Across the Universe
London.
Juilliard.
Nerves.
Never has that ever crossed when it came to performance, but this entire environment felt very intense. Back at school, the environment was enormous, but the energy here felt extremely competitive and lacked warmth. Even when introductions were exchanged, the nerves started to stream throughout the veins…
Please not today.
Seiya breathed as her breath stuttered a bit. She felt her mother's hand clasping hers along her father's on the other side.
"Are you nervous?"
"Iie."
The Kous looked at her, saying nothing.
"Well, maybe a little. I've prepared enough though. It's just… nobody here is very friendly. They are friendly but… I don't know. It's not like home. I mean, it is, but… I don't know."
"It's definitely different. There is a lot of talent here compared to your school. But you are just as talented."
"Hai…"
"Seiya… you have this. We know it."
Seiya breathed and smiled as her parents squeezed her arm. She wore a number on her shirt and took meditation breaths. She thought of her best friends, but it kind of didn't help, even though she is extremely prepared with Haruka. There were many people ahead of her, and many people after her, like in the hundreds. Some were asked to stay longer in the room. Many were in-an-out, like an assembly room. She thought of everyone back at school, and her best friends…
Her breath slowed down as she thought of her… now that they were more than friends… she wanted them to be more to each other...
Her kiss. Fuck, she loved their kisses…
Her embrace.
Her reverence.
Seiya breathed, blushing hard as she held her inner-smile.
"NEXT!"
Seiya looked up at a hefty older woman, a monitor, who looked around and checked the auditionees' number.
The monitor then looked at the Kous and looked at Seiya, then her number.
"There you are. C'mon, Love! You're next on deck." She spoke in a British dialect... She wasn't sure what part of England.
Seiya swallowed and nodded as her parents squeezed her hand and released her. She took her music folder and got up, following the scout right inside the room.
The Kous stayed up all night praying to their ancestors. They had tremendous faith in their daughter, but they could tell, that every single person in the building was giving it their all.
…
…
Back in the dorms, the noise was low.
Sagi did her homework. But on and off, she thought about… her…
Her…
Her kisses…
Her strong embrace…
Her reverence…
Her affection…
Sagi shuddered, blushing as she thought of Seiya and decided to focus. She stayed up all night praying to Goddess for her… to get into that American Julliard school… her…
What were they to each other…?
She knew they were more than friends. Friends didn't do what they did… did they…?
Sagi shuddered as she blushed harder and shut her eyes. Images of their night together and their time in the locker room made her shiver.
"Oh Goddess…" She whispered.
"Sagi San?" A voice startled her.
"Nani?... Oh, Konichiwa, Mistress Hotaru San." Sagi immediately got up and bowed.
"Konnichiwa. Your Okaasan and Oneesan is here for you." Mistress Hotaru San spoke.
"Oh, hai. I almost forgot the date-dress shopping."
"Your Oneesan's wedding is coming up, hai?"
"Hai."
"Please congratulate her and the family for me, will you?"
"I definitely will, Mistress Hotaru San. Arigatou gozaimasu." Sagi smiled.
"Douishimashite."
They bowed. Mistress Hotaru left as Sagi breathed with nerves and quickly got dressed. She went to the bathroom and looked at her hair and face. She wiped off her makeup and combed her hair into a tight bun. She wanted to put hairspray but figured it might be better without it. She breathed and put on her sweater, stepping out…
Sagi noticed that Sarah was in the hallway, staring at her. She stared right back.
Galexia.
She didn't know how, but this was her chance to finally get answers.
Sagi breathed and held her head high. She walked past her nemesis.
"You're in deep shit now." She whispered to Sarah, but kept her eyes ahead, passing her without a backward glance.
Sarah followed with her eyes as Sagi went downstairs.
"Little Bitch." Sarah whispered in disbelief and smirked.
That sophomore had balls…
That little bitch was scary… she will never admit it… how the hell she was related to Galexia, she will never know.
But she really hoped that her younger sister told her ex-girlfriend everything. Maybe upon hearing Sagi getting shit earlier this year by her plan, Galexia will finally react and talk to her. As much as that scary little Bitch of her younger sister punched her in the face… she was grateful that her ex-girlfriend will know what she did. She hoped Galexia knew. Her ex-girlfriend will talk to her… yell at her… or fight her… She will definitely react. Sarah wickedly grinned.
She couldn't wait.
…
…
Galexia waited with Ikuko as her mother disapproved and waved off several options. Many dresses fell in like a glove for the future bride, but the woman was never satisfied.
"Your waist is just like mine. Dainty. I think you will love the other options…"
The dressmaker looked at her but said nothing. She smiled at Galexia and went to the back to fetch more dresses.
Sagi was off in thought. Galexia stared at her sibling, who's been more unusual as of late.
