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Utahime’s tears began to flow freely as she found herself trapped in a vortex of painful memories and self-doubt.
It had been two weeks since her ex-boyfriend had walked out on her, and while she couldn't deny a tinge of relief since she hadn't deeply loved him, a sense of defeat consumed her. She stared blankly at the empty space around her, feeling like a magnet for failed relationships.
Each of them was like a scar etched upon her heart and seemed to reinforce the haunting notion that she was destined to endure a perpetual cycle of heartbreak. It was like everyone in their family said: she went out on many dates, but it was impossible for her to make them stay.
As the weight of her emotions pressed upon her, the kindergarten teacher couldn't help but question her own worthiness of love. Thoughts echoed through her mind, feeding her insecurities and amplifying her fear of making the same mistakes over and over again. She wondered if there was something inherently flawed within her, something that repelled lasting affection and happiness.
The dimly lit room felt suffocating, mirroring her sense of hopelessness. It was as if the walls themselves were closing in, enveloping her in a cocoon of despair. She longed for respite, a sliver of light to pierce through the darkness and remind her that there was still hope for a different narrative.
With a trembling hand, Utahime reached for a nearby photo frame, one that captured a moment frozen in time—a snapshot of her past relationship. She stared at the smiling faces, her gaze fixated on her own expression. In that frozen picture, she could see a glimmer of the vibrant, loving person she knew herself to be, the person that had been overshadowed by heartache.
She was tired.
She was extremely tired.
She was extremely tired of everything.
In the midst of her self-imposed misery, a soft knock on the door startled her. She wiped away her tears and rose from the couch, cautiously approaching the door.
As she opened it, there stood Shoko, a flicker of concern in her eyes.
"Shoko!" Utahime let out, her voice filled with a mix of surprise and vulnerability. She hadn't expected anyone to reach out to her during this difficult time.
Her friend offered a small, understanding smile as she took in her dishevelled appearance. "Uta, I heard what happened. I cannot quite believe you did not tell me but I shall pretend I am not mad at you, at least for now! Can I come in?”
Nodding, she stepped aside to let Shoko into her apartment.
And Utahime should confess that she was indeed happy to see her. That someone had come to check on her lonely soul.
Shoko was her college best friend. When she moved to Kyoto for a few years, they continue to hang out and never lost contact, and now she was her dearest friend and colleague for the past two years since she had moved back to Tokyo. Utahime was also friendly with Suguru, her fiancé and the only one she knew from their group of friends.
Sitting down on the couch, Shoko patted the cushion beside her, gesturing for Utahime to join her. "Uta, I can only imagine how you must be feeling right now. It hurts when relationships don't work out, even if we didn't really love the person. It's okay to feel defeated and lost.”
“How do you know I did not love him?” She was now confused.
“Oh darling, he was a total ass!”
Tears welled up in Utahime’s eyes once again, but this time they were accompanied by a glimmer of hope, a longing for understanding. She settled beside her friend, finding comfort in her presence, in her willingness to listen.
"I don't understand, Sho…" She began, her voice trembling. "Why does it always end up like this? Why can't I find someone who truly wants to stay?”
Shoko took a deep breath, searching for the right words to offer her the comfort and guidance she desperately sought. "Love is a complex journey, and sometimes it takes us through the darkest valleys before leading us to the light. It's not a reflection of your worth or your ability to love. Sometimes, the universe has different plans for us, and it takes time to find the one who will stay.”
Utahime’s eyes locked with the ones of her friend, the depth of her emotions pouring out. "But what if I'm destined to be alone? What if I keep making the same mistakes, choosing the wrong people, over and over again?”
Her visitor’s voice softened, her gaze unwavering as she met her eyes. "Uta, you are not destined to be alone. You are worthy of love.”
Silence settled between them as Utahime absorbed her words, a sliver of hope beginning to flicker within her wounded heart. "Do you really think I can break this cycle? That there's hope for me?”
Shoko just nodded and Utahime’s tears subsided, replaced by a mix of gratitude and determination. She squeezed Benedict's hand, a glimmer of a smile forming on her lips. "Thank you, Sho.”
“Now please go and take a shower! I promised Suguru I would be at the apartment with you in 45 minutes!”
Shoko’s sudden change in demeanour surprised Utahime as she playfully threw a pillow at her, urging her to move. Confusion mixed with her sadness, and she frowned, not feeling up to going out.
“I really don’t feel like going out today. I am sure he will understand.”
“Do you know my fiancé?” She raised her eyebrows and she could not avoid the giggle that let out. “He never goes out but, when he wants to, he is ruthless! You definitely need to come with us to the club tonight otherwise he might break our engagement!”
