Wish is only beautiful when it cannot be fulfilled, don't you think?
Yet if that wish was towards me, Kahoko. I am willing to do everything, sacrifice all, my future, my life, and my everything to ensure that wish will come true.
"Yunoki senpai…" Kahoko whispered secretly within when those words spoken by Yunoki Azuma a while ago continued to repeat itself inside her mind. Once again Kahoko discovered something that was considered by Yunoki as a mere joke troubled her severely.
Waiting alongside Kahoko on the train platform, Tsukimori observed the troubled girl silently. The same forlorn and lost gleam Kahoko had expressed throughout the night returned once again after Kahoko picked up her coat from concierge. Not sure of the details, Tsukimori discovered somehow Kahoko must have had some sort of interaction with Yunoki. A frown came onto Tsukimori's face when he saw, as if a mindless robot, Kahoko followed the crowd and stepped onto the train carriage when it arrived at the station.
"Kahoko," Reaching out his hand, Tsukimori grabbed onto Kahoko's arm and pulled her back onto the platform. "That is an express train; it doesn't stop at the station we are getting off."
"Ah…" Quickly taking a look at the display on the train, Kahoko blushed in shame and apologised. "I am sorry, Len."
Tsukimori did not respond as he continued to study the beautiful girl before him. Sensing his heart heavy and restless, Tsukimori knew these uncomfortable, weighty feeling all came from his concern for Kahoko. Yes, it had been three years already, unfortunately it did not give Tsukimori the excuse to forget the girl who touched his heart so deeply three years ago. Although he had declared to Kahoko that he no longer should involve himself into her personal affairs, over and over again, Tsukimori had found himself doing the opposite.
It did not matter how many times Tsukimori reminded himself strictly that he was the man who caused Kahoko to weep so bitterly three years ago, whenever he saw how frail and feeble Kahoko was, he could not make himself walk away.
"Kahoko," Finally opening his lips, Tsukimori asked. "Are you in a rush to get home tonight?"
"Tonight?"
"Yes," A slight shade of redness came onto Tsukimori's perfect refined face as he suggested. "If you are not in a rush, we could probably look around since it is Christmas Eve."
Not expecting the invitation to come from Tsukimori, Kahoko thought her ear malfunctioned. Was Tsukimori requesting to spend more time with her on Christmas Eve?! However when she saw the tenderness in the gleam of Tsukimori's eyes, a warm blissful smile came onto Kahoko's beautiful face as she nodded. "Sure."
---
Maybe because it was the last chance to shop for Christmas gifts, the shops were all still open, filled with shoppers, families and couples. Walking amongst the crowd was Kahoko and Tsukimori, the pair that must have appeared as a beautiful loving couple in other's eyes. This was proven when one of the shop assistants called out to Tsukimori when they walked pass.
"Good evening, sir. Would you like to win a surprise gift for your lovely girlfriend?"
Taking a look at Kahoko, Tsukimori blushed as he justified. "No, we are…"
"It's Christmas Eve, sir! Give it a try!" Handing a basketball to Tsukimori, the shop assistant encouraged. "If you could successfully shoot in three baskets out of five attempts, you will be able to win the instant prize we have available, and then be entered into the draw for the grand prize of a romantic ski holiday for two!"
Upon hearing the content of the grand prize, Kahoko and Tsukimori's faces turned bright red immediately. Grinning at the innocence of the cute couple, the shop assistant pushed Tsukimori forward to the stand and persuaded once more. "No pressure, it's all just for fun anyway!"
With a sigh, Tsukimori turned to Kahoko. "What do you say?" Stopping, Tsukimori added. "I must remind you that I have never tried basketball before."
Kahoko smiled within hearing Tsukimori's statement. Indeed, if it was Hihara, Kaji and Tsuchiura, shooting baskets might not be too difficult. "I guess it would be kind of fun, you should give it a go."
Knowing what a softy he had become after he fell in love with Kahoko, instead of scaring the shop assistant away with his frown, gently handing her his violin case, Tsukimori replied. "In that case, I guess I can give it a try." Holding the big rough orange ball in his hand, Tsukimori turned and took a look at the ring before him. Lifting his arms, after careful aim, with the use of the power from his wrists Tsukimori released the ball.
Tsukimori frowned when he saw the power he used was too strong, as a result the ball bounced off the backboard. Picking up the ball for Tsukimori, the shop assistant returned it to him and smiled. "Don't worry, you still have four more try."
"Ganbattei, Len!" In encouragement Kahoko called out from beside.
Holding the ball once again in his hand, this time Tsukimori knew what to do. The first shot was seriously, and literally the first time in his life he touched a basketball. After his first attempt, Tsukimori understood immediately the kind of power, the precise aim required for the ball to enter the ring. Tsukimori had always been a perfectionist, with proper calculation and a calm heart; he no longer saw this as a difficult task.
Looking straight at the ring again, Tsukimori released the ball. This time, like magic, the basketball released from Tsukimori's hands flew in perfect projectile motion, and swish, went right through the ring.
"Wow!! That was a perfect shot, Len!" Clapping in amazement Kahoko cheered. Although it may be beginner's luck, but Kahoko was still proud of Tsukimori's accomplishment.
