The Unfinished Story - Chapter Nine (Part 1)
Chapter Nine - Fraudulence; it works, regardless whether you mean it or not.
Previous Chapter…
Kenneth Dickson wrote on Kate Harino’s wall: Hey, I think Jhoan Line Laririt found herself some boyfriend.
Okay, what?
xXxXx
I think I’m having delusions? I tried to close my eyes hard, pinch my cheek (I guess) and probably things will turn back into reality.
So? Newsfeed… what does Newsfeed say?
Kenneth Dickson wrote on Kate Harino’s wall: Hey, I think Jhoan Line Laririt found herself some boyfriend.
I may be exaggerating, but this is just one heck of a joke! What in the twisted-sanity-of-humanity is all this!?
So I clicked and clicked, tried to trace whatever I can. So what am I looking for? My boyfriend. Mwahaha. Who is making this freak show-slash-gag-slash-I don’t know how to call it anymore- thing!?
Wait… It’s probably just Mike.
Demo… I checked my Inbox again and there’s Mike’s message asking me about this boyfriend. I read his message, and schemed on the others’…. Crap. They’re all clueless!? What the heck is this?!
So I messaged my friends. I have to force them to tell me who’s behind all this because as funny as this seems, this’ll just add fuel to Kenneth’s already messed-up chaos! I mean, if he finds out one of my friends (or who in the world knows who’s doing this) is fabricating some boyfriend, then what does that make me!? Someone who asks for some attention!?
Argh…
So the message… let’s see… what to write… hmm… Dear minna…. Haha! Scratch that…
Hey guys, it’s been a while. I don’t really have much stuff to tell you right now; your questions are overflowing and I think my inbox and my head have exceeded its limit. I have but one question and one question only. WHO THE F*** IS DOING ALL THIS BOYFRIEND CRAP, HUH!? Somebody give me some real and sensible answer before I lose whatever sanity I have left! Don’t ask me anymore about whatever else has happened, just answer this question, and answer it as soon as you read this. Please guys, I’m not kidding. Understand that this is not funny anymore. I swear… I’m reaching the end of ends. And I’m done with Kenneth okay, so please.
Thanks guys, I know you won’t let me down.
PS: Japan is lovely. That’s all.
Okay, that about sums up what’s inside my head.
Argh. I knew I shouldn’t have opened my account. But then again, if I haven’t, I wouldn’t even get to see this one big heck of a problem-egg that’s hatched.
Against my will, I worked hard again to see if I can trace who my boyfriend is… and this includes ending up at Kenneth’s account.
Oh right, I haven’t blocked or unfriended him yet. True, its pure pain and anger just seeing bits of what he’s been torturing me with for the past few weeks (which I haven’t really read fully at all) but I have no choice. So apparently, there were entries that say my boyfriend (must I refer to him like that? Well, it’s just for now since it’s the easiest way I can call this mister meddle) added Kenneth as a friend. And guess what, dumbass accepted it. Why!? Okay I just have to laugh at this because it’s too stupid. I mean, say this is all true and I do end up having a boyfriend, why would Kenneth add the boyfriend of his stalker? This is just twisted.
Anyway, I thought I found my gateway to knowing who this boyfriend is and I looked at Kenneth’s updates. Who became his friends just recently… hmmm…. Scroll, scroll… and scroll… again…. Wait… it’s already entries from December of last year… UWAAAAH!
I scratched my head. Great. This is just not going to be easy!
After a few minutes, I just gave up. Hey, it’s not that I don’t wanna fix this, believe me, I want to settle this more than anybody, but I just can’t find who the freakin’ guy is!
Whatever.
My head is aching, aching, I don’t wanna be mad, but I kind of am. Grrr. Oh well…
Blog time!
Apparently, I have a boyfriend.
Apparently, I have a boyfriend. When did that happen? Am I in some kind of a Limbo where I don't know what's going on anymore?
There was this long-standing joke between my friends and I whenever we like someone who absolutely won't like us back, that we're dating but if the other party knows, there'll be a break-up.
If this is someone's idea of a joke, I'm not laughing. It's going to make things more complicated than it actually is. Kenneth would probably think that I'm fabricating a guy just to get back at him. Oh puh-lease, I am not that shallow. I know my friends didn't do it because they're as confused as I am. Does that mean I'm out of the No-Boyfriend-Since-Birth group? The relationship isn't even legitimate, heck, is there even any relationship in the first place? Oh gosh.
He can choose to think whatever it is he wants to think, I don't care anymore. I used to think that he's the most amazing guy in the world. I guess I've thought wrong. I gave him so much credit than he actually deserves.
At this point, I have to have everything on hold. Studying in Japan isn't exactly as peachy as I thought it would be, but I'm having fun. It's gorgeous here. I'm happy. I'm friends with the most amazing people in the world. Dai-chan and Kei-chan treat me like we've known each other for forever. Of course, I haven't known them since last October but we're practically inseparable. I know I'm weird but it amazes me how those two just seems to read me like an open book. It's either they like me well enough to not care, or they're good at pretending that everything's okay. I think I want to believe the first one. And of course, Dai-chan and I basically have the same classes, it's like we photocopied a single time table and registered for the same courses. But I'm not complaining. It's nice to have someone to talk to, and whom you can copy your homeworks from. Ha-ha.
Double whammy! See, those two cheer me up without even meaning to. I've forgotten about the boyfriend problem. Whoever it is that's posing as my boyfriend, karma is a bitch. Oh whatever. I'm in Japan, it's *mostly* sunny... and for now, that's all that matters.
I closed my laptop and headed downstairs; I’m hungry and I’ll eat. I won’t let this all bother me.
On my way downstairs, the windows show it well that today’s pretty sunny. Really, it doesn’t feel like fall at all. I wonder how many times I’d say that. Oh. I’ll head outside and take pictures. Maybe Dai-chan and Kei-chan would like to come? I shrugged, took out my phone and sent them both identical messages. If they’d like to join me, they’ll reply back or maybe just call, or just pop out of nowhere, who knows. Oh well. It was worth letting them know. Two jack-heads make me feel better every time. With a smile, I entered the cafeteria… wonder what’s for breakfast.
xXxXx
“Ohohoho… What did he say after that?” Inoo spoke, his mouth kind of full with his huge bite of pancake. He and Daiki were sitting at a far corner of the men’s dorm cafeteria.
Daiki on the other hand was sipping hot chocolate when he shrugged. Then he spoke, “He just added me. A reply wasn’t that necessary I guess.”
“I’m proud of you, really. So genius… Telling him you’re Line’s boyfriend and that you’re having problems with her. Haha! But you know… It sounds a little mean to me, ne? For a boyfriend to speak ill of his girl…”
“This is all fake anyway. I would never do that in real life.”
Inoo nodded. “I know you won’t. Not Dai-chan, of all people.” He took a sip from his own coffee and then pulled it away, “Waah, hot!”
“Baka…” Daiki uttered then turned to look around. There weren’t much people eating in the cafeteria. “People wake up late when its weekends, ne?”
“You think Line-chan’s awake?” Inoo’s question wasn’t surprising. This guy has taken great fondness on Line ever since she arrived. Also, Daiki has noticed even before that Inoo likes spending time with Line and him. That can’t be helped. Their trio has been nothing but happy ever since they’ve started hanging out.
Upon looking at the clock, it’s almost eight-thirty. Daiki spoke, “She might be awake already. Line looks like the person who wakes up early.”
Inoo nodded but told Daiki that on Line’s first few days, she’s had some difficulty with the change in time.
“Oh… yeah, it’s the total opposite in Canada right? Ima… it’s about evening there huh?”
Nodding, Inoo rested his chin on the table. “Turns out, I’m still sleepy. Stupid coffee burnt my tongue.” He seemed like he’s doing some inhale-exhale exercise, adding pouted lips as he inhales.
“I’m the one who stayed up pretty late.” Daiki sounded betrayed.
Rubbing his eyes, Inoo got to his feet and picked up his dishes. “I’ll head back to sleep.” He yawned and Daiki just rolled his eyes. There’s really nothing he can do; Kei-chan’s, Kei-chan. “Well then, I’ll see you later ne?” Inoo was about to leave their table when he said, “Oh… don’t even bother waking me up, it’ll be useless. Hoho. Oyasumiiii…”
Shaking his head, Daiki replied, “Hai, hai whatever. Just go already.”
Inoo’s smile just showed that he wasn’t kidding; he does look like he’s fighting himself to stay awake. Daiki watched as Inoo handed his dishes to the other counter and waved at Daiki before exiting the cafeteria completely.
‘I wonder what to do…’ Daiki stared at his plate. There weren’t any pancakes left but his cup is still half-full. ‘Without Kei-chan… hmmm…. Maybe I should call Line-chan, ne?’ he was about to take out his phone, ‘Demo…’ Upon thinking twice, he shoved his phone back to his pocket and started finishing his hot chocolate. ‘I’ll just call her later. I don’t have much to say after all.’ He laughed to himself a little. It’s a little silly, the thought he just had right now. Why would he want to call Line when he has nothing much to say, right?
xXxXx
Louise arrived at their table, carrying a copy of one History book and one about Geography. Yamada looked up at her while his chin was on top of his paper. “History? And Geography?”
She placed the books on top of the table and sat opposite to Yamada. “I’ve got some catching up to do with the History lessons… and yeah, the geography. I’m more worried about the history part though. Oh, are you done?” she ended up asking.
Yamada was honest enough to shake his head. “Demo, I needed a break.” He sighed and stood up straight. “You’re smart anyway, I don’t think you need to do further reading.”
