April 25th
The gentle morning sunlight seeped through the curtains, awakening Akira from his sleep. The familiar sounds of Tokyo's early activity filled the air, and with a resigned acceptance, he acknowledged the approaching start of another school day. Extricating himself from the comforting cocoon of his bed, Akira moved across the room, feeling the cold floor beneath his feet, grounding him in the present moment's reality. He blinked away the lingering drowsiness, his eyes focusing on the clock.
The digital display on the clock blinked in response – it was 6:30 AM.
Akira sighed, the sound escaping his lips as he collected his toiletry bag. Slowly descending the worn wooden stairs, each creak seemed to echo the countless mornings that had come before. The tantalizing aroma of coffee wafted through the air as he approached the restroom, a bittersweet reminder that his days in Tokyo were drawing to a close. Within the confines of the restroom, he leaned into the mirror, meeting his gaze – a stoic expression framed by the disheveled strands of his hair.
As Akira reached for the faucet, a sudden knock reverberated on the door. Startled, he turned to open it, finding Sojiro standing there with a solemn expression. "You got a moment, kid?" he asked, and Akira nodded in response. "There's something you need to see on the news. It's related to your school," Sojiro explained, his tone conveying a sense of urgency that immediately piqued Akira's curiosity.
A torrent of questions flooded Akira's mind as he trailed behind Sojiro toward the TV. Was another student driven to attempt suicide due to Kamoshida's actions? If so, what was their fate – were they alive or lost to the unforgiving grip of despair? Alternatively, did one of the volleyball athletes muster the courage to confess to the police about Kamoshida's crimes, leading to their presence at the school for an arrest? The uncertainties loomed, each possibility carrying its own weight of consequences, leaving Akira in uneasy anticipation.
Sojiro swiftly reached for the remote, a purposeful click echoing the empty expanse of Leblanc as he turned up the volume on the television. The news anchor's authoritative voice cut through the air, delivering a striking announcement: "Breaking news: Suguru Kamoshida, once a gold medalist turned teacher at Shujin Academy, was apprehended last night," the anchor reported. The screen displayed a video of Kamoshida, flanked by police officers, and the anchor continued, "Kamoshida-san faces allegations of abuse of power, assault and battery, blackmail, sexual harassment, abuse, rape, and attempted enforced suicide."
The weight of each accusation lingered in the air, prompting the anchor's co-host to interject with disbelief, "Unbelievable! How could someone entrusted with the well-being of students commit such atrocities?"
A surge of conflicting emotions inundated Akira as he observed the gravity of the situation unfolding. Relief, disbelief, and a newfound sense of justice converged within him, creating a complex emotional tapestry. The oppressive weight of Kamoshida's tyranny, akin to a looming dark cloud over Shujin Academy, had finally dissipated. Overwhelmed, Akira instinctively covered his mouth, tears welling in his eyes.
With Kamoshida removed from the equation, the prospect of escaping expulsion seemed tangible, heightening the stakes of this momentous turn of events.
Sojiro swiftly muted the TV, his reluctance evident in his furrowed brows. He couldn't bear to hear more about Kamoshida. The idea of sending Futaba to school daily with such a repulsive man churned his stomach. As he contemplated this unsettling reality, a soft sniffle caught his attention.
Turning to Akira, he noticed tears streaming down the teenager's cheeks. "Akira, are you okay?" Sojiro inquired, his concern palpable. He briefly flicked his gaze back to the TV, where Kamoshida's face was still plastered on the screen, and then returned his attention to the crying teenager. "Did Kamoshida ever –" he began, the unfinished question hanging in the air.
"No," Akira stated firmly, brushing away the lingering tears. "It's just that, considering everything that's been going on, I've never felt this way before in my life – I feel happy."
###
Ryuji slung his bag over his shoulder, exiting his bedroom with a quiet click as he closed the door behind him. Glancing at the hallway clock, he noted enough time to grab breakfast on his way to the train station. However, upon entering the living room, Ryuji abruptly stopped, finding his mother sprawled out on the couch, fast asleep.
Sighing, he moved to the cabinet and pulled out a blanket. Draping it over his mom, he leaned in, gently kissed her forehead, and whispered, "How many times do I have to tell you not to overdo it?" After glancing at his mother, Ryuji locked the apartment door and exited the complex.
As he strolled through the neighborhood en route to the train station, a soft breeze carried the scent of blooming flowers. The morning sun painted the sky in hues of warm gold, casting a gentle glow on the quiet streets. Ryuji exchanged friendly waves with familiar faces – a neighbor tending to her garden, an elderly couple enjoying a leisurely morning walk.
