Work Text:
The atmosphere in the meeting room is dreadful. Heavy air and glum faces as their supervisor were done with the presentation. Yuma stare interestingly at the water bottle on his table, avoiding looking at his coworker faces.
“So… What do you guys think about it?” Their supervisor, Koga Yudai, had asked. Voice laced with disappointment.
“Our company can manage losing clients, yes. But I hope you guys realize that the client this time is not just a small company. We are dealing with Maki's Cooks. They have established and multiple Michelin restaurant in Japan!” Yudai said, clearly still angry.
“Not to mention, they also sponsored us before. Shouldn't we at least provide the best service for them?” He continues, eyes fuming with fury.
Yuma gulp. Finally looking at his supervisor, he takes a deep breath before raising his hand.
“Yes, Yuma.”
“Uhm… I know that Maki's Cooks is an important company that we should maintain our relationship with… But I must say that it was their team that didn't give cooperation in the first place- When I called them before to discuss abo-”
Yuma's word was cut off when Yudai hit the table.
“I do not care about what happened before, Yuma. I thought you guys are already aware on how to handle difficult management? What we have to do now is to gain their trust back.” Yudai says, shutting Yuma down completely.
“I understand, Sir.”
“I would leave this to you for now, do come up with a decision by today. Come to my office after 3pm to discuss. I need to go now; I have a meeting to attend.” Yudai says to the Head Manager, Euijoo. He then walks out, giving them signals to not stand and bow at him.
Euijoo sigh, looking back and forth at his coworkers and the presentation earlier.
“He doesn't have to be that angry, like- Maki's Cook is already famous, why would we need to advertise them?” Yuma ask, rolling his eyes.
“Maki's Cooks is trying to dive into a new venture nowadays, that's why they need to have their name on everywhere” Euijoo reply right away, already jotting down the weaknesses of their team and solutions. After all, he was the one that need to discuss it with Yudai later.
“So, what really is the problem here?” Taki, from HR asked. Making everyone turns to look at him, knowing so well he wasn't paying attention.
“Maki's Cooks contact us to ask for help in advertising, and I called their team to ask further- I couldn't do it without any information but then their staff was acting so cocky and rude- Fast forward, made the advert and they hate it” Yuma explains,
“Their staff was rude…? Wouldn't it because you are rude to them first?” Jo says, voice low yet Yuma hears it so clearly.
“Most importantly, they also hate it because the video was an ass” Yuma says, looking directly at Jo.
The latter head shot up, jaw dropped in shock, “What proof do you have to claim your statement?” Jo asks, upset.
“Now- Enough, you two!” Euijoo says, already familiar with all of this.
Yuma tilt his head teasingly, smirking at Jo. A sign to show that he is winning that day.
It was always like that every time they had a meeting. Either start with a very happy Yudai or a very disappointed Yudai, then will end with Yuma and Jo fighting.
Yuma, the marketing manager and Jo, the videographer. Very weird combination, maybe that was why they never see point eye to eye. Either Yuma will be badmouthing Jo's work or Jo will question the credibility of Yuma's work.
When they both started working at King's Advertisement, people thought they will be a good friend, given they are the same age and enter the company during the same time. But unfortunately, their thought fell short when in just a week, they already fighting in the printer room (just because Jo didn't know how to add a new ink color in, and Yuma is just frustrated his flyer didn't print in the color he wants).
Since then, they both avoided each other. During meetings, Jo will sit at the very front while Yuma will sit at the very back. Jo will only go to the pantry in the morning and Yuma will only go after lunch. When the coworkers celebrating birthdays after office hour, Jo didn't come to Yuma and vice versa.
That was how they have been tolerating for 3 years.
There's no use in forcing them to be friends, nothing really works… Except-
“I want Yuma and Jo to go to one of Maki's Cooks and shot a video there- I want you guys go to Akita, where the new restaurant just open two months ago” Euijoo says, smiling so proudly at his decision.
“You gotta be kidding… Me and Jo? to Akita?” Yuma ask, frustrated. He cannot believe his whole day just keep getting worse.
“Why me… and him? Like, I don't mind going… but with him?” Jo immediately says, not wanting to back off.
“Because Yuma is good at his works, and I believe you can do better than before if you meet the client face to face… And Jo, you're one of our top videographers, our clients always compliment your style; with that, I have enough reason to do so.”
“But- No? Not with Jo? Yushi also good at vide-”
“Sorry, my schedule is packed” Yushi says, smiling widely at the thought of not going to a business trip.
“I would talk about it to the supervisor later, but for now, anyone disagree?” Euijoo ask, only Jo and Yuma raise their hands.
Euijoo grins, “Majority didn't have a problem with it… and I am sure Yudai will approve. With that, I hope Yuma and Jo to be ready for a business trip… Meeting dismissed!”
After a small thanks, everyone leaves the room, patting Jo and Yuma shoulders of an act of sympathy.
Later that afternoon, Yuma got the news that Yudai had approved of his and Jo business trip to Akita for 5 days, which, will start the day after tomorrow.
He groans, already feeling drained. From the corner of his eyes, he saw the way Jo's smile dropped.
He glad that he wasn't the only one that hate this trip.
For two days, he prepared to show his best. Learning more about Maki's Cooks and their history, also learning about their specialities. Especially since they're going to the branch in Akita, Yuma try his best to read all of the reviews he found.
All of this studying just because he didn't want Jo to say he did his job half-heartedly. Since he started working, every job he was involved in, he always treats it as something precious. Yuma loves his job, which is also why he took pride on it.
So, when someone like Jo, who has no background on marketing like he did, says something bad about the way he did his work, it just upsetting. Now, that he was given the opportunity, he wants Jo to know just how tough his job is.
He already contacted the staff at Akita, announcing their soon to be arrival for a short interview and luckily, this time, the staff sounds more mature and livelier. Yuma knows that it will be much better.
Day 1 (Monday)
On the day of their departure, Yuma try his best not to fight with Jo. As in, he was trying to not even look at Jo's way. Though, he badly wants to say something bad about the way Jo was so late, they almost missed their flights
Oh, speaking about flights. Yuma was glad that the company pays for this whole business trip, even with a promise of commission. He was beyond happy knowing he only have to be in the same closed space with Jo for only an hour and half. If they use train as transport to Akita, they will be stuck with each other for 4 hours (just the thought of it makes Yuma shudders).
He is also glad Jo pretend like he wasn’t there, as if they're strangers who happened to have a seat next to each other.
As soon as they landed, they immediately go to rent a car. After signing few things, Jo take matter into hands to drive instead (something about he not believing Yuma able to be civil on road). Yuma lets him anyway; he isn't a big fan of driving after all.
Everything has been going so well that Yuma should've know there will be a catch.
“You sure we only got one room? Not two?” Jo asks the desk receptionist, urging her to look carefully under their reservation.
She politely smiles, “Yes sir. The reservation was made from King’s Advertisement, under the name of Asakura Jo. One deluxe room with two beds for 5 days.” she explained again.
Yuma almost feel sorry for her because she needs to deal with two grown up man not wanting to room together. Given if Yuma is with someone else, he would totally be fine, but the reality is, he is stuck with Jo. To think of having to share the same room for 5 days is truly giving Yuma goosebumps all over.
“No extra room? Will be fine even if it was the cheaper one” Jo says, obviously dislike the idea of rooming together.
“Sorry to inform you sir. Since it was school holiday this week, every room is fully booked.” She said, getting slightly tired (they have been going on about this for 20 minutes).
Jo sigh. Thinking if it would actually be better if he looks for another hotel. Just then, Yuma clear his throat.
“We will take the key cards for now,” He says, and finally, the smile is back on the receptionist's face.
“I am actually getting tired here, maybe we can fight inside- instead of at the lobby” Yuma says, whispering at Jo.
The latter scoff, but didn't say anything else as he also taking his luggage in possession. They walk silently towards their room, Yuma in the front.
As soon as they get inside, they exclaim quietly. Knowing that their company paid some good money for them to stay here for 5 days. Yuma put his luggage on the bed near the door, while Jo put his on the bed near the balcony.
“There's no room available for nearby hotels either… This is suck” Yuma says, throwing his phone away in frustration.
“At least this room have two beds” Jo says, and Yuma hum in agreement.
Just like before, they both do their own thing. Soon after both of them take a quick shower, they silently opening their laptop and do their works.
