Monday mid-morning, March 1 – Ohashi High School Courtyard
At the Ohashi High School today is a day of celebration; today the students of the third year finally graduated. The air in the courtyard was crisp, a late winter breeze accompanied the boys and girls towards the beginning of a new chapter in their life.
There were those who hugged each other and wishing good luck for the future; those who were crying with their friends for the beautiful years spent within those walls; who instead chatted and greeted each other.
The class 3-C just got out of the gymnasium: Minori Kushieda was surrounded by her softball buddies, wishing her good luck for the future; Ami was surrounded by her admirers who were giving her flowers and tried to snatch an autograph from the model, all under the eyes of her boyfriend Ryūji Takasu.
In the midst of it all, Maya and Nanako tried to get Ami's attention. Behind them were Noto and Haruta, with Noto feeling hesitant about approaching the girls. However, Haruta gave him a gentle push, and as his eyes met Maya's, both blushed.
Nanako held a tightly gripped envelope in her hands, contemplating whether this was the right time to share something important with her friends.
"Tell what, Nanako-chan?" asked Ami, who had joined the group with Takasu and Minori.
Nanako hesitated, accidentally thinking aloud. Her friend's question startled her, causing the envelope to fall to the ground.
"What's this?" Maya picked up the envelope and read the sender's name:
"Secretariat of the Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts."
Ami and Maya looked at Nanako in shock. Quickly, Nanako regained her composure, taking the envelope back and facing her bewildered best friends.
"Nanako-chan, can you please explain this envelope?" Maya asked, her voice tinged with panic.
"Well I uh…" Nanako struggled to find the words to express herself, but her gaze locked with Takasu's. Memories of a conversation they had months ago flooded her mind.
*Flashback*
Thursday afternoon, September 24th – Ohashi High School, Class 3-C
Nanako and Takasu were on cleaning duty that day. After finishing, they went to the vending machines to get drinks before heading home. As they stood in the corridor, gazing at the myriad of colors in the late afternoon sky, Nanako addressed Takasu.
"Takasu-kun," Nanako said.
"Hmm?" Takasu replied.
"I need some advice from you, someone who is very rational," Nanako began.
"What is it, Nanako?" Takasu asked, attentive to her concerns.
"You see... I applied to Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts," Nanako explained her situation.
"Wow, that's great... But is there a problem with that?" Takasu inquired.
"I'm worried about how the others will react when they find out... What should I do?" Nanako expressed her concern.
"If I were in your position, I would just be honest and straightforward," Takasu advised firmly.
"Do you really think that would work?" Nanako asked, still uncertain.
"Absolutely! When something like this happens, it's essential to share it with those who care about us, even if their reactions might be different from what we expect. But always remember, deep down, they want what's best for you and will support you regardless," Takasu reassured her.
Nanako looked at him with newfound determination. His words opened up a world of possibilities for her. She finally felt ready for the day she would share her decision with her friends. Grateful, she looked at him and said, "Thank you, Takasu-kun."
"Don't mention it," he replied, sipping his iced tea.
As they were about to leave, Takasu turned back and asked Nanako, "By the way, what inspired you to make such a bold move?"
Nanako winked playfully and said, "Let's just say a special someone encouraged me to follow this path," leaving him intrigued.
*End of flashback*
Monday mid-morning, March 1 – Ohashi High School Courtyard
Returning to the present, Nanako mustered the courage to explain herself. "This is my acceptance letter for the major in Design and Crafts at Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts; that's what I wanted to tell you all..."
The reactions were as she anticipated; some were thrilled for her, while others were saddened by the news.
"Dude! That's awesome! Congratulations!" Haruta was thrilled for the plum-haired girl and hugged her.
"Well done, Nanako!" Minori cheered.
"Congratulations, Kashii-san!" Ryūji congratulated with the girl.
"Thank you guys…" Nanako thanked them but was then interrupted by the distinctive sound of crying.
Maya and Ami struggled to hide their tears, feeling heartbroken about the prospect of Nanako leaving.
