Chapter Text
beep beep beep!
beep beep beep!
beep beep b-
vox
ugh! babe! turn off your-
*jolts up from bed*
WHAT TIME IS IT????
*looks over to the side of his bed to see shoto is not there. he picks up his phone which was making the beep noise. it was ike calling.*
vox
hello?
ike
hey, you up?
vox
barely…
ike
i knew it! well you better hurry up, time is running out and you need to get ready for luca’s move in day!
vox
fuck you’re right!
*hops out of bed*
how are the others? are they on their way?
ike
yea, i think mysta’s flight will be landing any minute now and shu recently arrived in town, i believe for a new shop opening. i still have a panel to do, but the second it ends i’m on my way.
vox
good. luca will be so happy to see you guys again.
ike
anything for our little brother. it’s a big day after all.
vox
yea. *stands in front of luca’s room* i’ll call you back. we need to get ready.
ike
alright, i’ll see you soon. bye!
*ends the call*
vox
*opens lucas door and shake luca up*
luca, wake up.
luca
huh? (sleepy)
vox
we gotta get ready.
*pats luca's head*
luca
for what? it’s the summertime! aka the time for sleeping in!
vox
remember, today is move-in day at your university dorm.
luca
MOVE IN??
*springs up*
i mean, yay. i’m moving! *laughs bitterly* how cool.
vox
COME HERE!
*pulls luca out of bed and hugs him tightly*
OH MY LITTLE BABY BROTHER! WHEN DID YOU GROW UP SO FAST? I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU’RE 18 AND GOING TO UNI NOW!
*squeezes tighter*
i swear i remember when you just headed off to first year and you were so nervous to leave my side! but now, you’re leaving me forever, UGH!
luca
VOX! VOX! I CAN’T BREATHE!
*forces himself out of vox’s grasp*
vox
augh… since when did you grow out of hugs too? you used to love hugging people left and right.
luca
well, i’ve grown up now. and-
vox
*sniffs* hic… hic…
luca
*rolls eyes while opening up his arms* oh, get in here, old man!
vox
don’t remind me how old i am!
*hugs luca sincerely*
luca
i’m not leaving you forever. at least i’m studying in the same country, so i’m not that far away!
vox
i know, i know. but i’ll still miss you in this house!
luca
i’ll miss you too. but i will come visit as much as possible! also… *lets go of vox* i still like hugs, especially yours. i’ll never grow out of that.
*goes to his closet to pick out some fresh clothes*
now can you give me some privacy? i’ll get ready as soon as possible.
vox
ok.
*still stands in his room staring at him*
luca
hello?
vox
mhm?
luca
vox…?
vox
yea?
luca
GET OUT OF MY ROOM!
*shoves him out and closes the door*
vox
ugh. teenagers. how did i live through four of them?
*walks down the stairs*
shoto
hey! you’re finally up! decided i should try cooking breakfast because you were staying in so late. can’t believe you can sleep right through those alarms.
vox
mmm, good morning. thank you.
*hugs shoto from behind and plants a kiss on his cheek*
shoto
i heard a bit of yelling from upstairs. what was that about?
vox
i was just taking in my last moments with luca and he kicked me out! i’ve done this three times already, but i’m still never emotionally prepared for when this moment happens!
shoto
aw, it’s ok. it’s normal to not be prepared. but he’s really matured, believe in him.
vox
yea yea but this is my youngest brother we’re talking about! i kept my third eye on him especially and protected him like no tomorrow! once he’s gone, there’s no one left in this house except you and me now!
shoto
oh? and is that a bad thing or something?
vox
I’LL BE LONELY! this house is meant to be busy and full of chaos!
luca
*walks down the stairs, hair tied up and nicely dressed*
is that waffles i smell?
shoto
mhm! come sit!
luca
thanks shoto!
vox
wait…
*opens the fridge as shoto puts the waffles on a plate*
gotta make them, just how luca likes them, bananas and syrup!
*goes over to the cutting board to chop the banana up*
luca
you know me so well.
vox
well, it’s been over a decade of taking care of you. it would be more awful if i didn’t know anything about you.
*prepares the plate and puts it in front of luca*
*shoto and vox’s joins them, their large table only sitting the three of them these days*
luca
remember when i used to eat them with sprinkles, man that’s was weird. glad i grew-
vox
*clenching onto the end of the table*
hhhhhhh….
shoto
*rubbing his back*
there there.
luca
sorry, that was a bit insensitive.
shoto
nah, vox is just overly sensitive these days.
luca
i can’t blame him though. i’m the last one out.
vox
WHERE’S A TIME MACHINE WHEN YOU NEED ONE!
luca
everything went by so fast, i can’t believe it’s been four years since mysta moved out. and the fact ike and shu left before that… it’s… it’s really been…
shoto
come on guys, let’s not get too emotional yet! we still have a day to go through! save the tears.
vox
you’re right. need to stop by the café to do some last minute chores, you’ll take good care of it alone while i take luca to college, right shoto?
shoto
hey! i’ve done this plenty of times before!
vox
i know, but that café is MY BABY!
shoto
oh i know. you can’t go a day without shutting up about it.
vox
as i should! i’m very proud of that little place.
shoto
it’s pretty amazing.
vox
sadly, we’re going to lose our first employee today, but-
luca
(gloomy) i’m gonna go bring down my suitcases.
