Wednesday Morning, 24th of May 2010 - O.P.U.A. Shuri-Tonokura Campus
The soft hum of strings echoed through the music hall, blending with the warm notes of a piano. Fabrizio adjusted the strap of his guitar, his fingers brushing the fretboard as he tried to focus on the chord progression in front of him. Around him, the air buzzed with a creative energy unique to the university's music department. Students were scattered in small groups, their instruments adding layers to the symphony of practice.
Across the room, Hiroto tapped on the keys of a grand piano, his usual grin plastered on his face as he worked out a jazzy variation of their assignment. Hana, perched on a nearby stool, scribbled notes into a shared sheet of music, occasionally playing her violin for inspiration.
"Alright," Hiroto called, his voice cutting through the overlapping melodies. "This bridge section's almost there. Fabrizio-kun, hit me with that G7 arpeggio you've been noodling around with."
Fabrizio nodded, enthusiasm lighting up his expression. "You got it." He strummed a lively arpeggio, his fingers flying over the fretboard with practiced ease. The sound was bright and confident, adding an upbeat flair to the piece.
Hiroto grinned, slamming a chord on the piano in time with the guitar. "That's what I'm talking about! We might actually have something here."
Hana smiled, lowering her violin as she jotted notes into their shared sheet music. "This is shaping up nicely. Fabrizio, you're on fire today."
Fabrizio chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "What can I say? It's a good day."
Hana tilted her head, giving him a knowing look. "Does this have anything to do with a certain someone whose name rhymes with—"
"Hana," Fabrizio cut her off with a playful grin, shaking his head. "I'm just in a good mood, that's all."
"Uh-huh." Hiroto raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Sure it's not because you finally confessed to Nanako and haven't stopped smiling since?"
Fabrizio shrugged, his grin widening. "Maybe. Or maybe it's just the music. Who knows?"
Hana laughed softly, picking up her violin again. "Whatever the reason, I like this version of you. Keep it up—it's contagious."
Before they could continue teasing him, their professor clapped her hands from the front of the room. "Great work today, everyone," she said, her voice cutting through the chatter. "Remember, I want drafts of your compositions by next week. No slacking!"
As the students began packing up, Hiroto slung an arm over Fabrizio's shoulder. "You know," he said, grinning, "you've got that spring in your step today. If you're not careful, someone's going to accuse you of composing a love song."
Fabrizio laughed, grabbing his guitar case. "Who says I'm not already?"
They exchanged smiles as they walked out of the music hall, the warm sunlight of the campus courtyard greeting them.
The trio strolled across the campus, weaving through clusters of students on their way to their next lesson. Hiroto carried on animatedly about the latest update in their music theory class.
"I'm telling you," Hiroto said, gesturing with a hand, "Yamamoto-sensei's idea about syncopation in modern compositions is genius. I've been trying it out in my personal stuff, and it makes everything pop."
"Yeah, but you overdo it sometimes," Hana quipped, playfully elbowing him. "Not every piece needs to sound like jazz on steroids."
"Excuse me," Hiroto said, feigning offense, "but if Mozart had a synthesizer, you know he'd be doing this too."
Fabrizio chuckled, adjusting the strap of his guitar case slung over his shoulder. "I'd pay to see that—Mozart dropping beats in the 21st century. You might be onto something, Hiroto."
The three laughed as they approached the arts building where their next classroom was located. The air was filled with a lightheartedness that only friends sharing the same creative passion could foster.
"Speaking of which," Hana said, pulling out her phone to check the time, "I hope this lesson doesn't run over. I'm starving already."
"Relax," Hiroto said, pushing open the door to their classroom. "Lunch is only an hour away. Besides, I hear they've got karaage at the cafeteria today. Your favorite."
Hana's eyes lit up. "Sold. Let's just survive this last one."
As they settled into their seats near the back, Fabrizio's phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out to see a message from Nanako, and his heart skipped a beat.
Nanako: Good morning, Fabrizio-kun. This afternoon, I'll finally find out if the rehabilitation worked and if I can come back to Naha. Fingers crossed. I can't wait to be with you again.
For a moment, the words blurred together as Fabrizio reread the message, a mix of excitement and nerves bubbling up inside him. She was so close to coming back—to being here with him. Fabrizio quickly tapped out a reply to Nanako, his fingers moving with a mix of eagerness and affection:
Fabrizio: Good morning, Nanako-chan. That's amazing news! I'll be thinking of you all afternoon. Whatever happens, remember I'm here for you, always. Can't wait to hear from you later.
He read it over once, smiled, and hit send.
"Everything okay?" Hiroto asked, leaning over to glance at Fabrizio's phone.
"Yeah," Fabrizio replied, tucking the phone back into his pocket with a small smile. "Just a message I've been waiting for."
"Must be good news," Hiroto said, grinning.
Hana looked up from her notes, a curious expression on her face. "Something you want to share?"
Fabrizio shook his head, his smile growing wider. "Maybe later, the lesson is starting."
Hiroto and Hana exchanged a glance but didn't press further. The professor walked in moments later, and the lesson began. Yet, Fabrizio's thoughts kept straying back to Nanako's message, the anticipation of her return lighting a quiet fire in his chest.
Wednesday Morning, 24th of May 2010 - Ohashi General Hospital
Nanako sat quietly in the orthopedic wing's waiting room, her crutches leaning against the wall beside her. The soft hum of fluorescent lights filled the air, punctuated by the occasional murmur of patients and staff. Next to her, Maya fidgeted with the strap of her bag, while Noto scrolled through his phone, adjusting his glasses occasionally.
Nanako's phone buzzed in her hands, and as she read the reply from Fabrizio, a radiant smile spread across her face. She felt her heart flutter, her nerves about the appointment momentarily forgotten.
Maya leaned in with a knowing grin, nudging Nanako gently. "Let me guess—it's who I think it is, isn't it?"
Nanako's cheeks flushed slightly, but her smile remained. She nodded, her voice soft but filled with warmth. "Yeah, it's him. He's rooting for me… as always."
Maya clasped her hands together dramatically. "Aww, that's so sweet! You two are like straight out of a romance novel, I swear."
Noto glanced up from his phone, raising an eyebrow. "If only you were this invested in my texts," he teased dryly, though there was a small smile tugging at his lips.
"Oh, hush," Maya retorted, sticking her tongue out playfully.
Nanako chuckled at their banter, feeling a little lighter despite the anticipation bubbling in her chest. She placed her phone back into her bag and exhaled deeply, her gaze drifting toward the door leading to the doctor's office. "I just hope today brings good news."
"You'll do great," Maya said, reaching over to give Nanako's hand a reassuring squeeze. "Whatever happens, you've come so far already."
"Exactly," Noto chimed in, adjusting his glasses. "But let's not forget—this is also the chance to hear the doctor officially say you can put up with all of us again soon."
Nanako laughed softly, her heart buoyed by their encouragement as the nurse appeared in the doorway. "Kashii Nanako? The doctor will see you now."
Taking a deep breath, Nanako grabbed her crutches, stood, and walked toward the office, her friends' support steadying her steps.
Wednesday Morning, 24th of May 2010 - Homura's study
Mitsuri sat at the wide oak desk in the study above her father's club, a gentle hum of music playing from the vintage record player in the corner. The room smelled faintly of aged wood and vanilla candles, with the sunlight filtering through the curtains, casting bright yellow streaks on the walls. Her textbooks lay open before her, equations and notes scrawled neatly across the pages, but her pencil hovered idly above the margin.
She tapped the eraser against her lip absently, her eyes drifting—not to the pages she was meant to be reviewing—but to the small fireplace across the room. On the mantel sat her old notepad, its fraying cover betraying years of use.
It was her songs notepad, stuffed with drafts, half-finished verses, and incomplete melodies. Only one song stood out among the unfinished mess—a piece titled "Goodbye Looks Good on You"—the one song she had ever truly completed.
Her chest tightened as she thought about it. That song had poured out of her one sleepless night, her feelings raw and unguarded. It had been written in the aftermath of a bad breakup with her former boyfriend, a relationship that had ended just before she left for Okinawa with her father.
The memories of that time were still vivid—the arguments, the growing distance, and the heartbreak of realizing it was over. "Goodbye Looks Good on You" had been her way of processing it all, a cathartic release of everything she couldn't say out loud.
Though the song was born from pain, there was a strange sense of peace that came with finishing it. It had marked the end of one chapter and the hesitant beginning of another, as she and her father started their new life in Okinawa.
And yet, despite the song's personal origins, she couldn't ignore how its meaning had shifted recently. Her thoughts often strayed to Fabrizio, unbidden and persistent, as if her heart was nudging her toward something new.
Mitsuri sighed, leaning back in her chair as she tried to push those thoughts away. The notepad on the mantel seemed to mock her with its presence, a reminder of everything she had left unresolved.
She'd always admired Fabrizio's passion for music, his effortless way of turning feelings into melodies. It was inspiring—and, if she was honest with herself, intimidating. She couldn't count the number of times she had watched him perform at the club, feeling a mix of awe and envy at his ability to captivate everyone in the room.
But lately, there was something else—something more complicated. Admiration had given way to something deeper, something she wasn't sure how to define.
The music on the record player shifted to a soft ballad, and Mitsuri found herself humming along, her fingers drumming against the desk in rhythm. She shook her head, trying to refocus on her studies, but her thoughts refused to settle.