According to the schedule Euijoo had given to them, they're free for today. Given that they arrived slightly after 4pm, they were given time to fully rest and start going to Maki's Cooks tomorrow.
Yuma assume Jo was busy on doing his video editing job, seeing just how fast and frequent he click the mouse and his spacebar.
He, on the other hand, start making a proper question to ask the workers and the customers. Even the company already had their own set of questions, still, Yuma want to do something a bit different and more friendly.
As he was so focus on going through older interviews from Maki's Cooks, he doesn’t even realize that Jo was standing in front of his bed, with his hoodie on.
“What?” Yuma ask, startled
“Where's the key card? I want to go outside for foods” Jo reply.
Yuma point on the small table next to his bed. His eyes quickly scanning the clock that it was already past 8pm. Just then he realized they both still haven't eat anything after their in-flight meals.
Jo takes one of the cards, not saying anything else as he walks out. Yuma thinks for a while, wondering if he was hungry or just want something to nibble as he works. He wasn't the type to eat at night, but again, they have to move a lot tomorrow and he wasn't a fan of having breakfast.
He just didn't want to be a nuisance tomorrow and having Jo badmouthing him again. He huffs in frustration, looking for if there's anything for him to snack on.
Luckily, he found a flavored bun at one of the tables. After making sure it wasn't Jo's (the buns have the hotel’s name sticker on it), Yuma decide it was safe for him to eat.
As he was filling his stomach with the bun and focusing on his work, his phone chime.
Taki
yuhu
how's the trip
r u and jo still good?
Yuma
bro
hotel was great
the only downside was
we need to share a room
but this room has 2 beds
so for now it's tolerable
Taki
I was abt to cheer when u said u guys shared room
but i take it back when u said 2 beds
BORING
it would've been so much fun if it's only 1 bed ;)
Yuma
Ew
would rather sleep at the lobby than having to share a bed w him
there's no way
Taki
nways
have u eaten yet
how the hotel foods
Yuma
haven't had the proper hotel foods yet
but the bun is tasty
Taki
u're eating BUNS out of all the good foods there?
bro
use the housekeeping service for gods sake
Yuma
not really hungry now…
also i checked the menu earlier
badly want okonomiyaki
Taki
They don't have it at the hotel?
Yuma
they dont…
but again
okonomiyaki sounds a bit heavy for me to eat now
and im lazy to call for housekeeping
maybe i’ll eat it if its magically appears
who knows
Taki
This is why you'll ended up starving yourself
Yuma
Now, if you don't have anything good to say
Shoo Go away
i have work to do
Taki
yeah wtv
don't forget to update me if something happens between you and jo ;)
Yuma
NO.
Yuma put his phone down, shaking his head at Taki's word. Despite being in a different department, they did work together sometimes. They happen to have the same humor, making them quickly become friends.
Taki always does that. Whenever he fought with Jo, Taki then will go to him and whisper “don't hate too much, it will turn to love” for too many times already. Yuma will never fail to flick his forehead every time.
Yuma had heard Taki's lecture about opposite attract for too many times for his liking, and always without fail, Taki uses Jo and him as example. Which is, not so cool in Yuma's standpoint, and seeing how their coworkers was also agreeing with that, it just make Yuma want to scream out loud.
He wonders if Jo hated that kind of teasing from their coworkers as much as he did.
It was 9:30pm when Jo finally back. Yuma hold himself back from asking questions, even though he badly want to ask Jo about where and what he ate and if the food was good…
Without saying another word, Jo put a box next to his laptop. Yuma look at him questioningly, “What's this?”
“Okonomiyaki.” Jo says, not looking at his way.
“I bought a seafoods one, since we are in Akita after all” he continues,
Yuma's jaw dropped, not knowing how to react and speaks. A part of his mind almost think Jo give him the empty box, but he checked, and it does still have perfectly round okonomiyaki in it.
“Oh… Uhm, thanks” He says after a while,
“Eat it now while it's still hot… If you can't finish it alone just put the leftovers on the table, I will eat it” Jo says, busying himself with folding the hoodie he wore earlier.
Yuma hum in reply, immediately getting his chopstick ready.
Yuma
Hey
Did you told Jo that I want okonomiyaki?
Taki
omg
don't tell me he really bought it???
OH MY GODDD
NOW I HAVE STORIES TO TELL PEOPLE
Yuma
So, you did?
Taki
omg asakura
i know i can believe him
Yuma
wth is going on
Taki
okay so
i did told him
but
surprise surprise ;)
he actually asked me to ask you
Yuma
WHAT
Taki
u think i'd all be concerned that u still haven't eat?
Yuma
rude
Taki
i know u well enough to know u didn't eat at night.
Yuma
fair point
Taki
he said u still haven't eat since ur flights
and he didn't know how to ask u out to eat
so yeah
told him u want okonomiyaki
didn't know he would REALLY buy it
Yuma
u being for real?
Taki
all true
can send you the texts screenshots for proof
but wow
ASAKURA JO 👏
im so impressed right now
Yuma put his phone down, chewing slowly on the food. His eyes naturally turn to Jo, who seems to sense that he was being looked at.
“What?” Jo asks,
“Why would you buy this?”
“Just because”
Yuma rolled his eyes, “There have to be something- What was this about?”
Jo scoff, “I didn't do things for something… I am not like you”
“You're so good at making me angry” Yuma says, putting the chopsticks down.
“And you're so good at making things up- When I said I bought it just because, then it was just because!”
“But you asked Taki about it”
Jo stays silent, not replying.
“Just- eat it…” he finally says, eyes back on doing his works on the laptop. Putting on his ear pods, a signal that he didn't want to continue talking.
Yuma huff in frustration, still, he eats the okonomiyaki until there was none left. A part of him thinking that Jo just wants him to eat so he will do well next morning.
Day 2 (Tuesday)
Maybe he should be thankful that he ate last night, because now, even if he woke up at 8am, he still feels energetic and fresh.
Yuma was the first to take a shower and get ready for the day. Like a lie, Jo literally done shower and dressing up just in 10 minutes after waking up. And he still looks like he has been getting ready for hours.
“What time would we be leaving?” Jo asks, looking at his watch.
“Around 9:30am?” Yuma says, looking at the schedule he had planned.
“I'm going to have my breakfast, see you at the lobby then” Jo says, not waiting for the latter to reply.
But again, Yuma isn't a big fan of eating breakfast; unless he really needed to. Last night okonomiyaki is enough for him to stay in a good condition until lunch.
It only took them 20 minutes from hotel to the restaurant. Yuma take mental notes about how easy it is to locate the place, definitely a plus point in his marketing mind.
“Today, I will ask them first for permission on recording and interviewing… Already done that on phone calls, but- you know, just to run things down.” Yuma says, feeling determine to get things done.
“You can go take a look around the place, I am going to meet the person in charge” He informed Jo, then walk in the newly build restaurant.
“Welcome to Maki's Cooks!” A warm greeting, Yuma smile shyly at the attention.
“Can I meet with Shigeta Harua? I am Nakakita Yuma from King's Advertisement.” He says smoothly,
“Harua- kun is at the office, please wait a minute. I will inform him immediately!” One of the workers says,
Yuma take this time to look around the restaurant. He had visited multiple Maki's Cooks before, but he must say as of now, this one look more sophisticated and classier; maybe because it was a new building.
“Excuse me, Yuma-kun?”
He turns around, just to meet probably the cutest human on earth ever. Just then his eyes drawn into the name tag; Manager, Harua.
“Yes, that will be me”
Harua smiles, “Should we continue the talk in my office or would you like to sit somewhere around here?”
Yuma looks around, there were already customers coming in and out. Not wanting to lose his focus, he says, “Your office please, if you don't mind”
“Sure, let me show the way”
“Oh- If you saw a tall man looking around the restaurant taking photos, let him be- that's my coworker,” Yuma says to the workers at the cashier, making them laugh.
“Thank you for coming here all the way from Tokyo,” Harua says, signalling Yuma to sit on the couch.
“No problem, and thanks for agreeing on short notice” Yuma reply.
One thing he knows for sure, Akita's branch manager is much cuter and easier to deal with than the one from Kyoto (the reason he was here in the first place).
“Should we start then?”