*leaves the table to go back to his room*
vox
huh. something seems off.
shoto
you think you’re the only one that’s scared of luca leaving… i think he’s just as terrified as you are.
vox
what? but he’s been going on and on about how happy he is to be going to his dream school!
shoto
sure he’s excited, but he’s been living here with you since he was a child. i too would be nervous.
vox
wow… i never noticed that. luca’s usually not afraid of things. i thought he was relieved to leave the house and be on his own.
shoto
he’s been around his family his entire life… no matter who came or left, there was always someone still there to keep him company.
vox
i see…
*mysta arrives to his hometown, stepping off the plane*
mysta vo
ahhh! i missed this smell! the smell of home sweet home!
*jumps around the airport, trying to find his way out*
has it really been that long since i’ve been here? i barely know where anything is! london has got me all jumbled now. but i gotta get to luca’s new dorm as soon as possible. oh this is gonna be the best surprise ever! i can’t wait to see the look on his face when he sees all of-
*pats his pockets*
NO WAY! WHAT THE FUCK?
*falls to the knees*
where’s… where’s my wallet… did i really… lose it??? AND THE WORST PART IS, I'M INSANELY HUNGRY!
*digs in his backpack everywhere but no luck*
ugh… just my luck-
*mysta’s phone buzzes, noticing it’s ike*
ike (text)
you off the plane?
let me know when you are
so we can plan everything out
*mysta immediately calls him*
ike
hey mysta. i-
mysta
IKE, I JUST GOT HERE AND I ALREADY LOST MY WALLET!
ike
what did you say…
mysta
i uh… lost my… wallet…
ike
YOU IDIOT! I SWEAR TO GOD YOU’RE ALWAYS SO IRRESPONSIBLE OF YOUR THINGS! HOW CAN YOU LOSE YOUR PRECIOUS WALLET!
mysta
it must’ve fallen out of my pocket while going through security or something. that goddamn process makes you do so many things, i lose track.
ike
so you don’t have any of your cards either…
mysta
nope.
ike
*sighs to himself* this boy, how in the world did you survive in london alone?
mysta
easy. just doing things the mysta way!
ike
i hate you. now, call your bank and tell them to deactivate your cards. i’ll just send you extra money for now so you can get through the town.
mysta
no “hey mysta how was school in london?”, “did you have a good flight?”, “did you-”
ike
MAKE IT QUICK, WE DON’T HAVE MUCH TIME!!
mysta
alright alright! jesus.
*luca in his room packing up last minute things in his backpack*
luca vo
well… i think i got everything. ha…
*picks up a photo frame of his family that mysta took*
it only feels like yesterday when we took these photos.
*stuffs it in his bag*
why is my stomach suddenly churning? i’ve been so excited for this day… what happened?
*he looks by his desk at the package he had opened last night. he remembers he got a gift from shu and never tried it on. it was a ribbon hair tie, he tries to put it nicely in his hair but he doesn’t really know how to do it. he decides to facetime shu. they pick up.*
shu
hello?
luca
hey shu! i’m so happy to talk to you! it’s been a bit, you’ve been busy, huh?
shu
hi luca! did you just call because you missed me?
luca
a little bit. today’s gonna be an… interesting day.
shu
ah i see… well, i hope that it goes well!
luca
yea! i think so… i’m not that little anymore, you know?
shu
i can tell. the last time i saw you, we were the same height. i bet you beat me by a long shot now.
luca
heh, you can say i got taller i guess. you’ll have to see that for yourself someday! cause… i really really miss you.
shu
aw, i miss you too luca.
luca
what are you even doing these days? remember when you left to study in america and i had to call you every day cause i couldn’t handle a day without you? now i barely hear from you! (sulky)
shu
ah yea, of course i remember that. the time zones were a pain, but i did it just for you.
*stands in front of a building, taking in the atmosphere's air*
i’ve been so busy because i’ve been working on opening another boutique! the business is growing, and even though i’m thrilled about that, it’s getting more exhausting by the day.
luca
you should really take a vacation break and come to visit me, vox, and shoto! you deserve it.
shu
hm… maybe i will.
luca
oh! i almost forgot, look what came in the mail!
*moves the camera to his hair ribbon*
i got your gift! it’s so pretty! but i’m not sure if i tied it right… does it look ok?
shu
well…
luca
it’s crooked isn’t it?
shu
yea…
luca
ugh! this is the one thing i could never do without you!
shu
it’s ok! here, i’ll try to explain it to you through call.
*they make thorough instructions on how to make it neat*
a little more to the left… down… make sure to grab all the strands…
luca
is this good?
*shows hand with hair in it*
shu
yea! you can tie it now.
luca
*ties it up and checks himself out*
ah! that’s better! you’re the best.
shu
it’s no big deal really.
luca
my hair would constantly be all over the place if it wasn’t for you.
shu
luca… stop being so soft for me, it’s making me sad i’m not next to you right now.
luca
then you better hurry up! because-
*vox knocks on the door, interrupting their conversation*
vox
(muffled) luca? you ready? we should head to the café now to drop off shoto.
luca
uh! one sec!
*turns back to shu*
ah! i gotta go, i’ll call you later today because i want to hear about your new boutique ok?
shu
alright. stay safe.
luca
bye, shu! don’t forget i'm calling you later!
*ends the call, then opens the door for vox*
vox
so. you ready?
luca
yea… guess so.
vox
then let’s hit the road!
*shu puts their phone away, walking into the fresh new store*
shu vo
i won’t have to call him. little does he know i’m gonna visit him soon!
*they look around the store, making sure it’s ready for opening*
shu vo
*while staring at their favorite dress they’ve made*
wow… i can’t believe i’ve been able to go this far. my business is popular enough that i’m able to find a market in my hometown. i thought that would never happen!
