A/N: Happy New Year everybody! I'm sorry for the late update, but I went home over the christmas break and my freinds and family kept me busy, but in a good way. It was great to see them all.
I wrote this chapter on my way back to Japan, a 12-hour flight including a 6-hour stop-over leaves a lot of time for writing.
I hope you enjoy reading this latest installment of "Remember Me". This chapter is a little slower-paced than the previous ones and focuses mainly on the characters, their thoughts and feelings which is kind of important for the next chapter to come. I have also included a little something for all the Akaike x Toshihisa lovers out there.
Disclaimer: I still don't own them, though I wish I would.
Chapter 8
"Ja ne Ichikawa-kun," Takumi bid his friend from junior high school goodbye and turned to leave the cafeteria where he, his friends and Ichikawa had taken their dinner together, Gii following suit. "I see you tomorrow!" "Hai, see you tomorrow Hayama-kun," the so addressed student replied smiling sweetly upon which Gii felt the sudden urge to strangle the guy, but chose to quickly usher his one and only outside instead, muttering inaudibly to himself: "I don't like this fellow. I really don't like him."
"Isn't it an amazing coincidence that the new transfer student happens to be one of my old friends," Takumi exclaimed happily after he and the handsome upper-class man had walked in silence for a couple of minutes. "And for him to show up at such a time on top of that, considering my present condition. I still can't believe it. This is almost too good to be true." "An interesting coincidence indeed," Gii replied, slightly narrowing his eyes in suspicion, "very interesting." "Wouldn't it be wonderful if Ichikawa could really help me to recover at least some of the memories from my junior high school days," the ebony-haired youth exclaimed excitedly. "I would be truly happy for you," the handsome upper-class man stated truthfully and managed a mild smile. "The sooner you remember everything the better." "I'll do my best," Takumi beamed and a short moment of silence settled between the two boys.
"Is there anything you would like to do until curfew," Gii finally asked, eager to divert his beloved's thoughts, trying to prevent them from dwelling on anything that was in some way related to the new student. "No, nothing in particular," the other boy answered and shrugged his shoulders. "How about you Gii?" "I think I will read for a while and go to bed early," the amber-haired youth mused quietly. "But if you have nothing better to do you could play the violin for me, just one tune or two." "You mean you wish me to…how did Akaike-kun put it this morning…serenade you," Takumi asked slyly.
"I…I mean no such thing," Gii protested hastily, hoping that the other would believe him and he was grateful that the darkness successfully hid the blush that had crept onto his cheeks from his beloved's eyes. "That Shouzo, always saying weird stuff," he muttered. "What I mean is that I really enjoy listening to you playing the violin. It's very beautiful and listening to the sound of your violin never fails to calm me down, to soothe my nerves and to ease my mind. It helps me to relax. In the past I often asked you to play for me or listened to you practicing whenever I had some time to spare."
"Really? I see," the ebony-haired youth answered smiling sheepishly. "Taking that piece of information into consideration I'll be more than happy to play something especially for you. Besides, how could I ever refuse the pleas of my number-one fan?" "Yatta," Gii exclaimed happily and threw his arms into the air. "I hoped you would say something like that." "But is it going to be alright," Takumi asked worriedly. "Won't there be any complaints about the noise?"
"It's going to be alright," the handsome upper-class man replied confidently. "Until curfew, which means ten o'clock, we are allowed to listen to music in our rooms, have visitors and that sort of stuff and it's not even nine o'clock yet. Besides, since I'm the dorm head of the third floor I bet that none of the students on that floor would have the guts to report me to a teacher for being too noisy." "I see," the other boy chuckled. "Being the dorm head as well as the most popular guy at the school among teachers and all the other students can well have its advantages after all."
"Let's say it gives you some privileges," Gii smirked winking at his one and only. "Not that I like to take advantage of them, but sometimes those privileges can come in quite handy. And now let's hurry. I'm dying to hear you play for me only." "So you do want me to serenade you after all," Takumi stated smiling mischievously and under Gii's protests and futile attempts to convince his beloved otherwise the two boys entered the dorm grounds. Little did they know that their conversation had been overheard.
oOo
"Urgh, why does the first class on Tuesdays have to be geography of all subjects," Gii complained grimacing. "It's so boring and Furuhata-sensei's monotone voice always makes me so sleepy, especially in the early morning." "I know how you feel. It's the same with me," Toshihisa sighed and hung his head While Takumi chuckled lightly at his friends' antics Akaike and Misu chose to remain silent, but the expressions they had on their faces proved that they were feeling exactly the same way their friends did. "Na Takumi…," Gii had just begun when he was interrupted by Ichikawa Motoki's voice. "Ohayo minna, Hayama-kun."
Upon hearing his name the ebony-haired youth turned around to greet his friend with a bright smile and Gii drew in a sharp breath trying to hide his true feelings behind a mask of calm indifference. "How are you feeling today Hayama-kun," the new student asked sweetly. "I'm fine, thanks for asking and you," Takumi replied cheerfully. "How was your first night at Shidou?" "It was good and I really have nothing to complain about," Ichikawa stated smiling mildly. "My roommate is a very nice and easygoing guy and the room is very comfortable. However, because the campus is quite large I'm having some trouble to find my way to all its facilities. Would you mind giving me a little tour of the premises Hayama-kun, maybe tomorrow afternoon?"
"I'd really love to do that, but I'm still having some trouble myself and try hard to memorize everything," the ebony-haired student explained meekly and Gii who had narrowed his eyes dangerously upon hearing Ichikawa's request relaxed and breathed a sigh of relief. There was something strange about that guy, something that made the handsome upper-class man want to keep him away from his beloved and it wasn't out of mere jealousy. "If weren't for Gii, Akaike, Misu, Toshihisa and Shingyouji I would have gotten lost countless time the past week," Takumi continued smiling sheepishly. "I think it would be better if you asked someone else to make you more familiar with the school grounds, a member of the track and field team maybe? Oh and since we are friends from junior high school call me Takumi please." "Alright, but only if you call me by my first name in return as well," Ichikawa beamed and Gii's face darkened while the other boys exchanged surprised glances with each other.