The dressmaker comes back with several gown options. Ikuko frowned a bit but allowed Galexia to try them.
"Oh, we want some more pearls to go with the dress. It will bring out her complexion nicely."
The dressmaker nodded. Her assistant came out behind her with some dresses for Sagi, who looked back at her with dread.
"I believe it's your turn! I found a few large ones in the back."
"We'll see if one of them will fit you…" Ikuko sighed in as she kept her eyes on moving Galexia's gown out.
Sagi breathed and reluctantly got up, following the lady in the dresser.
…
…
Juilliard Audition.
Seiya stepped out of the room, dread-filled in her gut.
Her parents got up and she smiled at them.
"How did it go?" Mr. Kou asked.
"I think it went well." The senior whispered.
"Wonderful! We overloaded on our prayers with the ancestors. I knew they love you!". Ms. Kou beamed and embraced her tight.
"Now is in fate's hands," Seiya said and smiled.
"Oh darling, I believe you got in." Her mother was so kind.
'They better take you in." Her dad whispered.
"Otousan!" Her mom scolded him.
"Okaasan… I'm just saying… that's all… we all know… my daughter is the best…" Her dad mischievously whispered and grinned as he bear-hugged his daughter.
"Let's go to the hotel to get dressed, eat, and… yeah… do you have the…? Mr. Kou whispered in concern.
"Hai. I got them right here for us." Her mother whispered conspiring.
"Excellent!" He squealed.
"Nani…?" Seiya whispered as she looked at her parents, who looked at each other and grinned.
"Surprise! I wanted to get you those Spice Girls tickets for doing awesome for Julliard, but they were sold out. So I hope you like… Rob… Robbie Williams…?"
"Otousan, oh my God!" Seiya yelped and jumped on him, holding him tight, tears welling up in her eyes as her mother smiled.
"We know you worked so hard for Julliard. You sounded so phenomenal from what we heard outside. We had this gift ready for you as we have a feeling you will get in." Her father chanted.
"Hai. We are so proud of you, Seiya. So proud!" Her mother smiled with joy.
Seiya breathed as she held onto her dad's embrace.
Now she felt worse…
…
…
Sagi's eyes welled up as she swallowed, seeing the bulge of her chest on the top of the gown stretching the garment. It didn't look right. She didn't even zip it up, and already, she wanted to get out of it. The material was stiff, snug, and the rolls of her belly appeared through the dress as well as her thighs. She felt bloated.
This is why she hates shopping.
Sagi held herself and quietly moved out of it, relieved to breathe. None of the dresses were working.
None of them. It was fucked up.
"Well?" The lady came in beaming and was startled she Sagi in her school uniform, giving her the dress.
Sagi softly shook her head, feeling shame as Ikuko pursed her lips but said nothing. Her sister was still inside dressing up.
"Oh no… it's okay. I'll keep looking around the back." The assistant spoke excitedly.
"It's okay, I just… I don't think..." She whispered as her throat croaked.
"... I'll check again, just in case… and if we don't find any, we'll make some calls around other sister shops. I'm sure something will be found."
"Never mind. I'm sure I'll find something at home." Her mother spoke up but didn't look at her as she kept her eyes on her watch.
"Are you sure, Madame? It's no problem, we may-"
"I have some dresses that used to fit me." Madame Yourenkasykuya stared at herself in the mirror and admired herself.
The dressmaker said nothing as the assistant felt awkward. Sagi looked at them and smiled.
"Arigatou Gozaimasu…" She whispered and bowed.
"Douishimashite." The assistant said and bowed.
"Madame, we have some selections for you, if you would follow me." The dressmaker spoke as a matter-of-fact as she held the the expensive gowns.
"Wonderful." Her mother smiled and followed them to another dressing room.
Sagi swallowed and sat back down. She then paused and realized that Galexia was alone in the dressing room.
Sarah.
This was her chance. She only had a limited window. She got up and moved to the curtains.
"Galexia San… do you need help?" Sagi waited as her heart pounded.
"Arigatou Gozaimasu… Okaasan?"
"She went to try on some clothes."
"Oh… would you mind helping me, Imouto San?" Galexia shyly asked.
"Iie."
Sagi opened the curtain and her jaw dropped.
Galexia looked beautiful. Royal. Princess. The lace trailed around her satin gown. It closed at the neck, long sleeves, and flared out into an A-line.
Perfect.
"You look beautiful, Oneesan."
"Arigatou Gozaimasu." Galexia smiled as she stared at herself in the mirror.
"May you help me with the buttons? Be careful, they are delicate."
"Hai."
Sagi carefully buttoned up the pearl buttons on her sister's backside into the tight sown holes. She released her as the bride smiled.
"I think this is the one…" Galexia stated.
"Hai. I think so too." Sagi smiled.
"When Okaasan is done, may you tell her to come? I want to make sure she approves."