"Congratulations, now you only have to get two more in to win an instant prize!" The shop assistant said and returned the ball to Tsukimori again.
To the amusement of all the viewers that gathered, Tsukimori's next four shots all went perfectly into the basket. Feeling her jaw dropped with the unbelievable scene before her, Kahoko discovered, Tsukimori might actually have an amazing talentii.
"You are amazing, sir!" The shop assistant praised as he handed Tsukimori a wrapped gift. "Here, you have won yourself an instant prize, and of course the chance to enter the draw of the romantic ski holiday for two!"
"No, we are…" Returning once again to the embarrassing topic, Tsukimori blushed.
"Here," Passing the forms to Kahoko instead, the assistant said. "Just enter both your details and if you are our lucky winner, the holiday coupon will be mailed to your address on the form."
Under pressure, Kahoko had no choice but wrote both her and Tsukimori's contact details on the form. Well, look it from another angle, it's not like they would win the draw anyway. So filling out some form wouldn't hurt, right?
"So what was the instant prize?" Kahoko asked in curiosity as both Tsukimori and she left the shop. Kahoko's eyes glowed with joy when she saw after Tsukimori opened the wrapping it was a portable music player. "Wow, it's quite a good prize!"
"Do you want it?" Tsukimori asked as he handed the prize to Kahoko. "I don't really have need for a music player."
"Are you sure? But it is your prize." Kahoko said quickly.
"Take it," Tsukimori insisted.
"Thank you," Kahoko thanked and accepted the prize. Well, although indirectly, maybe she could take it as a Christmas gift from Tsukimori. With that idea secretly hidden within, Kahoko took a peek at Tsukimori as uncontrollably a smile painted her lips.
"Wow, take a look at this necklace, it's so beautiful!"
Walking pass a jewellery shop, Kahoko overheard a girl called out to her boyfriend. In curiosity, Kahoko also moved her eyes onto the elegantly beautiful accessory. Wholeheartedly, Kahoko agreed with the girl that this was one of the most stunning pieces of jewellery she had ever seen. It was not glamorous with lots of precious stones, but a simple, sophisticated design.
Noticing her fixed focus on the necklace on display, Tsukimori asked. "Want to take a look inside the shop?"
"No, it's alright. I was just looking" Kahoko shook her head and said quickly. "Let's go to another shop."
As Kahoko and Tsukimori continued to look around the shops, walking side by side just like how they used to three years ago, it was inevitable for Tsukimori to see that all has to come to an end. Knowing if he and Kahoko did not return to the train station soon, they will miss the last train.
Kahoko understood the thought going through Tsukimori's mind. It was not difficult because she noticed how Tsukimori had become quieter, and the frown on his face deepened whenever he took a look at his watch.
"Len," To make it easier for Tsukimori, Kahoko initiated. "I guess we should be heading home soon, it has been a long night."
"I guess so…" Replying Kahoko with a soft smile, Tsukimori said hoping the expression on his face did not give away the disappointment he felt.
With the same lingering, lonely wave of emotion shared between the two, both Kahoko and Tsukimori headed towards the train station in silence. Tsukimori did not attempt a conversation for he was never the man with words. Although his love for Kahoko was deep and strong, he knew he could never express them well to her. At the same time, Tsukimori can not deny the fact he had been wanting to know the answer to Kaji's statement, how after three years, although both he and Kahoko had not remained in contact, Kahoko still has feelings for him.
With the question in mind, unintentionally he took another look at Kahoko. That was when Tsukimori saw Kahoko blowing warm air onto her hands while she rubbed them, hoping to keep warm in this freezing cold winter.
"You did not wear your gloves again." Tsukimori stated with a frown. "Freezing your fingers like this will affect your violin playing."
"Well I," Kahoko gave a sheepish smile. "I didn't bring gloves today because I thought they wouldn't match the evening gown I am wearing. I also was expecting to be indoor majority of the time so…" Stopping quickly Kahoko added. "Ah, not that I am saying I didn't want to take a walk like what we had done, I am really glad that we made a detour…"
While Kahoko was still trying to explain the situation, she saw Tsukimori took the glove off his right hand and passed it to her. "I am sorry that I was careless and did not realise. Put this glove on your right hand."
Not sure what Tsukimori had in mind, Kahoko did as told. To her surprise, she felt a warm hand overlapped her cold left hand. Lifting her head, Kahoko saw Tsukimori gave her a tender smile as he held her bare left hand with his right. Slipping both their hands into the pocket of his winter coat, Tsukimori whispered. "Hopefully this helps."
The rest of the journey home, Tsukimori did not let go of her hand. To the both of them, it was as if they have returned to the past, the time where they spent every possible moment together after Tsukimori's confession on Christmas night.
Kahoko felt her heart ached when the same thought hit her. This time spent with Tsukimori was marvellous, but fact remains, eventually, he will leave her and return to Vienna. Was she ready to give her heart to him, knowing she will have to watch him walk out of her life again?
---
"Kaho-chan, over here!"
The moment Kahoko waliked out of the train station, she saw the group of familiar faces and among them, a tall green haired youth with big cheerful smile waved at her. Responding with a joyful smile, Kahoko walked quickly up to the group.