"And before I forget, I have great news for you," the new student continued smiling mysteriously and ushered Takumi to the back of the room, completely ignoring Gii and the other boys. Hesitantly the ebony-haired youth allowed himself to be led away from his friends over to his and Ichikawa's desks, but not without noticing the grim and sulky expression on Gii's face. "I wrote an email to my mother yesterday evening," the voice of his friend from junior high school rang in his ears. "I asked her to send me all the photo books from junior high school as well as the yearbook. As soon as they arrive we are going to have a look at the pictures together and I'll tell you where they were taken, on which occasion and that sort of stuff. Hopefully that will help to trigger your memories and result in your remembering a few things about your junior high school days."
"Thanks for your help Motoki. I really appreciate it," Takumi replied quietly, a mild smile gracing his lips. His thoughts however were still dwelling on Gii's reaction when he had allowed Motoki to lead him away for a more private conversation. Why had the handsome upper-class man looked so upset and why was he constantly glancing over with that intense, almost piercing gaze?
"Gii stop staring at Hayama and Ichikawa," Akaike said in a hushed but stern voice and placed a hand on his best friend's shoulder. "I know that you don't like the recent developments and the present situation at all, but you are drawing far too much attention to yourself. You look like a child whose favorite toy has been confiscated. If this continues Hayama will notice for sure that some things we told him are untrue, if he hasn't done so already. He might get suspicious regarding the nature of his relationship with you and might start to ask us rather uncomfortable questions and then what? So please try to hide your jealousy as best as you can and try to keep your emotions under control. Otherwise things might get complicated for all of us."
"I know Shouzo, I know," the handsome upper-class man sighed dejectedly and tore his gaze away from his beloved. "It's just that I can't help but feel that this Ichikawa fellow's appearance here at Shidou is no coincidence. Call me crazy or paranoid or both, but I'm telling you that this guy's coming here is anything but mere chance. Ichikawa definitely has some ulterior motives and I will keep an eye upon him whether you like it or not." "From experience I know that your intuition is usually really good when it comes to those things," the president of the disciplinary committee mused almost inaudibly and squeezed Gii's shoulder in a reassuring manner. "Listen, in order to set your mind at ease I'll do some sleuthing and if your suspicions concerning Ichikawa should prove to be right we will figure something out, okay?"
"Thank you Shouzo," the amber-haired youth whispered and offered his best friend a grateful smile, "and I'm sorry for being such a bother." "Don't worry about it pal," Akaike replied with sincerity. "Besides if you should be right about that fellow then the matter concerns Hayama himself as well and we made a promise to protect and to look after him as best as we can. The present situation is already difficult enough as it is and the last thing we need is another guy trying to cause some sort of trouble. Will Hayama practice the violin this afternoon?" "Yes, he will," Gii answered quietly. "Takumi told me this morning that he wants to practice at the greenhouse for a few hours once classes are over."
"As far as I know the track and field team has training today until five-thirty at least," Akaike explained thoughtfully, "but it might be a good idea if one of us would go and keep an eye on your one and only sometime between three and four o'clock not only because of Ichikawa but more importantly because of Kurokawa and his minions. They have their eyes and ears everywhere and I'm sure they know about Hayama's habit to practice the violin at the greenhouse. They might be up to something." Once more Gii nodded gratefully and thus another school day began.
But even though Akaike's words had been quite reassuring the morning school hours couldn't pass fast enough for the handsome upper-class man's liking and as soon as the lunchtime bell began to ring he was by Takumi's side in order to take him to the cafeteria, away from Ichikawa, as quickly as possible. The amber-haired youth had also insisted upon taking his beloved personally to the greenhouse and knowing how stubborn Gii could be at times Takumi had been left with no choice but to oblige his friend, roommate and protector.
'Oh Gii just what is it with you,' the ebony-haired youth thought as he let the bow slide smoothly over the strings of his violin filling the whole greenhouse with beautiful sounds. 'Why is it so difficult, almost impossible to read your mind and to figure you out? What am I to you?' With those thoughts in mind the third-year student continued to play for a while until he finally detached the bow from the strings, letting the melody fade out. As soon as the last notes had quieted someone started to clap his hands, much to Takumi's surprise, and he slowly turned around. "Shingyouji-kun?"
"Sugoi Hayama-san," the second-year student exclaimed. "I'm really sorry if I've startled you, but I have no kendo practice today, Arata-san is busy and I heard from Akaike that you would be here, so I thought I pay you a visit and listen for a while, if you don't mind that is." "I don't mind Shingyouji-kun," Takumi replied smiling mildly at his friend. "Take a seat and make yourself comfortable." "Thanks," the other boy beamed and sat down on a small wooden bench. "Ano Hayama-san, the tune you just played was that your own creation?" "Yes, it was," Gii's beloved answered truthfully. "Did you like it?" "Of course I did! I was absolutely mesmerized by it," Shingyouji explained smiling warmly.
"It was a plaintive melody however and it sounded as if…I don't know how to say it…as if you had something on your mind. Is there anything that's troubling you Hayama-san?" "To be honest, there a few things I have on my mind right now," Takumi sighed. "Do want to tell me what's distressing you so much? Maybe I can help," the younger boy offered smiling compassionately. "In the past, whenever I had problems you always listened to me patiently as well."
"Thank you Shingyouji," the ebony-haired youth replied softly. "I guess I'm probably a little overwhelmed by the whole situation. I really hate the fact that I don't have any memories. There are so many situations in which I feel stupid because I can't even recall the most basic things, things that I should know. Even though I have you, Gii and the others for support I can't help but feel lost from time to time. I have so many questions that need answering, questions none of you can answer because they concern my life before I entered Shidou Gakuin."
He fell silent for a moment and sighing he pulled out the filigree necklace from underneath his shirt, allowing his fingers to play with the intricate ring that served as a pendant. "Then there is the mystery about this beautiful silver band," he continued, his voice barely more than a whisper. "I feel that it's an important, meaningful piece of jewelry, something very precious, but who gave it to me, on which occasion and most importantly why? You know not having a past makes me feel really uncomfortable, incomplete and somehow empty inside. I couldn't even recognize my friend from junior high school. I've lost my identity. I'm nobody…" Takumi's voice trailed off and sighing dejectedly the boy hung his head.
"That's not true Hayama-san," Shingyouji said with determination. "You aren't 'nobody'. Don't talk yourself into believing something like that. You may not yet be able to remember your past, but believe me when I say that you haven't changed at all. With or without memories you are still yourself, the same Takumi I befriended about almost one year ago and I'm certain that you will remember everything in a short while, since you have already started recalling a few things. Be patient and don't give up Hayama-san, especially now that you have found another link to your past in Ichikawa-senpai."
