Archive of Our Own

He remembered it clearly, the oddest year of his life, but a euphoric one at that. The events… he could’ve never predicted. The incidents transpired during the second term of his second year, when he happened to meet an artist who was utterly mystifying. 

..

Friday September 5th, 2008

Chifuyu ascended up the rough stone stairs to the rooftop. His shoes clicked with each step, the sound of his feet hitting the stone loudly audible, echoing throughout the staircase. As he reached the top the boy moved the cones, brooms, and other equipment that piled up in front of the door, said objects barricaded it in a futile attempt to keep students off of the roof, of course , it never worked. As his pale hand reached out, fingers grazing the doorknob delicately, he could hear the sound of boisterous laughter. Other students had already beaten him to the rooftop, there was no way he could read in silence under these circumstances. 

Defeated, he turned around, stepping down the stairs, back to the third floor, there was one more location he knew of. A room that would fulfill his needs of peacefulness and loneliness. The art room, it was said to be abandoned in the early morning, therefore, it was the perfect place for Chifuyu to read on this warm September morning. 

Grasped tightly in his fingertips was a book, flimsy, with a pink cover and many hearts scattered atop it, he held it gracefully, delicately in his hands as he stepped through the halls. It was the sixth volume of his latest obsession, a new shoujo manga series by one of his favorite authors. The art style she had, had only continued to improve from her last work, and the storytelling was far better than any other series he had read as of recent. 

The boy with the black hair once bleached blonde many times before, an undercut, and glazing green eyes that didn’t shine in the dim hallways stopped in his tracks as he stood in front of a door. It was an ordinary door, nothing special, yet, despite the lack of odd circumstances there was a feeling in his gut that told him to expect the unexpected. With his free hand he reached out for the door, sliding it open with ease, the motion caused noise to fill the deserted hallways for a short moment, but then the long silence was returned.

Instead of being met with an empty classroom, dark, forsaken, lacking in any department, he was met with an unfamiliar boy and a large canvas instead. 

The painting was magnificent. Chifuyu was certain it competed with professionals. The colors were picked by an angel themself, and the contrasting shades and lights were perfect. Never in his life had Chifuyu ever thought of anything as perfect, but this painting was a masterpiece— far more than perfect. No word in the dictionary could describe it; from the emotions he expressed by merely laying his eyes upon the piece, to the piece itself, there was nothing quite like it, it was beautiful in so many ways, Chifuyu couldn’t put a finger on just one that stood out from the others. Even now, as he continued to longingly stare as the piece of art from afar, unfinished, him unmoving for many moments, he still found new details to latch onto and cause his heart to burst into flames. 

Chifuyu had never truly been in love, but he was sure this was what love felt like. 

The painting was bewitching enough for Chifuyu to compare it to the feeling of love— a feeling like no other. The piece was elegant, alluring, utterly captivating, even as time continued to pass, slowed in Chifuyu’s mind he couldn’t turn away, his eyes completely locked on the sight in front of him. He had never experienced a situation quite like this one, and he wished for it to never end. The unfamiliarity of it all should’ve been frightening to him— even just a bit, but that was not the case, instead, he found himself to be swarmed with feelings of infatuation instead. 

The canvas was divided into two, one half portrayed many emotions, it was busy— stressful even , a bright city during the day, streets packed with cars—traffic backed up, students walking to school in the morning, stray cats wandering the streets aimlessly looking for a home or nothing at all, birds flying through the air, landing atop of buildings and utility wires strung about, there was much more to focus on, little details—larger ones as well, the attention to detail was honestly impressive There was truly not enough time to admire each aspect of the painting. The second half was the complete opposite, much calmer, there was one singular car speeding through the streets from lack of traffic, the sidewalks were empty, and now only one stray cat could be seen. The birds no longer occupied the skies or buildings, and the lights to establishments were also off, leaving the interiors dim. It was such a simple concept, comparing two different times of days in a way, yet, Chifuyu was completely blown away by it. 

Comparable to most good things this event had to come to a close eventually. Those few seconds that felt like hours to Chifuyu were brought to a halt as the artist himself turned around to meet Chifuyu’s gaze. The person who created such a masterpiece was not at all what Chifuyu had expected, although, there was never a clear picture in his mind. To be fair, he did not get much time to consider such a person. 

Chifuyu froze in place as his green eyes made contact with yellow ones. The artist tilted his head to the side confused, the earring present on one of his ears jingling along with the motion. The first detail about the boy he noticed— besides his eyes— was the tattoo of a tiger on his neck, then his bi-colored hair, black with blonde highlights tied up into a ponytail that was most likely messed up from his actions of painting. He was fully facing Chifuyu by now. Leading teal eyes to begin to wander, scanning the paint covered hands he had folded on his lap, the matching apron that was covered in an array of colors, the disheveled collar of his school uniform, red tie laying on the desk next to him, and the confused frown on his lips. Chifuyu had observed all of this in mere seconds. 

The frown disappeared as the boy moved his lips, a gentle, yet, slightly harsh, “Hello?” Left his mouth, it wasn’t too aggressive, but there was still a crude tone of voice used as he spoke the word. Rather than a greeting it was a question, many questions in itself, instead of hello he's practically asked; what do you want? Why are you here?

There was one final detail Chifuyu had observed, the boy’s eyes lacked light, they were emotionless, a plain, dull shade of yellow. Completely cold, detached, hollow, Chifuyu even wanted to describe them as dead, the man who had just painted such a masterpiece had no warmth in his cold heart. No color in his cheeks, he was frigid, utterly imperturbable, those frightening feelings Chifuyu should have felt before had arisen by now. Just who was this boy, and why was he like… this? 

Once more he repeated himself, changing the word he used, but not the underlying questions, “Yes?” He asked. 

Reaching out behind him his hand gripped the door,  sliding it open, “Wrong room! Sorry!” He apologized quickly, before exiting the room, book still in hand. He shut the door behind him quickly as he made a dash for the staircase. 

There were far too many emotions felt in one simple accidental meeting. His heart was pounding and he was completely breathless despite only moving a few feet, but it felt like he had run for miles. Leaning against the wall, hidden in the trenches of the stairway, he gripped the dress shirt of his uniform tightly in the palm of his hand, letting his breathing regulate again as he prayed the door to the art room would not open as he stood awkwardly on the stairs. 

With harsh breaths that were beginning to calm, and a pounding heart the boy rested his body weight into the wall behind him. In all honesty, he had no idea why his body reacted in such an exaggerated way, but the adrenaline along with the overbearing emotions began to fade away. 

“Just who are you…” 

..

Golden lighting from the sunset poured through the open windows of the classroom. Chairs placed upon desks, the student scattered among the school, many home by this point, but in that room two remained. Two boys sitting sharing a desk, sitting across from one another as they worked together to study after class. An array of textbooks lie on top of the desk currently closed as a pencil scratched and moved delicates across a flimsy sheet of white paper. 

With a single raised eyebrow, and pursed lips  the pencil stopped moving. One of the boys, the one who had been writing, was Baji Keisuke, most could not tell with his nerdy disguise he wore. Long black hair slicked back, tied into a low ponytail, and glasses without prescription lying softly on the bridge of his nose. 

Baji opened his mouth to speak, two visible fangs similar to canines visible as he simply explained, “I don’t know.” 

The boy with the black hair let out a long sigh. He observed the piece of paper scanning for mistakes, or an answer to the question they’d been working on at all. This scenery was similar to the day they first met, the two sitting at a desk in a deserted classroom across from one another. Chifuyu— despite lacking in smarts as well, was tutoring Baji to ensure the boy would not get held back again. Despite Baji graduating each year since the two met, it was always nice to fall back on old routines, and the two continued to study together after school. Occasionally Chifuyu would learn something new, and a weight was lifted off of Baji’s shoulders, he was confident he wouldn’t disappoint his mother by being held back once again. 

Through the open window blew a breeze, cooling the air for a moment, and tossing around stray papers that lie by the windowsill. For just a moment, a short one at that, the two were brought out of their focus to watch the sheets fall delicately onto the floor.

At the same time, by mere coincidence, the door to their classroom slid open, hesitantly, as if the perpetrator was unsure if they were at the correct location. Teal eyes diverted between the papers lying dormant on the ground, and the body of an individual halfway in the classroom. 

Chifuyu’s lips parted, and a gasp ghosted upon his lips, eyes widened as he observed the figure in the doorway. With an increased heartbeat, and an unmistakable shocked expression impossible to wipe off his face, he gripped the wooden desk tighter, holding the edge with his pale fingertips, turning the knuckles a ghostly shade of white. 

His gaze landed upon a familiar artistic tiger tattooed in ink on the neck of the stranger, as well as the highlighted hair tied up in a much more neat ponytail. A person he had never expected to see again, but there he was standing a few feet away. 

The unknown individual happened to be the wonderful artist Chifuyu had encountered that very morning.

Baji’s lips turned up into smiles as he greeted the boy, they were apparently familiar with one another, “Hey, Kazutora! Come sit.” He stated, bringing a name to the mysterious face. 

Mumbling aloud without thought, Chifuyu let the name slip off the tip of his tongue silently, “Kazutora…” The simple name which rang so many bells in his mind. 

Hanemiya Kazutora, the name belonging to one of Baji’s lifelong friends. He had never met Kazutora, Kazutora didn’t attend the same school as the two, additionally Baji had never let them cross paths either. It was odd , by now one would expect the two to be at least familiar with one another, but that was not the case. Chifuyu didn’t dwell on it, although, from time to time he’d wonder why he had met most of Baji’s other friends, just not the mysterious Kazutora who was as close to Baji as he was.

The strange artist with void filled eyes, who was skillfully painting in the art room this morning just so happened to be the person closest to Baji. 

“Chifuyu.” The call of his name dragged him out of his short trance, “This is Hanemiya Kazutora, the one I’ve told you plenty about.” Baji explained pointing at the boy who sat to the left of Chifuyu. 

The artist, Kazutora, tilted his head to the side with a smile, his earring dangling from one ear jingled along with the motion, “First names fine.” 

With a nod of acknowledgment Chifuyu replied, “Just call me Chifuyu then.” He exchanged a smile of his own, clearly fake, his lips struggling to turn up into a “u” like shape as his trembled. 

It was all too strange, but he’d attempt to keep his composure. 

Kazutora was nothing like Chifuyu had envisioned him. With the knowledge of this morning, and the stories Baji had told him, the boy still didn’t meet any of the images Chifuyu made up of him in his mind. Even his personality was strange. Although Chifuyu didn’t had a clue what to expect, the Kazutora in a bubbly conversation with Baji at the moment differed from the surly artist with peculiar and cold demeanor. 

The Kazutora across from him was brash, blunt, quick to speak his mind, but he was also loud, lively, he brought Baji to laughter in a few words that were all but muffled in Chifuyu’s ears. Kazutora was far from cold—there was definitely warmth in his heart—so why…why was the artist painting in their lonesome like a completely different person. 

The smile he’d shown Chifuyu only grew wider, a tooth filled grin that gleamed along with the light in the room. He was practically shining, a ball of light compared to the dull—lifeless figure in the art room that had all but light, an entity that was utter darkness. 

Not a word was processed—even heard during Baji and Kazutora’s short exchange as Chifuyu’s mind was running wild with thoughts. 

Tearing him out of his mind, and back to the present was a fingertip coming into his vision, it belonged to Kazutora and he was pointing at the manga that was placed idly on the desk in front of Chifuyu. Eyes scanned the vibrant design, from the many hues of pink to the two main characters displayed in the center of the cover surrounded by falling flower petals, “Oh! What’s that?” Kazutora inquired, his eyes darting between the two boys on either side of him. 

Chifuyu reached his hand out, pulling the book away from Kazutora’s grasp, “Manga.” He explained in one simple word.

“New romance series Chifuyu picked up the other day.” Baji chimed in, his focus was completely drawn away from his studies as he leaned back in his chair carelessly. 

Kazutora hummed slowly as his eyes fell back on the book, and then Chifuyu, with a gentle smile, directed his focus on Chifuyu, “Ah…I see…” He responded verbally, words drawn on, “Are you trying to improve your romance skills?” The boy teased. 

“What?! No! It’s an interest!”

Kazutora covered his mouth with one of his hands in an attempt to hide the wide smile that had grown from Chifuyu’s vehement reaction, “I was just playing…” He stated as calmly as he could amongst laughter he couldn’t mask, occasional giggles left his lips as he spoke, and the corners of his eyes were crinkled as his smile increased in size.

“Stop laughing at me!”

“I’m sorry! I’m trying!” Kazutora responded quickly, letting more laughter fall from his lips. At this point even Baji had joined in, low chuckling filling Chifuyu’s ears as his face grew red in embarrassment. After a few moments, Kazutora calmed himself, “Your reactions are wonderful, Chifuyu.” He started with what Chifuyu could only describe as a genuine delighted smile. 

Even now, as the two had spoken only briefly, bickered for the most part, Chifuyu still had no clear picture of Kazutora. Kazutora and the artist in the art room were almost two different people in his eyes. Kazutora was an enrapturing person, noisy, extremely blunt, but very charming at the same time. The boy sat in the art room, his eyes dim, dull, absent of light, he was somber, clearly crestfallen, a melancholy expression present on his face was incomparable to Kazutora. Were they really the same person? 

“I’m going to use the restroom.” Baji stated abruptly, hands placed on the desk as he pushed his chair back, he stood up glancing down at both of them, “I’ll be back, wait here.” 

The two nodded and silence fell between them. The once booming classroom filled with giggles and exuberant laughter was left tranquil. 

Two strangers sat next to each other neither having enough courage to utter a word to each other. 

Strangers. In Chifuyu’s eyes, his heart, it was a fitting label for them. They had conversed, they knew each others name,  they knew very few details about one another, but the two were far from friends. In reality Kazutora was a mystery, a person who Chifuyu failed to understand in every way, he was sure there was a doppelgänger he had met as well. 

Kazutora was mystifying. 

Oddly, similarly to his reaction to the art piece he observed earlier, when he should’ve felt even a smidge of fear, he was content. 

Kazutora twirled a strand of his hair in between his fingers. Nearly all his hair was trapped in the ponytail he had tied up, but two strands both on either side of his face lay free framing his face. 

The overwhelming, unpleasant silence was broken by a sudden question that left Kazutora’s lips, in a smooth, never faltering tone he asked, “You came to the art room this morning didn’t you, Chifuyu?” 

Chifuyu swallowed quickly, “I did.” He replied laconically, “I assumed it’d be empty,” There was no reason for the boy to explain himself, but he did, “…I wanted a place to read in peace, the roof was crowded so I went to a location I had expected to be desolate.” 

“Mhm.” Kazutora hummed along with his words, “You looked spooked, did I scare you?” He asked once more, the question wasn’t intended to tease Chifuyu, but he was flustered nonetheless. 

“No! I didn’t want to bother you.” The black haired boy hastily replied. His response only warranted a nod from Kazutora. 

Once again stillness filled the air, the room was entirely reticent. As if it was vacated, relinquished by humans at that very moment. 

Neither made eye contact either, it was rather tense, as the two avoided each other's gaze, eyes bouncing around the room to nothing particular at all. Chifuyu hastily tapped his foot against the floor bringing a constant melody into the room as he waited impatiently for Baji’s return. 

Chifuyu pursed his lips for a moment, eyes glancing over at Kazutora who met his own before they darted away, they couldn’t keep up the childish acts as the two were left in the classroom alone. Chifuyu, stepping up, unpursed his lips, then they parted, “Your painting…it was nice.” He complimented, genuinely, he found the piece to be magnificent, and despite the brusque response, he was sure the passionate tone that seeped through his words said enough in itself. 

“Thank you.” Kazutora replied. That smile he wore, the one he had as he set his eyes on Baji, as he teased Chifuyu mercilessly, it was now present again, “It’s not completed yet. Would you like to see it when it is done?” The question ensued after a few brief seconds. 

Chifuyu’s lips turned up into a cordial grin, “Of course.” 

“I’ll let you kno—“ 

Kazutora’s response was cut short by the classroom door sliding open. Baji had returned. 

He walked over to his desk, stacking the textbook’s, and few pieces of once white paper now covered in ink, “We headin’ home?” He inquired, eyes fixed on Chifuyu, “Sun's setting.” 

Chifuyu nodded quickly, “Yes.” He placed the palms of his hands on the desk and he stood up promptly. 

Baji held the books in a stack in both his hands, his chin resting atop of them, “We’ll see you Monday Kazutora. We should head home now.” 

“Right.” Kazutora nodded in response, “I’ll show you it soon, Chifuyu.” 

Chifuyu nodded, humming in response, he shot Kazutora a thumbs up, and then he was helping Baji carry the textbooks out of the classroom. 

They exited the school, bags slung over their shoulders, the two embarking towards a convenience store to pick up a pack of peyoung yakisoba before heading home.

“Can’t Kazutora walk home with us?” Chifuyu asked, although he doesn’t know why he did it if he was honest. Curiosity, he’d answer, he and Baji were so close it seemed—from the knowledge he was provided he assumed such. So instinctively he expected to have Kazutora accompanying them at this very moment. 

“Hmm, nah, he takes public transport.” Baji answered candidly. 

Then their discussion on Baji’s strange friend came to an end. Rather than strange, perhaps Kazutora was just esoteric, profound, impossible to understand as of now. Compared to Baji who was easy for him to read, Kazutora was unfathomable, although it seemed to only fuel Chifuyu’s inquisitiveness more. 

..

Warmth from a blanket, the coolness from the sheets he lay on contrasted heavily, but nonetheless he was filled with immense comfort as he lay wide awake in his bed. Pillow behind his head, eyes staring up, forward at the ceiling in the dark night, room illuminated by the moonlight pouring in through the windows. 

His mind was racing, wandering away from the thought of sleep, and his plans for the following day, instead, he found himself engrossed by the strange boy. Lifelong friends with Baji, they had met before Baji had even known of Chifuyu’s existence yet, the two seemed vastly different. Then again, Chifuyu barely knew Kazutora before today he was merely a concept in some ways, but now he has a face to the name, and he’s even interacted with the person he’d learned so much about. 

Deeply, he wanted to solve the mystery of this Kazutora boy, the artist who had painted the most beautiful piece he had ever laid his eyes upon.

The questions he had would continue to stay unanswered. For now. 

..

Saturday September 6th, 2008 

Yellow lighting filled the establishment, the tinted light bulbs above being the cause, the natural light shunned out by the closed blinds. Two baristas stood behind the wooden counter, a deep shade of brown that matched the floor, and stood out compared to the deep evergreen colored walls. As it was late in the afternoon the business found themselves to be busy, the interior filled with the buzzing sounds of many different conversations from customers. Chifuyu was sitting on a wooden table facing forward, an individual, and a drink he ordered both across from him. 

Across from Chifuyu, the individual who happened to be one of his closest friends was a boy who was the same age as him, but a person he only saw after classes ended for the day or on weekends considering the two did not attend the same school. The boy had blonde hair that fell messily over his forehead, bangs curled, and out of place, he’d stopped using hair gel a year prior, and instead he let his hair flow naturally. The roots of his hair showed his natural color, a powerful shade of jet black that contrasted against his blonde hair. The individual also had gleaming blue eyes, and a bandaid placed perfectly on the bridge of his nose, another on his cheek covering injuries he got during foolished fights was named Hanagaki Takemichi, rather, Takemitchy. 

Chifuyu met him through Baji surprisingly enough. Baji had many friends, most of which did not attend the same school as them. One of these friends was a childhood friend, Sano Manjiro—Mikey, who had introduced Takemichi into their ever growing friendgroup. When Takemichi was in Baji’s presence he looked like a scared cat who was trying to let their strength shine through, rather, an idiot, an entertaining one at that. 

During their first encounter the two struck up a conversation, the topic being Baji of all things. Over time as they had begun to get to know each other, they ended up becoming close friends. Chifuyu would go as far to say he trusts Takemichi as much as Baji at this point. Takemichi knows practically everything about Chifuyu, vice-versa, despite the two not attending the same school they share information between each other often. Chifuyu finds himself texting Takemichi to hangout every other week so the two can discuss their latest life updates.  

Takemichi had finished a story about shenanigans he got up to with Akkun and Yamagishi the prior week. It was interesting despite how stupid it was. 

“I met this strange guy yesterday.” Chifuyu stated, more so blurted, he had intended to bring it up, but he said it so fast and so abruptly it could have been mistaken for an accident. 

Takemichi raised both his eyebrows, “What was so strange about him?” He asked, perplexed. 

“Have you ever met Hanemiya Kazutora?” 

The sentence was an eccentric question, quite vague, still critical to the impending conversation in spite of that. 

There were a few moments of thought, a pause in the conversation as Takemichi ceased his speech for a moment, “I think I’ve heard the name before…I’m not sure. I haven’t met anyone with the name, is Hanemiya the strange boy you encountered?” 

Chifuyu nodded, he took another sip of his drink, the sweet liquid filling his senses, “He’s Baji’s best friend.”

Takemichi’s eyes widened, his hands slamming down on the table dramatically in shock, he was utterly bewildered, “Really?! There’s someone closer to Baji than you?!” Takemichi asked vociferously. Utter silence filled the air as the eyes of other customers in the establishment were drawn to them. 

“Takemitchy…” 

The blonde covered his face with his hands in embarrassment as strangers stared in confusion before moving on and continuing their day. 

“Sorry…” Takemichi mumbled gingerly, he slouched in his chair, sluggishly sliding down, cheeks dyed a deep red hue as a result of his embarrassment. 

Chifuyu exhaled, sighing, “Yes.” He answered, “There is someone closer to Baji than me, and he happened to be the strange boy I met yesterday.”

Takemitchy nodded, “You haven’t answered my original question, what was so strange about him?” He repeated. 

“It sounds foolish out loud, but it’s as if he is two different people.” Chifuyu described vaguely, slightly embarrassed by the odd statement, “When I bumped into him that morning in the art room he was cold and almost soulless, but when Baji introduced him to me after school he was the complete opposite.” The boy explained further, writing off his prior explanation he mumbled, “He could've been tired…I guess.” An excuse he had trouble believing.

“Weird…” Takemichi murmured, “…art room? He does art?”

“Mhm.” Chifuyu hummed in response before taking another sip of his drink, his eyes glimmered, light gleaming as he smiled wide, “He’s damn good at it too. The painting he made was…” Chifuyu began excitedly, he was at a loss for words, there was no one word that could describe the unbelievable beauty of the piece, “… lovely.” He murmured, it was the last word that came to his mind. It failed to encapsulate how exquisite the painting was. Although, he was sure it would suffice. 

“Hmm, that’s cool. You guys could bond over that!” Takemichi suggested with an overly enthusiastic grin.

“I am awful at art, Takemitchy.” 

“Right…” The blonde responded defeated, the smile he had wavered in embarrassment as he scratched the back of his neck awkwardly. 

Chifuyu laughed in response, letting a smile fall idly on his lips without thought. 

Then their conversation about the “strange man” came to a close. 

Takemichi perked up after a few moments, short lived silence coming to an end once again, “Oh! Chifuyu, are you going to begin piano lessons with Hina?” 

Hina— Tachibana Hinata was Takemichi’s girlfriend, they’d been dating since middle school, and she just so happens to be very skilled at playing the piano. It was a hobby Chifuyu had picked up during his third year of middle school, and now he was having shows scheduled to demonstrate his skill. Therefore, he wanted to have Hinata refine his skills before his upcoming performance. 

“Mhm!” Chifuyu hummed his answer with a wide grin, “I was thinking Monday?” He suggested. 

Takemichi nodded, “I’ll let her know.” He responded with a warm smile of his own. 

..

Sunday was spent at Baji’s apartment. He and Chifuyu lived in the same building so it was extremely common for them to spend time together. Like they did on this day. 

Sun seeped through the open window, pouring into the living room from the kitchen, two boys occupied the couch, game controllers present in both of their hands. On the coffee table sat an array of snacks, open cans some halfway full the liquid inside lukewarm as they sat out, others empty. 

Baji’s eyebrows were furrowed, lips pursed, eyes fixed on the screen in front of them, he was always extremely competitive especially when it came to video-games. Chifuyu swore he didn't blink once as he ensured his victory over him once more. 

Baji’s arms shot up in the air in celebration as the screen flashed a bright light of colors and the two words “You win!” In a golden shade of yellow. Baji glanced over at Chifuyu with a cocky smirk present on his lips, he’d won every game against him but one so far. 

Chifuyu sighed, but another loss didn’t discourage the fire that sparked in his eyes. With a smirk of his own he pressed “play again” and the boys started up yet another match, “I’ll beat you.” Chifuyu declared, his focus shifted away from Baji and to the television screen a few feet in front of him. The controller gripped tightly in the palms of his sweaty hands as he watched the countdown begin. 

The two were playing a fighting game. When Chifuyu played it for the first time he smashed all the buttons at once hoping his efforts would land him victorious against Baji. It did not, of course, but he has gotten better over the time they played. 

“Yeah?” Baji replied, he too getting fired up, “I’d like to see you try.” He stated arrogantly in unison with the resounding “Go!” that echoed from the speakers of the television. 

Chifuyu lost. 

Baji ruffled his hair whilst muttering a playful, “You’ll have to get better if you want to beat me.” 

Chifuyu rolled his eyes, and once again another match began. 

They played a few more matches as the sun began to set, dimming the lights in the small apartment. At the same time Baji’s mother— Baji Ryoko, had returned home with an armful of groceries. It wasn’t uncommon for Chifuyu to stay for dinner and it seemed it would be one of those nights. 

Chifuyu assisted in setting the table, the sun fully set as dinner was finished. The three sat together to engage in the meal together. 

Dinner with Baji went as usual, most of it a flash and blur before Chifuyu was passed out in his own bed a few floors away. 

Until the simple mention of someone he had found interest in, a curiosity of sorts, “Kazutora switched to our school.” Baji stated, his eyes on his mother whom he was informing. 

The woman smiled, releasing a pleased hum, “That’s good. He’ll need to show me more of that art he makes!” She stated heartily, a smile of her own—similar to Baji’s, spread across her own lips. 

It seemed even Baji’s mother knew of, and had met Kazutora while Chifuyu was kept in the dark. She even knew of his impressive art skills. How had Baji kept the two from meeting all this time? It’d seem to be an almost impossible task. Chifuyu had known Baji for about five years at this point, and it wasn’t until a few days ago that he properly met a very important person in his life. 

“I’ll let him know.” 

“He’s graduating this year right?” Ryoko asked, “Someone here should be too, but they—“

“Mom.” Baji groaned in annoyance, Chifuyu was sure if she kept going he’d witness a food fight between mother and son. 

Baji shrugged his shoulders, relaxing them as he sighed before answering, “Yeah.” 

Right, Kazutora was a third year, a year above Chifuyu and Baji. Therefore, their meetings would also be hard, if Chifuyu wanted to gain any intel on this obscure man he’d have to find him in the mornings, lunch, or after classes ended if he hadn’t gone home by then. Of course, he could ask Baji, but it’d only result in a brief yet awkward conversation. 

Once more, dinner continued as usual, like it had any other day Chifuyu accompanied the family. 

..

Monday September 8th, 2008 

What a bland day, Chifuyu would say. 

He attended his classes per usual, and there was nothing out of the ordinary. On this Monday he didn’t encounter any strange individuals, nor was there a hitch in his constant routine. However, that would change when classes came to an end.

But Chifuyu knew this already. 

Chifuyu had discussed it with Takemichi two days prior, on this Monday instead of studying with Baji, Chifuyu would begin piano practices with Hinata. Of course, he was no stranger to playing piano, but he hoped the girl would improve, and even bring his skills close to perfection as she has been an avid piano player since she was a young child. 

Clicking his pencil against the desk, swinging it back and forth between his fingertips, motions similar to a seesaw, Chifuyu sighed, eyes fixed on the clock in the corner of the room. He still had a few hours until classes would come to an end, but they felt like the equivalent to an eternity. 

Sunlight peered through the open windows, a wonderful golden hue displayed against Chifuyu’s skin engulfing him in light, dyeing his features. His eyes were a brightest shade of blue, similar to the ocean despite their teal color, they looked even more beautiful in the shining sun. However, the sight was not seen as his eyes fell shut, he moved his fingertips against the piano keys without thought. It was almost second nature to him at this point, especially this song which he’d played so many times in the past.

The music room was empty, the only occupant being Chifuyu himself who sat on the stool in front of the piano. The noise emitted echoing throughout the large auditorium like space. He fell into a motion with the music, his head moving back and forth slightly and he let his shoulders drop, and fingertips delicately trace the keys. 

Elevated on a stage, foot tapping against the wooden floor below him, his mind was blank, ears filled with the melodic music, eyes shut portraying a deep black in his vision. 

Considering his circumstances it was no shock that he didn’t hear the audible footsteps as two more occupants entered the room. They were silent, waiting for Chifuyu to finish the song instead of interrupting him. 

The girl with the coral hair let a fond smile fall upon her lips. Her eyes shone with a gleaming light as she listened along with the room. The corners of her eyes crinkled as her smile grew wider, she seemed very satisfied with her “apprentice.” The boy next to her with the messy blonde hair lacked any musical knowledge, despite that he found a warm feeling throughout his veins as he listened to the beautiful musical piece. 

The music came to a halt as the final notes were played, fingers still placed upon the keys, however, he did not press down with enough pressure to play. 

Teal eyes were unmasked as he opened his eyes slowly, head turning to the side, they widened, as his gaze fell upon his two friends who were not there before. 

“Hey, Chifuyu!” The coral haired girl— Hinata cheered excitedly. She

headed towards the stairs with Takemichi’s hand clasped tightly in her own. The small heels of her shoes clicked against the steps as she ascended up to the stage. 

“Are you ready for your first lesson?” She asked, beaming, she took a seat on the bench next to Chifuyu, Takemichi taking the floor considering there was not enough space. 

Chifuyu nodded, “Yeah, thanks, Hinata.” He answered, exchanging a grin of his own. 

Hinata nodded, she reached out, grabbing the music book that was placed on the piano in front of Chifuyu. She hunted for a new song for a few moments, flipping pages carelessly as her eyes scanned the music quickly. 

Once satisfied, she placed the open book in front of Chifuyu.

“Alright we’re going to start with this song today…”

..

Practice went long on this day. The sun had already set as Chifuyu approached the stairs to his apartment building. Exhausted, he sighed, before extending his foot out, landing on the first step. He rubbed his eyes drowsily, body begging for rest, and he continued upwards. 

As he continued up a few more flights of stairs he just so happened to bump into an individual he had almost completely forgotten by now. 

Chifuyu blinked his eyes a few times, clearly tired, as he stared forward, gaze fixed on the individual. The other boy with the blonde highlights tilted his head to the side, earring jingling as he did so, and their two eyes met, yellow ones staring into the ocean like greenones. 

Kazutora smiled, “Good evening, Chifuyu.” 

Chifuyu yawned, “Good evening, Hanemiya-san.” He greeted, realizing his miniscule slip up as soon as it happened. In retrospect, it wasn’t bad, just…awkward. 

“Kazutora’s fine.” The other responded amidst fake awkward laughter to lighten the mood. 

