Title : Pain
Pairing : Yamapi x OC (Reiko)
Genre : Romance
Rating : PG-13
Disclaimer : I don't own Yamapi (i wish!) so don't sue me!

Prologue :

*Present : Year 2011*

“Tomohisa!”

I turned my head in reflect to see who was calling my name, my given name, that I haven’t heard for a long time. I get used to have anyone calling me with my last name, something like Yamashita-kun, Yamashita-san, Yamapi, or even Pi-chan. 

“Tomohisa!! Where are you?”

Again, I heard the same voice calling my name! But I didn’t see anyone near me that I’m familiar with, usually only very close friends and relatives that would call me with my given name. Or could it be one of my fans? But with me wearing this big sunglasses and hat, it’s impossible anyone would recognize me.

I was still looking around the mysterious caller, when a little boy behind me run past me by and shouted, “I’m here, mama!!”. Ahhh, so that boy has the same name as mine. The boy should be around 5 years old or so, he was wearing blue shirt and dark blue pants, and even his sneakers were in blue stripes. His mom must be crazy with blue color, I thought. I couldn’t see his face clearly, but he reminded me with someone I used to know, someone special, long time ago.

I saw the boy running around the park, and yet I still heard his mom calling his name (ahem, mine also) over and over again from a far. Then I caught the boy fell down the grass. I run to him instantly, I pulled my hand to his little hand, and helped him stand up. I bent down and asked, “Daijoubu desu ka?” and also helped him to clean up his clothes. I thought he was about to cry out loud, but instead, I heard him said, “Daijoubu desu, arigatou!” and gave me a smile.

“Tomohisa! Are you alright?” I heard a voice behind me. The boy shouted, “Mama!”. I stood up and turned my head to see the little boy run to her happily and his mom welcomed him with both hands and carried him. She smiled to me, and once I saw her, I swear I could feel my heart stop beating for that moment.

“Re…Reiko?” I was really surprised to meet her. The woman in front me looking back at me with clueless expression on her face. Ah sou, she didn’t remember me anymore, I felt really disappointed.

“Yes? Do I know you?” she asked, her soon was looking at me with the same confused look. I realized that I was still wearing my sunglasses, I took it off, and smiled to her. And her face turned into a shock expression.

She was still speechless, when her son started to shake her shoulder and asked, “Mama? Do you know him?” She put him down and looking at me, or should I say observing me. Well, I did the same thing, nothing much changed with her, just a different hairstyle and type of clothes, but everything else were the same as 6 years ago. 

Finally a word of whisper came out, “Ohisashiburi…”

“Ohisashiburi, Rei-chan!” I replied. “How are you doing?”

“Ah, I’m fine.” Then she looked down the her son and said, “Ne Tomo-chan, why don’t you play with other boys over there? Mama will join you later.” She pointed to the sand playing area, and gave him a quick kiss on his chubby right cheek. The little boy nodded and run to the playing spot.

She looked back at me, and being quiet again.

I started, “It’s been so long ne?”

She tried to smile, and said, “Yes, around 6 years I guess.” Then she bit his lips, even her habit was still the same. She always bit her lips every time she felt nervous. She tried to calm herself and looked at her son’s direction.

“You don’t change much.” I began again.

“Are you kidding me? Of course I changed, I have a son already!” she chuckled, and how happy I was to be able to see her sunshine smile again.

“What a cute boy! He looks like you a lot!” 

“Thanks, Tomo-kun!” she blushed.

And the ice broke, we sat in the bench and started talking and exchanged each other news. After a while, I started to watch over her son who was still playing around.

“Ne, Rei-chan, can I ask you something?” I turned my head to face her.
“Sure, Tomo-kun…”

“Why his name is Tomohisa?” 

Her eyes widened, she faced her head on the ground. And didn’t answer my question. I got really impatient for her action.
“Rei-chan, tell me the truth, is he mine?” I demanded.

*** 

Chapter 1 

*Flasback : Year 2005*

I walked in the corridor of Meiji University in lazy mood, it was my second year of studying already. And I was really relieved I managed to pass my first year successfully, especially with my tight schedules and all. I was adjusting my sunglasses when I heard whispers from the sides of the corridor, I sighed, it was another usual day in my life to hear girls in campus giggling and whispering over me. Good thing, no one approached me that day. I was in a rush to meet a new group of people at the library. I hurried myself and opened the door.

The big room was quite empty, I browsed around to see if I know anyone. Then I heard someone calling my name.

“Oii, Yamashita!! Over here!!”

I turned my head and saw a familiar face waving his hands to me. I smiled and walked to his direction. He was one of my good buddy in campus, a dude named Sato Kenichi. We supposed to meet other people for our next project. It’s a study group for company research thing. Even hearing the project made me headache already, good thing I didn’t have to do it on my own.

“Yo Sato, what’s up?” I greeted him and gave him a high five. He replied tossing my hand.

“Not cool, what took you so long?” he sulked. I laughed at his antics, he reminded me so much of my best friend Akanishi Jin in Johnny Jimusho.

“Hey relax, I’m not that late, beside the other people hasn’t arrived yet.” I took a chair beside him and sat down.

“We are so lucky to be paired up for this project after the stupid random picking names that Professor Matsuda set up!”

“Ergh, I was hoping the opposite, I’m bored with you!” I joked. And he gave me a soft punch on my left arm, and we laughed. 

Then we waited for two other members of the project, we didn’t know them yet, since they were from other classes, Prof. Matsuda in charge for three classes this year, and he thought to pair up all the classes for this project to make us familiar with new faces and all. I think it’s a great idea, except that we have to wait for them in this library. And it’s almost an hour late for the appointment.

“Ne KenKen, what time u told the other two to come?” I nudged him with his nickname I gave him. Yes, it’s the same of my character’s nickname in Stand Up drama 2 years ago.

“I don’t know TomTom, one of them said they would be here at 2 pm, but it’s almost 3 pm already, let me e-mail them again.”

He let out his cell phone and started writing the message. I flipped out the macro economy thick book out of boredom. 

Suddenly I heard sound of shoes approaching our direction, I lifted my head from the book and saw two girls walking to us. 

“Anoo, sumimasen, we are late.” bowed one of the girl, the other one followed her also.

“Ahh daijoubu desu! I’m Sato Kenichi and this is Yamashita Tomohisa. So which one is Tanaka Risa?” KenKen started the conversation.

“Atashi desu! And this is Miyamoto Reiko.” said the first girl cheerfully. She has wavy hair and wearing mini-skirt. She certainly a type of confident girl from the way she talked and dressed.

“Doumo, Miyamoto Reiko desu.” Finally the other girl said something. She’s the opposite of the first girl, her type of clothes was quite conventional. She only wore a simple shirt and jeans and she has long black hair. But something about her attracted me, and I couldn’t explain why.

“Hello, I’m Yamashita Tomohisa, please sit down.” I welcomed them. They started sitting in front of us. And we discussed about the project. They were from class B while we were from class A. The project paper should be handed within 3 months. And we thought about which company we wanted to do the research for.

“Chotto!” shrieked Risa when she saw me took off the sunglasses. We all stopped our conversation and looked at her. “No wonder, your name sounds familiar, you are Yamapi from NEWS right?” she blurted out. Oh my dear God, I hope she’s not a fan, I prayed.

“Yamapi? NEWS?” puzzled Reiko.

“Yes, NEWS is group of famous Johnny Jimusho.” explained Risa, again with her cheerful tone. Somehow it irritated me. Hyper girl definitely not my type.

“Oh, I never heard of it, is it a big company?” asked Reiko. I nearly fell down from my chair, couldn’t believe there’s actually a girl who didn’t know the existence of Johnny’s.

“Ahhh yes, Rei-chan doesn’t like showbiz stuff, books are her best friends.” declared Risa. “Of course, it’s a huuugeee company!” she started again.

“Good then, project number 1 to find the company is done, we can use it for our research.” said Reiko with victory grin.
“Good idea!” followed KenKen with more evil grin on his face. 

“Chotto! I’m not sure about this … beside I think they won’t allow …” I began to panic.

“C’mon Yamashita-kun, help us! Or else we will sleep over here just to find 1 stupid company.” begged Risa with puppy eyes.

“Right, it will save a lot of time and energy if you can persuade your company to be our object of research.” added Reiko.

“Onegai, TomTom!” KenKen joined them. I felt uneasy to have this kind of pressure. But they were right, our project would start earlier if we were able to find the company soon.

“Alright, let me talk to my manager first. But I can’t promise anything.” I sighed, and excused myself to call my manager, he wouldn’t be too happy for my request. Surprisingly he didn’t say no, he said he would talk about this and let me know the result the day after. 

I returned to our table and acted as if I got a bad news in front of them.

“Dou? Dou? How was it?” worried Risa.

I made a very sad face and shook my head slowly. They all seem disappointed and even KenKen who never wasted any time to talk became very quiet. I felt somehow guilty.

“Ehh, actually my manager didn’t say no, but we still have to wait for the answer tomorrow.” I cheered them and made a peace sign.

“OMG, I want to kill this brat!” KenKen stood up and ready to chase me. I run away and we started to play cat and dog game until the librarian stopped us and gave us a long lecture not to play around the library even there were no one else in that room except us. We said sorry and walked out from the library, the girls followed us and just after we closed the door, we couldn’t help our laughs anymore. 

The next day, my manager said that it shouldn’t be a problem for us to do the company research on Jimusho. 

*** 

Chapter 2

I was still changing my clothes after the photo shoot for NEWS segment in Myojo studio when I felt my cell phone vibrated inside the pocket of my jeans. I picked it up and saw a new e-mail from Risa. I frowned, this girl always has excuses to call or e-mail me lately. I knew that she has a crush on me, it’s pretty obvious and I pretended to act innocent and considered her as “normal” friend only. It’s not like she’s not attractive, she’s quite pretty with long wavy brown hair and nice body. But for me physical appearance wasn’t the main thing. Beside it never crossed in my mind to start a relationship with my busy schedules between work and study.

I heard Ryo-chan came inside the room, and saw me replying e-mail to Risa.

“Hey Pi-chan, what are you doing?” he started.

“Doh, replying e-mail of course!” 

“I know, I mean for who?” 

“Uhm strange, usually you never been a busybody before, I think you have been hanging around with Tegoshi way too much!” I joked.

“Haha, is it? I love Tegonyan!” smirked Ryo.

“I love you too, Ryotan!” shouted Tegoshi out of the blue from the back door of the changing room.

“You guys are crazy!” that’s all I could say and smiled at their rabu-rabu act.

I finished replying Risa telling her that I couldn’t join her to have coffee time this afternoon. Saying that I still occupied with work, which was a lie, since it’s already over, but heck she wouldn’t know this, I thought.

I said bye to the other NEWS members, minus Uchi of course. Only God knows when Johnny-san would go easy on him and made him back to showbiz world. He only made a mistake, and they all made a big deal of it. Sure he broke the law, but he’s not a criminal, we even didn’t allow to contact him during his suspended period. I missed his genkiness so much.

I walked out the Myojo building and looked at my agenda, my sister Rina asked me to pick her up at her school, and I didn’t really fancy of that idea, but I already promised her. I sent an e-mail to her and said that I would wait her at the café near her school. I drove my car and took a glimpsed at my watches, I still have enough time before her school ended. I took the freeway back to my hometown in Chiba. 

And hour later, I already arrived at the café near her school. I put down my sunglasses, and ordered espresso. All the sudden I heard a noise behind me, and I saw a couple were arguing. Usually I wouldn’t care less for other people business but this time I have an instinct, and I was right. I knew the girl! She was Reiko!

