Archive of Our Own

People say that getting friend-zoned is one of the worst things in pursuing a romantic relationship.

Because well, you have been trying so hard (and maybe too much) to get your crush’s attention and then you get it. You finally become the ‘best friend’; you become their home for them to tell every single thing about their life. Their daily activities, their achievements, their problems, their likes, and their dislikes. From the most trivial stuff to the secrets that they probably won’t tell any soul except you. You know everything about them!

Congrats, you have become important to them! It makes you happy, right? Right?

But, no.

One day, your crush tells you about their own crush! Oh no! YOU, who are too kind to not ignore them and save your heart and sanity, smile and listen–watching from the front seat how they gush about their own crush with a sparkle in their eyes and blush on their face. While at the same time crushing your little fragile heart as you convince yourself that it is enough to be on their side as best friend.

Ugh, please spare Mortis from that telenovela drama–pathetic self-pity, coping mechanism, denial, stubbornness–a whole package of tragic recipe. The worst.

Seriously, out of all Minami-chan’s dramas, Mortis hates this trope the most. Mortis can’t stand that sappy thing. If you really love someone–just tell them, instead of drowning in ‘Oh it is good enough’ because it means hurting yourself. Bah, what the heck?

And guess what’s worse than getting friend-zoned? Getting family-zoned.

Imagine that. YOU are not just their best friend—you’re their brother, their sister, or even their mom or dad. Someone irreplaceable but still crushingly not even on their radar. It’s even more bitter because seriously— who asked for this?! You have to give your blessing to… your crush when they bring their partner.

Seriously, Mortis can’t stand this kind of troupe. Well… maybe just a little bit–if that person can confess to their crush and get rejected properly or something. At least hey, they get the answer, like, answer from their crush’s mouth. Instead of suffering alone for years. That’s why Mortis always has a soft spot (as well as gets mad) at the second lead plus best friend role in drama.

That’s why Mortis is frustrated, for God damn sake.

“If you won’t I will confess to Sakiko-chan”

Mortis decided to threaten Mutsumi-chan.

She had lost count of how many times she had done that. But, yesterday was seriously bad. Mutsumi-chan was so stressed, lamenting on how many people approached Sakiko-chan (which had already happened so many times).

But Mutsumi-chan said it was different this time.

Maybe because they have hit the age of marriage thingy.

The last party held by the Togawa family was particularly awful. Both of them are already used to dance with other people, alright. Sakiko–that damn popular girl–received a lot of invitations just like last year and before. But, there is something different. A man, around their age, confessed her love for Sakiko-chan and kissed her backhand.

Mutsumi-chan immediately fainted, but, Mortis quickly took control–saving them from any upcoming troubles if she didn’t do so. Mortis didn’t mind, causing trouble for Togawa, Wakaba, or even Sakiko-chan. But, Mutsumi-chan minds. So, Mortis plays nice.

So, Mortis acted fast. It was a piece of cake. Also, she added some clinginess that Mutsumi-chan would never dare to do that to Sakiko-chan. Like putting her arms around Sakiko-chan’s waist and saying that they already have an appointment together, yadda, yadda. Successfully broke up that romantic atmosphere between whoever it is and Sakiko-chan.

It was easy peasy, but it was a bit disgusting to pretend as Sakiko’s beloved little sister in name only. Mortis had to act as if she had been in love with Sakiko-chan ever since they met.

Or was it when Sakiko-chan approached Mutsumi-chan despite other people’s whispers? Or was it when Sakiko-chan put a white sheet on Mutsumi-chan’s head when it was stormy to calm Mutsumi-chan down despite she was also terrified of thunder? Or was it when Sakiko held Mutsumi-chan’s hand warmly? Or was it when Sakiko-chan said Mutsumi-chan was just Mutsumi-chan, not Wakaba Mutsumi, the daughter of the famous Wakaba family? Whatever.

Whatever it is, Mortis doesn’t care. Well, not really. Mortis can imagine how Mutsumi might be crying. And Mortis hates it whenever her lovely main personality is crying. So despite her disgust, she did.

"Please no”

Mutsumi-chan of course, as always rejects Mortis’s kind offer to confess her feelings to Sakiko-chan.

They are 20 years old now. Both of them have passed their teen phase or… well, any phases of life, without anything changing between them for better or worse. Well, if there is one thing that changed between them… it is just this.

“Good morning, Mutsumi”, Sakiko greets gently as she puts freshly cooked pancake on the table. It has a sweet familiar scent, Mortis thought. Probably honey and butter on top of it. Maybe a bit of maple syrup too. It is too sugary and sweet, but maybe because Sakiko feels Mutsumi needs extra sugar to start her day because yesterday was especially bad.

The only thing that changed between them was that they became roommate.

One year ago, Sakiko-chan asked Mutsumi-chan if she wanted to share an apartment to reduce costs because they would attend the same university. Of course, Mutsumi agreed. She studied so hard to enter the same prestigious university as her childhood friend–to stay as Sakiko’s closest attendant, after all.

Not that Sakiko-chan knows that or has to know that (quoted Musumi-chan). But, for Mortis, Sakiko-chan should know THAT! Like, how happy Mutsumi-chan was when she read the announcement-finally, they attended the same school again, after their separation during high school period. Or how hard Mutsumi-chan studies to get accepted every sleepless night.

Again, Mutsumi-chan never says that. She never lets Mortis say that either to Sakiko-chan. Seriously, Mortis should have taken her chance to say that yesterday! But, Mutsumi-chan might fall or get hurt again. So, Mortis decided not to. 

Sakiko-chan is well… still the same old Sakiko-chan. More or less.

She finally gets out of Togawa’s household, from her grandfather's watchful eyes. Well, not completely, but Sakiko-chan gains more freedom than before. Mutsumi-chan knows this better than anyone–the reason Sakiko-chan asked her to live together is due to the cost of living, it doesn’t have to be Mutsumi-chan.

But, Mutsumi-chan doesn’t mind, even though Mutsumi-chan can afford a more luxurious and bigger apartment than this by herself, she doesn’t mind. In fact, she was so happy that finally they could live together. It is finally Mutsumi-chan’s turn to live with Sakiko-chan.

Mortis nodded at Sakiko-chan as she started to eat that sweet pancake. The texture is so good, smooth and fluffy. The sweetness is just right for Mortis. Not too sweet and not too bland, it won’t make Mortis feel sick if she eats in large portions. One of the benefits of this arrangement is that Sakiko-chan uses her top-notch cooking skill to cook for them.

Their morning is usually silent. But, it is never the awkward silence. It is always comfortable to bask in each of their presence, at least that’s what Mutsumi-chan often says.

Mutsumi-chan said she always loves the morning because she always sees Sakiko-chan first thing in the morning. It is also an exclusive time for both of them–because they have different classes and schedules. Mutsumi-chan said it was enough for her.

But, Mortis is not Mutsumi-chan.