*looks in the mirror to make sure their clothes are neat and tidy*
it’s been a long journey. self love was one of the hardest things i had to discover on my own. i guess i still struggle with that every now and then. *fluffs dress* but because of my dreams becoming a reality, my brain has become a lot happier!
shu
*turns to employees*
alright, turn the sign, IT'S OPENING TIME!!
*ike behind the stage, getting ready for his book signing press, but is a little nervous*
ike vo
alright, i sent the money to mysta, so hopefully he’ll be fine on his own now… that little brat! he can’t ever do anything right!
*clenches the fabric on his chair*
it’s very important that we get this right for luca. it’s been so long since all five of us have been in the same room with our hectic schedules. with me and my book presses, shu and their boutiques, and mysta working hard at university- not to mention us all being busy and scattered all over the world- there never seems to be a good time for us to be together. but today, luca’s moving into his dorm; he's the last one to start his own life in the adult world. augh, that doesn’t even sound right to me, how is luca at this point now?
*peeks behind the curtains to see a large audience waiting for him*
we need to make this right, and we need to show that we support him in this big step. not only that… but i just can’t wait to see all my siblings again.
maria
you ready?
ike
*turns to her*
i never get used to this, i’m always nervous.
maria
knowing you, you’re always overthinking it. remember all the past times you went up there and killed it right away? it’ll be the same today!
ike
it’s a little different… this is my hometown…
maria
what? what makes it scarier?
ike
i don't know… i just don’t want to let my people down, you know?
maria
well… if i’ve learned one thing about you, is that eventually you get used to things and you never let people down. take me as an example.
ike
oh god, don’t remind me…
*blushes while covering his face*
maria
no, it’s adorable!
*grabs his hand to take a good look at his cute face*
it took a while, but we got there eventually, yea?
ike
yea, but it took way too long for me to admit i wanted to dip my toes in the world of romance and relationships.
maria
but it happened! and we’re here!
ike
thanks mari. *his heart flips* uh…
maria
you want me to hug you?
ike
mhm… *shyly nods his head*
maria
ah, come here.
*she brings him in close to embrace him while patting his back*
ike
hm…
maria
oh. *she looks him in the eyes* you want a good luck kiss too?
ike
maybe…
maria
ike, i know you too well now. i know your cues. so don’t worry.
*she tiptoes to reach his lips, kissing him softly*
ike vo
mari has always been there for me. we had a thing going on in high school, but a part of me still didn’t want to be in a relationship. i wanted to make her happy but unfortunately i just couldn’t do that, which disappointed me so much. luckily, she still stayed by my side and we did a bit of research together. when i learned that i was most likely on the spectrum of an aroace, most specifically the demi label, so much relief was released on my shoulders. i’m so incredibly lucky that mari never gave up on me and made me feel comfortable with who i am. eventually, it was hard for my heart to say no and we finally started dating. through those 12 years, we just started a year ago, but it’s been great. and i think i’m getting used to this stuff now.
maria
mwah!
*she gives one final peck to him*
ike
thanks.
maria
pft! you don’t have to be so formal.
ike
but i mean… thanks. for always supporting me. without you, i don’t think i can function properly. i need you in my life.
maria
aw, that’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever said!
ike
i’m trying here.
worker
alright ike, it’s time. now get up on that stage!
ike
ok.
*he smiles at maria one last time before heading up the stairs*
maria
you got this!
ike
*does arm heart above his head*
THANK YOU!
*runs up to the stage which follows a huge wave of cheering*
maria vo
*shakes her head*
god, i’m in love with a dork.
*vox, shoto, and luca arrive at the café*
vox
alright, let me make sure everything is all set up!
*scurries into his beloved café and nitpicks every detail before letting it open without him*
shoto
*notices how luca slowly walked inside with a worried nature in his soul*
hey, *hands him a rag* wanna wipe the tables?
luca
alright.
*goes over to one and wipes*
shoto
so, what’s on your mind?
*brooms next to him*
luca
nothing. i’m vibing as usual. heh…
*sighs as he moves on to the next table*
shoto
you think you’re gonna miss this job? you’re lucky vox gives you good money for this.
luca
oh, i sure will miss it. every time i come here, all i think about is vox’s hard work and you two’s dream coming true. it warms me.
shoto
aw, that’s so sweet. but… *ruffles lucas hair* don’t miss it more than me, alright?
luca
of course. you really helped me when i went through a lot of pain. i can never thank you enough for that.
shoto
aye! like i said, don’t get too soft just yet.
luca
*shrugs shoulders* it’s hard not to.
vox
*peeking in* what are my favorite people talking about to each other?
shoto
just saying a last goodbye. did you know that luca thinks of our journey when he thinks about this café?
vox
YOU DO? well, i mean so much happened when we first got this café, who could forget it?
luca
exactly. you two’s wedding has still been one of the best days of my life.
vox
luca! that’s supposed to be something WE say, not you!
luca
why not? i gained a new official guardian and brother for life. and seeing you so happy, it obviously made me happy!
vox
you better shut up right now… before i get all gushy…
shoto
that was really a great week. you worked so hard to afford the best wedding and i worked so hard to surprise you with the café property. it all happened at once. what a time to look back on.
luca
i remembered since i was still pretty young, seeing vox cry like a baby when stood up by the wedding altar made me so confused, i knew about happy tears but i couldn’t wrap my head around the concept when you were literally bawling your eyes out.
shoto
you were crying buckets that day…
vox
can you blame me when i look down the aisle to see the love of my life dressed so handsomely and to the side were my siblings, all fancied up for the moment i’ve been waiting for my entire life?
shoto
don’t worry. *shoto grabs vox’s hand and kisses his cheek* it was adorable.
