Go Out With A Smile
Ansatsu Kyoushitsu
Assassination Classroom
Original Character
Summary: Oichi Chika is a part of Class 3E, the so called End class. Isolated from the rest of the school, Class 3E spend their days learning both academic and assassination. The target of their assassination? Koro-sensei, an octopus like creature who will destroy the Earth in the period of one year. That is if they fail to kill him before then. Everyday Chika write the daily events of class 3E into her diary...
Warnings: Contain OCs, typos, grammar errors (English is not my first language, I'm so sorry)
Note: Title may change
Disclaimers: I do not own Ansatsu Kyoushitsu
Chapter 27
September 4th 20XX
Dear Diary,
Karasuma-sensei introduced a new material in assassination curriculum today. We will be using explosives from this day onward. From now on, if we want to use explosives in our schemes, we must ask permission from Karasuma-sensei and one other student who will be the main handler. Takebayashi-kun volunteered for the job. It is not as apparent when you first look at it, Diary, but Takebayashi-kun is very excited to learn. Now he have a more solid role in Class E. Later on that day, he pull Chika to the side to talk about something. Along with rejoining Class E, he decided to quit four out of five cram school he have attended these past few years. His parents are less than thrilled but Takebayashi-kun told me that he will try to not give them much thought.
Chika is finally able to talk to Sugaya-san and Mimura-san. Chika made them swear that they won't tell a word to others about the situation... Chika talked to Karasuma-sensei and Irina-sensei as well. They too promised not to tell everyone else about it. However Karasuma-sensei make no promises about Koro-sensei, considering how he loves to pop up unannounced. Karasuma-sensei will run a search on the stalker. Chika hope this case will be over before the situation get out of hand... Chika really hate to cause inconvenience to everyone...
Toshiko-nee wants a bento tomorrow. Chika better get some rest now so she can get up early.
September 5th 20XX
Dear Diary,
It's been a while since Chika give you an update about pairings so here we go.
No progress with Sugino-san and Kanzaki-san, though not for the lack of trying on Sugino-san's part. Chika witnessed the other day he is asking Kanzaki-san about flowers. She used to be a member in the flower arrangement club. He told her that his mother wanted to start a small garden at their backyard. Kanzaki-san was more than happy to give him tips. Chika is not sure if the garden part is true, but Sugino-san is not the type to lie. It's great to see someone learning more about the person they like. So let's put these two in 'Work in progress' bin.
Okano-san and Maehara-san... At this point, everyone in class can see that Okano-san likes him... Though Chika got this impression that she don't realise her own feelings. Maehara-san's playboy behaviour don't help either. Chika saw her kicked him earlier today. Takebayashi-kun called her the 'harsh' tsundere. Chika have to be honest with you, Diary, Chika is not sure if they will have a healthy relationship if they end up together... Okano-san's tsundere tendencies, even if it's considered moe in anime, is abusive. You don't kick someone you like just because he infuriate you. Maehara-san have cheated before. It will be awful if he lies and goes behind everyone's back to be in a superficial relationship with other girl. Until character development kicks in, we can only wait and see how this pair will turn out.
Shiota-san and Kayano-san. Those two get along well, but no signs of romantic development between them. But Chika is patient.
Chiba-san and Hayami-san still can't look at Chika in the eye. They did gave each other a look of acknowledgement when they aced the shooting practice. And smiling too.
Okuda-san is developing a sticky substance that may or may not be able to slow down Koro-sensei. Akabane-san gave her the idea (he learnt firsthand that Koro-sensei's slime can be really sticky). Those two are are so easygoing with each other. Fufufufufu.
Things actually got a bit intense between Karasuma-sensei and Irina-sensei. No, Diary. It's not what you think. Chika may have or may not peeked at those two. They don't do anything scandalous. Although Irina-sensei would happily do it. It's something serious. Irina-sensei just got off the phone... Looking distraught... Chika can't quite hear what they are saying, but Karasuma-sensei laid a hand on her shoulder to comfort her. Aaaaaaw.
With all these new material, Chika's fanfics are going along nicely as well.
Chika noticed that Yada-san is giving looks to Kataoka-san. It's similar to how Irina-sensei would look at Karasuma-sensei (still no progress between them for the time being). Could it be that Yada-san... Have feelings for Kataoka-san? Chika is not surprised if she does. Our class rep is so dependable. It's not hard to see why so many people fell for her. Chika wonder what Kataoka-san think of Yada-san?
Now moving on to bad news...
