Not Finale Chapter Update :D
Title: My Best Friend's Wedding
Chapter 11
Pairings: Ohmiya, OhnoxOC, JunMa, NinoToma, Sakuraiba
Rating: PG
Summary: Nino is being utterly idiotic and sabotaging all his chances with Ohno. Will someone pick up the pieces of his life for him.
Warnings: Failed Humour, Generic Story, General Sucky Writing and Careless Mistakes are Plenty.
Note: NOT FINALE!
Past Chapters: Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6, Chapter7, Chapter 8, Chapter 9 Chapter 10
Aiba’s POV:
It was a scene of utter confusion. I don’t know what transpired when the little ‘find Ninomiya’ troop sauntered out but they came back in a blur of emotion; rage, sadness, confusion and contempt. When Mina picked up Shoutaro from my lap I naturally followed her tugging on Tachiko’s little fingers. She remained silent, seething and I didn’t ask her anything.
Whatever they found outside, it wasn’t pretty, for one there was no Ninomiya joining back and two Ohno Mama was crying into Ohno Papa’s shoulder repeating, “Can’t believe it happened to both our children.”
I wanted badly to console her but I do have a slight tendency to make bad situations worse so I tried to keep a greatly disturbed Tachiko distracted so that Mina could have her alone time.
Nino’s sister was with her. I trusted she could handle anything much better than I could anyway.
When we had reached their home everyone dispersed into their own lives, the merriment and unity brought by the wedding seemed to have broken. I felt lost without the jolly ambiance. It felt to me like the wedding was called off. Satoshi locked himself up in his room. While Mina was in hers; well Mina’s room might have been a little bit more crowded than Satoshi’s seeing how Nino’s sister, Tachiko, Shoutaro and I were all present. Other than the two kids playing, there was a dull buzz of silent thought, fidgeting and slight sounds of exasperation.
I desperately wanted to leave but I somehow felt I shouldn’t so I didn’t even though I had a good reason to leave I just hope he’d understand why I couldn’t come since Mina looks as though she might strangle me if I upset the makeshift calm.
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Nino’s POV
“Did you finalize something?” I asked with a nasal whine that I know drive people crazy especially homeless, loveless, penniless people.
“No.” Toma threw me a sheepish grin, “I’m so used to Master Jun paying for everything I stopped carrying wallets ages ago.” He said rubbing the back of his head.
I groaned, “I didn’t bring my wallet because I wanted to weasel Satoshi to pay for drinks, we were hoping to head out to a bar under pretence of a Bachelor’s party.”
“Wait. So you hadn’t pre-planned it?”
“Uh...no.” I felt so stupid having to admit that.
Toma gave me a flustered look before stalking up to me and placing a hard slap on my head.
“That is so irresponsible!”
“Hey! I said I can go talk to Jun!”
“No No” He took a deep breath, “Everything happens for a reason, everything happens for a reason.” He started chanting as he paced the streets aimlessly with me tagging behind.
“You are such a weirdo.” I couldn’t help but interject into his nonsensical string of thoughts.
Toma smiled, “Must be an after affect of having lived with Master Jun for so long.”
“What’s up with Master, you were calling him without it back in the garden.”
“Somehow calling him without the honorific brings unpleasant memories to the forefront.”
I didn’t pry even though I wanted to badly. If it was unpleasant I should avoid it right? I’ve already made life for Toma unpleasant as it is.
My stomach growled loudly cutting my guilt trip short.
Damn I was suffering too.
A minute later Toma’s joined in with an even heavier groan and we started laughing, “Guess we’re hungry, huh?” He said looking embarrassed.
“Yeah.” I looked around for a while when I realized that we’ve wandered to a known part of Tokyo. I’m sure if we just turn the corner here then we can find...Sho’s place!
Yes!
I rushed towards the house with the Sakurai nameplate on it, “C’mon Toma I think I know where to crash for the night!”
I was praying that Satoshi hadn’t called and told Sho what I did. Then again why should he? I was the hero, the one who carved his way to Amy. Even if Sho knew he should receive me with a warm embrace and a pat on the back and preferably some food and clothes seeing how I was sill stuck in this portable heater I had called my wedding suit up until an hour ago, right now it was just suit.
I knocked on the door, waiting for him to open up with Toma standing nervously behind me.
“Hi! Sho-chan I’m kinda homeless right now. I was wondering if I could crash in for the night and look I brought a friend!”
I pushed Toma to the front and he smiled sweetly and unsurely. I knew Sho would fall prey to Toma’s innocently helpless looking face.
Sho gazed bewildered for a while before composing himself. He was probably used to surprises and stress since he was manager of an idol group so he composed himself pretty quickly and held the door open with a smile.
“Sure Nino, come in.”
I made myself home instantly. Everyone knows I like to impose hospitability so it’s not a big deal. Toma sat politely on the couch after introducing himself.
“Hey, Nino why don’t you make dinner while I go make a call?”
“Hai!”
Well I hate making dinner but he’s letting me stay over for free, if I’m whiny enough Sho might even let me stay for free for a few days. Ah, I should wash up though. So I rushed towards the bedroom door behind which Sho had disappeared trusting to find a nifty bathroom in there somewhere.
I caught on to a thread of his conversation.
“...yeah that’s why I won’t be able to make it tonight. Oh you’re busy too? Well then it worked out for the both of us. Bye, baby.”
“Oh...don’t tell me I interrupted a date? Now I’ll have to deal with her wrath forever.”
“His and Masaki isn’t that sort of a person.”
I tried not to react and honestly I couldn’t even do it to my full capacity of surprise since I just suffered a big loss and my heart is broken into million pieces. Let’s avoid that bit now, shall we?