vox
*he feels shoto’s hand, smiling at the ring that makes contact with his*
i better be!
luca
*sighs* can i grab a slice of cheesecake before i go?
vox
of course! take anything you want. i know you’re gonna miss my cooking~
luca
ugh…
*runs to the kitchen*
shoto
oh boy. he’s already homesick.
vox
not again… i don’t know when to tease him these days.
shoto
just… make sure he’s ready for you to leave when you leave him there, ok?
vox
but what if he doesn’t want to ever let go?
shoto
then you need to teach him to. i know somehow you’ll find a way.
vox
ugh. do i have to be the bigger person now? i don’t want to let him go, if we both don’t want it, why should i encourage this?
shoto
*brings hands to vox’s face*
be an example for him. make him believe he can do things on his own. this is the next step, and i know being independent is something he rather not do… but you can push him there. i know it.
vox
*he snuggles in shoto’s hand*
i love you.
shoto
shut up and kiss me.
*vox pulls shoto in for a kiss before luca returns with a bag of sweets in his hands*
luca
ok. i think i got everything.
shoto
(to vox) you wanna bet luca will finally find his first partner in college?
vox
definitely betting he will.
luca
guys!
vox
i’m worried about you! why haven’t you found somebody yet! you’d think a cutie like you would be taken no matter what.
luca
i’m just not looking for a relationship right now. got my family, and that’s all i need to stay happy. is that wrong?
shoto
oh we’re just teasing. *he pulls luca in for a hug* but really, don’t be afraid to call me if you need something, ok?
luca
don’t worry. i’ll text you all the time. no doubt.
shoto
ok. you better head off now, time’s running out.
vox
right! let’s hit the road!
*the two wave shoto off to run the café himself for now. luca and vox get into the car, revving up the engine*
vox
final stop: your dorm!
luca
can’t hold it back any longer…
vox
then we’re off!
*ike at the interviewer*
interviewer
so, tell us about what made you write this character this way?
ike
well, as most dedicated fans know, i write my characters based off the people around me. i have quite the family, so inspiration for unique characters comes so easily for me. once i grew out of the habit of writing characters that were just like me, writing has become so much more fun! analyzing my family’s habits and incorporating them into my novels are always interesting to do. this time around, i used the 2nd youngest brother in my family for the main character you’ve all grown to love. i liked using him the most as a reference because he’s a bit rough and rowdy but-
*his phone interrupts him with a constant buzzing in his pocket*
i’m…
interviewer
do you need to take that?
ike
um, sorry guys! one moment, this is very important.
mysta (text)
IKE HELP
I’M LOST!
I THINK I TOOK THE WRONG TURN…
WHY ARE YOU IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE?
ike (text)
my god
mysta you know i’m in the middle of an interview
why the fuck are you lost?
and this bookstore is the most popular in this country…
mysta (text)
you think i would know where our libraries are? i'm not a nerd…
ike (text)
sheesh
mysta (text)
BUT PLEASE HELP ME
i forgot everything about this place.
ike (text)
jesus christ.
mysta (text)
please just send me some direction or something!
ike (text)
here. *sends link*
don’t be late.
or else.
ike
ahem, sorry. where were we?
interviewer
the main character.
ike
oh right. now that i think about it, he’s kind annoying and a pain, don’t you think?
interviewer
excuse me?
ike
i don’t really see the woop about him.
interviewer
uhhhhhhh….
mysta vo
fuck this map app! how do developers expect an average joe to be able to read this without getting lost!
*finds himself wandering in circles*
geez. the london air has really got to me… *he looks up at the sky, that has birds flowing above his head* but… i do miss the beauty of this place. *snaps a photo* i still believe it’s more beautiful than london, but maybe i’m bias. it’s refreshing to be able to take nature photos more often. over there, i’m mostly working on taking pictures of people and their families. i sound like i'm complaining though, i love my job! it reminds me of my own family when i see how each customer manages each other as a whole. getting my photography scholarship in london was great and all, but it made me miss my family so fucking much. stumbling across big chaotic families every now and then eased my loneliness as i pictured what it was like back at home. it’s… it’s nice.
mysta
goddamnit, i strayed in my own thoughts and got lost again.
interviewer
the topics in this story are a bit deeper and vulnerable than your past novels, which were more fantasy based. tell us about the idea process behind that decision.
ike
you know artists, they want to sometimes mix things up every now and then in order to get their creative juices ou-
*bzzt*
mysta (text)
ike
i’m still lost
help me.
i’m at some burger restaurant.
tell me verbally where to go
PLEASE
ike
uh… *slides his phony out of his pocket* you see…
ike (text)
lrft
mysta (text)
huh????
ike (text)
thrn riggt
then lwdt
then go straight till you swe rhe flass byildig
mysta (text)
what is this shit?
ike (text)
try ur bwst ti read this
mysta vo
he’s still busy isn’t he? huh… let me try to decipher all of this…
*shu running around his shop with customers coming in and out*
shu vo
man, i didn’t think we’d be that busy… hopefully it calms down before ike and mysta get here so i don’t need to stress too much while i’m gone.
customer
hey shu! welcome home! it’s such an honor to meet you!
shu
ah! no need to be so nice to me. have you found everything you’re looking for?
customer
yes! and you’re such an inspiration to me! because of you, i’ve been wanting to express myself more! you’re the best!
shu
that makes me so happy to hear.