“Sure,”
Yuma skilfully showing the tentative list, explaining few things here and there. Harua seems to be interested in promoting the restaurant after all, which make it easier. Sometimes, an already established company only do stuff half-heartedly, but seeing how Harua was so invested, Yuma knows he really need to do well.
“If you don't mind, we want to shoot a short interview video with the staffs too, if that was fine with you” Yuma says,
Harua thinks for a while, “I think the chef and our hall manager can do that, I can introduce them to you later.”
Yuma smiles, satisfied.
“How long will you be staying in Akita?” Harua ask after they finished discussing.
“Till Friday,”
Harua face lighten up, “Good news, Maki will here on Thursday!”
“Are you for real? Do you think he will be okay if we want to interview him?” Yuma ask, though, Maki was a young famous chef, he was actually a camera shy; always hiding away from the broadcasting people.
“I'm not really sure, but I can ask him… Not sure if I can convince him though… If he didn't agree with the interview, I think he will be okay with just a casual meet up”
“That would totally help,” Yuma says, who the hell wouldn't want to meet someone as successful as Maki?
“Oh, if you don't mind, our chefs have prepared few dishes for you and your friend to eat… Our treat”
Yuma's jaw drop, “You don't have to-”
“It's okay, I bet you still haven't got to try Akita's specialities! I can also introduce you to the staff you will be interviewing,”
“Well, then, thank you very much!”
Jo was already waiting at one of the tables, a cup of coffee and a camera on the table.
“Nice restaurant, the sign outside is really beautiful- Fit with the scenery.” Jo compliments,
“Thanks, it was all Maki’s idea!” Harua reply, he then signalling few of the staff to bring out the dishes.
“This is one of our signature dishes, Shottsuru Yakisoba. We kneaded the noodles ourselves with brown seaweed, kelp soup and our own original recipe. Hope you guys like it.” He says, pointing at one of the dishes.
“This is a seasonal dish, Hatahata Hotpot, this kind of fish only can be caught during this time of the year, so you guys are lucky to get to enjoy this!” he continues,
“Please do tell us if anything isn't to your liking, enjoy your dish!” Harua explains few of the dishes before walking away, leaving the two to feast.
They both eat in silence; only approving hum was heard. Yuma had tried eating at multiple branches of Maki's Cooks before, but seriously, this branch might be his favorite ever.
“This is much better than the one in Tokyo” Yuma exclaims, Jo nodded in reply.
“How's the discussion earlier?” Jo asks after they finished eating.
“We got into details on the question for the interview and as for the time, they can do tomorrow. Either morning before the restaurant open or during lunch hour. As for the person I'm interviewing, the manager said he will introduce them later”
Just in cue, Harua enters with two other men. Equally tall and good looking.
“This is Fuma, our main chef and this is Nicholas, our hall manager”
All of them do their greetings, Yuma and Jo also introduces themselves.
“Will both of you be okay if we interview you guys tomorrow? Preferably morning, before you guys open the restaurant for business” Yuma ask, and they nodded.
“Great, do you need a sample question on what will be ask tomorrow? Since this will be recorded- In case you want to practice?”
“That would be a great help,” Fuma says,
“I will send the questions to Harua later,” Yuma says, making mental note about it.
“Can we use the space on the back, near the logo for the video shooting? I took several photos and a sample video earlier and I think it look much better there,” Jo asks, pointing at one of the corners.
“Can't do it outdoor?” Yuma ask, thinking that it will look better with the natural view.
“We can, but it can be a bit distracting. Since we are by the seaside, the waves sounds are loud… I also notice the boats horn every hour they pass by the jetty. For interview videos, I recommend indoor. Photos for the magazine and media post can be outdoor” Jo explain thoroughly,
“Then… I will ask our staff to prepare the space for you guys tomorrow” Harua says, agreeing with Jo.
“If there's any other questions, don't hesitate to just text or call me to ask. By the way, thank you so much for these amazing foods, it was so good!” Yuma says, and three of them look relief from the compliments.
“It really is, will definitely come here again if I visit Akita next time!” Jo says next,
Both of them bid their farewell soon after, wanting to continue doing their work in the comfort of their hotel room.
Yuma has so many things to prepare for tomorrow, the revised questions for interview is one thing, he also need to look at this from marketing point of view for his writing section for the magazine.
Jo on the other hand going through the photos he took earlier, choosing the best shots then edit it appropriately for the magazine and media post. He also needs to recheck all of his equipment by himself. The video camera, making sure the mics has their batteries, the light reflectors and many more.
Safe to say, they were too busy to even acknowledge each other. Yuma almost think that Jo is tolerable, but he scratches that soon after when Jo had the audacity to roll his eyes at him.
The bright room turns dark in matter of just few hours. Both too busy to even appreciate the sea view outside of their balcony. If only they come here under the name of vacation, it will be much more fun. But since they came here for business trip, they don't really have a time to relax.
They still work like they do back in the office, it just this time without an upset Yudai, a stress Euijoo or a jokester Taki. Yuma only has to deal with rude Jo, and for him, that alone was more than enough.
“Do you…” Jo says, breaking the silence.
Yuma looks up, looking at the latter expectantly,
“I want to go out for dinner,” Jo ended up saying.
“Yeah, and?”
“Want to join?” Jo asks, his face shows he almost regret that he even offers.
“I don't eat dinner” Yuma says,
“You ate that okonomiyaki last night like a beast”
Yuma gasp, “Excuse me?”
“What I want to say is, I won't buy you food this time. Either you go out with me or you stay hungry- We have to work early tomorrow; I don't want you to be lethargic”
Yuma huff, knowing he can't refute that. Part of him want to yell at Jo for saying the truth, part of him just want to stay at the hotel and prove him wrong.
“I give you 5 minutes to make decisions, if you still aren’t ready when I’m out of the toilet, then I'm going alone” Jo says, leaving Yuma as he walks to the toilet.
Yuma hate making a decision for himself. Okay- he was kind of hungry right now but then, he didn't want to go out to eat with Jo?!? But again, Yuma is kind of bad at direction, he for sure can't be out alone at night, definitely not in the place he isn't familiar with-
From afar, Yuma heard the toilet flushing and in the speed of lightning, he grabs his hoodie, his wallet, his key card and his phone. Hoping this wouldn't be a stupid decision he will regret in the future.
As soon as Jo walks out, Yuma stands, “Let's go” he says, walking towards the front door. He fails to notice Jo smirking behind him.
Yuma follows Jo once they are outside. He thought they will be eating at the hotel, but it seems like Jo has a place in mind. They walk in silence and Yuma take the time to finally feeling the night sea breeze.
“I ate here yesterday, and the foods is not bad” Jo says as soon as they arrived at one of the food stalls.
They both take a seat outdoor, a bit far from the other people. Just in their own private space, facing the sea.
“I will eat whatever you order” Yuma says as soon as Jo passes him the menu.
“Won't regret?”
“Yeah, and I want iced peach tea”
Jo hums, scanning through the menu. Yuma stay silent while Jo doing all the work of ordering.
“Did you eat here yesterday?” Yuma ask,
“Yeah… This is the only stall open last night,”
“Why don't you just eat at the hotel?”
“Want to feel like I was anywhere but Tokyo” Jo says,
While waiting for their foods, both of them just stare into the sea. Listening to the waves crashing and birds chirping, sometimes even a boat horns. Yuma really like it here.
“Here's your order” The waitress said, putting bunch of different dishes on their table. They both mumbles a small thank.
“Isn't this too much?” Yuma say, shocked by the number of foods.
“I don't know what you like…And I can finish it- if that was what you afraid of,” Jo reply, already getting his chopsticks ready.
Yuma scoff, then he saw Jo pushing a plate of okonomiyaki towards him.
“You eat it so deliciously last night… So, I ordered it- thought you might want to eat it again”
“It really is delicious…” Yuma reply, still isn't used to having a civil conversation with Jo. He would never imagine himself eating on the same table with Jo before but well- here he is.
Jo didn't say anything else after that, busy devouring the foods. Yuma does too; eat a little bit of everything. Just like Jo says, the foods are great and the view is spectacular- it definitely worth it.
“Maki's Cooks will open at 10am, so I think we should be there before 8am. I need to look for the camera angle, then prepare the lights and the mics. Probably did a 5-7mins recording test just to see if the mic working well… and by 8.45am or 9am, we should start recording” Jo says,
Yuma nodded, knowing that it might take some times for the technical stuff. And now, with Jo handling it alone, he definitely needs to make sure everything is good to go. Yuma knows some of the stuff, but he wasn't an expert.