Chifuyu nodded, eyes torn away from Kazutora’s own and to the concrete below him, “Right…”

There was a pause, an awkward heavy silence, tension filled air felt by the both of them. It was practically impossible to talk to Kazutora; he was so…strange, nothing like Baji. 

Kazutora’s smile wavered slightly, the two standing across from one another for a few moments before the blonde spoke up. 

“I have to go home now, I can't miss the bus.” Kazutora announced, finger pointing behind him. 

“Right. Have a good night!”

“Mhm, you too!” Kazutora said, making finger guns as he turned around to face Chifuyu once more, almost falling down the stairs as he stepped backwards.

Chifuyu covered his mouth as he laughed. Kazutora’s awkwardness earned a soft chuckle from Chifuyu who was slightly stunned by his antics. 

..

It was on this day that lunch with Kazutora became… normal. 

The ninth of September Kazutora entered both Chifuyu and Baji’s classroom. He moved a desk, connecting it to Baji’s making it a suitable eating area, earring swinging as he did so, pulling over a chair, taking a seat next to Chifuyu, and across from Baji.

Baji munched on a bag of chips, while Chifuyu sat there silently reading yet another volume of shoujo manga. 

The classroom was buzzing with students going in and out, sitting down eating their own lunches, and engaging in conversations during their breaks. A group of boys was sitting on the desks in the left corner conversing noisily, a group of girls gossiping in the center of the room in hushed winters, two other students leaving with a volleyball in hand. The classrooms were lively during breaks. 

Kazutora’s eyes fell on Chifuyu again, and then to the cover of the book he held. It was similar to the one he saw a few days ago, a different character on the cover, but the same pink edges and flower petals. 

Kazutora placed his fingertip on the center of his book, pulling it down, meeting Chifuyu’s eyes, “What’re you reading?” He inquired. 

“Romance series.” Chifuyu answered with a questioning gaze.

Curiously, Kazutora asked with his typical smile, amiable and bright, “Tell me about it.” 

Chifuyu raised an eyebrow. Kazutora really was unreadable. 

“Alright…” Chifuyu began hesitantly, “It’s about a girl who’s pretty shy, shut off from most with a love for reading, she's sweet but has a fiery side. She admittedly falls in love with a trouble-maker who she ends up reforming into a good person, although she was never all that bad at all. She came from a troubled background, and she gave her the love she always needed.”

“Mhm…” Kazutora hummed and Chifuyu continued.

“That’s not all! The issue was…”

Chifuyu grinned tenderly, continuing his passionate explanation. Bangs shifting as he moved his hands along with his speech, the manga he had been reading was shut as he had his body turned towards Kazutora. He explained the plot, characters, backstory, main conflict, everything, at this point if Kazutora wanted to read the series there was no point. Chifuyu had summed up every detail and key point in immense detail. 

Baji’s eyes shifted between the two, darting back and forth, Chifuyu’s speech primarily white noise with a word picked up here and there. 

Interrupting him during his deep explanation Baji piped up, “Want to hangout with Kazutora and I this weekend?” 

Chifuyu nodded enthusiastically, “Sure.” 

..

On Saturday the three went to the aquarium together. Kazutora wanted to see the tiger fish. Unfortunately, there were no tiger fish at the aquarium. 

The three walked around making sure to get their money's worth by visiting every exhibit. Baji liked the jellyfish the best. 

The group stood in front of the glass enclosure, pink sea creatures floating around, swimming happily in the water.

“Do you think I could get one as a pet?” Baji asked, clearly sarcastically. He mumbled the second part, “Stealing is always an option.” He suggested. 

“You’re an idiot, Baji. If that thing stings you I will not be pissing on your wound.”

With a revolted expression Baji replied, “You’re disgusting!” He shouted, punching Kazutora’s shoulder playfully.

“That’s what you’re supposed to do!” Kazutora retorted amongst laughter. 

Chifuyu shook his head, no you’re not, he didn’t say it aloud, chuckling to himself instead. 

“Ooo, they have seahorses over there, let's go!” Kazutora changed topics, pulling on both of their arms, dragging them to another part of the aquarium. 

Kazutora was affectionate, Chifuyu could recall this early on. He had no shame in physical touch, he’d hug people without care, drape an arm around Baji as they waited, grab on Chifuyu’s wrist to drag him around places. However, Chifuyu found that he didn’t mind the bold actions much. 

“Aren’t they cute?” Kazutora asked Chifuyu, arm outstretched, finger pointed at the creatures in front of them, “If I’m taking any home it’s one of these.” Kazutora remarked in direct reference to the comment Baji made only a few minutes prior. 

Chifuyu nodded, eyes focused on the happy sea creatures behind the glass. 

The three ended up at the gift shop. They’d been walking for a few hours at least at this point, and their last stop was the shop near the entrance/exit of the aquarium. 

Baji was looking at the glasses they sold in hopes to find a suitable one to buy for his mother. Chifuyu was enamored with the different plushies they sold of every and any creature one could think of. Kazutora…well, he was being Kazutora. 

Kazutora found lobster claws, he put them on his hands and began to chase Baji around in an attempt to pinch him with the fake claws. Baji almost dropped the fragile glass he held, the event, ultimately, almost getting them kicked out. Luckily, they’d only been reprimanded by the store owner. 

Baji quickly bought two glasses, and they were leaving. 

That day was rather enjoyable, it even had Chifuyu thinking that Kazutora wasn’t all that strange after all. Although , a part of him still wondered why the boy in the art room looked so empty. 

..

The following day Chifuyu found himself occupied with more plans. He spent this Sunday alongside Takemichi and Hinata. 

Takemichi sat on the couch as the two shared the bench to the piano once more. This time their location was different, hardfloor beneath his feet, and in a much smaller enclosed location, the three happened to be at Hinata’s apartment. She owned a piano which made it easier for them to practice on weekends when the school was closed. 

Takemichi’s eyes were focused on a volume of manga he’d taken— stolen from Chifuyu’s bag. He was reading it, eyebrows furrowed, clearly not enjoying it very much to Chifuyu’s amusement. 

They practiced for about half an hour, even in a short amount of time, and two lessons he could tell he was improving even if it was only slightly. 

“So how was the aquarium?” Hinata asked as the two began their break. 

Takemichi tossed the book to the side at this point, and he too was currently engrossed in the conversation. 

“Fun.” He answered in one word, “There were a lot of cool fish, the interior was so pretty too. The gift shop had some interesting stuff as well.” Chifuyu summed it up in simple sentences, “Kazutora looked like an idiot with the lobster claws on his hands. He kept chasing Baji around too—trying to pinch him! He almost got us kicked out.” He explained in further depth, letting laughter fall from his lips as he recounted the moment, the event still clear in his mind. 

Hinata giggled, “Kazutora? I don’t think you’ve ever mentioned him before.” 

“He’s a strange guy who’s out to get Chifuyu.” Takemichi perked up, jokingly, arms outstretched like a zombie.

Chifuyu rolled his eyes, “Kazutora’s a friend of Baji. He transferred to our school recently.” He explained. 

“Ohh.” Hinata sang, speaking the word for an extended amount of time, “What’s he like?” She asked curiously. 

Chifuyu shrugged, “I don’t really know…” He stated embarrassingly, “I mean he’s outgoing,” He explained simply, with extra emphasis he said, “ Loud,” Before breaking out into fond laughter, “Strange. He really is strange.”

“What do you mean?” 

“I actually ran into him in the art room before Baji introduced us to each other. He’s good at art, but he was nothing like he is now. He seemed cold, shut in, his eyes were dim, blackholes even.” Chifuyu explained in great detail. Hinata nodded along with his words as he spoke, then Chifuyu shrugged, “I think he was probably just tired though.” He lied once more, he didn’t believe it, he was sure there was more to this Kazutora person that he hasn’t seen yet. 

Hinata hummed in acknowledgment, “He seems interesting. I’m sure it’ll all make more sense once you get to know him better.” 

“Yeah, I think so too.”

Takemichi nodded in agreement as well. 

Hinata turned around, her back facing Takemichi once more, “Alright!” She cheered with a pointer finger raised  in the air, “Let’s get back to work, you have a show soon!”

“Okay…”

..

Friday September 26th, 2008 

It was the final Friday of September that Chifuyu would have his first show. 

His palms were sweaty, he was visibly shaking, but he had a confident smirk on his lips, he couldn’t tell if he was nervous or excited, he assumed he was feeling both feelings heavily. Chifuyu knew Baji and his mother were attending along with his own, they’d seemed really eager to go once Chifuyu announced the date to them. 

“My upcoming show is on the twenty-sixth.” Chifuyu announced during dinner at Baji’s apartment. 

Ryoko’s eyes glimmered, light shining brightly, “Really?” She asked in excitement, “Ah! You’re getting good, Keisuke and I will be there!” 

Baji nodded.

Ryoko was like a second mother at times. As proud of his achievements as his own mother was. 

Chifuyu was anxious, hiding behind the large red curtain as he listened to the rambunctious noises from the crowd; pre show conversations, attendees walking around the venue, others finding their seats. 

It happened to be a solo show so the eyes of the sizable crowd would all be on him and him alone.

Chifuyu gulped, peeking his eyes out to scan the crowd, looking for the people he knew. He found them easily, but what he didn’t expect was to see the familiar boy with his bicolored hair tied up in a ponytail. Kazutora. What was Kazutora doing here? He was currently engaged in a conversation with Baji’s mother, and he seemed just as fervent as the others. 

Baji must’ve invited him, but for what reason? 

Chifuyu was already nervous, but those feelings only increased causing the shake he already had to become more intense. Messing up occasionally in front of a crowd of strangers was embarrassing, but not as embarrassing as messing up in front of someone he knew—a person who would most definitely comment on the show straight to his face afterwards. What if he played awfully, and Kazutora ridiculed him, taking him for a clown— a fool! 

Chifuyu would have to suck it up. He’d be performing in five minutes, there was no time to panic, especially over a person who was closer to a stranger rather than a close friend. 

Those five minutes passed like mere seconds to Chifuyu. He gulped once more, trying to calm the persistent shake in his hand as he stepped out from behind the curtain. 

The crowd was completely silent until he came into view. He was met with the thundering cheering of the crowd as he traversed towards the piano which sat in the center of the stage. The dress shoes he wore clicked against the wooden floor of the stage, the black color of said shoes and the suit he wore complimenting the color of his hair. 

Chifuyu took a seat. His hands flattened out the wrinkles in his suit as his eyes scanned the crowd once more before they fell on the many white piano keys in front of him. 

He’d practiced these songs far too many times with Hinata over the last few weeks, he was prepared, he was sure if he really wanted to he could play these set of songs in his sleep. 

Taking a deep breath, exhaling slowly, eyes falling shut with the motion, the crowd became silent once more. 

Pale fingertips landed on top of the keys, then he pressed down playing the first few notes without a hitch. Then he moved, his hands sliding back and forth against the keys as he continued to play the song, the melodic rhythm flowing into his ears, the second loudest sound besides his booming heartbeat. 

His shoulders tensed, bangs falling messily over his forehead as he played faster getting further and further into the song. The thought of the crowd was pushed to the back of his mind, any uneasiness he felt was diminished as he became completely focused on the piece he was playing, fingers moving rhythmically without much thought, yet he hit every key perfectly every time. 

Chifuyu continued to play, he played like he had never played before. If he had extremely unrealistic expectations to meet, he’d met them all, those lessons with Hinata proved to have been paying off. He played in ways he could’ve never done a few weeks ago. 

In front of a crowd of merely sixty people he played magically, admirably, the way his fingers moved gracefully against each key was comparable to an angel. 

Then he completed the current song he was playing, opening his eyes as he heard the praise from the crowd. Once the shouts began to calm, he transitioned into the second song he would play. A routine he’d keep up for the rest of the night. 

As the final song came to an end, Chifuyu let his eyes fall on the crowd, the audience members standing up as they applauded him for the show. Chifuyu couldn’t hide his giddy smile, all those nervous feelings he swallowed disappeared with the knowledge that he'd performed wonderfully. 

Chifuyu stood up from the bench, bowing before he’d exit, traversing towards the back of the stage. He sighed in relief, heart still pounding as the adrenaline flowing through his veins began to calm. 

He smiled to himself, childishly pumping his fist to himself in celebration. 

Chifuyu took a few more minutes to himself before he met up with his invited guests in the parking lot. Hinata couldn’t make it this time, nor could Takemichi so it was just the three… now four. 

“Nice job kid!” Baji’s mother applauded him happily, roughly patting him on the back.

At the same time Baji ruffled his hair sharing the same sentiment. Chifuyu’s mother stared at her son delightedly. Each of them seemed pleased with the outcome of the show. 

Kazutora watched on as the three crowded the boy affectionately showing their love for the show he had just performed. He smiled softly, laughter threatening to release as he watched on. 

They freed Chifuyu from their affection after a few moments Baji’s mother stated, “I will be buying tickets for your next show.” With a smile of her own similar to her sons. 

Baji’s mother broke out into a playful argument with her son teasing him for something Chifuyu didn’t acknowledge, his own mother chiming in.  

Yellow eyes met his own, as Kazutora continued to shine that doting—proud grin in Chifuyu’s direction.

His black hair blew in the breeze, body shivering along with the cold. Kazutora’s features were dyed greenby the moonlight, the smile he wore never leaving his lips as the two exchanged eye contact. Kazutora stepped forward, and now the two were at a much closer proximity. 

“Hey.” Kazutora greeted, “You were wonderful out there. Really, I was completely blown away by your talent.” He complimented, his voice warm—sentimental in a way Chifuyu had never heard before. 

Chifuyu opened his mouth only for the words to die on his tongue. After a few seconds with a dry throat, words raspy he replied, “Thanks.” It was awkward, so-so awkward.

The two stood across each other in complete silence, eyes not meeting one another's, Kazutora’s on his Chifuyu’s failing to reciprocate as he rubbed the back of his neck comfortingly. Chifuyu stared down at the concrete below him as if it were the most entertaining sight in the world before the sound of footsteps approaching from behind him would bring him back to life. 

Kazutora laughed ineptly, and then Baji draped an arm around him, “Let’s go guys it’s getting late.” He requested before removing his arm, and beginning to walk away.

“Right.” Chifuyu mumbled, following behind Baji. 

..

As fall progressed and the temperatures continued to plummet he lay awake in his bed. It happened to be the first of October. Covered with a blanket to fill himself with warmth, eyes staring head on straight towards the ceiling there was utter silence, complete dead silence. Sleep refused to overtake him leaving him with an active mind and racing thoughts. 

Especially ones relating to a mysterious being who he wanted to figure out so bad. It was as if Kazutora were a puzzle he was attempting to finish, but the box was missing crucial, key pieces. 

“He seems interesting. I’m sure it’ll all make more sense once you get to know him better.” 

Oh how he hoped Hinata was right. 

Kazutora’s loud, he’s vibrant, and he’s eccentric, Kazutora is all of these adjectives, especially when he is in the presence of Baji. Chifuyu has observed it himself with his own two eyes. Although, at the same time, Kazutora’s similar to a newly hatched baby bird hiding away in a shell that couldn’t conceal him any longer, shy— a word he’d never expected to use on him especially after those countless stories he’d heard from Baji. Kazutora’s timid, Kazutora’s quiet, unlike himself he’d say, but who is Kazutora. 

Was Kazutora caring? Chifuyu couldn’t answer that. Is he warm, doting, capable of love? He didn’t want to answer that one as it did not matter much. Is Kazutora cruel? Another question Chifuyu could not answer. 

Even after a long September his long list of questions stay the same— questions. Sentences without answers.  

The end of September, after his first show, Chifuyu was no closer to discovering the mystery that was Kazutora. He was met with a gentle, yet, exciting side of Kazutora, one with a smile that shined so bright it was comparable to the sun in the sky, outshining any star in the galaxy, and eyes that glimmered like expensive diamonds. Then there was a colder side, almost empty, something unfamiliar to him—what Baji lacked as Chifuyu could read him like a book. It was possible this is what drew Chifuyu in. 

He wanted to know more. 

A part of him he had yet to accept as himself wanted to know everything about Kazutora. 

..

Sunday October 5th, 2008

His fingertips danced over the keys with such delicacy. 

Hinata smiled, Takemichi nodded his head along with the melody he produced. By now, his improvement was clearer, even in the cramped apartment, pink walls and family photographs at every turn, the song played on the cheap piano sounded as elegant as it did on the lavish one in the extravagant venue. 

The movements slowed as the music died down, and with one final note stretched out, played for many long seconds the song came to a close.

“Nice!” Hinata cheered excitedly, cheering, and applauded Chifuyu for his wonderful performance. She patted him on the back before turning to face him, “I’m sorry I couldn’t make it to your show, I promise to go to the next one on the…twenty-fifth…right?” 

Chifuyu nodded, he turned around, back facing the keys, he was now face to face with Takemichi whom he had his back to for the last half hour. 

“I’ll go too!” The blonde said enthusiastically, under his breath, loud enough for the other two to hear, he mumbled, “I’ve got to meet this freaky Kazutora person.” 

Chifuyu laughed but he didn’t comment. 

Hinata folded her hands in her lap, and with a smile, she asked, “How did it go?” 

“Great! I didn’t make too many mistakes, and I can’t recall any major ones. Baji’s mother was very happy with the performance, she’s already promised to buy tickets to the one later this month.” Chifuyu explained enthusiastically, beaming brightly as he did so, “And you’re right, Kazutora will be there, Takemitchy. He said he was “ blown away,” Chifuyu moved his fingers to make air quotation marks, “…with my performance, although, I don’t think it compares to his art.” 

Hinata shook her head, “Don’t say that, you two do two different types of art. I’m sure he meant it. I wouldn’t think too far into the stuff he says either; he probably views you the same as Baji, a friend.” Hinata advised in her typical joyful voice, “I’m glad everything went well. I can’t wait for the next show. I'll purchase tickets as soon as I can!”

“Thanks Hinata.” Chifuyu grinned, although that simple thanks wasn’t enough for all she’s done over the last month. 

Chifuyu stood up, brushing the wrinkles out of his clothes as he did so. He stepped towards Takemichi who was stretching after sitting boredly on the couch for about an hour. 

“You ready to go?”

The moon was already shining brightly in the night sky as the two stepped outside. It stood out, its big size incomparable to any of the measly stars.

Takemichi aimlessly kicked a rock continuously as the two walked home in the cold dark night. 

Up in the sky, not only was there the moon and a variety of stars painted above, splattered like a paintbrush messily tapped the canvas without care, but there was also a storm of grey clouds moving in quickly to cover the shining show of lights in the sky. Looking away from the sight above Chifuyu shoved his hands in his pockets as they walked, the cold beginning to get to him as they progressed further in their trip. 

The black haired boy turned his head, his gaze meeting the blonde, the two walking in silence for many minutes at this point. 

Then he asked, “Do you see yourself dating Hinata ten years from now?” He doesn’t know why he asked, possibly it strived from the fact they were just in the presence of the girl, or something deeper, he couldn’t pinpoint it. Nonetheless, the question slipped past the seal of his lips anyways. 

“No.” Takemichi answered, brutally honest, Chifuyu was honestly taken aback, his eyes widening at the one word, yet heavy answer. Before he could respond, Takemichi was finishing his statement, his smile grew, and he said, “I see myself married to her by then you idiot.” 

Chifuyu’s eyes widened further, “Oh!” It made sense now, “You better invite me!” He grinned, playfully punching his friend's chest. 

“Of course!” Takemichi replied amongst laughter of his own that spilled freely from his lips. 

..

The following day, the sixth, Chifuyu walked up the grey stairs. Once again he was in the suffocating staircase first thing in the morning after arriving at school. With the seventh volume of a romance manga series he cherished he headed for the door of the rooftop. A place students didn’t belong, but he did not care for that rule. 

As he reached his hand out for the doorknob he found himself hearing the familiar sound of laughter. Once again, a month later, students had beaten him to his cosseted spot. 

Chifuyu sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose before turning around and heading back down the stairs. He’d be unable to get any reading done with the noisiness upstairs. Instead he followed a similar path as he did in the past, yawning loudly, stretching his arms, book still in hand, he headed down towards the end of the hall. The sound of his shoes hitting the hardfloor was one of the only audible noises in the almost deserted hallways. Outside the windows he observed rain, and a constant tapping from the droplets. The grey clouds he’d descried last night with Takemich had made themselves known the following morning. 

Carelessly, lacking thought with his movements, he planted himself in front of a room, his pale hand reached out, fingertips gripping the door, turning white as he slid it open. 

The drowsiness he felt left him the moment he laid his eyes on the sight in front of him. Black and blonde hair tied up in a loose ponytail that was threatening to come undone, a boy with yellow eyes that met his own the second he entered, and a painting, different, but very visible behind him. 

Chifuyu had entered the art room once more to find it occupied with an individual he now knew as Kazutora. 

Chifuyu felt his eyes widen as if it were second nature, he was quick to turn on his heel, leave so as to not disturb the artist at work. 

“Hey!” Kazutora called. The sound of his voice, raspy, deeper than he’d ever heard before, from a mix of lack of use, and just waking up not too long prior. 

Chifuyu turned around, and he was met with Kazutora’s gaze that never left, “You can stay. I don’t mind. You want silence right?” He offered, his paintbrush aimed at the book in his hand for evidence. 

Chifuyu nodded slowly. Hesitantly he stepped forward towards Kazurora, who pointed to a stool next to him. He took a seat, setting his book down on his lap, and he let his eyes fall onto the painting. This time, the drawing was different, Kazutora drew another landscape, depicted was a house by a river, it was secluded in the middle of the woods. The windows of the house were yellow portraying light, the sky a dark blue, and the sun nowhere to be seen. It was so beautiful, as gorgeous as the last, the color, the details he’d continue to observe with each passing second completely captivated him. From up close he could see so much, it made him wonder what the previous painting would look like from this distance. 

“Wow…”  

One word spoken aloud in complete awe without any thought like an automatic response he was unable to stop himself. There was nothing more he could say, his words couldn’t describe the emotions—the looks of the painting well enough to even make a futile attempt. 

With a gentle tone, as he swiped the paintbrush against the canvas with such ease, Kazutora murmured, “Your beautiful piano skills make me feel the same way…” 

The statement, compliment , was quite ambiguous, but it said enough to flood Chifuyu’s fearful heart with warmth. 

Similarly to the rooftop, Chifuyu knew he’d be unable to read. His green eyes were fixed on the canvas, and by now there was no way he’d ever tear them away. 

A wooden paintbrush held in between Kazutora’s fingertips, someone who he assumed was aggressive in some ways, was so gentle, he held it with delicacy, little pressure as continued to paint. His expression as well, he was so calm, as if he was at home—at peace as he painted the scenery. His lips were close to a straight line, then and now they turn up into a smile one would miss if they weren’t looking close enough, so small, but saying so much without saying anything at all as he fondly stared at his piece of art. 

Kazutora put the brush down. He wiped his paint covered hands on a paper towel, they were still coated in a multitude of colors, but the paint had dried by then, it’d do no harm to the objects he touched. Reaching out behind his head, he freed his ponytail from the weak constraints, letting his long hair fall. freely down onto his shoulders. 

“Kazutora,” Chifuyu said without a foolish slip up, “Have you ever painted a portrait.” He asked out of sheer curiosity. 

Kazutora’s eyes met his own, observing him from the side as he continued to face his painting, he held the hair-tie in between his teeth as his hands combed through his hair. He removed the hair-tie, tying his hair back up into a much neater ponytail, “I have,” He answered with a pause, his arms falling down, hands placed carelessly in his lap, “…the last person I painted was my mother.” He said solemnly. His tone, his mannerisms; the shake in his hands, the light that’d left his eyes as he stared blankly forward, and the way his lips quivered ever so slightly reminded him of the Kazutora he met in the art room that odd September morning. The one he’d been failing to explain, to understand, the one he wanted so badly to unravel and know everything about. He was present, here in front of him, vulnerable and cold.

Somberly, with a wavering voice, he said, “ I,” Before he paused for a brief moment to collect himself, as if it were an accidental slip up, to which, it may have been. Kazutora’s eyes glanced over at him, meeting his own, again, like that morning, he was staring into a deep abyss, no light filled those yellow eyes that glimmered brightly like the sun. Kazutora finished his reply, “I haven’t drawn anything but scenery since.” 

Chifuyu did not ask why, and he did not pry for an explanation. The expression, the way he spoke, everything Kazutora did in the last few moments left Chifuyu shaken with chills. 

Then Kazutora tilted his head, his earring jingling, and he beamed at Chifuyu, “Would you like to see the finished piece, Chifuyu?” He said in reference to the prior painting. 

“It’s not completed yet. Would you like to see it when it is done?”

Chifuyu nodded, grinning widely, the sight of the painting hadn’t left his mind since he first saw it, “Of course!” He answered excitedly. 

Kazutora nodded as well, he stood up, and he walked over to a large storage closet, there was dust covering it, it was clearly not used often. He held the black handle, the door creaking as it opened, Kazutora reached forward, grabbing a sizable canvas from the closet. With a hand on each side, he turned it towards Chifuyu, displaying the finished piece that was just as beautiful as it was the first day he observed it. 

Kazutora stepped forward allowing Chifuyu to get a closer look. The same emotions he felt the first time he saw it came flooding back in a lesser degree, nonetheless, it was still breathtaking, enchanting , and he couldn’t look away as he distinguished every small detail painted within, ones he’d even failed to notice the first time he laid his eyes upon it. This time he was able to look for much longer, letting his eyes scan the canvas, hooked on the sight for many long moments without an interruption, Kazutora gracefully holding the canvas still for Chifuyu’s viewing. 

After a few more seconds Chifuyu finally spoke, eliminating the silence, “It’s wonderful Kazutora…I love it.” 

“Thank you.” Kazutora replied sheepishly, the words seemed strange, almost foreign he spoke them. 

The painting was placed back in the old dusty storage closet, and the two were sitting next to each other on stools once again. 

“Have you ever thought of participating in an art show or exhibit?” Chifuyu asked. Conversation with Kazutora became easier, the words falling from his lips with ease, as if he were talking to a lifelong friend. It was nothing compared to their awkward prior meetings. 

Kazutora shook his head, “Nah.” He answered, “I’m not interested in stuff like that.”

“Really?! You’re super good, you should do it!” Chifuyu encouraged, and he met every word he said with deep sincerity. 

Kazutora shook his head once more, and eventually Chifuyu gave up. 

It wasn’t quiet for long as the conversation continued. 

“Isn’t it odd we haven’t met until now?” Chifuyu asked, finally, one of the many questions he had would be answered to some degree. He wondered what obstacles may have been in his way, or if Kazutora wondered the same thing. It was possible Kazutora had insight on why the two hadn’t crossed paths despite their many connections. 

Kazutora chuckled, he shook his head, “Not really.” He stated. 

Not really was the last response Chifuyu had expected to receive. Kazutora’s eyes were still on him, noting his reactions. Chifuyu raised an eyebrow, urging him to continue, to explain his straightforward response because to Chifuyu it was not too straightforward. 

Kazutora’s response was shocking like the vibration of a bell, similar to the clashing waves of the oceans that rippled. In all honesty, it was the last thing Chifuyu had expected. With a smile, off putting considering the sentence he’d speak, Kazutora confessed, “I was in juvie for the last two years.” 

Green eyes went wide, his eyes almost completely white, his mouth was agape as he shouted, “Huh!?” 

Baji’s best friend was a criminal? He knew Baji was involved in gangs, Chifuyu was in one for a short while, but it never went far enough to get arrested. Did Kazutora kill someone? Is he talking to a murderer? Is the artist he’d begun to admire a horrible person? 

Kazutora giggled in response to Chifuyu’s outlandish reaction, “Gang fights.” He explained without being asked. 

“Oh.”

“Yeah…” Kazutora continued, “…that’s why we haven’t met.” 

Kazutora was an interesting person. Chifuyu had learned so much about him in such a short period of time, but his inquiry would have to come to an end as the bell rang, the noise echoing throughout the halls of the school. The morning wouldn’t last forever, the two eventually parting ways to get on with their academic duties. 

Chifuyu grabbed his book and he stood up. He’d have to end his conversation with Kazutora right as it was getting interesting. He headed for the door, sliding it open, “Bye, Kazutora.”

Kazutora waved as he cleaned the art room hastily, “I’ll see you later, Chifuyu.” 

..

Thursday October 16th, 2008

The boy with the long black hair tossed his bag on the floor by the door, he kicked his shoes off, and his friend followed suit. A black cat walked over to the two greeting his two owners as they arrived home after a long day. 

“Peke J!” Chifuyu cheered, he reached his arms out, down, grabbing the feline, holding him up, and spinning him around in a circle. 

Baji beelined to the couch, practically throwing himself onto it, and he let out a long sigh as he made himself comfortable. The two, Baji and Chifuyu, had been spending a lot more time studying considering exams would begin soon. The increase in time, and the constant grind to shove all the knowledge they can into their brains was taking a toll on the two. At least at night they could rest well knowing they won't completely bomb the upcoming exams. 

Baji got up after a few brief moments, not taking the time to rest, he headed to the kitchen to make them a meal as the two hadn’t eaten since lunch. Hours earlier. 

A conversation arose in Baji’s room over shared yakisoba. Chifuyu had closed his book as he sat on the floor, his legs crossed, red tie tossed aside on the floor leaving his dress shirt a plain white. Baji was lying on his bed, reading himself, asking Chifuyu to pass him the container every here and there as the two split it. A tradition that began years ago, and even to this day they follow it. 

“Hey.” 

Baji said— called, Chifuyu assumed he wanted the yakisoba so he held it out to him. Instead, he was met with Baji shaking his head.  

“I was wondering about Chifuyu. What do you think of Kazutora?” Baji asked, strangely, of course he’s asked similar questions. All when Chifuyu first met his friends. Questions like; Do you fear Mikey? Mitsuya’s sewing is pretty awesome— in reference to the toman uniforms. See Draken’s not all that scary right? With the nudge of his shoulder. 

So why would this be any different? 

Chifuyu didn’t have a clear answer however, nor was this question a close ended yes or no like the others. He simply stated, “I don’t dislike him. He’s mainly a mystery to me though, Baji. I guess his paintings are cool.” 

Baji nodded, “Yeah, they are cool.” He repeated. 

Finally, he grabbed the yakisoba from Chifuyu, taking a bite of his portion. He swallowed, “You two should become good friends.” He requested, it was rare for Baji to ever get sentimental like this so when he did Chifuyu knew he met each word deeply, each sentence carrying an unimaginable weight, “It’d be nice for the two people I care about most to get along.” 

Then he ruffled Chifuyu’s hair aggressively, yet playfully, “So stop acting so scared of him!” He urged with a wide teeth baring smile that exposed his fangs to the world. 

That night Chifuyu stayed over for dinner. It wasn’t uncommon for him to do so, he took his usual place, and sat down to the left of Baji. 

His mother enthusiastically raised three tickets in the air as the conversations over dinner began, “I bought three tickets to your next show, Chifuyu!” 

Three. Chifuyu had a feeling he knew who the third ticket was for because he had already bought his mother a ticket a few days prior. 

..