"Hai."
"I think she will like this one…"
"I believe so too," Sagi whispered as she looked down. Galexia looked at her.
"Did you find something for yourself?"
"Nani?" Sagi looked up at her.
"Your dress?"
"Oh… Iie… it didn't fit… Okaasan is going to see what she has at home for me."
"I'll see if I have something nice in my closet as well..."
"...Arigatou Gozaimasu."
Sagi looked away as she knew her sister had only clothes that were only in her own size, but Galexia had good intentions and tried to be helpful, so she remained quiet.
She stepped out of the curtains briefly and saw that her mother was still not out yet. Sagi paused and turned, moving inside as Galexia lingers on herself in the mirror.
Her heart was pounding hard. Her sister looked happy but…
Sarah.
Sagi managed the courage and softly spoke in a whisper.
"Oneesan… uh… I need to talk to you… in private…" Sagi whispered.
"Hai?" Galexia looked at Sagi through the reflection, surprised at her request.
Sagi looked through the curtain to make sure they were alone. She swallowed as her nerves shot high. Galexia looked at her and then at her own reflection.
"What exactly happened between you and… Shirabuki San?"
The temperature in the room dropped freezing cold.
Sagi watched her attentively as the light that used to be in her sister's eyes immediately grew dark.
For what seemed like an eternity, nothing was said.
Sagi felt she wasn't going to speak, maybe she was nervous? Or wait, but then-
"How do you know about Sarah? Did Okaasan or Otousan say anything?" Galexia whispered.
"Iie… I found out on my own… at school…"
Galexia stared at her, hardly breathing as the temperature in the room grew colder, making Sagi nervous. She swallowed as her Oneesan stared at herself in the mirror.
Saying nothing.
"... Oneesan… are you okay?"
"Don't mention that name again," Galexia said.
Sagi looked at her sister, shocked at what she was hearing. She stared at her sister, who avoided her eyes and was looking at the bottom of her gown.
"Oneesan… I won't say a word… but… can you tell me what happened… was she important to you-?"
"You don't need to know anything, Sagi San. Do you hear me? Nothing."
"But Oneesan-"
"Enough. We will not discuss this no more."
"But-"
"I am getting married. End of discussion."
"Oneesan-"
"END OF DISCUSSION."
Galexia spoke firmly, glaring at Sagi, who looked at her in disbelief.
This is the first time she saw her older sister. She never looked so angry as she did now.
"Wakarimasen?"
Sagi was silent and realized Galexia spoke to her through the mirror.
"Wakarimasen?" Her sister repeated. "Sagi San…?"
"Iie."
Galexia turned to face her, her eyes looked like murder.
"Sumimasen…?"
Sagi narrowed her eyes and glared right back.
"What do you mean, Iie…?!" Galexia hissed defensively.
"This is not over. Not even close." Sagi said.
"Are you starting trouble?"
"I had to pay the price because of what you did." Sagi hissed.
Galexia stared at her in disbelief. She never saw her younger sister look so angry before.
Nor hissed at her before! It was like she was seeing another person.
"Why are you doing this to me…?" Galexia whispered in pain.
Sagi breathed and composed herself a bit.
"I had to pay the price because of what you did…"
"What do you mean… what are you talking about?"
"Tell me about Shirabuki San, please."
"Sagi San…Don't ruin this for me."
Sagi looked at her om disbelief.
"I'm not ruining anything-"
"Yes, you are."
"You won't tell me."
"There is nothing to tell," Galexia spoke defiantly.
Sagi stared at her, realizing she was losing.
"You will eventually have to talk to me… You look pretty Oneesan. It looks good on you."
Galexia stared at her sister in disbelief as Sagi looked at her gown as she changed the subject. They heard their mother with the dressmaker, coming down the hall to their dressing room.
Sagi ignored her look as their mother opened the curtain and walked in.
"Oh, Galexia San, look at you. So precious. Oh-." Ikuko smiled as she moved in front of Sagi to fix Galexia's gown, softly bumping into her, causing her to move out of the dressing room. Sagi bumped into the dressmaker as she bowed to her.
The dressmaker winked at her as she stepped out.
She briefly glanced at Galexia, who stared at her. She looked ahead and walked out of the dressing room hallway without looking back.
Their mother smiled and grinned at the dressmaker.
"Oh, how lovely. It goes well with her figure!"
"Indeed. Her future husband will be so enamored. Aren't you excited, darling?!"
"... Hai…" Galexia whispered automatically.
"Of course she is. And as soon as she marries, I'll be ready for grandchildren."
Galexia looked at herself in the mirror. She was flushed in anger and fear and in disbelief. So many emotions crossed her face.
"Oh, darling, you're heated up… Would you like some water? Actually, I think it might be hot in here." Ikuko complained as she looked up at the vents.