The distant sound of children playing added to the serene ambiance, and Ryuji couldn't help but notice the small details – the rustling leaves, the rhythmic creaking of a porch swing. It was a neighborhood where time seemed to slow down, inviting a sense of calm amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Eventually, Ryuji reached an old shoe store he frequented on the track team. The Sole Society store held a unique charm, a treasure trove of memories. It anchored itself in Ryuji's neighborhood for years, its weathered sign a testament to the passage of time. In stark contrast to the high-end, pristine sneaker shops on Central and Shibuya Underground Mall, Sole Society boasted a nostalgic charm. Here, vintage sneakers found a second life at reasonable prices.
Ryuji's connection with the store ran deep, tracing back to his middle school track days when his mom, in a gesture of support, purchased him a pair of aged Jordans. Despite facing ridicule from his peers, who deemed the sneakers too antiquated for running, Ryuji silenced them with a triumphant victory in the relay race. Ever since that pivotal moment, he has exclusively patronized Sole Society for all his footwear needs.
His pace slowed when he spotted a pair of red Nike sneakers in the display case. The sneakers, vibrant and well-maintained, radiate a timeless energy. The white swoosh on the sides gleamed, and the red hue carried a subtle intensity that drew Ryuji's attention.
"Ah, Sakamoto-kun!" Ryuji turned to find the store owner, an elderly woman, holding several grocery bags. "It's been a while. How have you been? Are you still on the track team?"
Ryuji bowed respectfully, avoided eye contact, and felt shame about his current situation. "Yeah, I'm still on the track team," he fibbed. "I'm sorry for not stoppin' by. Things have been hectic with track and homework."
"Well, don't work yourself too hard, okay?"
"Yes, ma'am." Ryuji's eyes drifted to the grocery bags. "Would you like me to help you with those?"
The woman shook her head and chuckled, "I may be old, but my arms are still strong. However, there's something I'd like to give you." She motioned for Ryuji to follow her into the store.
The creak of the wooden floor under Ryuji's steps, the soft chime of the entrance bell, and the scent of aged leather welcome him. Sneakers lined the shelves, each pair carrying its history. Some bore scuff marks, evidence of past victories, while others gleamed as if ready for new adventures.
The woman turned to Ryuji, saying, "Could you please turn on the television while I take these bags to the back?" She gestured towards the remote on the counter as she walked behind it.
Following her instructions, Ryuji swiftly took hold of the remote, his fingers confidently pressing the power button. In an instant, the screen illuminated, revealing a gripping scene of Kamoshida in the custody of stern-faced police officers. The news anchor's voice cut through the air, delivering a striking announcement: "Breaking news: Suguru Kamoshida, once a gold medalist turned teacher at Shujin Academy, was apprehended last night."
Ryuji felt a tumultuous blend of relief, disbelief, and dismissal floor through him as he stumbled backward, eventually finding support against the checkout counter. Witnessing the long-anticipated downfall of the man who had caused so much suffering was almost surreal. Eager to hear more about Kamoshida's crimes, Ryuji increased the volume.
The sudden swing of the back door abruptly diverted his attention. Standing there was the old woman, cradling a shoebox, her eyes radiating warmth.
"Sakamoto-kun, I have a gift for you," she warmly said, presenting the shoebox to Ryuji. "These are for you to wear on the track," she continued, her eyes reflecting genuine kindness. "You've come a long way, and it's time for some new kicks. Consider it a token of victory and a fresh start. Now, go out there and run like the wind, Sakamoto-kun."
Ryuji accepted the shoebox from the woman, his fingers lingering on the familiar vibrant red Nike sneakers he had admired in the store's display. The weight of the shoebox fell significantly in his hands, its presence a tangible reminder of the unexpected turn of events. As his fingertips traced the smooth surface, he couldn't help but marvel at the vibrant red hue that seemed to carry a subtle intensity.
Despite the rush of conflicting emotions from the news, a genuine warmth spread through him at the store owner's gesture. The woman's eyes held a deep understanding, and Ryuji sensed a silent camaraderie between them forged through shared moments of triumph and tribulation. As he glanced down at the sneakers, gratitude, and disbelief flashed across his features.
Yet, beneath the surface, a subtle tension tugged at him. The weight of the news still lingered, and Ryuji grappled with the realization that the man who had tormented him and his teammates was now facing the consequences. The corners of his mouth twitched, caught between a grateful smile and the lingering shadows of the past.
"I… I can't accept this. I'm sorry, but I have to get to school," Ryuji stammered, his internal turmoil evident. The conflicting emotions played out in his brow furrow and the slight tremble in his hands as he abruptly pushed the shoebox back into the woman's hands. He hastily bolted out of Sole Society without a glance, leaving the perplexed shopkeeper behind.
###
As Ann descended the stairs, her school bag swinging casually over her shoulder, she paused near the dining room. Peeking around the corner, she observed two young maids engaged in whispered conversation.
"Do you think the young mistress already knows about Kamoshida's arrest?" asked the short, stumpy maid. "It's all over the news and internet."