But seriously all these years and I had no idea Sho was into men. I mean seriously I never even inquired about his mysterious lover who to come think of it has been hovering around in topics ever since I’ve met Sho.
“Yes, Nino yes I’m gay now breathe.” He rolled his eyes as though it was a typical reaction. I felt bad because technically I’m gay too.
I chuckled nervously, “I just never thought it possible is all.”
I looked around not wanting to be stuck in an uncomfortable silence with Sho, trying to find anything to divert the conversation to and my eyes fell on a picture of two people on his bedside table, one was Sho and I could swear the other was Aiba.
“Woah...what’s Masaki’s full name?” I asked curiously inching towards the picture to make sure that it really was Aiba.
“Aiba Masaki.”
“You’re going out with Satoshi’s neighbour!!”
Sho chuckled, “Yeah. Satoshi was shocked when he found out too. I’m just surprised you didn’t know."
"I didn’t! Aiba never mentioned it to me!”
“Come to think of it I met Satoshi after I was going out with Aiba. I wouldn’t be surprised if Aiba himself didn’t know.” Sho tittered contentedly, looking spaced out as though he was remembering Aiba, which on second thought he might actually have been doing.
It’s my cue to leave.
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Aiba’s POV
The room had erupted into chatter a while back. My tension was going up at the suddenly excited atmosphere. That could be bad though I should probably control it. Maybe if I poke Tachiko....
Mina and Nino Nee-chan were whispering in a close huddle, I vaguely heard ‘Nino’ and ‘Idiot’ and ‘Just One Thing To Do’.
I couldn’t really listen in, it was getting too confusing, what with the wedding with Ninomiya now off was it really possible that Ohno-san would wed Amy. I liked Amy, honestly she seemed like a nice girl but that doesn’t mean Ohno would marry her!
It’s not right it’s just not right.
And then these two women are giving off suspicious conspiratory vibes which is totally pushing the up button on my tension and I miss my boyfriend, I swear I’d get hard even if I look at a picture of him.
My cell phone rang with an inopportune instrumental of “Here Comes the Bride” that I had put up as ring tone in accordance to the festivities and my own desires to see Sho-chan in a wedding dress of course. Ever since the day of the fitting I just couldn’t get it out of my-
“AIBA! You IDIOT! Get the PHONE!” Mina cut off my thoughts as I scrambled through my pockets to find the little machinery.
“Ah! Sho-chan! I just wanted to-
But he cut me off, “Sorry Aiba-chan. I have guests today I can’t come over today.”
“Oh! Who?!” Sho was a very, very desirable man. I can’t help get worried.
“You see Ninomiya Kazunari suddenly barged in with a friend for the night and that’s why-
“Oh Ninomiya went to your house? Okay, Okay No problem, my neighbour’s wedding got cancelled so I need to stay here; the atmosphere is really heavy and everything.”
“So you’re busy too? That’s convenient. Bye, baby.”
“Bye.” You know I seriously wonder how Ninomiya has ended up at Sho’s place...
But my wondering was cut short when I noticed the intense stare of the whole room on me. Even Shoutaro seemed at the verge of some finger pointing or maybe he was trying to scratch my nose off.
“What?” I asked self-conscious pushing Shoutaro’s prying hands off my face.
“You just said Ninomiya.” Mina asked tentatively as though holding back hope
“Yeah So? He’s over at Sho-chan’s house.”
“OMG!” Mina and Nino Nee-chan shouted at once almost dancing around the room after a while I started feeling lonely and joined in holding Mina and Nino Nee-chan’s hand and twirling. However my curiosity got the best of me.
“Why are we dancing?” Trying to stop Shoutaro who was still in dance mood.
“Where’s Sho’s house?” Mina asked completely ignoring my question. I let it go. It tends to happen to me a lot. But I couldn’t help worrying. Like I said Sho is a very, VERY desirable man. There’s a lot two single women would want out of a rich, handsome man who oh so very talented with his mout-
“AIBA! SHO’S ADDRESS! NOW!”
“Why?” Getting defensive I backed off holding Shoutaro at arms length trusting Mina to not get violent in the face of her sweet baby. But I was ready to fight for my man if the need arises. I just hope she doesn’t use her cla-
“AIBA! You’re dosing off again!”
“Baka!” Nino Nee-chan stalked up to me and hit my head. I guess Shoutaro doesn’t hold off violence in her.
I rubbed my head.
Mina sighed, “If you WERE listening then you’d know we need to see Ninomiya ASAP.”
I just gave her a confused look trusting she’d continue from there.
“Aiba, it’s too much to repeat the whole thing again so please just tell us where Sho’s house his so we can corner Ninomiya.”
Reluctantly I wrote down the address. Mina took it happily squealing excitedly at Nino Nee-chan who dittoed her action.
They put on their coats and were leaving.
“Wait! You’re going NOW?”
“Well not RIGHT now. We need to prepare.”
“I’m coming with you.” My woman-going-after-attractive-boyfriend was ringing furiously.
“NO! Take care of my kids!”
“I’ll bring them over!”
“It’ll ruin the plan! Please just stay back, look after Satoshi make sure he doesn’t do something stupid.”
I retracted. She has a point. Heartbreaks might make people do stupid things. Of course I had to realize AFTER they left that technically Ohno didn’t love Nino and this thing was bound to happen from the start so he wasn’t really heartbroken.
However right now I could only think of one thing, “Wait!”
The duo looked back quizzically, “Can you find out how Ninomiya even ended up in Sho’s house? I really don’t get it.”
Truth was my ‘man-who-is-gay-and-heartbroken-going-after-attractive-boyfriend’ bells were ringing too. It’s too stressful going out with someone who is prone to wander off to both sexes.
“They’re best friends, idiot.” Mina flipped while closing the door behind her.
EEHHHH???!?!?!