Mysterious caller is back. Chika just got home from grocery shopping when the phone rang. As usual, no words from him. At least there is no moaning. Ritsu traced the call. It was done from a pay phone and no, sadly there are no security cameras near said pay phone. Chika notified Karasuma-sensei immediately. He now have the timeline of these calls. Good thing Chika keep track of it via Diary.
Training with Chika's new weapons is going smoothly. So far there is no close calls of Toshiko-nee walk in when Chika practice. She enjoyed today's bento, by the way. It made Chika so glad and happy!
It's bedtime, Diary. Good night.
Kayano-san is all fired up. Chika listens attentively as her classmate explain her project in front of the class. She calls it the Puddingkillsplosion plan. A bit of a mouthful but unique. As the name suggests, Kayano-san aims to make a giant pudding mixed with explosives. Considering the large amount of ingredients they will need, they can use the surplus eggs from being discarded. Their classmate must have this planned in a while now, since the news about eggs surplus just aired yesterday. Koro-sensei have told her in the past that he wish to eat a pudding larger than himself. Now they have the opportunity to realise his dream. An out-of-this-world dessert that will send you to heaven. Literally. Kayano-san is now utilising her love for pudding for assassination!
The government act swiftly too. Everything has been prepared for them in the school yard. Everything. From tons of sugars to giant pudding container. The timing is impeccable as well. Koro-sensei will be gone for the rest of the weekend. Everyone grabbed their apron and headscarves. For the huge quantity of eggs, Class E borrowed a line from the mayonnaise factory to separate and mix them. The boys will be in charge in stirring the mix. The girls will pour in buckets of sugar and vanilla oil. Kurahashi-san expressed her concern of the possibility of a pudding this big will fall apart. Of course, Kayano-san already have a plan for that.
"To prevent that, in addition to gelatine, we'll mix in agar into the coagulant. The fibers in the agar will increase its strength," She shows them dozens of boxes of agar. "Also, agar's melting point is higher than gelatine's. In other words, it'll make it difficult to fall apart out in the open during September."
It's clear how much thinking and effort Kayano-san have put into for this project to be this prepared.
The first layer is done. They attach the large bowl with lifting hooks. A crane lifts it up to the makeshift platform the government have built for them. Isogai-san and Maehara-san pour it into the mold. Now they will start to make the second batch. Kayano-san shows them boxes filled with square blocks. Those are wafer flavoured flavouring. They have to throw this from time to time, so when they melt in fruits sauce and mousse cream, different parts of the pudding will have different flavours. Chika volunteered to throw those into the first batch. Kayano-san weren't kidding that the pudding will have lots of flavours... Chika can already tell there's kiwi, lemon, chocolate, strawberry, apple, coffee, banana, coconut and... Corn? Together with Kanzaki-san, they throw in some of them.
Class E take a short lunch break after the second batch is finished. They almost had a crisis earlier. One of the lifting hooks break. Thankfully the government have backups. Kayano-san almost got hysterical when she saw the bowl tilt dangerously, almost spilling the content. Chuka munches on her sandwich quietly. Today give her so many ideas for Toshiko-nee's cake. Strawberry with coconut flakes. Angel cake with raspberry icing. Avocado cake. Marzipan cake. Blueberry cheesecake. Croquembouche if she feels ambitious. Or pudding cake perhaps? There are so many options...
The sky has turned red by the time they finished all four layers. They inserted pipes into the pudding that will flow in coolant. A pudding this size won't be able to cool off from open air. Tomorrow they will make the caramel sauce and gelatine agar. Chika got home that night all tired, but satisfied. The next day, Class E spend the entire morning making the caramel sauce and gelatine agar. After lunch, the boys removes the pipes. Next they blow air into the holes left to make the mold float off. Everyone take part in applying loose gelatine to the outer layer of the pudding. Isogai-san and Maehara-san pours in the caramel sauce on top the the pudding. Muramatsu-san take over to sear the surface with a burner.
Everyone take a step back to admire their handiwork. The pudding stood proudly(?) before them, all bouncy and fluffy. They could break the world record with this. Everyone except Chika and Hazama-san are smiling. Kayano-san smiles very widely. The government pack away the equipment and leftover ingredients. Koro-sensei may pop up anytime now. True enough, less than an hour later, Koro-sensei returned to Class E's classroom after his trip to Central Asia. He gasps loudly at the sight of the behemoth pudding.
He point a shaky tentacle to the pudding, "...Is... Is it really okay if Sensei eats the whole thing?" Drool dripping from the corner of his mouth.