She sat in front of tall guy which I couldn’t see his face as he sat opposite her. And from Reiko’s face expression I knew she was pissed of something. I couldn’t help to eavesdrop.

“How many times I have to deal with this, Hajime-kun? You cheat on me again!” shouted Reiko.

“Pssttt, low your tone, we are in public area.” hushed the guy.

“I don’t care!” sulked Reiko.

“Honey, I made a little mistake, I promise you, I won’t repeat it again.” pleaded Hajime while squeezed both of her hands.
“I’m tired, Hajime-kun! I think we should end this!” said Reiko with tired tone and pulled back her hands.

“No, you can’t never dump me! You won’t dare! Your secret is with me and you know the risk if you don’t obey me!” threaten him with grinning face. And her face turned into pale. She didn’t say any more words, and by that moment she noticed me. I turned myself from her and pretended to drink my coffee. I was lucky that my sister came in right on time, I hurriedly left the money on the table and pushed her out from the café.

“Oi oi, oniichan, easy yo! I thought we could hang out there a little bit. I’m thirsty.” complained Rina.

“No, we have to go home soon, I have a test tomorrow.” I lied to her. Rina just raised her shoulder and followed me to the car. I felt guilty for eavesdropping, but then I was a bit worried, her boyfriend seemed to be bad guy. And deep inside I was kinda disappointed to see the fact that she has a boyfriend already.

*** 

I met her at the corridor of our campus the next day, again I pretended to act innocent. She looked at me and came my worst fear ever, she walked toward me and asked, “Yamashita-kun, can we talk?” I nodded helplessly. We walked to the nearest cafeteria, and sat down in the back area. 

We sat there for a while as none of us started the conversation yet. By that moment I have a chance to observe her, she looked tired, saw the big dark shadow under her eyes, it’s obvious she hasn’t got enough sleep the night before. 

“Anoo…” ah we said it at the same time. We both chuckled and she started, “Sorry to interrupt your free time, Yamashita-kun.”

“Iie, it’s ok! And you don’t have to be so polite with me, we are friends, right?”

“Oh sure, what about Tomo-kun?” she suggested. I was delighted, it’s been years I haven’t heard anyone calling me with my given name.

“Cool, and I can call you Rei-chan too?”

“Of course!” she smiled. Then we have another silent moment before she spoke up again.

“Anoo, Tomo-kun, forgive me if I’m wrong, but I thought I saw you in Star Café in Chiba yesterday? What were you doing there?” My dear God, that was the last question I ever wanted to hear from her. 

“Oh I live in Chiba, I was waiting for my sister to finish her school.” I tried to calm myself.

“Ah I see, but did you see me there?” then she bit her lips. Later I found out that she always did that habit every time she was nervous.

“Uhm, yes. You sat behind me right? With your friend?” I was trying to make sure if that guy was really her boyfriend or not.

“Yes, he’s my boyfriend Hajime. We had a little fight. You know, usual thing happen between couple.” A little? My heart screamed out!

“I know it’s not my business, but from I heard, it’s more than a little fight, Rei-chan!” 

“Well, I found out he was cheating on me, but it’s cool, he already apologized.” she said in calm tone. I couldn’t believe this girl, how come she forgiven him easily like that, frowned my mind.

“Rei-chan hear me, I don’t know much about you yet, but you deserved more than a jerk like him.” 

“I thought you said it’s none of your business?” she smiled. Again, I still couldn’t believe how calm she was.

“Don’t worry, it’s all cool, I will introduce you with him sometimes. Thanx for hearing my problem. And oh, don’t forget we have a schedule to visit your company tomorrow.” she ended our conversation, waved me goodbye and left the cafeteria just like that. I felt frustrated. How I wished I could make her open more of herself to me. 


*** 

Chapter 3

“Yamashita-kuuunnn!!” I heard a familiar voice calling my name, I frowned, since I already recognized whom the high-pitch-spoiled voice belong to. But I couldn’t ignore her since we already have appointment to visit JE building that day. I turned my head and tried to smile.

“Hi, Tanaka-san!” 

“Mou, how many times I have to tell you that u can call me Risa-chan?” sulked her. I was happy that I saw KenKen and Reiko were walking toward us, at least they could save me from this kind of conversation. I waved and greeted them.

“Osoi yo, futari tomo!” 
“Gomen, but we are here now, so stop your lecture and not wasting any time. Let’s go!” grinned KenKen. I smiled, of course how could I ever scold a genki person like him. I lead them to my car. 

“Sugooiiiiii!!!” screamed out Risa admiring my car. “Can I sit in front seat?” she continued.

Before I could say anything, KenKen cut in, “No way, I could get sick if I sit at the back!” and acted as if he was about to throw up. I gave him a thanks signal and he winked to me. Of course it was a lie. Risa pouted but she joined Reiko sitting at the back seat at the end. Good thing no more argue from her. I started the engine and made sure everyone was ready before I drove the car to JE building.

Our journey was filled with Risa’s babbling, and beyond my expectation she spoke really fast too. I wondered how it would like if she talked with Shige and Tegoshi, must be a scary fast talking contest. I lifted my head a little to check the rear-view mirror ahead me, and I caught Reiko. Poor girl, she was forced to listen Risa. I saw her panda eyes again, I bet she hasn’t got enough sleep again last night. Then by my surprise, she looked back at me. I didn’t dare to stare back and pretended to adjust the mirror.

We arrived at JE building 30 minutes later, when we walked from the parking lot to the main entrance, we met my best friend Akanishi Jin. We did the usual handshake style that we invented during SUMMARY last year, it’s not really hard, at least Bakanishi was able to remember the whole thing, while Koki was frustrated since we refused to teach him. I introduced Jin to my friends. And Risa was speechless when she shook hand with him.

“Ahh Tanaka ne? Any relation with Koki?” asked Jin innocently.

“Baka! We all know that Tanaka is a common surname in Japan!” I whacked his head.

“Ittaiii yo! I’m just asking!” pouted Jin and whacked me back.

“Mou, you guys are so funny! Unfortunately not, Akanishi-kunnn!” chuckled Risa with her usual annoying voice.

“Anoo…” we all turned our heads to Reiko.

“Shall we go inside?” she continued. I just realized that we have been standing there for a while, I lead them inside the main entrance. I nodded to the receptionist, and she gave KenKen, Risa and Reiko visitor cards to wear on. 

“Uwaaaa, this place is super cool! OH LOOK! That’s KinKi Kids and V6!” shrieked Risa and pointed to the posters near the elevator. Jin gave me the question look, the “Dude, where do you find this chick?” look. I just raised my shoulder. I hoped we wouldn’t have to bump into any senpai today.

Jin stepped out at 7th floor since he was late for the appointment with his manager already. And we stopped at 9th floor, I lead them to my manager’s office. He welcomed us with his friendly smile. And we started discussing where to begin our research. My manager suggested that we better split into two teams, since the building was really huge. When Risa about to open her mouth which I had sense that she wanted to be paired with me, my manager said, “Ok, Yamapi and Miyamoto-san please follow me! Sato-san and Tanaka-san can follow my assistant.” Risa pouted at his instruction, but had no other choice but to follow it.

*** 

I walked beside Reiko awkwardly, she wrote necessary info that my manager explained into her agenda, I just turned on my recorder since I already knew most of the basic info and JE history. We visited the meeting room, the cafeteria, the main office and lastly the rehearsal room. My manager excused himself since he still had many things to do, I nodded, and said that I could show Reiko the rehearsal room myself. When I opened the door, the room was filled with many kids, I just remember that day was the rehearsal day for Shounen Club.

“Kawaiiii…” I heard a soft whisper from Reiko. And I swear I could see that her eyes were glowing. My thought was she must like children very much. We waited near the door when we heard Sanche-san said to the Juniors, “That’s all for today! Don’t forget to keep on practicing, see you all tomorrow!” 

“Haiiii!!Arigatou, Sanche-san!” chorused the kids.

“Rei-chan, wanna go there?” I asked. And she replied with a nod. 

“Ah, Yamapi! And she is?” greeted Sanche-san.

“Hi Sanche-san, this is my friend Miyamoto Reiko, we are here to have a research on JE for paper work.”

“Doumo, Miyamoto Reiko desu.” She bowed a little.

“Nice to meet you, but gomen ne Yamapi, I can’t company you all, I have a schedule to teach KAT-TUN new ero-ero dansu on 7th floor.” regretted Sanche-san.

“Iie, go ahead, don’t let us make you late.” I smiled.

After Sanche-san left, Reiko turned her head to me.

“Ero-ero dansu? What’s that?” asked her with confused look.

“Etoo, how can I explain this, you have to look it yourself. Tell you what? I will bring you to see KAT-TUN concert next weekend, so you will figure out what is it.” I have no idea why I asked her to see a concert, it’s like asking her out, which I thought she would reject it since she had a boyfriend already. I tried to make it sounded like general favor not a date. I waited her answer impatiently, but of course I didn’t want her to know that.

“Sounds cool! Yakusoku ne?” replied her with excited tone, I was in heaven. 

Then we saw few Juniors came to us. I knew some of them were J.J.Express members.

“Doumo, Yamapi-senpai!” chorused them.

“Senpai? Wow that’s cool!” teased Reiko.

“Senpai, who is this lady? Is she your girlfriend?” asked nosy Yuto.

I began to panic, “No no no, this is my university friend Miyamoto Reiko!” and I could see that Reiko blushed too.

“Yes, I’m not his girlfriend, I don’t want to make his fans broken-heart.” joked Reiko. Then she bent a little so she could have face to face with the smallest boy, she patted his hair and asked, “What’s your name?”

“I’m Morimoto Ryutaro!” answered the boy with his mature voice.

“Hello Ryu-chan! And you are?” she turned her head to Yuto.

“I’m Nakajima Yuto! And this is Inoo Kei and Arioka Daiki, we are J.J.Express! But we still have other 5 members over there!” babbled Yuto.

“Ehhh, that’s make 9 members in a group? So many!!” surprised Reiko.

I coughed, “Ahem, Rei-chan, NEWS used to have 9 members too when we first formed.”

“Hontou desu ka? Wow! And now?” 

“Only 8, but one member got suspended, I will explain later, so only 7 active members for a time being.” 

“Sou ka…” then she turned her head to the boys again and chatted animatedly with them. I just looked at her, and thought she would be an amazing mother in the future, the way she talked with them and her gestures showed how much she could deal with kids very well. I lent my body to the wall and rested a bit, my mind went to the incident at the Star Café few days, I was really curious about her secret. What it’s all about?

“Tomo-kun?” I heard her voice calling my name, I turned my head to her.

“Yes?” I replied.

“I think we have done all our research today, and we supposed to meet Sato-kun and Risa at the cafeteria.” 

“Ah ok, let’s go! I thought you still have many things to talk about with the boys.” I teased her.

“I wish! But they all must to go home!” she pouted. I chuckled at her answer.

“You must be really like children ne?” actually it wasn’t a question but more like statement.

She didn’t answer immediately, made me wondered if I asked the wrong question. She just stood there then took a deep breath before finally looked into my eyes, made me felt a bit uneasy. 

Suddenly the door was opened …

*** 

Chapter 4

“Yoo hoo, Rei-chan!! Yamashita-kunnnn!!!” called out Risa, she waved to us. I frowned, I didn’t expect her to disturb us, still wondered why Reiko didn’t answer my simple question. But I waved back to her lazily, KenKen followed her.