On Sunday, the nineteenth, he kept his constant routine. Chifuyu met Takemichi outside of his place, and the two of them walked to Hinata’s apartment together for piano lessons. 

Pink walls and hardwood floors were a familiar sight in his mind the same way Baji’s apartment was. 

Hinata was quick to welcome them in, Chifuyu taking a seat on one half of the piano bench. Takemichi sat on the couch behind them, he’d watch on, engage in the conversations they’d have during practice and the short breaks they would take.

“Chifuyu, Takemichi, Hi!” She cheered gleefully as she took a seat next to the black haired boy, “I bought two tickets to your next show, Chifuyu! I won’t miss it this time!” She stated jubilantly, that was why she was happier than usual on this normal bland Sunday evening. 

“I can’t wait to see you guys there.” Chifuyu replied. 

“Mhm! That’s why you need to practice, you’ll play wonderfully at this show I’m sure of it, but it is very soon.” 

Chifuyu nodded and once more another practice began. 

..

Saturday October 25th, 2008

Chifuyu had said his goodbyes to his mother as he arrived at this venue. It was larger than the last, and he was backstage before he had time to greet his guests. He was talking to the staff, presumably as a precaution to make sure he understood what would take place. Of course he would, this wasn’t the first time he’d done this, nor would it be the last.

He had ten whole minutes to waste as he waited apprehensively behind the stage. He wondered who all would be attending, considering he was met with a face he had not expected to see, in return, only raising his nerves. Despite the growth in the crowd Chifuyu was far calmer than he was the month prior. Possibly because the shows were much closer together, soon he hoped, this would become a familiar feeling without the pounding heart and shaking hand. The beads of sweat pouring down his forehead, and the constant tap of his leg. 

Uneasily he waited, ten minutes felt like years and seconds at the same time. In the mirror he retouched his hair, combing any strands out of place, the suit he wore different; black button up, black blazer, and black pants, the same color layered over one another, a greentie similar to the color of his eyes standing out amongst the other articles of clothing. 

There was no more waiting, he physically could not as he was needed out on stage accompanying a piano that was placed there waiting for him. The curtains kept him sealed as he stepped out onto the stage, the conversations and talk amongst the crowd concealed the loud footsteps made from the heel of his dress shoes hitting the hard wood surface of the stage. 

Chifuyu took a seat in the center of the bench which sat in front of the piano, and he rested his wrists delicately against the cool surface, his fingers lying messily on the keys as he waited. He would never have to wait long, as the curtain unshielded him, and he was exposed, shown to a crowd of over a hundred people in a mere instant. 

His ears, senses, immediately took in the sounds of many cheers from the crowd he was in front of. He turned his head to the side allowing his eyes to scan through the individuals sitting and standing in the sizable crowd. 

Quickly, Chifuyu found the group he was looking for, Takemichi standing like a scared cat next to Baji and another, Hinata holding the hand of the blonde with a beaming smile. His own mother and Baji’s conversing. Finally, the individual with the bicolored hair had his eyes on him, a tattoo he wanted so badly to get rid of at one point on full display as he wore an off shoulder shirt, and then he waved. His eyes met Kazutora’s out of everyones in the crowd, and he watched as his hand moved back and forth in a waving motion that he unfortunately could not reciprocate. 

Then he turned away, his eyes falling onto the repetitive sight of white keys on a piano. His fingers moved, hovering above the first notes to the song he would open with, the sounds of cheers and conversations, voices of the crowd, died down along with his motion, and he began to play.

When he began he was sure it was impossible to outperform himself. Although he'd try, not only did he have many friends and family at this performance, the person who had taught him so much relating to the piano was sitting in the crowd happily awaiting a wonderful performance he had to provide. The song he played, the opener, had been practiced by him practically a million times in the past, it was almost second nature, like brushing his teeth each morning and night. 

His eyes fell shut as he fell into the rhythm, his fingers moving with ease the motions as familiar to him as waking up in the morning. He opened them slightly, looking to the side to meet the awestruck gaze of Kazutora, and Hinata who’s eyes shined as bright as diamonds as she stared satisfied with the pianist she helped make. Those two expressions hit harder than any other ones he observed in the crowd. 

He played and he continued to play in ways he’d never see himself do before. Angelically moving his fingers against the keys, the movements similar to a dance in themself.  

Chifuyu transitioned from the opening song to the next flawlessly in a way he continued to do until he could not instead being met with an applause before he would begin another song for the eager crowd. 

Chifuyu couldn’t recall his few slip ups and mistakes as he stood proudly in front of the crowd who watched on in awe. He bowed as they applauded him, the eyes of over a hundred all drawn to him in that very moment. The feeling was indescribable, he felt like a king, but at the same time he felt so proud of himself, unable to describe the way his heart flooded with warmth in that very moment. Doing shows like a drug except each time the feeling was the same, he was filled with indescribable euphoric moments in an instant for a period of time. 

It truly was a wonderful show. 

..

Friday October 31st, 2008

Chifuyu was sitting on the floor of his apartment trying to hold Peke J still while Baji cackled from the couch. He had bought a pumpkin costume for the cat for the occasion, and he needed to get pictures of him wearing it so his money wouldn’t go to waste. Although they were definitely wasting time, if Peke J kept fighting him they were going to be super late to a party they had been invited to. 

The two were still waiting on Kazutora however, so this was a way to pass the time. 

Eventually, Chifuyu did get the black cat in the orange pumpkin-shaped costume, with a hat on his head, green stem poking out. He beamed brightly as he grabbed his phone, he was quick to take pictures of the cat before he ripped the fabric to shreds. 

At the same time his doorbell rang, and Baji offered to let their guest in while Chifuyu tried to make the cat sit still for his photoshoot. 

Kazutora kicked his shoes off at the door, entering as Baji let him inside. He’d never been to Chifuyu’s apartment before, and his curious wandering eyes scanned the walls and furniture covered in a million family photos. The photo’s mainly contain pictures of Chifuyu with his mother, although there was the occasional photo of his father. 

Kazutora grinned, “Silly cat.” He stated as he looked at the creature in a cheap pumpkin costume. 

“You got your pictures, Chifuyu, can we head out now? If we’re here any longer we’ll miss the entire party.” 

He sighed and he nodded, standing up, stretching, the hardwood floor uncomfortable to sit on for long periods of time.

Then they were leaving as soon as Kazutora arrived. 

A guy named Kokonoi rather Koko for short happened to be hosting a halloween party, it would be lavish considering the large influx of wealth he had. Chifuyu was unfamiliar with him, of course they’d spoken, he even had a clear picture of him in his mind, black hair swept to one side, shaven on the other, cat like eyes always accompanied by red eyeliner, and he was always wearing expensive suits. Chifuyu hoped to see someone else there, a friend of Koko's, a blonde who he was far more familiar with. The boy with the large burn scar on one side of his face, medium length blonde that almost fell onto his shoulders, green eyes, and an expression of disinterest at all times, Inui Seishu . 

They’d become familiar through Draken and Takemichi, two people that Chifuyu was fairly close with. However, considering their circumstances, the attentiveness of exams and high school, part time jobs, and living decently far away from one another, like most people Chifuyu knew he didn’t see them often. 

Since it was a halloween themed party the three were dressed up. Baji and Chifuyu both went as vampires, they wore stereotypical fashion, button up shirts, black vest, and black and red cape. They had fake teeth, although Baji honestly did not need fake fangs, and fake blood that they threw carelessly at themselves. Kazutora was a cat, he’d put it together in one supermarket run, cat ears, and whiskers painted on with black eyeshadow. 

When they arrived they knew immediately that they were at the right place. It was already so vivacious, the sounds of the night-life heard from the streets as they walked up the long driveway to the entrance.

It had everything Chifuyu had expected: vibrant music, strangers—unfamiliar guests, and a frisky bubbly atmosphere the second they stepped in. The door slammed loudly behind them, but the noise was nothing compared to the energetic rowdy conversations that had already begun. A clamorous mob of guests at every turn and corner, some in the yard, others drinking along with the music in the elegant kitchen. Kokonoi owned a house so large that it could house the many teenagers that spent their Halloween evening here. 

Baji had already wandered off, he met Mitsuya and Draken in the kitchen where the one with the blonde ponytail was sitting on a bar stool, drink in hand. Mikey was there as well, Baji immediately striking up a conversation with the three of them— primarily bothering Mikey. Chifuyu didn’t know how he did it, even after Toman was disbanded that freaky aura Mikey emitted was not something he wanted to mess with. 

It was easy for Chifuyu to locate Inui. The reason he had wanted to find him actually was quite amusing. The two enjoyed these events, but they were funner from afar, so they would spend Koko’s party in some corner or by a window watching the foolishness from a distance. That was exactly where Inui was, a glass in hand containing a bubbling amber liquid. 

Kazutora trailed behind him like a lost cat, strange, considering he’d known most of these guys much longer than Chifuyu had. 

Inui looked up at them, his green eyes torn away from the sight of his drink swirling as he moved it in gentle circles. He grinned, “Hey, Chifuyu.” He greeted, his voice calm and smooth. 

Chifuyu waved, “Hey, what’re you supposed to be?” He asked as he leaned against the wall, the moonlight pouring in along with a breeze through the open window to their left. 

Inui looked up and down, examining himself, the black plants he wore, purple heels that gave the other bland colors a pop, and a grey sweatshirt, “Myself.”

“I assumed.” Chifuyu responded with a smile, then he turned to Kazutora, his throat felt dry, it had felt like this since they entered the premise, “Want to go get something to drink?” 

He nodded and Chifuyu informed Inui they’d be back in a minute. The kitchen wasn’t a far walk from where they were, Baji was still hanging around there along with a few of the older guys from Toman, the founding members. 

Chifuyu grabbed a red solo cup, and examined his options for a few bowls to pick from. A weird blood colored red liquid that contained god knows what, although it was suitable for a vampire like himself, the amber liquid Inui had been occasionally sipping on, and water… probably from the tap. 

Chifuyu filled his cup with the strangely colored red punch, he tilted his head to the side, “You’re not going with them?” He questioned, raising an abashed eyebrow at Kazutora. 

Kazutora rubbed the back of his neck, eyes darting away from him, “It’s a little awkward now considering I haven’t seen them since before I went to jail. They’ll probably pry for jail stories and I’ve got none. It was the same repetitive cycle— insanity.” 

Chifuyu giggled, “Alright, you can stay by my side then. Inui and I are just going to occupy that area of the house for most of the party.” 

Kazutora nodded, he’d grabbed the same drink as Chifuyu, and the two headed back to where Inui was patiently waiting for them. 

Almost immediately as they took their spots, leaning against a cool white wall they were met with an inquiry. 

Inui, eyes sharp, eyes half lidded, his stare bored and uninterested he asked, “Who are you?” His tone was boring, non-threatening, despite the harsh finger pointed directly at Kazutora. 

“Kazutora.” He answered simply, frowning, sternly and callously he repeated Inui’s question, “Who are you?” 

Chifuyu rolled his eyes, it was a childish interaction if he had to describe it, taking it into his own hands he prevented the bubbling conflict. Instead, he familiarized the two with each other, “Inui this is Kazutora. Kazutora, Inui. Kazutora’s been in jail for the last few years, that's why you haven’t met.” 

“Ah, you’re the one Draken mentioned.” Inui said with atypical laughter, he tucked a strand of his blonde hair behind his ear, “You tried to rob Shinichiro a few years ago. Funny.” 

Kazutora shrugged, he put his hands up as if he were caught, and with a hearty smile he stated, “Hey, I was broke, and trying to get Mikey something cool for his birthday.”  

Even Inui smiled, his grin rather bored, it almost looked fake despite it being the complete opposite. 

Astonished, Chifuyu diverted his gaze to Kazutora, “Hey, wait, you never told me you robbed someone? Is that why you were in jail?!” He asked in search for an answer. 

Kazutora shook his head, grin growing, the corners of his eyes wrinkling, eyes creasing as he almost laughed, “No.” He answered laconically, “And I tried to rob him. It doesn’t make for a good story unless I succeed.” 

Chifuyu elbowed him in the arm roughly, “You’re an idiot.” He said playfully, sneering as he shook his head with a smile. 

Inui watched on with a raised eyebrow, observing the two's demeanor as they continued to tease and playfully fight with one another only a foot in front of him. He crossed his arms, green lily eyes still gazing upon the two in front of them. 

The blonde went as far as to question them, “I see. I take it you two are pretty close?” The sentence is more-so a statement rather than a full blown query.

“Huh?” Chifuyu asked with a raised eyebrow of his own, “I barely know this guy we met last month.” 

Inui whistled, he snorted, “Well, I wouldn’t have guessed that.” 

Chifuyu shook his head before taking a sip of his drink which had been left marinating in the red solo cup. It was pungent and icky, he couldn’t even describe the taste, sour, sweet, and even a little spicy in all the wrong ways. It was tangy, awful, and offensive, whoever had made it should not be allowed in the kitchen ever again. 

He stuck his tongue out, the adhorant taste still had a heavy presence on his tongue, “Bleh…” 

Coming their way was yet another blonde, a familiar face, one of the first people Baji had ever introduced him to. His blonde hair much longer now, the length dragging down past his shoulders slightly, bangs put of his face, he wore a black long sleeve, the sleeves falling off of his shoulders on both sides. He was Baji’s childhood friend, a dangerous, yet immature juvenile.

His eyes as black and dull as ever, more of an abyss, blackhole that sucks you in. He stood beside Chifuyu, giving him a warm smile as he took his place, waving a hand at another, a face he hadn’t seen in years, “Hello, Kazutora.”  

The three now four of them stood as a group in one of the dull darker corners of the building. The reason Mikey had abandoned the others to come speak to them, he had no clue, but he was sure there was a reason. He was always so lively at these events while Chifuyu was not, so it was uncommon, rather strange to see him standing dully as he watched on from afar. 

Inui struck up a conversation with Kazutora. Asking him about jail, it was a rather wild conversation between two people who just met, but Kazutora indulged. 

Mikey kept that warm smile directed at Chifuyu, “You’ve met Kazutora I see.” He stated aloud, his voice low in an almost hushed whisper, low enough for Kazutora not to hear. 

Chifuyu nodded, the revolting red liquid in his cup swirling as he moved slightly. 

“Baji was always trying to protect you when you first joined Toman. Kazutora was like a wild beast, a tiger, and I’m sure he kept you away from him in fear of who he’d become.” Mikey said. The blonde was rambling, the words he spoke foreign and new to Chifuyu. Of course, he’d just found out Kazutora’s been to jail, but is he really deadly and dangerous, “I actually was worried he’d kill someone before we graduated middle school…it never happened though.” He chuckled, his eyes shutting happily as he did. 

His eyes stared deeply at Chifuyu in search of a reaction. Was he looking for fear? Chifuyu did not know. 

Chifuyu only nodded along in acknowledgment, the fingers holding the red solo cup gripping it a little harder as Mikey spoke. 

“Kazutora’s trouble but deep down he’s a good guy.” Mikey described with a simple smile, a fond one at that, a very Mikey- like smile if he had to describe it. 

Mikey despite being childish, or immature, was mature, extremely mature, especially at times he needed to be. One could say that time was now as he conversed with Chifuyu about a man he knew so little about. His words, the sentences he spoke, and the information provided allowed Chifuyu to see him in a brand new light.

Still, despite the influx of knowledge there were still so many questions Chifuyu had. Once he has to learn the answers on a different day or a different night as he begins to unravel the growing mystery. 

Chifuyu nodded, he is. His nod said more than his words could in that very moment. 

“I’ll leave you guys alone now.” Mikey said, his words directed towards all three of them now rather than just Chifuyu. 

With that, he stepped away from their corner, and back to the lively part taking place only a few feet away. 

The party went on, Kazutora got to know Inui better, and Inui spilled every drop of information about any new topic he heard about whether he was involved or not. Despite the information being pretty much useless to the three of them, Kazutora and Chifuyu were still completely invested nonetheless. Even giving their two cents about a situation that didn’t even involve them. 

The night was filled with laughter, and wandering eyes as he observed the idiocy of his friends and strangers alike. 

Eventually he’d toss that foul drink he held in his hands the entire night.

Before he left he recalled one last conversation he had with Inui as Koko was ushering out the obnoxious teens far past their curfews. 

“We should hangout sometime.” Inui suggested, he gave his phone to Chifuyu, despite being decently close the two had never exchanged numbers, “You should call me. I’ll try to get a day off whenever you’re free.”

“Alright!” Chifuyu agreed with an eager smile, taking the phone from Inui’s hands. 

Inui and Draken had begun working at Shinichiro’s shop. Chifuyu had completely forgotten that, he could always stop by the establishment and see them during work hours now. 

With that the long night, and October as a whole came to a tiring close. 

..

Chifuyu’s cluttered bedroom was a common spot for him and Baji after school. On some days they would study on others they would converse over a shared serving of yakisoba, but on this day it was different. It was the first of November, a Saturday, and they had the weekend all to themselves. 

Kazutora was lying on the floor across from Chifuyu who was reading, Baji was sitting on his bed petting Peke J who napped comfortably in his lap. 

Sunlight shines in through the window that displays Chifuyu’s balcony, and a view of many more houses. The sky was a beautiful yellow, sort of orange, as the sun was setting rapidly, getting lower and lower with each passing second. The room was painted a comforting golden hue, wonderfully beautiful, for the first time in about a week the sky was clear, and suffocating grey clouds weren’t occupying the sky. There were an array of snacks scattered around the floor of his room messily as they ate and conversed with one another. Kazutora was sketching on a piece of paper, occupying himself with something as he spoke. 

Chifuyu watched Kazutora as he sketched, the look of contentment on his face, and the way his eyes sparkled, he was utterly infatuated with art and the activity. The joy of his hobby is very clear.

Kazutora’s hand stopped moving, the pencil led lying dormant against the white sheet of paper as he looked up, his eyes meeting teal ones, “What’re you reading, Chifuyu?” He inquired, his eyes falling back down onto the paper, his hands back into fluid motions once more. 

“Manga. Romance again.” Chifuyu explained curtly, before going further in depth, “However, this time it’s enemies to lovers.” He said with a smirk, and mischievous glint in his eyes.

Kazutora nodded, “Mhm, I think friends to lovers is far better.” He replied with an opposing opinion to rile Chifuyu up.

“You don’t even read Kazutora.” Baji spat amusingly. 

“Hey! I did occasionally… in jail!” Kazutora retorted with a frown, “And…therefore, I say friends to lovers is much better!” 

Chifuyu shook his head, “It’s good but it lacks the heavy suspense enemies to lovers has.” Chifuyu shut his book, and he straightened out his posture as he sat. Moving his hands as he spoke he continued to debate, “Not to mention it’s much more satisfying to see two enemies get together rather than friends who would clearly fall in love from the beginning.” 

“Wrong. A kiss after chapters upon chapters of mutual pining is always satisfying, you can’t deny it, Chifuyu.” Kazutora grinned with a playful wink. 

Baji continued to stroke Peke J’s fur as he watched the two hopelessly go back and forth about a miniscule topic. A trope of all things. 

Chifuyu shook his head and then he placed the manga right in front of Kazutora, “Read this. I own the whole series, I’m sure it’ll change your mind.” Chifuyu offered with a determined smirk on his lips.

Kazutora raised an eyebrow, shrugged his shoulders, and dropped the pencil he was holding, “Alright.” Surprisingly, he agreed, “Get me the first volume, I’ll read it.” 

Chifuyu was taken aback for a moment, eyes wide, but he did as Kazutora said. He grabbed the first volume of five from his bookshelf, and then he handed him the book. 

That evening, instead of Kazutora drawing he and Chifuyu read and discussed a series that even an unknowledgeable Baji would chime in and comment on. On this day, he felt like he was friends with Kazutora more than ever, they were no longer two strangers— acquaintances that kept meeting, no, they were truly friends. 

..

Tuesday November 4th, 2008

On Tuesday Chifuyu arrived home early, he and Baji didn’t study together after classes ceased for the day. Baji and his mother were spending time together in Yokohama, therefore, Chifuyu would have the afternoon and evening to himself. 

He made himself tea. The apartment was deserted, Chifuyu’s mother was at work, and he was sure she’d go out with her friends for a bit when her shift ended. Peke J was his only company, not that he minded much, it was nice… the silence , the sound of the water beginning to boil filling his ears. It was raining as well, he could see the deep rainclouds, and the pelting rain drops hitting the ground from the kitchen window. It was the perfect day for Chifuyu to grab Peke J, curl up in a blanket, drink tea,  and read a book while leaning  against the window in his room, listening to the comforting sound of the rain falling. 

The whistling of the tea kettle brought him out of thoughts, and he was quick to turn it off. Promptly pouring himself a cup, and placing a chamomile tea bag in the liquid, watching the clear color change to a deep brown with the first stir. 

He grabbed the glass, hunching over slightly so his throw blanket wouldn’t slip off of his shoulders, and he headed for his room. Although he never made it, instead he halted, the sound of loud bangs against the front door dragging his attention to the entrance. Confused, with a raised eyebrow, and no idea why anyone would be here he set the tea down on the coffee table.

Chifuyu was sure had no guests today, Takemichi and Hinata were busy, his mother was at work— and she had a key. Baji and his mother were in Yokohama, and no one else came to mind. He hadn’t planned anything in advance either… that he could remember. So he was sure it was a misunderstanding or wrong apartment situation. 

He let the blanket that was once draped over him fall off his shoulders as he stood straight up, and he headed towards the door, Peke J falling wearily behind him. His hand reached out, unlocking the door before he gripped the silver shining doorknob, fingers wrapped around it, pulling it down, allowing the door to open. 

“Kazutora?” 

His hair had fallen from the ponytail it was usually in, many hair-ties wrapped around his wrist, he was drenched, his hair tangled and wet falling on his shoulders. The grey sweatshirt he wore was a far darker color towards the top as it sucked in the water from the rain. He didn’t speak any words, lips pursed shut, sealed, as he stared at Chifuyu wide eyes. If there were any tears streaming down his face Chifuyu didn’t know, he would be unable to distinguish them from the rain that covered him mercilessly. 

Without thought, having the initial event last only a few seconds he ushered in the clearly distraught Kazutora. 

Chifuyu led him to the living room couch where his cup of tea lay unattended on the coffee table. He headed for the hallway closet, grabbing a towel from one of the shelves, he met a shaking Kazutora on the couch once more, he must’ve been freezing from the fall temperatures and the rain. Slowly, he wrapped the towel around Kazutora’s shoulders like a blanket, he was hesitant to touch his hair, his skin, any bit of him for that matter. 

Kazutora seemed shaken up, and despite Chifuyu’s clear confusion he tried his best to make him comfortable. 

On the couch where he sat, Kazutora moved the towel to cover his head, his face was still visible, but his hair was tangled in the blue cotton. He had a distant look in his eyes as he stared forward, those yellow eyes never met Chifuyu’s own once. Startled, he’d say, they were both startled for two very different reasons, it was all so unexpected. 

Kazutora’s lips parted after a few seconds, “I’m sorry.” He mumbled, his throat was hoarse and dry, raspy, the words struggled to leave his lips. 

Then again, to Chifuyu it was surprising, he’d never heard those words from Kazutora. The Kazutora who was hostile and strong, bad, he’d been the juvie even. Yet, next to him, shaking on the couch like a scared cat he was vulnerable more human than ever. That’s all Kazutora was in reality, a human with real feelings, and why had that been so hard for Chifuyu to grasp? It was as if he was trying to work with the concept of Kazutora most of the time. The artist and the boy he’d try to construct in his mind from many of Baji’s wildest stories. He was real and he was impuissant, just like he was in the art room that September morning. 

There was one final detail Chifuyu had observed, the boy’s eyes lacked light, they were emotionless, a plain, dull shade of yellow. Completely cold, detached, hollow, Chifuyu even wanted to describe them as dead, the man who had just painted such a masterpiece had no warmth in his cold heart. No color in his cheeks, he was frigid, utterly imperturbable, those frightening feelings Chifuyu should have felt before had arisen by now. Just who was this boy, and why was he like…this? 

Chifuyu was the closest he has ever been to answering this longing question that’s consumed every inch of his brain in Kazutora’s presence these last few months. It was possible that then he would finally begin to understand the boy behind those indescribable yellow eyes a bit more. 

Chifuyu shook his head, “Don’t apologize.” He said, his hand twitched and he reached out for Kazutora before retracting it, he didn’t want to startle him anymore. Chifuyu swallowed, folding his hands delicately in his lap, “It’s okay, Kazutora.” He reaffirmed, his eyes on him searching for a sign, anything, any reaction that would speak of the current situation with Kazutora. 

Kazutora nodded, hesitantly, leisurely, the motion slow. His eyes stared off into the distance, continuing to avoid Chifuyu, “Usually I’d go to Baji but…” He spoke, his voice was strained, he swallowed harshly, holding back his emotions, lips trembling, “…he wasn’t here.” He finished faintly.

Chifuyu acknowledged his words with a nod, he reached out for the glass of tea on the coffee table, and he handed it to Kazutora. 

Softly, his voice warm and caring, “Hold this. You can have it, it’ll warm you up, you’re shivering.” 

Kazutora accepted the cup, wrapped his hands around the glass, fingertips meeting. 

“I’m here.” Chifuyu stated, obviously, “Sorry,” He apologized foolishly, he shook his head, embarrassed by his failure to properly respond to the boy. He sighed, taking a deep breath, “You can talk to me Kazutora.” He offered, his eyes bouncing around the room, then back to the mug, but not to Kazutora’s gaze.

Chifuyu paused once more, then he tentatively glanced up at Kazutora, their eyes meeting for the first time that evening, “I know we don’t know each other well, but I want to help you the best I can…” His voice became more hushed, gentler as he confessed, “…I wouldn’t tell a soul unless you wanted me to. I’m here for you.” 

After a short interval he was met with a nod from Kazutora. One nod, one movement, one action that spoke louder than words had to in that moment. His eyes were wider than usual, they were fogged like stained glass, glossy, and shiny with the threatening tears. The boy in the art room who looked dead, lifeless, and cold. The one who made Chifuyu wonder if he had any warmth in that icy frozen over heart definitely had heat in that melting fearful heart of his. That was clearer now than ever. 

Kazutora coughed, clearing his throat before he spoke, “Alright.” He smiled— he smiled, despite whatever circumstances led him here he smiled pleasantly, fondly at Chifuyu, “Please go make another cup of tea for yourself. It’s awfully cold today.” 

And Chifuyu smiled as well. 

“I’ll be back in a second then, Kazutora.” Chifuyu replied, fulfilling the one request from the boy. 

While the water boiled he grabbed a spare blanket, large enough to cover the both of them, Kazutora told no fibs when he stated it was cold, Chifuyu was sure it was below freezing on this November evening. 

Then he took a seat next to Kazutora, his legs crossed on the couch, his knee bumping Kazutora’s thigh. He held his own cup in his hands, warming himself, the blanket draped over their laps. Peke J was curled up at Chifuyu’s side, sleeping soundly on the couch. Chifuyu never let the grin leave his lips, he hoped it’d bring a sense of security, or even a bit of joy—light into the eyes of Kazutora as the two sit next to each other in this close proximity. 

“Would you like to talk about it?” Chifuyu asked, the words carrying weight that almost pulled them to the ground as they escaped his lips. It was as if the words echoed throughout the air for a few seconds after, a pause of silence, and heavy, suffocating tension filled air consumed them.

Kazutora nodded, he used few words, he found himself summarizing rather than going into in depth explanations, “Baji saved me, and he saved me from myself.” Kazutora stated, for once, Chifuyu would be seeing Baji from the point of view of Kazutora. Someone who was much closer with Baji, considering he’d been by his side for so long. Kazutora stared blankly at Chifuyu, almost as if he was looking right through him, his eyes a replica to the scene of him in the art room, cold and lifeless, “My home life is far from perfect. Not even close, it’s awful, horrible, it’s a dreadful nightmare, and I loathe being there. There’s not much I can do until I graduate however…” Kazutora paused to laugh, a lively chuckle, “…As a foolish kid I didn’t realize how much a tattoo and criminal record affects trying to find work.” 

This was the most Kazutora had ever spoken to him. So much about him in only a few minutes, it was as if he was seeing a new side of Kazutora more so the boy in the art room.

“He seems interesting. I’m sure it’ll all make more sense once you get to know him better.” 

Oh how he hoped Hinata was right. 

Oh how Hinata was so right. 

 “…the last person I drew was my mother.” He said solemnly. His tone, his mannerisms; the shake in his hands, the light that’d left his eyes as he stared blankly forward, and the way his lips quivered ever so slightly reminded him of the Kazutora he met in the art room that odd September morning. The one he’d been failing to explain, to understand, the one he wanted so badly to unravel and know everything about. He was present, here in front of him, vulnerable and cold.

The connections with his mother, and his lack of portraits. It all made so much more sense. The strange mystery of Kazutora in the art room, the cold lifeless boy was the side of Kazutora he kept unsealed and hidden away. Never to be unraveled and unseen by those he didn’t want. 

But, right now, Chifuyu had unsealed it, and he was seeing Kazutora in a completely different light. 

“If I could of…” Kazutora continued, his eyes torn away from Chifuyu once more, he leaned back, head thrown back on the back of the couch, staring up towards the dull ceiling. His voice calm, unwavering, hopeful even, he murmured, “…I would’ve ran away. I would have changed my name, lasered off my tattoo, and tried to make the most of this shitty life.” 

Chifuyu’s eyes were wide, he was baffled, but he didn’t speak a word as he waited for Kazutora to continue. 

Kazutora shook his head, he tilted his head, meeting Chifuyu’s astonished stare, “I couldn’t.” He said, “If I had I would’ve lost myself.” Then he sat up straight, maintaining eye contact with Chifuyu, “Like I said Baji saved me from myself!” Kazutora explained cheerfully— as cheerfully as he could considering his current state. 

“Even without the past, the tattoo, the criminal record I’m still me, and I’m capable of a lot more which I wish I wasn’t.” 

Chifuyu’s mouth felt dry, his lips slightly parted as he listened in complete awe. There was so much missing from Kazutora. He was a puzzle that Chifuyu thought he was close to completing, only to realize there was a whole section that was blank, filled in with no pieces at all. 

Chifuyu swallowed, “You said Baji, “saved you from yourself,” but what do you mean by that exactly?” 

“Funny story…” Kazutora began, but the way he spoke it, the tone used, made it seem like the tale he had yet to tell would be far from amusing, “One night, Baji and I were stupid kids, and I thought it’d be a good idea to rob a bike shop for Mikey’s birthday.” Then he paused, taking a lengthy deep breath, “The shop owner happened to be there actually, and I almost killed him.” 

Chifuyu’s eyes were wider than they’d ever been in his life as he yelled, “What?” 

“He saw Baji’s face! I thought we’d be put in the slammer for life so I grabbed a wrench, and ran at him but Baji stopped me before I could hit him.” Kazutora explained, although it made little sense.

Chifuyu pinched the bridge of his nose as he shook his head, he couldn’t stop a smile from spreading across his face despite the serious nature of this conversation. He was so surprised he didn’t know how to react, “Murder will get you put away for far longer, Kazutora.” Chifuyu explained. 