"Please do~" Nakamura-san grins.
"We just want to save the disposed eggs,"
"It's a waste otherwise, so eat the whole thing okay!" Kurahashi-san said cheerfully.
Everyone retreats to the classroom. Takebayashi-kun is working on his laptop. Explosives along with surveillance camera have been set at the bottom of the pudding. The timing to set off the explosion is the moment the surrounding of the pudding disappears, and a thin light appears on the black screen. Koro-sensei jumped from ladder onto the pudding. In just a few seconds, 1/5 of the pudding disappears. Koro-sensei is so enthusiastic he eats in Mach 20 speed. Hopefully he chocked to death. Chika studies Takebayashi-kun carefully. He is holding the detonator, eyes not moving from the screen. A trickle of sweat fell from his forehead. Takebayashi-kun is nervous. And suddenly-!
"NOOOOOOOOOO!" Kayano-san shrieked, making the others jump in surprise. "We poured our love into making that pudding! We can't blow it up!" She start to bang her forehead against the window.
Sugino-san looked at her in alarm, "Calm down, Kayano!"
Terasaka grab Kayano-san and pull her away from the window, "Don't go feeling empathy for the pudding, Kayano! Didn't we make it to blow it up!" He chastise her angrily.
"No!" She struggles in his hold, eyes teary, "Leave it alone! We'll use it as a monument in the schoolyard for all eternity!"
"IT'LL ROT!" The boys except Akabane-san, Takebayashi-kun and Shiota-san yells collectively.
"Fuu... Let's take a short break."
Eh?
Everyone turn around to see Koro-sensei standing behind them, wiping his mouth. His tentacles holding... The explosives and detonator? "I caught a scent of a foreign object mixed in. I ate the dirt and burrowed underground and removed it." He ate the dirt? "Among the ingredients for plastic explosives, there are those that give off a strong smell. Takebayashi-kun, please try researching ingredients that won't reach Sensei's nose," Koro-sensei take a bite out of the explosive. What an extreme omnivore he is.
Takebayashi-kun sweat nervously, "...Will do."
Another foiled attempt.
"Also," Koro-sensei's tentacles suddenly hold platters of pudding. "pudding is something you eat together with others. I sorted out the clean parts and placed them here." Everyone instantly brightened up. Koro-sensei start to pass around the puddings. Chika handed one to Takebayashi-kun. Kayano-san have a relieved smile on her face when Koro-sensei handed her a glass. "However, eating eggs that are set to be disposed... Strictly speaking, that violates economic rules. Let us think about the importance of food during our next civics lesson."
"Got it~"
Chika take a spoonful of the pudding. She can taste apple, cinnamon and vanilla. Reminds her of an apple pie. A birthday pie? Birthday tart? Those don't have the same ring as a birthday cake... She look up to see everyone eating and smiling... Life in Class E is never boring. Chika hope she can stay with them like this for a long time...
September 8th 20XX,
Dear Diary,
Today is a lot of fun. We weren't successful with Puddingkillsplosion plan, but it was rewarding nonetheless. We ended up eating the pudding. It was delicious. Chika is so inspired to make the perfect birthday cake for Toshiko-nee. Chika wonder if anyone from the main building noticed the trucks going in and out from the mountain...? Koro-sensei might give Board Chairman a pudding. Who knows?
Present. Let's talk about present. Chika will use her savings to buy Toshiko-nee a birthday present... But what should Chika get her? Make up and clothes are out of question. More food? No... Chika must watch over Toshiko-nee's health...
...
...
...
Aaaaaaah! Chika is too tired to think right now!
Sigh
Toshiko-nee will be home late tomorrow. Chika will use the chance to search for a gift.
Wish me luck. Good night Diary.
Chika head straight downtown as soon as school ends. Downtown is buzzing with people as usual. Schoolgirls hanging out together after school. Couples going on dates. Adults running errands. She have at least 3 hours to look for a gift. She have 10,000 Yen with her. That is a lot of money. There is a lot that be bought with 10,000 Yen... But what...? What is the thing that Toshiko-nee needs? Or want? An adult's sensibilities is different from a middle schooler.
Chika stopped outside Laduree store. Their macarons are amazing... But Chika already have the birthday cake in plan. A Laduree handkerchief have the prize of 2,100 Yen. Toshiko-nee doesn't need another handkerchief... She move on from the store. Books...? Chika don't dare to buy adult literature. She passes the flower shop. Roses, lilies, daisies and tulips decorated the shop's exterior. Flowers perhaps? No... Chika want something that doesn't wilt... Something everlasting... Something... With meaning.