"That's true and I'm really thanking the heavens that he just happened to appear at Shidou at such a crucial time," Takumi stated smiling mildly. "If we were indeed as close as Motoki says I'm sure that being with him is going to help me to recover some of my memories from my junior high school days. I'm really happy that he transferred here. It's going to be nice to revive this old friendship…"
"Hayama-san…what is it," Misu's boyfriend asked carefully when Takumi had fallen silent again. "Is there another problem?" "It's not a problem really, but it's something that has been occupying my mind a lot these past few days," the older boy explained hesitantly. "It concerns Gii." "Gii-senpai," Shingyouji repeated cautiously. "What about him?" "Well, all of you including Gii himself keep telling me that he and I have been close friends in the past, but recently I have been asking myself if friends is really all we have been," Takumi stated truthfully. "Recently I have been wondering over and over again what he sees in me, what I really am to him."
"How did you get such an idea," the second-year student asked innocently, trying to hide the fact that he knew the truth, remembering Gii's directions regarding the issue of his and Takumi's true relationship. "What inspired these reflections?" "All this time Gii has been so caring, not to mention extremely protective over me and after he had finally told me the reason for this protectiveness everything made perfect sense to me. Now however I can't help but feel that there is more the whole matter than he led on," the ebony-haired youth mused. "The night I fainted in the community room Gii and I talked a few things over and once he had explained the situation regarding the freshmen and me he broke down. He blamed himself so much for what happened to me, he still does I guess and he was so emotional that I got the feeling that our relationship used to go beyond that of mere friends."
"Hmm…the two of you have not only been friends but roommates as well, so it's only natural that the bonds between you are particularly strong," Shingyouji replied feigning ignorance, "like the ones between brothers you know?" "At first I thought along those lines as well, but then I began to notice some other things," Takumi stated quietly after a brief moment of silence, "the way Gii is looking at me for example. I noticed it especially last Saturday when I played the violin for you guys and I've been a little more observant since then. Whenever Gii looks at me there is something in his eyes. I don't really know how to describe it, but amongst some feelings I can't quite interpret I could see admiration and affection reflecting in those eyes, the same affection you have in yours whenever you look at Misu-kun or he looks at you in those moments where he believes himself to be unwatched."
"Eehhh," the other boy exclaimed and blushing deeply he averted his gaze. "The two of you are in love with each other, aren't you," Gii's beloved stated bluntly and smiled mildly when Shingyouji nodded shyly. "I…I've been head over heels for Arata-san ever since the day I first met him," he sighed dreamily. "But for a long time it seemed that this love would always be one-sided and that Arata-san would never return my feelings. I kept following him around anyway and we ended up in a rather complicated 'master and pet' relationship." "I see," Takumi replied with a compassionate smile. "But you seem to be in a serious relationship with Misu-kun now."
"Yes, I am indeed," the younger boy beamed, "and something tells me that, to some extent, I have to thank Gii-senpai for it. Anyway, since Tanabata Arata-san and I are officially dating and now that we are roommates as well our relationship progresses little by little. It's constantly growing deeper and I hope the bond between Arata-san and me is eventually going be strong enough to make things work for us in the future as well."
"You mean the time after Misu's graduation from Shidou Gakuin," Gii's beloved caught on. "Yes, after Arata-san's graduation it's going to be a whole year until we can be together again and see each other on a regular basis, if I manage to get into a university in Tokyo that is," Shingyouji sighed. "During that year both of us are going to be very busy because of our studies and probably there won't be many occasions for us to meet. I'm really worried that a long absence might weaken the bonds between us or that he might meet someone else, you know? And then there is the life at Shidou as well. It's really hard to imagine a daily routine at this school without him being here and you will be gone as well."
"Everything is going to be alright, I'm sure of it," Takumi replied with sincerity and smiled reassuringly at his friend who had a sad expression on his face. "From what I have observed I would say that Misu-kun loves you just as much as you love him. He might not be the type who shows openly what he truly feels, but I'm sure that he will do everything in his power to keep you by his side." "Thanks Hayama-san for listening and for cheering me up," the second-year student stated smiling. "After talking to you I'm already feeling much better."
"Kochira koso," the older boy answered truthfully. "Today was the first time that I talked openly to someone about how I truly feel about my amnesia." "You didn't even talk to Gii about it," Misu's boyfriend asked in surprise and Takumi shook his head. "There is nothing Gii can do about my memory loss or the way I feel about it and he is already bad enough about what happened," the ebony-haired youth explained softly. "Besides, considering how protective he is when it comes to me it would have only caused him to worry unnecessarily. Oh how I wish that I could figure out what's going on in Gii's head and his heart."
"I wish I could answer your question, but I have no idea," Shingyouji answered cautiously, carefully weighing every single one of his words. "If you really feel that Gii-senpai hasn't been completely honest with you concerning the motives for his actions you should confront him and ask him straight-forwardly. That's the only advice I can give you." "I'll give it some thought," Gii's one and only sighed and picked up his violin again. "Can I stay and listen for a while," the younger boy inquired, his voice laced with hope. "Of course you can," Takumi replied with a mild smile as he placed the instrument under his chin and applied the bow to the strings.
oOo
At the same time in his room Kurokawa was angrily pacing the floor, his hands clenched into fists as he listened to the account one of his devoted followers was giving him. "…and on their way back to the dorms Saki-senpai was all over Hayama, literally begging the guy to play the violin for him in their room," the boy stated meekly. "Hayama claimed teasingly that Saki-senpai wanted to be serenaded by him and even though he protested strongly I think that being serenaded was exactly what Saki-senpai had been wishing for. You should have seen his face when Hayama finally agreed to play for him exclusively. Saki-senpai was positively…"
"That's enough," Kurokawa roared enraged and slammed his fist onto his desk which caused the freshman who had been interrupted by him as well as the other boys present ducked their heads. "I've heard more than enough! How dare he? How dare this lowly commoner to ignore my warning and draw my Gii-senpai in like that?" "A-Ano, t-there is more," a thin lanky boy spoke up hesitantly and began to tremble slightly when he received an evil glare from his furious dark-haired leader. "What the hell is it," he bellowed angrily. "Speak up already Nakanobu!"