With a look that Yamada has never seen on Louise’s face before, she sighed loud. “I hate history. I’ve hated it ever since I can remember, and I know that’ll never change. Ever!” she patted her cheeks and schemed through the table of contents.
“I hate math. Haha!”
Louise looked at him as if he’d said something that had hurt her. “I love math.” She soon uttered, moping a little.
“I can tell.” Yamada picked up his pencil and looked at the stuff he’s graphed. Feeling a little happy, he tapped his chin with his pencil. “What’s there to like about math anyway? Maybe you can convince me, ne?” he grinned. Louise can pretty much tell that he’s just killing time.
“Hah?” she chuckled. “To convince you AND Yuu-chan… That’s impossible.” she laughed a little at her statement and turned to a page that seemed to have caught her attention.
“Muri? (Impossible/Unbearable) Honto?”
“Jodan desu yo (I’m just kidding)”
Yamada chuckled. “You and your humour, Umi-chan…” He then looked at his graph. “But seriously, why do you like math?” he ended, looking at her questioningly.
Louise was reading something when she looked up at him and replied, “Why do you hate it?” she sat up straight and waited.
He was moving his lips side to side, and Louise found it ridiculously cute. ‘Japanese boys and their gestures.'
“Well?” She pressed.
“There’s lots of reason. Well for me in general, it’s hard to think too much over things. Math requires too many thinking! Sometimes it’s just so complicated… waaah! Too many reasons why I don’t like it.”
Apparently, Louise found this funny and she snickered. “I hate thinking over things with too much effort too, you know. But, I still love math.”
“Why?” he looked confused. It seems like he honestly don’t see the reason.
She shrugged. It was an honest motion. “I wonder… I guess, I don’t know.”
“Eh? Majide?”
“Hey don’t sound so surprise. There are things in this world you like without real reason.”
He was smiling now, as if he’s heard something great. “That’s true. Like how I like to cook. Haha!” he seemed amused enough with what he said. He’s probably surprised that he’s said it. Ha!
“You cook?” And it seems Louise has heard something incredibly bizarre.
“Um!” Yamada nodded; his lips pressed closed on a tight smile.
“Sugoi…” Louise crossed her hands over her chest and laid her back on her chair. “I envy you.” Upon seeing Yamada’s face, she continued, “Well, because I don’t know how to cook. Never had any interest, I guess.”
Somehow, looking at the Yamada right now is like looking at some newly born person. Louise thought he almost looked like he was shining. (LOL. Cheezy, but yeah.) That’s about the definition. Compared to his sullen atmosphere earlier this morning, his aura right now feels light… and just, light. He spoke with a smile, “Well, I love doing it. And just like you, I guess I don’t have much reason if ever somebody asks me.” He then started drawing some lines again on a new graph, heading onto the next question. “Maybe I can talk you into cooking, ne? Then you’ll talk me into liking math. Haha!” it’s as if the thought just appeared suddenly as he spoke, looking up to her while Louise was about to continue with her reading.
She laughed; it was purely Yamada’s logic. “Maa~ good luck with that… on making me like cooking that is…”
“It’s not that hard.” He smiled reassuringly
“I can’t really say the exact same thing about math, ne?” Louise felt the need to be extra honest.
“I know…” His face looked like it’s been hidden in the shadows. Poor Yamada. Liking math sure isn’t something you just convince yourself into. “Demo, gambarimasu! Okay… question five…” he started solving and Louise watched him for a while before going back to the history thing she was reading.
After a few minutes, she felt her eyes closing. Then of course, there’s the yawn right afterwards. “Argh… History is just too boring. It’s practically putting me to sleep.” Louise complained to nobody in particular, but since Yamada was there, maybe she was talking to him. Not really interested in reading anymore, Louise slammed her head on top of the book. There’s that yawn again, and with no hesitation, Louise closed her eyes.
Time passed, and Yuto was still nowhere to be found. He went out about some minutes ago saying he wants some taiyaki.
While he was figuring out the x-intercept of his equation, Yamada felt his cellphone vibrate. Taking the call, “Ah… Yuto? What’s taking you so long?” He kept nodding and saying some ‘Um’ once in a while. “Alright then, I’ll tell her. Thanks a lot for all your help! See you tomorrow…” he clicked his phone off. “Umi-chan, Yuto said he needed to go home right away and that he’s sorry for not being able to help a little bit more.” Yamada looked at his watch; it’s almost ten in the morning. Wow, time flies fast today. Yuto was probably asked to prepare lunch. Upon having that thought, Yamada snickered. Yuto cooks? Now that he’s come across the idea, he’s not too sure if he knows the answer.
It took a while but soon, “Ah… hai…” Louise lazily uttered. Obviously, Yamada was surprised a little; he thought Louise wasn’t going to say anything. With a shrug, he continued with what he was doing.
So he kept solving and solving. This last number is beginning to be a real pain since he’s supposed to draw five figures. Why must it get harder? The minute you thought you’ve understood perfectly what you’re doing, when you move to the next question, everything is arranged differently or… you’re presented with different data. Why must math be so complicated and yet so easy to complicate? Complaints aside, one-by-one, Yamada faced the equations.
He started reciting those points-to-remember Yuto and Louise has taught him a few minutes ago. Soon enough, he stopped, thinking that he’s probably mixing stuff up. Needing help, of course he turned to Louise who has practically acted well as his tutor for the past… um… three hours? Calling out to her, he asked Louise to correct him if ever he says something wrong. But you know what? It was pretty quiet on the other side of the table.
“Umi-chan?” Looking up, Yamada finally faced the fact that he’s not getting any replies.
She was pretty still, her back rising up and down in an average phase. So she’s really asleep?
Trying once again, he called her name a little louder. No response. ‘Should I wake her up?’ that was what’s running inside his head. So what now? Should he? Not really sure what to do, Yamada just decided to finish his homework, referring to Louise’s notes for help since the person herself is currently not available.
It took a while, and he can feel his weekend body aching for some break. It’s a weekend; you’re not supposed to do so much school work! Soon enough… “AH! FINALLY!” he yapped a little louder, gaining some attention and he bowed his head to no one in particular for apology. With a grin, he shouted inside his head, finally finishing that deadly math homework and getting the right answer. He turned to look at Louise, still like how she looked some minutes ago.
Yamada started cleaning up his things, fixing his handouts and Louise’s. When he was all packed up, he looked at Louise before shaking her a little. She wasn’t twitching in response like a normal person would, instead, she kept still.
A little impatient and unsure what to do, Yamada kept shaking her a little harder now. When he got not much response still, he decided to do what his friends usually do to wake him up: The cheek-trick.
He leaned closer to Louise, and since the tables were pretty huge in their library, reaching the other end is a little of a challenge. Yamada practically had his body on top of the table and it was then that he’s able to grab hold of Louise’s cheeks; one hand on each side. Soon, he pinched hard and pulled sideways, making her face stretch a little. “OOOOUUUUCCCHH!!!!” It was loud and… really LOUD. “WHAT IN THE WORLD IS WRONG WITH YOU!!!???-“
“SSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!” Yamada tried to hush her up but he was loud too. When he looked around, all eyes were on them. “You’re so loud Umi-chan!”
“You were pulling too hard!” Still a little out of place, Louise scowled back. When she noticed that they were really the center of attention, she swore to herself and sank back to her seat.
Yamada pretended like nothing happened, seeing if people would leave them alone, and slowly, those many eyes were looking somewhere else. He sighed and was about to complain to Louise when he felt her kick his shins. “Ite! What the…” he was cut off when he saw Louise’s eyes wider than usual. She was looking at someone from behind him. Automatically, Yamada turned and that scary librarian of theirs was there, her eyes locked on the two of them. “Ah… Ohayo sensei…”
There was no change in the expression of her face; stoned, and unhappy. ‘So this is Millie-sensei…’ Louise thought, remembering the things Yuto and Keito filled her in a few days after she started school. In their library, there are basically two librarians - the good, and the evil. The good one is called Angela-sensei, while the terrible one, the one standing behind Yamada, is Millie-sensei.
“Although this area allows conversation, you should know well how to converse properly.” Her voice was monotonous; she sure sounds like someone who has never been happy ever; Louise felt a little sorry for her. I mean, if the stories about her being an old-maid are true… oh, and that the reason why she didn’t marry was because her one and only love left her. “… Do I make myself clear, Yamada-san?” Having her thoughts elsewhere, Louise missed on some stuff that Millie-san has said although she was sure she was staring at that scary face -pretending to listen. Now, she shifted her eyes to look at Yamada.
Surprisingly, the guy didn’t look as scared as she thought he would though. Instead of a nervous look, he had this firm straight look in his eyes and when he spoke, “Hai. We’re very sorry sensei. It won’t happen again,” there wasn’t any hint of quivering. With that serious face, Louise didn’t expect he’d kick her shins at that moment.
Not really sure how to react, she stared at him with wide eyes, good enough to let him know that she thinks he’s crazy at the same time asking him what he wants. “Ah… Gomenasai sensei…” that’s the only thing that came out of Louise’s mouth, and that’ll just have to do.
“You must be that new transfer student from Yusuke-sensei’s class…”
Louise swallowed before nodding. She was sure Millie-sensei rolled her eyes and looked away before saying, “I’m sure you’re quite aware of the rules and proper decorum…” she hanged and looked at Louise.
“Ah… Umiko Louise, ma’am… ah, I mean, sensei…” reading the atmosphere, she replied.