"The air is on. But we may get some water for you."
"I'll grab you both a drink." The assistant volunteered and left.
"Otousan is going to pick us up for dinner. Then we will head to the theater. My, this is gorgeous!" Ikuko chanted with pride."Wonderful… wonderful. We'll take it, add it to my account!"
"Hai, Madame… are you sure you wouldn't like us to call around for your other Musume? I'm sure we may find some lovely selections for her. They have them in different sizes-"
"No. She won't fit in any of the dresses here. Or anywhere." Ikuko sighed and immediately shook her head.
"She's a young healthy girl." The assistant chanted to deescalate the lack of stock. She smiled as she looked at Galexia, who stared off.
"Honestly I don't know what they feed her at school, nothing seems to fit her. I will try to find a dress back at home." Ikuko spoke absentmindedly as she tightened the ribbons around the waistline of Galexia.
"Hai… very well, Madame…" The dressmaker looked at her, discomfort crossed her eyes.
Her mother frowned, staring at her daughter through their reflection.
"Are you alright?"
Galexia's eyes blurred as the air left her lungs. Immediately, her mother took her arm, feeling her shaking.
"Here. Let's sit you down. We will eat after-SUMIMASEN?! WHERE IS THE WATER?!" Ikuko shouted.
"Hai. Madame, we are coming!"
"Quickly! You know what- Sagi San?!
"I think your daughter stepped out of the shop."
"Oh for the love of-!"
"Here is the water!"
"Good!"
"Oh, Daijabou?" The assistant grew concerned as she neared Galexia, Ikuko waved her off.
"She is fine. Get your other assistant to help us then. My musume needs to sit down and I still have to try on some more gowns. The wedding is around the corner, and we need to have everything perfect. Perfect! Galexia, after you are done, we will continue with your next set of gowns. And then we have to shop at the jewelry store, make sure you have more items.."
"Hai, Madame."
"Just sit tight. Drink your water." The assistant softly whispered and delicately put the glass on Galexia's lips, who softly drank, still feeling like a zombie.
Everything was about to be ruined.
…
…
Sagi was outside, sitting on the bench, waiting for her family. She was… disappointed. That wasn't the way she pictured her conversation to go, or at least the outcome. Galexia hardly let her speak. And she looked at her in anger for the first time. She never was on the receiving end of her sister's anger. Not to mention, her mother basically brushed her aside. Sagi tried on some dresses, and all her mother could think about was having "something that will do." She literally felt second-class to her older sister.
It hurt. It fucking hurt.
It hurt more than her sister kept secrets from her. And because of that, especially since she refused to speak about her history with that shithead back in school, she has to pay the price for it.
Life was so unfair.
She couldn't wait to return to school. Maybe she will skip dinner and ask her mother if she may return. She didn't need to be here all day.
And frankly… she started to not care…
Thankfully, a black limo pulled up.
Once it stopped, Kenji got out and walked around to greet her. He looked sharp, regal, and tall. Sagi got up as bowed.
"How is my young lady?"
"Yoi, Otousan. Arigatou Gozaimasu."
Kenji smiled and softly spoke.
"And how is your Oneesan?"
"She looks beautiful, Otousan. Okaasan should be finishing up soon with her soon."
"Ah… might be a while…" Kenji sighed. He looked at Sagi with curiosity.
"Did you find something?"
"Iie… none of the gowns fit me… but Okaasan said she will find something in her closet for me."
"Ah! Your mother has the best! I'm sure you will look wonderful."
"Arigatou Gozaimasu, Otousan."
"I'm going to step inside and see if I may take a sneak peek." Kenji walked into the shop to join the other two family members.
Sagi stared at her father as she waited. Her mind wandered off.
She thought of Seiya, who must be having the time of her life. And most likely got into Julliard.
Sagi blushed and smiled.
…
…
Sightseeing.
Seiya and her parents went sightseeing on the Docker bus. It helped keep her mind off of her audition. Her parents had so much faith in her. She was grateful that they had so much love for her, especially because the audition was…
She feared for their disappointment if they ever knew…
Seiya breathed as she felt moisture in the air.
"Is it going to rain?" Her mother asked.
"Daijaobou." Her father chanted.
"Well, me and Seiya just did our hair, so we actually do mind, wakarimasen?!" Her mother yelped as her father giggled like crazy.
Seiya kept her mind on the buildings, hearing their tour guide move them around as they made many stops. She needed the fresh air. And she loved the city. She would definitely bring someone to come with her…
Someone extremely important.
Seiya blushed as she thought of Sagi as she felt she was having the time of her life prepping for her sister's wedding. She pictured her, and her alone…
She must be looking beautiful.
…
….
Done. They were finally done.
…
…
It took forever, but her father came out. He smiled at her.
"Hungry?"
Ikuko stepped out before Sagi was able to answer. She walked up to the father and she pulled him aside, walking ahead.