"L-Last time we h-had a meeting y-you asked us to find out the real nature of Hayama's relationship with Saki-senpai," the so addressed boy stammered. "I…I did some research and it took me a while, but I learned that those two really were a couple in the past and that they were actually dating secretly until Hayama got hospitalized in consequence of our attack. I also heard that Gii-senpai put a lot of effort into courting and pursuing Hayama and that he would have taken the guy back to America with him during the summer break had it not been for the incident on Tanabata, presumably to officially introduce Hayama to Saki senior and his wife as his boyfriend or something like that."
"WHAT," Kurokawa exploded and kicked the small waste basket which sat next to his desk so hard that it flew half-way across the room. "I don't believe it! What the hell is so special about this worthless commoner? What does he have that would Gii-senpai want to be with him? I'm the only one who is worthy enough to be by Gii's side, me and no one else!" "What are we going to do now," another boy asked cautiously, his shaky voice barely more than a whisper. "I heard some tales about Hayama having begun to regain his memories. What if he remembers everything about Tanabata including our faces and decides to speak up despite our threats?"
"I definitely won't allow that to happen," Gii's jealous admirer hissed dangerously. "I will crush that lowly commoner and make him leave Shidou. As I said before I will make him disappear, no matter what it takes! I might have to change my strategy though." "What do you have in mind," Nakanobu asked meekly, keeping his eyes bent on the carpet.
"Direct interaction," Kurokawa growled. "I think it's time to do something to him directly. Listen, within the next twenty-four hours I want to that guy's exact schedule for the rest of this week. I want to know what school-related duties he has to perform, where he goes, with whom and at what time. I want to be informed about every single one of Hayama's steps! As for him deciding to sell us out, in order to prevent that I think a short and serious vis-à-vis conversation is in store."
"D-Don't you think that might be a little too risky," another freshman asked carefully. "I mean if we should happen to be seen by anyone while harassing Hayama those people would surely count two and two together and then we would be exposed even without that commoner saying a single word." "You bloody cowards," the leader of the group bellowed furiously. "Getting cold feet, huh? We just have to be very careful, like we were on Tanabata that's all! Anyway, I have made my mind and we will go through with this plan and don't any of you guys make the mistake of thinking that you can back out of this now. I won't allow anyone to quit now and if you should try, you will get to feel my wrath!"
With that Kurokawa fell silent for a moment and glared menacingly at his minions, making sure that they would understand that he meant every single word he had said only a few seconds before. "Besides," the dark-haired freshman continued smugly, "even if I would let you back out of everything now, it wouldn't change one darn thing. What we have done up to now is enough to get the whole lot of us expelled and worse. So pressuring Hayama to leave this school and making sure that he keeps his mouth shut should be in all our interests."
"B-But if he should prove to be mentally stronger than we thing and shouldn't succumb to the psychological pressure inflicted upon him," Nakanobu asked shyly. "What were we to do then?" "Stupid boy, there are other ways as well to make someone disappear," Kurokawa growled dangerously. "I will make sure that Hayama disappears, one way or another and if that means that I have to use more drastic measures than 'ijime', then so be it. I won't give up until I have settled my score with that worthless commoner once and for all and victory is mine and mine only!" "You mean you really would go as far as seriously harming Hayama again," one of the other boys inquired with caution. "As I said just now, I will do whatever it takes to get rid of that guy," the so addressed freshman hissed. "I'm not afraid of using violence and go to extremes in order to get what I want!"
oOo
When Gii entered the classroom the next morning and saw his beloved chatting animatedly with Ichikawa Motoki he couldn't help but curse Shimada-sensei for holding him up because it had forced Takumi to go ahead by himself. "Ohayo minna," the amber-haired youth greeted, forcing a smile onto his lips as he swiftly made his way over to his boyfriend. "I'm sorry Takumi that I had to ask you to go ahead without me. Sometimes Shimada-sensei really has terribly bad timing." "No problem Gii," the so addressed boy replied smiling mildly. "What did he want from you anyway?"
"He just wanted to remind me of the meeting with him and the other dorm heads the day after tomorrow. Anyway Takumi, since we only have morning classes today, what do you think about having lunch together, just the two of us and then spending the afternoon together?" "I'd love to do that Gii, really, but I already promised Motoki to have a private lunch and to spend the rest of the day with him," the ebony-haired boy answered smiling apologetically and the handsome upper-class man's face fell.
"Obviously Motoki's mother sent the photo books he had requested via express mail and they arrived this morning, isn't that great? I'm really eager to have a look at them and Motoki said that he would tell me everything he knows about those photos and if I'm lucky I might even be able to recall a thing or two. But why don't you and I have a private dinner tonight instead of lunch?"
"Yeah…sure, let's make it seven o'clock, the same time as usual," Gii replied quietly, unable to hide his disappointment about the rejected invitation for lunch. "Takumi, let's go and take our seats," Ichikawa piped in before Gii's beloved had a chance to say anything in return. "The class is about to start." "I'll be with you in a moment," the so addressed student replied and turned back to face his roommate and closest friend once more. "I see you at seven o'clock then," he stated smiling mildly, but feeling a little guilty when he noticed the expression on the handsome upper-class man's face. "Gii don't be cross okay? I promise you that from dinner time until curfew I'll be all yours." With that Takumi walked over to his desk and took his seat next to Ichikawa who offered him a sweet smile. "I wish you were all mine," Gii whispered inaudibly as he followed his beloved's example. "I wish you were."
Sulkily the amber-haired youth sat down and repeatedly shot secret glances over to his one and only throughout the whole morning. During lunch break he shared a table with Akaike, Toshihisa, Misu and Shingyouji, but remained unusually quiet and barely ate a thing, a clear sign that something was decidedly wrong. "Hey Gii, would you like to join us for an afternoon walk over the campus," Toshihisa asked, smiling amicably at the handsome-upper class-man. "It's a beautiful afternoon, we don't have any lessons and maybe a little air would do you good. After the walk we could have coffee together as well."
"Thanks for the invitation, but I'd prefer to be alone for a while," Gii replied quietly. "At the moment I'm not exactly what you would call good company. I would only spoil the fun and ruin the mood. Why don't you guys go without me and I talk to you later." Managing a tiny but pained smile the amber-haired student rose to his feet and sighed softly. "I'll be alright, don't worry," he murmured as he noticed the looks on his friends' faces and with that he turned to leave.