"Why does he have to be so… impossible to ignore?" she murmured to herself, a faint blush creeping up her cheeks.
Her eyes darted back to the notepad, and for a fleeting moment, she thought about picking it up and flipping through its pages. Should she share her song with him? Would he understand what it meant? What she felt?
Before she could make up her mind, the soft chime of her phone broke her reverie. It was a message from her father, asking her to come down to the club in an hour to help with a delivery.
Mitsuri sighed, shaking off her thoughts as she closed her textbook. But as she stood and cast one last glance at the notepad, a quiet determination stirred within her.
"Maybe one day," she whispered, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. Then, with a deep breath, she left the study, leaving the notepad—and her feelings—behind, at least for now.
Mitsuri descended the narrow staircase that connected the study to the club below, the muffled sounds of the bustling city seeping through the walls. The rhythmic clatter of glasses and soft hum of voices from the staff preparing for the evening's crowd filtered up as she reached the main floor.
Her father, Homura-san, stood behind the bar, inspecting a fresh shipment of spirits. His sharp eyes softened when he saw her approach.
"Ah, Mitsuri-chan, there you are," he greeted, setting down a bottle of whiskey. "I need your help organizing these. We're trying a new layout, and I trust your sense of order."
"Of course, Papa," she replied, rolling up the sleeves of her sweater.
The two worked in companionable silence, arranging bottles and jotting down inventory notes. But Mitsuri's mind wandered back to the notepad upstairs, her fingers itching to pick it up again.
As if sensing her distraction, her father glanced at her. "Something on your mind, darling?"
She hesitated, not wanting to admit the real reason for her wandering thoughts. "Just… balancing my studies and everything else. It's a lot."
Homura nodded knowingly. "Ah, the life of a student and an artist. You remind me of your mother, always trying to balance her passions and responsibilities. She always said it was about finding harmony, not perfection."
Mitsuri smiled softly. Her mother's words always carried a weight of wisdom, even years after her passing.
As they continued working, the faint sound of a guitar drifted in from outside. Mitsuri paused, her ears perking up at the familiar chords. She walked to the entrance and peeked out onto the street.
A young musician was performing just across the road, their soulful voice and strumming guitar drawing a small crowd. Mitsuri couldn't help but smile as she watched the performer pour their heart into the music. It reminded her of Fabrizio—his passion, his presence, the way he seemed to disappear into his melodies and take everyone listening with him.
Homura came up behind her, resting a hand on her shoulder. "Street performers bring life to the city, don't they? Reminds us that music isn't just for grand stages but for the people."
Mitsuri nodded, but her thoughts lingered on Fabrizio. She felt a tug in her chest, the urge to pick up her own guitar and play, to finish the songs she had left incomplete.
Her father seemed to read her thoughts. "You've been quiet lately, Mitsuri-chan. Is there something—or someone—on your mind?"
Her cheeks flushed, and she quickly shook her head. "It's nothing, Papa. Just… the usual."
Homura gave her a knowing smile but didn't press further. "Well, if it's the usual, then I'm sure it will sort itself out. Just remember, music is the voice of the heart. Don't be afraid to listen to what it's trying to say."
As he walked back to the bar, Mitsuri leaned against the doorframe, watching the street performer wrap up their song. The small crowd clapped enthusiastically, and the musician bowed in gratitude.
She took a deep breath, her resolve strengthening. Maybe it was time to finish what she had started. Maybe it was time to let her music speak.
And maybe—just maybe—she could ask Fabrizio for help.
Wednesday Midday, 24th of May 2010 - O.P.U.A. Shuri-Tonokura Campus
Fabrizio leaned against the wall outside the classroom, the cool can of coke in his hand dripping with condensation. The professor had called for a short break, and the small group of students had taken the chance to step outside and stretch their legs.
Hana was chatting animatedly with Hiroto and a guy from their class, a cheerful second-year named Akihiko. They were deep in discussion about their upcoming composition projects, Akihiko gesturing wildly as he described an ambitious orchestral piece he was planning.
Fabrizio, meanwhile, took a long sip from his coke, savoring the fizzy sweetness that quenched the dryness in his throat.
"Ambitious much, Aki-kun?" Hiroto teased, leaning back with a grin. "You do realize we only have three weeks for this project, right? Not three years."
Akihiko waved him off with a laugh. "Details, details. Greatness doesn't adhere to deadlines!"
"Right," Fabrizio interjected, smirking as he tilted his can toward Akihiko. "And when you're drowning in sheet music and sleepless nights, remember this moment, maestro."
The group chuckled, and Hana nudged Fabrizio playfully with her elbow. "Says the guy who basically lives on no sleep and last-minute inspiration. You're not exactly one to talk!"
"Hey!" Fabrizio held up a hand in mock protest. "Last-minute genius still counts as genius, thank you very much."
As the teasing continued, Fabrizio felt a subtle, almost imperceptible sensation—a warmth in his chest, like a faint pull, as though a distant thought or feeling had brushed against him.
It wasn't something he could easily explain, but it was there—a gentle stirring deep within, as if someone far away was thinking of him.
His grip on the coke can tightened slightly, and his smile wavered for just a moment before he forced it back into place.
"Yo, Fabrizio-kun, earth to Fabrizio!" Hiroto's voice snapped him back to the present, and he turned to see his friend waving a hand in front of his face.
"What?" Fabrizio blinked, masking his momentary distraction with a playful shrug.
"You zoned out," Hana said, narrowing her eyes at him with mock suspicion. "Thinking of your next masterpiece, or something else?"
"Neither," Fabrizio replied with a chuckle, raising his can again. "Just thinking about how bad Hiroto's gonna butcher his project. I can already hear the chaos."
Hiroto feigned offense, clutching his chest dramatically. "I'll have you know, my project will be a masterpiece of dissonance!"
The group laughed again, and the moment passed without anyone noticing the quiet shift in Fabrizio's demeanor. But as the break came to an end and they made their way back into the classroom, the subtle feeling lingered, tucked away in a corner of Fabrizio's heart—unseen, but undeniably present.
Wednesday Midday, 24th of May 2010 - Ohashi General Hospital
Nanako sat on the examination table, her legs dangling nervously as she glanced around the pristine white office. The faint scent of antiseptic lingered in the air, and the sound of muffled conversations drifted through the door. Her heart raced, the anticipation of the results making her palms clammy.
On the desk across from her sat the x-rays the doctor had taken earlier, their opaque, ghostly images tilted slightly in the light. Every second felt like an eternity.
As Nanako's hands fidgeted with the hem of her sweater, she suddenly felt a warm hand rest on hers. She turned her head to see Maya sitting beside her, her expression soft but steady.
"It's going to be okay, Nanako-chan," Maya said gently, her voice calm and reassuring. "No matter what the doctor says, you've come so far. And we're all here for you."
Nanako swallowed hard, her nerves settling slightly at Maya's touch. She managed a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Maya-chan. I don't know what I'd do without you."
Maya squeezed her hand and leaned closer. "You'd do just fine. You're one of the strongest people I know. But luckily for you, you don't have to go through this alone."
Before Nanako could respond, the door creaked open, and the doctor stepped in, a folder in hand. His face was professional, as always, but there was a subtle crease in his brow that made Nanako's stomach twist into knots.
"Good afternoon, Nanako-san," he greeted her, his voice measured as he closed the door behind him and walked to his desk.
Nanako nodded, her hands tightening around Maya's. "Good afternoon, Doctor."
The doctor set the folder down and flipped it open, glancing briefly at the contents before turning his attention to her. He took a breath, his expression softening as he spoke.
"Well, I've reviewed your x-rays and the progress notes from your rehabilitation team," he began, his tone gentle but deliberate. "The good news is that there's been improvement. Your leg is healing, and the therapy is making a difference."
Nanako felt a brief flicker of hope but held her breath, sensing there was more.
"However," the doctor continued, his voice tinged with regret, "it's progressing slower than we had hoped. At this stage, I can't clear you for travel back to Naha just yet. We'll need at least another two weeks of intensive therapy to ensure your leg is stable enough for everyday activity without risking a setback."
The words hit Nanako like a weight. Another week. Another delay. Her shoulders slumped slightly, and she bit her lip to keep from tearing up.
"I know it's not the news you were hoping for," the doctor added, his gaze empathetic. "But I want to ensure you're fully ready before you return to your normal routine. You've made great progress so far—don't lose sight of that."
Nanako sat in silence as the doctor's words replayed in her mind. Two more weeks. Her chest tightened at the thought of another delay. She took a deep breath, willing herself to stay strong.
After finalizing her next appointment, she and Maya exited the doctor's office. The quiet hallway of the orthopedic wing felt heavier now, each step echoing the weight of her disappointment. As they reached the waiting room, Noto stood up, his hands in his pockets.
"How did it go?" he asked, his usual casual tone softening as he looked between the two girls.
Nanako didn't respond. She kept her head down, avoiding his gaze, her fingers fiddling with the strap of her bag.
Noto's expression shifted as realization dawned. "Not great, huh?"
Maya stepped in, her tone even but laced with concern. "The doctor said her leg is healing, but… it's slower than expected. She needs two more weeks of therapy before she's cleared to travel."
Noto adjusted his glasses and nodded, his voice steady. "Two weeks isn't so bad. It'll pass by in a flash." He crouched slightly to meet Nanako's downcast eyes, offering her a small, encouraging smile. "You've come this far, Nanako-chan. What's two more weeks? You'll be back with everyone before you know it."