“Mou, what took you two so long? We are tired waiting at the cafeteria!” Risa started her whining again.

“Doh, can’t you see they ain’t finished?” barked KenKen.

“But manager-san is gone already, so they must have finished!” insisted Risa.

“Oi oi, chill out, guys! You two are like a married couple you know! We are finished, let’s go!” I was tired to see them arguing to each other like cat and dog. 

We went back to the 9th floor, we said thanks to my manager and excused ourselves. On our way to my car, Risa said that since we have finished our research project, we should celebrate it by having dinner together. I thought it was a great idea, not like I wanted to spend more time with her, but I wanted to discover more about Reiko. She hadn’t spoken any word since my last question at the rehearsal room. She became really quiet again. 

Risa chose a brand new restaurant near Harajuku, it’s quite cozy and gave us warm feeling since the first step we entered it. The variation of foods were good too, it had many kinds of foods such as Japanese, Chinese, American, European, etc. I ordered niku udon, since I have been craving for it since morning. Risa insisted to sit beside me but I was lazy to deal with her, so I just let her. At least Reiko sat in front me, she ate very slowly as if she had no appetite. Risa and KenKen dominated the conversation like usual, sometimes I wondered what would happen if they became a couple? 

After the dinner, KenKen stopped a taxi for Risa and him, since they lived near each other. I also waited for them to get a taxi. I couldn’t drive them home since I have promised ka-chan to sleep at home that day. I saw Reiko checked out her cell phone, I just noticed all her stuff were in blue color, her cell phone, the straps (and one of them was Doraemon!), her hand watch and the rubber bracelet she wore at her left hand. She must have loved blue color that much.

Finally a taxi stopped, Risa and KenKen said bye to us and went inside. I turned left to face Reiko, and her expression was plain as usual. I was about to start a conversation for breaking the ice, when her phone was ringing. She excused herself and answered it, a minute later she returned.

“Ano, Tomo-kun, you don’t need to company me anymore, I think I should just wait for a taxi since Hajime-kun can’t drive me home.” she started.

“Ehh? No way I let you home by yourself, it’s late!” I replied with worried tone.

“No worries, stop being a babysitter! I’m an adult already.” she chuckled.

I looked at my watch, then asked, ”I still have time to drive you home, no problem at all, where do you live?”

“Chiba.” replied her shortly.

“What? Why you didn’t tell me before? We live in the same town! No more excuse, get inside the car now!” I grabbed her hand and opened the front passenger door for her. She was about to refuse my offer, but she sat in my car at the end. I let out a sigh of relief.

She seemed uncomfortable. I didn’t say anything since I knew it would only made her more nervous. So both of us fell silent on our journey home, just after I passed the intercity freeway, I turned my head to the left side and found her fast sleeping, I haven’t asked her address yet, and I didn’t want to wake her up, her face was so peaceful. I knew from her eyes she really needed a good long sleep. I doubted where to take her, and then I decided my mind. 

*** 

I stopped the car at the beach. Wondered if I did the right thing, but then I went outside the car, I looked around the empty beach, the sea was still beautiful even at night. And the full moon was glowing, it’s not the first time I ever went to the beach at night, I always loved this beach, it’s been like my playground since I was young. And she was the first girl I ever brought to this special place, well sort of, since she wasn’t aware of it. I sighed, and opened my phone to call ka-chan, I even didn’t know why I lied to her saying that I stayed in Jin’s house that time.

*** 

I didn’t sleep at all that night, I just sat at the beach looking at the sea. Thinking of my life, I have entered Johnny’s Jimusho since I was 11 years old, and I was considered lucky to get debuted when I was 18 and being the most popular member in NEWS. I also couldn’t believe myself that I managed to enter Meiji University, I thanked Koyama to introduce me to the right tuition center since study wasn’t my favorite thing in the world. 

Then my mind went to my family, for this case, I wasn’t that lucky, my parents divorced when I was still young, I even followed ka-chan’s last name Yamashita rather than using otousan’s last name Manatsu, same thing with my sister Rina. I still remembered very well the day when she was born, I was only 3 years old, otousan brought me to the hospital and ka-chan showed me a little baby girl and said, “Tomohisa, this is your sister Rina, yoroshiku ne.” I looked at her and thought she was really ugly like a monkey, and I still often teased her about it. Well, newborn babies never looked cute ne? Few years after, my parents divorced and ka-chan being a single parent, worked hard to support us. I rarely seeing my otousan, he was busy with his new life, and he was a strict person, he wouldn’t let me enter entertainment business, he always said it wouldn’t give me good future. So maybe this was fate, I thought. I have to cherish everything that happened in my life.

“Tomo-kun?” I heard Reiko called me. The sun was about to rise.

“Ne ne, Rei-chan, kochi-kochi! Let’s see the sunrise!” I invited her. She was clueless since she just got up from her sleep. But she sat beside me at the end. We witnessed the sunrise together, the orange light from the edge of the sea was extremely beautiful, really gave me warm feeling, and I felt like all my problems just vanished away. I wished she felt the same way. I glimpsed at her, and saw her also stunned with the magical moment of sunrise.

“Kirei deshou?” I asked. She just nodded. And we continued watching the sunrise until the sky was bright.

“Tomo-kun?” she called me softly.

“Hai?”

“Arigatou ne.” she bent her legs in front of her chest and held them with both of her hands.

“Ehh? What for?” I widened my eyes, didn’t expect her to thank me.

“For bringing me here and invite me to witness the most beautiful scene in my whole life.” she smiled while she said that.

“Your welcome! But at first I didn’t want to bring you here, I was thinking of love hotel.” I teased her. And got a whack on the head in return, of course she knew it was only a joke.

“Hentai!” she laughed, and it was the most natural laugh I ever heard from her. She continued watching the sea and playing with the sand.

“Seriously Rei-chan…” I started again. She stopped her action and looked at me curiously.

“Sorry for not asking permission for bringing you here, I didn’t know your address and you didn’t dare to wake you up.” I apologized.

“Iiyo, Tomo-kun!” she observed me, and looked surprise. “Chotto matte, you didn’t sleep at all, did you?” she demanded. I blushed, how could I explain her that my heart wouldn’t stop beating when I tried sleeping in the car beside her, and decided to stay awake.

“I told you, I prefer sleeping at the love hotel!” I joked again and run before she whacked me. And we ended up chasing each other like little kids. And it lasted for a while before we both ended up falling to the sand with me on the top of her. I lifted my weight with both of my hands between her head, both of us panting our breaths away. I could feel my heart was about to explode and her face was blushing in red. I was about to get up from her, when I saw her closing her eyes, I moved closer …

*** 

Chapter 5

And it was our first kiss ever, I brushed her lips into mine, it was a warm sweet kiss, she opened her eyes and blushed when I released the kiss. I also could feel the warm in my face. I suddenly realized morning appeared and soon people would come and saw us. I stood up and offered my right hand to help her up, she smiled and took my hand, when we touched I could see her blushing again. 

We finally stood and stared at each other, both of us hesitated to start the conversation, again awkwardness has come between us. And by our surprise, we heard a sound of phone was ringing from my car. She stunned a while then she realized it was hers. She run to my car hurriedly, found her phone in the front seat, she looked into the front screen to see who was calling her in early morning like this, then her facial expression changed into aware one, she picked up the phone and I could hear a sound of whisper, “Moshi-moshi, Hajime-kun …”

I froze, how could I possible forget that she has a boyfriend already? And thinking that I had kissed her made me full of guilt. I could feel my body was getting weaker, and I sat in the sand, wondering what excuse I should say, I knew she didn’t reject my kiss, but still I couldn’t help feeling nervous and guilty. I was still fighting with my mind, when I heard her soft voice calling my name.

“Tomo-kun … gomen, I have to go now …” she bit her lips again.

I stood up, I looked into her eyes, and finally I could open my mouth, “Rei-chan, I’m terrible sorry!”

“Ehh? What for?” she looked confused.

“For … kissing … you …” I replied slowly then faced the sand.

“Oh that, iie daijoubu desu, it’s not your fault.” I was relieved for her response and looked into her eyes again.

“Do you get trouble from your boyfriend?” 

“Uhm don’t worry, he was just wondering where I slept last night, I said I slept over at Risa’s.”

“I’m sorry that you had to lie.” I apologized again.

“Tomo-kun! Stop it! I said it’s not your fault!” replied her with high tone, I was shocked at her reaction. I went silent.

“Sorry for yelling at you, but you shouldn’t apologize for everything, coz it’s not your fault.” said her with lower tone. I nodded helplessly.

“Now I have to go, coz I said to Hajime-kun that I’m on my way home.”

“Let me drive you home!” I butted in.

“Thanks for your offer, Tomo-kun! But it’s best if I go on my own this time to avoid more trouble.” she replied calmly. I nodded again, and saw her walking to my car and took her stuff with her. 

“Rei-chan …” I started again, I wanted to tell her that I liked her but after I saw her looking back at me, I knew I shouldn’t trouble her more, instead I said, “Take care ne?”

“Arigatou, Tomo-kun! Take care you too!” then she waved me goodbye. I was wondering was it our last meeting? I wasn’t sure she wanted to see me again after everything that happened between us. I sighed, I entered the car, started the engine and drove home.

*** 

I was wrong, I still saw her around the campus and she didn’t change at all, still greeted me whenever we passed each other in the corridors or halls. I was relieved, she pretended that nothing has happened, and I did the same thing. We had some meeting with KenKen and Risa too and discussed about our project. Surprisingly, Risa never annoyed me anymore, instead she was like changing the object of her crush to KenKen. Poor KenKen, I thought! But from my observation, KenKen seemed okay with all her over attention to him, which concluded me that he might like her too? But heck, I’m not a busybody, it’s their own business, I was glad she’s not bothering me no more.

Friday noon, after I finished my English class, I went to Johnny’s building for weekly meeting with my manager. He said that I would have a new drama this summer. Yatta!!! My heart screamed out! I really missed acting, the last drama I had was one and half year ago, which was like ages ago. He handed me the script and I was surprised to see that I would have a bad boy role this time, quite challenging, usually I got stereotype character like popular boy etc, but bad boy? It would be my first time role. I smiled, and I also saw the name of my ex-high schoolmate Teppei in the cast, interesting! 

I was still smiling in the corridor when I bumped into Jin.

“Oi Pi, here are the tickets you asked for!” he passed the tickets to me in a rush and run to the elevator.

“Ehh Bakanishi, chotto!! What tickets?” I run after him. He looked at me impatiently.

“The ticket of KAT-TUN concert you asked yourself last week! Baka!” and whacked my head before he went inside to the elevator and left me alone. I finally realized that I promised Reiko to show her the ero-ero dansu at KAT-TUN concert last week at our project research. I whacked my head, how I became such a forgetful person this week? I hesitated, didn’t know what to do, she said she would come before, but what if she refused this time? I walked to my car with much hesitation. But finally I made up my mind. A try is a worth, I thought.

I opened the flip of my phone and wrote e-mail to Reiko, written like this :

Konbachiwa Rei-chan 
Ano sa, do you still want to see KAT-TUN concert with me? 
As a friend of course, it’s not a date, don’t worry! 
Coz Bakanishi already gave me the tickets and it’s such a waste if we didn’t go. 
Ikkou yo! \^o^/
Tomohisa 

My hand was trembling when I pressed the send button. Wondering if she would reply me or not. I waited and waited, still no reply from her. I nearly gave up after 30 mins, and already thought she didn’t want to go with me. I started the engine and ready to drive home, when suddenly the e-mail tone from my phone was heard. I hurriedly opened it and it was from her! It was short but made me so flew to 7th heaven.