This is the first gift Chika will give to Toshiko-nee-san in years. It have to be perfect.
Should she ask Muramatsu? No... They didn't talk about it, but she is fairly sure that Muramatsu have something planned for her sister as well. He might be facing the same dilemma as she is at the moment. She doesn't want to bother him. Besides, if they look for gifts together, Koro-sensei will be spying on them. It's bad enough that the entire class thinks Chika have a thing for Takebayashi-kun (he assertively told them that he have no interest in 3D women afterward), she doesn't want any gossip about her and Muramatsu. They are buddies.
There is 2 and half hours left before she have to go home. Chika better think of something fast. The clock is ticking.
"Oichi-san?"
Chika turns around. Kayano-san standing a few feet away from her, holding a plastic bag she recognises from the bookstore. Her classmate smiles at her. "If I know that you're heading here as well, we could go together~"
"Kayano-san," Chika walked up to her. "Are you buying another book about pudding?"
"Ehehehe!" Kayano-san rubbed the back of her head, "Puddingkillsplosion plan was so fun! I know that it won't work if try it again but I won't give up! I will try to use other sweets this time!" She shows Chika the sweets magazine she just bought. "What brought you here, Oichi-san?"
"I'm looking for a gift."
Kayano-san blinks, "Oh? Who is it for?"
"...My older sister. It's her birthday tomorrow."
Her classmate's jaw dropped slightly. "Tomorrow? And you haven't found a gift yet?" When Chika cast her head down, Kayano-san immediately speak up, "It's okay! You still have some time! I'll help you!"
Chika blinks in surprise. "You will?"
She smiles wider, "Of course!" Kayano-san take hold of Chika's hand with the hand that isn't holding the plastic bag. "Let's go to that cake shop over there! We can discuss it over tea!" Chika almost said that she just want an excuse to eat cake but held her tongue. Kayano-san is kind enough to offer her help.
Her classmate dragged her to all sorts of places. To the flower shop to check out potted plants (Toshiko-nee's schedule varies so Chika will inevitably the one who take care of it), to the miscellaneous store (do Toshiko-nee need another planner?), almost to the cosmetic store (Chika told Kayano-san no. Her sister definitely don't need any more make up), to the pet shop (They are getting desperate. Sadly, their apartment building don't allow pets), to the toy store (Chika dragged Kayano-san out from the store before she is tempted to buy plushes), and then to the sweets shop... Okay, that's just Kayano-san wanting to buy pudding.
They walks out from the shop. Kayano-san holding a cup of pudding. They just eat a lot of that stuff yesterday... Kayano-san is fearsome. Chika politely declines when she offers her a spoonful.
"Birthday gift really is hard to find huh...," Kayano-san said softly as she scoop a spoonful of pudding. Chika make an affirmative noise to show that she's listening. "Say, what kind of person is your older sister? I don't think you ever talked about her. Except that your sister styled your hair."
Chika blinked. Of course! Why didn't she tell Kayano-san about Toshiko-nee earlier!
"My sister is an amazing person. She is cheerful and bright, like the sun. You can't help but feel at ease around her. She's very headstrong," Something she inherited from their parents, definitely. "My sister can be a bit childish... Unpredictable even. But her heart is in the right place. She takes good care of me. Nee-san can be a bit meddling but that's how sisters are I guess. Or maybe it's just her. Everything she does, she do it 120%. Oh, and she loves fashion. And make up. That's why the cosmetic store is a no go. My sister is very picky about it. My sister is like the patron goddess of make up, lesser goddess of beauty. I am not going to challenge the freaking goddess. My tastes are too childish compared to her. Besides... We got everything we need already in our home. Minimalistic but enough. My sister doesn't seem to want anything in particular... But I want to get her a gift nonetheless. She deserves that much. After working so hard for my sake... I want to tell her thank you but words are just not enough. That's why I'm so picky I suppose. I want to give her something... Tangible."
By the time she's finished, Kayano-san is gaping at her. "Oichi-san... That's the most I've seen you talked. That's a lot... Coming from you...," Kayano-san gulped in horror? Then her face brightened, "But to hear you talk so avidly about your sister. She must be an amazing person, huh? You must love her so much."
"Yes," Chika nodded.