“Well, yeah, but I was a stupid kid!” Kazutora repeated, beaming brightly as he almost laughed. Then he leaned back, falling comfortably into the cushions of the couch, sentimentally he spoke, “That’s why I can’t leave, Baji saves me from my foolish mistakes— myself.” 

The conversation came to a close. Kazutora seemed much more content than he was when he first entered Chifuyu’s apartment. 

The two were curled up on the couch, sharing a blanket to shield themselves from the cold, the tea on the coffee table getting colder with each passing second. They continued to converse, a hallmark Christmas movie was white noise as it played on the television in front of them. 

“Baji and I met on my birthday, and the first thing we did together was set a car on fire.” Kazutora recounted amongst laughter, he could still picture the scene in his mind to this day, they ran wild as young kids, and even now he could see them doing the same things. 

“What?! Seriously?” Chifuyu asked, then he pressed his pointer finger to his cheek, “Actually, no, that does sound very Baji like.” 

Kazutora smiled, “It does, doesn’t it.” 

Kazutora never returned home that night. Of course, this led to Chifuyu awkwardly introducing his mother into a boy she’s seen a few times in the past at Chifuyu’s shows. He gave a very brief rundown of everything, and that led to Kazutora staying the night. 

Chifuyu rolled out the futon he grabbed from the hallway closet onto the floor of his bedroom. He placed extra pillows from his bed on top of it, and even let Kazutora borrow the blanket they were sharing on the couch. It all felt very familiar for two people that’d known each other for such a short period of time, but that never bothered Chifuyu. Even today like many others he found himself growing closer to the boy. 

That starry night, the moonlight pouring in through the open window of his bedroom, Chifuyu struggled to sleep at first. The presence of another was unfamiliar, but eventually he became accustomed to the figure lying still on his floor, and the gentle snoring. The mix of those component’s, and the faint howling of the dogs outside lulled him to sleep eventually. 

Moonlight was exchanged for sunlight in the early hours of the morning. It poured into his room uninvited, the bright light, and the sound of his alarm blaring on his nightstand brought him out of his long slumber. He threw his arm over his eyes blocking out the beaming light from the star, his free hand clumsily reaching for his nightstand, missing the alarm clock with each swat and slap of his palm. Eventually it did turn off, Chifuyu removed his arm from his eyes where he opened them slightly, squinted, as he found Kazutora holding the small device in his hands. 

Kazutora smiled gently, it was faint, hardly a smile, blinking drowsily he mumbled, “Good morning.” 

Chifuyu yawned, he sat up right, rubbing the sleep out of his eyes, “Good morning, Kazutora.” He replied sleepily. 

“I have to go now, Chifuyu.” Kazutora stated, the sentence taking all the sleep out of Chifuyu. His teal eyes went wide as he stared at Kazutora in shock, go home? “I have to get my uniform.” He explained. 

Chifuyu shook his head, “You can borrow one of mine.” He blurted the suggestion right as it entered his brain. Kazutora was going to decline, but he was shut down as Chifuyu firmly stated, “It’s fine I have plenty of extras.”  

Chifuyu practically jumped out of bed and he headed to another part of his room. 

Chifuyu scavenged his closet for a spare uniform, he had many, “Here.” He said handing Kazutora a shirt, jeans, a navy blue blazer, and a red tie, “It’ll be a little tight but it should fit.” 

Kazutora accepted the clothes gratefully, smiling fondly at Chifuyu as he lended him each article. He clenched the clothes tightly in his hands before he set them down on Chifuyu’s bed. 

Chifuyu could hear the shuffling of footsteps and Kazutora yawning before he was met with the boy standing only a few inches in front of him once more. The distance was suffocating, and on a cold morning Chifuyu was the complete opposite. The veins in his body flooded with warmth, heat traversing through him from head to toe. Then it happened, two arms laced around his neck lazily at first before he was pulled into a tight hug that only became tighter as Kazutora squeezed him, resting his head on his shoulder.

Chifuyu’s breathing halted at that very second, his arms falling still at his side as he stared wide eyed at the head of hair directly in front of him. He couldn’t speak, instead he listened to the sound of his rapid heartbeat, and the shallow breathing from Kazutora. 

After a few seconds his lips parted and directly into his ear he mumbled low, but loud enough for him to hear, “Thank you, Chifuyu. For everything.” 

It lasted no more than thirty seconds which felt like minutes, hours in Chifuyu’s mind. As he pulled away the warmth he felt from the hug was replaced with the freezing cold morning air. 

Kazutora left him speechless, stunned, and alone in his bedroom as he headed to the bathroom to change. Even then, after the action was over Chifuyu could still feel Kazutora’s body in his arms, and he still was unable to move. 

Before he could wrap his mind around the sudden actions, Kazutora was in front of him once more, his tie messy and undone around his shoulders, “Stop standing around we gotta go, Chifuyu!” Kazutora ordered with a dopey grin. 

Chifuyu shook his head, and he took it into his own hands to fix it. He stepped in front of Kazutora, their breaths mixing at this close proximity, he grabbed the red tie, and he fixed it. Kazutora watching on, his eyes placed directly on him the entire time he readjusted his tie, tightening it around his neck. 

Kazutora murmured once more, “Thank you, Chifuyu.” 

Chifuyu only nodded, Kazutora was right though, they did need to leave soon in order to make it to class on time. 

..

“Chifuyu, I have no words, your show was wonderful! It was better than I could have ever envisioned! These lessons are seriously paying off!” Hinata shouted in delight, shaking his shoulder aggressively as she continued to praise his performance. 

Pink walls and hardwood floor, family photos decorating almost every inch of this apartment. He and Takemichi were at Hinata’s again, on a Sunday, for his piano lessons. It was an established routine at this point, and the sight became more familiar with each passing week. 

“That Kazutora guy with the long blonde and black hair, he seemed sweet. He was very intrigued, completely invested in your performance!” Hinata continued to rant happily about the show, “I swear, he didn’t blink once as he watched. Eyes wide open for an entire hour, Chifuyu! You had him utterly captivated by your performance. You’re so good!” She shook his shoulders roughly once more, “Get that through your brain, you’re a star!” 

Takemichi giggled at Chifuyu’s expression, a mix of shock and dizziness from being shaken. 

Takemichi shook his head, cocking it to the side, “I’d have to disagree with you Hinata. That Kazutora guy…he’s has this scary aura to him. I think he bites.” Takemichi stated, shivering with full body chills as he spoke. It was as if Kazutora was a monster in a childish horror story he was recounting. 

Chifuyu giggled at Takemichi’s description of him. Kazutora was the furthest from evil or scary. 

“We have to start practice now, Chifuyu, no slacking now!” Hinata demanded, turning around quickly to face the keys. 

Chifuyu nodded.

..

On November tenth Chifuyu had established a new routine. Instead of the constant fight to claim the roof, he arrived at the art room first thing in the morning. No other student but Kazutora spent their mornings painting away, therefore, it was the perfect spot for him to read. 

He and Kazutora were far closer now, over the last few months now more than ever Chifuyu could confidently state that they were friends. So, it wasn’t strange for friends to occupy the same room each morning. 

With the morning sunlight pouring in on his skin, dyeing him a bright shining hue similar to a star, he reached for the door, sliding it open, and this time he didn’t turn around and try to leave as his eyes met yellow ones. Instead he paused in the doorway, waving at Kazutora, before he stepped forward and entered the art room. 

“Good morning, Kazutora.”

Kazutora halted his movements, he dropped the paintbrush down to his sides, and he turned his body around fully, meeting Chifuyu as he beamed, “Good morning, Chifuyu, are you here to read?” He asked curiously. 

Chifuyu responded, nodding, “I am.” 

He walked the short distance from the open, now closing door to the stool that was right next to Kazutora, and he took a seat comfortably. A book rested in his hands, and his eyes stared up at the painting he was working on.

It was as beautiful as the last, even if it was just a blank white sketch with splatters of dark blue here and there. He must’ve been early in his work with this one. 

Chifuyu couldn’t wait to observe the progress. 

There were mornings where Chifuyu was met with a carton of juice, and pastry sitting on the desk for him. They were left by the only other person in the room, Kazutora. The two would converse in the early morning hours while Kazutora continued to work, he’d respond and take in every word Chifuyu said while continuing the task at hand. 

Chifuyu never read, his book abandoned on his desk, he was too invested in his conversation with Kazutora to pick it up. 

Kazutora would recount stories with Baji, events that had occurred amongst his week, and his love for art. 

Chifuyu would listen to every word. 

..

Friday November 14th, 2008

Friday morning Chifuyu upheld his routine. 

Kazutora always arrived at school earlier than him, and he would greet him with a “hey” or “good morning” as Chifuyu entered the almost secluded art room. 

This day was no different. Chifuyu was thankful it was a Friday because he was completely worn out, he was ready to spend the whole weekend relaxing in his bed if he could. 

He walked over to his stool located right next to a wooden desk, Kazutora was to his left, painting on a large canvas that had far more paint on it than it had on Monday. A canvas that was primarily white at the start of the week now had a visible image past the faint pencil scratches. This time Kazutora had drawn the view of a city and sunset during a snowy winter on a hill. It was gorgeous. The houses were illuminated with lights shown in the windows of each building, their roofs coded in a thick white snow, the sun was halfway behind a large hill that had just as much snow as it had trees. The sky was an array of colors, pinks and purples, oranges and yellows, different shades of blues towards the top, fading from dark to light as it went down. The colors surrounding the sun far brighter than any other on the canvas as it beamed brightly down on the wintry village. 

Kazutora halted, he stopped painting, he cleaned off the brush, set it down, and then he removed his apron. 

Chifuyu was resting his head on his arms that were folded on top of the wooden desk, his eyes still visible as he laid his head on its side. He observed each of his movements carefully as they happened, eyes latched entirely on Kazutora. 

Kazutora stretched his arms, groaning as he did so, and he tiredly yawned along with his actions. He must’ve been just as exhausted as Chifuyu, yet, he was here painting beauty onto a canvas while the other was almost asleep on the desk. 

Kazutora glanced over at him, “You awake, Chifuyu?” He asked, eyes observing the other who’s breathing had steadied, teal eyes fluttering shut as he struggled to keep them open  

“Mhm…” He hummed tiredly, opening his eyes wider to ensure he didn’t pass out.

Kazutora chuckled, he turned so his entire body was facing Chifuyu, and he crossed one leg over the other. His posture was awful, he hunched forward, his head, jaw and cheek rested in the palm of his hand while he smiled. Those stools never did provide any support for their backs after all. 

Chifuyu sat up, stretching as well, classes were bound to begin soon, and he’d be angry with himself if he missed out on a lesson he was struggling with because he was too drowsy to remember. He leaned his back against the edge of the table, it was uncomfortable, but in the end it would suffice. 

“Chifuyu,” Kazutora’s call of his name drew his attention to him, he paused for a moment as their eyes met, “…you asked me if I’ve ever painted a portrait a little while back, and I told you I didn’t do that anymore.” Kazutora began, recapping a previous conversation the two had not too long ago. 

“Kazutora,” Chifuyu said without a foolish slip up, “Have you ever painted a portrait.” He asked out of sheer curiosity.

Oh, how that question bounced and echoed constantly around Kazutora’s brain for the last month. 

“Despite that…” Kazutora continued, their eyes never leaving one another's gaze, “…I’d love to paint a portrait of you, Chifuyu.” 

Chifuyu’s eyes went wide. Considering the connections his portrait paintings had with his past he had never expected Kazutora to suggest painting another. Especially one of him of all people. 

“You’d like to paint me…?” Chifuyu asked dumbfounded, repeating Kazutora’s previous words in a question. 

Kazutora nodded, “Yes.” He answered clearly. 

“Then you may!” Chifuyu answered quickly and sincerely, “Please paint me, Kazutora.” 

Kazutora shared a gentle smile and nodded once more. 

After a few seconds of a shared mutual silence, Chifuyu questioned, “Um, is there anyways I could pay you for doing this?”

Kazutora was quick to shut it down, he shook his head, “I don’t want money…I don’t want anything at all.” He answered. Although, he knew Chifuyu well enough to know he wouldn’t take no for an answer, therefore he added one option, “Knowing you, you won’t accept that, so…if you’d really like to repay me why don’t you write a song for me? I’m in love with your talent for piano.” 

“Of course!” Chifuyu beamed immediately, “I’ll do it!” He declared joyously. 

Kazutora chuckled, “Alright, then I’ll begin Monday morning. It’ll be a slow process, however, it’d be nice for you to accompany me here every morning.” He removed his head from the palm of his hand, and he stood up straight, stretching his tired, cramping arms once more, “I will draw better if I have you physically in front of me rather than from memory.” He explained before inquiring, “Can you do this for me, Chifuyu?” 

Chifuyu nodded quickly once more, “Of course I can. I’ll be there.” 

The bell rang bringing an end to their conversation. 

Chifuyu was quick to spring up, grabbing his bag, putting his unread book inside, and waving his goodbyes to Kazutora. 

As he stood in the doorway, a wide beaming smile as he waved, his eyes closed shut, dark eyelashes falling beautifully against his porcelain skin, Kazutora mouthed, “Thank you.” The statement was not seen by the other as he turned around, leaving him alone in the art room. 

Kazutora sighed, he turned forward meeting the art station that would make him late for class once more. Ever since Chifuyu began visiting him each morning he found his attendance faltering. He’d get lost in conversations with the boy, and by the time classes had begun he was met with the sight of spilled paint, hair tangled, and a messy apron. He’d clean as fast as he could, but he would always interrupt class with his late presence. 

However, Kazutora didn’t find himself minding much. 

..

Sunday November 16th, 2008

Matsuno Chifuyu, seventeen, a high school student who was definitely not experienced in the art of writing music. He was a boy who picked the hobby of piano a few years prior, and now he had a promise to fulfill with only a month to do so. 

Chifuyu promised to write Kazutora a song, a song he had plans to perform in front of a large crowd despite only caring for the opinion of one individual, Kazutora himself. 

Once again, Chifuyu spent Sunday at Hinata’s apartment accompanied by her and Takemichi. Instead of sitting on the uncomfortable, posture-ruining bench in front of the piano, the three were squished onto the couch located in her living room. 

Takemichi grabbed the open soda can on the coffee table, he brought the aluminum can to his lips, ready to ingest the unhealthy soft drink into his system.  

“Hinata, I need you to teach me how to write a song,” Chifuyu blurted aloud, his palms balled into fists as they rested atop of both of his knees, “I promised someone I would do so, and I am lost in need of your guidance.” 

Takemichi spat the liquid back up into the can and all over himself, some even going up his nose as he overreacted to the statement. His baby-blue eyes were wide, and he was staring aggressively at Chifuyu, his gaze almost looking straight through him as he stared so hard. A clear bubbling liquid still pouring down the bottom half of his face. 

“Ew…” Chifuyu mumbled, letting gentle laughter fall from his unsealed lips. His eyes fell onto the coral haired girl, hands still balled into harsh fists, his knuckles turning ghostly white from the grip, “Can you help me, Hinata?” 

Hinata cocked her head to the side, “May I ask a question?” 

Chifuyu nodded hastily, he was in need of a “yes” because without her help he would write a song so terrible Kazutora would never speak to him again. 

“Who is this song for?” 

Chifuyu averted his gaze to the navy blue couch, a scene that lacked any entertainment to his eyes. A dull, constant sight, but for some reason he couldn’t bring himself to meet his gaze as he uttered his answer aloud.

“Kazutora.” 

Hinata’s eyes widened for a split second, he almost missed it, if he hadn’t turned his head up at the very second he would have never seen it. She blinked quickly, her face resting as it usually did once more with a small smile on her lips, “You want to write him a song?” She repeated the question.

“Yes.” 

“Alright…” Hinata agreed hesitantly, she fiddled with her hands in her lap, “…when would you like it done? You can’t expect to have it completed before your next show!” She asked, while also trying to reason logically with Chifuyu. 

Chifuyu nodded, “I can do it, Hinata.” I have to, I must. 

Hinata sighed, when Chifuyu displayed such a determined expression, and courage filled tone she knew there was no way to make him back down, “Alright, our deadlines December twenty-sixth, don’t forget it.” 

“I won’t.” 

“Well, let’s go sit down, we're only going to run out of time sitting here.” Hinata stated, she stood up, and headed straight for the piano only a few meters away. 

They had exactly forty days to complete this task, forty days to learn, compose a song, and perform it on the fortieth day. 

This would be far from simple.

..

Monday November 17th, 2008

On the seventeenth of November Kazutora began sketching out his portrait of Chifuyu. 

Kazutora stood in the center of the room, observing Chifuyu from afar as he made him pose in a variety of ways that were natural. He’d made Chifuyu do things he did everyday like, for instance, sleep. However… he decided that was the worst of the poses. 

They settled on one that was more typical for Chifuyu than the others…him reading. 

The scene was simple, golden hues of sunlight poured through the blinds Kazutora had pulled down to minimize the light slightly. His eyes were a glossy green teal color in the light that was similar to a beautiful river or lake. He held the book in one hand, the other off the canvas as it fell far down beside his side, and a portrait only contained his upper body, although they made a few adjustments with an unusual action. Kazutora brushed his bangs to the side slightly, to keep his eyes exposed, but for the most part he let his hair fall naturally onto his face. 

“Stay just like that!” Kazutora called from the center of the room, “You look perfect, Chifuyu.” He complimented as he messily sketched out the scene in front of him on a much smaller piece of paper. 

As much as he wanted to reply he refused to move his lips, and mess up the view Kazutora had in front of him. 

His hand moved quickly against the paper, the led scratching loudly against it in the silent art room. Kazutora’s untied blonde highlighted hair fell messily onto his shoulders, he tucked a strand behind his ear, sticking his tongue out as he focused to scribble the scene in front of him before bringing Chifuyu any discomfort. His eyes darted back and forth between the paper, and the living scene in front of him as he copied it down. 

“I’m almost done…” Kazutora informed him as he continued to restlessly move his wrist. 

Chifuyu wanted to say, “Take your time.” But he was unable to as he sat still as a statue, his breath hitching as he wanted to stay as frozen and as perfect as possible for Kazutora. 

Footsteps shuffled across the hardwood floor of the art room, Kazutora coming into view, his eyes darting up to observe him. Kazutora took a seat on the stool directly next to Chifuyu where he continued to sit, posed, on an uncomfortable steel stool of his own.

Kazutora leaned forward, his face coming further into sight, and then Chifuyu felt pressure against his nose,   “I’m done now, you can move.” Kazutora murmured while playfully tapping him with the half missing pink eraser end of the pencil, directly on the tip of his nose.

Chifuyu blinked a few times, sort of coming back to life as he moved for the first time in what felt like centuries. 

The first words Chifuyu uttered as he was freed from being statue were, “Can I see?” 

Kazutora nodded, and he handed the flimsy piece of white paper to him, “You can’t really depict much, it’s just an outline of the scenery, and the pose you were in. A reference to go off of while I begin.” 

Chifuyu nodded along with his explanation as his eyes scanned the paper. Despite the messily scribble sketch of him being nowhere close to done he could already see himself in the boy sitting next to the desk by the closed window. 

Chifuyu held out the sketch for Kazutora as he asked, “Are you going to begin today?” 

Kazutora tilted his head back and forth while he debated it in his head. He accepted the paper from Chifuyu who now held it back out for him, “I should have some time before classes start…” He mumbled knowing damn well he’d be late to class if he began.

Despite that, he started anyway. Kazutora grabbed a large blank canvas from the storage closet located in the room, and he set it on the easel. 

“I’m going to bring this,” He began, slapping the paper with his hand, “To life.” 

Chifuyu smiled and honestly replied, “I can’t wait.”

Black and yellow hair were tied up into a neat ponytail that would eventually become ruined as he worked, two strands in the front let loose, hanging free from the grasp of the hair-tie. 

Kazutora asked Chifuyu to hold the paper up for reference. He had one hand on each side, only the tips of his fingers touching the corners so as to not crumple, nor cover the important details he needed to add. With that, Kazutora began. He held a wooden ruler in hand, as he mapped out the background scenery first. In the background was a window, it was closed, and the blinds were halfway closed, letting minimal light in, but enough to shine and amplify Chifuyu’s glowing features. 

Kazutora moved the pencil against the canvas, his fingers holding it gently, lightly pushing down so as to not leave dark lines, instead light grey ones that could be easily erased. As he did this Chifuyu didn’t observe the pencil tracing along the canvas, following the guide of a ruler, nor did he watch Kazutora’s fingertips as he adjusted his grip of the yellow pencil in hand, rather, he observed the expressions he made as he participated in each motion. 

His eyes were fixed on the canvas, but he did occasionally glance back and forth between the reference sheet and the canvas. For long periods of time he wouldn’t blink, ensuring the line would be straight, perfect, Kazutora’s art was always perfect. From each line to each stroke of paint it was utterly flawless, and Chifuyu was in love with his skill along with his paintings. His lips were unconscious raised into a gentle smile, as he fondly drew, his love for the hobby clearer than ever as he sketched in silence. 

Other times, Kazutora would step back and observe the canvas from afar. Ensuring the lines were placed where they should be, and to make sure they were the correct length and thickness. Each detail no matter how miniscule they were, were taken into account by Kazutora. 

Unfortunately, not much could be done on their first morning working together. Kazutora had sketched out around half of the window on the upper right side of the canvas, the rest of the surface completely blank. A blinding white covered in nothing at all. 

Chifuyu threw his bag over his shoulder, setting the reference sheet down on the desk, and he stood up. Classes would begin shortly and he’d have to depart.

“Hey.” Kazutora called, his eyes glanced over at the desk, eyes falling upon the scribbled on sheet of paper, “Take that with you. Keep it safe, and return it to me tomorrow morning, okay?” 

Chifuyu nodded, and he held the paper at his side in one hand, “I’ll return it to you in perfect condition, Kazutora. Bye now!” He said his goodbyes while waving his free hand in the air briefly. 

The door slid open and shut in a matter of seconds. 

Kazutora sighed, smiling at the disorganized sight in front of him, he was going to be late again . 

..

Chifuyu had his phone out as he sat on the stool in the art room. Kazutora was collecting supplies, and Chifuyu was asking Inui to see him this weekend.  

On this day they sat in complete silence. Kazutora worked to sketch Chifuyu, and the scenery behind him. While Chifuyu read content with his presence. He’d found Kazutora focused better in a silent room the same way he did, and so he provided the tranquil environment. 

Even as the three of them sat together at lunch; Chifuyu, Baji, and Kazutora, Kazutora would sketch the sight of Chifuyu in front of him on a sheet of paper to practice. He hadn’t drawn portraits in forever, and the practice of drawing a person instead of landscape was very much needed. 

Chifuyu didn’t mind. In fact, he even enjoyed the many sketches of himself gifted to him from Kazutora. They were sweet, he could see the attention to detail in his face especially, from individual eyelashes, to the glimmer in his eyes. Most were now hanging on a mini bulletin board he had in his bedroom.

..

Saturday November 22nd, 2008

Two people occupied a bench in a park, the grassy fields in front of them went on for what looked like miles. Civilians passed by walking their dogs, or going for an early stroll on the cold November morning. 

One of the occupants had been away, at a vending machine near a public restroom not too far away. His blonde hair swayed in the gentle breeze, autumn leaves flying through the air as they were swept off their feet. He had two drinks, one in each hand, the feeling of the freezing cans sending a chill through his already frigid body. He shivered as he sat down on the wooden bench, the scarf around his neck not nearly enough to save him from the wintry weather. He handed his drink to the boy next to him, his black hair— messy bangs in particular getting awfully long, he’d have to get them cut soon. 

The one with the black hair, Chifuyu, spoke aloud, “How have you been, Inupi?” He questioned, the two hadn’t seen each other since the party on Halloween, almost a month prior. 

Inui sighed, “Busy.” Then he breathily laughed, “I would’ve never guessed bike shops got super busy during November, but that is the case:” He explained.

Ah, he’d been caught up with work, made sense, Inui had graduated a year prior— almost two years prior, so school was already off his plate. 

Inui diverted his gaze away from the forest green grass, a deep shade from the threatening grey rain clouds above, blocking the sun from providing its beaming light. His green eyes fell upon Chifuyu, his lips parted once more as he asked, “How are you, Chifuyu?” 

Chifuyu clicked his tongue and simply answered, “Busy as well.” 

Inui nodded, then he threw his head back, his arms leaned against the back of the bench where his head fell over, eyes upon the depressing grey sky. He sighed, his breath visible as a misty fog in the cold air. 

He cocked his head, “What’ve you been busy with? You don’t work… do you?” He continued to inquire with multiple questions this time. 

Chifuyu shook his head, he grabbed the can Inui had given him, opening it with a click, “No.” Then he threw his head back and he drank, “Piano. I practice every weekend, and even let it consume me during school.” 

Inui hummed, “You working on something big?” 

“Yeah.” Chifuyu scoffed, does ‘big’ even begin to describe it, “I promised someone I’d write them a song. My deadline is the end of next month, and I have no idea if I’ll complete it in time.” 

“Hmm, you’re writing a song for that guy aren’t you?” Inui asked with a teasing smirk, his eyes as bored as ever, lidded like he was filled with sleep. 

Chifuyu rolled his eyes, “What are you insinuating?” He asked with a long sigh. 

“You’re writing a lovely song for tiger boy.” Inui repeated, ignoring the overall question.

“Learning.” Chifuyu corrected. He had no idea how to write a song so, in hindsight, he is, in fact, learning. 

“Learning.” Inui repeated with a teasing cackle, he sat straight up, turning towards Chifuyu, leaning forward, their eyes meeting, “Do you know how that sounds?” He repeated with a growing smile so uncharacteristic to him. He wiped a non-existent tear from his eye before leaning back, and sitting down properly on the bench. 

Chifuyu clicked his tongue, turning his head in the opposite direction of Inui, “I don’t know what you mean.” He replied, feigning innocence. 

“This is straight out of all those romance books you read…” Inui commented with a gentle laugh, “You have definitely read something like this haven’t you?”

The question went unanswered. 

Inui shook his head, and he took a sip of his own drink. He leaned back comfortably— as comfortably as he could get on this wooden bench. 

“What is so special about him?” Inui asked, his eyes torn away from Chifuyu once more, and up to the same dull grey wintry sky. When there was a pause, and a lack of answer, Inui added, “You told me you barely know him, and then you’re learning to write a song for him. I mean I guess I’m just curious what sparked this.” The blonde explained going further in depth. 

“Nothing, I don’t like him Inupi.” Chifuyu stated firmly, attempting to put an end to any romantic implications. He shook his head and explained, “Kazutora’s an artist. He’s drawing me, and i'm repaying him with a song.”

Inui took another sip of his drink, sighing loudly, “You’re so fucking oblivious.” 

Chifuyu almost laughed, “I don’t think you know what you’re talking about.” He said aloud with a smile he couldn’t wipe off of his lips. 

Inui grinned, “I hope everything goes well. The song, the show…” He listed off events before pausing to whisper, “… Kazutora.” Loud enough for Chifuyu to hear, all for another ticked off reaction from him. 

The sky stayed the same boring shade of grey. Even as the sun left from behind the clouds, the clouds never departed from the sky, it’d even begin to snow, painting the ground and surrounding underneath white. 

Winter was beginning. 

..

December arrived sooner than Chifuyu could’ve imagined. He walked to school in the snow, blue gloves on his hand, and a red scarf wrapped tightly around his neck to shield him from the cold. The white snowflakes falling in his hair contrasted against his deep black hair. 

He stepped up the stairs, his footsteps echoing throughout the halls as they walked, he arrived extra early so the school was practically deserted at this hour. 

His feet stopped in their tracks directly in front of a familiar sight. A location he happened upon three months earlier by pure coincidence. The person inside changed the trajectory of Chifuyu’s life forever. His cold gloved hands reached out for the door, sliding it open with ease, he stepped forward, the only occupant turning around at the noise he had emitted. 

He wore just the uniform, no scarf, no gloves, and he must’ve been freezing, his hair was tied up in a messy ponytail, and Chifuyu was sure it would fall out by itself soon. His yellow eyes glowed in the dark room, the lights were off, and minimal light seeped through the closed window. 

Chifuyu set his bag down on the desk, before taking a seat on the stool right next to Kazutora. Where it always was. The scenery hadn’t changed since he began arriving at the art room each morning. 

Chifuyu pulled his scarf off of his neck before he faced Kazutora. Without any words being exchanged, only their eyes meeting one another's gazes, he wrapped the piece of red fabric around Kazutora’s bare neck, covering his tiger tattoo in the process. 

“You must be cold…” Chifuyu murmured as he finished wrapping the scarf around the others' necks. 

Kazutora’s exposed fingertips glided, gently ghosting over the scarf as he stared down at it, and then up at Chifuyu who he stared at in slight confusion with furrowed brows, “Yeah, I am…” He replied truthfully, there was a shake in his hand as he shivered from the cold, “…I don’t think I can work today, my hands are frigid.” Kazutora stated with an awkward laugh. 

Chifuyu nodded, “That’s okay.” He reassured, and then with hesitance he reached for Kazutora’s shaking hands, he held them together with both of his own gloved ones directly in front of their faces, “Feeling warmer?” Chifuyu asked, a misty cold fog forming from his lips as he spoke. 

Kazutora nodded, yet, his entire body was frigid now, and it was not because of the cold. His shoulders were stiff, his hands unable to move in Chifuyu’s grip, a pink flush dusted his cheeks, a mix of his actions, and the freezing wintry weather.

“Let’s just talk instead, you’re still capable of that it seems.” Chifuyu teased him with a warm smile despite the cold. 

Kazutora nodded, and Chifuyu released his hands from the tight grasp he held them in, warmth leaving the other's body. At least he still had his scarf. 

Then there was silence, neither knew what to converse about. As Kazutora painted it came easily, but as the two sat face to face, eyes on each other one second, and darting around the room the other. Neither spoke any words. A tree branch grazed the window, tapping against it lightly because of the harsh cold wintry winds. So, at least, there wasn’t complete and utter silence. They were met with tranquility instead. Chifuyu couldn’t hear his heartbeat in his ears, and there was no shake in his hands from anxious demeanor, it was gone, it was peaceful instead here alone with Kazutora. 

“Do you like cats?” A question blurted aloud by Chifuyu to break the silence once and for all. As wonderful as it was for the short while it took over, he could not spend any more time staring at Kazurora in a quiet room. 

“Cats?” Kazutora repeated with a giggle and smile, “Chifuyu I love cats. I have a tiger tattoo for more reasons than just my name.

Chifuyu gazed towards the floor, ah , that should’ve been obvious. 

Kazutora broke the awkwardness with a conversation, time was moving, and they were beginning to converse how they always did. 

“Funnily enough, everytime I reference the night at Shinichiro’s shop Baji will give me the nastiest dirty look.” Kazutora recounts with a wide smile as if he could see the stare right now. He made sure to put extra emphasis on the nasty aspect. Lips pursed and then they parted, resting his head in the palm of his head as he spoke, “Sometimes we need to laugh about it. “What should we get Mikey for birthday.” I’d say and he’d ignore me.” Kazutora continued amongst laughter. 

