Work Text:
Takemichi curses when he arrives at the bus stop, only to see the bus is already gone. With a groan, he looks at his phone to check the hour. He has 30 minutes left to arrive on time. He knows that the other bus will take almost 15 minutes, so he calls a cab.
Takemichi usually uses the subway, but today he wants to avoid arriving sweating since he is on a date. He wasn't sure if he wished this date to function, but he was sure he didn't want to make a wrong impression. So once the cab arrived, Takemichi got into it and hoped there wouldn't be any traffic. He knew he shouldn't have said those words; 15 minutes later, Takemichi was already regretting his decision. The traffic today was a nightmare. Takemichi shouldn't be surprised since it's Valentine's day and everyone went out with their partners. He should have left home earlier. Now all that remains is to wait.
It's been 20 minutes, and still no progress. Their appointment is in 10 minutes, and Takemichi hates being late when he doesn't know the person. Opening the map, Takemichi tries to calculate how close he is to his destination. The map assures him that he will make it on time if he gets off right now and walks. Takemichi knows that his plans to arrive fresh have gone to waste. So Takemichi resignedly pays the driver and begins his journey. Takemichi decides to run. He can only feel how people look at him strangely. He decides to ignore them and continues his jog, and he curses when he almost stumbles. A suit isn't practical for this. Takemichi can't help but wonder why he agreed to this stupid blind date. Takemichi hopes his date isn't upset about his tardiness. Damn, the time Chifuyu and Akkun planned this.
Takemichi loves his friends. He has always thought of them as his family. Still, sometimes they tended to be mother hens, constantly asking if he was eating or sleeping. He knew he should take better care of himself, but since he has been working as an assistant, the pile of work has become more prominent. Takemichi would never say no to any job since it was a way to come closer to his wish of becoming a film director. So he accepted any position and drowned himself in work. His friends became worried when one time he collapsed, but Takemichi promised them he would try to take better care of himself.
Taking this into account, Takemichi doesn't have time for dating; it wasn't on his plans right now, and all his attention was on his career. During high school, he went on dates and got his first girlfriend, with whom he was still friends, Hina. Things with her started okay, but they realized they worked better as friends. Since that time, he only went out with some guys and girls. Still, nothing serious, and then the offer of working as assistant director came, and Takemichi focused on his job. Everyone knew this, so he was surprised when Chifuyu and Akkun tried to ask him if he got a date for Valentine's day. Takemichi admits he has forgotten that date was coming. In his defense, a huge project had been approved, and Takemichi was looking forward to it. Not every day do you discover that you will participate in the production of your idol's biographical film!
The production began five months ago, the script was approved and finished, the casting was complete, and the past two weeks have been one of the busiest since the filming began. The incredible thing about this project is that Takemichi will be so close to his idol. Sano Manjiro was invited to the set to see how the filming would be going and to help them with some details. It was also rumored that even if another person acted in the leading role, his idol would be making a small cameo. Takemichi was looking forward to seeing him in person, but he was surprised when he came last week. It was a surprise visit when the director entered with him and presented him to the team. Takemichi was sure he was going to faint there.
Sano Manjiro looks more handsome in person with his short black hair. He wore a black leather jacket, black skinny jeans, boots, and a white shirt. He smiled at them and told them to call him Mikey. Takemichi was holding his breath while Mikey introduced himself. He had to admit he even pinched his arm to see if he wasn't dreaming.
When he was a teenager, Takemichi was fond of motorbikes, and sometimes he would dream of driving one. Still, he knew that with his clumsiness, he would end up falling. So he decided to watch races instead. It was an excellent way to pass his time until he learned about Mikey.
The first race he went to in person was when Sano Manjiro made his debut. Takemichi got a ticket from his uncle, who knew he was interested in races. At that moment, Takemichi had been feeling down due to an argument with his parents. Takemichi had decided to tell them he would pursue his dream as a film director. His parents reacted poorly; to add to this situation, the school he applied to rejected him. It was a bad time for him, so getting a ticket from his uncle was a welcome distraction.
The day of the race will always be unforgettable. The moment he saw Mikey racing, Takemichi was hypnotized. He could not look away. Every lap, he would find his eyes searching for the mysterious figure of the rookie. Takemichi knew he was crazy, but he didn't know how to explain his sensation when he saw that runner. It was as if he was flying, as if he was free.
When the mysterious rookie won the race and removed his helmet, Takemichi was bewitched by that smile. Mikey looked so happy while he was hugged and carried by his team. When he was interviewed about his success, Takemichi will always remember Mikey's words. Never give up.
