Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Y/n's POV

It's early April, and I'm currently just chilling in the bathroom, having eye contact with every toothbrush there is. "Y/n! Are you shitting yourself early in the morning? I need to get ready for school too," my brother said from outside the bathroom, geez as if he's going to school.

I originally live in the north of Tokyo, Sendai. We recently just moved out of Sendai to Shibuya. As I got older, I kept getting used to the moving routine; my mother's work required her to change places and travel cities. It wasn't that bad; our family's pretty stable.

I got out of the bathroom as soon as I finished. After that, my brother swopped himself right in and slammed the door. "I might be home late tonight, Y/n. Make sure to go home after school, take your brother with you too. I don't like him roaming around with delinquents in Shibuya," there she goes again with the nagging because my brother just won't stay out of trouble.

"Yeah, okay. At least have breakfast with us before you go." Mom refused and hurriedly put on her shoes and left. I ate and put on my uniform only to notice my brother still in the bathroom. "Oi, Chifuyu, stop imagining winning imaginary fights there inside the bathroom. I'm gonna be late because of you," I said irritatingly even tho, it's just 6:30 in the morning.

"You can go ahead. I know the way to school. Honor students can't be late~" he said with a mockery tone. I kicked the door that made him yell inside the bathroom. "Ittekimasu," I said with an angry tone, "Itterashai!", Chifuyu responded. I snatched some onigiri to eat on the way and left.

I arrived at school and saw students walking on the campus while greeting each other good morning, as usual. I luckily found the faculty room without getting lost and did the things I needed to do. As soon as I was done, I headed to my classroom. I sat near a window because the view outside is actually very calming.

The classroom is a little bit noisy but is not filled with students yet. I guess students here really get along with each other.

I got my book out since I won't have anything to do, "I heard someone will join our class today." Someone said near me, "So what?" another girl replied, "I hear he's a repeater. Could you imagine repeating the same class over and over again," the girl said and laughed with her friends that caught my attention, I looked at them with a straight face. They stopped laughing as soon as they saw me looking right into their souls.

"What are you looking at?" she said, looking smug as heck. I then went back to reading, and a hand was slammed on my desk, causing everyone to shut up and set their attention on the girl and me. She was small, and I could break her like a light stick if I wanted to. But I want to maintain my good image. I ignored her and kept reading my novel.

She scoffed, feeling hurt, "This b*tch dared to ignore me— " she said and started crying. What the heck is wrong with her? Alright, this is weird.

I still decided not to give a fuck since the bell would ring specifically in ten minutes. A sudden block and a big person's shadow appeared on my desk, "Hey, are you going to say sorry?" a raspy voice spoke out of nowhere. 'What now, seriously.'

The big guy grabbed my collar with his big hand and forced me to face him. I smiled as soon as our face met, "Do you need something from me, riceball-Kun" I said, and everybody laughed around me, seeing how the guy resembles a rice ball with his white hair.

He pulled me closer and rougher, making me hurt my nape, "Ah, geez, do your kinds of people pick on everyone who did nothing? What an ass." I said, massaging my nape.

He pulled me again, making me stand up from my seat, "Hey jackass, My clothes were ironed by my mom. How dare you crumple it.",

"I don't care about your mom," he said. I laughed with his comeback, "How about it, I crumple yours and make your mom straighten your clothes for you—" I stopped talking as I saw everybody gasp, which made me read the room, "Oh, perhaps you don't have a.... mom?" I said, placing my hands inside my coat's pocket.

He was looking at me blankly and raised his fist and was about to hit me when— "Hey, big guy, leave the girl alone." Everyone gasped and looked at the man who interrupted the riceball guy's punch. "How did he even manage to stop riceball? What an enormous strength." One of the guys said.

He doesn't look strong as he looks...goofy and old-fashioned— I mean, look at him, slick back hair, big ol' eyeglasses that kinda look fake, neat uniform. You can tell that he's a nerd and an honor student— wait, I'm an honor student, did I just call myself a nerd too?

The goofy guy's still preventing riceball's fist from getting near my face. But my attention isn't on the fact that I might get punched any minute now because this goofy guy can't seem to hold him any longer, but I was wrong. The palm of his hands was wrapped around the riceball's fist.

"Let go stupid looking guy. I wanna teach this smug girl a lesson." Riceball said, trying to hit me again. But the goofy glasses guy won't let him by griping on his fist harder than before, "That won't do, Takeji."

Right before Takeji, the riceball could complain, the goofy glasses, neat looking, grabbed Takeji by the neck and slammed him on the desk, making a crack sound because of his heaviness. "I was being nice...and you made me do this. C'mon now, I want to graduate without ruining my reputation again," the goofy guy said and sat on his desk behind me as nothing happened.

I looked at Takeji, and he couldn't help himself up. No one even helped him lol he looked stupid, and that's for picking on me. But to be honest, I was ready to be punched. I wanna know how Chifuyu feels every night he goes home after a street gang fight. Speaking of Chifuyu, I hope he doesn't go around beating up people on the campus.

"Alright, what's this commotion about? Takeji, why are you here? Aren't you in Class 6?" the teacher arrived, and the first thing he noticed was Takeji with his back stuck on the table and unable to stand on his own. We all stood up, trying not to laugh at Takeji's situation. "Ha...what a drag. Let me help you." Sensei said and helped Takeji stand with a broken back.

Takeji glared at the goofy guy who just broke his back before leaving with the teacher who's helping him walk. "I'll be right back. I'm gonna go send this guy to the infirmary. I think it's kinda serious." prof said while looking at Takeji's back.

I glanced at the guy behind me. He's trying so hard to contain his laugh, making me bite my upper lip to hold the desire to laugh loud too. This guy is lowkey funny. How can he break someone's back and stay calm?

It wasn't long until the professor was back, he started introducing himself as Zuto Tanaka. "Tanaka sensei, is it true that a class repeater would join us?" Everyone went quiet when a random guy asked a question he shouldn't, well, I think.

"Not in a bad way tho." He added after his question after feeling something odd.

"Yes, actually, he's here. Why don't you stand up Baji-Kun, introduce yourself to your kouhai?" Tanaka sensei said, casually like they were friends, "Don't exaggerate, oldie, they're not my kouhai" A voice coming from the back near me spoke— wait, don't tell me...

I slowly looked behind me only to see the goofy guy standing and looking directly at Tanaka sensei. HE'S THE REPEATER?! HE LOOKS SMART TO ME— I guess we shouldn't judge people by their physical appearance.

"My name is Keisuke Baji" that's it, and he sat down with a poker face. He doesn't look friendly to me, but I don't mind.

-

It was finally lunchtime everybody went off with their friends to the snack bar or enjoyed their bento somewhere on the campus. I looked behind me to see Baji-Kun still in his seat. Baji's writing something in his notebook with some thick dictionary and a copy of the alphabet on his desk. What is he doing with all those stuff?

We didn't get any assignments so far, but he's already busy and focused. How did he even repeat a year when he's this hardworking. Maybe he got into a lot of trouble.

'Ugh, enough thinking about him.' I unzipped my bag to get my bento, only to realize I left it at home. Why the hell did I forget such an important thing? Lunch is like the best subject— well if it's a subject. Never mind, I'm gonna go buy some bread.

I closed my bag and organized my stuff before leaving, but a loud bang on the door was heard, causing everyone's attention to be stolen by whoever that is, "Which of you is Keisuke Baji?!" A familiar voice said.

I looked at the person and saw... CHIFUYU?! The hell is he doing here? And how does he know about Baji-Kun? I decided to observe him before stopping him.

"Him." a guy politely pointed towards Baji-Kun. I looked over at Baji-Kun. "Huh?" Chifuyu said, confused, pointing his index finger at Baji, who's reading through the dictionary pages, "with that specs and a slicked-back hair?" He asked again, "Yeah."

Chifuyu walked his way to the goofy guy when I slid myself in front of him, stopping his tracks. "What do you think you're doing 'causing trouble everywhere we move?" He looked at me unbelievably scared, "I...I...w-was just there to give you your lunch—" I snatched the bento in his hands before he could finish talking.

"Don't even lie, Chifuyu. What? Is Baji-Kun your sister now?" I said, scolding him. He looked down on his feet and shook his head, saying no.

"It's really hard covering up for you, so please do your beating up somewhere else where no one can be a witness, Chifuyu. Now get out of here."

Chifuyu hurriedly went out of the classroom. I sighed and was about to go back to my desk to eat lunch when my eyes captured Baji-Kun, who didn't give a fuck about what just happened and didn't even ask why a guy was looking for him. I glanced at what he was doing to see that he was composing a letter...not a normal one but...a love letter.

Well, I guess high school is the time where you get a boyfriend and a girlfriend. It's not necessarily, but most people do get one in this time of their life. And Baji isn't any different from them— wait, why do I sound so disappointed?!

"Ugh, how do you do this?" The lad suddenly complained while writing. I looked over to what he was writing and saw that he was trying to write a word but thinking carefully of what alphabet to write next, "It's this," I said, pointing at the alphabet, "If you're trying to write...cuisine." He looked at my finger and slowly looked up to see my face.

He looked down as soon as he saw my face. Is he embarrassed? "Ah, I'm sorry. I shouldn't be butting in your business." I said and walked over to my desk, which is in front of him.

"It's alright," he said. I turned around and saw him looking at me, "I'm pretty sure no one likes an audience when writing a love letter for their lover," I said teasingly. He looked away when I said that, blushing. Seems like he likes her so much.

I opened my bento and started eating. It was delicious as always, mom is a good cook, and I appreciate her cooking for Chifuyu and me. Despite how she can be late because she prepares lunch for the three of us.

I felt fingers poking my back. I looked back to figure who it was, "Here." It was Baji offering me a cola. "For what?" I asked, "for helping me earlier." I accepted the cola, and he went back to his seat.

Someone was poking me again, and it was him. "C..can you..help me improve in...spelling?" The bloke said and clearing his throat, "say something, Matsuno. It's embarrassing, you know." He said, making me chuckle, "I'll think about it. I'm the eldest in the family, so I got all the responsibilities too." I said. He nodded and started eating his onigiri.

"Can I join you?" I asked, which he said yes to.

-

The school ended swiftly. Chifuyu told me he was going to look for a pet, which was a sudden decision. I decided to go along with it since it's his excuse when he's craving to beat up someone older than him.

I tolerated him and covered up for him all these years because he's not like those other thugs or delinquents—whatever u call it, who beat up people for money, fame, and other things.

I've known him; he's my twin, after all. We both hate people who think highly of themselves just because they're older; they had control of everything, causing them to abuse their power.

Chifuyu got into a lot of trouble with Senpais in our old school because they tried to pick on him and the other kouhai. He was impressive and brave. That's why I still have a reason to let him do things mom doesn't want him to.

But why did he come for Baji? I don't see Baji-Kun as a dangerous person. And I'd never seen Chifuyu beat someone up for no reason. Maybe I should ask him at home.

"H...hey! Are you Matsuno's sister?" A guy suddenly showed up in my classroom, panting, like he just ran from another prefecture— this ain't the time to be joking. "Yes, why?"

"He's in trouble... there's a lotta guy, man. So I don't know if he'll survive. I was going to ask for help, but you're the only person here. And—And—" I picked up my bag and threw it at him, "carry this for me, make sure to catch up." I said, putting on my shoes. "What?—" he said, confused.

I went outside the campus while tying my hair and positioned myself to run. "Wait— I didn't even tell you the location yet—" before the dude could finish, I was already running.

I know the location, near the nearest pet shop. Chifuyu always texts me where he is after school because that'll also be the place where he beats people Chifuyu wants or if he just wants to hang out there. Pretty clever. It serves as a clue for me if, in case he didn't come home, I know where to find him.

I arrived at the place seeing him beating people up. There's a lot of them, and I can tell he's on his limit. "Beating up a student younger than you and ganging up on him? Who's y'all's boss? tell him he's a fucking coward." I said, and everyone stopped their movements, so their attention was now on me.

A guy approached me with his fist already clenching around a mop's handle "and who's this weak-looking little girl here—" before he could even talk more nonsense, I quickly placed my hands on his nape, raised my leg, as his chin slammed on my knees hard and fast. Causing him to bounce his body back to his comrades.

"I'm not a little girl.", I said proudly, even though that attack was kinda weird as they ran to me, planning to attack. I prepared myself for the worst. I ran to the nearest wall to find myself an opening to attack.

I accelerated my pace so I could climb the wall. I stepped my left foot against the wall, then my right, then my left again, and when my right foot reached the top of the walls, I put a lot of force into the foot that was on the top of the wall to make a backflip and attacked my opponent's head with my free left foot.

I fell to the ground after making two people unconscious with the backflip I did. I'm not used to that technique. But what else can I do? I picked myself up only to meet multiple punches, but It wasn't that hard to avoid. It's just that it's tiring because I need to turn myself every time I attack because... of course, who the hell would fight while standing in line, right? They're everywhere around me.

Geez, there's still a lot of them. My eyes searched for Chifuyu while I avoided the attacks coming in for me. " Let go, stupid!" Chifuyu yelled, "Chifuyu!—" A hard slap came across my face when I tried to run to my brother. "Ha, it only takes a slap for you to sit your ass on the ground."

The other guys held me captive on the ground while the one who slapped me kneeled to my level, "not gonna lie, you impressed me there, little girl. You're much tougher than you look. But let me tell you this, only focus on your opponent when you fight."....he held my chin and made me watch my brother getting beaten to a pulp, "No! You monster! let him go—"

"Ganging up on one guy and a girl...using a weapon? Damn, you suck," a familiar voice said, coming from the back. I looked back and saw— BAJI?! What's he doing here? The guy who's in front of me stood up and got near Baji, "huh? the fuck're you?" The man said with an irritated face and voice.

Baji looked at me and smiled, "Ah! I got my letter send, thanks to you, Y/n-chan," the guy grabbed Baji by his collar, but Baji won't stop looking at me with a smile on his face, completely ignoring the guy. "Are you deaf?!"

"Why not let me join in as thanks?" Baji asked, "You moron! This is no place for you", Chifuyu warned him. Not long after Chifuyu spoke, a loud crash on the wall was heard, and all of us witnessed Baji punching the guy straight into its face slamming it on the wall creating a big crack on it. Seriously is he the hulk?!

With that one punch, the guy fell unconscious with his tongue out. "huh...one punch?" Chifuyu said. That moment everything went slow motion as Baji removed his big ol' glasses and his hair tie, causing his hair to be free from its confinement. The air made his hair fly up, as you see in tv dramas. He's completely different from the Baji I met earlier in school. Everything was quiet until he spoke.

"First division captain of the Tokyo Manji Gang" All of their mouth gaped in shock, except me, who's confused. "Keisuke Baji." He proudly said. As he started beating everyone up to pulp without mercy.

"No way...he finished them all at once," Chifuyu and I said in unison; we both looked into each other. He hurriedly ran to me and checked, "Oi, are you okay? Geez, no need to be a show-off there 'neesan...but you were cool." He said as he helped me stand.

"Listen up, assholes!" Baji said to the bunch of guys who's half-conscious laying on the ground with faces looking so fucked up, "in our gang...if one of our friends gets hurt, we'll stomp the fuck outta whatever gang did it!", "so remember, he's my friend," Baji said, pointing at Chifuyu, who's in shock.

"You'll do anything to him again, and we'll wipe your whole gang out!" he said, scary enough to make everyone follow him, "yes, sir!" they said in unison and ran for their life.

Baji went back to us, smiling with his arms in his pocket, "How am I your friend?" Chifuyu asked, "Hey, little punk. Be nicer and say thank you." I said. "You're Y/n-chan's brother, right? So that makes us friends too. Your sister is a good person. I wanna be on her good side." Baji said, making me feel something weird.

"Say, Y/n-chan, Chifuyu. Do you both like Peyoung yakisoba?" Baji asked like the three of us are best of friends. After that little fight, the three of us went to eat Peyoung yakisoba at Baji's place, which was near us. The wound hurts, but the laughter makes the pain go away. I've never seen Chifuyu hang out with a senpai. I guessed...Baji earned his respect.

"I'm home, Mom! Is there still any Peyoung yakisoba left?", "We only got two left. Do you want me to prepare it for you?" Baji sigh. "I'll go buy some—" I stopped his tracks, "No, it's okay, don't trouble yourself for a yakisoba."

"you don't like yakisoba?" Baji asked, "huh? No, I like it."

"Yeah, she likes yakisoba; she's a big eater," Chifuyu said with a mouth full of junk foods, "Don't talk when your mouth is full, brat."

Baji laughed at how Chifuyu and I communicate, "Let's share then, Y/n-chan, I'm not that hungry, unlike Chifuyu," He said, emphasizing the last two words that made Chifuyu choke him jokingly.

"Besides, I invited you over too. I'll feel bad if I let you go home with an empty stomach," Baji offered while looking at me, hoping for a yes, "yeah...okay, let's split it." Well, that was a long day...but I had fun. This 'class repeater' is fun to be with, and his name.....is Keisuke Baji, who writes sweet cheesy love letters behind that scary face and formidable image.

l.s

Chapter Text

Baji's POV

After the two settled down in the living room, I went ahead to look for the first aid kit inside the bathroom. I went out to see both of them bickering at each other like what siblings usually do, "Here," I said, throwing Chifuyu an Ice pack.

I sat down in front of Y/n, making her flinch, "What's wrong?" did she change her mind after seeing me back there?

"Nothing," I looked at her, sitting in an awkward position. I roamed my eyes more at her legs to find out what was wrong, "Hey, what do you think you're doing?" Chifuyu asked out of nowhere. I realized what I was doing and decided to look at Y/n, who had a shocked expression on her face. I sighed and laughed a little, "Next time, don't be afraid to tell me if I'm making you feel uncomfortable. I don't harm girls- well, depends on the situation."

She was sitting so formally, so I signaled her to show me her knees with my fingers, "Huh? what?" she asked confused, "Your knees, show them to me—" before I could finish, Chifuyu is now choking me from behind.

"You pervert, you're harassing my sister right in front of my ice pack!"—

"Let go, Asshole! I just wanna see if she scraped her knees—" Chifuyu stopped choking me to death, "Oh really...Okay, then go ahead and see...I'll....watch," He said, increasing the size of his eyes huger, thinking he could scare me, seriously this punk.

"I can clean it myself, Baji-Kun," Y/n said, interrupting Chifuyu, who's giving me threatening eyes, "No, just sit there." I'm not really used to girls, so I'm afraid I'll touch her somewhere she doesn't want to. I pulled her socks that are up to her knees down a little. Her skin is so soft— Wait, what am I thinking?

I dipped the face towel into the water and squeezed out the excess water back into the basin, and started lightly cleaning her knees slowly with it. She had a big scrap on both of her knees. I think it's when those mother fucker's pushed her to the ground causing her to land on her knees.

I looked closer and into it to check if there was still dust around it. But as closely as I get, Chifuyu's eyes won't leave me the heck alone, "Hey, stop that, you wanna die?" I said.

"The audacity!" Chifuyu exclaimed. I went ahead to get a dry and soft towel to dry both her knees after it. She hasn't been talking ever since I started cleaning her up. "Give me your hands too."

"Hey you, asshat! Aren't you satisfied with her knees already?!" Chifuyu complained again, "Shut your damn mouth!" I said and fed him the paper that was on the mini table.

I heard small laughs. I curiously turned around and saw Y/n laughing that made me smile; she's honestly strong. Her, still laughing, held her hands, causing her laughter to fade slowly, and looked me in the eyes with a comforting look. This was the longest time I looked at her face. She has pretty blue eyes pairing beautifully with her average-length hickory colored hair.

"So, who taught you that backflip kicking whatever you call it?... Naruto?", I joked making her scoff, "Well, if my dad is Naruto, then yeah," she said, playing along with me, avoiding the fact that she doesn't wanna talk about her dad., "but no lies, you were awesome, even though you lost balanced at the end and hurt your bum."

"Hey! no, I did not", She retorted back. "Oh, really, why don't we see it for ourselves haha," she moved her face closer to me, making me stop laughing. We were looking at each other for seconds until she flicked my forehead with her longs finger. "Ow! what was that for? Didn't your knuckle hurts?" she nodded as yes.

After cleaning the dust off the cuts and scrapes, I poured a good amount of antiseptic in cotton and slowly dabbed it in the cut with a chopstick making Chifuyu burst out of laughing, "This jackass really used a chopstick!" I turned around and poked his stomach with the chopstick, "I can't control my strength, and this cotton is small as fuck. Do you want me to hurt your sister?"

"You could have used cotton buds, HAHAHA," Chifuyu resorted back. "Oh c'mon, stop bitching about it."

Mom arrived at the dining table with two bowls of yakisoba.

One thing I noticed about Y/n is that she's a well-mannered woman. But she becomes a totally different person when she fights. She half stood up to bow down to my mother. "Don't push it," I said. Before I could even hold the chopsticks, Y/n and I heard a slurping sound near only to see Chifuyu gobbling up the food. "Slow down there. No one's gon' steal that from you." I could see her trying to break the disposable chopstick apart with those swollen knuckles, "Let me—"

"I can do it," she argued back, "No, you can't even-"

"Ah geez." Chifuyu said, approaching us, and snatched the chopstick in my hands and separated the piece of wood and said, "Now eat."

"Try it, Yn-chan," she nodded, "Thanks for the meal." she said before placing the noddle inside her mouth, "Hmm, it's perfectly cooked, Baji-Kun!" I chuckled at her reaction. She's like a kid who's eating as compensation after getting bullied in the park. "Let me try it," I snatched the chopstick in between her fingers and tried the yakisoba myself. "yeah, you're right," I said, giving her a thumbs up.

I offered her the sticks back, but she only responded with a long stare, is there something on my face? "T...toilet", she excused herself and left the room as I and Chifuyu's looked at the disappearing figure. "haven't you eaten with a girl before?" Chifuyu asked out of the blue, making me look at him confused, "I did, with my mother," Chifuyu chuckled and smacked the back of my head, "Are you dumb? Using somebody else's chopstick is practically an indirect kiss. And that small detail is a big deal to well-mannered girls of that age," Chifuyu said, pointing at the toilet where his sister is.

How am I supposed to know those? "Why aren't you aware of those things? don't you have a lover or something?", what is this guy, a psychic? "So you like eavesdropping on me and your sister's conversation?" I teased. "Why not? Aren't I, your friend too?", he said giving me an annoying smile. "Hm, Yeah, I do actually, but she's abroad right now."

Y/n's POV

"What the hell was that? Why does he need to use my chopsticks?", Haaaaa, seriously. I don't wanna be labeled as a mistress- even though he's not married. I covered my face with my hands, trying to compose myself from what was going on. I looked at my watch, noticing it was already six. I and that brat should go home.

"Hey, we really should get going. Our mom would be mad if we got home late," I said, politely hoping Chifuyu wouldn't remember that mom would come home late. "Huh? Didn't she say she's going home late?", Fuck, how can this guy not read the room—"Ah, HAHAHA she said that?", I said laughing awkwardly, "yeah, she...she said that, texted me right now that she's on the way home," I said, signaling him with my eyes.

I swear if he doesn't get it, I'm gonna force my way out and drag him with me by the ears. "But...you don't have a pho—" I covered his mouth before he could even embarrass me more. He tried getting out of my grip, but I knew he would just make a fuss about how he wouldn't want to go home yet, so I tightened my grip on his shoulders and his mouth, "We're going now, Baji-Kun. Sorry for the trouble we caused you. I'll treat you to something in school tomorrow." I bowed and left hurriedly.

It was a pleasant dinner, despite it being just yakisoba. "Wish I can walk you guys home, but I'm on dishes duty tonight," Baji-Kun said with his arms crossed, leaning at the door frame. "It's fine, Chifuyu and I can manage. Thanks for your help today and the dinner, as well," I said and excused myself before leaving.

"You know what, I didn't expect him to be that first division captain of Toman. I mean, did you see him at school just now." My brows met for a while to realize what he just said before holding in my laughter, "What's Toman?"

"oh yeah, Toman's a large biker gang. Their leader is a badass too, I heard." He continued speaking. I placed my arms around his shoulders, "Hmm, from the looks of it, you're part of that Toman, whatever gang is that. Didn't you remember what Baji said?"

"In our gang...if one of our friends gets hurt, we'll stomp the fuck outta whatever gang did it!"

"Oh, I totally forgot about that part," Chifuyu said. I messed his hair up and chuckled, "Hey, if you really are a part of that organization, please don't give me headaches." Chifuyu stopped walking, "you'll cover up for me, 'neesan? Wah I'm so lucky, sometimes I'm grateful that you're like 5 minutes older than me—" seriously this guy, "Be careful." His head's so big it took 5 minutes for him to get outta mom's vagie, ofc that's a joke

We both arrived home only to see mom sleeping next to dad's shrine filled with flowers in an empty dark room that the only source of light is from its open door.

I told Chifuyu to take a bath first so mom wouldn't notice anything. He got more scratches and wounds than me. I approached my mom to see her sleeping, with tears rolling down her eyes. Maybe she's dreaming of dad again.

It was a year ago, but the pain and the memory are still vivid, especially for my mom. Mom and dad met in high school. She was a badass, intelligent, and beautiful. Then she fell in love with an ass, who's only a pain in the head, my dad.

Dad didn't finish high school for some reason; only my mom went to a decent college and studied marketing. Despite not being able to finish or enter college... dad didn't become a burden for mom and us. He takes care of us while the mother is at work. He's basically a househusband in the morning and night.

Mom said dad loves being a delinquent, but he gave up on it and left his gang for us; to take care of me and my twin brother, Chifuyu. As we grew older, we became a lot like him, brave and strong. Chifuyu adores Dad the most. Chifuyu resembles Dad too. But when my parents thought everything was going well but that was just the start of it.

The leader of the gang Dad was in before; started killing the old members afraid of being ratted out. That gang committed a mass murder that sentenced him and his comrade for the rest of their life in prison. He didn't want to give himself up, so he gathered a lot of his men to kill the old members so they wouldn't rat the new members out, in case.

Then the next thing we knew, the three of us were now sitting in front of Dad's grave. I would never fall in love with a guy that involved in a gang. "I'll promise to take care of Chifuyu so you wouldn't have to face the same thing again." I wiped the tears in my mother's and gave her a blanket. "Sleep well, mom," I whispered. I went to take a shower after Chifuyu, do my homework, and sleep.

I'm a responsible person who wakes up early for school. My only problem is Chifuyu, "Hurry up, do you want to miss the train?", he's still standing right in front of the mirror, "Stop looking at your face, man. I'm going to be late." Chifuyu approached me with something in his hands, "C'mon, don't be too grumpy besides it's still early...here", he brushed my bangs away from my eyes and kept them to the side using a hair clip with a cat design. "There, It looks great on you."

I looked at myself in the mirror. The hair clip was cute. "where'd you get it?"

"Oh, yesterday, don't worry. I didn't steal it." I laughed with his response, "Of course, go ahead and try stealing something. I'm gonna break you bone by bone," he shivered with what I said and grabbed his backpack and went out, "You could've said thank you instead of threatening me you know." I chuckled and closed the apartment door; walked to the station with him.

Ever since at the shoe locker, everyone's looking weird at Chifuyu and me, "hey, Chifuyu. Is it just me... or like, everybody's staring at us?" He looked around and shrugged, "don't know, what could that reason be? maybe someone told them about what happened yesterday?" I wanna think that too, but it doesn't feel like that. It feels like as if..."Hey, you two." My thoughts were interrupted by Baji-Kun arriving at the shoe locker. "Yo, the twins are here, nee-san we'll take Chifuyu now!", Chifuyu went ahead with his friend who passed by... leaving me with Baji.

"You're twins?" He asked with a little bit of shock painted all over his face, "yeah, he just dyed his hair blonde," he nodded as the idea sank into his brain, "Why is Chifuyu a first-year?" he asked. "Oh, he was afraid to go to school, and I couldn't wait on him because... He rather plays with random cats in our old neighborhood." he nodded his head again as a sign that he understood.

"What's the matter you look bothered?" the lad spoke again, placing his hands inside his pocket, and started walking with me to class. "Nothing, I was just thinking if I forgot...something" Baji and I arrived at the classroom, and everybody was looking at me again, everybody's gasping and whispering things which I could clearly hear, "Why is she allowed here?", "Shouldn't she be in jail paying for her father's crime?", "I'm glad her father died. Apparently, Y/n's father is one of the members of a gang back in the '90s who killed a lot of people."

"Really? he really deserves to die, then." I stopped walking in the middle of the classroom when Baji pulled my uniform, and there it was, written big and bold on a blackboard. "Matsuno, daughter of a criminal."

"Oh great! Hi Y/n! How'd you like my surprise?" a girl said, leaning at the door frame with her hands crossed. What the hell...is happening?

l.s

Chapter Text

Y/n's POV; the Year 2001

"Mom, what time will Dad be home?" My little brother questioned my mother, who was preparing food. We were sitting near the counter waiting for her to finish, "Soon. Why?" My brother pouted at her answer, "He said we'll watch a movie tonight," Mom turned around to look at us, "He'll be home, honey-" mom paused, hearing the door being opened, "Oh, your dad's here."

We all looked at the door seeing our father; there was something off about him. "Dad, let's go watch a movie!", Chifuyu said running to him for a hug. Rather than hugging his son back, Dad dragged him by the wrist and pulled Chifuyu softly to sit beside me, "Listen, Chifuyu. We'll watch it after Dad solves some problems, alright?" Dad reassured, messing with Chifuyu's hair and caressing my cheeks. I felt something odd... I sense panic and worry, but my worry will make Chifuyu worry too.

I gazed at my father, who was heading over towards mom, "Chifuyu...why don't you stay in the living room first?" he agreed, feeling disappointed. I accompanied him to the living room and decided to peek at what's happening in the kitchen, "Akiyama's killing the old Southside members. We need to get out of Sendai or just move somewhere for now—"

"No, what? Yoshiyuki, we can't. I work here! do you realize that?" I flinched at the sudden shout. "We have no alternative, Hikari. Let's go", father held mom's hand to take her to the room, but she didn't move.

It was silent. Until mother was now sniffling, restraining her anger and tears that are raging together. "You said... you already left the gang. You said everything's okay now, so why are we doing this, Yoshiyuki?! Why are we running away again?!" Mom shouted, and I felt hands tugging my clothes, "Why are they fighting, 'neesan?" I only looked at Chifuyu and not knowing what to answer until my father spoke again, "that's what I thought, Hikari..." there was sadness present in our father's voice like he was dissatisfied with himself.

"You made sure. Are you being selfish right now? We have two kids. You swore to keep us safe from everything in your past!" A sound of crying I never heard before from my own mother.

It was painful to witness that. "Yes, I promised that in the past, but we can't always guarantee the future! So I'm telling you we need to move now, Hikari. I need you to trust me, alright?" My father held mother's cheeks, kissing her forehead to comfort her.

"Now, pack a few things that you and our twins will need."

Mom rushed to the chamber as my father stopped when he saw us peeking. He kneeled and hugged us both, "Hey, you little cuties, why don't you both go help mom pack, hm?", he said smiling at us as nothing happened. "Where are we going, dad?", Chifuyu queried, "you'll see. Now go."

Chifuyu ran after my mom, but I stayed, making my father look at me, "what's wrong, Y/n?" my father asked. "Are we going to be okay?" Dad held my hand and played with my fingers before responding, "yes, of course. You have the strongest dad!" he said jokingly.

I smiled because if he says we'll be fine, then we will. "Can I help?", before my father could answer... a loud bang on the door and window was heard. Flashlights from outside reflected at our window, giving light inside our dark house.

Mom ran quietly outside with a big bag, and Chifuyu dressed warmly, holding her hand. "We need to get out of here, go to the emergency exit we made before they could surround the house. I'll be following you", my father instructed, "You better be behind us, Yoshiyuki, or I'm gonna punch the hell out of you."

Dad laughed softly, placing soft kisses at mom, who's trying so hard not to cry. "Yes, you're scarier than any of our enemies. So I'll make sure that I'll be there, right behind the three of you."

We almost reach the exit, but dad is nowhere behind us, "Mom...", Chifuyu said, terrified "Shhh, Chifuyu, why don't you hold onto your sister," I pulled Chifuyu near me and heard footsteps coming closer, "Step back, Y/n," mom said. She was about to whack the person coming closer when "Woah! it's me, honey." we both exhaled from worry ness.

"Hikari... I don't know how to say this, but I need you to be strong and move forward. Quit worrying about me," our dad said with a serious face, "What? why?", dad lets out a heavy sigh before replying, "I'm not sure if all of us would be able to get out of here alive without anyone dying. They already surrounded the area."

"No, no one's leaving anyone behind. Let's go together, didn't you say you'd protect us?", "Yes...yes, I did, but I need you to understand. Here is the address. when you get out of the house safely, stay low and unnoticed, come to this address. You're safe there. Alright?", dad looked at us with a smile. His face looks like he never regretted every decision he made until now. That even though he led a scary life, that is the reason why we're hiding right now.

"Y/n, do you remember what you asked dad before; if you can help out?" I nodded, "I want you to protect your brother and your mom no matter what. I know you're strong, and you also have this", he said, pointing his index at my head. "You're smart like your mom. I trust you on this."

I looked down and feeling mad because I didn't have the time to express what I felt. It's not that I don't want to do what my father wants me to. It's just because I don't trust myself enough. I'm just a middle schooler, but now's not the time to be selfish. "I got it...I already have...a plan," I didn't hear any response from my father after that, but when I raised my head, that's where I saw him pathetically holding out his tears with a proud smile, "That's my daughter, now why won't you tell me about your plan hm?",

"It is simple...you just need to distract them. When Chifuyu and I were playing outside, I convinced him to help me out to create a passageway hidden at our backyard after I heard you...on the phone...talking about the old gang you were in...that they were going to kill everyone." Dad gasped at the end of my sentence.

"I'm so...sorry you need to hear that", father said. I hugged him and told him not to cry and say sorry, "I should be the one saying sorry because I didn't think of a better plan without dad sacrificing his life...to those bad guys..." He hugged me back, caressing my hair, "You did a great job at that age, sweetheart. Don't blame yourself. So promise me the three of you will be safe," I nodded.

"Hikari, I hate myself because all I ever gave you was a headache, and I did were apologize for everything. But still, I want to say I'm truly...sorry. That I brought you all into my mess, I failed to give you the peaceful life your parents want you to have, despite that I want you to know that I didn't regret any decision I made with you. But if there is one...it is that I joined the southside. I love you, no matter what the outcome might be tonight. You and the twins are the best things that had ever happened to me—" before dad could finish his sentence, mom smacked him in the face, "Don't say that, asshat! You're the strongest one out there. Remember when you survived the beating I gave you back in Highschool? This is just a piece of cake. So don't say stuff like that because you are going to be fine after this—" Mom wasn't able to finish her words with a sudden kiss on the lips that was able to make her shut up and ignore dad.

I tugged dad's shirt before leaving, "I promise, I won't let your sacrifice go to waste. But you should promise too that you'll come back....to us." Dad kissed me on the forehead before saying his last words, "Yes, I promise. Didn't I tell you that we'd still practice that backflip kick I told you about?", He gave me a reassuring smile which made me smile too, and he left.

Y/n's POV; Present, 2004

My storytelling was interrupted with a cold drink pressed against my cheeks, "Drink first before continuing. It must have been hard for you to tell me all that," Baji said, sitting next to me, who was sitting on the ground leaning onto the vending machine.

He opened the can for me, and I drank it without hesitation. "I wanna knock that girl so bad. But something tells me that it isn't right. Mom told me to just let the judgments be." Baji nodded, drinking the soda he was holding on to. "But...was the accusations she said; true?" the lad asked.

"My dad already left that gang before it has gone on the wanted list for mass murdering. But dad was kinda famous back then. He was the vice leader. It was difficult for him to leave at first," I dunked the soda can next to me with a lot of force, causing Baji to flinched and choke on his drink, "Are you okay?" he coughed for seconds before I was able to talk again, "Sorry, I'm just mad. After that... I swore to myself not to get involved with a guy that has the same backstory as a dad."

"Then why are you with me?" I looked at him to see an offended look, but he remained motionless. "You're different..." I said, looking away, hiding my face. He moved to look at me, "Huh? Different? Hey, don't look there, I'm here—" I faced him, forgetting the fact that his face was near mine and his lips were centimeters apart from mine.

We were gazing at each other; no one's moving away... "Move, stupid. I wanna get a drink." A student suddenly pushed Baji's back out of the way, making him lost control of his weight resulting in him uncontrollably leaning his face closer and closer to me until our lips touched...

For some reason, Baji wasn't pushing me away, I heard sounds of birds, and I realized that we were literally outside. I shoved him back, hiding my face with my palms to hide my expression.

This is so embarrassing. How dare I not push Baji? He has a Lover for Pete's sake— wait, it's just an accident, so why am I so pressed? Ahhh fuck, "I'm sorry, I should have...pulled away." WHAT? was that on...purpose?

"So...what do you mean different?", Just like that? Why is he behaving like that wasn't a big deal?! "Lookup a little bit, and I'll tell you," he looked at me, confused, "Up? what's up there?" He slightly looked up with his guard down, giving me an opening for an uppercut. I slightly shifted half of my body to the right to get a precise start and attacked the area of his submental crease. Causing his teeth to crash with his upper teeth. "Ow! fuck!"

"what was what for Y/n? Am I different because I'm the only person in a gang who you can punch whenever you want?", he said caressing the part near his chin. "That's for not pulling away, and stop exaggerating. I wasn't even in the right position to throw an uppercut."

"That still hurts. What are you made of? Stone?", he said making me laugh. What is he, a baby or something? "You're different because...you didn't hesitate to protect my brother. You even called him your friend. I despise delinquents like you, but I'll allow Chifuyu to make friends, But! I don't want you dragging him along to fight people for fun", he looked at me, looking like soft mallow, "Promise me, Keisuke..." Baji looked at me surprised, calling him with his first name, "Aren't you forgetting something? I'm not a bodyguard—"

"I'll help you...write your love letters." He stopped sulking and looked at me with an excited expression, "Really? You won't take that back?!" the lad spoke, standing up for a celebration.

"I won't if you promise about what I asked of you," I tugged his uniform, making him sit down again. He lets out his hand for a handshake, "Okay, deal," I shake hands with him as approval.

"Let's go back. We don't want to get in trouble, now." I said, standing up cleaning my skirt with my hands to remove a few specks of dust, "Hey, you two! are you cutting classes?" Baji and I looked over to the persona and saw our P.E teacher blowing his whistle on us, "Stop right there, don't even think about running away!", Oh no what do we do, crap.

Without hesitation, Baji yanked me by the wrist, making me run with him, "He has bad eyesight, don't let him see you up close. We're not in trouble yet. He won't remember us later", how does a P.E teacher have bad eyesight? I ran with him but as far as we get our pace became slow.

I looked at the hands gripping my wrist tightly, up to his back. His long black hair, falling and moving freely with the air.

He looked back at me in a perfect way. Everything was in slow-mo again like yesterday...time slows down when I'm with him...and I'm not even complaining, even though these thoughts I'm having are supposed to be his lover's thoughts.

I stopped my feet from running, causing him to stop when he felt like I wasn't moving anymore, "What's wrong? We're still in an open area. Some teacher might see us again—" I remove the other pair of the hair clip from my hair that Chifuyu gave me, bending it and clipping his hair in on the side, making a flick sound. "There...so it won't block your sight when running", my cheeks felt hot at that moment. He felt the clip with his fingers and looked at me with a smile showing his teeth, making me notice he had vampire-like fangs on the side.

We heard the P.E teacher's voice again talking to someone else, "Let's go to the library," I said. Why would a P.E teacher be in a Library so...we have the chance to get away.

We reached the library, panting, and went ahead and sat down to the farthest book section, and we both sat down. "I'm sure that old man would not gonna be able to find us here. Damn, why is he chasing after us anyway? Does he have a lot of free time?" I looked at Baji panting, sweat rolling down his neck as he opened one button and loosened his necktie.

"You've been staring for so long, you'll pierce a hole in my face," the embarrassment I felt escalated quickly throughout my whole body. "Anyways, that P.E teacher keeps sucking a place next to the school dean. He makes it very obvious that he wants to be the next school dean."

"After school, can you come over?" Eh? Me? come over? I looked at him with a confused look, "What? aren't you gonna help me?", oh... "Yeah, but why are you writing a second letter? did the reply for the first letter arrived?"

"No, I just want to write her a lot of letters. She's a busy person, and the shipping isn't that expensive." He must've got a lot of money then. No matter how busy she is, writing a letter's not that hard. "What does she do that keeps her busy?"

"She's in college," college?! so he's into older women. Wait, what am I thinking. "We'd been in a relationship since my first year. She was a third-year back then when I confessed to her. I thought I wouldn't stand a chance because she actually rejected me before", rejects you and suddenly wants you again? Isn't that suspicious?

"I saw her crying at the park. I asked her what was wrong. She said her mother took back the deal they had about letting her study college abroad, so she ran away from home," I signaled him to continue telling the story, and he just chuckled, "I told her, I'd send her abroad myself—"

"What?! Keisuke Baji, are you out of your mind?!" He looked at me in disbelief, "No! of course not. I like her. I'd do anything—" I pulled his ear, refraining him from talking, "Ow, ow ow ow, stop that. Do you want me to continue or not?" I let go and made him continue, "she said all she needed was a ticket to London and pocket money," gee, I feel like I'd go crazy with his love story.

"So I gave her my....college money—" Baji stopped talking when he sensed that I was about to hit him, "don't you dare hit me," What the fuck he gave away his future?

"So after I sent her to London, she promised that she'd pay me back, but of course, I said no. I worked multiple jobs to regain the money before mom would find out about it. I missed a lot of classes...that's why I got held back for a year. And here I am hiding with you at the library."

I can't set out what I'm feeling right now...I feel heavy. I guess he really loves her, to the point where he can throw his future away. I do not have the right to tell him that his decision was dumb as fuck even though it's dumb as fuck. It's still his decision that I need to respect as his...friend.

People really do dumb things for love, huh? All I gotta do is make sure he graduates this time. But I can't shake a weird feeling about his lover. I want to know more about her.

"Sure, I can now see a purpose to help you. I'll come over, but Chifuyu's coming. I need to feed him."

"What? he can take care of himself. Is he an infant or something? Not that I don't want him to come over."

"I just don't feel at ease. We're new here," Chifuyu and I need to know first the basics in a place before we let our guard down. "I hope you'd understand. We'd been living a survival life ever since...you know...dad. I'm just keeping my brother safe", he stood up to glance at the clock and sat again, placing his palms down first at the carpet as a guide and dropped himself slowly at the carpet without knowing his pinky's touching mine.

He released a heavy sigh and looked at me, "You...don't have to be that stiff and alert. Relax....It's different now, Y/n. I'm here. I promise, didn't I tell you that?" the reassurance he gave felt nostalgic, reminds me of someone...'Yes, I promise. Didn't I tell you that we'd still practice that backflip kick I told you about?'...dad.

The bell rang after some time, "Let's go, it's lunch already," I nodded and left with him. We were walking until Baji stopped walking, making me bump my nose at his back. "Ow—" he covered my mouth, "Shh. That P.E teacher is here", what the hell does that P.E teacher wants now? Baji started removing his coat and placed it above my head, "You draw people's attention because you're new. He might recognize you," I looked at him while he was placing it fitly.

He held my hand, and things were going smooth, but... "Hey, where are you taking this lady? Why is a male uniform placed over her head?" Crap, does he have to ask that? "Ah, sensei. She's half asleep, and uh....she doesn't want people seeing her face, that's why. You know people...looks ugly when they just woke up—Ow!" I elbowed his stomach. How dare he call me ugly.

"I...I gotta go, sensei" when we reached outside, we ran as fast as we could towards our classroom, only to bump into Chifuyu, "Oi. Where were you guys? Everybody said you both had gone missing since the first period," damn. And I... had the guts to say that I'll make sure Baji graduates. "And why the fuck are you holding my sister's hand, wanna die fucktard?"

Baji and I looked at each other, and at our hands, that's intertwined— wait...what?! Since when did it become like this? I quickly smack his hands away from mine. "It's not what you think—" Baji wasn't done talking when Chifuyu leaned in closer, and closer....and closer.

"Aha! give me back that clip", he said, pulling the clip forcibly off Baji's hair. "Ow, what the hell, asshole? Come here, I'm gonna choke you to death!"

"Oh really, shouldn't I be the one saying that? How dare you lay a finger on my sister—", ugh they're so noisy.

"Shut the fuck up, you two! let's go eat Chifuyu." I pulled Chifuyu with me, who was glaring at Baji as we walked away. "Stop it, Chifuyu."

The day went forward as always, and before we knew it, it was already time to go home. Baji said to meet him at a specific place. I grabbed my bag and lazily carried it, making my way to Chifuyu's classroom. While walking, I noticed a commotion going on, "Hey, isn't that the famous gang leader? why is he picking up on Matsuno", yeah why's that gang leader picking up on Matsuno— wait...MATSUNO? Isn't that Chifuyu? Well, yeah, of course, it's my surname too. What the fuck am I thinking.

I saw guys on the floor beaten to a pulp and two guys walking on top of those beaten up people making their way towards Chifuyu, who was standing at the end. Is this some kind of red carpet human version? I sprinted towards those two, the other one's too tall...how about attacking the small one? Yeah, got it.

I continue running, stepping on those people on the ground. Their guard was down. I dashed my way towards them, giving the blonde guy a flying kick on his back, making the other tall ass dude catch him as he fell.

"Mikey!"

l.s

Chapter Text

Y/n's POV

"Mikey! are you okay?" Oh, so Mikey's his name, huh? Everyone gasps at the circumstances. Some are even feeling bad for me right now, which I don't know why "she just buried a grave for herself."

"Damn, she got lotta guts," everybody stopped whispering things to each other when a loud laugh was heard emanating from the Mikey guy.

"Damn, I definitely saw that one coming, but I never conceived that It would be so strong. I mean, no one ever did that to me." Mikey...saw that one coming? But why didn't he protect himself, "I'm sure If I did something to prevent that, you would get hurt. There's no way I'd lay a hand on a girl", he said, smiling at me. He's weird...well, that's what I thought except for that one guy he's with, he's tall, six-footers, I guess.

"Whatcha doin' there just standing after hitting someone else's back, I'll murder you bitch", the tree guy said, approaching me with a scary aspect. Chifuyu came into the scene and stood up between the tree guy and me, "Let her go, she has her reasons, Draken," the Draken dude changed his sight from me to Chifuyu, "huh? who the fuck do you think you are?"

"Draken! just go ahead and pursue them. We're wasting time", says Mikey, who was leaning at the window.

"Listen, we're just here to invite Chifuyu in a meeting—"

"I don't trust y'all's faces. And how did you both even enter the campus? You can't go around beating people just because you feel like it."

"Says you who stepped on them too while running towards us," the tree guy answered back.

"Nee-san, chill out. It's okay", Chifuyu said.

"Let's go, Chifuyu!" A tiny guy around 160 centimeters said very livelily, dragging Chifuyu with him, "no, no, no unless you tell me where the fuck're you taking my brother," I said, gripping my hands tight around the blonde's wrist. "Oh, I see you're the sister. We're just taking him somewhere to properly welcome him", A guy with a dragon tattoo on the side of his head affirmed.

"May I ask where?" I said, "xx diner," wait...xx restaurant? isn't that...the place Baji told me. "Coincidence, I'm meeting someone there," I replied, "Then, let us escort you," Draken said, escort me? he was about to kill me seconds ago.

We went outside the school to see a Kawasaki Zephyr 400 and a CB250T being parked, "Don't tell me we're going to ride—"

"Yeah, scared?" Draken interrupted. I gave him an evil smirk as I snatched the helmet from his hands, "Wear this, Chifuyu," I said, throwing him the headgear, "Wait, how about you?" I ignored him and threw my bag at him, which he caught. "I'm driving," I said, and the tiny guy smiled at me like we're friends and handed me the keys.

We arrived at an unfamiliar restaurant, "Thanks for trusting me with your bike," I said, tossing him back the keys, "Not a big issue here," Mikey reassured. That's what they say that it's not a big deal, but bikes to people like Mikey and Draken are like their girlfriend. I know because dad used to have one, and we'd take a ride at night to enjoy the city.

I looked back to see Chifuyu clinging onto my bag and keep staring at Mikey's CB250T with the headgear still on. It made me laugh a bit, "Hey, what's wrong," I said, making him look at me as I unlocked the helmet's lock and removed it from his head, "Your driving reminds me of...dad", my shoulder fell, I licked my dry lips with my tongue thinking of what to say. "But that was great. You really act like him, not in a bad way though," he smiled and gave me my bag.

I nodded and headed inside the restaurant when I felt the three following me. I ignored them. Maybe their table was next to me, but no, they were really following me. I sat down at a booth near the glass window, making me capable of seeing things that were occurring outside.

The table was too big for only two people, so why the hell did Baji told me to get this booth.

I shifted my view at the window and looked back at the person trying to sit beside me, only to see Draken and Mikey now sitting in front of me. Chifuyu also sat quietly beside me, "Why are you guys following me?" I said, then Chifuyu looked at me, and at the two, "I just followed Mikey," Chifuyu said. Mikey looked at Chifuyu with an 'eh?' expression, "I just followed Draken!" Mikey resorted back. I looked at Draken, who was sitting with his arms crossed.

I raised my brows at him, making him look at Chifuyu, who's sitting quietly, and at Mikey, who was looking at him like a kid, "W...what? I didn't follow you!" I slammed my hands at the table, making them flinch, "then why are you guys here? Aren' you supposed to have a meeting or something?" Mikey nodded at me before responding, "but we got to eat first. The meetings in an hour and a half," he said calmly.

What a carefree. What about the commander's orders? I guess the gang leader isn't that strict.

"You should sit somewhere else," I said. "What, No," Draken resorted without hesitation. Mikey smiled at me with his hands on the table, "Yeah, I'm sorry we can't. This is our spot for a long time now."

"I apologize, but you gotta let me have this table because other tables are packed," the blonde pouted, leaning his head at Draken's shoulder. "We can just share, you know, Matsuno-chan<33," I ignored him and just stared back outside. I'll let Baji handle this.

"Why aren't the three of you ordering?" I asked because they were just sitting there doing nothing, "Oh, we're still waiting for one person, the one who introduced Chifuyu to us," damn, that person must be important. This blonde kid right here looks hungry.

"Hey! sorry I'm late. I went to my part-time job for a bit to ask for—" I heard Baji's voice that made me snap back to reality. "Great, you're here. Let's change tables—" I stood up hurriedly and was about to grab Baji with me when Mikey stood up from his seat and clung on to Baji, "You're hereeeeeeeee, ahhhhhhhh I'm hungryyyy let's eat!"

Wait...did he say... 'the one who introduced Chifuyu to us' ISN'T THAT BAJI? It's pretty obvious, then why didn't I know about this ever since that tattoo guy said they're having a meeting.

"Huh? were you about to drag Baji with you?" I looked back at Draken with a confused face. "I...actually have business with Chifuyu's twin. So I invited her here—Wait, aren't we supposed to eat after the welcoming shits?"

Baji said, confused, "Ask Mikey, he got hungry," Baji looked at Mikey and me. "My back also hurts. She kicked me," Mikey pouted, "What?!" Baji questioned, laughing his ass off. He pulled me down to sit beside him at the diner booth.

"She did that? How?" Mikey lets out a sigh before speaking furthermore, "flying kick," he mumbled, making everyone except Mikey, himself, and I laugh, "She also threatened Draken! she's evil", what, when did I ever do that?! "Hey, no, I didn't—" Baji looked at me gasping, "Damn, your sister really got guts, Chifuyu. Imagine Picking up a fight with a Gang leader", So he can...laugh like that— wait, gang leader?!

I stood up, making them all look at me as I pointed my index finger at Draken, "Him?! this guy...he's a gang leader?!" Draken looked at me with a shocked expression before laughing, "You got it all wrong."

Draken pushed my wrist with his palm to change the point direction of my index finger from him to...Mikey...MIKEY?! "What?..." I said, not believing it. "He's the leader, the guy who you kicked earlier at school," my mouth gaped at the truth, and It can't sink in my mind....this guy...

"THIS CHIBI IS THE GANG LEADER?!" Mikey stood up with a frowning face, "HEY! WHO ARE YOU CALLING A CHIBI?" Mikey and I sopped bickering when an employee approached our table, "Excuse me, ma'am, sir. You have been noisy since you all got here. Can I please take your order?" I felt embarrassment all over me.

The order came, and Mikey looked so excited to dig in, same as my brother, who's sitting beside Mikey. I tugged Baji's uniform to grab his attention, "Hey...is this a good idea? can't we just change tables or something—"

"What the hell, man?!" We all looked at Mikey, who just screamed, including my brother, who was already munching on the food. Everybody was looking down at our booth, thinking there was a fight.

"Someone's gonna pay for this!", we all looked at him, confused. The waiter was there bowing his head, waiting for Mikey to tell him what's wrong, "There's no flag on it!", Mikey said pointing at the food, ah?...eeeh?! he's sulking because there's no flag on the food?! "I was only excited for the kid's meal because they had a flag on it!", now he's sulking.

Draken lets out a loud sigh and grabbed something out of his kimono's side pocket, "Hey..here's your flag, Mikey", he said lifelessly. So this guy's been carrying a small ass flag while beating those students at school? I peeked at his kimono with my eyes, and he closed before I could see how many flags he's got, "I know what you're trying to do, stop."

Mikey stopped pouting and smiled in happiness, "Way to go, ken-chinnnn!"

I looked at Baji as he looked at me too, "Are you sure this guy's a gang leader?", He nodded trying not to laugh. Dad said that I should stay away from those innocent-looking delinquents. They're the most dangerous ones. But somehow, I didn't feel like I should stay away from a guy who likes mini flags.

Everybody minded their own business, as for me and Baji, who's taking our pens out. "Did you think about what you wanted to say?" I asked.

He looked at the ceiling for a while before saying no. Seriously this guy, how can he want to write letters when he doesn't even know what to say, "I just...want to send her a lot of letters so she wouldn't feel that I'm so far away from her. I want to make her feel like we're just having a casual conversation through letters", he said looking at his pen. It must've been hard to be so far away from them, huh?

"Okay then, how about you tell her what happens to you in a day," he looked at me with an intriguing face, "Hm...tell her that I've just beaten someone up today?" I laughed at his response, "No, stupid, she's your lover, not your gang mate," I said, receiving an 'o' response from him. I sipped at the coffee I ordered. It looks tasty, "So...should I tell her that I'm thinking about her the whole day?", without knowing it, I choked at my drink, "Hey, hey, are you okay?" Baji said, checking up on me. "Y-yeah..."

Damn, this guy's cheesy. He is innocent when it comes to these things. "We can go with your suggestion, but you gotta have like...an introduction," he looked at me with a 'what' expression, "Y/n this ain't an essay."

"I know! but you can't tell her that directly at least be gentle!", he covered his ears with his palms, "yeah, yeah."

I looked over at Mikey, Draken, and Chifuyu, who was sitting across from us, staring at us, "What?" I questioned. "Baji-Kun, is she your girlfriend?", Mikey asked tilting his head. "Yeah, it's your first time seeing her, also this guy," Draken added. "They just moved," Baji answered shortly while writing up something on his paper.

"Why didn't you deny?" I looked at Chifuyu, who was angrily slurping his orange juice. Come to think of it..."Deny what?" Baji said. "If she's your girlfriend or not"

"No, she's not," Baji answered quickly before showing me a piece of paper, "here, I want to tell her this," I stole the note from his hands to read what was written on it.

"Y/n Matsuno," I said as I read what was written on the paper...my name? What's this supposed to be? I looked at him confused, "You want to tell her my name?", he laughed with his pen falling that was placed in between his nose and upper lip.

"No, actually, my days are dull, and I don't have anything to say to her. But I like your idea. And when you think of it, we've been together the whole day. That's the only thing...I think I can write", Baji explained, looking directly at my eyes. He wants to write a letter for his lover with me as the subject....? I looked at him for a few seconds..."Hey Y/n—"

"No! you can't...write that", I said. "Why?" I flicked his forehead before responding, "You can't include another woman in your love letter, or else she'll overthink about it," she definitely would. That's sweet of him, but...I don't want his lover to think about unnecessary things.

"Hm...but she was really open about me making friends even with women. I told her about Emma, but she didn't say anything about it," I don't know who Emma is but this dude's got to learn. "Of course, she wouldn't say anything about it. You gotta be sensitive about this kind of thing," he looked at me with eyes filled with worry. "Really? Wait...what if she minds about what I told her about Emma? And she didn't tell me about it? I wonder if she still loves me", wait what, how does that affect— I smacked the back of his head, "Just don't do it again....here," I said, handing him the pen.

"Take note of what I'm going to say. We don't have much time left before the meeting." He nodded and opened his notes, "First, greet her. Ask her how is she doing abroad", he kept humming as 'next' "Then tell her how you're doing here," I looked at his fingers gripping tightly at the pen, he is serious about her, you can tell. "Tell her what happened in the morning, hm..." I kept giving and giving him ideas until his note was already filled.

"That's all?" he replied. I took a glance at his note, re-reading all that I just said.

"You should also compliment her. We're trying to have a normal conversation here but through a letter—"

"You look beautiful today," my following few words were distracted by his sudden sentence. "Eh?" I stated.

"Eh? You said I should compliment her, I'm practicing", seriously this guy should be aware of his effect on girls, "Y..you don't have to practice, just write it from the bottom of your heart," I said, smiling at him.

He scratched his head before cleaning things up back on his backpack, "I'm gonna make a letter tonight. Check it out tomorrow", he said. "Wow, I feel like your literature teacher," I jokingly said, which made him chuckle.

"Oi, Mikey! stop falling asleep after you eat!", Draken said trying to wake Mikey up. "I have to go baji-Kun, and!", I spoke pointing my index finger right at his face, "Bring my brother home in one piece, please," he nodded, tensely, before I turned away from him. "Why don't you just come with us?" Draken offered. "Me? No, thank you," I replied without hesitation.

"Mikey's half asleep. Who would drive his bike? Also, you can keep an eye on your brother there. If you don't trust us that much, at least you'll know who to approach when the time comes," who to approach when the time comes? What does he mean by that?

"I don't know how to say this without offending you, but I don't like myself being involved with any delinquents there is. That includes coming right into their den", looks like me and this Draken guy aren't compatible. "Then that makes you a hypocrite," he said, looking at me then at Baji.

I approached him with a smirk, "No, Baji's the only exception," I said, sticking my hands out, "Keys." I left them there dumbfounded and headed towards where the bikes were parked.

Baji's POV

I stood there frozen, looking at her disappearing figure. Her words got me thinking...how am I an exception...what makes me different from other delinquents she knows? Women are hard to read. Having one in your life is challenging.

She's hard to read but easy to understand. The other guys arrived outside and saw her putting the headgear on Chifuyu, she really treats him like a baby, and Chifuyu never objects.

She rode the bike, starting its engine in its Kickstarter, which was very impressive, making it seem like she drove one before, but is she seriously going to drive without a helmet?

I approached her, making her look at me. I stretched my arms out, giving her the headgear. "Ah, no. I'm okay", she refused. What does she mean by okay?! "Yeah, dude, no need, she drove here without it, and she's still alive," Draken said, carrying Mikey from his back, who was still half asleep.

"What?! you let her drove without a headgear?!", I exclaimed making them flinch, including her, which felt wrong at some point, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to yell," I closed the distance between Y/n and me, putting on the headgear on her, which made her keep looking at me as I adjust the lock, she's honestly cute. "There, next time, don't drive without it. I don't want your dad haunting me", I spoke, receiving a small laugh from her.

"Our Baji knows how to say sorry now, huh. What a sight", Draken teased, then flew out of the scene speeding with Mikey hugging his back, still half asleep. Did...I say sorry?...when?...Oh... "Well, that was...unexpected", I said to myself before driving my way to the meeting place.

I arrived a little later, seeing Mikey is already in his uniform, standing at the top of the stairs with Draken. I quickly parked the bike somewhere and stood beside the other captains.

"Since everybody's here, I would like to say that the Toman will have a new member! But firstly...Keisuke Baji! Tokyo Manji Gang, First Division Captain!", Draken exclaimed giving me the instruction to show myself in front of everyone, "Yo!" I said, smirking, making everyone go shocking stage. I guess It's been a long time since I revealed myself as the first Division captain after working so hard, I hardly show up to any meetings anymore.

"This new member is going to be the vice-captain of the Division I hold. Treat him well if you don't want to get your skull crushed into tiny pieces. Now...Chifuyu Matsuno!", Chifuyu walked himself out with his new-made uniform, "That looks good on you, man," I said, giving him a fist bump. Just as he walked in, the members of Toman were cheering as a sign that you're welcome.

Mikey approached Chifuyu with a handshake that Chifuyu gladly shook, "Welcome to Tokyo Manji Gang," and ended his sentence with a smile he always wears.

I roamed my eyes around the corner to see Y/n, leaning on one of the motorcycles at the back and happily looking at his brother, and our eyes locked at each other, pulling away after seconds of realizing it. I looked back at her again, and she was now interacting with Emma before leaving the meeting place. I'll leave her to you, Emma.

After meeting her, I've been oddly weird. I adopted Chifuyu, which I don't usually do because I don't give a fuck about other people's safety. I asked her for help with my personal problems.

We just met yesterday, but she already amazed me a lot of times. The odd thing about that is I am hard to impress, but when it comes to her... it's possible in a lot of ways.

It's been a long time since someone amazed me...let's see...was it back in my freshman year?...right, with her...Hanako Ueno, my first love. I still remember that time where she tried to beat someone up by threatening them first.

I wonder if she's still like that after years of being apart, does she still smell the same? How about her black hair. Did she cut it? I missed the comforting look on her face, her soothing voice, just everything about her.

Last year, when I was close to graduating, I still didn't fulfill the college money even after working multiple jobs since I gave away the money to her.

Causing me to hold back a year because of so many absents in my 3rd year, I have come to an Idea while at work to continue working until I get the amount of money that I want. I want to be with my girlfriend abroad after I graduate this year. She agreed to it.

She's going to attend my graduation, and I'll move with her. That alone makes me eager to graduate.

My thoughts were interrupted with a sudden tap on my shoulder, "Baji! let's have an after-party at your house", Mikey suggested. Hmm, that's not a bad idea. "Sure, let's go," I agreed to make them shout in celebration.

We all went to our bikes being parked, seeing Y/n and Emma laughing. She really does get along well with everyone. Well, except for Draken, I guess. They were almost at each other's throat at the diner.

"Don't worry about him, Y/n-chan. He's always like that," I bet they're talking about Draken right now. "Let's go, Emma," Draken said, dragging Emma with her. I approached Y/n with my hands placed inside my side pockets, "Wow, you look stupid," she said.

Seriously this girl never praises anyone. "I thought you're gonna say I look handsome in my uniform," she laughed softly before speaking, "You don't need me to say that. You look good in everything", eh?...did she just... "Anyways, I'm going home. Take care of Chifuyu", she said before turning her back on me.

I pulled the back collar of her uniform, stopping her from walking. I looked at her face with my head peeking over from her shoulder with my index finger still on her uniform's collar.

I can't help but look at her lips. The memory of me accidentally kissing her this morning flashed back...It was soft. I gulped, looking at her lips back to her eyes, who were staring at me. "You're...too close, Baji-Kun."

"Ah," I responded, letting go of her uniform and standing back straight.

I scratched the back of my head, seeing her looking away with her red ears. Cute.

"Don't go home yet. We're going drinking at my house", I said, giving her the headgear, "Chifuyu can't drink. He's a minor", I chuckled, placing my hand around her shoulder. "C'mon now, just one night, you're there anyway. We won't force you to drink but let Chifuyu be an adult for once," I hope that doesn't sound bad.

She hugged the bag in her arms tightly, "Okay. But drive us back home", such an easy request, "Heh, sure. Of course"

"Chifuyu, you're coming with me!", Mikey said tapping the space left in his bike, "come, come sit here," Mikey said, making Chifuyu go with him, "So...I guess the sister's coming with me", I grin looking at Y/n.

"I don't a have a choice," she stated, wearing the headgear on. "Are you sure you're coming with us? the house's going to be a little packed",

"You invited me," after wearing the helmet on, she found herself comfortably sitting behind me, "You good there?" I asked.

She hummed in response, "hold right, or you'll fall," she placed her palms on my shoulder, making me laugh. "No, not there, you'll end up dragging me with you if you fell," I reached for her hands, wrapping it around my waist, "there, it's more stable that way," I said, looking back to smile at her only to see her hiding her face on my back.

She's easily flustered.

"Look at that punk having his way with my sister," Chifuyu said before speeding with Mikey. "You alright?" I checked on her, she nodded in response.

The only thing that was making a noise during the ride was my bike. Y/n was silent the whole time, and she didn't squeeze me even once. Maybe she's used to this. But she hasn't let go yet. So I assume increasing the speed a little won't hurt.

The roads were empty, and only the sound of our bikes was heard throughout, "C'mon now, Mikey. Slow down, it's not like Baji's house is about to disappear", Mitsuya said with Hakkai behind him. "Who's that?" Y/n asked. "Oh, it's Mitsuya, and that guy behind him is Hakkai," I answered. "Yo, Baji! Who's that chick, damn you be having two at once", seriously this guy, "shut up, Pah chin."

It wasn't that long until we arrived at my house. "Mom's not here until tomorrow night, we have the house all to ourselves, but y'all gotta clean whatever mess y'all are going to create," they all nodded and entered the house all the way to my room, sitting on the floor surrounding the table that is full of drinks and snacks.

"Here, here, come here, Y/n-chan," Emma said, calling her to sit on the bed. "Emma, you cant go around sitting at other people's bed," Draken said, leaning his back on Emma's legs while sitting on the ground, "Why not? We can't mingle with the guys, y'all are too noisy, and you guys move so much", Emma said. "I don't mind besides, the floor is occupied," I reassured.

Y/n flopped herself on the bed, "Gahhhhh, my back hurts," she pointed her fingers at me, "this jerk, are you trying to fly using your bike?!" wait, what did I do, "How is that my fault?",

"You were speeding like there's no tomorrow, and I was trying not to be fled away without squeezing you like a lemon," lemon...HAHAHA, what is that? "Did you just compare me to a lemon—"

"Yo, stop having a lover's quarrel, and let's drink!" Pah chin said, raising a can of beer, "Cheers to Chifuyu!" they all yelled in unison before clacking their drinks together. "Y'all gotta be quiet. We still have neighbors", they all ignored me and continued drinking.

I looked at Y/n having her hair braided by Emma and talking about girl stuff, which put me at ease and sat beside Chifuyu and drank with him. It took around two hours and a half before they all got knocked out.

"Emma, did you drink?", I said tapping her shoulders, "Uh, no, why?" she said, yawning. "Can you drive? I need to get the twins home", she nodded and waked Y/n up.

I helped Chifuyu stand while grabbing his things, "You're gonna drive?" a voice said behind me. It was Y/n, "Yeah, I didn't drink that much. I have a high tolerance," I said, giving her a thumbs up. She's half-asleep.

We arrived at the exact address, and Emma left before Draken would lookout where his bike was. I helped carry Chifuyu upstairs. "Thanks for bringing us home," Y/n said before closing the door to Chifuyu's room. "Can you wait here for a minute?" I asked. She nodded despite the questionable thing I said.

After some time, I arrived at their door again, seeing her sleeping and leaning at the door frame. She's like a cat; she really can sleep anywhere. "Who are you?" I looked back to see a middle-aged woman who looked familiar. She must be...."Hi, Mrs. Matsuno. I'm sorry for the trouble", I bowed, causing her to gasp, "We were making a group project, and I let her stay up late. Sorry for bringing your daughter late at night."

She chuckled and patted my back, "Stop bowing. You must be cold. Go inside for a bit," I smiled and raised my head, "I'm sorry, I can't stay anymore. Maybe next time. I'll help carry Y/n in her bedroom if you don't mind" I took out the paper bag and handed it to her mother.

"Please give this to her when she wakes up. She'll know what to do about it. Please don't open it. It's...personal," fuck, now I'm lying to her mother, that paper bag contains a hangover medicine and a pain relief patch for her back. "Okay, I understand, Geez teenagers these days keep a lotta secret from their parents, huh?" she chuckled.

l.s

Chapter Text

3rd person's POV

You woke up with a feeling of a soft mattress caressing your back, "Ahhh, my back hurts," thou said, feeling your back with your hand as you wondered who brought you here since you remember falling asleep at the door. 'It must've been, Baji-Kun,' you thought to yourself. As you roamed your eyes around, you saw a paper bag placed at the nightstand, "What is this?", you reach out for it; opening the package to see medicines for hangover and back relief patches, 'Baji...brought this?'

You made your way downstairs, seeing Chifuyu coming out of the bathroom, "Hey, is your head okay?" you asked. "No, but I can't tell mom," you secretly passed him the medicine because your mom was near, "Eat before taking this."

You went ahead to get cold water in the fridge, "Who was that guy from last night?", you stopped drinking, making you look at the lady, "Who...?", you remained calm but secretly panicky, wishing it wasn't Baji she's talking about.

"good looking guy, long-haired, kinda has fangs, wearing a gang uniform if I guessed that right," thou wondered why isn't your mother bothered about the 'gang uniform.'

"What if he really is a...part of a gang. Would you be okay with it?" She stopped for a second and stared at the wall before continued cooking again.

"As long as you don't involve yourself in dangerous things, I'll let you be friends with him...but that doesn't mean you'll lower your guard, or worse, join one," at that point, you felt a little guilty, looking back at Chifuyu who's head was low, 'I am sorry, mom' you apologized in your head. You don't want Chifuyu to end up like your dad, but you also want him to live the life he wants without getting trapped in the past.

For you, as long as you're beside him, nothing terrible is going to happen. Protecting him is enough. You know too well that protecting someone and strangling someone is very different. You don't want to suffocate him.

You and Chifuyu arrived at the school, separating ways. He didn't have the trouble to say goodbye and just left. 'Maybe he's bothered about what mother said at breakfast.' you assumed to yourself.

You decided to just let him be first and talk it out with him later. You arrived in the classroom and saw everyone being quiet, which was weird. It was always noisy.

"Matsuno-chan!" a sudden shout startled you, "We want to say sorry about what happened yesterday!", you already forgot about it because of Baji, but now that you remembered it again, it feels heavy. "We were in the wrong, and we admit that!" another girl said, and all of them agreed.

"We should've known the real story before believing Aiya-chan," you got confused as to how did they know the 'real story, "Real story? who told you the real story."

A guy lifted up an old newspaper. "We were cleaning when we saw this. No one knows who kept it here. No one owns this either. Considering it was an article back in 2001. But...we all got aware that of what really happened," you snatched the newspaper on his hand to read what was written on it. You folded it and placed it inside your pocket.

"It's alright, just don't bully someone again," they all bowed once again. And a clap was heard, "What a scene," 'it's the girl from yesterday,' you said to yourself, 'she's the girl who spread the news, Aiya Harake.'

"No matter what that article says, I won't back out, Matsuno."

"Hm, really," a guy suddenly approached Aiya with a deep-toned voice. You looked up to see Baji; his hand was on Aiya's shoulder, gripping tightly. You can see her grunting in pain while Baji just looks at her innocently. "I suggest if you don't stop picking on her, then I'll just make your life a living hell," he whispered to Aiya, which you can't hear for yourself, 'what is Baji-Kun saying?'

Aiya pushed Baji away, making him let go of her, and ran out of the classroom. Baji approached you with a full smile, "I stayed all night to make the letter, read it for me later, okay?" the lad said before making his way to his seat. This got you thinking, 'why would he let me want to read his personal love letter?', you just shrugged it off and sat in your seat too.

You assumed that the medicine and the patches were given by him, so you grabbed a piece of paper and wrote a thank you on it, passing it to him. He looked at the note and at you. You signaled him to open it.

Your eyes were glued at him as Baji opened the small crumpled paper and read the words "thank you for your kindness," his lips formed into a smile, and his ears turned red. 'That was really formal, but why is it affecting me like this,' the lad said to himself.

He looked at you, and you gave him a thumbs up with a smile. Baji immediately looked away, thinking it was embarrassing to let you see him red. 'How can she be so insensitive about this stuff. Does she know her effects on guys?' Baji thought to himself while still having a face red as a tomato, 'she's making such a big fuss it was just bag full of medicine,' he buried his face on the desk, making a thud sound causing you to look at him and chuckled at his whole reaction.

It wasn't that long until the bell rang. Tanaka sensei came in with the attendance sheet in his hands, "Listen up, we're having three days and two nights school trip to Kyoto, 2 weeks from now. But before discussing that, I'll need to have two students as class representatives, anyone who wants to volunteer?" You sat there quietly and checked on Baji, who wasn't even listening.

"If someone isn't going to volunteer until my subject ends, I'll be occupying the lunchtime to decide on who's going to be the class representative,"'crap, you got us there, Tanaka-sensei," Baji-said to himself.

Baji raised his hands, making everyone looked at him, "Stand up, Baji,"" Baji stood up with the pen in his ear.

"Not volunteering, but I nominate her," you turned around only to see him pointing right at your head. "Hey! what?!", you said slapping his hands away from you. "I believe everybody wants her to be the class representative. Am I right?....classmates?", he looked at everyone then at you with a smirk. 'This asshat,' you whispered to him.

"Matsuno, would you like to be the class representative?" Tanaka sensei said. You looked over at Baji, who was trying to hold his laughter, 'just you wait, jerk' You nodded because it's embarrassing to refuse at this point.

"Well, then, come here in front and choose your accompaniment," you looked at Baji with an evil smirk after what Tanaka sensei said. "Just you wait, Keisuke," he gripped your uniform, not letting you go, "Don't you dare pick me," Baji said with a worried look. You stuck your tongue out, teasing him before making your way in front.

"I would like Keisuke Baji as my accompaniment," You said while giving him a look. The teacher hummed before responding, "I'm not quite sure if he's fitting to be a class representative," you stopped and thought for a while, 'yeh, even if Tanaka sensei didn't clear up what he just said, I know too well that Baji can't be a class representative. He's a gang member!'

"Choose another one, Matsuno," you looked at Baj, who was laughing silently, a wasn't even offended, 'you're going to pay back no matter what, you chicken dick.'

"I'll do it," a guy from the back said, catching everyone's attention, 'who's he? I had never seen him before,' you thought to yourself, after seeing his face. He looks pretty decent to you. Without knowing it, you were already judging him in your thoughts, if he could measure up. The guy made his way to the front closing his gap with you catching Baji off guard. 'Hey, is that a normal gap?' Baji thought to himself.

The guy beside you held your left hand, kissing the part of your fingers near your knuckles, "Ryota Shigeru, I look forward to being working with you...Y/n-chan~", His politeness creeps you out; smacking his hands lightly.

"Great, Shigeru and Matsuno will be the class representatives. You guys will work together with me about the school trip. I'll just call you to visit me at the faculty if I need anything," You nodded and went back to your seat. You looked at Baji, who's busy with his notes, you felt something odd. 'what's up with him?' you think.

It was time for social studies, but the teacher couldn't make it making everyone just do whatever they wanted. Baji still isn't talking to you after that morning thing, even though you knew there's nothing to talk about. But the atmosphere between you two makes you feel a little bit heavy.

You decided to mind your own business by reading a textbook, not until someone disrupted your time, "Hey," you look up to see Ryota with two soda cans in one of his hands. "Uh, hey. May I help you?", he looked at you for a second before pulling out one of the chairs and sat near you, sharing a desk.

"Here, for you," he offered me a soda that wasn't to my liking. You figured out it would be rude to reject, considering he got two on purpose, "Thank you—"

You got cut off by someone else's foot accidentally banging one of the feet of Ryota's chair. You looked behind to see Baji, "Sorry, my foot slipped," Baji said coldly before focusing back on his notes.

You weren't supposed to drink it when Ryota opened the can for you, leaving you with no choice. 'fuck, let's just pray this drink won't take me to the bathroom,' you said to yourself. You bowed your head a little before drinking, 'just as I thought, this drink is still shit,' you said to yourself, trying to hide the disgust of the soda's flavor exploding in your mouth.

"Seems like you don't like it," Ryota said after opening the other soda, "Here, have this instead," he handed you his cola drink before stealing the one you drank from, and he drank from it instead. "H...hey, what?"

He looked at you with a confused face, "what?" he responded. "Did you just...drink from my...previous soda?" You asked as he nodded, "Why? is it your first indirect kiss?" You were shocked by his question. You didn't move and now know what to think until a loud bang hit Ryota's chair again, but harder this time, making him almost fall out of the chair.

It was clear for both of you and Ryota; who's the one behind the kicking. We looked behind to see Baji unbothered, "Sorry, my foot slipped again—" before Baji could finish his apology, Ryota grabbed him by the collar of his uniform, lifting him up from his seat.

"What's your problem, fangs?", Ryota said clearly pissed off. "Huh, problem? I said sorry my foot slipped. Are you stupid?" Baji said effortlessly.

"Just say you're jealous, and I'll consider it," Ryota said, bawling his fist. 'Why would Baji be jealous? is this guy nuts?' you thought to yourself before placing your hands at Ryota's shoulder. "Put him down, or I won't hesitate on breaking your arm," Ryota immediately put Baji down, calming himself. On the other hand, Baji placed his hand inside his pocket, whispering something to Ryota before leaving, "Don't get too cocky. You're just her accompaniment."

'Just as I thought, that prick's jealous,' Ryota claimed to himself. You were about to chase after Baji when Ryota stopped you, "So, where were we?", He said annoyingly, beaming at you. 'What's up with this guy?' you asked yourself.

"What do you need from me, Shigeru-Kun?" You asked. Ryota chuckled, placing your hair at the back of your ears with his fingers brushing against your ear. You kept your distance away from him, yet he pulled you closer by the back of your neck, "Would you believe me If I said I wanted you?", you pushed him away and stared at him with a confused look on your face for a couple of seconds before chasing after Baji.

You looked for him everywhere and saw him sitting near the school's vending machine with a cigar in between his fingers, "Were you smoking?" He looked at you before throwing it away.

"No, I found it here at the seat, and I wondered what it tastes like," Baji stood up, facing you. He was taller than you, making you have to look at him while raising your head. He didn't say anything but instead approached the vending machine for some cola, after getting it he stuck his hand out offering me the soda, "here, drink this. You must be tired running from the third floor to here", you refused, "Iye, I'm not that thirsty. You can have it."

'What? So she preferred a stranger giving her a drink but not me?' Baji angrily thought. He softly pressed the sofa can on your cheeks, making you hold it, "just drink it," you thought about it for a second before opening it when you noticed it was already open 'when did he?— oh well, UTI is waving hello."

You drank on it as you gulped the liquid down your throat, "that was refreshing—" before you could put the can down, Baji stole them from your hands and drank on it without hesitation, "Hey!" you were trying to reach for the soda when he lifted it in the air after drinking on it.

He stared as you tried to reach for it. You stopped for a second after realizing he was looking at you. You looked him back in the eyes to notice it wasn't his typical look...he looked...mad, no more like jealous... But you can't ask him that, can you? You thought to yourself. Because why would he be feeling that way?

"That guy's weird," Baji said out of the blue, catching your attention, "Yeh," you were battling whether you should tell Baji about what Ryota told you. But if he really is jealous, I don't know what he's capable of. 'I am more concerned about the fact that if he's feeling that away, isn't that....considered cheat— no, let's not think about that.'

"Be careful, not that I'm accusing him as a bad person, I'm just taking care of you, as...my friend", he said before throwing the soda inside the trashcan effortlessly before leaving.

You looked at his disappearing figure and roamed your eyes to see Chifuyu in one of the windows, looking somewhere far, "I wonder what he's thinking," you have been living with him closely. You know the meaning of every expression he makes, but this...this is the only face you didn't acknowledge. But you know too well that talking can solve a problem.

After the last period, Baji asked you to wait for him because he's on cleaning duty. It was okay. "Here, the letter. You read it while I clean." I received the letter from his hands before leaving, finding myself a bench to sit outside.

"Dear, Hanako-chan," you stopped for a second, admiring her name. Thinking to yourself, why do you feel so guilty reading the letter? "How are you? I hope you're doing fine and good as always. I have been good and patently waiting for your replay, wasn't it like...2 months from now since you sent me one But I understand why it's not 'convnient for you to write 'every day, but I want to let you know that I'm still here, waiting. Today I've met someone, he's a badass, and we somehow became friends. His name was Chifuyu. I think you'll like him when you see him at my graduation next year. He also met the guys and eventualy became part of us. I am really exited to see you back home here in Japan", you stopped reading, realizing the sentence, 'she hasn't written a single letter to Baji for two months straight?'

You were lost in your thoughts when the paper suddenly got snatched in your hands. You looked up to see Ryota holding it. You stood up to get it from his hands, "Give it back to me, Shigeru-Kun. It's not something you play with," he lifted the paper higher while reading it. "I really missed you. I hope you feel the same," he looked at you with a disgustedly surprised face, "Wow, I didn't know you had a lover," he placed the paper down, pulling you by the waist, making your distance between him disappear, you tried getting out of his grip but ended up doing nothing, he's strong.

"I suggest you break up with him. You don't wanna be labeled as a cheater, right? 'cause I'm confident enough o make sure you'll fall right into my trap", he walked away, giving you the letter, 'what a crazy ass.' You thought to yourself.

You pulled him back to look at you and gave him a good punch in the face, "Stop creeping me out, Shigeru," he smirked while wiping the blood on his lips, "I like wild girls."

You kept reading the rest of the letter while waiting for Baji to come down from the third floor. It wasn't that long until he arrived. "Hey, sorry to make you wait," Baji said.

"Was it good?" you didn't answer for a second, making him look at you worriedly, "What's up? something bothering you?" You snapped back to reality, "Uh, no, I'm fine. You need to rewrite it again, first of all, you had a lot of spelling errors which is...you know...expected, I mean that's... why you want me to help you. Second, your handwriting is shit", Baji scoffed with the last sentence you said.