"No... Not you!" Maya said, her eyes brimming with sorrow.
"Maya-chan, please don't be so sad" Nanako tried to cheer her up, but Maya's emotions were too strong to contain.
"Why? Why did you keep that a secret?!" Maya said, in a mixed feeling of anger and sadness.
"Because you would never have accepted it and I didn't want you to be sad for me" Nanako explained.
"Of course I would have stopped you… you are my best friend… in Okinawa, you'll be away from me… from all of us…" Maya said between the sobs.
"She's right Nanako, there are colleges around here that offer the same major you pursuing. I think you should stay here with us… It'll be a lot easier to keep in touch" Noto tried to reason with her.
"Oh guys, I will miss your stubbornness and it pains me to see you like this. But it's something I have to do; I owe it to someone very dear to me" Nanako said.
"If you leave, I will die of pain... please don't go" Maya plead.
Nanako ran to hug her best friend; she needed her, one last time.
"Oh Maya… my sweet Maya…" Nanako's voice began to tremble. "…Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened"
As emotions ran high, Nanako and Maya embraced tightly. Nanako reassured her that their friendship would endure and that she would visit whenever possible.
Ami desperately wanted to express her feelings, but her emotions overwhelmed her, leaving her unable to find the right words. She knew how much Nanako's departure would impact their lives, and the thought of being separated from her dear friend was heart-wrenching. Instead of speaking, Ami sought comfort in Ryūji's arms, burying her face in his chest as tears streamed down her cheeks.
Ryūji gently held Ami close, understanding the depth of her emotions. He knew how much Nanako meant to Ami and how hard it was for her to cope with the impending distance. With a reassuring embrace, he silently conveyed his support and understanding, allowing Ami to find solace in his presence.
As the hug broke, the two girls stopped crying and looked at each other; after an awkward stare, the two best friends laughed at how they looked.
"Nanako-chan… I just wanted to say that... ...meeting you was lucky, just like losing you today. Thank you for all the years we spent together and I wish all the best for the future" Maya said.
Nanako was struck by those words, it was not like Maya to say things like that. Nanako realized that her friend had finally grown up and was ready to be happy without her; tears were coming back.
"Maya-chan…" she wanted to say that she was proud of her; but instead she said: "I promise that I'll keep in touch with you and when the opportunity arises, I will come and see you"
"I'm sure of that" Maya said with a smile.
Then Nanako turned to Ami, Minori, Noto, Haruta and Ryūji.
"Guys, thanks to all of you. From the day we met in freshman year, I knew immediately that we would get along, but I never thought you would be like a second family to me. I love you so much and will miss you all…" Nanako thanked her friends.
"Aw…we'll miss you too, but won't you be all alone down there?" Ami asked.
"I know, and it's my greatest fear...but I think, among those desks and bookshelves, I'll meet someone to connect with" Nanako was hopeful for the future.
"And I wish you so" Ami said.
It was time to go, the group went through the gate of the Ohashi High School for the last time, ready for the future.
"Guys, do you want to stop to Sudoh-Bucks for a coffee?" Ami asked.
"I think that's a great idea! Let's go!" Maya was in.
"I'm in… a cup of hot coffee is what I need after the day I went in" Noto joined too.
"Sure, why not" Ryūji said.
"Sorry guys, but I must go… I still have to pack the stuff to take to college and finish the paperwork" Nanako declined the offer.
"That's ok, call us if you need help packing" Maya said.
"I will…bye guys, see you soon!" Nanako waved goodbye to her friends.
"You too! Good luck in Okinawa!" Noto waved goodbye to her.
Nanako winked at him and ran back home. As the plum haired girl was out of sight, Noto turned his gaze to Haruta.
"You disappointed me Haruta-kun, you weren't even a little bit sad about Nanako! She's also your friend, I didn't expect you to be so cold" Noto scolded.
"It's not true, I was sad at first... but then, I realized that there was a thing that made me even happier" Haruta said.