I could hear snorts and exclamations like, “Idiot doesn’t know his boyfriend’s best friends.”
I don’t know how it happened...he never told me before...is Sho keeping more secrets from me? Maybe even of a more scandalous nature?”
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Nino’s POV
I got through the night, concentrating on the fact that there was someone who was also miserable. I felt like a jerk but I concentrated on the alien pain of Toma’s to escape my own. Nothing good would ever come off thinking about Satoshi and soon maybe even tomorrow he’ll get married.
And thirty years from now I’d be a miserable old man, terrorizing neighbours and stealing their little kids to recount to them of the story how I once almost married the one that I love.
Once Satoshi gets married I’ll lose him forever. Somehow I never thought it would happen. It always felt that through whatever we’d stick together.
But his family hated me and now there’d be no way we can be friends again. I’m sure his mother told him to stay away from me. Satoshi is known for listening to his mother. Right now, there’s no reason for him to defy her either. I had betrayed him. At least that is probably what it must have seemed like to him. It wasn’t discussed before. And he’s too dull to figure it out by himself.
If I go tell him I did it for him and it was just a show I know that he’d believe me. There’s no reason not to. But I couldn’t muster the will.
What would come off it?
A thank you, one mumbled and one in distorted British accented Japanese.
In the end Satoshi would go back to her. To build a life with her, have babies with her and make a family with dogs and cats and all the animals that would find their way into his house by means of an enthusiastic Aiba. He would be the fun uncle to Satoshi’s kids and I’d be the miserable uncle giving longing looks to their father and probably be hated by them because I’d never be able to show my love for them.
I’d yearn for the feel of Satoshi’s soft lips and his warm breath on my skin and I’d never be able to show how much I love his kids. How can I not love his kids? They’d be part Satoshi. I’d secretly give chocolates to the one that would pick his nose. But that’s it. They’d be part Amy and I’d always resent that part of them. It was so confusing even trying to think about adjusting in a life where Satoshi is not even available to be mine.
No, it’d definitely be better to lead a life without him where at least I held a slight chance of moving on, of finding love again.
I made my way out to the kitchen to make pancakes or toast or whatever was easier.
That’s when I heard sniffles from the other futon.
I ditched breakfast to put a hand on what I presumed would be the bundled form under the covers, “What’s wrong?”
There were louder sniffling and hasty movements, probably Toma trying to wipe his tears before having to face me.
“It’s okay you know, you don’t have to hide it.” I pulled the covers down gently to find a weary looking Toma, face puffy with having cried too much and barely containing it even now as he bit his lips and looked up at me with his red eyes, the long nose coloured red looked comical actually.
“It’s okay.” I repeated threading my fingers through his hair.
“You have a family. I had only Jun.” He said simple but fresh streams rolled down the side of his face.
“I’ll go talk to him. He loves you. You love him this is ridiculous” I was getting up when Toma suddenly shot up and grabbed me, “Don’t! I’ve been holding him down. He has to stop loving me and move on. And you’re right he can’t do that if I’m with him scrutinizing his every move.”
Me and my big mouth. I gathered him in my arms just because he seemed like he needed the contact. Judging by the way he instantly snuggled into my shoulder I wasn’t wasn’t wrong.
We stayed like that for a while before he spoke up, “Sho’s your friend, right?”
“Yeah.”
“You can stay here for a few days then. I’ll have to move out.”
“You really don’t have to. Sho’s a really nice guy. He won’t even let you feel like you’re exploiting him. That’s the best part right?”
“Not when you have exploited other’s kindness for your whole life. It makes you feel like a rat.”
“You were working for him!”
Toma snorted, “Yeah, right. Ever since my mother died I’ve stayed at the Matsumoto’s. Ever Since then I’ve exploited their kindness. And look how I’ve repaid them for it. Turned their son gay. Clung on to him. Bogged him down. Do you know how desirable the combination of his good looks and wealth makes him and he hasn’t had a steady girlfriend in ever. I’m such a jerk. I guess I’ve loved way beyond my reach”
“Oh c’mon. You didn’t MAKE him fall in love with you. He does what he does because to him you’re worth it.”
Toma made a thoughtful noise into my shoulder, “Worth what? Life is a hell hole; the waiting, the yearning, the strained flicker of hope. I’m sick of it. I love Jun but that’s no excuse to what I’m doing to him. I guess it’s true if you really love something set it free.”
I couldn’t argue. It’s true isn’t it? Setting your loved one free hurt like a bitch but holding on and making them miserable is so much worse. All those times I’ve felt happy at having Satoshi near me seemed so shallow now that I wasn’t even sure whether I have the right to keep them as precious memories. I still couldn’t let go of the way his lips felt against mine. A violent shiver of want coursed my body at the thought.
This time Toma chuckled, “It’s okay.” He patted my shoulder gently.
The doorbell rang and we moved away from each other; Toma looking less weepy than before. I’m sure a good breakfast and wash would get that I’ve-been-crying-all-night look off his face.
He however picked up his suit and pulled on his pants, “You’re leaving already.”
“Yeah. Maybe I can catch the first train. Or at least escape before I lose courage. There is something I want to say to him before I leave though” He grinned without any happiness in it.
“You should somehow.”
The doorbell rang again, “Plus I’ll be getting that on my way.”
That was sudden but I understand, he’s a man on a mission to find his own calling. Honestly I’d join him if I wasn’t so lazy.
“Okay Toma, Bye for now I guess. How do you say goodbye in these situations? You’re being impulsive!”
“Yeah it’s my turn, right?” He asked teasingly, “I hope we meet again Ninomiya Kazunari.”
“Definitely....uh...I don’t know your full name.” I said in a low voice earning a hearty laugh from Toma.
“Ikuta Toma! Remember it!” And he stepped into the hall to open the door.