*the customer runs off happily to the cash register*
shu vo
i do that for people? i would’ve never thought in my life i could touch people with who i am. it wasn’t easy getting to where i am now. during most of my final years in school i still struggled mentally even though i was out of public school and was surrounded by people that understood me. i quickly came to the realization that mental illnesses never goes away and it’s a battle i’ll always have to struggle with. i still had my falls and punches of pain, but once i studied in america, i think the new environment encouraged me to change and work harder. it’s been fun making this dream come to life. and i would say the pain was all worth it if it means i would result to th-
uki
hey shu. you’re back.
shu
huh?
*they immediately recognized that voice*
uki
do you think this jacket would look good on me?
shu
uki… what are you doing here…?
*their heart pounds in fear*
uki
just wanted to visit an old friend. should i leave?
shu
no! i mean, you’re allowed to shop here just as much as the next person.
uki
right.
*he goes over to a section to look at some pants*
shu
you… finding everything ok?
uki
i would say so. i guess.
shu
good.
uki
mhm…
shu vo
ugh. this is so awkward. what do i d-
uki
how have you been? it’s been a while.
shu
oh! *deep breath* it’s been great. how can i not feel great when i’ve finally been able to open a boutique in my hometown.
uki
i’m happy.
shu
*blushes* oh. t-thank you. what about you? have you been ok?
uki
i’m alright.
shu
being a teacher treating you well?
uki
yea.
shu
well then that’s amazing! i hope-
uki
mentally, you’ve been alright?
shu
oh… uh…
uki
sorry! that was too personal! ugh, i’m so stupid.
shu
*can't help but giggle* it’s alright, i get it.
uki
you do…? cause i don’t think you d-
shu
i do.
uki
i see…
shu vo
i started dating uki when i was 14. young, naive, and like i said, mentally unstable. we still fell in love for so many years though. we lasted four years together… until having to make decisions about our future was what drove us apart. the thought of my upcoming path had made me decline in my health, as i continued to be insanely anxious over everything. it came to the point where anxiety took over love as the number one feeling in my heart. it didn’t help that i wanted to go to america while he wanted to stay here. 12 years ago, i would’ve thought he was the one forever. he was the first person that demonstrated he could understand me, and because of that, i thought i would hold onto him for life because no one knew me better than he did. but instead, my heart got shattered, coming to the realization i could not love him the same way i used to with how my mental health was going. and we split.
uki
you ok? you don’t look so well…
shu
no i’m fine! hey, do you remember what this building use to be?
uki
how could i forget… it was the clothing shop you were most obsessed with. i remember you would want to come here every weekend to check in if they were any new skirts available. it’s a shame it closed down some time ago.
shu
yea…
shu vo
i can't believe he’s standing in front of me again… i thought we would never see each other after all this time. but i guess, he still cares about me in a way. and i know…
uki
but it’s not the worst thing ever. it got replaced by the greatest fashion designer i know.
shu vo
i know he brought up my mental health because he wants to know if my heart is ready to love again.
shu
ah… *blushes* no need to be so nice.
*ike during his book signing*
fan
i’m just so happy to meet you! you have no idea what your books have done for me!
ike
*signs their book*
that makes two of us. makes me happy to hear that from you. thank you for taking your time to read my work.
fan
of course! i can’t wait to see what you cook up next! your stories are always so inspiring, i’m looking forward to it!
ike
keep an eye out. some big things are coming up.
fan
eeee!
*takes their book and walks out of the line*
ike vo
*looks at watch*
alright… i’m cutting it close, but i should be able to get there on time. just one or two more people and i should be done. mysta, i swear to jesus christ our lord and savior, you better be here within the next two minutes… or else i’m gonna whoop your ass all the way to pluto! maybe i should check up on him again just in-
reimu
oh my god! is that my old man i see in front of me? what a surprise!
ike
*adjusts his glasses and looks up*
no way…
reimu
way! hi ike! it’s good to see you!
ike
*jumps from his seat*
reimu! what are you doing here?
reimu
noticed a special someone was visiting his hometown so i decided to come pay him a visit since it’s been so long. what do you think?
ike
what do i think? *runs up to her, grabbing her shoulders* god, i’m so elated!
reimu
*goes in for the hug*
you look great. seems like you’ve been living a happy and healthy life!
ike
you too! especially in all of your roles and interviews on tv. you know i don’t miss out on anything you do!
reimu
same here. even though we text almost every day, i missed you… so so much.
ike
i missed you too.
reimu
so, how are you and maria doing?
ike
*blushes* good.
reimu
aw, you’re never changed. *she squishes his cheeks* look at you heating up, cute!
ike
stop! why don't we start talking about you and petra huh?
reimu
GLADY! *dramatically swoons* can you believe my life is just like a movie? i still feel like i'm dreaming!
ike
how so?
reimu
think about it: girl meets girl at a coffee shop. she INSTANTLY falls in love... YEARS LATER, they bump into each other again. and after all those years... they finally get together. no movie i act in will ever get better than this!
ike
hm. looks like you're truly living the life without me, i'm sad... (teases)
reimu
come on! don't make me feel guilty for having a love life now! i waited all my life for this. and i assume you're having just as much fun without me with ms maria wifey, aren't ya?
ike
JESUS REIMU! SHUT UP!
reimu
*giggles* oh ike, you really haven’t changed much.
ike
when you live such a hectic life, there’s no time for you to decide to create a whole entire personality change. am i too childish for you now?
reimu
if anything, i’m still a kid at heart! you on the other hand… *holds his hands* wow… you’ve grown so much. look at you, out of your shell, expressing the world with your writing and touching all hearts who get to read through it. it’s amazing what you’ve accomplished.
ike
i can say the same for you. slowly making your way up to the big roles with the big stars.
reimu
well, i guess that makes both of us, right? *holds out script in front of her* but you know, my past roles were cool and all, but this upcoming one might be my favorite. what do you think?
ike
*recognized the script right away that it was his own book that was getting adapted into a film*
oh stop it… there’s no way.
reimu
once again ike, way! read through it and this character is so amazing and fun! the storyline is beautiful as well. and it all came from the mastermind of my dearest friend.
ike
well, i think that nobody would be able to pull this character off more than you can. not even a billionaire actress. *winks at her*
reimu
i can see right through you! that’s only because she was inspired by me and not because of my talent.
ike
sure, but i really do believe in your talent too… and i’m excited to be working with you from then on.
reimu
mhm! *firmly grabs his hand to shake it* i look forward to working with you too.
mysta
GOD! HURRY UP! THIS IS TAKING WAYYY TOO LONG! NEXT!