While she promised Mutsumi to not tell a single thing to Sakiko-chan, she can do something outside the realm of promise, right?

So she asks, “How is your meeting before?”

Sakiko-chan chews the pancake in her mouth, then uses a napkin to wipe her mouth. If Mortis knows no better, there is nothing wrong with Sakiko-chan. But, Mortis knows better. She knows that Sakiko-chan is slightly surprised that her Mutsumi is asking this out of nowhere.

“Which one?”

Ah, yeah, she is busy. Meeting with the agency, other producers, people in her class project groups, and blah blah. Mortis doesn’t keep track of any of that boring stuff. The super busy and all-around Sakiko-chan.

“The omiai”

Sakiko blinked. Certainly, she didn’t expect this, “Hm, it is just the usual” she replied calmly without any trounce of emotions. She is bored of it. Getting numbed by the constant tiring meetings.

“I just wonder when will this end? Or if I do get married, will I get someone who… understands me?”, Sakiko paused, looking a bit troubled. Sakiko is indeed getting more freedom. But, that old man didn’t let her fully–Sakiko has attended various arranged marriage meetings as she is the only heir of the Togawa Group.

“But, overall it is based on Grandfather’s choices”

“Because I let you THIS free, and at least you can choose which one you decide to marry based on my lists. I won’t let you end up like Mizuho–marrying that no-good man”

Sakiko told Mutsumi once with a smile on that day. It mirrors when Sakiko-chan told Mutsumi-chan that the tuition fee of Tsukinomori was very expensive years ago. It is a calm smile if not a mockery of her own self with hint of resignation.

“What is the common criteria of his choice?”, Mortis asked.

Sakiko looked a bit surprised. First, because they never talk about this. Second, she thought that this topic wouldn’t interest Mutsumi at all. Did Mutsumi hit puberty late or something? Well, there is nothing wrong with answering Mutsumi’s question. So, Sakiko works her brain, summing the stack of paper that is filled with the profiles of her suitors in her head.

“Well, the usual” Sakiko sighed, “Comes from a prestigious family, has a good record academically or anything. The good record and skills will benefit Togawa Group for a long time. Or, yes, anyone from a family that has an established relationship with Togawa”

“Huh…” Mortis hummed and took a sip of the mango juice that Sakiko-chan put on the table. Well, it doesn’t surprise Mortis at all. Very typical and basic. So, she changed her approach.

“Then, what’s your type, Sakiko-chan?”

Sakiko looks thoughtful for a moment. She sees her cup of tea, her face is reflected on the half-drunk early grey tea–troubled, “I don’t think that my preference has any impact upon this”

“Tell me” Mutsumi is always short with words yet direct, so Mortis mirrored that. She knows which tone and words tug the heir of Togawa’s heart string. Hearing that, Sakiko-chan sighed.

“At this point? I don’t think I have one”, Sakiko-chan shook her head lightly, then put her finger under her chin, “But, at least I do not want him to have a big age gap with me. No problematic record. If possible too, I have been acquainted with him for a long time. Of course, the most important thing is he let me have freedom and independence, I want to stay with Ave Mujica, after all”, Sakiko-chan smiled at the end.

“How about me?”
“Hm?”

“Well, I actually fit all your preferences and Grandpa’s conditions. I come from a prestigious family, no? The Wakaba. Wakaba and Togawa have been founded on a strong relationship. I don’t have any problematic records. Our age… we don’t have any age gap. Unless you count that one-month difference. We have known each other since we were children. And I can let you be free doing whatever you want”

This time Sakiko-chan was coughing, breaking the previous picture of an elegant woman drinking a cup of tea, “M-Mutsumi?!” she stammered, her cheeks a deep shade of red.

“W-What are you saying...?”

“Don’t worry, I’ll do research for us to conceive a child. Later I will make you pregnant as many times as many you or the Togawa family want. So, how is it? Let’s get married”

Clink!

“Ow! What’s that for, Sakiko-chan!?”, Mortis rubs her red forehead, the preparator is blushing. Sakiko then pulls back her fingers that were used for a flick.

“Is this your new way to torment me, Mortis?”, Sakiko-chan’s voice is calm, but her face is fully red due to embarrassment and deep shame. Wait, Sakiko-chan is seriously red… she is like a boiled octopus, it is kinda cu–okay, stop. What the heck Mortis just thought?

“For your bad joke” she replied curtly, then added, “Don’t make Mutsumi say something vulgar like that, Mortis”, Sakiko uncharacteristically let out her tongue as she took Mortis’s empty plates and then washed all of them in the sink. Mortis quickly followed.

“Also… Why you are here? Did… something happen to Mutsumi?”, Sakiko asked quietly. She looks a bit troubled, “Did I do something to her?”

Honestly, Mortis wants to say ‘Yeah you did with your obliviousness’ , but Mortis decided to shut her mouth. She decided to wipe off the wet plates with a cloth.

Damn, she should have changed her name to Miss Oblivious instead of Oblivionis.

“I am going to be busy. But I will be free around lunch. Do you want to talk then? Also… Are you okay with attending Mutsumi’s class today? Shall I go to your class?”

Mutsumi chooses the horticulture major. It is very unexpected from other people’s perspective. It caused an uproar, which is clearly an understatement. Sakiko remembers various news with big headlines about Mutsumi’s choice. Such as The famous Wakaba’s daughter takes a horticultural major?! Well, most people would think the famous Wakaba princess would pick some more glamorous choice. Such as focusing on theatre, drama, full-time celebrities, or model, or a full-time guitarist. But, Mutsumi chooses to be a university student, a horticultural major on top of it. Which is completely unthinkable for the public.

Minami-chan the oh-so-cool mom said in an interview, “I let Mutsumi-chan to choose whatever she wants. After all it is her future. As her parent I support Mutsumi-chan’s decisions, wants, and dreams” pretty funny if you ask Mortis. Abandonment and hand-off parenting warped nicely as that.  

“Haha, I wonder,” Mortis muttered, a slight smile tugging at her lips. She is pretty sure that Sakiko-chan would definitely drop her own classes today and talk to her group project that she would be unable to attend their meeting today if Mortis asked Sakiko to stay.

But, it is Mortis’s first time to attend class in university. It should be interesting, right? There are a lot of films and dramas featuring a university background! Plus having Sakiko-chan around would be too annoying. She must be nagging Mortis for every tiny little thing!

“Nah, I am good, let’s just meet up later, Sakiko-chan”

Plus, she has to investigate things! It is been so long since she fronted after all!

Sakiko sighs, “Please call me if you need me, okay?”

Yippie! Time to explore university fun life!

Ahhhhhh, university is soo... boring.

How did Sakiko-chan take up a double degree in music and management again? She must be double-boring with all of that. As expected from the serious and boring Sakiko-chan. Mortis huffed as she watched the professor’s notes with no interest. It is about plant, plant, and plant. No surprise. But, Mortis is bored.

Bah.

This is sooo… boring.