"I don't follow you..." Noto was puzzled by his friend's words.
"Where is she going?" Haruta asked the boy.
"To Okinawa…?" Noto said, still puzzled.
"Dude! Do you know what this means? When we visit Nanako, we'll be going to Okinawa! That's awesome!" Haruta said enthusiastically.
"You'll never change" Noto said, making everyone burst into a big laugh.
"He he and that's why you love me, baby!" Haruta jokingly said.
Monday afternoon, March 1 – Nanako's house
Nanako arrived at her house and noticed that there was an envelope poking out of the mailbox.
"It must be her…" she thought and picked the envelope. She was right, the sender was:
"Clara Galiano, 24, Corso Trieste, 24, Caserta, 81100"
"I'm home!" she said, but no one answered "Okasan must still be at work…"
She went in her room and sat on the bed, she opened the letter and began reading:
Dear Nanako-Chan,
I hope this letter finds you in the best of health and high spirits, with the finals behind you and no worries on your mind.
As for us, we are feeling fantastic! Recently, we participated in a music competition and reached the finals, which was an incredible achievement. While we finished third, we're still thrilled with the result, as it reflects our hard work and dedication.
Speaking of love, my feelings for Fabrizio continue to grow stronger each day. Last week, he surprised me with a heartfelt song he had written just for me. The touching lyrics brought tears to my eyes, and it was truly a beautiful moment. I've enclosed a copy of the song and a photo for you to see; he sends his warm regards and hopes to meet you soon.
I'm curious to know about your friends. Have they found love too? Please convey my best wishes to them, and I genuinely hope to meet them someday.
You know, whenever my parents inquire about you, they do so with affection and concern. "How's Nanako doing?" "Is Nanako alright?" Your letters bring so much joy to me and my family. They say, "Clara! Your soul mate has sent you another letter; she is so sweet!" It's in those moments that I realize how fortunate I am to have a friend like you. Finding someone as special as you is a rare blessing, and I am grateful to the universe for bringing us together. Our friendship means the world to me, and I am committed to nurturing it for a lifetime.
You are cherished beyond words, and our bond is forever etched in my heart.
With all my love,
Clara Galiano
Nanako was deeply moved by Clara's heartfelt words in the letter. Each time she received one, it felt like Clara was baring her soul. As she looked at the photo of Clara and Fabrizio with their guitars, a warm feeling of gratitude washed over her.
"Thank you, guys. This means a lot," Nanako thought, touched by the dedication on the photo, "For Nanako by G.E.M.I.N.I."
With curiosity and excitement, she unfolded the piece of paper containing Fabrizio's song for Clara, titled "PARADISE."
PARADISE by Fabrizio Calafiori
…
How are you?
I don't know
If you've been asking me for a while
Don't you see I'm quiet?
I prefer the risk
Of a shady dump
And I don't know
If I go home standing or fall
In the hands of a sip I don't drink
The truth is I don't see myself
Only but then I deny
I'm in heaven with you
And you tell me that love
That love is not love
If love
It's a vertigo (babe)
And I repeat myself
That love that love ill-love
But my heart has rust
And again
That love is not there but you repeat
That the love for you
It's my message in the night you wake up Don't get angry
You answer me
"I am in paradise"
PA PA PA PARADISE
...
Don't hate me
If I haven't
The same ease in bed
I tell you stop,
Instead I want
Your "good morning"
I blush but then I laugh
Give me a condom and I can't say no
I turn red in my face
You say, "open your eyes, you can't see it blocking me."
I'm out of mind
There is nothing wrong
If you kiss me on the mouth
I kiss you over the nose
I feel almost always in the wrong place and now...
...
And I tell myself that love
That love is not love
If love
It's a vertigo (babe)
And I repeat myself
That love that love ill-love
But my heart has rust
And again
That love is not there but you repeat
That love for you is my message in the night
That wakes you not angry
You answer me
"I am in paradise"
PA PA PA PARADISE
PA PA PA PARADISE
…
"Woah!" Nanako exclaimed, genuinely impressed by the heartfelt lyrics.