“I appreciate your intentions, but right now, I'm not in the mood to go out. I just want to be alone and process everything." She spoke a bit more serious this time.
Shoko’s expression shifted, a tinge of disappointment crossing her face. “Uta, I understand you're going through a tough time, but this is a special occasion. Please do not let me go alone!”
Wait, what?
“What do you mean? You’re going with Suguru, no?”
“Satoru is in town and is throwing this crazy ass party.”
“No way!” Utahime shouted in disbelief. “He never goes out, you told me! It’s part of his extremely professional attitude bullshit, no?”
“Exactly!” Shoko almost shouted. “And he does not come home in ages! They will be glued all night. C’mon, Uta!”
Gojo Satoru, the name itself held an aura of grandeur and accomplishment. Known as the biggest football player of the moment, his remarkable feats on the field had catapulted him into the realm of legends. The first Japanese football player to win those important awards that Utahime had no idea how to name. A total superstar. His name became synonymous with excellence, his every move watched with awe by fans around the world. Satoru was also Geto’s best friend so Utahime probably knew a bit more about him than the average person, even if she had never met the man himself.
They had never crossed paths since he lived in London but she had always wondered about him. She couldn't deny the intrigue that surrounded him. People spoke of his mesmerising presence, a combination of charm, charisma, and undeniable talent. She had seen glimpses of him through photographs, capturing fleeting moments frozen in time. Even through the lens, his presence seemed to transcend, his blue eyes carrying a spark of intensity. There was something about him, an undeniable magnetism that emanated from the very core of his being.
Utahime sighed, torn between her desire for solitude and her friend's plea. Reluctantly, she nodded, willing to make an effort for her sake.
"Alright. I'll take a shower and get ready. But please understand that I may not be in the best mood tonight.”
Shoko’s face brightened, grateful for her willingness to go along with her plans.
"I know it's not easy for you right now, but I'm glad you're willing to give it a try. We'll take it easy, and if you're not feeling up to it, we can leave early. I just want us to have a good time together."
Her friend managed a small smile, appreciating her understanding and the consideration of her feelings. She headed towards the bathroom to freshen up, hoping that this night out would bring a brief respite from her emotional mess.
And she never saw the playful smile in Shoko’s lips as she texted Suguru.
“Time to surprise Satoru with his virtual crush.”
(...)
As Utahime entered the club, her eyes extended in amazement at the lavish environmental factors. The air overflowed extravagance, from the shimmering ceiling fixtures projecting a warm shine to the rich guest plans that radiated refinement. She was captivated by the grandeur of the world, which was unlike anything she had ever seen.
She was invited to the bar by Shoko and Suguru, who were, strangely, full of energy. Their fervour was infectious, and a piece of her needed to embrace the energetic energy of the club. Nonetheless, she was unable to shake off the weight in her heart, choosing to remain where she was briefly in isolation while they got the drinks.
As Utahime dismissed, looking for comfort in her own contemplations, the universe appeared to pull a savage prank on her.
No way.
No fucking way.
How? Wasn’t this shit a private party?
Fuck it, of course. He worked with something involving sports finances, of course.
What a fucking joke.
Her heart plunged as she saw her ex across the room, joined by another young lady on his arm.
She was unable to breathe and was exposed as if the room had been sucked dry of air. A surge of feelings overflowed Utahime’s being. Hurt, treachery, and an ache of desire washed over her, taking steps to suffocate her in an ocean of crude feelings. Her wounds were still fresh and tender, and it felt like a cruel reminder of her own recent self depreciation.
Her heart raced as she maneuvered through the vibrant crowd, trying to navigate her way to the other side of the club and away from the monumental asshole and his date. The music thumped in her ears, drowning out her thoughts and adding to the chaos around her. It seemed as though everyone was caught up in their own revelry, oblivious to the turmoil that consumed her.
With each step, her anxiety grew, the disorienting energy of the club amplifying her feelings of isolation. The sea of unfamiliar faces and the cacophony of voices made it increasingly clear that finding the couple in the midst of the crowd would be an arduous task.
Feeling a sense of defeat wash over her, she sought place at a nearby corner of the club. She took a sip of the drink she had manage to retrieve after everything came crashing down, the taste bittersweet on her tongue. The liquid offered a temporary distraction, but it couldn't quell the storm of emotions raging within her. Leaning against a wall, she closed her eyes, attempting to regain her composure.
Until she heard him.
"Hey there." A male voice greeted Utahime, his voice carrying a hint of flirtation. "Care to dance?”
When she opened her eyes, she could swear she was imagining things.
It was Satoru.
Gojo Satoru.
Geto’s best friend.
The renowned football player who had captured the attention of millions.
He wore a charming smile, exuding confidence as he approached her.