"Sorry, am I the last one to arrive?" Looking through the people present Kahoko asked quickly. When her eyes recognised the face of the man who walked her home last night, as a reflex, Kahoko lowered her head and looked away quickly in shyness. It was as if she could still feel the warmth of his hand against her own as they walked hand in hand all the way home.
"Nope, the organiser Amou is not even here yet." With his arms crossed, Tsuchiura gave a sigh.
"Yunoki has not yet arrived either," Hihara added.
Yunoki senpai? Kahoko noticed that beautiful perfect face really was not present. With that, Kahoko felt somehow relieved. Ever since that incident, Kahoko was not sure how she was ever going act normal in front of him again.
"Fufu, I am glad you have finally arrived, Hino-san." Kaji approached Kahoko as he gave her a charming smile. "It was kind of lonely when it was just the four guys."
Kahoko giggled at Kaji's statement as she noticed the admiring focuses of the girls walking pass. Indeed, it was quite an eye candy to have four tall, attractive men gathered together like this.
As an annual event, Amou would organise a big get together Christmas party for all the members from the music concur. Although everyone were on their separate paths, still, no matter what happens, all would make an effort to be there for this party.
"…Good morning everyone."
While the group was talking, Kahoko heard a soft sleepy voice greeted. Turning to the voice, Kahoko's eye's widened in disbelief when she recognised the beautiful blue eyes that belonged to the angelic junior Kahoko had not seen for two years. "Shi…SHIMIZU-KUN??"
Unlike Kahoko, the youth showed no particular expression as he gave a bow and greeted. "Nice to see you again, Hino senpai."
"Shimizu??"
"Are you Shimizu??"
"No wait, are you a Shimizu look-a-like?"
Joining Kahoko, Tsuchiura, Hihara and Kaji called out in amusement. The youngest male of the group, the cellist of the ensemble, isn't he supposed to be in Vienna?!
"I am Shimizu and not Shimizu look-a-like." Like how everyone remembered of him, the beautiful boy replied unhurriedly, still kind of living in his own world.
Knowing the unexpected visitor was no doubt their friend Shimizu Keiichi, Hihara laughed and walked up to Shimizu who is now at eye level with him. "Wow, Shimizu, I can't believe how much you have grown in two years, how tall are you now?"
"177cm."
"Haha, I wonder what they fed you in Vienna?" Tsuchiura laughed and walked up to Shimizu too. "Last time I saw you, you were still this much shorter than me."
Kahoko nodded in agreement. Two years ago when Shimizu was still 16, he was only a little taller than she was. With his amazing growth, adding onto his already adorable face, Shimizu Keiichi had turned into a most stunningly outstanding youth.
"I knew I would be able to surprise you all," Joining the astonished group Amou Nami walked up to her friends with a big grin. "I bumped into Shimizu last night and found out he had just returned from Vienna, so I invited him to our Christmas party!"
"Are you just staying for the Christmas break, Shimizu?" Tsukimori who had been quiet the entire time asked.
"Yes, Shoko is spending Christmas with her family in Europe, so I came back to Japan for a short visit." Shimizu explained.
"It's nice to have you come back to visit us, Shimizu." Hihara said wholeheartedly. "Do share with us your life over there in Vienna."
While all gathered around Shimizu, Amou interrupted as she held onto herself to prevent shivering from the cold. "Well, we can hear all about it when we get to the venue, it's too cold to stand out here in the wind."
With Amou's words, Hihara reminded quickly. "Wait, Yunoki is not here yet. Aren't we going to wait for him?"
Shaking her head, Amou told everyone the bad news. "Yunoki senpai will not be joining us today. He has to attend the Urahara Group Christmas party as Urahara Miyako's fiancé."
For some unknown reason, Kahoko sensed her heart tightened in pain when she heard what Amou said.
"Eh?" Hihara called in shock. "But this is our get together; we have planned for this event so long!"
With a big sigh Amou nodded. "I know, I am sure Yunoki senpai would prefer to be here with us too."
"I guess Yunoki senpai is really living in a different world to us now." Tsuchiura said. "We cannot expect him to still spend Christmas with his old high school buddies. First of all, he is engaged, so his life now is with his future relatives. Secondly, as one of the sons that assist the Yunoki group, he would have to attend more and more of these business social events."
"I know, but it's still really sad." Hihara gave a big sigh. "We have always hung out as a group, and now without him, something is missing…"
Kahoko couldn't agree more. Although a few things had happened between her and Yunoki in the past few months, to Kahoko, Yunoki's presence always made a difference. As a friend, Kahoko really do not wish to see Yunoki go down this path of life. It was like the other day when she accidentally overheard the flute playing Yunoki did on the rooftop of Seiso Gakuin. Yunoki did not have to say a word, but all the pain and anguish he had suppressed within were all expressed in his music.
It was for the first time, Kahoko had seen Yunoki so fragile. She realised Yunoki had long needed a helping hand, but no one reached out to him.
Yet if that wish was towards me, Kahoko. I am willing to do everything, sacrifice all, my future, my life, and my everything to ensure that wish will come true.
Kahoko felt a hard thump against her heart when that sentence Yunoki spoke with a teasing nature popped up once again in her mind. It suddenly hit Kahoko, maybe it was not one of his jokes again, rather it was a signal Yunoki was sending to her.
