Part 1

Yuuto’s world changed April 10th, 8:07am.

“Unf!”

“Hyih!”

It’s odd how people tend to remember insignificant information like that.

“AhHhhhH— I’m sorry! Are you hurt?”

“I am fine,” she said, ignoring his extended hand.

Dusting off her skirt, the girl began picking up the books and papers that scattered as a result of their collision. Only after she picked up her third notebook did Yuuto realize he should be helping her, but as if reading his thoughts, she spoke before he could act.

“Please do not. The gesture is not necessary.”

“Aahaha, right. They’re your personal notes after all, sorry abou— hey your notes!”

His warning came too late; a sudden, strong wind blew just as she finished gathering the last of her belongings. The girl didn’t falter in the slightest, but what did was a single piece of paper that came loose from her grip— flying to the other side of the school.

Yuuto couldn’t help but smile at the opportunity. He was already running towards it when he turned back.

“Don’t worry, I won’t be long!”

After some minutes, the only thing that could be heard from beyond the front doors of the school was heavy panting. The boy responsible for the noise had one hand dedicated to holding a crumpled piece of paper while his other was clutching his chest.

“Sorry……...I took so………long…………….it got caught in a tree and…….I climbed it but fell and…...huh?......”

Standing upright, he looked from the main gates to the front doors of the school and found no signs of life anywhere. The area which hosted the girl just a few minutes ago was now empty.

He looked down at his watch. It’s no wonder she left.

“Guess I’m late again.” he sighed.

Before hurrying to his first class, his eyes moved from the watch to a silver object on the floor. Crouching down, he examined the metal.

“A key?”

The connection instantly formed in his mind—

Her key!

—and a bright smile returned to his face.

Alright, I can return this once I find her, but where would that be? I didn’t exactly get a good look at her, but it shouldn’t be too hard right? She looked like a first year after all.

“.........”

Maybe second?

“.......................”

Black hair, average height, wearing our school uniform….

“…………………………………..”

That doesn't narrow it down at all! Ahhh man, I should’ve asked for her name at least!

He scratched the back of his hair with both hands in agitation, not noticing himself crumple the paper while doing so. And a second epiphany struck him. He hadn’t even bothered to check the paper he was holding.

“She must have written her name somewhere..”

And her name—

“Hikari…. Aeri?”

—was one he’d never heard before.

* * *

“Haaaaaaghhhhhh!?! What do you mean you haven’t heard of her!?”

“She’s literally the only thing people have been talking about since she got here two days ago!”

“Two days….Wednesday? You mean she’s a transfer student?”

Both students stared at him in perplexed disbelief.

“Are you actually, genuinely retarded?”

“OF COURSE she’s a transfer! No girl that hot would go unnoticed for so long here; and that said, it’s the only thing people know about her.”

“She won’t budge man!” The first student said hitting his friend. “Like, not even to talk to people! What’s her problem? Since when are hot girls antisocial?”

“I don’t know man but I’m hearing that the President’s gotten an interest, he might go for it.”

“Gaaaaaah! That bastard again? Guy’s already got everything a man wants, greedy little—”

“Fellas,” Yuuto said interrupting. “I just want to know who she is.”

They appeared mildly annoyed he would interrupt such an important conversation.

With the way they’ve been talking…. I shouldn’t mention I spoke to her.

Yuuto briefly considered moving on and asking someone else. There were countless other boys and girls he could talk to in his high school, but at the same time, there were none. His reputation was well established, and the two students he was speaking with now were just some of the many that didn’t enjoy his company.

They were also some of the few that would tolerate it for some reason.

With a lack of people to ask, he shot down his idea almost as quickly as he thought of it.

The two boys stared at each other, as if silently discussing the pros and cons of telling him what they knew; and after much deliberation, the first student simply shrugged his shoulders.

“Let him know, not like he’ll get anywhere with her.”

“Get anywhere?”

The second student let out a sigh.

“Alright, listen good cause I’m not gonna repeat myself.”

Yuuto clutched the paper in his pocket as he took a seat across from him.

“Girl’s name is Hikari Aeri, she transferred in two days ago. She got confessed to twice her first day here, five times on the second. She turned them all down.”

Yuuto’s eyebrows rose slightly.

“Seven times.” He said in mild disbelief. He must have spoken louder than he intended due to a few heads turning his way in irritation.

“What’s your problem?” asked the first student.

He scratched the back of his head.

“Ahahaha, sorry about that. I guess I did interrupt our classmates.”

“What? No, I mean normal people would freak out over news like that and you don’t even look fazed. That’s just really ironic coming from you.”

“I guess I don’t startle easily,” he said with the faintest of smiles. “Anyway……… if she got confessed to seven times then it makes sense she would reject them, but wh—”

The second student held up his hand to stop his words. “That’s exactly what everyone wants to know. Thing is, no one can find out. She’s unapproachable.”

“Unapproachable?”

“It’s exactly what sounds like!” cried the first student. “She’s too prim— too proper, like she knows she’s above everyone else.”

“It’s like she’s trying not to make friends. She’s cold, but for some reason that just makes everyone like her more.” He proceeded to tap his friend on the arm. “Some people like the chase right?”

“Or femdom.”

Both erupted into laughter at a joke Yuuto didn’t understand. He found it ironic that none of the students found their outburst disruptive.

“And?” He asked after they had finished.

“And that’s it. Nothing else. Rumor has it she bleeds blue cause of the way she talks, but no one knows anything about her besides her name.”

“I…..see. So where can I find her?”

“Do I look like a stalker?”

“Yeah.” His friend replied in a heartbeat.

As their argument began, Yuuto thanked them and stepped into the hallway after making brief rounds with the rest of the students. The school day had already come to a close and he had no idea what her schedule looks like. If she was the type to leave early, she’d be going home without a key.

As a man, he couldn’t let a lone girl spend the night outside her home. Granted, she probably had family that would let her inside, or even servants if the rumor on her wealth held true, but regardless of those things he couldn’t let her return home empty-handed.

However, it didn’t matter how noble his intentions were if he couldn’t find her.

Asking the two students did him no good, and no one else in the class would give him a straightforward answer, if they even answered at all.

With the little information he has, he must answer one question.

Where would a girl like that go?

She doesn't speak to people, bleeds blue, acts formal while staying attractive enough to have people confess to her. A girl like that would definitely….

“I’m hearing that the President’s gotten an interest.”

Yuuto felt his legs coil and burst through the semi-crowded hallways. He was half-impressed in how well he could weave through the people around him; under normal circumstances he would apologize for causing them discomfort, but he had no time for such a luxury under his time limit.

No sooner had he arrived at the student council room than the he bust open the door, nearly taking it off its hinges.

He began scanning the interior but there was no sign of the person he was looking for. Instead, he found himself face to face with two students wearing red bands on their uniforms.

“Well well, if it isn’t the lapdog himself,” touted a well groomed boy with parted hair. “I’d ask you to refrain from breaking our property, as I know you can’t afford to fix them even if we extorted you, but that might be asking too much of a dog.”

“You....shouldn’t be so rude Gengyo..” Spoke the delicate voice of a girl in the back of the room. “H-Hello Yuuto.” Her voice was so soft that Yuuto had just barely registered it. He didn’t blame her, as he had been much the same way once upon a time. He addressed her with a smile.