Konbanwa Tomo-kun ^o^
Gomen I was outside, sure I still want to go! 
Mata ashita!
Reiko ^_~

*** 

Chapter 6

I heard the alarm from my cell phone, I frowned, I grabbed the phone, and saw it was already 7 am. I was wondering why on earth I had to wake up so early in my day-off like this? Then I whacked my own head, it’s KAT-TUN concert day! And I had a plan to go with Rei-chan! I read her e-mail again, still couldn’t believe that she agreed to go with me! I was still smiling widely when my sister opened the door and gave me the question look.

“Oniichan, daijoubu desu ka? Why you are smiling like a dork?” teased her.

I threw my pillow to her and scolded her, “I AM NOT A DORK! And why didn’t you knock the door first?”

She managed to miss the pillow and grinned, “Why I should knock? Afraid I will find a girl in your room?” then she started looking at my clothes drawer.

“Ne, what are you looking for?” asked me curiously. Tho it’s not something new that Rina often borrowed my clothes. We have the same taste in fashion.

“I have a date today, uhm, can I borrow this one?” and showed me the skull printed shirt I bought with Koyama last week. It’s body-fit shirt so it might look good on her, I even haven’t taken off the label yet. I sighed, “Yeah, go ahead! I can wear something else.”

“Arigachu!” and gave a peck on my right cheek, she had to tiptoe of course. Then she opened my accessories drawer, I sighed again.

“Gomen niichan, I can’t help it! You have a great collection of accessories!” she grinned again. She has a point, I have a great passion for accessories, I even thought if I ever get retired from entertainment business I might open an accessories shop. I watched her browsed around my collection and took out the long cross necklace, she turned her head to me and asked, “My greatest brother on earth, can I borrow this one too?” with her best puppy eyes look. “Onegaiiii!” she started again.

Damn, she knew well I could never resist her. She’s my only sister after all.

“Ii yo.” I gave up. And she hugged me tightly. “You are the best!” she said happily.

“Ne, who is your date?” I asked again.

“Ehhh? It’s a surprise that you asked about my date, he’s my classmate, we will watch a movie together.” She said cheerfully.

Sometimes I envy her coz her life was always easier than mine, she could go out with anyone she liked anytime she wanted.

“Sou ka, be careful ne!” I reminded her.

“Hai, shinpai shinaide, I can take care of myself.” She was about walking out the door when she suddenly she turned back.

“Ne oniichan, why you are waking up so early? Isn’t it your day-off?” 

“Urusaiiii!!” I snapped.

“Ahhh, wakatta! You also have a date, ne? ne?” she demanded.

“I AM NOT!” I denied, “She’s just a friend of mine, we will watch KAT-TUN’s concert together.” I didn’t know why I told her.
She smiled and said, “Wakatta! Good luck, niichan! Win her heart!” and she finally went out from my room.

Her last words made me thinking, I really liked her so much, but she has a boyfriend already. She couldn’t give me more than friendship and I have to deal with it. Well maybe friendship was the right thing to do at the moment, I thought. I shook my head, I should get ready, since I already promised Rei-chan to pick her up at the bus station in 30 minutes.

*** 

She was already in the bus station when I arrived, looking gorgeous with her white shirt, blue sweater, long skirt and soft make-up. I never saw her with girly style before, usually she’s on casual style. She was blushing when I opened the door for her. Then our journey to Tokyo started. I glanced at Reiko who sat beside me in the car, she looked a bit nervous, we were on the freeway to Tokyo.

I tried to start the conversation, “Ne Rei-chan, is blue your favorite color?”

“Is it? Why?” she asked back.

“Coz most of your stuff are in blue color, usually girls like pink ne?”

“Oh, I didn’t realize it, do you know that blue represents sadness and pain?”

“Yes, I heard of that.”

“That’s why I like it.” She smiled mysteriously. I cringed, her answer was unexpected, wondered if she joked or not.

“Uso uso! Your face is really funny! Don’t believe any single words that I said!” she laughed.

“Mou, yada yo! Don’t make fun of me!” I pouted and pretended to sulk.

“It’s because you are so serious, it just happens most of my stuff are in blue color.” She explained then she turned her face to the window, I had a feeling she was trying to avoid me again. And I wondered why? I just wanted to know more about her, she’s so mysterious.

*** 

We arrived in the concert hall about 45 minutes later, after I parked my car near the backstage gate, I put on scarf, hat and sunglasses. Reiko just smiled at my antics. She understood that I had to wear those to avoid fans. We made it just in time, the concert would start in 10 minutes. We entered the hall, I took off my sunnies and searched for our seats, I smiled to anyone I recognized in the special spot for guests and invitees. And by my surprise, I met Koyama and Shige!

“Yo Pi! We don’t know you are coming!” greeted Koyama.

“Oh hi, Koyama, Shige, please meet my friend Miyamoto Reiko!” I introduced her to them.

“Doumo! Miyamoto Reiko desu!” bowed Reiko politely. 

“Doumo!” chorused Koyama and Shige.

“They are my group mates in NEWS.” I explained after we took our seats.

“Ah! So nice to finally meet NEWS members! Heard so much about you guys! So only two of you came together?” she asked.

“Yes, we are on a date!” grinned Koyama and pretended to hug Shige. I swore I could see her eyes widened in shock, she didn’t say anything and the whole hall turned black as the concert was about to start.

“Tomo-kun, are they gay?” whispered her.

“Haha! Of course not! They are good friends since Jr days, and a lot of fans matchmaking them as yaoi couple.” I explained.

“Yaoi? Sounds scary!” she shook her head in disbelief.

“It’s nothing, sometimes we tried to make them happy by showing more rabu-rabu act.” 

“Uhm, it’s a bit weird to me, but interesting at the same time.” I just laughed at her last comment. And finally the concert stated. She focused her eyes on the main stage where 6 of KAT-TUN appeared in purple pirate suits. The opening song was GOLD, I nudged her, she turned to me, and I whispered, “Watch closely, you will experience what we call ero-ero dansu soon!” she nodded and focused her sight to the stage.

“Holy!” I heard her sudden comment.

“I told you!” I laughed.

“Ne Tomo-kun, usotsuki!” she started again.

“Eh? I’m not a liar, I have shown you there’s an existence of ero-ero dansu.”

“No, it’s not that, but you said Johnny’s Jimusho only accepted boys, why I see a girl in that stage?” and pointed to Tatsuya Ueda. I couldn’t hold my laughter anymore. It’s not her fault that she thought Ueda was a girl, coz he looked pretty with his fair skin, black stylish hair, big eyes, full red lips and small figure covered in that semi lace skirt outfit, not to forget the hat he wore.

“Rei-chan! Believe me, he’s not a girl, look at his adam’s apple!” 

“But how possible a guy to be so pretty? Too much shocking things about JE that I learned today, I’m afraid my heart can’t handle it anymore.” she joked and continued watching the concert. 

*** 

2 hours later, after the encore, I hurriedly put my sunnies as the lights would on again. I glimpsed that Koyama and Shige also did the same thing. When they passed our seats, Koyama asked, “Pi, we want to go to the backstage and greet the guys, wanna come? Reiko too.” I looked at Reiko, and she nodded as a sign of agreement. So 4 of us headed to the backstage area. I nodded to the security guard, and he gave us visitor cards, and showed us direction to KAT-TUN’s dressing room.

“Otsukaresamadeshita!!” I shouted once I opened the door.

“Ahh, Pi, Koyama, Shige, douzo, come in!” welcomed Maru, the oldest member of KAT-TUN.

“Piii, tsukaretaaa!!!” moaned Jin and clung his chin to my shoulder. Then he looked at Reiko, “Areee, Reiko-chan? Guys, come and meet Reiko, she is a friend of Pi!” then he introduced all KAT-TUN members to her.

“Good job, guys! Reiko was amazed with ero-ero dansu!” I exclaimed, and her face turned red, she slapped my hand and whispered, “I’m not!”

“Ssshhh, your secret is safe with me!” I joked.

“Nee Pi, come with us for dinner, we have to celebrate your new role for summer drama!” invited Jin.

“Ok, but the dinner is on you!” I laughed, and saw him pouted. “Jyoudan yo, it’s on me of course!” I said again.

“Yatta! C’mon guys, Pi-chan is treating us dinner, yay!!” announced Jin happily.

“Well, we will wait outside and let you all dress up.” Said Koyama. After we went outside the dressing room, Koyama and Shige excused themselves to buy some drinks. Reiko was looking nervous again.

“Rei-chan, doushita no?” 

“Is it really ok for me to join you guys? I don’t really know them yet!”

“Don’t worry, they are my best friends, and they won’t eat you up!” I joked.

“Tomo-kun, I envy you…”

“Eh, why?” I puzzled.

“Because u have so many best friends.” Said her slowly.

“Isn’t normal?” I asked back.

“I never had any best friend all my life.” she said with shaky voice.

“Rei-chan…” I patted her shoulder and continued, “Do you want to be my best friend?” She looked at me with disbelief and nodded slowly.

“Ureshii na! Yakusoku ne, from now on, we will be friends forever.” and offered my pinky finger, she crossed it with hers and we were officially best friends. Now I wondered if I made the right decision?

***

Chapter 7

After our declaration of being best friends, we often spent a lot of time together, not to mention we were in the same project group. So we frequently meeting up each other. Even when I was busy filming drama, we still managed to meet up at least once a week. It made me happy tho, but still I couldn’t lie to myself how hurt my heart was each time she excused herself to receive calls from her boyfriend on our meeting. I haven’t got a chance to meet him, but I could sense he’s not a nice person, as she always looked gloomy after the phone calls.

The more we spent time together the more I was sure that I was falling in love with her. She has everything in ideal girl that I could ask for. And it’s such a pain that I couldn’t express my feeling to her. Tho maybe deep inside she realized it, and it’s possible that she has the same feeling towards me, but there’s a huge wall between us, and I have to accept that for a time being we couldn’t be together. But I was sure there still a hope for me to win her heart, someday.

*** 

I was ready to pack up after a long photo shoot for TV magazines, when I got an e-mail from Jin. His message was cheerful as always, I couldn’t help smiling when I read it :

“Ne Pi-chan,
Reiho will have audition in Shinjuku to enter D-Boys!
Let’s go and support him, U will be there also ^o^
Don’t say no, onegaiiii… <33 Jin”

Bakanishi! Of course I wouldn’t say no, it’s been a while since three of us hung out together. U is Shirota You, my best friend since high school days in Horikoshi Gakuen. Actually he’s a member of D-BOYS, a talent group of boys, just like Johnny’s Jimusho, so we should be rival in a way, but we didn’t care. Our friendship was more important. I have to thank him, coz he helped me a lot to catch up with my studies in school, also he gave me big influence to have more respect for my mother. I used to be rebellious and always argued with her, only U who could remind me how precious family was. I should treasure the ones I have left. U has become one of cherished people in my life. I introduced him to Jin, and they got along very well too. Reiho is Jin’s younger brother, he was too old to enter JE therefore he tried his luck to enter D-BOYS.

I hurriedly replied :

“Bakanishi,
You know well that I won’t say no!
Just tell me what time I should pick you ok?
We will have fun for sure! Mata ashita! <33 Pi”

Soon after I received another message from him. Gah, the event was earlier than I expected, that’s mean I have to get ready on early morning again, but no time to whine. Suddenly I wondered if Reiko wanted to join us or not. I haven’t introduced him to U yet, and he always complained that I only wanted to keep her for myself, that’s a joke of course. I opened my cell phone again, and typed. 