“Interviews wouldn't be more than 20 minutes each… So, do you prefer to record both interviews continuously or would you like to stop in between? which would make it easier for you to edit?” Yuma ask,
“I think continuously would be easier for me,”
They both then continue discussing about the recording for tomorrow- forgetting the fact that they dislike each other. Yuma didn't know how this new development between him and Jo will go, but for now, he kind of enjoying this.
Day 3 (Wednesday)
Both woke up more energetic than ever. Feeling excited for today's shoot. Yuma had already sent the interview questions and inform Harua about the time last night before he went to sleep. Luckily, Harua and his staff is fine with it.
“Do you need help?” Yuma ask, seeing Jo struggling with all the bags of equipment for the shooting.
The latter contemplates for second before he nodded his head, and Yuma quietly goes to help. They loaded all the bags in the rent car's trunk, honestly, Yuma just realized how many things Jo had brought with him from Tokyo. Cameras, reflectors, mics, audio controller, light stands and more stuff that Yuma didn't know.
No wonder Jo insisted for him to eat last night. Just from carrying all this stuff is enough to drain his energy.
They both arrived at the restaurant just right before 8am, luckily Harua, Fuma, Nicholas and few other staff was already there. Moving tables around to make space for the interview.
While Jo was setting his camera up, Yuma run down the flow again to them. He helps them put a mic on and help doing a mic check. Jo then continues to put the reflectors on, trying to see if the light looks good on camera.
According to Jo, for the video interview, he will put a photo and video insert in between, so Yuma wasn't really worried about how the interview video will go. He does believe in whatever Jo had in mind, after all, this was Jo's expertise and Yuma was there just to assist him on the interview.
“Whenever you guys ready!” Jo says, already behind the camera.
Yuma then take a sit with Fuma, starting the interview with one of the main chefs. After getting a signal from Jo, Yuma started his interview.
“Hello! With us today is someone very important to Maki's Cooks, please introduce yourself” Yuma starts,
“Hi. My name is Murata Fuma and I am one of the main chefs of Maki's Cooks for Akita's branch. I specialize in main dishes.”
The interview continues without a hitch. Yuma then ask more questions about their specialities, seasonal dishes and few other questions regarding Fuma’s abilities on creating new dishes.
Jo signed them as the timer hit 20 minutes and Yuma make sure to properly wrapped up the interview with Fuma.
The next they do with Nicholas; Yuma was less nervous than before. Finally feeling comfortable on doing the interview. Most time, Yuma isn't the one who do the talk, it was either Euijoo or Taki. He will sit on the side and watch, writing up few details for his magazine.
He can't help but to feel nervous when he got to be on the camera with the client. Still, he wants to do this job well. He flies all the way from Tokyo, forced to work with Jo, at least, he wants it to be worth it. Yudai and Euijoo had send them there for reason.
“Since I can speak 4 languages, I think it was one of my plus points as a hall manager. Most times, we had tourist coming, and I can help to assist them.” Nicholas explains,
The interview went smoothly and they finished shooting just right before the opening hour. Jo then goes on with taking few pictures of the staff working, even went to the kitchen for the insert shot. While waiting, Yuma helps on tidying the light stands and reflectors and load them all in the car.
They both said their gratefulness and thanks the Maki's Cooks staff for the warm welcome and for their cooperation. With a promise to comeback, they wave their goodbye with a light heart.
“Now, all that left was the final outcome” Yuma says as soon as they get inside the car, ready to be head back to the hotel.
“Good job for today,” Jo says,
“Oh- yeah, you too” He reply, a bit taken aback.
The road back home is filled with silence, yet Yuma didn't find it suffocating.
After they arrived at the hotel, they both go their own way. Yuma went straight to their room to write an article for the magazine, his mind filled with ideas that keep on popping since he started doing the interview.
He was in charge for the marketing after all, he needs to do his best to sell it. Even though Maki's Cook is already doing well without an advertise, Yuma sure he has the power to make their sells even better. That was his job after all.
Jo went to God's know where. He immediately goes to different direction as soon as they arrived, not even exchanging words with Yuma. Yuma thought that Jo went to the food lounge, getting himself a brunch.
Still, Yuma is beyond happy to be in the room all alone. He doesn't have to be mindful of Jo and he is free to play the music as loud as he can.
He was deep in article writing and into Vaundy's discography when Jo finally arrived. His bags of equipment with him and Yuma watch him curiously. When he thought he had stare for a bit too long, he immediately looks away; hoping Jo didn't notice.
Jo laid down on his bed, closing his eyes. Yuma slow down the volume of his songs, thinking that Jo probably going to catch on his sleep. If Yuma remember correctly, Jo sleep late last night because he needed to do some color correction for his other video. (Yuma heard Jo talks about it on the phone; probably with Yushi)
Yuma snapped out of his thought when he realizes something. Fully panicking inside.
Now, why the hell I was being considerate about him?
Because for sure, if we are talking about a week ago Yuma, he will definitely put the volume louder when he saw Jo trying to rest (he had done that before). Just now he was slowing it down, because, he feels bad at Jo?
RIDICULOUS!!!
Just as he was about to put the volume back to 80%, Jo voice halt his movement.
“Do you want to go to the beach today? After lunch” Jo asks, still lying on the bed.
“Don't you have to edit the video?” Yuma ask back,
“The editing wouldn't take long; I can do that tomorrow”
“Why do I have to go with you then?”
Jo sigh, “I don't know… We are in Akita after all- What's the point if we don't visit one of the beaches?”
Yuma didn't answer, contemplate whether to stay and finish his job, or go out with Jo.
“If you don't want to go then that's fine,” Jo ended up saying as Yuma took long to answer.
“I don't like getting wet,”
Jo scoff, sitting up from his position, “I don't mean it in a way we have to go to swim- I just want to relax”
“Hm… Okay then, but I am taking my tablet with me- I really need to get this work done so I can feel at ease” Yuma says,
“Yeah, do whatever you want… We are leaving around 1pm” Jo says, looking at his own watch.
The clock just hit 11am by then, and Yuma nods. Feeling more motivated to get his job half done. He really wants to go out and relax, but again, he is the type of person who can't relax if he had unfinished job. Only if he is 70% done, he able to be freer.
Jo takes a nap, and Yuma unknowingly let his song volume low.
It was 12:50pm when Jo's alarm ring and Yuma take it as a cue to shut down his laptop and get ready. Silently, they both move in their own pace.
Yuma bring along his tablet. Thinking it would be better if he has something to do instead of just sit there and do nothing with Jo. Like, what is he gonna do later with Jo? Talk?
He follows Jo towards their rented car, watching as Jo putting the location into the map. Yuma then switch on the radio, letting it on a local radio station, singing along to whatever song was playing.
Still, they both didn't say anything at each other. Barely acknowledging that this situation is real and happening. Taki will definitely backflip if he knew that Yuma just agreed on spending time with Jo- at the beach, just two of them.
This is definitely not a situation Yuma had in mind when he thought he will be going on a business trip with Jo. Honestly speaking, Yuma thought they will continuously be fighting verbally every chance they got- but it's been 3 days, and everything is so far tolerable.
“I made a reservation for a restaurant next to the beach, I heard it was famous and luckily, they still had a free table when I called earlier” Jo says, breaking the silence.
“You made a reservation?”
Jo nod, “As I said, we are in Akita- Should have enjoy everything to the fullest”
Yuma hums, thinking if Jo is happy to have Yuma with him for this trip. Maybe Jo will like it more if Sunoo or Euijoo had come instead.
It took almost 2 hours before the sea view finally greet their eyes. Yuma's jaw dropped seeing the view in front of him. Agreeing silently that beach in Akita is truly one of the best ever.
The vast blue ocean with people sun tanning and swimming, draws a very beautiful picture in Yuma's eye. He will definitely regret if he didn't come.
He follows Jo, walking away from the parking. He takes a deep breath, taking in the smells of sea and freshness. With wind blowing softly, he didn't realize he was smiling widely.
They entered the restaurant that was packed with tourist and locals alike. The waiter shows their table as soon as Jo told them his name, a seat a bit further from other, private and closed.
“Thought you will be uncomfortable if there's too many people… I also don't like being in a crowd” Jo says as they take a seat.