"No, it isn't. You're one to talk. Look at that," Baji said, pointing at the paper where you wrote the proper spelling of the words he misspelled. "How am I suppose to rewrite if I can't even understand my teacher's writing," You gave him a bonked on the head before throwing him his uniform coat that he asked you to hold while he's cleaning.

"I gotta go. I'm planning to cook something nice for dinner," you said, but you really didn't plan it, though. It's just that you need to think about something. "Ja ne," you waved your hand at Baji, bidding your goodbye.

All of a sudden, a hand clasped around your tiny waist, causing you to look back to whoever that is, "Baji...Kun?", again...staring at each other for a long time as if the other one would disappear if one tried to blink and look away. But it wasn't an uncomfortable look, "This weekend....are you free this weekend?", He asked all of a sudden, making you jump to a lot of conclusions.

"No, besides cleaning the house...nothing. You can take Chifuyu out," he looked at you confusingly. "Chifuyu? why would I— Oh no, I meant to take you out," Baji said casually. "T...take me out?" You asked with disbelief, and he nodded as a response. 'Why would he ask such a question without worry. Am I misunderstanding something? Better ask', "Why? Don't you have to work?"

"Nah, I only work at schooldays during the night. The weekend is a weekend," he said while walking next to you to exit the school grounds.

Come to think of it, you have never done anything to repay Baji for his actions. He's always there when you need him or not. He made everything okay. Being known as the daughter of a previous vice leader of a very old dangerous gang in the 1990s is hard.

You've been bullied every day everywhere you go because of an ugly unerasable past, but you were taught by your mother not to hate the situation you were born in.

It's like Baji was sent from somewhere to make everything less hard for you... like he just reset my life. All of a sudden, it was just peaceful. Maybe inviting him for dinner won't hurt.

Baji straddled on his bike, but you called out to him before he could start the engine. "Why...don't you come over for dinner?" you asked, hoping for a yes. "If you don't mind," he said, giving you a smile. He seemed so happy about it, "Of course, I don't," I chuckled. "Eating alone has been...a habit lately", Baji spoke with a sad tone that changed quickly to a happy one, "here, let me give you a ride home," you shook your head as a NO.

"My back just got healed today," he pulled you closer by the waist while he was still sitting on his Suzuki motorcycle, making you gasp at his sudden action. "I promise not to break it," he said, looking at your waist then to your face. 'I felt like...my heart was going to burst any minute...Why does he keep making me feel this way?'

Y/n's POV

He let go of me and acted as nothing happened again. I wore the headgear and sat in the space behind him. I placed my hand near the side of the seat, I don't know what to call it, but somehow it made me stay in place.

"Didn't I tell you to hold tight?" I nodded, "I am holding tight. What's wrong?" He didn't blabber anything much and drove the motorcycle at a very high speed.

"What the fuck Keisuke, you promised not to drive this fast!", without knowing it, the motorcycle's pace decreased, and I noticed myself hugging him— what the hell? since when did my hands travel? "This is better," he said, exhaling the afternoon air.

I pouted, hiding my face at his back, "This is bad," I said out of the blue, "What's bad? Did you get hurt?", Baji responded still focusing on the road, "No...nothing", 'you really don't realize what you're doing, Keisuke.

Why do I feel like a terrible guy for taking advantage of your innocence in romantic relationships just because I'm tolerating your weird actions towards me? I can't push you away...stupid,' I thought to myself while my head was in the same position until we arrived at my apartment.

"Come in," I said, inviting him in, "Ojama shimasu," Baji said, taking off his shoes and looking everywhere for someone else. "No one's home. Mom's coming later while Chifuyu's out somewhere to an internet cafe. He'll be here soon, though", he nodded and sat in the living room, "It's unusual for you and Chifuyu to be separated. Did you guys fight?" Baji said right off the bat, should I tell him? Maybe I shouldn't.

He'll definitely blame himself. He's the one who introduced Chifuyu to the Toman. "No, I broke one of his things. That's all", he nodded again, sitting comfortably, while roaming his eyes around the house, "Can I look around to see pictures?"

"Yeah, I'll go out for a bit. We're short on meat", I said. Baji threw me the keys, "Make it quick. Your mom might come in thinking I'm an intruder," I chuckled at his intuition and left the apartment.

I arrived back home to see Baji on the floor with a few photo albums, "Don't worry, I'll put 'em back," he said before I could even tell him. "By the way, is this...your dad?" I turned around and saw him holding a picture of dad with the old southside members at the Shibuya crossing. I nodded with a smile, "Sugoi ne, they were really cool back then, well for me. But hey, weren't you guys originally from Sendai?" Baji asked.

"Yeah, they were off to a fight in that picture. The Southside's opponent is from here, Shibuya."

"They really traveled hours?" the lad said with a surprised tone, "yeah, just to brawl," I laughed at my answer. "My dad was the one to request the traveling, from what I heard. He comes up with weird plans sometimes," Baji chuckled and placed the photo back inside the album and placing the album back on the shelves.

"Well, your family really likes taking photos," he complimented. "It was only when dad was here. After that incident with father, we barely take photos unless it's important," Baji then responded with a hum.

It's still 5 in the afternoon, making me have a lot of time to prepare tasty foods before dinner. It's been a long time since we ate my cooking.

Chifuyu still isn't home. Hmm...I looked at my side to see if I sliced the meat properly, "I can't just feed them meat. How about vegetables as side dishes?" I looked back to see Baji watching tv, "Hey, do you eat vegetables?" I shouted all the way from the kitchen. Well, it's not that far. It's better to be clear, "Yeah," I heard his voice getting close, footsteps thumping at the hallway, it's not that long until he was already at the kitchen, I didn't really pay attention to him because I was busy washing the vegetables.

I felt the short part of my hair getting onto my face, which was really annoying. But I'm too lazy to find a hair tie since my hands are already occupied with ingredients, and this house always lacks a hair tie,mf broke.

I didn't realize I was smiling because of my thoughts filling my brain. I stopped grinning to myself. My movements stopped when I felt two pairs of hands tying up my hair together, gathering the other hair away from my face back to my head, softly brushing its long fingers along my scalp, and lastly, securing my hair with a hair tie.

"You got to tie your hair. You don't want it mixing with the food, no?" Baji said, whispering in my ear. I immediately covered my ear with my palms, maintaining my distance a bit. "Y...yeah, got it," oh, what a great time to stutter.

Baji looked around the kitchen, grabbing the knife, "What are you making? I can help you cut the vegetables. I'm good at it." Hmmm yeah, maybe a little help will do.

"Here, cut this into tiny pieces," I said, giving him a hand pinch gesture, "but not that tiny, but you know what I mean, as long as it can fit in your mouth," I said, and he nodded obediently.

"Okay, I'll make sure it fits," 'WHAT THE HELL DID HE JUST SAY?! HE'LL MAKE SURE IT WHAT?'

"What are you looking at? Did I do something wrong?" I shook my head quietly and went ahead to cook the meat.

Not long after that, a loud bang was heard, revealing Chifuyu, who just got home. "I can smell it from the outside, 'neesaaaaaaaan," Chifuyu approached me and stood beside me.

"What are you cooking?" I pinched his nose before responding, "You'll see. Go change first," well...Chifuyu doesn't look cold as he was in the morning.

Maybe he cheered himself up. "Huh? Why is Baji-san here?" Baji took a glance at Chifuyu and raised his hands with a knife on them. "Yo! Chifuyu", his smiled disappear when I smacked his butt all of a sudden. "Don't be careless with knives, and what the hell is that type of slicing? You're chopping a vegetable, not a human. I said tiny bit, how is this gonna fit in yer mouth", I said pinching his ear.

"Ow, ow, ow, ow, ow," Baji said, trying to get my fingers away from his ear. "Yes, yes, now let go," I let him go snatching the knife from his hand carefully.

"Look here, this is how you do it. You gotta learn how to do simple things like this. Cooking for your lover instead of taking her to a fancy restaurant is better", I said, slicing it in a better size, and I noticed him paying attention more.

"Say, you know a lot about relationships, did you have a boyfriend back in Sendai?" he asked all of a sudden making me pause, "No, but I am a witness of a beautifully tragic love story," I handed him the knife, "Here, continue. I don't want to burn the meat."

"Ne, joining us for dinner, Baji-san?", Chifuyu said leaning at the counter tap table and grabbing a banana, peeling it. "Yeah, I don't know why your sister suddenly invited me," I can feel Chifuyu looking at me up and down, "Stop staring too much. You'll burn a hole in my back."

Chifuyu didn't listen and instead kept coming closer, looking at me like I just killed somebody, "Hey...who's hair tie is this?" 'WHAT? DOES HE HAVE TO SEE THAT?'

"Why do you have to ask that? If you're hungry, then wait. Stop asking stupid questions", Chifuyu didn't budge but kept looking at me like a fucking detective, "Hm...that's now how you tie your hair, 'neesan", 'is he kidding?' "I have been living with you since we were a fetus, and this isn't how you do your hair unless..."

Chifuyu got distracted with the door opening again, "Oh gosh. I'm home, you two little brats, come, kiss mommy," Chifuyu and I looked at each other, communicating with our eyes if we should kiss mom. We don't really like to display affection if someone is here.

"Ara, I was waiting at the door, and you were all here," mom arrived at the kitchen then started attacking us with kisses, "Moooom," our mom stopped showering us with kisses seeing Baji was there, "Oh, isn't this the young man last night?", 'huh? Baji met my mom? oh yeah.'

Mom looked at me while pointing her finger at Baji, then looking at me, "Oya? Can't you remember anything? You fell asleep at the door frame like a cat, and he carried you upstairs," WHAT?! so...it's true? Now that I've confirmed that it's true...it's more embarrassing than I thought.

After some time, the foods were now ready to be served, "Come here, Chifuyu, help mom prepare the table for us, hmm?", Chifuyu ran to the dining room without hesitation, "Your mom's pretty fun," hm yeah, damn right she is.

The two boys comfortably sat down. Mom and I placed the food carefully on the table. When it was all set, we all settled down and gave each other's consent to eat, "thanks for the meal!" We all said in unison.

Baji stayed for a while to rest and told me he needed to go home. Now I'm walking him to the parking lot. "Thanks for the pleasant dinner. I'm still full. Now I understand what you meant by someone you like cooking for you is better than fancy places", what...does he mean by that? Does he mean...

"By the way, I'm gonna pick you up here on Saturday."

"Do I really need to go? Why?" Baji slowly neared himself to my ears, "I'll explain when we get there" I suddenly flinched when I felt a finger through my hair. Baji pulled himself away together with the hair tie softly untying with my hair. "Your hair's soft," He said, putting on the headgear and left me in a frozen state.

I placed my hand on my chest. I can feel my heart oddly racing and is faster than before, "What is this uncanny feeling?....this is bad."

l.s

Chapter Text

3rd Peron's POV

You were standing in front of the mirror for 30 minutes straight, keeps rotating your body in the mirror, checking every angle of the outfit you pick, "Something feels off, but I don't think it's a bad option, after all...he just wants to hang out", you said to yourself.

But you know deep inside yourself that you also don't want to wear that because it looks plain and dull, "Why am I making a big deal out of this, as if this is a date," You yanked your hair in frustration before going back to search inside your cabinet.

You pulled out a couple of things but remained indecisive.

"You're going on a date with that?" I flinched at the unexpected voice coming from the door to see Chifuyu leaning with his arms crossed, "What's so bad about this, and what?— pfft, date? NO", you said, trying to deny that you think this is a date too.

Chifuyu approached you and drew the hair tie off your hair harshly, "Hey! why'd you do that for?", You said looking behind you and see him with a sassy look, throwing the hair tie far from across the room.

"You tied your hair so bad. Just go out with your hair down." You arranged your hair in the mirror, seeing Chifuyu's reflection at the mirror. He was looking at you with his finger on his chin, "What are you thinking about now?" you asked, annoyed, "Hm...You can't wear that kind of outfit on a date, sis. What the hell?" 'what does he know anyway, Istg, this dude' you thought to yourself.

"How many times should I tell you that this isn't a date?"

"With that face?!" Chifuyu said, pointing at you. "Look at that face of panic. I know what that means. We have romantic parents, after all. Did you know mom makes the same face as you did right now, back then?", You sat on the bed waiting for him to continue speaking, "Dad likes to take mom on dates and leave me with Auntie Misora. You were prolly at school at that time. That was a Lil depressing, leaving me just like that, lol."

"I watch her prepare before dad picks her up, and she always looks like that, the face you're making," Chifuyu said, standing from leaning into the study desk before making his way out of the room, "Hey, where are you going?", you asked because Chifuyu left just like that. He came back barging in the room with a dress in his hands, "Where'd you get that?" He chuckled before giving me the clothing, "Mom's closet," You raised it up to look onto the whole image, "How come I've never seen her wear this?" You asked.

"No need to ask that—" you knew Chifuyu. You know when he lies and when he's not. "is it hard to spill?", Chifuyu stopped what he was doing with the dress before responding, "Go wear it first," you nodded, and he stepped outside of the bedroom.

You signaled him to go inside. He beamed when he saw you in it, "Just as I thought, it looks good on you, even though you look like a— nevermind," You looked at him pestered, "The heck were you supposed to say, dickhead?" he laughed and approached you aligning the collar of the dress, and organizing the dress's puff shoulder. He buttoned up the remaining buttons. "There, look in the mirror," You looked in the mirror. Seeing how the dress embraces your tiny waist with the belt made of fabric made you feel pleased. The dress is simple but has an expressly pleasant color, a dark navy cottoned texture.

"This is stunning....how come mom never wore this?" Chifuyu sat on the bed with a blank look on his face. "Dad was supposed to take mom on a date for their anniversary. So he gave her that dress to wear on their date. But dad never made it out... ", Chifuyu gazed at you, "Considering it's still alive and looking soft, mom took care of it." You caressed the fabric with your fingers, trying not to shed a tear or two. "That's very sweet and tragic," I complimented.

"Well, It's not tragic now. Mom's only daughter wears it out for a date when she wasn't able to", Chifuyu said, brightening you up. "Hey...I have...a bad feeling about what's happening right now, Chifuyu", Chifuyu looked at you with confusion, "What do you mean?",

"I feel like...I'm repeating history", Chifuyu's eye widened after what you said to him. Chifuyu rested his palms in your shoulder for reassurance, "Don't think it's like that, Just enjoy your...date, or whatever you call it", you chuckled, slapping his hand away from your shoulder, "It's not a date."

"Anyways, I got to go. My friends invited me for a study group", You scoffed at his excuse, "Study group? Since when were you interested in studying?", you said doubting and teasing your brother.

"I wanna be the smartest delinquent out there!", Chifuyu said waving his hands and rushed downstairs to leave.

After some time, you headed out of the apartment to close the door when you heard a loud motorcycle engine approaching. "That must be Baji," you looked outside of the big glass window to see Baji sitting on his bike. You hurriedly run to the elevator to meet him.

You pushed the button to the ground floor and composed yourself, "Why am I nervous? He just wanted to hang out. What the fuck?" You brushed your hair with your fingers, biting your lips from the fact that the elevator would reach the ground floor soon.

You got out of the building seeing him staring out of nowhere, you viewed in the direction his eyes were set in, "What's he lookin' at?", you quietly approached behind him, placing your hands in his eyes, covering them.

"Oh c'mon, I know who you are already," Baji said jokingly. He lifted your hands from his face as he looked back at you, turning his head over to the side to see your face, "You're no fun, Keisuke," you both laughed. You looked over to your hands to see Baji still holding them.

"Anyways, do you want to eat first?", Baji asked making your heart race, 'why...why is he acting like this is a date, ahhh calm downnn', you calmed yourself in your thoughts and smiled at Baji, "Uh yeah sure, then you can tell me why you're taking me out," he smiled. "I'll tell you later," Baji said, looking at your whole appearance, causing you to look away because of embarrassment. 'I swear, Chifuyu, I'm gonna knock you when I get back—'

"Like the dress." You stopped threatening Chifuyu in your thoughts, and now your brain is trying to process what the fuck did the man in front of you just said.

"Huh?" That was all you could say. "Nothing, let's go?" You blinked before sitting on his bike in a side-saddle position after wearing the helmet. "Hold—"

"Yeah, hold tight. Got it, sir", You said, teasing him and held onto him tight enough to secure you. Chifuyu didn't leave but was actually hiding the whole time behind a stone pillar. Chifuyu blew out a loud breath to look back on you and Baji's disappearing sight, "So this is what she means by 'repeating history'? I won't let you do that. It won't happen."

You and Baji are now sitting across from each other in a cafe. He was looking for something in his pocket, leaving you no choice but just to look at him. He was wearing a white bomber jacket with a black shirt, black ripped jeans, "Hey, do you only have blacks and whites in your closet?" He stopped searching for something in his pocket and released a small laugh before continuing what he was doing again, "Yeah, kind of," you sipped on your iced coffee, lowkey wanting to tell him how good he looked.

"Aha! found it", he said, raising a piece of paper into thin air. "What's that supposed to be?", You asked, and he opened the note showing you a bucket list. "A bucket list?",

"Yeah, these are the things Hanako wants to do. And I want to do it and show her", you crossed your arms and looked at him, "You want to fulfill Hanako's bucket list with another girl? Woah Baji, I'm leaving—".

Baji pulled you back to your seat. "No, Of course not. It's not what you think. This is a part of the letter. I want to send her a letter about my weekend. And as for me, my weekend is boring, so I came up with the idea of this."

"And why did you take me, if let's say you just want an

accompaniment?"

"Since you'll be the one to write the letters with me, you should also come to make the letter more realistic and believable," you rolled your eyes at him, "What you're gonna do is already believable. Having the effort to drive is already believable." You said, emphasizing the word believable.

"C'mon, I don't know how to word out things, but you do. How are you supposed to word out what happened if you weren't in the scene, it would cause an outcome that I just made things up",

'I'm not good at creating believable stories. I know what I'm capable of. But is this really okay?' you asked yourself. But you also knew that you couldn't push Baji away, "Fine..." Or maybe... you just wanted to hang out with him...

He smiled at you, lifting a DigiCam, "Take a picture of me!", he said handing you the camera. You sighed and smiled, taking the camera from his hands and taking a few shots of him, "Is this cafe on Hanako's bucket list too?"

Baji nodded."Yeah, this cafe was actually owned by her aunt, she said she wanted to be the first customer while it was still under constructions, but she had to leave for college," Baji looking at the camera with his face on it, "HAHAHA, why do I look stupid here."

"Better not blame the camera for it," he looked at me with a provoked look, "you're so mean, Y/n," you giggled at him, then continued tasting your drink.

He made you hurry and have a short minute ride with him to Tokyo Dome City, "Hey, why'd you want to go to an amusement park in Tokyo? Is her bucket list all in Tokyo? I thought majority bucket lists were... like... out of the city and stuff?" You questioned aloud because of the wind. "Yeah, I don't even know why. But she loves Tokyo that much", Baji said, looking at you from time to time to concentrate on the road.

You and Baji arrived in Bunkyo, where the Amusement park is just to be amazed by the scenery. A very tall and enormous Ferris wheel caught your eyes, "Ah, I want to try that," you said out of the blue.

"We can," Baji said, and you looked at him shaking your head. "No, no, it's okay. We didn't come here for me," he laughed, approaching you and removed the headgear slowly from your head, "It's okay. Do you want to try it first?"

"No...we can, after doing everything Hanako wants. That's what we came here for, right?", he nodded and secured the headgear to his bike.

"Okay," he said, walking past you. Baji looked back, noticing you weren't walking beside him, "Hey," Baji said, snapping his fingers in front of your face, you snapped after seconds, "I said, Let's go?", You nodded and started walking. Baji chuckled, then ran to catch up with you.

Both you and Baji were walking side to side while chatting merrily. When he heard and saw people yelling somewhere, and a ride caught his eyes. Baji pulled you by the hands as you were busy looking around and went ahead for the ticket booth, "Two tickets, please."

Your eyes widened, seeing it was for the Roller coaster. You remembered seeing the roller coaster near the entrance, 'those things are fast. What the heck' Baji squeezed your hand, making you look at him.

"Don't worry, it's not my bike. It won't break your back HAHAHA." You smacked the back of his head, "This roller coaster better not kill me or else." He leaned in closer centimeters away from your lips, "Or else what?" you flicked his forehead with the fingers of your other hand, "Ow...can you not be violent just for a day?" Baji said, releasing small laughs. "Anyways, let's go. Got the goods", he said, waving the tickets then heading to the entrance.

"Great! let's sit here in the front—",

"What? No, you sit there if you want", Baji pulled you to sit beside him at the front, "We sit here. TOGETHER. Got that?" He said like some dad. He didn't say anything, but it was clear that he was excited. Baji pulled down the steel thing. I sat well, preparing myself, 'damn this guy.'

"If I fall outta this ride, tell Chifuyu and mom that I love 'em— WHAT THE FUCK." Baji laughed at your misery when the cart started moving, "Chill out, it's a slow pace for now. It's just like riding my bike, but there's a lot of twists." he winked at you and focused back at the front. It's not that you hate high places. You hate things that are too fast. "Didn't you say this isn't like your bike?!"

After some time, you kept quiet, trying not to shout. 'BUT WHAT THE HELL IS THIS?! WHY IS THIS TOO HIGH?!' Right now, the cart is slowly rising to the top just to fall fast, "Hey, don't puke here," Baji said, holding your hand, "I won't let you fall. Just try to endure it for a bit."

'I DON'T HAVE A CHOICE KEISUKE WHAT THE HECK' you nodded and kept your head low.

You opened one of your eyes to peek if it was close to falling. You grip tightly on Baji's hand, making him laugh, "Stop laughing, or I'll push you outta this cart," Baji shuts himself up, containing his laugh.

After some minute of hell, you got out of the car wobbling while Baji's trying to catch you while laughing, "It's not that bad, c'mon, let's sit somewhere HAHAHA." You smack his hands away, annoyed, but he insisted and guided you on a bench.

"Never gon' ride that thing again. I'd rather be punched," you said as Baji gave you a water bottle. "Oh, btw, they took a pic of us when we're riding," you gasped and looked at him.

"Really? Bet you look like shit", he chuckled and showed me the pic, "You can have this. I look bad there," you said, giving him back the pic.

You and Baji didn't stop at one ride considering his attitude. You kept him accompany throughout the day. Baji kept dragging you at every ride he saw like a child. You were surprised that the DigiCam wasn't filled yet, considering the number of pictures you took.

There really is no such thing as a child when you want to have fun. Realizing it only today makes you apprehend that you never had so much fun in your life after being traumatized by something unerasable. This is the happiest day you have had ever since what happened, but sadly good things end quickly, and that is why you need to cherish them.

You are now sitting on a horse at a carousel. You were surprised the guards let you both in. "Don't tell me this was on the bucket list," he turned back at you, grinning, showing his cute fangs.

"No, not really. I just want to try it. I had never tried this when I was a kid. But I do remember Mikey and the others spinning me around, so I guess that counts as a carousel experience!", 'Mikey and the others? they were childhood friends?'

"Are you childhood friends with them?" Baji turned around to sit well while facing you, despite the horse still moving. "Yeah, there are 6 of us, but...the other one got in prison," after realizing what he said, you felt bad for asking him about it. "I'm sorry, I didn't know. I shouldn't have asked."

He chuckled, looking at his fingers, "It's okay. Well, I don't think he's out yet. But I hope when he is, things will be okay between him and the others," You had the urge to ask why but you don't wanna be insensitive about it, so you just keep quiet, "Don't hesitate on asking why, Y/n, I intend to be honest with you."

'He wants to be honest with...me?', you gulped and spilled the question you had in mind, "What did that one person do to be sent to jail?"

"Well, he kind of accidentally killed Mikey's brother."

'what?! how can he be so chill about it?', "What do you mean 'kind of accidentally'?"

"We were about to steal something from a shop, and the owner caught me. I was surprised to see that It was Mikey's brother. But Kazutora didn't know it was him, and he thought I was in trouble, so he knocked out that guy with steel by the back of his head",

"Kazutora didn't mean it, but he took responsibility. The last thing I heard was him blaming Mikey for being in that crappy situation before the police get a hold of him."

'Woah, seriously? This Kazutora guy's mindset is fucked up.' you thought to yourself.

"I'm not in any position to decide that because I wasn't the one who lost a brother. But both of them are my friends. They are the ones whom I trust. They are important to me. It bothers me to see them suffer and fight alone. I also made a promise for Mikey's brother..." Baji said, looking at you in the eyes and smiled, 'that's the saddest smile I had ever seen.'

"They will be okay. Everything can be solved," you said, offering Baji a lollipop from your pocket, "Here have this!" He laughed and picked it up from your palm, "I'm not a kid, but okay. I like lollipops."

You smacked his back with force on purpose, "Cheer up, Kei!" you said as he almost fell off the horse. "Fuck! Hey! "cheer up" and "go die" are two different words, Y/n!" You laughed at him, panicking like his soul left his body due to shock, and he eventually laughed with you too.

"You're so stupid, Baji."

"You're not mad at me? Or looked at me differently after hearing that?", you looked at Baji confused, "I'm sure you thought of stealing to make Mikey happy, as long as you don't do it again...you're alright. And as for Mikey's brother, none of it was your fault...for my perception. But I do know stealing's wrong. Work hard to get what you want, got that?"

Baji nodded and licked his lollipop. 'He's only a year older, but he acts like my little brother sometimes. I don't need two Chifuyu's in my life. Having one is trouble already,' you said jokingly to yourself.

It was already six-thirty before you could even check, "let's go eat dinner, we can go back here after, Baji. It's not like this place's gonna disappear!", you kept pulling him to move as he held in steel, "No, one more ride Y/n-chan~."

"No! let's go eat. I'm starving. At least let me eat after torturing me with those soul separating rides", he pouted, then dragged you with him to the nearest fast food.

The food was served, and you both ate it while chatting, "Hey, I heard someone say that there's gonna be fireworks before closing," you scoffed, "And you believed that?",

"If it's not true, we can just punch them," he said, making you laugh while eating. "And you dared to tell me not to be violent, but here you are planning to punch someone because of a firework show," he sipped on his soda while grinning.

"I ain't joking, though," Baji said before taking a big bite of his burger. 'He really is wild like people say, but why not to me?'

"Hey, move faster. The fireworks starting in 10", you eyed Baji after hearing the conversation between other people to see him staring at you with his mouth full, "You look like an angry peach," he choked and coughed, drinking the nearest liquid in his hands.

Baji stood up immediately to grab your hands and head out of the fast food, "Let's go watch it." While walking with him towards the park again, the Ferris wheel caught your attention for the second time today, making you stop your tracks without even noticing it. "You wanna see the fireworks up there?" Baji said, catching your attention away from the Ferris wheel. "Huh? It's impossible to get into the right position at the right time", he pulled you closer to him, staring directly at you with a smile, "I'll make it possible for you. I don't know how to thank you for coming with me today. I can only at least do this ."

You were dumbfounded by his words and let yourself be dragged by with him to the Ferris wheel ticket booth, "Go ahead inside, Y/n." You went inside the red one and sat properly inside, waiting for Baji. You saw him talking to the operator, "Gosh, please tell me that, that thick face did not really just asked the operator for a favor," you said, laughing to yourself while looking at him.

Baji entered the covered Ferris wheel cart noticing you looking at him while grinning, "What?" You burst out laughing.

"Nothing, it's just...you don't have to ask the operator," Baji sat across you crossing his foot, "Oh, what did you think, huh? I just told the operator not to make it too fast," Baji looked away, hoping you would buy it, but deep inside, you knew that wasn't it. "Sure thing then," you said, teasing him.

When the cart was a little higher, you stood up, making Baji flinch all of a sudden, "Hey, Y/n—"

"Wow, we're this high, and it's already awesome," you said, wrapping your arms on your shoulders, feeling cold.

'I want to look where you're looking, but my eyes kept wanting to capture your amazing face and can't help but admire it, you look so innocent, and I want to protect that, and I'm a hypocrite for that. Being involved with someone like me will definitely taint you,' Baji said to himself.

'She never judged me when you knew that I hold one of the highest positions in a gang. You trusted me. I told her the secret that I can't even tell my lover because I know how she would react, but she...accepted it without hesitating to educate me. She's really something else, maybe If I was another guy, I would fall for her—wait, what am I thinking?! Have I gone crazy?'

Baji massaged my head to rethink what was happening. As he opened it, he saw you hugging yourself while looking outside the glass. Baji stood up, placing his white anarchy air Tokyo bomber style jacket, which had the Toman's symbol on a piece of fabric that was hanging on a zipper, on you making it less cold.

You looked at him in his eyes just as the Ferris wheel stopped at the right time and the fireworks started exploding in the black starless sky. You were amazed just by looking at it but bothered by the loud silence inside the cart.

You looked at him, wondering what was keeping him quiet, only to see his eyes full of desire that was scaring you, not because Baji might do something but because you might do something you'll regret later on. Because truth beholds, you don't trust yourself enough with Baji. At this point, you're being honest with yourself that you wanna be greedy and just do what you want.

It wasn't right, but you get the feeling that he also feels the same for some reason. Baji looked at you as if he was holding back to the point where it takes him all the strength and sanity he has in him.

Both of you stared at each other for a long time as the fireworks kept exploding loudly in the sky, lighting both of your faces up in a very dark cart.

Little by little, Baji closed in on his gap between the both of you. His hands softly caressing your ears and started kissing you passionately, no force, no violence, just sweetness, and the taste of mint in his mouth merged with yours when you opened your mouth, letting his tongue in to explore every corner of it.

The thoughts in your mind that tell you to stop were insufficient to stop you from kissing him back with equal ferocity and swiftness. You wrapped your arms around his neck as he pulled you closer by the waist.

The fireworks stopped...the thought that has been warning you from the start to stop has started getting louder, hurting your ears. You quickly pulled away, shoving Baji by the shoulder and not look into his eyes...

'What the hell...did I just do.' you thought to yourself, looking down your foot; caressing your lips with your fingers, "when...did I ever stooped so low?"

Baji wrapped his plans on your shoulder to make you look at him, "Y/n-" before he can even continue, you hit his hands away, still not making single eye contact with him, "you...are so selfish".

His eyes widened. Baji doesn't know if you're referring to him. It was at the right time where the cart you were both in landed on the ground. You slammed the door open, making your way out of the cart. Still having his jacket on you, but you didn't care about that.

You just wanted to get out of there as soon as possible because you don't think you can hold yourself back from crying. On the other hand, Baji went over to his bike to chase you faster. Cursing yourself in your mind, you didn't even realize you were already walking in a non-pedestrian crossing and a vehicle coming right at you.

You thought that was the end...when a hand gripped around your wrist, pulling you away seconds before the vehicle could harm you. "Let go," you said when your body landed on Baji.

"You expect me to let you go in this state?! You almost got run over!" he said while still sitting on his bike.

"I didn't ask for you to help me!" Baji lets out a confused sound, "What? What's the problem now. Was it about what happened? I am not trying to be a jerk or anything, but you kissed me back. Why am I the one to blame here?"

"Are you stupid?!"

"And how is that going to explain the words that came out of your mouth? You're making it seem like it's just me." Baji questioned, holding himself back not to yell at you.

"You didn't think about what's going to happen to me if you did all those stuff. It gives me mixed signals. And you expect me to just take it like it's normal?!... And now you're not even trying to understand the situation." You replied back.

"Tell me, how am I supposed to understand you when you kept talking like that?!" Baji yelled back at that moment heavy rain started to fall from the sky as if it was unhappy too because of what was happening.

"I was trying so hard to contain something in me that makes me just want to be selfish and just take you away, and here you are feeling so carefree about just what happened. ARE YOU REALLY THAT INNOCENT?!"

'Why can't he just know that it's hard to like him and that I'm starting to like him if he continues acting like this' tears were falling from your eyes, but Baji doesn't know whether they are tears...or raindrops.

"I'm sorry...", Baji said crouching on the ground with his palms on his face.

"Say that to Hanako... I'm leaving", he stood up, grabbing your hand, "Get on, I'll take you home."

"No. I can go by myself."

"I said get on," he said, pointing at his motorcycle. You didn't listen and walked away, but he wrapped his arms around your waist and placing you over his shoulder, carrying you like a sack of rice. "Let me go!" You fought back, trying to get out of his grip when Baji didn't budge and sat on his back, driving away from the place.

You were staring at his back that is a little blurry due to the rain hitting your eyes. You felt like crying again, 'This dumbass, I can't get mad at you. I'm mad at my self' you held onto him burying your face on his back, letting your tears fall.

Baji's POV

I want to be genuine to her, nothing more.

I thought it was impossible...for her to feel that way, considering she doesn't want to get involved with delinquents like me. I didn't give her 'mixed signals' on purpose. I don't know myself when I'm with her.

I'm not the Keisuke Baji that everyone thinks is wild and very dangerous when she's around.

At that moment, something came on to me, making me moved carelessly and kissed her. I'm an ass, fuck it, why do I keep defending myself when it was my fault too. I shouldn't have forgotten that you're still a woman, and I'm a man. One might actually develop something for the other.

I'm so sorry for confusing you. I'm also confused, Y/n.

I felt hot liquid wetting my clothes when I felt her head leaning on my back and her hand snaking around my waist. She's crying again..., and I can't feel the same madness she gave off earlier. She feels more calm but cold. Maybe she fell asleep...

I parked the bike at a hotel's parking lot and carried her on my back, making my way inside the hotel soaked with rainwater. "I'll get any vacant room, please," the reception lady looked at me, "Age?", "18", the lady didn't reply, geez seriously, I got my wallet out of my pocket and gave her my school ID.

She looked into it carefully before giving it back to me.

I arrived at the door, opening it and removing her jacket, then slowly laid her on the bed. I sat on the edge and couldn't help but look back at her again, "you fucked up real bad, Keisuke."

I felt the bed move as I was lost in my thoughts, and I saw Y/n sitting up straight, unbuttoning her clothes. I stood up immediately to stop her, "No, no, hey," she groaned while her eyes were still closed and slapped my hands, "Shut up, let me be!" I placed my hand in front of my forehead, feeling stressed out.

She must be freezing. The lower part of her dress is soaked. I ran to the bathroom to look for bathrobes and felt relieved when I saw one.

Minutes later, I found myself in front of the reception lady, "What can I help you with?", "I...would like to ask for an extra blanket. And...someone, uhm..." I signaled her to come close, and I whispered in her ears.

She blinked a few times before answering, "yeah...uh, okay."

I waited outside the room, waiting for the lady to get out, and she finally did. "I already finished dressing her up, sir. I also covered her with a blanket. You should see her. I think she's been calling out your name if I wasn't mistaking it", she bowed and left.

She's calling who?... I found myself blushing up with the thought, what the fuck is this feeling. I think I'm going crazy. I glanced at her by the door and saw her trembling. I hurriedly approached her to see what was wrong.

I placed my hand on her forehead, feeling her burning up. I stood up straight, trying not to panic, but I already am panicking. "Endure for a bit, Y/n. I'm going to go get you some medicine." Shit, what am I supposed to do in this situation, am I supposed to punch that fever so it would go away?, later I found myself in front of the convenience store paying for fever medicine.

I got back at the hotel to see her in the same state as I left her, "Hey, wake up for a bit. You have to take this", I said, sitting on the edge of the bed.

She groaned before pushing me away again. I waited for her to sit up, and she eventually did. She opened her mouth, sticking her tongue out, making me almost laugh, I placed the tab pill on her tongue and helped her drink the water, and she collapsed herself on the bed.

I placed the water at the nightstand and was about to stand up when I felt a hand on my stomach, "Don't go, it's cold," I felt like she didn't know what she was doing. It's better to be cautious than make her hate me even more. I slowly removed her hands and grabbed the remote to the AC to decrease the air conditioning to make her sweat a little.

I removed my top, hanging it somewhere to dry. I found myself looking at the bathroom mirror. "I know we're not on good terms right now, Hanako. But this doesn't give me the consent to mess around with other women."

I might sound like a horrible person, but something tells me that I don't need to apologize to Hanako. I had been very anxious lately. She stopped sending me a letter for 3 months now. I thought I did something wrong, so I'm trying to fix it, but it made me realize what the fuck am I even fixing things for?

Hanako never communicated with me about what she feels, my relationship with her is falling apart, and I'm the only one who's trying to fix whatever is between us. It's guilting me when I kissed Y/n, but I can't say sorry to Hanako...my instincts told me so.

Why can't I treat Hanako awfully like how she treats me? It's so unfair. I feel so used...but maybe if I try a little more, Hanako will reply eventually.

Right now, I need to fix my problem with Y/n, maybe...we just got carried away with the moment, yeah, that's it. And I gotta own up to my mistake.

As soon as she woke up, she wanted to go home already, and I knew I had to drive her back come. The ride was quiet. She wasn't talking. Her one hand is holding onto me, but it feels cold. It makes me feel heavy inside.

I tried conversing with her. But she either just doesn't make a sound or reply with a dead-end answer that I couldn't reply to.

We arrived in Shibuya from Bunkyo in no time, the drive to her apartment wasn't that long too, and there I saw Chifuyu, standing outside the cold morning, his hands inside his jacket trying to keep himself warm. Chifuyu turned his sight on me, and soon as he heard the bike sounds.

He ran to me worriedly before shiting his eyes to his sister, who's slowly getting off the motorcycle, and made her way inside the apartment lobby, but Chifuyu sensed something was up.

She grabbed her sister by the elbow, "What happened," Y/n looked at Chifuyu and me, "Nothing, let's go inside." Chifyuyu didn't budge, "I want the right answer."

"I said let's go," Y/n raised her head for the first time since last night. She wouldn't look anyone in the eye. There she was, her eyes appeared so sore from crying, and she looked so...done. Chifuyu noticed it and looked at me unbelievably. "You son of a bitch," I saw his fist attacking me, but I didn't do anything about it and let him do whatever he wanted to me.

"Chifuyu, stop," Y/n said, pulling Chifuyu from straddling me and beating the hell out of me. Chifuyu stood up, spitting on the ground and wiping his sweat from moving too much. "I hate your face," he said, pointing at me.

Chifuyu removed my jacket on Y/n's shoulder, replacing mine with his, and threw it on my face. Chifuyu dragged her inside with his arms wrapped around her shoulder.

Chifuyu looked back at me with a death glare before the door to the lobby closed itself.

Y/n's POV

I arrived at the apartment looking gloomy and all. I glanced at the window to see Baji slowly getting up, 'oh, he's till there' and started his engine to leave. "Don't give a fuck about him and go rest inside. I'll make you some tea."

"But sadly good things end quickly, that's why you need to cherish them," Is what I said on my mind yesterday, but It was dull of me to forget those good things, aren't just good things, sadness knows when to fuck you up the most. That's why it's scary to be happy.

I think not meeting up with him for a while is the best for him and Hanako. Or maybe....for me.

Things got a little better when Chifuyu handed me a green tea in his left hand and a small cat in his right hand, "someone gave him to me yesterday, his name's 犬 Inu," I looked at him confused, "Why would you name a cat, dog?", Chifuyu scratched the back of his neck, "well it was...sudden." He said, smiling at you. Seriously this guy...

l.s

Chapter Text

3rd person's POV

Baji arrived at his house, feeling tired as distress took over him. He fell on the floor as soon as he entered. He then laughed with small tears falling, "misunderstanding huh, who am I kidding."

The lad dropped his things on the floor then headed to the bathroom to clean up. As soon as he walked in, he saw his reflection. At this point, he can't figure out whether he's sad about Y/n or his relationship with Hanako.

No matter how many times he convinced himself, he knew that kiss wasn't an accident. It was both of their desires too.

He slammed his fist at the mirror to release every different emotion inside him, anger, sadness, and confusion. When he noticed his fist bleeding, he cleansed it with water, letting it be just like that.

Baji then took a bath and went out of the bathroom with a towel wrapped around his hips. He grabbed a comb on the shelf to comb his hair and headed towards his study desk.

He then grabbed a pen and a paper from his back and threw them at the desk before sitting on the chair, "Let's start writing...and this letter will be the last."

'You can't fix something you don't know; you would just be making yourself suffer over nonsense. This relationship isn't just my relationship; it's both of ours, Hanako and Me. If there's someone who needs to fix these unknown uncertainties in our relationship, it's the both of us.' he thought to himself.

Baji threw his pen out of frustration, "Damn it! I can't write anything!", he slammed his face on the desk, making a loud thud sound. 'It was fine before. I may get thousand of errors in writing the letters, but I can at least write a single sentence, unlike what's happening right now.'

'Maybe going out for a bit will do the trick,' Baji thought before getting dressed to head outside.

It wasn't that long until he was already far from his house. He found himself walking the path to the Matsuno's Residence. As soon as he realized where his foot was taking him, he stopped walking, and his brows met out of confusion.

He looked back and realized that he really was unknowingly walking the path to Y/n's house. He turned around to walk a different way while tying his hair in a ponytail only to see a bunch of guys smoking and talking to each other in an alley, "What'cha looking at, punk?" an older guy with a birthmark on his forehead said.

Baji didn't hesitate to land a punch on one of em's faces while keeping a straight look on his face. He straddles one of the guys to the ground beating him with no plan of stopping.

His lips started to form into a grin as he was enjoying beating the shit out of someone while its accompaniments watched their friend get his face wrecked.

Baji stood up staring, at the disabled guy on the ground. He looked back at the other guys with a scary grin look while his clenching his fist.

"You're crazy..." one of the guys said, looking terrified. "You're going to pay for this, kid." Baji laughed with their reaction before cracking his knuckles, "bring it on, weaklings."

Chifuyu decided to go out to buy some cat foods for Inu, "walking around sure is refreshing, and it's silent too—" Chifuyu wants to take back what he said when he heard a noise coming from an alley, "Just as I thought It was quiet, then someone' gonna ruin it for me."

He peeped where the noises were coming from. There he saw a bunch of guys on the floor, unconscious. His forehead crunched when he saw a guy in a hair tie, shoving a person's face on the ground, "That back sure looks familiar," Chifuyu shrugged his guessed away, "Nah, better not get involved."

Chifuyu decided to walk away when a loud police siren was heard together with people's gossips, "I heard there's a fight in an alley, geez kids these days are really troublesome."

And that where it hit him, "That guy...", He looked back with a shocked look on his face after realizing who that guy in a ponytail was and ran back to the alley where he saw him, "Yeah, no mistaking it, it was Baji-san for sure."

Chifuyu arrived in time before the police could and dragged Baji by the hand to run with him, "Hey, let go!" Baji shoved his hands away before realizing it was Chifuyu that was pulling him out of the scene, "The police are coming, you dumb fuck."

Baji looked at him, confused, "I thought you hated my face?!"

"Yeah, I do. Stop talking, and let's go." Chifuyu pulled him away, dragging him somewhere far from the alley. "What do you think you're doing?", Chifuyu asked.

"What? You'll lecture me if I tell you?" Baji said sarcastically, wiping the blood off his fist with his shirt. "I want to say if you have time to beat people for no reason, how about you find a way to make up with my sister."

Baji lets out a small laugh before speaking, "Seriously, I don't understand the both of you. Didn't you hear her say she doesn't want to see me? And didn't you hate me now too?." Chifuyu smacked Baji with the bag of cat food.

"We're all hypocrites here; you're not an exception. You're hard to understand too, Baji-san." Chifuyu said before leaving him dumbfounded, those few words that Chifuyu said striking something in him that made him feel dejected.

"I came outside to feel lighter, so why did it only become worse. I guess punching people ain't enough."

"I'm home," Baji said, then headed directly towards his room to see his mother picking up the papers that had been crumpled and ripped by him an hour ago.

His mother looked at him while holding the paper. "You can tell me if something is bothering you, son," the lady said, concerned. Baji released out a heavy sigh ignoring his mom's words stealing the paper from her hands.

"Keisuke—"

"I'm fine, mom. Thank you." Baji said, picking up the scattered papers on the floor. The woman crouched to hold his son's hands, "what happened to this?", she said unfolding Baji's clenched fist. "I punched something."

His mother stood up to get the first aid kit from the bathroom and went back to pull his son to sit next to her on the bed, "I can do it—" Baji insisted, "Shut yo' ass," his mom said with a passive-aggressive voice that made him obey and back away.

"I didn't speak up about this because I felt like you've been strangely getting away from fights, unlike your middle school years, but if that girl is also the reason why you're getting into fights again, then I might as well scold you." Baji shifted his eyesight from his fingers to his mother, who's concentrating on applying ointment on his cuts.

"What girl?" Baji feeling scared of something he can't identify, 'Don't tell me...mom knows.'

"Ueno-chan," Baji flinched, making him move an inch from his mother with a surprised look on his face, "H...how did..."

"That's not important now. You had been so distant to me ever since the end of your first year", the woman, told "and that very day, I went to the bank to check our bank accounts, and also the one I'm gonna hand over to you when you graduate. I was surprised, seeing there was no money in it."

Baji felt guilty looking at his mother's face. He doesn't know why he's only feeling it now when Baji felt nothing when he did it at first.

"I'm sorry—" Baji said, looking down and feeling shameless. "It doesn't matter. You already suffered enough to bring it back."

Baji, who's trying to contain his tears, shook his head, "No, I'm sorry. I...stole from you." His mother chuckled, pulling him in a hug while caressing his hair.

"Want to tell me what happened? now that everything's been revealed", Baji pouted before sniffling, "I kissed someone else," his mother laughed loudly after hearing what he said, making Baji looked at her confused, "Mom, why are you making fun of me?"

His mother stopped laughing and apologized, "I'm sorry, It's just...you remind me of your dad back then in high school. He also kissed someone else when he had a lover back then. And that someone else is me", His mom said, not expressing a single regret in her words.

"Do you regret kissing her, Kei?" the woman asked his son. Baji then took seconds before answering, "No..."

"You hesitated on answering...why?" his mother said, catching him off guard.

"Because it feels wrong, but I also get the feeling that it's alright to say I didn't regret kissing her. I am just confused..."

"What's more confusing is that after that incident. I haven't started writing the letter for Ueno because I can't compose a sentence without thinking about Y/n..."

"It's making them think that I'm sending my love letters to the wrong person. I wrote the letters for Ueno, but it was because of Y/n that I was able to write them."

"She made life interesting for me."

His mother sat there next to him, listening to every sentence and word that came out of his mouth, "Did you realize what you just said?" his mother asked, making him look back at her. "You like her, and you know you do."

"I can't like two people at the same time," Baji said

.

"Yeah, you can't. Not because it's wrong. But it's because it's impossible. You're young to know the difference between obsession and like. But see, you were finally being honest to yourself. Doesn't that feel nice?"

"The right thing to do right now, Kei, is to fix whatever's not right. To lessen the burden; you're carrying. That's a bad habit you have right there, thinking you can solve every problem all by yourself." His mother scolded him.

"What can I say? I really am like that." Baji chuckled, earning a smack in the head from his mother, "You rascal, your own habit could harm you, now, c'mon, I'll help you with the letter," Baji dragged his mom out of the room, "I can do it myself; it's my letter, Thank you for listening." His mom smiled before leaving him.

Baji picked up the camera he brought yesterday and opened it. He sat on his chair, smiling at the pictures. Baji didn't realize he was already smiling to himself while looking at them. "Yeah...I really can't like two people at the same time. It's impossible."

Baji grabbed a new paper and a pen. 'It's time we talk about our relationship. Reply back, that's all.'

Baji's POV

The weekend came by fast, and I'm running late. What the heck?!

"Mom! I'm going!", hmm, odd it's already past 8, so why isn't she awake yet.

I put my shoes on and headed outside; and threw my bag at my motorcycle. I looked around and saw no one, "Why isn't there any student walking around the area?" he checked his watch to see the time, "It's eight o'clock in the morning; there are usually students running here." Ah fuck it, I'm really gonna get scold by Tanaka-senshit. He acts all mighty as if he doesn't get late."

I parked my bike as long as I arrived at the school, "Where the fuck— it's so quiet and cold," I looked at the windows of the classrooms to see them close. I scratched the back of my head and ran upstairs to the third floor, where my classroom was located.

Gahhhhh fuck it, I rushed until I arrived and slammed the sliding door open only to ruin my day— This fucking Ryota guy, why's he here. I roamed my eyes to see someone familiar, "Ryota-Kun, chan you check this for me?", That voice...is that.

"You're early, Baji," Ryota said, making the girl look at me. Just as I thought, It's Y/n. She instantly looked away for the second our eyes met.

But wait, did Ryota said early? "I'm early?" I asked out of confusion. "It's like, 6:08 right now", Ryota said, looking at the classroom's wall clock. Baji glanced at his watch and at the wall clock back and forth, "WHAT THE ACTUAL FUC—"

"If you're just going to make a noise, step outside," Y/n said all of a sudden while busy looking through a book's pages. Woah, she doesn't have to put it that way.

I walked; quietly to my seat, which is behind her. I saw her and Ryota talking about something.

"I see, so we need this amount of students to push through the trip?"

"Yeah, according to Tanaka sensei. The trip's budget has already been paid for by the school. This was already talked about by the 3rd year teachers. Supposedly, the third years aren't supposed to have a trip but, I don't know how we got instill. We are not in the school's budget for the trip, so we need this amount of students to push through and pay the school for that."

"Doesn't make sense. Don't all students paid in advance for their school trip during enrollment?" I butted in all of a sudden, making them look at me. "Yeah, but the second and first years had different enrollment forms than us. Last year, the school board suggested that the third years shouldn't be allowed to have a trip and just focus on their goal of graduating. So the upcoming third years, which was us paid less at the enrollment."

Ryota answered. I looked at Y/n, who was looking at him while he talked, 'Gee, this Ryota guy's a show-off.'

I rolled my eyes and sat on my chair, leaning my elbows on the desk while resting my face on my palm, observing them both. I looked at Y/n and that Ryota back and forth all the time, but this Ryota guy, he seems weird...no Ryota is weird. Totally weird. There's something off about him that I can't just... figure out.

"Hm, you shouldn't really stress yourself about it," Ryota said in a flirty way catching my attention. I looked at him placing his hands behind Y/n's chair, and stared at Y/n while she wrote something. 'Ha...this guy's easy to read. He's into her—wait, why do I sound so jealous. Am I jealous? No, I am not.'

I slammed my palms in my desk, startling them. Ryota looked at me weirdly, same as Y/n, but she eventually turned around, 'is she really that mad, talk to me, please.' I said to myself as if she was going to hear.

'Why is this Ryota guy here, anyway? If it wasn't for him, I could've talked and made up with her right now. Geez, he's such a pain in the ass. He doesn't even look that good. He looks like a thumb.'

'Wait, why am I dissing his face, anyways. Fuck this guy. How do I get rid of him? he keeps sticking onto her like a leech.'

Ryota brushed Y/n's hair setting it aside her face, 'Woah, this guy sure moves fast' I stood up and went near his chair, "what?" he said.

I kicked the foot of his chair, causing him to fall on the ground, "Shigeru-Kun!" Y/n was about to help him when I grabbed her by the elbows, "Let's talk," she didn't reply to me but instead looked away and continued not to look me in the eyes since Saturday. Ryota stood up and got rid of my hand clasped on her elbows. "She doesn't want to talk to you. Didn't you read the room earlier?", 'This guy's getting on my nerves.'

I grabbed his uniform and was about to land a hit on him, "Stop! you chicken dick, let's go talk if that's what makes you happy." Y/n's voice echoed through the whole empty classroom and dragged me with her outside, making me almost trip on my foot.

Her grip on me is so tight, I feel like I'd lost a hand. Where'd she get this enormous strength? We stopped at our usual sitting area, in front of the vending machine of our school. "What is it?" she asked coldly.

"About what happened—"

"I've already forgotten about that," she replied fast, looking at something else. I looked at where she was looking and saw Chifuyu in one of the windows, raising his middle finger at me. 'Tch, that guy.'

"Let's go back to being friends if that's what you'd like," she said.

"What about what you'd like?" I asked. She sighed before answering me with a question, "why does that matter?"

"Friends don't kiss."

"Would rather us not be friends then?" she said with a lowkey threatening voice. 'This is better than her ignoring me, I guess.'

"Fine," I answered flatly. Y/n then walked away after that. What the hell was that? I pulled her back to me, "That's it? Why does it seem so awkward," I asked. She stayed quiet.

I glanced over to see her face to see her flustered. "Leave me alone, stupid," she said, landing a hit on me. "Ow, what the—" I stopped wining, noticing her containing her laugh, 'I guess she's back to normal.'

I can't help but to get happy and all. Making me pull Y/n in for a hug, squishing her in my arms. "I won't do that again, don't ignore me."

She pushed me away, looking annoyed, "Yeah, yeah, now go away." She said, acting like that as always. "Let's go in together."

3rd person's POV

"Tch, that Keisuke Baji's in the way of my plan. He's always sticking with her. I guess I gotta change the plan a little for it to be successful." Ryota uttered annoyingly, looking at you and Baji through the classroom window.

"Just wait, father. I'll get my revenge on the person who ratted you out...using the person he loves."

"So, hey, are you busy?", Baji asked making you look at him, and nodded lightly, "Kind of, we need to cooperate with the teachers to push through the trip." You said.

"About the letters—" Baji said, trying to open up a topic.

"Yeah, I'll still help you. As long as you don't do stupid things again."

'That's not what I was supposed to say...well, I guess that doesn't really matter.' Baji thought to himself.

"What are you doing after class?" Baji asked again. "The third year's class representatives are having a meeting after school— and no, you can't come with me," Y/n said before Baji could, making him frown like a puppy. "Why not?" He asked. "Do you really have to ask that? Let's go...AND!— Apologize to Shigeru-kun."

'Woah, Woah, Woah, why do I have to apologize to that sly asshole?' I tugged her uniform, "No, I don't apologize to people," I said and ran to my seat.

Time flew so fast, and it was already time to go home, well, except for you and Shigeru. "Are you going?", Shigeru said approaching your seat. You nodded in response while arranging your things.

You glanced over at Baji to see him gone. 'Where'd he go?' you wondered to yourself and got distracted by Shigeru's voice, "Let's go? We don't want to miss the meeting." You nodded and headed towards the classroom where the meeting's supposed to be held.

The class representative from another class welcomed us in, "Hello, Class 3- A?", she said greeting you and Shigeru with a smile, "Yes." Shigeru answered, "both of your seats are that one, next to the window."

You sat comfortably next to the window while Shigeru's sitting beside you on your right.

"Okay, now that all of you are here, let's start, shall we?" Tanaka sensei said.

The meeting was going well. Everything that should be discussed was tackled by everyone; you were all in sync. Your vision is focused on the speaker in front; when you spot someone moving and waving in the corner of your left eye, you turn around to the open window to see Baji...and Chifuyu outside waving their hand and signaling something you don't understand.

You looked at them and stuck your left hand outside the window, giving them a middle finger, 'well, that should shut them up and not distract me.'

after some time, you heard laughing noises from outside to see Chifuyu and Baji playing something, 'the heck are those two doing?'

When Baji noticed you were looking, he waved at you and smacked Chifuyu with the very hand he used to wave at you, and now Chifuyu's choking him to death.

You can't help but laugh at those two's stupidity. Shigeru glanced over at you, who wasn't paying attention but staring at the window.

He looked outside the window to see Baji with some kid. 'What is she laughing about?' Shigeru thought.

"Hey, Matsuno-chan, how about this? should we agree to this?" Shigeru said, successfully stealing your attention outside and had the chance to slide the window close. Baji noticed Shigeru's fingers closing the window, making him crunched his forehead. "What's with the look?" Chifuyu asked.

"That Ryota bastard keeps touching your sister. How would you like that?", Baji said trying to manipulate Chifuyu, "What, really?" Chifuyu asked with a 'is that true?' written all over his face.

Baji nodded, "Yeah, seriously. Oh my God, if I were you, I would've punched him", Baji said, hoping Chifuyu would buy it. "That scumbag, help me get rid of him," Chifuyu said, placing his hand on Baji's shoulder. Baji rejoiced in his mind after hearing what Chifuyu said before responding, "On it!"

The meeting ended swiftly, and everyone bid their goodbye. You placed your notes inside your bag, ready to head out when Shigeru called your name, "Yeah?" you responded.

"Let's go?" Shigeru said, making you confused all over, "What do you mean?"

"Didn't you agree to come with me to the new coffee shop I told you?", you stood there trying to remember it, 'Oh shit, yeah...he was being pushy this morning, and I was in a bad mood, so I sad yes to make him shut up.'

"Uh, yeah, sure," you agreed since you had nothing left to do.

Both of you and Shigeru got out of the building to be welcome by the two idiots distracting you earlier. Chifuyu then hurriedly snatched your backpack to carry it for you and dragged you with him, "I'm hungry, let's go."

Shigeru then caught your hand, not letting you go, "actually, I had to go somewhere with her," he said, smiling at Chifuyu.

"I didn't ask for that, and besides, I am his brother. I have more rights than you." Chifuyu said, not backing out, making Baji feel satisfied, 'You got this Matsuno #2' Baji cheered up Chifuyu in his mind.

You got annoyed with the bickering noise, "Shut the fuck up, all of you, geez, I'm going home," you said, walking away, leaving the three there.

"No, no, fine. I'm sorry. How about Baji and your bother go with us?" Shigeru said, resulting in Baji and Chifuyu looking at you, waiting for your answer. You threw your hand up, letting it fall back down, "Tch, fine. Whatever."

While walking in the cafe, you noticed Chifuyu and Baji whispering to each other. You wondered what they were talking about but chose to ignore it.

"Hey, Baji-san. Make sure you sit beside her. I'll take care of that smug untrusted-looking prick", Chifuyu said, whispering to Baji. Baji then nodded and agreed, whispering back to Chifuyu.

"Here, Y/n a vacant seat," Chifuyu acted fast and sat on the chair Ryota pulled for you. Ryota flinched for a second and decided to pull another seat for you when Chifuyu pulled him to sit beside him, "Oh c'mon, where are you going? sit beside me." Chifuyu said, leaving Ryota with no choice.

Meanwhile, you saw Baji eyeing Chifuyu, 'what the fuck are these two even communicating about?'

*Chifuyu and Baji's eye contact communication dialogue*

Baji: That was flawless, Chifuyu. Keep up the excellent work👍

Chifuyu: You too Baji-san!😎👍

*End*

You and Ryota can't help but look at those two idiots staring at each other. You face palmed yourself in embarrassment, 'seriously, why did I end up being dragged here again?'

Ryota purposely coughed to make the two; stop staring at each other like crazy persons. "Order whatever you like, Y/n-chan," Ryota said, smiling at you while handing you the menu.

Chifuyu stole the menu before you could touch it, "OH YEAH? HOW ABOUT ME? CAN I ORDER WHATEVER I LIKE TOO?" Chifuyu asked, "Give that back to me. You don't know how to order for yourself anyways", You said, stealing the menu from Chifuyu, making Ryota and Baji laugh a little.

"I'll get this for me, and this for Chifuyu. How about you, Baji?"

"The same as Chifuyu," Baji replied. And comforted Chifuyu using their eye contact communication thingy again.

*Chifuyu and Baji's eye contact communication dialogue*

Baji: Cheer up, Matsuno #2!

Chifuyu: She's so mean ( II o II )

*end*

"So, what's your name again?" Chifuyu asked Ryota, who was sitting on his chair peacefully, "Ryota Shigeru."

"Shigeru-san, why are you calling my sister by her name. Isn't that a bit rude?"

You sighed, 'what is this ass scheming again?' you thought to yourself.

"It's alright, Chifuyu." I interfered. Chifuyu didn't stop there but kept staring at Ryota like some detective, checking everything; every crook and cranny.

"Is there something on my face?" Ryota asked, confused as to why is Chifuyu eyeing him like he killed someone.

"Your orders are here," the waiter said, slowly placing the drinks and pastries on our table. "So, Baji, are you attending the trip?" Chifuyu looked at Baji, who got questioned by Shigeru, "of course, I will. Who knows what you'll do to Y/n," Baji whispered to himself.

"Excuse me, did you say something?" Shigeru said. "Nah, you prolly hearin' things."

Chifuyu looked at both, Shigeru and Baji confused, "Can I go too?" your twin said, catching your attention, "No, what kind of question is that?" you answered.

You felt the awkwardness at that table, hoping someone would just take these three away from you so you could go home and rest.

"Oh, Baji, is that you?" A familiar voice from behind said, making all of you turn that way, "Mikey?Draken? What are you guys doing here?" Baji said, greeting them back. The two of the newcomers approached the table. Seeing there are no chairs, they pulled two chairs from other different tables to drag at your table and sit on.

'Oh boy, I said take these three away, not add two,' you said to yourself.

You sat there only caring about your drink while the four except for Shigeru were discussing gangs and stuff.

'Mikey, huh? Leader of the largest biker gang in this day, what's his relationship with Baji?' Shigeru said, observing his surrounding.

"Come on, you got to show up to meetings too, Baji-Kun. You and the vice-captain are always out. How about the members then?" Mikey said, catching Shigeru's attention, 'so this Baji is that Baji, 1st division captain? That's a surprise. Heard the 1st division captain is always out. Never attends a meeting unless he wants to beat someone up during the ceremony.'

Shigeru eyed Draken, who was looking at him suspiciously. Shigeru looked away when their eyes met. 'If my guess was right... that Baji's into her. Toman might get caught in the plan I made to abduct Y/n, and it'll be a fail considering southside isn't standing up properly yet. I just need to make sure Baji doesn't make it to the school trip.'

"I'll be hangin' out with Mikey while you guys are out for the trip," Chifuyu said lowkey wanting you to approve.

"Why are you asking; me that? I didn't; even approve of you being the vice-captain yet." You said sarcastically, making Chifuyu pout, "Oh, c'mon, you can't do anything about it. Mikey-kun already approved, and Baji already announced it to everyone."

'So he's a vice-captain? surely, it'll be the vice-captain of the first division, considering he's close to Baji, but that's not a problem since he'll not be coming to the trip.' Ryota said to himself again, continuing with his observation.

"Hey, Ryota," Shigeru snapped from his thought when a voice called him.

"Yes?" Ryota answered. "Nothing. What are you thinking so deep?" Y/n asked, catching him off guard, and the others looked at him too, cornering him.

"I was thinking about what they put in the shake." Baji scoffed at Shigeru's answer, making Ryota look at him with an offended look, "That's stupid."

Ryota placed down his shake and looked at Baji, "Every part of you is stupid," Shigeru said with a smile, not holding back.

Mikey, Draken, and Chifuyu made a low 'ooooo' sound. You sighed at the scene happening in front of you right now, "Why to argue? You're both stupid", you said, then left, throwing Chifuyu your wallet to pay for the drinks. Totally annoyed, You just wanna go home because It's been a long day for you, but then you got stuck with multiple idiots.

Chifuyu grabbed his backpack and left the money for the dinks on the table, running after you.

Draken pulled Baji's jacket before he could run behind you, "Meet us later tonight. I've got something to tell you." Draken informed, making Baji feel somewhat...nervous for the first time in a long time in his life. He nodded and brushed Draken's hand; off from his clothing.

Draken sat back beside Mikey and eyed Shigeru. "The name's Ryota Shigeru, right?" Draken asked in voice, "Yes, may I help you?" Ryota answered in a calm voice.

"I don't know if I'm imagining or assuming things, but I think I've seen someone who looks like you before but has a different surname." Draken said, trying not to sound like a detective, "Sugoi ne, Ken-chin, you meet a lotta people." Mikey praised.

"You were there too, Mikey," Draken replied.

'He met me? The question is...did I even bumped into this guy?' Ryota said, questioning himself, "Really, I was? What were we doing in 2002 anyways?" Mikey asked, completely forgetting about that incident. Draken sighed before explaining things to Mikey, "We were joy riding from Shibuya to Kyoto, but you somehow got lost, and we have to search for you everywhere in Kyoto. But I wasn't paying enough attention to the road because my eyes were everywhere. My bike hit someone else's car."

Shigeru's mind got strike after what Draken said, 'I remember him now. He's that guy who ruined my car's side mirror. And he's Toman's Vice leader. I really should find a way to expel Baji from the school trip. So toman won't get involved, and ruin the plan'. Ryota proposed in his mind.

'But first, I need to get out of here to be asked for further more information about me.' Ryota stood up and bowed at the two, "I'm sorry, but it has been a long day for me too. Nice to meet you both. But I have to go."

Draken's eyes followed Ryota's disappearing figure, with his brows meeting each other, "I know what you're thinking," Mikey said, which made Draken look at him, "So you knew."

Mikey smiled at him, "I remember everything about what happened in Kyoto back in 2002. How could I not? I was the main character there."

"Then why'd put up an act?" Draken asked. "He's kind of easy to read. When you said you met someone who looked like him, he panicked on the inside, trying to think if he met someone like you. I thought I might help him remember. That's why I asked you what happened for him to hear."

Draken chuckled at Mikey's smartness, "And he left all of a sudden. Seems like he doesn't wanna get involved with you, Ken-chin," Mikey said, sipping an unknown milkshake.

"Hey, who's milkshake is that?" Draken asked, crossing his arms, "Oh...this?" Mikey said, raising the cup. "It's Baji's. He never drank it. What a waste of milkshake." Draken shook his head a little, "pfft, finish that up. We're meetin' Baji later."

Mikey nodded, offering Draken the straw to make him drink too.

Baji arrived at the toman's usual meeting place, seeing Mikey and Draken from afar talking about something.

"What's up?" Baji said, greeting the two.

"Sit. I'm gonna jump onto the main topic." Baji refused and remained standing up.

"It's about... Ryota Shigeru." That name alone caught Baji's attention, making him want to listen more to what Draken is gonna say.

"I can't get this out of my head. But I think I met him somewhere, the same face with a different surname. Ryota Minami, I bumped into him and asked for his name to pay him for the damage in his car.

It's not in my vocabulary to pay. But I recognize Ryota Minami as the son of the leader of a dangerous gang. And my priority is to find Mikey who was lost in Kyoto, not pick a fight with a gang leader's son." Draken said.

"Minami... Isn't that the leader's surname of the famous gang in the 1990s that dissolved in 2001? What was his full name again, Hiroshi Minami?" Baji asked.

"From the surname Minami, we can all tell it's the Southside, and there's only one Minami," Mikey included.

Baji shook his head, "wait, wait, so what are you trying to prove here, Draken?" Baji asked, confused.

"What I'm trying to say is that Ryota Shigeru might be that Ryota Minami. Only son of the 1st generation Southside leader, Hiroshi Minami. Hiroshi who got arrested for mass murdering and hanged himself inside his cell." Draken said.

"And if my hunch was true about Ryota Shigeru being Ryota Minami, then the twins are in danger...I heard from my connections that, southside is prolly going to rise again and have its 2nd generation. No one knows who the leader will be, but I'm pretty sure it's going to be Hiroshi's son."

"How are the twins in danger?" Baji asked, completely shook with what was going on. "This was a secret between gangs, but the reason why Hiroshi Minami got arrested even though police couldn't hold single information of his whereabouts, is because his former left hand ratted him out..."

"Former...left hand? more like the southside former vice-leader?" Baji implied, earning a nod from Draken. "Yes, and his best friend too. Yoshiyuki Matsuno."

Baji was left speechless by that name.... 'Yoshiyuki...Matsuno.' The memory of Baji going through the photo albums owned by the Matsuno's flashed before his eyes. Remembering Mr. Matsuno's picture standing beside someone and both wearing a southside uniform.

"Maybe that's why Yoshiyuki Matsuno got killed because he ratted out his best friend," Draken concluded. "I supposed Y/n gave you a little storytelling about her past. It must be traumatizing for her, but she didn't hesitate to trust you in taking care of Chifuyu regardless of what happened in her past that involves delinquents like us."

"There's no way Yoshuyuki Matsuno will rat out his best friend. From the pictures of them I saw in the Matsuno household, they were happy." Baji resorted back.

"I said, maybe," Draken cleared. "So, in the meantime, keep your eyes on her and at your vice-captain," Mikey added, giving Baji a smile. "Tell me how Ryota and Y/n became friends," Draken said.

"Y/n's a transferee, so Ryota and her became friends last week because he volunteered to be her accompaniment in being a class representative," Baji explained.

"Pretty suspicious, because who wants to be a fucking class representative? That's like a huge pain in the ass," Mikey said, making Draken roll his eyes.

"If all of our discussion was right, including the part where the 2nd generation of the southside might rise. Then never look away from Y/n. Ryota might make his move out of the blue. He probably wants to avenge his dad." Draken said, warning Baji.

"You must also know that Kyoto is like the Minami's backyard. Hiroshi Minami reigned over Kyoto. Buying every famous place, using dirty money. And your school's trip is to Kyoto. Ryota might make a move there because it's easy for him to move since he knows every alley and street there." Draken keeps adding information that Baji keeps taking on.

Mikey stood up from sitting on the ground and placed his hands on Baji's shoulder, "Don't worry. We're here to help you. We'll take Chifuyu in with us during the trip. You just have to make sure you stay out of trouble so the teacher will find a reason to let you on the trip. From my perspective, I think his target's more likely to be Y/n," The blonde said, reassuring and warning his friend.

Baji exhaled and, tap Mikey's hand on his shoulder, "Thank you, you too, Draken."

Draken grinned and smacked Baji's back, wrapping his arms around Baji's neck, "Idiot, no need to thank Mikey and me. We're all friends here, right?" Baji nodded before Draken lets go of him.

"I'll go ahead then," Baji bid them goodbye, straddling on his bike and left.

"Ken-chin...have you noticed something different in him lately?" Mikey asked, sitting back on the ground.

Draken placed his hands inside his pocket before sighing, "Yeah. The twins unlocked a soft spot in Baji's heart in just weeks for good."

"I was worried he'd be like that forever. I thought I was gonna die only seeing one part of Baji's personality. But Y/n changed that," Mikey said,

staring afar at the stars in the sky.

Baji's POV

It has been a week and three days since that confidential information Draken and Mikey gave me.

The school trip's the day after tomorrow, which means one more day to stay out of trouble. I had been keeping my fist to myself, but this damn Ryota bastard kept getting into my nerves. The worst is, I think he's doing it on purpose to annoy me.

It's making me think that he really is planning something, but he needs to kick me out of the frame to do so. He had been pissing me off purposely.

He knows too well how to stir the anger in me. I swear, I'll beat the shit out of him after this trip.

I also had been very close to Y/n. We spent our time together almost every day this week writing love letters, which she didn't know that I stopped writing letters for Hanako.

But that's the only reason I know to keep her close to me until the Minami problem subdues.

I hope she doesn't find me suspicious for sticking around. I didn't tell her about the Minami issue. Knowing her attitude, she would do something about it real quick, not because she doesn't want to get harmed, but because of Chifuyu.

I will never understand how valuable Chifuyu is to her since I had never been in her shoes before. But I want to support her and help her. I want to lessen the pain she's carrying her whole life, even though there's no guarantee that I won't hurt her in the near future. I know for myself that I'm an asshole.

I also had been staying at the apartment lobby. Or outside the building, if I'm not that sleepy.

"Keisuke." A voice caught my attention. It was Y/n. I looked at her waiting for her to speak. "Can I call you Keisuke?" she said, grinning from ear to ear, holding a can of beer from her mom's mini-fridge.

She said she wants to try drinking for once, and we can't buy one since we're under 20. But then she remembered that her mom had a lot in her fridge.

"You've been calling me that for an hour now, so I guess it's fine," I replied. It's Y/n's fourth can now. I'm surprised she can handle this much Asahi beer.

I kept doodling on the paper while she was there getting drunk. I'm currently in her house right now. Chifuyu's out to hang out with Mikey and others for some reason. They said they wanted to take him driving around Shibuya.

I hear laughing beside him. Y/n's such a crazy-ass, getting drunk for nothing.

She's been cracking the jokes the whole time and stopped. I guess she got tired of talking. "Keisuke, I have a joke again!" Oh, never mind, there she is.

"What is it, now?" I asked. I don't know, but for some reason, I want to laugh. Not because of her jokes, but because of how she says them.

"What did Light say when L caught him?" She asked with her face blushing because of the alcohol.

She's been telling me this joke a lot tonight. I lost count.

But I decided to play along. Who knows what Y/n will do to me. She might punch the bones out of my body. "What?" I responded.

"Yagami," She said before bursting out laughing. I chuckled at her reaction every time. Seriously, she's so pure when she drinks.

She suddenly stopped laughing, and her head slammed on the mini table in front of us, causing me to flinch because of the sudden 'bang' sound.

I check on her, worried she might've bled, "Hey, hey, are you alive?" I tapped on her shoulders a lot of times but didn't get a response. I heard a cute snoring sound, so I brushed her hair away from her face only to see her sleeping like a kid.

I exhaled, knowing she was okay. I raised her head to check if there was a bump on her forehead. "Look, now your forehead's swelling," I said, tapping the small bump on her forehead. She didn't seem to care and continued sleeping. I sighed, "Well, next time, don't take more than four drinks at the same time."

I positioned her to carry her in a bridal style towards her room upstairs. She's light, considering the height difference between us. I successfully moved her into her bedroom and tucked her in her blankets.

I rested in her bed for a while and left the room, closing the door.

I went to the kitchen to drink something and saw a note, "I'll be home this weekend take care of your brother. Wish me luck for this business trip<3" Oh, so that's why Y/n's being carefree about drinking it's because her mom's away.

She's really independent. It turns me on. WAIT, WHAT? NO. Snap out of it, Keisuke. You're going mad. I wonder if It's okay for her for me to stay here. Haaa, I'm feeling worn out.

I flopped myself on the soft couch. My back felt comforted for the first time in 10 hours when it hit the soft mattress. I immediately fall asleep after closing my eyes for a bit.

I heard walking sounds. I chose to Ignore them because It's probably Chifuyu. But the noise was coming from upstairs instead of the door. I sat up, slowly opening my eyes, and roamed them around the house.

Until my eyes caught a figure inside a pinkish blanket, walking towards me. "Y/n?" I said. Y/n lifted the cover only to reveal herself with her messy hair, but her eyes were still closed. "What's up, is there something troubling you?" I asked.

She groaned and ran towards me, hugging me, "Cold...It's cold upstairs." How is it cold? the ac was on a low fan. "Okay, I'll turn the ac off. Let's go back there again," I said, convincing her, but she won't budge. Instead, she buried her face on my neck, and I could feel her breath against my skin.

"No, Izh shtill cwold," she mumbled. I sighed and chuckled, 'what the hell? she's so adorable.'

She then got off me and pushed me to lay down on the couch and snuggled herself up back in my arms, with my arms as her pillow. "Warm," she said and fell asleep not long after that.

I placed my hand on her waist to keep her from falling on the floor. "Yeah, you're right. It's warm," I said, wrapping the both of us with the blanket she brought before trying to drift off to sleep again.

"Keisuke..." Y/n called out, making me respond and lost my concentration in trying to sleep, "yeah?"

I waited for her reply, but instead, I felt a slight pressure in my cheeks for a second. 'Did she just kiss me?' I wondered to myself.

"I like you, dumbass."

"Huh?" I looked at her only to see her sleeping peacefully again, "Hey, say that again," I said, shaking her shoulders a little, but I never received a reply.

I sighed and looked at the ceiling, and the three words she said a minute ago flashed in my brain, making me blush.

'What the fuck. Why am I reacting this way? I know she is just drunk and all,' I covered my face with my other hand before placing it back again.

I woke up by two stainless lids hitting against each other, creating a very defeaning and annoying noise. "WAKE UP, WAKE UP, WAKE UP, WAKE UP, WAKE UP," Chifuyu said continuously without stopping until me; and Y/n woke up.

I was the first one to wake up, earning a pinch on the ear, "Ow, ow, ow, what the hell?" Chifuyu didn't budge, "Did you plan this with Mikey-Kun, so you can have a chance to be with my sister alone the whole night?"

"No! I wasn't even planning on staying the night, but your mom says she won't come home until the weekend."

Chifuyu let go of my ear and dropped the stainless lid he was holding, "Wake her up and let's eat. I already prepared breakfast."

He said before carrying Inu in his arms. I'm still wonderin' why he named his cat, 'dog.'

Y/n and I arrived at the kitchen to see a properly cooked meal, "For a second, I thought you were going to feed us cat food." Baji said before sitting.

Y/n just sat there half awake and not even remembering where she slept last night. It's a good thing she doesn't remember. I don't want her beating me up first thing in the morning.

"Oi, eat properly, 'neesan," Chifuyu said to her sister, who's half-awake and can't even eat properly. Chifuyu snatched the spoon in her fingers, feeding her instead.

"My head hurts, Chifuyu," She whined, leaning her head on Chifuyu's shoulder, "Yeah, I know. I already bought a hangover pill. But you got to eat first."

"I want to take it nowwwwww," Y/n said. "No. Now finish this."

I can't help but admire the relationship they have. I never had a sibling, maybe, that's why. The only people who taught me to care about others were Mikey and the others.

I'm happy Y/n has someone to lean on when she doesn't know yet that I exist. "Why are you smiling like an idiot?" Chifuyu's voice then made me snapped out of my thoughts. "Nothing," I said.

After that hard time getting Y/n to prepare for school, the three of us arrived in great shape. "Hey Keisuke, are you sure I did nothing weird last night? I kept getting the feeling of guiltiness," Y/n said, biting her fingers and looking at me. "I said, no. How many times did you ask about this already?" She exhaled at my answer and smiled.

"Okay, let's go to classss!" she said, pointing her fingers at our classroom before pulling me with her. 'Agh, she has too much energy.'

We arrived at the classroom. I felt Deja vu when we both stepped a foot inside the lecture room. Everyone was whispering against each other, "Damn, who did this kind of thing?" "I know right, she's so kind, and she gets treated like this."

'Woah, this is really a Deja Vu feeling.'

"Y/n!" Ryota said, approaching us. Well, except for this prick right here, it's not Deja Vu anymore.

"What's happening? why is everybody looking at me again as the last time?" Y/n said with a shaky voice. Ryota showed her an explicit picture of her.

"This photo got spread today. I even found one under my desk." Ryota said. I stole the piece of photo paper from his hand to look at the image. 'Why? why do they have to treat her like this?'

I have a feeling that it's someone close who did this. If this Ryota guy was the one who did it, I might lose it and break his stupid-looking face.

I ripped the paper with my very hands and threw it at his face, "fuck off."

Ryota scoffed in disbelief, "Why are you mad at me?" Ryota asked. "Oh? Really? Let's see if you can still say that after I find out who did this. If it's you, get ready to be killed," I said, threatening him.

He grabbed my collar, "Who do you think you're accusing? I had been very busy with the school trip." 'Heh, school trip, my ass, you coward.'

"Y/n Matsuno, report to the principal's office immediately." A voice from the speaker said. "I repeat, Y/n Matsuno, report to the principal's office immediately."

Ryota, let's go of me. I looked at Y/n, who quietly walked out of the classroom with her head down.

I held her hand, stopping her from walking, and she looked at me with her eyes, almost wanting to cry. "Let's go together. I won't let you deal with that alone."

"Neesan!" We heard Chifuyu's voice from afar. He came running towards us, "I heard from the speaker. What's up?" Chifuyu said, worried about his sister.

"I'll tell you about it later, Chifuyu," I said as he read the room to as why.

"That's not me, sir. I had never taken that picture. I don't even have a phone to myself." Y/n said, calmly defending herself.

"She's right, sir. I was with her too this whole week." Ryota added. Damn, I feel like I have no contribution to this.

"My sister's really busy, sir. Our mom is always out for business. She takes care of me and our house. Oh and, also our cat, Inu." Chifuyu added, making the principal feel giddy and confused with the cat's name. 'This dumbass, mentioning the cat was really unnecessary.' I thought to myself.

The principal looked at me, waiting for me to say something too. "Uh... I take her home every day," shit, that's all I can say? I'm such a loser. I heard Ryota let a small laugh.

When the principal looked away, I smacked Ryota's head with my arm. "Ow, what the hell is your problem, fangs?" I ignored him and stood straight.

The three of us stood behind Y/n's chair. I feel like a bodyguard right now. "Okay, since we have no lead. I'm going to have to make you wait while we find out who did this. I trust you, Ms. Matsuno. You had very excellent report cards and reviews from other schools that you entered. So there's no way you would do this, right?" Y/n then nodded at the principal.

"Okay, we'll burn those pictures right away."

"I'll collect them, sir," I volunteered, and he nodded.

3rd person's POV

After school

Baji's currently in the school's backyard with you, burning the photos. Yous at there quietly thinking, why are bad things happening again?

Baji approached you and sat beside you, "Why don't you go rest to the infirmary first?" he said. You stood up, "Yeah. I'll go," was all yous and left Baji there.

"Hey, Baji," someone called Baji, making him look to the side only to see Mitsuya, Hakkai, Nahoya, and Souya with a girl Baji can't recognize.

Baji approached them, "Hey, where's Draken and Mikey?" Mitsuya shrugged, "Well, they were busy and went to sent me with Hakkai."

Baji pointed at the remaining two, Souya and Nahoya, with a 'how about them?' face. Mitsuya looked at them and chuckled, "I found them on the way here, and they said they want to tag along. Angry's kinda useful. He scared this little girl with his face alone to the point where she confessed everything to us." Mitsuya said, pointing at the girl who's hidin' in his back.

'Why is she not afraid of Mitsuya? Well, Mitsuya's the only one looking trustworthy compared to the three.'

"Go ahead. Baji won't bite. Just tell him the truth," Mitsuya said, convincing the girl.

"Well, our work's done here. We'll get going." Mitsuya said before waving and bidding him goodbye. The three followed him and left, leaving the girl with Baji alone.

"So... what's your name, what club?" Baji asked. "Nara Nakamura, Photography club," The girl replied. Baji placed his hands inside his pocket, "Well, Nakamura-chan. I hope you know that I ain't playing games here. Now tell me... who did this?" Baji said, hoping for a direct answer.

"Me, but it's not what you think. I got threatened." the girl backed up her words quickly before Baji could talk back at her. "Then explain quickly. Is it Ryota Shigeru?"

Nara looked at him in shock before looking away, "If you already know, then why did are you still asking for your friends to find the one who did it?"