Kahoko's mind continued to hover over the things Yunoki had said to her in the past years while she quietly followed the rest of the group walking towards the venue Amou had booked for their Christmas party. With her mind floating off again, Kahoko did not notice a person walking hurriedly past her as she accidentally crashed with the man. Upon the impact, Kahoko lost her balance, and luckily before she fell, the man reacted first as he held onto her.
"I am sorry," The man apologised as he helped her stand up straight. "Are you alright?"
"No, I should be the one apologising; I was the one who wasn't looking…" Kahoko said quickly. However, when she looked up at the man, in disbelief Kahoko called out as a reflex. "Kira-rijichouiii!"
Upon her call, the tall man with dark black hair and sexy scarlet red eyes stared at her for a moment before he finally responded. "…Hino-kun?"
Quickly standing up straight, Kahoko gave the tall man a polite bow. "It has been a while, Kira-rijichou. I am glad you still remember my name."
"I guess I do," Kira replied calmly. "Considering I was never very good at remembering names."
Kahoko burst out laughing because she remembered Kira saying the same things to her three years ago. Most of all, it was funny how every time they met each other accidentally on the streets, he was always in a rush, and she would always accidentally crash into him.
Noticing Kahoko talking to a man, the rest of the group stopped walking and when they joined Kahoko, all eyes opened wide in astonishment like Kahoko as they called in unison. "Kira-rijichou!"
Kira Akihiko was the youngest Chairman ever in the history of the Seiso Gakuin Board of Trustees. Three years ago, straight after Kahoko and the rest of the group completed the annual concur, Kira announced due to the disastrous financial situation of the academy, the general faculty and music faculty will be separated into two different schools.
Knowing it was because of the wonderful system Seiso Gakuin has of combining the music and general faculty as one school, Kahoko, a student who had no prior connection with music was able to come and know the wonderful things of music, and because of it, she was able to meet so many wonderful people. In determination to stop the restructure, Kahoko approached Kira and begged him to reconsider the decision.
Kira therefore challenged Kahoko to hold a Christmas concert, and if she could gain major support from the students to attend her concert, and prove to all, the importance of music, he will then rethink the restructuring of Seiso Gakuin.
With the help of Tsukimori, Tsuchiura, Kaji, Hihara, Yunoki, Shimizu and Fuyumi, Kahoko was able to put together a beautiful and magical concert. Kira Akihiko was therefore convinced Kahoko was a talented musician, and whenever he saw the passion she had for music, he felt his cold and emotionless world stirred a little. When he heard Kahoko's performance, it was like a drop of water that fell into his still heart, causing rings and rings of ripple that reminded him of the passion he once had, the love for music.
"It has been a long time," Kira said as he took another look at Kahoko. "Have you continued onto your path of believing in music?"
Blushing with Kira's somehow sharp and sarcastic question, Kahoko replied sheepishly. "Well, I am now a music student in Seiso University, and I am also a member of the Yokohama Orchestra."
"Humph," Kira gave Kahoko a mysterious smile. "I guess you are half way there."
"Half way there…?" Not understanding what Kira was referring to, Kahoko repeated the phrase back at Kira. However when Kahoko noticed the look on Kira's face, and how his stunningly charming eyes continued to gaze straight at her face with that confident smile of his, Kahoko felt her heart skipped a beat remembering the half-hearted teasing words Kira once said to her.
"When you have grown up, and have become a famous violinist, maybe I will then considering wooing you."
"Ah, that thing…you, you were just jo…joking when you said that right?" In embarrassment, Kahoko stuttered.
"When I said what?" Still calm and poised, Kira asked instead.
Upon Kira's question, Kahoko felt all the blood rushed to her face not sure if Kira really does not remember or he was playing dumb, for she could never tell from that poker face of his.
It was so three years ago, where Kira would without an explanation take her to meals, go for a drive in his car, here and there. Despite constantly accompanied by beautiful, elegant women, on a special day such as his birthday, he was spending it together with Kahoko at a luxurious French restaurant. When Kahoko asked him the reason why he had asked her to dinner on his special day, Kira would still, unstirred and composed, say to Kahoko, "It just so happens that you walked pass when I feel like having a meal with someone."
"I guess it was no coincident to bump into you," Taking a look at his watch Kira asked. "Are you free to come with me to a concert now?"
"Eh??" Just when Kahoko was reminiscing those weird crazy days where Kira would just randomly ask her out, Kahoko could not believe before her, Kira did it again.
"Wait, hold on a second there!" Before Kahoko answered, Amou cut in and stood between Kira and Kahoko. "Can't you see Hino-chan is going to a Christmas party with us, and ignoring us you are asking her out instead?!"
Slowly, Kira's eyes moved onto the group standing around Kahoko finally noticing the presence of the others. "…You all can come too if you want."
"That's not the point!" Amou groaned and pointed her finger at Kira's face in threat. "We already booked a venue to hold our Christmas party, we are not interested in going to any concerts with you!"
Not offended with Amou's impoliteness especially towards him who was an authoritative figure, Kira moved his eyes back onto Kahoko again as with a challenging smile said. "I would consider it a good experience for you Hino-kun, taking into account this concert was held by current Seiso Gakuin students following your footsteps."