I could hear female voices. VERY familiar female voices....
NO!
“Nino. There’s someone here looking for you.”
“NINOMIYA KAZUNARI! YOU’VE BEEN A BAD BOY!”
I could drop dead this instant.
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Ohno’s POV
It’s an obscenely early hour of the morning.
I couldn’t get a wink of sleep. I felt cold, my bed felt empty.
And my stomach was rumbling, surprisingly enough I couldn’t care. A hand shot to my head at this thought. Maybe all the happenings from yesterday finally got to me and I’m having a mental breakdown.
In the back of my head I knew what was wrong, why I felt so restless. I missed Nino, badly.
It’s not just that he isn’t here physically but somehow after yesterday I felt like he was gone from my life. The slightly overbearing feeling of Nino always frolicking about protecting me was gone. Usually even if Nino was in another country I could feel his concern covering me up in a warm blanket.
But it’s all just psychological right? Feelings like this isn’t practical.
This ominous feeling of never seeing Nino again, what is it? Why is it there?
It’s leaving me hollow. But it’s ridiculous. It’s impractical.
I’ve spent the whole of last night telling myself it’s ridiculous. That Nino’s just play acting until I can wed Amy and then we can tell everyone and be best friends again.
The doubt itching at my insides didn’t stop, wouldn’t. No matter how much I repeated that to myself. The feeling of losing him, it won’t stop. But I won’t lose him. It’s not that simple, years of friendship, I can’t lose him through this simple little thing.
It’s stupid, this marriage thing. Why did I ever involve Nino in it?
Stupid things have happened.
I kissed him even. Why had I done that? Why don’t I regret doing it? Why is it that whenever I feel like telling Nino seriously how sorry I am for jumping him I can’t? It’s scary how little sorry I feel for my actions.
It was the dress, the damn wedding dress that Nino looked so goddamn perfect in.
There were sirens in my head going, “This is it! This is it!” and the press of his lithe body against mine drove me crazy.
For a moment I forgot that he was my male and best friend.
He looked like my perfect bride and that’s the thought I had held on to when I cornered him in that alley and kissed him.
It was amazing.
I wonder if Nino really was a girl if it’d be him instead of Amy.
I wonder if he felt it.
The spark that was brought to life when I pressed my lips to his.
Where did that fission come from? Years of friendship?
But it was ridiculous and I could never confide such silly thoughts to him.
It’s been months that I’ve been cooking up thoughts, stringing up images of life with Amy in my head, sharing with Nino. Two kids. Big house. Dogs and cats and obnoxious neighbours. And Nino.
He’s wonderful. Our kids will be best friends and we’ll play with them until the mud and dirt have made us unrecognisable. He’d go back home with my son and his would be left behind. He’ll meet my daughter and they’ll fall in love. I’ll gladly give her hand in marriage to his son.
Then we’ll be related.
The thought sent a surge of satisfaction through my restless heart.
I can’t believe he did something like that without telling me.
He took the burden of everyone’s hatred so that the wedding would be off without the cruel truth.
He really did keep his side of the deal and saw my plan through even though I had given up on it and I was truly grateful.
I just wish, I just wish I didn’t end up losing him through this.
I wish Nino had told me. I felt oddly betrayed at him suddenly deciding these things for himself.
And there’s another thing that’s been bothering me, clawing into my thoughts like venom. Maybe he didn’t do it to actually call off the wedding but he really was with Toma.
Why did I dread this thought? Whoever Nino was with wasn’t my deal.
I just hope...I just hope he’s happy.
After all one day, he’d get married too and we’d see less and less of each other until our paths completely separated and there’d be nothing left but friendly waves from far away.
Why does it hurt to think of this?
The confusing swirl of thoughts is dizzying me.
This is the exact reason why I stopped thinking ever since I was ten. The more you think, the more you need to think.
Questions are insatiable. When one is answered another comes up.
I need to stop thinking. I wonder if I propose going fishing now whether I’d be stopped.
In any case I should get breakfast, maybe mother would have calmed down enough for me to ask her about going, and maybe I should take her with me. She needs the calm and peace; the feeling of having nothing to think about but the vast ocean with mysteries so great that you don’t even want to think about it.
I was surprised to see Amy there right beside my mother consoling her. When I stacked my plate with the pancakes on the counter I also got to know she made them. It was amazing how she was taking control of the whole situation as I saw her bustling about my kitchen. It seemed like everyone but me was bent on sticking to the plan.
I’m glad because nothing would go anywhere if all of us left things the way they were.
I greeted a nervous looking Aiba who was picking at a pancake. Nino’s mother was here too. I felt a little relieved because if his mother was here he couldn’t have disappeared completely off the face of the earth. I was glad my feelings were dread were turning out to be false alarms.
It felt odd really not to be the centre of attention, not to hear how I was about to be married to that cute little Ninomiya boy every second of my life. I felt oddly neglected.
It was short lived.
I don’t even know what happened from scarfing down Amy’s pancakes to Nino’s mom commenting how Amy would make a good bride to Aiba dropping his pancakes to mother agreeing to Nino’s mother to nodding my head when asked if I think Amy would also make a good bride to finally agreeing to marry her.
Aiba cut himself while cleaning up the glass shards and Amy was beaming so brightly I couldn’t even look at her.
What the hell just happened?
A/N: As you might have guessed this isn't the finale. There's one more chapter and then the epilogue and a JunMa sidestory that will also be two parts for those of you who are interested in knowing more about them as this is THEIR LAST appearance. We're going full throttle Ohmiya for the last chappie or maybe even OhnoxAmy! Wohoo!