Really?
Hell to no.
Fuck that.
Fuck all fucking men in the entire fucking world.
“It’s a hard pass on my side.” She said, moving her gaze away.
Last thing she needed was a football player in her curriculum.
Last thing for sure.
Gojo’s smile faltered for a moment, clearly not accustomed to being turned down. However, he quickly recovered, maintaining his charming demeanour.
"Come on, don't be so quick to dismiss me…" He persisted, leaning in slightly. "I promise you won't regret it. Dancing with me can be quite an experience.”
Utahime took a step back, her voice carrying a note of conviction. "I appreciate the offer, but I'm not interested. I'm here to enjoy the night in my own way.”
“Maybe I need to introduce myself?” He extended his hand and she sighed.
“Gojo Satoru.” She let out, raising an eyebrow.
“Iori Utahime” He quickly replied and she could swear her jaw dropped the same instant. “Oh, you were not counting with this one, were you?”
What the hell?
“If you ask me, Shoko posts too many photos on Instagram.” He smiled warmly and moved next to her, also leaning his back in the wall. “She also mentioned you were nice but she was clearly in the wrong.”
“Excuse me?” Utahime was startled looking at him.
“You dismissed me like I was a dog!”
“Actually, I treat dogs very well.”
She noticed a soft chuckle escaping his lips in response to her dismissive attitude. His chuckle intrigued her, evoking a sense of curiosity about the person behind the fame. She decided to offer an explanation for her curt response, realising that perhaps there was more to him than met the eye.
"Sorry if I came off rude…" She began, her voice softening with sincerity. "It's just been a really rough couple of days for me. Dealing with a recent breakup and all. He is here with his new girlfriend. Just saw him and ran across the place and lost Shoko and Suguru in the process.”
Satoru leaned back a bit more against the wall, his expression turning contemplative. "I understand. Sometimes, even amidst victories, there are personal battles to tackle."
Utahime’s eyebrows furrowed in curiosity. If she was reading him carefully, here was Gojo Satoru, a celebrated football player, suggesting that he, too, was having a difficult night. The contrast between their experiences piqued her interest.
"You? Having a bad night?" She couldn't help but laugh, a touch of incredulity in her voice. "What could possibly be wrong for you?”
Satoru’s gaze met hers, his eyes carrying a hint of vulnerability. "I am still a person, Utahime. Sorry to disappoint."
Fuck.
She went to far.
Damn it.
She was ready to apologise when he continued.
“Are you now pitying me enough to dance with me?” Satoru raised an eyebrow and Utahime ended up rolling her eyes.
Brat.
“Not really in the mood.” She took a sip of her drink. “There are plenty of ladies in the club, I am sure you won’t have any problem to find company.”
“Hell no!” He laughed and she was confused. “Please don’t turn this into a cliché movie where you dismiss me because I am an asshole of a football player and send me to someone else. I assure you I am not!”
“I don’t enjoy cliché movies.”
“That’s exactly what the main character of a cliché movie would say.”
“Bah, I actually enjoy them.”
“Of course you do, Utahime.”
They turned to each other at the same time and smiled. She found him utterly irresistible—not just physically, but intellectually as well. It was quite surprising.
"Gojo, let's indulge in a bit of whimsy, shall we? If this were a cliché movie, what do you think would happen between us?" She was feeling bold.
His eyes were sparkling with a mix of amusement and intrigue, his playful nature mirroring her own. He considered her question for a moment, his lips curling into a mischievous smile.
"Well…" He began, his voice filled with a hint of theatrics. "In a cliché movie, we would likely overcome our personal struggles together, finding comfort and strength in each other's arms.”
Her gaze met his, her expression reflecting the playful spirit of the conversation. "Ah, of course. We would share heart-warming moments, triumph over obstacles, and discover a love that transcends our individual challenges.”
Gojo nodded, a twinkle in his eyes. "Exactly. We would have soul-stirring conversations, spontaneous adventures, and our hearts would find each other in the midst of life's chaos. It would be a whirlwind romance, brimming with passion and destined to defy the odds.”
A genuine laugh escaped Utahime’s lips as she embraced the playful fancy and polite banter. She couldn't deny the allure of such a story, even if it was rooted in clichés. However, as their laughter subsided, a sense of reality crept back into their conversation.
They stood there, momentarily lost in each other's eyes, acknowledging the beauty of the present moment.
“And, if this really was a cliché movie, you would dance with me after our little conversation.” He spoke as softly as someone could in a club.
Utahime sighed and extended her hand.
To hell with it.
With him.
As Satoru took Utahime’s hand and led her onto the dance floor, a sense of anticipation filled the air. The music pulsed through their veins, setting the rhythm for their movements. They began with a simple dance, swaying to the beat, their bodies synchronising effortlessly.