"Following my footsteps?" Not sure what Kira was referring to, Kahoko blinked.
With his arms crossed, a mocking smile came onto Kira's handsome face. "Three years ago when you held the concert to challenge my decision, it so ironically turned out to be a Seiso Gakuin tradition that I was forced to attend every Christmas after that." Pausing, the smile deepened as Kira added. "Do you not feel responsible?"
"A Seiso Gakuin tradition started by Hino-san's legendary act?" Kaji beamed in pride as he joined in. "It might be interesting to go and see!"
"A concert…" Shimizu suddenly spoke up, stars glowing in his eyes. "I want to go."
"But we do have a party organised as well," Hihara reminded noticing the veins popping on Amou's forehead.
"What time will the concert finish?" Tsuchiura asked Kira.
"Eight-ish."
"I guess we can still have the party after the concert." Tsukimori stated finding the concert idea more interesting than the party itself.
Knowing everyone's heart had already flown off to the concert idea, with a sigh Amou finally consented. "Fine, I guess it wouldn't hurt to go listen to the concert first."
"Very well then," Taking out his phone Kira made a call. After a few minutes of conversation, Kira turned to Kahoko. "A limousine will be here to pick you and group up."
"A limousine…" Kahoko gave an embarrassed smile. "There is really no need, we can get there by public transport."
"Not if you are arriving as my honoured guest," Kira gave Kahoko a charming smile before he turned to walk back to his black Jaguariv showing clearly other than Kahoko, everyone else were just 'extras'.
---
"You know," Taking a look at her handsome fiancé, Urahara Miyako gave a sigh. "You don't really need to be here if you don't want to. I am sure this party bores you as much as it bores me."
Calmly with a beautiful smile, Yunoki Azuma replied. "I am not bored, Miyako-san."
"Liar." Miyako mocked coldly. "You and I both know the only reason you are here is because of the obligations you have to your family. No one and nothing in this party interests you."
Instead of responding to Miyako's cynical remarks, Yunoki asked instead. "Is there anything I can get you? More food, drink?"
"Yes there is." Miyako replied coldly. "Take me home, I want to go home now."
"But the party had only just started." In patience Yunoki replied.
With a long sigh, Miyako rubbed her temples. "I am doing both of us a favour here, Azuma-san. I want to leave this party and so do you. Just take me home now and you can go join your friends for the real Christmas party."
"The real Christmas party?"
"I also have a real party to go to with my friends," Miyako whispered. "Don't you think it is enough that we have performed our duties by showing our faces here? Can't we just go do our own things now?"
A little surprised with Miyako's words, to be honest, Yunoki was rather relieved Miyako initiated the idea of leaving the party. "I see," With a polite smile Yunoki replied. "In that case, allow me to escort you back home."
After Yunoki finished performing his duty as a responsible, caring fiancé and drove Miyako home, sitting in his car, Yunoki took out his phone and dialled a number.
"Merry Christmas, Yunoki!"
The moment that cheerful happy voice of his best friend came through the phone, a warm smile came onto Yunoki's face. "Merry Christmas, Hihara. How are you guys enjoying the party so far?"
"The party haven't started yet," Hihara laughed. "We ended up going to the Seiso Gakuin Christmas Concert!"
"Seiso Gakuin Christmas Concert?"
"Can you believe it, Yunoki?" Hihara continued to explain in excitement. "Apparently after Kaho-chan started the concert three years ago, it had become a tradition now in Seiso Gakuin! She has become a legend!"
"I wouldn't be surprised," Yunoki replied with a sincere smile. "What she did three years ago was indeed amazing."
"Anyway," Hihara cleared his throat and asked. "How about your night? If you want to join us for the party, by all means come over. The concert had just finished so we are about the head over to the venue soon."
"That was the reason I am calling," Yunoki chuckled. "The party finished early, so I thought I would try to see if I can catch you guys at the concert hall, if not I will just go straight to the venue for the party."
"So you are coming?!" Hihara called in joy. "We will wait for you here, so we can all go to the venue together!"
"No need to wait for me," Yunoki smiled hearing the genuine happiness in his best friend's voice, it really made his heart warm. "I might get caught up in traffic."
"Oh, alright then. Just give me a call when you are near."
After he got off the phone with Hihara, Yunoki took a deep breath as he sank into the driver's seat. Slowly taking out a wrapped present from the pocket of his jacket, a gentle smile painted Yunoki's face.
Maybe for me, the real Christmas starts tonight…
---
As if she could still hear the beautiful music by her ears, Kahoko felt her heart so warm and touched after she heard the wonderful performance by the students of Seiso Gakuin. It had been a while since Kahoko felt so moved emotionally. It was like that passion she had three years ago returned once again within her.
Three years ago, she knew what she wanted and she worked hard for it. Yet, she felt as if her life had not progressed, and she no longer knew what her goal was, and what was worth fighting for.
Nothing has changed in her life, just like that big glittering Christmas tree, Kahoko thought mockingly to herself as she took a look at the beautifully decorated tree that stood silently outside the concert hall. Three years ago after the concert, it was there Tsukimori confessed. At that time, Kahoko was in ecstasy when she realised the boy she had fallen for felt the same way for her. Unfortunately, three years later, what was left of that joy, that blissful feeling was an emptiness that was slowly eating Kahoko up.