“Of course…” Stiff sensei did a quick nod, as if telling her that she’s well aware who she is. In that tiny second, Louise stole a glance at Yamada and funny enough Yamada looked like he was imitating Millie-sensei’s stoned face. The strict librarian cleared her throat, probably realizing that her preys are not paying attention anymore, so Louise looked up at her right away; Yamada stared at their table. “Umiko-san. Please do understand that you are not in your foreign country anymore. Any kind of misbehaviour will not be tolerated. Regardless of who you are, where you’re from…” she paused and stared at Yamada before continuing, “…and what glory you bring to this school. Expect no special treatment. This will be my first and hopefully, last, warning to you Umiko-san.” She ended her statement looking at Louise.
There’s really nothing inside Louise’s head at the moment so she just nodded and bowed apologetically. When Millie-sensei looked like she was about to leave, she looked back at the two of them and called onto Yamada. “And as for you Yamada-san, how I dreadfully hope this is the last time I give you a warning.” She shot him a cutting look, and off she went; back to who-knows-where-she-comes-from.
Soon enough, when evil librarian was out of sight, Louise heard Yamada trying to hold his laughter.
“What’s so funny?” Louise asked; it was an authentic question. They almost got in trouble and yet this guy’s laughing.
Yamada was trying to regain his composure and soon he cleared his throat, as if telling himself to shut up. “Ah… betsuni…”
“U-so…” Louise uttered out of scepticism.
Clearing his throat, “I just find it funny that Millie-sensei met you in these circumstances.” He soon spoke, now flinging his bag’s strap over his head. Louise just noticed now that he’s got a messenger type of bag with him; and he wears it like a typical body bag. Oh, and that he’s all packed and ready to leave.
Anyway, Louise couldn’t find anything funny with what just happened so she made sure she showed him that she’s not that thrilled. “Unlike you Mister, I’m not planning on filling my records with mischievousness and such. Yuto warned me about her, and yet I still started off with the wrong foot.” Then Louise titled her head up, looking straight at Yamada. “It’s all your fault!”
Yamada was now on his feet, and Louise noticed that he’s carrying that kind-of big history book she was reading. Upon hearing what she’s said, he pointed to himself, “Ore? What did I do?”
Louise stood up, not really having anything to fix or carry, she leaned closer over the table so that Yamada can see her clearly. Soon, she pinched her own cheeks -imitating what Yamada just did. “You were doing this to me! What a way to wake someone up, that hurts!”
Yamada just laughed. “I thought you looked cute when I was pinching your cheeks, apparently you look cuter when you’re doing it yourself.” He uttered this to Louise’s surprise.
“That doesn’t make any sense and don’t change the topic.”
“Ah… my charm works on girls… normally…” he sounded surprised. Louise was well familiarized with that look that he’s giving her now. Upon spending some time with Yamada Ryosuke, say for about three days(?), she’s kind of figured out the guy somehow -moody, conceited, and a little difficult to read. Sometimes he’s nice, sometimes he’s… ‘I dunno…’ Louise thought to herself and rolled her eyes.
“Well, sorry to burst your bubble, but I’m not normal.” She stood up straight and raised her eyebrows. “Must you always think you control everything?” this was somehow automatically ejected from her mouth.
The guy raised an eyebrow too, innocently he asked, “What’s that about?”
“Nothing really. Forget what I said.” She smiled, hoping that he would do what he’s told. Really, it’s not polite to just go off and tell people that you think they are full of themselves. Sure Yamada’s nice, but sometimes, he just brings this overconfident aura that ticks Louise’s mood into shifting from good to bad. Moments ago they were having a fine conversation about math and cooking, and now, she just didn’t know what’s happening.
“Ah, Yamada-kun?” Somebody spoke from behind Louise. When she turned around, it was Akihiko-san from their class. Remembering how she was treated back at History class the other day, Louise felt hesitant to smile, so she simply nodded; an acceptable greet, right?
“Ohayo Akihiko-san…” he greeted back with a smile; funny, the guy had this different look on his face now; even the smile is different.
“Are you about to leave?” she asked, looking just at Yamada. She must’ve purposely pretended to not see Louise; who knows why.
“Ah, hai. Umi-chan and I are planning on having lunch together, would you like to come?” Yamada’s voice was all cheerful.
Louise shot him a look. ‘Okay, what? Wait a sec! Oh, can I have a “LOUISE POV” moment here please? Author? Hello!?’
----
Oh, so… ENTER LOUISE’S POV (Dozo, Ruu-chan)
Did I just hear that right? What did he say? Replay please!
“Ah, hai. Umi-chan and I are planning on having lunch together, would you like to come?”
What’s that about? This guy’s surprising me more and more every minute; and I don’t like surprises! And yeah, can I point out that he looks like he wanted to get away from here? Pfft. Haay, Yamada-kun, if you want to leave, just leave. Must you include me in your made up excuse? Oh, and that’s some smart excuse. It’s just ten thirty; too early for lunch, bro.
Nonetheless, I made sure I threw him my creepiest, threatening look. Akihiko-san looked as surprised as I was but unlike me, she kept it casual. “Oh no, thanks. I’ve got some research to do…” that’s what she said; I must admit after hearing that she’s not interested in coming, I felt relieved. But when I heard why she can’t come, I felt a little scared. What research is she talking about? Do we have some essays due or something?
“Research?” Yamada asked. Okay, good enough he’s thinking the same as me.
“Oh, it’s for our Science Club.” She smiled. She hasn’t taken off her smile actually, since she appeared today.
“Ah…” Yamada uttered. I wanted to laugh. The guy can’t think of anything else to say. I thought they said he’s good with girls.
After a few minutes… Okay… what’s next? There was that awkward silence and I felt like leaving, but that would look more awkward ne? Soon enough -and for once I was glad that he talked- Yamada said that we needed to go since he’s hungry. Honestly, it’s pretty obvious he wants to leave. Even I can tell that much; with his face and his gestures. I wonder why. “So, we’ll be leaving now. See you tomorrow in class” he ended. Yeah sure, see you tomorrow. That’s what my head said.
Yamada and I turned our back on her at the same time, and we were on our way out when she called out his name, and I heard Yamada let out a sigh. “Hai?” he smiled, looking back at her, posing a smile. I couldn’t help it, I let out a “pfft” seeing how fake that smile was. Really Yamada-kun, what do you have against Akihiko-san?
“Mariya-chan and I will be watching your next game, gambatte!”
I looked at Yamada and noticed his mouth twitch a little before he gave her a brighter smile and with a nod, he said, “Thanks. Well, see ya!” then we stormed out. He was practically dragging me out of the library, grabbing my forearm like that.
Okay, so we’re outside the library now and into the school grounds. I tapped his hand, “HEY! Who are you, iron man?”
He let go right away, “Ah… sorry… I didn’t mean to…”
“What’s with you, you look horrible suddenly. Do you need to go to the washroom or something?”
He looked at me as if he’s been splashed with water. “Huh? Ah… no…”
“Are you okay?” I haven’t seen him like this; not that I see him often, but that blank face of his tells me there is something.
“Huh?” See, I told you. He’s not even mentally present.
“Why are you acting like that, something wrong?” Hey, I guess I’m a nice person. After all the random rudeness this guy has showed me, he is my friend.
I heard him chuckle, but didn’t really see his face. Then I just noticed that his hand was inside his pocket for who-knows what reason. “Say, would you like to grab a bite to eat?” he suddenly spoke, and now it feels like the Yamada I’ve been arguing with moments ago surfaced back.
“Do you have dissociative identity disorder [multiple personality disorder]?”
He snickered, grabbed my forearm with his other hand and started walking, “I’m not sure I know what that is but I think I don’t.”
“Do you usually drag people around like this?” I asked, practically trying to keep up with his pace. Hey, I tried to pull away but this freak’s strong.
“Uh-huh… especially Chinen and Yuto.” He smiled. Funny, his eyes weren’t like how they used to. They weren’t lit; you know, like how it always does.
When we finally got out of the school grounds, I kind of begged him to really let me go. “I can walk by myself, thank you. And if you keep that attitude of yours, I’m going to have to call some psychologist to check if you really do have some more people inside of you.” He shot me a confused look, “Ah… to check you if you have that disorder I was talking about.”
“Gomen…” it was genuine enough.
“This may sound boring, but would you like to just walk around? I’m not hungry.” I offered this when we stopped by some fast food after walking a little away from school. “Oi, Yamada-kun?”
He was practically staring at nowhere. I had to do something; I don’t wanna end up looking like a psycho talking to myself. Oh! I poked his cheeks. Of all the things to do, why that? I’m not sure. Okay, okay I think I consciously did that because looking at him, with that spaced-out expression, his cheeks looked extra soft and chubby. Haha! There! That’s a confession!
“Ah… I’m not hungry too.” he uttered, maybe he wasn’t that spacing out after all. His other hand was still inside his pocket, and now I’m sure he clutched onto something; it sounded like paper.
So we walked, and we walked, and we walked, and I guess we were both spacing out. Well, I was spacing out because I suddenly thought of Yuma and my mom. They’re probably asleep right now, since it’s… hmm… what time is it? Eh!? It’s eleven already? Wow, have we walked long. So yeah, it’s about one in the morning there; I wonder if Yuma’s doing okay with all the subjects we were supposedly taking together. I feel a little guilty; I forced him to take pre-calculus 40S (for grade 12; seniors) with me this semester, he agreed since I promised him I’ll help him, and now I’m here, obviously unable to be to the rescue. Oh well, Yuma, if you can read my thoughts now, I’m teaching Math here too, but to someone else.
Oh, where are we? When I focused my attention to my surrounding, we were at the park just near our condominium. You know that one I used to go to when I sketch and yeah, waste time? The river’s pretty loud today, if I may add. Weird, the sun’s up and about, happy-dainty in the sky, and yet I feel like it’s going to rain. “Ne, Umi-chan, don’t you have other things to do today?” I heard somebody spoke. Oh right, I’m with Yamada-kun. Psssh… totally forgot. I looked at him and he was staring at the riverside.