"So it's him, huh?" Baji said, exploding inside out of anger. "J-just please don't involve me in this—," before Nara could finish, Baji walked past her, with his fist clenched tightly. Nara followed Baji, afraid Baji might involve her.

Baji looked for Ryota, only to see him talking to Y/n in the hallway. Baji didn't hesitate to grab Ryota by his uniform and shoved him to the nearest wall. Ryota's back made a cracking sound, satisfying Baji a little.

"A broken backbone is not only what you deserve, you perverted bitch," He said, pinning Ryota on the wall.

"Baji!" Y/n shouted. "Let him go. What's wrong with you?" Baji ignored Y/n's voice and focused on the person in front of him. All Baji could think about was to kill Shigeru. He was fuming mad, and he didn't even know why. All he knows is he doesn't want anyone hurting Y/n.

"What are you talking about?" Ryota said before his eyes captured Nara behind Baji. 'Oh shit, did she tell him?' Ryota panicked. "Look here, Shigeru. Not at Nara. What? afraid she might say something to ruin your—"

Shigeru pushed Baji on the floor and raised his fist, getting ready to hit Keisuke, but he stopped midway. Baji smirked at him, "Go ahead. Punch me. Scared?" the lad said, provoking the other.

Baji then had the chance to hit Ryota's stomach, giving him the freedom to move away from Ryota. And just as Ryota was dwelling in pain. He grabbed a frame that was hanged at the hallway's wall and slammed it on Shigeru, but Shigeru protected himself with his arms placed on his head.

You flinched and gasped, 'I should stop them,' you commanded to yourself, but your body won't listen to you. You can't move a single muscle.

You stood there and waited for someone to stop them. You're just tired and hoping to catch a break from everything that had been happening today. 'Why can't I just catch a break.'

Your vision starts to get blurry. You're still glued in your place. And the only thing you can do is wait for your body and mind to shut down.

You dropped, and the last thing you heard was Baji shouting your name.

"So, you're telling me that Ryota Shigeru was the one behind those pictures?" the principal asked, not really buying what Baji told him.

Baji nodded, "Yeah. I have proof," Baji pulled Nara, who was standing at the corner of the principal's office.

The principal looked at Nara and Baji, "So...wait, what is your point, Mr. Baji?"

"Ryota threatened Nara Nakamura into editing those photos. She's from the photography club and is known for her editing skills." Baji explained.

"Ms. Nakamura. Is that true?" the principal asked.

Nara looked at Ryota, who was giving her the eye. Nara got scared and remembered what Ryota told him, causing her to lie, "No. I just got dragged in this. I was passing by the hallway when they started beating each other."

Baji looked at Nara with disbelief, "Why are you lying? You just told me the truth about 20 minutes ago?" Baji stood, up gripping Nara's shoulder tightly, "Y...you're hurting me," Nara whined.

Ryota stood up and shoved Baji's hand away from Nara. "Leave her alone. We all want to know who did that to Y/n. But don't you think what you're doing is too pathetic and desperate."

The principal sighed before talking, "With this behavior. I can't let you join the trip. I'm sorry, Mr. Baji," the principal said, taking off his glasses.

Ryota rejoiced in his thoughts, giving Baji a smirk. 'I thought he already found out because he had been sticking to her this whole week. But I can now breathe properly knowing Baji's out of the picture.' Ryota thought to himself.

"But sir, I had been out of trouble for a whole week, and you know how I act. I couldn't possibly stay out of trouble, but I did. So don't do this to me."

"You're a ticking time bomb that might explode anytime, Mr. Baji. Please understand. You should be thankful I didn't expel you. This is a serious thing. Accusing your classmate of a crime he didn't do is not fun."

"Fun?! do you think I'm fucking joking?" Baji fought back.

"Language Keisuke Baji! I am still the principal of this school." The principal said, scolding the lad.

Baji raised both his hands up, "You know what? Your school trip is shit anyways. Prolly the shittiest school trip to exist. I don't even know why the students are paying for that. It doesn't even have tight security. So screw you and screw you, coward."

Baji said, pointing at the principal and at Ryota before leaving. While slamming the door and giving the principal a middle finger.

"You're just going to let that go, sir?" Ryota asked. "He's always like that. My nephew never changes." The principal said, laughing a little.

'Hmm, so that's why. Damn, Baji, your relatives are everywhere. I'll let you have that, I guess.' Ryota thought to himself. Shigeru bowed and left the principal's office together with Nara.

You woke up feeling dizzy, and your eyes couldn't seem to focus on your surrounding. "Oh, neesan, you're awake." You heard Chifuyu's voice echoing in your ears.

"Chifuyu?" you looked around to look for one more person and got disappointed, realizing they weren't there. "Are you looking for someone, neesan?" Chifuyu asked.

"No, I was just checking where we are," It was a lie.

'I had been attached to Keisuke. He had been staying beside me for straight a week. So how could I not look for him, especially in a situation like this?' you thought to yourself.

"Baji san left minutes ago. He went there to check on you, but you were still unconscious. He said he won't make it tomorrow to the trip." Chifuyu said, making you feel discouraged about the fact; that Baji won't be going on the trip.

"He accused someone of a crime without proof. Glad the principal let it slide since no one saw it because the school already ended other than that girl in the photography club." Chifuyu said.

'If Baji really accused Ryota without proof, he could've beat Ryota the first time he saw him this morning. But he held back. I'm not really buying it. Someone must've been pulling all the strings,' you conceived to yourself.

"Let's go home, Chifuyu."

Baji slammed the door open to his house only to be welcomed by Mikey and Draken at his living room, "The heck are you guys doing here?" Baji said, irritated.

"We heard you beat someone up in school," Mikey said, walking around the living room.

"Gossip sure circulates fast around here," Baji said, making a way to the couch to sit next to Draken.

"Bet your uncle kicked you off the school trip," Draken said, letting out a small laugh. "Yeah, he thinks he could control me just because he's my dad's brother and the school principal," Baji said before drinking a can of beer from the table.

"Who let you guys in here?" the lad asked. "Your mother was here before and left the house to us," Mikey answered.

"So, got a backup plan, big boy?" Draken questioned, crossing his arms.

Baji smirked at Draken's question, "Of course. Hey, it's me we're talking about." Draken and Mikey scoffed sarcastically.

"I don't need to be in that fucking school trip just to be in the school trip. I have my bike. I'll follow Y/n to Kyoto, be it wherever she goes, I'll be there." Baji said proudly.

"Is that some kind of a movie scene?" Chifuyu scornfully but jokingly asked, arriving at the scene. "Why's he here?" Draken asked. "Chifuyuuuuuuu!" Mikey said, welcoming Chifuyu in.

"I told him about Minami. Incase." Baji stated.

"Don't worry, I won't bring Chifuyu to Kyoto," Baji said before Draken could say something regarding that.

"How's your sister?" Baji asked, concerned, 'I could have been there for her, but after what happened, I felt embarrassed. She might think I'm nuts now.' Baji thought to himself.

"She's okay now. She's already packing her things for tomorrow. She hasn't spoken since we left the school infirmary. She seems kind of disappointed that you weren't going to attend—," Baji choked on his beer in the middle of Chifuyu's sentence and ran to the bathroom immediately.

"Oya? What's up with him?" Draken asked. "I don't know. He's weird these days," Chifuyu replied.

"Did anyone see him blush? No? Just me? Okay," Mikey added.

Baji sat on the toilet, "What the hell, control yourself, Keisuke. You can't be flustered in front of those mother fuckers. They'll tease you about it and won't leave you alone for the rest of your life." Baji scolded himself.

"Pizza is here, y'all lazy motherfuckers!" Baji rose up from the seat after recognizing that voice. 'Is that...Peh-yan? Why are all of them here?'

'What's the occasion— oh...Draken's birthday. But today is the 13th. Why did he celebrate so late?'

Baji went out of the bathroom to see almost all of the captains and vice-captains of toman's divisions are here. "Oh, you're there. C'mere!" Chifuyu said, dragging me to sit with him.

"Shouldn't you be home, Chifuyu?" Baji asked. "No. I'm already staying out tonight. My baggage's there," Chifuyu said, pointing at his backpack.

'Oh well, maybe a little fun won't hurt. After all, I have bigger things to do tomorrow.' Baji considered to himself before again opening a can of beer. He then joined everybody in the living room that was either eating, having fun, sleeping, or yelling.

"Cheers to Draken! For celebrating his birthday late because he forgot and all of us also forgot!" Mikey stated, almost rapping.

"Cheers!" everybody answered even though they didn't understand a single thing Mikey just said because It was too fast.

l.s

Chapter Text

3rd person's POV

"Hmmmnm𝅘𝅥𝅮 𝅘𝅥𝅮 " you enjoyed the rhythm of the music in your head as you prepare your breakfast. "I wonder If Chifuyu ate," you wondered to yourself, grabbing the ketchup from the shelf and pour an average amount in your omurice.

Thou sat on your seat and started eating, looking at the walls around your house. "Hence that there may be a possibility that Ryota was the one behind that leakage of the photo. I still need to be fair to him because there aren't any proofs in the first place."

You looked at the two bentos you prepared for you and Ryota. "Well, this is all I can do."

You grabbed your backpack and your mini trolly luggage and were ready to head out. You opened the door only to be welcome by Chifuyu, who was going to open the door.

You both laughed when you realized what was going on.

"Why are you here? Shouldn't you be in school now too?" you asked. Chifuyu stole your luggage, "yeah, but I figured out this luggage will be heavy for you." He replied, smiling at you.

"More like you have a favor to ask," you said, teasing your brother shocking him, "Ah! Hey no! that's not it!" Chifuyu resorted back, pouting.

You chuckled at his reaction and hurried him to move before both of you could miss the train, "Relax. You don't need to worry about the train," Chifuyu said before wagging a key attached in a keychain with his index finger.

"That key..." you said, recognizing the appearance of the thing in Chifuyu's finger. "Yep, let's go, let's go," Chifuyu said, excitedly pulling you towards the parking lot.

"Mikey taught me last time, this is the first time I'm ridin' it without guides from him," Chifuyu said proudly, "What does that have to do with me?" you asked with a hint of happiness for your brother, "Well, I want my first ride to be with you, the most important person in my life— I mean, yeah mom too, but there's no way three would fit, and she's not here—"

Chifuyu's words were interrupted, receiving a hug from his sister, making him smile and hugging her back tightly.

You let go of him and noticed him blushing, "Oya, You're blushing?" you said, teasing him. Chifuyu panicked, causing him to move recklessly, dropping the keys from his hands. "I was just teasing you, stupid," you let out a laugh, earning a groan from the other.

"You're such a meanie."

"Hai~, Hai~. I'm sorry," you said, smiling, making your way to hop on the bike. You noticed the leader seat isn't new and conspired that maybe Chifuyu borrowed it, so you decided to ask, "Who's bike is this by the way—," Chifuyu started to drive with a speed of light, ahead of what you were about, to say, "Mother fucker!"

Both of you arrived at the school gates. You didn't realize and stayed there sitting like a zombie, "Ahhh...Chifuyu. Be honest with me," you said with your mouth still gasping and panting. "What? are you okay?" Chifuyu asked.

"Was it really Mikey who taught you?" You asked, trying to stand with your back hurting. "Yeah, why?" Chifuyu asked, rushing to help you. "Neesan, you okay?"

"Why do I feel like Baji was the one who taught you," you said, making Chifuyu laugh. You looked at him with a scary face as soon as you heard him.

Chifuyu sealed his mouth immediately after seeing your annoyed face and helped you carry your luggage, avoiding your stare.

You roamed your eyes around, hoping to see Baji even for a bit before you left. 'Why am I looking for him? It's just a school trip. What the heck.'

You felt a pair of hands covering your eyes. You felt excited, thinking it was the person you wanted to see. Only to be disappointed because it doesn't feel the same as him. "Oh c'mon, why didn't you guess," Ryota removed his hands away from your face, facing you with his smile like nothing happened to him yesterday.

He flinched with the sudden sting he felt, "Ah," you looked at Ryota, who's wincing in pain. "Hey, what's wrong?" you asked, checking on him tapping the side of his lips, soothing it to lessen the sting.

You saw a cut on his lips. Caused by the glass that was slammed on him yesterday, "Woah, that's a little deep. I'm sorry," you said, removing his fingers from his cut, and soothe it instead with your fingers, gently. "You relieve it mildly like this, not like the previous one you did. You'll only add more fuel to the fire."

Feeling guilty about yesterday, you didn't mind helping him a little. "Don't apologize. It wasn't you who did this, alright?" Ryota said, removing your fingers from his cut and hold it in his hand while looking at you.

You looked at him for a second before looking away. You find it uncomfortable for some reason. "Still," you insisted. He placed your hand on his cheek, your palms touching his skin, causing you to flinch.

"If you really feel that bad, how about you take care of me during the trip?"

'What? is he nuts?' you thought to yourself. You thought about it for a second, 'Tch... either way, I'm still kind of responsible for this because there wasn't a solid proof in the first place, so why should I hate him?' your mind is battling on what to do before you can think of an answer to Ryota's question.

You removed your hand from him, "fine, I'm gonna head inside the bus. My back hurts," you said as an excuse not to see his face, 'Agh, this is all his fault. Fuck you, Baji. I'm gonna beat the shit out of you if I see you even once.'

You sat down in one of the seats and closed your eyes.

"That mother fu—,"

"Chill," Chifuyus said, holding Baji in his place. "What? did you see that bastard hold her just now?" Baji said, wanting to just go out there and slam Ryota's face at the bu's wheel.

"Yeah, I want to shove his face on the ground too, but we can't just attack," Chifuyu reasoned and pointed his fingers at the principal, "And the principal is also there, I bet he's guarding because he knows you'll sneak out."

Baji scoffed, "That baldy. I told him his school trip is shit, so why would I sneak in?" Chifuyu looked back at him with a face full of questions, "seriously, you're not afraid of everyone, are you?"

Baji spitted on the ground after the other's question. Chifuyu shook his head, disappointed, "I'll take that as a yes."

The bus started its engine, and the principal called the students to give a little orientation about the trip, including you, who was already inside came out to listen. "Tch, he talks so much...can't they just leave?" Keisuke complained.

"I'm gonna go. I'll be late," Chifuyu said, making his way out of the bush they were hiding. Baji gripped his wrist, not letting him go. "No, stay here," Chifuyu insisted and shrugged Baji's hand off, "No, I gotta study. Don't forget to contact me if something happens," Chifuyu winked at Baji and left.

After the short orientation, the principal welcomed all the students with a smile. He then signaled them to go inside the bus. The students were all excited, and you could see it in their faces. Baji saw you shifting your head from left to right like you're looking for someone or something.

"What is she looking for?" Baji asked himself, looking at you. 'Well, I hope she's looking for me. Sucks for you, Ryota.'

Ryota approached you, who was busy looking for Baji, wanting to go inside the bus to sit next to you. Baji groaned in annoyance at the scene happening in front of him. "Tch."

Baji lets out a sigh before chugging his coffee empty and throwing it somewhere. He got out of the bush and neared his Suzuki, straddling it.

While the bus isn't leaving the school ground yet, Baji wore his leather jacket over his drop armhole shirt with skulls imprinted. "Ugh, what's takin' that bus too long. My bike got properly warmed up before they can even move." Baji wore his earphones, his playlist in shuffle mode.

The lad let out a long sigh, "This'll be a long ride. But it's fine. This way I, can still see her anyways. That's what makes it worth it." Without realizing it to himself, he was already smiling at the thought of Y/n.

Baji slapped himself to wake up from his own thoughts, "Snap out of it, Lil bitch."

'Smells like teen spirit by Nirvana' started playing on his earphone just as the bus started moving and leaving the school gate. "Hah, what perfect timing."

Baji started his engine again and followed the bus going to Kyoto. Without getting noticed by anyone.

"Hmm, I'm guessing this bus will stop somewhere in the middle of Shibuya and Kyoto for an hour break," Baji said to himself, planning on going ahead of the bus.

"It'll be somewhere in Shizuoka prefecture," Baji said before speeding ahead of the bus, making his way to Shizuoka prefecture.

You rose up from your seat to take a closer look at the window, hearing a familiar sound of a bike rushing ahead of your vehicle. 'Is that Baji? No way. Why did he speed up ahead the vehicle if it was him?' you said to yourself because the location of stops is only told to the class representatives, not to the students unless it's time to stop. And you also don't remember telling him information about the stops.

'Maybe he's just smart. Why do I wish that It was him?' You asked yourself.

You sighed and leaned your back on the seat again. 'This is bad. I can't deny the thoughts in my head that I missed Baji.'

'That stupid fuck, he didn't even say goodbye to me—no, wait. Why am I getting mad? It's not like he's my boyfriend.' You scold yourself, placing your elbow on the seat's armrest while your cheek rested on your palm, and sat back quietly, sulking.

"What's wrong? Are you upset over something?" Ryota asked, making you go back to reality, "Ah...no. Just tired," 'Tsk, he always goes around and reads my emotions. It's annoying.' you said to yourself.

Ryota raised the armrest back, connecting both of your's seats, and tapped his shoulder as a signal, "Here, you can lean on my shoulders and sleep."

You chuckled nervously, thinking of ways to turn his offer down without hurting his feelings. "I-it's okay, I'm not a kid. I can manage my posture when I'm sleeping,"

'Well, that's a lie. I couldn't fully restrain myself. I remembered cuddling with Baji the other night because I was totally wasted. Come to think of it? Does he recall that? I think he does.' You conceived to yourself.

"Okay, but my shoulders are free if you want to lean on it anytime?" Ryota said, beaming at you, 'geez, why is he growing so pushy as days go by?' thou thought to yourself, displeased.

Baji arrived within Hamamatsu City in Shizuoka, prefecture, in no time. "Geez, I'm an hour and thirty minutes early than them," Baji said, parking his motorcycle at a gas station, turning his engine off to go pee in a public restroom when he received a text from Hakkai Shiba.

Hakkai Shiba: "Ey, uh. Yeah, this is Mitsuya— I borrowed Hakkai's phone."

Baji looked at his screen confused, "Why the fuck should I know that—," the lad flipped his phone back and was going to place it in his pocket when it rang again. Displaying new messages received from Hakkai.

Hakkai Shiba: "I just got home from your school to pick up the information you wanted."

Hakkai Shiba: "The school bus is going to have a fifteen to thirty-minute break stop in Hamamatsu City in Shizuoka before traveling again for the next three hours."

Hakkai Shiba: "They estimated to arrive in Kyoto at lunch or after lunch. School prepared activities are gonna start tomorrow."

Hakkai Shiba: "The trip actually takes a turn, class after class. Your section was the first one to have the first trip. There are too many third years this year. That's why the trip is divided by class. Class 3-B will have their trip after the class 3-A"

Hakkai Shiba: "They'll be staying in Marufuku Hotel in Higashiyama, Kyoto."

Hakkai Shiba: "And about the southside, we haven't got any information about it yet. So don't worry, maybe it's all just rumors. Rising the southside back to the dead will be a risk. I can't explain the reason why only in text. I'm already spamming you a lot right now. Bye."

Baji felt satisfied knowing his guess was correct. "Tch, what is he, a detective? He's way too talented. God loves him so much."

The fellow got out of the bathroom to sit back on his bike, feeling bored. "Ah, what to do... I'm bored," Baji uttered, removing one earphone in his ear and headed towards the vending machine. "Cola...cola..." Baji mumbles as he searches for it inside the machine. "Huh? The fuck?" He kicked the machine in disbelief, "who the fuck doesn't put cola in a soda machine?"

He was about to walk away when he remembered something. He tilted his head as he looked back at the vending machine, "Wait—" he placed his finger in his jaw and at the machine glass, "If they don't have cola, and the bus that Y/n is in will stop here, then...Nah, maybe she brought water with her— wait, it's gonna be a little hot if they arrive here, of course, she'll crave for a cola." Baji walked around in circles.

"That's it! I'm buying her cola. I don't want that bastard Ryota to buy her soda and drink from it like fucking pervert." Baji immediately ran back to his bike to start the engine, leaving the gas station.

Baji was driving at a moderate pace, directly spotting a convenience store. "Oh, bullseye." He entered the convenience store to look for cola, planning only to find, pay, and leave, but a thing caught his attention.

"Ah... How could I possibly ignore you..." Baji said and was about to look away and head to the counter, but he couldn't resist the yakisoba he saw. "Ah fuck it. There's a lot of time anyways, and peyoung yakisoba can't wait for lunch."

Baji then got an idiotic idea while waiting for the yakisoba to be cooked. He grabbed his phone and dialed the school number without hesitation, grinning from ear to ear. After some beats, Baji got connected to the school line. "Hello, this is xxx Gakuen. How can I help you?"

Baji restrained his laughter as soon as he heard the voice of the principal's secretary. The lad then started clearing his throat to change his voice, "Uh...I would like to talk to Chifuyu Matsuno from class 1-A," he said, faking his voice and cough. "Wait for a second. May I know who this is and what your concern is?"

Baji hissed under his breath, 'Just give him the damn phone, seriously.'

"Hmm, I am his father. And my reason is very personal, please let him have the phone immediately," Baji heard the lady sighed, "Okay, please don't have up. I'll be back in a second with your son."

Baji then started laughing after the lady disappeared. "Woah, that was easy—Oh wait, shit. Isn't Chifuyu's father dead?" He realized to himself, "Dumbass bitch— Nevermind, the yakisoba's cooked now!"

While the middle of a class, the principal's secretary, Mrs. Tatsuo, knocked on the sliding door stopping everyone from reading their textbooks.

"Excuse me. May I have Chifuyu Matsuno's attention, please? Your father's on the line waiting for you."

Chifuyu's brows met. He stood up, raising his hands, "Excuse me, you've got the wrong student, Mrs. Tatsuo."

"I'm afraid not. The man on the line said, he's your father, and also he wants to talk to his son, Chifuyu Matsuno. Did he perhaps get your name wrong?"

"No, it's not about my name. Ma'am, my father's dead." Chifuyu stated in confusion about what was happening. His sentence made Mrs. Tatsuo shocked. The students contained their laughter about how embarrassing it is for Mrs. Tatsuo.

"But—,"

"It's alright. Let me talk to that man you're identifying as my father."

Chifuyu followed Mrs. Tatsuo and reached the secretary's counter in no time. He immediately picked up the phone, "The heck are you saying that you're my father. Do you wanna die—"

"Chifuyu!" Chifuyu stopped talking as soon as he heard a familiar voice, "Ba... Baji-san?" Chifuyu said out loud, making Mrs. Tatsuo look at him, "Ah—U..uncle, yeah I'm fine, uncle," Chifuyu said, panicking.

"What the fuck did you call me for?! Isn't this too early for Shigeru bastard to make a move?!" Chifuyu said, whispering shouting, at the phone while looking back at Mrs. Tatsuo from time to time, who's busy with school papers.

"Oh, I didn't call because of that?" baji answered from the other line.

Chifuyu sighed, "Then what do you want? I'm in the middle of the class do you realize that—"

"I'm eating peyoung yakisoba. Cool right? Bet you're hungry and craving for it right now." Baji said, making Chifuyu look at the phone while gasping in disbelief before placing the telephone back near his ear. "Seriously, this guy— YOU CALLED BECAUSE OF THAT?!"

Chifuyu hissed in annoyance, knowing the reason why Baji called him is to brag about the yakisoba, "FUCK OFF, DON'T GO AROUND CALLING AND CLAIMING YOU'RE MY DAD. FUCK YOU," Chifuyu said, slamming the telephone back in its place.

'How dare him to say that he had yakisoba right now? I'm craving it since last night. And he called saying he has one right now?!' Chifuyu's provoked feelings and angry thoughts were bothered by a sudden call of his name.

"Did something happen, Mr. Matsuno?" the secretary asked. "Uh, nothing. If that man called again, tell him to shut up." Chifuyu said, walking away, leaving the secretary in shock. "Tsk, tsk. Kids these days."

Baji's forehead scrunched when he heard Chifuyu slam the phone, cutting the lines. "Uncle? Why'd he called me his uncle? HAHAHA, bet he's mad right now."

"Anyways, I'm gonna eat."

Hours had passed, and you want to eat already, "Ahhh, when are we going to arrive in Shizuoka prefecture?"

"About 30 minutes," you flinched at the sudden answer Ryota gave. "Ah, okay."

"You can eat first if you're hungry," Ryota offered. "No, it's fine. I'm not," you answered, 'fuck, this is awkward, can't he just leave me alone?'

Ryota looked at you, who was looking somewhere far from the bus window. 'Geez, what's keeping her distracted? I can't get her attention well. And If I did, it'll only be for 10 seconds. With or without in the trip, Baji's a fucking distraction and a nuisance,' Ryota pondered in his cognizance.

'Well, even if this shit occurs, the plan is still happening. Better think of Baji while you can before I scoop your brain out of your head.' Ryota irrationally imagined to himself, excited about what he was gonna do.

You looked back at Ryota, who was reading a book without noticing the wound near his eyes was slowly opening. You grabbed a tissue in your bag, dabbing it lightly on the wound, making Ryota startle with your sudden touch.

"Ah, it's not stopping," you said, noticing the blood kept flowing out.

"Look up together with your head," you said, instructing him for the blood not to run down more.

You took your first aid pouch in your backpack, "Wow, what a scout," Ryota said, chuckling. You smiled at him and poured an amount of rubbing alcohol in a cotton bud, applying it gently in his wound to clean it. Instead of wincing or backing away from the sting, you felt the lad looking at you.

'Stop looking at me, stop looking at me, stop looking at me,' You chanted in your brain nonstop before turning around to grab a band-aid for him, unwrapping it and placing it on the wound to cover it.

"Just ask me for more band-aid if this one got filled," you said, arranging your things back again in your knapsack. Ryota beamed and leaned his head on your shoulder, shocking you. "H-hey..." you called out. But he didn't yield. 'Ugh, I guess I should just let him be... It's my fault why he's weak right now.'

"Thank you, Y/n."

"Hmm," was your response before looking back outside the window.

The bus arrives in Hamamatsu for a break consists of 15-30 minutes. You woke Ryota, who was sleeping on your shoulders, "Wake up. I'm sure you're hungry. Wanna eat?" you requested. He then woke up and nodded.

Ryota stood up from his seat, confusing you, "what's wrong?" you asked.

"I'm gonna go get us something to drink—"

You stood up and made him sit on his seat again, "I'll do it."

"No, It's okay, Y/n, I'll do it." The lad resorted back.

"It's fine. Let me do it. I'm gonna go to the bathroom anyways." Ryota didn't argue back at your words and let you go instead. You exhaled in relief, 'finally, I'd be able to breathe,' you thought to yourself, stepping out of the bus and be free from the suffocating atmosphere between you and Ryota.

Fresh wind welcomes you after getting out of the vehicle, "Ahh... so nice," you complimented, roaming your eyes to notice a vending machine. You approached it looking for the drink Ryota requested, inserting the coin at the opening, and clicked the buttons with your fingers.

You crouched down to get the drink wondering why he likes it so much, 'It's the same drink he drank the first time we talked. If he likes this soda so much, then why did he give this disgusting drink to me? Was the indirect kiss on purpose?'

You can't help thinking to yourself. Because as days pass by, Ryota just seems to be more creepy. "Anyways, I want a cola," you roamed your eyes at every corner of the inside of the machine but saw nothing. "Huh? The fuck?" You kicked the machine in disbelief, "who the fuck doesn't put cola in a soda machine?" Baji, from afar sitting on his bike, chuckled at your reaction being the same as him.

You sighed, "I guess I'm gonna go with this lemon-lime one," before you could insert the coin, someone called your name, making you shift your sight away from the machine, 'Huh? I must be imagining things,' you deemed to yourself.

Attempting to insert the coin again, you heard 'pst, pst' from someone not far from you. You looked back again, trying to find the voice, only to be surprised, seeing Baji leaning on his bike with a plastic bag in his bike's handle.

Happiness instantly filled your heart for no reason. It's just that you had been missing this person since yesterday, but afraid of this being just an illusion, you rubbed and blinked your eyes multiple times before getting convinced that Baji really was there. He winked at you and signaling you to come closer.

Thou glanced everywhere to make sure no one sees and ran towards Baji, encircling your arms around him rightly. The lad was astonished but eventually did the same thing with his palm placed on your waist.

"Shouldn't you be mad at me?" Baji said, caressing your hair with his free hand. You shook your head 'no' while still clinging on to him.

You pulled away, pushing him lightly. "What are you doing here anyway?! You're not even on the trip. Did you skip class to drive all the way here?!" you stated, scolding his ass.

With his hand still on your waist, he pulled you even closer to him, him who's still leaning on his bike. Baji looked at you like a puppy who got scolded by its owner. "I'm sorry, the school's boring without you there. And I don't like leaving you alone with that bastard Shigeru," Baji pleaded, leaning his head on your neck. "Yeah, I get it, so get off me!" You said, pushing him away by his shoulders, but he just wouldn't move.

Baji found this opportunity to slip a phone into your jacket's pocket without you noticing, and he pulled away from hugging you after successfully placing the device inside.

"What's in this plastic bag, anyway?" you said, taking hold of the plastic hanging on the handlebar of the bike. "Cola?" Baji nodded at your question. "I arrived here early and noticed there wasn't any of this in the vend. I figured you might look for one."

Baji said, making your heart race, 'why is it beating this loud. He just gave you a drink, damn it.'

The lad turned you around with your back facing him, making you perplexed about what he was about to do. You froze in your place when he swiftly hugged you from behind, resting his chin on your shoulders.

Thou didn't argue about it, 'Woah, this feels nice...' you thought to yourself.

A faint sound of music was apprehended by your ears. You glanced at your side to see Baji closing his eyes with earphones on. "The music must be coming from it.'

You pulled the earphone in one of his ears and used the other one to listen to the music for yourself. Your heart started racing, your stomach felt butterflies the second your ears listened to the music currently playing on Baji's phone.

Baji chuckled all of a sudden, "the song really fits the mood, huh?"

'Mood my ass, we're not even dating,' you thought to yourself.

'Despite that, the song Yellow by Coldplay really does fit the mood,' you said, agreeing with Baji's opinion in your thoughts.

He lets go of you after some time and fixes your hair, "you should go back, sorry for ruining your break time," he apologized. You want to inform him that you don't object because you liked it anyways. But you also don't want to go overboard.

"It's alright," you said, avoiding eye contact with him. "Now go before you get caught," you said, shoving him away, earning a small laugh from him. "Okay, Juliet," he said, teasing you.

"Gooooo now, or I'll punch your lungs out."

"I'll see you in Kyoto, Y/n," Keisuke said before straddling in his bike and left. "Ah, he's looks really good in those clothes," you slapped yourself, realizing what you just said.

"Tsk, am I going mad— WHAT THE HELL?" you exclaimed, seeing five cans of soda inside the bag. "Does he want me to choke and die on this amount of cola?"

You walked in inside the bus to see Ryota looking at you like he waited. 'Crap, I forgot about him for a while.'

"Sorry to keep you waiting. There's a lot of people inside the bathroom waiting for their turn," he shrugged, signaling it was fine. You sat down, still holding on to the drink, "Here, I got what you want," you said, giving him the drink you got from the vending machine.

'What's with the number of drinks. You like a cola that much?" Ryota asked, catching you off guard, 'I can't let him know Baji is here. Since from the start, I get the tension between them.'

"Uh, there's been an error with the machine. You can consider me as a lucky person," you replied, and Ryota bought your reason.

'Lucky person? More like someone gave it to you,' Ryota thought to himself. The memory of Baji driving minutes ago away flashed in his memories, 'Trying to lie to me as if I don't know what's happening, Y/n you're underestimating me.'

The bus started moving again after the short break. You sat on your seat, ready to sleep some of the unnecessary calories away when something started vibrating somewhere inside your hoodie.

You placed your hand inside your pocket and were surprised to grope on something boxy and heavy, "huh? what's this?" you said, confused, not remembering that you put something in there this whole time.

You got the thing out only to see a pinkish flip phone, "where'd this come from?" you questioned, catching Ryota's attention too, "Oh, who gave you that?" you looked at him, not knowing what to answer, "I... I found it inside my pocket all of a sudden. I'm not gonna open it. It might be a fucking bomb." You said, placing the phone back in your pocket.

"HAHAHA, let me see it for myself," Ryota offered, and you allowed, giving him the phone. Ryota opened it without batting an eyelash. You leaned in to see for yourself too. Only to be startled by the wallpaper that welcomed both of you and Ryota's eyes.

You snatched the phone in his hands and covered your face with your own hand. 'Keisuke, I'm gonna kill you once I reach Kyoto,' you swore to yourself, looking back at the wallpaper. It was you and Baji at the amusement park in Bunkyo.

While driving, Baji sneezed all of a sudden, "Oh, that was random. Is somebody cursing me right now?"

Baji's phone beeped all of a sudden, so he decided to stop and park for a bit to check. A smile formed on his lips, seeing a message from you.

"Fuck you."

"Out of all the message she could've been sent, she chose to say this?" He chuckled and placed the phone back in his pocket, and continued driving.

Y/n's POV

The bus arrived at Higashiyama, Tokyo, at three pm instead of one because of the two stops we had taken, "Woah, is this where we'd be staying?" One of the students asked, which Tanaka sensei said yes to.

The hotel was nice, it won't be crowded by the number of students who joined the trip.

"Everyone, listen. We'll start the activities tomorrow. I bet all of you are tired from the long trip, so I'll let you do what you want for now."

Everybody cheered with the announcement Tanaka sensei gave.

Meanwhile, I'm here wondering where Baji is right now. Does he know that we're staying here?

"Okay, Let's go in, everyone! Bring your things with you," Tanaka sensei said, guiding us inside the hotel and greeting the staff.

We all got the chance to choose our own roommates. Four students can fit in one room consisting of two beds. Not to mention the bed's big.

I got in the room with the three girls whom I talk to in class often. "Y/n, the three going to go somewhere to eat, wan to go with us?" says Junko.

"I'll go rest. My back had been craving to lay on a soft mattress," I said, declining.

They all understood and left to go somewhere to eat, leaving me alone. While I was searching for the room, I met Ryota in the hallways. "Oh, Y/n. There you are, I was looking for you, but you weren't in your assigned room," He said, grabbing the luggage from my hand to help me.

Is it just me? or he just won't leave me alone?

"Here you go. What are you doing after this, Y/n?" Ryota said, dropping my luggage on the floor gently. "I'm thinking of resting for a while. I kind of got tired and dizzy."

Ryota nodded at my answer, but I felt like he wanted to say something with that uncertain look on his face. I decided to ignore it, but he won't leave the door. "Hey, is there something you want?" I asked.

"Yeah, uh. I'd like to take you somewhere at six o'clock", huh? Me?

"Really, where?" I asked, feeling excited since this was my first time in Kyoto. "Kodaiji Temple," he wants to take me to a temple? for what?

"What are we going to do there?"

"It's a secret. I'd rather not spoil it." Ryota said before winking at me, which I don't know if it's a joke. "Ja, I'll let you rest well."

I nodded and closed the door as he left my sight.

I wonder where Baji is. Should I text him? Nah, what is he, a God? Why would I text him first? I let out a heavy sigh before flopping myself, grabbing the phone from my pocket.

Opening the phone made me blush again, remembering what it looked like. "Ahhh, that stupid Keisuke. He lent me this phone for what? He's not even communicating with me," I wonder what Chifuyu is doing right now. He better not skip class and, he should head home early.

Without realizing it, I was already falling asleep worrying about things that were currently happening back in Shibuya right now.

I woke up with a tap on my shoulder, "Uh... Matsuno-san. Your phone had been ringing for a while now," I rose up, checking who it was— I'm pretty sure it's Baji. He's the only person in my contacts. If I guessed that right. Oh shit, yeah, it's him.

Ten missed calls?! Is he nuts—,' my eyes widened, seeing the clock at the corner of the phone made me stop minding about the missed calls from Baji, "Oh my gosh, I almost forgot that I'm meeting with Shigeru."

I rushed to open my luggage to get an outfit and dashed into the bathroom to brush my teeth, leaving my roommates confused.

I got out after 10 minutes, "You seem to be going somewhere, Matsuno-san?" Aiko asked. "Yeah, well, Shigeru wanted to take me somewhere," I said carelessly, 'shit, what if they misunderstood?'

"Oh, Matsuno-san seems to like Shigeru-kun more than Baji-san," Junko said.

"Huh? Hey, guys, don't misunderstand. Shigeru is just a nice guy," I said, giving them a thumbs up. 'Please buy it, please buy it.'

"But to be honest, you look good together with Baji-san," Junko said, which Aiko contradicted, "No! Matsuno-san looks good with Shigeru more."

I, and Yui, sighed at both of them. "Actually, Matsuno-chan looks good with me," Yui said, snaking her arms around my waist. Oh, I forgot, Yui's bi, which isn't a bad thing. She's cool.

"Oya? Yui knows how to pull jokes now," Junko said, teasing her. Yui grabbed the nearest pillow to throw it at Aiko and Junko.

I facepalmed myself and removed Yui's hand from mine. "Stop saying unnecessary things, aight?"

The three of them giggled, "Hai~ Hai~ Matsuno-chan. Go and enjoy your night~" Yui said, pushing my back softly towards the door, "Bye~ Bye~" They all said and unison when I stepped outside the room. I looked back to see them already closing the door.

I sighed and chuckled, "They're fun."

I took one step away from the door only to bump my head into someone's body, "Ow—"

"Are you alright, Y/n?" Shigeru asked, concern.

"Oh, you were there?" I asked, completely shocked. Wow, I didn't notice him there. "Yeah, ever since Yui pushed you out."

"Let's go?" Ryota said, which I agreed to.

We got out of the hotel to see a car being parked outside. I didn't mind it because I don't have to do with it anyways. But I noticed Ryota heading towards the roofless black vehicle.

"Y/n? Come here. What are you doing there just standing?" Ryota said, opening the door for me.

"Wait... we're traveling with this?" I asked in disbelief.

"Yeah, I don't like public transportation. It makes me sweat and haggard. My butlers take me to school every morning," Ryota said. Yeah, he looks neat and all, but I didn't think he'd be born with a silver spoon in his mouth.

"So, you going in or not?" I nodded and entered the car. This is my first time in a car like this, and It doesn't have a roof at all. But didn't he say he doesn't like feeling unfresh? "Why aren't the roof on? Didn't you say you hate looking unfresh? The wind will make you look like one."

"I don't want you to feel nauseous. And it's better to explore places in Kyoto with this kind of car. There are a lot of pretty places here."

"You seem to know a lot about Kyoto, Shigeru," Yous aid making him smile and look at you, "To be honest with you, I was raised here by my mother while my dad works in Sendai."

"Really? Sugoi ne. I guess that explains why you have this car right now."

"Yeah, this is my first time using it after I moved to Shibuya to study for Middle School and High School."

Ryota's already living a luxury life here in Kyoto, so why does he need to move to Shibuya? He could've moved to Sendai, where his father works.

"Sendai? Oh... I was from Sendai before moving to Shibuya," I said.

"Oh, really? I haven't explored Sendai properly. When I was young, I'd only stay there for a day. Mother didn't really like the idea of me sticking so much to my father for no reason." This is getting sad. Should I change the topic? Should I ask why? "Uh, yeah! So if you want to explore Sendai, you know who to call!" I said, giving him a thumbs-up. He chuckled, still focusing his eyesight on the road.

Ryota's POV

"So, it's your first time here? You seem confident for a first-timer."

"Yeah, but not really. My father used to visit his friend who lives in a very luxurious mansion. If I remember that well. It was hidden in the woods with an enormous letter S written at the entrance."

'Yeah, you don't need to describe it with multiple adjectives. I know too well what you're talking about. I live there.'

'You're too innocent. It makes me wanna take you there right now and do what I want from the moment I saw my father's body hanging from the crappy prison ceiling.'

'But I'd like you to have fun before that. It would be a pleasure to take that away. I'll make sure that'll be the last sunset you'll ever see.'

Both of us arrived at Kodaiji temple after a Ten-minute drive from our hotel. I can say there are a lot of people today. I'm glad I booked ahead of time.

She immediately got out of the car and went inside the temple, "Hey! Wait for me, Y/n."

"Let's go see the sunset!"

"It'll not appear until later on, alright? So chill, and let's look around first. Maybe it'll ease the dizzy feeling inside you," I said as she walked ahead and roamed the place."Woah, there's a lot of space here. Do they have gardens?" She asked, amazed by the surrounding."Yeah, they also have ponds."

We both roamed around the temple for minutes, from the bridge that connects two pieces of land to the garden areas, and just everywhere she goes, I just followed her.

I looked at her, who was licking her lollipop while petting a random cat. But no matter how kind she is to me, she's still the person whom I'd been desiring to exterminate.

I approached her and pulled her up gently from crouching on the ground. "Let's go. The sun's moving down already."She nodded and walked together with me.

We reached the spot where you can sit and watch the sunset. She gasps, seeing a picnic blanket placed on the ground properly. And some food to eat while watching.

"Did you prepare all this?" She asked while her eyes are sparkling in joy.

We both sat down facing each other and turned our heads to the view beside us. It's really peaceful. Only the sound of the wind blowing the leaves of trees around us is heard.

She suddenly turns her head to look at me, her hair flying as to how the wind likes it. The setting sun shined on her beautiful skin as she tries to keep her hair behind her ear with her fingers.

The sunlight hit her eyes, making me see and realize how clear her eyes were.

But her face ruins it all. She looks like Yoshiyuki, such a waste. But would she looked this beautiful if she didn't look like Yoshiyuki?

I don't remember Yoshiyuki looking good.

"I love this Sun," Y/n said, making me look at her instead of the setting sun. "It doesn't hurt my skin... gentle and kind people are what I like in this world."

"But they always had to go. It's always the good people who had to go so early."

"What hurts more is that we want them, but we can't have them all the time. Good people are the ones who are rare and hard to see."

"And once you get to have one of those people, it'll be hard to let go. But you can't do anything but just watch them fade."

"This sun's touch reminds me of my dad's warmth," Y/n continued talking while I just looked at her waiting for her to continue.

"He's a good person. He tolerates everything. He even wants to help his friend, who's responsible for mass murdering. For my mom, it's a bad habit of his that got him executed..."

"I watch him turn his back on us to return to the house and helped us escape the hell hole that night he got murdered by his best friend's men. And you know what? I never saw regret in his eyes when he left and bid his goodbye because he knew to himself that he had been a good friend. I only saw sorrow because he thinks he failed as a best friend, as a father, and a husband..."

"Hiroshi Minami. Maybe it was his fate to fell into darkness, but it wasn't my father's fate to die..."

"Father's fate was to become Hiroshi's best friend and save him, but I don't know what happened. I refuse to believe Hiroshi killed him..."

"I feel like someone tried to interfered with the fate for the both of them, causing the outcome to change, resulting in my dad getting murdered and for Hiroshi to kill himself."

"Ah! the sun completely went down now, Shigeru. I didn't realize I was talking so much. I'm sorry—," she suddenly stopped talking.

'I kept quiet all this time and looked at her, sinking every word she said into my brain. Am I.. the one...who interfered with the fate? Why is she trying to take this on me? Her father was at fault! It's all Yoshiyuki's fault,' I thought to myself.'

'Hah, Y'all Matsuno's are really good at flipping the tables. Don't blame me for murdering your father. He brought this upon himself.'

'My dad died because of Yoshiyuki's death. Yoshiyuki succumbed because he was a failure. So it's not me...IT'S NOT MY FAULT!'

'I... I want to kill this lady right now...'

"Shigeru? Are you okay?" Y/n said, checking up on me, who's been lost in my own thoughts.

'Calm down, Shigeru. Don't lose your cool.'

"Yeah, I'm gonna go make a call. Please stay here, Y/n," I said, smiling at her, hiding my real feelings. "Uh... yeah, sure. I'll be here."

I got up from sitting on the blanket and called my assistant, Akashi Watanabe. He's also my best friend who has been there for me all these years.

Since I am away from Kyoto, accomplishing my mission in executing Y/n Matsuno. Watanabe is the one taking care and arranging the situation for the southside to rise again with him as an acting president for now.

"Shigeru-sama?" the lad said from the other line.

"I want to do it tonight. I had been waiting for this. Y/n's alone with me right now," I heard a sigh from Akashi before he spoke, "I'm afraid I can't let you. We cannot act recklessly, and especially not right now, Shigeru-sama."

"Why the hell not?!"

"Those who I sent to guard around the entrance of Kyoto spotted a member of Toman, Keisuke Baji, I'm sure you know him. Shigeru-sama, we agreed not to get involved with the Tokyo Manji Gang." Keisuke...Baji? He's really here?! HE'S SUCH A FUCKING PROBLEM.

"I don't care about him! I feel like I'm gonna go insane. Akashi... I want to kill her right now," I said, pleading. "Do whatever you want. I'll leave your possession in exchange," wow, Akashi plays dirty now? I hung up and threw the phone somewhere in frustration.

"Fuck you, Baji."

I composed myself before going back to the place where I left Y/n. But there isn't a trace left. She's not there anymore.

I crouched down to notice a long wavy black strand of hair. "Tch. You're really impeccable, Baji."

"Shigeru-sama," I heard a voice from behind me, only to see Akashi in his suit and his neatly styled hair, lending me his hand. "Let's go home, for now, Shigeru-sama. You must be tired from your trip."

I stood up and ran to him, holding him in my arms. "You're not going anywhere, are you, Akashi?"

Akashi lets out a small smile, "No, Shigeru-sama. Unless you want me to."

"I told you to drop the formalities. You never learn, Akashi."

"But—"

"I'm not talking to you unless you do what I want." Akashi sighed, 'He's such a spoiled brat...' Akashi thought to himself while looking at the person he serves, crossing his hand.

"Ryota... Ryota-sama—," Akashi stopped talking with my sudden intrusion in between his lines.

"Eh?! I said drop the formalities—" I groaned in displeasure, but I think it's okay for now.

"F...fine, you can call me that, I guess. It's better than the last one," I said, agreeing. Akashi smiled, "That's good to hear. Then shall we go?"

Tch.

"Okay," I responded, following him to the car.

l.s

Chapter Text

3rd person's POV

"For a while, Shigeru-sama. We're still at the door," Akashi said to his master, who's been kissing him non-stop ever since they got out of the car.

"I don't care, hurry up," Ryota said, whose arms were wrapped around Akashi's neck. "That tickles, Shigeru-sama," Akashi informed, trying to push Shigeru softly away from him.

"Shut up and kiss me back," Shigeru said, which Akashi obeyed. Akashi and Ryota arrived inside the mansion, falling onto each other's bodies on the floor as soon as they got in.

Akashi pulled away, seeing his master on the floor. He flinched and changed their position, making Shigeru on top this time. "Why?"

"I... I don't want you to get dirty, Shigeru-sama."

"Isn't this mansion cleaned?"

"Yeah, it is. But we can't guarantee the dust since it's the entrance of the house—," Ryota didn't want to hear any more unnecessary thoughts from the other, causing him to pull Akashi closer by its tie and kissed him deeply. Akashi responded back by giving the lad an entrance for his tongue to explore.

"Ehem," a loud cough caught Akashi's attention, but Ryota wouldn't yield. Akashi kept pushing his owner away from him, which Ryota eventually noticed and groaned in frustration, giving the one who interrupted them a death glare.

"What do you what? Can't you see we're busy?"

The three guys bowed and apologized, "Sorry. We're told to report as soon as you enter the mansion. Mr. Noritoshi is waiting for you in the living room. Wishing to chat with you about the rising of the Southside."

"Geez, that old man, I just got home. Give me a fucking break," Ryota said in irritation before heading to the living room.

Akashi stood up and sighed before commanding one of the guys, "prepare the usual red wine for Shigeru-sama. He's going to demand it after his little talk with Mr. Noritoshi."

Ryota reached the living room, seeing Noritoshi standing and staring outside the big window. "Mr. Noritoshi, may I help you?"

"Let me be straight to you, Ryota Shigeru... or should I say Ryota Minami. To what extent do you want to keep me waiting for the Southside to rise again?" Noritoshi said, feeling disappointed.

"Next week. My mission is still ongoing for executing a certain person."

"You can make anyone else do that! Southside is the priority!"

That one sentence made Ryota snap, clenching his fist. "I'm afraid I can't let anyone else do that. It's my personal grudge."

"Hm, you and your father are so alike. Always prioritizing what you feel rather than what's important. I won't be surprised to see you get killed, just like your father—," Noritoshi wasn't able to finish his words, and the next thing he knew, he's on the floor with his nose bleeding.

He looked up to see Ryota, fuming mad with his assistant, holding him back. "Tch, Minami genes are scary. Make sure it's next week... or I'll rat you out myself to my co- police."

Noritoshi said, leaving while fixing his crumpled uniform.

"He's acting all high just because we need his protection from the police. What a real dick. If only the Southside ain't a hot topic for the police, we wouldn't need his shit," Ryota said, bouncing himself on the sofa to sit.

Akashi signals the servant with his index finger to place the bottle of wine and two glasses at the center table.

"Please, calm yourself, Shigeru-sama—"

"Drink with me."

"I'm afraid I have to ask why."

"Because there are two glasses?"

"There are two glasses because I figured out you might break one of your anger."

"Don't make me repeat my request."

Akashi sighed and sat on the single sofa across the other, opening the wine to pour his master a drink and also a drink for himself.

There was silence between them until Akai popped the bubble. "Tell me, Shigeru-sama. Why are you so obsessed with executing Yoshiyuki's eldest?"

Ryota placed down his drink, laughing in a low voice. "I believe Yoshiyuki Matsuno deserves to die twice. One for betraying my father, and two for the reason why my father killed himself because he wants to be with Yoshiyuki in the afterlife."

Akashi looked down, wanting to correct Ryota's way of thinking. But he promised to himself and to the other that he'd stay loyal no matter what. Because Ryota was all that he had.

"Do you oppose, Akashi?"

"No, Shigeru-sama. Whatever you'll do. I'll always be by your side." Akashi said, looking down at his wine.

Ryota chuckled with Akashi's answer, raising his head by his chin. "Look up..." Akashi cooperated, earning a peck on the lips from his master, "good boy."

You sat there eating grapes, waiting for Shigeru to come back, but there wasn't any sign of him.

"Just where the hell did he go? I want to go somewhere to eat now," you said, placing your hand on your clothed stomach, caressing it. "Ahhhh, I'm hungry," thou said, laying your back on the blanket.

You laid there imagining what to eat for dinner, "I want tempura, and curry udon... oh, wagyu beef is also nice...especially when it's soft."

"Damn, you sure are hungry," you flinched at the sudden voice you hear. You sat up and looked around you, "Uh, who's there," scared, you picked up a big stick beside you, ready to smack whoever that is talking to you.

"Hey, Y/n, put that down—," you didn't let the unknown man continue his words and smacked the shit out of him using the tree stick, "AH SHIT! HEY, CUT IT OUT. THAT HURTS!"

You stopped wagging the stick on that person when you realized who it was, "B... Baji?" you called out while he's wiping the dirt off his clothes.

"You're so violent, damn," Baji said. You were about to feel bad about what you did when you remembered that he didn't message you.

Baji looked at you, who's crossing your arm and sulking. "Why are you the one sulking? You hit me."

"I'm not talking to you."

"You just did," Baji said, trying to look at you, who's avoiding his stare.

"Are you upset?"

"No."

"Did something happen?"

"Nothing."

"Are you okay?"

"Yes."

"Come on, what's bothering you?"

"Good question, why didn't you text me? You lend me a phone for what?" You asked straight to the point.

"Oh...uh, about that," Baji said, itching the back of his head, "Uh, I got in an accident on the way to Kyoto."

"What?!" you said, facing him to check any wounds. "Hey, it's okay, my body's alright. My bike hit a delivery service, so I need to deliver them by myself one by one. I couldn't contact you because I know, once I did. I won't be able to get off the phone—"

You shushed him with your palm covering his mouth to make him shut up, seeing you blush. "That last sentence wasn't really needed, you stupid f—," you suddenly stopped talking when you felt Baji placing kisses on your palm that's covering his mouth.

You immediately pulled your hand away from his mouth, "pervert!" Baji chuckled at your reaction, "I heard you're hungry, want to eat all on what's in your mind earlier?" He said, caressing your hair.

"No, I'll gain weight."

"Who careeeeeesss?" the lad responded, resting both of his hands on your waist, "You're still beautiful."

"Pfft, HAHAHA," you can't help but laugh at his cheesiness.

"Where'd you learn to do this kind of sweet-talking, huh?" you said, making him pout, "Wow, you're really mean for someone who's praising you."

You both laughed at each other's stupidity. "But hey, it'll be rude of me to just go without saying goodbye to Ryota first."

"What are you gonna say then? He'll snitch if he saw me."

"He won't do that—"

"He would. I just punched the shit out of him yesterday. I'm pretty sure he's still holding a grudge against me."

'Hmm, makes sense,' you thought to yourself.

You gasped when Baji drew you away from your place, "Hey, Baji, wait—"

"Quit worrying about him. You can just tell him you felt sick for a little," He said, which you agreed to. You really can't say 'no' to the guy dragging you with him right now.

"Let's go eat whatever you like."

"Hmm, I'd love that."

Baji's POV

I felt it. Ever since I entered Kyoto. I felt like someone's keeping an eye on me. Like I'm some problem that ruins the plan.

It's best to be near Y/n, In case. I just have to be careful with Tanaka sensei catching me.

Kidnappers never kidnap a target in a place full of people. I'm guessing he took her to that corner of the temple to start his plan. Glad I finished delivering those boxes at the right time.

The drive was quiet, but I noticed her holding on to me tightly every time. I decreased the pace of the ride so she can hear what I was about to ask.

"What are you worrying about?"

"Huh? Are you talking to me?"

"Who else am I supposed to talk to, Y/n?"

"Oh... I'm just worried about Chifuyu. Will he be okay there?"

"He's with Mikey and Draken. Of course, he'll be alright."

She lets out a heavy sigh after my answer. She worries a lot about Chifuyu to the point that it affects her like this. I'm not saying she shouldn't worry, but she needs to breathe out from the things that keep her from having fun.

Y/n must've been really shaken up and traumatized after what happened to Mr. Matsuno that she's afraid Chifuyu might face the same thing.

I've never been in her shoes. I've said that a lot... I guess losing people will really break you.

If I die... would she feel the same? Will she react that way towards my death?

"We're here," I said, getting off the bike with her. "Then, I'll go orderrrrr!" She said, making me chuckle.

We entered the place, and she ate to her heart's content which I don't mind. "You good?" I asked.

She nodded with a smile, "yeah, but I feel nauseous. Did I eat a lot of beef?" I laughed at her reaction, "Rest, then we'll head somewhere."

"Hmm, but can't we call Chifuyu? I just want to hear his voice," I guess it can't be helped then, but there's a problem.

"I don't mind but, Chifuyu doesn't have a phone," I said, making her pout.

"Then, what about Mikey-kun?"

"Mikey doesn't really care about things such as phone."

"Then, Draken!"

"He has bad hearing when it comes to phone notification."

"That lilac-haired guy!"

"Mitsuya's phone prolly got cracked or something. He texted me using Hakkai's phone."

"Then Hakkai! or whoever that is."

"Hakkai doesn't charge his phone often unless Mitsuya does it for him, and he prolly is away from Chifuyu right now."

"How about the other toman members—," She stopped suggesting for names to call when my phone rang. I opened it to see Draken in the caller ID. "Great, It's Draken."

She snatched the phone not a second after I mentioned Draken's name. "Hello? Give chifuyu the phone, please—

"Neesan, you're overreacting," She felt relieved hearing her brother's voice. "Oh, I guess you're good. Ahhh, finally, I can digest my food. I've been worrying about you."

Chifuyu, on the other line, laughed, "neesan, you should enjoy your trip. It's not every day that you get to go to Kyoto! Stop worrying about me. I'm with Mikey-kun and Draken-kun. Other members of toman also come over after school. Oh, and Btw, Inu wanted to say hi," Y/n chuckled, hearing a cat's meow from the other line. Her reaction makes me smile too.

I snatched the phone away from her, "We're hanging up now—,"

"Baji," It was Draken from the other line.

"Take care."

Huh? That was odd.

I looked back at Y/n, who's waiting for me to say something, "What?"

"What?"

"You've been staring at me."

"Oh, I want to take a bath," she said, smelling herself. I chuckled at what she's doing, "Why? You don't need to. You smell nice."

"No, I don't! Look c'mere sniff."

"What, no. The fuck AHAHHAHA," I said as we both laugh at my very straightforward reaction.

"Stay with me tonight," I said while drinking the remaining liquid in my drink. Y/n looked at me with a bothered but confused look, "I need to go back, you know. Tanaka sensei will definitely look for me."

"You can just say you got lost and too shy to ask for directions," Ah, she prolly won't follow what I said. Who the fuck's too shy to ask for direction if they got lost—

"Okay. I'll just text Tanaka Sensei."

WHAT? IS SHE FOR REAL? "Well... okay...BUT WON'T THAT WORK? I'm sure Tanaka sensei didn't hesitate to make you a class representative because you're reliable. And here you are, using 'getting lost all of a sudden' reason to sneak. I'm sure he'll be suspicious."

Y/n crossed her hand together and looked at me with one brow-raising, "Huh? are you nuts? You're the one who suggested that. Stupid," she said, giving me a bonk in the head.

"Ow, that hurts—,"

"Besides, I want to be with you too," my hands stopped caressing my head after hearing those words coming out from her mouth. I leaned my elbow on the table and positioned my chin at the palm of my hand. While looking at Y/n, who's munching on a straw. "Geez, how can you say these things without being embarrassed?" I said, making her flinch, and stopped chewing on the plastic trapped between her lips. "W..wait! What's so wrong about what I said?"

I lift my free hand to wipe a piece of rice in her with my thumb, "Nothing," I said, looking at my thumb and licked the rice out of it before looking back at her.

"Pervert!" Y/n said, standing up from her seat and making her way out of the place, making me laugh, and head to the counter to pay.

I got out of the restaurant and headed towards my bike, but I didn't see Y/n there, and fear started consuming my body. I looked back and forth, but she's nowhere to be found. I went back to the big wooden balcony where our table was located, only to look down and see her soaking her foot on the river of Kamo. With her shoes in her hands, Y/n stood there admiring the river. I sighed, seeing her safe.

My body jumped from the balcony down to the ground and sat down on a high concrete ramp. Small grass growing on the bottom between the cement and the water from the river.

That moment of silence was the loudest.

I stared at her fragile back and her hair moving because of the wind. I stood up, seeing her shrug because of the night breeze, and placed my jacket on her shoulders just like that last time... when we're in Bunkyo. But this time, I'll make sure to hold back and only do things that she approves.

Come to think of it, we just met for a month, and we already faced different obstacles and fights. But we always end up forgiving and forgetting.

For a troublemaker like me, to get along with someone other than my friends is a first.

It's not just Draken and Mikey who noticed things in me that are changing. I knew that too... but I chose to ignore it because it wasn't a bad change, and it's Y/n who unlocked those feelings I never thought I'd be able to feel.

"Let me ask you something... Baji," she said all of a sudden, interrupting the silence between us. "Sure."

"What's happening between you and Hanako? I read she hasn't been writing back at you for three months, makes it four now since April already ended."

"Ah, she's busy. Medical students are busy," I said, hoping the conversation with Hanako will end with that.

"What...am I to you then?"

I placed my hand on top of her head while looking somewhere far. "To be honest with you, I don't know what to answer to that question. But..." I pat her head before continuing, "But you're important to me."

Indeed, I'm still confused about how I feel towards you. But all I know is I want to protect you from everything because I feel like it's the best thing, and If I don't, I'll resent myself forever.

"Am I a fool... for tolerating you?" I don't know what she meant by that. I can't answer her. She turned her head around and smile at me widely, "hehe, you're too serious. Let's go...home."

I blinked a few times, processing her behavior, "Uh, yeah. Home?! We're in Kyoto, Y/n."

"I know that, Baji."

"Then why'd you say—," I didn't finish my question and earned another bonk for her. "Mattaku, Keisuke. You have bad comprehension. Didn't you notice me pause before saying 'home'?"

Uh...so what if she stopped? What does that mean...Oh wait, did she just call me...h—

She raised her calf and placed her hand around my shoulder, "Araaaaaa, don't think so hard about it! Let's go. I'm tired."

I placed my left hand on her back for support and bent down to wrap my right around both at the back of her knees, lifting her up, carrying her in a bridal style. "Okay then, your majesty. Let's get you a room for your beauty sleep."

"Put me down!"

I giggled, shaking my head as a no, and went towards my bike. I settled her down, earning a glare from her. She's such a baby.

We arrived at the hotel and, Y/n said she wants to go shower first. I waited there on the bed until she finished. She got out after forever, and it was my turn.

My phone rang right after I wrapped the towel around my hips to see Draken calling, but It wasn't Draken's voice that appeared but Chifuyu.

"Baji-san, we've received intel about the Southside from its former slaves. It is confirmed that Ryota's the only son of the dead commander of Southside, Hiroshi Minami. The surname he's using right now is his mother's surname, Sayaka Shigeru. But they can't have the information about the reason why Ryota used his mother's surname."

"He prolly has daddy issues," Mitsuya said from the background making all of us laugh. "Yeah, sorry, Baji-san. That's all we can get."

Chifuyu's then voice got small like he's whispering to me, "I don't want to worry the others, but when I got to an internet cafe to search for more information, the site was blocked. Like someone deleted all of the articles about Southside. Also, we interviewed those known as the former slaves of Southside at lunch, but we only got to report to you this evening because they got shot in the head the hour after the interview. I and the others are the last people they were with before the killing."

"So you're implying that someone's watching you guys?"

"That's not impossible, Baji-san."

"Why would somebody watch you guys? Who would it be?"

"Prolly the new Southside, who else? Baji-san, we're not ordinary students. We're known as delinquents of Shibuya. Apart from that... If Southside's tailing us and preventing us from knowing information about them, that shows that they are afraid of The Tokyo Manji Gang. Because it may lead us to know their weaknesses and hideout. For now, they're still weak because they just rose up from the dead, and brawling with other gangs in Japan is not the first thing a newbie gang should do."

"You really are a smartass, Chifuyu. But it's prolly best for you to stop searching for information. I'll do it myself. Just watch out and take care."

"You better bring me a souvenir. And take care of my sister. You're in the enemy's den, Shigeru's hometown, Kyoto."

He hung up before I can, damn that brat.

I opened the door and went out of the bathroom to see her covered with a blanket, "Oya? You're sleeping already?" I completely closed the door to sneakily approach and surprise her, but I didn't see her when I lifted up the blanket, "Where did she go this time—"

I turned around only to be surprised by Y/n running and yelling while making a scary face, "Fuck!" she lost out of balance while running and fell into my half-naked body. The fall's too sudden for me, making me lose my balance too, and fall on the bed in a back lying position.

Both of our eyes widened, realizing the situation we're both in. Y/n pulled away first, running towards the other bed, and covered her whole body with a blanket, "I'm sleeping! Don't talk to me, bye!"

I pulled the blanket off her to see her in an embryo position, with a burning face. "hey, why are you so red—," I reach my hand to see a full view of her, only for her to slap my hand away.

"Give me my blanket! It's cold."

"No, unless you tell me why you're blushing all of a sudden." It's so fun teasing her, not that it's fun to get punched by her every time. It's just satisfying to see her mad.

"I... I felt something," She said, sitting up still covering her face. "Felt what? When?"

I let my guard down, having the chance for her to steal the blanket on my hand, and covered her body again before answering, "Your schlong, damn it!"

Her answer made me flinched in my position, "huh?"

"Don't huh me, you pervert!"

"You keep calling me that since we met at Kodaiji temple. How am I the perverted one here? You're the one who jumps on people who's half-naked!"

"I didn't know you were naked!"

"You didn't— Am I supposed to be dressed when taking a shower?"

"Well, aren't you supposed to dress in the bathroom after showering?!"

"Who does that?!"

"Normal people do!"

"So you're calling me an abnormal one?"

She rose up from bed and smacked me with a pillow, "Urusai!! Let me sleep."

I laughed at her reaction, "Chill, you're so mad, for what?" I stood up from the bed and got dressed while she's not looking before flopping myself at the bed. "Ah... today's such a long day."

My eyes shifted to the other ben Y/n's on. She's been quiet ever since. Is she asleep?

I lazily rose from my bed to check on her, gently pulling the sheets down from her face, seeing her peacefully asleep. I snickered at the view in front of me. My body felt instantly warm the moment I climbed up her bed.

I had the sudden urge to just stay beside her, but I don't want to repeat what happened the last time we booked a hotel. Shrugging the thoughts, I stood up to leave only to feel her move and glued me in my place.

"Oi, I can't get off."

Y/n's POV

Isn't this... back at the temple?

I looked behind me just to be blinded by the sunset against my skin, "Woah...warm."

Although this is only my second time witnessing the sunset from Kodaiji, the feeling somehow felt familiar, and it's a strange atmosphere from the first time seeing it but still warm.

Feels like dad's embrace.

"They say, people, becomes one of the stars you see at night when they die. But why do I feel like you became part of the star that you see in the morning and goes away at night?"

"If that's you, I want you to tell me if I did good," I said as tears fell down from my eyes.

"Okay, how about hearing me out?" A voice said from beside me, looking for the sound only to see the person who owns it standing beside me. My heart started to race. The feeling of completion is felt all over my heart.

"Is... Is this a dream?" I said, approaching the person... my dad.

"Depends on how you see it, Y/n."

I looked down in disappointment, "It's a dream then..." I looked back up with a smile, "But I guess I don't mind..."

Father chuckled at my reaction, "This might be a dream, but what I'm gonna say is not..."

"You did well, Y/n. Thank you... for not failing as a daughter and a sister like how I failed as a father and a husband," he said, patting my head.

"So now, take care of yourself."

I reached out to hug him before this dream ends, but he instantly disappeared, and shock consumed my body when I fell beside a coffin with my father inside... dead, skin as white as paper.

I stood up, backing down from the coffin... feeling scared, hurt, and blue. Only to stumble in a stone, a stone with a familiar surname...

"Matsuno, xxxx-2004"

No, this must be a dream...I don't want this...someone, please wake me up. Someone, please—

"FUCKING BITC—," I felt a sting in my thigh as I woke up from a very horrible dream. I looked at my tights to see a hand mark.

"The fuck do you think you're doing, Keisuke? Slapping my thigh like a fucking volleyball."

Baji raised both of his hands, "P... please hear me out. I didn't mean it." I gave him a threatening look and showed him my clenched fist, "I'll give you 10 seconds... one, two, three—"

"FINEYOUWEREHAVINGABADREAMANDYOU'RENOTWAKINUPBUTYOUWANTEDTOBEWAKEDUPBYSOMEONESOISLAPPEDYOURTIGHS, YOUWON'TBUDGWHENISHRUGGEDYOUFORAMINUTESTRAIGHTSOIDIDTHATIMSORRY"

What the hell... "Bro, tf? Are you Eminem or something? This is unlike you. I thought you'd take me on a fistfight."

"Why would I? your father already appeared in your dream. He might appear in mine too if I hurt you," Baji said, catching my attention, "what did you just say?"

"Uh...It's kind of long. Do I need to repeat it?"

"How'd you know I was dreaming about my father?"

"You were calling his name while hugging me."

What?! I was what?! "I was hugging you?" I asked in disbelief which he just shrugged, "Not a big deal." I threw the pillow straight into his annoying face. "Oi, that hurts," he said, caressing his eye.

I approached to check if he was hurt because he makes it seem like it, only to see him grinning from ear to ear.

I smacked the back of his head in annoyance, "Is it fun teasing people?! Go eat shit."

Baji laughed his stomach out, "C'mon, stop being so grumpy early in the morning. Go dress up, and I'll take you somewhere." I ignored his words for a second, trying to look for a hair tie. I found one on Baji's wrist and pulled it out.

I tied my hair before answering, "You takin' me somewhere? Yeah, that's right, take me back to the school trip my mom paid for."

"What? No, what I planned is better than that school trip."

I roamed my eyes around to find something, "Well, Mr, I don't want to waste mom's money. Aight? Now how am I supposed to dress up without spare c—," I stopped talking when I spotted a paper bag. "Ohhh, what is this— WHAT THE HELL?!"

Baji didn't bother caring about my reaction to what's inside the paper bag. "Hey, isn't this my clothes?" I asked, and he nodded while still sulking because I rejected his offer. "How'd you get these— even my undergarments are here. OMG BAJI—"

I was about to attack him when he rose up from the bed and stopped me with his palm wide open, "Listen, that— that wasn't me. It was your roommate, Aiko."

"Why would Aiko help you take a girl's clothes?" Well, aside from that, Aiko doesn't like Baji because she ships me with Ryota... geez.

Baji chuckled nervously before answering, "Hehe...well, I kind of... blackmailed her."

My eyes widened at his answer, "You blackmailed my friend?!"

"Well, how am I supposed to enter and go get your clothes. Your room's on the second floor. I ain't no spiderman."

I glared at him before making my way in the bathroom, "better take me back to the trip before Tanaka sensei notice."

"Tch fine," Baji agreed, burying his face on the pillow.

I got back to the trip without anyone noticing I was with Baji, well, except for my three roommates. Let's just pray they won't snitch on me.

"Oh, Matsuno-san, Ohayo!" the three of them greeted me when they saw me near the bus. "Hello, good morning," I attended back.

"Oh, you're already here outside, Matsuno," Tanaka sensei asked, "Ah, yeah. I woke up earlier than everybody and went to explore somewhere." Tanaka sensei nodded with my answer.

"So everyone! Before we start exploring Kyoto with your friend groups, I want us to visit the shrine first to pray for good fortune, blessings we received and will receive, and of course, for you guys who are graduating this year. I know it's still early to think about graduation, but every day is a good day to pray for the Gods, right?"

Everyone nodded and agreed with Tanaka sensei. "Don't worry for those who are car sicks Kitano-temmangū Shrine isn't that far from our hotel. Just a twenty-minute drive."

I sighed with the last information Tanaka sensei said, well, I guess a twenty-minute ride is better than a five-hour trip. "You look so relieved. That last five-hour trip really made you nauseous, huh?"

A sudden whisper to the ear startled me, making me jump in my place, "Ah, sorry, I didn't mean to scare you, Y/n," Ryota said. "It's fine."

I said, hoping to end the conversation there, "Uh, wait!"

"Are you, perhaps, mad that I left yesterday, Y/n?"

Did he leave? So I waited for nothing?

"You see, I went back to see you, and you weren't there anymore. I thought maybe you already went to the hotel. Considering you were still nauseous."

"Ohhhhh, these two are together again. So what's your relationship?" Aiko asked all of a sudden, while Junko disagreed. "Oh, come on, Aiko. Your ship is not canon," Junko said with her hands on her hips.

"Stop fighting for that reason. It's Matsuno-san's decision to choose whoever she wants. Btw I'm in one of the choices, Don't forget that Matsuno-san," Yui said, winking at me, making me laugh. "Come on, let's just go inside the bus."

"I'll sit with you," Ryota offered. I was about to say yes since I don't mind until Yui pulled me with her, "Nah, she's sitting with me, legooo, Matsuno-san!"

I looked back at Ryota and gave him an 'I'm sorry' eye.

We all arrived at the place, and the fresh morning wind welcomed us. I stretched my hand out as soon as I got out of the bus. "Wahhh."

"Stop making out with the air, Matsuno-chan," Junko jokingly said. The memory of my dream last night flashed back, distracting me. I shrugged it off by slapping myself, making the three of them shock, "Yah, are you okay?" Aiko asked. "Yeah, just a little sleepy, maybe."

Junko moved next to them and whispered to my ear, "So, did Baji san kept you all night?" My eyes widened at her question. "H...How...HEY, NO!" I answered, making Junko laugh, "What's so fun about teasing people. Y'all are mean," I said sarcastically.

After the four of us finished praying, we all decided to stay for a while and wait for our other classmates to finish praying.

I was picking charms for the four of them, and also for...Baji.

My ears caught a sound of a bike engine. I looked around to see no one using it. Maybe I'm hearing things... I had been with that prick almost every day. He'd snatched me in every chance he got and take me somewhere, either to write letters, eat, beat someone up, or just want to see me.

Am I a fool for tolerating that? He has a girlfriend...and I still let him do whatever he wants.

Maybe they broke up? But to whom is he writing those letters for of they broke up?

I can't count how many times he used to write those. But the odd thing is, he doesn't want me to help. He just wants me there by his side to support him morally. ISN'T THAT CRUEL?! Not that I like him, but... COME ON NOW, WHY DO YOU WANT A MORAL SUPPORT FROM ME. Tch that idiot.

Hmmm, I'm gonna get those three guys back in Shibuya, Mikey, Draken, and Chifuyu... also Ryota, I guess, this violet one. I said to myself while pointing at the omamori displayed in front of me.

A/n: *Omamori - They are commonly sold in Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. They act as charms to ward off or protect the owner from evil spirits and bad luck.

"Excuse me, can I get four of these, please," I said, making the woman wearing a yukata shock. "Ma'am, are you in great danger?" she asked, making me confused. I mean, who wouldn't react that way if you bought four Omamori at the same time, right?

"Oh, no, they are for my friends," I said, giving off a nervous laugh. She nodded and placed the four of 'em in a paper bag. I got my wallet out of my backpack and was about to pay when my eyes caught two red omamori that goes in pair.

'Aw, but I already bought Chifuyu the violet one. Maybe I could pair with Baji...' I blushed at the sudden thought in my head. 'Tch...'

"I'll also get these pair... please," I said, pointing at it. I felt people looking at me. Ah...is it weird to buy so many? This is my first time buying a lot, since back then I only buy charms for Chifuyu and me.

"Oh, is that for your boyfriend?" The lady asked, "Eh? Ah...n..no," Dman it Y/n there's no way the lady will buy your answer, you're clearly blushing.

She chuckled and wrapped my order up too. I smiled, realizing to myself that Chifuyu and I aren't alone anymore. That someone's willing to keep us safe other than our dad and be friends with us without asking for something in return. Or without judging us because of our unlucky past.

I bowed down and left the vending stall.

My phone buzzed, and I check to see who it was, but I felt pair f eyes looking at me from a distance. I decided to ignore it, but I can't help but look, there I saw a man in a suit standing in a black parked car, and he's glaring at me.

I looked around and at my clothes to see if there's something to be mad about. Is that guy irate about my clothes? But I'm wearing a decent one. I looked behind me to check maybe he was looking at someone behind me but now. He's really looking at me.

What a creep, It's a shame he looks good but Nah.

I was about to walk away when I saw Ryota approaching that man, "Huh, are they close?" I asked myself. Ara, are they fighting?

3rd person's POV

"Why the hell are you here? I'm sticking to the plan, alright?" Ryota said, barging over to Akashi, who's leaning in a bark parked car. Akashi stood properly and bowed, "Good morning, Shigeru-sama. But I'd rather stay here."

Ryota looked at him with anger, "Ugh, fine! Do whatever you want," the lad said before leaving.

"I will. Enjoy your day, Shigeru-sama," Akashi bowed.

You looked at them weirdly and confused, 'Why did that guy bow to Ryota? Oh... it must have been his butler. Oh wow, is Ryota a royalty or something?' You thought to yourself.

You approached Ryota, who's walking towards you after walking out from his butler. "Ryota!" you called. His irritated face changed into a beaming one once he saw you.

"Oh, hey. Did you finish?"

"Ah yeah," I answered, glancing at the guy behind Ryota, still glaring at me. "Is there something you want to say to me, Y/n?" you snapped out from staring at that guy and lend Ryota the omamori, "I thought I should get you one..."

Ryota smiled and accepted it with both of his hands, "You...thought?"

You flinched, 'shit, I talked too much.'

"Uh, you had been brawling with Baji every day for the last two weeks. He's an evil dick, so—," You stopped explaining after hearing Ryota laugh at your explanation, "So... you got me this not because to be shielded from evil spirits and bad luck but to be protected from Baji, a human?"

You bit your upper lip and nodded, "That fist of his... He can kill a person with it, Ryota! I'd witness him disabled a person in public a lot of times... so, it's best to wish you luck," Yous said, acting terrified and a bit dramatic.

"HAHAHA, fine. Thank you for this, Y/n," You smiled at him as a reply. You looked back to see the guy in the suit still glaring at you, "Ryota. Who's that guy?"

"Oh? Who?"

"That, the one you talked to earlier."

"Oh, did he do something to make you feel uncomfortable," Ryota asked. "He has been glaring at me ever since... did I do something wrong?"

Ryota gasp and walked towards his butler with an irritated face again, "Ryota! it's okay, you don't have... to," you were too late to ask him because ha already reached his butler.

"Stop scaring her!" Ryota said. You felt concerned and ran towards the both of them, "Ryota, it's okay—,"

"Ryota?" You and Ryota both looked at the guy who said Ryota's name, "Huh?" you asked.

"Shouldn't you call him, Shigeru-san? Seems to me that you don't have respect for those people older than you."

"I gave her the permission to call me that, Akashi."

Akashi nodded before looking at you and bowed. "I'm sorry."

You recoiled, waving your palm at him, "I... it's fine."

"Matsunoooo-chaaaan!" You heard Yui's voice from the back, making you look at her, "What's up, Yui?"

"We want to go to the arcade. Come with usssss," I nodded. "Sure, let's go then?" I said. "You can tag along too, Shigeru-kun," Aiko said. "Oh, sure. I don't plan on going anywhere with the guys anyway."

"I'll give you a ride, Shigeru-sama."

The four startled, "Did this guy just call you... Shigeru-sama?" Aiko asked. Awkwardly making Ryota nod.

"Uhm, excuse me but are you single?" Junko said all of a sudden, making the three of you girls wheeze silently. "Geez, you're such a straight forwards person. I can sense it...Yo, Ojisan, you gay?"

All of our eyes widened with Yui's direct question. "Mattaku, talk about being blunt. Go and apologize. That's rude, you know!" Aiko said, scolding Yui.

"Iie, it's alright. I can't deny that fact about me," Akashi said, making all of us go silent until Ryota decided to break the silence, "WOAAAAHHH, TOO MUCH SHOCK IS NOT GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH—,"

"You too right, Shigeru-san? My nose never betrays me," Yui added, making it more awkward. you laughed nervously, covering Yui's mouth with your palm, "Ha...yeah, your nose is great but should you stop now, Yui-chan?"

All of you except for Akashi released out an uncertain laugh. "If you all are finished, please get in. I'll escort you to the best arcade," Akashi said, heading towards the other side, opening the door for his master, "Please get in, Shigeru-sama."

Ryota ignored Akashi and opened the door of the backseat for the girls.

You all entered the arcade only to notice Akashi's still following the five of you. "Uh, Y/n-chan. Is it just me or even the butlers escort their master in an arcade with friends?" Junko asked, whispering at you with Yui listening, "Guys, Is it just me too? I feel something between them."

Aiko leaned in and smacked Yui's hands, "No, shut up. You had been saying weird stuff from the start," Aiko joined in, in their whispering. You sighed before replying, "Guys, he's just doing his job."

"Job to escort his master, who's already eighteen and only wants to have fun with girls?" Junko said, which Yui nodded to. "I know right, he's like an overprotective boyfriend—," Aiko smacked Yui's hand again, "Oi, that hurts!" Yui said, half whispering and half shouting, "Serves you right! stop assuming things, Yui!"

"Let's just let it be, come on, let's play!" You said, pulling the three of them inside the arcade.

"Oh, look, Y/n-chan. A boxing machine," Yui said, catching your attention. You laughed seeing the machine. "Huh? What's funny, Y/n-chan?" Yui asked, concerned, "Uh...nothing."

'It reminds me of Baji for some reason. I wonder what that prick is doing right now?' you thought to yourself.

"Woah, this machine releases a lot of tickets if you hit it past the goal," Junko said. "Ne, why don't you try it, Shigeru-kun!" Aiko suggested, which we all nodded to.

"Sure, why not," Ryota inserted a coin at the slot, starting the machine. You saw the same boxing machine next to the one Ryota's playing. You stood in front of it before implanting a token at the hole.

You settled all of the force in one hand that's clenched in a fist, hitting the punchball with your fist with no hesitation. And got jolted to see one of the screws that hold the punchball in its place fall onto the ground, making a 'ting' sound, catching everyone's attention.

Akashi jumped from his seat to pick up the screw on the floor. Everyone looked at you with silence before rejoicing all of a sudden. Even Yui, Aiko, and Junko are shocked but joined the cheering as well.

"Yoooo! That's so cool." "Seriously? What is she the hulk?" "Gosh, she really broke the machine, HAHAHA."

Everyone's nose started to become even louder when the machine released out a tremendous amount of tickets from its ticket opening. You stood there still a shock, 'How did this happen? The last thing I remembered was... I was settling all my force in one hand, then it broke the machine...' you thought to yourself in disbelief.

Your phone buzzed and checked to see who it was.

Perverted fangs: "Mf really broke the machine, and for what?"

It was Baji. You looked around to see where he was and saw him laughing with a lollipop in his mouth, sitting a little away from all of you.

You decided to reply.

Baji's phone got a notification as expected that stopped me from laughing.

Bruce Banner: "Fuck you, stalker."

Perverted Fangs: "Damn chill, Bruce Banner, you might turn green."

Bruce Banner: "Yeah right, better calm me, or I won't hesitate to pinch yer damn balls."

Baji's faced scrunched with the last message you sent him before laughing.

You kneeled down to pick up the tickets on the floor to exchange them for an item. The lady at the exchange booth gasps with the number of tickets you got. It takes too long for the lady to count the pieces of paper using the counting machine. But after some time, you got the total.

"Good work, choose what you like between these stuff toys," the lady said, pointing at the item. "Oh, I'd like to have that cat one."

"Hai, just for a second. I'll give it to you."

"You like cats, Y/n-chan?" Yui asked. "Ah, yeah, you can say that. It's actually my brother who likes 'em. It just grew in me too," You said before receiving the paper bag containing the item.

Ryota looked at Akashi, who's still holding onto the screw, "Hey, put that down."