Nanako forced a faint smile but didn't say anything. The weight of the delay still pressed heavily on her, and she could feel tears threatening to escape.
Noto scratched the back of his neck, looking at Maya with a silent plea to help. Maya, perceptive as always, narrowed her eyes thoughtfully.
She needs something… or rather, someone to lift her spirits.
Without saying a word, Maya subtly slipped her phone from her pocket, turning slightly away from Nanako and Noto. She scrolled through her contacts until she found Fabrizio's name.
If anyone can cheer her up, it's him.
She quickly typed out a message:
Maya: Hey, Fabrizio-kun. Nanako just found out she has to stay here for two more weeks for rehab. She's really down… Think you could call or text her? I think hearing from you would help.
Maya hit send, glancing over her shoulder.
Nanako was still quiet, lost in thought, absently fiddling with the hem of her sleeve.
Maya slipped her phone back into her pocket, a small smirk tugging at her lips.
"Come on, let's get out of here," Maya said, nudging Nanako gently. "Fresh air will do you good."
Noto nodded in agreement. "Yeah, maybe we can grab something sweet. Sugar always helps with bad news."
Nanako offered a half-hearted smile, unaware that Maya had quietly set something in motion that might just brighten her day.
Wednesday Midday, 24th of May 2010 - O.P.U.A. Shuri-Tonokura Campus
The warm buzz of conversation filled the university cafeteria, mingling with the clatter of trays and the distant hum of vending machines. Fabrizio sat at a table near the window, sunlight casting soft patterns across his half-eaten sandwich.
Hana was seated to his right, carefully picking at a salad while flipping through notes, and Hiroto sat across from them, already halfway through his meal. Beside Hiroto was Akihiko, a second-year student with striking raven-black hair and an easy charm in his demeanor. He leaned back casually in his chair, sipping on a bottled tea as he listened in on the group's chatter.
"So, Aki-kun," Hiroto began between bites, "you're still planning to submit that piece for the winter recital, right?"
Akihiko chuckled, brushing a strand of hair from his eyes. "Maybe. But after hearing Hana-chan's performance today, I might need to rethink my entire composition."
Hana rolled her eyes, though a faint blush crept up her cheeks. "Oh, stop it. You know you're good."
While the conversation flowed, Fabrizio had his head bowed over Ryuuji's worn notebook, slowly flipping through the pages. Each one was filled with handwritten lyrics—raw, emotional love songs.
Some verses were crossed out, others circled or underlined, with little notes scribbled in the margins: "Too cliché?" or "Needs more impact."
Fabrizio's eyes lingered on one particular set of unfinished lyrics. The words carried a quiet vulnerability that made him pause.
"I reach for the sun, but shadows cling to me…"
He ran his fingers lightly over the words, feeling the weight of them.
Man… Ryuuji-kun really poured his heart into this.
As he flipped another page, his phone buzzed on the table, vibrating softly against the wood.
Fabrizio glanced at the screen. It was a message from Maya.
Maya: Hey, Fabrizio-kun. Nanako just found out she has to stay in rehab for two more weeks. She's really down right now… Think you could reach out to her? I know it'd mean a lot.
Fabrizio froze for a moment, the noise of the cafeteria dulling in his ears.
"Something wrong?" Hana asked, looking up from her notes.
Fabrizio blinked, then shook his head slightly. "Uh, no. Just a message from Maya."
Hiroto leaned forward. "Maya-chan? What's going on?"
Fabrizio hesitated for a second before exhaling. "Nanako's rehab got extended by two more weeks."
"Oh…" Hana's expression softened. "Poor Nanako-chan. She must be so frustrated."
Akihiko tilted his head curiously. "Nanako? Your girlfriend?"
Fabrizio's face heated up slightly, but he chuckled. "Something like that."
Akihiko grinned. "Tough break. Being apart must suck."
Fabrizio didn't answer right away. His thumb hovered over his keyboard.
Finally, he typed:
Fabrizio: Thanks for letting me know, Maya-chan. I'll talk to her.
But even after sending the message, Fabrizio didn't move. His eyes drifted back to Ryuuji's notebook.
"I reach for the sun, but shadows cling to me…"
He shut the notebook slowly, leaning back in his chair with a thoughtful look.
"You gonna text her?" Hiroto asked, breaking the silence.
Fabrizio gave a small smile, staring at his phone for a moment longer.
"Yeah," he murmured, but his mind was already racing with thoughts of Nanako.
Still, as much as he wanted to cheer her up, a strange restlessness tugged at him.
Maybe a text won't be enough this time.
The midday sun hung high over the campus, casting a soft golden hue across the university grounds. Students scattered across the main square, some lounging on benches, others chatting in small groups. The faint sound of water trickling from the central fountain blended with distant laughter and the rustling of leaves.
Fabrizio, Hiroto, Hana, and Akihiko strolled leisurely into the square after finishing their lunch.
Akihiko stretched his arms lazily, letting out a satisfied sigh. "Man, that hit the spot. But I've got a second-year seminar starting soon. Catch you guys later?"
Fabrizio gave him a nod. "Yeah, we'll meet you after the afternoon classes."
Akihiko flashed a quick grin, adjusting the strap of his bag. "Don't miss me too much."
"Yeah, yeah," Hiroto waved him off. "Go learn something for once."
Chuckling, Akihiko turned and made his way across the square, disappearing into the stream of students heading toward the lecture halls.
"Man, I could use a nap," Hiroto mumbled, rubbing the back of his neck. He glanced at a wide tree near the fountain, its branches casting a cool shade. "That looks perfect."
Before anyone could respond, he was already heading over, dropping his bag by the tree and sprawling out beneath it.
Hana shook her head with a small smile. "Typical."
Her phone buzzed, and after glancing at the screen, she looked up. "I'm gonna go meet Mai, Yukina, and Yukari by the fountain. You good here?"
Fabrizio raised a hand lazily. "Yeah, go ahead."
"Try not to brood too hard," she teased, making her way toward the girls chatting by the water.
Left on his own, Fabrizio slowly made his way to the fountain and sat on its cool stone edge. The soft splash of water filled the air, mingling with the sounds of campus life.
He reached into his bag and pulled out Ryuuji's notebook, its worn cover rough beneath his fingers.
Let's see what else you've got in here, Ryuuji.
He flipped through the pages, eyes skimming over various lyrics, some half-finished, others scratched out entirely. Then, about halfway through, something caught his eye.
A title.
"Stop Pretending Like We're Just Friends"
The lyrics barely filled half the page, but they were raw and unfinished.
...
Remember your apartment when you said
You don't wanna waste any more time
On let downs or heart breaks
Now we're day drunk in the back seat of a taxi
And you're telling me you wanna kiss me
But we shouldn't 'cause we're just friends
Maybe we could go get lost tonight
At least we'd know that we gave it a try
So why don't we go out and get a drink in the west end
Smoke a cigarette and talk shit about exes
Take a couples shots and see where the night ends
Stop pretending like we're just friends
...
The words struck harder than he expected. He thought back to all those moments—how Yukina teased Nanako with knowing smirks, how Yukari would roll her eyes when he and Nanako denied anything was going on. Hiroto casually hinting at it, Hana outright telling him to stop pretending.
"Stop pretending like we're just friends."
And now, after finally breaking through that invisible wall between them, they had to be apart for two more weeks.
He shut the notebook softly, his fingers tightening on its cover.
His chest tightened with that familiar, restless energy again.
What am I doing?
Then it clicked.
He quickly reached into his pocket, pulling out his phone.
I need to call her.
Without another thought, Fabrizio tapped Nanako's contact and brought the phone to his ear.
It rang once. Twice.
His heart pounded in his chest.
"Come on, pick up..."
Wednesday Afternoon, 24th of May 2010 - Ohashi Riverside
The soft hum of the city surrounded them as Nanako sat on a bench along the riverside, halfheartedly licking at a slowly melting ice cream cone. The gentle breeze off the water did little to lift her mood. Maya and Noto sat on either side of her, quietly giving her space to process the doctor's news.
Nanako sighed, her gaze distant as she watched the ripples on the river.
Maya, trying to lighten the mood, took an exaggerated bite of her own ice cream. "You know, sulking doesn't make the ice cream taste any better."
Nanako gave a small, half-hearted smile but didn't respond.
Then, suddenly, Nanako's phone vibrated in her lap, cutting through the quiet.
Fabrizio Calling
Her breath caught in her throat.
Her grip on the phone tightened.
Seeing the name on the screen, Nanako's stomach twisted into knots.
Maya leaned over, pretending to peek. "Oh? Wonder who that could be?" she teased softly, although her eyes sparkled knowingly.
Nanako's thumb hovered over the accept button, but she hesitated. "I… I don't know if I should answer."
Noto glanced at her, his brows furrowing. "Why not?"
Nanako stared at the screen, the ringing continuing. "I… I don't want to tell him. About the delay. He's been waiting for me to come back and now… two more weeks?"
Maya nudged her shoulder gently. "Nanako, come on. He called you. That's something. Don't let this eat you up."
"But—"
"No buts!" Maya insisted with a grin, her tone playful but firm. "Do you really think Fabrizio would be upset with you over something you can't control?"
Nanako bit her lip. The phone was still ringing.
"Besides," Maya added casually, leaning back, "maybe he called because he misses you. Or maybe… because he wants to hear your voice."
Nanako's cheeks flushed slightly.
Finally, with a shaky breath, she swiped to answer and slowly brought the phone to her ear.