“Ah… nothing really.”
“You’re not going home yet?”
I looked at the condominium just behind us. “I live just right there…” my tone was kind of dulled.
“Oh… maji?”
Oh yeah, he’s not Yuto. Haha! “Yep.” Sometimes, I forget that not all people know stuff about me. “…my dad’s not home, I’ll be talking to myself… and since Suoh’s probably asleep too, so there’s nothing to do back there.” I started pacing, clapping my hands interchangeably to my front, then my back. I was told that this gesture of mine makes me look like a two year old, but who cares. Sometimes I feel (and act) like a two year old anyway.
So, he chuckled a little, hearing about my dog that he’s become acquainted with just this morning. Soon, he walked just a little further to a familiar spot… oh, why familiar? ‘cause that’s the bench where I usually sit. Maybe that’s his bench too. Oh well, may I laugh? Hoho! (sounds like some witch laugh) It’s not even coincidence; it’s called the perks of a small park; your bench is everybody’s bench.
“Do you go here often?” The thought just came to me, so I asked. Then there’s the sound from the riverside again; the current’s moving pretty fast today I tell you.
I have to say, it’s a little peculiar being with a person like Yamada. You don’t know what’s going to happen next. I can never read this guy; well, haven’t known him well enough, but I know he’s complicated. Honestly, I want to laugh. Here’s some hypocrite here named Louise… hating a complex person yet she’s a difficult one herself too. My rants and thinking aside, he spoke, “Usually, when I feel like doing so. See, I like the water…”
“Oh… that’s nice.” I don’t know what to say, the guy started talking like a serious something. “Come on, can you call back that conceited Yamada, I don’t really feel like being acquainted with this soft-side of you.” I tried to be a little angst, you know, to perk up the mood a little. And in all fairness, I didn’t just say this for nothing; I’m starting to really conclude that this guy has multiple-personality-disorder… or he’s bi-polar at the very least. I mean, you should understand what I’m saying… you’ve seen him act moments ago, right? And now…
He laughed. When my head starts talking to me, I feel like time flies so slowly, I forget the real phase in the real world. His laugh was a response to my statement, “Say I do have that multiple personality, you’d rather talk with the conceited and overconfident me?” that’s some smart question Yamada-kun; of course he did just repeated what I said.
“I dunno. Because this ‘Quiet’ you… hmm, I’m just not used to.”
“You sound like we talk every day.” Funny, this should’ve made me angry, but it didn’t
Shrugging, “Well… yeah, I still don’t know much about you, but I guess I know some… and sometimes, knowing a little bit is enough.”
“I’d have to agree with that. Because strange enough, of all the people, I don’t know why I can talk so frankly like this to you. Even though we’ve technically just became friends…”
It was genuine, what he said. Well, that’s what I think; hearing his tone, and with that casual yet not so bright smile on his face.
“Don’t feel weird, but you bring about this aura that makes people seem so welcome.” Was that a compliment just now?
“You think?” there was a slight undertone in my voice. When I heard him say this, I remembered right away how Akihiko-san ignored me the whole history thingy. Ah… history, must you give me all the problems? Oh yeah, and did I mention her friends were giving me funny looks after that too? I tried to ignore them. So say what Yamada said was true, does that mean Akihiko-san and her friends are exceptions?
“Honest.” He put up a hand as if he’s swearing.
“Weird, we’re not that close-buddies yet we talk like this.” I’m sure we both let out some laughs after I said this.
Then he sighed, stretched his hands up in the air, laid them behind his head and he scooted his bum forward before resting his back on the bench’s backrest. “May I say that you’re one strange girl, Umi-chan?”
I looked up in the sky, just like he was doing. “I should be… I’m not from around here. You can say I’m kind of an alien.” With much effort, I tried imitating the best alien I know -stitch. Haha! You know, from Lilo and Stitch?
Honestly, I was expecting a laugh from him, but it didn’t come. Instead, I felt his eyes looking at me. “Why say that? Do you feel out of place?”
I dropped my hands to my lap and sighed. Wow, and I thought I’m frank and straight to the point. “Ah… not really…”
“Has somebody been giving you a hard time?” he sounded concern enough, it made me feel all happy inside; hey, to have someone worry about you, it makes you feel nice, ne? He had that same kindness look that Keito had when he asked me one time if I’m bothered by something. Urgh, I’ll never forget that day because that’s the Akihiko-san attitude incident.
Anyway, I shook my head.
“Is that for real?” Relax buddy, I’m not being bullied. For a moment, I thought his eyes were pretty serious.
“Well, I can’t really wish everybody to like me, right? It can’t be helped when you encounter some people showing signs of disliking you.” It’s true. I just said what I felt like saying. Actually, it’s some kind of food for thought I keep telling myself whenever I feel like I’m not welcomed.
“Ah… Can I say I’ve never really felt that feeling?” shocking enough, as conceited as his words were, his tone wasn’t. He sounded like he’s saying he hasn’t been to that place he’s assuming I’ve already been to.
“You’re one lucky guy then. So the rumours were right, you’re everyone’s favourite.” Being in school for about three weeks (not even a month) I’ve learned a lot of things already.
Let’s side-track a little… something Louise Umiko has learned:
1. The girls usually bond with the girls, and the guys with the guys.
Strike! Maybe I’m one of the exceptions to this because I hang out with mostly guys… okay, only guys. Now that I think about it, I haven’t made any girl friends since I got here! Yabai…
2. School is all about hard work, passing all kinds of exams, and keeping secrets.
Since I got here, I’ve started to adjust with the kind of pressure they (somehow) put on students regarding academics and especially the examinations. Teachers sometimes rant about University Entrance exams, which will be taken on graduating year, and kind of silly to be pointed out as early as now. (I’m a procrastinator, so unless its two days before the deadline, its early. Haha!) And as for secrets, I’m telling you, I’ve learned about loads of them from Keito and Yuto. Why call them secrets if everybody knows it anyway? It’s not secret, it’s gossip.
3. The only similarity I’ve seen between Yokohama and Winnipeg. There are different statuses in High school. In general, it’s either you’re SOMEBODY, or you’re a NOBODY.
Must I stress on this?
Oh well… going back to me and Yamada. I’d like to say that in number three, Yamada Ryosuke’s one of those BIG-TIME SOMEBODYs. And as I’ve said, he is everyone’s favourite. Sure enough, he looked like he knew well what I said; and again, I’m shocked he didn’t hog it all out.
“So I was told…” that was his reply, plain and simple.
“You know well that’s true. Must be nice being loved by everyone, ne?” Hey, don’t get me wrong; I swear even if thunder strikes me now, there’s no hint of envy in that statement.
I’m not sure if I’ve read his expression well enough, but his smile wasn’t as happy as I expected it to be. “It’s nice, but then it gets tiring.”
“So full of yourself…”
He laughed, “Not that I’m trying to sound too conceited…” I waved a hand over my face, trying to make fun of him by showing that I’m not interested in his excuses. He laughed of course. I think it’s nice we get to talk like this, I’m surprised; we’re actually having a healthy conversation. “But yeah… fame is frustrating…” he then brushed a hair away from his face.
“Normally if I hear a guy says that in the anime, someone would say “kakkoi” right afterwards… but now I don’t understand why…”
“People think fame is cool.” It’s as if he tried to answer what I said.
“And it’s not?”
Amusement and apathy, that’s what I saw in his face when he shrugged after hearing my comment. “Would you like to become famous?” his question sounded completely out of curiosity.
“No. I’d be lying if I say I’ve never dreamt of being famous ever once in my life, but generally, it’s not part of what I want to have in life.” It’s just now that I’ve realized that the sky’s turned a little darker than it was some few minutes ago.
“It’s a pain. Especially with the girls…”
Pure-heartedly, I want to whack him on the head. So, I did. WHACK!
“What the? What was that for?!” for that moment, he sounded annoyed. Made me smile. I’m really weird, I can totally see that.
“You’re head’s growing too big, I was scared you’ll look like some caricature or those bobble-heads that you put on your car.” Bobbling my head side to side and with wide grin, almost making my eyes shrink into slits, I tried to be as comical as possible. I’m not too sure why I did what I thought of doing. It was supposed to be just a thought, not an action.
Rubbing his head and looking at me like he wanted some revenge… he spoke, “It’s amazing how you can make yourself look silly and cute at the same time.”
“I’ll take that as a compliment, thank you.” I even bowed to emphasize my gratitude.
Sure enough, he laughed. “It’s amazing. I never thought I’d meet anybody as random as Chinen.”
“As you well know, I’m not that acquainted with Chinen-san, so I shall have no say in that statement of yours.” Keeping that royal-ish atmosphere, I replied. Again he laughed.
“Ne Umi-chan, would you take it seriously if I ask you to help me onto something…?” seriousness on his voice, I can feel something coming.
“It depends. If it involves pulling a prank off of Millie-sensei then I’ll pray for you.” Wow, my humours pretty good today.
He let out a laugh before shaking his head, “No, no. Although I won’t pass on that if there’s an opportunity.” He cleared his throat (why do people do that?) and continued, “It’s some kind of girl-related problem.”
My eyebrows hit yay-hairline; of course I’m exaggerating, but am I hearing this right? “Famous” Yamada Ryosuke (or so they emphasize) asking for help with girls? “Are you kidding me?”
He didn’t reply but instead, he took out something from his pocket. When I looked at it, it’s kind of a crumpled paper and if my memory serves me right, I’ve seen this paper before.