Akashi looked at the screw again before speaking, "Should we add one more person to give you a hand in abducting her tonight? After scrutinizing her strength, bet she'd last long in a fistfight with me."

"That woman knocked a machine. Even the screw that fell on the floor is bent."

Ryota was shooked by Akashi, "Tch. Do whatever you want. But even without adding one, I can seize her just fine," the lad said before leaving his butler.

Yui tapped your shoulders, wanting to ask something, "yeah?" you replied.

"You seem kinda off though, is something bothering you? I mean, that punch was sure made out of bad memory," you pinched her nose lightly, "You sure have a good nose, huh."

"So? What happened?" Aiko said, joining. "It's nothing big. I just dreamed about my father after a very long time."

"WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT? YOU SHOULD'VE TOLD US SOONER," Junko said, exclaiming, "Why? It's kind of personal, Junko-chan," Aiko replied.

"Yeah, but according to my aunt, who's a fortune teller, dreaming about someone dead means your security's not guaranteed," Junko informed, catching Ryota's attention, who's walking behind them.

Ryota looked back at Akashi behind him with a glare, 'Tch, until in the afterlife you just won't stop ruining everything, Yoshiyuki.'

"Hey, no. Stop it, Junko. You're scaring, Y/n-chan," Yui said, patting me. "It's fine."

"But really? I heard different meanings from my grandma. She dreamed of her husband, who died before her. She said dreaming about someone who already died means it's the end of something and the beginning of something new."

"Well, either way, it's still kinda scary. I mean, if it's the end of something and the beginning of something new, what if another obstacle comes into your life," Yui added.

"Are you okay though, Y/n-chan? We can head back to the hotel if you're worried."

"No, I'm okay. Let's continue this day," You said, smiling at them, but deep inside, you're worried. Not about yourself, but Chifuyu.

The six of you roamed around the arcade and played tried playing a lot of things until all of you got tired and decided to have some ice cream.

"Wah, try this, Y/n-chan. It's delicious." Aiko said, feeding you her ice cream. Yui approached our seat with a tissue when she tripped and crashed herself at Aiko, causing Aiko's ice cream to drop on my clothes.

"Oh, no. I'm sorry, Y/n-chan," Aiko and Yui said with teary eyes. "No, no. It's not both of you guy's fault. I'll just go to the bathroom, aight?"

"We'll go with you!"

"It's alright. Enjoy your ice cream before it melts," I said, smiling before excusing myself to go to the bathroom.

You cleaned it with a tissue, but it left a stain. You sighed and decided to let it be, but as soon as you got out of the bathroom, pair of hands pulled you to a corner.

"WHO THE FUCK— Baji?!" You looked at him smiling like he did not just pull you out of nowhere like a fucking kidnapper.

"Since you spent half of the day with them, how about you go with me now?"

"No."

"Why, not."

"They'll look for me."

"Just tell them you want to go first because your shirt is ruined."

'Why do you always come up with a reason and make me lie?"

"It's not a lie though, look at your shirt right now. It looks chunky and funky and nasty," Baji said. You gasped in disbelief and pulled a strand of his hair, "OW—," "Did you come here to just say those things to me?"

"No, I'm talkin' about your shirt."

You glared at him, "What do you want anyway?"

He smiled at you, which you find annoying, but you actually like the idea of sneaking out with him each time you're both given a chance to. "Let's go somewhere—," you rolled your eyes at the same sentence. "Gosh, you always say that, and I can't refuse. So where do we go?" You said, clinging your arm around his shoulder.

Baji chuckled before removing your hand from his shoulder and corrected the way you're holding him. He spread open your palm, intertwining his fingers with yours, "That's more like it."

You looked at him dumbfounded, pulling your hand away from him. "That's more like it, my ass."

"HAHAHA, oh come on. I was just joking— here, go change," Baji said, giving you a paper bag. You looked inside to see a black shirt. "Go change. You'll feel sticky with that clothing."

'How did it come to this? The last thing I knew was, I was complaining about the shirt Baji gave me because it's fucking big. And poof. I'm suddenly here on a very high place, staring at everything below, feeling like I'm on top of the world,' you thought to yourself, with your hand gripping on the railing.

"Ya' like it?" He asked with his back leaning at the terrace's wooden railing, with him looking at you sideways, admiring how happy you look right now.

You hummed as a response and stayed silent after, for some time.

Baji turned around to do the same position as yours, admiring the view from Kiyomizu-dera, "Well, you're quiet."

"I'm scared... Baji."

Baji instantly looked at you with a face of skepticism. 'No way...' His brain told him that you're a person too, and you get scared like ordinary people. But he has never seen you scared once in front of him... that's why he never believed that you fear something.

Baji knows it's the wrong time to feel this way, but he felt honored to witness that emotion you can make he thought impossible. Understanding your attitude, he knows you won't share your weakside with someone else's.

"I feel like... my father's giving me some signal warning."

"The dream... I can still remember it very vividly. Isn't it weird?" You said, looking at him with a face that seeks answers. "It is."

"What part of the dream bothers you?"

"The grave I saw. My family's surname was written there, but wasn't it supposed to be 2001?"

"What's your point?"

"The only Matsuno who's dead died in 2001, my father. But the year engraved in that musty stone is our current year, 2004, and my birth year too. It was blurry, but I know it's mine... BLOODY HELL—"

Baji stood up properly and was going to ask what's wrong. "Chifuyu and I have the same birth year..."

"Hey, Y/n. Don't overthink—," Baji said, trying o hold you back from running away.

You shaved his hand off of you before speaking, "Tf are you saying not to overthink? There's no guarantee that I am not about to face the same thing again three years ago."

"You can never run away from something you should take responsibility for. It will only haunt you, if not; someone close to you," Baji said, he didn't identify the person, but you knew he was talking about your dad. "My dad left Southside in 1989 when Chifuyu and I were one year old, and before Southside got evil. So how is he responsible for anything, Baji?!"

"I don't know, but it seems to me that the past is still haunting you. Maybe you missed out on a page."

'Miss out on a page? Did dad hide things from my mom and me?' You wondered to yourself.

"Can I ask where'd he went the morning before he died?" Baji asked, trying to puzzle the pieces together because he agreed. He's not convinced about what Draken said that Yoshiyuki ratted out his best friend. Baji's not also convinced that Hiroshi killed his best friend, Yoshiyuki.

"Nowhere, but he did go to Kyoto a week before he died. Dad said he'd like to talk to his old friend, Uncle Hiroshi. He said he'll go there to the mansion with a big S sign on the door. I went there when I was a baby. Pretty impressive that I remember the big S sign."

Baji's eyes widened, 'So Yoshiyuki went to see Hiroshi, but he didn't get killed the day after, but In a week?' Baji thought.

"After a week since he came back from Kyoto, he got killed at night. I didn't see Uncle Hiroshi that night when our house got surrounded, dad died, but my mother kept claiming Hiroshi killed dad. But the question in my mind was, why was my father killed a week later if Hiroshi killed him? I feel like they had a nice talk because dad was happy when he came back to Sendai. That's why I can't seem to hate Uncle Hiroshi..."

"That's all you know?" Baji asked. You nodded, "yeah, that's all..."

"How'd you know all this?"

"When I graduated in middle school, I asked mom to tell me everything in order. But I feel like she's still hiding things from me... I don't want to force her."

There was silence for a moment until you decided to speak again, "I wanna go back to Shibuya, Baji."

"I understand. We'll go back tonight. So calm down, for now."

"Come here," Baji said with his arms open, inviting you in for an embrace. You held your tears back, hugging him. He gave you comforting pats and a warm feeling.

"Everything will be alright. All we talked about right now are just what if's if your dream really is telling you something."

The nightfall came. You sat there waiting for your roommates to fall asleep until they did, eventually. You wrapped the Omamori in wrapping paper, wanting to give it to Baji tonight before leaving.

You heard faint knocks on the door, knowing it's Baji. You grabbed your things and silently walked towards the door, and left the room.

Baji placed his index finger on his lips, signaling you to stay quiet, "I kind of dropped my keys somewhere in this hotel. Would you mind waiting outside while I look for it?"

You sighed, letting out a small laugh, "You're so careless. Of course, I'll wait. It's not like I have a choice." Baji laughed too before responding, "my bike's parked somewhere outside. Just walk out straight."

You nodded and exited the hotel. And went ahead to find Baji's bike.

You stood there near his bike and got the omamori from your pocket, "I guess I'll give this to him when he comes back."

2 minutes had passed, and you're starting to get impatient, scared that someone from your trip will see you.

Relief was spread all over your body when you saw a person's silhouette thinking it was Baji, but now. As the guy got his face revealed by the moon's light, you backed away, following your intuition.

Someone crept on you from behind, but before you can even prevent it, the unknown person behind you wrapped its arms around your neck and his other hand holding a knife that can slit your throat anytime. You got shocked by the sudden appearance and touch, making you drop the omamori.

"Shout, and I'll cut you open," your whole body went cold, your mind went black, and everything about you just won't function after hearing that familiar voice...

l.s

Chapter Text

Ryota's POV

"Shout, or I'll cut you open," I said, threatening her with my knife only centimeters away from her skin. She stopped for a while, dropping something on the ground.

"Ryota?" She asked.

"Good guess."

"Is this some kind of prank? Come on, man," she really goes in my nerves. I located my knife in her hand that's holding my hand, preventing me from squeezing her more. I pointed the blade on the surface of her skin, slowly stabbing it down to her wrist.

"Is it still a joke to you, Matsuno?" She stayed silent in pain as I slowly engraved a long line on her skin. Blood flowing from her hand, "There it is, the same blood the night back in 2001," I said, feeling a little bit of satisfaction, but too bad... I still want more.

"W... what do you mean by that... you crazy motherfucker?" Y/n said while trying to get out of my hands, "With that force, you'll never be able to free yourself." I said, letting out a laugh, "pathetic, just like her father—"

Before I finished talking, I felt the force from her hand increase. She lifted me up with her back like I was just a sack of rice, flipping me over her shoulder. 'Fuck!'

Y/n then secured me on the ground with her hand choking my neck, "You know...something about my father?" I laughed at her question, damn she really has good intuition.

"Stop laughing, you son of a bitch! Tell me everything, did you kill Yoshiyuki?!"

'And little miss perfect finally snapped,' I thought to myself, remaining silent at her non-stop questions. I looked up at her, who's trying so hard to hold back tears in her eyes that are trying so hard to fall out. I grin, 'let's make this girl cry.'

"So what if I did?" I said, teasing her. Everything was silent until drops of tears fell on my face, 'this is fun.'

Y/n then again looked at me with different eyes. Her eyes softened.

She grabbed me, making me stand up, and faced me with her eyes full of hate and sadness mixed together, "Just what the hell... Ryota, I'll let all of this slide if you tell me that this is all a joke..."

I shrugged my shoulders, feeling unbothered, "Nah—," Y/n shoved me to the nearest wall as it hit my back hard. Stealing the knife from my hand. And was going to stab me with it when she paused midway. The edge was two inches away from my eyes. "Why'd you stop? scared?"

It was an opening for me. I wrapped my hands around Y/n's wounded hand, which has the knife, squeezing it till she lets go of the blade.

The sound of a taser gun was heard as the woman fell on my hands, "What the—" I looked at the person who did it just to see Akashi. "Let's go, Shigeru-sama. We're taking too much time here. Keisuke Baji might be back anytime."

'Tch, can't he just stay in the car?'

I lifted Y/n up, passing her to Akashi, which he caught. "Carry her. My back hurts," I said, massaging my shoulders and feeling my back.

I heard Akashi sigh, "Told you she'd put up a fight, you don't listen to me, Shigeru-sama. Yet you needed me to rescue you every time."

"Yeah, yeah. Stop lecturing me," I looked back at Akashi with a smile on my face, "Let's go do some torturing, shall we, my muse?"

Akashi ignored me, carrying Y/n inside the car. I let out a laugh and followed them. "Two down, two more."

"You shouldn't be celebrating and hurry up in kill her the way you want. I'm sure Baji would do anything to find where your location is," Akashi said, driving away.

"Nah, no way they can find me. Everything around me on the internet got shut down. And people are scared to talk about me. So where could they possibly get information?"

"Ken Ryuguji. He's Tokyo Manji Gang's vice commander. He bumped into our car in 2002 while we're visiting Kyoto. You introduced your name as Ryota Minami."

I recoiled at the sudden information Akashi just told me. Yeah, shit, I forgot about that Draken guy, "Why are you telling me this again just now?!"

"There's no need to tell you. Ken Ryuguji might not remember it or remember it. We still can't do anything. If we ordered to kill him, Tokyo Manji Gang's gonna haunt down whoever did that to their vice commander. And the last thing we want is to be involved with any gangs right before the rising of the Southside."

I looked at him with a fascinated look. His brain always surprises me every time, since the first time we met.

2002 Middle School, Shibuya, Japan.

On February 17, 2001. I killed someone back in Sendai and framed someone for it. It was half a year when I decided to leave Kyoto to stay in Shibuya.

I re-entered 1st-year middle school again on November 9, 2001, at Shibuya, Japan. They still let me in because my mother paid for the school principal to let me in.

In April 2002 where I was in 2nd-year middle school, I roamed around the campus wanting to escape everybody from their dirty gossips about my family, only to find a guy sitting on the ground with his face buried in between his knees.

I approach him, hitting his head lightly with a notebook. He looked at me with his foggy glasses and with a sweating face.

I threw him a tissue, "Wipe your face."

He looked at the tissue for a while before opening it. He never talked. But I wanted to hear his voice.

"What are you doing here, sitting on the ground?" I asked to hope for an answer. But he just shook his head as no, I went closer to examine his face, and he kept backing away.

"Better not get close to me, or you'll get bullied too," he said to me.

"You get bullied? For what? You look intelligent and decent to me," I responded, making him stop wiping his glasses. I glanced over to see his face without the glasses, and something clicked inside my brain, remembering his face. I feel like I've seen him before... Is he...

A memory of a guy getting called out with homophobic slurs at the school hallway flashed into my head.

I made him stand up from sitting on the ground and stares at his posture, "Oh, I remember you now!" I said, shocking the boy around my age. "W...what do you—,"

"I saw you in the hallway once...last week? Yeah, last week," he was looking down like he was ashamed that I knew who he was. "Can I ask? Why are they calling you with those words? Are you...gay—,"

"No. Those bullies stupid," He said, getting me surprised. "Uh, oh wow—," I said and stopped when he looked at me with a glare that can pierce through you like a dagger.

"W...what?"

"They think I'm gay because I ain't as masculine as them, kids are stupid— Well, most of them. How about you? Are you stupid?"

"No, I don't see you like that."

"That's not my question—."

"It's called comprehension. I don't think you're gay because you act different—the kids say, which means I'm not stupid in your perspective."

The boy stood there... looking away after what I said. "Tch, Stupid," he said before leaving. I grabbed his uniform, not letting him go. "No, not yet, you tomato. Look how red you are," I whispered in his ears.

He turned around, punching me in an odd place. "That wasn't bad. Let me teach you."

I took his fist and lightly placed it in the part where my nasal bone is, "Here, you should punch here. At least learn how to punch, and if you did, want to be my partner?"

"H...huh?"

"Yeah, let's rebuild the Southside, you know that? I want you as the vice commander."

"Me? You look strong yourself... you won't need me."

"But I believe you have something that I lack. This," I said, pointing at the boy's chest where his heart his. I felt it beating so fast, making me look at him.

He has this embarrassed look on before opening his mouth to speak, "Akashi Watanabe."

I looked at him in confusion, "Ah, then... Mine's Ryota Shigeru"

"...Please take care of me, Shigeru-sama."

I laughed at how he addressed me, "Man! what was that? You're unexpectedly funny. Come on, let's go to class," I stated, placing my hand over his shoulder.

Akashi and I became closer and closer, which was good. I never had a friend in my life. But as days pass, by he acts more like my pet than a friend.

We both visited Kyoto in December of the same year, 2002. While we're in the car, parked properly, a bike hit our side mirror. Akashi and I went out and saw a very tall guy. He bowed at us. "I'm sorry, my name's Ken Ryuguji from Shibuya. My friend is lost here in Kyoto right now so, I can't deal with this— can I have your bank account instead—,"

"It's alright. You can go and find your friend."

"Thank you so much. May I know your name?"

"Minami, Ryota Minami."

"Ah... Thank you so much again, have a nice Christmas," He said before leaving.

"Shigeru-sama, why'd you use your father's surname?"

"Nothing, I just want to try. That Ryuguji guy looks like he's not from around here and prolly doesn't even know who Minami's are," I said and headed inside the car.

3rd person's POV, Present-day, 2004. Higashiyama, Kyoto, Japan.

Baji walked around the hotel for 5 minutes straight, looking for his keys. He thought it was odd for him to lose hit, but he'd preferably find it than bicker with his mind.

While walking aggressively, his foot bump on a stone, making him flinch, "What the heck, talk about luck— Oh, found it!" he said, seeing the keys next to the rock.

He immediately ran back to his bike, hoping to see you there already but saw nothing, but a thing that's like someone dropped it on the ground.

Baji crouched down to pick up the thing, only to see it was meant to be given to him.

"To 場地圭介"

"That's my name— wait, this handwriting..." He quickly stood up, realizing it was yours, and looked roamed around his eyes to see any sign of you. He opened the gift to see a red omamori with white a white ribbon, it's a friendship one.

He gripped it tightly and placed it inside his pocket. Baji was about to walk towards his bike to drive again when he detected fresh blood on the ground.

Baji got his phone out of his pocket, dialing Draken's, but there wasn't an answer. "Shit, is he asleep?"

He then called Mitsuya, but there was no answer. He called everyone, but there was no answer, "Ah fuck it— what are their phones for if they're not gonna take calls?!"

"Her mom...Y/n's mom should answer."

Baji ran from his bike back to the apartment, knocking on Tanaka sensei's hotel room. "Old man! Open the door! It's an emergency—" Baji stopped shouting when he heard muffled sounds from the inside of the room.

He leaned his ears on the door to listen more, "Old man? Is that you?" Baji stepped away for a few inches before kicking the door open, only to see Tanaka sensei's hands and feet wrapped in a strong ass duct tape. The lad ran to his teacher, removing the strip from its mouth.

"Did Ryota do this?" Baji said, unwrapping Tanaka sensei's hands. "Y...yes and another man with a suit. I accidentally overheard their conversation about kidnapping Y/n. S they did this. I need you to warn Matsuno—"

"She's already been abducted. So now, I need you to cooperate and give me her mother's number. Please. I really... need to call someone from Shibuya."

"B...but since when are you here?"

"I've been here since the first day of the school trip, now no more questions, and give me your phone."

Tanaka sensei nodded and rose up from the bed to grab his phone from his bag and threw it to Baji, who's been waiting.

"Matsuno... Matsuno...Found it!" He immediately dialed the phone, waiting for someone to answer. "Come on... answer...please... someone answer—"

"Hello? Oh Tanaka sensei, what's the matter—"

"Mrs. Matsuno, right?" Baji ambushed her with a question, not letting her finish her intro.

"Yeah? Who's this? Wait, I'm sorry, It's kinda noisy here. I'm having a party here with some of Chifuyu's friends—wait for a second, and I'll go outside. Yeah, you can talk now—"

"I'M SORRY, MRS. MATSUNO, BUT CAN YOU TELL THOSE IDIOTS TO ANSWER THEIR FUCKING PHONE. I HAD BEEN CALLING ALL OF THEM WHY THE FUCK AREN'T THEY ANSWERING—"

"Oh, sorry, honey. Okay, I'll let your friend know. Is everything alright there?"

Baji flinched, "Y...yeah, It's best if you can listen too... please put the phone in the middle of the table and make it a loudspeaker."

"Alright, calm down."

Baji patiently waited for Y/ns mother to give her a signal. "Everyone! Your friend is on the line. Please, shut up for a while. He said he needs to talk to you."

"Who's that, Mrs. Matsuno?" Mikey asked.

I don't know, but he sounds aggressive—, The boys didn't even bother letting Mr.s Matsuno finished and ran towards her Knowing it was Baji. "Please put it on speaker, mom," Chifuyu said.

"Oh, okay."

"Guys... are you all listening?" Baji said, wanting to confirm. "Yes, what's going on, Baji?" It was Draken.

"Y/n... Ryota made his move. FUCK IT, I TOUCHED HER OWN BLOOD ON THE GROUND— I DON'T KNOW WHERE HE TOOK HER. WE WERE ABOUT TO GO HOME TONIGHT, BUT I TOOK MY EYES OFF HER FOR A MINUTE, THEN SHE'S GONE—"

"Calm down... We're all worried here, Baji-kun," It was her mom. Her voice is shaking, "We'll head there in Kyoto, right now. So calm down in the meantime. I need to know what happened first. Alright? We'll call you back, Keisuke."

"But—," The call was ended. Baji was furious and threw the phone on the bed. Tanaka sensei flinched in his place, "Baji, is there something else you want me to do?"

Baji placed his hands on his hip while the other one's covering his mouth, thinking what to do. "I need you to make the students leave Kyoto right away, first thing in the morning. But stay here, and wait for Matsuno's mother. She'll be here soon. We can't have more students involved in this mess."

"What about you? Please don't do anything dangerous."

"I'm gonna be just fine. Just do as I say," Tha lad said before leaving the hotel room.

Shibuya, Japan.

"I called the others. Let's wait for them before making your way to Kyoto," Mikey said.

"Please tell me what's happening right now. Why is my daughter gone?" Hikari said calmly, but deep inside, she's scared to death to lose another person in her life.

"We'll make this short, Mrs. Matsuno. Hiroshi Minami's only son, Ryota Minami, is after Y/n, and we don't know the real reason and the real story because his identity is confidential. The internet blocks every information about the Minami's."

"His motive is unknown, but prolly to revenge his dad," Draken added.

"No, it wasn't because of his dad..." Hikari said, understanding the situation. "Then what is it, Mr.s Matsuno?"

"He didn't say it, but I know he hates his father. Whatever this is. He is not avenging his father, but Ryota's doing this because of jealousy."

All the boys got confused about what the lady said to them, "I was there, every time Yoshuyuki goes to meet Hiroshi. I can see jealousy in Ryota's eyes."

"How'd you know he hates his father?" Mitsuya asked with a can of beer in his hand.

"He framed his dad. I know Hiroshi wasn't the one who killed my husband. As soon as I escaped with my twin, I came back to the house and saw new faces. It wasn't Hiroshi's men. There I saw Ryota, a middle schooler... killed my husband. But I knew...no one would believe me. That's why I blamed Hiroshi and gave Ryota a second chance. If Yoshiyuki was alive, he would do the same thing... My husband thought about Ryota as his son too..."

All of them stayed quiet and shock at the information Mrs. Matsuno gave.

"So Ryota's just a jealous, crazy mother fucker?" Peh yan said, crushing the can with his bare hands.

"Why is he still after the Matsuno family if he already killed Mr. Matsuno?" Draken asked.

"Hiroshi killed himself to be with Yoshiyuki. Making Ryota mad and jealous because his father is willing to die for someone else but him."

"So, Mr. Matsuno didn't die because he ratted out his best friend?" Mikey asked, sitting beside Draken.

"No, Hiroshi got ratted out just after Yoshiyuki died. Yoshiyuki told his old classmate and gangmate, Akira, to rat Hiroshi out if he suddenly got killed. If it wasn't because of Akira's courage to fulfill Yoshiyuki's request, Hiroshi would still be out lurking and killing," Hikari added, standing up to wear her jacket.

"Now, let's go to Kyoto," The lady announced, tying her hair up. Making everyone's faces light up in excitement.

Draken chuckled before standing up, "Now I know where Y/n got her moves and attitude."

Mikey picked up his jacket from the chair and placing it over his shoulders, "Yeah, right, Ken-chin."

All of them stood up from their seats and went outside to their bikes,

parked in front of the hotel.

"You all go ahead, meet me at Shibuya crossing in 10," Hikari said before heading inside the parking lot. "Ey, where are you going, Matsuno-san?" Mikey asked.

Hikari looked back at the group, raising the keys that are clacking against each other, "I got my own ride, boys." making everyone feel delighted. "You don't need to tire yourself driving," Nahoya said, with his brother Souya behind him.

"Do you rather want me to walk from Shibuya to Kyoto?" Hikari sarcastically said.

"No, that's not what I mean. There's plenty of space for you."

Hikari chuckled, approaching Nahoya, making his brother and the others gulp, "I don't wanna be seen riding with high school boys," Hikari said, pinching Nahoya's nose. "Now go. See you there," Hikari said, then left, heading towards the underground parking lot of the apartment.

The boys agreed, speeding their bikes towards the location discussed.

"Is she really a mom?" Hakkai asked, making Mitsuya laugh. "Yeah, dummy, she's Chifuyu's mom."

"But she looks young for a mother," Pah chin added.

"I know, right Pah chin. I'm thinking of being Chifuyu's stepfather."

Chifuyu threw the can of beer he's drinking on Peh yan, who's with Pah chin, "Fuck you!"

All three of them laugh while making their way to the Shibuya crossing. "Matsuno genes are scary," Mikey complimented, still focusing his eyes on the road.

"You still haven't given us an order, Mikey. What are we gonna do when we reach Kyoto?" Draken said, locating his bike near Mikey's with the same pace.

"Hm, I guess we'll just help if someone needs a beating. I'm sure there's gonna be a brawl between Toman and the new Southside if they knew the captains of Tokyo Manji Gang are in search of the girl they abducted."

"Pretty Idiotic. That Ryota guy could've abducted Baji with them so he couldn't seek help," Mitsuya said with his poker face.

"They prolly are afraid of him. Baji can kill with just his bare fist," Souya informed.

"No, they did it on purpose. Ryota's certain they won't be found even if Baji sought help. Means their hideout is totally hidden. It's hard to know where because they reigned all over Kyoto. means everywhere can be their hideout," Draken said, speeding forward. "Let's hurry up."

They all nodded and started to increase their bike's pace faster than average until the boys finally reach the Shibuya crossing. It was 11 at night, so it doesn't have a lot of people.

"So we're supposed to wait here—,"

"Y'all are late," Hikari said, getting off her black Kawasaki EN 500. Chifuyu got off Mikey's bike approaching the familiar vehicle, "Woah, didn't we got here ahead of you?" Draken said, amazed.

"Yeah, you went ahead. I took the closest route to Shibuya crossing." Hikari said proudly.

"Mom, Is this...?"

Hikari nodded, caressing its leather seat, "Yeah, your dad's," Chifuyu looked at it like he just saw the most glorious thing in his life. "Can I have this?"

"If we save your sister, you can have it to yourself," Hikari said, challenging his son, "Okay! I'll definitely save my twin, with price or without. Let's go, Mikey-kun!"

They all laughed at Chifuyu before starting all of their engines again, "Hey, hey. Don't forget, Hotel Marufuku in Higashiyama. Baji's waiting there for us. I estimated we'll be arriving there at dawn, 5 or 6, but more than that. If we take the train, it'll take us 2hours, but there's no way you can enter the station looking like that without getting arrested," Hikari said, holding her laughter, making the boys scoffed.

"Good thing, it's night. Take the best route you can think of. The important thing is we all reach Higashiyama, Kyoto, before six," Mikey said, looking at his friends behind him.

"You're an amazing leader," Hikari complimented.

Mikey smiled at her, "Just a good one will do."

The sound of the motorcycle racing off filled the silence of night in the Shibuya crossing. As they all made their way to Kyoto.

Mount Kurama, Kuramahonmachi, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan, Minami Residence.

The gate to the luxurious mansion opened up as the black car containing a hostage went in. You woke up with your foot feeling numb and ticklish every time you move it.

Your memory of the last thing that happened was hazy, but as seconds pass by, you're starting to realize where you are and what happened before this.

Realizing your place, you knew you're in the back seat. You raised your head to see who was driving to see two familiar backs. You managed to sit down properly, making the two of them flinched in their position.

"Damn, Matsuno. Do you know how many times did you get Tazed just to be unconscious the whole ride? I can say you're pretty strong," Ryota said, looking at you with a stupid face that irritates you to the core.

You gathered your saliva up, spitting on his face before laughing, "HAHAHA—," a slap came across your face, stopping you from laughing. You remained your head sideways with your hair blocking your view.

"You think this is a joke? You're gonna die any minute now, Y/n Matsuno."

You held our laughter but failed, making you release a chuckle before looking back at him, "I can't believe you're proud to say that you killed my dad when you can't even kill him all by yourself."

You neared your face towards him before speaking again, "I am that second chance to prove that you're not weak, yet look at you, still can't kill without an associate," you said, wanting to piss him off more.

"If you don't shut your mouth, I'm gonna tear that off first thing's first when we get inside."

"Why not do it now? Oh, you're such a pussy."

"Shut up!" He said, smacking you unconscious. "Shigeru-sama, take it easy. We're almost at the main gate."

Ryota looked at you before sitting back in his original position before. "Just kill her when we get there. I have been getting calls that someone's looking for a mansion with a big S sign on the door. And there's no mistake that It wasn't Baji."

Ryota's eyes widened, "How did he know about the big S sign?!"

"Y/n prolly tells him even the smallest little details in her life. Too bad Baji can't even tell her his secret. Now, look at her, looking so innocent at the whole trip she didn't even know she's going to die," Akashi said, parking the car properly.

"We're here. Go ahead and take care of yourself, Shigeru-sama. She'll be ready the way you want her to," Akashi said after opening the car door to his master.

"Okay. I'll leave it to you," Ryota said, placing a peck on the lad's neck.

Akashi remained silent until Ryota finally left. He looked at you feeling furious but at the same time, sorry. "No. I shouldn't oppose, Shigeru-sama."

He shoved half of himself in the back seat to get you and carried you in a bridal style before entering the mansion by the mansion door opened by two servants.

"Is the basement ready?" Akashi said, asking one of the southside members. "Yes, sir. I'll open the door for you when we get there. Follow me."

Akashi reached the basement with you in his arms. "Can you hold her for me, Izuki?" Akashi asked. The guy nodded and obeyed. "Place her here."

Izuki carried you to the place Akashi told him. He made you stand up there as Akashi ties your hand up with a rope, squeezing it tight, making you feel it, and regained a little bit of your consciousness.

"Ow... w...what is t..this," you looked up to see and find that part where it hurts to see your hand tightly tied side by side on a rope, and the rope was tied in a wood on the ceiling.

You looked down to see your feet separated, but they were locked in place with leg cuffs. Now you look like an X in a square.

"Ah, shit..." It was dark, but somehow you know it's a basement. "Let me go, y'all stupid ass mother fu—."

"Staying quiet will delay your death. So please shut your mouth," Akashi said, cleaning up a tool in a table.

You chuckled, seeing him wipe the metals with a cloth, "Am I gonna get tortured? Cool."

"Maybe a little. We do not have much time left. Your lover is looking for you all over Kyoto. Like some dumbass asking where to find a mansion with a big S at its door," He said, catching your attention.

"Don't you dare do anything to him?"

"Or what?" A voice said coming from the entrance of the basement. "You really got the time to be worried about him when you can't even get out of this situation yourself," It was Ryota.

He approached you while putting on his gloves that are white as paper before speaking, "Why not plead about me taking your life any minute now, instead of someone else's, huh? Matsuno?"

Ryota spoke, bending his body a little to reach your level, holding your chin up to look at him. "Stop touching me, you psycho."

Ryota stood up straight, "You're really brave, huh. Your dad died because of that. Yoshiyuki's so brave to try to get my dad out of his crimes, see?"

You looked at him, confused about what he just said, "What did you just say?"

"It's just how I said it, Y/n."

"My dad didn't go to Kyoto to escape your dad from his crimes. He went there to make him stop the killings—," You didn't even get to finish your sentence, hearing a loud laugh from Ryota. "Your father is such a liar!— I mean... he's not wrong, yeah. He went here in the year 2001 to stop my father, AND TO ESCAPE HIM."

"My dad would never—,"

"He did. That's why I killed him. That's why he's....dead."

He said, building up more anger inside you. You feel like you're gonna be crazy if you didn't hit him even once.

Ryota picked up the glass of wine from the table, drinking it pouring it all over your head, "Considering your reaction, you must've known only the surface of the problem."

You stayed quiet, feeling the coldness of the wine spread all over your body. "Then, tell me. If I die here tonight, then at least I want to know what led me to this horrible fate."

"Accepting death, are we? Hm, but I'm not letting you off that easy," thou replied, harshly slamming the wine glass back to the mini table. "How about...I do whatever I want at every information that escapes my mouth?"

"Do whatever you want, just tell me... the truth."

"Hm... Okay, sure. Leave, Akashi," Ryota ordered, which the lad followed, leaving the basement and shutting its door close.

"How about I tell you from the start, shall I?"

"As you should."

Ryota smiled, straddling a chair in front of me, his hand leaning at the chair's top rail as he looked at me with a knife in one of his hands. "My mother and my father had an unhappy marriage because of what organization my dad runs," He stopped for a while thinking of the words to say, "They want to divorce, but they figured out that it would be a lot of work to arrange contracts and lands they shared in Kyoto."

He stood up from his seat, approaching you with the sharp blade. He located it at your waist and slide the razor against your skin at a slow pace, then fast. Resulting in it bleeding as the blood leaked outside of your light blue shirt, "Fuck!" you shouted, wincing in pain that jolted all over your body.

'It stings... but this is all I can do to know the truth and buy Baji more some time. I trust him... he'll...he'll definitely save me, I'm not going to die here. Not in this crazy-ass motherfucker's hand,' you thought to yourself while glaring at Ryota.

"Are you giving up already? I was just at the Introduction of the story, Y/n-chan~" Ryota said, wiping the blood off the knife using your cheeks. "Just fucking go on!"

He grabbed your jaw harshly, making you wine out of pain from the wound on your waist. "Pretty demanding for someone who doesn't have the rights, huh?" he lets go of it with the same force before sitting down at his chair again.

It was hot in there. You felt your sweat running down your face.

"My mom doesn't want my dad to take custody of me. Because she doesn't want me to end up being the same as my dad. Leader of a dangerous organization all over big cities in Japan, Hiroshi Minami."

The knowledge just now shocked you, 'So I was right, he's Uncle Hiroshi's son, huh? I mean, it's obvious, but... confirmation is still the key.'

"My dad, Hiroshi, felt the same. He doesn't want to taint his own son. He's also the one to suggest that I should take my mother's surname, Shigeru. Her name is ,Sayaka Shigeru."

He stood up again to pick up the baseball bat, "How about I disabled you while you try to stand with a broken leg? Wouldn't that be fun to try next?"

"Try to beat my endurance, go. I challenge you—," the pressure of the bat shifted onto your left leg, making your body feel the pain. You screamed on top of your lungs, unable to stand correctly with one leg miserable. "Wooohooo!!" Shigeru celebrated.

The door to the basement suddenly opened, making Ryota look to see who it is, and saw Akashi with a worried face. "What? You got something?"

"Sorry, I heard you yellin' I came here as soon as I heard," Ryota laughed at his associate, "Nah, honey, I was just... having fun. Now close the door and leave."

Ryota looked back at you, grinning from ear to ear. "So? Shall we continue?"

"But I didn't like the way they dealt things the way they like it. I want to be dad's most trusted person. But at that moment where I changed my surname, I felt like he disowned me."

"I did everything to impress him, even if he's not by my side. I visit him in Sendai just to impress him and show him that I'm very loyal. And that I want to live with him more than my mother."

"But he's too busy trusting his friend. Yoshiyuki Matsuno."

That name caught your attention. You looked up to see Ryota looking at you with disgust and hate...and... jealousy.

"You really look like your father. It makes me want to make you suffer more," Ryota said, laughing with tears falling out of his eye. You stayed quiet, comprehending the information he's giving you and the pain you're feeling right now. Until a question strikes your brain.

"W...were you... jealous of the relationship my father and Uncle Hiroshi had?" You asked, staring at his eyes that are red. "So you really were—," you got cut off by the sudden grip around your neck, "It's not my fault, Yoshiyuki's such a fucking leech."

"Well, at least my dad has something you don't. Poor boy, can't even get close to his father—," Another hit was taken by your right leg, making you yell again like there's no tomorrow. You couldn't stand straight at this point. But you decided to stay up still, 'I won't let you get the satisfaction you want, Ryota.'

"Oh, I see. You still got the spirit. Shall I continue the story then?"

"He's my uncle. I admit it. I am very envious of the attention he gets from my father. He overlaps my existence, making me hate him more and more."

"Tch, childish."

"Yeah, you can say that," Ryota said, lighting one of the cigarettes before huffing on it. And blowing the air out after seconds. He then unbuttoned tour blouse to expose your shoulders, using it as an ashtray to release those burned things inside the cigar.

You let out a heavy breathe, feeling the burning sensation in your shoulder. You bit your own lips with the pain, causing it to bleed, and let out a small amount of blood.

"You gotta hear this. This is like the most exciting and shocking part for you and for me to say," Ryota said, putting out the cigarette in your shoulder again like it's nothing.

"Just when I was close to earning my father's trust to become his right hand to the organization I'd love to rule very much, I overheard a conversation that Yoshiyuki tried to meet with my dad and offered him escape his crime."

"I felt mocked by Yoshiyuki. All my life, I had been living to impress my father and earn his trust, and Yoshiyuki wants my dad to escape?" Ryota added.

At that moment where you're trying to grasp everything he just said, you felt angry and betrayed and pathetic, "No...no... that's a lie! my father would never help a criminal!"

"He did. After all, they're best friends."

"No, you're lying... you're...lying!!" your voice started cracking, and your tears started falling non-stop. 'No, dad could never... he didn't...'

The lad approached you, helping you stand by pulling your hair up with his hand. Now your face is just centimeters away from his, "I know... I lied to you about my motive, but what I'm saying is true~" Ryota said like a mother trying to comfort her child. "Aww, stop come here, let me wipe it for you," Like a crazy person, Ryota wiped your tears with his own fingers. "Now, shh, and let me continue my story," he said, giving you a pat.

"I felt mocked by Yoshiyuki. All my life, I had been living to impress my father and earn his trust, and Yoshiyuki wants my dad to escape?"

"I was there when my father ordered his men to make an appointment to see Yoshiyuki, considering Yoshiyuki's offer."

"And my reaction to my father was, "After he left you for his family, you still want to see him?"" Ryota lets out a chuckle while removing his gloves, "And let me tell you, I earned a smack in the face for saying that, and it really hurt for real."

"Wanna know how it feels? It feels like this," He said slapping you across your face, "Not enough but that'll give you a hint," thou said massaging his palm while you stayed silent and can't even feel anything from both of your broken leg.

"Before the appointment, I killed Yoshiyuki. In his own house and in my own hands. His last words were, "I'm sorry that I made you feel that way, son. But please don't kill me right now. I want to free your father from everything." Which was nonsense to me. I won't let him make dad stop ruling the Southside," Ryota said like it was nothing; even after the pain that is consuming you, you still had the urge to beat him up right now.

"Why... why does it seem to you like my father's just a toy that you can get rid of? He has a family. Did you know how many nights my mom spent crying, my brother spent pretending he was okay?! We suffered... we suffered all from that just because of your childish mindset!"

"Don't you dare manipulate me into thinking I was the wrong one here!" Ryota yelled back, pointing fingers at you. "Then how was my father at fault because you're a jealous bitch with daddy issues! You ignorant motherfucker, even if you kill me right now, that jealousy would remain. EVEN IF YOU KILL ALL THE PEOPLE THAT CARRY THE MATSUNO BLOOD, YOU'LL ALWAYS BE AN ENVIOUS BITCH!"

Ryota was about to explode with anger, gripping tightly at the baseball bat in his hand, smashing your head with it, hard and strong, making you lose consciousness, and blood started running down your forehead.

Ryota sighed sat on his chair, wanting to continue his story.

Hotel Marufuku, Higashiyama, Kyoto, Japan. 3:30 AM.

The sound of the engine occupied the quiet morning of Higashiyama.

The boys arrived at the Marufuku hotel with Hikari, just for Chifuyu to search for Baji as soon as Mikey's bike stopped. But Tanaka sensei stopped him from coming inside the hotel, "If you're looking for Baji, I'm afraid he's not here."

The teacher said, making the boys confused, "But he told me to wait here for you. Baji said he'll go look for Y/n as soon as he can because she doesn't want any of Ryota's men to touch a single strand of her hair."

Hikari grabbed Tanaka, "And you didn't stop him? What he did is suicide! Creeping straight into the enemy's den!"

Chifuyu pulled his mom away from the teacher, calming her down, "Mom, calm down. Let's just call Baji-san."

"Yeah, good idea. But Baji's not responding. It says he's out of coverage," Hakkai instantly said.

Hikari exhaled in frustration, "Did he say something before leaving? About where he's about to go?"

"No, he just left. But even Baji doesn't know where he's supposed to go. But he acted weird before leaving. He keeps mumbling the word Big S."

An answer struck Hikari's brain, "That's it! Yeah, that's it! Big S! Baji's referring to the Minami's mansion."

"How do we get there? We can't ask, I'm sure people here are afraid to talk about the Minami's, and the sites on webs are blocked too," Chifuyu said.

Hikari patted Cifuyu's head, "Oh come on, son, don't tell me you forgot? We've been there before."

Chifuyu gasp in disbelief, including everyone, "We...did?"

"Yeah, you and your sister went there for the first and last time in your life," Hikari said before facing everyone, "If Baji was out until last night to look for the Minami's mansion. Means he already got there by now. Not to mention he's out of coverage. Mount Kurama doesn't have phone service the moment you got near halfway to the top. People in Kyoto and Shibuya are different in giving information. I'm pretty sure Baji got a stroke of luck on his side that someone told him where the location is."

"Mikey, I respect you as their leader. Please tell them we're heading to Kuramahonmachi, Sakyo Ward. This instant," Mikey nodded before saying the same thing. And headed towards the desired location, faster than ever.

Kuramahonmachi, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan

'I felt exhaustion, but I'm not giving up until I find her,' Baji said, driving up the forest with his bike's sound echoing all over the wooden area. 'After all, that asking and looking. I finally knew where the mansion with big S is located. And I'm heading towards it. Hang in there, Y/n.'

It was a sloppy, high and rocky drive to the top. But Baji didn't care... the only thing in his mind right now is to save a girl she doesn't want to lose. The lad's stomach grumbles in hunger. Thou skipped dinner and breakfast last night in search of Y/n.

"I swear that son of a bitch Ryota is a pain in the ass. He'd rather not hurt her, or he'll die in an instant I see his face."

The morning air didn't even matter, so is the darkness of dawn. What's important is he gets there at the top. With the pace of Baji's vehicle, he was already able to spot a house with big lights all over it. "Keeping your hideout hidden with a big ass light is not helping, morons," Baji said, following the direction of the light far away.

Baji figured out it would be best if he left his bike a little far away from the big ass gate of the mansion. Making a sound and getting caught is the last thing on his list. Well, it really doesn't matter as long as he can escape you from that hellhole.

The woods in that forest are big and small and are of different sizes. Baji managed to find one he can hide. He glanced at the gate to see two guys in a military outfit, "Why the hell is there military here? Dman that Ryota's crazy af, hiring the military for killing one girl."

But Baji wondered why they weren't carrying a weapon before smirking to himself, "Too bad, I'm crazier."

Baji, who doesn't have an attack plan, ran towards one of the guys kicking his face causing the guy to fall on the ground and hit his head. The other guy got alerted and attacked Baji with a punch before Baji can move again. But Baji's reflexes are excellent and quick, giving him a signal that a blow is coming. He turned around quickly, stopping the guy's fist and twisting its bone.

Baji looked at both of the guys on the ground, the other individual unconscious from one kick and the other one's whining like a bitch about its broken arm. It was shouting in pain, making Baji more irritated. He approached the guy and, slap his face, "Shut up, man. If I get caught, you're gonna die in my hands."

The guy quieted down, trembling and sweating. "Thought so," Baji said before crouching on the ground to get an identification card to enter the mansion. "Thanks for this."

He moved to the next guy to check his pocket and saw a knife and a 45 caliber, "Oh, he's the only one who has a weapon," Baji said like a kid squatting on the ground. "Why would this military personnel bring a gun like this. I thought they carry those big ass riffles."

He stood up, reloading the gun with his hands. "Oooh, is this how you do it—," before finishing his sentence, the big ass gate automatically opened, making Baji stare up at it and waiting for it to open completely. Once it opened, he looked down to see a bunch of military people with real guns this time, "Holy mother of—," He immediately ran to the woods to hide, still carrying the gun with him.

He found a tree to hide on and check the bullets inside the gun, "Six, six bullets..." He glanced over at the group following him to count how many are there, "One, behind that tree, mf can't even hide properly. Two beside him, geez, are they dumb. Three... four... five and...six. There are six of them."

Baji placed the pocket knife inside his pocket before racking the pistol slide. "Here goes my first time firing a gun."

He glanced over at the people again, "Are they doing this on purpose? They're seemingly very open to fire and be killed. Or do they think I'm just a regular house thief? Well, that pissed me off just thinking about it."

Baji didn't hesitate to fire one of the bullets, hitting one person in its belly. "Uh, I was aiming for the heart, but okay." The guy fell on the floor, informing his colleagues that I already have made a move.

They all fired everywhere like an idiot who can't locate their enemy, "Seriously, is this a joke? who fires like that?" Baji said, trying not to get hit by the bullets flying around like birds. He spotted two facing their backs on him. Baji thought of it as an opening and fired two of his shots to those two whose guard was down.

Baji laughed at himself before hiding again, "Shit, that was so awesome of you, Keisuke HAHAHA. Three down, three more."

But he knew to himself that these guys might be newbies or new recruits because if it wasn't, he wouldn't be breathing by now, considering he doesn't even have an attack plan.

Baji was praising himself when a body fell on the ground beside him, startling him. "What the heck—," he glanced over the tree to see a guy shooting his own colleges, mistaking him for an enemy. "What the hell is wrong with these people."

Baji heard footsteps nearing, "Fuck, Midori. Stand up, I'm sorry—,"

Baji stood up, straddling that person and beat him unconscious. "That's what you get for being dumb. But thanks for making the job easy for me."

Baji was about to stand up to look for the last one of the guys who followed him. When a gun was pointed behind his head. Baji waited for it to fire and mess his head up in pieces, but nothing happened.

He stood up with the back of his head, still feeling the piece. Baji turned around to see the person aiming a gun at him. It was a woman. She looks scared like she didn't want to be there in the first place.

Baji looked at her terrified face, remembering the image of you telling him how scared you are back in Kiyomizu-dera. He sighed, grabbing the gun from the lady, "Go. This is not a place for you."

"I said go. Just walk down straight, and you'll be out of this forest," the lady nodded before leaving. Baji placed the gun between his belt before crouching over to the ground to pick up another weapon. "This gun's big af. I'd rather use my fist."

He walked away from the place, back to where he fought two guys guarding the gate, and went inside. Baji was amazed to see the mansion's big as fuck. "Damn, boy."

He walked in, trying not to get lost with how big the front yard is. "Woah, that is not a mansion but a castle!" said Baji before continuing to walk towards the mansion's door with a big letter S on it that you can see even from afar.

As he placed his hand at the door handle, Baji saw several flashlights being pointed at him. Baji looked back to see a guy in a suit, with a military back up behind him. This time they look older than those guys who he fought back outside the mansion. "Shit, so this is the real deal?" said Baji.

"Put your hands in the air, young man," Noritoshi commanded. "I'm afraid I can't. How Am I supposed to fight all of you with my hands upward?"

"So you've chosen to oppose the military?"

"This ain't the military. You've manipulated those guys into doing this, like those newbies out there. Armed forces are supposed to protect citizens, not kill them. So, it means this ain't the military anymore. I won't respect y'all like one."

Baji approached Noristoshi with a proud and unbothered look, "Abusing your powers for what? I'll make your efforts go to waste once I stopped that damn Ryota from rising the Southside, just like you wanted."

"How'd you know all that?" Noristoshi asked, looking down at Baji.

"I figured it out. I am not that smart, but you guys are so easy to read. Let me guess you're covering up for Ryota from the police and the government?"

Noritoshi felt intimidated by an eighteen-year-old, making him furious on the inside. "Kill him, mess him up good," the old man ordered before leaving.

Baji looked at the dozen of enemies in front of him. "Ever heard of being fair? It's impossible for y'all not to know hand-to-hand combat, right?"

"Damn, how far is this mansion?" Draken said, trying to drive with the ugly roadwork. Mikey, who was having fun with the ride, spoke, "little more patience, Ken-chin."

"HAHAHA, hey, don't fucking touch there, Hakkai."

"I'm gonna faaaaaaaall, Mitsuya—," said Hakkai, who's trying not to fall with the bumpy ride.

Hikari drove ahead of them and stopped, giving them the signal to stop too. "What's the matter, Matsuno-san?" asked Mikey.

"Is that Baji's bike?" the woman asked, pointing her index finger at the bike parked unproperly. "Yeah, looking at how it's not even parked well, it's Baji's," Chifuyu said, making everyone release out a laugh.

"Well, I guess he left it here on purpose. There's no way he'd let those guys get him," Peh yan reasoned. "I suggest we should also leave ours here and invade the mansion with our own foot to be quieter," Mikey said, which everyone agreed to.

As they park their bikes, they noticed a 6 by 6 military truck going out of the house gate, with a black car in front of it. They all looked at the entrance, and it was left open.

"What's the military doing here?" Pah chin asked. "It must be Noritoshi's men," Hikari replied.

"Noritoshi?" said Nahoya.

"He's in a higher position in the military. He covers up for Hiroshi back in the day, and I think he's back at it again, but with Ryota. He manipulates new recruits in the army to follow his orders. Poor children," Hikari said. Grabbing a revolver from her bike's toolbox.

"I didn't know he was here. Baji might be fighting the enemies inside with his bare fist. Now we have to help him reach the place where Y/n is. Make way for him Baji to move... and please, Don't die."

Mikey chuckled, turning off his bike's engine, "They won't die. Not under both of our's commands."

Mikey approached Hikari for a handshake which Hikari accepted. "I leave them to you too for now. Until we rescue your daughter. I want you to know that I'm going this not just because Baji's in there but also because Y/n showed me that other side of Baji that I never knew I could."

"My daughter made cool friends."

"She did."

"Now, let's go," said Mikey.

All of them felt excited to break some bones again after a long time, "Geez, come on. I am itching to make someone bleed," Draken said, cracking his bones on his fingers.

"Yer better chill," Mitsuya replied.

It has been 20 minutes since Baji's been fighting 30 guys alone and hand to hand. 13 are down, unconscious. 'Not gonna lie, they're good,' Baji said to himself, trying not to lose his cool. 'They really are the real deal,' he spits on the ground seeing it was blood he was spitting out. 'Shit, that didn't taste good.'

"Hold him. Boy's wasting too much of our time," The squad leader said, holding a plank of wood in one of his hands. Baji couldn't fight anymore when all of them ganged up on him to secure him in a place.

The man didn't hesitate to hit Baji's abdomen with the wood he was holding, again and again until the lad coughed blood.

He only stopped when his hand used to hit Baji with, got shot with an unknown bullet coming from an unknown person. The man fell on the floor, holding his hand out in pain. They all looked back, including Baji, to see a lady holding a gun that perfectly fits in her hand.

"Let him go, you lame-ass slave of that bastard Noritoshi," Mikey said, with a dangerous expression that can kill anyone.

"16 versus 11, sure," The vice commander of the enemy said. Draken stepped out to speak, "Just 10 because we'll make sure that Baji will be able to enter that fucking door."

Hikari threw Baji the key to the door, "Lucky if that key still opens that door."

Baji caught the key with his hand before speaking, "Where'd you get this?"

"Hiroshi gave my husband a duplicate key. They're best friends, remember? Now stand up properly and fight," Baji is still shaken about the fact that your mother is here beside him. It's making him want to rescue you more.

"Let's go!!!" Draken signaled, making the 11 of them attack the 16 enemies. They were all punching, kicking, beating each other to death to decide the last squad standing.

"Make way for Baji to reach that door!" Mikey said while attacking two person's at the same time, "geez, this chibi is tough."

"Got it, Mikey-kun!" Chifuyu replied, kicking a person out of the way, "Now, Baji-san. Don't fight. Save your strength for that pain in the ass, Ryota. I'll handle this."

"HUHHHH? WHO'RE YOU CALLING A CHIBI," Draken said, attacking Mikey's opponent to death. "Don't call him a chibi when you can't even stand up properly now."

"Ne, Ken-chin, you gotta chill," said Mikey, teasing his friend. At the left, you can see Smiley beating someone up with a smile on his face, "Die, Yay! Murder, Yay!" meanwhile, Angry's protecting his brother's back.

On the right was Pah chin, throwing someone in the air with Peh yan shoving someone's head on the ground.

"Baji-san, go!" Chifuyu said, finally wiping the way for Baji. "You should go too, Chifuyu!" Mitsuya said, hitting his back against, Chifuyu. With enemies in front of them. "What about these two?" Chfiuyu asked.

"I'll handle this two brain rots. Go with Baji. I'm sure that Ryota guy will have someone by his die. And Baji's pretty injured," said Mitsuya, reassuring Chifuyu. "Okay, I'll leave it to you," Chifuyu confirmed before running next to Baji, who's trying to open the door with the key.

"Chifuyu! It won't fit!" Baji said, looking at Chifuyu, who's running towards him. The blonde pushed Baji away, "Gimme it—," before Chifuyu can even try to unlock the door again. Baji kicked the door open with his foot.

The lad looked at him in disbelief, "Isn't your abdomen injured?"

"Who cares? I'm getting impatient here, Chifuyu," Baji said, finally entering the mansion with red carpet on the floor. "You couldn've done it earlier—," Baji covered Chifuyu's mouth, dragging him in a corner when he heard footsteps running.

He glanced over to see where the footsteps are coming and saw that Akashi guy who had been following Ryota around. "Chifuyu, let's follow that guy in a tuxedo. He might lead us to your sister."

Chifuyu agreed, walking silently and followed that guy together with Baji.

"I said wake up, Y/n!" Ryota said, again and again like a crazy person.

"Shigeru-sama!" Akashi said, entering the basement, "Hurry up and end this, there is a fight outside, and they were identified as Tokyo Manji gang's captains and vice-captains," Akashi said.

"Deploy the Southside... I do not care... I want to take my time here," said Ryota, who's caressing his gun. "But Shigeru-sama, they are not some kind of weapon—," "I didn't order you to disobey me, I ordered you to deploy our gang. NOW!" Ryota said, pointing the gun at Akashi.

Akashi didn't have a choice but bow and obey his master.

"Now, shall I continue my storytelling again, now that you're awake...Y/n," thou said, caressing your face, "It's funny how you woke up when you heard that Tokyo Manji came here to save you. Too bad, they're all gonna die here."

He sat back on the chair like nothing is going on outside. And continued talking about his past.

"After that, the police suddenly got a lead about my dad, sending him behind bars. At the courtroom, an old friend of Yoshiyuki named Akira confessed something like this, "Yoshiyuki told me, that if he suddenly got murdered. I shall reveal where Hiroshi is hiding without thinking twice.""

"I framed my own father when I wasn't supposed to, but I didn't know Yoshiyuki had a triumph card hiding in his sleeve. So I did that for me to be safe. Father was sentenced for the rest of his life, but his sentence was changed to death row when he was found guilty of killing his best friend, too, aside from mass murdering."

"Yoshiyuki was supposed to be his escape from all the crimes that dad regretted doing, that's why dad wants to meet with him and consider the help that Yoshuyuki offered him, But dad lost Yoshiyuki. He lost the chance to live normally again. I didn't know why he regretted doing his dirty works, but at that time, he looked desperate for Yoshiyuki's help."

"Maybe he thought that there wasn't really hope for him to live normally again. So he hanged himself. Seeing his cold body hanging from the ceiling made me realize that my father was sent to jail and killed himself because of my jealousy towards Yoshiyuki. If I didn't act without thinking, he would've been alive."

"But I won't have to kill and feel hatred towards Yoshiyuki if he wasn't sticking to my father too much, so it's his fault. It's not my fault."

"I'm just a child. He's an adult," Ryota talked to himself like a crazy person."

"Before burying Hiroshi Minami, I didn't feel anything but hate. Even in the last seconds before dying, he still longed for Yoshiyuki, not me."

"That made me want to kill Yoshiyuki over... and over again. But I figured it's impossible to bring the dead back alive and kill it again. I didn't attend my father's funeral but searched for Yoshiyuki's family, who had been moving out to different places."

"It is indeed very complicated," he said, looking at you.

Akashi went out of the basement and ordered the new southside members to join the brawl. He went directly to the meeting place, seeing 150 members of the Southside below him. "Everyone, listen!!! Tokyo Manji gang's been detected entering Kyoto. I don't know how they got here, considering their commander is here right now, fighting some of the military personnel that Noritoshi gave us. So it's for us to show them who's boss. Fight with the intent to kill. Never stop until you eliminate all of them. GOT IT?!"

All the southside members rejoiced and yelled as a response, "SOUTHSIDE! SOUTHSIDE! SOUTHSIDE!"

"Shit, we're done here now. Should we go inside and help those two?" Hakkai asked.

"Yeah, we should—," Mikey stopped talking after hearing some yelling. "Do you guys hear that?" Mikey directed.

All of them got confused and stayed silent to hear what Mikey was hearing seconds ago until the voice started to get louder and louder. They all gasped in disbelief seeing a hundred and more guys wearing the same long leather jacket with a double S imprinted on the back. They all stood there with their vice commander, Akashi Watanabe while facing 8 members of Toman in front of them and an unknown lady.

"I'm sorry, but this is the end for all of you. You shouldn't have to get involved in the first place," Akashi said.

8 of them sighed in exhaustion, "Shit, they really are a lot," Mitsuya said, leaning on Hakkai to catch his breath. "HUH? Watcha' say four eyes? Go eat Shit. Toman's not losing with this bunch of morons who depends on their military force so much," Peh yan said with Akashi still in his poker face.

A man was about to attack Peh yan when Akashi stopped him, "Stay still."

"Is the southside asking for a brawl with Toman right now?" Mikey asked calmly. "We have no choice," said Akashi.

"Then that's same goes for us."

"But Mikey—," Angry resorted, but Draken hushed him, "Keep quiet. They're almost here."

Mikey and Akashi have had a staring contest for a long time now. Until Mikey smirked and released a small laugh. "Well... They're late but, they're here."

Just as after Mikey said that all 100 members of the Tokyo Manji Gang busted the gate. And filled the quiet morning with the sound of their bike's engine.

Mikey couldn't be even more proud of his gang. All 8 of them, including Hikari, gasped and felt relieved, seeing they have the chance to win against The Southside.

"Toman will never lose, in the likes of your gang," said Mikey, who's looking down and looked up to face Akashi before commanding his members. "Go!!!"

After that almighty yell, the Tokyo Manji gang's 100 versus the Southside's 150 begins!

"Shit, Baji-san, we lost him!" Chifuyu said, tugging Baji's hair. "Stop pulling me. What the hell, man?" Baji said, tying his hair back up suitably.

Chifuyu decided to take the lead. While he and Baji are walking, he heard laughing at one of the doors as he passes by it, making him move one step backward, causing Baji to hit his nose on Chifuyu's back. "OW—my nose."

"Shh, do you hear something in here?" Chifuyu said. Baji got confused and leaned his ear on the door to hear a crazy person laughing and talking. At that moment, baji identifies it as Ryota.

Baji was going to bust inside, but Chifuyu stopped him, "Hear what he has to say. Ryota's saying something."

"I was so happy. I thought the Gods allowed me to kill you all. Maybe that's why y'all came to me. I finally located you in 2004 in Shibuya. I wish to tell you that story when we meet, but too bad, you died before I can even finish."

Ryota pointed the middle of your forehead with his gun that he had been waiting to use to kill you. The one he used for executing Yoshiyuki. "And that's what led you to this fate, Y/n."

Both of them only heard one voice, only Ryota but never yours. Baji jolted hearing a gun racking. He didn't care whatever Chifuyu says. He busted the door open, "Fate my ass. I'm finna ruin that fucking fate," he said before running over to Ryota. Ryota aimed the gun at Baji, who's getting closer and closer, and fired one bullet. But the lad luckily didn't get hit.

And finally, Baji manages to jump over to Ryota and pin him on the floor, trying to steal the gun from his hand.

While in the middle of a fight, Akashi's heart started beating faster than average. There it struck him that Ryota was alone. Baji wasn't there anymore too.

He ran away from the brawl making his way inside the mansion when Mikey got on his way. "Where do you think you're going?" Mikey said before attacking Akashi with his usual kick, but everyone gasps...seeing how Akashi was able to stop it and punch Mikey down to the ground. "I'm going to go see my master."

Mikey stood up like nothing happened and dragged Akashi away from the mansion door, "You're not going anywhere."

'This guy is strong,' Akashi said to himself, trying to get out of Mikey's grip. He knows he's no match for Sano. "Please let me go. I need to see Ryota... please," Akashi said, letting Mikey drag him, not even fighting back. His words made Mikey stop walking.

"You hostage a girl. You looked down on my Toman. Someone called me a chibi!... and Baji got beaten up by your guys too. So give me a valid reason why I should let you see that Ryota," Draken and the others laughed at the Chibi part.

Mikey didn't wait for Akashi to answer. And took the lad down with several kicks and punches and leaving him there lying on the bermudagrass, covered in its own blood.

"I'm...I'm sorry, I couldn't be with you until the end... Ryota," Akashi mumbled... before losing consciousness.

"Let fucking go!" Ryota said, exchanging position with Baji, and not he's on top of him. Ryota tried to relocate the gun's mouth in Baji's face and fire, but Baji was fighting back.

Chifuyu then ran to you and lifted your face up, scared that you may not show him any reaction because you look lifeless to him. Also, considering the blood flowing down your face and everywhere around your body. He lightly slaps your cheeks to wake you up, but you weren't responding. "Neesan...Neesan, wake up. Please, hey!" Chifuyu pleaded.

The lad looked up to see where the ropes are tied. Chifuyu stood up to untie your hand, and then the other, before you can fall on the floor due to your weak legs, Chifuyu caught you.

He was about to drag you when he realized your foot is still cuffed with heavy metals. "Shit, where's the key?!"

"Forget about that...damn key! just hit it with an axe!" Baji said, still fighting with Ryota.

Chifuyu looked everywhere for an axe and felt relieved when he saw one. He grabbed it from its place before getting ready to chop the chains off its confinement.

He exhaled before using the axe, afraid it might hit you instead. But he gained courage and successfully chopped the chains. But the cuff is still wrapped around your ankles.

"I got her, Baji-san!"

"Go! Go! Now! take the backdoor!" Baji said, exchanging positions with Ryota again.

Chifuyu obeyed and ran as fast as he can out of the basement with you in his arms.

"Why do you always ruin my plan, Keisuke Baji!"

"It's your fault for messing with what belongs to me, moron!" Baji resorted back, still trying to turn the gun's mouth at Ryota. But Ryota stopped adding force, making Baji confuse and shock.

Ryota lets go of the gun as his heart started beating faster and faster. And the first person that came to his mind... is Akashi.

Ryota pushed Baji off of him and was about to run outside to look for Akashi. When a gun was pointed at his forehead as soon as he opened the door.

Ryota was shocked and froze in his place when he looked up and saw the person aiming a gun at him. It was the lover of the person he killed 3 years ago...

Thou felt scared and fell on the floor while looking up at the woman. Ryota saw Hikari dragging Akashi by the hair with her left hand, "This guy was begging to see you. I am aware of the relationship you both have. I will at least let him be the witness when I kill you. Like how I witnessed you... kill my husband."

"No, let Akashi go... I beg you."

Hikari ignored Ryota and looked over at Baji, who's holding a gun. "Hey, big guy, give me that gun," Baji obeyed, and they exchanged guns.

"Woah, isn't this the gun you used to kill Yoshiyuki?" Hikari said sarcastically and aimed it back at Ryota. Make sure to watch... Akashi.

"Reverse card," said Hikari, then fired the gun at the lad's forehead, creating a loud bang all over the place.

Hikari blew the smoke coming out from the gun before saying her last words to Ryota, "Uno. I win, Ryota."

She lets go of Akashi in her hand, together with the gun. "Let's go, Baji. Y/n needs us." Baji was dumbfounded. It took him seconds before realizing that someone's calling his name.

Akashi groaned in pain, crawling his way next to Ryota. Who's dead, but his eyes are open. Blood leaking from the hole in his forehead. Akashi grabbed the pistol near him, pointing at his jaw while looking at the lad beside him, "Don't worry. I'll be there anytime soon. Wait for me... Ryota."

A loud bang caught everyone's attention. Baji and Hikari looked back, "Did...that Akashi guy just—"

"Let it be. Akashi might've killed himself too. After all, he's loyal to his master," Hikari said.

"Hm, let's go there at the backdoor. I told Chifuyu to use that."

Baji and Hikari went out of the mansion using the backdoor to see Chifuyu carrying his sister with her, "Chifuyu!" Baji called out, making Chifuyu look at them. "Mom! Baji-san! She's breathing but... but she lost too much blood. Call an ambulance—," "No, It'll take hours for the ambulance to get here. Let's get her to the hospital. Come on, Chifuyu, you know where my bike is. I'll meet you there."

Baji approached your mother; she was panicking on the inside, "Please, inform the others. I'll promise to keep your daughter alive. I'll bring her to the hospital as fast as I can. You know this mess better than everyone. Police might come here. Don't let Toman get arrested..."

Hikari patted gave Baji a bonk on the head, "Yeah, I get it. Let me do the talking. Now go and save my daughter."

Hikari said, putting all her trust in Baji. After that, they both separated ways and do things they need to.

Baji caught up with Chifuyu, who just arrived at his bike, "Okay! Hop on, Chifuyu. This is gonna be one hell of a fast bumpy-ass ride. Hold tight! And hold Y/n properly" Chifuyu nodded, holding you tight in his hands. "Go, Baji-san!"

Baji's heart was racing at the same pace as his bike. He's scared for the first time in his life. Because he got something to lose already, 'hang in there Y/n, please... don't die on me.'

l.s

Chapter Text

3rd Person's POV

Baji's sight kept shifting from the fuel's gauge then back to the road, "Fuck, please don't run out now, don't run out now."

On the other hand, Chifuyu's there holding onto you, "Baji-san, can't you go any faster?"

"I am already going faster, dumbass!" Baji yelled back, with a hint of panic and annoyance in his voice. Both of them arrived at the nearest hospital. The lad didn't get the chance to turn off his bike or parked it properly, but instead, he ran together with Chifuyu to find the doctors.

"Emergency, emergency!" Chifuyu yelled to get people out of his way. Doctors and nurses came and approached both of them as soon as they saw Baji and Chifuyu coming inside the hospital entrance.

You were immediately transferred to a stretcher and are on the way towards the ER. "Outta the way, please," one of the doctors said, keeping the stretcher running fast. Baji was on the side, pushing the stretcher, too, while looking at your face with blood all over.

Chifuyu was also there running with everyone. His clothes and his hands are covered with your blood too. "I know you can't hear me... but please... just fucking hang in there," Baji said, holding your hand.

Baji was relieved because your hand felt warm against him.

All of them arrived at the ER. Baji and Chifuyu got held out to stay outside. "No, let me in!" Baji resorted to the nurse who's keeping him from getting inside the ER. "Sir, we need you to stay here and let us do our jobs, but we cannot do that if you don't cooperate—,"

"I do not care—," Chifuyu pulled Baji to the waiting area, "Back off, Baji-san. Let them do their job. It's not like you'll do good if you went inside!"

"So what? You want me to wait here like what you're doing?!" said Baji. "What else?! Listen here. I have been with her since we're just two heartbeats in a womb. I am not even comparing our feelings right now, but I am worried as hell too. She's my sister! But I chose to wait than to lash out, so please do the same."

Baji lets out a heavy sigh before sitting his ass next to the ER's door, facepalming himself to the situation that is happening right now. Baji then intertwined his hands together, placing them in front of his mouth, trying to calm himself down.

An hour and a half had passed since you got inside the ER. Baji eventually moved to sit at the waiting chair because the floor was cold. They both fell asleep waiting for the doctor while Chifuyu kept accidentally tilting his head on Baji's shoulder.

Baji noticed him bumping his head on his shoulder again and again, "The fuck?"

"Yo! Baji!" said a voice catching Baji's attention. It was Mitsuya running towards him, together with the others, except for Hikari. Baji stood up shortly after seeing them making Chifuyu's head fall on the chair, waking him up and producing a bang loud sound making Baji look back at him, "Oh shit."

"Ow, what the hell..." Chifuyu said, rubbing his head. The others kept themselves back from laughing because this isn't the accurate time to beam. Baji might strike the heck out of them. "Quit slacking off, Chifuyu," said Baji.

Hikari came running soon after. Baji couldn't look at her.

"How many hours has my daughter been in there?"

"You really asked a guy who hates math—," Chifuyu got cut off by Baji. "Two...hours now..." said Baji, still looking down and not making eye contact with your mother. Hikari read the atmosphere between her and the young man sitting a little far in front of him.

She sat beside him, rubbing his back, "Baji..." there was no reaction. "Baji—," "Listen, Matsuno-san. I am very sorry—," Baji forgot what to say next when he saw Hikari's face. She wasn't and or anything. She was just solely smiling at him. Like how a mother would smile to reassure their child that everything is gonna be okay, or everything's just fine.

"I know how you feel. I have been there a lot of times before. And let me tell you, you don't have to blame yourself for what happened, alright?" said Hikari.

"Wait, were you blaming yourself since you arrived here, Baji?" Mikey asked, making everyone look at him. "So what if I am?" Baji said, standing up from his seat, making Hikari look up at him and Mikey with a worried look.

Draken sigh and step in between them, "Can you like, chill? He was just asking," Draken said calmly. "I am asking too... So what if I am blaming myself?"

"Well, you shouldn't," Draken replied without breaking his eye contact with Baji. "I want to! It's not your job to control what I feel! You don't need to care—why do you care anyway?" Baji resorted back, with Chifuyu holding him back from attacking the vice commander.

"Because it's ruining you! Look at you, can you see yourself right now? You look miserable," said Draken, pointing his fingers at Baji. The lad got off Chifuyu's grip, "Who cares if I look miserable? Should I look good right now while Y/n's in there fighting for her life?!"

"No, you don't get it, Baji. What's I'm saying is you don't have to blame yourself for what happened, it wasn't your fault—,"

"No, you're the one who does not understand anything!" Baji yelled back, shutting Draken up in confusion. "Blaming myself is the only thing that's keeping me sane right now. Do you understand that? Because I can't blame anyone for this situation, would you preferably want me to blame her dad?" Baji said, pointing sideways while still having eye contact with Draken.

"Of course not!" Baji scoffed with his words, "Right? her dad already is done with his mission, HE WARNED HER— In her dreams! I was there!" said Baji. "And also, what? Do you want me to blame Matsuno-san?! Oh God come on, do you want me to punch her?" baji asked Draken before looking at Hikari, shocked but not mad. "Oh..oh wow," said Hikari.

"Of course I can't punch her! She'd kill me back for sure. How about Ryota and Akashi? How am I supposed to punch both dead people?!"

"You guys and Chifuyu, I can't blame y'all. Y'all already almost got killed finding information about that fuckin' Southside. I am the only one who didn't do their job! It was fucking simple... but I... I failed," Baji said, falling on the chair while covering his face.

Mikey and the others were surprised at the scene in front of them. They had never seen Baji going mad like this before.

A nurse came and approached them. She placed her hand on his shoulder to get his attention, "Sir, you had been bleeding since earlier. It seems deep. I am afraid you might lose consciousness of this continues because of the loss of blood."

Baji slapped her hands away, "leave me alone. I don't need that kind of treatment, whatever you call it."

"Baji-san, we don't know what exactly happened to you when we got there, but you look so bad right now. I feel like you're gonna crash any second," Chifuyu said, trying to be rational towards Baji.

But the lad just won't budge. "Baji—,"

Baji stood up from his confinement, "Shut up. If I say I wanna wait here, It means I'm staying. So give me a damn break and stop calling my name if y'all don't wanna be sent to the ER next."

Hakkai then stopped Peh yan before he can say something to Baji, "leave it, man. We're not in his shoes. Let Mitsuya handle this."

Mitsuya sigh at Baji's stubbornness. He grabbed Baji, who was sitting by his clothes, and dragging him where the nurse can treat him.

"Let me go! I'll kill you, I swear—," Mitsuya gripped tightly before throwing him. "There. Can you shut up now? Go and get yourself check."

The nurse gaped at Mitsuya, who just threw Baji despite the injuries. "You.. really don't have to throw him like that. It'll worsen—," said the nurse, making Mitsuya chuckle. "Nah, he's made out of stone. The only difference is he bleeds. Please take care of him. He'd been through hell last night 'til dawn."

She nodded before saying something, "Is there more injured patients, sir?"

"I'll go ask them if they feel odd somewhere. You can go ahead."

"Baji," Mikey said, sitting beside Hikari with his hands still inside his pocket. Hikari waited for him to continue. Mikey lets out a chuckle, "He's my childhood friend... but this is my first time seeing him like this. He's always angry, aggressive, reckless. When he's angry, he's simply just mad. I had never seen him in such mixed emotions before, unlike now...He's enraged and down at the same time— I know I said it's overwhelming to see his different sides, but I wasn't hoping to see this...But after all... you'll feel different sort of emotions at the same time when you're in love, right? So I guess it's normal."

Hikari looked at the blonde, only to see him asleep, "W...what happened—," "He likes to sleep after he eats. He actually ate something on the way, so... yeah," said Draken, who's embarrassed defending Mikey's actions.

Hika lets out a small laugh look at the two of them. Until what Mikey told him flashed in her mind again, "you'll feel different sort of emotions at the same time when you're in love, right? So I guess it's normal."

'In love? Who? Baji? Then...is he saying Baji's in love with— No, it can't be right. If Baji really is, he'll end up getting hurt. Maybe I already tolerated Chifuyu and Y/n to be friends with this kind of people, but... she can't be with someone like... Baji. She also said it herself...she doesn't want to be involved with delinquents, involves by means fall in love with one,' Hikari thought to herself while biting her nails in worry ness.

"Can I like... go out now? It's been hours," Baji said, with his hands pressed on his abdomen that's wrapped in a bandage wrap as he rose up from falling asleep. "Yeah. I'll help you walk there. Just don't do any unnecessary actions to worsen."

"I didn't really feel the pain in my middle until you offered to treat it, you know," Baji said sarcastically, trying to stand on his own. "Sorry, I guess. Here let me help you," said the nurse guiding him back to the waiting area where his friends are.

He slowly arrived at the waiting area to see his friends treating each other with ice packs, "Pfft." Chufyu ran to him and took the nurse's place, "Please, let me. Thank you," The nurse nodded and left.

"See? don't you feel better now?" Chifuyu said. "It's worst than the previous."

"Oh, come on, Baji-san," Chifuyu said, making both of 'em laugh. The doctor came out from the ER catching everyone's attention. All of 'em ran to him, waiting for his news.

Baji got close to the doctor first but can't utter a word due to nervousness, "Go ask, Baji-san," said Chifuyu.

"How's my daughter holding up?" Hikari asked, making everyone go silent and eager to hear answers, "Yeah...what she said," Baji added, making Chifuyu chuckle. "You just don't know what to say, right? Baji san—," Chifuyu got to shut up with a punch in the stomach. "Oww."

The doctor sigh before responding, "Well, we managed to get her pulse back up without it fading this time. In short, her heartbeat's stable now."

"Wait, what do you mean you managed to get her pulse back up?" Hikari asked.

"This may seem crazy but, this is the first time for me to witness something like this too. You see, this four hours we're operating, it's not because of the girl's injury, but because of her pulse and her brain."

"She actually died right after we started, but then one of my subordinates was still investigating the body and felt a pulse in her neck. We began to secure her pulse to go higher and stabilize it the second we noticed the pulsation. But it faded again for the second time, and then we found a pulse again—,"

"Oh, come on. WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS YOU'RE SAYING? ARE YOU NUTS?" Baji said, shutting the doctor up. "Young man. I know... it's crazy but, it's a miracle, you know."

"So you're telling me, she died and then went back to life and then died and then went back to life— ARE YOU SHITTING ME RIGHT NOW—," Hikari stepped right in to stop Baji, "Calm down, isn't it important that she's alive?"

"It is but... I... she went through that?! Because... BECAUSE I WAS TOO LATE."

Everyone went silent for a while before a nurse approached the group, "doctor, she's transferred now. But we can't let them enter yet."

The doctor nodded, "Let's go. It's easy to make you all understand what her situation is if you can see her. The door has glass on it, so you can peek inside."

They all followed the man to the private room where you are. Hikari was the first one to see you lying in a hospital bed. Your head is wrapped in multiple bandages and a lot of things attached to your body. Not to mention your leg injury.

Hikari burst into tears seeing you, "Oh my god. My baby..." Chifuyu ran to console his mother and take her away from the opening, moving Hikari to stand next to the wall across the door of the private room, "Mom, that's enough."

Baji then stepped in to see you, only to feel such a heavy feeling in his chest after perceiving the state you're in, and is ready to blame himself again when the doctor spoke.

"The patient both had a fracture, but it's not severe from what we saw. She also had a cut near her belly. From what I theorized, it got larger because of the way you guys brought her here. Maybe this blonde-hair guy didn't know she had a wound and didn't hold her properly, but it's not his fault. We all recklessly think when panicking."

"What about her head? I saw it bleeding so much when I carried her out of the basement," Chifuyu added, making everyone set more of their attention to the doctor. "Well, this is where it gets...more...emotional for the family. She'd gone through something that had a very not nice... impact on the brain. So it made a mild concussion it is a mild traumatic brain injury that usually happens after a blow to the head."

"Why would she have that?" said Baji, who doesn't really understand what was going on. "You said this guy found her with her head covered in blood running down her forehead, so of course, someone hit her head hard, causing her to... undergo comatose."

"Coma...Coma, what now?"

"Comatose...how long does this take for her to wake up?" Chifuyu asked. Meanwhile, Baji's lost in his thoughts, trying to understand the situation. "Well, we expect from three to four weeks," said the man.

"Is there anything that we need to do? I mean, do we just wait and all?" Chifuyu added.

"Kid, we're talking about a brain injury. And we're not sure about her heartbeat. But for now, it is stable and beating well. This is all pure miracle. I cannot predict what's gonna happen to her, but I can prevent it, just call me if something's wrong. You can enter after 24 hours. She had a very tough night and day. Let her rest," the doctor said before making his way out of the scene.

"What was that?" Baji asked. "Baji-san, comatose is when—,"

"I know what a comatose is. For fuck's sake. What I mean is... we just wait?!"

"We do not have the choice, Baji. And it's not for us to decide if she wants to wake up or not," Mitsuya replied.

"Fine..." said Baji, giving up on bickering with his friends. "Why don't we guys go eat something for lunch? Hm?" Mikey said, breaking the odd atmosphere. Everyone agreed to it since they barely ate dinner last night and breakfast on the way to the hospital, "I'll stay. I'm not that hungry," Baji responded. Hikari said the same.

"We're just gonna get you guys something too in case you'll get hungry all of a sudden," Mikey said before turning his back with the others to go and sate their hunger.

Baji was standing there near the door, doing something with his foot to avoid the talking and boredom. While Hikari stood in front of the door, peeking through the glass to look at you. It wasn't awkward between them. It's just too strange to speak out all of a sudden, but Hikari eventually did. "Do you like her?"

Baji stopped moving his foot, looking at the woman beside him, "Excuse me?" he responded, but only received a three-second eye contact from Hikari.

Baji gulped before responding, "I have someone right now."

"You are not answering my question," Hikari retorted back without uncertainty, still looking at you, who's inside of the room.

"She's important to me."

"I know that kind of answer. Better save yourself before it's too late."

"Can I ask what you mean by that?"

"Y/n... she had always been selfless and careful. She's the reason why we're alive. I owe my life to her, and she's my daughter. I want the best for her, Baji-kun. I want a healthy life for her. Grow old and marry a typical person and not repeat the same thing I did. I don't want her to end up like me. Even if I don't say this... she already said it herself. She promised to herself that she'd never get involved with... dangerous people," Hikari explained, not creating eye contact with the lad.

"If she gets involved with you deeper and deeper, worse will happen than just this. And I don't think I can handle that kind of pain for the second time, Baji-kun. I was happy that she didn't want to end up like me because that's what I want for her. I know I am being selfish right now, but please don't make her change her mind..."

"Don't get me wrong, I am not blaming you for this, alright? You are a great person, Baji. No one would risk their lives to save my daughter in a fight between something they're not even involved in in the first place, but you did. Although, thanks and gratitude is the only thing I can give you... not my daughter," Hikari said, feeling guilty because she never wants to decide for you. However, every time she sees your state, she feels scared that, what if you won't wake up anymore. A mother never harms their child. A mother cares.

There was silence in between them for a second. Till Baji spoke all of a sudden after gathering all the thoughts in his mind. "I understand where you're coming from, Matsuno-san... Even I can't stand this situation right now. I am aware of what kind of danger I'll bring to your daughter. But let me adore her silently. Please don't make me stop feeling that way towards her... I'll go crazy..."

"Besides...I don't think I'll live long...I have a lot of problems to take care of too, half of them are dangerous...Also, she's graduating, she'll eventually forget about me. I believe high school memories stays at the campus."

"The day will come, where I'll only appear as a great high school memory for her and nothing more..." said Baji, with sadness present in his tone and sorrow overflowing his emotion.

Hikari looked at the man beside him and can't help but to feel the same as him. She neared him more and hugged him, "let it out... you don't wanna go crazy, do you?" Hikari said, making the lad let out a small laugh while letting out his tears.

Hikari chuckled at the sound Baji's making, "You're always so mad, to the point where you don't know how to cry now."

Baji pulled away, wiping his tears quickly before anyone can see it, "What an ego," said Hikari, kidding. "Nah, they'll tease me about it my whole life, for sure."

"I'll go get us something to drink, stay here, or you can go with me if you want?"