*the two turn back to see mysta playing around as the last person in line*
reimu
mysta? oh my god, you’re here too?
mysta
happy seeing me, huh? *cheeky smile*
reimu
not really…
mysta
HEY!
reimu
i'm messing! *pats head* it’s always great to see ike’s siblings.
ike
thank god you didn’t get completely lost.
mysta
the directions you sent me were seriously like reading hieroglyphics! but eventually with my 5 head, i was able to understand your shit.
ike
you do realize you were interrupting me during my panel.
mysta
what’s more important, your panel or luca’s surprise?
reimu
surprise? what’s that boy up to?
ike
he’s moving into a dorm today. we all decided to surprise him and come pay a little visit to ready him up for adulthood.
reimu
what the hell?? luca is headed to his first year in university? that little baby boy?
mysta
he's not much of a baby anymore… i know right?
reimu
WHERE DID THE TIME GO?
ike
i'm wondering the same thing… but hey! it’s so good to see you. we should be heading off now.
*yells out* mari! we’re leaving! tell my managers i’m on break for a few hours.
maria
*runs out*
did you say you’re leavi- REIMU! *throws arms around her*
reimu
hey maria! ugh, it’s so good to see you again! i’ve heard wonderful things from ike!
maria
really?
reimu
mhm! you know it!
mysta
ok this is cute and all, but we gotta go. we’re running a little late, and we need to stop by for shu as well.
reimu
shu’s in town too?
ike
yep, we’re all here to visit.
reimu
what?? i want to see all of you guys!
ike
hm, you didn’t hear this from me, but if you head to vox and shoto’s café, i think we might be celebrating there.
reimu
got it!
*they all head outside to their cars*
i’ll see you soon then! but after that, don’t get tired of me! cause we will be working together!
ike
of course i won’t. see ya.
reimu
buh bye!!
*ike hops into the drivers seat while mysta in the passenger*
ike
alright. seat belts on! i know you, you better do it.
mysta
i will, i will. i'm not 10 anymore.
ike
with your sense of directions… sometimes i still think you are.
mysta
that’s not an age thing, that’s just a skill issue!
ike
oh mysta. you sure are a character. but i love you.
mysta
just drive you idiot!
*back to shu*
shu
here you go! found one in the back. sorry your size wasn’t in stock, didn’t think i’d need to display that much.
customer
that’s ok! thank you! this clothing is a hot item!
*runs off to the cash register*
uki
*watches as shu smiles from the compliment*
you sure are busy.
shu
don’t be silly. today is opening day.
uki
hm… well then, can i get some help?
shu
come on, don’t waste my time.
uki
i promise it’ll be quick!
*he takes one of the ribbon hairpieces and dashes to a mirror*
i don’t really know how to put this on, could you do it for me as a demonstration?
shu
*rolls eyes*
what is this…
uki
are you refusing to help a customer? that’s pretty homophobic of you. (teasing)
shu
hey. *snatches the ribbon and ties a bow in his hair* you should know out of all people, i'm the farthest from being homophobic.
uki
ah. *stares in the mirror* what do you think?
shu
it’s… *breathes out* it’s cute.
uki
do you know what i think?
shu
hm?
uki
i think it would look cuter on you.
*he faces shu with an intense gaze*
shu
hm…
uki
can i… take a look?
shu
i… *watches uki take the ribbon out of his hair* i guess so.
uki
ok (whispers).
*caresses and fluffs up shu’s hair as he begins to tie it nicely on their head*
remember back when i used to do your hair every day? you loved it when i would take my sweet time to brush it.
shu
mhm. you were a part of my morning routine… *rubs arm nervously* it’s funny cause when we broke up i couldn’t do my hair for the longest time. every time i brushed it, it reminded me of you. ah, wait i shouldn’t be saying th-
uki
it’s ok. i couldn’t go to malls for the longest time because walking around reminded me of our dates.
shu
seems like we both took it badly.
uki
how could i not? we broke up when i still loved you.
*he finished off the bow, moving his hands to their shoulders* there! it’s way prettier this way right?
shu
*they stare closely at everything in the mirror, their outfit, their hair, the bow, and uki standing behind them, up close and touching them*
you… you think?
uki
yea. look at you. such a powerful, independent person you’ve grown into. you know, i never stopped rooting for you, even when we grew apart. seeing my good friend achieving their dreams, changing the world, and influencing so many minds would remind me of where you started from and how you pushed through it all.
shu
augh. *covers their face* stop it, i can’t handle this.
uki
are you blushing?
shu
um…
mysta
aw sick! this place is so cool!
ike
shu designed this all by themself? that’s awesome.
shu
ah… they’re here!
uki
is that your brothers?
shu
ike! mysta! *hugs the two* ugh, it’s been way too long.
ike
we need to visit each other more often, i’m already getting emotional!
mysta
hey! what’s this loser doing in here? *points at uki*
uki
loser?
shu
shhhh! guys, he’s not a loser. we were just… catching up, alright?
uki
sorry if i left with a bad final impression. didn’t really mean to.
mysta
whatever! i don’t forgive people who goes breaking my sibling's heart. *sticks tongue out*
ike
are you ready to go? seems like there’s still people coming in and out.
shu
it should be fine though. i have my little gift for luca, so we can head off now!