"...Hello?"
There was a pause, then Fabrizio's warm voice came through, light and full of energy.
"Nanako-chan! Hey, I wasn't sure if you'd pick up."
Her heart fluttered at the sound of his voice.
"H-Hey, Fabrizio-kun…" she murmured.
"You, uh… already finished at the hospital, right? I figured you might need someone to talk to."
Nanako's throat tightened, but Maya gave her a reassuring nod.
"…Yeah. I just got out."
Fabrizio's tone softened immediately. "How did it go?"
Nanako glanced at Maya, then at Noto. She took a deep breath.
"It… didn't go as I hoped. The doctor said I need two more weeks of rehab before I can come back."
The other end of the line went quiet for a moment. Nanako's heart thudded in her chest.
Then Fabrizio let out a soft chuckle and spoke, his voice steady and calm. "Two weeks, huh? Well… that's not so bad."
Nanako blinked. "You're… not upset?"
"Of course not," Fabrizio said without missing a beat. "I want you to be okay. Besides, it'll make seeing you again even better."
Her cheeks flushed a soft pink. Maya and Noto watched in silence, sharing a small glance as Nanako's shoulders finally relaxed.
"Thank you," Nanako whispered, a genuine smile finally tugging at her lips.
"Anytime," Fabrizio replied, his voice softer now. "Talk to me when you feel like it, alright?"
Nanako nodded, even though he couldn't see it. "Okay."
They stayed on the line for a few more moments, neither wanting to hang up just yet.
Eventually, Fabrizio chuckled. "Alright, I'll let you go. I'll talk to you soon."
"Yeah… talk to you soon." The call ended.
Nanako lowered the phone slowly, a lingering smile on her face. For the first time since leaving the doctor's office, she felt lighter.
Maya smirked, licking her ice cream. "See? Told you it wasn't the end of the world."
Noto stretched lazily. "I'd say that went well. Now, how about we actually enjoy this afternoon?"
Nanako smiled softly, her fingers still brushing over her phone. "…Yeah. Let's do that."
Wednesday Afternoon, 24th of May 2010 - O.P.U.A. Shuri-Tonokura Campus
Fabrizio slowly lowered his phone, the soft click of the screen locking echoed faintly in the warm afternoon air. A small, content smile lingered on his face as he stared ahead at nothing in particular, letting Nanako's voice replay in his mind.
He let out a quiet sigh, stretching his arms overhead.
"Two weeks… I can wait."
Pocketing his phone, Fabrizio pushed himself up from the edge of the fountain, dusting off his jeans.
Not far away, Hiroto was still sprawled under the tree, arms crossed behind his head, eyes half-closed. Hana stood near the fountain, chatting casually with Mai, Yukina, and Yukari.
Fabrizio made his way over, giving Hiroto a playful nudge with his foot.
"Nap time's over, man. We've got class."
Hiroto groaned but lazily pushed himself up. "Ugh, already?"
"Come on, let's go before we're late."
Hana turned to them as Mai, Yukina, and Yukari waved goodbye and headed off. She fell into step beside Fabrizio and Hiroto as they began walking toward the classroom building.
"So…" Hana started, glancing sideways at Fabrizio, "what did Nanako-chan say?"
Fabrizio rubbed the back of his neck, his smile softening. "What Maya-chan has anticipated to me by message. She's got to stay in rehab for two more weeks. The doctor says she's healing slower than expected."
Hiroto let out a low whistle. "That sucks… bet she's pretty down about it."
Fabrizio nodded. "Yeah, she sounded… disappointed. But I told her it's okay. I mean, it's only two weeks."
Hana tilted her head, a thoughtful look crossing her face.
"Hmm… but are you really okay with waiting?" she asked, her tone light but curious.
Fabrizio blinked. "Huh? What do you mean?"
Hana smirked.
"Well, think about it. You've been waiting to tell her how you feel for weeks. Now you've got to wait even longer. But, technically…"—she gave him a sideways glance—"no one's stopping you from going to see her instead."
Fabrizio slowed his steps for a moment, processing her words.
Hiroto raised an eyebrow. "Huh. She's got a point. Classes are pretty light this week. And next week's practically free with the break."
Hana crossed her arms. "Exactly. You could surprise her. Imagine how happy she'd be if you just showed up."
Fabrizio rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Go all the way to Ohashi, huh?"
Hana grinned. "Why not? Maybe the change of scenery would help. And…" she added with a wink, "I think Nanako would love that more than any phone call or text message."
Fabrizio chuckled, shaking his head. "You two make it sound so easy."
Hiroto smirked. "Because it is. You're always saying how much you miss her. So… why not stop waiting?"
Fabrizio fell quiet for a moment, then let out a breathy laugh. "Maybe you're right."
Hana beamed. "Of course I am!"
Fabrizio grinned as they reached the classroom door. "Alright. Let's get through this class first. Then I'll think about it."
Hiroto clapped him on the back. "Now that's the spirit!"
They stepped into the lecture hall, the chatter of students filling the space.
But even as Fabrizio took his seat, his mind wasn't on the lesson. The idea was already forming.
"Maybe I shouldn't wait after all."
The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow through the tall windows of the lecture hall, painting golden streaks across the walls. The steady hum of pens scribbling notes and the soft clicking of laptop keys gradually faded as the professor closed his notebook with a soft thud.
"Alright, everyone," the professor's calm voice echoed, drawing the class's attention. "That will be all for today. We'll reconvene in two weeks for the final three lessons. Use the break wisely."
The quiet chatter of students filled the room as chairs scraped against the floor and bags rustled.
Fabrizio stretched his arms above his head, letting out a satisfied sigh.
"Finally!" Hiroto groaned, slinging his bag over his shoulder. "I thought this day would never end."
Hana chuckled as she gathered her violin case. "Come on, it wasn't that bad."
As the trio moved toward the exit with the steady flow of students, a firm voice called out from the front of the room.
"Calafiori-san, could I have a moment?"
Fabrizio paused mid-step, blinking in surprise. "Uh… yeah, sure Sensei."
Hiroto gave him a curious glance. "What'd you do this time?"
Fabrizio shot him a look. "Very funny."
"I'll wait outside," Hana offered with a small smile, nudging Hiroto toward the door.
Adjusting the strap of his bag, Fabrizio weaved through the dispersing students toward the professor's desk.
As he approached, the professor—a middle-aged man with sharp features softened by kind eyes—offered a reassuring smile.
"Please don't worry, Calafiori-san. This isn't anything serious."
Fabrizio straightened his posture, his tone more composed. "Of course, Sensei. How can I help you?"
The professor leaned forward slightly, folding his hands neatly on the desk.
"I wanted to ask on behalf of a colleague — Takeda-sensei from the Art Department. He mentioned that Miss Nanako Kashii has been absent from his classes for some time and was concerned. Do you happen to know why?"
Fabrizio's expression softened with understanding.
"Yes, Sensei. Nanako had an accident some time ago and sustained a leg injury. She's currently undergoing rehabilitation, but her recovery is progressing more slowly than expected. That's why she hasn't been able to attend her courses."
The professor nodded thoughtfully, his expression sympathetic.
"I see. That must be difficult for her. Please let her know that we're all hoping for her swift recovery. She's a dedicated student, and it would be unfortunate for her to fall behind."
Fabrizio gave a small, respectful bow of his head. "Thank you, Sensei. I'll be sure to pass along your kind words."
"Very well. That will be all, Calafiori-san." the professor gave a small nod of dismissal.
"Thank you, sir."
Gathering his thoughts, Fabrizio turned and headed for the door.
As he stepped out into the cool evening air, he spotted Hana and Hiroto waiting near the steps of the building.
"Took you long enough," Hiroto teased, arms crossed.
Fabrizio rolled his eyes. "Sensei just wanted to check in about Nanako. Apparently, her art professor was wondering why she's been absent."
Hana tilted her head, a soft smile on her lips. "Well, it's nice that they're thinking of her."
Fabrizio exhaled, watching the sky begin to shift into hues of orange and purple. "Yeah… it is."
As they reached the university gates, the setting sun bathed the campus in warm shades of amber and gold. Students moved in small groups, laughing and chatting as they made their way home or to evening plans.
Hiroto stretched, letting out a satisfied sigh. "Finally done. I need a break from all this music theory."
Hana giggled, nudging him playfully. "Oh please, you were practically napping through half of it."
Hiroto grinned. "Guilty as charged."
Fabrizio smiled at their banter but slowed his pace.
"Hey, I'm gonna head out now," he said casually, adjusting the strap of his bag.
"See you tomorrow!" Hana added warmly.
Fabrizio gave them a small wave as they turned to leave. "Enjoy your night."
With that, he started the familiar walk back to his apartment. The streets of Naha were quieter now, the buzz of the city softening as the sky darkened. The cool breeze carried the scent of the sea, mingling with the distant chatter of people unwinding for the evening.
Wednesday Late Afternoon, 24th of May 2010 - Apartment's courtyard
It wasn't long before Fabrizio reached his apartment complex. He paused at the entrance of the courtyard, his footsteps slowing as memories surfaced.
It was here—right in this quiet, flower-lined courtyard—that he first saw Nanako.
He could still picture it vividly: himself standing on his balcony, staring at the sky after waking from a restless dream of Clara. Down below, Nanako was quietly admiring the flowers, completely absorbed in their delicate beauty.
Their eyes had met for the first time then.
A simple glance.
A silent nod.