Suddenly Kahoko's eyes fix focused on the tall figure standing underneath the big Christmas tree. Kahoko felt her whole body burnt when she saw the tall youth standing there as his beautiful magical eyes gazed up at her. Before her mind could analyse the situation, Kahoko's feet moved first as she turned and ran quickly down the stairs and out into the cold where she saw the man standing.
"Len…" Feeling her heart pumping fast, Kahoko whispered.
"That was a beautiful concert," Tsukimori said softly as he saw Kahoko coming closer "I guess what you accomplished three years ago really did carry on."
"No, I…" Kahoko lowered her head and blushed in embarrassment. "I wasn't trying to accomplish anything marvellous. I just thought, I wanted more people to fall in love with music, and it would be a pity if the school got divided…"
The facial expressions on Tsukimori's face turned even tenderer when he saw the embarrassment on Kahoko's face. "But you did manage to save many with what you did," Pausing, Tsukimori whispered. "And I was one of them…"
Upon Tsukimori's words, Kahoko felt although the weather was cold, her heart was warm. Gently taking a wrapped present out from his pocket, Tsukimori blushed. "I know Amou organised a secret Santa thing tonight, but still, I wanted to personally give you this as a Christmas present."
"A present?" Kahoko must admit she did not expect that from Tsukimori. Holding the small box in her hand, Kahoko asked with a beautiful smile. 'Can I open it?"
"Sure."
Gently opening the wrapping, Kahoko's eyes widened in amusement when she found it to be the beautiful necklace she saw in the window display last night! "Len, this is…I mean how did you…??"
Trying to keep a straight face when he saw Kahoko's stunned reaction, Tsukimori explained. "When I saw the look in your eyes last night, I knew you really wanted this."
"But it's really expensive!" Kahoko shook her head. "You really shouldn't, I mean you didn't have to…"
"I wanted to," Tsukimori interrupted with a stunningly beautiful smile. "I hope you would accept it."
Feeling indescribable joy running wild within, Kahoko nodded as she whispered in shyness. "Can I wear it now?"
"Of course," Tsukimori replied as he took the necklace out. Leaning in closer to Kahoko, Tsukimori placed the necklace over Kahoko as he clipped the jewellery on for her. However instead of moving away, Kahoko discovered Tsukimori's arms came around her instead as he held her softly in his arms.
"If," Kahoko heard Tsukimori whispered deeply by her ear, 'If there was anything I have ever regretted doing," Very tenderly and lovingly, Tsukimori fondled Kahoko's soft silky hair as he closed his eyes. "It was for leaving you three years ago…"
Unable to hold in any longer, Kahoko discovered all the emotions, all the love she had sealed away was released as droplets of tears fell off her beautiful eyes. Sensing the girl weeping in her arms, Tsukimori held Kahoko even tighter as he leaned in, softly kissing away her tears.
"Len…" Kahoko whispered not sure if she was dreaming. When Kahoko sensed the touch of Tsukimori's lips against her own, Kahoko felt she had entered into heaven. Responding gently to the kiss, Kahoko's lips also searched for Tsukimori's forgetting everything around them, for it no longer mattered. It did not matter that there may not be future for them, or they were just setting themselves up for another heart break, all that mattered was, for the first time in three years the couple felt so close once again.
From a distance however, a man stood solemnly as he watched the pair coldly. Yunoki Azuma originally thought he was in luck when there weren't much traffic on the way to the concert hall. Unfortunately, it obviously did not turn out so lucky for Yunoki to walk into seeing this.
Slowly walking away again, there was one thing Yunoki discovered though.
Instead of the rage, jealousy he thought he was going to experience, Yunoki only felt cold. Yes, it was a cold winter's night, but it was not the kind of coldness Yunoki was experiencing. It was like the kind of coldness that makes you numb, that makes you think nothing in life mattered anymore.
The warmth Yunoki had experienced a few minutes ago when he was on the phone with Hihara, thinking although his life was going no where, there was still something that was worth looking forward to.
But no, maybe there isn't anything worth hoping for anymore. Maybe like what Kaji had said to him three years ago, if he allowed fate to takeover his own life, it would be a life not worth living…
---
"I am sorry," Tsukimori apologised as he let go of Kahoko. "I shouldn't have done that…"
Still feeling her cheeks hot, and her heartbeat fast, Kahoko looked up at Tsukimori not understanding the nature of his apology.
Turning away, Tsukimori said in embarrassment. "I am just going to hurt you again, before I knew I could make you happy, I should not…"
"Len…" Kahoko called not knowing what to say. She wanted to tell him that he was not hurting her, rather it made her really happy to know after three years, she still remained in his heart. Unfortunately nothing could come out of her lips when she saw the saddened look on Tsukimori's face.
"Ah, Hino-chan and Tsukimori-kun," At this time, Amou came out of the concert hall as she walked up to them not knowing what she had walked into. "We are ready to leave now."
"Amou-san," Tsukimori turned to Amou, "I am sorry, but I won't be going to the party."