“Why choose this restaurant then?” Yuma ask, confused.
“I tried few other famous restaurants, but this is the only place that has free table- I just had to make my reservation fast”
He assumes this was what Jo had been doing as soon as they arrived at the hotel earlier. Busy calling and looking around for a famous restaurant.
Yuma smiles, cute, his mind dangerously thought.
“Since you have done your research, just order whatever for me- I don't have a specific craving” Yuma says, putting down the menu book.
“Okay then-” is all Jo says before he called the waiter to order. Yuma let Jo order everything, completely trusting Jo taste in food.
Yuma fidget with the utensils on the table, awkwardly waiting for their foods to arrive. At times like this, he wonders what would Jo be thinking. Is he the only one who found this awkward?
“We don't have anything for tomorrow?” Jo asks, suddenly remember.
“Oh- yeah… I guess they gave us two days for the production, you know- to shoot a video, the interview and everything… We managed to get it done by today though- but, if you want to reshoot some stuff, we could do that tomorrow”
Jo nod in understanding.
As the silent about to hit them, the foods arrived. If Yuma is being honest, this seems a bit too much for two people to eat, he isn't a big eater per se but seeing the foods Jo order, he might say this is for 4 people.
“Isn't this too much? Are you starving?” Yuma ask, surprise.
“I wanted to try all their famous dishes… And I most definitely can eat all of this.”
Yuma gawk, not knowing Jo is really a big eater. He had heard before from his officemate that Jo does eat a lot, at that time, he thought they are just exaggerating.
“Then, enjoy your meal” Yuma says, and Jo reply back.
They both eat silently, savouring all the fresh seafoods that was used in the dishes. Yuma knows he should be thankful to Jo for giving him the opportunity to try delicious foods or else he would only eat the foods at the hotel.
Yuma was already full after his second bowl of rice and seafoods stew, but Jo still looks like he just eats his first bowl of rice (Jo was on in his second).
After that, Yuma only nibble of the side dishes while waiting for Jo to finish eating. He was beyond impress to witness that Jo really did finish everything.
“I will pay,” Jo suddenly says,
“Why? Shouldn't I pay for half”
“Obviously I ate more than you do- that's not fair”
“But still-”
Jo shakes his head, stand up and walk to the counter with his wallet in hand; ignoring Yuma who about to argue.
Yuma huff in frustration, quickly follow Jo towards the counter. As he arrived, Jo already finished paying for their foods. He knows how expensive fresh seafoods can be, especially in a restaurant like this and they had a lot of dishes- for him, it wasn't fair to have Jo paid for it himself.
“I can pay for half” Yuma says as they walk out,
“I said it's fine…”
“It's not fine with me- We ate together, I must pay for it too”
Jo sigh, knowing Yuma will not shut up about this.
“Let's get ice cream, you pay” Jo finally says
Yuma roll his eyes, “How was that equal to the seafoods?”
“Either you pay for the ice cream or I will”
“You're seriously so annoying” Yuma ended up saying, walking towards the ice cream truck.
Really, the ice cream is not even half of the price for the seafood stew they ate just now but again, if this is enough for Jo, then maybe this is fine. He can save his pocket money too.
They walk along the beach as they eat their ice cream. Along the way, they found an empty wooden bench to sit on.
The clock is past 6 now, the wind has become gentler and the weather is just nice. Jo stares at the sea in front of them, taking everything in quietly.
Yuma do too, taking some pictures to show his friends. It's been a while since he goes to the beach, he can't even recall when was the last time. He thinks it was nice to go on a relaxing trip once in a while, he was too busy with works these past few years to even consider one.
“Why do you hate me?”
The question punch straight into Yuma's gut. He frantically looks at Jo, who only wear this expressionless face.
“You hate me too!” Yuma accuse back
Jo finally looks at him, shrugging his shoulder and says, “I just think the way you hate me is different from the way I hate you”
“Why do you think it was different?”
“I ask you first,”
Yuma rolled his eyes, feeling his heart pounding. He was not expecting Jo to ask him that, and Yuma has never really thought about it- So he really don't know what to say.
“I mean… hate is a strong word…” Yuma finally says after a while, trying to think and finally navigate his own feelings and thoughts about Jo.
“Then, what is it?” Jo pressure, this time looking at the vast sea again.
Yuma sigh, “I don't know? It's confusing- I don't think it's hated…? I just think that we started with a wrong foot, you know- the printing accident? If you weren’t there, then whatever we have now would not happen. We probably be best friend even, who knows?”
Jo nodded his head, thinking the same thing.
“Why do you hate me then?” Yuma ask this time, curious.
“I don't hate you… I am jealous of you” Jo confesses.
“Huh? Jealous? Me? Of what?”
The latter chuckles, finally tearing his eyes off the sea to look at Yuma next to him.
“You're so good at your job, all our officemates like having you around, you have your life all figured out… We started the same time but you seem to be ahead of me every time- I know that our job isn't exactly the same for me to even be jealous of you, but…” Jo stop, thinking of the words on how to describe it.
“You seem to blend with everything so perfectly well. While I think that I'm always the odd one out. It's not an unhealthy kind of jealous to the point I want to bring you down- no. I was jealous because I can't even be half as good as you”
Yuma stun hearing all of this, never in his life that he thought Jo will be thinking this way.
“I have my own share of struggles, you know? I'm not necessarily like to say it to our friends back at the office. You might mistake it and sees me like I don't have any problems in this world. I just don't like to be negative and often time, I forgot about all those problems the moment I got engrossed in works” Yuma says,
“I know… But sometimes, it just surprised me on how good you are at dealing with everything. Even when the clients come banging on your office door, you will still be calm and handle it with so much care…” Jo reply after few moments, “How are you so good at everything?”
Yuma laugh, “I am not, other than my works, I'm literally bad at anything else.”
“Yeah, sure sure, I believe that”
“I'm being for real! Then, how about you being so good at everything?” Yuma says, making Jo raise his brow.
“I am not good at everything… or anything”
“Why are you doubting yourself?” Yuma says, exasperated.
“Our clients like your works, Yudai especially like working with you, you're one of the on-demand videographers just because of how great you are. You can do any other things that I cannot do myself, which mean, you're actually better than I am” Yuma continue but Jo still didn't look convince.
“I can't even put an ink on the printer” Jo says, remember back on why he and Yuma ‘fought’ in the first place.
“I don't either”
They both sit in silence, but there's no longer tension lingering around them. They don't know for how long they've been sitting there, trying to reason and talk it out.
“You're an amazing person Jo, I don't understand why you doubt yourself this badly. In a way, I think- I might be jealous of you too… You know what you're doing, you like to take charge, you can make decisions on your own, you're matured… And that's not what I can do”
“You're just trying to flatter me” Jo says instead,
Yuma huff in frustration, “I don't know how else to tell you- But, whatever, I said what need to be said and I don't lie. Up to you to believe me or not, that's just how I feel about you”
Jo chuckles as Yuma making a sulky face, “Okay… I believe you, thanks”
Then, Yuma's phone rings; showing Harua's name on display. Yuma immediately answer, afraid it has something to do with their work. As he is talking on the phone, his head snap at Jo, eyes widen and a grin on his face.
“Why? Is something the matter?” Jo asks as soon they finished the call.
“Maki agrees to be interviewed tomorrow” Yuma says, smiling widely.
“For real? What time?” Jo asks, just as excited.
“After lunch, around 2”
This is big. Maki agrees to be interviewed? He doesn’t even agree to be on TV shows most of the time, this might as well be both of their breakout ads for the lifetime. Yuma will already be thankful if he can meet the man just to talk about business, but now, he has the opportunity to even interview the man. He can't believe this is happening.
“Should we head back now?” Jo asks, standing up and Yuma agrees. The weather started to chill and sun was already set, there's only streetlights and lights from the food vendors lighting their way to the car park. Yuma ended up not doing any of his work on the tablet.
Their car ride back home is much more relax than before, both of them didn't shy away to sing out loud to the songs they knew playing on the radio. Their past has been forgotten just like that, and Yuma like this better. Means, now, he and Jo can create even more great memories together.
Maybe they can be the best friend everyone was jealous of.
As soon as they arrived at the hotel, they work separately. After taking showers, Jo is sitting on by the small coffee table, editing the video and Yuma on his bed, going through the article he writes. Then he would go through the question he would ask Maki tomorrow.