"I'm not so sure about that," Toshihisa stated his voice barely more than a whisper and Misu as well as Shingyouji nodded in agreement. "This is definitely not good," Akaike sighed and stood up as well. "I better follow him and see if I can get him to talk. Seriously Hayama's tendency to keep things to himself must have rubbed off on Gii. "Let's meet at the gazebo at four o'clock and I will give you the news."
oOo
"Do you think Akaike can get something out of Gii-senpai," Shingyouji asked quietly after he had walked the campus grounds together with his boyfriend and Toshihisa in thoughtful silence for some while. "If there's anyone who can get through to Saki right now, it has to be him," Misu replied calmly. "Those two are best friends after all." "I sincerely hope that he gets Gii-senpai to talk," the second-year student sighed. "I really feel for him. It must be so tough, especially now that Hayama-san has started to remember things, but still can't recall anything related to Gii-senpai."
"Yes, and on top of all that there's this Ichikawa fellow now who is fawning on Takumi all the time," Toshihisa added somewhat grimly, making not much effort to hide his antipathy for Takumi's friend from junior high school. "At every occasion he gets this guy is kowtowing to Takumi, trying to keep him all to himself." "Speak of the devil," Misu murmured and motioned towards a seating area that wasn't too far away from the path the group was walking on. Shingyouji and Toshihisa let their eyes wander in to the appointed direction and gasping they stopped dead in their tracks. There, at a small wooden table sat Takumi and Ichikawa looking at a photo book, chatting animatedly and repeatedly they smiled, chuckled or laughed out loud as they went through the pages. Especially Gii's beloved seemed to be extraordinarily happy and to enjoy himself greatly.
"Look at Takumi's face," Toshihisa whispered, his eyes widened in disbelief. "Ever since the new term started I haven't seen him smiling or laughing in that carefree manner, not even around…" "Saki," Misu finished the sentence grimly. "That's true and I have to admit I don't like the direction things are going lately. Seeing Hayama being that comfortable with Ichikawa reminds me of the first term of last school year. Before they became a couple Hayama often used to smile and laugh in the same way whenever he was with Saki."
"I remember that too," Shingyouji explained in a hushed voice. "Even though I had just enrolled at Shidou Gakuin at that time I had already heard about the famous Saki Giichi. By chance I witnessed it when Gii-senpai gave the violin to Hayama-san and I can still recall the look on Hayama-san's face very clearly, that grateful, bright and carefree smile. I don't like the way Ichikawa is fawning on him either, but I can understand why Hayama-san is on such good terms with that guy. Those two are old friends and Hayama-san told me himself how glad he is to have someone like Ichikawa by his side, someone who can help finding him what he has lost, at least to some extent."
"I can understand that and I'm happy for Takumi, I really am," Toshihisa sighed, "but seeing him being that comfortable with a guy other than Gii just doesn't look right. It doesn't feel right. What Takumi and Gii have or had is something special. Those two are made and meant for each other. End of story!" "I never thought that I would actually say this, but I agree with you," Misu said softly. "I hate the idea of anyone coming between them. No one, no matter who is able to give Hayama what Saki has given him, no one."
"But right now there isn't much we can do for Takumi and Gii, is there," Toshihisa asked dejectedly. "I'm afraid there isn't, not as long as Saki keeps us bound to secrecy concerning his true relationship with Hayama," the head of the student council stated matter-of-factly. "We should get going. Just to stand here and watch won't change anything. Besides, it's almost four and you know how much Akaike hates it when people aren't on time, so come on guys." With that Misu turned to leave, the other two boys following suit.
They walked all the way to the greenhouse in silence, each boy lost in his thoughts. When they arrived at the gazebo Akaike was already waiting for them, nursing a paper cup of coffee. "Hey guys, there you are," he stated in his usual calm and composed manner as Misu, Shingyouji and Toshihisa climbed the few wooden stairs. "What's with those long faces," he asked cautiously as he noticed the expressions his friends had on their features. "You have a face as long as a fiddle. What happened?" "Let's just say we accidently saw something we didn't want to see," Misu huffed. "Would you mind giving me a few more details," the other boy asked curiously.
"On our way here we saw Takumi and that Ichikawa guy," Toshihisa explained with a sad sigh. "Not only did Takumi seem to be very comfortable but for my liking that Ichikawa fellow is trying way too hard to get closer to him." "I couldn't agree with you more," Akaike agreed and narrowed his eyes. "And it astonishes me that old friends or not Hayama so easily allows the guy to get that close, given his naturally shy nature."
"I know the reason," Shingyouji piped in softly and the eyes of the other boys went wide. "Then would you be so kind and enlighten us," Misu asked with a demanding undertone in his stern voice. "Well, as we had agreed secretly I checked upon Hayama-san yesterday afternoon when he was at the greenhouse to practice the violin," the second-year student began hesitantly and told the others about the conversation he had had with Takumi the day before.
"…That's why I know how happy Hayama-san is about Ichikawa's appearance here at Shidou and it's perfectly understandable. Having met an old friend at a time like this means a lot to him and if I interpret Hayama-san's words correctly he doesn't harbor any romantic feelings for that guy." "That might be so for the present," Misu spoke up thoughtfully, "but who knows what might happen? In his actual condition Hayama is not only very vulnerable, but he can be influenced quite easily. Who knows for sure if the things Ichikawa is telling him about his past are the truth?"
"You mean that he might try to use Takumi's amnesia somehow to his advantage," Toshihisa asked genuinely concerned and the head of the student council nodded quietly. "Gii fears the same thing," Akaike added softly. "So you got him to talk," Shingyouji inquired curiously. "What did he say?" "Well it's like this," the president of the disciplinary committee explained with a sigh.
Gii was sitting on a patch of green that was slightly hidden by some old trees and not too far from the cafeteria, a place he had often occupied with Takumi in the past whenever the two of them had felt like having a more private lunch or dinner and stared into the distance with unseeing eyes, lost in gloomy thoughts.
"Would you mind if I joined you," the voice of his best friend brought him back to reality and caused him to jump a wee bit. "Akaike," he whispered and slowly turned his head to face the other boy. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to startle you," the president of the disciplinary committee said smiling mildly. "Can I sit down for a little while?" When Gii nodded quietly Akaike took a seat next to his best friend and without saying a word he waited.