Kayano-san chuckled at that. "But you know Oichi-san... A gift doesn't have to be perfect. It's the thought that counts. I'm sure your sister will be happy with her gift, no matter what it is. Her little sister got it for her after all."
"It have to be perfect!" Chika said loudly, perhaps with too much force than she intended to. Her hand slapped over her mouth as Kayano-san stares at her wide eyed. Chika immediately apologise, "I'm sorry, Kayano-san. I don't mean to yell at you."
"It's okay, Oichi-san. I'm just surprised," Kayano-san scratched the side of her chin. "To think that I would ever witness you this fired up... It's um- Shocking really." She finishes with an awkward laugh. "I'm starting to sense that there's something more about this gift."
After a moment of thinking, Chika decided to give her a bit of truth. "My sister and I... Due to circumstances, we lived separately for years... We just got reunited a few months ago... This will be our first time celebrating Nee-san's birthday in years... I guess... I want to make up for the lost time..."
Katano-san's gaze softened. "Your mere presence will surely be the best gift for your sister... She must have love you as much as you love her. I mean, look at how fired up you are over her! You can make up for the lost time by spending more time with her. When we kill Koro-sensei, you will have an eternity to be with your nee-san!"
Time...
An idea hit her like a fire ablaze. The sensation is similar to whenever she is inspired to write a story (usually shipping fuel). Chika grabbed Kayano-san's free hand and start to drag her. "I know what I want to get for Nee-san. We have to hurry or the shop will close before we get there."
"E-eh? Oichi-san- At least let me finish my pudding first!"
The two 15 year olds walk out from the store. Chika hold her purchase to her chest. Kayano-san looks tired, but that's because she have to finish her pudding in sound of sound because the store don't allow food or drinks inside. Her shopping has been swift as well. She just grabbed the item, head straight to the cashier, put down the item on the counter, pull our her wallet, get the gift wrapped and wham, done. All in three minute. Toshiko-nee would be so proud. Now everything is settled. All she have to do is... The birthday celebration itself.
Right, she must apologise to Kayano-san for the trouble.
Chika turn around to face the shorter female. "Kayano-san," She call out for her name, grabbing her classmate's attention. "I apologise for all the trouble I gave you today," She bow deeply.
"Oichi-san, you don't have to bow. I would be happy to help you anytime! Sisters are something you must treasure!"
Her words make Chika to pause. "Kayano-san, do you have a sibling?"
Kayano-san paused for a second, "No, I'm an only child."
"I see," Chika nodded. "Thank you for your help, Kayano-san." She pulled her to a one armed hug. When Chika let her go, Kayano-san is gaping at her. Did she do something wrong? Kayano-san don't answer back, she keep gaping at her. "...I'll be going now. See you tomorrow, Kayano-san." She give her shoulder a squeeze before turning around. Maybe hugs shouldn't be given to someone you're not close with? Chika better apologise to her classmate tomorrow... And Hara-san! She hugged her once! But back then she didn't seem to mind but...
When Chika turns around, Kayano-san is already gone. She should apologise to her tomorrow...
September 10th
Chika wakes up early that day. Toshiko-nee wanted to have a lunchbox today. Since today is her birthday, of course Chika will prepare a special bento for her sister. And special breakfast. Toshiko-nee will be pampered today. Chika cook their lunch first, so breakfast will still be steaming hot by the time Toshiko-nee wakes up. Chika took extra care to cut the sausages to resemble octopuses, arrange the vegetables in a way they look like flowers and finally, to cut the seaweed in kanji. The seaweed will read out 'Good job today.' Breakfast will be omelet rice and vegetables. Chika draw a smiley face on top of the omelet with tomato ketchup. On the edges of the plate, she drew three hearts. Satisfied with her work, Chika arrange them on the table. After she finishes her breakfast, Chika slip on her blazer. Time to go to school.
She is barely out of their apartment when Chika wishes to go back there. She can't wait to bake Toshiko-nee's birthday cake. Good thing that Chika told her sister yesterday to not go anywhere after work. Her sister will be in for a big surprise. She will make this the best birthday Toshiko-nee ever have. Chika went to school with a light step that morning.
Chika didn't bump to anyone from Class E until she reaches the mountain foot. The first person she sees is Sugino-san who is chatting with the baseball team. Out of everyone in the main building, the baseball team is the most amiable towards them. Shiota-san is hanging around the back, letting Sugino-san do the most talking. Kayano-san come out to them from other direction, greeting Shiota-san first. The shipper in her squeals in delight. Such a lovely sight. Surely it's a sign that the rest of the day will go well. Sugino-san notices her first and waves. Chika get closer to them. Greetings were exchanged and the four of them walk together. Shoot, she can't apologise to Kayano-san like this. Maybe during lunch... Or after school...