"I'll stay here, Matsuno-san." The lady gave him a nod and smiled before walking away.

The cardiac monitor's beeping sound became more emphatic as he was left alone. Baji looked back again to take a glimpse at you, and an idea popped into his mind.

Baji made his way to the reception and was greeted nicely by the nurses. "Hello, there. Can I help you with something?"

"Uh, I would like to ask for a blank paper."

"Okay... uhm, anything else?"

"Do you mind if I borrow some... pen too..." Baji said with hesitation. "Sure, no need to be so tense about it, here you go," The nurse said, smiling while handing him the things.

He bowed as thanks and went back to you, sitting next to the door outside your room. He used his lap as a table to write something down.

"I have made a lot of letters in the past few weeks. To keep you beside me and away from Ryota. Funny how you didn't know that it wasn't for Hanako. Pft, anyways. This is gonna be the first letter for the first day of being unconscious, hahaha."

"The doctor said you might wake up 3 or 4 weeks later, or longer than that... the probabilities are just... hard to solve, I mean, yeah, it's hard to solve if it's me. You know that I hate math and literature."

Baji laughed at himself for writing that but continued. "But I hope you'd be able to teach me that lesson, 'cause until now, I still suck at math. Anyways, I want to say I'm sorry. That I didn't get there much early. It must've been scary for you down there, but I just remembered that the person I adore is not a regular girl. I saw bruises on Ryota's face before I can even hit him. Was that you?"

Mikey and the others finished eating and decided to go back to the hospital. They're walking down the hallway, and Draken, taking the front, was about to turn in his direction but stopped. He was the one to noticed Baji smiling like an idiot with a pen in his hand, jotting something down the paper on his lap.

Draken stretched his arms sidewards to alarm everyone to stop. The boy who was loudly bickering and having fun got startled and stopped. "What's the matter, Ken-chin?"

Draken sneakily walked backward with the others and hid on the wall, "Someone take a picture of that," Draken said, letting out a small laugh while pointing his index finger at Baji.

"Hehe, got it," Hakkai said, pressing the button of his phone. "He looks like an Idiot. Wasn't he fuming mad just an hour ago?" said Mitsuya, who was looking at Hakkai's phone.

"Well, that's how he is," said Mikey, feeling relieved at how the situation's progressing better, 'I'm glad you're okay, Baji.'

They all approached Baji as they didn't just do something evil to him in secret. "Yo, Baji. It's been a long day for us. Why don't we go back to Shibuya for now?" Draken said.

"Yeah, you had done enough, Baji-san. Please leave this matter to my mother and me. Go and take a rest," Chifuyu added.

Baji sighed and ignored both of them to continue writing down something on his piece of paper, "I'm sorry, but I'm staying here. Ain't no one gon' stop me without their face bleeding," the lad said sarcastically.

"Will you be okay here, though?" Mikey asked, making Draken and others look at him, but not Baji. "Yeah."

"If that's what you want, then stay. Just don't be a burden to the Matsuno's—."

"Mikey, stop tolerating him—," Mitsuya said only to get cut off and ignored by both parties. "Yeah, I won't be a burden."

Draken sigh and pat Mitsuya's back, "Alright, just update us, Baji," told Draken. They all walked away except for Chifuyu, making Baji confused. "Hey, go with them, Chifuyu. Here, take my bike," Baji said, giving Chifuyu the keys. "No, I'll stay here with my sister."

"I'm pretty sure she doesn't want you to miss class because of her. Knowing her attitude, she'd definitely scold you."

"This is a different case, Baji-san! She's... in that state, and how about you, you're gonna skip too?"

Baji nodded before licking his lips and respond, "Yeah. I'm skipping. I've got nothing to waste there, Chifuyu," said Baji, who's wrapping the keys in Chiguyu's palm.

"Take yourself to school and home. Be careful. We're still not sure if the problem about the Southside is subdued. I'll update you, got that?"

Baji can see the hesitation in Chifuyu's eyes and actions. 'Of course, who would dare to leave their sister behind who's in comatose, but if Y/n was in my position, I'm pretty sure she would do the same to my sibling,' Baji thought to himself.

Chifuyu rose his head up and nodded, "Yeah... update me, or I'll drive from Shibuya to Kyoto just to kick your ass."

Baji chuckled at his junior. His laughter faded when he saw Chifuyu's eyes that are swollen, 'Did he cry? When?' Without realizing it, his hand is already patting Chifuyu's head, "wait for your mom before you leave. I'll just go use the restroom."

Baji left to look for the restroom, leaving Chifuyu astonished. The lad planted his hand above his head to where Baji was patting it earlier, "Did he just...?"

"Chifuyu!" said Hikari, who was running towards him. "Oh, hey... mom. I'm going back home," the lady said, resulting in his mom not know what to say first, "Uh.. huh? Are you going to be okay? I might not be home until the day after tomorrow, though," Hikari informed.

"Yeah, yeah. I'll be alright. I'm not a kid anymore," said Chifuyu, chuckling. His mother pulled him into a hug, "Okay, the others are waiting outside... I saw them before I went in. Be careful, alright?"

Chifuyu nodded as a response and pulled away, slowly letting go of her, "Take care, the three of you."

"Huh? Three?" Hikari looked over to glance afar and saw Baji coming out of a corner, who she suspects just came out of the bathroom because he was zipping his zipper up. 'Oh, so this is what he meant by three.'

"Gotta go, mom. Bye, Baji-san!" Chifuyu told, running within the halls while waving his hands at the two. Hikari approached Baji, offering him a card. "Sorry, it took too long. I've heated up some noodles and other food for you. I left it in the convenience store though, I figured out you can't eat here. Just give this to that guy at the counter. I'll guard here."

Baji hesitated at first., but he was hungry so, yeet, I guess.

Baji sat at the chair that can be seen outside the glass store. Even though he was hungry and is consuming the food well, he can't feel it. A lot of things are bothering him. It includes Hanako, you; who's in a coma state... and the release of a related person from jail and how it will affect Mikey furthermore Toman.

He was frozen at his place, staring at the cars passing by with the chopstick in between his fingers. A sudden vibration of his phone startled him, making him drop his chopstick. "Ah shit—," Baji reached out to get his chopstick from the floor and got out of his seat to throw it and buy another one when his phone kept vibrating as he was paying on the counter.

He nodded and opened the new chopstick and sat on the chair again, but his phone just won't stop. He buried the chopstick onto the food, stabbing it in frustration. Baji then got his phone from his back pocket to open the messages, "The reason why I don't like phones, they're annoying as fuck—," The words he was about to speak got held back to the point where he forgot about them as they dissolved in his memory.

"What in the hell..." It was from his mom with an unexpected nickname. "Did she set this as her nickname?"

Fuckyouhahaha: Son, did you expect some mails to arrive today? There's one that came today.

Kei: Mom, I told you to leave it at that. Who's it from?

Fuckyouhahaha: Well, it's from Hanako-chan. I had been getting your mails all the time and transferring them inside; no way I wouldn't recognize how she writes of the address.

Baji's brows met, confused with his mother's message. "What is she talking about?"

Kei: So, what's your point?

Fuckyouhahaha: It's different handwriting from the last message she sent you in January this year. It's like a man's, maybe better handwriting than yours, hahaha.

"A man's handwriting? Is my speculation true that Hanako is...? NO, MAYBE SHE JUST CHANGED HER WRITING SINCE IT'S BEEN A WHILE," Baji battled in his thoughts.

Kei: Haha, funny, how about leaving my handwriting alone, mom.

Kei: But can you please take a picture of it and send it to me. Thank you."

Kei: And I'll call you later about my trip to Kyoto. Please don't leave your phone anywhere again like the last time. I had to find it everywhere only to know it was in your purse the whole time.

Fuckyouhahaha: Alright, alright. Damn, I feel like getting scolded by my own mother.

Baji chuckled at his mother's reply, "I can hear her voice saying that HAHAHA."

Kei: And please, mom, change your nickname.

Fuckyouhahaha: no.

Baji closed his phone and ate his food while waiting for his mother's messages. He was halfway done when his phone rang again. It was his mother, as expected.

He lost appetite when he opened the messages and stared at the pictures sent to him. Baji wanted to cry to but he couldn't. 'Should I grieve?' he kept asking to himself. He knows he should because Hanako kept a secret from him for a very long time, and the worst part is, it didn't come out from his girlfriend's own mouth. But from somebody else.

But somehow, he felt relieved and satisfied despite being angry. "So, I guess this is why I didn't feel any guilt towards Hanako, at what happened between Y/n and me at the Ferris wheel. Turns out she's doing something worse than that."

"Damn, my intuitions really are always right," Baji said, laughing to himself. He got up to go to the refrigerators at the back of the convenience store to get another drink. Baji gripped the handle to open it but froze as soon as he opened it a little bit.

Baji groaned and closed it harshly before sitting on the ground and hid his face on his knees like a little boy. "I already expected it, but why does it hurt. I hate the betrayal..." He stopped talking for a while to think, "I have the right to get hurt, right?"

"Yeah, damn right, you do," A voice startled Baji, making him unfold from his position only to see the convenience storekeeper arranging the things at the aisle where he's leaning his back on. "I don't know what happened, son. But you have the right to feel betrayal or any sentiments. It's just that... emotions are emotions. There's no law or rule to follow. If you feel like you're sad, angry, betrayed, then you feel like it. Even you can't stop your flowing emotion. Anyways, you can have this," the keeper said, giving him a bottle of tea.

"That'll relax you. I just noticed you were really tensed since you came here," the middle-aged man said before walking away. Baji stood up from the ground to bow, "Thank you."

"It's alright, it's alright. Now do what you need to do, alright?" said the man while patting Baji's back. "Yeah... yeah, I'll go ahead then."

Baji walked out of the convenience store and waved at the man who's waving at him before making his way to enter the hospital grounds.

He turned to the next corridor to see Hikari talking with two police. Baji hurriedly ran to join the conversation, just for the police to stop talking and ambush him with a warning. "This is a very confidential conversation—," Hikari stopped the man from speaking, "Don't worry, he was there. He's Keisuke Baji"

"Oh, so as I was saying. Akashi Watanabe survived the suicide he attempted after killing the man he serves," Hikari felt relieved at the situation, making Baji confused on what the hell is happening. But Baji decided to keep his mouth shut.

"Turns out he doesn't know how to use the gun. But for us, detectives are wondering why he's able to shot his employer well in the head. Can you please elaborate and tell me what you think about that as a witness," said the detective.

"Well, Ryota is also Akashi's friend. Of course, the victim trusted him and lowered his guard without knowing his servant's real intention towards him."

"So, what's your point?" The officer and the detective said.

"Ryota was calm, so Akashi accurately shot him. I've held a gun before, no matter how bad you are at shooting. If the target is relaxed, you'll have the possibility to hit a headshot properly by pure luck. And also. You said the reason for Akashi's attempted suicide was because Akashi was guilty of killing his master.

So theoretically speaking, Maybe he got shocked and panicked because he just killed his best friend. Baji I and already escaped and got out of the scene when Akashi aimed the gun at himself. And so the question is, can you correctly shoot if you're panicking? No. Not to mention, he is pointing to himself. How about you? Won't you think twice if you're killing yourself out of guilty in killing someone you didn't mean to? I think that's why he didn't get to shoot himself properly."

Baji looked at Hikari, amazed. 'So she's trying to frame Akashi?'

"You said Ryota was calm. That's why the suspect was able to shot the victim accurately with luck. But the scene looks like they were fighting. It doesn't add up," the detective said.

"Keisuke Baji fought with Ryota because he was going to shot my daughter. Maybe that's why he's beat in the pulp. Akashi and I came to while they were fighting and snatched the gun from Ryota and used it to annihilate him," said Hikari, not holding back.

"Do you know why the suspect only attempted to kill the victim just now if they were friends and are working together for years?" said the detective.

"Detective, I do not know. But maybe Akashi is a gentleman, and he dislikes the idea of Ryota hitting a girl, my daughter. Maybe he's fed up with his master's orders. Do you ever watch movies or any show that involves killing their maestro? It's just my theory tho. I am not saying that's the reason why he only killed his master just now," Hikari said as the detective jots down information in his notebook.

"Okay, thank you so much for your cooperation. We'll notify you about the next step by communicating with you at the contact information you gave," the detective said, placing his pen inside his pocket.

"For more information on the other, Mrs. Matsuno. It's about your concern on the Southside. We came to the decision of putting all the members in prison for an indecisive year. We are still discussing it. Since they didn't create a crime as a group. As you said, they were only released last night as the new Southside. But some of the members are already criminals and had done bad things before becoming members of the Southside. So those people are gonna face heavy punishments than the others. It'll take time."

"It's alright, officer. As long as they won't revive the Southside again, then my concern ends here," Hikari said and bowed. "Thank you for the information."

"We're only doing our jobs, Mrs. Matsuno. I send my regards to you and your daughter. I hope she wakes up soon," the officer said. "Yes, thank you." The officer left with the detective leaving Hikari and Baji alone.

"What the hell was that? I didn't understand a thing," Baji said with his hand place on top of his head to rethink what just happened. He then looked at Hikari, who was chuckling, "Matsuno-san, why were you so calm? And wait, are you..." Baji leaned in to whisper at her, "framing Akashi?"

Hikari laughed loudly, "Yeah, yeah. Good guess."

Baji gasped in disbelief, "Woah... now I know where Y/n got her brilliance and sharpness. You're clearly happy about blaming someone, HAHAHA."

"Well, I am just giving back to Ryota. Ryota actually framed his father for killing my husband, don't you know?" Hikari spoke, crossing her arms.

"You're truly amazing, Matsuno-san. But can you elaborate? How will the framing work if you only did the bare minimum?"

"Let's say... luck helped me out. I picked up Akashi, who's on the ground after getting kicked by Mikey lots of times. He asked me to let him see Ryota. Of course, why would I? Right?" Hikari asked like they're friends having a normal conversation, making Baji nod, "yeah, yeah, continue."

"An idea struck my brain since I am also aware of the relationship they have because of how Akashi acted. So I made a bargain, to let Akashi see Ryota... and he'll take the blame to whatever is happening, or I'll kill his master."

"Of course, the dummy said yes. I dragged Akashi to the basement where you're fighting with Ryota. And I was right? Did you see how Ryota crawled on the stairs to beg me to let go of Akashi, who's half-conscious? Also, I didn't mean to kill Ryota, but anger just filled my whole body out of nowhere as soon as I saw his face. But after killing him with the gun..."

"I noticed that the gun you're holding and the one in my possession before we even exchanged looked the same. The weapons are the same— like deadass. So, therefore, I can frame Akashi that he killed Ryota. I hid the gun I used to kill Ryota and left one near Akashi's body on purpose to make it look like he killed him. But I didn't expect that motherfucker to kill himself. But luck helped me again, and he survived," Hikari said, continuing her explanation.

"What if he'll reveal your plan?" Baji asked.

"He won't. I just know that he won't. Even if he would. Both of their fingerprints are there. One, because Akashi killed himself using the gun, leaving fingerprints all over it. Second, I purposely wrapped Ryota's hand on it before leaving. Mine wasn't there because I was wearing biker gloves. Third, yours was there to make it more believable that you really fought with Ryota in an attempt to steal the gun from him so he won't shot Y/n. That's why I exchanged guns with you so your fingerprints would be there."

Baji was appalled and speechless to Hikaris's framing plan and how she delivered the plot smoothly in just a short amount of time. "This is just brilliant, like how the fuck—," Baji covered his mouth, "Sorry, I didn't mean to curse but, THAT WAS REALLLLLY COOOL. Even though it's kind of confusing but I get it, I get it, Matsuno-san. Tell me a secret, were you a very famous criminal who gets away with everything in your past life?"

Hikari chuckled at the Baji and gave him a bonk on the head, "better keep your mouth shut, HAHAHA. Anyways, the doctor said we can go in tomorrow and see Y/n closer at lunch."

"Is Y/n stable now? Like, stable stable."

"Yeah, for now. We just need to guard Y/n close enough. We need to pay attention to the cardiac monitor," Hikari said, looking at you through eh small glass on the door before talking to Baji again, "But hey, are you going to skip class?"

"Yeah, Matsuno-san. I'm pretty sure Tanaka sensei would cover up for me since he knows what might happen that night," Baji said, playing with his fingers and staring at his wrapped bruised knuckles. "Hey, if you're doing this out of guilt, you don't have to—," "No, no. Of course, no. I'm not doing this out of guilt...it's just that... I've got nothing to lose there, Matsuno-san. But I do here. I don't mean to be negative, but...since we don't have the guarantee of her waking up... I know I'll regret it if I couldn't be here for Y/n in case... in case you know what I mean," Baji said, trying not to sound bad, hoping Hikari would get what he feels.

"I'll resent myself for it for the rest of my life that I wasn't able to bid my goodbye to her."

Hikari sigh, "No need to be sorry. We all tend to negatively think if we are put in a situation where we are not sure of what's going to happen."

"We are just scared to lose someone again or lose someone for the first time...I understand, Baji. But we have to trust her capabilities. All we need is to wait for her, and after that, everything will be back to normal," Hikari added, comforting Baji, who's still feeling slumped about everything. Including the pictures he just saw.

"Yeah, yeah. I got it, Matsuno-san. How about your work? Will you be able to take a straight leave for 4 weeks?"

Hikari thought before speaking, "No. I can't, actually."

"Even if your daughters in comatose?"

"Well, maybe they can let me arrange my schedule. But I still need to go to work. I'll let my boss understand. So I really appreciate your stay here, Baji. Thank you."

"It's nothing, Matsuno-san."

Hikari placed her hands inside her pocket to get something. She captured her keys and a paper before giving them to Baji. "Here, it's the house that Hiroshi gave to Yoshiyuki. We haven't touched that place since he gave it to us as a wedding gift. You can go there and rest. It's in Higashiyama. Here's the address," Hikari said, giving him the paper too.

"I'll guard for tonight, and you can stay here tomorrow if I leave for Shibuya. You can take my bike. I heard you lent Chifuyu yours."

"Yeah, is it okay? How will you go home then?"

"Of course. Go ahead. I'll visit the house first before I go. just make sure to leave the keys to the bike in the living room so I won't have to wake you up. Sorry, I can't leave the bike here. It's pretty old. I don't think it can be used daily." Hikari said.

"It's okay. I won't need it here anyway. Since I'm just staying in one place. I'll go now, Matsuno-san," Baji said before leaving and headed towards the hospital's parking lot.

It was a long fight. Baji believes he deserves a rest to think about his problems that are kept adding and adding. He's anxious about Y/n. He's hurt because of what he just perceived about Hanako. He's worried about...an old friend's close comeback from Juvenile Detention.

l.s

Chapter Text

Baji's POV

I woke up in the middle of the night with the sudden change of temperature in the room. Though I thought It was cold because I'm not wearing anything except for the towel wrapped around my hips. If I remember it, my body immediately shut down after taking a shower.

Well, I guess that's just it. Standing up from my bed, I headed towards the window to slide the curtain only to see the sun only halfway up, "Woke up too early, huh."

I got out of the room to see my bag on the couch and noticed the bike keys were not where I put it anymore, "Matsuno-san must've left."

Got like 7 hours before I can see Y/n. And shit, My ass forgot to call my mother. Opening the refrigerator, there I see real food waiting to be eaten. "Damn, My tongue hasn't tasted real food for a long time."

As I closed the refrigerator, a white ripped paper note stuck to the appliance with a banana magnet fell on the floor. "Ah, geez, these magnet's can't do their job well it's pissing me off— Oh, how am I supposed to get there," I said as I placed the note on the counter before turning my back again to open the microwave and put the food."

"I guess I'll take the train. There's no way that there's gonna be no route for the train from here to the hotel."

There's one thing that I noticed in this house that it wasn't a house but a mansion, but a Lil smaller than the one in Kurama. Even this house has appliances in it too. Considering it wasn't touched by the Matsuno's... So it really is true that the Minami's reigned over Kyoto with their dirty money.

The microwave lets out a 'ding' sound signaling me to take the food. It smells nice.

Hours had passed, and it's 10 pm. I washed some of my clothes because who the hell would wash them for me? It wasn't that much anyway. Maybe I can ask Matsuno-san to bring me more if she ever comes back here— I mean, she will.

I unlocked my phone as I shove a banana in my mouth, only to see unread messages from my mother. I started panicking and opened the messages expecting a rant from her. But I was taken aback by her word.

Turns out she already knew what happened and is okay about me staying in Kyoto for a month, and that Matsuno-san came by to tell her about it, and they had— BREAKFAST?! THEY HAD BREAKFAST TOGETHER? Oh wow, they sure have become close for a short amount of time. Damn, they prolly had a good time while I'm struggling to wash my clothes. But anyway, I'm happy mom wasn't mad.

It's 10... she's probably home. I think I should call her.

As I was about to press dial, her name popped out of my screen. "What a coincidence."

I answered it. Mom bombarded me with questions while talking like some award-winning rapper, "Yo, slow down—,"

"Are you okay?!" mom said before stopping. So that's what she wants to ask?

"You could've just asked directly, you know, you said a lot I couldn't catch up. And yes, I'm fine," I answered with my phone in between my shoulders and ears, trying to finish eating the rest of the banana. Throwing it in the bin before grabbing my wallet and the house key to lock the place and continue with my day.

I arrived at the train station, swiping my card at the entrance. I noticed everyone running towards the train, making me confused, "Huh? Isn't the next train by 11:25—Oh wait, shit, it's 11:24 right now."

Before the door to the train closes, I managed to slip myself right on time. "Shit, that was tiring," I stated, panting while trying to hold on a hand holder on top of my head.

The last time I used the train for transportation was with my mom. I was like 14. So I don't really know how this works right now. I spent too much time walking from the house to the nearest station, and then I was having a hard time at the entrance, paying because what the fuck. Why is paying so hard?

But I managed through. Geez, so Ironic. I can handle a gun for the first time but can't pay properly.

It wasn't that long until I arrived at my stop and the next second. I found myself at the hotel. Asking for Y/n's things that she had left behind.

"Hello, I am here to claim a bag owned by a student with the surname Matsuno," I said, leaning my arms at the reception counter. "Sure, may I know your relationship with her?"

I hissed in frustration, "Just give me the damn bag, lady. Do I look like a fucking syndicate? And why would I snatch a bag with girl undergarments in it?"

The lady was surprised by my sudden words before exhaling, "Sir, I am just asking for a relation, alright? That bag is still someone else's," said the lady calmly.

"Fuck. Alright, you nosy chickens, she's my uh...she's uh... Y/n's my..."

The lady patiently looked at me with a smile waiting for my answer, "She's your what, sir?"

Yeah, right. What is Y/n to me? Friends, don't feel something like this, right? But even so, why does this matter?!

"She's my... she's my girlfriend damn, it. Now, give me the damn bag," Now that was embarrassing. Bet my face's red right now. The lady chuckled before handing me the bag, "So you're Keisuke Baji?"

"Yeah, how'd you know?"

"Well, a lady came in here and said to give the bag to you."

"Is that so?! then why the fuck did you ask about my relationship with her? You could've just asked my name!" geez, what the hell is wrong with this receptionist.

"The lady that went here favored me to also ask the relationship, not just the name, which I do not know why. I am just following orders, sir."

A man in his mid 30 approached us both, "excuse me? May I know what's wrong here?" the lady stayed quiet, avoiding eye contact with the man. I sighed in frustration, "You know what? Nevermind. I hope you have a nice day."

I got the bag and made my way to the hospital, "shit, another train chasing," only five minutes till the next stop.

I wanna see Y/n so bad.

Fate isn't too hard for me today, is it? I am now sitting comfortably on the train, waiting for my stop, when a message notified me. My hand quickly run its way to my pocket to get the phone that had been vibrating 3 times already.

It was a message again from mom. Did she change her nickname again?

Katsumi Baji: "I received a new mail today. It's now similar to Hanako's writing in her previous notes."

Katsumi Baji: "So, maybe the previous one is a prank, you know?"

Katsumi Baji: "Reply back if you want me to open it."

Something's odd, other than mom acting like a friend, why would Hanako send two mails at the same time. So it really is another man's mail?

Kei: "Please, open it for me. I'll wait for the image."

As soon as I turned my phone off, the train arrived at its stop, which is my stop too. I got off the train to walk to the hospital, for-which is not far away from the station.

The hospital was quiet as I entered its building, not until I reached the 3rd floor where I see the doctor who was in charge of Y/n with a few nurses with him, marching towards the room I never thought they would be.

After realizing the situation, I quickly ran to the hospital only to be stopped by a nurse again, "Sir, sir. You need to stay out."

"Why?! Again?! Can you please tell me what's going on?" I protested, trying to get past the nurse.

"Sir, it's best for you to just wait and calm down—,"

"Don't!....don't... touch me— Get your hands off me, you get that? Do you want me to punch that sentence inside your brain for you to understand?"

"Good," I said as the nurse got his hand off mine. After an hour, the doctor with three nurses got out of the room and bid their pardon to leave. I approached the doctor to immediately ask him what just happened.

"Matsuno's temperature rose up to 38° C. That is not the temperature goal for a person in a coma. This is why we found a way to keep the patient's temperature stable at 36° C or a little lower than that for 24 hours."

"Lower than 37° C? Are you serious? Isn't that cold as fuck?"

"Yeah, it is. But it's a requirement. Small changes in the brain temperature can affect the amount of neuroprotection. In a way, that slows it down. Neuroprotection might fade if the patient's temperature reaches 37° C."

"I don't understand shit, doctor. What's neurodistractioncookiedoe for?"

"It's pronounced as neuroprotection. It is to save ischemic neurons in the brain from irreversible injury. Didn't I tell you that what made Matsuno-san go in that state is mainly because of her head."

I looked at the doctor with a confused look on my face. Shart, I don't understand no shit. "You know what, doctor. Just keep this to yourself and tell it to the patient's mother when she comes back, aight? I'm outta here. Can I go and see Y/n now?" I said, patting his back.

"Yeah, but... I suggest you wear a jacket if you're gonna stay long in there, or if you just don't like the cold in general. The AC was set to a temperature just for her," the doctor said before bidding me goodbye.

3rd person's POV

It wasn't really a big deal for Baji. He's a healthy person, so he thought he can handle the cold. When he entered the room, he didn't really feel anything.

Baji hurriedly placed the bag on the couch and sat on the stool beside the bed, staring at your unconscious face for a long time. Wanting to cry just by looking at your state. At first, he was hesitating to touch you because something might happen. He's becoming paranoid of the thought of hurting you.

"Shit, don't scare me like that ever again. I thought something really, really, really bad had happened to you the moment I saw a commotion outside your room."

He held your hands, disappointed at the fact that I didn't feel like before. Baji placed it near his lips to place soft kisses on it. The lad reaches out his fingers to brush your hair away from your face, "You really look beautiful when you sleep, but you've been sleeping way too long now, Y/n... Please get better soon and wake up."

"Since you're not gonna be around often and you don't know what's going on around you. I'm thinking of composing letters for you and let you read them when you wake up. How's that sound, hm?" Baji suggested, acting like you're gonna reply to him out of a miracle.

"Though, I'm not really good at it, but... I'm sure you'll understand. I think I improved a little bit," Baji said before letting go of your hand as he shudders from the coldness of the room.

"Damn, it really is cold here as time passes by. I'm gonna go out for a while, alright?"

Baji made his way out of the room, closing the door silently. Opening his phone to check for his mother's messages. He didn't notice it was already sent to him 10 minutes ago.

Katsumi Baji: "You really gotta fix this. I don't know what's happening. But here you go."

Kei: Yeah, thanks.

The lad waited for the image to load, and it finally did after a couple of minutes, "Damn signal."

To: 場地圭介 ( Keisuke Baji)

From: 花子 (Hanako)

Subject: なし (none)

Message:

I'm pretty sure you'll be receiving this mail in May. If I was right, then I am not gonna be able to meet you. But maybe we can talk about things during the first week of June. Things had been hectic as always. I'll contact you first, once I've arrived in Japan.

Baji looked at the image with anger and confused expression mixed together, "That's it? No "sorry for not talking to you sooner," or like, "sorry I've kept big things hidden from you"?" Baji scoffed, "Wow, just wow."

He placed his phone back in his pocket, "Seriously? You want to meet up after showing me those... fucking pictures of you with another? How can she be that casual to me? Did she not know about that first email? Well, I guess... it's better to talk things out for real rather than just exchanging letters in a paper that takes weeks to arrive."

It was already June 3, still the year 2004. Three weeks and a couple of days had passed. You've reached stage 2: Early responses, and you were gradually showing some waking-up signals and responses. But other than that. You're still paralyzed. Your pulse, together with your breathing, is stable enough. Your fractures are already healing faster than you awakening.

Hikari stays in Kyoto every Friday until Sunday because that's the only way her boss lets her have it.

Few classmates and teachers, such as Tanaka-sensei, Junko, Yui, and Aiko, visited you two times in three weeks of being confined since Kyoto is too far away. Gladly the exam for the first term is less than a month far away, so they had the weekend to themselves to visit you. On the other hand, Mikey and the others, including, Chifuyu came to see you too.

Though their teacher brought terrible news that Baji might repeat for another year again because of the absence. The lad didn't mind it but pleaded not to reveal it to his mother until he got the perfect time to tell her.

The letters Baji had written for you for three weeks straight are stored in a box near you and are overflowing with papers. The number of times Baji visited the house that Hikari let him stay in was countable since he spends all of his time looking out for you. Hoping to see you just move your fingers for a split second.

It was worth it for him, successfully seeing you moved your index once a day for the last 3 days. Baji either sleeps on the couch or sleeps while sitting on the chair beside the patient's bed while holding your hand. Bearing with the coldness of the room.

The sleepless nights, anxiety, coldness, loneliness, and sadness, he experienced all of it. But it's all erased once he started talking to you, even if the possibility of you responding is zero.

Baji was sleeping peacefully after placing your palm in his head, but a phone call was enough to wake him up. He groaned in annoyance as he slowly removes your hands from him. "Geez, what is it now?"

He picked up the call and lazily greeted the person in line, "Sup, dude here tryna get some sleep. I swear if you got the wrong number, I'm going to hunt you—,"

"Bold as ever, huh?" A voice said in line. It didn't even take 3 seconds for Baji to recognize the voice. He already knew who it was... It's Hanako Ueno. It doesn't feel the same anymore every time I hear her voice. I think she just lost importance to me.

"Uh, wait— wait—," Baji looked at you before standing up and left the room, closing the door quietly. "Uh, I'm sorry about that."

"Are you with someone right now? You sound like you were panicking."

"Just say what you want to say. You can't just call and think I am always available," Baji replied coldly. While playing with his fingers, he waited for Hanako to speak again.

"I just arrived yesterday, and I went to visit my dad today. So maybe we can meet tomorrow to settle things?" Hanako said.

Baji laughed at her words, trying not to do it so loud because there are patients around, walking or just sitting. "Wow— HAHAHA, that's... very... HAHAHA— I'm sorry, tomorrow? Sure."

"What's so funny, Keisuke?"

"No...No, it's just that...you... you act like we're about to discuss business, where in fact, we're breaking up. HAHAHA, you're so cold-hearted. But hey, it's not like I wasn't aware that you are. Anyways, see you tomorrow around lunch at the cafe you always wanted to see—."

"Wait, Kei!"

"Yeah?"

"I'm sorry—," Baji ended the call without thinking twice before the other can continue. "Kei? Don't call me that," the phone was placed back to where it was placed before.

Baji went back in to continue sleeping, but he couldn't anymore. After the conversation he just had. The lad buried his face on your palms, comforting himself with your cold fingers.

"Wake up... I missed getting punched by you."

"Let me punch you instead, then," A voice made Baji raised his head up to see who it was, only to see Draken at the door, with a patch on his elbow. "Draken? What the hell happened to you? And why are you here?"

Draken continued walking in and closing the door. He found comfort at the couch first before talking, "Well, Mikey got crazy last night. He said he misses you, so he drove your bike together with me and ran it at the speed of light. I almost fell. Luckily only my elbow got scraped."

"Well, are you okay, though?"

"Yeah."

There was silence between them before Draken spoke, "Listen, I actually came here to tell you about something."

"Really? Why didn't you just text me, though? Also, I'm going to Shibuya tomorrow. You could've not wasted your efforts to go here."

"This conversation ain't really fitting to be talked about using mobile devices. By the way, why you goin' home tomorrow?" said Draken, peeling one of the tangerines placed in a basket.

"I'm just meeting with Hanako to fix some things," While Baji was talking, Draken was choking with the tangerines. "Hey, you aight?" Draken recovered and bombarded him with complaints, "Seriously?! Hanako? Dude, after what she did to you? Nah, screw it, don't meet up with her."

"Wait, how'd you know about Hanako?"

"Well, you know your mom. She a big talker," the lad said, shoving all of the tangerine pieces in his mouth. Baji sighed, "Oh, wow. I guess I'm the talk of the town. Anyways, I'm not meeting with her to fix things. I am ending it. So chill and tell me what you are about to tell me."

Draken immediately stood up from his seat, "Oh, yeah. I totally forgot about that part. Let's go talk somewhere private."

Baji looked at him in confusion and pointed his fingers at you, "Seriously? Do you need privacy? Dude... it's just the two of us and an unconscious hulk."

"Did you just insult your girlfriend?"

"What?"

"Yeah, you called her an unconscious hulk."

"No, I wasn't talking about that. What do you mean, girlfriend?"

"Isn't she?"

Baji stayed silent, not knowing what to answer. "Just spill the goddamn coffee, Draken."

"It's about Kazutora Hanemiya," just his name makes Baji's heartbeat louder and more audible to someone else's ears. "You still know him?"

"Of course I do. I've been counting sheep," Baji said, avoiding eye contact with Draken.

"Counting what? For what?"

"Well, I was wishing to fix everything that had happened between us... I told him that I'd always be with him no matter what kind of hell's brought to him..."

"Have you been visiting him?" Draken said, feeling something odd.

"Yeah, I... had been. The last time I saw Kazutora was on this year's New year when I disappeared out of nowhere during our fun night."

"Why didn't you tell us that you had been visiting him? And now you're telling me?" Draken said, feeling betrayed. "If I told you guys I was visiting him at the prison, what do you think Mikey would feel? I surely don't want him to think that I'm siding with the person who killed his brother."

"Well, he already did, Baji."

"What?" Baji rose up from his seat with a panicked look, "Are you kidding?"

Draken looked at him with a serious face, "No shit, sherlock. He told Takemitchy and me about how he's going to hate you if you sided with Hanemiya."

"I am not siding with anyone. I am neutral. I visited Kazutora to keep him sane enough until he gets out. I know how he is, how he thinks and acts. But that doesn't mean I am tolerating him for his crimes. I just want to... fix their problem. I hate seeing my friends breaking up."

"Well, I understand where you're standing, but I am not Mikey. But he's not really that mad at you right now. He just stated that," Draken said drinking water from the dispenser.

"By the way, who's that loser named Takemitchy?" Baji asked, playing with your fingers. "New guy, picked him up while you weren't there. Turns out that Kiyomasa's running an underground brawl for losers.

He was beating the shit out of the poor guy, and I just gave him a lesson. Mikey actually liked Takemichi because he reminds him of Shinichiro. That's why that loser you're calling gained Mikey's attention," said Draken, who's grabbing another fruit from the basket.

"Is he a member, though?" Baji asked. "Mikey's giving him the time to think. Our commander's already thinking which Division should he put Takemichi in," Draken said, chuckling.

"Anyways, the point is. Kazutora's out instead of Christmas day," Draken said, with a sharp gaze meeting Baji's shock one's, "H...how?"

"I got an intel at the Juvee. One of the guards is my friend, and I told him to tell me if there's something big going on with Kazutora. And there, he informed me that Kazutora was out yesterday. Not just that, before Kazutora got out, a blonde-haired dude with glasses always visits him, just this year. The guard said it started happening after you stopped seeing Kazutora. So? Do you recall anyone with blonde hair and glasses?" Draken asks, munching on a biscuit this time.

Baji looked at him, "The fuck? just how many days did you not eat?"

"Doesn't matter, just tell me if you recall someone with the matching description."

"None, no one. I'm always with Kazutora before he was sent to prison. So I knew who he is friends with. And even so, how could it be possible for Kazutora to make friends with someone when he's in jail for like almost 2 years? I mean, he can, but you said, 'visited' so, that means his friend is not in jail, but outside."

"So what are you implying, Baji?"

"That Kazutora didn't befriend that mysterious blonde, but the other way around."

"How would he know about Kazutora if he's in jail?"

"Research."

"Elaborate, Baji."

"When you want to do something, it acquires research, right? What if that blonde hair guy's planning something. I am not paranoid. I am just...thinking outside the box, alright? Look, you just don't befriend a random criminal that you don't know without motives. Also, Kazutora is in jail. So he won't be committing crimes. That leads us to the question, what does that mysterious blonde want to do with Kazutora if he's not indebted with him with something?

The possibility of him paying for Kazutora to get out of jail is 100% sure. Kazutora's parents passed away. He doesn't have any relative in Shibuya, he only has us, but there's no way someone could oppose Mikey and pay for Kazutora. If that blonde really is behind this, then why would he want Kazutora out? What if he meets up with Kazutora because it is part of his research to get what he wants?" Baji said, explaining together with his hands.

Draken snapped his fingers, "shit! Yeah, makes sense. Just like Y/n's, except it's a Lil different. Damn, If you're that smart, why did you spell my name wrong in a text message?"

"Oh, it was a typo."

"Was it? But anyway, if he really wants something from Kazutora, then what is it? Why Kazutora?" said Draken while laying down on the couch, staring at the ceiling.

On the other hand, Baji's standing up leaning at the wall while his arm's crossed, "Maybe Kazutora's a trigger to something, or Kazutora can help him get what he wants. I mean, he paid thousands of yen, and for what? Of course, it's going to be something big."

"Damn, why do I always entangled myself with this kind of conversation, first with Hiroshi and Ryota Minami, now with Kazutora and a bored rich planner researching mysterious blonde four-eyed dude. I am getting deja vu here."

Draken got up from the couch and went near your bed to sit on the stool. He was looking at you and at every cable and wire attached to your body, "It terrifies me to think who's going to get hurt next?"

"I'll make sure no one gets hurt this time, Draken," Baji felt the feeling Draken was having, 'If there's a soft-hearted here except for him, it would be Draken. He always wants to forgive friends. But not tolerate their crimes. He's also playing fair in a world full of cheaters,' the lad thought to himself.

"Anyways, do you want me to find his location?" Draken asked, still looking at you. "What are you? A walking map? No, it's alright. I'll find him myself when Y/n wakes up." Draken hummed as his response before standing up to get the door, "Anyways, that's all, I hope we'll keep this information only to the both of us, juts us, NO CHIFUYU included. I'll go for now, and Good luck tomorrow—Remember, No matter how mad you are, stay calm and respect her as your ex— I mean, future ex," Draken said, leaving while waving his hands. "Ja."

Baji sighed before sitting back to his original place next to you, "I'm meeting up with her tomorrow, you know... Hanako. So I prolly won't be here until after lunch. I hope nothing serious happens. I really can't get a break, no?"

He stood up to reach the table near you, "When are you gonna reach stage 3. But I'm kinda worried, though. I think that stage will be difficult for me, you're hard to tame, you know that? You might lash out at me the first second you open your eyes. But hey, it's not like you don't beat me enough back then," said the lad laughing while filling a basin with water from a jug before grabbing a clean towel from the cabinet.

He merged the cloth with the liquid by soaking it after placing the small container at the overbed table and squeezed the excess water out from the fabric. "It's not only Draken who feel a little deja vu here. This takes me back to the time. Where the two of us just finished beating up random guys who were picking on Chifuyu, and both of you came over to my house to eat the yakisoba we shared, and I clean your wound after.

I was careless around you. Yeah, I admit I don't really know what girls want or what things they're sensitive from," thou said, wiping every corner of your hand. "I didn't realize I was already being gentle, and every night I kept saying that, "This is not me, I'm not a considerate person, especially to a girl I just met," but I just accepted that you're the soft side in me."

"Damn, your fingers are pretty," Baji said, spreading your fingers to and interlaced them with his, "See? I think It looks prettier like this."

"Anyways, I'll let your ears rest. And I'm gonna get some sleep, Goodnight."

Morning came, and Baji's still sleepy and tired because he couldn't sleep last night. Even though he really wants to. It's Saturday today, mans Hikari's on her way.

The lad stood up quickly from his confinement and went inside the bathroom together with the clothes he's going to wear. "Shit, I don't feel like going. I don't want to see her."

He said, closing the shower off before getting ready.

Baji goes out of the toilet, instantly feeling cold, as he steps a foot outside. The temperature still needs to be stable for you. He seizes his phone and wallet before approaching you, "I'm going now. Matsuno-san's on her way. I'll be quick," Baji placed a soft kiss on your forehead ahead of moving his way out of the room.

There Baji met with Hikari at the hallways, "Ohayo, you're going now? I brought breakfast. You should eat first."

"Oh, uh. Ohayo," Baji said, bowing before talking again, "I'll just eat it on the train. I'll take these," thou said, taking the Georgia black coffee and the Onigiri. "Oh, alright. Take care, Baji-kun."

"Yeah. I won't be long, Matsuno-san. Then... I'll get going now."

"Okay, make sure to not miss the train again for like 10x in 3 weeks now," Hikari said, teasing the lad. "Noted Matsuno-san!"

Baji arrived on time and is not sitting suitably inside while eating his food, "Oh, this tastes good," He opened his phone to see a text from Hanako, "See you there at 11."

'Tch, why is she so excited? Does she know how I dislike the idea of seeing her? And it's so unfair. She got to decide everything just because she's 3 years older than me.'

'Not to mention the train ticket's expensive. I'll just take my bike. I guess it won't be dangerous anymore for Chifuyu since Akashi was successfully framed, though I don't know If I should feel happy. He made it easy and admitted the killing of Ryota, sending him to jail after a little more stay at the hospital for recovery.'

Baji arrived in Tokyo after 2 hours and a half of the ride. It was hella boring for him, and he's already worn out. Pleasingly the cafe isn't that far from the station because he's about to go mad of exhaustion. Even on the train, he didn't get to sleep because of two couples doing something beside him.

"Holy shit, why do I have to see that. I can't believe some people are into outdoor craps," Baji said before running his way to the nearest men's bathroom to throw up. People eyed the man running at the speed of light. He successfully arrived at the toilet and let it out shortly.

"I am never using the train again, fuck it. I'm sorry, Chifuyu, but I'm gonna need my baby back," Baji tried standing up to wash his hands and mouth at the sink.

He got out of the bathroom to head to the specific place. It's just a fifteen-minute walk, though. Baji still felt dizzy even when he already reach the place. He opened the door, and he immediately saw Hanako sitting with etiquette while sipping her tea.

Baji stood there at the door, looking at her with a dumbfounded face. Thou shook his head before walking towards the table and pulled out the chair for himself, making the lady shock because of the sudden interaction. Hanako looked at him until he's able to sit suitably on the chair.

Their eyes met after a very long time of being apart from each other, but Baji didn't feel anything special besides hate. "That's it? No Hi, hello, I'm here or Can I sit?" said Hanako.

"I should be the one asking you that. Where's your, "I'm sorry. It took me four months to interact back," Am I right, Ueno-san?"

Hanako scoffed at Baji's sarcastic reply, "Excuse me, I was busy."

"So, what makes you think I'm not?" Baji replied.

"Because all you do is get in that stupid bike of yours and beat every person that catches your sight."

"Don't act like you care now, the fuck am I supposed to do? I need to cope up with every deplorable shits you gave me—,"

"LANGUAGE, Keisuke," Hanako stated, cutting Baji off. Baji laughed at her, "Yeah... yeah, language," thou said, nodding his head while giving out a small laugh. "You look tired and pale, Kei."

"Sleeping in the hospital for 3 weeks straight is not that good, so yeah. Anyways, I am not here for an argument. So don't get me started, Ueno-san. Why don't you just declare it over so I can go see Y/n."

"Hospital? See Y/n? What happened to her?"

"Long story, but a psychopath son of a former delinquent wants to execute her. She's comatose right now. It's been 3 weeks," Baji said, playing with the tissue at the table to avoid eye contact with the other. "Does that explain why you're late? It's already 12:30 when you arrived."

"Yeah, I traveled from Kyoto, so please don't give me a lecture about being on time again. I can't help it. My bike's not with me. It's with my friend, Chifuyu."

"You let someone drive your bike? Wow, you changed."

"Just because I let someone use my treasure doesn't mean I changed, alright?"

"No, you really did—well, the anger issues are still there but, I can really say that you changed a little bit for the better. Also the previous love letters you sent me the whole of April and May... It's sweet. You must've liked her very much."

"What do you mean?"

"Those letters, I don't think they're for me... Right?"

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"You already admitted that you like her and that you want to tell her about it, and now you won't even gonna be honest with me about those letters? Did you write it for me, or for her? Easy."

"I didn't realize, Hanako."

"It's alright. I didn't take it to heart. And it's nice to hear you calling me by my name again," the woman said as a compliment.

"Yeah, of course, you don't take it to heart— you're doing the same thing anyway," thou said, starting a fire.

Hanako placed her tea down, "Doing the same thing? Excuse me, did I miss something?"

"No...no, of course, you did not miss something. You just won't admit it," got out of Baji's mouth sarcastically, still playing with the tissues, crumping and ripping them.

"Where is this coming from, Kei?"

Baji placed his interlocked hands at the table, nearing his face to speak softly and clear, "How about we start at the fact about you not having the right to call me by my name and my nickname. And the other fact that you're fooling around with another person— and that you think I'm a moron."

"I do not understand—," Hanako tried her best to insert a sentence.

Baji smirked, mocking Hanako. "Of course, you won't understand unless you won't admit. I may be an idiot, but I am not stupid. I already expected it, though, but I trusted you. Only to confirm that my speculations are true. And the worst thing is I heard it from somebody else and not you. Do you know how embarrassing that is? It's humiliating. I feel betrayed and played," Baji said without shouting, just pure calmness with a 'See? I know everything' face.

Hanako looked at him, trying to understand what the situation is, and placed her palms in her mouth as her eyes widened, realizing Baji's words, "Are you...talking bout—"

"Yeah, no shit, sherlock," Thous said and laughed with satisfaction the moment Hanako read the room. "How many months has it been going on, Ueno-san?"

The lady tilted her head down, feeling liable, "Since... last year. Listen Baji, I'm sorry—," Hanako, who's on the brink of crying, attempted to reach out her fingers to take Baji's free hand on the table when the lad sensed it and shifted his hands from the surface and placed it on his lap instead before Hanako can touch a part of his skin.

"It's alright. I'm just letting you know how that affected me. Besides, aren't I doing the same thing? I liked someone else too, even though I am aware of my status," Hanako shook her head, "No, you did not. I am the only one in the wrong here because I know— I just know that you won't betray me no matter where I am. I bet you fought for your feelings for me, and I am sorry because you're fighting for someone who doesn't feel anything towards you anymore."

"You're such a brute. You don't have to say it that way, you know. I already apprehended the fact that your feelings flickered away. It's expected we didn't really have a powerful connection before you left the country. I can feel that we're slipping away from each other, so I thought I could fix our relationship turns out I am already falling for someone else," Baji said.

"But, I am sorry because I wasn't there in your tough times, Hanako. I am not tolerating what you did, but I am one to blame too. I apologize for making you feel alone, but I am glad that someone was there," the fellow appended.

"Aren't you gonna ask why I did that?"

"No need, Hanako. I understand. Is he treating you right?"

This time she's already crying. She felt like she's the most terrible person for taking advantage of a person who did nothing but be considerate and lovely, "Y...you really grew, I'm telling you. I thought you're g...going to punch me."

'That's what I thought too, I was mad at you, but you're still the woman I first liked,' Baji chuckled, "Hey now, stop crying," said him offering her a tissue. "Sorry, I ripped the other ones so, there's only one left."

Hanako didn't say anything and wiped her tears, "Thank you, and yes... he does treat me well."

"That's great, good for you," Baji announced, crossing his arms.

Hanako finished wiping her eyes, "What did you like about her?" Baji smiled at Hanako's question before leaning his back at the chair again, "Well, I like her determination and courage. She's brave, intelligent, and very independent. Other than that, I just like her..."

The lady smiled, hearing and seeing how the man in front of him looks madly in love with describing its person, "Will you confess the second she wakes up?"

"No," Baji answered shortly.

Hanako stood up from her seat, "WHAT?!" The people inside the cafe who were chatting with each other looked at Hanako, who shouted out of nowhere. She bowed her head, "Uh, I'm sorry...I'm sorry."

Baji contained himself from laughing, "Hey! Don't laugh!" it took him seconds to stop giggling.

"What do you mean, "no"? Didn't you told me to come to Tokyo earlier for you to confess to her?"

"Yeah... that was the plan, Euno-san. But... but after what happened in Kyoto. I don't know anymore. So, I'm sorry for rushing you to go back home,"

"No, it's alright. But what do you mean you don't know anymore?! What does the Kyoto incident have to do with your feelings for Matsuno-chan?"

"Well, I am a delinquent. You know that too well. I could bring danger to her. I have a lot of enemies, and I don't want them using her against me. Because the last time I had a weakness, they took advantage of it. Remember when you almost got hit by a car?"

Hanako innocently tilted her head, trying to remember, "Oh, yeah. At thanksgiving day. But ain't that an accident?"

"That's what I told you. Because I know you'll get anxious, and you were trembling enough for me to even add fuel to the fire. I'm afraid you'll dump my ass because of that," thou said, drinking the water alongside Hanako's cup of tea. "Sorry, I was thirsty."

"I don't mind. But say, do what you think is best if for Y/n-chan, alright? But don't let fear decide it for you. Or else you'll regret things, and when that day comes, there's no turning back anymore," said Hanako before opening her purse to get a thick envelope, handing it to Baji, making the lad confused on why she's suddenly giving him that.

"I didn't thank you yet correctly. So I am gonna do it now."

"Thank you so much, Baji. For sacrificing your future to fulfill mine. It saddens me that I had become a horrible person in your perspective. I wish I could reset that, but there's no turning back, as I said. And I have no excuses to say. Allow me to reciprocate. I want to go back abroad in peace."

Baji accepted the envelope to see thousands of money inside it, the same amount that he spent to send her abroad. "Alright, let's settle things now. How about we say it together?"

Hanako laughed at his idea, "it's silly but okay."

"I know, funny how we had no feeling towards each other for a long time now, but we only had the guts to end it today."

"Goodbye, Ueno-san."

"Goodbye, Baji-kun."

'If I only had more time, I would say thank you because of those love letters, I get to meet Y/n. You were a lesson and a good memory to me. I wish us both happiness, Hanako,' the lad thought to himself as he walked out of the shop.

l.s

Chapter Text

3rd person's POV

Baji successfully arrived in Kyoto again in no time, parking his bike at the hospital's parking lot before running inside the building. His heart started to race again, seeing multiple nurses coming in and out of your room. Baji rushed to know what's going on, to see Hikari squealing in joy.

His eye shifted to the person he'd been waiting for a very long time to wake up. You looked at Baji through the wide-opened door, standing like he had seen a ghost.

Baji felt butterflies all over when his eyes met with yours for the first time in a very long time. Even though you look emotionless and confused in your surrounding, Baji was happy.

The lad excitedly entered the room to approach Hikari and shook her shoulder with his strong hands due to happiness, "Ow ow ow, slow down. I know we're all happy here," Hikari said, trying to cope up with speed. Baji realized what he was doing and let go of Hikari, "Sorry, I uhm. I'm just really thrilled."

Hikari and Baji looked at each other for a second before rejoicing again like little kids. You looked at them, trying to think what's happening and how long has it been. The noise of the surrounding is irritating you, and the doctor sensed it. The man tried to calm you down, catching Hikari and Baji's attention.

"What's happening? Is my daughter okay?"

"Mrs. Matsuno, I'd respectfully required you to stay quiet until she recovers. Mostly comatose patients who reached stage 3 tries to remember what happened before the long sleep. And it is not easy for them to remember. They may also lash out, be angry all of a sudden, or even flinch at a sudden touch because of the shock. But she'll eventually be okay. Tolerance is what comes first in this kind of situation," said the nurse, explaining it thoroughly to the two.

"Yeah, yeah. Understood," Hikari informed.

"But can we like... try to talk to her?" Baji added.

"Yes, you can. Just don't pressure the patient for a response," Baji nodded again, still excited. The doctor and the other nurses left after checking the patient's stability.

Hikari walked next to you, followed by Baji, who's sneaking behind her like a little boy. You looked at them confused, 'what the fuck're they doing? I just woke up, damn it.' You shifted your view to something else, making their shoulders drop.

"I'll go get something to eat. You stay here, alright?" said Hikari, grabbing her things. "Yeah, okay."

Baji then felt nervous because he felt like he's meeting you for the first time. The lad didn't know what to do, what posture to make, what words to utter. Afraid that you might ignore him or punch him out of nowhere. But the excitement to hear your voice again overlaps his anxiety.

He sat on the chair, placing his hands on his lap, then at his side, then scratch his head, then laid it again on the bed. You felt disturbed by the movements you're feeling. You gazed back at him, who's trying to figure out where to put his hand or how to sit down.

Baji felt eyes piercing on his head. He looks up to see you glaring at him, making him flinch, and his eyes blink multiple times, "uh... sorry to disturb you. You can continue looking at the uh..." Baji paused, looking at where you were looking just a minute ago, "basket, yeah... you can look at the basket again."

You ignored him and looked back at the basket. Baji did the same, thinking, what's so interesting about a basket full of fucking fruits. He then looked back at you before realizing something, "Oh, perhaps you want some apples? Better eat one before Draken comes and visit. He ate half of the basket's fruits."

You looked at him, signaling that you want it. But the lad doesn't get it, and he also stared at you back for like, a very long time before he understands what you want him to do. "Oh, yeah. Do you want apples? Here let me get you one," Baji grabbed one big apple from the basket with his hand and offered it to you as if you can actually bite on that big ass food.

Baji looked at the apple and you and the apple again, thinking why you're not accepting it. "Oh... I forgot to wash it. Wait here, uh, let me wash it first," said Baji panicking.

He came back with the clean apple, but you still did not take it from his hand. Baji gave up on thinking why you're not touching the apple. But he got to make you eat it, so he grabbed the phone in his pocket to dial Draken's number. "Yo, what's up?"

"Chifuyu, is Chifuyu there?"

"Oh no, he's with the twin. Prolly disturbing some random cats who only want to walk peacefully on the street," said Draken with his phone in Emma's hand. "Do you need something from him? Don't worry. They'll be back, though. I told them to get me some back reliever or something. I'll call you back."

"Yeah, make it fast. It's a sibling emergency."

"Sibling emergency? Is Y/n awake?"

"Yeah, dude. Just call me back?"

Emma closed Draken's phone, "Y/n?" "Baji's... love interest," Draken answered while focused on fixing his bike. " Oh I completely forgot Y/n, it's been a while since I saw her, but wait, I thought Baji's girlfriend's name is Hanako."

"Well, not anymore. Hanako's calm and intelligent but, she doesn't look good with Baji anyways. It's good they broke up."

"Hey, now, that's mean," Emma said, pouting. "Oh, you think I'm mean? I am doing charity work here. She called me an egg with hair," Draken said, throwing the pliers somewhere. Emma was surprised and can't help but laugh at his boyfriend's pissed-off face. "Seriously? Come on. She wouldn't call you that unless you did something."

"What I do? I just called Baji out for a small talk, then she started chasing me away, and that I influenced Baji into doing illegal shits. That woman even threatened me. It turns out she can't lay a single digit on me."

"Oh wow," Emma said, still giggling, "So you like Y/n better?"

"Hmm, she's toleratable. At first, she acted like how Hanako would, except for that she really sticks up with her words, she even kicked Mikey," said Draken, surprising Emma even more. "Oh wow, I want to meet her when she comes home."

"Yeah," Draken stood up from crouching on his feet, "Start it, Emma."

The lady placed the key in its place, rotating it and clicking the engine shut-off switch from off to on next before pressing the gray button to start the engine. Draken felt satisfied seeing the bike back in its good condition.

"Yo! Sorry it took us too long. The pharmacy was packed. Here are your patches," Souya said. "Stop tolerating Chifuyu," his brother responded.

"It's alright, don't sweat it. Anyways, Chifuyu, call Baji. He said it's a sibling emergency."

"Baji's your brother? Wow, I didn't know he had a brother," Nahoya stated. "Get your facts right, dude," Mitsuya said after appearing from nowhere with Hakkai as always while Chifuyu excused himself to call Baji.

Baji's phone rang after minutes of calling Draken. "Yo, what's up. What do you mean by sibling emergency? I swear to God— don't go around claiming I'm a relative of yours. You did that the other day only to tell me about a fucking noodle—"

"Hold up dumbass, So you're sister's awake and then—"

"My sister's awake?!—"

"Yeah, shut up, let me talk!—"

"Let me talk to her, Baji-san. Please, right now—"

"No! Does she likes apples or not?"

"Huh? Why are we talking about apples right now—"

"Just answer, damn it!"

"Of course she does! She likes it the most when it's sliced into— Hello? Baji-san?" Chifuyu stared at the phone, realizing Baji hanged up on him. "What the actual fuck?"

"Ah! I know now. Wait here," Baji said, signaling you to wait with his index finger. He then ran to his backpack to get a pocket knife. "Ohh, found it."

He leaned on the sink to clean the blade before sitting on the bed beside you, slicing the apple into pieces. Baji felt you staring at the knife, "Don't worry, it's clean, clean, not just clean. I haven't stab anyone with this. Well, I should have, but I forgot to bring it with me that time when—."

Baji stopped before he can open up about the accident that happened last month. "Here, say ahhh," he opened his mouth, signaling you to do the same thing, 'does this guy think I became stupid after comatose or something?'

But you followed anyways. You opened your mouth to accept the food, munching on it slowly because chewing too hard doesn't feel best for you in that kind of situation. Baji kept feeding you with the fruit until you felt satisfied. You declined his hand all of a sudden, looking at him. "You're full already? You only had like four thin slices, Y/n."

"Hey, what's with the stare again? Just tell me what you want. I am begging you, I'm not a fortune teller," Baji said jokingly, making you release a small laugh.

Baji got alarmed by the sound you made. He quickly turned his head to look at you, "Did you just laugh?" the lad asked, excitedly looking at you. You ignored him and fixed your face before trying to stand to reach out for the water.

He immediately stood up to reach fr the water and gave it to you, "Here you go," Baji said lowkey waiting for you to speak. But you ignored him again and tucked yourself inside the blankets. He didn't want to pressure you, so he just stayed gave up and sat back on the seat again, laying his head on the bed to rest and sleep.

Hikari entered the room after eating lunch, seeing you sleeping sideways with one of your hands placed on top of Baji's palm. She then sighed and leaned on the counter table, watching both of the youngsters in front of her. "I am not going to tell you how to live your life because it's yours, but I hope you chose someone that'll make you not just happy but makes you feel safe at the same time."

The woman sighed, turning her back on them before placing multiple grapes in her mouth, "Hm, this is juicy."

The following day Hikari left a note, saying she's on the way back to Shibuya for work. Baji informed you about it, and you just looked at the paper with na unimpressive cast.

Your eyes widened in shock, seeing Baji go out of the bathroom half-naked with only his track pants on. The sound of the metal clacking of his necklace's pendants as he walks is the only thing loud inside the room.

Baji was back facing you while he's making his coffee for breakfast. The lad then turned around, and you quickly changed your sight. In the corner of your eyes, you can see him staring at you, but that wasn't the problem but the patches on his abdomen that caught your attention the most.

The memory of what happened last month flashed in your memory all of a sudden. You started battling with your thoughts whether the bruises on Baji's body were because of you. And what really happened that night.

You searched deeper on the details of the incident, but the only thing you can remember is what happened down the basement. "Hey, Y/n. So I was thinking about—," the feeling of the blade cutting you open flowed all over your body, causing you to flinch, hitting Baji's hand that holds the coffee, resulting in the hot liquid pouring all over his stomach, soaking his patched wounds.

The cup fell on the floor, as the glass shattered all over the tiles of the room. You closed your ears as soon as you heard the shattering sound, mistaking as for something.

Baji didn't care about the burn, or his wounds, even the mess on the floor. He quickly rushed to comfort you, who's frightened. "Hey, hey, It's just a mug, alright?" You started shedding tears out of nowhere, and that made Baji panicked even more.

He pulled you in for a hug, caressing your hair, "I'm sorry, I'm sorry I haven't arrived there more sooner. But it's all over now, alright? You're safe here with me," Baji assured, kissing the side of your head, with his hands still wrapped around your body.

You stop trembling after some time, and your head calmed down. You rested your body on him, your face buried on his neck. Both of you are in that position for 5 minutes straight before Baji felt you pulling away. He gave in and let you do whatever you want comfortable.

The lad chuckled, brushing your messy hair away from your face, "Your hair's messy now," he said before removing the tie off his neatly done ponytail. Baji stood up from the bed to face your back, brushing your hair up with his long skinny fingers, with the hair tie in between his teeth.

A warm feeling cheered you up like you've been in this kind of scenario before, 'Where was it?... was it at my house?' you asked yourself. "There you go, don't remove that, alright?"

Baji stared at you for a very long time, flustering you, "Just as expected, you also look pretty with your hair up like that," you felt blood rushing up to your face. You laid down on the bed covering your whole body with a blanket, making Baji laugh at your reaction. "Aww, were you shy?" Baji playfully asked, nearing his face on the fabric. You can feel his breath brushing with the skin of your ear.

He tapped your shoulders, "Just kidding, sleep well," you heard his footsteps fading, and you heard the bathroom door closing after. You sat up and placed your palms on your cheeks, panicking.

Baji made sure the door was closed before he lets out all the pain he was enduring, "Fuckkkk, that hurts so much," he ran to the mirror to slowly remove the soggy patch on his body. Revealing his wet wounds, "Damn, is caffeine okay for these wounds?" He threw them one by one in a bin before cleaning his wound with water to remove the coffee.

As the day goes on, you ignored Baji and only paid attention to the TV. You disregarded every conversation he tried to initiate. Until now, he keeps talking, making your headache, feeling a little bothered.

"Look here, those fucking idiots took a photo of me smiling and printed it out—," Baji, who's sitting beside you, showed you a picture in a paper, making you slap his arm back to him out of irritation, "Ah, paper cut," he said before sucking his finger. You realized what you did, making you feel awful. The lad sensed how you felt bad about it and smiled at you, "It's alright, it's just a paper cut. And it's my fault anyway, sorry for talking a lot."

"I just... missed you so much..." he added.

Baji laughed at his own confession, "Why are you looking at me like that?" You did not respond, not because you don't know what to say, but the words you wanted to utter are not coming out of your mouth. You licked your lips and gulped a lot of times to get you to the best timing of delivering your sentence, but nothing happened.

Baji felt confused at the actions you're making, 'huh? Why does she keep licking her lips—,' Baji's eyes widened at his sudden realization, 'does she want me to kiss her? Oh no, come on, this is too sudden but, I won't mind.'

The lad smiled at his own thoughts while looking at you, and now you're the confused one on why this "creep" keeps smiling at you. Baji looked at your eyes down to your lips, slowly leaning in close, his lips successfully softly meeting yours.

Thou closed your eyes before kicking him off the bed, making him fall on his bum, "OW, geez, is your leg okay now? You kick pretty hard," You wondered why he does things like this so simply without worrying about someone. And why he's agonizing over someone else's leg instead of his own body.

You signaled to him that you want to go to the bathroom to brush your teeth and sleep. After that, you glared at him before tucking yourself again inside the blanket for like three times now. "Huh? Y/n? Hey Bruce Banner, are you mad?" Baji sighed before turning the TV off and sleep the night away. You felt the side of the bed sink a little. You thought that Baji must've been sleeping again with his head placed in your bed.

A ringtone filled your ears, making you feel mad and irritated again because it's midnight. You lazily sat up, still feeling sleepy, seeing it was Baji's phone with an annoying ringtone. You shook him up to wake him, but you only got a hum as a response.

"Idiot, your phone's annoying as fuck. At least let me get some sleep," Baji immediately sprung up to his confinement, hearing your voice after almost like a month. He pointed his fingers at you while his other hand is on his mouth, gasping in disbelief, "Did you just?—"

Baji looked at the caller ID to see Hakkai calling. He signaled you to wait with his fingers before answering the call, "Hello? This better be fast. My baby's talking to me again."

"Oh, no, dude. Hakkai must've accidentally called you. He sat on his phone. He's drunk right now because we're actually celebrating Y/n's health and a housewarming party for the Matsunos. Anyways, gotta hang up. Draken and I need to drive these drunk-ass idiots back home."

Baji stared at his phone before slowly placing it back on the nightstand. "So you can speak, huh? Were you just bullying me this morning?" said the lad, sitting beside you.

You scoffed, "N...no, it's not my fault. And I didn't ask for you to take care of me! Now I'm gonna go sleep—," Baji pulled you softly back up before you can even lay down. Thou snaked his arms around your waist, embracing you from behind furthermore leaning his mouth near your ear, "I was just kidding, But hey, don't I need some reward here," you slapped his face away from you jokingly.

"But did you actually missed me, though?" the lad asked.

"You heard my voice for the very first time in a long time, and that's the first thing you want to hear from me?" you questioned, relaxing your back on his. Baji chuckled at your response, "Alright, do you hate me, Y/n?"

You stopped fiddling with your fingers with his sudden question. You don't know where that came from, so you stayed quiet. Not until you felt hot liquid soaking your hospital gown followed by sniffling sounds. You chuckled before turning your body around to face him, "What made you say that? I never hated you."

"It's because I'm such a moron and didn't get to rescue you a little earlier. You wouldn't have to undergo all that misery if not because of me," Baji replied, genuinely looking at you. You can see the guiltiness in his eyes that he shouldn't feel because the incident is not his fault. "And now you're talking to me, it takes me back to where I did something wrong, and then you started talking to me again because you're really just a nice person, and you always forgive people."

"I want to be forgiven because you really forgive me, but not because you're simply a good person."

"Look at me so I can forgive you properly, you know? If you're talking to me, then you should set your eyes on me only," you said with your hand placed on his cheeks.

Baji didn't hesitate to look up with a crying face. You can't help but laugh a little at him, "You're such a bully," he said, about to sulk. "No, no... It's just, you're so adorable," you wiped the remaining tears in his eyes with the blanket before pulling him closer by his cheeks to place a small peck on his almost swollen eyes.

The room was dark because the lights are off, but despite the lamp that serves as the only source of light for the two of you, you can see his face getting red, and you felt yours being the same way. But even though all you did was sleep, you apprehended that Baji went through everything just to stay with you. You acknowledge all that because even if your hearing was inaudible, you figured it was Baji who's talking to you without requiring a response back and just genuinely telling you how he feels.

You felt butterflies in your belly when both of your eyes met. It was the right time and the right mood. It's also where you both think as if the two of you are the only people left in this cruel world.

You took the initiative to pull him by his shirt to retrieve the kiss he gave earlier. Baji didn't want to let go, initiating him to draw you closer by your hips before his hands traveled up to your waist, caressing both sides as if he's admiring your body. Then his fingers tracing the middle area of your back where your spine is, sending chills all over your body, making you arch your back all of a sudden.

Baji softly pulled away from kissing you, "Sorry, does that hurt?" You shook your head as a no while looking down. You wrapped your arms around his neck, burying your face on his shoulder.

"I heard from some nerd who likes theories that our scapula used to be part of our wings," Baji said, tracing your shoulder blade with his fingers. "Just tonight, I came to a conclusion where people who have perfect curved scapula's just like yours are angels," he added.

"Do you have a perfect one?" You asked, looking at him. Baji smiled before shaking his head lightly as 'no.'

"But why do you look so okay with it?" you asked, trying not to release a strange noise from his touches.

"I am happy because you have a perfect one, and I do not. I don't deserve to be with you, and you don't deserve to fly down with me."

You stayed quiet, not following his words. "You don't have to say anything right now because I know myself it's complicated. But you'll understand when the right time comes."

Confusion is overlapping you, but the strangest thing is that his word made you sense something that you've never felt a long time ago, until now. You were scared, but at the same time, you knew he won't do anything to hurt you. "You're scaring me," you said, alarming Baji.

"I'm sorry."

"Just kidding," you said, giggling at him. Baji joined in your laugh, kissing you softly again with his fingers caressing your sensitive ears. You accidentally opened your mouth because of the ticklish feeling in your ears, giving Baji the chance to slip his tongue inside, mixing his saliva with yours.

The kiss was sweet and warm, and both of you won't wanna let go, but your eyes are giving up on sleepiness. You pulled away living Baji hanging, "I'm sleepy," you said, giving him the puppy eyes. "Oh, come on, but fine. Come here," said the lad, leaning his back on the bed frame with warms wide open, waiting for you.

Thou smiled, accepting his offer. You laid down with his chest serving as your pillow, his right hand placed behind his head as his rest, while his left hand is wrapped around you, caressing your shoulder.

"Baji..."

"Yeah?"

"I don't hate you." You heard the sound of his heart beating loudly. You were glad that he believes you and does not think twice about your words.

"Did you know that you died two times?" Baji said, opening up a conversation, "Oh, sorry. That's very insensitive of me—,"

"It's alright, tell me about it. Did I really die?" You said, looking, seeing him with a worried look before he nodded as 'yes.'

"Oh, well, that's weird and...unreal at the same time. Tell me more," you requested, hugging Baji tightly. "Hmm, you stayed about four hours or more inside the ER. Then the doctor came out, giving us nuts information. He said they lost track of your heartbeat two times."

You stayed silent, trying to process what Baji just said, "Bet you cursed the doctor who's just doing his job," Baji gasped sarcastically, trying to deny the truth, "Hey, no. How dare you accuse me of such things."

"Accuse? Really? Okay, then," you replied.

"But yeah, maybe I did for a little— I mean, come on, who the hell wouldn't lose their mind to something like that? I feel like they're playing with me."

You chuckled at him being a little defensive, "Yeah, yeah. Then I guess I'm just too lucky." Baji hummed in response, playing with your hair. You stopped apprehending something, "Wait, speaking of luck. Where's my bag?"

Baji looked at you perplexed, "Your bag? Do you need something from it?" You nodded as a reply. The lad then stood up, getting the bag located at the top of the shelf before placing it on the overbed table. You pulled the table close to you, opening the item. Thou immediately searched for the omamori you bought last month.

"Did you find what you're looking for?" Baji asked with his arms crossed, looking at you. You gazed back at him, shaking your head as a 'no.'

"Can you tell me what you're looking for? I may know where it is," the lad suggested making his way towards his knapsack. You stared at his hands, unzipping the bag, leading your eyes to the red omamori attached with the zipper.

Baji got your phone out of the bag and showed ut to you, "is this the one you're looking for? Although it's closed and drained when the police found it. It's alright now." You reached out your hand to the beautiful charm. It looks really new and had been taken care of. "Where did you find this?"

On the other hand, Baji doesn't know what to say because that incident happened as soon as I saw the charm on the cold ground. And It may trigger something in your head. "Huh? You gave it to me, remember?" Baji said, hoping you'd buy it since he knows himself that he's a terrible liar. "Oh, you bought another one the same design as mine?" He said, changing the topic, and it worked.

You immediately closed your bag before Baji can snag the omamori. he noticed you being red, leading him to a conclusion, "Don't tell me you bought a couple—," before he can finish, the pillow was thrown at his face. "Ow, that hurts."

"You wish! It's expensive, you know. Buying two in one can save a little," You said, hiding your face using the other pillow. "You're technically rich, you never worry about money, and now that's your reason? Okay, okay."

"Shut up. Don't think I can't hurt you because I just woke up from a deep sleep?" you said, threatening Baji before you laid on the bed and decided to sleep. You opened your eyes when you felt the bed descend a little on the side because Baji sat on it. He lets out a loud sigh before leaning close to your ear, whispering something, imminently closing your eyes, "I suppose what happened earlier wasn't also a mistake, just like the last time."

You opened your eyes as soon as his lips left your ear, 'Is he talking about the Bunkyo accident? That one definitely was not a mistake. I was just guilty... But what I did a while ago didn't guilt-trip me or whatsoever. I'm so sorry, Hanako, ahhhhhhhhh,' you thought to yourself, adjusting your hand in a praying position with your eyes shut closed.

It's been a week since you woke up, and everything is going smoothly. You slowly remembered everything from the start without getting shocked and frequent headaches. It was odd, but it's great that you recuperate quickly.

Hikari changed apartment units in the same building. So basically, you didn't know you were already living in a penthouse. It shocked you for the first time. The view from the top is really admirable.

Right now, you're in the kitchen, sitting while Chifuyu does your hair for you. As he puts your hair in a ponytail, you feed him using a chopstick to conserve time. "Give me more rice cube," Chifuyu asked, holding on to your hair while leaning on the side to accept the food.

"Why did we move to this luxurious unit, dude?" You asked before shoving another sushi in your mouth. "Well, mom told me she actually wanted to get this penthouse from the start, but the previous owner's not moving until June," Chifuyu replied, getting a hair tie placed on the table.

"I'm surprised. How did mother able to buy this?"

"She sold few of the Minami's property—," you choked on your drink before Chifuyu could finish, "Yeah, I get your reaction, neesan."

"How did she even sell those?"

"She has her ways, neesan," Chifuyu said, accepting another food again from you. "I am so confused even though all of you tried explaining what happened when I was asleep. I don't even get why Ryota's butler was the one in jail."

"Huh, really? Didn't Baji write—," Chifuyu stopped talking, realizing Baji might've never given you those letters he made while you were sleeping. Because if he did, you wouldn't be this confused.

"Were you saying something, Chifuyu?" He munched on the food faster before finally finishing the high ponytail neatly. "Done, and no, I wasn't saying anything," Chifuyu informed, getting water from the fridge to drink. "Are you done eating, neesan? Let's go."

You were about to grab your bag when your brother got it first, let me. "I can carry that. It's not that heavy."

Chifuyu ignored you, opening the house's door with a smile. You chuckled at how he acts and just accepted the care. Both of you arrived at the lobby, and you sat there waiting for Chifuyu to get the bike from the parking lot.

But surprised to see the lobby's door open and see Baji going in, including a pink bouquet of roses in his hands and a smile on his face with his loose tie. You softly laughed at his stupidity, alarming him. "What's so funny first thing in the morning, lady?" Baji stood centimeters away from you, offering you the roses.

You stood up from the luxurious sofa to accept it, nearing it to your nose. "Does it smell good?" Baji said nervously with his hand on the back of his head, "Uh... I smell... fabric, Baji. What's this?"

Baji lets out a grin, "I did that on purpose! Come on, now, real roses die faster. It's polyester, by the way," said the lad, placing his hand over your shoulder while touching the roses.

You rolled your eyes, removing his big hands off you to fix his tie, "You're so smart. I am proud. And me as your teacher, should I teach you how to tie this properly?" you said sarcastically. Baji looked at your hand reach over to his necktie. "Better. Now, why are you here?" you tap the dust off his coat's shoulder.

"I've been here since 6:00 sharp, and I'm taking us to school. What else?"

"Uh, no. Chifuyu's taking me to school."

"No, he's not. I mean, he would, but you just recovered, and he's inexperienced in driving. He only drove, for like, what? 3 times?" Baji said before gently dragging you outside. "I'm just gonna take the train. I'd rather commute than let you break my back."

"No, you can't. Alright? Now let's go. Here wear this," he neared you, placing the headgear on your head. "Come on, we don't want to be late—I mean, you don't want to be late. I'm always late."

The three of you arrived at the school. Baji then said he'll go somewhere first. You headed to the school guidance about the situation you're in. Chifuyu bid his goodbye and separated ways from you since his room's on the first floor.

There you found Tanaka sensei talking to multiple teachers, "Aha! she's here. Farewell teachers, my student needs me," said Tanaka sensei before closing the door and led you to his faculty area.

"I was going to talk to the guidance counselor, Tanaka sensei. Why did you drag me out?"

"Well, the guidance counselor already talked with me about your situation. So now, we're heading to the faculty to talk about it, so chill, alright? How are you these days?"

"I am alright, sensei. Sorry for the trouble of having to talk to the counselor."

"You don't have to thank me. It's partly my fault for not watching over my student. I should be the one saying sorry," both of you continued walking. "It really is no one's fault, sensei but Ryota's." Your teacher agreed until then the both of you arrived at the faculty.

"Also, your mother donated at the school. Maybe I guess why they let you continue your term." sensei leaned into your ears to whisper something, "they're blinded by the money, that's why." Sensei stood up straight before opening the door to the faculty, letting you sit on his chair.

"You're new here, so you probably don't know how some of the higher-ups in this school can be bribed by money," you sat down, hearing gossips from the person you didn't expect to tell you something like that. "How did you get those kinds of information, sensei?"

Tanaka sensei, who's standing and searching documents on his shelf, laughed, "I don't know. I guess I'm just nosy. But this..." he said, flopping a folder on the table. You looked at the folder, then at your teacher, "This one is... a little alarming. Open it."

Tanaka leaned on his table while looking at you. You opened the folder to see a picture of Ryota inside, his old school records, and a birth certificate. "What's this?" you asked. Tanaka sensei uncrossed his arms and pointed at the portfolio.

"Ryota transferred here in his first-year high school 2 months before the last term. But you can see here that he already went to xxx academy in his first year. Odd, right?" You nodded, realizing it, "Yeah, so he bribed the higher-ups here to enter even though he's late?"

"Genius! What else, Matsuno-san. Some rich people think money's the easy way. His mother knows pretty well that this school doesn't accept transferee that transfers after the midterm. But Ryota still got in. But I'm not saying you're one of 'em, alright?"

"I'm not rich, Tanaka sensei."

Tanaka smiled at your answer, "You're really are a good student. It's worth it to fight for you there inside the guidance room."

"So back to the topic. The board let you stay, because yeah, one, your mother donated big. Second, you are an academic freak. You nailed all the subjects in your previous school records. Your performance before the leave was excellent, and you're also the class representative. So, all you have to do is pass the exam by the end of the first term, which is in July. I asked your subject teachers to take down notes on what you should study in their subject. I'll give them out to you after school. I know your head's been not very well, so take it easy... tell me if you can do it, if not I'll ask for a delay on your behalf.

And, I heard you're hanging out with Baji. To be honest, we were scared you'll take after him but guess what? His performance also increased a little. Unlike in the past, Baji never raises his hand for recitation. That's good. You have a very beneficial impact on him. He might even graduate."

You stood up in excitement, "Really? He'll be able to march with me at graduation?" Tanaka sensei looked at you with guilty eyes, "Well, yes...but, that's not quite what happened when I tried talking to him about it."

Nervousness saturated your body as you sat down to hear Tanaka sensei. "I talked to him about it 2 nights ago, when I met him at the flower shop, which was an odd place for him to be. And I told him that he had been given a chance to continue his term, but he said, 'no,' I asked him why but he just shrugged his shoulders."

"Can you tell me what that means?"

"The principal made me arrange his nephew's paper. Sad to say that... Baji dropped out voluntarily," sensei said with a hint of disappointment and blue.

Yoru body went cold for a moment. Your heart was beating too fast either, "Why? why did he want to drop out?"

"I do not know, Matsuno-san. He directly talked about it to his uncle. If you want to know more about it, then maybe you should see the principal."

You nodded and bowed before you left. "Thank you, Tanaka sensei. I'll head there now!" You ran to the principal's, ignoring everybody's eyes on you. Chifuyu blocked your way, stopping you, "Hey now, why are you running. Your leg's not that strong for now."

"Why are you here? It's the third floor."

"Shit, don't even ask, but, yeah, a teacher made me do an errand. Don't run, alright? Listen to me sometimes too. Where are you heading?"

"To the principal's office."

You managed to get rid of your brother after he kept insisting on helping you. He got no choice but to just go because of the errand he was assigned. You walked straight to the principal's office when the secretary stopped you, "Excuse me, do you need something from the principal?"

"Uh, yeah. I'm Y/n Matsuno, and I need to talk to the principal about my previous absents due to the accident in Kyoto."

"Alright, you can go in. You should've said sooner, young lady," Mrs. Tatsuo knocked on the door and opened it as soon as she heard the principal's voice, signaling us.

"Oh, Ms. Matsuno. What brings you here? I thought we've already agreed with the higher-ups about your absence." You bowed before speaking, "Yes, Mr..." you looked at the stone placed at his desk. "Mr. Ishikawa? Wait, aren't you a... Baji?"

"Long story. But I supposed you did not come here just to ask why I changed my surname. Sit, Ms. Matsuno." You obediently nodded before sitting on the chair. "Yeah, you're right. I am here to ask why Baji dropped out of school, voluntarily?"

A heavy sighed was released by the old man, "I do not know if this is a personal issue of him, but he doesn't even want me o tell this to his mom. Or just anyone in general. So why don't you just ask him yourself, young lady?"

"That's the problem. I don't think Baji has any of the intention to tell me about it as his friend. It has been days since he dropped out also. He wouldn't keep this kind of thing to me unless it's dangerous, like the Kyoto Incident. I just want to know if he's planning to do something dangerous again."

Ishikawa shook his head slightly, "I really don't know what's going on with that guy, but he sounded desperate. Baji's hesitating, and it seems to me like he wanted to drop out, not because he's scared about the exam.

Do you know the face people make when they worry about someone? Or when they wanted to protect someone? He makes that kind of face. He looks like his father who died while saving me."

Thou didn't know which was the weirdest part, but this is your first time witnessing an old man crying, especially a principal. "I am worried about Keisuke, Matsuno-san. Please try to know what he's up to. This is all I can do for his dad and as his uncle."

You panicked, offering him the tissues next to the stencils, "I'll try. Thank you for telling me about this. I'll go ahead." standing up from the seat, you got out of the office to make your way towards your classroom, only to be greeted by your classmates until the bell rang.

It has been half a day, but you didn't catch sight of Baji ever since he dropped you off at the school. Speak of the devil, Baji then came running inside the classroom, sitting on his desk.