“I’m guessing he refuses to shop with you for his birthday now?” 

Kazutora nodded while humming, his pretty smile never leaving his lips. 

Kazutora had the prettiest smile, he could be a model if he really wanted, somehow the action managed to accentuate his features. From the jingling of his earring as he tilted his head ever so slightly, to the way his eyes glimmered with light when he was truly delighted, he was glowing, even in the dark he was shining the brightest. The melodic sound of his laugh whenever he giggled, a short noise that never lasted long, but pulled at the heartstrings of another even if he wanted to deny it. 

“You can accompany Baji for birthday shopping this month can’t you?” Chifuyu inquired with a raised eyebrow, “Or is everyone’s birthday off limits.” 

“Just Mikey’s I think?” Are you trying to tell me your birthday is this month?” Kazutora asked with a knowing grin.

“The nineteenth.” 

Kazutora nodded, “I’ll definitely get you something. Actually, I’ll get you the best gift, Chifuyu.” Kazutora stated determinedly, a fire burning in those glowing yellow eyes. 

Chifuyu beamed, “I look forward to it.” 

..

Thursday December 4th, 2008

Baji and Chifuyu left a local pet store with bags in hand. They got plenty of items for their cat Peke J. It happened to be snowing on this December day as well, a common theme this month it seemed. They were speed-walking, rushing to get home before they were buried under a cold thick layer of snow. 

Chifuyu was missing his scarf, as he lended it to Kazutora days prior, the boy was lacking any winter clothing, and he wanted to make sure the artist wouldn’t freeze on his journey home. Even when he tried to return it, Chifuyu shook his head and told him to keep it. He'd buy a new one… eventually. It was a purchase he still needed to make three days later. 

Chifuyu was thankful the pet shop was only approximately a five minute walk from their shared apartment building because he was sure he’d freeze into a giant ice cube if he was stuck in the cold any longer. Even as he walked up the many flights of stairs to his floor, stopping in front of his specific apartment, he struggled to open the door with his freezing shaking hands covered by thick gloves with a layer of snow on them. He had to pull one off, exposing his hand to the below freezing temperatures, he shook the knob, pushed the door open, and then he and Baji were home. 

Peke J was lying on the couch, the black cat hiding from the horrors of the snow outside. Even he, a stray, did not want to bother with the freezing weather. 

Baji awoke the sleeping cat, immediately handing him one of the new freshly bought treats they purchased. Chifuyu set the bags down on the kitchen table, they contained; a cat sweater, cat food, many treats that Baji wanted to purchase, a mini santa hat, and a few cat toys that Chifuyu bought without a second thought.

In the corner of the living room was now a shining decorated Christmas tree. It has rainbow lights, many ornaments, and plenty of custom made by Chifuyu himself when he was a young child— with the help of his mother of course. The shining star on top was Chifuyu’s favorite. It glowed yellow—golden, outshining every other aspect of the tree. 

Chifuyu went to the kitchen to make hot chocolate, he needed a warm drink to hold in his freezing hands, and it was rather festive. He made Baji a cup as well as he assumed he was just as cold on this winter day as he was. From the windows in the kitchen Chifuyu could see the snow storm get progressively worse.

Baji and Chifuyu sat on the couch together, one cup of hot chocolate lying on the coffee table, Chifuyu holding his cat mug in both of his hands as he searched for warmth. Baji had Peke J in his lap, and he was fighting to get the Santa hat on his tiny head. The cat was not helping at all, he squirmed, and jumped, making all of Baji’s attempts futile. 

He even immaturely hissed at the cat as it walked away from him and over to Chifuyu. 

Baji sighed and he leaned back against the couch, both his arms thrown over the back of it, one leg kicked up and resting on top of the other. 

“Thank you for helping out Kazutora.”

Baji stated, a statement that had come from nowhere at all. A simple one, the last time the two spoke like this, outside of lunch, or in the classroom as they studied after class their conversation was also about Kazutora. 

“I was wondering about Chifuyu. What do you think of Kazutora?” 

“You two should become good friends.” He requested, it was rare for Baji to ever get sentimental like this so when he did Chifuyu knew he met each word deeply, each sentence carrying an unimaginable weight, “It’d be nice for the two people I care about most to get along.” 

“So stop acting so scared of him!” He urged with a wide teeth baring smile that exposed his fangs to the world. 

Chifuyu tilted his head, uttering the simple question, “Huh?” 

“With the incident last month, and the scarf on Monday.” Baji explained further, “I take it you have a decent idea on how his home life is now?”

Chifuyu took a sip of his drink before he nodded. He finally began to stop shivering as he slowly warmed up. 

“His dad is awful.” Baji frowned, angrily shaking his head, “If I could I would beat the shit out of him.” He threatened. The tone he used was more lighthearted than the previous, almost as if he was trying to play off the statement as a joke. Chifuyu would never fall for that.

Then Chifuyu’s mind wandered back to one sentence from Kazutora’s lips that had bever been able to escape the confines of his mind. 

 “…the last person I painted was my mother.”

The reason for Kazutora’s halt of portraits was his mother. Yet, Chifuyu had never gotten a glimpse of what she was like. 

“Have you ever met Kazutora's mother?” 

Baji’s eyes widened, and Chifuyu assumed he didn’t expect that question, “No. I only saw her in a few paintings Kazutora did, and all I know about her is information I picked up from stories Kazutora told me.” 

Chifuyu pryed for more, “Was she a good woman?” He inquired. 

“I wouldn’t be able to answer that. She’s a beautiful woman, troubled I’d say from what Kazutora told me. I don’t know either of his parents that well if I’m honest.” Baji explained, he rubbed the back of his neck, then he smiled faintly, “When I met Kazutora’s dad— the only time I did, Mikey thought he was a kidnapper, and he beat him up.” Baji recounted the story while chuckling to himself. 

Chifuyu’s teal eyes went wide, and he almost laughed along with Baji, but amidst his shock and astonishment he asked, “He beat up Kazutora’s dad?!” Utterly stunned and confused. 

Baji nodded, “Yeah, he deserved it more than anything. Terrible man.” He repeated the same sentiment as before. 

Then Baji breathed, he let out a long breath, there was no cold fog as they reveled in the warmth of the indoors. 

He rolled his head against the back of the couch, turned towards Chifuyu, amber eyes met teal ones and he murmured, “I’m glad you’re not frightened of him anymore.”

“I was never scared of him!” Chifuyu denied, thrown his hands into his lap, luckily his drink was placed back onto the coffee table by now.

“That’s not true! Kazutora told me that himself!” 

“Huh? Kazutora talks to you about me?” Chifuyu asked, he almost shattered into a million pieces, melted into a puddle of embarrassment at that moment. His early interactions with Kazutora were the furthest thing from normal. 

Baji nodded, “”Chifuyu is strange.” Was the first thing he told me…on the day you two met too.” He revealed.

A shared sentiment between the two. Chifuyu thought the same thing about the other. For the longest time he thought Kazutora was strange, only to find out Kazutora felt the same way about him. 

It was humorous in some ways. 

Baji found it humorous at least, and he found himself breaking into unstoppable laughter as he observed Chifuyu’s horrified reaction. 

Chifuyu couldn’t reply, before he could slip a word past his lips Baji was speaking once more, revealing more information that Chifuyu was completely in the dark about. 

““Chifuyu’s kind.” He told me after the fourth of last month. “God, why is he so nice to me, Keisuke?” He asked.” Baji recounted the two quotes spoken to him. There was a brief pause, and then he continued, “I couldn’t give him an answer. I just told him that’s just how you are.” 

Chifuyu's lips were parted, his mouth agape, he couldn’t speak, just the thought of Kazutora talking to Baji about him made foreign feelings swirl around his heart. A part of him wanted to throw up, he was overwhelmed, while another part was flattered, he even liked the comments to an extent. 

“Again, thank you.” Baji repeated, “I should’ve been there for him. I’m glad you helped him out when he really needed it.” 

Chifuyu nodded, “Mhm,” He hummed, “It was the least I could do.” 

Baji shifted the direction of the conversation, changing it entirely, “When’s your next show? You have one this month right?” He inquired. 

“Yeah. It’s the day after Christmas.” 

“Cool.” Baji replied sweetly with a grin, “I’ll buy tickets.”  

Baji went home right before Chifuyu’s mom arrived back after a long shift. It was completely pitch black outside by the time she stepped through the door, she threw his purse, and keys on a small table near the entrance before taking a seat at the kitchen table not too far away. 

Chifuyu made her a cup of tea before taking a seat in a wooden chair across from her.  

He asked her about work, he himself talked about his own day, leaving out the common morning routine with Kazurora, and then he found himself bombarded with questions he had never expected. Question’s he hadn’t even considered himself, and if the topic were brought up in his mind he shoved it out with other thoughts. 

“Are you seeing someone?”

A simple—ish question that threw his world upside down. Where did she get that from? 

Chifuyu furrowed his brows before avoiding the question with one of his own, “What? What makes you think that?!” He asked in complete and utter confusion. 

The blonde sighed, “You leave for school earlier, you're out more often, and you stay late at school.” She explained her reasons one by one, ending her statement with, “I was just curious.” 

“No.” Chifuyu answered firmly, shaking his head, and he pinched the bridge of his nose, “I’m not seeing anyone.”

She nodded in acknowledgment, before smiling wickedly, “No feelings for anyone either?” She teased the boy. 

Flusteredly he covered his face, “No! I don’t like anyone!” He replied oddly defensive, cheeks flushed red in embarrassment. This was the last conversation he wanted to have, and with his own mother of all people. 

“Alright.” She laughed, she took a sip of the tea that sat in front of her, she waved her hand in a swatting motion as she said, “You can go to bed now.” 

..

Sunday December 7th, 2008

They practiced for around an hour. For most of said practice his fingers were off of the keys, instead they gripped a pencil as he wrote down music notes, then he’d test the melody only to find each time he despised the way it sounded. 

“I’m never going to complete this in time.” Chifuyu stressed, the words meant to be kept in the confines of his mind instead spoke aloud in a frustrated whisper. 

Hinata shook her head, he comfortably rubbed his back soothingly, “Don’t worry, we still have time, Chifuyu.” 

Time, they had exactly nineteen days, and he had only a fourth of the song— if even that much— completed.  

He was unsure if he’d be able to fulfill his promise to Kazutora. 

..

Tuesday December 16th, 2008

Every morning they met in the art room. It was a routine that had been created over the last months, and now they were sitting beside one another while Kazutora replicated the boy onto the canvas. 

Over the long month an abundance of progress had been made. The sketch was fully completed, and Kazutora had begun the painting process, Chifuyu’s favorite to observe. He was always mesmerized by the way Kazutora brought the plain canvas to life, once white and dull with a few pencil scratches, and now a wonderful picture with his eyes unable to observe each brilliant detail. 

There was a golden hue filling the room, the sunlight pouring through half open blinds emphasizing and sharpening Chifuyu’s best features. His eyes looked like the ocean, glossy, almost like glass, like a snow globe without the snow, a beautiful sight contained in a glass like sphere. No amount of paint would be able to make the sight as magical as it was in person, face to face. 

Each day was like a repeat of the other, but when he does something over and over again I guess one cannot expect much change. It was almost insane, the definition of insanity. They’d paint in the early morning together, Kazutora did all the work while Chifuyu just had to sit there and look pretty. Then at lunch the three; Baji, Kazutora, and Chifuyu would sit together, Kazutora would sketch— mainly Chifuyu, while Baji ate, Chifuyu held a book, he could never read much of it as he conversed with the others. 

Everytime Chifuyu laid his eyes on the canvas as he entered the classroom he was blown away. Despite it being years since Kazutora painted a portrait it was incomparably stunning, another perfect work by him in Chifuyu’s eyes and it was currently incomplete.  

Three days before Chifuyu’s birthday they were sitting together once more. 

Shoes hitting the hardwood floor, Chifuyu’s elbow resting against a wooden table, palm of his head in his tired hand, eyes facing forward gazing at Kazutora as he painted. 

His eyes practically produced light as bright as the sun as he worked. Shimmering, twinkling with each stroke of paint, his apron was a mess, dropped paint covering the once blue and white surface. His hair was tidier than it was on most days, a bit of paint had gotten onto his poorly rolled up uniform sleeves, and Chifuyu was sure he observed a pinch of yellow paint on his cheek. 

Kazutora dropped the paintbrush to his side as he finished another section. He stood up, and walked to the center of the room to see what the canvas looked like from afar. He did this often. His eyes stayed focused on the painting for a few long moments, squinting slightly as he looked harder, then he was approaching the wobbly stool, and taking a seat once more. 

Out of the blue he spoke, his voice slightly raspy from lack of use, “Your birthday is on Friday right?” 

Chifuyu nodded. 

‘“You doing anything for it?” Kazutora continued to bombard the boy with questions as he painted. Their eyes never meet despite conversing with one another. 

Chifuyu shook his head, “Probably something small.” He elaborated, “At most Baji and I will hangout, my mother will bake a cake, and I’ll open presents in their company…unless you’d like to come.” 

“I’ll definitely come.” Kazutora responded, his lips turning up into a gentle smile, “I found the perfect present to give you.” 

“I can’t wait.”

..

Friday December 19th, 2008

A wall with glass windows lined by a row of motorcycles. Fantastic bikes, neat, in brand new condition, and in a multitude of different colors. 

Usually across from the entrance of the store sat the owner, a man with messy black hair, and eyes that were as dull and dark as his hair. A cigarette was always between his lips, the smell of smoke filling the shop, former gang members and customers alike would observe him while he worked. Right now, however, he was in the back working on orders for parts, and any other supplies he needed. 

Chifuyu was leaning against the register counter surrounded by two of his recently hired employees. 

The blonde with sea-green eyes and a burn scar on his forehead was to his right, and on his left was a much taller boy, a year older than him, the sides of his head were shaved revealing a dragon tattoo, and his blonde hair was tied up into a ponytail. Inui Seishu and Ryuguji Ken— Draken. 

“Are you really going to spend the entire day in the shop?” Inui asked, he tilted his head, stretching his arms as he stood behind the counter, “It’s your birthday you should go out and do something.” 

The shop was completely dead right now. Only three occupants were seen, and none of them were here for business. 

Draken entered the conversation, “Yeah, you’re not doing anything big?” He inquired. 

Chifuyu shook his head, “I didn’t plan anything, and I’ll see everyone eventually anyway.” He explained simply, “Kazutora and Baji are going to come over later though.” He added after a few moments. 

“Kazutora is always in the narrative.” Inui responded amongst his own laughter. 

“Huh? What’s that supposed to mean?” 

“The last few times I saw you he’s either there or brought up somehow.” Inui explained, “I can’t escape him around you.” He stated, the way he spoke made Kazutora sound like some pest or a lost dog. 

“It’s just a coincidence.” Chifuyu wrote it off, shaking his head hastily, trying to rid his brain of any thought. 

Coincidence . 

Definitely just a coincidence.

At his apartment later on. Yellow—pale-ish walls at every turn, dark wooden floor under his feet, darkness, moonlight pouring in through the window, yellow tones lights turned on. 

Chifuyu was forced to stay alone sitting on the couch in the living room. They’d ushered him out of the house earlier as they set up, and gathered his many gifts. He could hear the sound of Baji’s voice, his own mother shushing him as Kazutora laughed. The three very clearly struggled to do whatever they were attempting. 

Then they entered, Baji holding a blue frosted cake with seventeen lit candles on top of it. Clearly a safety hazard. Kazutora was beaming brightly, and as Baji placed it on top of the table his mother eaglied encouraged him to make a wish.

A wish, what would he wish for? It was rather childish, he knew it’d never come true, but each year he continued to go along with it. He blew out the candles with one wish in mind. 

To blow everyone away during his next concert. 

It was something manageable that he would have to work hard to achieve, but then again it was a wish he would discuss with no one at all. So, therefore, it did not matter much. 

Baji bought him the four volumes to a short romance series he’s desperately been wanting to read. His mother got him an assortment of clothes and other goods.

And Kazutora…

“I’ll definitely come.” Kazutora responded, his lips turning up into a gentle smile, “I found the perfect present to give you.” 

He’d exited the room, heading towards one of the rooms in the hallway with his mother. His gift was stashed in another location. That fact definitely caught Chifuyu’s attention. Baji sat next to him, arms over the back of the couch, one leg crossed over the other, as he watched knowingly with a smirk-like smile on his lips. 

Kazutora entered first, his back turned to the others, and Chiduyu immediately recognized what he was holding with one of his hands. His mother held the other side as they awkwardly stepped into the living room carrying the huge familiar canvas in hand. Baji glanced over at Chifuyu, observing his expression as he laid his eyes on the finished piece. 

It was himself— rather the portrait that Kazutora began working on of him a month prior. When he left the art room earlier that morning it was incomplete, but now it was painted fully to perfection. He himself didn’t know what face he was making right now, but he was sure he looked astounded, his mouth was agape, and Kazutora had completely taken his breath away. 

The lighting, golden, a wonderful accurate replica to what the scenery looked like in Chifuyu’s eyes. It was perfect—there were no other words he could say, Kazutora outdid himself, despite every other piece he did being matchless he found a way to make one even better. It was unrivaled, this truly was his best piece, Chifuyu had no idea how he did it. This painting was put together with just his two hands in the span of a month. It seemed impossible yet, here it was evidently in front of him. 

Kazutora had a bashful smile on his lips, sheepishly turning his head away after he stared at Chifuyu for a few mere seconds. 

There were a few more seconds of awe and utter silence before Kazutora awkwardly coughed out the question, “Well, do you like it?” 

His golden eyes finally turned back to meet a mystified Chifuyu who nodded his head frantically. He got up and headed towards the canvas, his eyes fixed, locked onto the painting the whole time. 

“It is amazing…” Chifuyu’s mother commented as she herself looked over as she continued to hold one side up in her hands. 

Baji grinned, “You had to outshine everyone didn’t you, Kazutora?” He teased the question. 

Kazutora shook his head, and rolled his eyes playfully. Then he stepped back, Chifuyu’s mother following, and the two put the canvas down against the wall.  

“I seriously don’t know if the song is enough to repay you, Kazutora.” Chifuyu stated aloud as the two approached one another, “It’s incredible, seriously, I have no words.” 

“Trust me,” Kazutora began, placing a comforting hand on Chifuyu’s shoulder, eyes meeting at that moment, ”It’s more than enough.” He reassured him. 

..

Thursday December 25th, 2008

Chifuyu spent Christmas with Baji. They were close; they'd been close for years. Considering they live in the same building, and spend so much time together their mothers have also grown a deep bond. 

They spent Christmas morning at Baji’s apartment opening gifts together, and spending the day in their joyful presence. They cooked together later that evening at Chifuyu’s apartment, helping out their mothers while also showing love for Peke J. 

It was a long day. He’d been awake since seven in the morning, and he spent it all in the presence of others while also doing many tasks.

Dinner lasted for a long while. Even when they had finished eating they had a lengthy conversation. Baji’s mother happily informs him she’d attend his show once more tomorrow. 

When he hit his bed he was sure he’d fall asleep, but the opposite ended up happening. 

It was almost midnight Chifuyu had assumed. The moon was full on this night, it glowed bright on Christmas night. The stars are hardly visible amongst the many decorations, and lights scattered across the booming town. He could hear the sound of occasional cars zooming loudly down the street as he struggled to sleep. His window was opened slightly allowing a gentle breeze to pass through his room, cooling the air, making him shiver with chills as he lie under a fluffy blanket. 

A rock hit his window making an audible bang as it hit, bouncing back down onto the deck, and then there was another similar bang, and again what Chifuyu assumed was a rock. 

He rubbed his eyes, groaning as he sat up, despite being unable to sleep he was still weary. 

Chifuyu traversed over to the window, accompanied by a sliding door, he slid it open and he walked out onto the deck. He found two large stones out of place on the wooden deck.

His senses were met with a bright gleaming headlight, and the sound of a roaring engine. Kazutora was standing outside far below him, he stood next to a motorcycle admist the falling snow, waving his hand at Chifuyu, smiling brightly his features dyed a beauitful deep blue hue by the moonlight. 

As loud as he could shout without accidentally waking his neighbors he asked, “What are you doing here, Kazutora?!” 

“Let’s go for a ride, Chifuyu!” Kazutora replied, beaming at the boy as he urged him down. 

Chifuyu looked at the clock on his nightstand, “00:24” it read. His mother would complain to him about it later if she found out, but he couldn’t stop himself from rushing downstairs. He grabbed his gloves, a sweater, he changed into jeans, and he quickly tied his shoes by the door, before he was down many flights of stairs, meeting Kazutora in the back of the building. 

He hadn’t snuck out since middle school when he was occupied with gang activity and late Toman meetings. Chifuyu knew well it was wrong, but it felt right in the moment and even beyond it. 

Kazutora was leaning against his bike, his eyes fixed on Chifuyu, his grin growing wider as the boy approached. Chifuyu noticed a familiar red scarf around his neck as he asked, “You ready to go?” 

“Go where?” Chifuyu inquired as he crossed his arms. He was stopped right in front of Kazutora and his bike.

Kazutora giggled, “I can’t tell you.” He answered, “It’s a suprise!” He cheered joyously. 

Chifuyu sighed, “If you try to kill me you won’t win a fight against me.” 

“I’m not too sure of that.” 

“Whatever.” Chifuyu said while rolled his eyes, “Get on, I’m getting cold.” 

Kazutora nodded, and he hopped onto his bike. His hands gripped the handle bars tightly. He head turned back as he watched Chifuyu climb onto the bike behind him. Once Chifuyu was secure on his seat he was facing forward once more properly.

On a wintry night, a blowing breeze that cooled the already chilly air even more Kazutora felt warmth. Two arms laced around his waist tightly, a head resting against his upper-back almost shoulder area, the pressure of Chifuyu’s body against his own comforting. It was an unfamiliar sensation, but one he knew he would find himself longing for once it was over. 

Kazutora drove. It only got colder with the harsh winds hitting them harder at their increaed speeds. The snow continued to fall painting Chifuyu’s black hair with white spots. 

There was only the sound of cars engines, and the smell of smoke fumes as they stopped at red lights as the two rode. The sight of the colorful city, lit up on Christmas night was even more beauitful the further away they got. Chifuyu had no clue where they were heading but the ride was long and all over the place. They drove fast and slow as they seemingly got further and further away from town. The stars becoming more visible in the night sky as they drove opposite of the bright town. 

It was dark— extremely, his eyes hadn’t adjusted to the night yet as they approached their destination. It was practically deserted no cars or people in sight. However, that was to be expected considering it was past midnight by now. 

As Kazutora’s driving came to a halt, Chifuyu still didn’t know their location, what he did observe, however, was that they were far on the outskirts of town. Civilzation far away as the two were practically in their own world. 

Kazutora stepped off of the bike, his untied hair falling onto his shoulders, he tied it up as he waited for Chifuyu to adjust to their new surroundings. His eyes eventually became accustomed to the dark, allowing him to see better as the two stood in a small parking lot. 

“Ready?” 

Kazutora asked the question with a devlish grin, and before he gave him time to respond he grabbed his wrist, and dragged him down a flight of stairs. The two walking at a quick pace, almost slipping on a misstep, and then they were on a flat surface once more. Chifuyu knew the consistency below his feet, sand, Kazutora had taken him to the beach. 

The waves glimmered in the moonlight, shining brightly as the light from the stars above illuminated each of their crashes against the shore. The abysmal blue water a captivating sight, Chifuyu would love to see Kazutora paint the scenery in front of them, it’s beauty profound and indescribable. The light radiating off the waves twinkled more intensely than any star, they were glowing, the scintillating lightcontinuing to coruscate off of the sea. The sand was covered in a coat of snow, a gentle layer lying upon it, some grains of dull yellow sand were still visible. 

Kazutora stood right by his side, his wrist still held in a firm grip by his thin fingers, their arms brushing against once another, “Pretty right?” He mumbled aloud, his voice almost directly in his ear. 

Chifuyu nodded, “You should paint it. I think you could amplify the beauty.” He mumbled lowly himself, voice almost a gentle calming whisper. 

Yellow eyes glanced over at him, and he tilted his head to meet them, as their gazes met under the moonlight Kazutora whispered, “You think so?” 

“Of course I do!” Chifuyu answered with a nod, he flashed him a smile, warm and filled with sincerity, “Your paintings are wonderful, there’s no one like you.” 

You’re incomparable, Kazutora. 

Kazutora turned his head away, Chifuyu’s wrist dropped from the warm grasp as he covered his face with his hand. 

Chifuyu squinted his eyes as his smile grew wider, and then he was gazing forward at the ocean once more. 

“The sea is a beautiful sight, Kazutora.” 

In his peripheral vision he saw Kazutora nod. There was silence as they continued to set their sights upon the magnificent scene in front of them. 

Chifuyu stepped forward, the snow and sand crunching under his feet. The sounds of the waves crashing upon the sandy shore was like a melodic song in his ears. It was calm and tranquil on the beach in the late hours of night. It was only them, and they did not need anyone else. 

The calm gentle nature of the night would come to an end. Not because the two had packed up, and decided to head back to town before being caught. Instead, mischief had arisen that brought a tense environment to the once calm one. 

Kazutora bent down quickly, his two hands cupped a cold mixture of sand and frozen snow. He lunged towards Chifuyu, throwing the mixture at him as he began to laugh— before he even hit him. He wobbled as he giggled, out of breath, struggling to regain his footing. However, as he did, he observed Chifuyu, who’s teal eyes were wide, and burning with fury.

Kazutora felt his cheeky grin grow wider, and once more he quickly picked up sand in the palms of his hands, closing them into fists before he’d throw it at Chifuyu. A snowball— that was primarily sand? 

“Kazutora stop!” Chifuyu shouted, he was running away from him now, laughter of his own slipping through his lips whether he liked it or not. Still, despite the joyful sound of laughter, he still meant it, his statement genuine. He turned back, meeting those evil golden eyes, “I’ll throw you in the water!” He threatened. 

Kazutora beamed, his teeth on full display as he smiled widely, “I’ll freeze to death, Chifuyu!” He attempted to reason with him whilst continuing to breathily laugh. 

“Too bad!” 

Kazutora panted out of breath, the action shared by the black haired boy lying in the snow next to him. He was covered in dusty sand and snow, it covered his hair and clothes by now. Kazutora was unfortunately the same, his once clean clothes now covered in the same dirty mix. 

“You’re an idiot, Kazutora.” Chifuyu commented, his breathing heavy, joy still flowing through the harsh words. 

“I know.” He smiled, and then his mood changed in an instant, “I need a shower.” He groaned, attempting to wipe away the dusty residue left on his clothing. He sighed once more, “And I’m freezing!” Kazutora continued to complain, he had taken his jacket off, and laid it down on the sand so the two could rest comfortably. 

“That’s your fault!” Chifuyu replied and he was still grinning, eyes shut as he laid down, face towards the dark sky. 

Then he sat up, he crossed his legs comfortably, and scooted closer to Kazutora, “It is cold.” He mumbled the comment as the two sat shoulder to shoulder. 

He didn’t know why he did it exactly. The urge was overwhelming he’d say, it truly was, it was a mix of unstoppable urges, and a newfound confidence that led him to his next actions. He tilted his head to the side a few inches, mere inches, and then he laid it down on Kazutora’s shoulder. He was cold, and he was freezing. Even in the long-sleeve shirt he couldn’t be saved from winter. 

Kazutora was frigid, completely still, including his breath, Chifuyu didn’t hear him breathe for a concerning amount of time. He wished he could’ve seen the expression he displayed, possibly, it would tell him more. Were his pretty eyes glowing golden blown wide staring down at Chifuyu or forward as he did not want to move? His cheeks already had a red hue from the cold, especially the tip of his nose, but did it get more vibrant? Chifuyu was curious if he felt warmer now, maybe he’d ask that question rather than the others. 

There was silence, Chifuyu’s own heartbeat rang aloud in his ears, eventually he’d hear Kazutora’s shallow breathing, hitching as if he was trying not to. 

Chifuyu felt much warmer. 

Pressure was felt against his head, not a hand pushing him away, instead, Kazutora had reciprocated his actions after a long silence. Kazutora’s lips parted, and he murmured, “Chifuyu.”

“Hm?” Chifuyu hummed. There were another few moments of silence as he leaned against Kazutora, the moment rather intimate, as if they were lovers. His eyes fixated on the ocean. 

“I got you a present.” Kazutora confessed, his own eyes shut as he spoke with an embarrassingly wide smile that he futilely attempted to suppress. 

Chifuyu’s eyes went wide, “Another?”

“Mhm…” Kazutora responded in a gentle manner. Despite not wanting to sit up straight he did, and he reached into his pocket. Chifuyu too was fully sitting up at this point. Kazutora could feel his eyes on him as he fetched the tiny gift from his pants pocket, “Merry Christmas.” He beamed as he held the gift out in his hands.  

It was a bracelet made of light blue beads, and it had three different charms on it; a black cat similar to Peke J, a snowflake, and the kanji character for “fuyu” engraved on one small charm. It was custom made, and it was clear there was thought and effort put into it.

Chifuyu held it in his own hands as he observed it, an uncontrollable grin growing wide on his lips similar to his eyes. This was the best gift he had gotten tonight. He put it on his wrist, wearing it proudly. 

Kazutora rubbed the back of his neck, smile wavering, “I’m sorry it’s not much.” It was last minute, he murmured flusteredly as he turned his head away from Chifuyu, and towards nothing at all, just nothing and sand. 

Chifuyu shook his head frustratedly, and he reached out, cupping Kazutora’s face in both of his hands, bringing him forward to meet his gaze. Bewildered, wide eyes meeting his own, “Don’t say that.” He reprimanded, “It’s wonderful, Kazutora.”

Kazutora practically melted into his hands involuntarily. His eyes softening at the sight in front of him, lips unable to turn down into a frown even if he tried his hardest. 

“Thank you so much…” Chifuyu continued, maintaining eye-contact as he continued to hold his face in the palm of his hands, “I’m sorry I didn’t get you anything.” 

Chifuyu finally released him from his grasp, but the two continued to sit side to side in close proximity, their eyes meeting as they spoke. 

“Don’t worry. The song is enough.” Kazutora responded in reassurance.  

Chifuyu grinned, “I’ll perform it for you tomorrow, Kazutora.” His arms were at his side, palms of his hands on the soft fabric of Kazutora's jacket below them. 

“I’m looking forward to it.”

As Kazutora spoke he turned his head, and the two met eyes once more. They were close, still , despite Chifuyu releasing him minutes earlier. 

Their shoulders brushed, and it was as if personal space didn’t exist at that moment.

It didn’t need to.

They were face to face. So close—too close, they were breathing the same air, breaths mixing, a hazy fog blowing between them with each cold wintry breath. Chifuyu could see every feature on Kazutora’s face in full from this distance, he was so pretty— was he always this pretty? Kazutora was attractive, he knew that, he’s seen the stares, and he’s observed the girls who gawk at him as he sits with Chifuyu at lunch. It’s not a rare opinion, and unknown knowledge, but right now Kazutora was stunning. He was so handsome, he’d never been this captivating , Chifuyu couldn’t tear his fixed eyes away from him. 