As usual, Koro-sensei greets them in front of the gates. Chika barely move past him when an ambush befell upon him. Chiba-san and Hayami-san, both armed, shoot bullets at their teacher. She ducked to let Sugino-san slash Koro-sensei (he even attach the Anti knife to his baseball bat for longer range). He is joined by Isogai-san and Maehara-san. From the open window, Ritsu shoot her rifles at Koro-sensei. The octopus dodges all of their attacks, going as far to dress up his clones to look like Chiba-san. They even hold a target mark to tease Chiba-san. Hayami-san laughed at the sight while Chiba-san blushes. This is the first time Chika hear her laughing.
When the bell rings, everyone gathered inside the classroom. Koro-sensei dresses up as famous military commander when they learn about the Sengoku era during History period. Bitchirina-sensei made them watch the Devil Wears Prada, followed by conversation exercise. Kataoka-san got kissed when she make a mistake with her pronunciation. During Art class, Sugaya-san draw Koro-sensei in Picasso style. When Koro-sensei check it out, Mimura-san is hiding behind the canvas, ready to shoot him through the painting. The plan failed and Koro-sensei draw on Mimura-san's face as punishment. At least it didn't get out of hand like last time with the henna tattoo. Hazama-san hide in the locker and pretend to be a ghost. When Koro-sensei opens it, she jumps out to scare him. Koro-sensei shrieked in fear but managed to avoid getting stabbed by Hazama-san and Terasaka from behind. Takebayashi-kun tried to explode the lawn chair Koro-sensei use daily, but Koro-sensei sensed the 'uncomfortable' feeling on his back and proceed to swap the lawn chair with a new one. He disarmed the bomb while he's at it (Curse that Mach 20 speed of his).
Kayano-san keep hanging out with Okuda-san and Kanzaki-san. Chika can't find any opening. Leaving in the middle of the conversation is rude either. Fuwa-san is talking animatedly about sports genre today. The only sports anime/manga Chika knew is Prince of Tennis and Slam Dunk. Apparently sports anime these days went as far to make fictional sports. Not that they can complain really. Kill Badminton existed solely because of a certain teacher.
When school is over, Chika followed behind Kayano-san. Wait. Does this count as stalking? It looks like stalking to others. Taking a deep breath, Chika step away from the trees and call out her name. "Kayano-san."
Her classmate paused midstep and turns around. "Oichi-san? Can I help you?"
Heart stammering, Chika look straight ahead. "I want to apologise for yesterday. I crossed your personal boundaries without asking first. I'm so sorry." She bows to her.
"Oichi-san!" Kayano-san gasps in surprise. "It's okay! I'm not mad at you! I'm just surprised, that's all. You don't have to bow."
Chika feel immense relief hearing that. She straightened her back. "...I'm relieved that you're not mad at me, Kayano-san."
Kayano-san give Chika what seems to be a thoughtful look before she smiles. "You're a very caring person, Oichi-san." Chika don't know how to reply so she stays quiet. "Don't you have a birthday to prepare? I don't want to hold you back."
The birthday cake!
"Thank you, Kayano-san," Chika bows her head. "I'll tell you how it went tomorrow." Kayano-san smiles wider and wave goodbye. She waves back.
Chika almost reach the main road when this time someone else call out for her. She turns around to see Muramatsu jogging to catch up with her.
"Here," He shoves something small into her palm. Chika raise it closer to her face. It's a little gift wrapped in silver paper and white ribbons. "For Toshiko-san," He blushes
That's so cute. If only Muramatsu is closer to Toshiko-nee's age... Chika wouldn't mind if he date her sister. "...Don't you want to give it to her in person?" She asks. Toshiko-nee surely won't mind if Muramatsu visit their home.
"I got lots of things to do today. Besides... This is the first time in years Toshiko-san celebrate her birthday with you. I don't want to get in the way between you sisters," He raise his fist. "Have fun, okay?" Chika happily bump her fist to his.
"We will."
Toshiko POV
Crap, crap, crap, crap! I'm late! Chika-chan will be so worried! I promised her that I will go home as soon as work is done but damn it! The interview/audition went too long! They said it's supposed to be 15 minutes tops! But the company didn't anticipate a large number of people interested in their audition. A fashion house about to release their perfume. They are going to make a 10-15 seconds commercial about it. The pay for this job is pretty good. After deduction living costs, the remainder will go straight to the bank. Hopefully it will be enough to hire a lawyer when the confrontation finally happened.