Suddenly, the apartment door opened, and Nanako's mother walked in, sensing her daughter's excitement.
"What is it, Nanako-chan?" Nanako's mother asked curiously.
Nanako quickly hid the piece of paper and smiled, "Oh, Okasan, it's nothing! Just another letter from Clara."
Her mother smiled back, "Ah, Clara, the girl we met in Italy a few years ago. How is she doing?"
"She's doing well. Last week, she and her boyfriend came in third place in a music contest," Nanako replied, showing her mother the photo Clara had sent.
"Wow! That's amazing! They both look so happy," her mother exclaimed.
Nanako nodded, but inside, she felt a pang of sadness. "Yeah, they're amazing," she muttered, trying to hide her emotions.
Concerned, her mother asked, "Is everything okay, Nanako?"
Nanako hesitated for a moment before replying, "Uhm, yeah, everything's fine... It's just that... I miss her so much." It wasn't entirely true, but she didn't want to burden her mother with her true feelings.
"I'm sure she misses you too," her mother reassured her, trying to lift her spirits. "Now, come on, we have a lot of packing to do!"
Nanako nodded, grateful for her mother's attempt to cheer her up. They resumed packing, but in the back of her mind, Nanako couldn't help but long for the day when she and Clara could meet again, cherishing the irreplaceable bond of friendship they shared.
With renewed determination, Nanako promised herself that no matter the distance, she would always hold Clara close in her heart, cherishing the memories and looking forward to creating new ones together in the future.
*Timeskip to evening*
Nanako and her mother had efficiently packed all the items she needed for her new apartment in Okinawa, ready to be shipped the next day. After dinner, as her mother went to take a shower, Nanako cleaned up the dishes. But in her mind, images of the day kept replaying—the farewell to high school, the words from Maya and Ami, and, of course, Clara's touching letter.
"Oh, Clara! She has no idea I got accepted... I have to tell her and give her my new address," Nanako realized. Finishing the dishes quickly, she hurried to her room to write a letter to her cherished friend.
Seated at her desk, Nanako took out a fresh sheet of paper and an envelope and began writing:
...
Dear Clara-Chan,
Your letter and the dedicated picture meant the world to me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Today, I'm feeling a little sad because it was my last day of high school. I had to say goodbye to my friends Ami, Noto, Haruta, and Ryūji, but most of all, to my best friend Maya. It was one of the most difficult things I've ever done; it reminded me of the day we bid farewell at the airport before I left to go home.
But there's some exciting news too—I've been accepted into the Okinawa Prefectural University of the Arts, majoring in Arts and Crafts! Next week, I'll head to campus to finalize the paperwork for my enrollment and prepare my apartment. I wanted to share the address with you so you can send me more letters. Here it is:
Kashii Nanako, Apartment 3-A, 2 Chome-11-1 Shuritonokuracho, Naha, Okinawa 903-0812
I can't begin to describe how much I've dreamed about this opportunity. Many renowned Japanese stylists have graduated from this university, and now I have a chance to be among them. It's all thanks to you, Clara. Your encouragement gave me the confidence to pursue this dream. Without your support, I might have settled for a local college, and my aspirations would have remained mere dreams. But you believed in me, and now I can finally chase my dreams wholeheartedly.
There are no words to express my gratitude for having an incredible friend like you. Through thick and thin, you've stood by my side, supporting me even when I had nothing. Your unwavering care and kindness mean everything to me. I know you face your own challenges, but you always find time to be there for me when I need it most. Your dedication is remarkable, and I truly appreciate you.
Forever yours,
Kashii Nanako
...
Nanako folded the letter to fit it into the envelope, sealed it, and then wrote Clara's address on the front along with the stamp.
"Ready," Nanako thought with a smile.
Glancing at the clock, she noticed it was still early. She put on her coat and headed for the door.
"Where are you off to, Nanako?" her mom inquired.