On that day, Takemichi started following Mikey's career. He will watch all of his races and interviews. Remembering those words. Takemichi tried applying to another film school. He also looked for a part-time job to move away from his parents. Now at 27 years old, Takemichi has found a place as an assistant director and was meeting the one that, without knowing, gave him the courage to continue chasing his dream. Takemichi knew those words were cliche, but at that moment, they were the push he needed to stand up. At first, Takemichi admired Mikey, but at some point, that admiration turned into a crush. A crush that Chifuyu and his friends will make fun of. Takemichi was happy to see his crush in the distance, but now, having him in front of him felt surreal.
When Mikey reached over to shake his hand, Takemichi felt the butterflies in his stomach flutter. With a nervous smile, he tried to ignore the feeling and shook that hand. The moment his skin touched, Takemichi could not stop a shudder. When those black eyes met him, Takemichi's breath was taken away. He forgot his name and couldn't take his hand away from the other. Takemichi noticed this when he heard someone clearing his throat. Takemichi turns and finds the director giving him a curious look. Seeing his mistake, he started babbling. Mikey chuckled at him.
"It will be a pleasure working with you, Takemitchy." And then he was gone to greet more people. Takemichi kept staring at his hand, only realizing what Mikey had called him. Was that a nickname?
It would have been okay if that was his only interaction with Mikey. Still, on that day, Takemichi made a complete fool of himself. As the assistant director, he spent most of his time with the director. Since his boss was the one that had invited Mikey, it meant Takemichi spent the whole day with Mikey. They showed the script to Mikey, which Takemichi gave to him personally. But when he gave him the copies, he was so nervous that he dropped them. Takemichi apologized, and Mikey just smiled and told him not to worry. To add to his nerves, while they were in the director's office, Mikey decided it was a good idea to sit next to Takemichi. Takemichi could only scream internally. After all, there was a free couch.
Takemichi was sure that from the many times he had blushed during that meeting, his boss was aware of his crush. Takemichi tried to control himself even though he got along quite well with the director. He wanted to fulfill his dream. He had been working with him for about five years, so he couldn't throw away years of effort just because he would be working with his crush.
Once under control, the meeting proceeded without any mishaps. During the meeting, Takemichi noticed that Mikey put his arm behind the back of the couch. This made him nervous, and feeling Mikey's closeness made him tremble. He was giving himself a little squeeze to his hands to calm down. He continued explaining to Mikey how the production was organized while his boss added some changes or suggestions based on Mikey's comments. Throughout the explanation, Mikey never withdrew his arm.
If the day had finished there, Takemichi would have been happy, but it wasn't. His next embarrassing moment was when it was lunchtime. Like every day, Takemichi sat at his spot with the editors and some actors while hearing rumors that possibly Japan's number one designer, Mitsuya Takashi, was in charge of the costumes. Takemichi laughed and confirmed the rumor. It was something the producers planned to announce once the designer confirmed. Just a few days ago, Takemichi learned that the designer had accepted. As they talked, Takemichi couldn't help but smile as he saw the surprised faces of some of the actors and other people from the production. If there was something Takemichi enjoyed, it was these moments when the production was all together and laughing. As tiring as it could be to make a movie, as long as there was a good atmosphere, it was more bearable.
While laughing, Takemichi could feel someone looking at him, but when he turned, the feeling was gone. Thinking he imagined it. Takemichi turned to his food. Today's menu was some salad with chicken. Feeling thirsty, Takemichi stood up and poured a glass of water.Takemichi looked around, trying to find Mikey. He found him speaking with the film's main lead and producers. Takemichi couldn't stop a smile from forming when he heard Manjiro laughing. He must have been looking for too long since Mikey turned, and their gazes met. Takemichi felt himself blushing and looked away. But he could not help but turn his gaze back to Mikey, who had stood up and was slowly approaching Takemichi. Takemichi nervously tried to return to his place but didn't pay attention and stumbled. Takemichi only closed his eyes when he saw the floor coming closer. But to his surprise, he was stopped by a hand. Takemichi looked up and saw those black eyes.
"Are you okay?"
"Yeah, I–" Takemichi couldn't feel his tongue due to the nerves, but he tried to calm himself, and he managed a thank you. Mikey gave him a small smile, but before he could say more, Takemichi apologized and ran away.
All Takemichi wanted was to hide. He turned at his wet t-shirt and sighed. He needed to keep it together before embarrassing himself more in front of Mikey. After some other falls and stuttering, Takemichi finished his day. He went home and lay in his bed, shouting into his pillow, but even if he was a mess in front of Mikey, Takemichi couldn't stop smiling. He had finally met him!