I let out a deep sigh. It's only a matter of time before those two make a move. I know they don't care about me but I'm honestly surprised that they hold out this long. Chika-chan is their dearest project. The one that isn't a complete failure. Chika-chan still have a long road ahead of her. My grades were sufficient enough to enter low ranking college but I have no desire to do so. I love my current occupation. I have a nice home that I can pay for. Chika-chan need all the love and positive attention she can get. Eight years dealing with those people alone is horrific. My cute little sister is so strong. I'm so proud of her.
And today is my birthday! Usually I celebrate my birthday with my friends from work but this year is different! I get to celebrate my birthday with the best little sister in the world! Chika-chan! Yaaaaas! She already made me adorable breakfast this morning and equally adorable lunch! I can't wait for what dinner would entail! This is going to best birthday ever! The last time I felt this happy about my birthday, it was back in first year in high school. Things was hard at the time. But the Muramatsu family made it worthwhile. Then Fuyumi-chan showed up in front of my dingy apartment. She gave me a gift and confessed. I was so happy! The memory of my old girlfriend always make me a bit sad. At least we parted in amicable terms. She always wanted to study abroad. We still chat online. I still keep the gift she gave me. Fuyumi-chan have found a new girlfriend while in America. They are waiting for same sex marriage to be legalised. I hope it happen soon. Fuyumi-chan and her fiancé is just so cute together.
While lost in memory, I didn't realise that I reached our building. I let out a sigh of relief. Finally. Chika-chan must be waiting anxiously for me. I can't help but grin. It's happening. My birthday. With Chika-chan. The last time we celebrated our birthday together, we bought a neapolitan ice cram cake. Chika-chan didn't get me anything (she was 7 at the time) but that's okay. Parents were out late that day, so we don't have to deal with them until morning.
I stood in front of our door, fumbling over my keys. Gosh, I'm so excited!
"Chika-chan~ I'm home~" I don't bother to hide my excitement.
I hear footsteps coming from the kitchen. Chika-chan appears, and I have to blink. My little sister is all dolled up. She is wearing a white dress and black tights. Her hair is tied to a half ponytail hairdo. I noticed the ends of her (very) long hair is curled. Did she use my hair curler? "Nee-san, welcome home."
I run straight to her, kicking off my shoes in the process. I pull her to a tight hug. "You're so cute!" I nuzzled to her hair. "What's the occasion?" I already knew the answer but I want to hear it from her anyways.
Chika-chan hugs me back. "It's your birthday. Happy birthday, Toshiko-nee."
It's hard, but I managed to hold in my tears. I bent down to kiss Chika-chan on the forehead. "Thank you, Chika-chan."
"I prepared dinner and birthday cake. Would you like to blow the candle first before we start eating?" Ah, Chika-chan. So polite.
"Absolutely," I grinned.
Chika-chan pulls my hand to the kitchen. I dump my handbag on the couch. On the table, I can see two plates of grilled chicken, vegetables and mushrooms. And then there's...
"Is that my birthday cake?" I smile in delight. The cake consists of three layers stacked on top of each other. They are all pink, albeit with different shades. White cream stick out from the edges. The surface is completely covered with white. 'Happy Birthday' is written so neatly over it in purple. Ten thin candles are neatly placed around the letters. The cake is rather small, but perfect for two person. "I love it." I pull Chika to a one armed hug. Still with my arm around her, I bend down to blow the candles.
I wish Chika-chan will be able to smile again.
"What did you wish for, Nee-san?" Chika-chan looked up to me.
"It's a secret!" I poked her cheek. "Now, did you get me anything?"
Chika-chan nodded. She separated herself from me first before reaching for the chair. She lifts a large rectangular object wrapped in turquoise wrapping paper and white ribbon. She places it on the table before pulling out a much smaller gift. "This one is from Muramatsu."
A gift from Chika-chan and Takuya? Double Aaaaaw.
"You kids are the best," I 'boop' Chika-chan's nose. "Can I open them? Can I? Can I?" I gotten gifts from friends and past lovers before, but this will be my first gift from Chika-chan in years. I already love it, despite not knowing what the gift actually is. Chika-chan nodded. I tear apart the wrappings. I found myself holding a large white photo frame. It have to be at least 60 cm long. Got to be honest here, I don't expect this. When I look at Chika-chan, she hands me an envelope. I put down the photo frame on the table. The envelope is Rillakuma themed. It features Rillakuma and Korillakuma playing on a field of hearts. So cute. I opened it and take out the letter.