"Hey, you look like you're about to punch me. What's up?" Baji said, greeting you ordinarily, "Why are you here?"

"What? I study here."

"You really wanna lie to me? Where were you?"

"I was at the principal's office for like 2 hours after I left you off. He's talkative, you know," he's lying. You can see him trying to avoid eye contact with you. "Oh, that's funny, Keisuke. Because I was with the principal after you left me off. Perhaps we have two principals in this school, which I didn't know because there's only one."

Baji lets out a nervous laugh before running out of the room. You stood up, running after him. "Stop running after me, Y/n!"

"No, unless you stop— Ah!" Baji stopped running, making you bumped into him. "Why did you stop so suddenly! I can't break properly yet."

"I told you not to run."

"How am I suppose to follow you?" Baji sighed at your reply before dragging you to the rooftop. "Sit there." You sat on the wooden bench as you watch his back. Baji leaned his hand on the rooftop railing. His hair was flying to the wind's desire. 'His hair grew a little long, unlike the last time."

"So, did that old man tell you about me?"

"Yeah. Why? What's the problem, Baji?"

"More like, what's the big deal, Y/n? It's just one dropout."

"It's a big deal to me because if that incident with me did not happen, you wouldn't come to this conclusion."

"It's not like that, Y/n. I had been planning to stop until Ryota came, so don't put this blame on you. I knew too much about it, and you're my...you're my friend. That's why I did something to protect you. It's just that I had found the perfect time to drop out since everything is okay now. And that I know you're safe, both of you and Chifuyu."

"You did not answer my question."

"There's no reason, Y/n. I just don't want to... come here anymore."

"Then why are you here?"

"Because I want to see you."

"Then why would you want to leave?"

"You'll understand soon, Y/n."

"I want to understand now. I'm worried. And I can't shake an ugly feeling in me."

'No way, I can't tell you about me finding Kazutora's whereabouts. You know who he is, and I don't want you worrying.' Baji lets out a sigh, "Listen, there's no need to fret. I am just simply dropping out. I don't like studying, you recognize that well. And we'll still see each other after classes, or I can sneak in the school grounds, HAHAHA."

"I am not buying it, but I respect your decision to keep it to yourself. And don't hate Ishikawa-san. He didn't wish to be kept alive instead of your father. You should respect your father's decision in saving Ishikawa-san, like how I am respecting you right now—."

"Before you tell me that I am being nosy. I am sorry in advance, but Ishikawa-san's worried about you, and I can't just turn a blind eye to that because I feel the same way as him," you added before turning around to leave. As you were about to open the door to move, Baji spun you around and made you lean against the entry with his palm at the back of your head, so it won't hit against the steel door. He was just standing in front of you until he tilted his head down, resting his forehead in one of your shoulders. 'He looks tired...'

You looked away before placing your hand on his head, caressing him, "You can always tell me whatever bothers you. I won't hesitate to help you..."

"Then stay with me...hold onto my arms when I'm sad."

"Everyone can do that... Baji," you said while playing with his hair.

"But no person can make me feel like every moment feels right, like how you do," he slowly looked up at you, placing your hand on his cheeks, making you blush. "You really...don't have to do anything, to be honest. Just your presence is comforting."

'Friends? This isn't how friends treat each other, right?' you thought to yourself while staring back at him, 'It has been a while after what we did the other night, but no one dared to talk about it. Maybe because it was embarrassing, or it was just nothing but a no-strings-attached kiss. But that felt warm, though...' You inhaled and exhaled to bring yourself some courage to ask, "Baji, about what happened—," a phone ringing distracted you. "You should prolly answer that."

"No, what were you about to say?"

You shook your head, "nothing, you should answer your phone." He hesitated at first, but the phone kept ringing. "Okay, I'll answer this then," you agreed, leaving the rooftop.

Baji looked back at the door where you left after finishing his phone call, 'Was she about to open up what happened? Good save, Draken. It's not that I don't want to acknowledge and clear up everything between us. It's just that what happened was... because we got caught up in the moment. I knew too well she's wrong for me, but I couldn't hold myself back. If I really want her safe, maybe some distance between us will do... dragging her in my mess in between Kazutora and Mikey is the last thing I'd do. I'd rather keep Y/n innocent and lie to her rather than getting her involved or her stopping me from my plans. I told her I'd wanted to be honest, but sometimes you have to be the bad guy in your own story.'

'You also said it yourself, Y/n, you'll never get tangled with people like me. So I suggest you forget about that night and forgive me for being such a cowardly person...'

'There's a lot of reason why I dropped out, and part of it is Kazutora, and the other one of the many is to prevent myself from getting too attached and give her wrong signals.'

l.s

Chapter Text

October 21, 2004, Abandoned building, Yoyogi Kaikan, Tokyo.

3'rd person's POV

"Great job on looking for me. You really shouldn't have wasted your time. I made an appointment to see you tomorrow since your location is easily located, but I guess it'll be canceled since you're here."

"Should I praise you for that... Kazutora?"

Kazutora tilted his head sideways, chuckling at the scene in front of him. The person who abandoned him in that hell hole suddenly appearing is too suspicious and insensitive. "Huh, still sarcastic as ever. Sit down, because we have a lot to talk about... Baji."

Matsuno Residence, October 21, 2004, 6:26 pm

You passed the first term exam. It's been months since what happened on the school rooftop. After that, no one dared to open up the topic of what really is going on between y'all. You and Baji acted as if nothing happened that it was all left behind in Kyoto.

Baji started being distant, not that you don't see each other frequently anymore because he dropped out, but he's always on his bike, exploring Shibuya. And you do not know for what reason.'

He's seldomly sweet, and then he's suddenly putting this imaginary boundary in between. You felt like he's gradually shutting you out, but he's just hesitating. And you can sense it. You couldn't count how many times you refrained from asking Baji what his problem is.

A lot of things happened in just a couple of months. You heard Toman had a clash with a gang called Moebius. Draken got stabbed but eventually is already healing. You knew because Chifuyu was part of it, and he came home clean anyways because Baji was with him. You kept it a secret to your mother that Chifuyu's still in Toman. They are Chifuyu's friends, so it's Chifuyu's decision if he wants to cut ties with them or not. All you want is for him to be careful and come home in one piece.

You, yourself, then cut ties with the Tokyo Manji Gang after sending them your thank you for everything. But it's not that they can't talk to you anymore, they can still ask you for help, but it would be better to have some distance. You also handed the omamori to Mikey, wishing for their safety. He was beaming in happiness and bid you farewell. Draken's still sassy but, he's not bad.

On the other hand, you had been looking for available colleges for early application. Chifuyu flopped himself to the sofa next to where you're sitting, making you bounce, almost getting the laptop to fall off your lap. "Hey, watch it," you said, still focusing on your work.

Chifuyu sat properly, leaning his head on your shoulder to see what you're up to, "Whatcha' doin'?"

"Applying me to some schools," You said while scrolling.

Chifuyu looked at you, "Are you taking Law as planned, neesan?"

"Yeah, how about you? What would you wanna be?" You asked.

"Well, I wanna be a pilot. Remember when we went flying for the first time? I was so shaken up and grew interested. I even chatted with the pilot when we landed," Chifuyu said, laughing with the last sentence together with you.

Chifuyu stayed quiet then after that, before talking again, "Baji-san... Baji-san said he wanted to own a pet shop because it was the easiest. HAHAHA, and that he likes cats. He said he came up with that when he saw me picked up Inu." You smiled at the thought of Baji owning a pet shop, 'He's adorable...'

"And what would he do if the cat or the animals doesn't listen to him? Choke it?" You said jokingly. "Neesan! That's mean, but yeah, HAHAHA, I think he'll do that."

"But going back, you know what, we could've graduated together. I don't know what you're so afraid of," thou replied sarcastically.

"I was really tiny back then, you know. Bigger kids might bully me."

"Of course, you're tiny. We were kids back then," you responded, striving back. "But still, are you really going to study abroad?" the lad said, rubbing his head on you like a puppy. "I'm not sure, but... I am considering it. I don't really have friends here, so it's not hard to move out for college."

"What about Baji-san?"

Your fingers refrained from typing as soon as your ears caught that question. "What do you mean by, 'what about Baji-san?' Shouldn't you be asking, 'how about me, your brother?'"

Chifuyu sighed, picking up Inu, who was sitting on his feet on the floor, "Well, I mean, I can see you every time I want because I am your brother, and I am valid. But for him, if you suddenly left without fixing that awkward shit between the both of you, he'll think that you don't want him written in the succeeding chapters of your life."

You turned around to close the laptop and pet Inu, "Fix what? There's nothing to fix."

"Uhm, excuse me, nothing? I am sick and tired of witnessing you two being in denial asses. It's so awkarddddd, like for real, sometimes I just wished for the ground to swallow me when I'm alone with the both of you," Chifuyu stated, stealing Inu from your control.

You 'tch' at your brother, stubbornly leaning your back to the sofa while crossing both your arms, "Whatever, he's the one who acted like I was nothing then needing me when he's bored."

"Don't you think you're being a hypocrite, neesan? You also acted the same way. I mean, come to think about it, have you really been honest with your feelings towards him?"

His reply made you scoffed, "Feelings? There are no feelings, Chifuyu."

"I haven't said what feeling, and you're denying it already."

"I just know what you are about to say."

"I am not even gonna argue with you, even if you tell me or even try to convince me about your feelings. I already know how you truly feel. For me, I think, it's better to be honest before it's too late."

"You don't know what it feels like Chifuyu, you're at the 3rd person's point of view. What if he doesn't feel the same? And I do not take risks."

Chifuyu released Inu from his hand, "You don't make sense right now, neesan."

"Nothing makes sense, Chifuyu. Ever since the Kyoto incident, nothing makes sense anymore."

"But neesan, I suggest you should still tell Baji-san that you're leaving. I am sure he had reasons why he's acting weird."

You stayed silent for a while, thinking about what to reply, "I'm not sulking because he won't tell me what the reason is, but because I am afraid he'll try to solve everything by himself again and ends up getting hurt. Remember the last time Baji hid something big from me? he almost got killed if you and the others did not arrive on time."

Thou seized the nearest pillow and buried your face on it, "And that alone scares me... even if I say I don't have any feelings towards him."

"You don't, or you can't?" said Chifuyu, grabbing the pillow from you, "Ow—," Chifuyu pointed his fingers at you, "That? That face? You're lying. Look at that. You bite the insides of your cheeks when you lie."

"Who believes those kinds of things?!"

"Uh me? Your twin, excuse me."

"Shut up, go to sleep. We have class tomorrow."

"It's 6 pm, neesan!" Chifuyu resorted back. You gasped in disbelief, placing your hand around his shoulder, pulling him closer, and pinching his nose, "don't you dare shout at me. I'm 5 minutes older, you big-headed baby," you said as Chifuyu fight back, "No! Mom said it was just 3 minutes."

"No, it's five! your head was so big, the nurses can't pull you out!"

"You're so mean!" You let go of your brother, seeing him sulk with a pillow in his hands. The scene in front of you made you chuckle. Placing the other pillow in your lap, you pulled him to lay down on it and brushed his hair, revealing his forehead. "Remember when it's just the two of us at the house every day ever since dad... anyways, yeah, you would be scared and distract me from studying because you can't sleep all by yourself."

Chifuyu smiled, "Yeah, you would also sing me that lullaby, and you're always out of tune, HAHAHA," you smacked his cheeks, "Fuck you. But, that was just one of the happy memories..."

"How Ironic. You admire happy memories, but you don't even do anything to obtain those. Neesan, It's not just mom and me who could make you happy. There's also someone out there ...You're always so selfless, it's nice, but you got to have something for yourself too.

Someday, I'll have to move out and start a family, and mom... she's not going to live forever, so who's gonna make you happy if your source ran out? Don't hold back from the future you want because the past hurt you. I am not asking you to forget where you came from, but don't let it interfere with your decisions in the present."

"I am pretty sure dad chose to die because he wants us to be free, not stuck. We're safe now, neesan. That's all, and you don't have to take care of me..."

The silence of the surrounding paired with your brother's calming voice made you speechless, and at the same time, every word stuck something inside you. It really appears like Chifuyu comprehends every emotion and feelings I have in me that I could not even manifest.

"Chifuyu, did you perhaps, heard me that night we went home from Baji's house?"

"I'll promise to take care of Chifuyu so you wouldn't have to face the same thing again."

The lad snuggled closer before closing his eyes, "Yeah... and I object... live the way you want, neesan. I'll protect you this time," said a sleepy voice. Your heart tightened, making you want to cry hearing those words from the person you've been taking care of your whole life. You looked down on your lap to see Chifuyu already sleeping... "You grew in to be a great person. I am happy."

Chifuyu woke up in the middle of the night feeling cold because of the night, sensing someone placing a blanket covering him. It was Hikari, "Oh, sorry. Did I wake you up?"

"No, mom, it's alright. Welcome back."

Hikari sat beside her son, fixing his hair, "you seemed to have a great talk with your sister. What's up? Can I join?" Chifuyu nodded, before pointing at you, "But I'll carry neesan to her room first. She must be cold."

"Yeah, alright, honey. I'll open the room for you."

Chifuyu softly placed the blanket on you while Hikari opens the aircon. "So, what were you guys talking about?"

"The future, mother."

"Isn't it too early for you guys to think about that?"

The lad fiddled with his finger nervously before talking again. "But our decisions in the present matter in making our fate." Hikari chuckled at his son's maturity. Chifuyu finished tucking you in before talking again, "Mother, what will you feel if I like someone who has the same background as the man you married?"

Hikari's tight grip at the remote softened. She placed down the controller before facing his son, "I would be scared, but it's your life to live, Chifuyu. Who am I to interfere with your happiness, right? That would be the last thing I'd do."

"Just as I thought, it's not 'cause neesan's afraid that you would not approve, but because of something else..."

"I'm afraid I don't follow, Chifuyu," said Hikari making her way to sit down next to Chifuyu on a bedroom bench.

"It's Neesan... isn't it obvious that she likes Baji-san?! Yet, she keeps saying that she would not reap the risk because Baji-san might not feel the same, which is false. After all, did you see how Baji-san treats her? So why does she have to lie and deny all that? Especially to me, she never lies to me. I feel anger towards her... for the first time."

"Chifuyu, do you know that when someone has a different perspective or opinion about something than everyone, they'll tend to keep it to themselves. Because they may get hate for saying it, they might get called out as selfish, fool, idiot... and other kinds of things," Hikari said, comforting her son.

He looked back up at his mother with a questionable face, "But we're talking about me. Since when did I judge neesan's appraisals?"

Hikari sighed before offering his son candy from her pocket, "But that doesn't mean anything serious, Chifuyu. Maybe your sister is just scared about the criticisms she may receive. Isn't this the first time she liked someone? First makes us nervous, and anxiety rushes over our rational mind. And we are not yet ready to be called a love-sick fool when it's our first time because it'll be embarrassing. Looking at it the other way, the one who knows the answer to why she's hesitating to reveal her feelings is always gonna be your sister, herself. You'll understand once you found someone you'll like. On the other hand, we might not know that your sister's also perplexed about what she really desires."

The lad felt comforted and understood his mother's words, "Why are you even a businesswoman? You clearly fit to be a psychologist," they both laughed at themselves. "You should not think about heavy things. It'll make you age faster. Now go sleep because I don't want to have a hard time waking you up tomorrow."

"Yeah, alright. Goodnight..."

Next day, October 22, 2004

Baji's POV

"You called? What's up? Glad the guards aren't that strict today. I climbed up the wall back there," I said, meeting with Chifuyu at our secret spot. There I saw Chifuyu sitting at the end of the stairs as the sun directed its light to the lad. "Oh wow, you could be a model."

Chifuyu stood up, offering me a container, "here," I looked at his hand to see an unfinished peyoung yakisoba. Looking back up, he's giving me deadly stares, "Thanks. I supposed we're not here just to eat lunch as always. Judging from your stare, you've got something to tell me?" Chifuyu didn't speak for a minute, letting me enjoy half of the yakisoba.

"My sister's going to London—," the noddle got stuck in my throat while I was going to swallow it down, causing me to choke. "Baji-san?! What the hell— here, drink."

I aggressively took the water from his hand, "Shit, I thought I was going to die—," I looked back atChifuyu, startling him. "What do you mean by Y/n's going to London?!"

"Uh, uhm... she took a week off from school for early college applications abroad," I looked at him confused, 'college? Isn't that too early? the graduation's not up until march.'

"That's too early! It's still October," I resorted back, totally not cool with it. "Yeah, but she's an exchange student. There are a lot of processes and etc."

An Idea struck my head, "When is she leaving?" I asked. "Tomorrow, mom's already booked a flight," Chifuyu replied before stealing the yakisoba from my hand, 'tomorrow? What day is it? Oh right, October 23... It's the day where I planned to leave Toman. That's excellent news. Kazutora or whoever he works with won't be able to mess with her. I'm betting I can fix this mess 1 week tops while she's away.'

"Well then, good for her. What college is she planning on?" I said, trying to act natural. "You're okay that she's leaving without telling you?!" Chifuyu smacked the back of my head, making the chopstick shove directly into my mouth, "What the f—, Hey! I almost choked again."

"Baji-san, what is going on? You're acting really fishy."

"Nothing, the fuck're you saying? And anyway, why should I not be okay? I mean, it's for her future, and I'm pretty sure she doesn't want me in it. That's why she didn't tell me. And I gotta be honest, I've been an ass and avoided her for 'no reason,' sometimes so, there's a lot for her to be mad about."

"She's waiting for you to knock on that damn door, and you're saying she's mad? Can you both stop assuming things and fucking communicate?!"

"I want to, but I can't? Erhm, you'll understand," I sighed, 'I also can't tell Chifuyu about my plan. He's neutral. I'm pretty sure he'll tell Y/n about it too. I don't want Y/n to leave with worry.'

"Why are you saying that in a questionable tone?!" I shrugged at his question, finishing the yakisoba. "Yum..." I can feel Chifuyu gazing at me, but I chose to ignore it, "Thanks, I am leaving."

As I was about to leave, I felt a strong hand grabbing my polo and shoving me to the vending machine near the stairs. 'This is the first time Chifuyu acted aggressively towards me for real. He's mainly joking sometimes, but he feels different today. But I do think he had a point to make me go and see Y/n. I mean... there's no guarantee of my safety starting this day. It's been so long, and I prolly don't even know how Kazutora acts this time. So, at least in case something happens, she's...'

"Baji-san! Are you listening?" Chifuyu shouted, making me snap out of my thoughts. "Yeah, I'll go see her tonight. So get your hands off me." He lets go of me before walking away, not saying a single word. I let out a heavy sigh, sliding my body down the wall, facepalming myself. 'It's so hard to keep distance from her. One, because she's my best friend's sister. Second, I do not have self-control. There are times that I just wanna jump on her, hug her, and never let go.'

I am currently outside the building, staring at Matuno's penthouse on top of the apartment building. 'Should I go, or not?' I battled with my thoughts, inhaling and exhaling to control myself. "Alright, Keisuke. It's just one night. Control yourself... You'll be able to see her once again without a problem after resolving this mess in a week," I said, convincing myself, and saw 2 old women looking at me like I'm some crazy person.

Running inside the apartment, I got inside a closing elevator and reached the top without any problems, aside from my mind telling me not to go and for my heart telling me that I should.

Before I can even realize it, I already arrived at the top floor. "Shit, there's no turning back now." I proceeded to ring the doorbell. Chifuyu was the one to open the door. He panicked, not letting me in but went out instead. "What's the matter?"

"Well, uh, neesan's planning to meet Hanako too, which I don't know why I should tell you. But she might expose your cheating ass." Chifuyu said, gulping at the end of his words. 'That was just acting. I haven't told anyone about the break-up except for Draken.' "What?! That's crazy... uhm. Wait, why are you telling me this outside?"

"She can't know I invited you, duh. She'll smack the heck out of me. Now go and say you went here because you wanted to,"' Chifuyu said, tapping my shoulders before rushing to the elevator. "H-hey! Shit, that little bitch, I swear to—."

"Chifuyu, you left your—," Y/n opened the door, seeing me panicking. I quickly placed my hand behind me. "Hey, Y/n."

"Uhm, hey. Can I help you?" The start of our every conversation is always like this, awkward and dull. Then alter on we'll be attached like there's no tomorrow. "I heard you're leaving for London tomorrow. So... I want to be with you before you leave."

Y/n chuckled at my words, "It's not like I'll be staying there. It's just for a week, Baji," 'What...? Y/n's not mad? She's exceptionally calm,' "But, since you're here. Come on in. Although I didn't prepare anything since I thought I'd be alone tonight because Chifuyu's out."

I felt relieved. I thought Y/n's going to push me away. She closed the door as I entered the big luxurious apartment, "Y/n... are you mad?"

She turned to look at me with a worry-free look, "Huh? Of course, not. Why would I be?" She's definitely acting weird. "You want something to drink? We have cola, Asahi beer.... and..." I stared at her as she looks inside the fridge, "Yakisoba!" I flinched at her sudden shout, with the package of yakisoba raised up in the air. "Do you want some? There's only one, though. I'll go buy—," She walked past by me, but I was quick enough o stop her by the waist.

Y/n paused, trying to remove my hand off her, "What's the matter now? It's just for like 5 minutes."

"I'd rather share with you. Isn't it too big for you?" She softened, remembering she couldn't finish the whole package last time. I mean, it's normal not to consume all that since that package was meant for two people. "Yeah, you're right."

I sighed at her cuteness, "Stop sulking. I don't mind that. Go sit outside near the pool and wait for me." She looked at me with puzzlement, "Why?"

I chuckled, pulling her with me, opening the big glass door that opens its way to the large balcony. When you enter, you can see one luxurious L couch and a straight-line sofa facing each other near the railing, making an unconnected box, an unlighted fire pit between the furniture. Yellow LED lights connected from side to side, lighting the place up.

If you sit on the sofa, you can see the night view of Shibuya from up there since the penthouse is at the very top of a 15 story building.

After several minutes, I went back to place the noodles and the cola and beer on the mini table with a cup. I poured half of the cola inside the cup before opening the beer to pour half of it inside the cola can, mixing the drink together, doing the same to the remaining.

I lighted the fire pit so it'll not be that cold. I flopped myself on the sofa, spreading my arms while looking at Y/ns happy face. She placed her hands on the railing, inhaling the warm air before looking again at the view, "Shibuya looks very lively... the lights are pretty."

"Yeah, pretty."

She looked back at me, ready to resort back, "Why did you say, 'yeah,' if you're not even looking at it." I stared at her intensely, "Who said I was looking at the Shibuya lights?"

She didn't respond, so I left the sofa to approach her. I glimpse a little before proceeding to move closer, seeing her ears red. 'So she didn't ignore me, huh?' I smiled, spreading my coat open to wrap her in as I enclosed my arm until I'm already hugging her. "Yeah, you're right, I guess... they're pretty."

We shared the same jacket for 3 minutes straight, waiting for the yakisoba to soften. We both let go without saying anything and sat on the sofa across from each other. "Stars..."

She looked at me while slurping her yakisoba, "Huh? What about it?" Y/n asked with her mouth full. I chuckled, "I said, stars... they're pretty."

Y/n looked up, and her eyes sparkled the moment she stared at the starry blue-violet sky, but it's not because of her delight seeing the stars, but how the stars reflected in the color of her eyes. "They're just a bunch of dead people," she said, passing the yakisoba to me before gulping on the soda mixed with alcohol. "Woah, did you mix those two?" I nodded, still shock by what she just said.

She shrugged the idea and spoke again, "No matter how pretty the stars look for you, they resemble sadness, and they resemble the person you lost. That's what I don't like about those shiny things in the night sky."

She looks sad again after saying that, "But hey, at least they exist. I mean, if you lose someone, you'll miss them, right? The stars serve as your second chance to see them and then imagine if there were no stars..." Y/n stared at me with a neutral look and never answered me but instead emptied her drink in one go.

Shit, did I say something wrong? "What about your dad? Did he say the same thing?" she asked out of nowhere. "Well, yeah. He said, wishing on a shooting star can make your wish come true."

She giggled with her face turning a little red because of the alcohol, "Baji, everyone knows that."

"But not everyone believes..."

"I know you don't fancy stars but, if we ever see a shooting star tonight, let's wish together!" I said, standing and made a superhero post. Y/n looked at me and laughed at my stupidity. She then started pointing behind me, confusing me. "What's wrong?"

"S...shooting star! behind you!" I looked back, panicking, seeing the star. I directly closed my eyes to wish for something. I sat on the sofa, noticing she's still closing her eyes, wishing. I stared at her innocent face until she's done.

We both realized how we acted, making us laugh from our own acts, "Damn, we're like 7-year-olds," she declared, holding her stomach, "Yeh, fucking Idiots."

We then got tired of laughing and eventually stopped, creating silence between us for a minute to catch our breaths. "Come here, beside me, Y/n."

She's still laughing softly, lazily moving beside me, stealing one of my arms, wrapping it around her shoulders herself, and lean on my chest to rest while looking at the stars she said she dislikes. Y/n played with the fingers of my hand that was around her, "Stop spreading my fingers apart. It hurts."

"Sorry, it's fun."

As if she'd listen, "What did you wish for?" I said, opening up a new topic. "If I tell, they won't come through. Isn't it ruled that way?"

"It's just the two of us, anyway," I reasoned. Y/n stayed quiet for a while, thinking about whether she'd say or not. "Hmm... okay. I wished to pass the application to King's College."

"You don't need to wish for that. You're brilliant so, I'm sure you'll pass," says me, fiddling with Y/n's hair.

She looked at me with lazy eyes but eager to hear what I wished for too... "HAHAHA, alright, alright. I wished for you to lead a happy life." Her smiled faded after my sentence, making me worry on the inside. She pulled away, cleaning the mess on the table. "Let me do it," I said, stopping her hands.

I picked up the trash and one set of the used chopstick, placing them inside the big empty container of the yakisoba before picking up the two cola cans. She drunkenly pulled me by my hand and planted both her palms in my cheeks, making me look at her. "Baji... can we...talk about things that have been going on?"

My movement stopped after hearing her. I nervously laugh before placing the trashes inside the bin. I sat back on the sofa while biting my upper lip in panic. "I heard you're visiting Hanako."

Her eyes widened, pointing her fingers at me, "Who told— Why are you changing topics?"

"Why'd you plan on meeting with her behind my back?"

"Because... because you won't talk to me, you're not making me understand whatever this is between us. So maybe Hanako does, I don't know how she may know something, but I think I should see Hanako and say sorry. Baji, this is cheating, you know?"

"You don't need to worry about her."

"What? What do you mean I don't? It's bothering me unless you communicate! So whether you like it or not, I am going to see her. After that, I'm cutting ties with you," she said, looking away. Those few last words made me feel heavier. Is Y/n finally going to ignore me? So is this how she felt when I neglect her for a week... Funny how things change between us in just a couple of minutes. Sometimes we'd act like lovers, then best friends, and after some minutes, we'll argue about something that doesn't make sense, then make up the next day. And it's all my fault. Because it would make sense if I just tell her that I broke up with Hanako and am trying to fix Kazutora's mess.

But if she knew how dangerous this conflict is, she'll tell me to be careful, and I'd be cornered into saying, "I Promise."

And I can't do that, because... I am going straight into the enemy's den.

If something happens to me this Halloween, at least she's not that attached to me. That explains why I rarely spend time with her.

I didn't tell her about Hanako because that'll make her question me more as to why I'm not discussing things between us. Even though there isn't a third party anymore.

And that situation will lead me to reveal the truth. The truth to why I'm not being honest with my feelings is because I know Y/n felt the same way. After all, it's too obvious. And if we started having a deep relationship, then I am not different from her father.

I certainly do not want her to be tangled with my mess and make her suffer because of it. Delinquents lead the same shitty life, I know before all else that I am not far from her father, and I may lead her into living a dangerous world with me if I became greedy.

I was selfish from the start because I finally found that missing in me, in her. I was a line without a hook before her. If I was only careful from the beginning, I wouldn't have approached her. I'd rather be that typical class repeater who doesn't have any clue that their girlfriend is deceiving him.

None of this would have happened if I just dropped out the second I step foot on that school. But it's too late to dwell on that. "Okay, you can go meet her. Can you deliver her my message too?"

A slap came across my face. As I looked at Y/n, there I saw her crying... "Wow, now you're using me as a mailwoman? You're just too insensitive. But you know what? I am going to do that. Since after this, I'm going to act like I don't know you anymore."

She walked away with determination and not even in a straight line, pushing me out of her way, making me lose balance, and fell onto the clear pool. Y/n looked at me in shock. She immediately crouched down to help me, "aren't you mad?" I asked. "yeah, but you falling in the pool was not my intention."

"I can get off myself," I said, pushing myself up from the water. "tch, okay then. I guess you can also take care of yourself!" Y/n continued walking away after throwing a towel in my face.

I noticed her stop on the door and ran to the bush, 'Wait, Is she going to puke?' My foot drags me to her, closing her mouth before she can even throw up, "no, no, hold it. Let's go to the bathroom, alright? That grass looks expensive as fuck for you to barf on it."

I let out a heavy sigh before heading inside to find the bathroom. Y/n immediately pounced on the toilet to release. "Ah, that hurts my throat..." she said, leaning on the bathroom's wall, and not long after, she felt like puking again. "Hey, that's enough now. Nothing's coming out. You'll hurt yourself," I picked her up from the floor to make her stand up. "I can't let you sleep like this," now I don't know what to do. I can't just remove her clothes. But nyaaa, this is an emergency.

The shower was pulled off its confinement. I turned it on before soaking the shirt with water to remove the dirt. I looked away while doing so because Y/n's wearing white...

'Maybe the puke's all washed off the fabric now,' I guessed. I made Y/n sit on the toilet, grabbing the nearest bathrobe. I closed my eyes before removing her top then wrapping her immediately with the robe. I then opened my eyes to see her suitably covered with the soft fabric. "Wow, I can't believe I just did that."

I made her sit there for a while to dry myself too, so I won't slip when carrying her. I placed my clothes in a drying rack after squeezing the heck out of them. I crouched down to take her in my arms before going upstairs to enter the middle room and laid her down on her bed.

After some time in tucking her, I got out of the room, tying the white robe on my waist to secure it in place. This house is freaking enormous. I wonder where Chifuyu's room is.

I walked to the last room of the hallway to see an oaked-designed door with a cat's paw on it. "This must be it, judging the design." It was surprisingly open. Well, what secrets could he hide? Their family's an open-minded one.

The interior was neat. Chifuyu doesn't have many things making the room look so simple and arranged. I opened his closet to see clothes that surely won't fit me. "The heck, I might rip this."

I dug up high to see a box labeled "dad's." It must be Yoshiyuki-san's things. I am sure he won't mind me borrowing, right? Lifting the box down before opening it and seeing neatly folded clothes that'll certainly fit me. "Guess I won't freeze anymore."

I closed the door as soon as I got out, walking across Y/n's room. There weren't any noises, which is good because she looked like she had a long day in school and needs some rest. My hand touched the doorknob, slowly twisting it open. There I saw her sleeping already with her eyebrows meeting each other, 'She looks mad even when sleeping.'

Sleeping when you're mad is not healthy, says my mom, who always calms me down to sleep when I was a child who cannot control my anger.

I sat on her bed, caressing her hair off her face. Seeing her face soften brings peace to me. Was she having a nightmare? Or just mad?

She wrapped her arms around me, preventing me from leaving. "Dad?" she's sleeptalking. Was it a bad idea to use Yoshiyuki-san's clothes? But on the other hand, it's comforting her, so I guess it's not that bad.

"Don't leave..."

This person is right in my arms... how much did the past hurt her? I can't let her experience this again, so maybe it's a good choice for her to meet with Hanako and cut ties with me. Things are going in easy for me. It's scaring me.

Plans with flaws aren't the scary one, but plans that go smoothly is the most terrifying. Before you know it, there'll be vaster consequences.

I fell asleep together with her, but I am still in a sitting position. I slowly got off so I won't disturb her sleep and crouched on the ground to glance at her face.

'I was her first kiss... when we're at Bunkyo. Will I also be the last?'

I leaned in, softly attaching my lips to her for a second, and pulled away with a worried expression. "Take care, and I... I L—,"

"Baji-san!" my words got cut off with the door suddenly opening, "Mom's here. Hurry up and leave. I saw her car 6 blocks away when I was with the others."

"What? Uh, wait a minute. I am still—,"

Chifuyu grab me by the collar, dragging me outside the room, "I am sorry, but you need to leave now, Baji-san. Mom knew that I went out, and if she saw you, she'll think that I left my sister alone with a guy— wait, is dad my dad's—Anyways, go!"

Next day, October 23, 2004, Y/n's POV

The light from my opened door woke me up, "Dang, isn't it too early?" I stood up to glimpse downstairs, seeing Chifuyu in his uniform, eating cereal while mom's cooking something.

"Did Baji get home last night? Well, as he should! How dare he mess around with me and make me deliver letters for her girlfriend."

But anyhow, last night's dream was warming. "Ohayo," I greeted with joy. "Someone woke up nicely today. Are your passport and Visa ready? Our flight's at lunch."

"Yeah, that smells good. What're you making, mom?" I said, hugging my mother from behind, "Fried rice. You were craving it yesterday. Don't you know how to cook this by yourself?"

"Of course, I do. But it tastes wonderful when you do it," Mom chuckled at me. I pulled away, sitting at the chair beside Chifuyu. "Hey, will you be okay here all by yourself?"

"Yeah, of course. This happened before," Chifuyu said, making me remember how he took care of himself while I was comatose and mom's busy working. "Oh, yeah. You better stay out of trouble."

Chifuyu nodded with his attention still on his phone, "I already asked for your teacher to let you out at lunch to see us before we leave. You better show up, honey."

Chifuyu looked at his mom, "Yes, I'll be there. And, can you pay for my gasoline?" the lad said, giving us puppy eyes, "Yeah, yeah. Stop asking mom for that. Go and get my wallet upstairs and leave for school. You don't wanna be late now, do you?"

"I don't really mind being late. I'll tell my teacher that my sister doesn't wanna let go because she'll miss me," seriously, this guy never runs out of ideas. "Yeah, you better get your ass to go and get my wallet before I change my mind," I said, pointing the fork at him. He sneakily laughed before running upstairs to my room.

After eating breakfast, I directly headed to my room to pack my things. Well, I was supposed to pack last night, but... you know. There I saw a small envelope on my nightstand. I picked it up only to realize it was my brother's favorite polka dot envelope, "Is he serious, right now? Did he really use Chifuyu's envelopes?"

But the weirdest thing here is that it feels odd. Aren't I suppose to cry and sulk because, after all that happened, Baji still chooses Hanako. All I feel is anger... I think my worries towards Baji overlaps with my anger and sadness. The last time I felt uneasy was when I was in Kyoto, and that feeling that I thought was all left behind there keeps coming back now.

Women's intuition's never wrong. I wanna help him, but at the same time, I don't want to lose my pride, begging him to tell me what's wrong and let him keep me as the third party in his relationship with Hanako. 5 months is enough to be stupid, I am talking to Hanako, and that's my final decision.

I took the paper from the nightstand, throwing it inside my purse, "I'll do him a last favor. I shouldn't have helped him with those love letters in the first place. That annoying a-hole."

Time flew by so fast, mom and I arrived at the airport. We came early, so there'll be no problems. 'Will Baji come and see me before I leave?' Well, even though I was drunk, I can still remember all that I said to him. I can be the most honest of all when drunk. I become clingy and fucking stupid.

The cutting ties weren't supposed to be revealed. After seeing Hanako, I plan to just stay away from him quietly. "Your brother said he's on the way here," mother said, delivering me to snap out of my deep insights. "Well yeah, he better show up. I need to scold him about something."

'Is it wrong that despite all those things I did last night, I still want him to send me off right now? Gosh, I had never been this selfish and cruel.'

"Earth to Y/n!" I got startled, seeing Chifuyu snapping his fingers at me, "what're you spacing out for?" It was Chifuyu. I shifted my view somewhere else, with my heart beating fast before looking back at Chifuyu, who looks confused. "What is it, honey? Did you lose something?"

Mother patted my back in concern. I gulped before answering, "N..no, uh. It's nothing," Chifuyu looked at me, already guessing why I am spacing out and what I am looking for, but, need not say anything.

"Have a safe trip, you both. And bring me lotta souvenirs!" my mother chuckled at him while I tried my best to act natural. 'Is Chifuyu alone? Where's Baji...'

'Even if I don't want him or am mad with him, shouldn't he be here? After saying those words last night... 'I want to be with you before you leave' more like you just want me to do you a favor and send Hanako your letter. He builds me up and lets me down quickly, and that's irritating.'

"Neesan, you're spacing out again."

Chifuyu wrapped his hand around me, hugging me and the other one placed behind my head. "Take care... I won't be there, or any of us to rescue you," he whispered, shocking me. 'So he's still shaken up about what happened in Kyoto,' I smiled before hugging him back, "Yes, yes. And you, I'll still scold you when I get back!"

"Huh? What I'd do, neesan?"

I tiptoed to reach his ears before whispering, "You told Baji that I was meeting Hanako. I'm gonna pull your ears so hard when I get back, and I won't let you pet Inu for a week," I walked away with mom after hearing our queue. Chifuyu was left dumbfounded, with his palms in one of his ears, afraid and shocked. "She's crazy, wtf."

"What was that, honey? Chifuyu seemed terrified," I just giggled at my mom before walking ahead.

I sat next to the window, admiring the outside view from the inside. It was empty, really, that makes it sadder. Would it feel emptier if Baji was here?

11:45: Baji residence

Baji's POV

"Shit, I prolly drank too much," I woke up hearing a thudding sound outside my room, figuring it's not mom since she said she'll be staying at my aunts in the province. As I stand up, I felt empty cans clacking on the ground, crouching down to pick them up when the door of my room opened, revealing a person I did not expect to visit me in my own house.

"Place's pretty trashed, Baji."

"What are you doing here, Kazutora?" I asked, standing up. He didn't respond but instead looked around, my Toman uniform catching his attention.

Kazutora pointed at the clothing before looking at me. He leaned in closer with this psychotic look, shocking me, but I decided just to act natural, "What's that? I thought you said you'd be teaming up with me, So what is that uniform still doing in here? Throw that shit."

"Chill out. I just can't back out. Mikey and the others will find it a little suspicious."

"Do I look like I care about those things? You want to help me, yet you're not proving your loyalty? Are you fucking kidding me, Baji?"

"Then what do you want me to do?"

"Leave Tokyo Manji gang, and do the rest to earn my trust."

"I know, I am working on it—" Kazutora kicked the cans off the floor, creating a loud sound before placing his palm behind my neck, pulling me forward, "DO.IT.FASTER."

"Remember what you promised me before I got my hands in those cuffs?" I nodded. He chuckled, patting my shoulders, "Good. Have you eaten yet? It's lunch."

My eyes widened, "It's lunch already?!" 'Oh shit, I should be in the airport right now.' I ran to my pants to pick up my phone to see it was already 12:45. I brushed my hair to the back with my fingers, not trying to panic, "Uh, I... Uh, I gotta go."

"Got a date?"

"No... just a pretty urgent appointment," I answered, grabbing anything necessary, including the keys to my bike, rushing down the apartment. Kazutora was behind me all this time with his hands inside his pockets. "All right, see you tomorrow then," humming in response, I started my bike's engine on my way to the airport.

"Shit, I hope I'm not late."

'The airport was 30 minutes away, and I don't even care about the red lights as long as I arrive on time. Will Y/n be mad if I didn't get to see her before she left? Of course, she would be, dumbass.'

'At this point am just starting chaos with my thoughts. Questioning and answering my own questions like some crazy bastard. And oh, I even forgot my headgear.'

Not long that I arrived at the airport, leaving my bike somewhere in the entrance, "Hey, boy! There's a parking lot for a reason!" I turned around, still running, "Just for a bit, mf!"

I stumbled at the entrance after the guard finished checking me. My foot brought me to the waiting area, and all of the placed people can be seen. "Shit, was I too late?"

I then started to feel slightly better seeing a familiar side profile with their hood on and sitting in one of the airport seats. I sat on a chair a little far from Y/n. I figured she'd still be mad bout last night too. Maybe it's good to just wait here until her queue's on.

Minutes have passed, but she seemed odd. I see no baggage around her too, "This is the final boarding call for Flights from Tokyo to London. The concluding checks are being completed, and the captain will order for the doors to close in approximately five minutes. I repeat. This is the final boarding call for passengers who'll have this flight. Thank you."

I stood up from my seat, seeing Y/n do the same thing. 'Ey, why is she heading towards another way?' I approached Y/n to warn her, but my plans were ruined, seeing it wasn't her but— "Baji-san?"

"Chifuyu?!"

"Huh? Why do you look so shocked that it was me?"

"Where's your sister?"

"Oh, she's long gone. Were you here to see her?"

"Well, I mean... not really," I said, scratching the back of my head, "Bet she was waiting for you. She keeps spacing out."

"Well, that sucks..." I could've bid my goodbye properly. But I guess I can just make it up to you when you come back. When that time comes, I'll take you somewhere you want, not what other people want but yours. Even if you're going back and act like you don't know me... be it just friends or strangers. I'll pursue you just for you to say yes.

"Baji-san... I got one thing to ask, answer it for real this time," Chifuyu said, eyeing me like I just stole something. "Do you like my sister?"

I looked down for a second before raising my head, making eye contact with him, and gathering all my courage to answer his question, "I don't feel that way."

l.s

Chapter Text

'October 23, 2004, 10:00 pm

3'rd person's POV

Everyone bowed as their commander made his way to the stairs, paving the way. Behind the leader were its most trusting person and an unknown guy.

The unknown guy looked everywhere and to everyone who bowed down as a sign of respect for their commander. 'Wow, so cool...'

Chifuyu can't help but glance for a little to saw a blonde guy he has never seen before. "Ano... Otoko wa dare da?" Chifuyu whispered to one of his members, "The blonde stupid-looking one? I don't know who that is, but both our commanders picked him up last month."

"Huh? Why didn't I know that?"

'Picked him up last month? why do they seem to treat him like an object.'

"Well, he's not part of the gang yet." Chifuyu looked at the blonde once again. Thinking how and why is that guy able to walk with the commander. And why he seems so lost and confused on what's happening around him, 'Mattaku...'

Mikey, including Draken and the other captains, reached the stairs, some standing, some sitting. "The nomination for the Tokyo Manji Gang's Third Division Captain will now begin!" Everyone's stoic face shifted into confusion fast. Everyone chattered as small noises filled the area, "Wonder who's gettin' nominated," one guy uttered. "Peh-yan?" "Like hell, didn't he stab Draken-kun? He ain't getting nominated for shit!"

Chifuyu stayed quiet, observing everyone, but also doing the same, thinking of who's gonna get nominated as the new Third Division Captain. The new blonde guy then catches Chifuyu's attention, 'Is he going to be the next.... no, no, he can't be. They said he's not part of the gang yet.'

Mikey broke the chatter that's been going on for minutes, "Third Division captain!! Step forward!"

Everyone looked at each other, trying to figure out who Mikey called out. When two guys in a Toman uniform showed up, the other one shoving those on the way. "Outta the way, assholes!"

"Huh, who do you think you are?"

"Who's this guy?"

Chifuyu eyes were set to another blonde with tanned skin, 'Too many blonde-haired guys for tonight..' he told himself.

"That guy's the new Third Division Captain?"

"Who? The big guy or the small one?" The blonde 'stupid-looking,' moved in front of Chifuyu, catching Chifuyu on guard. "Like it was gonna be me," the blonde uttered. Chifuyu then gasped in his mind, 'He thought Mikey was calling him? Well, he has guts.'

The fellow with tanned skin and glasses walked past Chifuyu and the unknown guy whom Draken and Mikey picked up. Chifuyu can feel the tension between the two guys he doesn't even know. 'Do they know each other?' he pondered to himself.

Everyone went mad and protested as soon as the glasses guy sat down at one of the stairs with his back facing the commander. "The hell's his problem?"

"Is he for real?"

"He just sat down with his back to our leader!!"

"What's your problem, asshole?!"

"Don't act like you're hot shit!!"

"Hey... is he not gonna say anything?"

"The hell's his deal?"

Chifuyu rolled his eyes at everyone who's not tired from shouting and complaining, 'If Baji said was here, he would shut everyone's mouth with his fist.' All and sundry's thoughts and opinions got halted by a sudden yell from that big guy who's shoving people earlier. "LISTEN UP, MORONS!! THE MAN SITTING BEHIND ME..."

"... IS THE NEW THIRD DIVISION CAPTAIN, TETTA KISAKI!" Chifuyu didn't feel anything. Maybe because he knew Toman will need its 3rd division captain anytime soon.

The guy in front of him started trembling, clenching its fist into a hard one while gazing at the new 3rd Division captain, Tetta Kisaki.

'Does this newcomer have a grudge against Tetta Kisaki?' Everybody then started complaining again in no time, while their commander just stared at them.

"I've seen this guy before!"

"Ain't he one of the Moebius's guys'?"

"That' Kisaki from Moebius!"

"The fucks' a Moebius bastard doing here?"

"Get the fuck out, Moebius!"

"Get out! Get out!"

Draken couldn't handle the irritation and decided to step in to shut all of them up, "SHUT UP!!"

"IT'S MIKEY'S DECISION! IF YOU GOT A PROBLEM, THEN STEP FORWARD!" The silence was so loud for Chifuyu, but he stayed neutral. Mikey spoke, breaking the ice, "OUR GANG IS GOING TO CHALLENGE VALHALLA!" Chifuyu gulped, 'Another fight? Wasn't the last one with Moebius just a while ago? Draken-kun even got stabbed. Then after that, Baji-san got banned from every Toman's meeting for a while because of an unknown reason.'

"VALHALLA IS A RISING POWER... WITH NUMBERS MOEBIUS COULD ONLY DREAM OF. TO BEAT THEM... TOMAN'S GOT TO BECOME MORE POWERFUL TOO!!" Mikey said with his hands still inside his pocket, communicating with his members,

The commander started speaking again after hearing no objections and just silence, "With Tetta Kisaki here... we've got somebody from Moebius who was in charge of the guys of our generation."

"WE NEED KISAKI SO WE CAN CHALLENGE VALHALLA. TETTA KISAKI IS NOW THE THIRD DIVISION CAPTAIN, AND REMEMBER THAT!!"

Everyone just stood there with their mouth gaped, sweating, and just surprised. Mikey turned his back to walk away, "This concludes the Third Division Captain nomination ceremony!"

Kisaki bowed down his head, thanking the commander. On the other hand, Draken stood there with his mind perplexed on what the hell is Mikey thinking while staring at him as his figure becomes smaller and smaller at every step.

Chifuyu jumped on his place when the blonde guy started running up the cement stairs, meeting his fist with Tetta Kisaki's face, making everyone stop from leaving and looked back to see what was that loud punch sound.

Draken's eyes widened, seeing it was Takemichi, landing his hand on the 3rd Division Captain before speaking, "The hell's wrong with you?!"

Everyone's silent and surprised about how the newcomer had the guts to punch an admin. "Who the hell are you?!" the big guy said, who was guarding Kisaki. "Who do you think you are, Takemitchy! You're not even in Toman. Are you trying to ruin our ceremony?!" Draken said, alarming everyone, including Mikey, who was going to leave.

Mitsuya, including the other Division Captain, stepped up. The lilac-haired guy was the first one to declaim, "What's your problem, Takemitchy?" accompanied by Nahoya, "You trying to ruin Mikey's reputation, asshole?"

Taemitchy apprehended what he did, trying to figure a defense out for what he's caused. "You got it all wrong, guys...I was just... I was just..." Chifuyu shifted his view to the entrance of the meeting place after hearing a familiar engine. "Shit, don't tell me Baji-san's attending tonight's ceremony?"

It took minutes before Baji arrived at the top because of the long-ass stairs, disturbing everyone on the shrine, including Mikey, who suspended Baji from attending meetings. Chifuyu didn't want to approach Baji to stop him after sensing a different aura from his partner.

Baji eyes Chifuyu before proceeding to approach the other captains, "What's going on? Things just got real interesting!" The lad said, looking at Takemitchy, 'This must be the Takemitchy guy Draken told me about.'

Mitsuya looked behind to see the hardest to tame, "Baji..." Mucho wondered but didn't hesitate to ask why the lad was there, "Aint you banned from attending?"

Takemitchy turned around to see a long-haired guy he never heeded before, 'Huh? Baji? Who's that?' before Takemitchy can even think of another statement, his face was instantly crushed by a strong fist coming from someone named Baji. Baji didn't hesitate to throw consecutive punches on Takemitchy's face, not giving a fuck about Mikey still there, watching his every move.

Mitsuya couldn't tolerate how ill-bred Baji is. He approached Baji, stopping its dominant hand with his own, blocking Baji from maltreating Takemitchy further. "Cut it out, Baji."

Baji turned his view to Mitsuya's seriousness. "Lemme go, Mitsuya. I'll kill you." Mitsuya chuckled at the threat he just heard, "You wanna go, bastard?"

Takemitchy looked at the both of them having the most heated tension. Chifuyu couldn't believe what Baji just said, 'That seemed serious. Mitsuya-san and Baji-san are always on each other's necks since they're very diverse when it comes to personalities. But the pressure between them is enough to scare people away.'

"Mikey!!" Baji shouted, causing Mikey to stop his tracks again, responding to the lad, "Why are you even here, Baji?" Mikey completely turned around, "You caused infighting in the gang and have been banned from our gatherings."

Baji grinned in confidence, "I just punched another shitty brat," Baji informed, catching Chifuyu and Takemitchy's attention. 'Another? Did Baji-san came here after beating someone up?' Chifuyu presumed to himself.

Baji sighed then continued talking, "Since I ruined our precious gathering, are you gonna throw me out this time?" the lad asked sarcastically, annoying Draken and the others but opposite from Chifuyu. 'What the hell's going on? What's he talking about?' was what Chifuyu and Takemitchy were thinking at the same time.

"Baji," Mikey called out. Keisuke ignored Mikey and continued with what he wants to say, "I'm... leaving to join Valhalla." The shrine was wrapped around in silence, and even those far away from Baji can catch what he just said. Chifuyu could not process what he just apprehended. Baji began walking away, still glancing at Mikey, eye to eye, "Since you don't need a troublemaker like me around. Right, Mikey?"

Mikey doesn't show his weaknesses, and most of all, he doesn't like to plead people because that's not his nature, to begin with. But for Baji, who's about to omit, his pride's started to shake up, battling whether he should stop his friend or just let him be, but all he could do was yell the lad's name. "Baji!!"

Baji finally turned around with his hands inside his pocket, "I quit." He then looked back at his former commander, "From now on, First Division Captain, Keisuke Baji... will be Toman's Enemy!!"

Takemitchy, Chifuyu, and everyone kept being shocked a lot tonight. This evening's meeting is too beefy to handle. Kisaki took time in witnessing the trouble in front of him, "HAHA. Toman's falling apart."

Baji left the place with everybody's gaze on him. Chifuyu hesitated to follow him, but Draken gave him a signal to. Chifuyu didn't hesitate to take it and leave, running after his partner.

Draken looked back only to see Mikey still in his poker face, but he knew it was distressed. "Mikey, don't let it bother you... That's just how he is. Why did we even assume that he changed after meeting Matsuno."

"Yeah..." Mikey replied.

"Hey, Takemitchy," Kisaki yelled out, mocking Takemichi's nickname that Draken and Mikey gave. "Hm?" Takemitchy answered with his guard down. "Which do you prefer? your face or your stomach?"

"Huh, whaddya mean?"

"Which is it? But hey, I think I'd recommend your face," Kisaki said, manipulating Takemitchy into picking 'face.'

Takemitchy was lost for a second before answering, "Then... my stomach—," Kisaki didn't even let Takemitchy finished and landed his fist on his face, returning the favor earlier. "HAHA! you tightened up your stomach just now, didn't you?" The lad fell to the ground, unconscious with just one blow.

It took him minutes to wake up again, but there was no one at the shrine. Except for Mikey, sitting beside him. "You awake?" Mikey asked, smiling at his friend. "Mikey-kun?" It exerted seconds before Takemitchy realized Mikey was beside him all this time, waiting for him to wake up. "Do you... not like, Kisaki?"

"W... what? I just..."

Mikey looked up to the sky to admire its beauty, "Making the gang bigger is pretty rough. When new blood comes in. It'll make some guys leave." Takemitchy understood what Mikey was talking about in an instant with Baji and Kisaki's appearance appeared in his thoughts. "Ah..."

The moon was in its complete form, making the night brighter than any other night that passed. Both of them were under the light of it, talking about things, "The road to my dream is a long one."

"Mikey-kun..."

"I wanna ask you a favor, Takemitchy..."

Baji noticed another bike following him from behind. Judging from the sound and the velocity, he knows it's gotta be Chifuyu. The lad started driving faster, trying to make Chifuyu lose track of him.

Chifuyu took the other lane on purpose, heading directly to Baji's house. Baji looked back to seeing Chifuyu behind him. He then sighed, turning the other way to go home and drink his thoughts away.

He arrived at the apartment building where he lives, tired and just wanted to sleep the night away or something. He turned around to the next corridor only to see Kazutora and Chifuyu standing on the door while awkwardly staring at each other. 'Shit, did Kazutora tell him anything?'

Baji gathered the courage to walk in between them, opening the door. The lad ignored the two and continued putting the code in. Kazutora and Chifuyu both went inside together, making them squeeze each other because of the small door space. "Who the fuck—," Kazutora uttered, trying to get enter but can't. "Let me in first."

"No, you get off. Who are you anyway?" Chifuyu replied, not letting Kazutora enter the unit. "It's none of your damn business. Now, back off so I can go in."

Chifuyu stayed in place, not listening to Kazutora. "Are you both gonna stay in there until sunlight?" Baji said, crossing his arms while facing the two beefing at the door. "And you Chifuyu, go home. We're not comrades anymore, so what's the point in coming over?"

"Baji-san, don't you think I deserve an explanation as your partner?! Why did you leave just like that? What about the First Division?" Chifuyu said with his hand still blocking Kazutora from entering. "That's a pointless question, even if I tell you nothing will change."

"I still want to know, Baji-san!"

"I had enough of this," said Kazutora, wrapping his hand on Chifuyu's arm before twisting it over to the lad's back, pushing Chifuyu out the door frame to the nearest wall with Kazutora's other hand on the back of Chifuyu's neck to hold him stable against the surface.

Chifuyu felt a sting on his face when his cheekbone hit the stone wall. Baji's arms unfolded from its confinement because of shock but never did anything to stop Kazutora from holding his ex-partner down.

"B... Baji-san..."

"Give it up, kid. He won't come back, so how about you go home to your mama," Kazutora said, pushing Chifuyu away before entering the apartment and closing the door on Chifuyu's face. Baji just stared at the scene until it ended, "Your partner had some guts, but not too much. I didn't think you'd accept a weakling like him as your partner—," Baji slammed the fridge close, stopping Kazutora from spouting nonsense about Chifuyu.

Kazutora felt jealousy. Even if Baji didn't stop him from hurting that little guy, he knew Baji was already attached to his partner. 'You're gaining friends after abandoning me in that hell hole? What happened to your promise to me, Baji? You sure are happy with me inside the Juvie. I won't let you feel that happiness again... let me proffer you the taste of sadness I felt the second you ignored me.'

"Anyways, great acting there. But I won't let you in that easily..." Baji unbelievably looked at him, "I see, so you really don't trust me, huh. I left Toman, and you were there to witness that too. So what do you want me to do?"

kazutora approached Baji, who was in the kitchen, leaning closer to the lad's ear before speaking again, "That partner of yours... He'll do the cut," the plate slipped off Baji's hands, breaking it. He immediately crouched down to picked up the fragments when he felt Kazutora's hand on his head, patting him, "I'll text you the address... Baji."

As Kazutora walks out, Baji's fist was clenched tightly, trying to control his anger and desire of punching the hell out of his friend. When he heard the door closing, His fist softened, immediately facepalming himself from the stress he is currently under. 'I might be slow sometimes, but I clearly knew what Kazutora wants me to do with Chifuyu.'

Baji heard his phone's notification, he rushed to grab it, and it was an image from Chifuyu.

Chifuyu: "I may be mad at you, but a promise is a promise. Here's an update from my sister at the London airport."

'Yeah, right, I told him to update me about her sister... I am so unfair. But this is just for a little while, Chifuyu,' Baji said to himself while waiting for the image to load. It was your picture at a foreign airport, smiling widely at the camera.

That was all it takes for Baji to smile again despite what happened to him just this evening. "Fuck, Keisuke. You're a love-sick fool..." Baji saved the photo to his gallery

Baji's eyes caught a notification at the message requests. He opened it to see a text from an unknown number,

05/XX/2005

UNKNOWN: I am sorry, Baji, for making it seem like I do not want you for my girl and that you'll only bring vulnerability to her. I know you understand what I really intend to say, yes? I can see how happy she is with you... and I don't want to be in the way of that, never again.

Baji beamed after viewing the text, it was from an unknown sender, but he knew it was from Hikari, 'Hikari-san just wanted to protect her daughter from the risk, that's why she gave me a hint, but that doesn't mean for me to stay away from her daughter. Despite all that, she treated me like her own son and a friend even after having that conversation. Maybe that's why Hikari-san never acted strictly towards me when I come over, and every time I take Y/n with me out sometimes. That brought me to the conclusion that she was just worried and that she's aware of the fact that she can't stop both of Y/n and I from having these feelings because emotions are emotions.'

'Too bad I stick to my decisions like a superglue, I will not bring risk to her life and let her live in the most unproblematic way, but I won't deny my feelings towards her. It's not too late to push her away, she already hates me, so just a little trigger will do.'

'I personally know that I can't keep my feelings for myself, but if it's for Y/n's safety, then I'll take the challenge.'

'There are two choices here, and I picked the one where she's safe and sound... even if it's not in my arms...'

'SAME DATE, LONDON, ENGLAND.

Hikari approached you with a glass of wine in her hands, "Their wine tastes good, honey. Wanna try? Just kidding." You looked at your mom, who's acting like a teenager, "seriously? HAHAHA."

The lady laughed, placing the glass on the nightstand in between both beds. "I can't believe you're really staying here after graduation. What about Keisuke?"

You directly looked at your mother, "How come you and Chifuyu asked the same question? Baji's in a relationship, for Pete's sake."

"In a relationship? I don't see it that way. He doesn't look the type who would cuddle with another woman while being in a committed bond."

"So what are you trying to say, mom?"

"Figure it out, figure why Baji's so comfortable in doing nonfriendly things with you," Hikari said, laying down on her bed, "Wow, this bed's soft."

"Why am I the one who always has to adjust to knowing the truth? Would it be too hard to communicate with me?"

Hikari sighed and chuckled, remembering her and Chifuyu's conversation, "Chifuyu asked the same thing, tsk you really are twins. If your father was here, he would be able to answer that."

"But from my point of view, I think Yoshiyuki hid a lot of important information away from me because he cares a lot about me and us, or that he doesn't want to disappoint me," said Hikari, drinking the remaining wine in the glass. "Come to think of it, he hid the truth about how he wanted to help Hiroshi, afraid that I'd be disappointed. He hid the fact that he likes me back and rejected me when I confessed to him because Yoshiyuki cares about me and he's aware of his status."

Your eyes widened at the sudden fact, "What? Dad rejected you? How come I never knew that."

"Well, you know me. I have this enormous pride in me, so I brainwashed you and told your dad to reverse the story. He didn't mind," you can't help but laugh at your mother's childishness.

"But going back, honey. Do not complain that you, 'always,' have to adjust for the truth to be revealed or seldom be the one to fix things. Sometimes, if we make those adjustments, we will definitely find out what's going on and solve the issue. The main point here is you need to understand and be patient with your partner at all times because they may not be ready to tell you about it yet. It's not always men who have to persuade to make things right. It goes both ways."

"I too was like that before. I hate making adjustments for your dad. If he doesn't wanna talk to me about something that includes our relationship, then I'll leave it at that. But it only brought me sadness and regrets in life. After all, it's called a relationship. A relationship is built by two people, not just one. So you need to make adjustments too. If I had the chance to go back, I'd definitely forget about my pride and just persuade the heck out of him, then he'd tell me about his plan on saving Hiroshi... then I would be able to prevent him from dying."

"That's my regrets. Not making a simple adjustment... I was so selfish that I only think about my own safety and my children's safety. I did not even have the time to ask Yoshiyuki if he's alright or what his problem was."

Those last sentenced strikes you, making you stop from texting Chifuyu. 'Yeah, right...mom's right,' you excused yourself to go out for some fresh air and a second later found yourself sitting on a bench in front of a lake.

The conversation you had with Chifuyu the other night flashed in your memory.

"And that alone scares me... even if I say I don't have any feelings towards him."

"You don't, or you can't?"

'It's slowly making sense if I look through it a bit further. I won't irrationally act if I don't have anything that I feel towards Baji, right? The thing is, I don't know what I feel towards him...'

'So it's not that I don't feel anything, but it's because I can't... I can't because I am not allowing myself to like him. I am telling myself that, "I can't have feelings for Baji," because of the promise that I made that I'll never get trapped with people like dad.'

'The question is, why can't I have feelings for Baji? Is it really because of the promise? I don't think so. Because I'm scared to get hurt? But when did I ever think about Baji's feelings and worries? When did I ever ask him if he was okay? All I did was worry about my safety and Chifuyu.'

'All I did was back out in the end, and yet I am asking for Baji to communicate with me. Even when I was the one being selfish.'

"So I really am just following in my mom's footsteps... Will I also regret if I just leave this issue with Baji to fade away on its own?"

You were lost in your thoughts when the glass water bottle in your hand suddenly broke, your heart started to race, giving you a bad feeling. "Be careful there, Chifuyu..."

'SHIBUYA, TOKYO

It was just another day from Takemitchy. The incident last night was still a talk between his friends. And last night... last night was one of the happy nights he had. He's finally become a member of Toman and is placed under Mitsuya's care. And not just that, Mikey asked for a very serious favor of him last night, which he still is trying to figure out how to fulfill that favor.

'LAST NIGHT

"I've got something to tell you, Takemitchy," Mikey said, now looking straight at Takemitchy. "alright."

"I've got this childhood friend. We just lived in the same neighborhood, and it's not like we got along that well," Takemitchy can't help but think about the person Mikey's talking about, 'Mikey-Kun's childhood friend? I bet he's a total badass.'

Mikey continued talking with a smile on his face, "He was always picking fights with me, and I handed him his ass every time."

Takemitchy can't help but nervously laugh together with the lad, "He kept trying to fight you, Mikey-Kun? What a dumbass."

Thou then stopped laughing, responding to Takemitchy, "Yup. That's the guy who punched you earlier." On the other hand, he doesn't know who Mikey was referring to, "Mikey-kun, I got punched by two people, so... which one was it?"

"The First Division Captain, Keisuke Baji." Takemitchy froze in his place, 'So Baji-kun was Mikey-Kun's childhood friend, huh?'

But even so, Mikey still talked about Baji like Baji just didn't neglect Toman, "It's hard to tell what he's thinking, right? I don't even understand how Y/n and Chifuyu were able to communicate with him."

'Y/n? Chifuyu?' Takemitchy asked himself. "I have a lot of questions, but the one that's bothering me is why did he punch me." Mikey laughed at Takemitchy's sulking face, "Baji's always been like that. He'll slug people passing by just because he's sleepy. And if he's hungry, he'll pour gasoline all over a car and set it on fire."

Takemitchy's eyes widened, trying to believe what Mikey just told him about Baji. "Wow... that's a level beyond comprehension."

"Yeah but, he changed after meeting the Matsuno twins. He became less brutal. If he's hungry, he'll simply buy food. If he's sleepy, he'll just find a perfect place to sleep. But seeing him tonight, I hate to think that I was wrong that he changed..."

"Anyways, about that guy. He's one of the Toman's founding members," Mikey said, looking down on his feet. 'Founding member...' Takemitchy thought.

"I started toman in my first year of middle school, along with Draken, Mitsuya, Pah-chin, and Baji."

'Five...' the lad counted as Mikey announced every name.

"We gathered together to establish our gang, so Takemitchy... BRING BAJI BACK FROM VALHALLA...I... I REALLY LOVE THAT GUY. After all, I know how he acts and feels more than anyone. I know when he's faking something, doing something out of responsibility, or doing something because that's what he wants," Mikey claimed, taking Takemitchy's attention, "And right now, He may be hard to read. But my intuition said I just need to take him back. Can you do that for me, Takemitchy?"

Takemitchy didn't hesitate to say yes and help a friend, "Of course I can do that, Mikey-kun! But... can I ask you to do one thing for me?"

The lad stood up, balancing his anger and determination, "Why'd you recruit that bastard Kisaki? I can't explain why, but that guy is bad news!! He's gonna... Kisaki's gonna..."

"HE'S GONNA RUIN THE TOMAN IN THE FUTURE!!" Takemitchy yelled even with the hesitation dragging him down. He knows no matter how he'll explain, Mikey would never understand him.

Mikey stood up from sitting on the ground, smiling at Takemitchy, "Okay," was all he said, making Takemitchy surprised at how easy it was for him. "Pretty soon, we're gonna have to fight Valhalla. Get Bacji back before then... Prove to me... that you're more useful than Kisaki."

"I know Kisaki's a dangerous guy to have around, but I also recognize his strength. Toman's going to need Kisaki's strength."

"Help me achieve my goal, Takemitchy... that's my trade-off. If you fail, I'LL KILL YOU."

'BACK IN TIME

Takemitchy opened his palms, revealing the piece of a photo he picked up last night at the park. It was a photo of the Toman's founding members at Shibuya crossing, 'Mikey-kun mentioned five founding members last night when we were discussing, but there were 6 guys in the photo. Mikey-kun, Draken-kun, Mitsuya-kun, Pah-chin, Baji, and an unknown guy with a mole near his right eye. There's no way Mikey-kun would exclude that guy if nothing happened in the past, right?'

"Yooo, Takemitchy, we heard you're a Toman member now? Why do you seem so depressed," said Akkun and the others approaching their friend, who's sighing heavily.

Takemitchy explained everything that had happened last night, including how Baji just punched him out of nowhere. "Ah, so if you can't get Baji-kun, the First Division Captain, back from Valhalla... then Mikey-Kun's gonna kill you."

"Yeah, and I've only got until Toman's fight with Valhalla starts."

"But there's no telling when that'll happen, Takemitchy," says Makoto. Takuya then added with a scary look on his face, "If it's today...." It wasn't that long until Yamagishi continues, "Then rest in peace, Takemitchy!"

Takemitchy sighed again for the 3rd time now, "To be honest, though, I've got no idea about the situation inside Toman. I Don't even know what "Valhalla" is."

Yamagishi sat on the desk in front of Takemitchy, "Valhalla currently has 300 members. And Hanma's the acting leader." He removed his glasses, wiping them clean, "The headless angel. That's what people call Valhalla..."

'300 and Hanma's the acting leader... so that's the kind of gang Baji-kun joined. And my goal is o bring him back before the fight starts. I've got no choice but to meet Baji-kun myself, but... how do I do that? He seems like the kind of person who's everywhere,' Takemitchy thought to himself thoroughly.

An unfamiliar guy made his way inside the school where Hanagaki is, catching two girl's attention, "Hey you two, what class is 2nd-year Hanagaki in?"

"Uh, class 3..." one of the girls was flustered at the new face she's seeing, "Hmm, thanks." The guy left, heading to class 3. "Since when did we have such a hottie in our school?" "He's a third-year, going by his shoe color," says the other girl.

Yamagishi still isn't finished with his explanation, "The former Moebius members are gathered under Hanma Shuji, Valhalla's number 2. And the Anti Toman force gathered under... The number 3 guy, Kazutora Hanemiya."

The door to the classroom suddenly opened, making the five of them look at whoever that is, seeing a guy with black hair and blonde highlights staring at them casually. He then looked around the room and only saw 5 people in, "Is school already over?"

Makoto was the first one to react out of five of them, "Who the hell? You don't look familiar."

The guy chuckled softly at Makoto, "Well, that's not very polite. I am your senpai after all." Makoto wasn't buying it, but Yamagishi immediately recognized who that guy is in front of them just by looking at its recognizable tattoo located on his neck. It's the tiger tattoo.

"Makoto!! Stop!!" Yamagishi yelled, warning his friend. "What's your deal, Yamagishi?" The guy before them spoke again, "Hey, you guys know Takemichi Hanagaki?"

Yamagishi looked back at Takemitchy, terrified, "Ta... Takemichi! It's him!"

The guy stared at Takemitchy, "Oh, he's Takemichi?"

Takemitchy, on the other hand, was overall confused about what's Yamagishi crying about, "Huh?"

Yamagishi couldn't handle the tension as sweat ran down his face, "You slowtard, HE'S VALHALLA'S NUMBER 3!! KAZUTORA HANEMIYA!" Takemitchy was caught off guard by Kazutora and hugged him tightly like they're friends, "Yaaaaay, you're Takemichi, right? Glad I found youuuu, come on, let's go!" Kazutora pulled Takemitchy to the door as the lad tried so hard not to stumble, "Where are we going, Kazutora-kun?"

Kazutora smiled at him, "Valhalla's hideout." Takemitchy stopped for a second, 'Valhalla's hideout? He's taking his enemy to their hideout?'

"Hey, I found Takemichi!" Kazutora informed two guys waiting outside the room. They look like they got beaten up badly, even using crutches, face full of scratches, and band-aids. "That's the guy?" "Yup."

"Who are these guys?" Takemitchy asked which Kazutora answered, "Just two of my most trusted Kouhai."

"Did something happen to them? They're both... using crutches," Kazutora looked back at him while walking, "Hmm? Oh that, well, I broke them yesterday."

"Aren't they're your most trusted Kouhai? How can you break—," one of the guys with crutches faced Takemitchy with an annoyed face, "You got a problem with Kazutora-kun?"

Takemitchy held back, feeling a little odd, 'How can they be so calm about having their legs broken? In any case, this guy...is very awful news!!' Takemitchy thought while looking at Kaztora's side profile. Takemitchy felt like his soul left his body, remembering where Kazutora is about to take him. "Relax, man. I'll introduce you to everyone," Kazutora reassured, and all Takemitchy could do is gulp and pray on his mind that he won't die in the process.

Instead of being a scaredy-cat, he thought of the advantage he would have if he followed Kazutora to Valhalla's hideout, then it may be his chance to see Baji.

'4:00 pm AT VALHALLA'S HIDEOUT

All Chifuyu could perceive with his ears are the nonstop laughing of the people around him. Chifuyu started to lose decent vision as time passes, but he knows Baji is still straddling him on the dirt while beating the shit out of him.

The lad was bewildered... all he recollected was Baji dragging him out of his house to eat Peyoung Yakisoba and ended up bringing him to the enemy's lair. Then without warning, he was pushed by Baji down to the ground, and his partner began knocking him out of nowhere with people watching.

It's not that Chifuyu can't fight, he may follow Baji's footsteps, but right now, he desires to be different from Baji. Chifuyu doesn't want to maltreat his best friend. He acknowledges that whatever Baji's doing right now isn't because of his will... he knows because Baji is his partner.

He let Baji hit him again and again continuously until a lot of blood came out of his nostrils and forehead.

Baji hesitated to deliver another blow after seeing Chifuyu's unconscious face and paralyzed state. He suddenly remembered your bloody situation back in Kyoto because of your facial resemblance to Chifuyu. His fist quivered in fear and sadness, his hits became sloppy and vulnerable, but he prevailed and kept a straight face because Valhalla's number 2 is watching... Hanma Shuji.

"Oi, oi, you're gonna kill him, HAHAHA," one of the members said. Baji sensed a new footstep coming, thinking it was Kazutora. It was great timing, as he just finished beating his former vice-captain. Baji stood up, removing his hair tie off from its confinement, "Hah, am I allowed to enter Valhalla now?"

Kazutora walked in the circle calmly together with Takemitchy. The newcomers looked at the unconscious blonde on the ground, seeing it doesn't make a move. Takemitchy's eyes widened in terror, thinking he might die in there.

"What's going on here, Kazutora-kun?" Takemitchy asked despite the fear. "It's a test of faith of Baji's belief in our group. Leaving Toman to enter Valhalla is like switching religions. So he needs to show us he's ready."

Kazutora made his way beside Takemitchy before speaking near his ear, "You see that person he just knocked the hell out of? It's the First Division vice-captain, Baji's most trusted..."

Takemitchy gasped in disbelief, "First Division vice-captain?!"

"Toman is Valhalla's enemy. If he's betraying his old "God" Mikey... then he's got to curb stomp his old beliefs," Kazutora added, feeling satisfied. There was never a rule like that, but Kazutora made it the last minute of seeing Chifuyu the other night. He wants to ruin whatever good is happening between Chifuyu and Baji.

"Well, is this good enough for you, Hanma-kun? For my initiation into Valhalla," Baji questioned. Hanma beamed at the view in front of him together with the top members of Valhalla thoroughly watching the show.

"You're a real bastard?"

"I'm surprised you went this far."

"He was with you for a long time, right? Wasn't he also twins with the woman that has your interest?"

Baji controlled his anger, ready to deny you in front of Kazutora, "shit, man. I didn't come here for a damn lecture and stop blabbering about stupid and unreal stuff. I never had a girl I am interested with."

Hanma stood up from his seat, "Kazutora! You ready?"

"Yup, this guy is Takemichi Hanagaki. Toman's new member," said Kazutora, introducing Takemitchy to everyone as he said earlier.

Takemichi looked at Chifuyu, thinking if he's gonna get beat up next until Hanma interrupted his wandering thoughts, "Step forward, Hanagaki."

He came back to the thought of why did he even let Kazutora lead him to the enemy's den like they're just going on a picnic. Hanagaki looked back and saw Baji looking straight at him with a splash of Chifuyu's blood on his face. "It's you... from before," said Baji remembering Hanagaki's face, which he punched last night.

Hanma stood up in the trashed and vandalized stage as everybody looked at him, "We will now summon a witness!!"

"One of the Toman's founding members, the First DivisionCaptain, Keisuke Baji... He claims he wants to abandon Toman and enter the ranks of Valhalla!"

Everyone inside the abandoned arcade building started chattering up their opinions as usual. Hanma started speaking again after observing the surrounding, "Indeed! This is a very sedate matter!"

"Enlisting Baji will lead us greatly in crushing Toman. But there's just one problem remaining... He might also be one of Toman's spies! So I had Kazutora-kun find a witness for us."

"Hanagaki Takemitchy, step forward. At Toman's gathering, what did Baji say in front of everyone there?"

"Um... "I'm going to Valhalla. Toman is my enemy," was all he said." Hanma shifted his view at Kazutora, "Hm, what do you think, Kazutora-kun?"

"Don't you think that's god enough? The test of faith and the calling of witnesses. He'll be useful for fighting other gangs, and he knows what went on in Toman while I was away at reform school." Takemitchy, on the other hand, was confused about what Kazutora said, 'While he was away? What does that mean?'

"Even if Baji was a spy, it's still worth letting him into Valhalla, right Baji? WE WILL CRUSH TOMAN... AND THEN... WE'LL KILL MIKEY."

Baji rested his hands on his knees in front of Kazutora, "Yes, I'll help you with that, Kazutora!" Takemitchy didn't waste time and reacted right away, "Hold up, you're betraying Toman, Baji-kun?! Aren't you a founding member?"

Baji chuckled, "Just because I am a founding member doesn't mean I can't betray Toman," said Baji, spitting on the ground. "What a joke. That guy's a founding member too," he added, pointing at Kazutora. Takemitchy didn't get it at first, but after having a great look at Kazutora's face, he noticed the mole in its eyes, 'THE SIXTH MEMBER IN THE PHOTO, WAS HIM?! KAZUTORA HANEMIYA...'

Hanma leads the noise to start as he announced the new member of Valhalla, Keisuke Baji. "FROM THIS DAY FORWARD, KEISUKE BAJI IS A MEMBER OF VALHALLA!" Everyone started chanting the gang's name except for Takemitchy, who's confused all over.

Baji explained everything through a short period of time to Hanagaki, letting the lad understand why he decided to betray Mikey and join forces with Kazutora. Baji started at when and how they killed Shinichiro Sano, Mikey's brother, in an accident. "Kazutora stood up for me, so I didn't end up in Juvie. I've been waiting for Kazutora to get released," Baji added.

'So Baji-kun was on Kazutora's side from the start? So it's not like he left Toman on a whim. Then that means there's no way to get him back. NO, I will get him back no matter what,' Hanagaki told himself.

Hanma lets out an annoying laugh, "Nice Baji, I am happier to welcome you aboard. Here, Valhalla's uniform," He said, throwing the jacket on air. Baji proudly wore the jacket that really fits his size. The design was simple, a headless angel at the back with the gang's name.

Kazutora looked back on Takemitchy, "Hanagaki, give Mikey this message. Days from here, October 31st, is our final fight! In the abandoned car lot."

"VALHALLA VS TOMAN."

'SAME DATE, LONDON, ENGLAND.

"You can go back tomorrow for further assessment. You're almost there, don't give up!" the lady said, handing you your paper. "Thank you. Then I'll come back tomorrow at 10 am again, see you!"

"Yes, see you, Ms. Matsuno!"

Your phone rang, guessing it was your mother, "Hello, mom? Do you need something?"

"I just want to let you know that I might be arriving late at our hotel. Don't wait for me, alright?"

Your brows met in confusion as you place the phone in between your shoulder and neck. You then searched for something in your purse while walking on the busy streets of London. "May I know where are you and why you're gonna be late? Mom, this is a foreign country we gotta stick together."

"Well honey, remember aunt Rae, my old classmate? I met with her today, and you know me, I am talkative," you sighed, "Fine. Then I'll hang up now. I am kinda starving. I am heading to the nearest coffee shop. Bye mom, love you."

The waitress was fast to get your order as soon as you took a seat, which you liked. You first ordered a coffee to keep yourself awake and active because of the exhaustion of walking around King's College. While waiting for the salad to be served, you once again studied the papers in your hand. To see if you missed one of the steps for today.

With your eyes not leaving the paper, you reach out to the coffee's clear mug. As your fingers were wrapped around the handle, you heard a little crack sound coming from the glass. You turned your head to look at the cup getting another heavy feeling like yesterday when your water bottle cracked out of nowhere.

There it struck you that Chifuyu never contacted you since yesterday night. You took ut your phone from your pocket to call overseas. It took a lot of procedure, but after some time, you got connected to the Tokyo line, and Chifuyu's phone's already ringing, but that didn't ease you yet.

You waited for it to ring, until, after the last three rings, the phone wasn't picked up by your brother, making you worry more. You called again despite the arduous process of reaching Tokyo because it's overseas. And calling overseas is not easy.

"Subscriber cannot be reached. Please try again later."

"Subscriber cannot be reached. Please try again later."

"Subscriber cannot be reached. Please try again later."

l.s

Chapter Text

'OCTOBER 24, 2004

3'rd person's POV

It was 4 am. Kisaki and Kazutora are outside the Valhalla's hideout, waiting for Hanma to arrive with their breakfast. They both think Hanma had already gone off with their money, but It was a surprise that Hanma appeared with burgers. "Seriously? Burgers?" Kisaki complained while Kazutora just ate.

"Well, why not?" Hanma said, finishing his burger in one bite. Kisaki rolled his eyes, "I swear to God, you're the reason why I age so much in a day."

Kazutora looked at Kisaki, realizing Kisaki's a year or two younger than him. "Oh, come on, Kisaki. You expect me to bring you luxurious food when you only gave me half a budget and the only stores open sell burgers."

"Well, if you like it too much, then eat mine too. I ain't eating no calories early in the morning," Kisaki said, smudging the burger into Hanma's mouth.

"You both act and fight like married couples. Let me eat in peace, will y'all?" Hanma nodded, making Kisaki look at him in disgust. "So what's your plan, Kazutora? You'll just simply stab Baji?"

"Huh? Stab Baji? I thought he's in our team," Hanma said with a mouth full of food, "Shut up, Hanma!"

"Oh, alright, then."

"Yeah, I'll kill him both and Mikey. It was Mikey's fault. That's why I ended up in that stupid juvie and Baji... Baji didn't even do anything but cry! Both of them, no! All of them abandoned me..."

Kisaki smirked, with his plan going smoothly. Kisaki's original objective is for Kazutora to ruin Mikey by killing those who are close to him. He knows Kazutora doesn't stand a chance against Mikey, and when Mikey's mental health is weak from the loss of his childhood friend, that is where Kisaki will manipulate Mikey into doing things. "Alright, Hanma will support your back with that. Make sure to kill Baji first in front of Mikey, so you can enjoy his reaction."

"Even if you don't tell me that, I intended to kill Baji first because we always save the fun at the end," Kazutora said, winking at the both before leaving to enter the abandoned arcade, which is their hideout.

"You let that Hanemiya guy order you, Kisaki?"

"Don't worry, Hanma. We'll kill him too or put him back in prison. I already planned on framing him if something bad happens."

Baji stood there hiding and frozen... trying to sink everything into his brain.

Takemichi, in his uniform, lazily walked outside to head for school since it's Monday. He heavily sighs, thinking about all the shit that happened yesterday, "I didn't even get to sleep a wink, even though I'm 26."

The only noise Takemitchi can hear is the sound of the morning birds and leaves flying. He was thinking of a plan on how to explain everything to Mikey without getting his ass killed. Until a voice called him out of nowhere, "Hey!"

"Huh?" Takemitchy looked to his side only to see a blonde with an undercut. He thought that guy was just mistaken, so he decided to ignore the call. "C'mere, oi! Are you deaf? Pop a squat," Chifuyu said, tapping the seat of the swing next to him.

Takemitchy looked back at the guy with bandages on his face, 'Woah, what does this scary guy want from me? Ugh, just keep on walking, Takemichi, let's just ignore him.'

"Yesterday was a total disaster for the both of us, huh?" Chifuyu announced, catching the other one's attention. 'Huh? Yesterday? Don't tell me...'