Two strangers acknowledging each other before quietly turning away.
Now, standing in the same spot, Fabrizio's gaze drifted up toward Nanako's apartment.
Dark.
No light glowed from the windows.
An unsettling stillness.
"Ah, Fabrizio-kun!" A soft, familiar voice pulled him from his thoughts.
Turning slightly, Fabrizio saw the apartment's landlord, Mrs. Miyabi, standing near the entrance. The elderly woman, with her silver hair neatly pinned up and a floral-patterned apron over her clothes, carried a small basket of freshly picked flowers. Her kind eyes crinkled with a warm smile.
"Good evening, Miyabi-sama," Fabrizio greeted politely, offering a small bow.
She chuckled softly. "Oh, such good manners! But I was just wondering…" She leaned in slightly, lowering her voice in that conspiratorial way elders often did. "Where is that lovely girl I always saw with you? The pretty one with the sweet smile… what was her name again? Natsuki-chan?"
Fabrizio blinked, then smiled gently. "Nanako, obāsan. She's back home for a while, but she'll be back soon."
Mrs. Takahashi's eyes lit up. "Ah, Nanako! Yes, yes. Such a polite girl. I do hope to see her again soon." She paused, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "You two are such good friends, aren't you? Always so close. It's nice to see young people getting along these days."
Fabrizio chuckled softly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah… good friends."
Mrs. Miyabi beamed. "Well, when she returns, tell her I'll have some of my plum jam ready for her. She seemed to like it last time."
"I will. Thank you, Miyabi-sama."
She nodded, giving a small wave before shuffling off, humming to herself.
Fabrizio watched her disappear around the corner, the brief exchange leaving a bittersweet warmth in his chest.
His gaze slowly drifted back up to Nanako's darkened window.
Fabrizio exhaled slowly, the weight of the emptiness pressing against his chest.
"I'll see you soon," he murmured under his breath, as if she could hear him.
He turned away and quietly made his way inside, the quiet rustle of the trees the only sound accompanying him.
Wednesday Evening, 24th of May 2010 - Club Homura
Mitsuri stood behind the bar, meticulously wiping down a row of freshly washed beer mugs. The rhythmic motion of the cloth against the glass was almost therapeutic, but her mind was elsewhere. The club, though still quiet, carried an electric anticipation as preparations for the night were well underway.
She picked up another mug, holding it up against the light to inspect it, when the familiar sound of heavy footsteps approached.
Her father, Mister Homura, walked past with his usual commanding presence, issuing instructions to the staff as he moved.
"Oi, Papa," Mitsuri called out, setting the mug down on the counter.
Mister Homura halted mid-stride, turning towards her with a raised brow. "What is it, Mitsuri-chan?"
She hesitated for a moment, then crossed her arms, feigning nonchalance. "Is Fabrizio-kun performing tonight?" she asked, keeping her voice steady despite the slight tightness in her chest.
Her father studied her for a moment, then nodded. "Yeah, he is. Said he'd be here around eight to do soundcheck. Why?"
Mitsuri shrugged, returning to wiping the last mug in her stack. "No reason. Just wondering."
Mister Homura smirked knowingly but didn't press further. "He always brings a crowd. You should stick around and watch. Maybe you'll learn a thing or two."
Mitsuri rolled her eyes. "Yeah, yeah," she muttered, but deep down, the thought of hearing Fabrizio play again stirred something inside her.
With a grunt of approval, her father moved on, leaving her alone once more behind the counter. She stared down at the row of clean mugs, her reflection faint in the glass.
"Just wondering, huh..." she muttered under her breath, unable to shake the slight smile tugging at her lips.
Later that evening, the club was alive with the low hum of conversation and the occasional clatter of glassware as the staff bustled about, making final preparations for the night. Mitsuri stood behind the bar, wiping down the smooth countertop with steady, practiced motions. The warm glow of the overhead lights reflected softly off the polished wood, but her attention drifted elsewhere.
On stage, Fabrizio had arrived and was setting up for his performance, tuning his guitar with careful precision. The familiar twang of the strings echoed through the club as he played a few chords, testing the sound. Slowly, the melody shifted into a classical Okinawan tune—soft, nostalgic, and full of warmth.
As he played, his gaze lifted, scanning the room absently, until his eyes landed on Mitsuri. She was standing behind the bar, her hands idly working on a glass, but what caught him off guard was the soft smile on her face. It wasn't the usual playful smirk she threw his way; it was... different. Quieter. Almost wistful.
Mitsuri leaned lightly against the counter, letting a small smile play on her lips as she watched him. There was something about the way he played, a quiet sincerity in every note. She'd seen him perform countless times before, but tonight... something felt different. He seemed lighter, his shoulders less burdened than usual.
Nanako, she thought, the name surfacing effortlessly. It wasn't hard to figure out why Fabrizio seemed so at ease. She had noticed the way he checked his phone earlier, the way his face softened whenever he talked about her. Mitsuri sighed quietly, her eyes tracing the way Fabrizio's brow furrowed slightly in concentration.
Fabrizio's fingers momentarily faltered on the strings, curiosity stirring in his chest. Why is she looking at me like that? he wondered.
Before he could dwell on it further, the vibration of his phone on the stool beside him snapped him out of his thoughts.
He paused, setting his guitar down, and picked up the phone to check the message. It was from Maya.
Maya: Hey Fabrizio-kun! Just wanted to say thanks again for calling Nanako-chan. You have no idea how much that meant to her. She was smiling the whole afternoon! You're the best!
A small smile tugged at Fabrizio's lips as he read the message. The thought of Nanako smiling, even after the bad news, made the distance between them feel a little less heavy.
He quickly typed a reply.
Fabrizio: No need to thank me, Maya-chan. I'm just glad she's feeling better. Tell her I love her and that I'm counting the days.
It's her, Mitsuri guessed, and though she couldn't see the screen, she knew that look all too well—the gentle happiness, the kind that comes when you hear from someone you care about.
She kept wiping down the bar, but her gaze lingered on him for a moment longer. You're really into her, huh, Fabrizio? she mused, feeling a small pang deep inside that she couldn't quite place. Not jealousy—no, not exactly. More like a distant longing, an ache she had pushed aside for too long.
Fabrizio set his phone down and glanced in her direction, catching her off guard. Their eyes met for a fleeting moment, and Mitsuri quickly masked whatever emotion had been flickering in her eyes with an easy nod and a casual turn back to her work.
"Careful, Mitsuri," she murmured under her breath, stacking the last of the mugs. "You're staring too much."
Shaking his head with a quiet chuckle, Fabrizio adjusted his mic stand and strummed another chord, pushing aside the distractions. Tonight, it was just him and his music—and maybe a little bit of Nanako in his heart.
The soft notes resonated through the club, weaving their way into Mitsuri's thoughts as she busied herself with napkins and condiments.
For now, she pushed everything else aside and let herself enjoy the music. A soft chuckle escaped her lips, barely audible over the melody, as if laughing at her own wandering thoughts.
Wednesday Evening, 24th of May 2010 - Ami's House
Nanako stood at the kitchen island, carefully slicing tomatoes for the salad while Ryuuji focused on preparing the main dish. Ami leaned against the counter, casually sipping a glass of juice, her gaze shifting between the two with a playful smile.
The kitchen smelled like herbs and fresh vegetables, a calming scent that reminded her of the comfort of being surrounded by friends.
"Hey, Nanako-chan," Ami called from the stove, her back turned as she stirred a pot. "Do you think you'd ever want to go somewhere other than Okinawa, when you graduate from university? Maybe move to Tokyo or even... somewhere else entirely?"
Nanako smiled at the thought, pausing for a moment to think. "I think it's too soon to talk about that," she said softly, her eyes distant for a second.
"But if I had to choose... even though I love living in Okinawa, the idea of moving somewhere else excites me. Tokyo would be amazing... or maybe even somewhere entirely different. I guess... it depends on what the future holds." She smiled, her thoughts drifting for a moment.
"And if someone like Fabrizio-kun is involved, well... that could make anywhere feel like home." Her voice softened at the mention of his name, a mix of warmth and uncertainty in her tone.
"You know," Ami teased, "it's so obvious, Nanako. I'm happy for you, really. I think you and Fabrizio-kun would make a great pair, wherever you end up."
Nanako blushed a little, cutting another tomato, but she couldn't help the small, warm smile that crept onto her face. "Maybe, but... we'll see," she murmured, trying to play it cool, but her heart betrayed her.
Ami chuckled again. "You're hopeless," she said, teasing her friend lovingly. "Just admit it already."
Nanako's smile widened as she playfully swatted Ami's arm. "I guess we'll just have to wait and see how things turn out."
The conversation flowed easily, transitioning to their plans for the rest of the week. Nanako finished preparing the salad, and the two continued to chat about everything from their favorite dishes to university classes and little bits of life in between.
As Ami set a pot of rice to boil, Nanako's thoughts drifted for a brief moment, the feeling of being far from Fabrizio still lingering in the back of her mind. She couldn't help but wonder what he was doing, how his day had gone. Even though they were miles apart, the connection between them felt just as strong.
"Do you think Fabrizio-kun will be performing tonight?" Ami's voice brought her back to the present, a casual question that made Nanako pause, her hand hovering over the knife.
"He probably is," Nanako answered with a small smile, "I think he is already at the club"
Ami paused, looking over her shoulder at Nanako with a mischievous glint in her eye. "Well, why don't we get a front-row seat, then?"