Seriously how did Mutsumi-chan, Sakiko-chan, and the rest of the class can be this focused?
Boring. Boring. Boring. The monotone voice of the lecturer, boring topics, boring–!

So, better do something productive then! Such as, yes, plan how to make Mutsumi-chan confess to the prickly blue octopus–that’s what Mortis wrote on her notebook, with a drawing of a blue octopus with her blue ink ballpoint.

Yeah, this. Time to do something productive. Mortis is sure Mutsumi-chan doesn’t need this. Let’s just record the professor’s voice with a recorder app and be done with it.

First, what should she do? Hmm… Mortis wrote a big question mark and drew a cute chibi of Mutsumi and another scrabble of a blue octopus. The two of them are linked with a broken line. Arrow pointed to the blue octopus with a heart symbol. While the arrow pointed to chibi Mutsumi is family? Little sister? Friend? Childhood friend?

Then, Mortis wrote a few pointers. The first point is…. Confessing to Sakiko-chan as Mutsumi-chan. Then Mortis scratched that writing. No good, yeah. She already promised Mutsumi-chan not to say anything so… the most effective way is no good. Damn.

Okay, the second point is… push Mutsumi-chan to confess. Yeah as if. Mortis has already tried that for years . Even before she got the name ‘Mortis of Ave Mujica’. From encouraging Mutsumi-chan like “ Mutsumi-chan is special” or “ Mutsumi-chan is cute, there is no way Sakiko-chan reject you!” or “ Don’t you see you are practically Sakiko-chan’s number one!” To downright scolding and threatening Mutsumi-chan–such as confessing as Mortis and pointing out there are a lot of people who want Sakiko-chan.

But again, stubborn and foolish Mutsumi-chan doesn’t take the bait. She just looking downward sadly. It makes Mortis feel bad. So, she doesn’t do that often… by her standard.

Yeah, point two is useless. Let’s just scratch it.

So, Mortis write the point three. Which… contains nothing. 

What should she do? Seriously, what?

Okay, Mortis is smart. This should be easy. Then, Mortis draw a frustrating circle around the blue octopus–think it as a barrier, stubborn and stupid like Sakiko-chan, but definitely not because Mortis is frustrated.

How to change Sakiko-chan’s perspective of Mutsumi-chan? How Mutsumi-chan can appeal Sakiko-chan as a woman, not as a little sister or childhood friend? Yeah, that. They are practically already doing everything! From feeding each other, indirect kissing by straw or glass, hugging each other, telling secret that only two–well, three or few thousand if you include other Mutsumis –know, taking a bath together, exchanging diaries, playing music together, sleeping together, and always at least once a day give a message to each other.

What in the world Mortis have to do?

Geez! Friendzone is already troublesome enough! Then Mutsumi-chan take the hardest difficulty–the family zone!

Sakiko-chan has already seen everything about Mutsumi-chan. Well, not everything. But, yeah, Mutsumi-chan the guitarist. But basically, she knows Mutsumi-chan like her own backyard. Like, Mutsumi-chan’s tiniest change of expression or her train of thoughts… mostly. Sakiko can’t guess her 100%. But she is clearly the one who understands Mutsumi-chan the most. Even though Sakiko-chan is so annoying. Though, since Ave Mujica broke up for first time and hopefully only that one time, Sakiko-chan seems unsure about Mutsumi-chan’s wants and not fully confident in understanding Mutsumi-chan’s thoughts.

It feels… sad. But, well, no one can understand Wakaba Mutsumi perfectly. So it is okay. Probably. Don’t ask Mortis.

Wait. Since Sakiko-chan already knows everything about Mutsumi-chan… Isn’t it better if Mutsumi-chan shows her hidden side!?

Nice. That’s a good idea. So, Mortis quickly wrote that on the notebook with a pencil in hand. Then at the end, she circled the number 3. Yep. It looked good. Then how to achieve this? Mortis huffed. This is so hard. Hidden side? Another Mutsumi? Yeah, no.

But, again, Sakiko-chan is…

Well, let’s get this started already. If Sakiko-chan already knows about Mutsumi-chan. Both good and bad. Then, maybe Mortis should change her approach! Yeah! That! Even though it is annoying, but, for Mutsumi-chan’s sake, let’s focus on Sakiko-chan. If Sakiko-chan sees a different Mutsumi, not a normal Mutsumi-chan, then it can happen!

So, unlike normal Mutsumi-chan, also Sakiko-chan focused, huh…

Mortis taps the table lightly, thinking. She twirls the pen while her brain tries to find several solutions. Okay, remember, think, search. If it is Sakiko-chan focused, then Mortis should look for Sakiko-chan’s preference, right?! Yes, Mortis is genius! So, Mortis put her thoughts on the notebook once again.

But, Sakiko-chan’s preference is… well, Mutsumi already fulfil that–kind and thoughtful, not have a big age gap, already know Sakiko-chan from kindergarten, and let Sakiko-chan have her freedom. Mutsumi has already checked all the checkboxes since the beginning.

Uh…

Then, again, Sakiko-chan never says it. Well, if Sakiko-chan didn't say her actual preference, then it is Mortis’s job to figure it out! Heh, genius Mortis!

Sakiko’s type.

Sakiko-chan’s type. Who knows? Don’t ask mortis. But as far as she remembers, the closest thing is… short hair. Like… Tomori-chan. It was obvious, that Sakiko-chan once fell in love with CRYCHIC vocalist. 

She remembers how Mutsumi took it upon her silently, still wishing for Sakiko-chan’s happiness–after all, it is much better. For a smile to be plastered on her face, rather than a frown and constant mind numbness after… her mom passed away that day.

So, Mutsumi-chan, who saw the glimmer in Sakiko-chan’s golden eyes and a wide smile, decided to let all of them go. Mutsumi-chan didn't understand why her chest ached back then. Yet she decided to fulfil Sakiko-chan’s wish–her inability to play guitar be damned, Sakiko is so blissfully unaware.

None of them are aware, but Mortis is aware.

Sakiko-chan is smitten with that girl. Instead of grabbing Mutsumi-chan's hand, she grabbed Tomori-chan's.

Okay, enough of that. 

Even if Sakiko-chan or Mutsumi-chan deny this. It is a fact! The evidence, you ask? She chooses Nyamu-chan. She resembles Tomori-chan at one glance–short hair, tomboyish yet feminine, and she named her Amoris–love, her withered love, precisely. Mortis would not be surprised at all if it symbolized Sakiko’s first love–as painful it is. While the other members got sad and powerful names such as Death, Sorrow, Fear, and Forgetful. Nyamu gets one special name–Love. That’s my dear elementary, is the clue.

Anyway, about Nyamu-chan, she certainly resembles Tomori at first glance. But the inside? Fortunately, Nyamu is so different from Tomori. So, they constantly bicker. Sometimes, Mortis wonders if it is sexual tension or something. But, now they are okay. Well, compared to when it was early Ave Mujica forming.

So short hair.