“I'll go to sleep first,” Yuma announce as he put his laptop back inside the bag. Jo hum in reply, barely glancing at Yuma.
“Goodnight Yuma,” he says,
It was a simple word, one that might not think about too much but it sounds so raw and sincere coming from Jo that Yuma literally halt his movement.
He cracks a smile, “Goodnight too, Jo” and this time Jo finally look at him, there's a small smile on his face and it's enough for Yuma to know that being with Jo isn't that bad at all. In fact, he started to think that he can do more of business trips with Jo.
Day 4 (Thursday)
They both wake up pretty late that day, still feeling worn off from yesterday's work but regardless, they're excited for today. Yuma make an instant coffee for Jo and they shared a chocolate bun that Jo brought with him.
There's definitely a change in their dynamic. Yuma didn't shy away to sit next to Jo just to see what the latter was doing and Jo didn't push or glare at him like he usually does. It was new but it was a good change.
“Where do you want to get lunch?” Jo asks, looking at his direction.
Yuma shrugged, “I don't know…?”
“I was thinking of just getting a light lunch like sandwiches or something, then we get to work, and then we going to have a late lunch slash dinner” Jo proposes his plan of the day,
Honestly, Yuma is really just the type to follow whatever the person in charge done, and clearly in this matter, it was Jo who is in charge; ever since the day they got here.
“That would be fine with me, I'm not really hungry right now and I don't think the interview with Maki will take a long time- he's a busy man” Yuma says, agreeing with Jo's suggestion.
“Alright, that's set then… And, we are going back to Tokyo tomorrow, is there somewhere you would like to go or do in Akita?”
“Honest to God, Jo- I don't really know a thing about Akita so you're free to take me anywhere you wanted to go because I don't have a clue about what's here”
Jo laughs at that, “We should ask about this to Maki or Harua later, I also don't really know what's here”
Both of them then focusing back on doing their works, planning to get going by 1pm to Maki's Cook. Most of the camera and technical equipment are still inside the car, so they don't need to do another manual labour for today. Yuma on the other hand is a bit nervous to interview Maki, this might be the turn point of his whole career; he has been waiting to interview big names like Maki.
He had informed Euijoo beforehand about this and it seems like he really should not fuck things up because this is really a huge deal for them. Not only for King's Advertisement brand but also for Yuma and Jo.
It seems like Yuma is the only one that particularly nervous today, which is valid- though, he had worked with big names before, he was never the one to interview them on site; mostly it was Euijoo.
“Why are you so nervous today?” Jo asks during the car ride, quietly observing the way Yuma was so fidgety since they were in the hotel.
“I kind of afraid that I will make a mistake during the interview” Yuma truthfully says,
“You did well yesterday, you have nothing to worry about” Jo comment.
“Yeah- I know, but it's different! I'm going to interview Maki…”
“It's going to be fine, Yuma… If you ever make a mistake, we can just do it again. I'm the one that will be editing this, and I think Maki don't even care if you slip up some words”
The latter sigh, still not feeling any better. He really just can't wait to get this over with, the feeling of anxiousness is just going to eat him up at this point.
After they arrived at the restaurant, Yuma work on autopilot. Helping Jo unloading all the equipment they need and walks towards Maki's office. Harua also give a helping hand in process after telling them that Maki is on the way.
They set up the camera and everything in record time, Yuma run through the questions he wanted to ask once again. Jo, who notice Yuma still isn't in his usual state then pull Yuma aside to the corner of the room.
“Yeah?”
“Do you need a hug?” Jo asks, catching Yuma off guard. Jo looks at him, opening his arms for Yuma to crash onto.
Yuma hesitate for second before he nods his head, feeling a bit shy. But really- he really needed any kind of physical contact now; it will immediately calm him down. Just like how baby stop crying when their moms cradle them, that was Yuma works. He needs to hold onto someone to calm himself and Jo seems to know that.
Jo's hug is warm, filled with certainty. Yuma buried his face onto Jo's shoulder, feeling the nerve leaving out his body as Jo patting his back softly.
“You don't have to be so nervous, I believe in you” Jo says just right next to his ear. They stay like that for few seconds, letting Yuma to be fully stable.
“Hi guys,” Maki voice greeted them, and both of them break the hug. Yuma don't even look at Jo as he turns away, as if he just realized that he was hugging Jo.
Jo didn't say anything, he then continues to work on his camera like usual. Just once in a while checking up on Yuma to make sure the latter was fine.
Maki put his stuff on the table as he smiles at them. He was wearing a casual fit instead of the usual chef attire he always wore for photoshoots. They both shake hands and introduced themselves, then Maki offers both of them to sit down on the couch.
“Thank you for coming all the way to Akita” Maki says, “I hope you're enjoying your stay here so far”
“Oh, we do. It was nice here” Yuma reply,
“I heard from Harua about the interviews yesterday, so how's everything?”
“It still in the process of editing but as of now, we don't have any problem about it. Both of your workers we interview yesterday gave us lots of insight about the Akita's branch” Jo says,
“That's nice… So, what will you be asking me today?”
Yuma quickly hand out the questions to Maki and the latter quickly scan the questions, nodding his head in the process.
“Okay, should we start now?” Maki ask, handing back the paper to Yuma.
“Sure,”
Jo then busied himself with the camera and the reflectors meanwhile Yuma helped on putting the microphone at Maki. Then, the interview begins.
There were few hiccups here and there during the interview, but Maki quickly reassure Yuma that it was fine and that he doesn't have to be so nervous. Well, Maki is an interesting person. He has this very easy-going vibe around him but at the same time he still looks serious that it makes people don't want to mess up with him. In addition, Maki is also funny, he keeps on cracking jokes during the interview which definitely, helps to ease Yuma more.
“Thank you so much for agreeing to the interviews, we will make sure to put the best of our ability to market your restaurant” Yuma says as they finished the interview, just then feel like a burden has been lifted from his shoulder.
“You're welcome and I never doubt about King's Advertisement, I know you guys are the best out there”
“For the video and the final article, we will send it to you guys first before publishing. In case you guys want us to edit something in or out.” Yuma says swiftly,
“Great… Also, when are you guys going back to Tokyo?” Maki ask, curious
“Tomorrow, our flight will be around 10am?”
“So soon? I wish you guys can stay longer, there's definitely lot of things to explore in Akita. It was such a shame”
Jo eye-ing Yuma, remembered back on their conversation this morning, and the latter also look at him, thinking the same thing.
“Uhm… What place would you recommend us to go that was near here? Might as well walk around for a bit” Jo says,
“Will you like to visit an onsen or will it be too much? There's few shrine that was open to public, and museums- but it’s kinda late now for that… Ah, how about Shenshū Park?”
“Senshū Park?”
“It's pretty around this time of the year and has food vendors, you guys can eat while relaxing… If you guys want to be somewhere private, there's plenty of beaches here for you guys to enjoy your date” Maki says,
“Date?” Both of them says in unison,
Maki look at then, bewildered, “You… You guys aren't dating?”
“N-No! Why would I be dating him?” Yuma says, chuckles dryly.
“Ah, I saw you guys hugging each other so comfortably- Sorry, I assume things” Maki apologetically says.
“No, it's fine- It just, it caught me off guard” Yuma says,
“Well, that's that then… Thank you again for your time Sir, do tell us if you ever come to Tokyo” Jo says, breaking the awkward silence.
“Sure, enjoy your time here”
Both Yuma and Jo quietly packing their stuff, not looking at each other. They spend another 30 minutes there asking customers for feedback on the foods and also taking photos for the magazines. Both of them say their thanks to the staff and with a promise to come visit in the future, they finally drive away from the restaurant.
The car ride was a bit awkward, which is weird because in Yuma's head, he shouldn't think too much about the silly comment Maki said about him and Jo. He supposed to just laugh it out and be normal about it, but it just didn't seem right. It almost feels like a switch inside his head has been flipped and now he just can't be normal when he thinks of Jo.
“Do you want to go to the park Maki recommend earlier? It's only 20 minutes from here” Jo says, breaking the silence.
“Up to you, I'm fine with anything”
“Okay then,” Jo reply, putting in on the map as he drives to the destination.