"We need more money to get her more jewelry. I'm not too crazy about the ones here."
"Oh, I thought it looked beautiful, but you always know best, Watashi no tsuma, here you go…"
Sagi felt her elbow being pulled as she turned to face Galexia, who held her close, composed in her face.
"Sagi, I need you to not mention that subject anymore."
"You won't even tell me-"
"No. And I never will. I need you to drop it and never mention it again."
"Douishte?"
"I'm not answering any more questions. I'm warning you."
"You are warning me?"
"Hai. Don't make me upset."
"Why would I be making you upset?"
"Because you are trying to ruin my life."
"Ruin your life, sumimasen, what do you mean to ruin your life?! I was only trying to understand-"
"Enough!"
Galexia squeezed her arm, making Sagi yelp, snatching her elbow away in anger. She let her go as she glared at her.
"Don't mention her name again." She hissed.
She started to move away. Sagi glared at her.
"Bitch."
Galexia slowed down and turned to her.
"Sumimasen, what did you say?" She whispered and stared at her in disbelief. She wasn't sure if she heard right.
"You are a Bitch."
"What is going on with you-?!"
"I was just trying to understand you and talk to you about what I've been through with your ex-girlfriend. I know she was your girlfriend because others told me… I had to put up with a lot of shit she gave me because of what you did to her. She refused to tell me and told me to ask you, which, unfortunately, you won't…You don't want to talk about her? Fine. Keep your secrets. Both of you can keep your secrets. But you laid your hand on me. That will be the first and last time you do so. Do it again, I will fucking kill you on the spot. And Sarah too."
Galexia looked at her in disbelief.
"Sagi… I'm… gomen for grabbing you… I didn't mean-" Galexia reached out, but Sagi moved her hand away, avoiding her.
"You and Sarah are just like each other… now I see why she was also a bitch. If she gives me hell again, she is dead. And so will you."
"Sagi, wait a minute-"
"Fuck you both."
Their parents stepped out Sagi smiled at her parents, though her eyes burned as her voice quivered. Her sister moved next to her and touched her hand, though she moved her hand away, making her sister feel the sting.
"Gomen Nasai, Otousan. I have to study for an exam I'm a little nervous about. May you take me back to school, please?"
"Oh, hai. School is important."
"We have to go to dinner and then the theater!" Her mother spoke as she looked at her watch.
"It's a hard exam," Sagi whispered to her father, ignoring her mother. Her father looked at her and sighed.
"Okay. We'll send for a different limo. You go ahead. Ace that exam". Her father escorted her to the car.
"Arigatou Gozaimasu, Otousan. Oyasumimasen, Okaasan, Oneesan." She bowed as she didn't even look at her sister. She turned to the limo as her father opened the door for her and she stepped inside.
"Otousan, may I go with her?" Galexia spoke, startling the family, and looking at Sagi.
Sagi said nothing as she looked away from the family.
Her mother stared at her older daughter in disbelief.
"Douishte?" Her father spoke.
"I want to make sure she is safe," Galexia whispered, though she stared at Sagi. who ignored her.
"Otousan, I'll be okay. The school is not far. You three should have fun." Sagi whispered as kept her eyes on him.
"Agree. This is a wonderful show, and we have box seats." Her mother spoke eagerly with a pout.
"Agree. Go. Ace that exam." Her father said and shut the door as her sister was about to speak. He took Galexia by the shoulders as the limo drove off.
"She'll be fine." He said sternly and guided her and her mother to the other limo. Galexia reluctantly nodded and followed. She looked back at the limo that drove her young sister away…
She never saw that side of her sister before…
What the fuck did Sarah do to her?!
…
…
Sagi was in the limo by herself as tears burned her eyes and softly fell. It was utterly fucking hopeless.
She's never been so angry in her entire life. She has been but… this one top the cake.
She has been hurt by… everyone… it wasn't fair. She paid the price for the shit she didn't even do…
She hated everyone….
Her heart started to act up.
It's been a while since that happened!
Sagi frowned, swallowed, and breathed as she pressed her hand to her chest. Was her anemia acting up again? She breathed and shut her eyes. She will eat something when she gets to school.
She was feeling so off.
She didn't have time for this shit now.
Sagi breathed and kept her hand on her chest, all until upon her arrival.
…
…
Seiya and her parents watched Robbie Williams performing, singing with serene joy. Her parents nodded to the beat. She forgot about earlier in the day and focused on him. She looked around the crowd, seeing the lights, and seeing the stage. Nostalgic melodies echoed in the arena. While that happened, a sacred moment passed inside of her soul, so intimate, that it was only her that felt that energy in her intuition, mostly, she felt it deep inside of her heart…
She was going to be doing this one day. She just knew it.
Seiya smiled as she shut her eyes and listened to her first love…
Music.