"I'm just going to drop this letter in the mailbox, I'll be back quickly," Nanako explained.
"Alright, be careful," her mom said, concerned.
Nanako nodded, appreciating her mother's care, and closed the door. She stepped outside, feeling a sense of excitement about sending the letter to Clara, knowing that her dear friend would share in her joy and dreams.
*Timeskip*
Friday afternoon, March 5th – Ohashi
The day of departure had arrived, and Nanako and her mother had packed everything they needed for the journey to Okinawa. As they prepared to leave for the Kagoshima terminal to catch the ferry, Maya, Noto, and Haruta came to Nanako's house to bid her farewell.
"Hey, everyone!" Nanako greeted them with a smile, but soon noticed the absence of Ryūji and Ami. "Where are Ryūji and Ami?"
Maya explained, "They wanted to be here, but they had to leave for a photo shoot in Suzuka today. However, they're on a video call with us right now."
On the small screen, Ami and Ryūji appeared, and Nanako's face lit up with happiness.
"Hey there, Nanako-chan!" Ami greeted cheerfully.
"Good morning, Kashii-san!" Ryūji added.
"Hey, guys! How's everything going down there?" Nanako asked with genuine interest.
"Pretty busy, but we couldn't miss this special moment," Ami admitted with a smile.
"Special moment?" Nanako was intrigued.
Haruta chimed in, "Let's just say we have something for you." Noto then cleared his throat and took the lead.
"Nanako-chan, we'll miss you a lot," Noto said, prompting Maya to present a gift package adorned with a bow. "This is a gift we made for you. We hope you like it."
Nanako gratefully accepted the package and opened it to find a beautiful mini-album of photos from all the years they spent together, along with heartfelt dedications from each of her friends. As she read each dedication, Nanako's heart swelled with emotion.
"You rock girl! See you soon! Do your best over there - Haruta K." She smiled at Haruta's rock-inspired message
"Minorin sends you the best of luck and positive energy! Now go and take victory! – Minori K." felt the warmth in Minori's well-wishes,
"Nanako-chan, it has been an honor knowing you. I wish you the best of luck for your future and, just in case you need a house cleaner, call me! – Ryūji T." chuckled at Ryūji's humorous offer to be her future house cleaner,
"I will always cherish all those moments we spent together, all that laughter we shared, all those stories we told. See you soon, my friend! - Ami K." then her eyes welled up with tears as she read Ami's touching words.
"We'll meet again, Don't know where, don't know when, But I know we'll meet again, some sunny day. Good luck Nanako-chan! – Noto H." Noto's dedication made her laugh between the tears,
"You have not just been a friend to me, you have been a family, a home, a shoulder to cry on. I'll miss you! Goodbye and good luck! – Maya K. (with a little heart drawn near the signature)" and Maya's heartfelt message moved her deeply. Nanako couldn't help but shed tears of joy mixed with sadness at this poignant moment.
"Thank you, guys. This is the best gift I could ever receive. I will cherish it for my whole life," Nanako expressed her heartfelt gratitude.
However, Nanako's mother gently signaled that it was time to depart, and the bittersweet reality of saying goodbye began to sink in.
"Well, it looks like this is goodbye…" Maya said.
"So it seems..." Noto said.
"Guys, I'll see you soon, I'm sure of that. For the moment it is only a goodbye, but it seems a farewell for me" Nanako said and bowed.
"Don't worry, you won't get rid of us so easily, my word!" Haruta promised.
Nanako laughed and headed toward her mother's car, she couldn't help but glance back one last time, waving goodbye to her cherished friends.
As the car marched on, the waving teens were becoming more and more tiny.
"See you soon guys…" Nanako whispered.
The journey began, and the miles rolled by in silence. Nanako gazed at the crystal-clear sky and the passing landscapes, lost in her thoughts.
"You have wonderful friends, Nanako," her mother broke the silence.
"I know, and I'll miss them so much," Nanako admitted, her voice tinged with emotion.