Yuma hates feeling uncertain like this. It's hard to say exactly what he feels about Jo. Before yesterday, it might be a bit childish, wanting to prove that he is better than the latter. Then, this business trip happens and Yuma think that Jo isn't as annoying. Yesterday, he feels like he can be friends with Jo and this morning, he did feel like he is Jo's friend.
Still, they're a bit awkward with each other; afraid if they cross a line. But Jo has been nothing but a sweet man to him. He would like to think that he and Jo are now friends, but there's still this unresolved tension around them that Yuma still hasn't figured out.
They arrived at the Shenshū Park around 4pm, there's still visitors sitting and walking around with their families. They stopped by a souvenir store there, buying few gifts to give their coworkers and family. After their little shopping, they found a food stall and decided to get their late lunch.
As they wait for the foods, they look around. Admiring all the colourful flowers blooming around them, giving off a sweet yet not strong scent.
This time, they eat without talking much. Just here and there talking about their works and share their thought on how they will make this advert a success.
Jo and Yuma decided to walk for a bit, after all, they are already at the park, it will be a waste if they don't walk around and get the mental healing they deserved. For the entirety of the walk, Yuma fully get himself in the nature, trying not to think about any work or problems. Both of them take few photos here and there, and every time Yuma caught Jo took his photo secretly, he tries not to think too much about it.
The clock is about to hit 6pm when they decided it's time to go back. The car ride back to the hotel is also silent, only filled with the songs playing from the radio. Jo hasn't asked Yuma anything even if he thinks that the latter being a little too quiet.
Jo takes a shower first while Yuma slowly packing all his stuff, afraid that he will be so out of it tomorrow and leave his stuff behind. Jo also does the same as Yuma is in the shower.
“I ordered room service” Jo says as soon as Yuma walked out of the shower,
“Huh?”
“Ordered dinner since I noticed you ate so little at the park earlier, there's no way you're full and I also still a bit hungry”
Yuma nodding his head, he is, in fact still feel hungry.
As they were busy doing their own stuff, their dinner finally arrived. Yuma's eyes widen as he looks at the amount of foods Jo ordered and also…
“You ordered wine?” Yuma ask, noticing two bottles of wine.
“Yeah, I don't know if you like wine but you know, just to relax for our last night here… You seem so tense today, maybe the wine will help”
“Thanks, I do drink wines” Yuma reply, sitting in front of Jo as the latter setting the foods properly.
“Now that I think about it, this is the first time we try the hotel's foods” He commented, making Jo laugh,
“Excuse me, it's your first time. I do eat their breakfast before” Jo says, making Yuma rolled his eyes.
The foods are indeed good, fitting with their 4-star hotel image and Yuma feels a bit regret not trying their foods before. They're leaving tomorrow and he can't believe he had missed this.
Just then, Yuma look towards the balcony.
“Should we drink the wine at the balcony?”
Jo smiles, “Sure,”
Both of them make their way towards the balcony. The air is cold but not in the way that make them shiver, but still, Jo brings his blanket outside to warm both of them. They sit next to each other, looking at the sea view in front of them. Once in a while they will take a sip of their wine, enjoying the sound of waves.
Then, Yuma ask the question he has been wanting to ask since the afternoon.
“Jo, are we friends?”
The latter practically snap his head to look at Yuma, not expecting that question to come out of his mouth.
“Of course we are now, why would you ask?”
Yuma shrug his shoulder, “Was just thinking, since… you know, we aren't really ‘friend’ before this trip happened… But now we kinda getting close with each other, so just… want to be sure”
Jo nods, agreeing with Yuma's logic.
“Is this why you have been so out of it today? Just because you're uncertain if we are friends?” Jo says, half snickering as he found it funny.
“Not entirely- I mean, I do tend to overthink stuff like this.” Yuma admits, sipping a wine from his glass.
“Well then, I am here to reassure you that you are my friend and I am your friend now,” Jo replies swiftly,
Both of them sit in silence for few minutes, just listening to the sound of waves.
“It makes me think that I barely know you…” Yuma says after a while,
“Really? But I know a lot about you though”
Yuma raise his brows, “What do you mean by you know a lot about me?”
Jo scoff, “You seems to forgot that Taki is your best friend and he keep on spilling details about you that I'm not even curious off”
Yuma's jaw dropped, “He tells you about me?!?”
The latter nods, “He just keep on talking about you to me, so I was wondering why he did that and he just said stuff like, maybe I will find something to like about you…?”
“Why would he do that?” Yuma says, mentally cursing Taki in his head.
“He talks about nothing crazy though… Just like, some of your cute habits or cute embarrassing stories; which I actually found them to be endearing”
“I swear I will end that kid once we are in Tokyo” Yuma says,
“He never talks about me to you?” Jo asks, curious.
The latter shake his head, “Nah, he just keeps on talking about stuff like opposite attract or something like that and said like how one day I will realize that I lik-”
Jo looks at him, waiting for him to finish the sentence. Yuma's brain freezes mid-sentence, didn't know why he can't seem to finish those words.
“In my opinion, Taki is just trying to get us to be together” Jo is the one to says it.
Yuma give him a small smile, agreeing.
“Which, we still don't know if his plan is working or not” Jo continues, making Yuma freeze yet again.
“What do you mean?”
“I mean, there's a possibility of me falling for you or you falling for me… So really, we don't know if his plan will work until it happens” Jo casually says, as if it was the most normal thing to say.
Yuma definitely need more than wine to process this. He needs a sake. A stronger alcohol. Because everything that comes out Jo's mouth right now just doesn't make sense.
“So… Are you dating anyone?” Yuma almost want to slam his head on the table when he realized what just came out of his own mouth.
Jo looks at him with this unreadable face, yet he gives Yuma a small smile, “As of now, I am single… And you?”
“Uh… Yeah, me too”
Yuma wants to blame it on the wine for making his mouth speak whatever it wanted. But again, he was kind of curious about it. Yuma knows how popular Jo are back at the office, he got people flocking around just to catch a glimpse of him. There's at least one person each department that have a crush on Jo.
He isn't jealous, because he, himself has people flocking over to get to know him. So, he was just kind of curious on what kind of people will Jo dated… Maybe his standard is so high; that's why he is still single?
“What's your type?” Again, Yuma blame it on his uncontrollable mouth and the alcohol that starting to get him.
Jo hum in thought, “I never really think about it before- I don't really care, I think I like whoever I want to like”
Yuma scoff, “That doesn't make sense, there must be some sort of thing that make you attracted to someone, right?”
“What's your type then?” Jo asks,
“Someone that's different than me. Calm, soft spoken, kind, maybe a little bit funny, good looking is a plus point, sweet, compassionate, understand my needs, can make decisions-” Yuma stop, cursing himself mentally for the image of Jo popping in his mind as he keeps on describing his type.
Jo raises his brows as he stops suddenly and Yuma immediately shrug, “That's about it.”
“Then, as for me, I think I like someone who is talkative, funny, also kind, a bit sassy will be a lot of fun, hardworking, I don't really care for looks… I think I like someone who is like a cat, a bit cold and unpredictable but also sweet and cute at the same time” Jo reply,
Yuma think he is going crazy because right now, his mind is supplying how Jo practically describes him and it just doesn't help because Jo is saying all of that while he is looking at Yuma, as if studying and describing him.
“That… It must've been hard to look for someone that’s like a cat… No?” Yuma ask, trying not to think too much about it.
Jo laugh, “I don't think so, I met several peoples that have a temperament like cats before… It just not everyone catches my attention, as I said, there's also other aspects that I'm looking in a person”
“Hm interesting… So, is that why you're single? You still haven’t met the one that fit all those aspects?”
Jo smiles, taking a sip of his wine before answering, “I think I found the one, I just have to wait for them to look my way…”
“Then, you should've made the first move!” Yuma says, a bit surprise to know that Jo likes someone.
“I'm a bit bad on things like that… Also, I think I did before but they just don't think I was making a move to get closer to them… So, yeah…”
“Woah, tell me then! What do you do? Maybe I can help you!” Yuma excitedly ask,
Jo contemplates, his face showing that he really doesn’t know if he should tell Yuma all of this or not; then Jo sigh,
“Bought foods for them unexpectedly, drive for them because I know they don't like to, went out of my way to reserve a table at famous restaurant even I badly hate eating somewhere that has lots of people because my social anxiety just went out of the roof… Hug them when they needed it… Then, talking with them at the beach, having a little walk around the park…” Jo says, his eyes don't even look at Yuma's way.