“Yo Tomomi. It’s been a while.”

“Y—Yeah, it has,” she said hiding part of her face with her bangs. “Sorry ......... I—I guess I’ve been busy……....with work.”

“Ahahaha, hey don’t worry about it,” he said standing upright.

“Miss Tomomi, your frail demeanor is going to cost us one of these days. Don’t treat animals the same way as humans, I mean look!” he said pointing to Yuuto. “He’s even panting like a dog! What further proof do you need?”

“It’s nice to see you too Gengyo.”

“Don’t call me by name or else I’ll have to change it.” He demanded. “Why are you even here?”

With his breathing back under control Yuuto calmly told the student his reasons for being there, which was promptly met with an outrageous laughter.

“The president has no time for someone like you!” He said nearly doubling over in laughter. “E-Even if he did, he certainly wouldn’t see someone like you!”

“Yeah, I get it. But like I mentioned I’m not after the president, I’m after the same person he’s after so if you could kindly tell me where—”

“No.” Said Gengyo having now calmed down from his laughing fit. “If the president has business with the girl then I have reason to withhold information you could use to interrupt him.”

“I don’t intend to interrupt him, I just need thirty seconds with the transfer girl. That’s all.”

“The answer is no.”

“This school is too big for me to realistically find him without knowing where he is; I understand your position but it’s important to the girl!”

“The answer is no!” Genyo said slamming his hands on the table. Several items toppled over, including his chair— though that was likely just due to him standing too quickly.

“I don’t care about whatever self-righteous mission you have, I don’t care about your not knowing the layout of our school, and I most certainly don’t care to entertain this conversation any longer.”

His perfectly parted hair became lopsided, as though it needed to convey its own message about how exasperated its owner was.

“Leave. Now.”

Seeing the conversation had become pointless, Yuuto gave a slow exhalation. His balled fists slowly unwound as he spoke.

“I see. I’m sorry for bothering you.”

No response came from inside as Yuuto stepped into the hallway and closed the door behind him. What was the adage again? When one door closes, another one will open?

Scratching the back of his head, he walked towards a window overseeing the school’s baseball field. From the little he understood, the season had just started for them. There was nothing much he knew about the activity beyond that. Sports were never his strong suit.

The school had a plethora of facilities used by a variety of different clubs. Archery and cooking were especially notorious for having the best equipment money can buy, but it was hardly an inconvenience. It’s just one of the many advantages of going to a school for the wealthy.

Yes, everything about this place radiates sophistication. The grand gates upon entering, the impeccably clean hallways, the very designs of the classrooms and the lavishly decorated club rooms. All of it was at the disposal of every student within the school, and all of it spoke of their place in the world. But none were quite so impressive as the Student Council room.

From the moment Yuuto burst through those ornate doors, sunlight reflected off marble tables that blinded him while the overwhelming smell of lavender forced its way into his lungs. The exorbitant amount of wooden bookshelves, each one meticulously organized, lined the walls. He’d even heard rumors that they may add a vending machine inside the council room this year.

A great number of people apply each year to be part of the Council, and each year every applicant is denied. It’s an open secret that the president will take only the wealthiest students, or those who are very connected. Given that the latter is almost always a trait of the former, however, money is essentially the only way to apply. A mysterious girl with rumors surrounding her potentially wealthy pedigree is just the President’s type.

He eyed a student that hit what looked like a home run.

He didn't like the way the president did things, nor did he like how he treated the students, but that would have to come second. Right now they shared a common goal: to find that girl.

He was so lost in thought that he hadn’t felt a presence come up right behind him. A slender finger tapped on his shoulder and Yuuto turned to greet its owner with the same smile he gave her earlier. He apparently turned to quickly given how she became startled upon making eye contact.

“I—I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to scare you…….if.... I did…”

Yuuto couldn’t help but let out a small laugh.

“You’re fidgeting. Are you sure I wasn’t the one that scared you?”

“W——I—I’m sorry.”

“It’s alright, if anything, I should be the one apologizing.” He said through his faint smile. “I should get going. It was nice seeing you Tomomi, we should talk again when you’re not busy with Council work.”

“Ah, w-wait!” she said reaching for his arm. She clung to it for the briefest second before letting go and fidgeting. Yuuto thought she very much resembled a worried deer.

Maybe a rabbit?

“You’re looking for the transfer student right? Hikari Aeri?”

“Ahh, that’s right. I have something she dropped and want to return it. I thought if I found the President, I would find her, but I guess I was wrong.”

“With the President? Why...is that?”

“Hmmmm,” he put a hand on his chin. “I don’t know if you know this, but she’s been the talk of the school lately. I normally don’t listen to rumors, but from the sound of them I figured the President would try recruiting her you know?”

“Oh, yes, I think I understand...” she said playing with her thumbs. “If it’s just for that reason then I…….I think I can help you find him.”

Yuuto’s eyes filled with mirth, but the expression quickly dissipated.

“Are you sure? I know you’re busy and I’d hate to be a bother.”

“N—Not at all, I’d be happy to. Besides…..I finished all my Council work for the day. Genyo still has his…….the others left with the President to look for the transfer student.”

“So he’s looking for her after all…”

“Yes, your feelings were right. As expected of you, Yuuto.”

She spoke those lines with a smile he hadn’t seen in a long time. Seeing that expression, there was no way Yuuto could turn down her offer.

As the two of them navigated polished marble corridors, Tomomi explained the President’s desire to not only initiate Hikari into the Council, but be the first person she would accept a confession from. The only problem was that she was as difficult to find as she was to know. Failing to find her during the day, he and two other Council members split up to find her, with the President himself taking the likeliest exit from which she’d leave.

It wasn’t more than a few minutes later that the two of them found a boy leaning against a glass doorway. No more than twenty meters away from the polished iron gates of the school.

The place where he met her just a few short hours ago.

He was a bit taller than average with the looks to match perfectly. Perfect clothes. Perfect hair. Perfect teeth. Everything about him radiated a tremendously bright future, nothing short of perfection. Standing just a few feet away from him was an equally tall, well-built student with dyed hair and messy clothes.

That’s an awfully out of date style for a modern day delinquent.

Yuuto made his way through the small crowd that gathered around the President, and they were spotted soon enough. It took nothing but a simple wave of the President’s hand for the students to part, allowing both of them through.

“My lovely secretary, Tomomi Hisakawa. What brings you here? Wait, don’t tell me you must be feeling lonely without your president in the council room?”

“Umm…..I……………….. no we w….. to tah…...tahmmm…..”

“That’s all well and good, my dear, but I’m afraid you’ll have to wait for me a bit longer.”

The President made a sympathetic smile as he spoke, but winked at her in reassurance.

“That won’t be possible.” said Yuuto, putting himself between them. “This is urgent.” He tried not to let the President’s actions towards Tomomi affect his actions, but he found it difficult to control the tone of his voice for a moment.

“My my, I think I know you. You’re……... Yuuto Asahino, correct?”

“Yes sir.”

“Well Yuuto,” he said closing the distance and putting a hand on his shoulder. “I understand your need may be urgent, but whatever it is, I don’t have time to attend to it.”