…
…
Back at the dorms. Nighttime.
"Sagi San?"
Sagi was startled as she looked up and saw Mistress Hotaru San. She got up and bowed to her.
"Mistress Hotaru San."
"Phone call for you."
"Nani?"
"You may take it in my office."
Sagi swallowed and walked to follow her.
…
They arrived at the office and Mistress guided her to the phone, which lay on the desk. She was left alone as she picked up the receiver.
"Otousan?"
"Sagi…"
She froze as her blood went cold.
"I've got nothing to say to you."
"Wait-Sagi-Gomen Nasai I was rough with you- I didn't mean it. Gomen Nasai"
Sagi breathed as she looked over her shoulder.
"Gomen Nasai, Sagi… You're my Imouto San… I shouldn't have acted the way I did without explaining the reason… of course, you wouldn't know anything… but it was no excuse. You never did anything to me… I was mean to you… for that, Gomen Nasai." Galexia whispered in the receiver.
"Are you ready to talk to me?" Sagi waited as her sister finally spoke.
"I can't talk to you. It's not that I don't want to… I can't…"
"Wakarimasen."
"It's too dangerous."
Sagi frowned as she looked startled.
"What do you mean dangerous?"
"I can't tell you, Sagi, just trust me."
"Oneesan… you are not making any sense."
"I know. But please trust me. I have a good reason why I don't say things, please, please trust me, please…"
Sagi shut her eyes as it threatened to burn.
"I wish you told me something."
"I know… it's better that you don't know."
"Fine…"
There was silence for a moment.
"But I'm really sorry for how I treated you. Aishiteru… you're my sister. I didn't mean it."
"... It's fine… wakarimasen but… if you say so… I'll respect it… I just wish…"
"Imouto San… did Sarah do something to you?"
"Hai."
"What did she do?" Galexia sounded angry, almost as if… protective... Sagi breathed and sighed.
"It doesn't matter."
"Yes, it does matter. That, you can tell me."
Sagi breathed as she found this whole ordeal so unfair.
"It's best you don't know. Besides. I took care of it. She's not bothering me anymore."
"Sagi, tell me what did she do to you-oh-gomen nasai, I have to go."
"Nani? Galexia-"
Sagi frowned as the phone went dead end. She hung up and shut her eyes. At least her sister knew something…
What the hell did she mean dangerous?
…
…
Galexia hung up and turned. Luckily no one was around, but she heard her mother coming down the hallway. She breathed and sat down.
There was no way, she could go back to that…
It was forbidden…
Galexia breathed as her heart started to break. She shut her eyes and kept her composure. She was relieved that her little sister forgave her… but she was so disturbed about the whole ordeal…
If Sarah did something to her sister, that bitch will pay…
Most likely her ex-girlfriend was trying to ruin her life. She knew she would try.
But she never counted on Sarah going after her little sister. That would have to be dealt with somehow… but in private.
Shit.
She was getting married. And her mother was already pressuring her to have kids…
Galexia breathed and cradled her head… she was already struggling, she didn't need any more drama… She sacrificed so much…
Please. Please. Don't let anything be ruined…
…
…
Time passed
…
…
Seiya got back from Juilliard, nervous for the first time but excited. She saw Sagi and smiled, who smiled in return. Her friends rushed to her in an embrace.
Sagi lingers on the group. She wanted to say hi to Seiya, but didn't know how she would feel about her parents knowing about her… she decided to play it safe and walked ahead.
…
…
Mrs. Kou San sees Sagi from afar, walking by a bit, and freezes a bit, but unsure.
Striking resemblance. Slightly startling…
Just like her best friend. She missed her so much!
Losing her best friend was extremely hard. It is the worst feeling. She couldn't even say her name. And she didn't get to go to her funeral, nor her newborn daughter's funeral. And now seeing a girl at Seiya's school strike a strong resemblance to her late best friend caused her to have her mind go wild. They would have been similar in age.
Nostalgia. You know, that was probably it. She would have been the same age.
The girl at school probably was younger, she was extremely short, probably a freshman.
But maybe it was because it was the anniversary of her best friend's death… both her best friend and her best friend's newborn daughter, whose father said that the newborn sadly died of a weak heart… It's a shame, she really wished she got to meet her best friend's newborn daughter. Her husband stood by her side and held her when she received the news in the letter. Seiya was one year old at the time it happened.
She knows Seiya would have loved to have had and grown up with her playmate.
I miss you Onee…
She wiped her tears and focused on the present.
"Okaachan… daijabou?" Mr. Kou whispered to her in secret as Mrs. Kou smiles at him and nods.
"Hai, Otouchan… my imagination… let's get going."
"Hai… Musume Chan!"
"Hai, Otousan!" Seiya beamed.
"Proud of you. Continue to excel at school, hai?!"