Nanako raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"
Ami smirked, already pulling out her phone from her pocket. "I'm thinking a little video call. That way, we can watch his performance together, even if we're stuck here in Ohashi."
Nanako's eyes widened, her face lighting up. "You're serious? I could actually watch him perform?"
Ami nodded, tapping away at her phone. "Why not? You two are basically connected through the phone anyway. We just need to ask him if it's okay. What do you think?"
Nanako laughed softly, feeling the excitement building inside her. "I think that sounds perfect. I'd love to see him perform... even if it's not in person."
With that, Ami dialed Fabrizio's number, sending him a quick message to ask if he was up for a little video call during his set. The idea of hearing his voice, of seeing him perform even from afar, filled Nanako with a warmth she hadn't expected. She was eager to hear the sound of his guitar, to share that little piece of his world, even if only for a brief moment.
As they waited for a response, Nanako couldn't help but smile, her heart fluttering slightly at the thought of seeing him again, even if it was through a screen.
Wednesday Evening, 24th of May 2010 - Club Homura
The warm glow of the stage lights cast long shadows across the club as Fabrizio stood behind the curtain, adjusting the strap of his guitar. The low hum of conversation filled the room, blending with the occasional clink of glasses and the distant rhythm of the club's background music. He took a deep breath, his fingers lightly strumming the strings in a soft, idle melody while he waited to be called on stage.
Just as he was about to step forward, the familiar vibration of his phone buzzed in his pocket. Curious, he pulled it out and saw a message from Ami:
Ami: Hey Fabrizio-kun! Nanako and I are at home tonight, and we were thinking... how about a little live performance just for us? Let's videocall during your set!
Fabrizio blinked in surprise, a wide grin spreading across his face before he could stop it. The thought of Nanako watching him perform, even from far away, made his heart beat a little faster. He quickly typed out a response:
Fabrizio: That sounds like a great idea! Just let me know when you're ready, and I'll call you before my set starts.
Not even a few seconds after sending the message, another notification popped up—this time, a video call request from Ami. Fabrizio chuckled, shaking his head in amusement.
"Impatient as ever," he murmured under his breath, swiping to accept the call.
The screen lit up with Ami's bright face first, grinning ear to ear. "Fabrizio-kuuun! Hope we're not bothering you!"
Behind her, Nanako appeared, sitting at the kitchen island with an unmistakable glow in her eyes. "Hi," she said softly, a shy but happy smile playing on her lips.
Fabrizio felt his chest tighten in the best way possible. "Hey, you two. You're not bothering me at all. I was just getting ready."
Ami winked. "Perfect timing then! We want front-row seats to the Fabrizio special."
Fabrizio laughed. "Alright, alright. Just for you guys."
Nanako rested her chin in her hand, watching him with an affectionate gaze that made his heart skip a beat. "I wish I could be there," she admitted quietly.
Fabrizio smiled warmly. "You kinda are."
Before they could say more, the announcer's voice boomed over the speakers, calling his name. Fabrizio looked over his shoulder, then back at the screen. "That's my cue. Stay on the call—I'll prop you guys up somewhere."
With a quick adjustment, he set his phone on a nearby stool, making sure the camera faced the stage. He gave them a quick wink and flashed a thumbs-up before heading out under the lights.
As he walked onto the stage, applause filled the club, and Fabrizio took his seat on the stool in the center. Gripping his guitar, he leaned into the mic with a smile. "Good evening, everyone. I hope you're ready for a great night."
From the corner of his eye, he saw the phone still propped up, and even through the dim glow of the screen, he could see Nanako's bright eyes fixed on him. It gave him an extra surge of confidence, and with a deep breath, he strummed the first chords of his opening song, his voice carrying through the club—and all the way to Ohashi.
Fabrizio's fingers danced effortlessly across the strings of his guitar, weaving a lively Okinawan melody that filled the club with warmth and energy. The rhythmic strumming, accompanied by the gentle tapping of his foot, sent waves of excitement rippling through the audience. A few heads began to nod, feet tapped along with the beat, and soon the entire club was alive with the infectious rhythm of the island tune.
"Come on, everyone!" Fabrizio grinned, his voice carrying over the music. "You know how it goes—stand up and dance!"
His encouragement was all it took. Chairs scraped against the wooden floor as people rose to their feet, clapping in time with the music. Some couples swayed together, while others formed small circles, moving to the beat with wide smiles and carefree laughter. Mitsuri, behind the bar, let out a chuckle as she watched the once-laid-back crowd transform into an impromptu dance party. Even Mr. Homura, usually reserved, tapped his fingers on the counter with a faint smile.
Meanwhile, back in Ohashi, Nanako, Ami, and Ryuuji were glued to the screen of Nanako's phone. The camera, though slightly tilted, perfectly captured Fabrizio's beaming face, his nimble fingers strumming the guitar, and the lively atmosphere that surrounded him.
"Wow…" Ami whispered in awe, eyes wide. "He's really in his element, isn't he?"
Nanako, her heart swelling with pride, nodded with a radiant smile. "Yeah… I've seen him play before, but watching him like this... it's different. He's so full of life."
Ryuuji crossed his arms, a knowing smirk tugging at his lips. "It's the Okinawan vibe. Once you get caught in it, there's no going back."
Nanako giggled softly, resting her chin on her hands as she watched Fabrizio move effortlessly across the stage, engaging with the audience, clapping along, and flashing that charming smile she had come to cherish. For a moment, she forgot about the disappointment of her delayed return—seeing him like this made her feel connected, as if she was right there in Naha, dancing with everyone else.
Back at the club, Fabrizio shot a quick glance at his phone, catching sight of Nanako's mesmerized expression. His heart did a little flip, and for a second, he felt as though she was sitting right there in the crowd. He winked at the screen and leaned into the mic, his voice smooth and playful.
"Alright, everyone, let's keep this party going!"
The music picked up again, and with it, the joy spread like wildfire—both in the club and miles away in Ohashi.
As the night went on, Fabrizio effortlessly transitioned between genres, moving from the lively Okinawan folk tunes to classic rock, a touch of blues, and even a heartfelt ballad that left the audience swaying in their seats. Each song brought a new energy to the club, and Fabrizio thrived on it, feeding off the crowd's enthusiasm and letting himself get lost in the music.
Nanako, Ami, and Ryuuji watched in awe, completely absorbed by the performance. Ami clapped excitedly after every song, while Ryuuji bobbed his head to the beat, clearly impressed. Nanako, however, sat in quiet admiration, her eyes fixed on Fabrizio. His passion, his joy—it was all so contagious.
As the final set neared its end, Fabrizio strummed a few light chords and stepped closer to the mic. The club quieted, the chatter and movement fading into anticipation. With a deep breath, Fabrizio scanned the room, his eyes full of warmth and excitement.
"Alright, everyone," he said, his voice carrying through the speakers with a steady confidence. "Before I wrap things up tonight, I want to dedicate this next song to someone very special to me."
A soft murmur rippled through the crowd, and Mitsuri, standing behind the bar, froze mid-wipe, her eyes narrowing slightly as she focused on him.
Fabrizio's gaze flickered to his phone, where the video call was still active. Seeing Nanako's face on the screen gave him all the courage he needed. He smiled—soft, genuine, and full of love.
"She's not here with me tonight," he continued, his voice gentle but strong. "But she's watching from home, and... well, I hope she knows how much I miss her."
Nanako's heart pounded as she leaned in closer to the screen, her fingers tightening around the phone.
Fabrizio exhaled, a small, nervous chuckle escaping him before he finally said it. "So, Nanako… this one's for you."
Nanako's eyes widened, and Ami let out an excited squeal, nudging her friend playfully. Ryuuji smirked, amused by Fabrizio's open declaration. Nanako, however, was speechless—her face flushed, her eyes shimmering with emotion.
Fabrizio adjusted his grip on the guitar and started playing a gentle, heartfelt melody.
I'll Be There - G.E.M.I.N.I.
When all the tears are rolling down your face
And it feels like yours was the only heart to break
When you come back home and all the lights are out
And you're getting used to no one else being around
Oh, oh, I'll be there
When you need a little love, I got a little love to share
Yeah, I'm gonna, I'm gonna, I'm gonna come through
You'll never be alone, I'll be there for you
I'll be there, I'll be there for you
I'll be there, I'll be there for you
Oh, I swear, I got enough love for two
You'll never be alone, I'll be there for you
When it's Friday night and the drink don't work the same
You're alone with yourself and there's no one else to blame
When you still can't feel the rhythm of your heart
And you see your spirit fading in the dark
Oh, oh, I'll be there
When you need a little love, I got a little love to share
Yeah, I'm gonna, I'm gonna, I'm gonna come through
You'll never be alone, I'll be there for you
I'll be there, I'll be there for you
I'll be there, I'll be there for you (I'll be there for you)
Oh, I swear, I got enough love for two
You'll never be alone, I'll be there for you
When you're lost down the river, babe, I'll be there
When you're lost in the darkness, I'll be there
I'll be there when your heart is breaking
You'll never be alone, I'll be there for you
(I'll be there)
I'll be there, I'll be there for you (I'll be there)
I'll be there, I'll be there for you (ooh, ooh, I'll be there)
Oh, I swear, I got enough love for two
You'll never be alone, I'll be there for you (oh, oh, oh)
I'll be there, I'll be there for you (I'll be there for you when tears are falling)
I'll be there, I'll be there for you (I'll be there, can't you hear me calling?)