“Then take me with you. You’re looking for the transfer student right? So am I.”

Murmurs and looks of confusion passed through the crowd.

“Isn’t that the guy who always talks about man stuff?”

“The poor one?”

“I heard he has daddy issues.” ——— “He probably does, why else would he talk like that?”

“Why would a guy like him bother with her?”

“Maybe he wants to confess to her?”

“Let him get rejected then.”

“He probably wants to ask for another handout before the new girl learns who he is.”

“Ugh, beggars always want to be choosers.”

The President let out a deep sigh before meeting Yuuto’s eyes. Though his smile seemed genuine, he could see right through it.

It was full of falsehood.

“Listen Yuuto, take it from a friend, she’s not going to accept your confession. I know it’s a hard truth to accept, but there’s no shame in it— honest! There are plenty of guys who’s first time is in university! So chin up, you still have time.”

The laughter roaring around him could probably be heard from halfway around the school, but Yuuto only half heartedly listened. He focused on the familiar weight that began burning the inside of his stomach in reaction to his words.

He had to suppress it. This is neither the time nor the place. The President was only insulting him.

Nothing more.

He wasn’t worth the feeling.

“Thank you very much for the advice President,” Yuuto said suppressing the weight to return a cordial smile. “I’m not sure how long you’ve been standing here waiting for her, but I just got here, so if you don’t mind, can I wait with you?”

The President’s fingers twitched and his smile disappeared, replaced by a troublesome look.

“I am not going to have you bother our new student with a lecture on the importance of solitude and I will certainly not have you here during my introduction to her.”

“I don’t intend to lecture her. You, on the other hand, seem like you don’t understand what it means to be a leader.” Yuuto knocked away the hand that still held his shoulder. “A leader, a man, is supposed to listen and guide those under him, not leave his subordinates in the Council room to complete work that doesn't belong to them.”

The President’s twitching was becoming noticeably worse.

“You certainly seem confident in yourself, not knowing that the work was given to them because of the extenuating circumstances surrounding a potential new Council member.”

“A man should be honest with himself.”

Both students stared at each other in silence. He knew his actions were unlike him, but he absolutely couldn’t let the President do as he pleased. The silence broke with the President.

“Honesty….then allow me to tell it to you clearly. You are going to impede here, therefore, I forbid you from staying here and hampering my introduction.”

In that moment, Yuuto felt a shock run through his body. He doubted the President would have allowed him to stay there anyway, but he clearly allowed his own tongue to get the better of him.

Even though he said he wouldn’t let the feeling out…...

There were gasps and whispers when Yuuto took a deep breath and gave a deep bow to the man in front of him.

“Mr. President I apologize for my words. They were unnecessary and rude, forgive me. I will not impede so please at least give her a message for me.”

“I’m not delivering a love letter on your behalf,” he said turning away. “But that is an amusing thought…..I may actually do it just to see her reject you.” The laughter of students sounded once more, and though it was faint, it was enough to dispel the small tension that had been built.

“It’s not a love letter! Please, like I said before, it’s important!”

The President gave no response. Instead turning towards the well-built student.

“Ensure he doesn't bother anyone on his way home.”

“M—Mr. P-President…”

“Hmm? What is it my dear Tomomi?”

“It…..sounds like t-this might be import-tant. P-Please reconsider…”

The voice of Tomomi came from nowhere, and the eyes of every student was now centered on her. But the quiet air once again broke with a sigh.

“We’re fortunate to have someone as kind as you on our Council, Tomomi, but ensure it doesn't become a liability. Yuuto is well-known for his hypocrisy. To preach as he does while acting like a nuisance does not benefit our school and leaves a bad impression.” He returned his attention to the person he was speaking of with an expression full of disgust.

“In fact it’s the only thing he’s good at. Being a spineless fool who’s only virtue is preaching adages and insulting his superiors. I do hope he learns from this experience. Perhaps, if he’d respected me properly, I would’ve considered giving her the message. Simply asking would’ve been better than outright bothering someone.”

The next words he spoke were directed to the blonde haired boy.

“Ensure he doesn't wait for anyone beyond the school gates. We’ve seen enough of him today. Good day to you Yuuto.”

The delinquent student began pushing Yuuto all the way passed the gates of the school, as a quiet girl and the sound of laughter followed closely behind behind.

Part 2

“Her key?”

“I picked it up by accident when I bumped….er…..crashed into her. I was hoping to return it.”

“But I don’t…...understand. That’s important. Why….. why not just mention that in the first place?”

She covered her mouth as soon as the words left. “N—Not that I meant it like that….umm, not that way, I mean, I didn’t mean to be rude, I’m sorry…..”

Yuuto gave a wry smile. “It’s alright, I think I know what you mean. I guess it’s because I didn’t want anyone to think badly of her? Or to make things more complicated. Something like that.”

“More…..complicated?”

He scratched the back of his head. “She’s new and everyone seems to be talking about her. I don’t think she’d appreciate the rumor about a guy like me having the key to her house.”

“A guy..like you?” Her frown was the result of a condescending tone Yuuto seemed not to have noticed as he continued to speak.

“Of course. Rumors would go flying about her being irresponsible, or worse, some kind of deviant. Our school's pretty harsh about those sorts of things…..well, it depends on who it’s about. If it were the President, people would love and envy her. With me, she’d no doubt be rejected by absolutely everyone.”

“No.” She said halting her steps. “I...don’t think that’s true at all.”

“Hmm? Of course it is,” Yuuto said turning around. “I mean, I already feel bad you’re seen with me, no doubt it makes people talk bad about you. I’m sure you’d want to make it stop.”

“..............you’re wrong.........” She whispered.

“Girls like you and Hikari have bright futures ahead of them. You don’t need someone like me bringing you down.”

“............................stop that..............”

“I just….. I guess there’s no point to a guy like me. I’m a waste of space.”

“NO!”

The sudden cry of emotion sent Yuuto flying backwards. Before he knew it, his back was against a wall.

He had never heard Tomori raise her voice before. Let alone to the level she just did.

It appeared it was a first for her as well. As soon as she spoke, she turned away, hiding her face with her bangs.

“I-I’m so sorry Yuuto..I didn’t mean to yell.”

“No...I mean— it’s fine, but more importantly…..are you alright?”

An apprehensive look appeared on her face, as though she struggled to express what was on her mind. When she spoke, it was in a level so quiet Yuuto was almost certain it was to compensate for her earlier outburst.

“It...wasn’t your fault. Genyo…..the President……..they shouldn’t have said those things to you.”

Her voice quivered as she continued to speak with quiet resolve.

“And I…….I should’ve said something more...I’m so sorry Yuuto..I…..I…….”

He felt pathetic. Not only was he making a kind girl like Tomomi worry about him so much, but he had said all those things about himself. Even if he normally had trouble watching himself, it was no excuse to let his guard down.

The resolve she showed, if it’s for a girl like Tomomi, he needs to match it with his own. It was the least he could do after everything she’d said.

Pulling away from the wall, his pupils flashed briefly with light, and he extended his arms outward to match his new tone.

“Hahaahaha, hey, don’t worry about something like that.” he said hitting his chest with a bright smile. “I was only joking earlier, no way did Genyo or the President get to me. And I’ll definitely give the transfer girl her key back, she’ll be fine!”