His lips, pretty and pink, they looked soft, he was curious what his chapstick tasted like. Was it minty, or did he use a fruity strawberry one? They were close enough he could try, mere inches apart, if a strong gust of wind blew on the beach he was sure their lips would meet. He’d never wanted to kiss Kazutora, but right now he wanted nothing more. 

Chifuyu tilted his head, and he was sure he saw Kazutora’s eyes fluttering shut, he couldn’t recall his own shut too quickly. 

This was wrong. He and Kazutora had nothing going on, and if they kissed he would never be able to face him again. They shouldn’t be on the beach, intimately acting like young lovers, and Chifuyu shouldn’t be yearning to kiss him so badly.

He couldn’t do this. 

Chifuyu pursed his lips and then he roughly coughed before he could move any closer. He leaned back adding much needed distance, the tension filled air leaving, instead they were left with nothing. 

Chifuyu covered his mouth with his hand, hiding the embarrassing blush on his cheeks, and his lips which were almost pressed against Kazutora’s. Kazutora turned forward facing the ocean, but Chifuyu could still observe a vibrant red hue from the side, he was just as flustered as Chifuyu.

If he hadn’t sensibly coughed they would’ve made a horrible mistake. 

Kazutora broke the long silence, “You’re going to get sick, we should go home.” He stated worriedly, and he hurried Chifuyu up and off of the snow. 

“Mhm. We should.” 

It was a wonderful night, and he felt like he had so much fun in the moment. But a part of him felt strange, regretful, and empty as if he missed out on something. If there should’ve been more. 

It was a strange feeling he despised. 

..

Friday December 26th, 2008

Those feelings of apprehensiveness never left. Even as he entered the venue, sat behind stage with the crew, and waited patiently for half an hour it never left. His leg bounced uncontrollably, a sign of bad luck, even if he tried he couldn’t stop the motion. The tapping of his foot stressfully echoed around the room. In his perturbation he replayed each scenario that came to mind, none ever good. However, he was thinking only bad thoughts and horrible outcomes. 

He was panicked, filled with fear, completely anxious as he waited in his chair looking around the halls anxiously. Chifuyu thought after a few shows this would leave, but then Kazutora requested he write a song specifically for him, and a million more expectations fell onto him. 

Chifuyu had only played the completed piece for Hinata and Takemichi. They each complimented it profusely, saying it was a wonderful piece especially for a first time composer. Although, a part of him was filled with doubt, what if it sounded amazing in his ears due to delusion, and in reality it was a mess of random keys and terrible music. He couldn’t let Kazutora down, especially after he outdid himself with a piece so magnificent nothing could rival it.

Chifuyu knew Kazutora was sitting in the crowd right now. Most likely next to Baji or Hinata possibly, as friendly and kind as she is, he was sure she’d try to strike up a conversation with him. Was Kazutora eagerly waiting, was he as excited as Chifuyu was to see the painting? If he is, Chifuyu would picture him with bad posture, leaning forward way too much, hands balled into fists on his lap as he tries to contain his bubbling excitement. He’d have a smile he can’t wipe off of his lips, when he’d acknowledge it he’d purse his lips, rid himself of it, for only a moment because it’d never leave for too long. Even in a crowded room with lights overhead during intermission to be shut off later, Kazutora would be shining brighter than anyone else. A vibrant presence, as he stepped onto stage, lights dimming, he was sure he would turn towards the crowd of over a hundred, and immediately spot Kazutora first. 

He hoped these thoughts would ease his overwhelmed mind, but all they did was make him worry more about performing at his best. If that was even possible. If his mind kept racing he’d forget how to play entirely! 

Chifuyu shook his head, ridding himself of all the new and old thoughts he had. He checked the watch on his wrist, he still had a few minutes to go until the clock struck 18:00 exactly. Then he’d have no other choice, but to walk out onto stage. 

He dreaded it, the sound of the crowd's cheers as he stepped out, and how they enveloped into complete silence as he sat down. It took all his strength to not turn his head, he couldn’t gaze upon Kazutora right now, he’d only increase his nervousness. He knew he was there. He’d promised him too many times not to be. 

Chifuyu exhaled, air releasing as he shut his eyes simultaneously. He rested his wrists against the piano, avoiding any keys, the bracelet Kazutora gave him still visible against his wrist even with the long suit sleeves. A part of him wishes that Kazutora would observe that detail. 

He stabilized his breathing best he could considering his uneasy circumstances. The feeling of a singular person's eyes on one can cause nervous emotions for Chifuyu  that feeling was multiplied by over a hundred. His legs shook even as he sat, he had his feet pressed firmly to the ground to try and mask his feelings. His eyes fluttered shut once more as he played the first note to a song he had played many times before. 

He played this very song at his first show, and his most recent one. It’d calm his nerves to begin with pieces he knew well, ones that were second nature to him. When he’s flowing along with the melodic beat, playing the notes with ease, falling into a rhythm—familiar with just a familiar feelings. It would calm the nervousness and tense shoulders. As the first song came to a gentle close, fingers continuing to trace the keys up and down the piano, he felt much more relaxed. His breathing was slow and calm, evened out, and his legs no longer had that adrenaline ridden shake to them. 

Then he played another…and another…and another. This cycle repeats throughout the duration of the show. His shoulders tensed  slightly as he played emotionally and aggressively. His fingers hitting the keys rougher than he’d like during some songs that increased the pace of his heartbeat. He became involved with the music, the sound being emitted reflecting the way he played on stage, bangs falling over his face, his eyes tightly closed, eyebrows furrowed, shoulders much denser than when he played any other piece that night. He’d take out his stress on this song so he could portray a warm more gracious tone for the final song. A song he wrote himself— with the help of wonderful Hinata of course.  

Not once has he used to microphone during his shows. it lie dormant on the top of the piano, waiting for his voice to ring through the speakers. Chifuyu would use it when the shows concluded, thanking his guests, and saying a few words before parting. On this day, that would change. 

Applause and cheers roared throughout the crowd as his second to last song came to a close. As the noise began to thin out, and silence fell over the crowd like it did after each song, Chifuyu tapped the mic to test the audio… it worked. Of course it did. Then he leaned closer, his voice soon echoing throughout the venue hall as he spoke, “This is the final piece I’ll be playing tonight…” He announced to the watching crowd, the eyes of over a hundred all on him. Yet, a part of him only cared for one. He appreciated the ones who paid, and came out to watch him, but if only one person—a certain individual had shown up that night. He would be feeling the same way he does now, “It is a piece I wrote myself, and it is dedicated to a very important person in the crowd tonight.” He didn’t speak the name, he wasn't required to. This individual knew who they were, Kazutora knew there would be a song written just for him performed tonight. 

Chifuyu turned his head towards the crowd for one of the first times that night. The speed of his heartbeat increased as he did so, as he locked eyes with wide golden ones that were still coruscating in the dark. He could see his earring move, twinkling as well, glowing a radiating light along with Kazutora himself. Time slowed for the two as their eyes met, gazes meeting, it was like a bullet soaring through water. Chifuyu was unsure if time was moving at all until he forced himself to tear his eyes away from the sight, and to the white keys that lie in front of him. His wrists lying dormant against the piano. 

Then he moved. He lifted his wrists, and he played the first few notes. He heard the barely audible sound of breaths hitching in the crowd, his own pounding heart ringing in his ear like an alarm, and the dying sound of the final key he played. There was a pause like he intended, one he wrote into the song right from the start, he breathed, deep, taking in the tension filled air into his lungs. It was heavy, filling his lungs like smoke. It was hot, almost burning. Instead of closing his eyes, he left them open slightly, half-lidded as he stared down at his own fingertips. He dragged them against the keys staring intently as he continued the song. There were no more long pauses, now he would play intensely until the piece inevitably came to an end. 

The feeling was addicting. It felt like his first performance all over again, but so much better. He was hooked on the feeling. The mixture of adrenaline, and something he could describe swirling around his heart, and coursing through his body—his veins like blood. Keeping him alive with this feeling he felt drunk off of. Time was slow, but too fast at the same time. He could hear the sound of each note clearly in his ears, his cheeks felt hot, and he could see the visible shake in his hands that he couldn’t control. 

He wished to gaze at Kazutora. Meet his gaze, and watch as his features twisted and changed as the song progressed. It wasn’t something he could act on, his eyes stayed fixated on his hands, and he intently played the piece from start to finish. For once, he was sure he didn’t make any mistakes or simple slip ups. He’d never played a piece with such focus and care like he was carrying an expensive vase with uncomparable delicacy.  

By the time the piece came to an end, he heard the cheers of the crowd. A volume he’d never perceived before by the audience. His chest was heaving, and he was out of breath. He couldn’t recall the last time he breathed, but he felt more alive than ever. His legs were like jelly, his mind muddled, and he couldn’t move. He could feel the smile on his face, wide and displaying his teeth. His eyes were twinkling, his expression showing true joy and delight. 

When he finally regulated his breaths, and found his footing after a few moments he stood up, bowing in front of the standing audience. Who continued their cheers and round of applause. He thanked them before he’d step behind the stage. 

A message he got on his phone would lead him to a different location. Chifuyu didn’t get time to rest, instead he was heading for the exit doors in the back. 

Snow began to fall in the dark parking lot. The sun had gone down only a few hours prior leaving the sky a dark navy blue like hue. It was pretty—it lacked stars though, the stars Chifuyu was able to admire as they beamed brightly on the beach—a location far from other lights and civilization. However, he didn't need the sight of stars right now. Not when Kazutora was strutting towards him lustrously. His eyes twinkled in the moonlight, he was gentle smiling, his cheeks dusted red from the cold. Red scarf wrapped tightly around his neck. 

It was just them. The two of them. The others remained sitting in the venue, the two getting a moment to themselves. 

Kazutora planted his feet permanently on the pavement as he stood a short distance away from Chifuyu, “I don’t even know what to say…” He confessed truthfully, awkwardly chuckingly after he spoke. 

Chifuyu only showed him a warm smile. 

“All the songs you played were wonderful, but the one for me…it was so much more. I can’t even put it into words.” He spoke the second half of his sentence hastily, as if his brain was moving faster than his lips. 

“I feel the same way about your paintings, Kazutora.” 

Kazutora nodded, lips never leaving their upturned position. He buried his hands into the pockets of his pants, they were frigid, and frozen from the cold. With eyes encapsulated in the gaze of Chifuyu’s own he murmured, low, but loud enough for Chifuyu to hear in the buzzing parking lot, “You never fail to take my breath away, Chifuyu.” 

A shared sentiment. 

Even the sentence alone led Chifuyu to react in such a way. His breath hitching as his eyes widened. 

“You’re so talented it’s indescribable.” Kazutora responded profoundly, shaking his head as he failed to speak the words buried deep in his mind. 

Chifuyu understood him more than anyone else could. Despite their different hobbies, skills, talents, however one would describe them. The feelings thrown at them, coursing through the body at the mere sight or sound of their art is something they can’t describe, but can share. 

The painting was magnificent. Chifuyu was certain it competed with professionals.

Chifuyu has always felt like this when it came to Kazutora’s paintings. 

Kazutora had his hand over his shoulder, balled in a fist with his thumb out, pointing in the direction behind him— the entrance to the venue, “We should head back, everyones waiting to see you.” 

“Yeah, let’s go.” 

..

Monday January 5th, 2009

It was now the third term of his second year, and it dawned on him that Kazutora would be graduating at the end of March. When April arrived Chifuyu would start his third year, and when he entered the art room there would be no one. It’d be deserted, empty, no longer tranquil, just utterly dull, and devoid of life. 

He and Kazutora would no longer have these meaningful mornings. The ones he enjoyed so much, the reason he’d begun arriving at school earlier than before. It’d be gone in an instant because Kazutora was graduating. In turn, leaving Chifuyu, and the shared memories in the art room behind. 

Chifuyu felt stiff as he sat on the stool that morning. A feeling of worry swelling through his veins. They had twelve more weeks together. March twenty-seventh would be the last day they met together like this, just the two of them, relishing in each other's presence in the suffocating, but lovely abandoned art room. Left alone by all other students. 

Chifuyu would miss these pleasant conversations. The friendship and close bond they’d formed over the span of one term, and he despised how it would end so soon after another. 

Kazutora wasn’t there currently, he’d gone to a storage closet to grab extra paint, leaving Chifuyu alone with his wandering thoughts, and lingering fear. 

However, eventually, a knock on the art room door would drag him away from the terrors of his mind. He’d stand up quickly, confusingly making his way towards the door, it was unlocked after all. He slid the door open, the handle held under the slight pressure of his fingertips with ease, and he was met with the sight of boxes. Kazutora leaned to the side, smiling widely as he revealed himself as the culprit. 

Kazutora gently laughed, awkwardly—forcefully to fill the growing silence, “Can you help me?” He requested boxes shaking slightly which each movement, many stacked, reaching above his forehead. 

Chifuyu nodded, and he reached for the boxes towards the top, removing weight from Kazutora’s arms. Kazutora shot him another smile of appreciation as his face became available, and the two walked the boxes into the art room. They left them on the desk that Chifuyu usually sat next to, and then they slid the door shut once more. 

Kazutora sat down on his own stool in front of an easel without a canvas. He wiped the sweat off of his forehead, and then he turned towards Chifuyu, “Thanks.” 

“Mhm.” Chifuyu hummed, “Hey, I was wondering what do you want to do after you graduate?” He asked, he couldn’t let the question linger in his mind any longer. Graduation was only a few months away, and he needed to know. 

“Hmm, isn’t it obvious?” Kazutora asked with a teasing smile, then he tucked a free strand of hair behind his ear, “I’m going to go to art school.” 

Chifuyu's lips parted slightly with embarrassment and awe, he really should’ve made the connection. With his lips still turned up in a gentle smile he flisterdly responded, “Right…I should’ve expected that.” 

Kazutora snorted and then he returned the question, “What would you like to do Chifuyu?” His eyes fixed on him, listening attentively. 

“In the future…I’d like to own a pet shop.” Chifuyu confessed, piano was just a hobby compared to Kazutora’s art, which would become a future career. 

“I didn’t expect that. Although, it makes sense now that I think of it, you do love animals.” Kazutora replied, honestly, “I heard art school is pretty shitty…don’t be shocked if I join you.” Kazutora half joked, with a wide grin on his lips. 

Chifuyu shook his head, “You shouldn’t give up on art. You’re too good, everyone should be able to see it. Feel what I feel when I do.” 

Kazutora covered the bottom half of his face with his hand, embarrassingly grumbling out in an almost whisper, “…you’re too kind.” …And honest. 

..

“Chifuyu!”

Pink walls, the window open letting in a cool breeze, and hardwood floors. One family picture lie on the wall above the piano, others scattered all over the apartment. Takemitchi lying lazily on the couch, Hinata sitting on the bench in front of the piano, facing Takemichi. Chifuyu was sitting next to her, neither working, nor practicing— not that had anything to work on anymore. 

This was how he spent the majority of his Sundays, and he enjoyed each and every one. 

“My, oh my,” She was at a loss for words, her lips parted in an expression that could only be described as awe and amazement, “It sounded even better on stage!” She shouted happily, her smile radiating, speaking louder than her words did in that moment. She moved her hands frantically as she tried to find the words to describe the emotion coursing through her, “God, Chifuyu, you outdid yourself—everyone—you’re amazing! That performance was incomparable. I don't think there will ever be another like it! It was unbelievable!” Hinata ranted and raved about his last show in December. The one where he performed the song they wrote together for Kazutora. 

She finished her statement with the most unexpected sentence, “If Kazutora didn’t fall in love after that he must be a fool.” 

Chifuyu’s eyes went wide, his mouth agape, his expression speaking loud enough. He could hear Takemichi’s uncontrollable laughter as he stared at Hinata in complete and utter shock, “I—Huh?!” He asked aloud, loudly. 

Hinata rolled her eyes, “Wow…you’re totally oblivious.” She commented teasingly. She sounded a lot like Inui right now. 

Inui took another sip of his drink, sighing loudly, “You’re so fucking oblivious.” 

“Whatever you’re suggesting is wrong!” He huffed in annoyance, crossing his arms like an upset child. 

How wrong was Hinata truly? Chifuyu knew how strange the relationship between them was. He hadn’t been able to stop questioning it since the night on the beach. An event he’d spoken about with no one, he wanted to kiss Kazutora, and Kazutora was about to reciprocate. 

Chifuyu shook his head to rid his brain of his thoughts, then he swiftly turned around, facing the piano now.

“Let’s practice, Hinata!”

..

Sano Shinichiro’s shop. A hangout for former gang members and current ones alike. The front door, the entrance open allowing a cool wintry breeze into the establishment. His two trusted employees leaning lazily against the register counter as it was a pretty uneventful day. 

They had few customers, and even fewer visitors. Leading them to spending their shift staring at the row of bikes lined up in front of the shop, or the split second passersby that walked by every then and now. 

Chifuyu was there, in the company of Draken and Inui. Despite their conversation that ignited here and there his mind was still focused on graduation. More-so the fact that he wasn’t. Not for another year.

That fact led him to his next topic. 

“What would you like to do after graduation, Draken?” Chifuyu asked, he needed to know, it seemed like everyone had their futures mapped out, and the last thing he wanted was to be torn away from his friends because they were entering a new chapter of their lives. He and Baji were entering a year late. 

“Hmm?” He cocked his head, wiping his oily hands on the rough fabric of a dirty white now grey rag, “Inupi and I were going to take over the shop eventually.” 

Chifuyu nodded. They’ve always had a love for bikes. Makes sense. 

They’d be staying here, even when Draken finished school. He’d see him the same way he still sees Inui who graduated a year prior. That gave him more hope for seeing the artist as he made it big. 

..

Friday January 16th, 2009

“Chifuyu,” 

Kazutora grinned, shaking him awake from his short-lived slumber. He’d fallen asleep in the art room, arms folded on top of the desk, head resting in them uncomfortably, his neck straining from the strange angle. He only had a few more moments to bask in the growing sunlight before he was met with the harsh sound of the bell ringing. 

Chifuyu rubbed his eyes, he was still drowsy, sleep almost overtaking him once more if it wasn’t for the buzzing hallways. The sound of ringing, chatter in the cluttered classrooms, and his need to get to his own class overtook his sense. He sighed, he’d completely slept the morning away, he hardly remembered arriving at school before he was out on the desk. 

Chifuyu stood up, mumbling a short apology to Kazutora before he headed for the exit. His movements halted as his wrist was grabbed, Kazutora’s actions lacked force, but he dragged Chifuyu’s attention to him once more, “…would you like to check out a new café with me after school?” Kazutora asked, golden eyes glowing as he stared up at him. 

Chifuyu nodded, smiling softly, he was still tired, but with a raspy voice from lack of use he responded, “Yeah!” 

Now he sat in the crowded establishment. The seat across from him was empty, a person once sitting there, that same individual at the register counter ordering drinks for the two of them. He felt far more refreshed than he did this morning. Any fatigue he felt had left him hours prior. Chifuyu watched as Kazutora ordered, he had a fake smile spread across his lips, his earring jingled as he moved his head with exaggerated enthusiasm. He pulled out his wallet paying, before he waited by the counter, eyes meeting Chifuyu’s as he stood off to the side, body now facing him. 

Kazutora grinned at him, giving a gentle wave before he crossed his arms. His eyes left, darting around the establishment awkwardly as he didn’t know where exactly to look. He waited patiently for his name to be called, then he could collect their drinks, and they could finally converse over coffee.

“Hanemiya!” 

Chifuyu was dragged out of thought, his eyes finally torn away from Kazutora. The other footsteps clicked against the tiled floor as he headed towards Chifuyu. His ponytail moved as he walked, strands of hairs falling, blocking his vision, unable to be swept away as he held two drinks in his hand. 

Kazutora leaned over, placed one of the beverages in front of Chifuyu. Almost instinctively Chifuyu reached out, his pale fingertips grazing Kazutora’s skin gently as he tucked the stray, fallen strand of hair out of his face. He could see Kazutora’s eyes grow wider, see them flicker over to him, and the gentle smile that twitched, threatening to make his lips rise. 

Kazutora kept his composure, and he replied faintly, “Thank you.” 

“Mhm…” Chifuyu hummed, and then Kazutora sat across from him, quickly he replied, “Thank you for taking me here!” 

Kazutora smiled, “Yeah, it’s no problem.” 

In the art room they never faltered, conversations came easy like a blowing breeze through an open window. So why …why did they struggle to fill the silence that grew between them each time they met outside of school. 

Kazutora stared at the table, fingertips tapping rhythmically against the wood. Chifuyu maintained an awkward grin as he stared at him, sipping delicately from the straw of his drink. He had told Kazutora to surprise him, and he did pick a good drink— sweet and perfect to his liking. 

Chifuyu returned to a topic that was easy to discuss with Kazutora. Painting. He loved to watch him fall into an infatuated speech about a hobby he adored.

Chifuyu tore his lips away from the straw, and out of sheer curiosity he asked “Do you plan on painting more portraits?” 

“Hopefully.” Kazutora answered ambiguously, with a  soft tone he cooed, “I really enjoyed painting you, Chifuyu.” 

“I loved the portrait.” Chifuyu replied, the piece of art clear in his mind, “I love your landscapes too, but I think you should paint more portraits too. They’re beautiful.” 

Kazutora tore his eyes away from the wooden surface of the table, up to Chifuyu’s teal eyes, and  he replied, “You think so…if it’s you asking then maybe I will.” 

Almost ghostly, the words dying as they left his lips, in a faint rasp of a whisper Chifuyu pleaded, “Please do.” 

They continued to converse, the topic changing rapidly. From Baji to Peke J, to other stories Kazutora had from before Chifuyu joined Toman. The words flowed easily like a river, the prior topic tearing down the gate that held them imprisoned. 

Tucking another free strand of hair behind his ear, his hand still wrapped around his warm cup, warming himself up in the process, Kazutora asked, “Do you have any performances coming up soon?” 

“March. The date isn’t set yet, but that’s the month they could get me scheduled.” Chifuyu answered, “I won’t be performing a song for you this time so realistically you don’t have to attend…” 

“What?” Kazutora asked in confused laughter, “Of course I’ll attend I didn’t just go for my song dummy,” 

“Right. When a dates set I’ll tell you.”

“You better!” Kazutora declared in determination, amongst laughter that spilled from his moving lips he stated, “If I can’t get tickets I’ll break in.” 

“Do not!” Chifuyu reprimanded with a shaking head, he grinned, “You don’t want to go back to jail… do you?” 

“Of course not, I'll miss you too much!” Kazutora confessed, he was joking, clearly, right? Then he asked, “If I did go to jail you’d write me letters right?” 

“No way.”

“Huh! You’re evil Chifuyu!” Kazutora giggled, covering his mouth with his hand, “Stop being evil!” 

Chifuyu smiled. 

..

Sunday January 25th, 2009

He recounted his prior day. Chifuyu sat atop a bench, one he’d sat on many times before, in an apartment where he spent most of his Sundays gazing upon a piano. His mouth was moving, lips spilling out each word that described the day he spent yesterday. He and Kazutora went to a café together, a new one, just the two of them. 

Hinata listened intently, she rested his head in the palm of her hand as she listened to his recountment with a gentle fond smile on her own lips. 

Chifuyu finally paused after he’d trailed on about his Friday consistently for a few minutes at this point. 

“Chifuyu?” Hinata asked. She still had a gentle smile on his lips, and a knowing glint in her eyes. Chifuyu met her gaze, and as he did she finally brought light to an untouched subject, “Do you love Kazutora?”

She spoke the words like they lacked weight, as if they were common words like ‘hey’ or ‘hello,’ and not a question that implied a declaration of love. 

Teal eyes went wide, his lips parted before his jaw dropped, he stared at Hinata with confused eyes, and an awestruck gaze. He had many questions he wanted to ask, each repeated over and over in his mind, but he’d only utter one word that would suffice for now, “What?” 

Hinata giggled, “You talk like you’re helplessly in love.” She stated accusingly. 

Chifuyu blinked, dumbfounded. Her words rang loud in his ears despite the deafening silence. She only stared at him, her eyes in search of an answer to her question. 

There were a few more short moments of silence, his lips parted as he tried to collect himself, and his unspoken words. 

“I might be.” 

She made a popping sound with her lips before she happily admitted, “I thought that…” 

It was close enough to a confession. For once, he’d admitted that there were definitely other feelings brewing between him and Kazutora. 

Chifuyu spat out his next words hastily, flusteredly, he rested his fists on his knees, digging into them as he confessed, “I almost kissed him on the beach.” 

“Huh?” She was as shocked and flabbergasted as Chifuyu was a few moments prior. With wide eyes she asked, “What beach? Kiss?” She pried for answers, as to be expected, she was dropped surprisingly information, and she wanted nothing more than clarification or an explanation. 

Chifuyu recited that night to her with cheeks dusted pink, and a wavering tone that fluctuated from embarrassment. 

They were face to face. So close—too close, they were breathing the same air, breaths mixing, a hazy fog blowing between them with each cold wintry breath. Chifuyu could see every feature on Kazutora’s face in full from this distance, he was so pretty—was he always this pretty? Kazutora was attractive, he knew that, he’s seen the stares, and he’s observed the girls who gawk at him as he sits with Chifuyu at lunch. It’s not a rare opinion, and unknown knowledge, but right now Kazutora was stunning. He was so handsome, he’d never been this captivating, Chifuyu couldn’t tear his fixed eyes away from him. 

His lips, pretty and pink, they looked soft, he was curious what his chapstick tasted like. Was it minty, or did he use a fruity strawberry one? They were close enough he could try, mere inches apart, if a strong gust of wind blew on the beach he was sure their lips would meet. He’d never wanted to kiss Kazutora, but right now he wanted nothing more. 

Chifuyu tilted his head, and he was sure he saw Kazutora’s eyes fluttering shut, he couldn’t recall his own shut too quickly. 

Hinata was bewildered. In awe, she too couldn’t find her words as they scrambled in her brain. Her lips were parted, but she didn’t speak as she sat there taking in the new information. 

Chifuyu rubbed the back of his neck in embarrassment, “I didn’t want to make a mistake…you're also the first person I’ve told about this…” 

“I don’t think it would’ve been a mistake!” Hinata interjected, “I saw the way Kazutora looked at you. I’ve always been sure he felt the same way, and the way you spoke about the moment…I feel like he wanted to kiss you as well.” Hinata confessed in quick, meaningful words. 

“I don’t know. I mean…I just accepted how I feel… I just don’t know.” He continued to repeat his confusion.

“It’s okay.” She responded, placing a soothing hand on his shoulder, comforting him. She said, “I wasn’t there so I can’t say anything for sure, but I think you have a good chance.” 

“Thank you, Hinata.” 

Chifuyu spoke despite not fully believing, nor trusting her words. Although, he truly wanted to. 

“Mhm! I’ll keep this a secret, just between us, okay?” Hinata replied, holding out her pinky finger childishly. 

Chifuyu repeated her actions, they locked pinkies, sealing their promise. 

..

Sunday February 8th, 2009

He threw himself on the bed. He covered his eyes with his arm letting it drape over him. He released a long sigh, his heart pounding, those feelings he felt, planted into his body like a seed were now beginning to sprout, and they were consuming him. 

It all strived from an event that had happened earlier. Considering it was Sunday he’d spent the afternoon with Hinata practicing the piano. 

It was as usual until he prompted a question that had changed the direction of their practice. 

His fingers halted against the keys, “Do you think we would have enough time to write another song before my next show?” Chifuyu asked, the topic had been eating away at him for the last few days. 

“Huh?” Hinata’s eyes went wide, they twinkled with light as she asked in utter awe, “You want to write another song…?” 

“Mhm…for Kazutora again.” He answered in embarrassment, he knew his cheeks were a burning red hue, he knew Hinata could tell he was flustered, but he couldn’t stop himself. 

Hinata smiled, “Like a confession?” 

“Huh? Why would you think that?” Chifuyu barked, he shook his head before switching it to a nod.

“Don’t ask questions like that. Especially when you know the answer.” Hinata scolded with a gentle laugh, “I finally got you to realize your feelings for him so of course I’ll assume this is some sort of confession.” 

“So what if it is?”

“Then I want to help you! If we work hard enough we can finish it before your next show.” Hinata explained, she shook his shoulder excitedly in an attempt to brighten him up, “Let’s write it. I’ll help you.” 

“Alright…thank you, Hinata” 

Then he shot up, quickly he requested, “Can we keep it a secret. I actually don’t want him to know.” 

“Mhm!” She answered in a cheerful hum. 

As of today, he was now writing a second song for Kazutora— a secret one. 

Every thought in his mind was Kazutora. He was printed onto his brain, the words strung aloud in his head a repeat like a mantra. Kazutora…Kazutora…Kazutora… over and over again. It was on loop like a broken record. His face was clear in his mind, he’d erased the other side of KaUtora’s he’d scene, a scary almost lifeless version with eyes that didn’t shine the same one. The one who didn’t glow like a star, the one he’d met by pure coincidence months ago. Back then he was just an artist, but now it was cruel to label him just that. 

If he were just an artist Chifuyu wouldn’t feel like this. His hand gripped the fabric of his shirt in front of his pounding heart, then again, Chifuyu had to admit his original judgment was right. 

Never in his life had Chifuyu ever thought of anything as perfect, but this painting was a masterpiece—far more than perfect. No word in the dictionary could describe it; from the emotions he expressed by merely laying his eyes upon the piece, to the piece itself, there was nothing quite like it, it was beautiful in so many ways, Chifuyu couldn’t put a finger on just one that stood out from the others. Even now, as he continued to longingly stare as the piece of art from afar, unfinished, him unmoving for many moments, he still found new details to latch onto and cause his heart to burst into flames. 

Chifuyu had never truly been in love, but he was sure this was what love felt like. 

The painting was bewitching enough for Chifuyu to compare it to the feeling of love—a feeling like no other. The piece was elegant, alluring, utterly captivating, even as time continued to pass, slowed in Chifuyu’s mind he couldn’t turn away, his eyes completely locked on the sight in front of him. He had never experienced a situation quite like this one, and he wished for it to never end. The unfamiliarity of it all should’ve been frightening to him—even just a bit, but that was not the case, instead, he found himself to be swarmed with feelings of infatuation instead. 

He feels like he did then…when he’d first seen one of Kazutora’s paintings. 

And he’d continued to feel like this. Those feelings mimicked when he laid his eyes upon Kazutora. As if he too were a painting. The only person that could paint something that magnificent was Kazutora. 

The stares—the fucking stares. They looked at each other too long to just be friends. Soft love filled gazes adoring and sickening, never platonic in any sense. God, what were they what was he doing? That night when he almost kissed Kazutora on the beach, what was he thinking?

Hinata was right.

Chifuyu looked like he was hopelessly in love, he spoke like he was utterly smitten, and Kazutora had his heart in his hand. 

He groaned. He sat up, Peke J was watching him judgmentally from the edge of his bed. 

“What?” Chifuyu asked, as if the cat would respond. 

The cat only meows back. A typical response, the only expected response really. Chifuyu sighed, “Are you judging me over this too, Peke J?” 