*they all head outside*
mysta
is it just me, or am i a little nervous to see him right now?
ike
a little nervous? I'M TERRIFIED! i don’t wanna think about it though.
*mysta and ike get in their car, shu stays behind to speak with uki one last time*
uki
so, you headed to vox’s house?
shu
no, we’re visiting luca in his new dorm.
uki
woah. that’s huge.
shu
mhm. don’t really know how to feel about my little brother being all grown up like that.
uki
you’ll manage. you were able to do it, i’m sure he will too.
shu
yea. *awkward ending* um well i’ll see you later! *begins to walk off*
uki
when is later?
shu
oh… sorry… i don’t know honestly.
uki
alright. till we meet again then?
shu
*smiles* till we meet again.
uki
goodbye shu.
shu
goodbye uki.
*gives a cute wave at him before heading to the car and sighing*
ike
why do you look so gloomy?
shu
it’s complicated.
*stares out the window*
mysta
are you ok?
shu
i’m fine! really.
ike
shu! you’re not that good at hiding your feelings! i’m not gonna let you walk away from this!
mysta
from what?
shu
ugh…
ike
GO! GO AFTER HIM!
shu
we don’t have time left, just-
ike
GO GO GO!
shu
*unbuckles seat belt*
ALRIGHT ALRIGHT!
*jumps out of the car, running after uki*
mysta
what was that…
ike
just me helping shu and their complicated love life. they’ll have to thank me later.
shu
*chasing after uki*
UKI! UKI WAIT!
uki
huh? shu? did i forget something?
shu
um… i don’t want ‘later’ to be a long time away.
uki
wha-
shu
*pulls uki in with his shirt and kisses him with all the love that has rekindled back in their heart the moment they heard uki’s voice, it lingered for a while*
i gotta go. we’ll talk about this later! bye! *giggles*
uki
shu! what the hell!
shu
meet me at vox and shoto’s café, ok?
uki
*touches his lips while blushing*
ok…!
*shu gets back in the car all flustered*
ike
thank you ike?
shu
thank you ike… *sinks in chair flustered*
ike
you’re welcome. they don’t call me the matchmaker for no reason.
mysta
oh shut up, no one calls you that! you couldn’t match make yourself!
ike
too soon, mysta. ouch.
mysta
i love you~~ *finger hearts*
shu
it’s time for luca, isn’t it?
ike
yep. here we go.
*vox and luca opening the door to his new empty dorm room*
vox
wow! look at this! your very own place! what do you think of it?
luca
*lightly touched the table*
it’s nice.
vox
let’s unpack some things to make this a bit more comfy for you. gotta make it homey!
*the two unpack the suitcases and boxes and decorate the room with luca’s stuff, like pillows, blankets, photos, essentials, etc. as vox was helping luca’s closet stay organized, luca had put up a bunch of printed photos of his favorite family memories all over his wall*
luca vo
when i was 5 years old, that’s when my life changed for the better. i can’t really think of much before that, but that’s a good thing. i like to believe that when i was 5 and we moved into that house 13 years ago… that’s when i was born. we struggled in the beginning and went through so much hurdles… but that’s what made the journey so memorable. we grew up together, literally but also mentally. vox, ike, shu, and mysta all taught me such valuable lessons, and all those years ago, i still hold by all the life lessons i’ve learned back then in today’s life time. but now i’m 18… and it’s time to begin my life with me on the wheel. i had four great influences helping me out this entire time… until now. what am i supposed to do without them?
vox
make sure your drawers stays this way: tank tops, shorts, underwear. again: tank tops, shorts, and- WOAH! *looks at the photo wall luca has created* this is so cute!
luca
*bends down rummaging in one suitcase*
i knew i had to do that, so i asked mysta to send me a bunch of past photos.
vox
awwww. *points at one particular photo* this was when shu just got discharged from the hospital. look at you! so young and adorable! *gazed at the rest* and the snow trip, that was a wild day! oh oh! and my graduation… that’s when i proposed to shoto, remember?
luca
*picks up mr cat lying at the bottom of his suitcase*
how could i forget… (heavy heart)
vox
when you look at all these memories, there’s no way any family had a better time than we did. i’m a little bias, but we had so much fun together, how could i not!
luca
*brushes over the glassy eyes of the plush*
those were the best years of my life… when we were all together… i… *sniffs*
vox
heh? are you ok? is there dust around?
luca
*looks up with tears in his eyes*
i don’t think i can do this.
vox
what? luca…
luca
*shivers as he breaks down into a sob*
vox… i’m scared.
vox
*bends down to rub his back*
hey hey hey. don’t cry. it’s ok. i know it’s hard, but we have to part ways for you to soar.
luca
i can’t do this… i can’t… i can’t live on my own…
vox
can you try? you gotta be brave.
luca
no… i’m not ready.
vox
*begins to cry with him*
please…
luca
i can’t…
*he takes vox’s hand and squeezes it to his heart, leaning his forehead against it. he doesn’t want to let go*
vox
luca… i…
*he looks up and sees ike, shu, and mysta has quietly arrived, heart broken at the sight of luca in a breakdown of tears*
guys…
*shu walks up to luca first, squishing augustus against luca’s cheek*
shu
look. someone’s here to protect you.
luca
huh?
