsuchiura and Kahoko were talking, a gentleman approached their table as he greeted. "Good evening, Tsuchiura-san."
Standing immediately from his seat, Tsuchiura quickly shook hands with the visitor. "Good evening, Kondo-san."
Kahoko saw the two men converse with each other for a while, then turning to her, Tsuchiura apologised. "Sorry Hino, Kondo-san and his associates would like to discuss over some future contracts for my work."
"Sure, don't mind me." Knowing more opportunities had risen for Tsuchiura after winning the award tonight, Kahoko said supportively. "I will just sit here and help myself to the desert buffet, so take your time."
"Thanks," In gratefulness Tsuchiura gave Kahoko a smile before he left with Kondo.
"Len," Hamai Misa smiled and called out to her son as her eyes landed on the girl that sat alone at her table. "Aren't you going to ask Hino-kun for a dance? She is sitting there by herself."
Tsukimori's eyes followed where his mother was looking and saw as she had described, Kahoko really sat there looking like she was bored. Don't know when and how Tsuchiura had left her there by herself.
"No, I…" Feeling his face slightly hotter from embarrassment, Tsukimori replied. "I am sure Hino already has a partner."
Seeing her son's facial expression, Hamai Misa gave an understanding smile. "Len, if you don't ask her, she will be asked by someone else."
Tsukimori frowned when he saw just as his mother said, he saw a man approached Kahoko's table.
"Err…no it's okay. I am not really a dancer." When the stranger approached her to invite her to the dance, Kahoko squeezed out a smile and declined.
"It's alright. I can teach you." The man smiled and insisted. Forcefully reaching out his hand, he held onto Kahoko's hand and pulled her out of her chair. "Since your partner abandoned you, you should be free to dance with me right?"
"Wait, please let go of me!" Kahoko called in shock as she tried to pull her hand out from the man's grasp. Suddenly Kahoko saw another hand pulled the arrogant man's hand off hers. Looking up, Kahoko's eyes widened in surprise when she saw that it was Tsukimori!
"It's not what a gentleman should do forcing a lady." Coldly Tsukimori said to the man. "Besides, who said she was abandoned by her partner?" Turning to Kahoko, Tsukimori held onto her hand as he led her towards the dance floor.
"Len…?" Kahoko called in surprise finding her heart pumping fast like crazy when Tsukimori's arm came around her waist and led her into the waltz.
"Sorry, I know you probably did not want to dance with me," Softly Tsukimori whispered when a sad tender expression came onto his face. "But I did not know how else to keep you occupied in case another man came to harass you."
Kahoko felt her heart thumped hard with what Tsukimori said. Lowering her head in shyness Kahoko shook her head softly. "No, I should thank you first for rescuing me from that awkward situation." Pausing, Kahoko added, her voice hardly audible. "I am glad that we can dance like this again…"
Tsukimori felt his heart burnt with Kahoko's sweet touching words. The beautiful genuine smile that Tsukimori had not shown for a long time came onto his stunningly perfect face as he leaned in holding Kahoko closer to him.
"I know you came as Tsuchiura's partner, but is it okay if I escort you home, Kahoko?"
---
"Well, I am fine with it." Tsuchiura shrugged his shoulders when Tsukimori told him that he would offer to take Kahoko home. "I guess it worked out better this way because I actually have to attend another meeting after this."
"Wow, what time can you finally go home?" Kahoko asked in sympathy.
With a long sorrowful sigh, Tsuchiura shook his head. "I wish I know the answer myself." Turning to Kahoko he smiled. "Thanks for coming with me tonight. I will see you later?"
"No worries, I will see you later too."
After Tsuchiura walked off to attend his "meeting", Kahoko turned to Tsukimori. "I just need to go grab my coat from the concierge, I will see you at the front door in five minutes?"
"Alright." In acknowledgement Tsukimori nodded.
After Kahoko collected her coat and headed back towards the front entrance where Tsukimori would be waiting, her feet stopped when she saw a person standing there waiting for her in the corridor. The moment she saw the person's face, Kahoko felt her body froze and her lung unable to breath as the person stood up from where he was and approached her.
"You really are amazing, Kahoko." The person gave a cruel smirk as an icy coldness painted his strikingly beautiful face. "How do you manage to fool all these men into becoming your love slave?"
"Yu…Yunoki senpai?!" Kahoko felt her heart thumped so hard that she could hear it pounding right by her ears unison the steps the dangerously charming senior took to finally close up the distance between them.
"First you slept with Hihara, making him stay up three days to work on your assignment for you, then you showed up as Tsuchiura's partner and leaving with Tsukimori?" Yunoki mocked, his every word malicious and harsh.
Upon such ridicule, Kahoko's face turned bright red as she blurted out in defence. "You do not have the right to condemn me, Yunoki senpai! You already have a beautiful fiancée, why did you…??" Kahoko halted her words immediately realising she could not even phrase that incident back to Yunoki.
"…Are you jealous?"
Kahoko lifted her head in shock upon Yunoki's question. "Of course not! Why would I be jealous of…??" Kahoko stopped suddenly when to her total bemusement; she saw a smile on Yunoki's face.
It was not the kind of smile that Yunoki always faked, nor was it the sort that he would use whenever he makes fun of Kahoko. Rather, it was the genuine, pure happiness that reflected from some sort of revelation Yunoki seemed to have discovered.
"Kahoko…" Whispering her name in tenderness, Kahoko found Yunoki pulled her into his arms.
As a reflex, Kahoko struggled madly to push herself away from Yunoki in fear that he might do something to her again. Something that was going to haunt her for the next months, something that is going to give her the wrong idea again.
Unfortunately Kahoko had only found Yunoki tightened his embrace as he leaned in and whispered once again by her ear, in the deep charming suave voice that made her legs lose its strength. "Kahoko…do you believe in wishes?"
Finally Kahoko stopped struggling but she could not make out a word to answer Yunoki's question. However it appeared that Yunoki wasn't really looking for an answer as he continued. "Wish is only beautiful when it cannot be fulfilled. I have wanted to support and help you find the destination of your love. Because that is what a kind senior and friend should do."
Stopping, Yunoki lifted Kahoko's chin to face him as he looked deeply and sincerely into her eyes. "Yet, if that wish was towards me, Kahoko. I am willing to sacrifice at all costs, my future, my life, and my everything to ensure that wish will come true."
Not sure if her ears malfunctioned, Kahoko felt her heartbeat racing with Yunoki's passionate words. What…what was he indicating? Why is he saying this to her??
Slowly Yunoki let go of her as he moved away keeping the distance from her. Turning back to look at Kahoko again, the evil, teasing smile returned once again onto Yunoki's face as he added. "Just kidding, Kahoko. You didn't think I was confessing did you?"
Kahoko felt blood rushed to her head in realisation that Yunoki was making fun of her again. Not wanting to spend another second there, Kahoko turned and stormed off hoping to be as far away from Yunoki as possible.
However, Kahoko slowed down her pace when she suddenly remembered the genuine smile Yunoki showed before he said all that.
Was that really just another evil joke?
i Yokohama is about an hour and half by train away from Tokyo
ii Aniki is the Japanese term used by guys to address their older brothers