The cat blinked. 

Chifuyu groaned, “I get it. I was super oblivious, and now I’m writing some cheesy song for him.” He said, then he rested his chin against his knee, “And I’m talking to my pet cat as well expecting it to talk back…” 

Chifuyu exhaled a long breath before he laid back onto the mattress. He would fall asleep with the same tune on repeat in his mind over and over, along with the flashes of memories they’d shared together utterly smitten.

..

Thursday morning in the art room Chifuyu found himself drawn to Kazutora’s tattoo. It was an art piece in itself, and it sparked his many questions. 

Their proximity had diminished, Chifuyu was leaning close to him, his breath against Kazutora’s shoulder, his fingertip tracing up and down the flesh of his neck. His nail almost carved out the tattoo a second time as he admired it from up close. Kazutora’s breath hitched as his yellow eyes watched Chifuyu not moving away from him for even an instant. 

Faintly Chifuyu mumbled, “Did you design it yourself?” He was right next to Kazutora’s ear, his words came off in a whisper for only him to hear. 

Almost strained, he responded, “Yeah.” Kazutora cleared his throat only a second later. 

“I like it.” Chifuyu responded simply, his eyes still fixed on the tiger inked in black on the other's neck. It was covered often, he usually wore turtlenecks, or he’d attempt to hide the artwork behind the collar of his shirt. Chifuyu continued his speech after a few moments, with his cold fingertip continuing to trace the image with delicacy he confessed, “I love your tattoo…” 

“Yeah?” 

“Mhm…” Chifuyu hummed, and then he let his eyes fall on Kazutora, who met him in an instant, “I find a lot of tattoos tacky and awful.” Chifuyu admitted, and then his gaze was back on Kazutora’s tattoo, his hands never leaving, “I often wonder what drives people to get them. Permanent ink latched to your skin forever. Unless, of course, you pay a fee, and go through another process to remove it.” 

Kazutora chuckled at his remark, his tattoo moving slightly along with the short lived moment. 

“But as I look at yours…” Chifuyu continued, “I find myself drawn in, unable to look away.” He whispered, ghostly, as his fingertips grazed the exposed skin of his neck. 

Then, he pulled away, he leaned back giving Kazutora space, allowing him to regain his breath, the two able to gaze upon one another much easier from this common distance. 

Kazutora smiled and immediately he was back to his teasing self, “You should match with me then!” He suggested. It was a joke, of course. He smirked, his grin devilish, “If you can find a needle I have some ink we can go do it in the bathroom.” 

“What is wrong with you?” Chifuyu asked as he shook his head, “You’ll kill me!”

“A few bandaids and you’ll be good as new!” 

Chifuyu continued to object, shaking his head continuously as he spoke, “I am not getting a matching tattoo with you.” 

..

Wednesday February 18th, 2009

Chifuyu often found himself at Shinichiro’s shop. Whether the owner was there or not. He’d spend his time admiring the bikes or conversing with the employees. 

The sky was clouded, the interior of the shop lit up by bright white fluorescent ceiling lights. Inui was leaning against the counter next to Chifuyu, he wore the white ‘S.S Motors’ uniform, with his name written on a nametag. Draken was sitting on the ground, working and repairing a red bike that had been dropped off here earlier. The owner was long gone, promising to come back once the work was completed. 

The three talked about nothing and everything. They recited stories that’d happened over the last few days, or plans for future events. Anything really. It was buzzing conversations that would pass the slow time as they worked a long shift. 

Inui inquired, “When’s your next show? Are you writing a new song for that one too?” Two questions, relatively similar. 

“The next show is not until late March.” Chifuyu answered, and then he gave a quick nod to the second question. He exhaled, and crossed his arms, leaning further into the register counter behind him, “I’m writing another song for Kazutora.” He confessed, he should’ve felt embarrassed, but right now he didn’t, he let the words flow out with ease, “Don’t tell him that though.” 

Inui smirked, in an accusing tone he stated, “I’m assuming that means you finally realized it.” 

Draken wiped the sweat from his forehead, he wiped his oil covered hands on a dirty rag as he turned to face them, and he responded, “I had a feeling it would happen soon.” 

Draken let out gentle laughter, his eyes darting between Inui and Chifuyu, and then he too asked a question, “Are you two together now?” 

Chifuyu shook his head hastily, he frowned, “No and what?” He asked with a raised eyebrow.

It wasn’t shocking that Hinata had an idea about his feelings. Especially before he himself did, but Draken…to Chifuyu it was out of the blue. He didn’t expect such a question from him of all people: 

Draken grinned and lightheartedly he explained, “Baji complains.” 

Chifuyu had never once wanted to punch Baji. Actually, in all truthfulness he was sure he was incapable of doing so. Right now, however, he really wanted to slap Baji. 

..

Monday March 2nd, 2009

Sunshine poured into the room, uninvited. The curtains were pushed to the side, allowing one's sight to see the spring sky outside. 

Chifuyu always loved the art room. Almost deserted, a place for only him and Kazutora in the morning.

The sound of pencil scratched, a paintbrush hitting the side of a can, and the familiar look of Kazutora’s concentrated face as he painted something Chifuyu could only create in his imagination. Kazutora hadn’t stopped painting scenery, in fact, it's only gotten better since his portrait painting of Chifuyu. 

Chifuyu allowed himself to be rid of any weights, any feelings that would place themself a top of his back, and add stress to him. As he watched Kazutora he didn’t need to think, to feel, to speak, he only let his eyes be fixed on the sight, and the delicate paint strokes that Kazutora made over and over again.

He was going to miss this.

When he didn’t need to think, when he could let his mind rest, he thought. 

“Kazutora.” Chifuyu spoke, dragging both out of the tranquil environment they were relishing in.

Kazutora paused, and then he set the paintbrush down, his attention turned towards the other, “Yes?”

“When you graduate…we're not going to have mornings like this anymore…” He spoke, he wanted to slap himself as he said it. Obviously. How could they, Kazutora’s going to be off moving forward with his life while he’s stuck here. Alone, a singular person in a dormant art room. He shook his head in frustration, “I’m just trying to say I’ll miss… this,” He paused, you he wanted to say. Chifuyu attempted to explain what he meant, his feelings heard through his words more than he wished they were.

Kazutora laughed, and Chifuyu almost smacked him. 

With a dopey grin he cooed, “I’m not disappearing?” Then that grin turned into a teasing smirk, “You’re acting like I’m going to die. Should I haunt you like a ghost, Chifuyu?” He beamed, then he raised his arms up like a zombie, wiggling his fingers as he childishly yelled, “Booooo!” 

“Stop that!” Chifuyu shook his heas, turning away from the sight, “I’m just trying to say we won’t have mornings like this anymore.” 

You’ll miss it too, right? 

Kazutora nodded, “Sorry.” He said, despite not meaning it all that much, “I’ll try to see you as much as I can,” He assured him, and in an almost whisper, the words soundly ghostly he mumbled.

“I promise.”  

..

They wrote. 

Hinata wrote to be exact, his fingertips moving quickly up and down a blank sheet of paper along with the slow music. Chifuyu played, he let his fingers fall where they begged to be, he had an idea in his head. A rhythm, a melody he was sure was perfect, and he let Hinata write the notes onto paper. He played a written draft, making few changes before, and after he played. 

There were many drafts scattered about. Other pages fell in the trash as they did not meet the expectations. 

Chifuyu found it to be far easier to write considering he’d done this once before. 

They were almost finished, they’d begun work a month prior, and finally their hard work would be completed so he could present it in front of a large audience. 

Hinata needed a break before he did. Her wrist in agony, she hadn’t been able to stop her constant flow of writing as he played. She didn’t want to miss any crucial notes that would find their way onto each draft sheet. Although this wasn’t the best method, it worked for when they were trying to find the melody Chifuyu preferred. Eventually they’d go back to conversing, writing down notes, then allowing Chifuyu to play, listsn, and then determine if it fit with the song he wanted. 

Hinata stretched her arms, leaning back as she did, clearly enjoying her soon to be short lived break. 

She turned her head towards Chifuyu. He was very obviously absorbed in writing. He hadn’t wanted to take one break each Sunday as they worked together. His eyes almost burned with a flaming fury, determined to make this song better than the last. She parted her lips as she said, “Hey I had a question.” 

“Hm?”

“Do you plan on confessing to Kazutora anytime soon? Like before or after the song?” She asked, then she shook her head, “You don’t have to answer! I was just curious.” 

“I haven’t really thought of that…after?” Chifuyu pondered aloud with himself, he sighed as placed a finger to his cheek, “I guess I wanted the second song, the music itself to be a confession…but what if he doesn’t get it…” He continued to wonder aloud in low mumbles. The words were still clear as they flowed through Hinata’s ears. Then he answered directly, “I don’t know.” 

She shrugged with a gentle laugh, “I should’ve expected that.” 

“Can we get back to work now Hinata?”

“Huh?! No way! I need another five minutes at least!” 

“Fine.” 

..

Saturday March 14th, 2009 

Kazutora had some sort of infatuation with trying to break Chifuyu’s window, that is what he thought of course. 

Late into the evening when civilians should be sleeping or settling down Chifuyu is instead awakened by the sound of large rocks hitting his window and balcony door. He knew exactly who the perpetrator was, and his suspicions were confirmed as he headed to the balcony, he opened the window, stepping out onto the deck, and once more he was met with the sight of glowing golden eyes and motorcycle headlights. 

“Kazutora?” He asked, following with a prompt long sigh, “What’re you doing here?” 

“Come on! I have a place I want to take you!” Kazutora smiled, he grinned widely, he beamed, and he urged him with his expression alone to head down those steps and meet him here. 

Despite this being a foolish action to partake in. He did. Chifuyu didn’t have to be told twice. He slipped into a comfortable sweatshirt to shield him from the cold nightly weather, and he was out the door in a matter of minutes. 

“Hey.” Kazutora grinned wider as Chifuyu approached, greeting him simply before slipping onto the bike, “Let’s go.” 

It was quick and without trouble. Chifuyu hopped on, wrapped his arms tightly around Kazutora's waist, rested his head on his upper back, and blamed his actions on the weather. The gently occasionally cool breeze, and the harsh winds from the speeds at which they rode. It was enough, enough to explain off this. His black hair blew in the intense winds, Kazutora’s own tied up like it usually was, failing to hit him from where he lay. 

They didn’t go as far this time. Kazutora still remained quiet, keeping the destination sealed behind his lips, a secret, to build anticipation Chifuyu assumed. 

The riding part went much faster than Chifuyu thought, still, in the end, they approached a location they probably shouldn’t have been at this time of night. But there was no turning back. As Kazutora took the key out of the ignition the headlights turned off, and then it was totally pitch black. His vision hadn’t adjusted to the deep dark night, and he watched his step as he walked forward. 

Eventually, as it became easier to see, eyes accustomed to the darkness, moonlight painted once brightly green grass a deep pine shade. They were at an empty park, one with a field, a large hill, and plenty of overbeaing trees with branches that outstretched and covered the sky above with leaves. The mentioned hill was exactly where Kazutora wanted to go. He grabbed Chifuyu’s hand, and he dragged him into the field, there was so much outstretched land of just grass, and then it became elevated. They ascended up the hill with a few trees lying on top, dropping stray leaves onto the grassy surface below. It wasn’t a long hike, not much of a “hike” at all, it was an easy hill to climb, then roll down, and climb back up right after. Still, despite its lacking height, it still had a pretty view of the field night sky at the top of it. 

Flowers covered the field, freshly growing, leaves appearing back on plants, a large hill was where they observed the sight. 

Kazutora shrugged his jacket off of his shoulders, he laid it down on the ground creating a comfortable surface for them to sit on. One where they wouldn’t be pricked and stabbed by the tough grass blades below them. They sat closely, side by side, shoulders touching, they were obligated to— if they wanted to fit on the soft fabric of course. Chifuyu held his knees against his chest, arms wrapping around them. Kazutora leaned back, arms behind him, hands falling on the grass as they were too far outstretched. 

They conversed for a decent while about anything and everything at all. Chifuyu released bubbly laughter, outgrown bangs falling uncomfortably over his eyes at moments. 

Kazutora would recount stories, or events that happened in his own class, considering he was a year above Chifuyu, Chifuyu would’ve been unfamiliar with what he was saying. It made for an interesting conversation. Amongst the stars and the sound of a gentle spring breeze. 

Eventually a comfortable silence would fall between them.

Kazutora was staring forward admiring the stars that were far more visible out in the middle of a dark park. Chifuyu couldn’t stop himself from helplessly observing Kazutora, admiring his features like the other watched the stars. 

Kazutora was handsome, more than handsome, he was alluring, captivating, utterly fascinating. He was like a sculpture, perfectly made with delicacy and care, handcrafted by an angel themself, and Chifuyu couldn’t tear his eyes away. Kazutora illuminated anywhere he walked into, he glowed brighter than any star in the sky. Stars, an object with a luminous body that shined bright enough to be seen from light-years away, yet, Kazutora was more brilliant than any of them. How was that, even in a dark empty field in the pitch black night Chifuyu wouldn’t find his eyes above at the sight in the sky? Instead, he would look to his side where the radianting boy outshone anything in the solar system. 

“Kazutora.” 

He called him, he had to, his breathing heavy, the feelings he experienced overwhelming. He was sure Kazutora felt his eyes on him, overbearing, burning him with the intense gaze he shone in his direction. Amidst the silence was the call of a name, and a pounding heartbeat. 

Kazutors turned to face him, seeing his face, wide eyes with an unnameable expression, impossible to read, his eyes almost blinding him with the shimmering light they emitted, and the rest of him was indescribable. He cocked his head to the side, “Hmm?” The sound of the questioning hum, and jingling earring filling the quiet night. 

Chifuyu couldn’t speak. He hadn’t intended to confess—if he even was going to— ever, and now he was sitting face to face with Kazutora. The words, “I love you.” Trying to pry their way out, threatening to spill out of the confines of his lips. 

He pursed his lips, teeth biting into them softly as he tried to contain himself, hold himself back from making a foolish mistake. The way he felt now was the equivalent to how he felt when he was about to kiss Kazutora on the beach. Uncontrollable. The urges practically consuming him, nonexistent hands, grabbing, and reaching for his lips, trying to pry them open. His lips quivered, his eyes wide for too long , they were dry and watery, and he was sitting there looking crazy as Kazutora waited patiently for a response. 

Chifuyu had to part his lips, allow himself to speak, do anything to feed these urges that were eating away at him. “Kazutora,” He repeated futilely, he knew now more than ever that any chance he had of stopping himself was thrown away in that moment. Now, today, on the fourteenth of March he would inevitably confess his feelings to Kazutora.

“I love you.”

Three words spoken too soon. Saying too much and too little at the same time. There weren’t enough words to describe how he felt right now and always near and without Kazutora. He was utterly infatuated, and that infatuation threw all of his rational thinking out of the window. Chifuyu knew it was a mistake. He’d felt it before. If he’d gone through with it, and kissed Kazutora on the beach when he yearned so badly to, he'd feel the same way as well. It was a foolish mistake that he couldn’t write off or undo even if he wanted. 

Chifuyu’s own expression was laughable, humiliating, and unpredictable. He, the one who confessed, was staring wide eyed, lips parted in awe, a face of horror and astonishment painting his features. He spat the words out without thought, and he’s the reason why Kazutora’s silently staring back. Yet, he’s sitting on the hill looking like he has no idea…because a part of him doesn’t. The words practically jumped out of his lips, blurted out by accident, it was an accident! A mistake! A mistake that will change his life forever. 

However, loving Kazutora wasn’t a mistake. God, he knew that more than anyone, but his big mouth, and incapability to himself from uttering words said too soon, or to never be said at all is the mistake. The biggest mistake he’s ever made was that. 

And just when he expected Kazutora to display pure disgust on his face. To push him away and utter just as unforgiving words before leaving him alone. It never came. It never happened. Instead, he was upset. 

Kazutora pursed his lips, and any light in those once transcendent golden eyes were gone. He looked like a replica of the Kazutora he saw in the art room all those months ago. A side of Kazutora he hasn’t seen since November. He was expressionless, unreadable, and he was dim. Lacking in color at all, a star that once shined so bright was now a shadow of their former self. His eyes were practically black, and Chifuyu couldn't bring himself to look at him. 

It hurt, his expression itself tore him to shreds. 

“I get it.” Chifuyu murmured, he wanted—no he needed to get out of there as soon as possible. He was flustered, he was upset, and it felt like he’d been stabbed straight in the heart, “I understand…” And then he began to stand up, to run, and to leave without an clarification, to leave this mess unresolved, “…I need to—“ 

The other grabbed his wrist, not roughly, he hardly held it. If Chifuyu wanted to free himself he could without a fight. “Stop.” Kazutora uttered, his voice dull, void of any emotion, his hand still wrapped loosely around his wrist, but Chifuyu didn’t budge. He waited, he stared down at Kazutora pathetically with watery eyes. Then there was a shift in his tone, in a gentle, low, almost ghostly whisper he mumbled, “…stay.”

Chifuyu knew he needed to leave, but he couldn’t deny Kazutora.

He sat back down, body frigid barely moving, he’d made distance between them, he suddenly didn’t mind the discomfort of the grass below. 

“Please…don’t leave, just stay.”  He practically pleaded, his voice oozing with urgency, it was pathetic, he’d indirectly rejected Chifuyu, and now he was sitting there begging for his presence. 

He felt rage bubble inside him, frustration that was only amplified by his already hurt and distressing feelings. 

Chifuyu held a melancholy expression, his tone the contrary, “What?” He harshly spat out. He had to go, he needed to leave now before he made any further errors. 

“Chifuyu.” 

Why would you confess, Chifuyu?

Kazutora reached for the fabric of his own sweatshirt, holding it tightly in between his fingertips. Then he looked up at Chifuyu meeting crying glossy eyes, and furious furrowed brows. Then he futilely apologized, “I’m sorry.” It was a statement he’d need to hear when he wasn’t caught up in the moment, with frustration swelling inside of him, hands balled into tight fists. 

Then Kazutora confessed, “I want to love you!” His own eyes wide, determined, he tried to calm Chifuyu, but he was shut up before he could speak further.

“Huh? What kind of bullshit is that?!” Chifuyu shouted, he was uncontrollable now, his mind was telling him to cover his mouth ,and swallow down his emotions, but he couldn’t stop himself. It was as if after he spoke the second mention of Kazutora’s name his mouth broke open like a failing dam, leading him to spill out words unruly. Harsh words flooding Kazutora’s senses, repercussions to be dealt with later. “You want to love me? Kazutora, that makes no sense?!” He almost cackled at the foolish statement, contradicting, and provoking. 

Chifuyu’s hand reached out and he grabbed the front of Kazutora’s shirt, balling the fabric in his fist. He wasn’t enraged anymore, there were no more words left to yell, his throat was dry, and he was overcome with immense sorrow. He stared at him, water flowing out of his eyes like a faucet, he couldn’t stop if he wanted to, his lips wavered uncontrollably, and it all happened at once as he met Kazutora’s gaze. “If you want to love me then just do it? Why can’t you love me?!” He asked, and pleaded, fervently repeating the question in search of an explanation.

Chifuyu continued to bombard him with unanswerable questions, he didn’t want answers, he needed to spit his thoughts out at the one who affected him most, “If you’re incapable of loving me then why would you make me fall in love with you?! Why, Kazutora? Why paint a portrait of me, why take me out on these random nights, why treat me with such importance and kindness. Tell me why that night on the beach happened, and why we’re here right now? Why do you influence these uncontrollable feelings?” As he uttered the final question he released Kazutora from his forceful grip. 

Why why why? 

Then he leaned back, letting his head fall into his hands, he covered his flowing eyes, and his mouth which was panting releasing heavy breaths. His heart was beating faster than ever, it was the loudest noise in his ears, like a drum. Now he couldn’t face Kazutora. He wished he’d ran off, left, like he wanted to do so bad at first. 

“Chifuyu,” The name felt like venom, poison, as if he had no right to say it, “I’m sorry. It’s not your fault, I don’t know how to love.” 

Huh?

The words sounded ignorant and foolish. Chifuyu grabbed fistfuls of his hair aggressively with his hands. Before he released them, taking a deep breath, he faced Kazutora’s sickening gaze once more.

“Don’t know…?” Chifuyu asked, his eyes wide as ever, “You learned how to love portrait painting again, but you can’t learn how to love me?”

Chifuyu shook his head forcefully, rubbing his temples in frustration, and then he stood up. Kazutora’s protests were like white noise in his ears as he refused to listen. It was repeats of halfwitted pleas he could care less about. 

“I was a fool for falling in love with someone like you.” 

He spat as he walked down the hill, he refused to turn back, and he placed his hands in his pockets after a few moments. He’d use the decently long walk home to allow him to feel his feelings, and think his thoughts, and maybe, he’d find something on his way to erase Kazutora from his memory. 

What a fool he was indeed. 

..

Monday March 16th, 2009

It was strange. For the first time in months there was a fluctuation in his routine. On all his prior mornings he’d head to the art room with a book in hand— one he’d never read. 

On this Monday, however, he couldn’t even stare at the closer art room door without his heart racing uncontrollably. He’d futilely grip the fabric of his shirt in an attempt to calm it, of course, this never succeeded. With clenched teeth and swift feet he headed straight for his classroom instead.  

He dropped into his seat with a lack of care, quickly opening the book to a random page, he did not care to read, he couldn’t. Not when his mind was spinning and racing with thoughts. He’d be unable to comprehend the words on the pages even if he tried his hardest. In his peripheral vision he could see Baji, he was staring right at him, he could feel the burn of his eyes as they continued to gaze confusingly as Chifuyu like he was somewhere he didn’t belong. 

Chifuyu turned his head, meeting his eyes for a moment. Baji only raised an eyebrow before going back to doing what he was doing prior.

Chifuyu only shook his head in a futile hope to rid himself of these mind consuming thoughts. Kazutora’s face, especially the expression he made as he turned Chifuyu down, was clear in his mind. Imprinted on his brain, a sight he could never unsee even if he attempted to erase it. 

And just when he expected Kazutora to display pure disgust on his face. To push him away and utter just as unforgiving words before leaving him alone. It never came. It never happened. Instead, he was upset. 

Kazutora pursed his lips, and any light in those once transcendent golden eyes were gone. He looked like a replica of the Kazutora he saw in the art room all those months ago. A side of Kazutora he hasn’t seen since November. He was expressionless, unreadable, and he was dim. Lacking in color at all, a star that once shined so bright was now a shadow of their former self. His eyes were practically black, and Chifuyu couldn't bring himself to look at him. 

It hurt, his expression itself tore him to shreds. 

Even now, the sinking feeling in his chest, as he gazed upon those lifeless eyes felt as new as day. It never left, it felt brand new, Chifuyu wondered when it was supposed to leave. 

Leaves blew in the breeze, the orange hue of ghe setting sun painting all the surroundings, the sun falling over the hill slowly, inching further behind it at each sentence. There was silence as they walked, Baji aimlessly kicking a stone on the ground as if it were a football, Chifuyu sighing in annoyance every few seconds. It wasn’t the first time he’d done this—the day after he met the previous first division vice captain he found himself arriving at school in a mix of upset sighs, and annoying breaths. He wondered if Baji  acknowledged it, he definitely did, he had chosen not to speak on it for now. 

Chifuyu released one more long sigh, huffing in exasperation, it was all too familiar to him by now. He’d done it out of habit the entire day.

“What?” Baji finally inquired, he halted his kicking of the stone, and he continued to traverse normally now. He stuck his hands in his pockets, and stared at Chifuyu with a questioning raised eyebrow, “What’s been with you all day? You weren’t with Kazutora this morning either…does that have something to do with it?” 

Chifuyu shook his head before switching and nodding  fervently, “I’ll talk to you when we get home.” He muttered, grabbing the fabric of Baji’s sweater, dragging him at a quicker pace. 

The two were close to their destination already, but at this speed it’d only be a few minutes until they arrived at Chifuyu’s doorstep. 

Chifuyu sat on the couch and released a long breath, a mix of his feelings being exhaled, and his exhausted from the almost run home. Baji was in the kitchen making a package of yakisoba for the two to share. 

Chifuyu always thought he could read Baji like a book, but he was sure it was mutual. In some ways. Like right now, Baji had completely pinpointed the issue— despite it being rather obvious —he too could easily suspect when something was off. Chifuyu was sure he knew from the moment he saw the change in routine. The questioning gaze from this morning was the beginning of his suspicion. 

Chifuyu’s half had gone cold. Baji was sitting next to him listening intently as he slurped away. His eyebrows giving him all the expressiveness he needed without his words, considering his lips were occupied with a meal at the moment. 

Chifuyu recounted that night, the night on the beach as well, his foolish mistakes, especially the one that led to his current situation. He told Baji it all, describing Kazutora’s expression, the one he couldn’t erase from his memories, he recounted his response word for word. He told Baji everything like a formatted essay, refusing to leave out one detail as he spilled out every single thought and memory that had been eating his brain alive for the last few days. The two were close, this was nothing new, but it was odd considering the person he was defaming was Kazutora. Kazutora who knew Baji longer, Kazutora who Baji wanted him to grow close to— probably not this close though— the Kazutora who Baji most likely knew better than Chifuyu. 

It was like a flood gates opened, and they let loose every single emotion and word that have been attempting to pry their way out in search of their now granted release. 

Chifuyu shook his head as he finally concluded his recount of the events, “That’s why I wasn’t in the art room this morning.” With a wavering voice he murmured, “I can’t face him anymore.” 

“Hmm.” Baji responded in a hum, he crossed one leg over the other, nudging the cold yakisoba on the coffee table towards Chifuyu. Then he thought for a moment, “That’s what I thought.” He confessed, “Not all of it, but something big happening like the rejection.” 

Then Baji sighed, lightheartedly he replied in a joking manner, “Kazutora’s dumb. I’ll talk to him about this.”

Chifuyu almost spit out his food, he swallowed quickly as he protested in loud shouts, “Do not!” He lunged at Baji, mere inches away from him as he stared at him wide eyed, “Don’t tell Kazutora I told you! Do not, Baji!” He continued to protest and plead, screeching loud enough to warrant a noise complaint if he didn’t calm down. 

Baji covered his mouth with his, and he furrowed his brows, “Stop shouting. Fine. I wouldn’t say anything.” He responded.

To Chifuyu it wasn’t very persuasive, he wasn't convinced, and he was sure he’d eventually find out Baji had gone to Kazutora with the story Chifuyu provided. The words he said were factual, but the last thing he needed to do was cause a rift between the two of them because he and Kazutora failed to work out their complicated feelings for one another. 

..

Sunday March 22nd, 2009

Chifuyu held it in front of him a few pages of music written in Hinata’s clean handwriting. She did it as he played, the many drafts she’d written over the weeks they worked discarded in the bins never to see the light. These pages, however, would shine bright under the spotlight. Flimsy white sheets that were more than scribbles and ink. 

That is, if they were to be performed at all. Takemichi and Hinata sat on the couch behind Chifuyu, waiting eagerly for him to finally perform the final piece once and for all, but he couldn’t move. His head was down, eyes aimed towards the blurry hardwood floor he recognized so well. Palm hands balled into tight fists that rested on his knees, knuckles digging deep into his jeans, friction rubbing an uncomfortable sensation onto the skin of his legs. There was a point where he felt just as eager to perform, yearning to hear the piece that spoke the words from his heart for him. Ever since that day, however, a little over a week ago, he hasn’t felt the same since. Those feelings perished that night on the hill.

“I’m sorry.” Chifuyu muttered out, he tried to keep his tone stable but it quivered and wavered as he spoke despite his protests. He shook his head, and then turned to face Hinata, “Thank you for your help, Hinata, but I can’t perform it anymore.” 

Hinata cocked her head, “Huh?” She asked, eyebrows furrowed in confusion. She turned her head, gazing at Takemichi for answers, in response he only shrugged, just as lost as Hinata. 

The blonde swallowed before he uttered, “Did something happen?”

 Chifuyu’s dejected stare burned them like fire, the way his green eyes looked nothing like they ever had before said more than enough. It answered their questions without a response needing to be uttered. 

“You did it…?” Hinata asked in awe, however, it was more of a statement rather than a question. Her coral eyes went wide with complete shock as her mind assessed the new information, “Chifuyu? There’s no way he’d turn you down right?” 

“As conceited as it sounds I thought the same thing.” 

Takemichi and Hinata at the same time, as if they were connected, both met gazes once more before turning back towards Chifuyu. On queue, like a practiced act they both shouted, “What?” 

“I told you,” Chifuyu shook his head, swatting his hand, he’d much rather not recall that night, but it seems at this point he’d have no choice, “I confessed and he turned me down.” 

“But why?!” Hinata asked in utter confusion, “I thought— huh? It was so clear he felt the same way?” Even she questioned the sentences she spoke as she bombarded him with many questions that flooded her brain. 

Chifuyu leaned back, crossed his arms over his chest, “I don’t know either.” He confessed, even thought it’d happened over a week ago, he still couldn’t wrap his mind around that night, “He sprouted some bullshit about “not knowing how to love” it pissed me off. I can't even confront him. If I do, I fear I may punch him.” Chifuyu stated the last part lightheartedly, giggling deprecatingly.  

“A part of me wishes I could time travel. Go back to that day, and stop myself from confessing.” Chifuyu sighed, in a low mumble, almost whispering, he flusteredly confessed, “I miss his company more than I’ve ever missed anyone else's.” 

Hinata shook her head and clicked her tongue, “He better not show up to your show! I’ll slap him for you!” 

Takemichi raised one of his hands near her shoulder in to calm her, but he retracted it with a defeated smile before making a futile attempt. 

Sternly, her eyes locking Chifuyu’s own in a fixed gaze, she demanded, “Don’t perform it.” She pursed his lips, sighing before she continued, “Burn it. Burn all the sheets in a fire, get rid of it, and the memory of its existence.” 

The action was an attempt to liberate himself from his own feelings. 

Takemichi raised an eyebrow, eyes wide, despite parted lips, and complete awe displayed through his features he didn’t speak a word. 

Chifuyu shook his head, “Thank you again, Hinata. I can’t do that. Not yet, at least, I would also hate to get rid of your hard work as well.” 

Hinata nodded, “I assumed you’d say that.” Then she sighed once more, “Just…think it through before you decide to perform it or not, okay?” 

Chifuyu repeated her actions, “Alright.”

..

It was the day before his show. A show he dreaded with his whole heart, his entire soul, his eyes burned, pulsed with a consistent pain as he tried to hold back the tears that began to leak out. They clouded his vision, making his eyes glossy like a sea, river, or beautiful ocean. But there was nothing “beautiful” about the feelings he’d been enduring these last few weeks. 

At this point, Chifuyu had assumed he would take all his anger out on the piano if he didn’t get to Kazutora first. 

When there was a knock on the door, aggressive—sort of authoritative, Chifuyu thought he finally had his chance to unleash the hundreds of words and bubbling emotions that swirled over the last ten days. Although, when he opened the door with fury, the eyes staring back at his own were not golden. Dark brown, a deep shade, almost black, it was Baji, Baji was here. But for what reason? They’d parted ways earlier with no mention of a later visitation. 