Not hesitating one more bit, I asked, “Isn’t that the love letter you got yesterday?”
xXxXx
Chapter Nine Part 2
Previous Chapter…
Kenneth Dickson wrote on Kate Harino’s wall: Hey, I think Jhoan Line Laririt found herself some boyfriend.
Okay, what?
xXxXx
I think I’m having delusions? I tried to close my eyes hard, pinch my cheek (I guess) and probably things will turn back into reality.
So? Newsfeed… what does Newsfeed say?
Kenneth Dickson wrote on Kate Harino’s wall: Hey, I think Jhoan Line Laririt found herself some boyfriend.
I may be exaggerating, but this is just one heck of a joke! What in the twisted-sanity-of-humanity is all this!?
So I clicked and clicked, tried to trace whatever I can. So what am I looking for? My boyfriend. Mwahaha. Who is making this freak show-slash-gag-slash-I don’t know how to call it anymore- thing!?
Wait… It’s probably just Mike.
Demo… I checked my Inbox again and there’s Mike’s message asking me about this boyfriend. I read his message, and schemed on the others’…. Crap. They’re all clueless!? What the heck is this?!
So I messaged my friends. I have to force them to tell me who’s behind all this because as funny as this seems, this’ll just add fuel to Kenneth’s already messed-up chaos! I mean, if he finds out one of my friends (or who in the world knows who’s doing this) is fabricating some boyfriend, then what does that make me!? Someone who asks for some attention!?
Argh…
So the message… let’s see… what to write… hmm… Dear minna…. Haha! Scratch that…
Hey guys, it’s been a while. I don’t really have much stuff to tell you right now; your questions are overflowing and I think my inbox and my head have exceeded its limit. I have but one question and one question only. WHO THE F*** IS DOING ALL THIS BOYFRIEND CRAP, HUH!? Somebody give me some real and sensible answer before I lose whatever sanity I have left! Don’t ask me anymore about whatever else has happened, just answer this question, and answer it as soon as you read this. Please guys, I’m not kidding. Understand that this is not funny anymore. I swear… I’m reaching the end of ends. And I’m done with Kenneth okay, so please.
Thanks guys, I know you won’t let me down.
PS: Japan is lovely. That’s all.
Okay, that about sums up what’s inside my head.
Argh. I knew I shouldn’t have opened my account. But then again, if I haven’t, I wouldn’t even get to see this one big heck of a problem-egg that’s hatched.
Against my will, I worked hard again to see if I can trace who my boyfriend is… and this includes ending up at Kenneth’s account.
Oh right, I haven’t blocked or unfriended him yet. True, its pure pain and anger just seeing bits of what he’s been torturing me with for the past few weeks (which I haven’t really read fully at all) but I have no choice. So apparently, there were entries that say my boyfriend (must I refer to him like that? Well, it’s just for now since it’s the easiest way I can call this mister meddle) added Kenneth as a friend. And guess what, dumbass accepted it. Why!? Okay I just have to laugh at this because it’s too stupid. I mean, say this is all true and I do end up having a boyfriend, why would Kenneth add the boyfriend of his stalker? This is just twisted.
Anyway, I thought I found my gateway to knowing who this boyfriend is and I looked at Kenneth’s updates. Who became his friends just recently… hmmm…. Scroll, scroll… and scroll… again…. Wait… it’s already entries from December of last year… UWAAAAH!
I scratched my head. Great. This is just not going to be easy!
After a few minutes, I just gave up. Hey, it’s not that I don’t wanna fix this, believe me, I want to settle this more than anybody, but I just can’t find who the freakin’ guy is!
Whatever.
My head is aching, aching, I don’t wanna be mad, but I kind of am. Grrr. Oh well…
Blog time!
Apparently, I have a boyfriend.
Apparently, I have a boyfriend. When did that happen? Am I in some kind of a Limbo where I don't know what's going on anymore?
There was this long-standing joke between my friends and I whenever we like someone who absolutely won't like us back, that we're dating but if the other party knows, there'll be a break-up.
If this is someone's idea of a joke, I'm not laughing. It's going to make things more complicated than it actually is. Kenneth would probably think that I'm fabricating a guy just to get back at him. Oh puh-lease, I am not that shallow. I know my friends didn't do it because they're as confused as I am. Does that mean I'm out of the No-Boyfriend-Since-Birth group? The relationship isn't even legitimate, heck, is there even any relationship in the first place? Oh gosh.
He can choose to think whatever it is he wants to think, I don't care anymore. I used to think that he's the most amazing guy in the world. I guess I've thought wrong. I gave him so much credit than he actually deserves.
At this point, I have to have everything on hold. Studying in Japan isn't exactly as peachy as I thought it would be, but I'm having fun. It's gorgeous here. I'm happy. I'm friends with the most amazing people in the world. Dai-chan and Kei-chan treat me like we've known each other for forever. Of course, I haven't known them since last October but we're practically inseparable. I know I'm weird but it amazes me how those two just seems to read me like an open book. It's either they like me well enough to not care, or they're good at pretending that everything's okay. I think I want to believe the first one. And of course, Dai-chan and I basically have the same classes, it's like we photocopied a single time table and registered for the same courses. But I'm not complaining. It's nice to have someone to talk to, and whom you can copy your homeworks from. Ha-ha.
Double whammy! See, those two cheer me up without even meaning to. I've forgotten about the boyfriend problem. Whoever it is that's posing as my boyfriend, karma is a bitch. Oh whatever. I'm in Japan, it's *mostly* sunny... and for now, that's all that matters.
I closed my laptop and headed downstairs; I’m hungry and I’ll eat. I won’t let this all bother me.
On my way downstairs, the windows show it well that today’s pretty sunny. Really, it doesn’t feel like fall at all. I wonder how many times I’d say that. Oh. I’ll head outside and take pictures. Maybe Dai-chan and Kei-chan would like to come? I shrugged, took out my phone and sent them both identical messages. If they’d like to join me, they’ll reply back or maybe just call, or just pop out of nowhere, who knows. Oh well. It was worth letting them know. Two jack-heads make me feel better every time. With a smile, I entered the cafeteria… wonder what’s for breakfast.
xXxXx
“Ohohoho… What did he say after that?” Inoo spoke, his mouth kind of full with his huge bite of pancake. He and Daiki were sitting at a far corner of the men’s dorm cafeteria.
Daiki on the other hand was sipping hot chocolate when he shrugged. Then he spoke, “He just added me. A reply wasn’t that necessary I guess.”
“I’m proud of you, really. So genius… Telling him you’re Line’s boyfriend and that you’re having problems with her. Haha! But you know… It sounds a little mean to me, ne? For a boyfriend to speak ill of his girl…”
“This is all fake anyway. I would never do that in real life.”
Inoo nodded. “I know you won’t. Not Dai-chan, of all people.” He took a sip from his own coffee and then pulled it away, “Waah, hot!”
“Baka…” Daiki uttered then turned to look around. There weren’t much people eating in the cafeteria. “People wake up late when its weekends, ne?”
“You think Line-chan’s awake?” Inoo’s question wasn’t surprising. This guy has taken great fondness on Line ever since she arrived. Also, Daiki has noticed even before that Inoo likes spending time with Line and him. That can’t be helped. Their trio has been nothing but happy ever since they’ve started hanging out.
Upon looking at the clock, it’s almost eight-thirty. Daiki spoke, “She might be awake already. Line looks like the person who wakes up early.”
Inoo nodded but told Daiki that on Line’s first few days, she’s had some difficulty with the change in time.
“Oh… yeah, it’s the total opposite in Canada right? Ima… it’s about evening there huh?”
Nodding, Inoo rested his chin on the table. “Turns out, I’m still sleepy. Stupid coffee burnt my tongue.” He seemed like he’s doing some inhale-exhale exercise, adding pouted lips as he inhales.
“I’m the one who stayed up pretty late.” Daiki sounded betrayed.
Rubbing his eyes, Inoo got to his feet and picked up his dishes. “I’ll head back to sleep.” He yawned and Daiki just rolled his eyes. There’s really nothing he can do; Kei-chan’s, Kei-chan. “Well then, I’ll see you later ne?” Inoo was about to leave their table when he said, “Oh… don’t even bother waking me up, it’ll be useless. Hoho. Oyasumiiii…”
Shaking his head, Daiki replied, “Hai, hai whatever. Just go already.”
Inoo’s smile just showed that he wasn’t kidding; he does look like he’s fighting himself to stay awake. Daiki watched as Inoo handed his dishes to the other counter and waved at Daiki before exiting the cafeteria completely.
‘I wonder what to do…’ Daiki stared at his plate. There weren’t any pancakes left but his cup is still half-full. ‘Without Kei-chan… hmmm…. Maybe I should call Line-chan, ne?’ he was about to take out his phone, ‘Demo…’ Upon thinking twice, he shoved his phone back to his pocket and started finishing his hot chocolate. ‘I’ll just call her later. I don’t have much to say after all.’ He laughed to himself a little. It’s a little silly, the thought he just had right now. Why would he want to call Line when he has nothing much to say, right?
xXxXx
Louise arrived at their table, carrying a copy of one History book and one about Geography. Yamada looked up at her while his chin was on top of his paper. “History? And Geography?”
She placed the books on top of the table and sat opposite to Yamada. “I’ve got some catching up to do with the History lessons… and yeah, the geography. I’m more worried about the history part though. Oh, are you done?” she ended up asking.
Yamada was honest enough to shake his head. “Demo, I needed a break.” He sighed and stood up straight. “You’re smart anyway, I don’t think you need to do further reading.”
With a look that Yamada has never seen on Louise’s face before, she sighed loud. “I hate history. I’ve hated it ever since I can remember, and I know that’ll never change. Ever!” she patted her cheeks and schemed through the table of contents.