Dear Toshiko-nee,
I have written a number of drafts for this letter. However, I seem to unable to write the perfect letter. So I decided to just write down what I'm thinking. No more rewrite or anything after this. I will try not to make this letter too long.
First of all, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you've done for me. Our meeting back in February was unexpected, but you did not hesitate to take me in. I understand how inconvenient it is for you. It's a huge change in your daily lives. Thank you. It did not escape my attention how our neighbours in this apartment building whispered behind our back. Nee-san proudly introduced me to them to stop the gossip. You are very brave.
Thank you for fulfilling all my needs during my stay here. I am aware of how much money I costed you. I will be careful in the future so I will not bother you. I know that Nee-san will insist that it's fine but it's hard to be a parent and an older sister at the same time. You never asked for this. I'm sorry. And thank you. You did very good. You should be proud for your accomplishment. When I grow up, I want to become an adult like you.
Thank you for being patient with me. You told me that I'm the best little sister in the world but I'm not. I'm not perfect. Toshiko-nee though, is the best sister anyone could ask for. I am blessed to be your family. You are so accepting with the way I am. I hope I can give you all the love our parents are unable to give.
I baked you a cake. My friends (I consider them as friends. I hope they consider me the same too) helped me baking the other day. I hope you like it.
My gift for you must be confusing. I can already picture your puzzled expression. Let me give you a bit of backstory. You see, I was very worried with what to get you. This is my first birthday present to you in years. I want it to be perfect. Something functional. Something you will like. Something to make up all these lost years Yet I just don't have any ideas. What does that says about me being the perfect little sister? Then my classmate made me realise something. Of course I couldn't possibly know everything about you. We were separated for eight years. I know little to nothing about your life in that period. There are a lot of things I don't know about you, and vice versa. Then I realised something missing in this apartment. There are no pictures. No pictures of you or any scenery photos. I wish to give you this photo frame to ask you something...
Let's make new memories. Let's do all shorts of things. Shopping, make overs, going out to town. Anything. I want to spend more time with you, to learn more about my dearest big sister. It's okay if we lost eight years, we still have 5, 10, 20, 30 more years ahead of us. Let's decorate the walls with photos of us. I want to tell you so many things. I want to hear about your adventures. About your love lives. About your hopes and dreams. Nee-san, I want to know. Let's learn more about each other. After all, we finally found each other again.
I love you
Happy birthday
"Nee-san, why are you crying? Are you mad at me? Did I say something wrong in the letter?"
I quickly wipe my eyes but the tears just keep coming. I put the letter on the table, so my tears won't get the paper damp. Chika-chan... I never thought of you as a burden. You keep apologising in your letter... But it is I who is lucky. I have you. My beloved little sister... To think that those awful people I have to call parents actually created something as precious as Chika-chan...
"Toshiko-nee, please don't cry," I feel Chika-chan wrap her arms around me. "I love you. I'm here. I'm here. I'm not going anywhere."
A sob escaped my mouth. I hugged her back. "I love you too, Chika-chan. Thank you for- sob- being here." I sniffed. "This is the best birthday gift ever."
Their parents will try to take Chika-chan away again but I won't let them. As Chika-chan said in her letter, we finally meet again. I won't leave her this time. I won't. I will fight tooth and nail for us to be together. But let's not think about those people right now. There's a cake to be devour. And dinner. And I have yet to unwrap Takuya's gift.
"Chika-chan! Let's take a picture!" I said, pulling out my phone.
She blinks. "Now?"
"Now!" I pull her closer and activates my camera. Screw tears and snot. It's picture time!
"Smile!"
Click
As one would expect, I look absolutely atrocious in the pic. Puffy eyes, tear marks and pink nose. Chika-chan tried so smile but it looks like a cringe in the picture. She must be so nervous. Doesn't matter. There will be a lot more of pictures in the future. There are many things to do. I'll teach her how to dress up, about boys and girls (Yeah, I really need to tell her I'm bi), sex talk and about how to do tax and so many things. I will be with Chika-chan.
Happy birthday to me.
This chapter takes place from chapter 80.
Happy birthday Toshiko!
The new cover image is the fist bump between Muramatsu and Chika. Such good buddies.
Thank you for reading
Please review. It means a lot
NO FLAME PLEASE