And I apologize for the late update! The finale will be late too! I'm sorry I'm just COMPLETELY bogged with exams to a point that I can't think. Goodness knows how I'm even giving my exams. Probably failing all of them!h
Chapter 11
Pairings: Ohmiya, OhnoxOC, JunMa, NinoToma, Sakuraiba
Rating: PG
Summary: Nino is being utterly idiotic and sabotaging all his chances with Ohno. Will someone pick up the pieces of his life for him.
Warnings: Failed Humour, Generic Story, General Sucky Writing and Careless Mistakes are Plenty.
Note: NOT FINALE!
Past Chapters: Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6, Chapter7, Chapter 8, Chapter 9 Chapter 10
Aiba’s POV:
It was a scene of utter confusion. I don’t know what transpired when the little ‘find Ninomiya’ troop sauntered out but they came back in a blur of emotion; rage, sadness, confusion and contempt. When Mina picked up Shoutaro from my lap I naturally followed her tugging on Tachiko’s little fingers. She remained silent, seething and I didn’t ask her anything.
Whatever they found outside, it wasn’t pretty, for one there was no Ninomiya joining back and two Ohno Mama was crying into Ohno Papa’s shoulder repeating, “Can’t believe it happened to both our children.”
I wanted badly to console her but I do have a slight tendency to make bad situations worse so I tried to keep a greatly disturbed Tachiko distracted so that Mina could have her alone time.
Nino’s sister was with her. I trusted she could handle anything much better than I could anyway.
When we had reached their home everyone dispersed into their own lives, the merriment and unity brought by the wedding seemed to have broken. I felt lost without the jolly ambiance. It felt to me like the wedding was called off. Satoshi locked himself up in his room. While Mina was in hers; well Mina’s room might have been a little bit more crowded than Satoshi’s seeing how Nino’s sister, Tachiko, Shoutaro and I were all present. Other than the two kids playing, there was a dull buzz of silent thought, fidgeting and slight sounds of exasperation.
I desperately wanted to leave but I somehow felt I shouldn’t so I didn’t even though I had a good reason to leave I just hope he’d understand why I couldn’t come since Mina looks as though she might strangle me if I upset the makeshift calm.
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Nino’s POV
“Did you finalize something?” I asked with a nasal whine that I know drive people crazy especially homeless, loveless, penniless people.
“No.” Toma threw me a sheepish grin, “I’m so used to Master Jun paying for everything I stopped carrying wallets ages ago.” He said rubbing the back of his head.
I groaned, “I didn’t bring my wallet because I wanted to weasel Satoshi to pay for drinks, we were hoping to head out to a bar under pretence of a Bachelor’s party.”
“Wait. So you hadn’t pre-planned it?”
“Uh...no.” I felt so stupid having to admit that.
Toma gave me a flustered look before stalking up to me and placing a hard slap on my head.
“That is so irresponsible!”
“Hey! I said I can go talk to Jun!”
“No No” He took a deep breath, “Everything happens for a reason, everything happens for a reason.” He started chanting as he paced the streets aimlessly with me tagging behind.
“You are such a weirdo.” I couldn’t help but interject into his nonsensical string of thoughts.
Toma smiled, “Must be an after affect of having lived with Master Jun for so long.”
“What’s up with Master, you were calling him without it back in the garden.”
“Somehow calling him without the honorific brings unpleasant memories to the forefront.”
I didn’t pry even though I wanted to badly. If it was unpleasant I should avoid it right? I’ve already made life for Toma unpleasant as it is.
My stomach growled loudly cutting my guilt trip short.
Damn I was suffering too.
A minute later Toma’s joined in with an even heavier groan and we started laughing, “Guess we’re hungry, huh?” He said looking embarrassed.
“Yeah.” I looked around for a while when I realized that we’ve wandered to a known part of Tokyo. I’m sure if we just turn the corner here then we can find...Sho’s place!
Yes!
I rushed towards the house with the Sakurai nameplate on it, “C’mon Toma I think I know where to crash for the night!”
I was praying that Satoshi hadn’t called and told Sho what I did. Then again why should he? I was the hero, the one who carved his way to Amy. Even if Sho knew he should receive me with a warm embrace and a pat on the back and preferably some food and clothes seeing how I was sill stuck in this portable heater I had called my wedding suit up until an hour ago, right now it was just suit.
I knocked on the door, waiting for him to open up with Toma standing nervously behind me.
“Hi! Sho-chan I’m kinda homeless right now. I was wondering if I could crash in for the night and look I brought a friend!”
I pushed Toma to the front and he smiled sweetly and unsurely. I knew Sho would fall prey to Toma’s innocently helpless looking face.
Sho gazed bewildered for a while before composing himself. He was probably used to surprises and stress since he was manager of an idol group so he composed himself pretty quickly and held the door open with a smile.
“Sure Nino, come in.”
I made myself home instantly. Everyone knows I like to impose hospitability so it’s not a big deal. Toma sat politely on the couch after introducing himself.
“Hey, Nino why don’t you make dinner while I go make a call?”
“Hai!”
Well I hate making dinner but he’s letting me stay over for free, if I’m whiny enough Sho might even let me stay for free for a few days. Ah, I should wash up though. So I rushed towards the bedroom door behind which Sho had disappeared trusting to find a nifty bathroom in there somewhere.
I caught on to a thread of his conversation.
“...yeah that’s why I won’t be able to make it tonight. Oh you’re busy too? Well then it worked out for the both of us. Bye, baby.”
“Oh...don’t tell me I interrupted a date? Now I’ll have to deal with her wrath forever.”
“His and Masaki isn’t that sort of a person.”
I tried not to react and honestly I couldn’t even do it to my full capacity of surprise since I just suffered a big loss and my heart is broken into million pieces. Let’s avoid that bit now, shall we?
But seriously all these years and I had no idea Sho was into men. I mean seriously I never even inquired about his mysterious lover who to come think of it has been hovering around in topics ever since I’ve met Sho.