"How did you find me," the handsome upper-class man finally asked quietly after several moments of silence. "I'm your best friend Gii," the black-haired explained calmly. "I know your habits, so I figured that, since your bad mood has something to do with Hayama, you would go to a place that is somehow precious to the two of you. What's troubling you Gii? You are feeling down because Hayama chose to spend the afternoon with his old friend instead of you, aren't you?" "I have to confess that I am," the other boy sighed dejectedly. "I'm feeling left behind and the idea that Takumi is alone with that Ichikawa fellow right as we speak is bothering me more than I can say."
"I understand your feelings pal," Akaike began carefully, "but I can understand Hayama as well. If I were in his shoes I would be just as eager to see those photos as he was this morning and just as bent on getting closer to anyone who knows something about my past. Hayama is clutching at every straw he can get hold of because he knows very well that, when it comes to details about his life before entering Shidou Gakuin, there isn't much we can tell him. He is desperate to recall his past as quickly as possible, so can you really hold it against him that he is trying to revive his friendship with Ichikawa?"
"No, I can't Akaike and I don't," Gii whispered hoarsely. "I fully understand Takumi's actions, but I won't try to deny the fact that I'm jealous because it's the truth. However, that's not the point. It's not my jealousy that's upsetting me so much." "What then," Akaike asked softly. "What bothers you so much that it causes you to lose your appetite?" "Like I mentioned to you the other day I fear that Ichikawa has ulterior motives for coming here and I'm worried that he is going to use Takumi's condition to get whatever it is he wants," the amber-haired youth explained quietly. "Like you said know almost nothing about Takumi's life before he came to Shidou and that includes me."
"Eehhh," he was interrupted by the president of the disciplinary committee who had surprise written all over his face. "Except for the story about his brother and the parents I don't know much about Takumi's childhood," the handsome upper-class man sighed. "He doesn't like to talk about it and I accept that, so I never pried. But ever since that Ichikawa fellow showed up I wish I had. Who knows if the things he is going to tell Takumi about his junior high school days are true or not? None of us can tell and because they are old friends Takumi will believe that guy's words. He won't question Ichikawa or his motives and I can't blame him for that, but…"
His voice trailed off and another dejected sigh escaped his lips. "…but are very anxious regarding that matter, aren't you," Akaike finished the sentence and placed his hand comfortingly on Gii's shoulder when the amber-haired youth nodded almost imperceptibly. "Maybe I'm just paranoid," Gii whispered. "Maybe it's nothing and it's just my jealousy playing tricks with my mind, causing my imagination to run wild." "It's not only that Ichikawa might tell lies to Hayama what you are afraid off, am I right," the other boy asked straight-forwardly.
"That's true Shouzo, that's true," the handsome upper-class man sighed. "I'm scared…no…I'm terrified that I might lose Takumi for good, that he might give his heart to that Ichikawa fellow. Ever since meeting him at the hospital for the first time after the attack I have been confident that I could win his heart once more and that he would, in due time, end up in my arms again even if his memories shouldn't return at all, but now I'm not so sure about that anymore."
"Listen Gii," Akaike said sternly and slightly raised his voice. "Don't you dare lose your confidence! Hayama belongs to you and to you only and nobody, including Ichikawa Motoki, will ever be able to change that! Hayama won't be swayed by his old friend even if that guy should have romantic intentions towards him. So cheer up, get your act together and believe in yourself! You won't win your beloved's heart a second time by sitting here sulking, dwelling on gloomy thoughts and by doubting yourself. The Saki Giichi I know would never allow himself to be defeated by another person without putting on a decent fight in order to reach his goal or to protect what's important and dear to him!"
"Thank you Shouzo," Gii breathed softly. "Thank you for that encouraging tongue-lashing. I guess I needed it. I'm trying to remain strong, God knows I do, but this whole situation is really starting to get to me. I had hoped that now after Takumi has started to recover his memories things would get easier, but for several reasons everything seems to get more difficult and more complicated instead."
"That might be true, but you can't allow those circumstances to let you get down if you want to succeed in winning Hayama's heart again," the president of the disciplinary committee explained calmly and squeezed his friend's shoulder reassuringly. "Don't lose your courage Gii and have confidence. Trust in you, trust in Hayama and in the end everything will turn out right."
"That doesn't sound good, now does it," Toshihisa said once Akaike had finished his account, his voice laced with worry. "Acting in such a way isn't like Gii at all." "It sounds like Saki is about to reach his limit," Misu added and narrowed his eyes. "What's more he begins to realize that there is a possibility that things between him and Hayama might never go back to the way they used to be. He begins to understand that, even though Hayama gave him his heart in the past, it doesn't necessarily mean that he will give it to him a second time."
"Are you trying to say that Gii-senpai is about to give up," Shingyouji asked anxiously. "No, I don't think so, but he is growing desperate," Akaike answered with a sigh. "And that's what worries me the most, especially because he has a rival now which means the psychological pressure he is already under will increase even more." "Rival? You are referring to that Ichikawa fellow, aren't you," Toshihisa inquired curiously and the president of the disciplinary committee nodded slowly. "I promised Gii that I would do some research because he was convinced that Ichikawa's appearance here is no coincidence," he explained. "At first I attributed Gii's suspicions to his jealousy, but taking the results of my research into account I have to agree with him."
"What did you find out," Misu asked casually, trying to hide his curiosity as best as he could. "Well, Ichikawa said that he entered Shidou because his father got transferred into this area, didn't he," Akaike stated in a business-like manner.
"The truth is that his father is working in downtown Tokyo now and considering the distance between this school and Tokyo Ichikawa senior's workplace can hardly be considered as being 'in this area'. There are many prestigious elite schools in Tokyo and it would have been a lot easier and much more convenient for Ichikawa to enroll at one of those, especially because he will graduate in spring. Then there is the way how he got enrolled at Shidou that raised my suspicion. Ichikawa has very good grades, but fact is that his overall score originally wasn't high enough to get accepted at this school. Although I couldn't find out any particulars, I heard that Ichikawa's father went great lengths in order to accomplish his son's transfer to Shidou Gakuin. Thirdly, Ichikawa and Hayama were friends in junior high school, so it is more than likely that he knew about Hayama's enrollment at this school, either from Hayama himself or from his parents. Taking all of this information into consideration what does it suggest?"