A part of him wish that Yuma is drunk and don't remember any of this happening but of course, that's not the case.
“Jo… Are you- Is this… Uhm… Give me a second” Yuma reply, if he thinks he is a bit drunk before, he is completely sober now. He knows he can be a bit clueless sometimes but he definitely knows Jo is describing all the things they have done during this trip. He can't even think of it as a joke because Jo looks a bit shaken up and his face is now red.
Yuma take few seconds to run through his feelings for Jo, it was a bit confusing as he just now starting to get to know the latter but it's not a bad feeling. In fact, Yuma feels positive that this will work out, it will take time but maybe Taki was right all along. Maybe he is just being an ass because he wants Jo's attention.
Maybe that was the reason he was so out of it when Maki commented about them dating. He has always harboured these feelings for Jo, but he is blinded by this stupid rivalry they have going on to realize his true feelings.
“Sorry- I think I'm drunk” Jo says after a while,
Yuma laugh, “Really?”
Jo deflates, knowing that Yuma can tell he is lying.
“Will you look at me, please” Yuma demand, and Jo complies.
“Tell me, are you drunk or not” He ask, and Jo slowly shake his head.
Yuma smiles, “Good, because I don't take drunk confession”
“What if I told you that the person is finally looking your way now?” Yuma ask, a bit hesitant.
Jo raises his brows in surprise, stunned. His eyes keep on blinking, trying to make sense of everything that happened.
“You're so confident before, why are you so timid now” Yuma ask, chuckling as Jo just stare at him.
“Well… I don't know how to respond…” Jo says because really, he would've never imagined it to turn this way. He literally doesn't know what to do with himself, he thought he is going to get rejected!
Yuma moves an inch closer, Jo look taken aback but he didn't move, their eyes met and something just clicked. Noses touching, breathe mingling with each other.
“Wait- Are you aware of what you're doing now?” Jo asks, frantically move back a little to fully look at Yuma's face.
“Like, you aren't drunk, are you? Do you realize what I just said what you just said do you?” Jo continues, wanting to make sure.
Yuma pout, “I'm not drunk, I know what I said and I'm aware of what I'm about to do, Jo. So, do you want to kiss me or not?”
Jo halt, eyes wide open staring into Yuma's.
“You won't forget this tomorrow, right?” Jo asks, hesitate.
The latter chuckles, “I won't.” He says with certainty.
Jo gives him a small smile before he closes the gap between them. Yuma melt instantly, smiling into kiss as he desperately kisses Jo deeper. The blanket that was warming their bodies up before is now on their feet, their hands trying to make the best out of this position to hold onto each other.
Yuma break the kiss first, taking a deep breath as he now found a new emotion bubbling in his chest for Jo.
“Inside?” Yuma says, and Jo complies.
Yuma waits at Jo's bed as the latter swiftly taking all the stuff inside and close the balcony's door. Without missing another second, Jo stands in front of Yuma.
“You're so pretty,” Jo says, his hands playing with Yuma's hair.
Yuma didn't reply, instead, he hooks his arms around Jo's neck, kissing the latter once more. All these past years fights and regret melt instantly as they keep on kissing each other. They cuddled on Jo's bed, giggling and kissing some more.
“I think I like you” Yuma says, making Jo laugh.
“That's a big statement after all the kisses we've done. I'm glad you're aware now.”
Yuma playfully punch Jo's chest, “But really, I think I have for a while… This feels… Amazing”
Jo gives him a smile, “Thank you for liking me back,”
“Now, tell me since when did you like me?” Yuma ask, curious.
The latter scoff, giving Yuma a peck on his forehead, “Let's talk about that tomorrow. We have to wake up early for the flights, and it's almost 2am now”
Yuma give in and that night, they sleep cuddling each other. Giving them a sense of security they have never felt before.
Day 5 (Friday)
Last day of the trip. Jo woke up first between the two and honestly, he has never had a sleep that deep and peaceful before. Usually, he will wake up around 8am even if it was his off day, it has been his routine but now he has woken up at 11:30am.
Eh…?
What?!?
“Yuma! Wake up!!!” Jo says panicking, through the blurry of his eyes, he looks at the clock again. There's no mistake this time.
“Why?” Yuma ask, voice still hoarse and groggy.
“We missed our flights… It's already 11:30am” Jo says calmly,
Yuma immediately sits on the bed, looking at his phone to check the time too. Both of them stare at each other for a while, not knowing what to do.
“Let me check other plane tickets,” Jo says, finally breaking out of his reverie.
“I will check the train” Yuma says, remembering that there's also train available from Akita to Tokyo.
Both of them scrolling through their phones for a while, “There's no plane tickets around this time. There's one but it was on 8pm” Jo says, looking at the latter.
“There's train available, at 2pm”
“So… Do you want to just walk around here aimlessly until 8pm or we catch the train and sit for 4 hours to Tokyo”
Jo shrug, both option sounds terrible to be honest. They also have to check out from the hotel, and give back their rental car. Staying sounds like they will just be wasting more money so-
“Should we get the train?” Yuma suggest, as if he has been reading Jo's mind. The latter nods, and Yuma back to work to buy tickets.
Both of them secured the tickets and they immediately went to shower. After making sure nothing of their stuff is left, they check out from the hotel. Not wanting to waste time, they went to the car rental facility to send the car. Then, they take a taxi to the station, lucky for them because they don't have to travel far as everything is just within 15-20 minutes.
They let out a sigh of relief as they arrived at the station 30minutes before boarding, finally having the time to relax and buy some foods to snack on the train.
“Today was hectic” Jo says as they sit at their designated seats in the train and Yuma laugh, agrees.
“I think the wine played a huge part on why we didn't hear our alarms” Yuma commented.
“Well… Uh, you do remember right...? Everything that happened last night?” Jo asks cautiously.
Yuma look at him as if he just remembered it, a blush crept on his cheeks as he nods. Jo let out a sigh of relief, “I thought you forgot, I was so scared to ask you about it”
The latter laugh, holding Jo's hands, “I told you I won't forget… I'm a man of my words,” Yuma says, sneakily giving Jo a kiss on the cheek.
Jo freeze, then squint his eyes, “You're so cheeky”
The latter shrug, and hold onto Jo's arms tighter. His head rest on Jo's shoulder. He has never felt this filled before, this kind of feeling that was so satisfying that it was hard to describe.
“I am so happy Jo,” Yuma says,
Jo intertwines their fingers, “Me too, Yuma.”
“So, tell me, when did you start to like me?” Yuma ask, remembered their last night conversation.
“Do I really have to tell you?” Jo tease, making the latter pout.
“You have 4 hours to tell me all about it,” Yuma demand,
“Okay sure, anything for you”
And that's how they spend the rest of the train ride. Jo pouring out his feelings and Yuma being just as shocked at how stupid he is to not realize it back then.
But the past didn't matter anymore, Yuma has his whole future with Jo for him to think about and it's about to get better and stronger from now on.
YUMA
[photo]
hello cupid
your work is done
TAKI
WHAT
stfu wth
im going to spread this photo around
thats so fucking cute
GIVE ME MORE PHOTOS OF YALL PLS
also
who confessed first
i need to win this bet
YUMA
wdym bet
TAKI
the whole company is betting on yall
so quick
who confessed first
YUMA
Jo did…
TAKI
holy shit
i can't believe he finally have the courage after three whole years of pining over a dense man like you…
i lost my bet 😔💔
YUMA
…
how would u know he like me
ALSO
WHO ELSE IS BETTING IN THIS SHIT
TAKI
people at the office has eyes uknow
it was just u who r stupid enough to not notice it
ah not many people really…
just… some of us…
and yeah
Euijoo and Yudai won the bet
YUMA
Euijoo I understand…
YUDAI?!?!?!??
HOW THE HELL OUR BOSS GET TANGLED IN THIS FREAKING BET
TAKI
he's the one that started the bet :)
also, why else do you think both of them wanted you and jo went to this business trip?
YUMA
yall orchestrated this whole thing
i can't believe this
JUST WAIT TILL IM THERE ON MONDAY
TAKI
shh
just enjoy your date
i will updating about your love life to the others now
byebye take care
The remaining of their train ride is just their coworkers spamming the group chat asking about their relationships. Safe to say, Jo spends quite some times to calm Yuma down from cursing Taki loudly in the train.