“Yes, Nino yes I’m gay now breathe.” He rolled his eyes as though it was a typical reaction. I felt bad because technically I’m gay too.
I chuckled nervously, “I just never thought it possible is all.”
I looked around not wanting to be stuck in an uncomfortable silence with Sho, trying to find anything to divert the conversation to and my eyes fell on a picture of two people on his bedside table, one was Sho and I could swear the other was Aiba.
“Woah...what’s Masaki’s full name?” I asked curiously inching towards the picture to make sure that it really was Aiba.
“Aiba Masaki.”
“You’re going out with Satoshi’s neighbour!!”
Sho chuckled, “Yeah. Satoshi was shocked when he found out too. I’m just surprised you didn’t know."
"I didn’t! Aiba never mentioned it to me!”
“Come to think of it I met Satoshi after I was going out with Aiba. I wouldn’t be surprised if Aiba himself didn’t know.” Sho tittered contentedly, looking spaced out as though he was remembering Aiba, which on second thought he might actually have been doing.
It’s my cue to leave.
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Aiba’s POV
The room had erupted into chatter a while back. My tension was going up at the suddenly excited atmosphere. That could be bad though I should probably control it. Maybe if I poke Tachiko....
Mina and Nino Nee-chan were whispering in a close huddle, I vaguely heard ‘Nino’ and ‘Idiot’ and ‘Just One Thing To Do’.
I couldn’t really listen in, it was getting too confusing, what with the wedding with Ninomiya now off was it really possible that Ohno-san would wed Amy. I liked Amy, honestly she seemed like a nice girl but that doesn’t mean Ohno would marry her!
It’s not right it’s just not right.
And then these two women are giving off suspicious conspiratory vibes which is totally pushing the up button on my tension and I miss my boyfriend, I swear I’d get hard even if I look at a picture of him.
My cell phone rang with an inopportune instrumental of “Here Comes the Bride” that I had put up as ring tone in accordance to the festivities and my own desires to see Sho-chan in a wedding dress of course. Ever since the day of the fitting I just couldn’t get it out of my-
“AIBA! You IDIOT! Get the PHONE!” Mina cut off my thoughts as I scrambled through my pockets to find the little machinery.
“Ah! Sho-chan! I just wanted to-
But he cut me off, “Sorry Aiba-chan. I have guests today I can’t come over today.”
“Oh! Who?!” Sho was a very, very desirable man. I can’t help get worried.
“You see Ninomiya Kazunari suddenly barged in with a friend for the night and that’s why-
“Oh Ninomiya went to your house? Okay, Okay No problem, my neighbour’s wedding got cancelled so I need to stay here; the atmosphere is really heavy and everything.”
“So you’re busy too? That’s convenient. Bye, baby.”
“Bye.” You know I seriously wonder how Ninomiya has ended up at Sho’s place...
But my wondering was cut short when I noticed the intense stare of the whole room on me. Even Shoutaro seemed at the verge of some finger pointing or maybe he was trying to scratch my nose off.
“What?” I asked self-conscious pushing Shoutaro’s prying hands off my face.
“You just said Ninomiya.” Mina asked tentatively as though holding back hope
“Yeah So? He’s over at Sho-chan’s house.”
“OMG!” Mina and Nino Nee-chan shouted at once almost dancing around the room after a while I started feeling lonely and joined in holding Mina and Nino Nee-chan’s hand and twirling. However my curiosity got the best of me.
“Why are we dancing?” Trying to stop Shoutaro who was still in dance mood.
“Where’s Sho’s house?” Mina asked completely ignoring my question. I let it go. It tends to happen to me a lot. But I couldn’t help worrying. Like I said Sho is a very, VERY desirable man. There’s a lot two single women would want out of a rich, handsome man who oh so very talented with his mout-
“AIBA! SHO’S ADDRESS! NOW!”
“Why?” Getting defensive I backed off holding Shoutaro at arms length trusting Mina to not get violent in the face of her sweet baby. But I was ready to fight for my man if the need arises. I just hope she doesn’t use her cla-
“AIBA! You’re dosing off again!”
“Baka!” Nino Nee-chan stalked up to me and hit my head. I guess Shoutaro doesn’t hold off violence in her.
I rubbed my head.
Mina sighed, “If you WERE listening then you’d know we need to see Ninomiya ASAP.”
I just gave her a confused look trusting she’d continue from there.
“Aiba, it’s too much to repeat the whole thing again so please just tell us where Sho’s house his so we can corner Ninomiya.”
Reluctantly I wrote down the address. Mina took it happily squealing excitedly at Nino Nee-chan who dittoed her action.
They put on their coats and were leaving.
“Wait! You’re going NOW?”
“Well not RIGHT now. We need to prepare.”
“I’m coming with you.” My woman-going-after-attractive-boyfriend was ringing furiously.
“NO! Take care of my kids!”
“I’ll bring them over!”
“It’ll ruin the plan! Please just stay back, look after Satoshi make sure he doesn’t do something stupid.”
I retracted. She has a point. Heartbreaks might make people do stupid things. Of course I had to realize AFTER they left that technically Ohno didn’t love Nino and this thing was bound to happen from the start so he wasn’t really heartbroken.
However right now I could only think of one thing, “Wait!”
The duo looked back quizzically, “Can you find out how Ninomiya even ended up in Sho’s house? I really don’t get it.”
Truth was my ‘man-who-is-gay-and-heartbroken-going-after-attractive-boyfriend’ bells were ringing too. It’s too stressful going out with someone who is prone to wander off to both sexes.
“They’re best friends, idiot.” Mina flipped while closing the door behind her.
EEHHHH???!?!?!
I could hear snorts and exclamations like, “Idiot doesn’t know his boyfriend’s best friends.”