I was prepared to sleep when I received her reply, it’s short :

“Gomen Tomo-kun,
I have already a plan for tomorrow,
Next time ne? Reiko”

The pain feeling of rejection came again all the sudden.

*** 

The audition event was extremely crowded, even tho Jin and me already disguised ourselves with hat, scarf and sunnies, fans still could recognized and followed us around. We felt bad as we seemed to steal attention of the crowds from that event. Jin even already announced in KAT-TUN J-web that he wouldn’t come, but heck our fans were smart, we couldn’t trick them at all. U couldn’t stand and watch with us since he’s a also a member of D-BOYS, he would appear on the stage soon. We cheered on Reiho, he waved and started dancing and singing while the judges examined him. He danced much better than Jin, but of course Jins’ voice is still the best. I just hoped he could make it. I suddenly remembered my own audition to enter Johnny’s Jimusho, I was only 11 years old. I was really nervous, Takki-kun was there, and he thought I was cute and chased me all over the room, I was scared of him. But later once I got accepted in Jimusho he became one of senpai I really respected to. He was the one who gave Yamapi as my nickname too. 

Jin nudged me and I was back to reality. Reiho just finished performing, I gave applause. I dragged Jin out from the crowds, U said the result would only come out in the afternoon, as the judges needed time to announce the winners. We should go somewhere else, as I felt uncomfortable to have fans following us around, we shouldn’t wait in that place.

“Ne, Pi, want to go karaoke?” whispered Jin as if he could read my mind.

“Sure! Let me mail U so he can join us soon after he finish.” whispered me back. 

Jin suggested that we should try a new karaoke place in Ikebukuro. Hearing this area reminded me so much when I had my first drama series ever titled Ikebukuro West Gate Park with senpai Nagase Tomoya from TOKIO, I had so much fun filmed this drama, tho I didn’t have big role there, but it was quite experience, I chuckled when I remembered that I have a girlfriend there and called her “Rabu-chan”, how ironic since I have no girlfriend at this moment.

My mind went back to reality when Jin passed me the mic. Soon after U joined us, so three of us had a karaoke festival. It was so much fun, I sang many songs that day, KinKi Kids songs and of course Southern Allstar. Two hours later when I just finished singing “Tsunami”, U reminded us that we should get back to Shinjuku.

We jumped on my car and we passed some love hotel in Ikebukuro, Jin who sat in the front seat next to me stuck his head at the window as if it was such an interesting view. Then the red light was on, I stopped the car and I whacked his head, “Bakanishi, what are you doing?”

“Iteee! Stop bully me!” whined Jin and nursed his head, he looked out the window again and this time his face turned into a very shocked expression.

“Nee, Pi-chan, isn’t it Reiko?” he asked and pointed to a love hotel. I turned my head automatically and saw the scene that I never wanted to see, Reiko went out from a love hotel with her boyfriend, I always thought their relationship was in a bad term, but seeing this, I just wanted to disappear, I lost all my hope. And most of all, it’s hurt me so much to see her in someone else’s arm.

“So this is the plan she referred to…” screamed out my heart. 

“Baka!” U whacked Jin’s head again. And this time Jin didn’t protest, and he just patted my shoulder. The traffic light turned into green and I drove back my car in silent, none of them questioned me anything, they understood, and I’m so grateful to have them as my best friends.

To make the day even worst, Reiho lost.

*** 

Chapter 8

The next day was the last group meeting we had, we just needed to discuss the final chapter of our paper, before we handed it to Prof. Matsuda. I was usually always looking forward for the meeting, but after I saw the unexpected view the day before, I wasn’t sure whether I could face Reiko again. I knew it was a mistake to fall in love with someone that already attached and I have decided I should avoid her after the group project, maybe with that way I would able to forget her. 

I walked toward the usual table we usually used for the group meeting, and I only saw Reiko there. My feet froze, being alone with her was the last thing in my mind at that moment, I was afraid to be near her. I thought to wait for KenKen and Risa outside the library when my eyes met hers. She smiled and waved. “Damn, too late! Stay cool, Tomohisa!” I whispered to myself trying to calm down my nervousness. 

“Ohayou, Tomo-kun!”

“Ohayou.” 

“KenKen and Risa-chan will be late, Risa just e-mailed me and apologized.”

“Oh okay.” I responded, but then in my heart I screamed, “Great! Now what should I do?”

Silent came between us again, I frowned, why this heart never stop beating? She was busy looking at the paper, writing notes. I spoke to myself, “I should start working too.” And took out a pen from my bag, but it slipped from my hand and dropped in the floor. I tried to pick it up but she did the same, so our hands touched. I stared at her hand and saw some bruises, she gasped and hurriedly pulled her hand away.

“Bruises? Why?” I started to question myself. She pretended nothing has happened and back working. I didn’t want to be a busybody either, but then I couldn’t help myself asking.

“Rei-chan?” I started.

“Uhm?” she mumbled but stayed her focus on the paper. 

“Something wrong happened with you?” she stopped her activities, looked back at me and said, “Nothing is wrong, why?”

I lost my patience, and then I grabbed her wrist.

“Then what is this?” I pointed to the bruises.

She retreated back her hand and glared me angrily.

“None of your business!” barked her.

“Your boyfriend did it to you?” I ignored her statement. Some people started looking at us with interest. She didn’t reply, she just collected all her stuff. By that time, KenKen and Risa arrived, she passed the paper to them and said, “Sorry I have to go, I edited everything already, see ya all!” 

I couldn’t stand her running away like that. I chased her. I only could reach her hand at the gate. She stopped then turned her face to me, yet I got another shot of glare from her. I didn’t care if she was angry with me, I just wanted to know the truth.

“Rei-chan, look! I don’t want to see you hurt! Tell me what happened!” I demanded.

“I fell from the stairs, no big deal!” it’s obviously she lied.

“None sense! It’s not kind of bruises! Someone hurt you! And I’m sure it’s your boyfriend!”

“Why you even care?”

“Because I … I …” I was this close to tell her about my feeling when her phone rang and I shut up my mouth. She saw the number and turned her back to me to receive the call.

“Moshi moshi? … Yes, this is Miyamoto Reiko … From hospital? … Okasan? Uso!” that’s all I could hear, and suddenly I felt worried something bad happened to her mother.

“Hai, I will be there soon! Thank you!” she ended the call and I couldn’t wait anylonger.

“Rei-chan, daijoubu? Doushita no?” and I saw her tears were falling down her rosy cheeks.

“Okasan … okasan … collapsed … in hospital.” mumbled her between her sobbing.

“Tell me the hospital, I will take you there!” 

“Demo…” 

“No time to argue, hurry!” I grabbed her hand and led her to my car.

*** 

We arrived at the hospital an hour later, it situated in our hometown. She passed the receptionist, so I presumed that her mother has been staying in the hospital as she ran to a room, I just followed her. We found her mother was sleeping in the bed with a doctor examined her pulse, another one looked over her notes and a nurse stand by near the bed.

“Sensei! How is my mother?” asked Reiko after she calmed down her breaths.

“I’m afraid not good, Reiko.” regretted the doctor.

“There’s complication with her heart and she collapsed, we had done everything we could, but we can only pray that she will be stable soon.” explained the other doctor.

“NOOO! Okasaaannn!!!” cried Reiko and ran to her bed, she held her mother’s hand and started calling her continuously. I saw everything helplessly, I felt bad, I didn’t know anything about her life, and I even didn’t know her mother stayed in hospital.

“Are you her relative?” asked the male doctor to me.

“No, I’m just her friend.”

“Can you take her out and calm her? We still need to examine her mother and her presence being panic here won’t help us.” I nodded, it sounded cruel, but he as a point. I walked to Reiko and whispered, “Rei-chan, let’s go outside, the doctors must do their work, they will do their best to save your mother.” Surprisingly, she didn’t fight me back and followed my suggestion. She finally let out her hand, kissed her mother’s forehead and turned to the doctors.

“Sensei, okasan no koto, yoroshiku onegaishimasu!” she bowed deeply to them then walked out the room. I took her to the park, and we sat at the bench. She wiped her tears and sighed.

“Sorry Tomo-kun, you have to see this.”

“Iie, that’s what friends are for.” And finally I saw her smile again. 

“Okasan has been here for 3 years, she had a stroke and ever since then she couldn’t walk and needs hospital’s treatment.”

“Otousan?”

“Otousan passed away when I was 10 years old, okasan raised me all by herself.”

“I see, you have no siblings?”

“No, I’m the only child, and it’s all my fault that she fell sick, I’m such a bad daughter!” she started crying again. I couldn’t understand why she blamed herself but I decided I shouldn’t question her anymore and moved closer to her. I hesitated to hold her, but seeing her crying like this, I collected all my courage and embraced her shoulder.

“Pssstt, don’t cry, everything will be alright.” I whispered to her ear. 

An hour later, a nurse came to us and informed that her mother was stable already, not yet conscious, but we could visit her. 

*** 

Once we arrived at her mother’s room, the female doctor just about to leave.

“Yokatta ne, she’s stable now.” smiled the doctor.

“Hontou ni arigatou, sensei!” bowed Reiko.

“Iie, your mother is a strong lady.” Then she looked down and saw the bruises in her hand.

“Chotto, what happened to your hand?” continued the doctor.

“I … I …fell from the stairs.” I frowned, she lied again. The doctor raised an eyebrow and looked at me suspiciously. “Great, now she thinks I’m the one who beat her up!” muttered me in my heart.

“This is not good! Please follow me, let me take care the bruises.”

“No, it’s fine!” refused Reiko.

“Rei-chan, just go with her!” I said in tired tone and she was obedient and followed the doctor. 15 minutes later she came back with the bandage covered the bruises. She was surprised to see me still there.

I companied her until 10 pm, the nurse reassured her that her mother was all right and we should let her rest, I also convinced to take her home, as she also needed rest. It was a tough day for her.

At the car, she told me her address and went silent. I also didn’t want to ruin her mood by asking anything. I made a last turn to her flat, she said she sold the house ever since her mother fell sick, as they needed the money for the hospital treatment. 

“Thank you for everything today Tomo-kun, but you don’t need to go upstairs, I’m fine already.”

“But …” I was still worried about her.

“That’s my room, if you wanted to make sure.” said her and pointed to the room near the stairs. I nodded helplessly, no point to argue with her anymore. She smiled and gave me a quick kiss on my cheek, what was that for?

“Thank you once again!” and went out the car. I was still stunned after the sudden kiss but then I realized I still wanted to say something to her.

“Rei-chan!” she stopped and turned her face to me.

“Tell your boyfriend, if he ever hurt you again, I will kick his ass!” I shouted.

She just chuckled and waved me goodbye.

***

Chapter 9

Our paper project has ended, we got B+ for it, and we must thank to Reiko since she worked harder than anyone of us, she gave a lot of ideas and I was really impressed at her efforts, if ka-chan was in hospital, I wouldn’t able to study at all.

I haven’t seen her around ever since I drove her home from the hospital a week ago. I missed her already. I knew she must have spent a lot of time at the hospital with her mother, and I couldn’t visit them since I was really busy filming drama. Yes, I have another new drama for autumn season. This time I would work with Kame from KAT-TUN, the story based from a novel. My character wasn’t appeared in the novel actually, I was just a special guest character, whatever it meant. But I could sense I would have a great time filming and acting in that drama.