"If you ask me, it suggests that Ichikawa really transferred here on purpose and that this purpose is somehow related to Hayama-senpai," Shingyouji replied with confidence. "Exactly," Gii's best friend confirmed the younger boy's assumption. "And I dare say that Ichikawa's purpose is to win Hayama's heart or as the case may be to steal him away from a boyfriend or lover. Given his reaction when he met Hayama again and was treated like a stranger by him I'm pretty sure that Ichikawa didn't know anything about our friend's amnesia when he first came here, but I fear that he might try to gain some advantage from it."
"Does Saki know about all this," Misu asked grimly. "No, he doesn't," the other boy answered truthfully. "I haven't told him anything yet. This afternoon he was too distressed already and I didn't want to add to the pressure Gii must be feeling right now. After all, this situation is completely new for him as well. He never had a rival at Shidou who competed with him for Hayama's affections except for Nozaki, but that doesn't really count because, from the beginning, Hayama had always disliked that guy. It's a different thing with Ichikawa. So, I just hope that Gii can keep his emotions under control and doesn't do anything foolish. You know how impulsive he can be at times." "Yeah, if Saki loses it and starts acting on mere impulse things could get really complicated," the head of the student council huffed, "and I don't want to get caught in the middle."
"Ano, since we are talking about Gii-senpai's and Hayama's feelings there is something else you should know," Shingyouji piped in wringing his hands and everybody's eyes turned towards him. "What is it," Toshihisa inquired curiously. "Well, when I talked to Hayama-san yesterday we spoke not only about his amnesia but also about Gii-senpai," the second-year student explained softly. "Hayama-san begins to doubt the nature of their relationship and starts asking himself if he and Gii-senpai used to be more than just friends, but of course I didn't tell him anything regarding the truth of that matter."
"That's not surprising," Akaike mused and Misu as well as Toshihisa nodded in agreement. "I expected that something of the sort would happen sooner or later." "Since Hayama-san is already questioning the nature of his relationship with Gii-senpai shouldn't we tell him the truth already," Shingyouji asked hesitantly. "No," the president of the disciplinary committee spoke up with determination. "Gii doesn't want it and without his consent we shouldn't tell Hayama anything regarding his and Gii's mutual past." "But why," Misu huffed. "I really don't get it. Why does Saki bind us to secrecy like that? If Hayama knew about his true relationship with him, it would make a lot of things a lot easier, don't you think?"
"Not necessarily, but that's not the point," Akaike stated calmly. "Anyway, because I was just as clueless as you still are regarding the reasons for Gii's decision to keep the truth about their relationship from Hayama and just as curious I asked him about it when I talked to him earlier. He told me that he made that decision because he doesn't want Hayama to be with him just out of some sort of obligation. Gii feels that being together with Hayama has no meaning if Hayama's heart is not in it and I have to admit that there is some sense in that. Gii thinks that if Hayama chooses to be with him again it should be because he wants it, because he returns Gii's feelings and not because of something they had in the past, a past that Hayama doesn't remember and as far as I'm concerned that decision is really understandable. If those two would continue dating simply because Hayama feels obliged to it wouldn't make either of them happy."
"Gii-senpai is a true romantic, isn't he," Shingyouji sighed. "He sure is," Misu stated nonchalantly. "And he is definitely a masochist for emotional pain." "You might have a point there," Akaike chuckled. "Just think about that little episode at the beginning of this school year." "So, that means we will continue to handle things the way we have done so far," Toshihisa mused and sighed in disappointment. "We will continue to look after Takumi, help him wherever we can and keep the truth about his relationship with Gii to ourselves." "Unfortunately there isn't much else we can do," Gii's best friend replied softly. "Though it might be a good idea to keep an eye on Ichikawa, just in case."
"Agreed, I don't trust that guy," Misu said somewhat grimly and the other two boys nodded. "Well, since everything seems to be settled I guess we are done for today," he continued and rose to his feet. "I don't mean to be rude, but if there is nothing more to discuss I'd like to go to the student council's room and get some paper work done before dinner." "Sure, go ahead," Akaike answered smiling mildly. "I see you later at the cafeteria then." "Yeah, see you," the head of the student council replied nonchalantly. "Shingyouji are you coming?" "Hai," the so addressed boy exclaimed and quickly followed the older student who had already turned to leave and soon the couple was out of sight.
"Those two," Akaike chuckled. "No matter how long their relationship is going to last it will always have that 'master and pet' touch to it." "Yeah," Toshihisa whispered and hung his head with a barely audible sigh of dejection. "What's wrong? You are suddenly looking so sad," the president of the disciplinary committee asked softly inching closer to the other boy, his voice laced with concern. "It's nothing. I'm just being childish I guess," Toshihisa began hesitantly after a brief moment of silence and looked up again to face Gii's best friend.
"I'm really happy for Misu and especially for Shingyouji that they finally became a couple, but whenever I see them smiling at each other or stealing secret, loving glances from one another I have to think inevitably of Takumi and Gii. Gii is trying so hard to get through to Takumi again, to capture his heart once more, but Takumi continues to keep him at a certain distance and Gii ends up hurt. It pains me and it breaks my heart to see it because those two belong together." He fell silent again and a lone tear trickled down his cheek.
"That's not childish at all," Akaike said softly and reached out to brush the salty drop away with his thumb. "I feel the same way. I guess we all do, but Hayama and Gii have already overcome so many obstacles so far and they will surely overcome this one as well. Have faith Toshihisa, have faith." And with that the black-haired youth leaned in to place a kiss on the other boy's lips, a kiss that was soft, chaste and innocent but full of affection.
"A-Akaike," Toshihisa stammered perplexed once the president of the disciplinary committee had pulled away and his cheeks gradually turned crimson. "W-What was that for?" "You know, as sad as this whole story is, it made me realize something," the other boy whispered huskily. "It made me realize how unpredictable life can be and that we shouldn't waste time when it comes to doing what we want or procuring what we wish. Toshihisa, I want you to be mine, to become my boyfriend. I've been meaning to tell you how I feel about you for quite some time, but I never found the courage to do so." "Akaike," Toshihisa breathed lovingly and for a long moment the two boys gazed quietly at each other before both of them finally leaned in to share another tender and innocent kiss that slowly began to grow deeper.
oOo
"That picture was taken during our final trip in third grade," Ichikawa explained and pointed at a photo that showed him and Takumi in front of the entrance to a temple, both boys showing the victory sign. "We went to Hiroshima for three days. At that time you really disliked to be touched by anyone. I would even go as far as saying that feared it. How is it now?" "I'm still suffering from human contact phobia or 'aphephobia' as doctors call it," Takumi replied hesitantly. "But I'm undergoing treatment now, so I hope that my fear of being touched will lessen gradually and that I will be completely cured from it one day."