That’s why she rejected blatant Soyo-chan’s affection for her–Mortis swears if Soyo (as much as Mortis loves that girl) denied her crush on Sakiko-chan during middle school to early high school era, she would berate Soyo-chan on the spot. Immediately.

Like, it was so obvious. And sad too.

And Soyo-chan has long hair–so, probably her type is short hair.

But, again, there is Uika-chan. She has short hair. A bit tomboyish and feminine. Popular and friendly. Like, for example, both Wakaba Mutsumi and Uika-chan are celebrities. But, Uika-chan is more prominent in handling fan service, not to mention there are screaming “ Doloris-sama!!” whenever they have a concert.

Honestly, Uika-chan is so perfect, if only she is not too obsessed with Sakiko-chan. But again, Sakiko-chan rejects Uika-chan. Honestly, Mortis doesn't get it why on earth Sakiko did that.

If Sakiko-chan told Mortis, ‘no it is not’ then for sure Mortis will submit a complaint about changing Oblivionis name into Oblivious. Seriously, Sakiko-chan should consider changing her name ASAP.

Then what? What’s the difference between Uika-chan and Tomori-chan? Both of them are vocalists and lyricists. Tomori-chan is quiet. Uika is friendly–well, she is also quiet but like still talkative compared to Tomori. Soyo is also quite talkative. Nyamu-chan is a motor mouth. So… is Sakiko’s type is an introverted, quiet person? and a good listener, probably?

But, still. Short hair wins the most. Or maybe it doesn't matter? Then Mortis see her long hair. She has long hair. Personality? Doesn’t matter. Mutsumi is a quiet introvert and they have known each other for long. So, yeah time to get a cut–or wig. Mutsumi-chan would be shocked if she found out Mortis cut her hair short. Let’s just go for a wig.

So, Mortis wrote it down again.

But, if only a wig, it won’t make a good and heart-throbbing surprise. Mortis also have to combine this with another. Oh, the thing she does for Mutsumi-chan and Sakiko-chan…

Then, let’s continue. Mortis taps the pen once again.

Ah, right. Style. Mutsumi-chan and Sakiko-chan have similar tastes of clothing. But, Sakiko-chan never see Mutsumi-chan wear different clothes, right? So, Mortis write it down. What’s a possible different style that might make Sakiko-chan speechless? Hmm… She will have to consult this with Umiri-chan and Nyamu-chan. Okay, let’s contact them after the class ends!

Or, scratch it. Let’s just contact them now so Mortis can go meet them after class ends.

With that in mind, Mortis pulls out her phone, typing a message to Umiri-chan and Nyamu-chan.

When are you guys free, let’s meet, three of us, ASAP .

Umiri-chan as always responded it before Mortis could react. What’s wrong, Mortis-san? Did something happen? The benefit of having been friends and in the band for years made Umiri-chan and Nyamu-chan can recognize which Wakaba Mutsumi is fronting.

Nothing, but let’s just meet later.

Then Umiri-chan sent a sticker–a cute panda saying okay.

Okay, the style is done. While Mortis can handle modelling just fine, she is not too sure about coordinating fashion on her own. Having three different heads is better than just one, after all.

Then, what else besides styling and hair? What else to bring out another Mutsumi-chan’s different charm to Sakiko? What she has to change to appeal to her? 

After a few minutes of not getting any ideas, Mortis closed her notebook. Yep, when meeting with Umiri-chan and Nyamu-chan she can do a brainstorming session with them. No worries. Everything will be a piece of cake.

“So, please remind me again, why I am here?” Nyamu folded her arms, looking a bit annoyed, at least until the waitress brought their order and Mortis promised to pay for their orders.

“For Mutsumi-chan’s sake”

“And pray to tell me why it is urgent?” Nyamu sighed, she took a spoonful of tiramisu–this, whatever this was, Nyamu swore they should never bring love trouble to the band, at least the tiramisu was not that bad. It is good in fact. Hmm... The flavour mixes well and is not too sweet. It is good.

Okay, time to get what’s worth now that the rich girl Wakaba Mutsumi promised to pay for everything.

“I don’t mind but, I thought Mortis-san would prefer if Togawa-san and Wakaba-san did not end up together”, Umiri said calmly after she swallowed that black sesame-flavoured macaroon.

“But, if I didn’t go for real, Mutsumi-chan will just deny it by saying because I am not going all out from the beginning or something. So, it doesn’t work” Mortis pouted remembering her alter that despite her timidness she is unsurprisingly stubborn.

“So, I am going all out” she finished with determination.

“Huh, I see. Good luck with that”

“Wait, I need your help, Nyamu!”

Nyamu didn’t answer and just let out a whimsical hum as acknowledgement as she checked her nails, “So, what’s your plan? And what I can help with what exactly?”

“I plan to make Sakiko-chan see a different side of Mutsumi-chan! Like, to match Sakiko-chan’s type. I am planning to do that too!”

“Hmm”
“Then do you know what’s Sakiko’s type?”

“I don’t know, but maybe short hair” Umiri and Nyamu look at each other, “Wait, what?”

“Is that why she picked three of us?!”, Nyamu screamed, three out of six, okay five if you exclude Sakiko herself, is short hair after all. 

“Geez, I said ‘maybe’, right?”

‘Probably it is not the best idea to bring up how Sakiko-chan fell in love with Tomori-chan back in middle school and picked Nyamu-chan because she resembles Tomori at first glance and named Nyamu-chan ‘amoris’ because of that’, Mortis thought, 'at least not now’

“So, I will continue, okay? Then, I need a wig. So, can you style it Nyamu?”

“Sure I can do that”, Nyamu sighed

“Also… Hm, another Sakiko-chan’s preference is probably… a bit tomboyish clothes? But, also not fully like that? I am not too sure”

“I thought Togawa-san would prefer someone who is very prim and proper since Togawa-san is raised in that kind of environment”, Umiri chipped in after she drank the ale.

“Ah, right, rich girl”

Nyamu pitched in, laughed a bit, “And her Shakespeare tendencies. So how is it?”

“Hmmmm, it can be. But, Sakiko-chan can be a weirdo and unexpected sometimes you see… Like liking bugs”

“But, what are the boundaries of normalcy for Togawa-san and us?”

“Hmm… That’s deep Umiri-chan”
“Ah I see, my bad”

Umiri told them monotone, “Then how about we pick something that different. How about a semi-formal look?”, she took her phone after a few taps she showed them her phone screen. A woman wears a blazer, turtle neck, and pants.

“This looks good, Umiko”
Thank you. You can also see some variations, here”

Umiri swipes the images, now the screen shows a woman with a white blazer, black t-shirt, and pants. Then she swipes again, now there is a woman with a green blazer, white t-shirt, and white pants.

“Oohh”

“Wakaba-san always go for cute style. So, how about we spice it up with a look like this? It is simple but, I think because you never go for this kind of look, it will make Togawa-san surprised”

“Uwa, that’s a nice idea, Umiri-chan!”