I checked my cell phone, there’s an e-mail from my manager, apparently one of my interview with a magazine was postponed until tomorrow, so I could go home earlier. No more hesitation, I drove my car to the hospital. I stopped a while at the flower shop and bought a small banquet of daisy flowers, I have no idea why I chose daisy, maybe because it reminded me of Reiko, small and fragile.

I knocked the door but no answer, I opened the door and I saw her sleeping in her chair with her head on the bed and her hand held her mother’s hand. I put the flowers on the table and took off my jacket, and just after I covered her shoulder with it, she woke up. 

“Oh hi, Tomo-kun! You have been here long?”

“No, I just arrived, and I thought you feel cold, so I put my jacket.”

“Oh this? Arigatou! You are so kind.” And I could feel my face was getting redder.

“How is okasan?”

“She’s stable, but she hasn’t conscious yet, but doctors said I should not worry.”

“Yokatta ne! Ah Rei-chan, we got B plus for our project.”

“Hontou? Argh, I was expecting A!” she pouted.

“B plus is good, thanks to you.”

“Don’t thank me, if you didn’t talk with your manager maybe we won’t get a good company for the research, so must thank to you!”

“No, thank to you!”

“You!”

“No, You!”

“You!”

All the sudden, a weak shaky voice was heard from the bed, “Re…Rei…ko…” her mother just got awaken from her long sleep.
“Okasan!” she held her hand, “Daijoubu? Do you need anything?” asked her in panic way.

I pushed the nurse button near the bed, and soon the nurse and doctor arrived at the room, the doctor examined her mother and she smiled, “Yokatta ne, she’s already conscious, she will be just fine.”

“Arigatou sensei!” bowed Reiko.

“Just don’t make her tired ok? Jya!” then she left the room with the nurse. Reiko sat near the bed again, and she helped her sat.

“Atarashi kareshi?” asked her mother while observed me.

“No, he’s my best friend from university.” explained Reiko with her red face. I also busy signaling no with my hand.

“Ah, what’s your name, young man?”

“Yamashita Tomohisa desu.” I bowed a little.

“Thanks for taking care of Reiko, Yamashita-kun.” smiled her mother and it’s the same sincere smile that Reiko has.

“Iie, don’t mention it.” I felt embarrassed.

“You are still with Hajime?” asked her mother to Reiko and she nodded slowly. I turned my face away, again a shot of pain attacked my heart, why I have to feel this way each time I heard his name?

“Just think what’s the best for you, Reiko. I’m helpless now, I can only pray for happiness.” She patted Reiko’s hair. And Reiko burst into tears.

“Be strong my child, no more tears.” Reiko nodded again and wiped her own tears. And she caught the flowers on the table.
“Oh, you brought it, Tomo-kun?”

“Hai.”

“Beautiful flowers ne? Reiko, put it in the vas.” 

Reiko walked out the room looking for vas and water.

Her mother turned her face to me, she signaled me to come closer.

“Yamashita-kun, can you help me?” 

“Yes?” 

“Can you promise me to take care Reiko? I don’t trust Hajime.” I was surprised for her request.

“But I …” 

“Reiko never seems happy with him, I often caught bruises but she always denied it was his action. My poor daughter has been suffered too much, I only want her to be happy.”

“Wakatta! I will do my best.” I made up my mind, I have to persuade Reiko to leave that jerk.

“Thank you, Yamashita-kun.” 

The door was opened and Reiko was back with daisy flowers on the vas. She smiled to see me sitting next to her mother.
‘Thanks for entertaining okasan when I’m away. But did you guys talking about me? I sneezed on my way back.” joked her while put the vas at the table.

“Nothing much, your mother just told me that you couldn’t stop crying on your first day at nursery school.” I joked back.
“Uso! I didn’t cry at all!” she stuck out her tongue to me.

A nurse came in and she told us to leave her mother for rest. We nodded, Reiko approached her mother and kissed her on the forehead and whispered her goodbye.

*** 

We walked out the hospital main entrance, she stopped and said, “Thanks for coming, Tomo-kun! By the way, nice haircut!”

“Oh this? I have a new drama, very neat hairstyle ne?” I patted my own hair.

“I like this one better than the gangster hair.” laughed her. It’s so good to hear her laugh again.

“Nee, do you hungry? Let’s have dinner.” 

“Ok, but it’s your treat.”

“Mochiron!”

*** 

We entered the Chinese restaurant in Chiba run by Aiba Family. It’s very comfortable place and I often ate there. After we ordered the dinner, Reiko excused herself to the toilet. Not so many costumers in the restaurant, and they seemed busy with their own things. I just sipped my tea when I felt a tap on my shoulder. I turned around and …

“Toma!” I was really surprised to see him.

“Sashiburi! Hitori?” he gave me a hug.

“No, I’m with my friend, she’s in the toilet! Ah Yuna-chan? Sashiburi!” I greeted his long time girlfriend.

“Doumo Yamashita-kun!” smiled Yuna.

“Toma, we have to catch up, join the dinner with us.” I invited them to sit in our table, I haven’t seen Toma for some months.

“Are you sure? We don’t want to interrupt your dinner.” worried Yuna, I laughed, she’s always considerate.

“No, don’t worry, it’s my pleasure, I’m sure Rei-chan won’t mind. Oh, that’s her! Rei-chan, meet my best friend Toma and Yuna.” I signaled her to come.

“Hello, I’m Ikuta Toma and this is Fujiwara Yuna.” introduced Toma.

“Hi, I’m …”

“Miyamoto-san?” asked Yuna all the sudden.

*** 

Chapter 10

“Eh? You girls know each other?” surprised Toma. 

“Of course, we were classmates in high school, don’t you remember me?” exclaimed Yuna.

Reiko remained silent, she looked kinda lost.

“Rei-chan, daijoubu?” I felt very concerned.

“I … I … I left something in the toilet, be right back!” then she stormed to the toilet again, Yuna and Toma exchanged looks, something wasn’t right, I thought. 

“I will find out if she need any help.” offered Yuna and followed Reiko to the toilet.

Toma patted my shoulder and smiled, “No worries, she will be alright!” 

I just gave him a slight nod as reply. We sat down and waited for them.

“Is she your girlfriend?” asked Toma all the sudden.

“No, but …”

“You love her, don’t you?” 

“I don’t know, but one thing for sure, I always want to protect her, is it called love also?” I questioned him.

“Only that? Did your heart beat faster every time you see her?” I suddenly realized that I was really falling in love with her.

“That’s love, Pi!” grinned Toma. I was dead sure he could see my face getting redder as tomato.

“Urusai!” I was really embarrassed.

“Falling in love is great, isn’t it? I was thinking to propose Yuna, but still so many things to do, like how to deal with Johnny’s management, Yuna’s family in Kyoto…”

“Ohyes, Yuna is from Kyoto right? She said that she went to the same high school with Rei-chan, so do you think she’s also from there?”

“Maybe, why don’t you just ask her?” 

“I think there’s something happened in Kyoto and she never told me about it, her boyfriend always uses that secret to threat her.”

“Sound awful, you better ask her what’s going on.” suggested Toma. I nodded and saw the girls were walking toward us.

“Oh, they are back!” I warned Toma to end up the topic. And I saw Reiko looked better. Once they sat in the table, Yuna started, “Miyamoto-san forgot her handkerchief, and we talked about the old high school days.” Reiko just nodded.

“Fujiwara-san changed a lot, she used to wear glasses, I barely recognize her.” added Reiko. I was relieved that she returned to her normal self, but I wondered why they called each other so formal like that? But I didn’t want to ruin the good mood, so I just tried to act normal and pretended nothing happened.

Toma insisted to pay for the dinner and I couldn’t stop him. We were always like that, racing each other to the waiter and pay the bill first, and this time he won.

“Ugh, next time, I will beat you Toma!” I pretended to sulk.

“Haha ok, next time you can pay, but the dinner is on 5 stars restaurant and I will bring also Massu!” joked Toma. I just laughed, even that Toma wasn’t close with NEWS members, he knew how greedy Massu over foods. I remembered on a photo shoot, the staff prepared some cakes and snacks, I didn’t touch any, since I have breakfast earlier, and Massu quickly grabbed my share.

We walked out the restaurant and headed to our cars. Yuna and Reiko were behind us, I was quite suspicious because they seemed to hide something from us. They whispered to each other as if afraid me or Toma could hear them. I tried to think positive, maybe it was the girl stuff that they were talking about. Once we reached Toma’s car, Yuna gave Reiko a light hug and said, “Take care, but I hope you consider what I told you earlier.” 

“Thanx, but I still need time to think about it.” smiled Reiko.

“Bye, Pi!” as Toma went inside his car.

“Bye, Yamashita-kun!” followed Yuna. I nodded and waved them goodbye. Then Reiko and me walked to our car and I drove her home.

*** 

I stopped the car as we reached her flat, she released the seatbelt, our short journey was filled with silence once more. She didn’t speak a word and I didn’t feel like asking anything tho I have a million questions for her. She exhaled and looked at her flat, the light was on. She turned to me and said, “Tomo-kun, can you give me one last favor?”

“Ehh, last favor? What do you mean?” I confused.

“I have made my mind, I’m leaving Hajime, please take me away from here. I promise I will never trouble you anymore.”

“Don’t talk nonsense, I don’t mind, in fact I’m happy that you finally decided to leave him.”

“I’m tired, Tomo-kun! I’m afraid I couldn’t handle the stress and commit suicide, I know you must be thinking that I’m a freak, but sometimes I just feel like to end my life, then I remember I still have my mother, she’s the only one who keep me sane.”

“I have no idea how hard your life, Rei-chan! Please tell me everything, I want to help!”

“Thanx for your offer, but I’m not ready to tell you right now! Some other time ne? I promise! Now please take me anywhere away from here.”

And by the corner of my eyes, I caught the door of her room was opened and a figure went out and saw us furiously, I didn’t think twice, I told Reiko to fasten her seatbelt and speed up my car instantly. I have to save her first, I was serious when I told Toma that all I wanted was to protect her.

*** 

It was a long night, our first stop was the hospital, we have to transfer her mother to other hospital, as we were sure it would be the first place where her boyfriend would look for. Reiko talked to the doctors, told the situations and they agreed to transfer right away, as her mother was stable. We followed the ambulance behind, and in the new hospital after made sure her mother was alright, Reiko accepted my offer to stay over at my house that night. She had no other place either way, and it was too late to find a new flat for her, and I was afraid to leave her alone in a hotel.

***

Ka-chan opened the door for us, she was surprised to see me brought home a girl that night. I gave her a don’t-ask-anything look, and she understood and just let us in. 

“Ka-chan, this is my friend Miyamoto Reiko, she’s in trouble right now, can she stay with us for tonight?” 

“Yoroshiku onegaishimasu!” bowed Reiko.

“Oh, don’t be so formal, of course you can stay with us. I will wake up Rina, so you can use her room and she can sleep with me.” smiled ka-chan and walked to my sister’s room.

“Sorry for the trouble, Tomo-kun.” 

“Don’t worry, that’s what friends are for.” I winked.

Rina wasn’t happy being forced to wake up in the middle of the night, but her eyes widened as she saw Reiko.

“Rei-chan, that’s my sister Rina.” 

“Hi, Reiko desu.”

“Rina desu, ah come on, you can use my room, in fact you can stay at our house anytime you like.” invited Rina and grabbed Reiko’s hand like old friends to her room.

“Tomohisa.” called up ka-chan.

“Yes?”

“Go to your room and rest.” I was thankful to have such a wonderful mother. I thought I would get shoot with questions. I hugged her.