Tomomi looked up at him through her bangs.

“R-Really…. they didn’t hurt…. your feelings?…… H-Honest?”

Yuuto felt sudden lightning pierce his heart.

So……… So pure!……..

“I’ll be fine.” He affirmed.

After this, Yuuto’s voice took on a shift in tone.

“And hey, don’t ever worry about not sticking up for me. If anything, it should be the other way around. I’m a guy after all, so it’s my job to protect you....... but it made me really happy that you spoke up for me when you did.”

Yuuto placed a hand on her shoulder with a genuine smile. “Thank you Tomomi.”

Her left eye directly met Yuuto’s. With a face as deep and red as the setting sun, the most she could do was slowly nod in place.

For a time, before he knew her, Yuuto knew that Tomomi had been the goal of many men in the school, and it wasn’t exactly difficult to see why. In fact, it was a bit too clear to him in that moment. The way her long black hair naturally reached her mid-back, yet managed to cover her right eye. She’d cut the bangs herself with mediocre success, resulting in an uneven style that unintentionally added to her shy charm. It showed off an eye that had an unusually large pupil every time Yuuto spoke to her, but it complimented her small nose and mouth.

The fragrance of her hair and body radiated into the air as well. It was sweet, feminine, but most importantly— faint. It suited her in a way. A faint fragrance that only those close to her could describe; something that denied access to anyone who didn’t want to know her first.

No no— she’s pure! I have to stop being such a pervert around this pure and innocent girl!

As expected, it was with her facial features that Yuuto distracted himself in order to not focus on her body. She didn’t have the largest assets in the school, but she by far had the best proportions; at least in his humble opinion. If she wasn’t such a shy or kind person, he was certain that she could give even the most popular girls in school a run for their money; easily winning the Council Presidency if she so desired.

Not that she ever volunteered to be a part of it in the first place.

Yuuto broke out of this train of thought as she delicately grabbed the blazer of his uniform. Her grip was ceramic, as though her hand would shatter if she held on any tighter. He could see her visibly gathering herself, taking a deep breath before speaking with renewed resolve.

“Yuuto.”

“T-Tomomi.”

She shivered upon hearing her name leave his lips.

“Do you……………….”

“...................”

“.......................”

“...........................”

“...............................”

“Do I………………..?”

“...............................................”

“Y-Yes?”

“Do you ha………...hab—ha-have a……..”

“Have a…………….?”

“A-A g-g-g——gi—g——gi—giiiiiii~~~”

Her voice turned into a squeaky echo which trailed off at the end of her sentence.

Her eye turned hazy when she saw the perplexed look Yuuto gave her.

“Doyouhaveagiftforyourlittlebrother?!”

He hit the palm of his hand at the realization, making her jump.

“That’s right! His birthday is tomorrow and I haven’t bought his cake yet! I-I’ve got to get to the supermarket!”

He hastily grabbed her arm to which she let out a barely audible “Hihym!” sound.

“Let’s get you home Tomomi, you can’t go by yourself, and I’m really sorry for rushing you, but I’ve got to get home before a certain time!”

As the two of them hurriedly dashed through empty streets, any passerby would see the sunset illuminate two people living a particularly memorable evening.

The sound of Tomomi’s laugh was something Yuuto was especially fond of in that moment.

Part 3

“I’m home!”

“Hey! You’re just in time, I thought you might’ve gone to work after all.”

“Well, I had to come straight home, just for you.” he said directing his attention to an energetic child.

“Welcome home big brother!”

“Sorry I took so long,” he said in a wry laugh.

“No no, more importantly,” the child said jumping all around him. “Is it here!? Is it?! Did you bring it?! Didyoudidyou!?”

“Ichirou stop that, it’s rude to your brother,” the woman with short hair chastised.

Ichirou pouted, and Yuuto couldn’t help but laugh.

“Hahahaha, it’s all right here.” Unzipping his backpack, Yuuto pulled out what appeared to be three desserts of varying colors, each with the appearance of a small, round cake.

“You got them!” The boy cried in glee. “Daifuku is my favorite, thanks so much!”

“Go put them in the kitchen.” He pushed the little boy forward and he ran out of sight, but the sound of his excitement let him know he had chosen the flavors correctly.

As Yuuto’s little brother ran into the kitchen, the woman with short hair approached him, drying her hands with an old wash rag.

“Sorry I’m late Mom.”

“Don’t apologize sweetheart. Remember that we have time today.” Her smile emphasized the small wrinkles forming around her face. From a distance, someone may mistake the woman in front of him as being older than she really was, but to Yuuto, it was obvious that those wrinkles weren’t the product of aging.

“More importantly,” she said watching him put up his blazer. “Is it really okay for you to miss work? I know how you feel about it, especially after all this..”

“It’s alright,” he said giving her a thumbs up. “I already asked for today and tomorrow off! After all, we only get one day a year for this.”

“Thank you Yuuto…….and, I’m sorry things had to turn out this way. I just wish—”

“Mom,” he said taking her hand. “Don’t apologize. Ichirou’s going to have a great birthday because of the work you put in. He and I are thankful to have you, and we couldn’t have asked for a better mother.”

She looked down as she squeezed Yuuto’s hand. It was the only response she could give, but it was the only one he needed.

“Now come on!” He said pushing her towards the kitchen. “Ichirou’s going to eat all the cake if we don’t hurry!”

As they made their way towards the kitchen, they both found that Yuuto was correct. To his mother’s false chagrin, Ichirou was on the verge of eating dessert before dinner. Try as she might, however, she simply couldn’t muster the strength to actually reprimand him, much to the brothers’ delight.

In no time at all, a small but warm home-cooked meal was resting before the three of them. Yuuto spent about twelve minutes simply listening to his brother on how he helped with the cooking. The commentary from his mother let him know how “fun” the things Ichirou described actually played out. Though he had no talent at all for cooking, Yuuto noted how well his little brother worked with his hands. Ichirou had definitely gotten his mother’s hand dexterity, but she still recommended that he go into a profession that didn’t require “as much of a gentle touch”.

Yuuto was inclined to agree.

His mother talked about her own day, the local businesses, the new book she was reading, and her paper crane collection. Since the start of the month, she’s kept five hundred of them and given away just as many to the neighbors or passing schoolchildren. The were in awe of how perfectly they came out every time; and to neither brothers’ surprise, one of the local temples had asked her to teach origami classes. To this day, she was still trying to figure out how to make the paper fox Ichirou has been asking for.

Yuuto remembered the very first time his mother had given him a paper flower. It was so gentle, but delicate. He was afraid that if he handled it wrong, his unruly hands would certainly tear the creation his mother had worked so hard to create. His hands at that time, and even now, were unused to handling such gentle creations, it terrified him to think he would never get used to it. But he didn’t let her know. Instead, Yuuto recounted how he had finally gotten to talk to a friend after weeks of having been away from her.

Maybe months?

It was strange…...he couldn’t remember much of her. Or much of anything as of recent.