“I hate math. Haha!”
Louise looked at him as if he’d said something that had hurt her. “I love math.” She soon uttered, moping a little.
“I can tell.” Yamada picked up his pencil and looked at the stuff he’s graphed. Feeling a little happy, he tapped his chin with his pencil. “What’s there to like about math anyway? Maybe you can convince me, ne?” he grinned. Louise can pretty much tell that he’s just killing time.
“Hah?” she chuckled. “To convince you AND Yuu-chan… That’s impossible.” she laughed a little at her statement and turned to a page that seemed to have caught her attention.
“Muri? (Impossible/Unbearable) Honto?”
“Jodan desu yo (I’m just kidding)”
Yamada chuckled. “You and your humour, Umi-chan…” He then looked at his graph. “But seriously, why do you like math?” he ended, looking at her questioningly.
Louise was reading something when she looked up at him and replied, “Why do you hate it?” she sat up straight and waited.
He was moving his lips side to side, and Louise found it ridiculously cute. ‘Japanese boys and their gestures.'
“Well?” She pressed.
“There’s lots of reason. Well for me in general, it’s hard to think too much over things. Math requires too many thinking! Sometimes it’s just so complicated… waaah! Too many reasons why I don’t like it.”
Apparently, Louise found this funny and she snickered. “I hate thinking over things with too much effort too, you know. But, I still love math.”
“Why?” he looked confused. It seems like he honestly don’t see the reason.
She shrugged. It was an honest motion. “I wonder… I guess, I don’t know.”
“Eh? Majide?”
“Hey don’t sound so surprise. There are things in this world you like without real reason.”
He was smiling now, as if he’s heard something great. “That’s true. Like how I like to cook. Haha!” he seemed amused enough with what he said. He’s probably surprised that he’s said it. Ha!
“You cook?” And it seems Louise has heard something incredibly bizarre.
“Um!” Yamada nodded; his lips pressed closed on a tight smile.
“Sugoi…” Louise crossed her hands over her chest and laid her back on her chair. “I envy you.” Upon seeing Yamada’s face, she continued, “Well, because I don’t know how to cook. Never had any interest, I guess.”
Somehow, looking at the Yamada right now is like looking at some newly born person. Louise thought he almost looked like he was shining. (LOL. Cheezy, but yeah.) That’s about the definition. Compared to his sullen atmosphere earlier this morning, his aura right now feels light… and just, light. He spoke with a smile, “Well, I love doing it. And just like you, I guess I don’t have much reason if ever somebody asks me.” He then started drawing some lines again on a new graph, heading onto the next question. “Maybe I can talk you into cooking, ne? Then you’ll talk me into liking math. Haha!” it’s as if the thought just appeared suddenly as he spoke, looking up to her while Louise was about to continue with her reading.
She laughed; it was purely Yamada’s logic. “Maa~ good luck with that… on making me like cooking that is…”
“It’s not that hard.” He smiled reassuringly
“I can’t really say the exact same thing about math, ne?” Louise felt the need to be extra honest.
“I know…” His face looked like it’s been hidden in the shadows. Poor Yamada. Liking math sure isn’t something you just convince yourself into. “Demo, gambarimasu! Okay… question five…” he started solving and Louise watched him for a while before going back to the history thing she was reading.
After a few minutes, she felt her eyes closing. Then of course, there’s the yawn right afterwards. “Argh… History is just too boring. It’s practically putting me to sleep.” Louise complained to nobody in particular, but since Yamada was there, maybe she was talking to him. Not really interested in reading anymore, Louise slammed her head on top of the book. There’s that yawn again, and with no hesitation, Louise closed her eyes.
Time passed, and Yuto was still nowhere to be found. He went out about some minutes ago saying he wants some taiyaki.
While he was figuring out the x-intercept of his equation, Yamada felt his cellphone vibrate. Taking the call, “Ah… Yuto? What’s taking you so long?” He kept nodding and saying some ‘Um’ once in a while. “Alright then, I’ll tell her. Thanks a lot for all your help! See you tomorrow…” he clicked his phone off. “Umi-chan, Yuto said he needed to go home right away and that he’s sorry for not being able to help a little bit more.” Yamada looked at his watch; it’s almost ten in the morning. Wow, time flies fast today. Yuto was probably asked to prepare lunch. Upon having that thought, Yamada snickered. Yuto cooks? Now that he’s come across the idea, he’s not too sure if he knows the answer.
It took a while but soon, “Ah… hai…” Louise lazily uttered. Obviously, Yamada was surprised a little; he thought Louise wasn’t going to say anything. With a shrug, he continued with what he was doing.
So he kept solving and solving. This last number is beginning to be a real pain since he’s supposed to draw five figures. Why must it get harder? The minute you thought you’ve understood perfectly what you’re doing, when you move to the next question, everything is arranged differently or… you’re presented with different data. Why must math be so complicated and yet so easy to complicate? Complaints aside, one-by-one, Yamada faced the equations.
He started reciting those points-to-remember Yuto and Louise has taught him a few minutes ago. Soon enough, he stopped, thinking that he’s probably mixing stuff up. Needing help, of course he turned to Louise who has practically acted well as his tutor for the past… um… three hours? Calling out to her, he asked Louise to correct him if ever he says something wrong. But you know what? It was pretty quiet on the other side of the table.
“Umi-chan?” Looking up, Yamada finally faced the fact that he’s not getting any replies.
She was pretty still, her back rising up and down in an average phase. So she’s really asleep?
Trying once again, he called her name a little louder. No response. ‘Should I wake her up?’ that was what’s running inside his head. So what now? Should he? Not really sure what to do, Yamada just decided to finish his homework, referring to Louise’s notes for help since the person herself is currently not available.
It took a while, and he can feel his weekend body aching for some break. It’s a weekend; you’re not supposed to do so much school work! Soon enough… “AH! FINALLY!” he yapped a little louder, gaining some attention and he bowed his head to no one in particular for apology. With a grin, he shouted inside his head, finally finishing that deadly math homework and getting the right answer. He turned to look at Louise, still like how she looked some minutes ago.
Yamada started cleaning up his things, fixing his handouts and Louise’s. When he was all packed up, he looked at Louise before shaking her a little. She wasn’t twitching in response like a normal person would, instead, she kept still.
A little impatient and unsure what to do, Yamada kept shaking her a little harder now. When he got not much response still, he decided to do what his friends usually do to wake him up: The cheek-trick.
He leaned closer to Louise, and since the tables were pretty huge in their library, reaching the other end is a little of a challenge. Yamada practically had his body on top of the table and it was then that he’s able to grab hold of Louise’s cheeks; one hand on each side. Soon, he pinched hard and pulled sideways, making her face stretch a little. “OOOOUUUUCCCHH!!!!” It was loud and… really LOUD. “WHAT IN THE WORLD IS WRONG WITH YOU!!!???-“
“SSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!” Yamada tried to hush her up but he was loud too. When he looked around, all eyes were on them. “You’re so loud Umi-chan!”
“You were pulling too hard!” Still a little out of place, Louise scowled back. When she noticed that they were really the center of attention, she swore to herself and sank back to her seat.
Yamada pretended like nothing happened, seeing if people would leave them alone, and slowly, those many eyes were looking somewhere else. He sighed and was about to complain to Louise when he felt her kick his shins. “Ite! What the…” he was cut off when he saw Louise’s eyes wider than usual. She was looking at someone from behind him. Automatically, Yamada turned and that scary librarian of theirs was there, her eyes locked on the two of them. “Ah… Ohayo sensei…”
There was no change in the expression of her face; stoned, and unhappy. ‘So this is Millie-sensei…’ Louise thought, remembering the things Yuto and Keito filled her in a few days after she started school. In their library, there are basically two librarians - the good, and the evil. The good one is called Angela-sensei, while the terrible one, the one standing behind Yamada, is Millie-sensei.
“Although this area allows conversation, you should know well how to converse properly.” Her voice was monotonous; she sure sounds like someone who has never been happy ever; Louise felt a little sorry for her. I mean, if the stories about her being an old-maid are true… oh, and that the reason why she didn’t marry was because her one and only love left her. “… Do I make myself clear, Yamada-san?” Having her thoughts elsewhere, Louise missed on some stuff that Millie-san has said although she was sure she was staring at that scary face -pretending to listen. Now, she shifted her eyes to look at Yamada.
Surprisingly, the guy didn’t look as scared as she thought he would though. Instead of a nervous look, he had this firm straight look in his eyes and when he spoke, “Hai. We’re very sorry sensei. It won’t happen again,” there wasn’t any hint of quivering. With that serious face, Louise didn’t expect he’d kick her shins at that moment.
Not really sure how to react, she stared at him with wide eyes, good enough to let him know that she thinks he’s crazy at the same time asking him what he wants. “Ah… Gomenasai sensei…” that’s the only thing that came out of Louise’s mouth, and that’ll just have to do.
“You must be that new transfer student from Yusuke-sensei’s class…”
Louise swallowed before nodding. She was sure Millie-sensei rolled her eyes and looked away before saying, “I’m sure you’re quite aware of the rules and proper decorum…” she hanged and looked at Louise.
“Ah… Umiko Louise, ma’am… ah, I mean, sensei…” reading the atmosphere, she replied.
“Of course…” Stiff sensei did a quick nod, as if telling her that she’s well aware who she is. In that tiny second, Louise stole a glance at Yamada and funny enough Yamada looked like he was imitating Millie-sensei’s stoned face. The strict librarian cleared her throat, probably realizing that her preys are not paying attention anymore, so Louise looked up at her right away; Yamada stared at their table. “Umiko-san. Please do understand that you are not in your foreign country anymore. Any kind of misbehaviour will not be tolerated. Regardless of who you are, where you’re from…” she paused and stared at Yamada before continuing, “…and what glory you bring to this school. Expect no special treatment. This will be my first and hopefully, last, warning to you Umiko-san.” She ended her statement looking at Louise.