“Ka-chan, arigatou!”

“Hai! Hai! Now go! I have to drag Rina away from your friend.” hushed ka-chan.

I followed her order and walked to my room, changed my clothes and remembered that I supposed to have a shooting schedule for drama the next day, I frowned, it meant I have to wake up super early. But I was still worried over Reiko. I opened the door and caught ka-chan was about to enter her room.

“I told you to rest, Tomohisa!” warned her.

“I know, but I just want to check out if she need anything.” I was being stubborn again.

“She’s alright, and she’s sleeping already.”

“Ka-chan, I have a filming tomorrow, can you take care of her when I’m gone?”

“Sure, now go rest!” smiled ka-chan and pushed me back to my room. But I didn’t go to my bed, instead I waited a while and made sure ka-chan already went inside her room before I opened my door slowly and walked to Rina’s room.

I was about to knock the door, but then I changed my mind, she was already sleeping anyway. There’s always time to talk with her, I believe in her promise that she will tell me everything when the time is right, I said in my mind.

“Oyasuminasai, Rei-chan.” I whispered.

*** 

Chapter 11

The filming just ended around 7 pm, I was really tired, but I couldn’t wait to be home and welcomed by Reiko. I didn’t see her in the morning as I was being picked up awfully so early, like 4 am, I slept for 3 hours only! But I had taken a nap on the break. I took out my phone, I was wondering if she wanted to go out dinner with me or not, so I called her, I waited for the dialing tone but instead I heard the operator machine saying the number was no longer active. I suddenly had a bad feeling.

The van finally reached my house, I said thanks and bye to the driver and hurriedly run inside the house, it’s empty. I remembered it’s ka-chan’s bowling night with her group of friends, and as for Rina, she probably hung out with her friend again. But where’s Reiko? I searched the living room, only found my pet dogs Pi-chan and Hime-chan sleeping under the table. I run to the kitchen, no sign of her. I went upstairs to Rina’s room, the door was closed, I knocked few times and still no answer. I was freak out that her boyfriend might be found her and took her away. I opened the door and no one was there. I couldn’t help being panic, I was dead sure she already left my house and I would never see her again. I threw myself to the bed and without I realized it, I started to cry. I never thought how important she was to me, I was really worried something bad happened to her and most of all, finally I was sure about my feeling to her. I love her.

Suddenly I heard the sound from downstairs, it’s the usual welcoming bark from my dogs, they never barked ka-chan or Rina, it might be Reiko! I rushed downstairs and I was right, I found Reiko playing with them already. 

“Ahh, Tomo-kun, when you are back?” greeted her. I didn’t answer her question. I run to her and hugged her tightly. She was shocked at my action but she didn’t do anything. I sighed few times and finally I let her go, she looked at me curiously. 

“Rei-chan, please promise me one thing!” I was finally able to speak, I was so happy to see her again, safe and sound.

“Yes?”

“Don’t you ever leave me again!” I didn’t realize I nearly screamed when I said that. But later I only heard her laughs.

“What’s so funny?” I pouted.

“Nothing, it’s just … what made you think I left you? I only went to the hospital to visit okasan.” explained her with huge smile.

“Then why I can’t reach your phone? It’s said your number isn’t active anymore?” I shot her with questions. 

“Yeah, and Hajime will easily find me if I turned on my phone.” now her smile turned into bitter smile. 

“Oh, I never thought of it.” I felt stupid all the sudden, I already brought back the topic that she tried to forget. 

“Reiko, I’m so sorry!” usually I hardly apologized even when I was in the wrong side, but with her, sorry seemed to be my favorite word.

“Never mind, I should have left you a note.” replied her in regret way.

“How’s okasan?” I tried to change the topic.

“She’s doing fine and she was asking about you. She told me to deliver this message for you.”

“What message?” and got a quick kiss on my left cheek, it’s the second time she kissed me. I couldn’t help blushing.

“That’s for always taking care of both of us! I’m so grateful to have wonderful best friend like you! Arigatou, Tomo-kun!” smiled her, also blushed.

The word “best friend” showed me that she’s not ready for any love confession yet, or even worst, she might have no feeling for me at all. I sighed, maybe I should keep my feeling inside for the time being, until I was sure that she loved me back in return. 

“Iie, don’t mention it! Nee, are you hungry?” I asked with fake cheerful tone.

“Uhm kinda, what we will have for dinner?”

“Ka-chan never cook dinner on bowling day, it’s like her day-off from routine activities.” I explained.

“Ahh, no problem, we can cook ourselves!” grinned Reiko.

“You … you can cook?” I nearly cried in joy.

“Tomo-kun, I have been living alone with okasan since I was 10 years old, and she was always busy with work, before the stroke I mean, I have to learn how to cook so I can stay alive.” she replied rather sarcastically.

Before I said anything, she gave me her palm right in front of my face.
“Stop! No more apologies!” and both of us laughed. 

Ka-chan joined the dinner and she praised Reiko’s cooking, and it’s so cute to see her blushing. Ka-chan even babbled about how she would make a great housewife in the future and made her face redder even more. After the dinner, ka-chan excused to bed earlier, the bowling day must have taken a lot of her energy. We nodded and said good night to her. I helped her washing the dishes tho she insisted to do it alone, but no one could resist my stone head, so she allowed me to help her dry them.

***

The next morning, I took her out, it was my day-off after all, I wanted to company her visit her okasan, but before going to hospital, we went shopping a bit. She refused at first, just like what I guessed before, but I convinced her that she needed more clothes and other things since all her stuff were on her old flat and we couldn’t pick them coz her ex-boyfriend might be there. 

We shopped for clothes first, and she seemed uncomfortable each time I suggested her to try on clothes that I picked for her. She took a look at the price tag, and her eyes widened in shock.

“Tomo-kun! This is very expensive! I can’t afford it!” she whispered to me as if afraid that the shop assistant might hear her.

“It’s all on me!” I whispered back.

“No! You have done so much to me, I don’t want to trouble you anymore!” her voice raised up.

“Sssttt, you make the shop assistant look at us! Here, take this and this, no more argument! They will think we are going to steal the clothes!” I handed more clothes and pushed her inside the fitting room so she could try them on. She raised an eyebrow to me but then she closed the door. I grinned in victory and waited for her. Few minutes later, she came out with the dress that I picked for the first time, it looked incredible good on her, as if it was especially designed for her. I gave two thumbs up, she smiled and went back inside. 

“Wow, what a lucky girl, she has a very nice boyfriend!” I could hear the shop assistant girls gossiped to each other.

“Yeah, so jealous! The boyfriend is also very handsome, do you think he looks like an actor?” asked another girl.

“Yabaii! Must take Reiko out of here soon!” I shrieked in my heart. Once Reiko finished, I took all the clothes she had chosen and brought them to the cashier and paid them quickly.

“Phew, that was close!” I exhaled after we walked out the shop.

“What was close?” she asked curiously and tried to take the shopping bags from my hand.

“The shop assistant girls recognized me!” I replied and shoved her hand away from the shopping bags.

“At least let me take some!” she pouted. 

“No!” I stuck out a tongue. We were like a baka couple fighting over shopping bags. And even that we weren’t really a couple, I really enjoyed each passing time with her around me.

“Rei-chan, I need to go check my cell phone.” I said all the sudden and walked inside a phone shop, she followed me. I went to the costumer service and she looked around the shop. 

10 minutes later, I patted her shoulder and told her that I’m done. She nodded and we had lunch at a nice restaurant in Odaiba, I requested for a secluded table, it’s one of my fave restaurant and the staff already recognized me. Once we finished our lunch and waited for the desserts, I put a small bag on the table, she began to give me another question look.

“Here, a present for you.” I smiled. Before she protested again, I cut in, ”Please open it!”

She bit her lips but then she took the bag and opened it.

“Ohhh!” a surprised sound came out from her. Yes, I bought her a new cell phone, the same type with the one that Jin and I used that moment, the newest flip model with baby blue cover.

“I thought you need a new phone.” I said casually.

"Thank you.” she replied shortly. But then she was busy digging inside her bag and took something out from it.

“Here, a present in return.” she grinned and passed me her Doraemon cell phone strap. I was speechless.

“It’s nothing compare everything you have given me, but I thought you might like it.”

“I do!” I nearly screamed out.

“Haha so cute! I thought Rina was joking when she told me that you are a Doraemon fan!” teased her.

“Damn Rina! What’s another embarrassing stories she told you about me?” I could feel my cheek was burning red.

“Nothing much, both of us were tired so she hasn’t revealed more, but tonight I will interview her again!”

“Don’t you dare!” 

“You can’t stop me!” she stuck out her tongue. We ended up laughing until the waiter came with our desserts. 

I paid the bill and we went to the hospital without realized that someone has been following us the whole day.

*** 

Chapter 12

Her mother condition wasn’t getting any better but stable, though the doctors couldn’t tell when she would get off from the hospital. Her heart was still weak therefore we should really careful on anything that might shock her, as Eto sensei warned us. We nodded and we went inside to room again to excuse ourselves since the visiting hours almost over and her mother needed the rest. 

“Okasan, I’m leaving now, but I will be back tomorrow. Rest well ne?” said Reiko and kissed her forehead gently.

“Don’t think much of me, you also need rest. Yamashita-kun, please remind her to eat and sleep well.” her mother looked at me.

“Eh, sure, I will do that.” I replied nervously.

“Oh, can you come closer?” I hesitantly walked to the bed. 

“Thank you for always taking care my Reiko.” said her mother and patted my hand.

“Iie, don’t mention it! She’s my best friend, I will always protect her.” 

“If I’m gone, please continue look after her, she has no one else beside me.”

“Okasan! Don’t say that!” cried Reiko.

“I will!” I surely replied. 

“Arigatou, Yamashita-kun! Nee Reiko, stop crying! You promise before, no more cry.” Reiko nodded and wiped her tears. She gave her mother last kisses and hugs before waving hand and saying goodbye. 

We finally left the room and headed home. 

***

After dinner, Reiko went to Rina’s room to sleep, she was really silence ever since we left the hospital, and I didn’t want to be nosy, she needed time to be alone and rest anyway. I was about to turn off the TV and also headed to my own room, when the phone rang. I cringed as I looked into the clock, it was almost 10 pm, who would crazy enough to call at this hour?
I lazily picked it up.

“Moshi moshi! Yamashita residence here.”

“Moshi moshi! May I speak with Miyamoto Reiko? It’s from Tokyo Hospital.”

“Oh chotto matte ne!” I rushed went upstairs and banged Rina’s door, I suddenly had bad feeling about the phone call, it must be emergency, if not why would they call so late like this, I thought.

Rina opened the door and gave me her deadly glare, I ignored her and went inside, Reiko hasn’t slept yet, she turned her head to me with question look on her face.

“Rei-chan, a call from hospital, hurry!” she reacted quite fast and followed me downstairs.

“Moshi moshi? This is Reiko!” I waited beside her and prayed it’s not a bad news. She listened carefully and then her eyes expanded, by that moment, I knew something bad has happened. I could only assumed the worst.

“It’s not a joke right? How come? She was so fine this afternoon when we left her!” shot Reiko hysterically, tears started falling from her eyes.

“A letter? Hai, ima sugu!” she ended the phone call, turned to me and cried in my embrace.

“O-okasan … okasan is gone.” she sobbed. I knew it though I didn’t understand why, Reiko was right, her mother was fine before we left her, it’s impossible her condition suddenly has gotten worst without any cause.

“The-the nurse said after receive a letter from her relative she … she …” Reiko couldn’t continue no more.