He told them how there was new equipment for the archery and cooking clubs, how the student council room looked strikingly refurbished, and how he’d helped a student retrieve an assignment of hers that was stuck in a tree. Ichirou nearly spit out the juice he was drinking when he heard how Yuuto fell from the tree, even his own mother struggled to contain her laughter, and he noticed how the age seemed to vanish from her face.

The story didn’t seem that funny to Yuuto, but seeing the two of them so happy, he couldn’t help but smile himself. To his surprise, a small laugh even escaped his lips. It was not the gut-wrenching laughter his little brother suffered from, nor the light-hearted but very audible giggles from his mother. But it was true, and it was from the heart. It was the only time he could remember laughing so much with them.

And so the three of them passed the entire afternoon in this way; playing games, folding paper, talking, and laughing with each other as a family.

There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for these people. There is nothing I would not do to keep them safe.

Those were Yuuto’s thoughts, and before any of them knew it, the afternoon and evening had passed them by, bringing cool night air and the song of humming insects.

It seemed their day, and their time together, had finally come to a close.

Although he wasn’t tired in the least, the reassurance of both his mother and older brother in that tomorrow would be an even better day was enough for Ichirou. At their insistence, after bidding them a good night, he finally went off to bed.

Both Yuuto and his mother worked in a comfortable silence. His mother cleaned the table and living room while Yuuto handled the many dishes. She insisted on doing them herself, but she couldn’t force him to move because he’d already started. He laughed it off, not wanting to tell her that he tired of seeing her hands become worn from the strain of the work.

Not a moment passed when he heard the door handle violently rattling. After about a minute, it opened and an unkempt man inelegantly stepped into the house after throwing his shoes to one side.

“OOOiooiiiiiiii, I’m back!”

Loosening his tie and shirt and throwing them on top of the couch, he stumbled into the kitchen where a weak, neutral voice greeted him.

“He—llo dear. How was your day?”

The man ignored her as he collapsed onto a seat. Yuuto could feel his eyes burning into his back.

“OI, BOY! I SAID I’M HOME, YOU DEAF!?”

Yuuto kept the water running as he replied.

“I heard you, but Mom welcomed you back. Don’t you think you owe her an answer?”

A tension so thick grew so quickly that Yuuto physically felt himself get kilograms heavier; but he couldn’t give ground. His father’s reply was unexpected.

He laughed.

It wasn’t the warm, familial laugh they’d previously shared. It was sharp, painful, like nails on a chalkboard. With every breath that escaped his mouth, Yuuto could smell the dizzying stench of liquor.

“This what you’re raising?” He asked his mother while laughing. “A damn animal that can’t greet his father?”

She stared at the floor as he continued to speak. “This the reason why you decided to take in a stray? Kid’s nothin’ but a damn leech.”

“Don’t worry,” Yuuto spoke. “I’ll finish up here and leave soon enough.”

“HAAAAAAAAhAhaahaHAhahHahAhh! A pussy-whipped boy, that’s what you are!” He said continuing his ear-grating laugh. “No man does dishes boy! But hey, if you’re gonna act like a pussy, grab me another beer! Or better yet, bend yourself over an’ get to workin’ the streets!”

Yuuto was subconsciously begging his mother to leave before his father escalated things, but it was too late. Bloodshot eyes gave way to his flaring, liquor-induced temper.

“WHERE THE FUCK IS MY FOOD!? I WORK ALL FUCKING DAY AND YOU CAN’T EVEN GIVE ME MY DAMN MEAL WORTHLESS WHORE!”

His mother quickly jumped and began fumbling with the food they’d prepared beforehand, but not before his father stood from his chair to approach her.

He didn’t consciously realize the fact he’d moved to stand between them. Before his father, a gaze of impudence and rage was the only thing he saw.

But he didn't move. He wouldn’t.

Moments felt like hours as Yuuto maintained eye contact with the man in front of him. A look that spilled nothing but hatred. His father approached Yuuto until they were centimeters apart.

“No stray dog’s gonna stay in my home. I best not see any leeches when I come back down here.”

Without looking away, he threw a glass cup behind him and it shattered against the wall with a resoundingly high pitch. He felt his mother jump behind him.

Throughout his time living with his father, Yuuto had learned to control his body’s involuntary desire to jump at the sounds. He didn’t want to give his father the satisfaction of intimidating him, but he wasn’t perfect. Though he thankfully didn’t notice, Yuuto felt the fingers on his right hand, and his entire left knee, shake the instant the glass shattered.

With those words, his father picked up the plate his mother had set for him and went upstairs. There was a tense silence from the moment he disappeared, to the moment a door slammed shut. When the door closed, Yuuto could feel his body become somewhat lighter. It wasn't the first time he’d confronted him, and certainly wouldn’t be the last, but he was becoming better at standing up for the only people who mattered.

With a soft smile, he talked to his mother who couldn’t look up. “He probably won’t pass out, he’s not drunk enough.”

“Yuuto, you’re not—”

“I know, Mom. But he might come back, you know he can’t keep his food down.” As he spoke, he put on his school blazer and shoes before looking back.

“He’s focused on me, I think you’ll be okay tonight.”

“........where…….will you go?”

“Maybe to the convenience store to buy food for tomorrow.”

He scratched the back of his head. Though he was speaking in the best tone he could, with a smile on his face, she saw straight through him. Ironic since her eyes were glued to the floor.

“Hey, don’t worry,” he said hitting his chest and winking. “I won’t be long. And I have my phone so I’ll come right back if anything happens.”

He took her silence as confirmation, and as he turned to open the door—

“Yuuto.”

—he turned around to find his mother pressing eight dollars into his hand.

“You hardly ate today. It isn’t much, but please buy something for yourself.”

He didn’t know what to say, so he didn't say anything at all. Instead, he put the money into his pocket and gave a deep bow.

“Thank you for taking care of me all these years. I’ll be back later.”

Without waiting for a reply, Yuuto turned on his heels and ran forward into night.

Part 4

Yuuto did have plans to go to the convenience store, but only after school tomorrow. Now faced with the moral obligation of going so as to not lie to his mother, he bought the cheapest drink available and drank it as he made his way towards his destination.

Due to his upbringing, Yuuto has been a resident in a number of places throughout his life. He considered himself a small town person, but this city was the exception. It was, without a doubt, his favorite place out of everywhere he’s lived.

Finding the river that would take him where he wanted to go, he was still in awe of how beautiful it looked. Green lights illuminated the concrete to his left and right which, when combined with the river’s white lights, gave the water an ethereal glow. In the distance, those same green lights illuminated buildings and towers, matching the faint night sky perfectly. Before long he was standing in “his spot”. It wasn’t actually his spot of course, but very rarely had he ever seen anyone else make use of the area under the bridge he was in.

Yes, under a medium sized concrete bridge, this is the spot he goes to every time he needs it. A rather peaceful place; the structure above him was responsible for connecting a small park behind him to a pedestrian street that eventually leads into the city. He was almost always under the side closest to the park, but would occasionally cross when he wanted a fresh perspective. The water itself ran surprisingly clear, and he couldn't count how many times he’d come just to watch. He frequented it so often that he decided to bring a bench he “found” in the park, and relocate it, right to where he was standing.

He flipped open his phone to check the time, blowing out air at seeing how late it’s gotten. The good news was that his mother hadn't yet called, meaning she probably wouldn’t for the rest of the night. Chances are, she and Ichirou were going to be fine for tonight.