“Glad to be a help”

“Also, Mortis-san, how about you try a different perfume or cologne?”, Umiri said as she showed another her online shopping cart and transaction history–which is so many.

Nyamu leans in as she checks Umiri’s seems like a never-ending cart, “Whoa, your shopping spree never stops worrying me, Umiko”

“It is fine. I can eat until the end of this month”

“I won’t let you in this month even if you ring my bell a thousand times”

“... I am sorry. I am in a pinch at the end of the month”

Umiri showed an apologetic face, as much as she could with her normally stoic face. But, it is enough for Nyamu and Mortis to see the subtle difference.

Nyamu sighed, “Did you use all of this?” before Umiri could open her mouth, she quickly added, “No, right?”, as she had already memorized Umiri’s stress shopping spree.
“... Right”

After all, how could Umiri use 20 different kinds of perfume within a short time? She only tries two perfumes and cologne at the most.

“So, Muuko”, Nyamu called and made Mortis lift her eyebrow, “How about you just buy one from Umiko? She has good taste despite doing bad stress shopping sprees. Let’s give Sakiko a different vibe from you”

Well, that’s right. Also, Umiri can recommend her the best cologne or perfume. 

“Sure, Umiri-chan, do you mind?”

“I–”

“–She doesn’t. Umiko give Muuko a recommendation, alright? I won’t lend you any money this month”

“... I don’t mind, Mortis-san”

“Umiri-chan it seems like Nyamu-chan already got you figured all out huh…”, Mortis spoke, well, some people said usually the drummer and bassist have a special bond. But, to think Umiri-chan and Nyamu-chan are being like this.

It is kinda funny.

“Anyway, I gotta run. I have a class after this”, Nyamu said as she checked her wristwatch and then packed her things.

“Eh, wait, we aren’t done yet here!” Mortis pouted, but Nyamu stood, ignoring her pout.

“Ya ain’t going to propose to Sakiko today, right?”
“I… No… But…!”
“That’s what I figured. There is still some time and I have other business, kay? Let’s talk about this next time. I am kinda full today”

“... Right”, Mortis sighed, deflated.

“For now, how about you go to Umiko’s place to see which perfume or cologne you’d like?”, Nyamu suggested and then her phone rings a bit–alarm, probably, “Okay, I have to go now. See ya, you two”

“Ah, that’s right,” Umiri-chan said, “After I finished this, okay?”

Mortis sighed and smiled looking at Umiri who clearly took advantage of Mortis’s treat, “Sure” and took another bite of her tiramisu.

“Togawa-san, you aren’t going to grab lunch? Do you want to have lunch with me and others? We are going to cafeteria”

Sakiko blinked and found her friendly classmate offering a kind smile before her, “Ah, thank you for the offer. But, please don’t mind me. I am waiting for someone” maybe because Sakiko didn’t leave the class immediately unlike usual or maybe because Sakiko is fixed on her phone with a frown on her face.

“Oh, okay, then I am going ahead, okay?”
“Yes”, with that her classmate left the class.

That’s right. Sakiko is waiting for a certain someone to reply to her messages. They already promised to have lunch together after all. Did something happen to Mortis? Her class should have ended before Sakiko’s. Did she wander alone and get lost? Sakiko and Mutsumi already told her about what to do if she was lost right? Did Mortis remember? Or what if her phone battery dies?

No, no. Sakiko remembers Mutsumi always charged her phone before she went to bed. Last night too. So, Mutsumi’s battery should be full. Wait, was it? Did Mutsumi charge her phone properly last night?

Her fingers fiddled on her phone screen. There are some messages that Sakiko sent to Mortis. All of them are perfectly sent a few minutes ago. But, none of them gets read sign.

Seriously, what’s happened?

Is everything okay?

Should Sakiko just go to the Agriculture Faculty and search for Mortis?

But, if she is too overprotective Mutsumi and Mortis would not like that… right? But, it is been an hour since the class ended. Sakiko doesn’t have a class until later. So, it seems like she has to go. So, with that Sakiko stands about to leave her class until her phone vibrates. Quickly she checks her phone.

Only find Mortis sent her a link. Not a message she is looking for but still she sends her something.

Test your love language now!

https://testyourlovelanguage.com

???

‘Did Mortis want me to take this quiz?’, Sakiko thought, before she typed again, asking for Mortis’s whereabouts for… seventh time.

Sakiko-chan, take this.

Quick.

Also, I am busy.

Send me ur results later.

No worry, I am eating now.

At least her questions are answered for now.
Partially.
But at the very least Mortis is eating lunch and not in danger. Probably.

So, Sakiko typed her reply,

Okay, please wait for a moment.
Also, please tell me if you need help or something.

And erase her message about sharing a live location. Mortis would not like that. It is better to have her message Sakiko every once in a while than having her block Sakiko. Let’s just be glad with this.

Later, when everything is warped up and Mortis go home she will ask Mortis the questions. Also, maybe ask about Mutsumi’s condition too. … Sakiko really didn’t do anything wrong right? Yesterday she asked Mutsumi to go together to the party and… nothing happened. It went as usual.

Or maybe, Mutsumi was tired? Sakiko knows that the one who went home with her yesterday is Mortis, not Mutsumi. Then, did something really happen to Mutsumi?

Ugh. Sakiko grips her lower arm, feeling uncomfortable when her thoughts are messy like this. Too many probabilites. And if something bad happened to Mutsumi again. Sakiko is not sure if–

Okay. Calm down.
It is going to be okay.

Instead of focusing on what she can’t do, it is better if she focuses on things she can actually do. Tonight she is going to ask Mortis about everything. To bribe her, she is going to cook her favourite hamburger steak. Also, buy taiyaki from Mortis and Mutsumi’s favourite store around the station. For now, Sakiko will take the quiz and send the result to Mortis.

Yes, let’s do that.

She is god after all.

Mortis threw the phone onto Umiri’s bed as she leaned back, “Sakiko-chan take too long!”

“It is only a few minutes since you sent that to Togawa-san”, Umiri-chan replied, deadpan about Mortis’s complaint. It is always something else to see Mortis being pushy to their leader. But, like a completely different person if she is with others.

“So, which one do you like?”, Umiri-chan asks as she pulls her shopping bag–still filled with unopened boxes of perfume and colognes.

There are too many perfumes and colognes. Like, way too many. No wonder Nyamu tried to help Umiri’s finances by making Mortis buy one of them. There are vary–from something normal like Sea Breeze cologne to dubious name perfumes like Orgsm.

“Why the name is so weird?”

“Don’t ask me. I am not the one who made it. Also, surprisingly it is one of my favourites”

“Figures”

“What do you mean by that, Mortis-san?”