*looks up to see shu standing next to him, along with ike and mysta in front*
what…? this isn’t… this isn’t real…
shu
*throws arms at luca*
hey little brother.
mysta
surprise!
ike
did you miss us?
luca
when… (speechless) when did you guys get here…? oh my god… *squeezes shu*
*everyone is huddled in a circle on the floor*
ike
we all came to visit and congratulate you on your big step.
mysta
i flew 14 hours to get here! we all flew in. so you better appreciate it!
vox
look! we’re all here now! finally, the five of us in one room.
luca
ugh… *sobs harder* guys, i can't do this. i haven’t been able to do this… i need you all in my life. i can’t live without you.
shu
*places augustus in luca’s lap*
remember this guy? you needed him with you on your first day of school. he protected you from all the bad things. you gave him to me when i left for america, but i think he wants to return to his owner, and start a new chapter with you together. you’re not alone, see?
luca
*holds up augustus, which has a newly knitted sweater on*
augustus…
mysta
*holds up a bag*
you’re not gonna go hungry living here! i brought some snacks all the way from london! take them now, before i rethink of keeping them because they’re too delicious!
luca
*looks inside the bag*
thank you mysta…
ike
*takes off his tie*
you might need this. whether it’s to do some presentation or you need to look fancy for someone, take my lucky tie. it’s been something i always wear before my book signings and it’s worked in my favor! but i think you deserve it now, cause i’m sending you all the best luck and wishes!
luca
wow… i’m so honored…
vox
*takes a necklace out of his pocket*
here. i made this for you.
luca
*looks at the chain that has a key stuck to it*
what is this?
vox
it’s a necklace with the key to the house. so you’ll always have a little part of home with you. and also, you can come visit me any time whenever you need help.
luca
*tears up with all the gifts surrounding him*
wow… i’m so touched… but… do you think i can really do this on my own?
ike
you can. look how big and tall you are. you can do anything, you just gotta start believing in yourself.
shu
and it’s not like we’ll be gone forever. we’re always here in spirit, cheering you on. we have been doing that since you were born.
mysta
take it from me, it may seem confusing at first, but you get the hang of it, and will easily live on with much determination!
vox
you’re our little one, we’re always willing to do anything to help you. don’t feel like you’re gonna be doing all of this alone. you’re not in the same house as us anymore, but we’re your biggest supporters. and you know our bond is unbreakable.
luca
ah… i love you guys so much. thank you for everything. not just today, but for my whole life. you’ve protected me in every possible way, and i can’t thank you for taking care of me and that little naive brain of mine. i hope you’re proud of who i’ve become, because i was influenced by all of you to be the best brother i could be for you!
*grins widely*
vox
ugh… this isn’t real… MY LITTLE BOY! WAHHHHHH!
mysta
*slaps vox's back*
cut it out! you’re ruining the moment!
vox
ouch! that actually hurt!
mysta
well it made you shut up, didn’t it?
vox
i’m too tired to play this game…
shu
come on, we just got here, let’s get along now.
luca
some things change.. but some things will always stay the same.
ike
this whole family is weird… but that’s what made life so interesting.
everyone
for sure!
vox
since we’re all here, let’s go celebrate at my café! have a bit of drinks and best wishes to luca on his new road!
everyone
yea!
*back at the café, vox, ike, shu, mysta, and luca, join shoto, reimu, maria, and uki to party all night once the café closes for customers. they all drink and eat cake, catching up on each others life and remembering all the good times in the past*
mysta
remember when i almost died on that ski lift? still one of the craziest near death experiences i had!
luca
that just made me more afraid of heights!
ike
but luckily, mari saved us all! can't forget that moment.
maria
don’t make me blush now…
reimu
and that’s when shoto almost killed us all with his terrible snow mobile driving!
shoto
you’re always blabbing about something…
reimu
it’s my specialty!
shu
the snow is my favorite season after that though. sure we almost died, but such great memories came out of that!
uki
winter clothes are really cute in you…
shu
uki!
vox
i think no matter where we were, spending time together was the best moment of all. and yea… i will really miss it. but seeing all of your career paths and what you’ve done for this world… i don’t regret letting you go, because you’ve all accomplished great things that i’m so proud of. ike, the famous novelist. shu, the trendy fashion designer. mysta, the lovely photographer. and luca, our first-year student in university. i hate letting you all go, but in the end, that’s what made you the greatest people.
shoto
let’s cheers on that! and for luca, in the future ahead of him.
everyone
for luca!
*raises glasses*
luca
i promise i’ll do everything i can to live up to the same level as you all!
ike
you better turn your assignments in on time!
shu
and take care of yourself. physically and mentally.
mysta
live your life to the fullest!
vox
and always be yourself.
luca
i will. i learned from the best, after all.
*the chatter continues*
luca vo
guess that’s officially the end of our childhood story. none of us are really kids anymore, which i still find crazy to think about. but you know… that’s not the end of us five. i’m sure there will still be decades upon decades of our journey continuing and being crazy as always. it’s gonna be a wild ride, but i’ve always been able to… keep it up!
mysta vo
no way you’re ending the story with the title as the final words… HOW CORNY.
luca vo
hey! i don’t know how else to end this!
shu vo
there doesn’t need to be a grand ending, it’s not the end of our lives yet after all.
ike vo
imagine if we all suddenly just died right now and-
vox vo
ALL OF YOU SHUT UP AND JUST LIVE IN THE MOMENT!
*the five stare at each other before bursting into laughter*
everyone vo
right!