Positives! That’s right, focus on what’s good!

Putting it back, he felt something else in his blazer pocket. His eyes went slack at removing it only to see the familiar silver object that caused him trouble all afternoon.

Focus…...on what’s good……..right…?

“............your last chance……………..kind to those who walk away from me………”

Yuuto became alert at hearing a faint voice coming from the direction of the park. Straining his ears, he moved towards the stairs that led back up the bridge, hugging the sides so as not to be seen.

“Give me an answer.” demanded the Student Council President.

And the person he was talking to….

“I gave you a response this afternoon. I do not have any intention of accepting your proposal nor do I have the slightest wish to do so. You will stop pestering me from this day forward. Goodnight.” She spoke without facing him, as if she was physically repulsed by looking.

But the president simply smiled…..and began laughing. With a hand to his forehead, he threw his body backwards and laughed into the air.

It sounded uncomfortable considering the situation that occurred to him just a few minutes ago.

“I can’t say I’ve heard those words before, I’m genuinely impressed!” The president’s eyes looked especially fervid when he spoke again. “You are definitely a special one. Just remember that when I gave you one last chance, you were the one who chose to walk away.”

“My, you speak with such confidence now; it is quite a shame all of it left you this afternoon.”

“Oh, I’m going to have fun breaking you in.” The president quickly approached her, having closed the distance between them during their conversation, however...

“You know I’m pretty surprised. Is this how the President reacts when faced with the challenge he wanted?” The voice of the third individual stole his attention, and the president glared at him in disbelief as he continued his words. “You normally flirt so easily, with winking at Tomomi earlier and all; but now you’re about to force yourself onto a girl in the middle of the street.”

“You’re one to talk mutt; looking for her all afternoon and even now. A hypocrite and a stalker, I never would have guessed.”

The insult didn’t faze Yuuto in the slightest. Narrowing his eyes, he channeled his emotions of disgust, anger, and frustration at the events of today— of everyday— into his words. All of his feelings formed a simple question; everything poured out into one single phrase.

“What kind of a man are you?”

Yuuto had no idea what occurred after he’d left for the day, but it seemed his words managed to injure the president. His frustration was as clear as day.

It was enough.

He steeled himself against the president’s rage but the second he began marching forward, his shirt pocket began to vibrate. Stopping in his tracks, the president grit his teeth as he met Yuuto’s eyes with a familiar glare, but looked away almost immediately.

“Your warning is up.” He directed to the girl behind Yuuto. With those parting words, as quickly as he came, the president retreated into the night.

“What was that all of a sudden..?”

Why would the president be out so late in the first place? Something had clearly happened between him and the transfer girl to make him so…..spiteful? Was that the word?

It was coincidence he ran into the transfer girl, but the president was definitely following her.

But why…?

“.................................!”

The transfer student!

Turning around to meet her, he found she had already made it to the other side of the bridge.

“HEY! Hey wait!!”

He shouted and began to sprint after her. This didn’t go unnoticed by the transfer student, who began sprinting herself upon seeing her new pursuer.

For a moment he hesitated. What the president had said definitely rang true; he was constantly bothering people with things he needn’t concern himself with. It wouldn’t be the first time someone mistook his intentions as foul or even cynical; it was one of the reasons he spent all of middle school, his entire first year, and current second year of high school, alone.

The years, the weariness, they were taking their toll on him.

“Yuuto is well-known for his hypocrisy….. A spineless fool.”

It may be true that he was spineless to most people. Even now, doing just one thing for someone is exhausting after so many years of trying. And yet….. to better himself through helping another— isn’t that what it means to hold an ideal?

At what cost? When can you finally focus on yourself?

When it’s over. Everyday you must get up and everyday you must struggle.

Is it really so bad to lie down in comfort?

What kind man lies down when a second chance presents itself? When there’s another opportunity!

Get up and try again! Hold fast to your ideal! That’s what it means to be a man!

I’m a hypocrite but …… to become the man I envision….. I can’t make the same mistake twice!

“Wait just!— I want to give you your key!”

Of course she couldn’t hear him. It made sense considering the frightening distance between them, but it made for quite the inconvenience to Yuuto who shamefully didn’t practice cardio exercises. His earlier hesitation had caused the massive gap between them.

Still, just how fast is this girl!?

The lack of pedestrians makes maneuvering easier, but the same applies to her as well. He worried about how this might look to the cars and occasional person passing them by, but he simply prayed he wouldn’t end up in the morning newspaper and continued chasing her.

She effortlessly finessed around anything in her path, crossing streets and alleys with an equal amount of elegance, but something seemed wrong. Her running pattern was—?

Where…..is she going?

She was fast, there was no denying that, but they’d crossed the same streets and plaza a few times already now. It could be a trick, to wear Yuuto down until he couldn’t chase her anymore and she would take her proper route home, but there was something about that strategy that didn’t make sense to him. The first was that she seemed to be slowing down, wearing herself out. It hardly mattered, as Yuuto was already so far behind her he could barely make out her shape; but even from this far behind he could see the second problem. She appeared frantic.

Faking a strategy was one thing, but faking emotions?

As an owner of a mask, no one was better at that than Yuuto.

He was about to permanently lose sight of her until she made her fatal mistake: entering a small alleyway he often used himself.

Recognizing his chance, he frantically backtracked through his own labyrinth of streets and alleyways until arriving back at the ethereal waters.

Leaning against a corner to wait for her, she came out only a few moments later looking much less fatigued than he previously thought. Frantic, yes, but it didn’t even look like she’d broken a sweat, only looking around to see if Yuuto was anywhere in sight. Swallowing the small pain done to his self-esteem, he walked up and tapped her shoulder.

“Listen I——IIuuuuuuuahhjjjiii!”

Before he knew it, a hard blow struck his stomach, and in a daze, the world suddenly flipped upside-down. Yuuto found himself on his back, devoid of oxygen and facing the stars.

He grunted as he grasped his stomach with one arm. “What— was that.. for?”

She seemed taken aback. “I did not expect you to be able to speak again so quickly. You lack endurance, but have fine constitution, I will acknowledge that much.”

“You’re…..not the first to do it!.......aghh it still hurts you know…..” He noticed the object he hit her with was not a fist, but a simple school bag. The one every student uses.

“What do youuhaahhhh…...have in there? Bricks?”

“I do not have mercy on stalkers.” she said as she slammed her foot on top of him. “Now then, tell me why you are following me.”

It was difficult to speak when she put so much force into her leg; a feat for a girl who couldn’t have weighed more than a hundred and ten pounds. He grimaced at the realization she was never in any danger.

“The president….. led him here….. someplace…...you could’ve beaten him….”

“My my, you certainly catch on quick,” she said without changing her monotone. “If I recall correctly, you were the one that crashed into me this morning. Now I find you under a bridge and chasing me across town. I doubt that can be called a coincidence.”

“Don’t listen...to rumors...he said about me.”

“Do not be absurd,” she said, adding more pressure. “Rumors are for fools who are incapable of thinking for themselves, I judge people by their actions. Now explain yours.”

“Can you….. get your foot off my chest first?”