Ann's breath caught in her throat as she instinctively covered her mouth, hoping to remain undetected.
"If the young mistress has, it's wise not to discuss it in her presence," mumbled the taller maid, who was preparing Ann's breakfast. "She's already endured enough with her friend in the hospital. Now, please stop talking about this and get back to work. I don't want to get fired for gossiping about the young mistress's personal life."
"I'm sorry, it's just that I can't get over the arrest," the shorter maid interjected, turning to face her co-worker. "This might sound crazy, but I could have sworn I saw Kamoshida-san dropping the young mistress off one night. Do you think –"
"Enough!" Hina Sohma stepped out of the kitchen with a stern expression. "Don't you dare finish that sentence; do you hear me? If I catch you talking about that foul man and the young mistress again… you are out of here." With that, Sohma marched back into the kitchen.
"I told you to stop talking," the taller maid mumbled.
Out in the hallway, Ann leaned against the wall and slid down until her clothed bottom sat on the marble floor. She pulled out her phone and searched Kamoshida's name, seeing different articles mentioning his arrest from last night. A mixture of emotions flowed through Ann as she scrolled through the texts. She was happy that Kamoshida was behind bars and Shiho would have the justice she deserved, but she also felt angry for not staring into Kamoshida's eyes as he was being handcuffed.
Ann didn't realize she was crying until she spotted tear drops on her phone screen. As she wiped the screen, she heard footsteps approaching her. "Takamaki-san?" Ann glanced up to see Hina Sohma staring down at her with concern written across her face. "Are you alright, dear? Why are you crying?" she asked as her eyes locked onto Ann's phone screen. She spotted Kamoshida's face.
Taking a deep breath, Hina ignored the sharp pain in her knees as she sat beside the teenage girl. "I may not know what you're going through right now, but I want you to know I'm here if you need to talk. What that man has done to Suzui-san and other students is barbaric, and he will burn in hell." There was a short pause before Hina continued. "Takamaki-san, I overheard one of the maids saying they saw you coming out of Kamoshida-san's car one night. Please tell me that's not true…"
When Ann pulled her knees closer to her chest and refused to answer the question, Hina closed her eyes and sighed deeply. She wanted to strangle the stupid girl but fought against the idea. "Oh, Takamaki-san…"
"But we didn't do anything, I swear," Ann quietly confessed. "He picked me up and brought me to a fancy restaurant to meet his other friends as if I were a trophy. And when it was almost curfew, he'd drive me back here and then go home while I lie to the maids that I was at Shiho's house. It sickened me that I had to go to school every day and see that creep roaming the halls as if he owned the place."
"Why didn't you say something to me or the police or even your parents?" Ann shifted her eyes to the older woman when Hina's voice cracked. Tears formed in her eyes, and they were falling down her cheeks. "It's my job while your parents are away to look after you. And I couldn't even do that right."
Ann gripped Hina's arm and said, "Please don't blame yourself, Sohma-san, because of my mistakes. I didn't want to tell anyone what was happening because Kamoshida threatened to pull Shiho from the volleyball team. Just like I do, you know how much volleyball means to Shiho. She would have been devastated."
"You still should have said something," Hina retorted, then looked at the clock hanging on the wall. She grunted as she stood up and pulled Ann to her feet. "You'll be late for school at this rate. And you didn't even eat your breakfast yet."
"Uh… actually…" Ann gripped her school bag and stared down at her shoes. "I'm not planning on going to school today. I want to go to the hospital to tell Shiho that Kamoshida is behind bars. She deserves to know, and I'll ensure she'll know again when she wakes up."
Hina nodded in understanding. "As much as I hate to see you skip school, I won't stop you. I'll call the school and tell them that you're sick."
Ann gave the older maid a genuine smile as tears of happiness slid down her cheeks. "Thank you," she said and bowed. With that, Ann threw her school bag on a sofa, opened the front door, stepped out onto the porch, and stared up into the cloudy sky. "I'm coming, Shiho."
###
Makoto was stirred from her sleep not by her alarm clock but by the constant buzzing of her cell phone. With a groan, she reached over, seized the annoying device, and found numerous text messages from the student council's officer group chat. The room was dimly lit by the soft glow of her phone's screen, casting shadows that danced along the walls in the quiet morning.
Initially annoyed at being interrupted, her annoyance shifted to shock as she read Hidetoshi's message. Her breath caught in her throat, and she sat up abruptly, her heart pounding. The air felt heavy with tension as if the weight of the news was pressing down on her shoulders, suffocating her disbelief.
Hidetoshi Odagiri: Last night, police officers arrested Kamoshida-sensei. They charged him with numerous crimes, including sexual assault. Just a heads up if you see police officers at the school today.