“How about you resell it to preloved web, Umiri-chan? You can write, it used by Timoris of Ave Mujica, free handshake session too. It will make a lot of money”, Mortis pick one, the sea breeze one. As per the name, it has blue colour like ocean. Mortis sniffs, it really smells like an ocean with a bit of fruity scent. Then, she tries another one–orgsm’s scent is like vanilla and apple. It smells good to be honest. Floral and sweet. As expected from Umiri-chan's taste.

“Ah, that's good idea”

"I am joking, Umiri-chan..."

But, yeah, Mutsumi already wears that kind of perfume on a daily basis.

So, let’s look for another one. Mortis pick the black-coloured perfume. Hmm, it smells like wood? But, also resembles tea. Maybe Sakiko-chan would like this kind of perfume. It also has a subtle citrus scent. Yeah, this one is also good. 

“Nyamu-chan is right. Your tastes are good”, Mortis acknowledged as she picked another one–this time it was bold red. Hm… This one is a bit too strong for Mortis linking. But, still good. If she is going to aim to show Sakiko-chan a different side of Wakaba Mutsumi, should she go with this perfume?

“Thank you, I know”

“Eh, what are you doing, Umiri-chan?”

“Hm? Of course, I bring the other bag, I still have a lot of perfume and cologne”

Mortis blinked slowly, her mouth slightly agape, “Seriously, Umiri-chan?” as she watched Umiri put another batch of perfume and cologne on the table.

It seems like this is going to be long…

Mortis is going to smell like a whole perfume section of the department store.

The only sound within the room is the clock ticking. Yet, it sounds so loud. Sakiko’s stomach growls, but really, she doesn’t feel hungry.

Sakiko taps the table impatiently. It is not that late, yet. It is still 10 pm after all. But, if Mortis is fronting, she is usually sleeping around this time. Has Mutsumi woken up? Did they switch? But, if Mutsumi is fronting, Sakiko should have received a message about her whereabouts right?

Sakiko saw her phone again, there was still no news about Mutsumi. Two plates of hamburger steak with melted cheese are cold already. Sakiko remembers how she learns Hina’s–from Pasupare– favourite hamburger steak. She remembers both Mutsumi and Mortis loved it so much whenever Sakiko cook it for them.

Should she heat this again? But, the flavour might be changed if she heated it too much. Sakiko take a glance at the clock–it is already 22:12. Is Mutsumi and Mortis okay? She knows that Mortis would hate it if Sakiko did a spam call. But, this is urgent, right?

When Sakiko is about to hit the call button, there is a creak from the door.

“Ah, you are back, Mortis? Mutsumi?”, quickly Sakiko dashed forward and found it was Mortis who rubbed her eye–sleepy.

“Uh-huh”, Mortis mumbled and yawned, “You haven’t slept yet, Sakiko-chan?” she asked while taking off her jacket and hanging it on the coat stand. Sakiko frowned, there is some weird scent from Mortis, but Sakiko held her question.

“Mm, I was waiting for you” Sakiko said, “Have you eaten yet? I cook ham–”

“Yeah, I already have dinner with Umiri-chan”, Mortis cut off while putting her shoes on the rack.

“Huh?”

“Yeah, I met with Umiri-chan and Nyamu-chan today”

“... I see… Why?”

“It is not your business, Sakiko-chan”

It should just be another of Mortis’s normal responses to Sakiko. But Sakiko feels like her chest is tight. She should be used to Mortis’s nonchalant attitude towards herself.

“Okay, I am going to sleep first. Night, Sakiko-chan”

It stings.

“Yes… Good night, Mortis…”

Even though Sakiko should be happy that Mortis bid her at least a good night and brief explanation about her disappearance today.

“Sleep well”, Sakiko whispered for the last time as she watched Mortis’s back slowly fade into bedroom with her faint steps before silence settled again.

It hurts.

Well, let’s just wrap up the dinner for Mortis tomorrow. Maybe Mortis or Mutsumi will eat it for breakfast.

Sakiko believes that she is an early bird rather than a night owl. Most of the time, Mutsumi would still be sleeping and Sakiko wake up first–preparing for their breakfast.

That’s why it surprised Sakiko when she woke up this morning with the sun already rising high above. But, that’s not what she shocked the most.

She woke up without Mutsumi’s figure beside her. 

To reduce the cost, they share a bed–not that it matters since they often have sleepovers and sleep together on the same bed.

There is no track of Mortis at all. Except for the messy Mutsumi’s side of the bed, there is nothing. In fact, if it were not for the mess, Sakiko would have believed that she slept alone yesterday. Her chest, once again, weirdly tightened. But, then what is the purpose of it–basking in sadness and loneliness?

She is god, for whatever sake. She promised to take care of all of the Ave Mujica members. She should not affected by such trivial matter.

This–disappearance and whimsical nature of Mortis is not unusual. She is not supposed to feel this deeply like her vision gets blurry due to tears. Sakiko wipes off her eyes swiftly, not letting sadness break her heart even more, she tidies up the bed.

But, it is sad. Because she broods more than normal about Mutsumi’s well-being. Did she make another mistake? Did she hurt Mutsumi again? Is Mortis not letting her meet Mutsumi anymore? Did Sakiko make another unforgivable act again? Does Sakiko stay the same as her young 15-year-old self?

Those thoughts plague her head. 

“So early…”, Nyamu greets while stifling a yawn, she just got back by 1 am. Now it is around 10 am or just 30 minutes ago when Nyamu told Mortis that she is free today until evening. She doesn’t have any classes or any other sessions today.

“You said I could come whenever”, Mortis replied curtly, Nyamu sighed–it was her fault.

“‘Kay, kay, are ya seriously in a rush? Is Sakiko going aboard or something?”, Nyamu shifted herself, letting Mortis into her apartment.

“No, but the faster we warp this up, the better, right?"

Nyamu chuckled when she heard her reply. “Sometimes I wonder if you really hate Sakiko or not,” she commented, watching Mortis's pout. Mortis clearly didn’t like everything that Nyamu just did–the question, the teasing tone, and that mischievous glint in her eyes.

“If I did this half-assed, Mutsumi won’t give up on Sakiko-chan”, she countered, "And Sakiko-chan is Sakiko-chan"

“Any outcome is fine”, Mortis added and unpacked her things, stuff that Nyamu told her to bring for their make-up and styling session today. Brush, cushion, foundation, blush, eyeliner, and everything that is necessary for their make over session.

“Heh, you sure?”

“What do you mean, Nyamu-chan?”

Nyamu laughed a bit, holding whatever she wanted to say such as ‘But, if you're fine with whatever you don’t have to go all out like this’ , like reading some shoujo manga, romantic novel, doing a makeover, and everything. Well, whatever. It is none of Nyamu’s business. However she hopes whatever the outcome is, it won’t affect Ave Mujica in a bad way.

“But, I know the best outcome is Sakiko-chan accepts Mutsumi-chan’s feelings”

Nyamu blinked slowly, not expecting Mortis’s admission.