The next day Mikey wasn't on set. Takemichi was reassured that at least he wouldn't make a fool of himself, but another part of him couldn't help but miss Mikey's presence. He hopes that the next time he sees Mikey, he will be more prepared and try to be more natural.
However things go differently than planned. Fast-forward to Valentine's day, Takemichi arrived at the restaurant where Chifuyu and Akkun had told him his date would be. It's pretty fancy. Takemichi feels entirely undressed right now. He is sweating, and he knows his hair is a whole mess. The hostess looks at him weirdly, but he smiles nervously and tells her his name. She tells him that his date has arrived and guides him to his table. Takemichi follows her. While walking, Takemichi reads the message Chifuyu sent him, wishing him good luck. The hostess brings him to a small private room, he enters, and then she is gone. Takemichi closes the door, tries fixing his hair, and walks to the table.
"Sorry for the delay, but the traffic was horrible." The moment Takemichi looks up, his gaze meets those black eyes he loves to see. He feels his heart going crazy. In front of him is none other than Sano Manjiro!
"Takemitchy," Mikey greets him with a smile.
Takemichi admits he wants to see Mikey again, but this situation feels surreal. It's such a big coincidence that Chifuyu and Akkun managed to set him up with Mikey. They know perfectly that Takemichi has a massive crush on him. He remembers the phone call on Friday when Chifuyu had explained to him about the whole blind date. Takemichi felt annoyed because he knew his friend meant good, so Takemichi accepted going out with this friend of Baji and Kazutora. Takemichi wasn't so close with them, but since they were dating Chifuyu, he had gotten to know them. They were good people, even if they were pretty weird, but if Chifuyu liked them like that, who was he to judge him?
Ignoring that, Takemichi returned to the present, where Mikey was smiling at him.
Mikey was wearing a black suit. The first buttons of his shirt are open, exposing his skin. Takemichi can't help blushing when his eyes fall on the skin. Mikey follows his gaze but keeps smiling and tilts his head, inviting Takemichi to sit down. Takemichi laughs nervously and takes a seat. The moment he does, a waiter comes and serves him some wine.
"I ask for some wine. I hope you don't mind." Mikey explains.
"Is okay, don't worry," Takemichi smiles and takes a sip from the cup. He hopes the wine helps his nerves.
The waiter gives him a menu, and Takemichi orders the first thing he sees. A piece of steak with mashed potatoes. Mikey orders a slice of cake, to his surprise.
"I heard the cake here is good, so I have to taste it," Mikey explains. "Kenchin and my sister will probably complain about me eating cake, but this is a secret between us."
Takemichi couldn't stop a chuckle when he saw Mikey's pout. It came naturally to him when he brought his little finger close to Mikey's.
"Pinky promise." Mikey looks at his fingers and smiles.
"So, how did you know Baji and Kazutora?" Takemichi decides to ask the question that has been going through his head since the moment he saw Mikey sitting at the table.
"Baji and I have known each other since we were kids, and then I met Kazutora during elementary school. He was in Baji's class."
There was a pause when the waiter brought their food. Takemichi took some bites. It was delicious. He looked up and found Mikey happily eating his cake. Takemichi found surprising the way Mikey's features made him look younger as he ate his cake. He must have been staring since he heard a chuckle, and a spoon with a piece of cake appeared in his field of vision.
"Want to try some?" Takemichi was surprised by the action. He had heard from interviews with his racing team that Mikey would never share his food. So seeing this right now makes him think that even if he has been following Sano Manjiro's racing career, he didn't know about his crush. Takemichi nodded and grabbed the spoon, but Mikey wouldn't let go.
"You have to open your mouth, dummy."
"Eh?" But before Takemichi could ask more, a spoon with cake was forced into his mouth. Mikey chuckled.
"Delicious, right?" Takemichi could feel a blush appearing and nod. They continued eating while Mikey was describing his whole day. Takemichi asked him questions about his future races, and he could feel he was starting to relax with Mikey's company. His nerves had gone, and he could feel warmth in his chest. He was enjoying himself. Takemichi even complained to Mikey about how busy things were.
"Maybe next time I can help you."
"You better not back out," Takemichi said as he raised an eyebrow.
"Pinky promise?"
"Yeah, pinky promise."
After eating, Mikey told him he wanted to show him something. So taking his hand, Mikey drags him out of the restaurant. Takemichi laughed while he was being pulled. Outside, Mikey calls for a cab.