"Hai! Aishiteru, Otouchan! Okaachan!"
"Aishiteru."
"Aishiteru!"
They hugged her tight, gave her money, and left.
…
…
The girls split up to catch up on homework.
Seiya breathed as she felt Haruka behind her. Even though her best friend was happy, she felt something was off. They waited until they were in private.
"Seiya, Juilliard…?"
Seiya set her suitcase down and looked at her, shaking her head and smiling.
"They just said thank you. I didn't even stay for the callback."
"Seriously?" Haruka frowned in disbelief.
"Hai."
Haruka breathed as she walked around with a frown.
"It doesn't make sense, we worked so hard!" She hissed.
"I know. It's okay. I'll look into other schools." Seiya smiled sadly.
"They didn't turn you down, did they?"
"We'll find out in the Spring if anyone got in."
"Then how do you know they didn't like you?"
"Because I sang my song. I gave my music sheet to the accompanist, said my name, introduced my piece, and sang. They whispered to each other, wrote down the notes, looked at me, and said thank you. But others were asked for a callback, or to sing another song."
"That is fucked up."
"It's okay, Haruka Chan. I'll look into Carnegie or something. There are also schools around London. I'll figure something out."
"But Julliard is your fucking dream."
"I know. It's okay. The competition was tough."
Haruka looked at her and embraced her hard. Seiya breathed and embraced her, shutting her eyes.
"It will be okay. Who knows, you may go to school with me."
"Hai."
They smiled and held each other.
…
Sagi walked in and saw the two in an embrace. Discomfort was sprung up but she pushed it down. They noticed her.
"Oh… gomen nasai."
Haruka and Seiya released as the black-haired senior smiled wide.
"Daijabou-Sagi… Hi!"
Sagi smiled at Seiya and nodded to Haruka, who shyly nodded back.
"Tenouh San… Welcome back, Seiya San. How was Julliard?"
Seiya frowned a bit at the San but figured because Haruka was here, Sagi was too shy.
"It was good… how are you doing? Was the exam?!"
"Uh…I don't know to be honest." Sagi breathed and cringed a bit.
"Oh, I bet you did amazing. Taiki Chan said you've been killing it."
"If only…"
"I bet you did really well," Haruka said softly with a smile.
"I hope… so, you're audition... How did it go? Did you get in?"
Seiya's smile faltered, but then she smiled again.
"It was tough. We find out in the Spring."
Sagi looked at her and looked off into thought.
"You got in."
Haruka raised her eyebrows as Sagi looked at Seiya, who softly smiled at her.
"Really… you think so, Sagi?"
"I just know."
"See, I told you." Haruka whispered playfully nudged Seiya's shoulder, who nudged her back."
"It was a tough competition," Seiya whispered and smiled. Sagi stared at her a bit, startling the two.
"It doesn't matter. You got in. They liked you… We all heard how you sing… It would be strange if you didn't get in." Sagi spoke calmly.
"You are so confident in my abilities, Sagi… thank you though." Seiya smiled wistfully. Haruka looked at her.
"Should I not be…?" Sagi asked, curious about her demeanor.
"Iie. You must be cheering for me." Seiya spoke as her confidence went back in full force.
"I am cheering for you. We all are." Sagi whispered in confusion. Seiya blushed hard.
"You better be, Odango." She whispered as Sagi blushed hard.
"Why are you calling me that?!" She whispered.
"Because you are an Odango."
"My name is-"
"Odango."
"HEY!"
"Hai, Odango."
"STOP IT!"
"Iie, Odango."
"I've complimented you!"
"You better, Odango."
"BUT I DID!"
"Damn right, Odango."
Both girls blushed hard as Sagi narrowed her eyes. Seiya looked at her mischievously.
Neither noticed the other girl in the room, who stared at the two of them in disbelief.
"I'm gonna head out now… Oyasumenasai." Haruka whispered in disbelief as she watched the two, but the two girls kept their eyes on each other.
"Oyasumenasai, Tenouh San." Sagi whispered, glaring at Seiya, who grinned at her.
"Oyasumenasai, Haruka Chan. See you all tomorrow." The senior chanted but kept her eyes on the sophomore.
"Hai… Jane." The sandy blonde senior whispered left, watching the two, and shutting the door.
…
Sagi looked at Seiya in disbelief and moved to the restroom. She felt her hand on her elbow and was turned around.
"What-"
A kiss kept her shut as she closed her eyes. She surrendered and softly embraced the senior, who kissed the sophomore into silence.
"Seiya-" Sagi whispered.
"I missed you," Seiya whispered.
"I… missed you too…"
"Really?"
"Hai."
"That makes me happy."
They softly kissed and embraced each other. They kissed for a while.
Seiya released her lips as Sagi whispered.
"Why do you call me, Odango?"