Chihiro Fushimi: So, were the rumors about Kamoshida-sensei were true? Did he really…
Hidetoshi Odagiri: No, of course not. Kamoshida-sensei wouldn't do such a thing. I'm positive Sakamoto and that transfer student planted false accusations against him.
Aoi Mibumi: You know, I did hear that those two were secretly trying to get Kamoshida-sensei fired.
Makoto felt a surge of anger rising within her, hot and consuming. Her hands trembled slightly as she typed her response, the words coming out sharper than she intended.
Makoto Niijima: Sakamoto and Kurusu had nothing to do with Kamoshida's arrest. That man has been abusing his power as a teacher for far too long, and it's finally caught up with him. I'm glad someone like him is no longer working at Shujin Academy, and you should, too, Odagiri-san.
Hidetoshi Odagiri: I knew you would defend those two. And I bet you had something to do with Kamoshida-sensei's arrest, too. What, he didn't want to write you a recommendation letter because you couldn't keep the delinquent in check?
Makoto Niijima: I don't have time to argue with you. I'm sure Principal Kobayakawa wish an emergency meeting with the faculty and student council members sometime today. So, if you want to defend Kamoshida, here's your chance.
Closing the messaging app, Makoto tossed the cellular device to the foot of her bed with a frustrated sigh. She lay back, staring at the ceiling, her mind swirling with thoughts and emotions as she couldn't believe Kamoshida was finally put behind bars after months of constantly abusing students. But in the back of Makoto's mind, she couldn't help but wonder who went to the police.
Makoto reached for her phone to send a quick text to Akira but was interrupted by the sound of Sae walking down the hallway. The older woman stopped before Makoto's bedroom and opened the door to peek her head inside. "Makoto, are you awake?" She asked quietly, not wanting to wake her sister if she was asleep.
"I'm awake," Makoto announced, sitting in a criss-cross position and pulling the Buchimaru plushie close to her chest. Sae opened the door and stepped inside, dressed in the same pantsuit as yesterday, letting Makoto know that the older woman hadn't come home the previous night. She also noticed Sae seemed troubled and stressed. "Morning, Sis. What's going on? Did something happen at your job?" When she didn't utter a word, Makoto added, "Is this about Kamoshida's arrest?"
Sae nodded as she walked toward Makoto's bed and sat near the girl's feet. The two sisters sat silently for what felt like an eternity until Sae stared into Makoto's eyes and asked, "Did…" She cleared her throat, "Did he ever touch you?"
Makoto thought back to when she had to apologize to Kamoshida. She could still feel his finger caressing her shoulder, but she didn't want to tell Sae that. Makoto didn't wish for Sae to feel terrible for forcing her younger sister to apologize to a now-known rapist alone. So, she lied. "No," Makoto said, shaking her head. "I've never interacted with Kamoshida before. Only saw him through passing."
Sae closed her eyes and sighed in relief as if the world was lifted from her shoulders. "And another thing… it's been stated that Kamoshida has been abusing students since he was hired, and students knew yet didn't come forward. Did you know what that man was doing to students?"
"Not at first, but recently… yes," Makoto stated, lowering her head to avoid staring Sae in the eye. She squeezed her Buchimaru plushie tighter. "It's common to hear rumors about Kamoshida while walking the hallways or hearing about them in class. They were mainly about the unusual bruises on the athletes, and when asked about them, they debunked the rumors by saying it was due to the intense training. So, the rumors went away for a while.
"Then, when Kamoshida became the head coach for the volleyball team after the track team had disbanded, the rumors started again. Like last time, it was due to the intense training. I thought it was odd because the injuries weren't from training, yet I didn't do anything. After a few months, one of my classmates quit the team for personal reasons, but now… I know her leave was because of Kamoshida. Students spread a rumor that she was in a relationship with him, and yet again, I didn't do anything."
Makoto was on the verge of tears at the thought of Akemi receiving the same punishment as Shiho.
Sae reached out and held Makoto's hand. "You don't have to continue if you don't want to. I got the gist of the situation last night. But why didn't you tell me this sooner? I would have helped."
"Because I know I'm a burden on you, and I didn't want to cause you more problems," Makoto responded honestly. "So, I pushed my sense of justice aside so my future wouldn't be at risk. And I've been feeling guilty ever since." Hot tears ran down her cheeks. "Does that make me a bad person?"
"No… that doesn't make you a bad person. You were doing what I told you." Sae reached out and pulled Makoto into a hug. "I'm sorry for constantly telling you to focus on your studies. I only wanted the best for you."
Makoto released herself from Sae's grip and smiled. "Thank you." She glanced at the time, noticing how late it was getting. If she took a shower now and left, she'd barely make it to first period. "It's getting late, and I know school will be hectic with reporters and police. I should get ready for school."
Sae nodded and stood. "Hey, I'm off this Friday, so how about we go out to eat and possibly visit Father? I'm sorry that we didn't get to do those things for your birthday."
"I would love that."