There’s really nothing inside Louise’s head at the moment so she just nodded and bowed apologetically. When Millie-sensei looked like she was about to leave, she looked back at the two of them and called onto Yamada. “And as for you Yamada-san, how I dreadfully hope this is the last time I give you a warning.” She shot him a cutting look, and off she went; back to who-knows-where-she-comes-from.
Soon enough, when evil librarian was out of sight, Louise heard Yamada trying to hold his laughter.
“What’s so funny?” Louise asked; it was an authentic question. They almost got in trouble and yet this guy’s laughing.
Yamada was trying to regain his composure and soon he cleared his throat, as if telling himself to shut up. “Ah… betsuni…”
“U-so…” Louise uttered out of scepticism.
Clearing his throat, “I just find it funny that Millie-sensei met you in these circumstances.” He soon spoke, now flinging his bag’s strap over his head. Louise just noticed now that he’s got a messenger type of bag with him; and he wears it like a typical body bag. Oh, and that he’s all packed and ready to leave.
Anyway, Louise couldn’t find anything funny with what just happened so she made sure she showed him that she’s not that thrilled. “Unlike you Mister, I’m not planning on filling my records with mischievousness and such. Yuto warned me about her, and yet I still started off with the wrong foot.” Then Louise titled her head up, looking straight at Yamada. “It’s all your fault!”
Yamada was now on his feet, and Louise noticed that he’s carrying that kind-of big history book she was reading. Upon hearing what she’s said, he pointed to himself, “Ore? What did I do?”
Louise stood up, not really having anything to fix or carry, she leaned closer over the table so that Yamada can see her clearly. Soon, she pinched her own cheeks -imitating what Yamada just did. “You were doing this to me! What a way to wake someone up, that hurts!”
Yamada just laughed. “I thought you looked cute when I was pinching your cheeks, apparently you look cuter when you’re doing it yourself.” He uttered this to Louise’s surprise.
“That doesn’t make any sense and don’t change the topic.”
“Ah… my charm works on girls… normally…” he sounded surprised. Louise was well familiarized with that look that he’s giving her now. Upon spending some time with Yamada Ryosuke, say for about three days(?), she’s kind of figured out the guy somehow -moody, conceited, and a little difficult to read. Sometimes he’s nice, sometimes he’s… ‘I dunno…’ Louise thought to herself and rolled her eyes.
“Well, sorry to burst your bubble, but I’m not normal.” She stood up straight and raised her eyebrows. “Must you always think you control everything?” this was somehow automatically ejected from her mouth.
The guy raised an eyebrow too, innocently he asked, “What’s that about?”
“Nothing really. Forget what I said.” She smiled, hoping that he would do what he’s told. Really, it’s not polite to just go off and tell people that you think they are full of themselves. Sure Yamada’s nice, but sometimes, he just brings this overconfident aura that ticks Louise’s mood into shifting from good to bad. Moments ago they were having a fine conversation about math and cooking, and now, she just didn’t know what’s happening.
“Ah, Yamada-kun?” Somebody spoke from behind Louise. When she turned around, it was Akihiko-san from their class. Remembering how she was treated back at History class the other day, Louise felt hesitant to smile, so she simply nodded; an acceptable greet, right?
“Ohayo Akihiko-san…” he greeted back with a smile; funny, the guy had this different look on his face now; even the smile is different.
“Are you about to leave?” she asked, looking just at Yamada. She must’ve purposely pretended to not see Louise; who knows why.
“Ah, hai. Umi-chan and I are planning on having lunch together, would you like to come?” Yamada’s voice was all cheerful.
Louise shot him a look. ‘Okay, what? Wait a sec! Oh, can I have a “LOUISE POV” moment here please? Author? Hello!?’
----
Oh, so… ENTER LOUISE’S POV (Dozo, Ruu-chan)
Did I just hear that right? What did he say? Replay please!
“Ah, hai. Umi-chan and I are planning on having lunch together, would you like to come?”
What’s that about? This guy’s surprising me more and more every minute; and I don’t like surprises! And yeah, can I point out that he looks like he wanted to get away from here? Pfft. Haay, Yamada-kun, if you want to leave, just leave. Must you include me in your made up excuse? Oh, and that’s some smart excuse. It’s just ten thirty; too early for lunch, bro.
Nonetheless, I made sure I threw him my creepiest, threatening look. Akihiko-san looked as surprised as I was but unlike me, she kept it casual. “Oh no, thanks. I’ve got some research to do…” that’s what she said; I must admit after hearing that she’s not interested in coming, I felt relieved. But when I heard why she can’t come, I felt a little scared. What research is she talking about? Do we have some essays due or something?
“Research?” Yamada asked. Okay, good enough he’s thinking the same as me.
“Oh, it’s for our Science Club.” She smiled. She hasn’t taken off her smile actually, since she appeared today.
“Ah…” Yamada uttered. I wanted to laugh. The guy can’t think of anything else to say. I thought they said he’s good with girls.
After a few minutes… Okay… what’s next? There was that awkward silence and I felt like leaving, but that would look more awkward ne? Soon enough -and for once I was glad that he talked- Yamada said that we needed to go since he’s hungry. Honestly, it’s pretty obvious he wants to leave. Even I can tell that much; with his face and his gestures. I wonder why. “So, we’ll be leaving now. See you tomorrow in class” he ended. Yeah sure, see you tomorrow. That’s what my head said.
Yamada and I turned our back on her at the same time, and we were on our way out when she called out his name, and I heard Yamada let out a sigh. “Hai?” he smiled, looking back at her, posing a smile. I couldn’t help it, I let out a “pfft” seeing how fake that smile was. Really Yamada-kun, what do you have against Akihiko-san?
“Mariya-chan and I will be watching your next game, gambatte!”
I looked at Yamada and noticed his mouth twitch a little before he gave her a brighter smile and with a nod, he said, “Thanks. Well, see ya!” then we stormed out. He was practically dragging me out of the library, grabbing my forearm like that.
Okay, so we’re outside the library now and into the school grounds. I tapped his hand, “HEY! Who are you, iron man?”
He let go right away, “Ah… sorry… I didn’t mean to…”
“What’s with you, you look horrible suddenly. Do you need to go to the washroom or something?”
He looked at me as if he’s been splashed with water. “Huh? Ah… no…”
“Are you okay?” I haven’t seen him like this; not that I see him often, but that blank face of his tells me there is something.
“Huh?” See, I told you. He’s not even mentally present.
“Why are you acting like that, something wrong?” Hey, I guess I’m a nice person. After all the random rudeness this guy has showed me, he is my friend.
I heard him chuckle, but didn’t really see his face. Then I just noticed that his hand was inside his pocket for who-knows what reason. “Say, would you like to grab a bite to eat?” he suddenly spoke, and now it feels like the Yamada I’ve been arguing with moments ago surfaced back.
“Do you have dissociative identity disorder [multiple personality disorder]?”
He snickered, grabbed my forearm with his other hand and started walking, “I’m not sure I know what that is but I think I don’t.”
“Do you usually drag people around like this?” I asked, practically trying to keep up with his pace. Hey, I tried to pull away but this freak’s strong.
“Uh-huh… especially Chinen and Yuto.” He smiled. Funny, his eyes weren’t like how they used to. They weren’t lit; you know, like how it always does.
When we finally got out of the school grounds, I kind of begged him to really let me go. “I can walk by myself, thank you. And if you keep that attitude of yours, I’m going to have to call some psychologist to check if you really do have some more people inside of you.” He shot me a confused look, “Ah… to check you if you have that disorder I was talking about.”
“Gomen…” it was genuine enough.
“This may sound boring, but would you like to just walk around? I’m not hungry.” I offered this when we stopped by some fast food after walking a little away from school. “Oi, Yamada-kun?”
He was practically staring at nowhere. I had to do something; I don’t wanna end up looking like a psycho talking to myself. Oh! I poked his cheeks. Of all the things to do, why that? I’m not sure. Okay, okay I think I consciously did that because looking at him, with that spaced-out expression, his cheeks looked extra soft and chubby. Haha! There! That’s a confession!
“Ah… I’m not hungry too.” he uttered, maybe he wasn’t that spacing out after all. His other hand was still inside his pocket, and now I’m sure he clutched onto something; it sounded like paper.
So we walked, and we walked, and we walked, and I guess we were both spacing out. Well, I was spacing out because I suddenly thought of Yuma and my mom. They’re probably asleep right now, since it’s… hmm… what time is it? Eh!? It’s eleven already? Wow, have we walked long. So yeah, it’s about one in the morning there; I wonder if Yuma’s doing okay with all the subjects we were supposedly taking together. I feel a little guilty; I forced him to take pre-calculus 40S (for grade 12; seniors) with me this semester, he agreed since I promised him I’ll help him, and now I’m here, obviously unable to be to the rescue. Oh well, Yuma, if you can read my thoughts now, I’m teaching Math here too, but to someone else.
Oh, where are we? When I focused my attention to my surrounding, we were at the park just near our condominium. You know that one I used to go to when I sketch and yeah, waste time? The river’s pretty loud today, if I may add. Weird, the sun’s up and about, happy-dainty in the sky, and yet I feel like it’s going to rain. “Ne, Umi-chan, don’t you have other things to do today?” I heard somebody spoke. Oh right, I’m with Yamada-kun. Psssh… totally forgot. I looked at him and he was staring at the riverside.