"You can do it, I'm sure," the other boy stated confidently. "I believe in you. Ganbatte ne?" "I will, thank you Motoki for the encouragement," Gii's beloved said and smiled warmly at his friend who returned the smile with equal warmth. Ichikawa was just about to turn to the next page of the photo book when the bell in the school's clock tower began to toll announcing five o'clock.
"Is it really that late already," Takumi exclaimed in astonishment. "I'm really sorry Motoki, but I think I should better get going. I promised Gii to have dinner with him and I want to change out of the uniform into a more casual outfit. I also need to freshen up a little before meeting him. Please don't be angry." "Of course not," the brown-haired boy stated nonchalantly. "A promise is a promise after all, so go ahead. I will see you tomorrow in class in any case and then we can schedule another meeting to check out the rest of the pictures."
"Thank you Motoki for being so understanding," Gii's beloved said smiling apologetically at his friend. "Can I keep the photo books we have already looked at for a while?" "Sure, have a look at them from time to time when you are in your room and I'm sure you will eventually remember something," Ichikawa answered and handed the books over to Takumi who had already risen to his feet. "That's very kind of you Motoki," he stated and stepped away from the other boy. "Thank you for taking so much time to show me those pictures. I really enjoyed it. I see you tomorrow in class. Ja ne!"
With that the ebony-haired youth smiled once more at his friend and took his leave. "This is probably going to be easier than I thought," the other boy whispered, smiling to himself as he watched Takumi's retreating figure. "I might finally get what I have been wanting for such a long time."
oOo
'Motoki is a really nice guy,' Takumi thought as he leisurely strolled towards the dorm grounds with a light spring in his step. 'I'm so happy that I met him again and that from now on we are going to be good friends once more, just as we used to be.' Completely lost in thought the ebony-haired youth continued on his way in an unhurried pace, hugging the photo books tightly to his chest. The roofs of the dorm buildings had just come into view when Takumi was ripped out of his reverie by a couple of guys who seemed to have appeared out of nowhere. Before he could utter a word they had grabbed him tightly and dragged him quickly off the path over to a rather near but compact clump of trees where they pushed him violently against one of the massive tree trunks. Gii's beloved hissed as a sharp pain shot up his spine and the photo books he had desperately been holding on to clattered to the ground.
"Long time no see Hayama," the menacing voice of the guy who had been haunting his dreams ever since he had recovered the memories of that fateful night of Tanabata rang in his ears and a moment later Kurokawa Minoru as well as some of his other minions emerged from the shadows of the trees wearing evil grins on their faces. "Have you been missing me?" "K-Kurokawa," Takumi whispered hoarsely and his face went white. "W-What d-do you w-want from me?"
"Oh come on Hayama! I think you know very well why you and I are here and what I want," the freshman growled and nodded towards two of his followers. Without hesitation they roughly grabbed Takumi's arms and shoulders and pushed the boy hard against the tree trunk, making it impossible for him to move. Upon feeling the touch the ebony-haired youth began to tremble and his breath sped up significantly. "Itai," he whimpered feebly. "It burns…p-please…" Of course his plea met deaf ears and for several moments Kurokawa just stood there watching quietly, clearly enjoying to see Takumi suffering, before he finally stepped closer to his victim.
"Listen Hayama, I will make this short," he hissed with a dangerous undertone in his voice. "I heard that you have begun to regain your memories and I just want to make sure that you keep your mouth shut regarding the evening of Tanabata. You know what will happen if you don't. Just think of what happened to poor Shingyouji Kanemitsu, the accident he had in the library not too long ago." "S-So it really was y-you and y-your friends b-behind the l-letter and all the o-other incidents," Takumi panted with a trembling voice.
"Yes, it was us and if you value your friends' safety you will remain quiet and that goes for this meeting as well," the freshman growled angrily. "And there is another thing. A little birdie told me that you are getting very cozy with Gii-senpai again. I told you before to stay away from him and I hate it if I have to repeat myself. But since you suffer from amnesia and obviously don't seem to remember our previous encounters I will say it one last time. Keep your filthy hands off Saki Giichi because if you don't…"
The boy's threatening voice trailed off and laughing evilly Kurokawa glared at his daunted victim. "That's all for today Hayama," he finally declared and took a step back. "And don't forget, not a single word to anyone about all this. Did I make myself clear?" When the ebony-haired youth nodded weakly the freshman motioned for his minions to release the boy from his hold and turned back half-way towards Gii's beloved. The two boys did as they were told, but didn't leave Takumi's side thus trapping him effectively between them and waited.
"I could swear that I have forgotten something," Kurokawa mused grinning evilly, "something very important…oh yes…" And with that he swirled around and rammed his fist hard into Takumi's stomach causing the boy to bend over with a groan, pain written all over his delicate features. "That was to remind you who you are dealing with and that I'm dead serious concerning the things I told you," Gii's ardent admirer hissed and chuckling he turned to leave without so much as taking another glance at the ebony-haired youth, his minions obediently following his lead.
For a long moment Takumi just stood there as if he were frozen to the spot, and stared after the retreating group of freshmen, clutching his stomach tightly. As soon as the boys had disappeared from his view the rest of strength that had been remaining in his body left him. Takumi's legs gave in and Gii's beloved slid marrowlessly down the tree trunk, pulled his knees protectively towards his chest and began to sob quietly, large teardrops spilling from beautiful, chocolate-colored eyes.
A/N: Alright that's it for now. Somehow my chapters keep getting longer and longer...
What will happen next? Can Gii keep his emotions under control or will he make a move? What is Ichikawa planning to do? What will be Kurokawa's next move? Will Takumi finally start to regain more of his precious memories?
Find out in the next chapter! It might take me bit longer to update this time because I'll be moving on Ferbruary 18th and I have a lot of things to prepare.
As always, please take a minute to click the 'review' button and leave me a little comment with your thoughts. It's much appreciated and the best motivation I can think of to keep me going.