Despite the cuts in his lip, Chifuyu managed to grin at Takemitchy, "Baji-san's a total badass, isn't he?"

"Were you, Baji-Kun's friend?"

"Tokyo Manji gang, First Division Captain, Chifuyu Matsuno, yes, that's me," Chifuyu said, looking down for the first time of saying his name. He was always proud of it because his position is next to the man he idolized. And It's not that he's ashamed of his title but ashamed of not being able to do anything yesterday for his best friend as the vice-captain.

"Ohhh! You're the guy Baji-kun beat to a pulp!!"

Chifuyu scoffed, "You're one to talk." Takemitchy felt mocked, but he knew Chifuyu has a point, "Uh well, yeah."

"You should be thankful to him, though. You ruined the ceremony. If Baji-san hadn't decked you, something even worse might've happened to you," Chifuyu stated. 'Everyone just thinks Baji-san's evil because of what they see. Only if they also use their brain to analyze and try to understand how Baji-san works, they definitely wouldn't think of him as a bad guy.'

And that's where Takemitchy understood it all, "Oh, so he didn't beat me up because of nothing..." Chifuyu lets out a small laugh, "Yeah, you can say that."

There was silence in between them before Chifuyu started to speak again, "I got beat up so he could join Valhalla, but Baji-san didn't get into Valhalla to destroy Toman." Chifuyu stood up from the swing he was sitting a while ago before eyeing Takemitchy, "Baji-san's got something else in mind."

"Kisaki."

Takemitchy was caught off guard when the person he's talking to mentioned a name he hates, "What? What do you mean by Kisaki?"

"Baji joined Valhalla so he could get at Kisaki. I don't know how to explain this long story to you. But it was in June when Baji-san started acting all fishy and busy. He even dropped out of school and neglected my sister sometimes, making her sad and just space out sometimes, which is disturbing for me."

Takemitchy was confused about the sister part, so he asked, "Sister? What does your sister have to do with Baji-kun?"

"Well, let's just say they have this... complicated relationship. Anyways, back to where I was, I don't wanna be nosy and all because if Baji-san was ready, he would eventually tell me about what he's hiding. But it all went on for months, and I just can't handle it. So I approached the vice commander for some information. It wasn't easy at first, so I had to persuade him because I am convinced he knows something about why Baji-san was acting fishy.

I did it not just for my sake but for my sister too... she had been lied to and heartbroken before she even met Baji-san. She's healing from that, from the pain her own dad left. On the other hand, Baji-san tends to fix everything by himself and never tells anyone about it until he gets hurt from the process. See? They're a terrible combination, but they really like each other even though they're in denial about it. If Baji-san gets hurt, what will my sister feel?

Draken told me everything then after I persuaded him for a week, I know he hates being tailed on every time by other people except for Mikey. So I annoyed him for a week until he gave up and told me everything about Kazutora Hanemiya. You know who he is, right? Takemitchy."

Takemitchy gulped in response, "Y...yeah, he was the reason for Mikey-Kun's brother's death." Chifuyu nodded in relief, "You're not bad in remembering pieces of information."

"Let's go walk to where you're going. I'll tell you what I have in mind while we're at it," Chifuyu said, then he continues speaking. "Baji-san joined Valhalla so he could investigate on Kisaki. Draken told me that Baji-san dropped out of school to find Kazutora, know what he's up to and find the guy who bailed Kazutora out of the juvie earlier than expected. It took Baji-san months to find Kazutora's whereabouts because he didn't seek help from Draken or any of the Toman members for help, afraid that Mikey might know about it."

"Baji-san eventually found Kazutora, and it also leads him to who bailed him out. It was Kisaki Tetta who did that."

Takemitchy was following through the words Chifuyu is telling him, "So you're telling me that Kisaki and Valhalla are connected somehow?"

"Somehow? Are you dumb? Kisaki bailed Kazutora out, and Kazutora is now planning on crushing Toman. Ask yourself, why would Kisaki bail Kazutora? What if he also has the same adjective as killing Mikey."

"Baji-san doesn't know that I already know what he's hiding from my sister and me. 'He joined Valhalla so he can investigate Kisaki....' Well, that's just my theory because who knows if he really wanted to join forces with Kazutora? But for now, I am choosing to believe my intuition. If Baji-san really is investigating right inside the enemy's den, then I wanna do something to help him. I'm gonna do my own investigation from the outside."

"So help me with that, Takemitchy. If I don't do something, he'll fly outta control if he's left on his own." Chifuyu said, remembering the Kyoto Incident, 'If I and the others didn't arrive in time, things would have gotten out of hand too.'

Takemitchy started to talk, "Why do you believe your intuition too much? What if you're wrong? What if Baji-kun really just wants to side with Kazutora-kun?"

"I know how he thinks in situations like this, I may not be as close to him as Kazutora would be, but I know... I just know...HAHAHA, I've been stuck with him for a long time, well it's not as long as a year, but I've spent more time with him more than his mom could."

Takemitchy didn't know if he should laugh at the last sentence because it feels like Chifuyu's roasting someone. Chifuyu smiled at Baji before talking again, "All I want is simple, Takemitchy. I want to help Baji, and I want to prevent my sister from hurting. What about you?"

"Huh? UHm... I don't know."

Chifuyu kept walking, "You don't know what you want? Well, I was behind you during that ceremony. You picked a very inconvenient time punching Kisaki. Just what the hell are you trying to accomplish?"

'What do I want to do? No one has ever asked me that yet with that face...'

The next thing Takemitchy knew is he and Chifuyu are now standing in front of the Sano Family Grave, together with Draken and Mikey. "Shinichiro-kun was an awesome guy," Draken said, holding the umbrella for Mikey, who was sitting on the ground, facing his brother's grave, "Yeah."

Draken looked back at Takemitchy and Chifuyu, "Takemitchy, We know too. We know the past incident that can't be undone. Baji and Kazutora didn't intend for that to happen."

Mikey stood up, agreeing to Draken, "Yeah, it's too late to change what happened. I know that... but deep down, I can't accept it."

"The CB250T that Kazutora and Baji intended to steal was supposed to be my brother's gift. Now, it's my beloved ride. It's been years since then... I've forgiven Baji, but even if he didn't know, even if it's too late to change the past. I CAN'T FORGIVE KAZUTORA FOR KILLING MY BROTHER."

Mikey turned around with a look that can make people run away, even just looking at him, "AND I CAN'T FORGIVE BAJI FOR SIDING WITH HIM EITHER." Takemitchy shuddered in fear but remained silent, afraid that he might get kicked out of nowhere. "Takemitchy, I told you to bring Baji back, didn't I? Then why is his vice-captain here and not Baji?"

"WHAT DO YOU REALLY WANT TO ACCOMPLISH, TAKEMITCHY? YOU REALLY WANNA DIE THAT BADLY?" Takemitchy panicked in his mind hoping Chifuyu would help him, 'Gahhh, someone help. What do I do? What do I do?' He then suddenly remembered the same question Chifuyu asked before, "Just what the hell are you trying to accomplish?"

'That's right... what I wanted to do... Mikey-kun told me that if I succeeded in bringing Baji-kun back, then he'll kick Kisaki out. With Kisaki out of Toman, the future would change, and the girl I loved might be saved,' Takemitchy thought to himself, finally knowing what he wants to accomplish, "I... WANTED TO BE THE TOP GUY IN TOMAN!! I'LL MAKE YOU REALIZE THAT SOMEDAY, MIKEY-KUN, WHAT I WANT TO ACCOMPLISH." Takemitchy didn't even wait for Mikey to reply and left with Chifuyu, with their umbrella up their head, protecting them from the rain.

Draken softly laughed when Takemitchy turned his back on them, "Hah, that guy... what an idiot." "Yeah..."

Chifuyu looked at the pressed guy walking on his side, "You should check yourself out, dude. You went way beyond failing to read the mood there." Takemitchy laughed nervously but not regretting anything, "Y...yeah... well, I guess so."

Chifuyu came up with an idea of something he thought Takemitchy would like, "How about this," he said, slightly raising his other hand, "Huh?" Takemitchy reacted. "I'll help you become Toman's leader, so help me out with what I wanna do!"

Takemitchy didn't even bother shaking Chifuyu's hands and said something instead, "Huh?! Then that means I can really be the top guy in Toman?"

"Not one little bit," said Chifuyu with no hesitation, "That figures it!! You're making fun of me," Takemitchy stated, making the other chuckle at his reaction, "But I will help you, Takemitchy."

Takemitchy sighed before looking at CHifuyu's hand, shaking them using his other hand too, "Understood! I'll help you out too!"

Chifuyu beamed in happiness, "Then, I'm counting on you, partner!!"

"Oh, and by the way, no need to be so formal with me. We're the same age," Chifuyu said, fully knowing that Takemitchy wasn't even aware that they are the same age, "Huh? Then why didn't you say so?! You freakin' liar."

"Wow, you changed gears real quick. And hey! I didn't lie, you dumbass! But going back to what are we going to do. First, off I wanna do a thorough investigation of the connection between Kisaki and Valhalla, or just what Kisaki is planning and all about the bailing."

"Well, any leads?"

"Hey, you got some visitors!" A worker said, then went back to minding his own business. Takemitchy and Chifuyu headed more down the messy hallway of the building only to see Nobutaka Osanai, former 8th leader of Moebius.

Takemitchy knew him just from the back, scaring his soul away, "That's O...Osanai from Moebius!"

Osanai felt someone looking at him, so he turned around and saw two high schoolers behind him, including one familiar guy, "Oh, what do you brats want?"

"We'd like to know how you're connected to Kisaki."

Osanai sighed before placing down his hammer, "Well, alright. Sit down. On the first impression, Kisaki was just some kid to me. One day when I was walking home, that kid talked to me out of nowhere. It made me think how weird he is. He then started offering me to work with him because apparently, I will rule Tokyo in no time, is what he said," Osanai said, hammering the nail in place again, continuing his work.

"Then, that's how I met him. I beat anyone I didn't like, so I ended up alone, and that's when Kisaki approached me, which was crazy because the coincidence looks like he really searched up my background before even talking to me. But hey, as weird as it sounds, it was great at the start. Everything went smoothly because of him."

The man stopped talking, wiping the table he was working clean, before turning around to face the two. "In just a year, I went from a punk who was only good at fighting to a guy in charge of Shinjuku."

Chifuyu didn't hesitate to ask as soon as the man finished speaking up his part, "Osanai, so you became a Moebius leader because of Kisaki?"

"Yeah, can't make a gang if you're only good at fighting. You're gonna need a brain or even more than that."

"And Kisaki was that brain?"

"Yes, the manipulator. I was nothing but a stepping stone to his actual objective, and I learned all that in the battle of 8/3, where your vice commander got stabbed. That fight was all arranged by Kisaki in the first place. He drove pah-chin to the corner, creating infighting in Toman. AFTER THAT, HE MADE IT ALL MY FAULT!"

(TW: r4p3 *"He drove pah-chin to the corner" - this is where Pah chin's friend's girlfriend got r4p3d and abused, causing her to be hospitalized. Because of that, Pah-chin wanted to get revenge.)

"So it was Kisaki's doing..." Takemitchy said with the memory of the hospitalized woman flashing in his memories.

Chifuyu stepped right into the conversation again with more questions, "Why would Kisaki go to all that trouble?" Osanai crushed the cigarette against the wall, "Well, Kisaki's plan on the battle of 8/3 is to kill Draken and take his place as Toman's second in command."

It wasn't all that to Osanai, so he spoke again, "Kisaki left me behind... his latest destructive force is... Hanma Shuji and that one guy who showed up out of nowhere. And to add more detail, Kisaki looks like that person who can kill anyone without getting his hands dirty."

"That one guy? Who? Can you describe?" Chifuyu pleaded. "Ah, beats me. If I remember, it clear he's almost as tall as the first division captain. You know that guy, right? Long hair, fangs, aggressive—,"

"Can you at least be more specific? There's a lot of guys in that height," Chifuyu complained, making Takemitchy's eyes widened, "Damn, dude, chill. We're gonna get beaten in here," Takemitchy whispered to his partner.

"Tch, brats. Hm.. let me— Oh! He has this tiger tattoo on his neck. It was really huge, how can I forget about that detail— Oi! where are you both going?!" Chifuyu and Takemitchy ran away as soon as they heard the Tiger tattoo.

Both of them were panting as they walk down the streets of the neighborhood, "So... it's confirmed that Kisaki bailed Kazutora out. If Hanma Shuji is his destructive force, then so as Kazutora since Kisaki knew the hate Kazutora feels towards Mikey."

Takemitchy added a statement, "So if Hanma and Kazutora are both his destructive force, means they're also a stepping stone for Kisaki's real intention."

Chifuyu stopped and sat on the railings of the sidewalk to rest and conversed again, "Kazutora is blinded by anger. That's why he did not even realize that he's being used and manipulated by Kisaki, just like how Osanai was deceived because he was lonely, and Kisaki was the only one there for him. As for Hanma... I don't know what's going on with that weird drunk-ass looking giraffe. He seems alright. Maybe he just wants to be used. Some people are into that kind of thing."

Takemitchy looked weirdly at Chifuyu because of the last part, "dude, what do you even mean by that? You tryna start some naughty topic or what?" Chifuyu smacked the back of Takemitchy's head while laughing, "No, the fuck?"

"Well, no tryna be judgemental or what. But Hanma-kun looks like that person who doesn't have any plan for his life. That's why he's okay with Kisaki using him," Takemitchy said with hesitation, afraid that Hanma might've heard outta nowhere and slap the heck out of him. "Hmm, yeah. That's what I meant," said Chifuyu.

"Takemitchy, to summarize all of it... Valhalla, the mysterious gang with no leader, otherwise known as the headless angels. The leader no one knows about... should be Tetta Kisaki! Kisaki is in Toman right now. That's why they don't have a leader," Chifuyu spilled with no stopping, shocking Takemitchy.

On the other hand, Chifuyu was confused about everything even though they already confirmed a couple of things, 'Then why'd Kisaki join Toman if he's Valhalla's leader? Does that crazy guy want Toman to fight with Vahalla? Was everything also his plan? Is baji-san going straight into the enemy's trap? WHAT'S KISAKI TRYING TO ACHIEVE?! STILL HAVE A LOT OF THINGS I DO NOT UNDERSTAND. Is Takemitchy thinking the same thing as what I'm thinking right now?'

Takemitchy and Chifuyu parted ways after more minutes of spending time together. Takemitchy said he had to meet up with Naoto, and Chifuyu agreed because he had been out of touch for a while now, and he thinks Y/n might be worried to death now.

'OCTOBER 29, 2004

3'rd person's POV

"Why'd you call me on such short notice, Draken?" Draken looked behind him to see the man he's waiting to arrive since an hour ago, "Been a long time, Kazutora." The lad just looked at him, unbothered, and didn't even greet him back.

"The fight that's coming up, you wanna call it off? 'Cause whether you win or lose, I won't be happy either way... I think no one will, except for your ego.

I don't get it Kazutora, why do you hate Mikey? He gave a good testimony for you, though. Thanks to that, your sentence was reduced. How do you think he felt when..."

Kazutora, who was looking down, decided to cut Draken off, "Shut up... two years... two years of my precious life... spent inside those walls. None of you visited me except for Baji. And then that one person suddenly forgot me all of a sudden. I thought I wasn't able to get out of there with a sane attitude. It felt like hell, Draken.

All of those pain and endurance... made me the person I am now, and the person I am now is not the person I was back then. So it's useless to call me here."

"But I am still your friend!" Draken resorted back. Kazutora didn't release any emotion, even though he wants to laugh at how pathetic Draken is in front of him. He started walking away slowly, still talking, "That's what I hate about you, Draken. Toman's getting crushed the day after tomorrow."

"Mikey doesn't want this."

"He's not the law, so am I, Draken. I can do whatever I want, and he can do whatever he wants even if a lot of people will disagree," with that saying, Kazutora left without even looking back.

Draken found himself standing next to Mikey, staring at the city lights across them, reflecting on the sea. "Is there really no going back? What would... my big brother do..."

"Who knows? Talk it over with your CB250T until you're satisfied."

"Will Y/n be able to change Baji's mind if she knew Baji would side Kazutora?" Mikey asked while caressing the seat of his bike. Draken's attention was caught, remembering your name after for a while, "Yes, for me, it's a yes. Maybe that's the reason why Baji hid the truth from her, because if she might change his mind."

Mikey smiled, "Too bad, she wasn't here. We really needed her this time..."

"You can't blame her for being away, Mikey. Y/n's not naive. She probably knows Baji's hiding things from her, including his breakup with Hanako. It wasn't new for her since Baji already hid one important thing from her. She needs rest and space to think about everything. I would go crazy too if the person I like is being suspicious for months."

Mike chuckled, "Yeah... I wonder how she would react to all of this if she came back with her brother being beaten to pulp and Baji betraying Toman."

Draken placed his hand inside his pocket, "She's probably going to kick Kazutora's ass like how she kicked you back then. She's recklessly brave..."

"Draken, I really adore Y/n. I am also aware of her past... even if I am raging mad right now, I still want to keep Baji safe during the fight. Y/n already experienced her first heartbreak, just like me... with the loss of one of our family members. It was more to depression in what I felt when my brother died... and I can't imagine how she went through all that. Now things had become more dangerous for us, for her brother, and for Baji, I sincerely don't want Y/n to be crushed again."

Draken nodded, agreeing to Mikey. "Just tell me what you want to do, Mikey. I'll do it."

"Protect Baji from harm this Halloween, not for me, but for Y/n."

"I am doing this because I had seen your state when Shinichiro-kun died, and it's the most terrible situation. Even if Y/n and I aren't close, we've made memories together. This is all I can do to prevent sadness in getting in touch with her again," Draken reminded. Sighing before letting out those words. 'I had been mean to her since our first encounter, but that was because I thought she's going to end up like how Hanako did. I misjudged her at first, but she's not that bad... consider this as compensation, Y/n... Y/n-chan.'

It was really late at night, and Baji found himself sitting in front of Sano Shinichiro's grave, lighting a bunch of incense sticks. His mind is everywhere, but right, now he has wanted to say sorry to Shinichiro. Ever since that accident, Baji visits a lot of times just to say sorry and bring some stories for Shinichiro on how Mikey is doing good.

"How'd ya doin' there in the afterlife, Shinichiro-kun... pardon me for what I did these past few days. If Mikey ever got angry with me, it's all part of my plan that I have in mind. All these months, I tried to find Kazutora, and I eventually did but talking him out of revenge is hard.

I tried... Shinichiro-san. I tried not to bring violence into this... because things might get out of control, and I might... have to sacrifice a few things.

And I was right. Kazutora didn't intend to keep me by his side forever. He let me enter Valhalla so he can kill me too... It's a long story, but It's great that I overheard his conversation with Kisaki. Because therefore, I can say goodbye to the girl I love before I... die? I guess.

At least, I was prepared. I promise that I'm gonna end the conflict between Kazutora and Mikey right after the fight, even if I have to let Kazutora kill me. So Shinichiro-kun, you can rest well now, I am already close to fixing this, and I am sorry for everything, for being one of the reasons for your death. I want you to know that I'd give my life for you to be alive again. That's how much Mikey and our friendship mean to me.

About the girl I love, you might say that I do not treasure her because I am willing to die right now. Well, you're wrong, Shinichiro-san. I love her so much that I can let her go for her to lead a happy life away from danger I'd bring."

Baji found himself crying to the fact of not knowing what will happen to him during the brawl... He wasn't crying because there's no guarantee of his safety. But because if he really is dying, he at least wants to see you before that happens. "I really miss her, Shinichiro-kun. I wish I could hold her hand."

"I do not get why they call me strong... but I guess even the strong ones still need help and comfort."

You sneezed out of nowhere while talking to Chifuyu on the phone, making him worry. "Are you okay, neesan? You better not catch a cold there."

"I am okay, but don't change the topic. Where were you the other day? Do you know how worried I was? It has been like what, 5 days?"

Chifuyu nervously laughed, "Well, I was with the guys. They were so loud, you know them... So I prolly didn't hear, and my phone also ran out of battery. I was out the whole day."

"Still, you could've called back."

"Well, I am busy too, neesan. Hehe"

"You make it too obvious that you're lying, anyways. I am coming home, so let's visit dad's grave, and I am finally doing my final interview tomorrow. After so, I'll go buy something for you to bring home. And I also... have to deliver a letter for Hanako from Baji."

Chifuyu's eyes widened, 'shit, is she coming home the day of the brawl? It'll be hard because mostly planes depart at night, and the brawl is at night.'

"Chifuyu? Why'd you stayed quiet? You don't want me home?" Chifuyu snapped back to reality, "No! no, it's not that, neesan. What time will you arrive?"

"Hm, I don't know. I did not even book a flight yet. No rush, I mean I can just make up an excuse to as why was I absent, HAHAHA." Chifuyu was praying you won't be home, not until the brawl's done. "But mom said she'll stay for a few more days, you know her. She met one of her old classmates and wanted to spend more time."

Chifuyu sighed, "Oh, it's alright. Let mom be. It's been a while since she's been with friends. And her company is strict. Maybe she's taking advantage of it for now because who knows when she'll get another vacation because of heavy works."

"Yeah, anyways. I'm going to hang up, be careful there, Chifuyu."

"You too, neesan. You can hang up first."

"Alright, love you."

"Same here."

'BAJI'S POV

I arrived home, tossing my keys somewhere in the living room before plopping myself on the couch when my phone rang, "Ugh, what is it now? Let me have a break." I lazily reached out for the phone in my pocket, seeing it was a message from Chifuyu. "Why is he texting me like I just didn't beat the shit out of him 5 days ago?

Partner: "Hey, Baji-san. Neesan's going home. There's no actual date, though. That's all... but I think it'll be on November 1st."

Up until now, even after what happened, he's still updating me about Y/n... Is he dumb? Don't he love his sister? Why is he teaming up with me... when I hurt Y/n the most.

Partner: "Baji-san, I do not expect a reply. But I want you to know that I am not mad at you. I know what you're trying to do."

He knows? Who told him? What is he talking about? I left the message on seen and headed towards my room to open the study lamp before grabbing a piece of paper.

My eyes caught the pieces of papers on the side that is placed on a box. I crouched over to look at it, seeing it's all the love letters I wrote for Y/n.

Half of the letters are written when I dropped out of school, then the other is when she's still unconscious. It was a journal, not a love letter, but as time passes, my pen's already writing what I feel towards her.

Every letter is a different form of appreciation and confession. I admit that I am not great at literature, but Y/n taught me that what matters the most in writing is the honesty in every word, sentence, phrase, and sentiment placed in it.

If I remember it clearly, I put numbers at the end of the paper to indicate their orders, but since I pull one out of the box each time to get motivated or to cheer myself up, they've gone messy and out of sequence.

I picked all of it up from the box and placed them softly on the ground because I might rip them. I sat down, seeing there's nothing left inside the carton before starting to arrange all of it by the numbers written at the bottom of every paper.

It took me 10 minutes because I didn't realize there were hundreds of letters already. Well, I started back in May until October. Of course, it'll be over a hundred already. The funny part is that I never showed even one of them to her. It wasn't my intention to hide these. It just happened to be the wrong time for us.

"And... the last one, 139," I said, grabbing the last paper behind me and stacking it up with the others. "Wow, I can create a book with these, HAHAHA."

Maybe I really should give it to her... 139 letters, huh...?

I closed my eyes while placing the paper in my face, trying to think about Y/n, when an unexpected memory flashed.

"Son, how much money did you get from your mom?"

"I got 139! Let's go buy something. I'm hungry!" Baji said to his dad, who's busy with his cigarette, "Here, I'll add some...Now it's 140," The man said, grinning at his son. "Why does that matter, dad. Let's goooo, I'm hungryyyyy."

His dad chuckled at him before finishing the cigarette and crouching on to his son's level, "Let me tell you something about the number 139 as we walk to the store, noh?"

"I've had enough of your grandma stories, dad." His dad lets out a laugh carrying him on a piggyback ride, "You really got that sassy attitude from your mom, huh? This grandma stories might help you one day, you know, hehe."

"Fine, what is it this time?" Baji said, pouting, hugging his father by the neck. "Alright, just don't strangle me," Keisuke nodded, "My mother, which is your grandma, always says that 139 represents death and the start of something new..."

"That's silly, dad. How can a number represents death?"

"You'll understand."

"You added money into my hands to make it 140. Does that mean something?"

"Yes, happiness and love."

Keisuke roamed his eyes to see a sniper at the top of one of the buildings. He remained silent and tap his dad's shoulders, "Hm? What is it, Keisuke?"

"There's a guy on top of that building. He has a gun, dad. Is he trying to kill someone?" Keisuke said innocently. His dad looked at the top of the building to see where the gun is aimed at.

"Oi, Ryosuke, Keisuke! long time," Keisuke and his dad looked at the person who called their attention only to see his uncle, "Uncle Haru!" Keisuke got off his dad's back to ran towards his uncle.

Ryosuke looked back at where the sniper was, only to see that it was aimed at his son Keisuke and his brother Haru. He immediately ran to both of them, "Keisuke! Haru! Run!"

Haru looked at him confusingly, "Huh? What do you mean—," It all happened fast, and the gunshot was so loud for Keisuke to take.

As Keisuke opened his eyes, he saw his uncle hugging him, and behind his uncle was his dad, coughing blood, smiling at him. "Dad... Uncle, uncle! Dad is... dad is..." Haru turned around to see his brother protecting his back.

"Run, Haru, Keisuke."

"Aniki..." was all Haru could say, "Don't say anything else, and take Keisuke with you, now, Haru!" Haru hesitated at first, including Keisuke, who's already crying, "No! We won't leave you here, dad."

"I'll be right behind the both of you, but you both need to run now, okay? Now go, don't ever look back," Ryosuke said, caressing his son's face, wiping Keisuke's tears. "When I come home, I'll bring you food, alright?"

Keisuke nodded, handing his father the money that had been wrapped in his palms all this time, "Alright, here... buy me my favorite." Ryosuke just nodded, seeing his son running away from him...

Keisuke didn't look back and followed his dad's instructions, not until he heard another continuous sound of a gunshot. Haru covered Keisuke's eyes, not letting him hear his father get shot a lot of times.

Keisuke heard money clacking in his pocket. He took them out to see it was the money his father added to make it 140. And that's when he looked back, realizing the money he gave his father was only 139...

"139 really symbolized death..."

I opened my eyes after that lengthy flashback, "Shit, why do I remember those in times like this..." My eyes caught the last paper with the number 139 on the bottom. "139..." I stood up from lying on the ground to sit back on my study table, grabbing my pen and a piece of blank paper.

If I really am gonna disappear, at least I'd be able to leave behind love and happiness to her. I do not want her to be sad at all. All I desire her to feel is the love that I felt for her all these months.

My hand proudly wrote the number 140 at the bottom of the blank paper, "140, my last letter."

If I may say, this last letter's the hardest to write... I also placed a lot of effort into this. To prevent me from being greedy and to limit her to grow more compassion for me, I had been giving Y/n all this time the bare minimum of my feelings.

She doesn't deserve the bare minimum. And I know this letter won't make a difference, but I at least want to tell her that I didn't mean to hurt her and neglect her all of a sudden. I want her to know that she deserves more...

Before my eyes can perceive it, it was already morning, the sun shining through my window, hitting my ears and the side of my face as I continue to write.

My pen ran out of ink as soon as I wrote my name and finished the letter. I threw the pen across the room before folding the paper and putting it in a separate envelope and placed them neatly in an average size brown box. "Geez, you couldn't even find a prettier crate, Keisuke," I said to myself.

I went to the bathroom to brush my teeth and take a quick shower before putting on his oversized black shirt and black pants together with his Valhalla uniform. "I'll kill Kisaki while I am at it."

Even if I let Kazutora kill me, I won't let it slide just like that. I still need to do something about it because I have someone to lose now... unlike the other days of my life, I can be reckless. Let's just say I don't want to die, but at the same time, I am ready to accept death with open arms just for everything to be subtle between my friends. Damn, I love those pricks.

And I certainly won't let Kisaki put Kazutora back in Jail after getting what he wants. That loser will die in my arms before he can even fulfill his original objectives towards Toman.

I grabbed the carton with my hand before heading outside to my bike, opening the toolbox after removing the tools inside it. I'm glad the box fits.

I opened my phone, seeing the current date, 10/30/2004.

Yesterday was too fast. Not just yesterday but this week's too fast...

My phone vibrated, receiving a message from Chifuyu, "Woah, that's... I was gonna text him first."

Chifuyu: "Let's meet up later in xxx at 3 pm, Baji-san. I've got something to tell you."

I did not reply then after that. That's how we communicate anyways. We text each other the place, and we'll just meet there.

l.s

Chapter Text

'OCTOBER 30, 2004

3'rd Person's POV

"You did great! We'll send you a letter of confirmation of your success. Congrats on getting through here, Ms. Matsuno," The man in the suit said, standing and shaking your hand. "I can truly understand what you mean by that, no offense, but that interview was really intense, sir."

The man chuckled, letting go of your hand, "Yeah, I get that a lot, but you know, I am just doing my job." You nodded with a smile in response. "Your English is very pleasant, Ms. Matsuno."

"Oh, thank you, well, my mom's a businesswoman. She tends to get a client from all around the globe, so she needs to learn the international language, and I decided to join in sometimes."

"That's great, well. I am happy to say that this is the end of your application. You're not gonna go through a lot of trouble from now on," you slightly bow your head, saying thanks.

You placed your folders inside your bag, heading to the nearest bus stop, which is 3 minutes away. You took the letter from your bag to look at Hanako's said address. You sighed, realizing how much effort you're putting into delivering the letter. This day is supposed to be your shopping day and a rest day before going back home. You even took time finding out the directions, "Why am I doing this..."

'I heard the Imperial college have dorms, but the address was like a neighborhood's address,' you thought to yourself. It wasn't that long until you found yourself inside a very average neighborhood. The house looks very elegant and close to each other.

Your eyes spotted the right door and calmly walked near it, stepping at the stairs.

'Y/N'S POV

'Shit, this is it. I am meeting Hanako-san. Gaaaaah, I'm such a thick-faced person,' I decided to knock on the door, but my hand stopped midway when the door opened, revealing couples sucking each other's faces.

I remained silent even with the shock and embarrassment I felt all over me. "Yeah, I'll be back later. You can let go now?" the guy said sweetly to his lover. "Be fast, though!"

"Yeah, I'll sneak out later to see you, bye."

They both kissed each other goodbye in front of me, 'Heh, you know what, maybe I am in the wrong house after all.'

I decided to step back and leave when the girl pulled me back, "Hello, can I help you?" I don't know what to say, uh, should I just say if she knows where Hanako Euno lives? She may know, since— AH FUCK IT.

"I got the wrong house, sorry—," I turned my back on her, and she pulled me again by the shoulders, "You look strangely familiar. Tell me what brings you here."

"Uh, I am looking for Hanako Euno. Her boyfriend wanted me to give something to her," the girl looked at me with confusion, "Huh? What do you mean? My boyfriend just left a while ago. What you talkin' about?"

'Huh? What is this crazy woman saying,' "Uh, I do not understand what you just said, but do you know who Hanako Euno is, so I can send her the letter?"

"Yeah, you're... talking to her. Me, I am Hanako, you?" My eyes widened in disbelief, 'She's Hanako? Then who's that guy she was kissing earlier? Wait... did I just witness cheating for the first time in my life?! What do I do, what do I do.'

"Are you... cheating on Baji?" I asked. I do not care if I sound rude or whatever but, this isn't right. How can she do this kind of terrible thing?

"What?! How— well, I did but not anymore— just come inside!" She pulled me in as I resisted, but she's hesitated. I don't want to hurt her either. I sat on the nearest couch, watching her panic, "Wow, that stupid ass crack. Did he not tell you?!"

'Tell me? Tell me what? Baji didn't tell me what? But that's not what I'm here for. This is their relationship, and it's not like Baji's innocent at all. He's cheating on Hanako. On top of it, it was me, and I am here in front of her.'

"Listen, this is not what I intend to do here. I just wanted to give you this letter from Baji," Hanako didn't hesitate to snatch it from my hand. I stood up when she already got a hold of the paper. "NO! Stay here, Y/n-chan!"

"How does she know my—,"

"THAT BASTARD!" I was startled, hearing her shout suddenly, ripping the paper. "Alright, listen, Y/n-chan. Did he send you all the way here only for that letter?" she said, shaking my shoulder, "Uh, no. I was going to talk to you about something. But I guess I really don't have to—."

"Spill it! TALK IT OUT WITH ME. I AM GONNA TAKE MY REVENGE ON THAT BRAT," Hanako said, clenching her hand while showing it to me as some mad anime character. "He made me look like a cheater in front of you, that piece of— Anyways, I do not care anymore, I am gonna expose him."

Hanako then lets go of me and headed to the kitchen, "Wait there, I'm gonna make some tea for us before I spill it, hehe, get it? No? yeah."

Well, I stayed silent and seated. 'That was weird. I always thought Hanako-san was quiet and calm and veeeeerrrryyy strict. But she passed my 'I wanna befriend her/him standard'— Hey, what am I even saying? She's Baji's legal girlfriend,' I slapped my face a few times before Hanako came back, noticing me irritating myself.

"Hey, what's the matter? You don't need to overthink. I won't hurt you. Anyways I bet Baji's acting weird ever since you guy came home from Kyoto." I looked at her in shock while sipping the warm tea she made, "Huh? How did you even know—," she lightly tapped my back, laughing. "AHAHHA, oh come on, I might not be in Shibuya all the time but, I know how he works sometimes. Baji's hard to read. BOYS ARE HARD TO READ."

"You mean, you've been there recently?" Hanako sighed, placing her tea on the table, "He really didn't tell you anything, honey? How dare he made me look like a lying cheater in front of you and made you look stupid too."

"Huh, are you calling me stupid?"

"I mean, he did make you one. Bet you were scared of me, thinking that I am still in a relationship with that bastard," Hanako said calmly, placing her hand on my shoulder, "Get it, Y/n-chan?"

'What does she even mean by that? She's the hardest to communicate, I swear to G— Wait... but, I kinda understand it, maybe I am just denying the truth.' I grabbed the ripped letter Baji wrote, making Hanako look at me. "Oh, sorry, I ripped it. But Baji said that I should keep his secret."

"Secret? What secret?"

Hanako sighed again a lot of times now, "Mattaku, he didn't really give you even one hint, huh? Honey, Baji broke up with me months ago. Maybe right even before you woke up, I don't know, it's been so long, I forgot the date."

My eyes widened in disbelief, "R...really?"

"Yeah, I'm sorry you have to hear it from me."

"Then why? Why isn't Baji communicating with me about what's happening between us if you guys are already over?" Hanako closed her mouth as soon as I asked that question. "Hanako-san, are you hiding something from me too? Please tell me already..."

"Tell me everything I did not know, Hanako-san. Even if I am mad, I am still worried to death about him. Why is he acting all suspicious? He dropped out and just neglected me, he talks to me, and then one day he disappears on me, then appears again like a fucking ghost."

Hanako didn't budge, "That I can't tell you... it's just... doesn't have to do with me, I might risk your life too. Baji said, given your attitude, you'll rush up to help him if you knew what he's planning to do."

"So he really is planning something? Tell me, Hanako-san!" I pleaded, with my hands in hers. Why is it so hard to tell me? I am not a baby who would run away, scared. The truth is I am still shaken up by what happened in Kyoto, but it was not just because I got beaten up badly, but because when Chifuyu told me all of what happened to Baji before they even arrived in Kyoto; scared me... I do not know why but my heart was racing, and I started to question myself that "What if I lose him too?"

I might deny it to everyone and my brain that I do not have anything to feel towards that prick, I know, and my heart knows that deep inside, I do! and it's worsening... The word 'I like him' couldn't even follow up.

Hanako looked at me with pity, and I do not even care about that. I just want her to tell me. "Fine... I can't see you beg me like this. I have a soft spot for innocent and pretty people like you," Said Hanako, scratching the back of her head.

"Baji sent me a letter before you have gone into an accident. He said he wants to talk to me about our relationship. I did not reply because I was in my dorm, and the only address he knew was the address to my original house, which is here.

I got the letter the night I went home from a busy week in the Imperial College. When I saw it, I mentally agreed because I need to tell him something too. But it wasn't easy for me to just travel, and I couldn't find a whole vacant week for me to meet up with him. At first, I just wanted to send a letter, but it's better if he and I talked it out personally.

Then I found out I am free the whole first week of June because of the event happening, and there, I immediately book a flight home to Tokyo, then I met up with him days after I landed.

Baji was late for 15 minutes if I remember it right. Turns out he traveled from Kyoto to Tokyo on a bullet train. I asked about his bike, he said it was with a guy named Chifuyu. He didn't bother wanna talking about other stuff. Baji just wanted to end things up with me quickly because he already knew that I was cheating on him before I can even tell him.

I guess someone snitched on me, but I did not care about that. I do not have any excuses. We then broke up. Actually, both of us broke up with each other since it was already clear that we already fell in love with different people. I, with that guy you saw earlier. And Baji, with you."

'Lie... this is a lie... don't get my hopes up like that,' I said to myself, not believing the last part. "Uso darou."

Hanako stood up from the couch, pointing her fingers at me, "huh? Uso ja nai yo! I may lie about being loyal but, but this is different, Y/n-chan! Baji really does feel something for you."

"If he does, then why didn't he say so? It can't be that he's afraid that I don't feel the same... I feel like I've been so obvious and transparent."

Hanako stayed quiet before sitting again, "Well, it may be because of Kazutora Hanemiya." That name, I heard that name somewhere... "Does it ring a bell, Y/n-chan? Looks like it."

"Yeah, can you tell me more about him?"

"Well, he's a... psychopath?? I don't know, but he sure thinks like one. I don't want to be mean, though. He and Baji go all the way back until that Kazutora guy got in prison. That's all I know. Baji didn't tell me why at first."

'Bingo! Kazutora, that guy... I remember him now. He's the guy who Baji told me about when we're riding that stupid carousel in Bunkyo!'

"Yeah, I know him, Hanako-san. What's that guy have to do with Baji and me?"

"Well, when I told you that he's a psychopath, he really is. Baji told me everything that day when we met again. He said Kazutora killed someone and blamed it on somebody else when it was already shown that he smacked that guy's head real hard."

(Hanako and Baji talked regarding a lot of things, but I thought that wasn't necessary to add since It'll be a waste of time to type, and it's going to be mentioned in this chapter about what Hanako and Baji talked of, anyway. So why bother repeating it?)

"Anyways, Kazutora's a jealous and possessive type of a guy, according to Baji. Baji doesn't want Kazutora to know more about you because Kazutora might do something unpleasant to you, considering his attitude.

Not to say that your mother also talked it out with Baji, that she didn't want her daughter in danger. On the other hand, Baji, who also feels the same as your mother, followed. If you didn't mean anything to him, he would lash out at your mom for trying to separate you two. But he remained silent and agreed because he loves you enough for you to be entangled with his mess and getting you hurt."

"And you, you already set your mind from the beginning that you won't fall for a delinquent because of your trauma. And hey, Y/n-chan, I am not saying that your trauma should be forgotten but, if it's getting into your way of life in the present, then maybe it's good to let go of it and just leave it where it belongs... the past. The past is where the past belongs, not in the present, and not in the future either."

"How can you even tell that he likes me just be because you visited once? No offense but, that's kind of hard to believe," I said, sipping all of my remaining tea.

Hanako sighed before getting up from her seat to walk towards a Huge bookshelf with cabinets below. The woman crouched down to get something from inside one of the sections. It was all envelopes and just papers in her hand. "You know what this is, Y/n-chan?"

I nodded, "Letters? Emails?" Hanako sat beside me with the letters in her lap, "Ever since the mid-April, the starting of a new school year. Baji sent me an uncontrollable amount of emails. I mean— not that much, but he sends like 4 times a week. Anyways, I read each of 'em, and I noticed how different it was from before."

"Yeah, of course, It'll be different. I tutored Baji in my free time," I answered. Hanako grabbed letters that are sealed with a twine. "This, this bunch of letters, they are not for me. At first, I thought he just improved in literature, but it was seemingly weird." Hanako untied the brown rope, handing me the letters.

"What do you want me to do with this?"

Hanako sighed, "Duh, open it. It started being weird weeks later. When I read it, I feel like it's not for me but for somebody else." I brushed the old pieces of paper with my fingers while looking at the letters organized by date.

"That, that's the first letter where I come up with these speculations," she said, pointing at the letter. "And this, this one was the first that I thought was weird." I looked at the letter, seeing the date was the same as when, Chifuyu and I went to eat with two unknown guys, who turns out to be gang leaders and vice leaders. I opened the letters, confirming it's the letter Baji first wrote together with me in the diner. (chap 4)

I moved on to the proceeding letter and then the next and then next. "I helped Baji write these letters, Hanako-san. What's odd about it? What do you mean it's not for you? They are for you."

"No, they are not. Look at the time difference between these two letters," Hanako said, grabbing another two letters making me dizzy. "They have a couple days difference..." you answered.

"Yeah, he stopped sending for almost a week, which is odd because I always receive letters from Japan every day. And then after that, Baji sent me a mail. It's a serious one, I can tell. He said he wanted to talk about our relationship." Hanako explained.

"I remember that date. It's when we just got home from Bunkyo, Tokyo. So he wrote you a letter that day...?" I suddenly remembered what happened in Bunkyo, 'did Baji send Hanako that last letter because he felt bad about kissing me?'

I slap myself away from the thought, "Why didn't you reply to his letters if you're receiving them perfectly?"

Hanako squeezed my cheeks in difficulty, "Y/n, tell me. How am I supposed to respond to a Love letter to which I am not the subject?... I didn't mean not writing back. Listen carefully, my name might be written in there, but it's not for me. Baji fucked up his letters. Look here, he said in one of his sentences that he loves the way I land my fist on someone without hesitation. WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT? I NEVER PUNCHED SOMEONE IN MY ENTIRE LIFE, BUT MAYBE YOU DID, Y/N-CHAN." Hanako said with a terrible facial expression.

"And look, it didn't end there. Baji also said, "Your eyes are shining today," WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT? THAT WAS CREEPY, WAS HE STALKING ME?"

I busted out of laughing hearing Hanako complain, "Don't laugh at me like that, Y/n-chan," said Hanako, pouting. I continued laughing my ass off, "Sorry, it's just that he said he wanted to have a normal conversation with you through letters, so that's why he did that. But yes, I agree that was creepy HAHAHAHA."

"But jokes aside, Y/n-chan... I really think those letters are for you. If you read and imagine it well, it looks like Baji's writing them while looking at you..."

"Yeah, of course, he would look at me because I am his tutor—,"

"Come on, why are you like this? He fucking likes you. Get it? BAJI LIKES YOU, want me to show you proof? Here, open the fuckin letter and read the first phrase."

I accepted the paper she's handing me, reading it out loud. I was shocked at how it started without an intro and just directly written, "Let's talk about what goes on between us, Hanako-san. This might be improper to say to you, but I think I am starting to like someone, and I am sorry. I wanted to talk before my feelings will grow more. I don't want to fancy someone while having a relationship with you because I respect you. Respectfully, Keisuke Baji."

"He didn't say my name, though—," before I can even contradict, she pointed her fingers on the area where my last name was written. Looking at it made you think for a second, trying to sink the word in your mind, "The person I like is the girl sitting in front of me in class, she's sassy but... I like her. Her surname's Matsuno."

My face started heating up, and your heart raced, 'Baji... likes me?' Somehow I feel alive after months of being depressed and neutral.

I stood up without knowing it, grabbing my bag from the table, and ran out of Hanako's house, finding my way back to my hotel to pack my things. I hear Hanako-san calling my name, but I did not look back and continued to sprint my way out.

'Somehow, everything that Hanako-san said gives me light and wisdom to all that's kept hidden to me. So this is what Baji was carrying all this time? And All I did was force him to communicate with me when he was trying his best to stay away from me because he thinks he's a menace?!'

'Right now, I just... I just want to see him.'

I am so overwhelmed by the fact that h loves me back. I do not care if Baji didn't clarify it to me himself! But I was already pathetic enough before this. It wouldn't hurt more to assume, right?

Suddenly memories keep coming back, those days we spent in Kyoto, and all the obstacles we've been through, it all keeps flashing back, and I can't help but be more overwhelmed than before.

This feeling I am feeling right now is very insufficient. I feel like I am gonna burst out of feeling too much Joy and Love.

I WANNA SEE HIM

I WANNA SEE HIM

I WANNA SEE HIM

I WANNA SEE HIM

The feeling of his arms wrapped around mine as we ran away together everywhere we want is now lingering like it was just yesterday.

The red bus stopped in front of me, and I got in as soon as it rested. I sat on the nearest seat, panting. I got my phone out to try to call Chifuyu even with the long process, but he wasn't answering again.

'What the hell is happening in Shibuya right now? Chifuyu's acting fishy so is Baji. How can Chifuyu not call me knowing that I would worry? He knows my attitude. He never does this kind of thing before. It's not because it was hard calling from overseas. It's just that he won't pick up at all!'

I grabbed the other phone, the one that Baji handed to me. It had all the contacts of Toman's captains and vice-captains. But they are out of reach as well.

It made me remember when Baji and I were in a restaurant in Kyoto, and I was begging him to call Chifuyu for me not to worry.

"Hmm, but can't we call Chifuyu? I just want to hear his voice," I guess it can't be helped then, but there's a problem.

"I don't mind but, Chifuyu doesn't have a phone," Baji said, making me sulk.

"Then, what about Mikey-kun?"

"Mikey doesn't really care about things such as phone."

"Then, Draken!"

"He has bad hearing when it comes to phone notification."

"That lilac-haired guy!"

"Mitsuya's phone prolly got cracked or something. He texted me using Hakkai's phone."

"Then Hakkai! or whoever that is."

"Hakkai doesn't charge his phone often unless Mitsuya does it for him, and he prolly is away from Chifuyu right now."

"How about the other toman members—," I stopped suggesting for names to call when Baji's phone rang. He opened it to see Draken in the caller ID. "Great, It's Draken."

I snatched the phone not a second after he mentioned Draken's name. "Hello?"

"Hi, Neesan, you enjoying?" I felt relieved hearing my brother's voice. "Oh, I guess you're good. Ahhh, finally, I can digest my food. I've been worrying about you."

I chuckled, remembering we were already making memories even if they were a Lil stupid... 'Spending time with Baji will tire you, but it's worth all your sweat.' I did not even discern I was already wiping my own tears away. The emotions inside me are all jumbled up, making me want to whine, scream, smile, laugh, and knocked the shit out of Baji.

It wasn't that long for me to arrive in front of the hotel I stay in. I went ahead and proceeded to get and pack all of my things. I don't know why but I get that ugly feeling that something's going on bad in Shibuya, and since when did my intuition failed me? Or maybe I really just want to see Baji.

I do not care whatever his response is, but I wanna let it out... 'I like you, Keisuke Baji—No, let's save it when we see him.' Heading to the airport was a piece of cake, but the heaviness of my bag really is a bitch.

"Hello, uh. I would like to take the next flight to Tokyo, I don't care which seat, or I just don't care. Please give me the next fastest plane to Tokyo," I said, stuttering in between my words. The lady smiled light at me, soothing me with her hands, "Calm down, ma'am. Now, tell me, is this an emergency?"

"Yes... yes, it is."

"Alright, but I feel sorry to tell you that all flights to Tokyo within the next hours are all booked until tomorrow," my shoulders fell with her answer. "Is there really no way to get into a plane back to Tokyo?" the lady stayed calm, "No, unless you want to sneak in the plane, ma'am. But I do not suggest that because our airline has the tightest security."

"I suggest you take the earliest and only available flight tomorrow if you want? But the only tickets left are the first class, it's pretty expensive if I may. I guess that's why only a few booked a ticket."

"When is that flight gonna be?"

"It'll be at 12 PM tomorrow, October 31. It'll take you directly to Tokyo at midnight or dawn on November 1st. You can rest at the nearest hotel while waiting," the lady suggested.

"Yeah, yeah, I'll take that first class. Can I wait here until my plane arrives?"

"Yeah, of course. But it'll be uncomfortable, ma'am."

"It's alright. I've been through worse," I opened my wallet to take my credit card out, "I'll go withdraw, and please save that ticket for me. I'll be quick." The lady nodded, "Alright, but be sure to get here fast, ma'am. We really don't save tickets, but I'll do it for you."

'SHIBUYA, TOKYO. OCTOBER 30, 2004

A day before the big fight between Valhalla and Toman.

3'rd person's POV

Takemitchy broke the silence between him and Chifuyu, "It's finally happening tomorrow!!" Chifuyu hummed in response, "before that, I want you to come with me somewhere, Takemitchy."

"Huh? Where are we going, Chifuyu?" said Takemichi, following Chifuyu from the back.

"To see the person I'm supposed to meet in 3." Takemitchy walked faster to walk beside Chifuyu, "But I thought you said you haven't got any reply?"

Chifuyu continued to walk, "He'll be there, I swear."

Takemichi stopped his tracks and closed his eyes for a second, thinking who Chifuyu might be meeting. 'Gah, I hope he ain't meeting someone from Valhalla.'

The lad opened his eyes as soon as he heard Chifuyu talk, "Sorry to call you here all of a sudden, Baji-san."

Takemitchy ran beside Chifuyu, 'Huh?!?! didn't I just wish not to see this guy. He's scary!' Takemitchy said to himself.

Baji, who's leaning on the railing while staring at the bright blue sky, rose up and composed himself before looking at Chifuyu, "Whadd'ya callin' me for? Do wanna get your ass beat up again... Chifuyu?"

Takemitchy trembled, still hiding, "get yourself together, Takemitchy, what the fuck?"

"Ah, so what the hell did you call me here for, Chifuyu?" Baji said, irritated.

"Have you got a lead on Kisaki yet, Baji-san?" Chifuyu asked to hope to get answers from Baji. "Huh?" Baji was surprised on the inside by what Chifuyu just said.

That made him think to himself, 'Does Chifuyu know about what I'm planning to do? No, that's impossible. Even Draken doesn't have any clue, so who would even tell him? If Chifuyu already knew that I was looking for Kazutora this whole time, then that's just it. The only person who knows the real reason why I joined Valhalla are Shinichiro-kun and me.'

'Did Chifuyu read... no? It can't be.'

Chifuyu spoke again, "You're acting as a spy for Toman, right? Don't even lie. You may fool the other members, but not me. I did some looking around myself together with Takemitchy and found out Kisaki's a pretty nasty guy. Like nasty, nasty, Baji-san.... You don't need to stay in Valhalla anymore!"

Baji got off from leaning on the railing while lazily looking at the blonde, "The fuck're you saying? HAHAHA, you're funny."

"Tomorrow, if the fight starts..." said Chifuyu, looking down and lifting his head to continue, "Baji-san, you'll become Toman's enemy for real!!"

"Chifuyu... what have I told you before over and over again when your sister and I are away? 'Don't trust anybody but your friends,' right? I'm part of Valhalla now, and we're gonna destroy Toman tomorrow!"

Chifuyu stayed quiet, remembering those words... "Go home. I'll look after your sister. And remember, Don't trust anybody but your friends."

Takemitchy stared at Chifuyu, "Chifuyu, can I have a word alone with, Baji-kun?"

"Listen, punk. I got no reason to talk one on one with you," said Baji. Takemitchy, on the other hand, starts remembering the words Draken announced in the future when Takemitchy time leaped the other day. That Baji's gonna get killed, so as Kazutora...

"I have no idea what your goal is, Baji-kun. I don't really care, actually... just... PLEASE MAKE IT THROUGH TOMORROW ALIVE."

Baji got the chills hearing those few words from a guy he never knew that deep, 'This guy is acting weird... 'please make it through tomorrow alive, huh?' What? Can he predict the future or Nah?'

"Huh?" was all Baji said. "Please, don't die... Baji-kun. It'll make Mikey-kun and Y/n-chan sad...REALLY SAD!"

"He's my enemy asshole. I'm killing him tomorrow. Go tell him that!"

"Then what about Y/n-chan?!" Takemitchy yelled back. "I do not know her Baji-kun. But I also have someone that I really like, and I can't hurt them. So how come you're not doing the same?"

Baji chuckled, placing his hands on Takemitchy's shoulder and whispering in his ear, "I do not know who told you about Y/n. But never question my feelings for her because I would kill to keep her safe. Now get your ass out of here."

Takemitchy stayed still, worrying about Y/n, 'If what Draken-kun in the future said was true, that Baji-kun's going to die in this battle during Halloween, then I need to stop that from happening. It's not only Mikey-kun and Chifuyu who would be affected if something Happened to Baji-kun... it'll affect Chifuyu's sister too... What I hate the most is seeing a woman cry. Did Baji-kun never got to think of what will Y/n-chan feel if something happens to him... Mattaku, he's so reckless. But as long as Chifuyu and I are there, we'll guard him.'

Takemitchy turned his back on Baji, making the lad confused, 'tf?' Baji thought to himself. He rolled his eyes at both of the towheads.

Chifuyu looked behind him to see both Takemitchy and Baji signaling that they were done talking. Takemitchy walked past him and left, leaving Chifuyu with Baji.

"Chifuyu..." Baji called the lad out. "hmm?"

Baji placed his hands inside the jacket's pocket to take the bike's key's duplicate, "Here, give it to your sister when she comes back. It's my bike's duplicate key, and tell her to open my toolbox. That'll be my last favor, Chifuyu."

Chifuyu looked at his palm to see a bunch of keys, "Alright..." The lad turned his back to the first person whom he idolized. He held his tears back, realizing he was wrong too. His speculations were wrong, 'Baji-san... Baji-san joined Valhalla because he wanted to, huh? I'm a fool to believe that I know him... after all, no one really knows what a person is like... not even themselves. But Baji-san, I hope you know what you're doing...'

Takemitchy looked up at the guy sitting on top of the park's monkey bars. It was Mikey. "I see, so you really couldn't change his mind even with Y/n's name. Well, it's not that I am using her to stop Baji in the first place." Takemitchy remained still, listening to Mikey.

"I see. When we were kids, Baji and I played on this jungle gym a lot, and we always fault all the time, then we'd make up right after. But this time, he's really out for me..." said Mikey, staring at the midnight blue sky, hoping that the sun won't rise up again, because he knew when it did, it'll be the day of the brawl... where he needs to fight his closest friend.

Takemitchy felt guilty about not being able to bring Baji back. But he knows that's not gonna be the end of it. He'll protect Baji, even when Takemitchy thinks that he cannot because Takemitchy thinks he's weak. 'I need to save Mikey... to save Hina... and everyone's feelings.'

"You did nothing wrong. It's not your fault if Baji doesn't wanna back down. Baji turned against Toman... the fight tomorrow... Toman's members have gone into battle mode."

Mikey stopped before speaking his last words, "AND... I'VE MADE UP MY MIND... Takemitchy."

'AIRPORT LONDON, UK. OCTOBER 31, 2004, 12:00 PM

3'rd person's POV

You threw the coffee can in a trash bin across from you while still sitting on the airport seat for almost forever. The amount of coffee you took wasn't enough to sate your exhaustion. It was too much to count.

"Gotta slow down with the caffeine. Your flight's in 10 minutes, darling. You don't wanna pass out, no?" An old lady said, lightly tapping your shoulders. "Sorry, Madam. I was here since last night, so yeah..."

The lady chuckled, "Yeah, I know. I saw. It Reminded me of my childhood, darling," you rose up to sit properly, "Really? What do you mean by that, Madam?"

She smiled at you sweetly, "Well, my first love is a foreigner. A gentleman from Japan went here on vacation. He stayed in our villa, and I work there for my parents to look after the house. And you know what happened."

"You fell in love with him."

"It's not simple. We had a lot of obstacles. His vacation became an adventure to pursue my parents because they didn't really approve of us in the first place. Mainly because of the long-distance and the history. Take note this was a Lil after the war."

"History? Do you mean the British Empire's war against Japan?"

"But what does that have to do with what you feel towards each other?"

"I do not know what my parents are thinking, but when he left to go back to his own country. I followed the next week without knowing where he lives. So I went to one of the shrines he talked to me about. I asked around if anyone saw him... until someone finally gave me an answer to his whereabouts."

Your eyes widened eagerly for what happened next, "Then, what happened?"

"I followed the instruction given to me, and I found myself in a cemetery. I did not understand what was written on that stone. Because I do not speak the Japanese language, but I know it was my man's name. Until then, I never found someone like him, so I stayed because nothing would ever replace him."

You covered your mouth in disbelief, "Oh no, I am sorry for your loss."

"Oh, don't be sorry. Go home, and get your guy. I bet he's waiting for you to tell him how much you love him," the lady said, shocking you, "How did you know?"

The lady chuckled, "You didn't listen, did you, huh?" you looked at her realizing what she meant, 'she's been in this situation before...'

"Now go, you don't wanna miss your plane, no?" You nodded, looking at your wristwatch, and bowed to her for the last time. "It was nice meeting you, Madam! I hope to see you again when I come back! My name's Y/n Matsuno! I'm not sure yet, but I am going to study law at King's college! Don't forget that!" You shouted while running towards the checking entrance.

The lady waved her hand, "I will remember you, Ms. Matsuno."

You got your tickets checked and went on to find your compartment, gladly a flight stewardess was there to guide you. It was your first time flying alone without your mother.

The pressure is eating you, but you remained calm now since you can't do anything but wait to arrive in Tokyo. Your back was sore from last night, making you close your eyes in pleasure fast as soon as your back got in contact with the soft seat. "Ahh, this is great."

You opened your eyes, recollecting all of what happened yesterday. 'So, I'll arrive there earlier than expected? I wonder what happened to me yesterday...'

Hanako's voice suddenly appeared, "Baji definitely likes you.." you covered your face with your palms, quietly squealing like a child. "Is this even right? That was his ex who told me... who would've thought that she'd be the person who would knock me to reality."

I am sorry to my future self because the present me decided to be reckless and just followed her heart. I have learned a lot from the people around me, especially Chifuyu. Why do I need to worry about the future? Where in fact, all of us don't know what's ahead of us.

And whatever decision you make in your present will indeed matter in the future, but the most important thing is to be happy even if you're making good or bad decisions.

After all, who says terrible decisions are bad decisions? Who said good decisions are good decisions? In the end, you are the one who's going to decide whether your life decisions are disastrous decisions or not.

The only thing that makes a decision wrong... is when you regret making it and choosing it.

If you ask me what kind of decision I am making right now. Well, it's a damn great decision.

People might say that he's dangerous for someone with fragile emotions like me, but I've been through worse. I've been in my first heartbreak due to the death of my father. And I am healing from it.

Wouldn't that make me a loser if I just let Baji leave me because he's afraid that someone might come and take me away from him? I trust Baji. I trust him ever since. What he did back in Kyoto made me trust him even more, and I know he's not gonna let anyone hurt me...

He is risking his life, and I can't even risk breaking my heart for him. So wait for me, Baji, and I am gonna make it up for you. It's always been you who had been taking care of me, and I don't think I ever reciprocated because It was the first time in a long time that I feel like I am safe. And when I am outside with you, I can breathe properly without worrying about who'll attack me any second... I was so drowned with your warmth that I forgot to give back.

I am sorry for being a coward and asking for too much from you at the same time... If only I opened my eyes sooner...

l.s

Chapter Text

'THE NIGHT BEFORE THE BATTLE, OCTOBER 30, 2004. 8 PM

3'rd person's POV

All the Tokyo Manji gang members' currently gathered in their usual spot, including all the captains. Draken, second in command, stepped in before speaking, "THE BATTLE MEETING FOR OUR FIGHT AGAINST VAHALLA... WILL NOW BEGIN!! So stand the hell up and listen!"

Everyone immediately stood up straight when they heard the order. "I'm glad to see you all here tonight," said Mikey. "Tomorrow, we're going head to head with Valhalla."

"They picked this fight with us, so there's nothing for us to gain!... also... Baji sided with our enemy! We don't go easy on traitors, isn't that what we discussed as Toman's Policy?!" The members shouted 'yes' in response to their commander.

Takemitchy quietly listened while Chifuyu sighed in failure, "There's no stopping this now... Takemitchy." The lad hummed in response to his friend.

Mikey became silent the whole time after, then he started to speak again, making his members give him a questionable look, "Can I... just be a kid?" Everyone was silent, trying to recollect what their commander just said.

Mikey dropped himself to the ground, sitting in front of everyone, even making all of the people around him confused, including Draken and the other captains. He lets out a sigh that means relief before speaking, "I don't wanna fight Baji," Mikey's smiling face shocked everyone the most since they are used to seeing their commander with an angry expression, serious, or a sulking one.

Takemitchy's mouth couldn't hold the surprise, making his mouth wide open. Takemitchy and Mitsuya grinned to themselves, hearing Mikey's voice. 'He really has a soft spot for his friends... Mikey, you're going great,' Draken thought to himself.

Their commander rose from his seat, "SO HERE'S MY SOLUTION, LEND ME YOUR STRENGTH, EVERYONE!!"

"TOMORROW, WE'RE GONNA CRUSH VALHALLA AND TAKE BAJI BACK! BECAUSE THAT'S HOW WE FIGHT OUR BATTLES!!"

Takemitchy can't help but smile because he knows everything will be alright if Mikey is on their side, and then maybe Baji-kun wouldn't have to die, Mikey-kun won't be sad, and Baji-kun can live his future with the woman he loves... 'Mikey-kun...'

The shrine went filled with cheering noises. On the other hand, it brought satisfaction to Kisaki, "This is it... this is what I wanted..."

Mikey felt Draken standing next to him, "Sorry, Kenchin. Did I fail as a leader?" Draken can't help but felt proud, "I think all these cheering answers that," just his answer made his friend feel light with all the heavy pressure.

'SHIBUYA, TOKYO. HOURS BEFORE THE BATTLE, OCTOBER 31, 2004, 9:00 AM

3rd person's POV

Baji straddled his back driving to the nearest cake store and arriving there in 5 minutes. The lady welcomed him with a smile which he ignored and headed towards the counter. "Hello, uhm, I'll have a cake..."

"Cake? Can you be more specific, sir?"

Baji looked at the display seeing beautiful designs, and one caught his eyes, a cake in your favorite color. "I'll have that one... the Uh, letter... B."

"Alright, what text would you like to add?"

"Can I write it myself? Like, I mean, can I do it myself? I know it's impossible but, it's for someone I really like...."

The lady smiled, "Sure! It's still early anyway. No one comes here at this hour. You can wait at one of the tables, and I'll prepare the care for you. I'll call you when it's time to write."

"Alright, uhm, can you deliver it to this address? And I know it's nuts but do you deliver at dawn so I can surprise her?" Baji said, placing the paper with your address on the counter. "I am sorry, but we don't deliver at dawn. We only deliver from 8 am to 11 pm in a day."

Baji nodded, "Tonight at 11 pm will do, and you can just leave it on the doorstep if no one answered."

"Alright, sir."

Chifuyu made his way inside the convenience store with Takemitchy getting something to eat before night falls, "Ohhh, good timing. I was hungry," Takemitchy said, immediately running to the noodle station as Chifuyu followed.

The lad looked at his friend, who can't choose what to eat, "Just pick, Takemitchy. We don't wanna miss out on the brawl." Takemitchy pouted, grabbing anything near, "Fine, then I'll take these."

Chifuyu looked at the noodle packaging in Takemitchy's hand. It was Baji's favorite... Peyoung Yakisoba.

"No, not that," Chifuyu contradicted. "Nandayo, Didn't you say pick anything?!" Takemitchy said, yelling at Chifuyu's face. "I don't want to eat that. Let's just go with this," said Chifuyu, grabbing another package. "Fine, it's yummy either way."

Chifuyu threw the noodle at Takemitchy, "Go pay and prepare it, hehe."

"Huh?! Why don't you help me?!" his friend gave him a goofy smile and a thumbs up, "I am used to my sister doing it for me, so be my sister tonight, Takemitchy!"

Chifuyu sat at the table outside, waiting for Takemitchy, "Why am I so childish... that was just a noodle... but still, I am not used to eating it with anyone else aside from Baji-san..."

He facepalmed himself, raising his foot on the tale, curving into a ball, and burying his face in between his knees. 'I miss eating Yakisoba with those two... It was really amusing back then. This might be a little dumb to say this, but the first time I got to go inside Baji-san's house with my sister, I wished for us to just stay in that time because I am scared of growth and moving forward.

It was the first time for my sister and me to not be wary of our surroundings because we felt safe beside Baji-san. Maybe that's why I want to be stuck at the moment. Now, I do not think that wishing for the time to stop time was dumb... if only time got paused at that moment where everything was just rainbows and butterflies, will Baji-san still be in this sticky situation...?

Will Toman have to fight Valhalla? Nonetheless, this is all Kisaki's fault... that asshole, what is he up to?'

"Yo! I have been calling for you. The noddle's cooked," Takemitchy said after smacking Chifuyu's head. "Do you really have to smack me?!"

"You said to be your sister. Don't your sister like to smack people?" Chifuyu laughed at Takemitchy's response. "Yeah, she does. BUT YOU DON'T HAVE THE AUTHORITY TO SMACK ME. HOW ABOUT I SMACK YOU INSTEAD?!"

Chifuyu handed over the noodles to Takemitchy after eating some of it, "Here your turn." The lad gladly took the container, "Hm, what're we planning to do tonight, though, Chifuyu?"

"What do you mean?"

"I originally and mentally decided to keep an eye on Baji-san tonight, but it looks like I'll get stomp by him if I get any closer. He's very intimidating," said Takemitchy filling his mouth with food. Chifuyu chuckled at Takemitchy's reaction, "Don't worry. There's nothing to do about him. Just trust him."

"Ironic. Baji-kun betrayed you and Toman, now you're trusting him?"

"I don't care whatever he says. I won't back down. I maybe get depressed every time he denies the fact that he has a plan in mind and that he'll never come back to us. I will not give up. I know Baji-san's up to something."

"You're really motivated, huh? You like him that much?"

"He grew on me, and he did too. He was the first person I wanted to respect and follow. Well, that's my sister aside. And also, he saved us...So that's why I need to trust—him..." Chifuyu turned his head to the side to look at Takemitchy, patting his stomach. "OI! DID YOU FINISH THE FOOD BY YOURSELF?!" Chifuyu yelled, making Takemitchy fall off the chair.

"Ow, how is it my fault?! You handed it to me!"

"Yeah, but it doesn't mean for you to finish them!"

"Then just go buy again!"

Chifuyu yelled back while pointing at him, "Forget it! I'm gonna make my sister smack your lame face!"

"Talk about lame! You're lame too!"

"Huh?! You're lamer!"

"OI, STOP FIGHTING IN FRONT OF MY STORE, YOU DAMN PUNKS, GET OUT OF HERE!" said the owner with a bat in his hands, "DIDN'T YOU HEAR ME?" the man started to chase the two, making the two get off their chairs and run for their lives.

"Chifuyuuuu!! Why are you running so fast? Wait for meeee! AHhhh, he's behind me, ChiFuyU!!!" Takemitchy said, running while looking behind to see the man still chasing after them. "You're the lamest, Takemitchy! Run faster!"

"I am tryiiiinggggg!!"

Both of them ran and kept running until they stopped in a familiar place, "Oi, isn't this Valhalla's hideout?" Takemitchy said. "Yeah..." Chifuyu said, looking at Baji's bike parked outside the abandoned arcade.

"We should get out of here, Takemitchy. We don't want to pick a fight before the real battle begins later. They might think we're spying on them." Takemitchy nodded, following his partner.

Takemitchy noticed the sadness in Chifuyu's voice while looking at the bike that's being parked. 'Hmm, is this Baji-kun's?... It has only been days since I met Chifuyu, but I can now tell how much Baji-san means to him. Is this how important Baji-san is to Chifuyu's sister too? How can Baji-san be so reckless when a lot of people care for him... I still don't understand what he really wants to achieve.'

'OCTOBER 31, 2004; NIGHT OF THE BATTLE

3'rd person's POV

There were already people who had arrived in the said place, including other delinquents of Tokyo who wanted to see the battle for themselves. Chifuyu and Takemitchy were the earliest in Toman who came, but Takemitchy was clueless about his surrounding.

"Who the hell are all these people?" said Takemitchy, seeing a lot of people with different gang uniforms he had never seen before, but Chifuyu was quick to answer, "They are all spectators. Toman versus Valhalla. Whoever wins today's conflict will be a step closer to ruling Tokyo."

"This fight caught the attention of all the influential delinquents in Tokyo." On the other hand, Takemitchy is still wary of his surrounding, "You got that right, looks like nothin' but bad dudes here."

Chifuyu stood beside Takemitchy, "Like those guys over there," "Hm? them?" Takemitchy pointed his fingers at two guys as Chifuyu slapped Takemitchy's fingers away, "Don't point, dumbass. They're the Haitani Brothers. They can summon a hundred men in one shout. Those brothers are like celebrities in Roppongi."

"Wow... a hundred men..." said Takemitchy, surprised.

"And that fatty over there sitting on top of a car. That's Leanman. He controls Ueno, and I hear he's an absolute jugger nut."

A guy with a weird haircut caught everyone's attention as he entered the territory. Chifuyu looks back the same as Takemitchy. "Toman and Valhalla ain't worth shit!"

"Good to see you, sir!" said a couple of guys bowing to their leader. "I'm overseeing tonight's fight. The name's Hansen from the Ikebukuro Criminal Black Members."

"He's one of the big fish from the 1988 group. For a trivia that only a few know, that Hansen's old commander is one of the Southside's biggest enemies according to my dad, who's a former 2nd in command of Southside, a famous group too back in the 1990s."

"Sugoi, so your dad was a former delinquent? You really surprise me with everything about you, Chifuyu," Takemitchy said, lightly punching Chifuyu's shoulder. "But why does this fight need an overseer?"

"That's like a referee. Hansen, Haitani brothers, Leanman... they're just gonna watch today. But they're normally fierce rivals with Toman." Takemitchy was surprised with the last sentence that got him thinking, 'Will they really sit and just watch?' because he feels like the dangerous guys will join anytime.

"ARE YOU GUYS READY TO THROW DOWN?!" said the overseer as the fighters slowly made their way inside the territory through the two big gates across each other. "Fighters!"

"MAKE YOUR ENTRANCE!"

There it is, The Tokyo Manji gang and Team Valhalla, proudly walking their way inside the boxed shape area with abandoned cars, raising their flags up high.

Mikey, Draken, Mitsuya, Smiley, and Mucho are on the front line, indicating they hold a high position in Tokyo Manji Gang. On the other side, Valhalla was lead by Hanma and none other than Kazutora ahead with the other top members of Valhalla.

Takemitchy was surprised to see Mikey shirtless, bandages wrapped around his abdomen while his jacket's hangin' on his shoulder. Draken, standing behind Mikey, gave Hanma a deadly stare, totally pissed off. "I wanna wipe that smug look off that Hanma's face."

"We gotta go too, Takemitchy," said Chifuyu, excited and at the same time filled with anxiety. "Hmm, let's go."

Everyone chattered seeing Mikey, "Yo, it's Mikey." "The invincible Mikey." Mikey didn't give a fuck and continue walking ahead, calling Hansen's attention. "Hansen-kun. First off, I'd like to say thank you for overseeing tonight's fight."

Hansen turned his head, looking at Mikey, smirking, "Hah, if this fight sucks, I'm going to kick all of your asses."

"BOTH TEAM'S REPRESENTATIVES, STEP FORWARD!!" It wasn't that long when Draken and Kazutora are already facing each other in front of Hansen, claiming as the representative. There was silence between the three of them as they both stare into each other's souls.

The ice broke when Hansen started speaking, "A five on five with your best guys, or an all-out melee with everyone."

Draken was the first one to give out his opinion, "Valhalla picked this fight with us, so you decide Kazutora," but Kazutora wasn't gratified, "Huh?"

"We just have one condition, TO RESCUE KEISUKE BAJI. If Toman wins this battle... we will take Baji back." Kazutora looked down as his face twitched in anger and frustration, but Draken continued, "That's all there is to it."

Kazutora decided to face Draken even with the height difference. He made sure he's staring right into his eyes, "HUH?! BAJI JOINED OUR GANG ON HIS OWN. THERE'S NO TAKING HIM BACK NOW." Draken released the same energy as Kazutora, not wanting to lose this fierce Lil debate, "WE'RE TAKING BAJI BACK, THAT'S ALL THERE IS TO IT!!"

The other couldn't handle the frustration and clenched his fist tightly, ready to attack Draken when Hansen held Kazutora back before he can move. "Hey, don't start punching just yet."

With his fits clenched, it landed on Hansen's face; and his stomach after, making him cough a few drops of blood out of his mouth, shocking everyone as Hansen's body fell on the ground unconscious. "Damn, what a lame-ass."

Kazutora faced everyone before setting his eyes on Daken alone, "overseer? Condition? You guys think this is a game?"

"We came here... to torture you guys to death!" said Kazutora pointing his fingers directly at Toman while running his way next to Hanma. "Shall we begin, Mikey?" Hanma said, still having that smug look while Mikey looked back at them with a deadly stare.

That sentence became the signal for the two gangs to commence as they ran to reach each other and started beating the shit out of every single enemy. And Hanma was on the lead with, finding their way towards the person they want to fight... Mikey.

"Let's go, Toman!!!" Takemitchy didn't know what to do as when the fight started without any warning, 'Huh? A brawl right now?!?!' his eyes roamed around and saw Chifuyu, not by his side. "Shit." He looked around again, even with the people fighting, "Where's Baji-kun... Baji-kun..."

On the other hand, Chifuyu was also looking for Takemitchy and Baji at the same time while trying to survive the brawl. Takemitchy turned around only to be surprised with an incoming punch from someone, "Ahhh!! What the fuck, what the fuck. Hey!!"

Mikey stood there as he watches Kazutora run near him. Kazutora decided to land a punch on Mikey when Draken was quick to defend his friend. "You think you can take on Mikey? You're nowhere in his level," said Draken on defensive mode.

"Mikeyyy!!" Kazutora shouted like a crazy person. He attempted to get his fist on Mikey's face again, even if Draken was still there when his punch got hold back because Hanma was fast into kicking Draken off between Mikey and Kazutora. "Fuck!"

"Hah! You gotta deal with me now, Draken," said Hanma. Draken did not hold back, "Then come and get some, Hanma." Everyone surrounded them, excited and shock at the same time. "Tch. Mikey's all yours, Kazutora!"

"Let's have some fun, vice leader," said Hanma, smirking, looking drunk. "Hell yeah, I can finally get serious for once."

"Oh, Mikey... I've been waiting so long for this!!"

"I won't hold back, Kazutora," anger wasn't only present in Mikey's voice but also in his whole aura.

Even with the beating Takemitchy's receiving from the enemy, his sight was still set on Mikey, and now he suddenly perceived that Kazutora's near Mikey now. "Eyes over here, bitch-ass!" the guy said, punching Takemitchy to the ground.

Another blow was about to be welcome by Takemitchy when Mitsuya came to rescue and kicked the guy off Takemitchy's radar. "get up, Takemitchy."

Takemitchy opened his eyes, seeing he wasn't hurt, "Mitsuya-kun!" Mitsuya handed his hand out to help the lad stand up, "Ahhh, you saved me."

But Mitsuya ended up scolding him, "You dumbass! What did you come here for?! Can't you see we're in the middle of a brawl?!" Another guy has come to punch Mitsuya, cutting his words off. Mitsuya's fast in letting go of Takemitchy's collar, knocking the incoming blow before talking again, "SO STOP GAWKING AND FIGHT, TAKEMITCHY!"

'That's right, I can't achieve anything if I just stand here and keep spacing out and get taken out by these guys. Gotta focus on the enemy before me!!' Takemitchy thought to himself before two tall guys came close to him, giving him a 'fight me' look. 'wait, wait, wait, the enemy before me? A low-level punk like me, in a fight with real delinquents?' Takemitchy thought to himself, wanting to back out again.

'Ahhhh, I can't do it! It's too scary!' He felt a back hitting his, and a familiar voice, "You scared?" It was Chifuyu. "Just focus on the guy in front of you... partner."

Takemitchy looked back with small tears about to fall off his eyes, "Chifuyuuu!" Chifuyu chuckled at his partner, "I'll watch your back!... that's what I said to my sister, and you're acting like my sister for tonight, right? remember what we discussed in the convenience store when you prepared the noodles for me."

Takemitchy nodded, feeling happy, "Yes!"

"Heh, so go ahead and smack everyone like how my sister does, she likes uppercut the most, but you do you. The most important is that you don't back out because she certainly doesn't."

Takemitchy nodded and still trembling. He curved his fist into a ball, remembering what his true objective is in the first place. And just as that, he was able to knock the shit out of a guy who was about to attack him before shouting, "Let's fucking' do thissss!!!" Chifuyu was thrilled with his partner, who suddenly got motivated. "Heh-heh, alright. Here I goooo!" said Chifuyu landing a punch on the other dude.

He was scared, but if he thinks back to what happened in the future, Takemitchy knew he needed to do something, 'If I don't do this... if I can't overcome this... THEN I CAN'T STOP THE WORST FUTURE FROM HAPPENING!!'

Draken looked back to see Mitsuya struggling, "Yo, Mitsuya, you alright there, bud?"

"Yeah, don't mind me!"

"There's too many of them, Mitsuya," Draken said while attacking with Mitsuya. Mitsuya greeted his teeth in annoyance, "Tch, we're already at a disadvantage at first. Toman's 150 versus Valhalla's 300. They're more than the Southside's 200."

"We weren't able to fight the southside, though since they gave up as soon as their commander and vice commander left their sight, they're potentially weak for some reason," Draken responded.

Draken's attention was caught by one of his members shouting behind him, "Ahhh, stop it. I can't take it anymoreeee!! Draken!!"

"Get a hold of yourself. You can't win if you start panicking."

"Well, I wish I could do something about it! We're not strong, like you and Mikey... I am sorry..." Draken sighed, hearing his co-members, "I'll protect you guys... just don't give up on us."

Hanma came in the scene again, about to provoke Draken, "Woz d mater, Draken? Come and get me already!" Draken looked at his surroundings seeing more Toman members Injured than Valhalla ones. "Shit, we're losing morale." The lad looked back in front of him to see more Valhalla guarding Hanma around. "Lookin a bit too far away there, boss."

A shout caught Draken's attention when he was about to take action. It was Takemitchy fighting, shouting while swaying his hands in different directions each time like a kid, making the enemy look at him weirdly. "COME AND GET MEEEE ASSSHOLESSS!!"

"Takemitchy?!" said Draken. Takemitchy stopped swaying his hands, trying to stand up without his legs giving up on him, "No way in hell you're taking me down... I'm gonna finish this fight, you'll see.."

"I'M GONNA KICK ALL OF YOUR ASSESSSS!!!" It was clear that he was about to fall down. So Mitsuya came on the scene to catch his comrade. "Heh, not too shabby, Takemitchy." Chifuyu looked back, sensing something terrible. He sighed, seeing Takemitchy fine in Mitsuya's arms.

Everyone in Toman who was on the floor started to get up from the floor, "damn, we're pathetic. What the fuck are we whining about?"

"Let's do this."

"Yeah, who cares if they got the numbers."

"LET'S SHOW 'EM WHAT TOMAN'S REALLY MADE OF!!" Draken was shocked by the sudden motivation of suddenly possessing his co-members. Mitsuya smiled at Draken, "Draken, they're fine now, hehe."

"Hah, looks like they don't need protecting anymore. IT'S TIME TO GO OFFENSIVE," Takemitchy was clueless until Draken spout a few words, "You've opened my eyes, Takemitchy."

"LET'S GO, HANMA!"

"We're not gonna hold Draken back anymore! We've got the advantage now, so let's go!!"

"Outta my waaaaay!!" Draken shouted, making his way towards Hanma, who's far away and waiting for him patiently. "You brought back their will to fight, Takemitchy. Now Draken's free to do what he wants to do."

"Draken can change the course of this battle all by himself. That's Toman's second in Command, Ryuguji Ken!" Mitsuya proudly announced.

"What's up with this guy?"

"No, like, what the hell is that guy?!

"He beat up 10 guys at the same time!"

"He's a monster!!"

"No way... 10... what a beast!"

In minutes, all of the Valhalla members who're surrounding Hanma earlier that blocked Draken a while ago are now unconscious in his own arms. "Sorry to keep you waiting, Hanma." Hanma being Hanma, he responded with a sarcastic tone, "Hey now, you alright? You sure you're not worn out yet?"

Draken smirked at him, "Hanma, I just got done warming up." Hanma's reaction became different all of a sudden as his plan to worn out Draken failed. "Damnnnn," was all Takemitchy can say.

Just as that, the one versus one between Hanma and Draken started, so as on the other side of the platform, Mikey was yelling Kazutora's name while Kazutora climbs a stack of cars, running away from Mikey.

"Kazutora, you're just gonna keep running?!" Kazutora looked back to see Mikey get kicked off guard. Mikey defended himself a second before it can hit him, 'Tsk, now who the hell is this,' he thought to himself, frustrated.

Kazutora smiled at Mikey, seeing his condition, "What's wrong, Mikey? Why you takin' a knee?"

"Sugoi, you actually guarded against my sneak attack?"

"Watch yourself, Chonbo. This guy's no joke."

Mikey stood up from his confinement, "Can't stick on fighting one on one, Kazutora?"

"One on one? Who said that was happening? I brought these two along to deal with you. They were the strongest guys at my reform school. They're fighting experts." Kazutora said, still going with the plan on his head. His strategy was to tire Mikey and Draken and push them to their limits using the top fighters in Valhalla while waiting for Baji to arrive. Therefore if he wanted to kill Baji, no one could protect him anymore because the two are already tired, neither are the others. After he kills Baji in front of Mikey, he'll kill Mikey too.

Kazutora's plan is already perfected, but he had one thing wrong. The moment he let Baji enter Valhalla, his plan was already crushed.

The two versus one started between Mikey and two Valhalla captains from the Juvie. Things just got serious as it is, and Mikey was confident because he's Mikey. Kazutora had a piece o steel in his hands, waiting for his friends to finish beat Mikey up.