"They'll miss you too, but remember, you're doing all of this to pursue your dreams. Sometimes, chasing those dreams requires making tough choices, even leaving behind loved ones. It will be tough, but when you achieve your dreams, they'll be right there, celebrating with you," her mother reassured her.
"Thank you, Okasan," Nanako smiled, grateful for her mother's understanding and encouragement. She knew that even though the path ahead might be challenging, her friends' love and support would always be with her, no matter the distance. With newfound determination, Nanako looked forward to embracing her dreams in Okinawa, knowing that her friends' love would be her guiding light on this new journey.
Friday afternoon, March 5th – Kagoshima Ferry Terminal
Nanako and her mother reached the ferry terminal, where they parked their car in the designated spot and boarded the passenger deck as the ship set sail for Okinawa.
"Here we go," Nanako whispered to herself, feeling a mix of excitement and nostalgia.
Finding a quiet spot on the aft deck, Nanako sat down on a bench, clutching the mini-album her friends had gifted her. As she admired the receding dry land and the beautiful hues of the afternoon sky, a sense of gratitude overwhelmed her.
Suddenly, a hand gently rested on her shoulder, and she looked up to see her mother.
"I'll be at the bar if you need me," her mother said, offering support.
Nanako nodded appreciatively, watching her mother head inside the ship. Left alone, she opened the mini-album once more and noticed something unusual sticking out of one of the pages. She pulled it out and discovered an ultrasound picture.
"What the..." she began to exclaim, but her voice trailed off when she saw the name on the ultrasound. "Ami Kawashima."
"Ami is pregnant?!" Nanako blurted out, unintentionally drawing attention from other passengers on the deck.
Shocked and happy for her friend, Nanako wondered why Ami hadn't shared the news with her directly. She then noticed a note accompanying the ultrasound, probably written by Ami.
"Look back," the note read.
Curious, Nanako turned the photo around, and on the back, she found a heartfelt message from Ami.
...
Dear Nanako,
By the time you read this, you'll be on your way to Okinawa, and I'll be away for work.
Did you like the surprise? Yes, it's true; I found out that I'm pregnant with a beautiful baby boy/baby girl. Now, I know you might be considering coming back to help me during my pregnancy, but let me be clear - I won't forgive you if you give up your dreams for me.
I'll be fine, surrounded by our friends and Ryūji, who is the best nurse I could ever ask for. So, don't worry about me. Instead, focus on your well-being, happiness, and chasing your dreams.
When the time comes, we'll talk soon, future aunt.
Your friend,
Ami Kawashima
...
Nanako couldn't hold back her tears, but this time they were tears of pure joy. Ami's heartfelt letter reassured her that her friend understood the importance of pursuing her dreams.
"I'll make you proud, Ami," Nanako said while gazing at the photo they had taken during their ski trip. "It's a promise."
As the ship continued its journey towards Okinawa, Nanako felt a renewed sense of determination and gratitude for the wonderful friends she had. She knew that despite the distance, their bond would remain strong, and they would continue supporting each other in their respective journeys. With her friends' love in her heart, Nanako looked forward to embracing her new chapter in Okinawa, confident that the future held many beautiful moments and reunions with her dear friends.
In this heartwarming fanfiction tale, we follow the life of Nanako as she embarks on a new chapter in Okinawa. Leaving behind her beloved friends and memories, she sets forth on a journey to pursue her dreams at the prestigious Okinawa Prefectural University of the Arts. But little does she know, destiny has a surprise in store for her.
In the next chapter, we will meet a charming and enigmatic new character who will play a pivotal role in Nanako's journey. Together, they will embark on a friendship that challenges the boundaries of what they once believed was possible. As they navigate the ups and downs of university life, their bond will grow stronger, leading to unexpected revelations that will forever change their lives.
Stay tuned for the next chapter, where new adventures and heartwarming moments await.
Author Notes
The story will take place during the April, 2010 – March, 2011 school year. All the natural events included in my story are historically accurate.