Baji grinned, so clearly fake, Chifuyu could read him like a book. He’d been by his side so long it was to be expected— although, perhaps, anyone could, considering Baji wasn’t known for masking how he truly felt. If was upset one would know, Chifuyu could always recall when he was filled to the brim with anger, his hands balled tightened into shaking fists, he’d punch any person who passed him civilian or otherwise. 

Therefore, the expression did nothing to fool Chifuyu. He did get a good laugh out of it. The barely shown fangs that hid behind his lips, the quiver of his lips, his eyes which lacked the glimmering light they’d have when he was usually this excited. 

“Hmm?” Chifuyu hummed, putting an end to this awful, awkward silence that’d fallen between the two, and then he asked, “What do you need Baji?” 

“I’m checking up on you.” The long haired boy stated blunty before heading into the apartment uninvited. He sighed loudly as he plopped himself down on the couch, acting as if a few flights of stairs were a mile, “I’ll be at your next show. You know that already though.” Baji said aloud in an attempt to brighten the others mood.

It was futile, he was not Kazutora. Kazutora was the fix to the situation like a wrench to a pipe. 

“Thanks.” Chifuyu mumbled in response, taking a desk next to Baji, whose head lay off the armrest of the couch. 

“Brighten up!” Baji sighed once more, he sat up, meeting his gaze with an annoyed frown, “No one wants to see you so depressed at the next show. You know my mother will pester you until you have no choice but to tell her everything.” Baji threatened. Threatening him to feel better…very Baji, it worked— sort of. 

The sentence brought a gentle grin to Chifuyu’s lips, “The last thing I’d do is tell your mother about my relationship issues.” 

“Exactly, so feel better.” Baji responded with a “light” punch to his shoulder. 

Chifuyu smiled and nodded, it wasn't as easy as it was to speak the words aloud. Without a clear solution he’d have to perform, swallowing down his performance before he took a seat in the center of a stage, spotlight directed straight at him. 

..

Thursday March 26th, 2009

He ignored the tears welling up in his eyes. He had no other choice, if he went out on stage looking like a complete and utter mess he was sure he’d be booed off by the crowd. No average person could play with foggy vision, a pounding headache, and wet tears falling onto the keys they’d inevitably struggle to play. 

The first voice he heard in his mind was Kazutora’s. If Kazutora was here he’d say, “But you’re not average, Chifuyu.” However, Kazutora’s not here, and Chifuyu’s about to walk onto stage like a total fool, misstepping, and bringing himself to uncontrollable tears as he finally performs a song written for someone he’s hopelessly in love with. Unrequited love. Kazutora didn’t love him— he couldn’t, and he made it very clear that night he ripped his heart to shred mercilessly. 

Hinata told him to not perform it. To burn the piece of music in a fire, and let it die along with his feelings. 

As if he could. Burning that song is the equivalent to stabbing himself in the chest, piercing his heart with a blade to free him from restraining feelings. Feelings he’d learn to get over eventually with time, mystifying feelings of love that no one else has ever ignited in him. Of course, the only perpetrator to ever do it was a fool. Chifuyu was a bigger fool to ever think they could be something more than two artists that spent their mornings together. 

Tomorrow when Kazutora graduated they would never see each other again. God , he pulled his hair roughly, head falling down, his back straining from his awful posture as he sat on an even more uncomfortable chair. He was wrong, that was not true. Even if he tried, he would be unable to avoid Kazutora like he did all these months. The random encounters that sparked up out of nowhere, ones that were unavoidable no matter how hard he tried. He would always cross paths with the strange boy in the art room. 

His black hair was a complete mess, the white button up his wore, sleeves rolled up, revealing a custom bracelet on his wrist a mess. He looked how he felt, awful, but there was no time. He’d be called onto the stage in a few minutes, and he would have to swallow down his feelings and perform with a fake smile. 

This time his legs were shaking, he wasn’t nervous, there wasn’t an uncontrollable jitter in his hand as he waited anxiously in his seat to be called onto stage. Adrenaline running through his veins freely as he beamed towards the crowd. In that crowd, on this day, he expected one familiar face to be missing from the audience. 

He was wretched, hand gripping the fabric over his heart as he stood up dully. His movements lacked any excitement. He had a blank expression, if he had to describe himself he was sure he looked like a replica of Kazutora in the art room.

Because, for some reason Kazutora was always a part of the narrative. No matter how many times he’d tried to avoid him, to let his curiosity about the artist die, he would always find him again. As if they were destined to meet each other, the world had planned their meeting, and it was bound to happen.

Even if it had to be repeated over and over again. They were to cross paths once more. 

He sighed, long and drawn out, heavy, even the breath carried more emotions than he wished to admit. He balled his hands into fists, and he headed for the steps. Once the clock hit a new hour, he’d be directed out, and onto the stage he dreaded so much. He’d never dreaded rhis stage in the past, this place—scenery he’d grown to love. He hated it.  

Chifuyu steps rang across the stage. Hardwood floor clicking under black dress shoes. Expensive and shiny. He wanted to stare straight forward, at the piano, posture straight, head up, but he couldn’t stop his curiosity. He needed to gaze upon the crowd at least once. Have his suspicions be confirmed once, and for all before it consumes his thoughts all throughout the duration of the show. 

Except, they’d never be confirmed. 

His eyes were wider than ever. The light flowing back into those dull lifeless teal eyes. It only took mere seconds for him to meet golden ones. His sympathy expression, and compassionate stare. 

Chifuyu couldn't put his feelings into words. He wasn’t feeling just one emotion. His mind was on fire, an uncontrollable wildfire in the heavy blowing winds that set his brain ablaze. A part of him was angry, he bit the inside of his cheek, but he was also relieved, blithe, far more thrilled than he would like to admit. He’s been told before he was too forgiving, but with Kazutora in the crowd, eyes fixated on him, he couldn’t stay frustrated for long. 

He did have a show to perform as well. He’d get his feelings explained, under control later, but for now he needed to sit in front of the piano, and do what he loves most. 

He inhaled a deep breath, exhaling a moment later. He needed to clear his hazy mind. Body overwhelmed, his heart on the verge of exploding if this kept up. His routine never changed, Chifuyu would play a few songs he was familiar with to get him into motion, sort of like a warm up, and then he’d finished with two new ones, and the one he wrote…the one he hadn’t told Kazutora about. The one for Kazutora. 

Chifuyu performed his first songs without a hitch. It was like any other show. He’d repeated this so many times it shouldn’t have been any different. The new songs were wonderful, he had much enjoyment playing them in front of an eager crowd for the first time. 

What he dreaded was his final song. He wasn’t required to play it, he could substitute it for another one he practiced. But as he gazed upon Kazutora in the crowd he knew his heart wouldn’t let him choose any other choice. 

When the second to last song came to a close, his finger held the final note for a few long seconds, he exhaled along with it. Regulating his breathing as he calmed himself down. 

With one more breath a few more moments of preparation he leaned towards the mic he had only used one other time. During his last show, “This final song…” Chifuyu used the microphone once more, he never intended to at first, but he felt a need to announce it especially since now Kazutora is in the audience. He tilted his head towards the crowd, almost immediately they made eye contact, with their gazes locked, as if he was speaking to Kazutora and Kazutora only, he announced, “I wrote it for someone very dear to me.” He confessed without shame, no one, but Kazutora— and probably everyone else who knew him— knew it was for him. He awkwardly laughed, rubbing the back of his neck in embarrassment as he flusteredly admitted, “I actually didn’t think they’d attend, and I thought I had written it for nothing.” He spoke quickly, trying to spit the sentence out before regretting it. 

The audience erupted in sympathetic laughter. He’d make a good comedy star at this point. Then it was quiet again as they waited for his next words, “But when I walked out on stage they were the first one I saw, and I knew I would have to perform this song tonight.” He turned away from Kazutora, hiding the deep red flush on his face as he stared down at the floor below him. 

When he played this song he expected to be overwhelmed with hatred. A feeling that would show as he played, fingers roughly banging against the keys, abusing the piano, his shoulders tense, eyes open wide with fury, eyebrows furrowed. 

Instead, he did not. 

The eye contact he made with Kazutora as he spoke into the microphone changed him. The expression he displayed, Kazutora in general, Chifuyu was smitten, and he couldn’t bring himself to be angry as he played a piece he wrote for him. 

With an expression of his own, adoration, he gazed at the crowd once more, eyes falling upon the artist. His lips were parted slightly, he was entranced, his eyes directly on Chifuyu completely transfixed. He looked bewitched despite no keys being played yet, completely captivated, ready, waiting patiently for the piece to be performed. Sound of the piano keys, speaking for Chifuyu to ring throughout the venue. They said more than words could. 

Then he moved. He couldn’t stare any longer, he lost his focus the moment he did, and so, he gazed forward looking at the familiar sight of white and black piano keys, and his own fingertips that hovered above it. 

And he played, fervently, as if he had a gun to the back of his head, but he felt no fear. Liberation, he felt free, free to express as many feelings he could in the notes he played alone. No words were said nor exchanged, but he hoped that this song alone would portray his feelings great enough for Kazutora to understand. His shoulders were raised as he played with force and emotion. 

He hated Kazutora— no —he couldn’t, he was upset with him, the fourteenth, the events from that day never left his mind for a second. But between his bubbling frustration and anger, mixed with his hurt, he knew he still loved Kazutora. Those feelings arisen— like no other weren’t just ones he could toss to the side and ignore. Each day his heart ached, he yearned to see Kazutora once more, and to show him the love brewed in his heart for him and him only. 

Chifuyu wished to see Kazutora, to gaze at him once more, to see his beating heart through his chest as he listened to the piece written by Chifuyu and for him. Notes written purely with love, each handpicked by himself, stringed together into the perfect song, and unrivaled rhythm that spoke louder than his heart could. 

The moment went by too quickly and too slowly. He remembered Kazutora’s face as he began in his mind, the expression he couldn’t wipe away from his brain, stained onto there, impossibly forever . 

At the same time he was playing the final note, ignoring the stray tears that rolled down his cheeks, the result of his overwhelming feelings that consumed him.

Chifuyu mouthed, “Kazutora, I love you…” As the final note if the song came to its drawn out, echoed, inevitable end.

His heart was racing, pounding harder than it ever had before, no show performance had ever felt like this, and he was sure no other one would compare. 

Chifuyu sighed, then he pushed against the edge of the piano as he leaned back, standing up, and taking a quick bow. Uttering his thanks before he headed back stage hastily in a flustered hurry.

Kazutora leaned against the car he had arrived in, flowers set on the trunk of the car, he fiddled with his hands nervously as he waited. He’d messaged Chifuyu as soon as the song ended, and he could only sit alone with his thoughts as he waited for the boy to show up—if he ever would at all. 

He’d heard the song, he knew who it was for… him. Chifuyu had written him another song straight from his heart. 

The others didn’t approach them. They stayed back inside the buzzing venue to give the two alone time in the outskirts of the parking lot. 

Footsteps echoed in the parking lot. Heels from his shoes hitting the ground with undeniable force, as he headed straight for Kazutora. A part of him wanted to slap him, and call him an idiot, but he couldn’t bring himself to do so. Instead he suffocates him with the hug he dragged him into. His arms around his neck, almost choking him with the force he exerted. 

He was out of breath, panting, letting his head fall into the crook of Kazutora’s neck. He was relieved and upset at the same time. Right now, he was just glad that Kazutora attended his show. It was the last thing he expected. Kazutora reciprocated the hug, wrapping his arms tightly around him. 

“I’m sorry.” Kazutora whispered, loud, shockingly loud almost a shout despite him whispering. It was spoken hastily, breathily, Chifuyu had completely knocked the air out of his lungs with the forceful hug. Fervently he continued to speak a string of apologies, the same two words repeated over and over again almost endlessly, “I’m sorry…I’m sorry…I’m sorry…I’m sorry…” Each time it was whispered directly into Chifuyu’s ear. Kazutora eyes were shut tightly, he relished in the feeling of him in his presence, the two in a warm

embrace. They were brought together by many feelings. His lips continued to move with thought as he whispered the apology over and over again.

‘I’m sorry’ would never be enough just uttered alone no matter how many times he said it. He’d have to prove himself with actions, and Chifuyu was sure he understood that. 

Chifuyu pulled back, covering his mouth with the palm of his hand, “It’s okay.” He assured him, far from an ‘I forgive you’ but that would arrive with time. 

He pulled his hand back, Kazutora arms still laced loosely around his shoulders, they were too close to look like friends, especially considering the circumstances. The first words uttered by Kazutora was another futile, “I’m sorry.” His mind couldn’t think of anything else, he had to apologize, he was a fool who made a huge mistake. 

Chifuyu cupped his face with both his hands, bringing his closer, their foreheads mere inches apart, eyes still locked in transfixed gazes, “You don’t need to apologize anymore, I understand.” He whispered, low enough to only be heard by the two of them. Kazutora was the only one who needed to hear those words anyways. 

“I can't. I feel awful , Chifuyu.” Kazutora sentimentally whispered, the words spoke amongst shared breaths, “I got scolded by Baji so much too…I deserved it. This has been eating away from me since the second you left. I shouldn’t have said all that.” He mumbled, finally closing the distance, and pressing his forehead against Chifuyu’s own. He shut his eyes along with the motion. 

“You should feel awful…but it’s okay. I promise you that, Kazutora.” Chifuyu murmured, moving his thumb back forth in a swiping motion gently across the sensitive skin of Kazutora’s cheek. 

“Mhm…” He responded in a low, almost inaudible hum. 

There were a few moments of shared silence. Chifuyu finally acknowledged their predicament, the close proximity, to his own hands, along with Kazutora’s arms. It’d all happened too fast his mind hadn’t even caught up yet. His heart pounded like a drum against his chest, he recognized the feeling all too well at this point, and Kazutora was to blame for that. 

Like the night on the beach. The night he almost made an irreversible mistake, he felt the exact same way. 

The irresistible urge to surge forehead, and eliminate this almost nonexistent distance between them was high. Kazutora’s lips were right in front of him. He had to do practically nothing to kiss him. He’d wanted to kiss him so bad for months it was almost a need at this point. 

Kazutora wanted him too. At least, he assumed, from that night on the beach, to the words uttered on the hill. 

This time he was sure it wouldn’t be a mistake. 

His eyes locked on his lips turned up into a fond smile, then he closed eyes, he was only a few inches away. They were close, but not close enough. 

Kazutora pursed his lips for a moment, then he smiled along with gentle breathy laughter, “I can feel you staring.” He stated accusingly, then teasingly, with utter veracity in his tone and words he whispered, “If you want to kiss me so badly just do it already...” 

That was all he needed. That confirmation sealed his future actions once and for all. 

Chifuyu tilted his head to the side, his lips parted as he leaned forward. Kazutora had already repeated his actions, and their lips locked together with ease. Like two puzzle pieces being connected. He shut his eyes, the palms of his hands remained, cupping Kazutora’s face, the arms wrapped around his shoulders tightened, no longer loosely hanging there. It lasted  mere seconds, no more than fifteen, but the feelings lasted far more. It was exhilarating, almost intoxicated, a drug that Chifuyu was hooked on in an instant. The feeling was unrivaled to any other, the actions filling his body with a shock that surger with warmth. He was completely infatuated with Kazutora, and the endearing feeling this provided. 

The action confirmed his feelings, it confirmed so much more, it didn’t even feel real. He felt like he was in a dream. As they pulled away, still only inches apart, Chifuyu could only look forward at Kazutora, utterly enamored with him. The look in his eyes spoke loud despite never saying any words at all. His expression, his actions, the words he wished to speak. He was completely bewitched, smitten, and he wished to never leave this dream-like moment.

Kazutora leaned back, the hot tension filled air between them diminishing as he reached behind him. He grabbed a gift for Chifuyu off of the trunk of the car. 

Kazutora handed Chifuyu the bouquet of white tulips. A purchase he’d put research into before confirming it. Suddenly he was flustered, that got him, not the prior actions. He tucked a strand of hair behind his ear, an action he commonly did, and he tore his eyes away from Chifuyu and towards the night sky. The untuckled strand of hair blew in the breeze, and his hand lingered up by his cheek for a moment as his lips parted. He could still feeling the electricity, the warm feeling of Chifuyu’s own against his, even as they moved, as he uttered words that Chifuyu could only describe as a confession, “You learned how to write music for me, and you taught me how to find joy in portrait painting again.”

He finally turned his head, meeting Chifuyu’s eyes as spoke the last sentence intently, “Therefore, you’re right…I am a fool if I can’t learn how to love you, Chifuyu.” 

Chifuyu's eyes were wide, lips parted slightly in shock. Before he could speak, Kazutora grabbed his wrist, and he began to lead him towards the entrance, “I stole you for too long let’s go see your mother and the others.” He hastily explained himself, a red hue dusting his cheeks as he flusteredly looked away. 

Kazutora was in love with him. 

Chifuyu couldn’t believe it. He had to have been dreaming. However, the tulips in his hand that he would find in a vase by his window the next day said more than enough.

It was not a dream. 

..

Friday March 27th, 2009

It’s a saying, more-so, it is heavily believed that the buttons on one's uniform attire represents different things. The first button represents oneself, the second represents one’s most beloved person, while the third represents a person's best/closest friend. It is a tradition for boys to give the second button on their uniform to the person they care most for, a person they have grown romantic feelings towards. 

Kazutora was all too familiar with this phenomenon. He has witnessed it countless times in his countless years of schooling. 

He wondered if their loves— if they even were held onto the button. Were they cursed to fall out of love if they lost it? How would a rejection play out, he wondered, one being forced to take back their button? How awkward…

It was the final day of school, and he would be graduating. While that should’ve been the main topic consuming his mind he could only think back to the romantic gesture commonly associated with puppy-love.

Funnily enough, Kazutora’s school uniform shirt lacked the second button on this day. He held the white circle in the palm of his hand tightly, ensuring he wouldn’t clumsily lose it. 

Yesterday night, he’d finally come clean to Chifuyu about his true emotions, and honest fears with romance. The boy understood him, of course, Kazutora had expected him to…Chifuyu was kind, he was understanding, and caring. The actions he’d displayed near Kazutora, the love he showed even if he didn’t intend to, all melted his weak heart. 

Yet, what were he and Chifuyu? They hadn't had the chance to discuss it. Kazutora knew what he wanted, but he needed Chifuyu to ensure he felt the same way. 

Kazutora was utterly smitten with him. 

Kazutora was graduating, while Chifuyu had another year ahead of him, a part of him felt guilty leaving him behind, but he knew they would reunite soon. Therefore, he’d leave Chifuyu with a present before Kazutora made his departure to art school. 

The two would stay in contact, he wasn’t entirely abandoning him, but it would be hard to see face-to-face with the changes. Kazutora hoped that in a year this wasn’t an issue, maybe the two would  search for a cheap, rundown apartment to rent together, or Kazutora would annoy his school dorm-mate to death by having Chifuyu over each day. 

However, in the meantime Kazutora would love to attend Chifuyu’s next show. 

Kazutora would adore him once more, observing the black haired boy as he sat confidently on a stage in front of a gigantic crowd, the way he glowed, radiated under the beaming stage light. The action of his eyes fluttering shut, long black eyelashes falling against his skin beautifully, a sight he couldn’t erase from his mind, the way he moved his hands and fingers with such ease and delicacy, his talent making him a hundred times more gorgeous if that was even a possibility at all. Kazutora loved the way Chifuyu was clearly infatuated with the piano, his eyes shined as bright as the sun as he played, teal eyes in love with the sound and performing of melodic music. 

Kazutora was sitting on the rooftop, hot concrete under himself, hands burning as he tried to touch it, the sun gleaming down at him. The door was shut behind him, most students in the courtyard, others scurrying around the school, but right now, Kazutora was alone on the closed off rooftop. There were few white fluffy clouds in the sky, but his eyes weren’t focused on the sight, instead he looked at his unmoving hands that rested dormant in his lap. Just that morning he’d written a letter for the first time since juvie, and present in his palm was a white button contrasting against his skin. 

A letter, a letter not directed to one Baji Keisuke, instead, it was left folded carefully on the desk of Matsuno Chifuyu. 

It was uncommon, rare— completely unheard of for Chifuyu to enter his classroom, and find something left for him on his desk. Yet, as he walked into class that afternoon there was a letter left there that wasn’t there before. He was gone for five minutes at most, but when he arrived back there was a major change. 

His fingertips delicately traced over the frail sheet of paper, and he held it just as caringly in his hands as if it were fragile and capable of breaking with one slip up. 

Teal eyes attentively scanned up and down the letter as he read, the words being spoken aloud to himself in his head as his heart swirled with each sentence. Rather, the implications grabbed control of his emotions, reaching into his heart, and holding it tightly. He felt hot, a flush covering his cheeks, he was flustered, and embarrassed. He needed nothing more than a bottle of cold water to hydrate his dry throat, and fresh air to save himself from his emotions. 

A letter, directed to him from none other than Kazutora, and this piece of paper, the words scribble on ink played with his heart like he did with the keys of the piano. 

Dear Chifuyu, 

The words following, my love, scribbled out by pencil. He must’ve been embarrassed. Such a bashful name, he could never see Kazutora writing such a pet-name and sticking with it. Possibly it was a suggestion from Baji, and well, what did Baji know about romance? It made sense, he wouldn’t comment, he’d only continue to read further. 

I hadn’t expected to write another letter after being released from juvie late last year, but here I am writing a letter addressed to you. You, Chifuyu, someone who changed me for the better, you who made me fall in love with portrait painting after a few long years. You who is so fun to tease, the expression, your reactions, all of it brings so much joy to me. Chifuyu who saved me like Baji did despite hardly knowing me, why would you do such a thing? How are you so kind? If I were in your shoes I wouldn’t have even answered the door, and if I did I’d shut it before words could be exchanged. I’m selfish, sort of an asshole, I’ve been like this for the longest time, but since I’ve been in your presence I wanted to become better—change, be good enough to treat you with the care you deserve. 

I have so many more words and sentences I want to say, but right now my brain is jumbled and I can’t spit it out onto paper. I have plenty of drafts sitting next to me on my desk, and this may be one of them too. The words I’ve left unsaid could fill essays upon essays, there aren’t enough years in a lifetime to say all I want to say to you. Although, I’ve never been too good with words have I? 

I’m sitting on the rooftop right now as you read this. Waiting for you to meet me here or inevitably throw this letter in the trash. I have a gift of sorts I’d love to give you, and I hope to see you soon, Chifuyu. 

Sincerely 

Yours Truly, Kazutora

Chifuyu covered his face with his hand as he read the final words of the letter. Short and sweet, speaking enough in a few paragraphs. 

He’d seek the fresh air he yearned for as he exited his classroom as soon as he entered. He had his bag over his shoulder, and he was approaching the staircase with unimaginable speed. 

Chifuyu ascended up the rough stone stairs to the rooftop. His shoes clicked with each step, the sound of his feet hitting the stone loudly audible, echoing throughout the staircase. As he reached the top the boy moved the cones, brooms, and other equipment that piled up in front of the door, said objects barricaded it in a futile attempt to keep students off of the roof, of course , it never worked. As his pale hand reached out, fingers grazed the doorknob delicately. This time he wasn’t met with loud echoing laughter, instead, he heard nothing at all. 

He pulled down on the doorknob, a click echoing throughout the quiet space, and then it opened. The sun illuminated the dark surroundings of the top of the staircase as the door fully opened, giving him sight of the scene in front of him. 

Intense spring afternoon skies, a gentle breeze, and an artist who was in an unfamiliar location. There was no canvas portraying a massive painting in front of him, a piece of work incomparable to anyone else's. Completely magnificent. Instead, there were baby-blue skies, and hot hands that were heated up by the blazing railing surrounding the unsafe rooftop. Blonde and black hair tied up into a neat ponytail, strands in the front lying loose, blowing in the delicate breeze. The occupant only in their button up uniform shirt, and their blue jeans, a blazer not in sight, assumingly a red tie still hung around his neck. 

Finally, he turned his head around, body slightly, to meet the person he had been waiting patiently for. His Earring was visible, blowing along with his hair, his tie improper, almost undone, button up shirt not buttoned properly either. Even when there were obvious flaws, he was still the most stunning person in those teal eyes. 

His pursed lips, slightly furrowed brows calmed, he was content, a peaceful expression painted on his face. His lips parted and he smiled as he spoke, “Good afternoon, Chifuyu.” 

“Good afternoon, Kazutora.” He nodded as he returned the greeting. He was still dull, unilluminated in the dull dark room. 

Then he stepped forward, a chilly breeze hitting him as he walked outside onto the surface of the roof. The door shut with a slam behind him, audible throughout the roof, and presumably the staircase as well. He approached Kazutora who was still leaning against the railing, eyes gazing upon the wonderful sight provided from the heights. 

Creating small talk to ease their growing nerves, “Pretty sight isn’t it?” Chifuyu asked, his eyes fell upon Kazutora as he spoke, “You should paint it. You know how much I love your paintings.” 

In two simple words, and a simple smile he answered, “It is.” 

Chifuyu faced forward, mirroring Kazutora, the two gazing upon a colorful spring sky, and the sight of life going as usual below them while it felt slowed atop the rooftop. Whether it was from the suffocating unspoken tension that had grown like a giant bubble around them, or the home-like feeling of each other's presence, neither had a direct answer. Possibly it was bohr, or something else entirely. 

There was utter silence between the two, a tranquil atmosphere fighting against the tension ridden air. 

The wind continued to whistle as it blew, their breathing, and the occasional sound heard from far below as worked to combat the silence. They didn’t speak for sometime, relishing in each other’s known presence, and the sight they were provided from their high up location. A location Chifuyu used to love, one he frequented alone, but he’d find himself enjoying it much more when he could see those golden eyes in his peripheral vision. 

Then their quiet environment came to an end, his lips which were sealed shut, in a simple straight line, were beginning to part. A sentence Chifuyu had been awaiting was said aloud by Kazutora, “There’s something I wanted to give you.” It was spoken ambiguous, calming, his voice deep but lacking any real emotion, a sort of voice one could easily fall asleep to. Smooth and relaxing to easily be summed up. 

Kazutora turned his head once more, his entire body as he faced Chifuyu. 

Kazutora held out his hand in a closed fist, the outlines of his fingers visible as he held it up rather than down. He slowly opened his hand like a treasure chest containing long awaited goods, and in the palm of his hand lay one white button taken off of his dress-shirt. 

Chifuyu observed the button, and then his eyes fell onto his shirt. The button missing, the reason for his shirt to be done improperly was because he lacked the second button. 

… the second button represents one’s most beloved person.

It is a tradition for boys to give the second button on their uniform to the person they care most for, a person they have grown romantic feelings towards. 

The black haired boy's cheeks flushed red as he analyzed the sight. He had seen this exact confession countless times in the romance manga he read. Therefore, he understood it all too quickly. His heart began to race, pounding against his chest as if it were looking for escape, his eyes fixated on the sight of the second button which symbolized so much despite being so plain. 

And then he smiled. Once more, vivid and lovingly, a doting grin that twinkled. His fingertips reached out for the button, and he claimed it as his own. He closed his hand tightly, button concealed in the palm of his hand, and then he met Kazutora’s gaze. 

As their eyes met he determinedly claimed, “I’ll hold onto it.” He held his closed fist over his chest— his heart. 

Kazutora couldn’t stop himself from smiling wider, a reaction he was unable to prevent even if he was aware it was going to happen. The corners of his eyes crinkled as his grin grew from ear to ear. 

“Return it to me on this day next year.” Kazutora requested, he tucked a loose strand of his own hair behind his ear as the wind picked up. Reassuringly he asked, “Can you do that for me, ‘Fuyu?” The question was spoken aloud with an unfamiliar nickname as he tested the waters. 

Teal eyes practically turned orange as they burned with fury and determination, “Of course I can, Kazutora.”

Kazutora didn’t expect any other reaction. 

Hastily he pulled Chifuyu into a hug, burying his head into his neck as he held the other in his arms. His neediness may have one thinking he was to reassure himself that Chifuyu was real, but in all truthfulness he needed an embrace now more than anything. He held him tighter as he let his body process the overwhelming amount of foreign and unfamiliar emotions, ones only Chifuyu could cause. 

After a few moments, Kazutora pulled back slightly, hands rested on his shoulders, the pressure wasn’t intense, they were gently placed on top as he rested his forehead against Chifuyu’s. He let his eyes fall shut as he bathed in the feeling of love, adoration, and a hundred more words he could use to describe the mixture of feelings brewing throughout his body. 

The distance between them grew more as time went on, not by much, a few inches at most. In the close proximity they could open their eyes, and observe each others features.

Kazutora mouthed three words he couldn’t say audibly, whether it was too much or not enough he could not say. He mouthed them, as most they could be heard in a ghostly hushed whisper. The smile on Chifuyu’s lips could, the one he expressed as they pulled away. A loving smile, adoring and cherishing, a foreign expression, but one Kazutora wished to see again. One he wanted to paint, to never lose sight of the absolutely smitten expression he had on full display. A sight he himself could not put into words. An expression that made his heart swell, his blood rush faster, his body overcome with an indescribable amount of love. 

His legs felt weak, his lips quivered, but he was far from distraught, upset, in any sort of agony. He was instead overfilled with the unfamiliar feeling of love that once scared his unsure fragile heart. 

A feeling he couldn’t fear as he stared at Chifuyu in complete awe. His eyes, his gentle movements, the way his lips almost failed to form a smile, the lovely laugh that fell from his lips saying more than his paragraphs upon paragraphs of words he left unsaid could. 

Chifuyu clenched his fist tighter as he mumbled, “Next year.” 

“Next March.” Kazutora reassured, his own words spoken aloud with delicateness, a gentle soothing whisper. 

Chifuyu cupped his face in both of his hands, swiping his fingers back and forth in a soothing motion on his cheeks, and under his eye, rubbing over his beauty mark. 

One hand, the one holding the right side of his face, pushing forward, struggling to tangle in his tied up hair, leaving his face bare, and now uncovered. He leaned forward, mere seconds feeling like hours in that very moment, and he softly placed his lips against his skin. Lips leaving the skin after a few short seconds, leaving a kiss on his cheek. 

From this distance it was far easier to observe the blood rush to Kazutora’s face. Cheeks burning with an unfamiliar shade of red.

He too mouthed three words he meant more than anything in the world. Words he would never take back under any circumstances. Words poured out straight from his heart. 

Chifuyu’s reaction to seeing Kazutora’s painting for the first time was a firework explosion of emotions in his body. Too many to speak of and describe at the same time. 

Kazutora is bewitching, to Chifuyu he encapsulates the feeling of love— a feeling like no other. He is elegant, alluring,  and utterly captivating. Never in his life had Chifuyu ever thought of anyone as perfect, but this boy was a masterpiece— far more than perfect. No word in the dictionary could describe it; from the emotions he expressed by merely laying his eyes upon him, to Kazutora himself, there was nothing quite like him, he is beautiful in so many ways,

At one point Chifuyu had never truly been in love, but he was sure this was what love felt like. 

And he was right, love was mystifying.