"Eh?" Not only was Amou surprised with what Tsukimori said, Kahoko also looked up at Tsukimori in shock.
"Have a good night." Leaving Kahoko and Amou that sentence, Tsukimori turned and walked away not looking back again.
"Eh?? Tsukimori-kun??" Not understanding at all why all of a sudden Tsukimori was leaving, Amou turned to Kahoko for an explanation. However no words could come out when Amou saw the look on Kahoko's face.
---
Standing up from her seat, Amou raised her glass and announced. "Alright, here is the event we all have been waiting for! The Secret Santa Presents time!" Taking a bag out, Amou placed the presents on the table. "Although Tsukimori had to leave early today, but he had given me the present he bought, I guess we should have all the presents here."
Taking the first one out, Amou read the name on the present. "Ah, this one if for Kaji-kun."
"Thank you!" In joy Kaji received the present handed to him from Amou.
"The next one is for Shimizu-kun,"
Kahoko sat there quietly as she watched Amou handing out the presents. Her mind had basically shut off after Tsukimori walked away from her. She could not understand his actions. If he no longer loves her, why did he buy her a beautiful present, and why did he kiss her? Most of all, why did he look so sad?
"Ee? We have a present missing," Amou stated when she noticed after handing out all the presents, Kahoko was the only one that did not receive one.
"Yeah, how come Kaho-chan doesn't have one?" Hihara said quickly as he tried to count the number of presents. Pointing the spare one in the bag, Hihara asked. "That one is not for Kaho-chan?"
"Ah, no, this one is for Yunoki senpai." Taking the spare present from the bag, Amou handed it to Hihara. "Can you hand this to Yunoki senpai when you see him?"
"Doesn't that mean…" Kaji took a look at the spare present. "The reason Hino-san doesn't have a present is because Yunoki-san is her secret Santa?"
"You're right!" Doing the quick maths in her head, Amou realised Kaji had a point.
"Here, you can have my present, Hino-san." Quickly passing his present to Kahoko, Kaji offered.
"No, no, it's okay." Kahoko shook her head quickly.
"Ah…but Hino senpai will not be able to use Kaji's present, it is useable only to a man…" Shimizu suddenly spoke up giving away the truth about him as Kaji's secret Santa.
"Shimizu-kun…" Laughing dryly Kaji asked. "What did you get me?"
"No wait," Hihara interrupted quickly. "I received a call from Yunoki a while back, he is on his way here, so he will be bring Kaho-chan's present over too."
"Oh, Yunoki senpai can make it?" Amou asked in joy. "Great! I was starting to think that this party is becoming smaller and smaller considering Ousaki senpai also cannot join us tonight."
When at this time, a man approached their table as he took out an envelop. "If it helps, I have a present here to give to Hino Kahoko-san."
"A present? Is it a delivery from Yunoki senpai?" Amou asked as she took a look at the envelop from the man. "This look kind of flat, is it like special tickets or something?"
Not sure what the man had delivered for her either, Kahoko opened the envelop and took the content out, which happened to be some photographs. However, as if a lightning struck her, Kahoko felt darkness overlapped her when she saw what was shown on the photographs.
Noticing Kahoko's hands shaking, and her face turned deadly pale, Amou asked quickly as she came up next to Kahoko. "What is it? Whose photos are these…?!!" However Amou choked on her own words when she saw what Kahoko had in her hands.
Noticing something had gone wrong; Hihara stood up quickly and held onto Kahoko's arm in concern. "Kaho-chan, are you okay?" Upon the touch, to everyone's surprise, the photographs fell from Kahoko's hands as they scattered all over the table.
Moving his eyes onto the photos, Hihara's hazel brown eyes stared at the photographs in disbelief as his hand trembled reaching for one of them. Immediately the table went dead silent as all eyes landed on the photographs, and everyone single one of them showed two people—Kahoko and Yunoki.
"Kaho-chan and Yu..Yunoki…?" Hearing his voice shuddered with the shocking truth relating to his best friend and the girl he loves, Hihara felt he was going to be sick.
Seeing the look on Hihara's face, Kahoko shook her head madly, "No…no, it's not like that, Yunoki senpai did not…we were not…" Knowing there was no way anyone was going to believe her innocence when the photographs clearly showed Yunoki and her entering the hotel room and a few hours later coming out of it, Kahoko covered her mouth and felt tears of extreme embarrassment and shame filled her eyes.
When suddenly a person picked up all the photographs as without a word ripped them one by one. Kahoko moved her eyes onto the person and saw it was Kaji, and that forever happy smile on his face disappeared.
"Ka…Kaji-kun?" Kahoko called softly feeling her heart thumping hard seeing the cold, icy expression on Kaji's face.
Walking up to the man that handed them the photographs in the first place, Kaji suddenly grabbed the man by the collar. "Who send you?! You think by showing us some computer enhanced photographs, you can wreck Hino-san's reputation?!"
Sensing the rage and fury from the power in Kaji's hands, the man hissed. "Computer enhanced? Kaji-san, you of all people should know whether these photographs were real or not. Or did you already forget what you saw with your own eyes when the two walked out of the hotel room together?"