“Let’s go to the hospital to find out ok?” I calmed her. She stopped crying and nodded helplessly, we changed our clothes and rushed to the hospital, another long night, I sighed. 

*** 

We arrived at her mother room and found that her mother was covered with white sheet already. Reiko couldn’t hold her tears anymore, she ran to the bed and cried hysterically.
I could only calm her and stayed beside her. The nurses and doctors just stood there and watched us with their concern and sympathy looks.

Few moments later, Eto sensei approached us and bowed, we nodded as reply.

“I’m terrible sorry, it’s beyond our hands, we tried our best to save your mother, but he condition was really weak, and we lost her.” regretted Eto sensei.

Reiko bit her lips.

“Anoo, Reiko said about the letter, what is it?” I asked, as I knew Reiko wasn’t able to do anything that moment.

“Ohh, right after you two left, there’s a guy came in and passed me a letter, he said he’s a relative, this is the letter, we didn’t read it.” said a nurse and passed me the letter. Reiko grabbed it from my hand, and she went out, I wanted to chase her but the doctors came to me and asked about the funeral etc. I looked at Reiko’s back helplessly, a nurse assured me that she would be just fine. And she was right, 10 minutes later she came back. But her expression has changed, more like upset than sad. 

“Rei-chan, what’s inside the letter?” I asked curiously.

“Oh nothing, a cousin just wrote okasan a family matter.” She answered it in nervous tone, I couldn’t tell if it’s a lie or not.

“Oh, maybe your mother was shocked and she couldn’t handle the news?” I wondered.

“Maybe …” replied Reiko shortly. 

“Are you alright?” 

“I’m fine, don’t worry about me! Oh I haven’t asked about the funeral!” exclaimed her.

“I have taken care of it, tomorrow morning we can make small ceremony for her. There’s nothing we can do now, it’s late.”

“Thanks Tomo-kun.”

“Let’s go home, shall we? You need rest.” and replied by her nod.

*** 

We walked to the parking lot, all the sudden she stopped and bent down crying. I fully understood, she just lost the most precious person in her heart. If I were in her situation I would also cry endlessly. I helped her stand up and offered her a hanky, she looked at me with her fluffy face, instead of grabbing the hanky, she held my hand and sobbed in my chest. I was thankful it was already midnight, no one could see my red face. I hoped she didn’t notice that my heart just beat 100x faster than usual.

Few minutes later, she released her head from my chest, once again I offered her my hanky, this time she accepted it and wiped her tears.

“Uh, I hope this tears will stop, sorry you have to see me like this.” 

“I fully understand.” 

“I must be look like shit right now!” she let out a bitter smile.

“No no, I don’t see anything different with you! You are still the same … “ I hesitated to continue, but she gazed me curiously.

“ … beautiful person in my eyes.” I finally said it. Her eyes widened. I knew it was awfully a wrong time to say such flirty thing that moment. She didn’t say any word, I suddenly regretted for what I just said. I faced down to the ground, I didn’t dare looking straight to her eyes.

“Tomo-kun …” finally she said something.

“Y-yes?” 

“Please be with me tonight.” I was speechless, I knew she probably just feeling lonely but I didn’t care. I pulled her to my embrace and kissed her passionately.

*** 

I wake up the next morning with a huge smile, last night was unforgettable. I turned to my left side, ready to give her a good morning kiss, but then I just realized it’s already empty. I looked around, hoping to see her somewhere in this hotel room, but I couldn’t feel her presence. I looked down to the floor only to find my clothes there. Where was she?

I got dressed and went to the bathroom with a big hope to find her there, but again it’s empty. There’s even no sign it’s being used at all, everything was so clean and neat just like when we checked in last night. I started to worry that she already left and I would never see her again. I shook my head, “No, don’t be so negative, she already promised that she won’t leave me ever again!” I knew I should prepare for the worst but I haven’t ready for it yet. I still hoped I could find her at the hospital.

I sped my car to the hospital, I searched the nurse who always had taken care of her mother.

“Ahh Yamashita-san, Reiko said you are kinda busy this morning, so you can’t attend the ceremony.”

“Where’s Reiko?” I blurted out.

“Oh she left already, she decided to have cremation instead of the funeral, she said she wanted to be near her mother.” My jaw dropped. How could she do this to me? Am I nothing to her? I felt so angry, disappointed and worried, all in one. If the nurse weren’t in front of me, I would fist the wall in frustration already.

“But she left something for you.” She smiled and handed me an envelope.

“Thanks, Nurse Misora!” she nodded and left me alone in the hallway.

I ripped the edge of the envelope impatiently, my hands were shaking when I read her short letter.

“Dear Tomo-kun,
I’m sorry, I break my promises, I can’t stay by your side, I can’t tell you what’s going on. All I know, you don’t deserve me. Please forget me. Take care and thank you for everything. Reiko”

That’s it, that short letter made me realized that I lost her forever. I cried. I even hadn’t got a chance to say I love her.

Baby set me free from this misery,
I can’t take it no more,
Since you ran away,
Nothing’s been the same,
Don’t know what I’m living for.

Here I am so alone,
And there’s nothing in this world I can do.

Until you back here baby,
Miss you, want you, need you so,
Until you back here baby, yeah,
There’s a feeling inside I want you to know,
You are the one and I can’t let you go.

- lyrics : Back Here by BB Mak.

*end of flashback*

***

Epilogue :

*Present : Year 2011*

I waited for her answer, finally she looked back to my eyes. I couldn’t tell what the meaning of her gaze.

“Please tell me, is he my son?” I repeated my question, since she was still silent.

“I’m sorry Tomo-kun … he’s not your son.” she replied slowly.

I could feel ache of pain strike my heart once again. Deep inside I was hoping he was my son, though I knew it wouldn’t easier, my life would completely change, maybe I even forced to quit my job in entertainment business. But if she said he was my son, I would take full responsible and ready to give up everything for them. Coz I knew I still loved her. All these 6 years, I was completely focused my life on work. I always turned down Jin or other friends who tried introducing me with girls. I felt my life was empty without her.

“Souka?” that was all I could say.

“I named him after you coz I want to always remember you.” she said again. 

“So whose son is he? Hajime?” and I regretted the moment I asked it.

“Yes … “ I was surprised by her answer.

“I … I already pregnant when I left him, but I didn’t tell him, coz he would force me for another abortion.”

“Abortion?” again another shock thing I heard from her.

“We were together since our school days in Kyoto. I was only 15 years old when I found out I was pregnant, we were scared and he refused to marry me obviously, we were too young to raise a baby. So he forced me for abortion.” she stopped her story as tears started to form in her eyes.

“You don’t have to continue if you don’t want to.” I offered my handkerchief and she accepted it, she wiped her tears and let a long sigh out. 

“It’s ok, I promised you I would tell you everything ne? I’m sorry only now I have guts to tell you.” 

I nodded.

“The clinic he took me for abortion was horrible, well it was the cheapest place he could find. I got terrible bleeding the next day, okasan found out, she asked what’s going on? I told her I was pregnant and I lied by telling her I got miscarried. Okasan was really nice to me. She didn’t scold me or anything, she supported me, she even willing to move out from Kyoto, coz she didn’t want people looking down and pity at me. We moved to Chiba, it was okasan’s hometown before she married my otousan.”

I nodded, I didn’t know she had been thru all these.

“Surprisingly, Hajime followed us. He went to the same school and lived near our house in Chiba. He said he couldn’t let me go. Okasan wasn’t agreed, but ignored her. Later Hajime changed, he became alcoholic and was on drugs too, he often beat me without reason. One day, okasan found my bruises, we quarreled and she got stroke. I’m such a bad daughter am I?” 

“No, you are a good daughter Reiko, you did that coz you didn’t want to hurt her feeling.” I gently tapped her hand.

“But I caused her sick. I was confused how to pay the hospital cost. Hajime helped me a lot, but later I found out all his money was from dirty jobs. He sold drugs in school and our neighborhood. I couldn’t leave him coz we needed him, he even paid for all my school expenses. Lucky I got scholarship in Meiji University. I was ready to leave him, but he always threaten me to tell okasan my secret, that I was having abortion not miscarried.”

“So he was the one who wrote the letter to your mother?” I suddenly felt so angry.

“Sadly yes! But he got what he deserved, I reported to the police about his dirty jobs and now he’s in prison for years.” she let out a bitter smile. Everything was clear now, but still I couldn’t understand why she ran away from me.

“But why you left me Rei-chan?” she stunned at my question.

“Like I said in my letter, you deserve someone else better than me. I didn’t want to be your burden anymore.”

“You weren’t a burden at all, I helped coz you are my best friend and I … I love you.” finally I could let my feeling that I have kept for 6 long years. Her eyes widened again. But later a smile formed in her face.

“Baka! I knew you loved me, and I loved you too, it was hard decision to leave you. But I made the right thing, I have a son now, and he’s the only reason why I should stay alive. And I know how much you loved your job, what if the company and your fans found out you were going out with a woman with one kid?”

“I don’t care!” 

“Well I care, come on, don’t be childish Tomo-kun! You have a bright future as a promising actor! Your movie even nominated in Oscar! You can’t just let go of your dream for us. And don’t worry we will survive and support you always, though in distance.” I gave up, she has a point.

“So you won’t stay in this town?”

“No we just visited coz Tomo-chan always wanted to see Chiba.”

“He’s a good kid, you raise him well, Rei-chan!”

“Thanks, that’s my duty as a mother.” she chuckled and calling her son to come over.

“Tomo-chan, please meet Mama’s best friend in university, he has the same name as you.”

“Hontou ni? Hajimemashite, Miyamoto Tomohisa desu!” said the little boy and bowed politely.

“Hi Tomo-chan, I’m Tomohisa-jichan.” I shook his little hand and he smiled back with the same smile as Reiko always has. Reiko witnessed our greeting with teary eyes.

“Rei-chan?”

“Oh sorry, I just had dust on my eyes. Ahh we have to go, our train will depart in an hour.”

“I will take you two to the station!” I offered.

“No need, I already called a taxi. Good bye Tomo-kun!” and hugged me for the last time. I bent down and messed her son’s hair, “Be a good boy, Tomo-chan! Always protect your mother.” the little boy nodded as response, I turned my head back to Reiko.

“My number is still the same, call me if you or Tomo-chan need anything. Take care and have a safe journey!” that was my last words for her. It was a pleasant surprise to meet her again though at the end we couldn’t be together, I just wished for her happiness. And I was ready to move on with my life.

I watched them entered the taxi, but I didn’t know on the journey to the station right after Tomo-chan felt asleep in her embrace, she whispered to herself, “I’m sorry Tomo-kun, I lied, he’s our son.”

*the end*

by : Dianne, September 2005 ~ August 2006

A/N : haha finally after 1 year this fanfic finished *sweats* I stuck at the ending, and to be honest I was contemplating how the ending would go, happy or sad ending? But guess at the end it’s in between LOL! Please don’t kill me! And yes, Yamapi can make a girl pregnant after 1st time of sex! Yay for Pi! I have no plan to make a sequel so just bear with the suck ending *runs*

ohyes, I used the lyrics of Back Here from BBMak, a boyband from UK, guess they don’t exist anymore LOL! But this song inspired this fic a lot! As for the title, it’s taken from NEWS song which lyrics written by Pi, a very sad song, quite fit with this fic, coz I made Pi’s love life so miserable for 6 years LOL! 

Thanx for reading my crap fic, especially the ones who has been following this fic since last year *mwah*!

layout © Dianne 2007