"I'll have brought my bike, but Kenchin and the others insist I have to use a suit, so riding is kind of uncomfortable."
"Tell me about it," Takemichi sighs. "Chifuyu was quite mysterious about the blind date. He only told me to wear it and sent me the directions."
Mikey turned to look at him, but the cab arrived before he could say more. Mikey opened the door for him. Once in the taxi, he told the driver where to go.
"So Chifuyu didn't tell you I'll be your date?"
"No?" Takemichi turned to look at Mikey with curiosity. “Did Baji and Kazutora tell you?”
"Let's say Baji got excited and said your name."
"Oh"
Before Takemichi could keep asking more questions, they reached their destination. Takemichi was surprised to see how fast they had arrived. Mikey paid for the cab while Takemichi went out. Once out, the first thing that Takemichi smelled was the sea. They were near the port. But what surprised Takemichi was the sunset. tThe orange tones reflected in the sea, creating a path, making it look like a magic land. The idea was too beautiful to be explained in words. Takemichi could not take his eyes off it. Sunsets had always seemed like a magical thing to watch. Takemichi could not help the smile at the thought of filming a scene with that view. He would like to take out his camera so he could take a picture and use it as a reference later, but he knew that picture would not do justice to what his eyes were seeing. Takemichi turned and found Mikey looking at him with a smile.
"Pretty, isn't it?"
"Yeah"
"I found this place while I was riding my bike. When I have to think about something, I'll come here."
Takemichi turned to look at Mikey, and the way the orange reflected on his skin made him look handsome. Like he was part of a dream.
"Have you ever brought someone here?" Takemichi whispers.
"You are the first one." Hearing that makes Takemichi's heartbeat go crazy.
"You know Baji and Kazutora talk about you a lot. They keep saying that Chifuyu is friends with a talented film director." Takemichi wants to add that he is only an assistant, but Mikey interrupts him.
"Hearing that got me curious. So I searched and found a short stop-motion movie I watched years ago made by a film student about a hero who gave his life to his dear friend. It was short and clumsy, but how it was portrayed was heartwarming." Takemichi could only look surprised. That film was his final exam, and he was sure that no one but his friends had watched it. So to find that Mikey has seen it was overwhelming.
"Mikey–"
"I was so excited when I found out you were close to me. I intend to meet you. But you know things have gone busy for me. And it was when someone approached me to offer to make a movie based on me. At first, I wasn't interested. I didn't feel that my life was interesting. But I decided to accept when I found out you were part of the production."
If someone ever told Takemichi that the person he admired and had a crush on would end up being his blind date and not only that, but he was interested in him. He would have called them crazy. But here he is. Takemichi can’t stop the big smile and blush that appears. Mikey looks at him with such tenderness that Takemichi is sure he will end up combusting. But he composes himself and decides that it is time to pour his heart out to Mikey.
"You know, I was almost going to give up the idea of becoming a film director. I was in bad shape until I saw you." Takemichi smiles softly when Mikey looks at him with surprise. "It was my first time watching a race in person, and since I saw you, I was drawn. The way you look so free while riding your bike and the happy you look at the end. I was breathless. I knew that I wanted to be able to share my passion like that too."
"Takemitchy,"
Takemichi took a big breath and said those words he had always wanted to say to Mikey.
“You save me Sano Manjiro!” Takemichi was so red he looked away, feeling embarrassed. But before he could do more. A hand took him by the chin, and those black eyes looked at him with adoration and then felt his lips brush against his own. Takemichi was surprised by the contact but closed his eyes and responded to the kiss. It was a light touch, shy at first but then passionate. It left them both breathless. Their hearts were beating fast. They both couldn't believe they were so close to each other. Smiling, they put their foreheads together while laughing.
Takemichi didn't know that accepting this blind date would be a success. Still, he was getting to know more about Mikey, and learning his feelings were required made him feel on cloud nine. Takemichi wanted more and he was sure Mikey felt the same.
"I'm sure our friends are dying to see how this blind date went," Mikey whispered when he heard his phone notification.
"Probably, but now that I think about it, you already knew it was me. So it doesn't count as one."
"Yeah, but you didn't," Mikey mocked him.
"You cheated!" Takemichi pout.
"Maybe." Mikey smiled and kissed him on his cheek. "How about I repay you with another date? I want to spend more time with you."
Takemichi smiled.
"Okay."
Smiling, both intertwined their hands and walked down the path while laughing. It was only the beginning of their story, but Takemichi was sure that things would become brighter from now on.