Her foot spoke volumes as it dug into him.

Having no other option, Yuuto just managed to pull the key out of his breast pocket. It was in a heartbeat that he suddenly found a small, sharp object pressed against the base of his neck.

“Where did you get this?” Her tone was as cold as the knife against his throat.

Any person would be caught off guard in a situation as escalated as this one, but not Yuuto. In a way, he should be thanking his father; because any situation he faces now is much less frightening than facing him.

Especially on the nights he had to protect those two.

Compared to those times, a misunderstanding was nothing.

“This mor-ning...we crashed and it fell. I was looking for you today…. ngh!—to return it…”

Instead of fear, Yuuto found he was focusing on how close her face came to his own. He could finally make out the little details about her, like the fact she has hair that hugged her shoulders.

“How many people knew you had it?”

Her complexion was beautifully light.

“No-ne. There are rumors about you but….. I figured…. you wanted privacy.”

And her eyes were the most beautiful shade of gold he’d ever seen—

“How much have you heard?”

—so why did they look just like that man’s?

“I thought…..you didn’t listen to rumors….”

“Just because I do not listen to them does not mean others follow suit. What. Do. You. Know.”

“............”

“......................”

“..........................I don’t know anything……..I’m just a stray that thought I could help.”

She tightened the grip on her knife in response.

Flashes of emotion passed through her so quickly Yuuto couldn’t decipher them. By the end, he figured he must’ve said something right because she removed her body and allowed him to stand. Popping sounds could be heard from his back as he rose, handing her the key.

He was half expecting a “thank you” or possibly an apology in return from her, but no such phrase left her lips. He simply stood idly by as she collected the items that had fallen over when she flipped him. The deja vu felt like a slap in the face, and he hurriedly began assisting her; only this time, she didn’t reject his help.

“I still don’t understand,” he said handing back her last notebook. “Why was the president chasing you? And you saw how he was running towards you, why not pin him before he had a chance to hurt you?”

“I suspect you will have an answer regarding your former question at some point tomorrow. As for the latter, I was going to, until I saw you.”

“You...saw me?”

“Yes. Hiding near the stairs. I figured you were one of his pets hiding in wait to catch me in case I tried to run. Therefore I decided to let him get close enough to make an example out of him for you to spread to the other delinquents.”

..............ahhh, this girl is scary after all.

“But you saw afterward I wasn’t with the president, so why leave?”

“Did you expect me to stay?”

“……..I…. guess I did. But you were running.”

“You were chasing. Even if you are not with the president, I do not take kindly to stalkers.”

What an understatement.

“You would’ve lost me eventually if you just kept running. Why lead me back here?”

“It was an accident.”

The transfer student turned her head away, and Yuuto saw her ears tint.

“Are you…...blushing?”

“………….!” She quickly turned around to glare directly at him.

Though it was brief, just for a moment the two were able to maintain eye contact. From this distance, Yuuto could tell. Maybe no one else could. Maybe everyone was too distracted by her figure, her complexion, even her face. But from this distance Yuuto was definitely correct in what he said before.

“Your eyes are just like his….….. Hateful.”

Not hate towards him, no. It was an untamed anger that burned quitely behind those eyes.

“You’re one to speak. Frightening the president away with shifting hollow eyes, he should be wary of people like you”

“People like…?”

………..who in the world is this girl?

Her stoicism returned with her next words. “I appreciate the gesture of returning what belongs to me, but I believe it would be best if we do not meet again.”

She didn’t wait for his response before turning towards the city, however—

“Wait, that’s—!”

—she paused once more at the distant sound of Yuuto’s voice.

Even if he is a hypocrite. Even if his own beliefs aren’t…..

To keep true to an ideal. That’s what it means to be a man.

“—That’s something I can’t keep! I will see you again, I promise!”

Her stoicism unchanged, she continued walking towards her home as though she never heard him in the first place. But that was just fine with Yuuto. Because it was nothing new, because he still took the opportunity given to him.

He finally kept his ideal.

Part 5

“And that’s what I recommend you do tonight sir.”

The man with a commanding aura slowly shook his head.

“I see. It takes hard work to maintain a marriage.”

“Yes sir. I’m sorry I couldn’t tell you the whole thing, but when you asked for examples in how my wife and I resolve our disputes, I guess that made us deviate a little from our original topic.”

“No no, please don’t apologize. You have done more than enough to help me, and I couldn’t thank you more.”

Yuuto wryly scratched the back of his head, it was uncomfortable to be praised so much. In fact, excluding his wife and child, it never happened at all.

The man put out the last of his cigarette and turned his gaze upward.

“I want to ask you one final thing if that’s alright with you.”

“I’ll do my best to answer.”

“What does it mean to be ‘a man’ to you? You’ve mentioned ideals, getting up, even strength. Is that what a man is?”

Even though he expected the question, it was still difficult to answer. The still atmosphere helped him gather his thoughts.

This is where he would move someone else.

“I believe a man must embody an ideal, whether that means not wavering when he’s afraid, having strength when he’s weak, or being a hero.”

“Even if the man should fail in his beliefs?”

Yuuto simply smiled as he continued. “I believe he should get up again whenever he fails. No man has the right to call himself one if he gives up before trying, or if he gives up because he didn’t want to push ahead.”

A growing silence formed between the two, and the man simply waited until Yuuto had collected his thoughts.

“Most importantly,” he emphasized. “A man is his word. There is no greater way to show it than a man keeping his word. That’s why I believe so strongly in promises. If you don’t believe in what you say, you can never move forward.”

“But you’ve still never smoked.”

“Ahaha, I’m afraid not sir.”

The old man rose and gestured for Yuuto to do the same. Together they walked towards the entrance to the park where he spoke.

“You mentioned you’ve been fired.”

“Most likely.”

“In that case I want you to come work for me.”

Yuuto was stunned. There were about a hundred different things running through his mind at hearing those words, but the one that escaped his lips:

“But, you haven’t heard the reason I caused trouble. It could’ve been horrible.”

“I’m sorry, but I can’t believe that.” The old man said shaking his head. “I’ve been in this business longer than you’ve been alive. I know a good man when I see one; which company fired you?”

“I-I’m not sure that’s…”

Yuuto suddenly froze in his tracks. The old man looked in the direction in which he was staring.

“Young man why are you staring?”

Yuuto took out his phone to check.

Twenty missed calls. Thirty-nine text messages.

*I really need to start unmuting my phone.*

He slowly put the phone back in his pocket, closed his eyes, and turned his head skyward.

“What...are you doing?”

“Accepting my fate sir.”

He opened his eyes just in time to find a beautiful woman in a bed-head style ponytail walk all the way up to him. It was comforting. Her honey-colored eyes didn’t hold malicious intent, but her pout was certainly something to be feared.

“I’m sorry, I got held up.”

“You could’ve let me know you missed the last train.”

“That’s…. true. I’m sorry Hikari.” He realized something immediately after apologising. “How did you know where I am?”

“Don’t focus on the little things! What matters is that I’ve been worried absolutely sick about you! I knew you weren’t out doing anything bad, but that doesn't make me worry any less.”

“This must be the wife I’ve heard so much about,” spoke a gruff voice. “You weren’t lying, she is beautiful indeed.”