Oh, I swear I got enough love for two (I'll be there when your heart is breaking)
You'll never be alone, I'll be there for you
I'll be there for you, ooh
I'll be there for you, ooh
You'll never be alone
I'll be there for you
I'll be there for you, ooh
I'll be there for you, ooh
You'll never be alone
I'll be there for you
His voice, rich and filled with emotion, filled the club with a song that spoke of longing, hope, and love that transcended distance.
Nanako felt tears welling up in her eyes, but they weren't sad tears—no, they were tears of happiness, of gratitude. Despite the distance between them, Fabrizio made her feel like she was right there with him.
As the song came to an end, the entire club erupted into applause, and Fabrizio looked at his phone with a playful wink. "I hope that was good enough," he said lightly.
On the other side of the screen, Nanako wiped a tear from her cheek and smiled. "It was perfect," she whispered, though she knew he couldn't hear it.
And in that moment, despite the miles that separated them, their hearts felt closer than ever. He then brought the microphone closer and smiled, his voice filled with gratitude.
"Grazie mille, everyone!" he said, his Italian accent adding a charming touch. "Thank you for being such an amazing audience tonight. It's always a pleasure playing here at Club Homura. I hope you all had a great time!"
A few people shouted their agreement, while others clapped and whistled in appreciation.
Fabrizio grinned. "I'll see you all again soon, yeah? Same time, same place."
With a final wave, he stepped away from the microphone, the audience slowly dispersing into conversations and laughter. He then turned his attention to the stool beside him, where his phone lay propped up against a half-empty glass of water.
The screen was still lit with the video call, and on it, Nanako's face appeared, eyes slightly teary but sparkling with emotion. Ami and Ryuuji hovered nearby, both grinning like they'd just witnessed something magical.
He picked up the phone carefully and held it closer. "So… what did you think?" he asked, his voice softer now, a little nervous despite the confident performance moments ago.
Nanako wiped her eyes quickly and gave him a bright smile. "It was amazing. You were amazing," she said, her voice warm and full of admiration.
Ami chimed in from the background. "And by the way, you totally made her cry, rockstar."
Fabrizio chuckled, running a hand through his hair. "Hey, that wasn't the plan," he said playfully. "But I'm glad you liked it."
Ryuuji smirked. "You finally said it, huh? 'Girlfriend' and everything."
Fabrizio's cheeks flushed slightly, but he nodded with a lopsided grin. "Yeah… I guess it was about time, right?"
Nanako laughed softly, her heart swelling at his words. "It was perfect, Fabrizio-kun. Thank you."
He looked at her, feeling the weight of their separation just a little less in that moment. "Anything for you," he said simply, his eyes holding hers through the screen.
Mitsuri, who had been quietly observing the interaction from behind the bar, let out a soft chuckle to herself before turning away, giving them their moment.
Fabrizio took a deep breath and glanced around the club. "Listen, I should probably pack up, but I'll call you later, okay?"
Nanako nodded. "Okay. I'll be waiting. I love you!"
"I love you too," he said with a wink, and with that, he ended the call, staring at the darkened screen for a moment longer before tucking his phone into his pocket.
He exhaled, a content smile playing on his lips. He then slung his guitar case over his shoulder and made his way down the short flight of stairs that led to the bar area. The dim, ambient lighting of Club Homura cast long shadows across the wooden floor, the low murmur of patrons filling the space with a comforting buzz.
He rolled his shoulders, feeling the slight ache from the long set, but there was a lightness in his chest—a sense of fulfillment that lingered after the performance, and perhaps, after finally calling Nanako his girlfriend.
As he approached the bar, his gaze instinctively flickered to Mitsuri, who was wiping down the counter with slow, methodical movements. She was focused, her dark hair falling slightly over her face as she worked. For a brief second, their eyes met—just a fleeting exchange of gazes. Mitsuri's expression was unreadable, a faint smile hovering at the corners of her lips, but before Fabrizio could dwell on it, she quickly looked away, turning her attention to rearranging the liquor bottles on the back shelves.
Fabrizio furrowed his brows slightly. There was something about her tonight—something in the way she moved, the way she focused too intently on small, repetitive tasks. She was usually composed, graceful even, but tonight there was an underlying tension in her posture.
Shaking off the thought, Fabrizio leaned against the counter, offering a casual grin. "Hey, Mitsuri-chan. A juice, please. Something cold."
Without looking up, she nodded and reached for a glass. "Coming right up," she said, her voice steady, but Fabrizio noticed how she took just a little longer than usual to select the drink from the cooler beneath the counter.
He tapped his fingers lightly on the polished wood, stealing another glance at her as she poured his drink. Whatever it was, he figured she'd say something if she wanted to. Mitsuri wasn't the type to spill her thoughts easily, after all.
"Here," she finally said, sliding the glass toward him. "On the house. You played well tonight."
Fabrizio chuckled, taking a sip of the cold beverage. "Thanks. Just trying to keep the crowd happy."
Mitsuri gave a soft hum in response, still not quite meeting his eyes.
Fabrizio considered pressing, asking if something was on her mind, but he decided against it. Instead, he raised his glass in a silent toast. "To more good nights like this," he said lightly.
Mitsuri paused for a moment, then, with a small, knowing smile, clinked an empty glass against his. "Yeah… to good nights."
As Fabrizio took another sip, he couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to that smile than she let on. Just as he set his glass down, Mitsuri spoke up, her voice cutting through the ambient noise like a soft breeze.
"That last song... the one for Nanako," she said, glancing at him briefly before looking away, busying herself with wiping an already clean spot on the counter. "It was nice. She's lucky."
Fabrizio chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "You think so? I mean, I just sang what I felt."
Mitsuri smirked faintly. "Yeah, and that's why she's lucky. Not everyone gets a song written for them, especially one like that."
He shrugged, a lopsided grin on his face. "Well, she inspires me. I guess when you care about someone that much, the words just come naturally."
Mitsuri nodded, her eyes fixed on the shelves behind the bar. "Must be nice…" she murmured, her voice trailing off.
Fabrizio tilted his head slightly, sensing something behind her words, but instead of pressing, he leaned casually against the counter. "And what about you? No one ever wrote a song for Mitsuri Homura?"
She let out a short, soft laugh. "Nah, I think I scare most guys off before they get the chance."
Fabrizio grinned. "I find that hard to believe. You've got, you know… a certain charm."
Mitsuri rolled her eyes playfully but didn't comment further. They fell into a comfortable silence, punctuated only by the occasional clink of glasses and distant laughter from the patrons.
After a moment, Fabrizio's gaze softened, and he set his glass down with a quiet clink. "Hey... Mitsuri-chan," he said, his voice quieter now. "I dunno, but... I feel like something's off with you tonight."
Mitsuri stiffened slightly, but she quickly masked it with a nonchalant shrug. "Off? What do you mean?"
Fabrizio studied her, his hazel eyes searching. "I don't know. You seem... different. Like your mind's somewhere else. And I mean, I get it—everyone has their stuff—but... I can tell."
Mitsuri's fingers stilled on the counter, gripping the cloth a little tighter. She let out a slow breath before forcing a small smile. "You're too perceptive for your own good, Calafiori."
He raised an eyebrow. "So, I'm right?"
She hesitated, her gaze flickering toward him for a moment before returning to the counter. "It's nothing, really," she said lightly, though her voice lacked its usual confidence. "Just... thinking about things."
Fabrizio leaned in slightly, resting his elbows on the counter. "I know that look, Mitsuri. And I'm not buying the 'just thinking' excuse."
Mitsuri sighed, her shoulders sagging ever so slightly. "It's not that simple, Fabrizio," she said, finally meeting his eyes. There was a flicker of something in her expression—something vulnerable, but guarded. "Let's just say... you're not the only one who thinks about the past sometimes."
Fabrizio watched her carefully, sensing that there was more she wasn't saying. "Well," he said after a beat, offering a gentle smile, "if you ever wanna talk about it... I'm here."
Mitsuri chuckled softly, shaking her head. "Thanks, but I'll be fine. I always am."
Fabrizio didn't push further, but as he picked up his drink again, he couldn't help but wonder what exactly was weighing on her mind. As finished the last sip of his drink, he set the empty glass down on the counter with a satisfied sigh.
He offered Mitsuri a small, appreciative smile. "Thanks for the drink, Mitsuri-chan. You always know how to make it just right."
Mitsuri smirked, wiping the counter with a practiced motion. "Well, it's not rocket science, Fabrizio-kun."
Fabrizio chuckled, grabbing his guitar case and slinging it over his shoulder. "Still, I appreciate it. I'll see you around, yeah?"
As he turned to leave, Mitsuri's voice stopped him in his tracks.
"Fabrizio-kun."
He looked back over his shoulder, catching the serious yet playful glint in her eyes. "Yeah?"
Mitsuri leaned against the counter, crossing her arms. "You should go."
Fabrizio blinked, taken aback by the suggestion. "What?! Go where?"
"To Nanako" Mitsuri said with a small smirk, crossing her arms as she leaned against the bar. "You've got a break from classes, right? What's stopping you from hopping on a plane and surprising her?"
Fabrizio leaned back, rubbing the back of his neck thoughtfully. "I don't know… I mean, I want to, but—"
"No buts," Mitsuri cut in, tapping the counter for emphasis. "You clearly miss her, and I bet she's feeling the same way. Just go."