"Because I like you a lot, Odango."
"Yeah, but-"
A soft kiss kept her silent.
Seiya released her lips.
"How did it go with your Oneesan and Okaasan?"
The light in Sagi's eyes dimmed a bit as she looked down and shook her head. Seiya frowned a bit and then remembered…
Sagi hated shopping.
"Gomen Nasai…"
Sagi looked at her and smiled.
"It happens… I'll tell you everything later…"
"Okay… daijabou…
Seiya looked at her as Sagi smiled and held both of her hands.
"Can we…?" The sophomore looked at her lips. The senior softly nodded and moved into her, kissing her softly, both needing to forget the rough few days they had.
…
…
Dark Night. Alleyway.
There were continuous screams, pleading…
Kenji stood in silence with Granga as they spotted a man on the ground, beaten up, coughing blood. He spoke in a foreign language, rapidly speaking in a plea.
"GOMEN NASAI! GOMEN NASAI! GIVE ME A CHANCE! PLEASE?! I WILL FIND THE MONEY!"
"We gave you too many chances. It's been over a year since you paid your dues, and you ran away, hid. Knowing we will always find you." Granga sighed.
"SUMIMASEN, PLEASE, GIVE ME MORE TIME! TIMES HAVE BEEN HARD! I NEED MORE TIME!"
"Who are you working for?" Granga chanted.
The man's eyes grew wide in fear as he looked around.
"...I can explain-"
"Did you know an attempt was made on my life this past weekend? I can't forgive you." Granga said in sadness.
The pleading man suddenly glared at him.
"Granga San, I was loyal to you… you have to understand, I have every right to be angry… you have destroyed my entire family. I did everything for you. My wife left me with the kids… My job threw me out. I have nothing left! I DID EVERYTHING FOR YOU! AND YOU DESTROYED ME! I WAS LOYAL TO YOU, AND YOU ONLY GIVE US CRUMBS! YOU ONLY GIVE US CRUMBS! WE DID THE DIRTY WORK FOR YOU! FOR YOU AND FOR YOUR FATHER! THAT SCUMBAG WHO USED ALL OF US!"
"Sumimasen, my father saved all of you from a life of poverty. My father gave you a life, a home, family. We are family. We were family until you betrayed us. My father would be rolling over in his grave for how disloyal you have become."
"I JUST WANTED TO LEAVE TO HAVE A NORMAL LIFE AND YOU WOULDN'T LET ME! YOU WON'T LET ANY OF US LEAVE!"
"Enough," Granga spoke as he looked at his right-hand man and then at his gloved hand and up to the sky.
Kenji stepped forward and pulled out his revolver, aiming it at the man's forehead, who started screaming at him.
"HE IS USING YOU! HE IS USING ALL OF YOU! I USED TO BE JUST LIKE YOU! JUST WAIT! JUST YOU WAIT UNTIL HE DOESN'T NEED YOU ANYMORE-!"
A shot rang as the bullet wrang out of the back of the man's head. He dropped to the ground, remaining still.
Kenji silently put his revolver back into his holster. He turned around and stood next to Granga, who looked around.
"It's a shame." The king whispered. He turned around and went back into the limo. The men bowed to him. His limo left.
Kenji was escorted back to another limo as he entered and fixed his tie, taking off his gloves.
"Where to, Sir?" His chauffeur inquired.
"Home, please."
"Very well, Sir." The driver drove them off.
They drove for a long while.
Kenji briefly thought about the man he killed. Though he has no regrets, nor had any hesitation about his loyalty or work to Granga San, the dead man's words kept chanting in the back of his mind.
"I WANTED TO LEAVE TO HAVE A NORMAL LIFE!"
"YOU WON'T LET ANY OF US LEAVE!"
"I WAS JUST LIKE YOU!"
"HE IS USING YOU!"
"JUST WAIT! JUST WAIT UNTIL HE DOESN'T NEED YOU ANYMORE!"
Chants.
Over.
And Over…
Kenji remained still. He has killed before. There is no reason why this kill should bother him.
He pondered on Galexia, who was doing her duty for herself and the family. He knew it was very hard on her. And he and Ikuko were extremely proud of her.
Then he thought of Sagi, going to school, doing her best.
Sagi.
Serenity would be proud.
He shut his eyes as pain threatened to pierce his heart.
NO.
NO.
NO.
NO.
He would not think of her.
He swore to himself. He swore.
Besides. She chose to leave him. Therefore, she didn't deserve to be in thought.
Kenji thought of Ikuko, who was a champ, who loved him, and who he loved in return. They worked extremely hard for their entire family to remain together.
And their marriage.
Nothing's gonna change their world… Nothing would ruin or come between them. And he will make sure nothing ever will…
Nothing's gonna change their world…
He thought of his daughters, who had no idea, about his entire world…
Nor their own…
…