But as the moments passed, a mischievous glimmer appeared in his eyes. With a sudden burst of energy, he broke into a goofy dance move, his movements full of playfulness and abandon. Her laughter echoed through the club as she watched him, unable to resist his infectious spirit. Caught up in the joy of the moment, Utahime let go of any self-consciousness. She joined him in his goofy dance, mirroring his playful steps and adding her own touch of silliness. The two of them twirled, spun, and embraced the freedom of the dance floor.
As they let their laughter and carefree movements fill the space around them, they became the centre of attention. Some onlookers glanced their way, their expressions a mix of amusement and admiration, but they paid no mind to the gazes and whispers. They were lost in their own world, immersed in the connection they had discovered.
In that moment, the dance floor transformed into their own private moment. They swayed and twirled, their laughter blending with the music, creating a symphony of joy and liberation. Their shared moments on the dance floor became a testament to their ability to find happiness amidst the chaos of life.
As the song reached its climax, Utahime and Satoru locked eyes, their laughter subsiding into a shared gaze filled with a depth of understanding. In that unspoken connection, they knew that this dance, this moment, was more than just a light-hearted encounter.
As the music transitioned into a new rhythm, they found their way back to each other's sides. With a renewed sense of companionship, they continued to dance, embracing the joy and freedom that the night had to offer.
In that crowded club, surrounded by strangers and the pulsating energy of the music, Satoru and Utahime knew that they had found something special. It wasn't about cliché movie romances or grand gestures; it was about the authenticity of their connection, the shared laughter, and the beauty of being fully present in the moment.
Together, they danced with abandon, their hearts and spirits intertwining, creating a memory that would forever remain etched in their souls.
(...)
Sitting in the comfort of her living room, surrounded by the familiar sights and sounds of her family, Utahime found herself lost in thought. Her father, absorbed in watching a Chelsea match, cheered loudly at a pivotal moment in the game. But her attention was elsewhere, her mind drifting to the paper tucked away in her pocket—the paper that had Satoru’s number, the one he had slipped into her pocket when he returned her safely to Shoko’s side, that was extremely surprised by them already knowing each other.
Her fingers absentmindedly traced the edges of the paper, contemplating the decision she had yet to make. Should she reach out out? Should she take that leap of faith and explore the connection they had shared on that memorable night? Doubt and uncertainty gnawed at her, mingling with the lingering traces of vulnerability from her past heartbreak.
And she knew players loved to play.
Satoru was one of them.
He was, probably, the exact same.
She glanced at her family, finding comfort in their presence. Even thought they were not perfect, they were still her family. And by following her father’s gaze, her eyes widened in astonishment as she witnessed the scene unfolding on the television screen.
There, in front of millions of viewers, Satoru scored a remarkable goal, followed by an exuberant celebration. He executed the same goofy dance they had shared on the dance floor, a playful tribute to their connection. After the dance, he approached one of the cameras and mumble the words “text me”.
Utahime burst out in laugher, to her family’s confusion. A surge of excitement coursed through her veins, as if the universe was conspiring to validate her decision. Gojo’s playful gesture, captured on live television, felt like a sign—an invitation to reach out and explore the possibilities that awaited them.
A smile spread across her face as she reached for her phone, her heart brimming with anticipation. It was time to take the leap and send that text. With each keystroke, she carefully crafted a message.
“How many people texted you after that little move of yours?”
She pressed send, watching as her message vanished into the digital realm, connecting her to Satoru in a new way. It was a moment of vulnerability and hope, a tangible step towards the potential future they might share.
As the match continued, Utahime found comfort in the knowledge that she had taken the chance, embracing the opportunity to explore a connection that had brought laughter and happiness into her life. She understood that true love and meaningful connections weren't built on guarantees, but on the willingness to be vulnerable and take risks.
With a contented sigh, she settled back into the comfort of the living room, eagerly awaiting the next chapter of her story—a story that had begun with a dance, continued with a goal, and held the promise of a connection that transcended the boundaries of a TV screen.
A few hours after the match, she had a few notifications in her phone.
“My mother and my future wife.”
“By the way, you're the second one".
"Please do not think I am married. I am definitely NOT.”
“It was a joke. Bad one, clearly.”
“Utahime?”
“Utaaaaahiiiimeeeee.”
“I will annoy Shoko, I finally give up!”
"I am still here, please answer?"
"You're a cruel lady!"
Utahime rolled her eyes and let out a chuckle.
Little did she know that for the next 10 years of his professional career, she would be there at all the important matches—sometimes alone, sometimes with Shoko and Suguru, other times with both their families, and eventually with the three children they would have together.