I don’t know how it happened...he never told me before...is Sho keeping more secrets from me? Maybe even of a more scandalous nature?”
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Nino’s POV
I got through the night, concentrating on the fact that there was someone who was also miserable. I felt like a jerk but I concentrated on the alien pain of Toma’s to escape my own. Nothing good would ever come off thinking about Satoshi and soon maybe even tomorrow he’ll get married.
And thirty years from now I’d be a miserable old man, terrorizing neighbours and stealing their little kids to recount to them of the story how I once almost married the one that I love.
Once Satoshi gets married I’ll lose him forever. Somehow I never thought it would happen. It always felt that through whatever we’d stick together.
But his family hated me and now there’d be no way we can be friends again. I’m sure his mother told him to stay away from me. Satoshi is known for listening to his mother. Right now, there’s no reason for him to defy her either. I had betrayed him. At least that is probably what it must have seemed like to him. It wasn’t discussed before. And he’s too dull to figure it out by himself.
If I go tell him I did it for him and it was just a show I know that he’d believe me. There’s no reason not to. But I couldn’t muster the will.
What would come off it?
A thank you, one mumbled and one in distorted British accented Japanese.
In the end Satoshi would go back to her. To build a life with her, have babies with her and make a family with dogs and cats and all the animals that would find their way into his house by means of an enthusiastic Aiba. He would be the fun uncle to Satoshi’s kids and I’d be the miserable uncle giving longing looks to their father and probably be hated by them because I’d never be able to show my love for them.
I’d yearn for the feel of Satoshi’s soft lips and his warm breath on my skin and I’d never be able to show how much I love his kids. How can I not love his kids? They’d be part Satoshi. I’d secretly give chocolates to the one that would pick his nose. But that’s it. They’d be part Amy and I’d always resent that part of them. It was so confusing even trying to think about adjusting in a life where Satoshi is not even available to be mine.
No, it’d definitely be better to lead a life without him where at least I held a slight chance of moving on, of finding love again.
I made my way out to the kitchen to make pancakes or toast or whatever was easier.
That’s when I heard sniffles from the other futon.
I ditched breakfast to put a hand on what I presumed would be the bundled form under the covers, “What’s wrong?”
There were louder sniffling and hasty movements, probably Toma trying to wipe his tears before having to face me.
“It’s okay you know, you don’t have to hide it.” I pulled the covers down gently to find a weary looking Toma, face puffy with having cried too much and barely containing it even now as he bit his lips and looked up at me with his red eyes, the long nose coloured red looked comical actually.
“It’s okay.” I repeated threading my fingers through his hair.
“You have a family. I had only Jun.” He said simple but fresh streams rolled down the side of his face.
“I’ll go talk to him. He loves you. You love him this is ridiculous” I was getting up when Toma suddenly shot up and grabbed me, “Don’t! I’ve been holding him down. He has to stop loving me and move on. And you’re right he can’t do that if I’m with him scrutinizing his every move.”
Me and my big mouth. I gathered him in my arms just because he seemed like he needed the contact. Judging by the way he instantly snuggled into my shoulder I wasn’t wasn’t wrong.
We stayed like that for a while before he spoke up, “Sho’s your friend, right?”
“Yeah.”
“You can stay here for a few days then. I’ll have to move out.”
“You really don’t have to. Sho’s a really nice guy. He won’t even let you feel like you’re exploiting him. That’s the best part right?”
“Not when you have exploited other’s kindness for your whole life. It makes you feel like a rat.”
“You were working for him!”
Toma snorted, “Yeah, right. Ever since my mother died I’ve stayed at the Matsumoto’s. Ever Since then I’ve exploited their kindness. And look how I’ve repaid them for it. Turned their son gay. Clung on to him. Bogged him down. Do you know how desirable the combination of his good looks and wealth makes him and he hasn’t had a steady girlfriend in ever. I’m such a jerk. I guess I’ve loved way beyond my reach”
“Oh c’mon. You didn’t MAKE him fall in love with you. He does what he does because to him you’re worth it.”
Toma made a thoughtful noise into my shoulder, “Worth what? Life is a hell hole; the waiting, the yearning, the strained flicker of hope. I’m sick of it. I love Jun but that’s no excuse to what I’m doing to him. I guess it’s true if you really love something set it free.”
I couldn’t argue. It’s true isn’t it? Setting your loved one free hurt like a bitch but holding on and making them miserable is so much worse. All those times I’ve felt happy at having Satoshi near me seemed so shallow now that I wasn’t even sure whether I have the right to keep them as precious memories. I still couldn’t let go of the way his lips felt against mine. A violent shiver of want coursed my body at the thought.
This time Toma chuckled, “It’s okay.” He patted my shoulder gently.
The doorbell rang and we moved away from each other; Toma looking less weepy than before. I’m sure a good breakfast and wash would get that I’ve-been-crying-all-night look off his face.
He however picked up his suit and pulled on his pants, “You’re leaving already.”
“Yeah. Maybe I can catch the first train. Or at least escape before I lose courage. There is something I want to say to him before I leave though” He grinned without any happiness in it.
“You should somehow.”
The doorbell rang again, “Plus I’ll be getting that on my way.”
That was sudden but I understand, he’s a man on a mission to find his own calling. Honestly I’d join him if I wasn’t so lazy.
“Okay Toma, Bye for now I guess. How do you say goodbye in these situations? You’re being impulsive!”
“Yeah it’s my turn, right?” He asked teasingly, “I hope we meet again Ninomiya Kazunari.”
“Definitely....uh...I don’t know your full name.” I said in a low voice earning a hearty laugh from Toma.
“Ikuta Toma! Remember it!” And he stepped into the hall to open the door.
I could hear female voices. VERY familiar female voices....