“Let’s just wait for Umiko to come”
“Yeah”

Nyamu is supposed to leave and grab her mug of coffee, but she stops, throws another glance at Mortis’s busy body and then opens her mouth, “Don’t worry, I will make Muuko and you look good for Sakiko”

Mortis is surprised to hear that encouragement before replying with a slight smile, “Heh, thank you, Nyamu-chan”

Deng-deng-deng

“Ah, that’s Umiko, Mortis can you open the door?”

So, Mortis did. She walks up to the door and opens it.

Only to find a big bouquet of red roses with Umiri’s voice, “I am here. Can you help me with this? My hand is itchy, I want to scratch my own hand”, so Mortis obediently, and Umiri finally scratched her itchy left hand to her relief.

“What took you guys so long? Muuko is it–WHOA! WHAT IS THAT?” Nyamu gasped while pointing at the big bouquet.

“That thing is huge! Where do you guys get it? Don’t tell me it is one hundred rose or something!”, Nyamu grab her phone, taking photos for this memory. It is not every day you can see a bouquet that big and filled with one hundred red roses.

“Yeah”, Mortis and Nyamu replied autonomously.

“Umiri-chan knows the place, and it is near her place, so Umiri-chan picked it up for me”
“Seriously what did you bribe Umiko with?”
“Meal three times a day for seven days”
“Congrats you just avoided starving this month, Umiko”
“Thank you very much”

So, they finally put the bouquet on Nyamu’s table–covering the whole decent-sized table with that huge bouquet. Now, the table looked more like a flower stand at a high-end wedding.

“Okay, but seriously,” Nyamu muttered as she took a few more angle shots, putting back up a plan if Sakiko agreed to put this on public, “What did you two talk about when I left you to yesterday? Suddenly with 100 roses” Nyamu point out.

Umiri and Mortis take a glance at each others, “We read that giving 100 roses bouquet is a good way to show feelings. So why not?”, Umiri answered.

"We were discussing whatever 99 one or 100 one, but I guess more is better. Plus we can think it is 99 one and 100 one depends on what Togawa-san wants", Umiri added.

“I was planning to buy one thousand one. But they can’t do it within one night. So I settle with this”, Mortis continued Umiri calmly, as if she didn’t just spend a dime in that express order while raising her eyebrow, indicating her unsatisfied state. Damn, the power of money.

“Ya really going all out”, Nyamu whistles, amused by Mortis’s of going all out.

Mortis dusted her sleeves, “I don’t half-ass things”, she said, proving what she said yesterday to be true.

Nyamu then smiled, amused by Mortis's way of proving things, “Okay, then let’s get this started!”, and raising her mug.

“Ooo!”

After a few hours of doing makeovers, strategy meetings, and exchanging the latest information (aka gossiping), they are finally done.

Mortis stands with a black blazer dapped on her. Underneath, she is wearing a white coloured turtle neck. Below she wears white pants and slightly thick shoes to add a few cm to her height. Now, she should be a bit taller than Sakiko–unless Sakiko wears 5 cm or more high heels. Hopefully not.

When they hit 20, Mutsumi is eventually taller than Sakiko by 1 cm. While she is not immediately as tall as Nyamu, unfortunately, at least she is not the shortest one in their group. Much to Sakiko’s sore spot until now. Especially whenever Nyamu teases her by saying, ‘For a god you sure are shorty, Sakiko~’ 

Nyamu make her wear a wig. Short hair–as Mortis’s request. It is basically normal Mutsumi’s hairstyle. But with more bangs and parted to her side stylishly. Nyamu also added some thin layered makeup which highlights Mortis’s beauty while at the same time making it into a more handsome direction. Maybe, the term bishounen is perfect to describe the current her now–as Mortis looking at the mirror.

“You look good, Mortis-san”

Umiri said, admiring Mortis’s current look as she finished wearing a silver hoop on her right ear.

“Thanks, Umiri-chan”, Mortis smiled and admired her current look in the mirror–as expected from her and Mutsumi. They look so dashing now. 

“As expected from me”, Nyamu puffed off her chest proudly of her makeover skill. She managed to make Mortis pull this kind of look. Maybe next time in concert she will have to do this again–the trio strings are handsome and pretty at the same time! Imagine what screams their fans will have when they see it. Hmm, it can do. She will definitely talk about this next time with Sakiko.

“Thank you, Nyamu-chan”, Mortis thanked her. Yes, without Nyamu and Umiri she probably wouldn’t be this successful in pulling this almost 180°

“Now, let’s do the last checking kay~?” Nyamu said, pulling her phone, her notes app.

“Outfit?”

“Check”, Mortis give a last twirl showing off her outfit.

“Wig?”

“Check”, the wig is perfectly on her head.

“Parfume?”

“Check”, in the end Mortis choose the black one. The one with woods and tea aroma. The red one is too different and out of her linking. While the blue one is not too different from hers.

“Reservation?”

“Check”, Without missing a beat, Mortis showed Nyamu her phone–an email with the reservation being confirmed and payment was done. 

Nyamu whistled, “Ya sure worked fast. I heard it needs one month in advance for booking”, then she continued, “Other props?”

Mortis quickly point out the 100 roses bouquet, plaster in case Sakiko’s hurting her feet, spray alcohol, necklace as a gift, and compact umbrella, “All check, I don’t bring a shawl because if it is cold I can just give Sakiko-chan my blazer” 

“Damn, you go girl”, Nyamu said, honestly, she didn’t expect Mortis to be this all going out. Well, considering she even prepared that giant bouquet. It is no wonder.

“And of course, asking Sakiko to date? Now that ever–”
“Huh?”
“Huh?”
“...?”

“W-What do you mean by, ‘Huh’??”, Nyamu flabbergasted, so is Mortis.

“I- I forget!”, Mortis put her hand on her mouth, visibility panic just like Nyamu.

“How could you!? A girl needs a lot of time to prepare, Muuko!”, Nyamu check the wall.. Oh damn, it is two hours before 6 pm–the reservation. And Sakiko’s place from that restaurant is around 1 hour by train!

“Because Sakiko-chan’s love language is act of service!”
“Doesn’t mean you can leave her with communication! Geez! Muuko! Quick give her a call or message!”

So, Mortis did, in desprate as panic as she is–

Sakiko-chan, go date with me. 6 pm. Wear something nice, okay? Here is the location.

Mutsumi wants to facepalm her face, at least mentally, because two of her hands are full holding this heavy bouquet. But, at least because of this big bouquet she can hide her face–although not completely because she can still hear people whispers.

Okay, she already used… not really, but it is nothing for her to hear people whispering about her.

Fortunately, no one figures out her identity, or else she will appear on the news the next morning.

Seriously, Mortis reads too much shoujo manga and romantic novels.

Mutsumi woke up from her nap just a few minutes ago. Mortis quickly pushed her to watch the TV–summing up briefly (if you can call it brief) the events prior to this. Then push her oh so cheerfully to fronting and waiting for Saki.

“I prepared everything for you, Mutsumi-chan! Aren’t I so kind! The rest is on you!”