“Ah… nothing really.”
“You’re not going home yet?”
I looked at the condominium just behind us. “I live just right there…” my tone was kind of dulled.
“Oh… maji?”
Oh yeah, he’s not Yuto. Haha! “Yep.” Sometimes, I forget that not all people know stuff about me. “…my dad’s not home, I’ll be talking to myself… and since Suoh’s probably asleep too, so there’s nothing to do back there.” I started pacing, clapping my hands interchangeably to my front, then my back. I was told that this gesture of mine makes me look like a two year old, but who cares. Sometimes I feel (and act) like a two year old anyway.
So, he chuckled a little, hearing about my dog that he’s become acquainted with just this morning. Soon, he walked just a little further to a familiar spot… oh, why familiar? ‘cause that’s the bench where I usually sit. Maybe that’s his bench too. Oh well, may I laugh? Hoho! (sounds like some witch laugh) It’s not even coincidence; it’s called the perks of a small park; your bench is everybody’s bench.
“Do you go here often?” The thought just came to me, so I asked. Then there’s the sound from the riverside again; the current’s moving pretty fast today I tell you.
I have to say, it’s a little peculiar being with a person like Yamada. You don’t know what’s going to happen next. I can never read this guy; well, haven’t known him well enough, but I know he’s complicated. Honestly, I want to laugh. Here’s some hypocrite here named Louise… hating a complex person yet she’s a difficult one herself too. My rants and thinking aside, he spoke, “Usually, when I feel like doing so. See, I like the water…”
“Oh… that’s nice.” I don’t know what to say, the guy started talking like a serious something. “Come on, can you call back that conceited Yamada, I don’t really feel like being acquainted with this soft-side of you.” I tried to be a little angst, you know, to perk up the mood a little. And in all fairness, I didn’t just say this for nothing; I’m starting to really conclude that this guy has multiple-personality-disorder… or he’s bi-polar at the very least. I mean, you should understand what I’m saying… you’ve seen him act moments ago, right? And now…
He laughed. When my head starts talking to me, I feel like time flies so slowly, I forget the real phase in the real world. His laugh was a response to my statement, “Say I do have that multiple personality, you’d rather talk with the conceited and overconfident me?” that’s some smart question Yamada-kun; of course he did just repeated what I said.
“I dunno. Because this ‘Quiet’ you… hmm, I’m just not used to.”
“You sound like we talk every day.” Funny, this should’ve made me angry, but it didn’t
Shrugging, “Well… yeah, I still don’t know much about you, but I guess I know some… and sometimes, knowing a little bit is enough.”
“I’d have to agree with that. Because strange enough, of all the people, I don’t know why I can talk so frankly like this to you. Even though we’ve technically just became friends…”
It was genuine, what he said. Well, that’s what I think; hearing his tone, and with that casual yet not so bright smile on his face.
“Don’t feel weird, but you bring about this aura that makes people seem so welcome.” Was that a compliment just now?
“You think?” there was a slight undertone in my voice. When I heard him say this, I remembered right away how Akihiko-san ignored me the whole history thingy. Ah… history, must you give me all the problems? Oh yeah, and did I mention her friends were giving me funny looks after that too? I tried to ignore them. So say what Yamada said was true, does that mean Akihiko-san and her friends are exceptions?
“Honest.” He put up a hand as if he’s swearing.
“Weird, we’re not that close-buddies yet we talk like this.” I’m sure we both let out some laughs after I said this.
Then he sighed, stretched his hands up in the air, laid them behind his head and he scooted his bum forward before resting his back on the bench’s backrest. “May I say that you’re one strange girl, Umi-chan?”
I looked up in the sky, just like he was doing. “I should be… I’m not from around here. You can say I’m kind of an alien.” With much effort, I tried imitating the best alien I know -stitch. Haha! You know, from Lilo and Stitch?
Honestly, I was expecting a laugh from him, but it didn’t come. Instead, I felt his eyes looking at me. “Why say that? Do you feel out of place?”
I dropped my hands to my lap and sighed. Wow, and I thought I’m frank and straight to the point. “Ah… not really…”
“Has somebody been giving you a hard time?” he sounded concern enough, it made me feel all happy inside; hey, to have someone worry about you, it makes you feel nice, ne? He had that same kindness look that Keito had when he asked me one time if I’m bothered by something. Urgh, I’ll never forget that day because that’s the Akihiko-san attitude incident.
Anyway, I shook my head.
“Is that for real?” Relax buddy, I’m not being bullied. For a moment, I thought his eyes were pretty serious.
“Well, I can’t really wish everybody to like me, right? It can’t be helped when you encounter some people showing signs of disliking you.” It’s true. I just said what I felt like saying. Actually, it’s some kind of food for thought I keep telling myself whenever I feel like I’m not welcomed.
“Ah… Can I say I’ve never really felt that feeling?” shocking enough, as conceited as his words were, his tone wasn’t. He sounded like he’s saying he hasn’t been to that place he’s assuming I’ve already been to.
“You’re one lucky guy then. So the rumours were right, you’re everyone’s favourite.” Being in school for about three weeks (not even a month) I’ve learned a lot of things already.
Let’s side-track a little… something Louise Umiko has learned:
1. The girls usually bond with the girls, and the guys with the guys.
Strike! Maybe I’m one of the exceptions to this because I hang out with mostly guys… okay, only guys. Now that I think about it, I haven’t made any girl friends since I got here! Yabai…
2. School is all about hard work, passing all kinds of exams, and keeping secrets.
Since I got here, I’ve started to adjust with the kind of pressure they (somehow) put on students regarding academics and especially the examinations. Teachers sometimes rant about University Entrance exams, which will be taken on graduating year, and kind of silly to be pointed out as early as now. (I’m a procrastinator, so unless its two days before the deadline, its early. Haha!) And as for secrets, I’m telling you, I’ve learned about loads of them from Keito and Yuto. Why call them secrets if everybody knows it anyway? It’s not secret, it’s gossip.
3. The only similarity I’ve seen between Yokohama and Winnipeg. There are different statuses in High school. In general, it’s either you’re SOMEBODY, or you’re a NOBODY.
Must I stress on this?
Oh well… going back to me and Yamada. I’d like to say that in number three, Yamada Ryosuke’s one of those BIG-TIME SOMEBODYs. And as I’ve said, he is everyone’s favourite. Sure enough, he looked like he knew well what I said; and again, I’m shocked he didn’t hog it all out.
“So I was told…” that was his reply, plain and simple.
“You know well that’s true. Must be nice being loved by everyone, ne?” Hey, don’t get me wrong; I swear even if thunder strikes me now, there’s no hint of envy in that statement.
I’m not sure if I’ve read his expression well enough, but his smile wasn’t as happy as I expected it to be. “It’s nice, but then it gets tiring.”
“So full of yourself…”
He laughed, “Not that I’m trying to sound too conceited…” I waved a hand over my face, trying to make fun of him by showing that I’m not interested in his excuses. He laughed of course. I think it’s nice we get to talk like this, I’m surprised; we’re actually having a healthy conversation. “But yeah… fame is frustrating…” he then brushed a hair away from his face.
“Normally if I hear a guy says that in the anime, someone would say “kakkoi” right afterwards… but now I don’t understand why…”
“People think fame is cool.” It’s as if he tried to answer what I said.
“And it’s not?”
Amusement and apathy, that’s what I saw in his face when he shrugged after hearing my comment. “Would you like to become famous?” his question sounded completely out of curiosity.
“No. I’d be lying if I say I’ve never dreamt of being famous ever once in my life, but generally, it’s not part of what I want to have in life.” It’s just now that I’ve realized that the sky’s turned a little darker than it was some few minutes ago.
“It’s a pain. Especially with the girls…”
Pure-heartedly, I want to whack him on the head. So, I did. WHACK!
“What the? What was that for?!” for that moment, he sounded annoyed. Made me smile. I’m really weird, I can totally see that.
“You’re head’s growing too big, I was scared you’ll look like some caricature or those bobble-heads that you put on your car.” Bobbling my head side to side and with wide grin, almost making my eyes shrink into slits, I tried to be as comical as possible. I’m not too sure why I did what I thought of doing. It was supposed to be just a thought, not an action.
Rubbing his head and looking at me like he wanted some revenge… he spoke, “It’s amazing how you can make yourself look silly and cute at the same time.”
“I’ll take that as a compliment, thank you.” I even bowed to emphasize my gratitude.
Sure enough, he laughed. “It’s amazing. I never thought I’d meet anybody as random as Chinen.”
“As you well know, I’m not that acquainted with Chinen-san, so I shall have no say in that statement of yours.” Keeping that royal-ish atmosphere, I replied. Again he laughed.
“Ne Umi-chan, would you take it seriously if I ask you to help me onto something…?” seriousness on his voice, I can feel something coming.
“It depends. If it involves pulling a prank off of Millie-sensei then I’ll pray for you.” Wow, my humours pretty good today.
He let out a laugh before shaking his head, “No, no. Although I won’t pass on that if there’s an opportunity.” He cleared his throat (why do people do that?) and continued, “It’s some kind of girl-related problem.”
My eyebrows hit yay-hairline; of course I’m exaggerating, but am I hearing this right? “Famous” Yamada Ryosuke (or so they emphasize) asking for help with girls? “Are you kidding me?”
He didn’t reply but instead, he took out something from his pocket. When I looked at it, it’s kind of a crumpled paper and if my memory serves me right, I’ve seen this paper before.
Not hesitating one more bit, I asked, “Isn’t that the love letter you got yesterday?”
xXxXx
Chapter Nine Part 2