Kazutora really wanted to follow his plan but killing Mikey is just too tempting for him. He gripped tightly on the steel before looking at his target, "Hmm, maybe a small hit won't hurt."

The two Valhalla captains, Chonbo and Chome, released a few moves on Mikey, which was counter-attacked by the lad, hitting them 2x of what gave.

Mikey was caught off guard when the two stopped both his feet to the ground, hugging them, "What the hell?" was all Mikey could say. Kazutora took the opportunity of the opening his comrade gave him, "HEHE, you're dead, Mikey!"

Before Mikey could look back, he was knocked on the head by Kazutora with steel on Kazutora's hand, making him fall down, alarming everyone on the ground fighting, including all the captains. "Mikey!!" Draken yelled, seeing Mikey's condition.

They all looked at the three standing on top of the cars before Mikey. "Valhalla wins," Kazutora announced calmly. Despite his condition, Mikey decided to stand up to face Kazutora, "Just tell me one thing, Kazutora... Am I your enemy?"

That sentence made Kazutora think back to his mother, his mother, who was abused by a fist of a person he never thought would be the reason why he's parentless now. He didn't know why he was thinking about that person he hated until Mikey spoke again, "Am I your enemy? Are you on your dad's side now?"

The simple flashback he felt earlier became longer. The memory of his mother asking him what side will he take on appeared. Kazutora's parents didn't have the best marriage. His father often abused his mother. Until one day, his mother decided to get a divorce and asked Kazutora what side will he take on.

Remembering all that made him angrier than he already is, "I suffered... I suffered because of you. It was all your fault why I was sent to Juvie." Mikey looked at him confused and angry, "Huh? What the hell do you mean?"

"Then, of course, you're my enemy!!" Kazutora continued with veins popping out his face in anger. "I will eliminate everyone in my way."

"Did you know, Mikey? If you kill people, that makes you a bad guy. But... if you kill enemies... THAT MAKES YOU A HERO!!" That alone caught everyone's attention, making them all stop with what they were doing and just stare at Kazutora and Mikey, who's having a beef on top of all those cars.

Hanma, who's in the middle of a fight with Draken, also stopped, "Ha, he's totally lost it."

'What the fuck is wrong with this guy?!' was the same thought inside Takemitchy and Chifuyu's mind, referring to Kazutora.

kazutora was really intrigued to kill Mikey because he waited for years to finally grasp this person. "Hold him for me, good and tight," said Kazutora pointing the steel on Mikey. Mikey didn't put up a fight and decided to just let it be. Because, despite all the hatred, he won't forget the fact that Kazutora is still was his friend. There Kazutoraslapped Mikey's face with the steel over and over again... "It's over..." said Hanma.

'They're holding him so he can't move. This isn't a fight!!' Takemitchy thought to himself. Draken was the fastest to run after Mikey, but Hanma didn't let him. Hanma ran towards Draken, tripping him down, "You're supposed to be fighting me, remember?"

kazutora raised the steel on the air once more, "I will kill the enemy, to be the hero," before hitting Mikey's head for the last time, hard and strong. "Mikey-kun!!!"

"Kill the enemy? Is that why you killed my brother, Kazutora?" that alone hit Kazutora to the bone. Mikey, who was enduring since earlier, kicking Chome off him, shocking the two. "What the hell, he still has strength after all that?"

The remaining one, Chonbo, clinging to his leg. Mikey raised his leg slowly, lifting Chonbo to kick him off. "He's lifting me, he's lifting me with his one leg, what the hell!" He then finally kicked Chonbo off him towards Kazutora for him to hit 2 birds in one stone.

That kick alone made the three unconscious, making Kisaki sighed from a distance. "That's what happens when you don't follow what you intended to do in the first place," said Kisaki to himself, feeling disappointed and getting his phone out to call Hanma.

The people didn't know if Mikey was mad, displeased, or tired when the lad fell beside Kazutora, looking like he regretted hitting his old friend.

"Hey, he took one knee."

"Think he's tired from losing so much blood?"

"Isn't this the perfect time to take him out"

"He's not moving at all."

"Seriously, this is our chance!"

"FOLLOW ME, MEN!!" said Valhalla's third captain, Chouji. Hanma couldn't help but smirk, "Heh, nice one, Kazutora."

Every Valhalla member started climbing the stack of cars, lead by Chouji. But part of Toman is still alive and decided to stop the enemies as much as they can hit from climbing up towards their commander.

Takemitchy was the first to run, and then Chifuyu followed by Mitsuya, and of course, Draken, who rose up to knock Hanma unconscious, "What the hell, are you a fucking zombie?" was all Hanma can say.

It was only Takemitchy who had the freehand. Chifuyu and the other captains are busy. But he was scared and doesn't know what to do, "Shit, what now?" he looked back at his partner, Chifyu, who was fighting below. "I gotta save, Mikey-kun!!"

Takemitchy tried to run up and getting hit by someone, "Back off, punk!" He tried climbing once again only to face the same thing. It was his third time climbing, only to get strangled by someone again by the neck. He was desperate, and he couldn't get off that person's arms. "SON OF A BITCH!!" Takemitchy had enough and bit the guy's arm off of him.

Chouji finally reaches the top with a weapon in his hands, "Your boss's head is mine!!" It was when Kisaki decided to show up, punching Chouji off the radar. Kisaki's intention was for Mikey to recognize him, not kill him. He manipulated Kazutora into wanting to kill Baji first because he doesn't desire Mikey to be killed. If Kazutora then decided to kill Mikey, Kisaki would come into action before that happens.

Takemitchy hated Kisaki, but for a short second, he was a Lil grateful that the lad came to the rescue, but at the same time, he's shocked as to why Kisaki saved Mikey when he's the villain in the story.

But Chouji's role was a setup for Kisaki to be recognized by Toman... and Mikey. And that's where it hit Takemitchy, 'Chouji... I know that guy. He's friends with Kisaki...'

"Wow, not bad at all, Kisaki," said Mitsuya, praising him, making Takemichy even more confused, 'What the hell is happening here?'

Chifuyu saw through the bad acting, "tsk, what is this? Is he trying to become the leader?" Takemitchy looked carefully at Kisaki, 'I get it now, whether Toman wins or losses, Kisaki still gets his way! If toman losses, it gets absorbed into Valhalla like how Moebius did. If Toman wins, Kisaki will use actions like this to raise his rank. So no matter what the outcome is... he still got what he wants... damn this guy, we want straight into his cat's-paw without even realizing it!'

"Good work, Kisaki!!" said Draken catching Takemitchy's attention, 'no, you got it all wrong, Draken-kun. He's going to take you and Mikey on.'

"I'll leave Mikey to you, Kisaki!" Takemitchy panicked with what Draken said, but he can't do anything, and it's been a while since Baji left his mind. It was silent. No one was moving at that time when Kisaki knocked Chouji down.

A loud and clear thumping, cracking, scrapping, and rumbling sound from the back was heard. As if someone was running and stepping on the roof of the cars to climb on top. Only to reveal Baji in a Valhalla uniform, sneaking behind Kisaki to attack, "I was waiting for this, Kisaki," was what Baji said before hitting Kisaki with a steel same as Kazutora. As a result, Kisaki flew away from where he was standing before, down to the other car roof, shocking everyone.

Baji's surrounding is now surrounded by Toman members when they don't even know who the real enemy is. "Baji, stop it!!" said Draken. Baji being Baji, he did not listen but continued, "I'm gonna rearrange your face, Kisaki!"

Chifuyu's eyes widened, seeing what Baji did, 'So he was really aiming for Kisaki, huh? Tch.'

Mitsuya came on the scene to stop Baji, "We came here to get you back, Baji. So stop hitting your own comrade!" Baji looked at Mitsuya with a deadly gaze, 'Tch, stop hitting Kisaki? He manipulated and ruined Kazutora more than he already was destroyed from the past. This guy deserves more than a smack in the face,' Baji's thought we're interrupted when a Toman member grabbed him by the back collar of his jacket, throwing him away before checking on Kisaki, "You alright, Kisaki?"

"SWAT.HIM.DEAD," Kisaki said, ordering his 3rd division vice-captain together with the members under the 3rd division. Baji stood up from being thrown, "Heh, let's see you try, Kisaki."

Takemitchy and Chifuyu looked at each other, thinking almost the same thing, 'Crap, he's going gonna get killed at this rate,' the only difference is Takemitchy knows the future, while Chifuyu doesn't.

Chifuyu ran his fastest to block Baji from passing by standing in front of Baji and opening his arms wide open, signaling the lad to stop his tracks.

Baji looked up to see it was Chifuyu... it softens something inside him as soon as he saw his face, and that makes him just want to back out. Because everything he overheard between Hanma and Kisaki is all happening according to the plan, and he might actually die.

He didn't want to die every time he remembers your face or just seeing Chifuyu... because Chifuyu resembles you so much.

But he knew he didn't have the time to back out because he promised Shinichiro back in his grave to fix this mess between their circle, "The fuck're you doing, Chifuyu?" the lad said, gritting his teeth.

Chifuyu, on the other hand, stayed still, "Don't do this, Baji-san. If you're going to kill Kisaki, then you're going against Mikey." Mikey already placed Kisaki in Toman, which means whoever hurt anyone part of Toman will face the consequences. "If you want to fight Kisaki, Baji-san. Then now's not the time... please. What will you do if something happens to you? What will we feel... what will... my sister feel...?"

Baj was on the brink of backing out each time someone says your name, making him mad. 'Sorry... Y/n...' Baji said to himself, closing his eyes to look away before attacking Chifuyu. 'What am I doing? Didn't I promise Y/n to keep this guy safe? Why am I hitting him now?'

"Stay outta this, Chifuyu. I kept you by my side, so I could use you in fights, so I don't care what you feel or what you think, nothing more," Bai said before proceeding to walk away from his partner. "So you lied to my sister... you said you wanted to keep us safe... and now you're saying you kept me to use me."

"Think whatever you want to think... Chifuyu."

"I'M THE FIRST DIVISION VICE-CAPTAIN! AND I'M HERE TO PROTECT YOU, BAJI-SAN! If you really wanna get past me, then I won't hold back."

"Do it, you've got ten seconds," Baji said, making Chifuyu shock at how he was calm and smiling when he said those words, "Huh?"

"Ten.. nine... eight... seven... what's wrong? I thought you're not holding back? Chifuyu, if you don't kill me, you won't be able to stop me... six... five... four... three... two... one... zero—," Chifuyu couldn't hit his superior, nor kill him. Because if he did, then it would mean killing you as well...

"Ahhh!!!!" Takemitchy came in before Baji can even make a move again. The lad hugged Baji's waist, holding him in place. "Takemitchy..." said Chifuyu.

"Let's stop Baji-kun together, Chifuyu!!" the boy said, struggling to keep a beast down. "I... I can't Takemitchy..."

"WHAT?!" Takemitchy said in disbelief because he finally had Baji in his possession, but why won't Chifuyu help him? "Chifuyu... why?!"

For the first time ever since the Kyoto accident, Chifuyu cried... "I... I can't hit Baji-san..." his tears were running down his face, looking at Takemitchy. "What?! Chifuyu... there's no time for that now! Please!" Takemitchy was panicking. He knew... he knows what's gonna happen, and he can't think of anything to prevent it from happening.

Baji raised his elbow and landed it on the back of Takemitchy's head, knocking the lad. The image of Hina, Mikey... and even your appeared in Takemitchy's mind. He doesn't have any idea of what you'll look like, but somehow he knows at that point in his life...

'I'll stop him myself if I have to! There's a lotta people who are gonna need him. If I don't stop Baji-kun, Kisaki's gonna kill him!' Despite the attacks that Baji gives him, Takemitchy's not letting him go. "I'LL SAVE YOU, EVEN IF I HAVE TO DO IT ALONE!!" Realization hit Takemitchy, remembering his meeting with Draken in the future when he time leaped, "The one who kills Baji-kun isn't Kisaki... but Kazutora..." His heart raced faster. He looked from where Kazutora was beaten to see him missing. "Shit, where's Kazutora?"

'Kazutora-kun?! He's gone... where did he go... fuck!' Takemitchy was looking on the other side. To the point where Takemitchy didn't even see the attack coming from the front...

And the person in front of Takemitchy is Baji...

Takemitchy's ears perceived the sound of a knife piercing through human flesh. Baji felt the blade cutting him and being shoved deeper through his skin before hearing Kazutora's word, "Die... Baji."

Takemitchy lets go of Baji before running towards Kazutora to hit him with his own body. His view went back to Baji, "Baji-kun?! Baji-kun are you okay?!"

'If he gets killed by Kazutora, then the bad future will happen again!' Takemitchy was shocked to see Baji standing right before him, looking like he didn't get stabbed at all. "Just a scratch. Thanks for the save, Takemitchy..."

"Baji-kun...I saved Baji-kun..." Takemitchy said to himself while looking up at Baji. Chifuyu marched straight towards Kazutora, grabbing him by the collar, "What the fuck are you trying to do, you prick?!"

"I'm glad you're alive."

"Huh? The hell's your deal, Takemitchy? I'm taking down Kisaki, so shut up and watch." Takemitchy summarized all that happened just tonight, it was all messed up, and he doesn't know what to do or what's right anymore. But he was relieved at the fact that he saved Baji-kun from Kazutora killing him.

So now, he knows what he must do, "I'm gonna crush Kisaki, so I can be the Toman's leader!" said Takemitchy before looking back at Chifuyu, "Chifuyu!" "Yeah?"

Baji chuckled, "really? You guys against Kisaki?"

"Let us fight by your side, Baji-kun," said Takemitchy with determination, but that didn't work on Bajji, especially when he knew Chifuyu's coming along. 'If I really die tonight, then I'll fall on my own. I don't wanna be gone while breaking one of my promises to the girl I love. So Chifuyu, let me handle this alone... please cooperate.'

Baji walked towards the two, attacking them with several punches o they won't be able to stand up and follow him in taking down Kisaki. "Stay out of my way."

"You don't have to do this alone, Baji-kun."

"Baji-san..." Baji turned around to look at Takemitchy, giving him a frustrated look before walking past him, "Don't follow me. I won't hesitate to hit both of you."

Baji himself is not sure whether he'd be able to kill Kisaki without hurting, but he'll somehow make sure it all ends here. "Take care of Mikey for me," Takemitchy heard the last words that came out of Baji's mouth before successfully leaving both him and Chifuyu behind.

"Why are you in such a hurry, Baji-san...." (he meant why does Baji-san wanted to kill Kisaki right there and then.) Baji heard that but decide to ignore it and just reply mentally, 'Because your sister is coming home, and I do not want her to see me die... and misunderstand...'

"Now then..."

"Fifty guys from the Third Division VS me!" Baji lets go of the steel in his arms, tying his hair into a ponytail just the way he likes it, "Let's see what you got."

l.s

Chapter Text

3rd person's POV

You can't count how many times you bit your nails and stomp your feet lightly on the ground waiting to arrive in Tokyo. You slept for only 3 hours then got woke up by sudden turbulence, and now you can't sleep. The omamori was in your hands, comforting yourself.

It has been a while since you felt this scared again. You thought you were immune to it already since you had been livin' a scary life before moving to Tokyo. "Hello, good evening, ma'am. I noticed you were panicking, is there something I can help you with?"

"Uh, thank you, but I am alright. I just wanted to go home faster," you said. "Rest easy. This plane will land in 4 hours. Would you like a glass of water to calm down?"

"Yes, please. If You don't mind, I'd like a cold one," The stewardess nodded, leaving to get you some water. She came back with the glass of water and some sweets, "sweets... it'll help you to feel less anxious."

The lady placed the tray on the mini table in front of you and left. You reached out for the glass when the tip suddenly broke out of nowhere, holding you back. "What the hell... how many times had these happened to me ever since I left Tokyo."

'BACK IN SHIBUYA, TOKYO

The whole Third Division hesitated to come at Baji because he knew what he's capable of, but they can't betray Toman at the same time. "Let's go, fuckersss!!"

Takemitchy stayed there, watching Baji, "Baji-kun may be strong, but 50-1 is..." The lad wanted to take back his words, seeing Baji take four men at once, "Woah! What a beast, he took four guys at the same time!"

"You can't take him lightly, Takemitchy. Baji-san said he'd take Kisaki down, didn't he? He's already been at worse. One time he entered an enemy's den with 200 members and took out their military force alone, considering he doesn't even know how to use a gun. I guess we really just become powerful when we're doing things for the people we love." Takemitchy can't believe what he just heard, "Sugoi, if I were at his place, I'd feel scared. Fight a real military? Wow..."

Kisaki stood up in the corner, getting his phone out to call Hanma, "Shit, Kazutora fucked up, huh? Tsk," Kisaki's head is flooding down with blood from the hit he took from Baji earlier. "Baji's coming! If you space out like the other day, you're dead, vice-captain."

"I'm sorry, sir!"

"Don't underestimate Baji, got it? I do not know how but he's the only one who figured me out," Kisaki said, enranged because how can a person like Baji figure him out? He thought to himself.

The vice-captain then responded, "He caught us by surprise the last time... but now, he's dealing with fifty people! This time he's dead for sure—Urghk!" Kisaki heard his vice-captain refrained from speaking. He turned around only to see Baji aiming the sharp end of the steel on his neck. "Checkmate... Kisaki."

With drops of blood in Baji's face, h stared at Kisaki, "Go ahead and kill me if you can!" Kisaki said, still trying to manipulate Baji in his last moment.

"Holy shit, Baji-kun!" Takemitchy yelled. It was silent again. All their attention was on Baji and Kisaki, not until Baji started coughing blood out of his mouth, making everyone gasp, especially Chifuyu. With all that blood, Baji still got the spirit to softy laugh, "Fuck. I guess that's that..." Chifuyu was trembling, looking at Baji.

It wasn't that long when Baji fell on his knees, letting go of the steel because he had no force left. He is running out of blood since that stab that Kazutora gave him. Baji also had to move and defeat 50 people. Making the wound became bigger, releasing more amount of blood.

Chifuyu ran to Kisaki, "Kisaki, you bastard, what did you do to him?!" Kisaki looked at Chifuyu, "What? You saw it didn't you? I didn't do a damn thing."

"Baji-san! Baji-san, blood. Did you get stabbed? When?! Baji-san!" Chifuyu was shouting, shaking Baji's shoulder, "Baji-san!"

'So Baji-kun was actually seriously injured?!' Takemitchy thought to himself. Chifuyu looked behind him, "Kazutora..." There he saw Kazutora below him, staring right at him too. "Kazutoraaaaa!!"

Takemitchy looked down to see the mess, 'shit, this is just what Draken-kun said in the future. If Baji-kun dies like this, the dominoes will fall just the way Kisaki wants.'

Kisaki stepped up, "Kazutora doesn't fuck around at all, I see now! He lured Baji into Valhalla, so he could kill him when he less expected it." Takemitchy, on the other hand, got more confused with what Kisaki is saying, 'Why is he telling such an obvious lie when he manipulated everyone here.'

"Right, leader?" Kisaki said, talking to Mikey, who just woke up from being unconscious.

'That bastard, he's trying to provoke Mikey kun. Don't listen to him, Mikey-kun, don't listen to him, don't listen to him,' said Takemitchy battling in his thoughts. Mikey ignored Kisaki and continued making his way down, "For so long... I wanted to kill you as soon as you got out of Juvie. I ached to kill you, but the one who kept telling me not to was Baji. That got me thinking that he sided with you. That's why I banned him from attending meetings. I crashed his bike when he was away. I didn't do more than that because we're friends."

"Baji said, "kazutora just wanted to make you happy, Mikey. That's why he can't accept it, even though he killed your brother. And to make himself believe he wasn't the bad guy, Kazutora had no choice but to decide you were his enemy."

Mikey should be pissed off right now, but he wasn't showing any emotion at all. Draken had a bad feeling, "Mikey—," "Kenchin."

"This fight is over," said Mikey, walking in between Hanma and Draken. "Hey, hey, hey, what do you mean this fight's over? You tryin' to fuck with me, Mikey?" Hanma contradicted.

"That's not something you get to decide, bitch!!" Mikey did not hesitate to kick Hanma unconscious, "see? It's over." Everyone in Valhall started running as soon as they saw Hanma on the ground, not moving at all, "Runn!!! he's gonna kill us!!"

Before kazutora even know it, Mikey was already standing right in front of him. Kazutora stood up looking terrible because of Mikey's words sinking in his mind, "People can betray anyone... Let's end this, Mikey. Will you die here? Or will I?"

Mikey raised his fist and hit Kazutora, making him fall on the ground again, "If all you do is ruin all the things I care about... Then I'll destroy you, here and now," Mikey cannot be stopped at this point. All the anger he felt when Shinichiro died, so as Baji on the floor coughing with blood made him lose it, kicking Kazutora hard and straddling him on the ground.

"If all you can do is destroy. Then I'll destroy you, Kazutora!" Mikey said, raising his other hand to get the right timing while his free hand holds Kazutora in place. Takemitchy came to realize that what Draken told him is still happening, and now he's panicking again.

Chifuyu stayed beside Baji, "where's that damn ambulance... Baji-san." Mikey was knocking Kazutora without stopping, and the others can't do anything about it because they can't blame Mikey for feeling that way against Kazutora.

"Mikey..."

"At this rate, Mikey's going to kill Kazutora," said Mitsuya.

"Nobody can stop Mikey now..." Draken added.

"This is heading straight to the same bad future I saw before... Mikey kun... I... I am so fucking helpless!!"

Kazutora looked at Mikey as he received all those punches, remembering the scene back in his head. It was the memory of Hanma confirming that Baji was a traitor all this time and Chifuyu stopping Baji from attacking Kisaki. He was mad and jealous even though he literally planned to kill Baji. kazutora still hated that Baji has someone by his side now that was supposed to be him, if only he wasn't sent to Juvie. 'He promised me... that day when I accidentally killed Shinichiro-kun... Baji assured me that no matter what kind of hell awaits us, he'll be with me 'til the end.'

'It made me realize something, even if I was locked up, and even if it was wrong to tolerate me...Baji, no matter what you said, you actually always stuck with me. I took the most precious thing to me... the only person who believed me, the only person who did not blame me... and destroyed it. I'm sorry, Baji. I'll be with you soon,' Kazutora closed his eyes, letting Mikey end his life.

Chifuyu noticed the lad beside him moving, "Baji-san...?"

"Mikey," Baji uttered. "Baji-san..."

Despite the wound and everything, Baji stood up, looking at Mikey, "Mikey!!!" Mikey stopped attacking Kazutora to look back on Baji, whom he didn't expect to be still alive, "Aww, you got mad just for me?" said Baji, smiling widely at his friend. "Thanks, man."

Takemitchy couldn't believe his eyes, "Baji-kun?!"

"You gotta stay down, Baji-san!" Chifuyu shouted, but Baji won't listen. Baji decided to walk down with his bloody situation. As he made his way towards his two friends, he was followed by Chifuyu. "I'm not gonna die... this wound... ain't gonna kill me!" Baji proudly uttered even though it was clearly a fatal injury.

"So don't worry about it, Kazutora," while saying those words, Baji took out the pocket knife from his hand, revealing the sharp blade. He looked at the knife, remembering something... it was the same knife he used to cut the apples to help you eat back at the hospital. "Don't worry, it's clean, clean, I never stabbed anyone with it, HAHAHA," was he said towards you.

Baji smiled, remembering you again for the last time before he couldn't anymore. "You..." Baji held the knife with both of his hands, raising it to the air before stabbing himself in a very critical place, "You won't be the one to kill me, Kazutora..." then he pushed it in deeper, but he didn't make any noise as the blade pierced him.

"Baji-san!!!" Chifuyu caught Baji before his head can hit the ground. Baji's eyes were closed, and he was on Chifuyu's arms, laying down. "Baji-san... why?!"

Kazutora, then again, wanted to take his words back earlier because now he knows he wasn't the one who killed Baji. "You're next, Mikey. You're gonna die along with him."

"Shut up. I'll beat you to death."

Takemitchy couldn't believe all of it, "Baji-kun... why'd you do it? I DON'T GET IT!... what were you trying to achieve by stabbing yourself?!"

"Takemitchy, come closer..." Takemitchy followed Baji's order and kneeled down beside him. "Kisaki is the enemy. I realized it back when Pah-chin got arrested for stabbing Osanai. And then the other day, I heard them talking... about killing Mikey and me..."

"Kisaki is not our Third Division Captain!! Toman was formed by the six of us. No matter what happens, Pha-chin's the only captain of the Third Division," at this point, Baji is already shedding tears. "Pah-chin, Mitsuya, Draken, Mikey, Kazutora, Toman's founding members. Chifuyu, and Y/n... the persons who made my life more interesting... all of them are my treasure..."

"I wanted to fix this on my own, but I couldn't. I died on my own. Mikey has no reason to Kill Kazutora now. Hehe, It's about time... I am starting to hallucinate," the lad said, seeing Shinichiro before his eyes. "Takemitchy, you remind me of Shinichiro-kun, somehow. Mikey... and Toman, I am leaving them in your hands..."

"Baji-kun, don't say that!" Takemitchy said, crying his eyes out.

Baji shifted his view at Chifuyu, who was holding him, "Chifuyu..."

Chifuyu was trying really hard to hold his tears back to answer, "Yes, Baji-san?"

"I'll leave your sister to you. You're a grown-up man now. The key... remember what I gave you yesterday? Give it to her. Tell Y/n to open the box because all the things I want to say to her are all in there. I am sorry for hurting her, and I am aware of that, Chifuyu. I am just keeping her safe from Kazutora."

"Be the witness to my confession, okay? Tell her I love her. I love her so much, Chifuyu, and I am pretty sure you are aware." Baji looked up to the starry sky before looking at Chifuyu again, "The stars sure are beautiful tonight... Y/n... I'll be one of those soon enough," He was hallucinating, he knew Chifuyu was the one holding him, but your face is what he sees.

"Btw...I promised to take her somewhere when she gets home, but I'm afraid; It's impossible now. Take her somewhere she wants... for me, alright? And one last thing... I'd kill for some Peyoung Yakisoba right now... partner." Chifuyu's tears fell all by themselves, "I'll go buy you some..."

Chifuyu chuckled, "We'll split it, right?" Chifuyu looked at Baji straight in the eyes. He was smiling even though he's in this situation right now, "Thanks... Chifuyu," Baji placed his palm on Chifuyu's cheeks, "HAHAHA, I'm glad she has a twin... it really feels like I'm dying in her arms..."

It became quiet, and only the crying sound of Chifuyu echoed through the night. "Baji-san?... Baji...san?" The realization hit Chifuyu, seeing Baji, eyes closed and not breathing... Chifuyu pulled Baji's cold body close to him, hugging the lad. "BAJI-SAAAANNN!!!"

"NOOOO!!!!" his crying became louder and louder until he lost it, "ARGHHHH!!!!!" that was the most emphatic shout Chifuyu lets out in his entire life... tiring him out. Chifuyu remained there crying, not knowing how to face you anymore... whether he'll lie to you or not. But the feeling of losing someone as he did before... came back... "Baji-san..."

Mikey is now beating the hell out of Kazutora again. Making Takemitchy mad and clenched his fist... "Takemitchy, Baji-san really wasn't a traitor against Toman after all. He was fighting all alone, and I knew that... I knew that, but... I WASN'T ABLE TO PROTECT HIM!! I WASN'T ABLE TO SAVE HIM!!"

'AGHHH, DAMN IT, DAMN IT, DAMN IT... I'M THE WORSE, I COULDN'T DO ANYTHING, I AM SUCH AN IDIOT!' Takemitchy thought to himself. 'I am sorry, Baji-kun... I wasn't able to do anything..."

Baji's last words to him popped out all of a sudden, "I am leaving them in your hands." Takemitchy couldn't take it anymore, "AGHHHHH!!!!!" He ran to step in between Mikey and Kazutora, "Move, or I'll kill you too."

"You gotta stop this, Mikey-kun!" Takemitchy said, panting. But all he received was a smack from Mikey. That didn't stop him, and he stood up once again to face Mikey, "Baji-kun didn't want this, Mikey-kun!" and this time, he was kicked. "Don't you... talk about Baji."

"Don't talk about Baji?... BAJI-KUN'S DEAD. DAMN IT!!!" Takemitchy took off his jacket, and something from it fell... it was an Omamori that struck Mikey's eyes and the others. "WHY DON'T YOU GET IT, MIKEY-KUN?! WHAT DO YOU THINK BAJI-KUN DIED FOR IN THE FIRST PLACE?!"

"IT WAS FOR YOU TWO, FOR TOMAN! BAJI WASN'T KILLED BY KAZUTORA-KUN! HE DECIDED TO KILL HIMSELF BECAUSE HE DIDN'T WANT KAZUTORA TO FEEL RESPONSIBLE!! BECAUSE HE WANTED YOU TO FORGIVE KAZUTORA!!"

"HE DID THAT... HE DID THAT BECAUSE HE LOVES YOU GUYS! SO WHY CAN'T YOU GUYS UNDERSTAND?!"

Chifuyu was taken aback by Takemitchy snapping, "Takemitchy..."

Takemitchy wiped his tears, "damn it..." Mikey was listening, but his eyes weren't at Takemitchy, but the omamori that fell on the ground... the omamori you gave them from Kyoto.

"Takemitchy... where'd you get this charm?" Mikey asked.

"I found it just now... it was... I think it fell on Baji san's pocket when I locked him down..."

Mitsyua and Draken's eyes widened, "A charm?"

"That's... Y/n's..." Mikey stared at the charm, remembering you and how he wanted to save Baji for you too. And now Baji is gone... he felt guilty... "Baji... had this the whole time?" Mikey turned the omamori around, seeing how thick it was... It turns out it wasn't just one omamori but two. The other one from you and the other one that the six of them got before Tokyo Manji Gang was born...

Charms lost their effects in a year, but to think Baji kept it. He kept it besides the new one... It made him remember all the things before Toman was even born. The six driving around Tokyo, heading to a known shrine... and how Baji encouraged them to make their own gang with Mikey being the leader, and how they bought the charm Mikey's holding right now.

"This red charm is from Baji's woman... the girl to who he never told his real feelings," he flipped it to the other side, "and this charm... from the day we formed our gang," Mikey stood up, with the charm wrapped in his hand, "I didn't create Toman, Baji did... "If anyone of us gets hurt, we'll protect them," is what he said. "I want a gang that's all for one and one for all." That's what our gang was founded on."

They didn't even realize that all of them were already grieving, "Baji-kun was fighting all by himself this whole time... to uphold the promise he made that day..." said Takemitchy. "I'm sorry... Baji... I let you die this early. You didn't even get to do the thing you wanted to do the most... to be with Y/n..."

The sound of the cops we're heard, alarming everyone. "It's the cops..." said Rindou. "Let's go, guys," Ran added. "Okay, break it up! Nice and Easy!"

Kazutora stood up, feeling beat. "I'm staying with Baji... you guys go on." Takemitchy looked back on Kazutora, "Kazutora-kun..."

"This is all my fault... I want to take responsibility..." Mikey turned his back on Kazutora, "Got it, Kazutora."

Draken called out the other Toman members, "We're leaving too! Let's go!"

"Mikey..."

"I won't ask for you to forgive me. I'll live my whole life with Shinichiro-kun and Baji-kun's deaths... on my shoulders..." said Kazutora before bowing over Mikey despite his aching body. Mikey didn't look back except for the others until they all decided to leave.

Kazutora sat beside Baji's dead body, staring at him... "I'm sorry... for having to sacrifice yourself for me, Baji-kun... You deserve to live longer and be with your beloved... what was her name again...? Y/n..."

Chifuyu came home feeling down. He hasn't said a single word ever since he witnessed Baji slowly dying in his arms. His eyes look heavy and swollen, and you can see dark circles under his eyes. Chifuyu was too tired to even walk nor breathe, but he arrived in front of the door anyways.

Chifuyu continues to walk, only looking straight. He reached for the keys in his pocket, only for his foot to bump something that's on the doorstep when he was about to enter. "Huh? what is this...?" the lad crouched down to pick up the white box in the ground. It wasn't heavy but had a weight.

He walked into the house, locking the door, not even opening the lights. He placed the box on the kitchen countertop before opening it. Chifuyu's eyes started to get wet again when he saw what was inside the box... It was a customized cake, and the handwriting was so terrible. That alone gave Chifuyu the idea of who made the cake... "Your handwriting's so bad, Baji-san..." He wiped his tears away, reading the text, 'Welcome back, Y/n!'

Chifuyu chuckled, still crying, "He even missed a letter in the word welcome. I'm pretty sure my sister would kick your ass right now if she saw how bad you spelled 'welcome,'"

The memory of Baji's last scene kept repeating inside Chifuyu's mind. The lad went to the corner beside the fridge and curled himself like a ball, crying his heart out again.

Once the plane landed and it was safe for the passengers to leave, you immediately made your way out of the aircraft, excusing yourself for bumping on everyone.

'I WANT TO SEE HIM'

'I WANT TO SEE HIM'

'I WANT TO SEE HIM'

That was all over your mind again. You ran over to the luggage area to get your things and see them, already ready to be grabbed, and it was like the Gods are cooperating with you.

You ran out of the airport to grab a taxi. When your phone was connected to the signal, messages started popping out, and your phone began to vibrate like crazy because of the notifications of the texts and missed calls, making you open the phone that vibrates the most. It's the phone that Baji gave you.

Feeling excited that Baji might be the one texting you, you opened it only to see some of the Toman member's messages.

Mitsuya: "We don't know when you're arriving, but see us as soon as you landed." 10/31/2004

Draken: "I don't think we'd be able to talk again, but can you reply back on what day will you come back?" 10/31/2004

Emma: "Y/n-chan, when're you gonna be home?" 10/31/2004

Unknown: "Is this Y/n?" 10/31/2004

Chifuyu: "Neesan, come home..." 10/31/2004

Chifuyu's message made your heart beat faster like crazy, "Why does everyone wanna see me? Did something terrible happen?" You scrolled down your phone to see more messages, and the last person on the list is Baji.

Baji: "I am sorry I was a little late for your flight. Chifuyu said, you already made it to the plane! Hehe, don't be mad though, I didn't mean to be late. Anyways, I saw your aircraft flying! Have a safe flight, and I'll wait for you to come back." 10/23/2004

There were no messages from Baji aside from that. 'I mean, if they were an emergency between Toman... and Draken had the guts to text me when he hates me, then why didn't Baji text me about it too? Why? Perhaps... no, don't overthink. You're almost at your house,' you thought to yourself, dialing Baji's phone number.

You got nervous when he answered it, but it wasn't Baji who you were hearing, but a woman's voice, "Y'ALL BETTER STOP CALLING AND LEAVE MY SON ALONE!" after that, the call was ended, "Was that, Baji's mom? What happened? Why does she sound so mad..."

The taxi arrived in front of the apartment building, and as you got out, you instantly felt the coldness of dawn. You raised your head to stare at the top of the building and saw the lights off, commonly because it's dawn. "Maybe Chifuyu's sleeping or out with the guys."

You check your wristwatch as soon as you enter the elevator, seeing it was already November 1st. The door to the elevator opened, and you hurriedly ran to the penthouse's door. You held your hands back, seeing blood on the doorknob, "No way... Chifuyu?" You kicked the door open, seeing all the lights off.

The night was so silent that every tiny noise can be perceived by the ear. And just as that you heard sniffling somewhere near the kitchen, you ran on the way to it to see no one but a damaged cake, "What happened to that poor cake," you said, looking at it from afar.

Your eyes recognized a human hair making you shout in terror, only to realize it was blonde, "Chifuyu? Chifuyu is that you...?" while slowly walking near the fiber. You saw it was Chifuyu, with blood on his hands. It was dark, but you're sure that his clothes are soaked too, and it is probably blood.

There you saw Chifuyu unconscious, with the lights from the big window reflecting against his face, making all the bruises he got from the brawl visible to your eyes. "Chifuyu, Chifuyu, wake up. Hey..." your brother wasn't responding at all, but his breathing is stable.

You stood up to see a cake on the counter. Your hand reached for it, rotating it to read what was written, "Wlcome back, Y/n," you chuckled at the spelling, "it's even missing a letter, and the handwriting is bad, HAHAHA." You scoop the icing with your fingers, tasting it. But despite all the worries, the cake calmed you down, 'There's no way something ugly happened, right? Maybe Baji and Chifuyu got into an argument and beat the shit out of each other, but Baji would never hit Chifuyu...'

A fussing sound was heard by your ears as you turned around to see Chifuyu awake. His eyes were red, swollen, and tired. He also has injuries all around his face, but your observation was cut off when he started sniffling while looking down, "Chifuyu, what's wrong? Did you get into a fight with Baji?"

Chifuyu shook his head no, still sniffling, "Then... what happened? Neesan's confused. Why don't you tell her what happened?" you tried your best to be as calm as possible. He started speaking again, but his sentence kept getting distracted by his crying, "D...don't h...hate me, neesan..."

"Why would I hate you? I love you, didn't I tell you that?" Chifuyu raised his head before hugging you tightly, "Yes... cry it out, Chifuyu..." you were caressing his back, but he won't stop crying, and it is really making you worry so much, "Chifuyu—."

"Baji-san... Baji-san's dead..." your hand that was on his back fell. You suddenly stopped blinking as your eyes widened in shock. Your heart was tightening so hard at the same time... "Chifuyu... that's not a good joke—" Chifuyu pulled away, looking at you, "I AM NOT JOKING! HE... HE DIED IN... HE DIED RIGHT IN MY ARMS... NEESAN..." You slowly looked at his arms that are tainted with blood, his neck too. Tears started falling down your face as you slowly grasp the fact about Baji.

"No... please, please tell me this is a joke... Chifuyu, I do not like this—," Chifuyu pulled you in his arms again as you started crying even louder... because it wasn't a joke anymore... "I wish this was all a joke too... neesan..."

You tried your best not to yell because it's the middle of the night, but the anger you felt cannot be subdued. But you couldn't take it anymore and just shouted it all out while burying your face in Chifuyu's shoulders, muffling the sounds. Your nails dug into his uniform, but he didn't mind the sharpness of it.

"It's all my fault, neesan. I know what Baji-san was doing all this time... but, but I didn't do a single thing to help him... I was... I was a coward, I should've stopped him when Takemitchy was pleading with me to hold Baji down, but I backed out... so please don't hate me, neesan..."

All you could do was shook your head as 'no' in response. "It's not your fault... Chifuyu, it's not your fault. Alright? It's not your fault, you brat,"

'Comforting him and feeling shit at the same time... the history truly is repeating. This same thing happened back with dad... but it's the other way around. Chifuyu was the one comforting me, and I was blaming myself.'

You tried to compose yourself first, "Hey... go clean up first... alright? Then sleep, we'll talk tomorrow. You've had enough for tonight." Chifuyu looked at you, and he knew you were hurting, and it was all his fault, "There you go again, I know you're blaming yourself again. Stop, alright? Now go soak yourself in a warm bath..."

Chifuyu nodded and reached out his hand to his pocket and gave you a piece of key, "Parking lot, Baji's toolbox... he left something for you in there, neesan..."

You looked at the silver key in your palm, clenching it. "Alright, I'll go to the parking lot, and you take a bath, hm? Love you," you kissed his forehead before leaving, closing the door quietly and heading towards the parking lot of the apartment.

You arrived at the underground floor where all the cars and bikes were parked. The place is filled with orange or yellow lights at every corner, making it a little less dark. Your eyes saw Baji's bike near Chifuyu's one at the corner. "There it is..."

Crouching down to find the toolbox, you found it after seconds because you really don't know where it is, and it's still a little dark. "I forgot I have my phone," you grabbed your phone out, aiming the flashlight at the padlock of the toolbox, and opened it without any problem. The toolbox had a brown box inside it that is not really heavy, "How did Baji get this in? It's so tight."

You sat on the ground trying to get the box out, and until half of it was already out, you used your remaining energy. You sighed, seeing it on the ground, opening it, and saw multiple envelopes with numbers on them. "Huh? #1... #2... #3..." you dig up to the bottom of the box and saw, #140...

You flipped the #140 letter and saw what was written on the back, "for her."

"Is he talking about... me?" your fingers slowly opened the envelope and saw a very long message inside, and it was the saddest, full of regret, and honest letter of Baji that you had ever read all these months.

10/30/2004

I hope you find these letters in it's best condition, Y/n.

So, I, uh, happen to overhear a very confidential conversation between my enemies. Thanks that I overheard it, I guess. If it weren't for it, I maybe have left you all confused if something may happen to me.

Do you remember that night where we yearned on a shooting star? I told you that I believe in the power it carries, but it never made my wish come true when I begged my dad to come back when I was a child. It turns out we make our luck and wishes come true.

I wished you a happy life from the start, Y/n, so don't hate me for disappearing on you sometimes because I am just protecting you from the danger I carry. I also wished to stay by your side forever because I already know the risk I might face. But the stars won't help me to achieve that when my destiny is a tragedy.

Bet you already went to see Hanako, and if you're reading this, I may have already been gone... or not. But most likely, I'd be.

I thanked Hanako for the love letters when she and I broke up because if it wasn't for that, we wouldn't have met, Y/n. But sometimes, I wished we just never crossed paths. If only I ignored you for the first time when your fingers touched the pages of my dictionary, pointing the accurate alphabet for me, it wouldn't be this hard to say goodbye.

But that doesn't mean I hate the idea of having to know such an astounding person like you. I just hope we should've met sooner, not when It was almost time for me to go.

Pardon me for laying my fingers on Chifuyu's face and tell him that none of these is his fault, alright? He prolly is blaming himself right now. I didn't mean to hurt him... He was in the way of my plans. I plan to take the enemy out by myself and without anyone's help, even Chifuyu, but I failed... I promised you, didn't I? That I'd protect and keep Chifuyu safe for you... and that I also promised your mother to keep you away from harm. I fulfilled my promise to you...

And I also accomplished my promise with Shinichiro-kun, do you remember him? Mikey's older brother, whom Kazutora and I accidentally... killed. The story I told you when we were in Bunkyo, HAHAHA.

Anyways, I wrote 140 letters for you to read, but it's basically all cheesy and stuff. I feel like my soul's gonna be embarrassed to see you read my emails.

If I only had much time, I would've written a lot of letters to you.

You know what, ever since you told me about your past and how you don't wanna be involved with a person like your dad, I wanted to be different from him... I didn't know why I think of those, maybe because I am starting to like you, and I do not want you to reject my feelings just because I am a delinquent, and that is the environment where I grew up.

Do not get me wrong, your father was a hero and an astounding guy, but I know how much he hurt you... But I still ended up being like him. What I mean is I still ended up hurting you too...

Although you know what I am proud of? Is that I died with willingness in my own arms... you won't go in trouble resenting anyone because no one killed me... Y/n.

I have many regrets in life. One is not being able to solve my friend's problem... and two, not be able to say how much I love you with my own mouth. I regret not being able to know you sooner. I regret it so much, Y/n. That all is already a lot of regrets...

If only I knew much sooner that I have the possibility of dying, I wouldn't have neglected you and just stay by your side.

Did you know I was actually at the airport when you left, I just arrived late, and I promised that I'll make it up to you when you come back, I said, "I'll take her somewhere she really wants, not what Hanako wants, or what I want, but hers," too bad, I am gonna die later. But I am pretty sure if you're reading this, I am already gone.

Don't worry, I told Chifuyu to take you somewhere in my place.

I don't know when'll you go home, but I figured I may run out of time... So, I bought the cake in advance. Welcome back home, Y/n, and sorry for my bad handwriting. I tried, but I guess pastry isn't for me, HAHAHA.

Do you believe in reincarnation? I do. If ever we meet again... I'll even find you and look for a mole in your hand and lips because they say it's where your soulmate kissed you in the past. I would make you mine in an instant once I spotted you, like how I fell in love with you even before the Kyoto Incident. I'll love you much better in that timeline, Y/n. And I really won't leave your side when that time comes.

This might be my last letter, but this won't be the end of my feelings. I love you with letters or none. No matter where I am, my feelings will remain the same.

Visit my grave when you're ready. I do not desire to see you cry because of me.

I'd like to see you with your diploma. Even though you did not tell me what profession you desire to become, Chifuyu was there. So I guess Good luck to you, my future Lawyer.

I am already one of the stars that we saw the other night. Stare at them when you feel sad. If you feel like you're not loved, just look at the stars again, and that as long as there's a star, then I am there... and I love you.

Live a good life, Y/n. And if it's time for you to leave that particular time, then see you in the next life, when we met there again. I promise to tell you how much I love you, not through a piece of crumpled paper but coming from my mouth.

I am sorry, forgive me.

Yours Truly, Keisuke Baji.

Tears were running out of your eyes ever since you started reading. It was supposed to be a suicide note, but Baji made it into an astonishing and sad love letter. It was messy... but he was honest.

The reader can feel the regret, the sadness, and every emotion poured into a piece of an old paper. It was hard to breathe. All of the 'what if's?' started coming out of your mind. Such as, 'What if I wasn't too late? Would I be able to see him and tell him that I feel the same way?'

You were almost blaming yourself, but you realize Baji wouldn't like that. But you at least hope he would let you cry because it hurts to see him dead. You suddenly felt old air rushing over, brushing against your skin... "Damn, don't scare me. If that's you, then let me cry, Idiot..." It was the most comforting cold air you ever experienced... usually, it would make you shiver, but it didn't... It made you able to breathe properly...

You stood up, grabbing everything, and heading towards the unit. There you saw Chifuyu in his hoodie, staring at the cake, watching the candle burn down, with your eyes feeling a tiny sting, you rubbed it away, "Hello, are you not gonna sleep yet?" you said, caressing his hair, "You should sleep, we're going to... visit Baji... tomorrow."

Chifuyu looked at you, "His mother chased us away... she's clearly mad. She told us not to get close to Baji-san..."

"She'll hear me out. We'll be able to see Baji, alright? Now go sleep..." Chifuyu nodded, "why... are you so calm, neesan...?" You smiled at him, "I am not calm, Chifuyu. I feel like I can ruin this building in anger and grief, but if I fall... what's gonna happen to you?"

Chifuyu hugged you, "You should... hold on to me, neesan... because it's harder for you."

"Yeah... thanks, Chifuyu."

Both of you went to your perspective rooms, and as soon as you closed the door to your room, you started ruining everything in your way while shouting in anger. Your bedroom was trashed in a minute, broken glass everywhere... pillow was thrown at every corner of your room. You were crying like how you did back then.

It hurts so much to lose a person you always thought who'd be beside you for a long time. Sometimes, those who we didn't expect to go to will always be the ones to go first out of a sudden time.

It's hard to accept, yes. But that's just the way the world works... someone needs to go, and someone new comes by. No one stays forever...

But you hope that someone will never come by again if the outcome is gonna be the same...

All you know is that you had been enough of losing and wished to never experience that again. The wound that Baji that left you... will always be there, even if he said that it won't.

Maybe wishing on a shooting star won't come true, and Baji knows that. So he made the wish come true himself. His wish... was that you would live a good life far from the danger, which he thought he was... and that you'll achieve your goal.

That got you thinking that, 'What if I told him what I really wished for that day? Will he also fulfill that wish...'

During that stargazing with Baji... you did not tell him the real thing you wished for. Truth be told, you hoped for his safety, but it didn't come true.

There you realized that "Stars are just stars in the night sky. We make our own wish come true."

You rubbed your swollen eyes with your arm, "Don't kid me around... 'died with willingness,' my ass. You sacrificed your own happiness for everyone's future... "

October 31st, 2004. Tokyo Manji gang's 150 VS Valhalla's 300. The victor of this unprecedented conflict was the Tokyo Manji gang, and also... there was one death and one arrest. A tragic end to the battle.

This battle was later known as the "Bloody Halloween." But for the people who witnessed the fight, they call it "The death of a hero."

l.s

Chapter Text

Y/n's POV

Months had passed, Baji turned 19 days after his death, Chifuyu and I turned 18 months after. Everybody was getting old somehow, and life goes on for some, with or without Baji. But it wasn't like that for me...

Every day I still wait for him to come over to pick me up for school. I sometimes unconsciously turn around during class, believing Baji might still be sitting on the desk behind me.

No one in our circle made it to any of Baji's wake because his mother didn't let us, and the only chance Toman got to see him was when he was already buried. And it's not like we didn't try to attend the wake. We did, but either we're humiliated, or his mom would throw water on us.

When Baji was buried, I did not come... I realized I wasn't ready at all... I feel like if I only get to see his name written on that stone, I would be destroyed...

Just hearing his name stings already.

So I said the night after his funeral, 'Pardon me, I'll visit you when I am ready to accept everything...' and that night, I fell asleep clutching the letter he's made for me.

Today, I am standing in my uniform... under the cherry blossom tree near the main gate with Chiuyu beside me, carrying my robe. Graduates are already filling the gate slowly before 9.

My eyes roamed, seeing everyone laughing with smiles plastered on their faces. They're happy because they made it... I am glad too, but the saddest part in there... is that I didn't make it with Baji...

Time flies by so fast, and it's already our graduation day. It's sad how I always imagine marching with Baji and smiling as we receive our high school diplomas together.

In the old times, I wanted to make him able to graduate, too. But it's all impossible now... Things were so easy to fulfill back then.

And I didn't imagine myself standing wearing an academic gown in front of everyone while giving my speech as the class Valedictorian. "Hi, uhm... good morning. My name is Y/n Matsuno, your Valedictorian of batch 2004-2005. I did not prepare such a speech for this on a piece of paper. But I do know what I wanted to say... We all here are students, and know-how students work, so I do not need to give y'all a storytime as to how I achieved this status of mine."

"I just wanted to grab this opportunity to tell you how much this school year had been tough to us... we've all experienced failed school trips once again, for those who had been here before me," I said, chuckling as the students are laughing with me too.

"Yeah, so it's not only that, but we also found out that one of our classmates was a psychopath and was very eager to kill me," everyone cheered, knowing I was talking about Ryota. "Yeah, yeah. Pardon, he might visit me tonight in my sleep."

"But most and for all, we also experienced... losing a schoolmate, classmate... and a friend, his name was Keisuke Baji. We all are aware of how he was, right? Aggressive, star of every fight in the school, and terrible at socializing. His social skill is not the only thing terrible but also his handwriting, HAHAHA," everyone was vibing with me, agreeing to everything I said, "But, only a few of us saw how he's a good person. Baji's considerate... he cares a lot... Baji tends to fix things alone, and that's his red flag. But he does that in order not to make everyone worry."

"He was a hero during that night, the night they call The Bloody Halloween. Pardon me for saying all this stuff when he was already buried months ago... it's just that I never got the chance to do this during his funeral... I wasn't allowed inside the funeral homes. I never got the opportunity to tell everyone how Baji is not just that guy who creates chaos but the guy who's willing to risk his own life for someone he values."

"Baji once told my mother... that high school memories stay on the campus right after we all graduate, but I hope even if we all are already starting to build our own family, we shouldn't forget how wonderful high school times were. But we're growing old, life gets more serious after this... take care of yourself, dying doesn't always mean you'll die as a hero, Baji just didn't have a choice... he's a hero whether or not he died."

"I am not telling you how to live because it's your life... but people always regret things in the end. Regret is an inevitable fear and enemy. Always remember that someone out there really loves you and wants to spend the rest of their life with you, so starting now, live the healthy life you wanted."

"You, yeah, you guys at the back," I said, pointing at them, "I know what y'all have been doing at the back of the school. And you, I know you were smoking," Even the teachers laughed, "I caught a lot of people doing things that aren't allowed on the school grounds, but what can I do? High school is High school. Whatever rule you put, students will find a way not to follow that, and I think that's one of the reasons why High school is the best certain point in someone's life."

"I'll end my disordered speech here. Once again, congratulations to all of us graduates of batch 04-05! May we lead a good life in the present and in the future!" I bowed, hearing everyone cheer and throwing their graduation hat in the air.

I pulled myself up after bowing, seeing everyone's hats in the air still, and some are falling down. I didn't know if I was seeing things, but everything started going slow motion, my eyes perceiving the sigh of Baji, hands inside his pocket while smiling at me widely.

I immediately ran down the stage, wanting to hug him but when a hat fell in front of me, blocking my sight of him for a second... he wasn't there anymore... I wanted to cry... I missed him so much.

I felt hands on my shoulder, and one holding my hand, seeing it was Hina and Emma, made me hug them, "Aw, what happened, Y/n-chan?" Hina asked, caressing my hair. "Nothing... I am just... happy."

"Well, as you should be! Let's go outside. The others are waiting," said Emma. I nodded and walked out of the hall, holding hands with both of them.

There we saw Toman's founding members outside, together with Chifuyu and Takemitchy. I met Takemitchy during the time where we tried to attend the wake, the same as Hina.

Mitsuya was the first one to congratulate, "Congratulations, Y/n." followed by the others. Chifuyu ran to me, clinging on my shoulders, "Congratulations, neesan," even if he was already an adult, he's still being clingy around me. Maybe that's why he can't get a girlfriend.

"Look what I brought," Draken said, handing me something that is wrapped in a newspaper, "Hm? for me?" I asked. "Not quite. Open it, quick." I quickly tripped the paper off, only to see it was a portrait of Baji... "I..."

Draken gazed at you, "What? Don't like it? But I'm glad he had a picture though, he's not a fan of cameras, HAHAHA." Draken stopped talking, seeing me crying, "Oh, uh. I did not mean to make you cry."

"It's... beautiful," I said, covering my mouth with my hands in awe. "I almost forgot how Baji looks like. He's more beautiful here than in my memories."

It's not that I forgot what he looks like. I still do remember his face... but not specifically anymore... like how his eyes are so perfectly formed. How his fangs were sharper than you can imagine, it can pierce someone while kissing, HAHAHA.

"Why don't we take a picture with it, you know, since this is Baji's graduation too," Mikey suggested, and we all agreed anyways.

Draken raised the phone up while we look at the camera, "Alright, say cheese motherfuckers," I placed Baji's frame in front of him, including him in the photo. "Cheeseee!!"

I stared at the photo once again, realizing it was that photo I took of him in a coffee shop before heading to Bunkyo. "Congratulations to us, Keisuke."

The cherry blossom petals were falling all this time, as one fell on the frame while I was staring at it, "Hmmm, so you're here?" I said.

I looked up at the bright blue sky, smiling, "I hope you're doing well there, Keisuke."

We all learned lessons from every crazy thing that had happened to us in a year. We experienced crazy things, from miracles to never-ending luck. We felt fear, anger, grief, pain, and all of the emotions possible, but the most important is despite all that, we did not forget to still be happy and grateful for all the things we have and have not.

The memories we made with Baji are priceless and short, but they'll always be treasured... HE WILL ALWAYS BE TREASURED.

I don't think I'd be able to love someone again as much as I did with that guy... but I'm not going to complain.

Loving a person who's already gone is painful, they say, but I said, 'At least it's you...' I do not care how painful that is, as long as it's you.

I'll let you hurt me again and again.

Until it's time for us to meet again, I won't love anyone else. I won't let anyone else hurt me. It'll only be you... Keisuke.

So wait for me in the next life... I know it'll take longer, but I hope I am still the person you'll choose to love in the next life. Because no matter how long it takes, five years, ten years, twenty years, a century... even eternity... you're always gonna be the man I chose to fall for.

Even if the time comes where I do not know how you look anymore... my heart knows.

l.s

Chapter Text

'JAPAN OCTOBER 2013

The fresh air of Tokyo brushed against your skin that has been used to the air abroad, inhaling them before smiling widely, "Welcome back, Y/n," you said to yourself, roaming your eyes to grab a taxi.

"Hello, good morning. Where would you like me to escort you?" said the driver politely. "Oh, hey, xxx apartment, please," the driver nodded, driving away.

It has been seven years, and your family still 'kinda' lives in the same penthouse. There are too many memories made for the three of you to leave. That's why you decided to stay.

You arrived in the apartment building in no time because the traffic is not that heavy. Seeing the penthouse from below is too blinding because of the sun.

No one knows you were coming today because you told them that you can't make it for today, but it was all a joke to surprise them, but you were a little unhappy hearing nothing from the inside of the unit. "Is someone not home?"

You opened the door with the same key from 7 years ago and seeing nothing has changed inside the house, except for the decorations and stuff, but the placement of the appliances are still the same, "Nostalgic..."

"I wonder where Chifuyu is... maybe he's managing his business near Shibuya crossing," you said to yourself, caressing your pencil skirt, "Hmm.. should I change?" removing your blazer, you placed it on the couch.

Your heels made a sound every time it makes contact with the tiles while you walked to open the curtain of the big glass window. As you pulled the fabric away from covering it, the sun shined, lighting the inside of the apartment unit.

Your eyes got blinded by it for a second before your vision started going back to normal. There, your eyes perceived the balcony, the balcony where Baji spent his remaining days with you. It wasn't a good memory, and it wasn't a bad one either.

Both of you fought in that balcony that night, and the stars were the witnesses. Your fingers ran through the handle of the glass door, opening it and making your way to the big platform.

You decided to sit on the old couch after placing a handkerchief to sit because it was too dusty. No one takes care of the house now since your mother went back to Sendai. Chifuyu often sleeps in this penthouse. He spends his time in new york to study and went back here to Japan to build a business of his own which you helped him too, as starters, because he didn't have the money yet for construction.

The building is two-story. The upstairs is where Chifuyu sleeps when he's too lazy to go home.

You stood up from sitting and admiring the view below you. It's noontime, but there are a lot of people outside, prolly because it's Halloween.

A lot of Halloween had passed, but only one struck everyone's mind. None other than the "Bloody Halloween."

You glanced over to look at your wristwatch, seeing it's already close to 11, "Time to see my beloved," you happily said to yourself before making your way inside your old room to change for more comfortable clothes.

You changed into a white chiffon blouse tucked in khaki elegant wide-leg trousers, paired with a pair of nude heels, "I'm not that bad anymore at fashion, I guess. Unlike the 17-year-old me."

You grabbed your purse and locked the door, heading towards the apartment parking lot, and uncover your brand-new car. "As expected." It wasn't exactly new. You made Chifuyu bought it years after graduating, so you don't have to call a taxi or get on a train when you get back.

Properly getting the car off the parking lot, you went ahead and drove to the last place Baji has been... the cake store.

The door chime made a noise as you entered the place with a few people inside, eating and enjoying the music being sung by an acoustic band. Halloween symbols such as pumpkins, spiders, and ghosts are placed inside and out of the store, making people feel the season.

Changes had happened to the store ever since 2004, but it gave the same nostalgic vibes. 'Did Baji felt this way too when the first time he got into this store?' was all you can think of.

As you approached the counter, a lady in a brown apron took the initiative to talk, "Hello, good day. May I know what cake you would like, or did you make a cake reservation?"

"I did not... uhm, Is it okay if I just order right away?"

She smiled at me, giving me the menu, "Of course, as long as you can wait until the cake is ready, ma'am. You can pick and come back here if you've made your choice. Seats are available for everyone," you nodded moving aside so the next customer can make their order.

You've already reached the last page of the album but didn't saw the image of the cake Baji gave you, "I am sorry, but are these all the cake designs you have?"

"I am afraid yes. Are you looking for something in particular? Do you not like the latest designs?"

"No, no, I like them. It's just that a guy— I don't know if you remember, but a guy back in 2004 bought me a cake manufactured here. And I wanna order the same thing."

"2004... may I know his name? I've been working here for years, I may know, and I'm really good at memorizing," said the lady, calling someone to take care of her work while she entertains me.

"Keisuke Baji."

She stayed silent and gulped, "Oh... him. Yeah, I do remember him. He's one of a kind. He made the letterings to the cake all by himself, and yeah. He told me that it was horrible, but I pushed him to send it to his girlfriend since he put a lotta effort into it. Were you the girl he was talking about?"

You looked at her, feeling flustered... "y... yeah, after all, he sent it to me..."

"I'll make it for you. I still know how it looks like," the lady said, assuring me. "No, it's alright. I feel like I am burdening you, I can just order another design—."

She held my hand, stopping me from speaking, "It's nothing, and I understand the value of that cake. Don't worry, it's not that hard to make. How would you like the design on top?"

"Thank you so much. The same, please, but I would like to change the letterings."

You sat on the chair near a window, 3 tables away from the acoustic band. 'A foreigner?' you thought to yourself while looking at the man, who you assumed to be the lead vocalist.

They started playing a very calming guitar intro until the first sentence in the first verse already got the hit on you, and it started giving you flashbacks.

As the songs started, you closed your eyes, and the first thing you perceived is the image of Baji... smiling at you.

'Flowers in hand, waiting for me♪

'Every word in poetry♪

You were surprised to see the lobby's door open and see Baji going in, including a pink bouquet of roses in his hands and a smile on his face with his loose tie. You softly laughed at his stupidity, alarming him. "What's so funny first thing in the morning, lady?" Baji stood centimeters away from you, offering you the roses.

You stood up from the luxurious sofa to accept it, nearing it to your nose. "Does it smell good?" Baji said nervously with his hand on the back of his head, "Uh... I smell... fabric, Baji. What's this?"

Baji lets out a grin, "I did that on purpose! Come on, now, real roses die faster. It's polyester, by the way,"

'Won't call me by name, only "baby."♪

'The more that you give, the less that I need♪

'Everyone says I look happy♪

'When it feels right♪

05/XX/2005

UNKNOWN: I am sorry, Baji, for making it seem like I do not want you for my girl and that you'll only bring vulnerability to her. I know you understand what I really intend to say, yes? I can see how happy she is with you... and I don't want to be in the way of that, never again.

'I know that you're wrong for me♪

'Gonna wish we never met on the day I leave♪

'I brought you down to your knees♪

''Cause they say that misery loves company♪

"I thanked Hanako for the love letters when she and I broke up because if it wasn't for that, we wouldn't have met, Y/n. But sometimes, I wished we just never crossed paths. If only I ignored you for the first time when your fingers touched the pages of my dictionary, pointing the accurate alphabet for me, it wouldn't be this hard to say goodbye."

"But that doesn't mean I hate the idea of having to know such an astounding person like you. I just hope we should've met sooner, not when It was almost time for me to go."

'It's not your fault I ruin everything♪

'And it's not your fault I can't be what you need♪

"Pardon me for laying my fingers on Chifuyu's face and tell him that none of these is his fault, alright? He prolly is blaming himself right now."

"I am sorry, forgive me."

Yours Truly, Keisuke Baji.

'Baby, angels like you can't fly down hell with me♪

'I'm everything they said I would be♪

Baji didn't want to let go, initiating him to draw you closer by your hips before his hands traveled up to your waist, caressing both sides as if he's admiring your body. Then his fingers tracing the middle area of your back where your spine is, sending chills all over your body, making you arch your back all of a sudden.

Baji softly pulled away from kissing you, "Sorry, does that hurt?" You shook your head as a no while looking down. You wrapped your arms around his neck, burying your face on his shoulder.

"I heard from some nerd who likes theories that our scapula used to be part of our wings," Baji said, tracing your shoulder blade with his fingers. "Just tonight, I came to a conclusion where people who have perfect curved scapula's just like yours are angels," he added.

"Do you have a perfect one?" You asked, looking at him. Baji smiled before shaking his head lightly as 'no.'

"But why do you look so okay with it?" you asked, trying not to release a strange noise from his touches.

"I am happy because you have a perfect one, and I do not. I don't deserve to be with you, and you don't deserve to fly down with me."

You stayed quiet, not following his words. "You don't have to say anything right now because I know myself it's complicated. But you'll understand when the right time comes."

'I'll put you down slow, love you goodbye♪

'Before you let go, just one more time♪

Baji crouched down to take you in my arms before going upstairs to enter the middle room and laid you down on your bed.

After some time in tucking you, Baji sat on your bed, caressing your hair off your face. Seeing your face soften brings peace to him. 'Was she having a nightmare? Or just mad?' baji thought to himself. You suddenly wrapped your arms around him, preventing Baji from leaving. "Don't leave..."

'Take off your clothes, pretend that it's fine♪

'A little more hurt won't kill you♪

I let out a heavy sigh before heading inside to find the bathroom. Y/n immediately pounced on the toilet to release. "Ah, that hurts my throat..." she said, leaning on the bathroom's wall, and not long after, she felt like puking again. "Hey, that's enough now. Nothing's coming out. You'll hurt yourself," I picked her up from the floor to make her stand up. "I can't let you sleep like this," now I don't know what to do. I can't just remove her clothes. But nyaaa, this is an emergency.

The shower was pulled off its confinement. I turned it on before soaking the shirt with water to remove the dirt. I looked away while doing so because Y/n's wearing white...

'Maybe the puke's all washed off the fabric now,' I guessed. I made Y/n sit on the toilet, grabbing the nearest bathrobe. I closed my eyes before removing her top then wrapping her immediately with the robe. I then opened my eyes to see her suitably covered with the soft fabric. "Wow, I can't believe I just did that."

English had been your second language before you even studied abroad. You had felt mixed emotions as you were lost in your own mind. Other flashbacks that had appeared are new. And you don't even know if some of them really happened in real life with Baji.

But it was sad to reminisce all those times or scenarios. And happy at the same time because who the hell ever realized that we already made many memories together in just a span of time.

You looked at the guy singing, admiring his voice, 'if he was a musician... would he compose the same song like this one?' you thought to yourself, thinking of Baji. 'Nah, he might ruin the guitar or the mic if he became a musician, HAHAHA.'

"Order for Matsuno-san. I repeat, order for Matsuno-san!" You raised your hand, slowly standing up from your seat to pay for the order and leave, "Have a nice day, ma'am."

"You too, have a nice day!"

You walked outside the store before going in your car to place the cake on the empty passenger seat. As you were about to put your seatbelt on, you noticed a flower shop across the street, refraining from continuing what you were about to do. You got out of the car and walked your way to the flower shop.

"Hey, beautiful lady. What flowers are you looking for today?"

"Hey, madam, can I have a bouquet of white and red chrysanthemum please, like this one," you said, pointing at the flowers. "Sure, sure, go ahead and sit, honey."

The place looks like a paradise of flowers. You sat on the only available antique chair made out of steel, and even the chair looks very elegant and aesthetic. The floor is filled with artificial leaves too. So is the outside of the shop.

Then the woman came back after a few minutes, handing you the order, "Here... perhaps you'll be visiting someone's grave?" you nodded, giving her the payment, "yes, I'll go ahead then. Have a nice day."

Chifuyu said that Baji's buried in Aoyama Cemetery in the south. Only 15 mins drive from Shibuya, driving around the city really reminds you of everything about Baji. Thinking way back, you asked yourself, 'will I be able to accept everything if I stayed here in Tokyo? Maybe not.'

There was this moment where you just wanna go home in the middle of the class in King's College. While you were there, a lot happened in Tokyo, making you worry. Lotta happened that made you hold back from graduating. But you eventually graduated after 5-6 years of studying law.

It wasn't that long until you arrived in Minato and parking your car near the cemetery because you don't know where to park it. It took you minutes to find Baji's headstone, but as long as you found it, you ran back to the car to get all your things.

Placing the blanket on the cement, you removed your heels to sit in an Indian-style position before inhaling and exhaling heavily. "Wow... I, uh... I can't believe I am in front of you now..." you said, looking at the stone.

You noticed how dusty it is, "No one visited you before me, Kei? But Chifuyu said they all visited you yesterday morning." you removed your ring from your hand and started getting all the grass surrounding and blocking Baji's name. "Geez, can this grass just mind its own business and stop crawling into someone's grave?"

"HAHA, I just removed a whole jungle." you threw the grass aside, clapping your hands clean. You lit up the incense sticks before swaying them to put the fire off and placed them in the hole where you're supposed to put them before putting your hands together to pray.

After praying, you took the flowers behind you and placed them beside the sticks, "Hi... It's been like, what? 7 years..."

"How are you? I hope you're doing well wherever you are. You know I... still see you in my dreams... what are you trying to say to me, Kei? Or do you just miss me? Don't worry, I miss you too... so much."

"I wish I was there... witnessing your death. I really can't apprehend that I just left for college admission, then I went back to hear you... cold and lifeless, right before I could even tell my feelings."

"I also realized that... you were the only one who confessed. Sorry to keep you waiting for my reply, though I feel like you didn't need one, but I wanted to tell you that I love you too... all this time. Life went on. We're all grown-ups now, and some of our friends even got their careers too, like Mitsuya and Hakkai... Chifuyu, Mikey still clings around Draken. It's sad to think that you already went ahead of us. Even if that's the case, I still feel like you're here guiding each and every one of us until we reach the end. There's still a long way ahead, though."

"I am sorry for not visiting sooner... I was afraid... I'm scared I could go after you any minute if I saw you there, resting beneath the ground, HAHAHA. Kidding aside, it just took me long enough to get my diploma."

"And I do not want to see you without anything in hand. So..." you turned around and grab the certificate holder, "Got it bitch," you said, showing him your diploma, "Ya' girl's a lawyer now, and the best one in the law firm— well, that's what they say."

You placed the object down, "Sorry, I can't leave this here, though. I only bought the original copy."

You stayed quiet for a while, just looking at the headstone, "Well, this conversation feels a little different, prolly because I am talking to a stone, HAHAHA. But hey, if I would be given a chance to chat to you again, even nonstop, I would do that. Though we'd argue after that like always."

You looked at the bouquet of flowers, remembering something, "These flowers... they're not polyester like you bought me," you said, laughing. "But I can always buy you one again when it rots..."

"Ahh, I wanna stay here with you until it gets dark, but... I have a lunch appointment with my Chifuyu. You should join us, but don't scare us, though, HAHAHA. We'll have Peyoung yakisoba as the main course. I'm sure you'd like to go now?"

"By the way, I found this... inside the cake, I almost choked on it," you said, showing him two silver rings placed in your middle and ring finger, "Were you supposed to give this to me? I have used both of them since... you know, this looks simple and elegant... I wear this all the time and stare at it when I'm too stressed out."

"Anyways... it's almost 12 now. Chifuyu might close the store. I'll go see him, alright? I'll visit you tomorrow early in the morning. Bye, Kei," Crouching down, you placed your hand on the top of the stone, caressing it.

You grabbed all your things before going inside your car, "Shit, he really is gone..." you wiped your tears first before starting the car to drive back to Shibuya crossing and visit Chifuyu.

You parked the car and walked towards the store and saw the pets inside by the glass window, "Pet store..." Ever since Baji's tragic death, Chifuyu took it to heart too.

Chifuyu was supposed to be a Bachelor of Aviation management because he aspired to become a pilot even before entering college. But when Baji died, he decided to carry on Baji's dream of opening a pet store and forget his. Now he's graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Marketing. He's not really a fan of it, but it was all for his best friend.

You were staring at the animals from the outside through the glass walls of the store, "Cuties..." But your eyes did not believe what your eyes just saw.

It was a dude facing backward, about 6 feet in height, long healthy black hair, even his clothes are the same style as... "Baji?" it was too convincing enough that it's Baji, but you know too damn well he's gone. But just what if? What if that's him? You said to yourself.

You ran inside the pet store without hesitation. It was scary, but you wanna know the truth, "Keisuke?"

The guy slowly turned around, and as it was a slow-motion scene for you, and each second made you feel disappointed until he completely turned around, making you drop your shoulders as your heart tightened. "I am not Keisuke, but can I help you, ma'am?"

You're shocked to see who it was... and you did not expect to meet him like this. You were ready, but... seeing this man face to face is just... "Ah... I'm sorry. I thought you're someone I... know."

He chuckled, removing his apron and leaving the counter. "I get that a lot. Perhaps you're someone closer to Baji? People are always confusing me for him, and I don't mind... He's the reason why I grew my hair long. I do not want people forgetting him..." said the guy, playing with his fingers while his other hand is inside his pant's side pocket.

You nodded, agreeing with him, "Yeah... but even if you cut your hair, there's someone out there that would always remember him, you know?"

"I know... but I want to live my life remembering those two people I... Never mind, so, what made you come here? Wanna buy a husky? We don't have that right now. People like them a lot, that's why they don't abandon them. And you're new here, so you must be confused. Some of the pets here are abandoned or given to us for some reason, and we picked them up, clean them, give them food and shelter until they're healthy. We only sell them if the buyer is responsible. If not, we'll refuse."

"Sometimes, my boss just gives them away. He's like, 'I don't really want that money, as long as the animals have great lives, that's enough payment' He has a good heart. I am not complaining, though."

"Well, that really sounds like Chifuyu."

He turned around to look at me, shocked, "You know my boss's name?"

"Why would I not know my brother's name? Wait, wait, so you're saying you don't know me?" He shook his head no while looking at you. "Well, I guess. Chifuyu and I don't really look alike. Only Baji says that we do... so uh, nice to meet you. I assume you're Kazutora-kun? I'm Y/n Matsuno."

Kazutora hesitated to shake your hands, confused as to why you're calm towards him despite all that happened, "Why?" was his response. "What do you mean?"

"You're... not mad at me?" said Kazutora. "I am. In fact, I feel like I can fold you into three due to my anger, but I respect Baji's decision. I shouldn't fight you, and... none of this is your fault, Kazutora-kun. It was all Baji's choice."

"Hey, Kazutora-san. I fixed the box there at the back, so if you wanna find something, then just tell me— NEESAN?!" Chifuyu said, exclaiming and running to hug you. It was the tightest hug ever, "You're squishing my—," Chifuyu pulled away, "Oh, sorry!" said Chifuyu jumping from excitement, "But hey, aren't your flight delayed because you still need some fixing to do back in London?"

Chifuyu never changed except for his blonde hair that he dyed black again. He still had his undercut, though, and he became more mature too.

"Let's just say... change of plans," you said, giggling. "Alright, alright. So I see, you've met kazutora-san already?" You nodded, "Yep."

kazutora looked away, feeling embarrassed, "I'm gonna go start the bike, Chifuyu," said the lad before leaving. "Alright, also park the car inside, please. I'm gonna use the bike too!" said Chifuyu.

You and Chifuyu watched Kazutora leave the store, running, "Well, I'm gonna speak up for him. He has been very nervous ever since. At first, we were awkward around each other because I fear him... and he feels guilty towards me. And then we got along well, and he decided to help out here. Of course, I said yes. He's also one of the people Baji-san treasures.

One day I told him about you, and he said he's scared. You might kill him in an instant," Chifuyu said, locking the cash register, "But, I said she'd never do that. You don't know... maybe she already forgave you. So just wait for him, neesan, he'll come around, and before you know it, you'll be closer than ever."

You nodded slowly, "So you're attending the picnic lunch, neesan?"

"Yeah, got two champagnes back in the car from London. Do you guys need more than that?"

"That's more than enough, and yeah, but I got it. Let's go stop in a convenience store, though I am in charge of the Peyoung Yakisoba. I forgot to buy it yesterday since I picked up a lotta unhealthy cats roaming around, and they look hungry too. There's this one that got injured, so I monitored it after taking it to the vet."

Chifuyu said while closing the shop, "Alright, let's go. Mitsuya-san said they already picked a nice spot under a tree near the pond. It's autumn. Bet the flowers and leaves are oranges."

You smiled at him, "Alright. I'll go first then, make sure to buy a lot. It's been years for me!"

"Yeah, bet you can finish one package now?" Chifuyu said, mocking you.

"Of course, I grew bigger, and so as my stomach!"

You arrived in Yoyogi park, only minutes away from the Shibuya crossing. Your eyes already perceived a group of people having fun... just Draken's egg head confirmed that it was definitely them.

You parked your car before getting out with the bottles of champagne and a box full of wine glasses in your hand, "Maybe a little help here, guys," you said, making them look at you. "Y/n? Oh my goshhh, Y/n!" Emma and Hina were the first ones to run towards you, hugging you tightly, "Oh, here, let us carry that. Woah, It's been so long!" said Hinata.

"Yeah, it's been 7 years. I missed you guys, HAHAHA."

The boys gladly approached you, hugging you too, "Oh," you said, "Welcome back, Y/n. We thought you couldn't make it, to be honest." It was Mitsuya, he still has that lilac hair, but now it's mixed with black. Beside him was Hakkai, and you weren't shocked to see him since his face is seen everywhere around the globe. He's a model, while his sister, Yuzuha, is his manager.

Mikey looks the same as ever, but he smiles more. And you also saw a face of a new guy you haven't met before, "He's Pah-chin. He got out a few years ago," said Draken. You nodded, shaking his hands. And as for Draken, he's still cold to you the same as before, but it's alright since he's been like that ever since back in high school.

Takemitchy and Hina are engaged. Emma and Draken are official now... everyone's just happy.

The sound of Baji's bike was heard as you all turned around to see Chifuyu with Kazutora. "Oh, they're here! Finally, I was tired of standing," Emma said jokingly.

"Hehe, sorry, guys. Blame the noodles because they take too long to cook. But at least we'll enjoy it while it's hot!" Chifuyu said, compensating his late ass. "Alright, alright."

Mitsuya and Hakkai were the ones placing the blanket on the ground perfectly, while the other guys hold the food and different kinds of stuff. When the sheet was perfectly set, the three of you, Hina, and Emma arranged to put the food in a good place.

There was a lot of space because the sheet was big as fuck. You all sat facing the pond while pouring champagne on each other's glasses, "Hmm, this tastes fine, Y/n-chan," Pah-chin announced after tasting the liquid, "Thanks. I'm not really sure on what to bring, so I just bought the most ranked wine."

You noticed Mikey, who's beside you, grabbing another glass of wine and placing it in front of Baji's portrait, "He might've wanna drink and eat." Draken followed, filling the glass with champagne. You then grabbed the nearest yakisoba and placed it next to the champagne, "He'll blow us all off by setting us on fire if we didn't feed his hungry ass," you said jokingly.

Everybody laughed, realizing Baji would do that... well, he actually did blow a car back then just because he was hungry.

You all went silent, seeing Kazutora reaching to put a pair of clean chopsticks in the yakisoba container, "H... he can't eat it... without... chopstick, right?" you smiled, seeing him do that. And it pains to see him feel guilty when everybody moved on already. So you decided to reply so he won't get embarrassed, "yeah, he'll need a chopstick. Nice thinking, Kazu-kun."

'Now I see why Baji fell for you,' was all inside Kazutora's head. 'He's lucky but unlucky at the same time to have found someone like her but not be able to be with her. And that's... my fault too, but she doesn't look like she's blaming me... Baji-kun, you've met a lot of amazing people...' Kazutora thought to himself, staring at your eyes, 'her eyes sparkle when we talk of you.'

Everybody was having fun minutes later. Pah-chin is being chased by Peh-yan as they both tripped on the ground. Mikey, playing with Emma, Kazutora, and Chifuyu using a Chinese garter, while Mitsuya tells Hakkai stories by a pond like a dad with his arms on his back.

Hina went somewhere with Takemitchy and said they'll be back, leaving you alone with Draken...

"Emma told me that... you think I hate you," said Draken out of nowhere, making you shocked, "Huh? Oh... well, I just thought about it," you replied, scratching the back of your head, "I do not... hate you."

"Sure..."

"I just... see myself in you. And I couldn't accept that." You looked at him in disbelief because you just don't get what part of you is the same as him. He's tall... IT'S JUST TOO DIFFERENT... A LOT OF DIFFERENCES.

"I don't get it, Draken-kun."

"The way you deny and confessed your feelings for Baji... is the same as how I denied my feelings for Emma. Then when Baji died... that made me confessed to Emma real quick. You opened my eyes there... you scared me, Y/n, to the point where I realized that I love Emma too. It frightened me with the thought of not seeing Emma anymore without even telling her how I feel. It must have been... hard for you. And I am sorry you have to experience that. If only we protected Baji's future like how he protected us... he would be sitting with us right now."

"He's with us... right now, Draken," you responded, with tears of joy flowing down your rosy cheeks, "And forever..."

"I am glad to know that you don't hate me..."

Draken chuckled, "You're pretty cool."

"Pft, come one now, don't say that. I just grew old, that's all, growing old is cool but tiring at the same time," you replied, laughing back. "I can't believe it took me years to realized that... we're actually pretty compatible," said Draken, looking at the pond.

You took a look at him before looking at the pond too, "yeah, I guess we're pretty compatible..." Draken pulled his hand out to you, "Friends?"

You clapped back his palms with yours, "Friends."

You both laughed at each other, realizing how both of you just became friends even after years of knowing each other.

"Guys! Let's take a picture," Takemitchy said, as everybody approached him, "Alright! wait for us!" you shouted, standing up from sitting while Draken helps you get up.

All of you ran beside Takemitchy as the lad's extending the length of the monopod, "Oh, wait, Baji's frame!" you panicked and laughed, so are the others, "Oh shit! Y/n-chan, hurry! I already clicked the button set for 7 seconds!" said Takemitchy panicking as well.

"Wait for me, Ah!"

There the photo took the shot of everyone with epic faces and you, who almost tripped and fell onto Kazutora's hands. While some of them have shock expressions, some are laughing. And Takemitchy as the holder of the monopod, was shocked, resulting in the picture being blur. Despite that, the appearance of every person in the image is seen. You were able to insert Baji, even though you almost tumbled.

You couldn't ask for more, but if you would be given a chance to, you'll wish for the Gods to bring Baji back. But you know that's impossible... so you chose to remain contented with all the things you have and don't.

Baji is safe and happy, so as all of you. That alone is already too much to be thankful for.

The fact that all of you are alive and happily breathing is a gift.

You all may have lost one or more of the great people in y'all's lives, but losing made us realize a lot of life lessons. It may give us sorrow and a deep wound, but as time passes, it'll heal.

But healing doesn't mean forgetting... it means accepting.

His death is too heroic to be thrown in the memory dump when it should be one of the core memories.

'For Baji, he may think that he failed his job, but deep down in all of our hearts... we all know the reason why we're happy and safe right at this moment is because of Baji. We make our own fate, and it was getting worse, so he made it better.'

White birds started flying out of nowhere. You held tightly on Baji's portrait as the wind got more powerful, and a white baby flower fell on your head.

You picked it up to see it looks the same as the flower you gave Baji... It was a chrysanthemum flower.

"You were amazing, Baji. Now rest in peace, my love."

The end...

l.s