“Ara? Yuuto, who is this?” she said reaching for a hidden bulge he recognised as her ladle.

Ah, I guess she really did end up replacing her knife.

“I’m sorry ma’am, I was the one who took up your husband’s time. I’m just an old man who humbly asked for help. I’ve been having troubles of my own, you see, and your husband offered me some valuable insight.”

“I-Is that so?”

“It is. He told me of how you two manage to resolve your problems, how you’re a team, and even some of how you met. I can see now that none of it was a lie. It’s given me the resolve and help I needed to fix my own marriage.”

“I see!” She said clasping Yuuto’s hand and staring at him. “That’s my husband for you!”

“Indeed it is.”

“Hikari, I’m sorry, I still should’ve let you know.”

She shook her head while holding tight to his hand. “I thought it would be something like this…..well… I hoped.” Her grip trembled with honesty. “When I saw you were still at the train station I was afraid that…...that you……..”

“Those feelings are in the past. And I can’t leave you alone, not while Yuuko still needs his father, you know that.”

He grabbed her face with his free hand. But his heart felt a wretched amount of guilt.

Masquerader. Liar. Hypocrite.

“Ahem,” the man politely coughed. “While I’ll be leaving here soon, I would like to finish my question to you, Yuuto.”

The husband and wife ceased their public display of affection, opting for holding hands as the man spoke.

“What say you to join my offer in coming to work for me? It doesn't matter if you’re not trained, my company can handle that.”

Hikari looked slightly surprised by the man’s offer, Yuuto squeezed her hand to let her know that he would tell her the details later.

“While I appreciate the offer sir, my company is going to be merging with Fable soon. I feel it would be hypocritical of me to leave before seeing this venture, something I was a big part of, through.”

A wide smile grew on the man’s face. He wasn’t sure of its origin.

“A fine answer indeed young man. If that’s the case, I will see you again soon.”

Yuuto looked confused as he shook both their hands. He then paid a taxi before entering a separate car one side of the road. Before leaving, he answered the couple’s silent question.

“That’s on me, as a thank you. Pardon the exit, but I must get home as well.”

Without time for a reply, the man drove off.

“What a kind man.”

“Hmh. I hope everything works out well for him.”

“..........”

“...................”

“.......................”

“You put a GPS in my phone didn’t you?”

“A-Ara. Yuuto. W-Whatever could you be talking about?”

“You know exactly what!” He spoke as he quickly picked her up piggyback style. Hikari let out a surprised laugh as she hugged her husband’s neck for support.

Comforted by each others’ warmth, their late journey home was something Yuuto would remember clearly.

Part 6

“I’m home,” the man said quietly.

The house was quiet with all the lights turned off. That was to be expected given how late it is.

With silent movements, he went upstairs and opened the door to bid his sleeping daughter goodnight. He hadn’t expected a kiss to the forehead to wake her up, especially with how little noise he’d been making, but in a daze she hugged her father’s arm.

“Welcome home…...papa……I’m glad……...you’re back….”

“So am I, little rabbit.”

Satisfied with her sleepy smile, he removed her arm and made his way to his own bedroom, where a woman lay sleeping in bed. He didn’t want to wake her, but Yuuto had mentioned how it’s a man’s job to consider the situation. Expecting this, he’d already picked up a vase to go with the flowers he brought from the garden. She would see them when she wakes up, and know he didn’t come home just to sleep in a bed.

That’s how it would’ve gone had she not woken up.

“Oh..hh…..you’re back.”

“Oh— I’m…. umm……. I’m sorry I woke you.”

“Are those…..flowers…..?”

“Y-Yes….I got them for you.”

“For….me?” she said sitting upright.

“I see how hard you’ve been trying lately….. and I’ve given it some thought. If you’ll let me, I want to try again. I want to try to save this marriage just as you have and….”

He was at a loss for words. How did men like Yuuto do it so easily?

“I’m sorry. For everything. Please, let me try again?”

It seemed like his wife’s heart understood his own. She stood from the bed and smelled one of the flowers in a sleepy haze.

“Japanese Anemone and Kerria. You remembered my favorites.”

“They were the ones…. in our wedding.”

The woman looked at him curiously. “Your face looks softer.”

“Is…. that a yes?”

The smile she gave told him that maybe, even for someone like him, there was a chance to truly become a better man.

Part 7

“You guys ruined everything by bringing him!”

“But he needs to tell me about Hiro!”

“Who cares about him!”

“F-Friends, you should not be fighting….. and I am sorry Hajimu….”

Hajimu continued to walk in front of the other boys, carrying a rather large stick he found as they made their way to a nearby playground. Though the three original friends could still attend the after-school care program, through Hajimu’s suggestion, they decided to skip and play on their own. Yuuko was just leaving class and, at Sora and Daisuke’s invitation, decided to join them.

He still felt uneasy ever since becoming friends with them. He had already done so many things wrong, but friends were supposed to be together. Yuuko didn’t want to be a bad friend.

“So what did they do after getting home? Did Hiro finally get powers?” Sora pressed.

“I still can’t believe you got grounded you idiot.”

“Hey! It’s not my fault, and you’re the idiot!”

Daisuke pushed up his glasses to speak. “I’m in trouble too. My dad isn’t letting me watch TV because I didn’t eat my beans.”

“Beans are nasty.”

“Ewww, you’re dad likes beans?”

“I-I like beans…” Yuuko said in a voice so low he may as well not have said a word.

“Come on, what happened!? Does Hiro have powers or not?”

“Are they as strong as Night? Or did he get Day powers?”

“Well, H-Hiro can not get powers still.”

“That’s lame, he can’t fight!”

“But to fight” Daisuke pushed up his glasses. “.....is Night…..heh that rhymed.”

“N—No, it is kind of cool he does not because—”

He couldn’t finish his sentence. In that instant, Yuuko felt a shrill, high pain in his leg that pushed him to one side of the sidewalk. He didn’t fall, but being thrown off balance, he was forced to cling to the wall behind him.

“I hate you! Stop talking to my friends!”

Hajimu swung his stick and gave Yuuko another strong push.

“Get your own friends! Go away!”

“But H-Hajimu, you are my—”

“You’re weird and boring! Leave!” He said as he gave another hard shove.

Yuuko was backing up bit by until Hajimu lost his temper completely.

“Did you hear me!? GO AWAY YOU IDIOT! IHATEYOUIHATEYOUIHATEYOU!!”

With one final shove, Yuuko was sent backwards into a small alley where he landed on his back. His friend stood above him with arms at his hips, appearing particularly triumphant.

“Did you guys see?” He said turning back to face his friends. “Look, he’s on the floor!”

But neither of his friends’ eyes met his own.

“Sora! Daisuke! Stop ignoring me!”

“Uhhhh, Hajimu…...”

“What Sora?!”

The de facto leader turned around to witness what Yuuko had first been focusing on. Not ten feet away from them; it had dirty, mud-stained fur with a tail that curved into a spiral at the very end. They had just wandered into its alley. Into its territory.

Yuuko shakily stood up, joining his now panicking group of friends.

The dog began violently growling, its drool forming a puddle on the concrete. The four boys cowered in fear as the dog bared its teeth and lunged forward.