Fabrizio stared at her for a moment, the idea settling in his mind. It was tempting—really tempting. The thought of seeing Nanako sooner, of holding her in his arms instead of through a screen, made his heart race.
A slow grin crept onto his face. "You know what? You might be onto something, Mitsuri-chan."
She chuckled and shrugged. "I usually am."
Fabrizio drained the rest of his lemonade and stood up, his mind already racing with plans. "Thanks, Mitsuri-chan."
"Yeah, yeah," she waved him off playfully. "Just make sure it's a good surprise."
Fabrizio leaned against the bar, swirling the ice in his glass before looking at Mitsuri with a sincere expression. "You know," he said, "when I come back... I'll help you with your music, like you asked before."
Mitsuri, caught off guard, blinked and looked up from the glass she was polishing. "Huh?"
"I mean it," Fabrizio continued with a smile. "We'll sit down, go through your songs, and make sure they get the attention they deserve."
A faint pink dusted her cheeks, but she quickly masked it with a small smirk. "I'll hold you to that, Fabrizio-kun."
Fabrizio chuckled. "I wouldn't expect anything less."
With a final grateful nod, Fabrizio made his way toward the club's exit, a newfound determination lighting up his steps.
As the night eventually drew to an end, the heavy metal gate of Club Homura groaned as Mitsuri pulled it down, locking it into place with a satisfying clank. The neon sign above flickered once before dimming out completely, signaling the end of another busy night. She exhaled, stretching her tired shoulders as she turned to one of the remaining staff members, a middle-aged man stacking chairs onto tables inside.
"Same time tomorrow?" she asked, stuffing her hands into the pockets of her jacket.
"Yeah, see you then, Mitsuri-chan," the man replied with a tired but warm smile. "Get home safe."
Mitsuri nodded, offering a small wave before turning on her heel and heading down the quiet street that led toward the waterfront. The night air was cool against her skin, carrying with it the salty scent of the ocean. Her shoes clicked softly against the pavement as she walked, the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore filling the silence.
But her mind wasn't quiet. It replayed the events from earlier—the way Fabrizio looked on stage, how his voice carried through the club, and the way he called Nanako his girlfriend without hesitation. A small, wry smile tugged at the corner of her lips, though it didn't quite reach her eyes.
"Girlfriend, huh…" she murmured to herself, kicking a stray pebble into the water.
She thought back to their brief exchange at the bar. The way he said he'd help her with her music, that earnest look in his eyes—it felt... different. He had always been kind to her, but tonight, something about his words stuck deeper than usual. Mitsuri let out a soft chuckle, shaking her head as she pulled her jacket closer around her.
"What am I even thinking…" she muttered.
Pausing by the railing, she stared out at the dark expanse of the sea. There were no answers there, only the rhythmic waves, steady and unchanging. Unlike her thoughts, which swirled and tangled like the tide. It wasn't that she wanted to feel this way, but sometimes, despite her better judgment, a tiny part of her couldn't help but wonder—what if things had been different?
With a deep sigh, Mitsuri pushed away the thought and continued walking. "Focus on your music," she reminded herself. "That's what matters." And yet, despite the resolve in her voice, her heart felt a little heavier with each step.
Wednesday Night, 24th of May 2010 - Fabrizio's Apartment
Back in his apartment, Fabrizio sat at his desk, the soft glow of his laptop screen illuminating his face. His fingers hovered over the keyboard, scrolling through various travel websites as he searched for the earliest possible ticket to Ohashi. Flights, trains, even buses—he considered every option, his mind racing with excitement at the thought of surprising Nanako.
But in between the rush of planning, his mind wandered back to the club. Back to Mitsuri.
He leaned back in his chair, rubbing the back of his neck. Her voice echoed in his ears—"That last song... it was nice. She's lucky." There was something in her tone, something he couldn't quite place. Was it admiration? Longing? He wasn't sure, but it made him think.
And then there was the promise he made—to help her with her music. He meant it, of course. Mitsuri had talent, and it deserved to be heard. But was there more to it? He thought about the way she smiled at him, the way she quickly looked away when their eyes met. It wasn't the first time he noticed something lingering in those brief moments between them.
Fabrizio sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I'm overthinking things," he mumbled, shaking his head and returning his focus to the screen.
His eyes scanned the options again, finally landing on a train schedule that seemed perfect. Departing in the morning, arriving in Ohashi by early afternoon. A small smile formed on his lips as he pictured Nanako's face when she opened the door.
Yet, as he clicked to book the ticket, Mitsuri's voice whispered in the back of his mind. He frowned slightly, resting his chin on his hand. Mitsuri had always been there in the background—steadfast, supportive, and complicated in ways he never fully understood. But tonight... tonight felt different.
Shaking off the thought, Fabrizio focused on the excitement bubbling within him. "Nanako-chan's waiting," he whispered to himself, confirming his booking.
With a sense of satisfaction, he shut the laptop and leaned back, staring at the ceiling. Tomorrow, he'd see her. Tomorrow, everything would feel right again.
But deep down, a small part of him couldn't shake the weight of his conversation with Mitsuri.
Thursday Morning, 25th of May 2010 - Ohashi
The sun was shining brightly over Ohashi, the soft warmth of spring wrapping around the town like a gentle embrace. The cherry blossoms swayed in the breeze, their petals drifting lazily to the ground, but Nanako barely noticed. She stood by her bedroom window, staring out at the familiar streets below, lost in thought.
Two more weeks.
The words repeated over and over in her mind like an unwelcome mantra. Two more weeks until she could return to Okinawa. Two more weeks until she could see her friends and most importantly, Fabrizio—feel his warmth, hear his laugh, and finally be where she belonged. The days stretched before her like an eternity, and despite Maya and Noto's constant support, the ache in her chest refused to fade.
A sigh escaped her lips as she leaned against the windowsill, her eyes tracing the rooftops of her neighborhood. The distance felt heavier today, pressing down on her heart.
Then, her phone buzzed on the table. She turned, glancing at the screen. Fabrizio.
A small smile tugged at the corners of her lips as she picked up, expecting his usual voice, filled with teasing and warmth. But instead—
"Soon I'll be in your arms
Everything'll be okay
Need you to just hold on
While we're counting down the days..."
Nanako's breath hitched. Fabrizio's voice filled her ears, but something about it felt... different. It wasn't coming from her phone speaker. The tone, the echo—
Her eyes widened. She took a step back, clutching the phone to her chest, her heart pounding.
"F-Fabrizio-kun?" she stammered, glancing wildly around the room as if the walls themselves could give her an answer.
But the song continued.
"So just take your time
Because I'm gonna make you mine
Just hold on
Just hold on..."
Nanako's eyes darted to the open window, realization crashing over her like a tidal wave. Her heart leaped, and without a second thought, she turned and bolted toward the door.
Fabrizio was here.
Despite the slight limp in her step, she didn't care. She practically stumbled down the stairs, the anticipation thrumming through her veins stronger than any pain in her recovering leg. Her hands fumbled with the front door handle, and the moment it swung open—
There he was.
Standing at the entrance of the apartment building, bathed in the golden sun light, Fabrizio smiled at her, his guitar slung over his shoulder, his eyes filled with nothing but love.
"Nanako," he whispered, but it was enough.
Tears welled up in her eyes as she ran to him, throwing herself into his arms without hesitation. Fabrizio caught her effortlessly, wrapping her in a tight embrace that felt like home. She buried her face in his shoulder, clutching him tightly, afraid that if she let go, he might disappear.
"You... you're really here," she murmured against him, her voice trembling with emotion.
"I couldn't wait two more weeks," Fabrizio said softly, his lips brushing against her hair. "I needed to see you."
Nanako pulled back slightly, looking into his eyes, her own filled with tears and laughter all at once. "Idiot," she whispered, her voice cracking. "You should have told me."
He grinned, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. "I wanted it to be a surprise."
She smiled through her tears, and before she could overthink it, she leaned up and pressed her lips against his. The kiss was soft, filled with longing and relief, and in that moment, nothing else mattered. The weeks apart, the distance, the waiting—it all melted away in his touch.
As they slowly pulled apart, Fabrizio rested his forehead against hers. "Told you to just hold on," he murmured playfully.
Nanako let out a soft laugh, shaking her head. "I did... but I'm so glad you're here."
Fabrizio then gazed into Nanako's tear-filled eyes, his thumb gently brushing against her cheek. The world around them seemed to fade away—the bustling streets, the rustling cherry blossoms, the distant hum of the city—none of it mattered. All that existed was her, standing before him, so close yet feeling like a dream.
"I missed you," he whispered, his voice barely above a breath.
Nanako's lips trembled, her fingers tightening around his. "I missed you more."
And then, without another word, Fabrizio leaned in, closing the small distance between them. Their lips met in a soft, tender kiss—one filled with all the unspoken words, the longing, and the love they had carried through the endless days apart.
Nanako melted into him, her hands sliding up to rest against his chest, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat beneath her fingertips. Fabrizio held her close, as if afraid to ever let go again. The warmth of the kiss spread through them, wrapping them in a perfect moment they had both waited so long for.
As they slowly pulled away, Nanako let out a soft, breathless laugh, her forehead resting against his. "I love you," she whispered, her eyes searching his.
Fabrizio smiled, his thumb tracing slow circles against her skin. "I love you too, Nanako. Always."
With that, he kissed her again—this time deeper, filled with the promise that no matter the distance, no matter the wait, they were finally where they belonged. Together.