NO!
“Nino. There’s someone here looking for you.”
“NINOMIYA KAZUNARI! YOU’VE BEEN A BAD BOY!”
I could drop dead this instant.
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Ohno’s POV
It’s an obscenely early hour of the morning.
I couldn’t get a wink of sleep. I felt cold, my bed felt empty.
And my stomach was rumbling, surprisingly enough I couldn’t care. A hand shot to my head at this thought. Maybe all the happenings from yesterday finally got to me and I’m having a mental breakdown.
In the back of my head I knew what was wrong, why I felt so restless. I missed Nino, badly.
It’s not just that he isn’t here physically but somehow after yesterday I felt like he was gone from my life. The slightly overbearing feeling of Nino always frolicking about protecting me was gone. Usually even if Nino was in another country I could feel his concern covering me up in a warm blanket.
But it’s all just psychological right? Feelings like this isn’t practical.
This ominous feeling of never seeing Nino again, what is it? Why is it there?
It’s leaving me hollow. But it’s ridiculous. It’s impractical.
I’ve spent the whole of last night telling myself it’s ridiculous. That Nino’s just play acting until I can wed Amy and then we can tell everyone and be best friends again.
The doubt itching at my insides didn’t stop, wouldn’t. No matter how much I repeated that to myself. The feeling of losing him, it won’t stop. But I won’t lose him. It’s not that simple, years of friendship, I can’t lose him through this simple little thing.
It’s stupid, this marriage thing. Why did I ever involve Nino in it?
Stupid things have happened.
I kissed him even. Why had I done that? Why don’t I regret doing it? Why is it that whenever I feel like telling Nino seriously how sorry I am for jumping him I can’t? It’s scary how little sorry I feel for my actions.
It was the dress, the damn wedding dress that Nino looked so goddamn perfect in.
There were sirens in my head going, “This is it! This is it!” and the press of his lithe body against mine drove me crazy.
For a moment I forgot that he was my male and best friend.
He looked like my perfect bride and that’s the thought I had held on to when I cornered him in that alley and kissed him.
It was amazing.
I wonder if Nino really was a girl if it’d be him instead of Amy.
I wonder if he felt it.
The spark that was brought to life when I pressed my lips to his.
Where did that fission come from? Years of friendship?
But it was ridiculous and I could never confide such silly thoughts to him.
It’s been months that I’ve been cooking up thoughts, stringing up images of life with Amy in my head, sharing with Nino. Two kids. Big house. Dogs and cats and obnoxious neighbours. And Nino.
He’s wonderful. Our kids will be best friends and we’ll play with them until the mud and dirt have made us unrecognisable. He’d go back home with my son and his would be left behind. He’ll meet my daughter and they’ll fall in love. I’ll gladly give her hand in marriage to his son.
Then we’ll be related.
The thought sent a surge of satisfaction through my restless heart.
I can’t believe he did something like that without telling me.
He took the burden of everyone’s hatred so that the wedding would be off without the cruel truth.
He really did keep his side of the deal and saw my plan through even though I had given up on it and I was truly grateful.
I just wish, I just wish I didn’t end up losing him through this.
I wish Nino had told me. I felt oddly betrayed at him suddenly deciding these things for himself.
And there’s another thing that’s been bothering me, clawing into my thoughts like venom. Maybe he didn’t do it to actually call off the wedding but he really was with Toma.
Why did I dread this thought? Whoever Nino was with wasn’t my deal.
I just hope...I just hope he’s happy.
After all one day, he’d get married too and we’d see less and less of each other until our paths completely separated and there’d be nothing left but friendly waves from far away.
Why does it hurt to think of this?
The confusing swirl of thoughts is dizzying me.
This is the exact reason why I stopped thinking ever since I was ten. The more you think, the more you need to think.
Questions are insatiable. When one is answered another comes up.
I need to stop thinking. I wonder if I propose going fishing now whether I’d be stopped.
In any case I should get breakfast, maybe mother would have calmed down enough for me to ask her about going, and maybe I should take her with me. She needs the calm and peace; the feeling of having nothing to think about but the vast ocean with mysteries so great that you don’t even want to think about it.
I was surprised to see Amy there right beside my mother consoling her. When I stacked my plate with the pancakes on the counter I also got to know she made them. It was amazing how she was taking control of the whole situation as I saw her bustling about my kitchen. It seemed like everyone but me was bent on sticking to the plan.
I’m glad because nothing would go anywhere if all of us left things the way they were.
I greeted a nervous looking Aiba who was picking at a pancake. Nino’s mother was here too. I felt a little relieved because if his mother was here he couldn’t have disappeared completely off the face of the earth. I was glad my feelings were dread were turning out to be false alarms.
It felt odd really not to be the centre of attention, not to hear how I was about to be married to that cute little Ninomiya boy every second of my life. I felt oddly neglected.
It was short lived.
I don’t even know what happened from scarfing down Amy’s pancakes to Nino’s mom commenting how Amy would make a good bride to Aiba dropping his pancakes to mother agreeing to Nino’s mother to nodding my head when asked if I think Amy would also make a good bride to finally agreeing to marry her.
Aiba cut himself while cleaning up the glass shards and Amy was beaming so brightly I couldn’t even look at her.
What the hell just happened?
A/N: As you might have guessed this isn't the finale. There's one more chapter and then the epilogue and a JunMa sidestory that will also be two parts for those of you who are interested in knowing more about them as this is THEIR LAST appearance. We're going full throttle Ohmiya for the last chappie or maybe even OhnoxAmy! Wohoo!
And I apologize for the late update! The finale will be late too! I'm sorry I'm just COMPLETELY bogged with exams to a point that I can't think. Goodness knows how I'm even giving my exams. Probably failing all of them!h