Kahoko's felt her heart sank when she saw the look on Kaji's face with the man's words. So, Kaji actually knew about it all along? In order to protect her, he had kept his mouth shut?
The man smirked when he too noticed the reaction from Kaji's face with his words. "Are you going to let go of me or place further violence on me? I am sure it would demolish your father's reputation if it hit the news tomorrow, the famous Kaji vSensei has a son that is pronged to violence."
Instead of letting go because of the man's despicable threat, Kaji replied with a cool smile. "Since you know who my father is, I am sure you also know that he has the power to find out who you work for, and hunt you down." Adding with a victorious smile when he saw the fear in the man's eyes, Kaji threatened. "And I will make sure that you do not get off that easily for trying to hurt Hino-san."
"That is enough, let the man go, Kaji."
To everyone's surprise, another person entered the restaurant and approached the table. All eyes landed on the new visitor as no one could make out a word when they saw whom it was. Calmly picking up the ripped photographs, the person looked through the remains of the content that started this whole big drama.
"Yu…no…ki," Hihara whispered in pain when he saw the calmness on his best friend's face discovering immediately that these photographs were not fake.
Finally turning to face his best friend, Yunoki said. "Hihara, if you are upset that as your best friend I went behind your back and did this with the girl you love, then I do apologise." Stopping, Yunoki's beautiful stunning eyes looked straight into Hihara's eyes without deter. "But you must know that nothing happened between Hino-san and myself. Yes we did spend a night at the hotel due to some reason, but we were in separate rooms, and since this was obvious an attempt to destroy her reputation, I must make it clear to everyone present." Taking a look at Kahoko, Yunoki concluded. "Nothing happened between Hino-san and myself, she is not the kind of girl that would sleep around."
Not expecting Yunoki to clear her name for her, Kahoko's eyes stared at the beautiful perfect face. However when she noticed the despair, the hopelessness in Yunoki's eyes, Kahoko felt her heart gave a huge thump.
Turning to the man, Yunoki gave a sigh. "Go back and tell my grandmother, if the reason she did this was too ensure that I will stick to my marriage with Urahara group, I will give her nothing to worry about. The marriage will happen and I will not bring shame to the Yunoki family.' Stopping Yunoki added in emphasis. "But do leave my friends out of this, for they do not deserve to be caught up in our family politics."
Hearing the words from Yunoki, the man gave a cold hum and straightened his attire. Without saying a word the man left the restaurant proving Yunoki was right about who was the person behind this whole attack on Kahoko.
"Yunoki senpai…" Kahoko whispered in pain when she saw the lifeless gleam in Yunoki's eyes.
"I do apologise for getting you all involved in this game my grandmother is playing." Turning to his friends, Yunoki gave all a bow of apology. Lifting his head, Yunoki gave everyone a beautiful polite smile. "To ensure this will not happen again, I will refrain myself from coming into contact with any of you. For I will not forgive myself if she tries to hurt any of you."
"Yunoki senpai…" Amou quickly squeezed out a smile hoping to lighten the atmosphere for she had never expected Yunoki to apologise. "We, we are fine. You don't need to think that you are troubling us or anything…"
"Yunoki!" Hihara interrupted as he came up to his friend. "Why are you always like this? You keep everything to yourself, and you do not share anything with me! We are best friends aren't we?!"
Giving Hihara a warm smile, Yunoki replied. "I am glad that you still call me as your best friend. To me that was enough." Turning to Kahoko, Hihara apologised again before he walked out of the restaurant. "Once again, sorry for whatever happened tonight. I do wish you all the happiness."
Kahoko felt her heart twitched in pain when she heard those words from Yunoki. She had known Yunoki to be the teasing, bullying senior that would always stay strong and provide her the advice she needed. Never had she seen Yunoki so withdrawn, so lost like this. All of a sudden courage took over as Kahoko turned and ran quickly out of the restaurant after Yunoki.
"Yunoki senpai!"
Not expecting Kahoko to come out after him, Yunoki stopped walking and turned to look at her.
"Wish is…" Kahoko said quickly as she tried to catch her breath. "Yunoki senpai, you are wrong!"
"Wrong?"
Nodding Kahoko looked straight at Yunoki as she stated. "Wish is only beautiful when it comes true. So it will come true for you, Yunoki senpai! You must not give in!"
To Kahoko's surprise, a sad lonely smile came onto Yunoki's perfect handsome face as he whispered deeply. "You are a cruel person, Kahoko."
"Eh?" Kahoko blinked at Yunoki's statement not understanding why he suddenly called her cruel. She, she was only trying to help.
However instead of explaining himself, Yunoki took a wrapped present out as he handed it to Kahoko, that beautiful confident, and a little naughty smile returned once again to his face.
"Merry Chrsitmas, Kahoko. From your secret Santa."
i ganbatte is the Japanese encouraging word kind of for, "Go!", "Good luck!"
ii In Corda 2 Encore game, if you go on dates with Tsukimori, there will be events that show his amazing talents in winning these kinds of challenges. eg dart shooting, basket shooting.
iii Rijichou is the term used to address the chairman of the trust, like a –san, -sensei
iv I assumed Kira drives a black Jaguar, sorry if I am wrong…
v According to Corda 2 game, Kaji revealed a little bit that his father is a politician