Mortis said as she so responsibly left her alone–in snow, cold, with her striking appearance–semi-formal look, 100 roses bouquet in hands, in front of high-end restaurant. If you ask why Mutsumi didn’t enter the restaurant first and put it as surprise–well, there is no way she left Sakiko in the snow, while Mortis oh so responsible making her rush her preparation.

Though to be said, she is kind of afraid of entering the restaurant alone.

If you ask about Mortis’s whereabouts, she is sleeping. She said she is sleepy. Two days in row fronting is too much. Not to mention she lacks of sleep due to preparing the date and confession that Mutsumi swore she never asked her.

Uh.
It is cold.
Also this is kind of heavy.

Heavy, cold, and a bit embarrassing.

Not to mention, what should she tell Saki in first place? Should she? She is not prepared. And she wasn’t planning to confess to her childhood friend. Being friend like this is should be enough! Seriously, what’s Mortis thinking?!

“Mortis…?”, a familiar voice called her, Saki’s.
“Saki?”

“Wh-what are you doing?”, Saki quickly asked, Mutsumi shift her head, so she can see Saki properly. Saki is wearing a red dress, with a beige coat around her body, and a shawl. Her hair, despite not going to the salon, is stylish and beautiful. No, Saki is beautiful from the start.

“Isn’t it heavy and cold? How long you have been waiting? I am sorry for being late”

“No… It is okay, Mortis’s fault for telling you so suddenly”

Saki wipes off the pilled-up snow on Mutsumi’s shoulder and head gently, then she helps halving the weight of the bouquet to Mutsumi’s relief with one hand.

“That’s for you…”, Mutsumi muttered shyly, which Saki responded with a single nod of acknowledgement.

“You must be cold, Mutsumi”, so Sakiko took off her shawl, and put it around Mutsumi’s neck, ah, much better.

“It is fine”

“It is not”, Sakiko scolded her lightly and put her hand on Mutsumi’s cheeks, “Your cheeks are so cold”

“Saki is the warm one”

Saki chuckled, it is hard to stay mad at her childhood friend, “Well… Let’s go in?”

she tug Mutsumi’s arm lightly, and Mutsumi gave a small nod.

So, they enter the restaurant side by side. Mutsumi and Sakiko hold the bouquet awkwardly with each one hand–halving the weight of the bouquet and both are too stubborn to let another hold the bouquet fully. Mutsumi can only sigh in relief when the gust of warm wind greet her–finally not a winter chill breeze. The drawback? Mutsumi can feel a few stares from other guests. But, well, Saki is here, so at least they are embarrassed together not alone.

Mutsumi shuffled forward, almost hit a table, Saki like a mother of kitten swiftly tug her arm, “Watch your step”, she whispered.

Mutsumi blushed, “I can do it”, she replied, embarrassed. She already look so fine and handsome, why they fall into this routine where as Saki plays as mom cat again? No matter how annoying Mortis is and regardless Mutsumi will confess to Sakiko tonight, at very least she wants to be dependable. Sakiko has been servicing… okay that’s sounds so wrong. But, she is.

Sakiko has been servicing her from beginning; by putting schawl around her, or lead the way.

The hostess blinked at bouquet, clearly not expecting the guest to bring it on her own instead asking for help, “Welcome. Do you have a reservation?” but quickly go into professional mode.

“Wakaba, 6 pm” Sakiko answered smoothly, though it is almost 7 pm.

“Ah, yes! This way, please, our estimated guests”

“Also, excuse me, could you please hold the bouquet for us? Just for now”, Sakiko told the hostess politely, lifting up the bouquet slightly to her.

“Ah, yes, of course”, she replied, signalling to another staff member to fulfil the request with care.

Afterwards, they walked to the reserved dinner table, before Sakiko was about to sit, Mutsumi quickly pulled the chair–as elegantly as she could. She did this before when Ave Mujica collaborated with a brand and wore a butler outfit. So, at the very least, Mutsumi is sure her movement is graceful enough–after all, her fans back then were swooning at her.

Sakiko looked a bit surprised but thanked Mutsumi composedly as she sat.

The waiter offered to take Sakiko’s coat which Sakiko responded gently and give them menu. After choosing and the waiter left, Sakiko opens her mouth, “You look different tonight. What’s wrong?”

“Am I?”

Sakiko smiled, “Yes. Did Mortis drag you to something again? You look dashing tonight”, she lets out a giggle.

“I- Thank you”, Mutsumi blinked slowly, she could feel warmth creep up to her face, “Saki…”

“Hm?”

“You also look beautiful tonight…”

Sakiko smiled, a rather teasing smile, “Only tonight?”

“N-no, always, every day, I think Saki is beautiful”

“Ah… Mm… Thank you, Mutsumi”, Saki replied with dust of red on her cheeks, clearly didn’t expect Mutsumi’s outburst of honesty. But, then again, her childhood friend is always so direct and honest.

Their shared meals were always filled with comfortable silence like always. However, now there is slow music–piano and violin–playing in the background. Saki hummed slightly, familiar with the song whereas Mutsumi enjoyed her view of her childhood friend looked so content, relaxed, and happy. Something that Mutsumi rarely witnessed especially since Saki is so stressed with her assignments, her family business, and Ave Mujica.

“I thought that you hate me…”,

“What?”

Mutsumi blinked, staring at Saki in disbelief at her hearing abilities.

“You have been avoiding me since the omiai. Last time… was too much huh? I asked you to accompany me. It was big party. I know how Mutsumi hate being in a crowd but I still asked you”, Saki started, her fingers fiddled with the glass.

After a pause, Saki continued, “The proposal from Suzuki-san, I rejected it, of course. But, I still have you–Mortis to save me. You must have been under so much stress because of me”, she bowed a bit, “I am really sorry, Mutsumi”

“No, Saki–”

“I think I relied on you too much again before I realized it”, Saki whispered, this time she look at Mutsumi. Two similiar golden eyes meet each other. One looking disbelief and other looking apologetic and determinated.

“I won’t ask you to do that again”

“I–”, Saki stopped, “I don’t want to lose you”, and then Mutsumi just realized how cold Saki’s hands are when Saki wrapped hers around Mutsumi. So cold. It is even colder when they stand in snow earlier.

“Mutsumi is like a family for me… My little sister”, it is soft and weak, but Saki is trying her best to look strong, “I can’t lose my family any more”

“I can’t lose you ”

Saki is weak. No, she has been always so weak. Like that time when Mutsumi was scared of storm, Saki put a veil around them, hugging Mutsumi tightly as she whispered again and again ‘it is going to be okay’, even though her own body was trembling. When Mutsumi left Saki for moment and Saki not realizing that Mutsumi hasn’t go home yet, Saki ran to her mom, crying about how scary the storm was.

That’s the moment where Mutsumi know that no matter how strong facade Saki puts on her face–she is still the same Saki.

She needs Mutsumi to protect her.

Saki can deceive everyone with her strong facade, but she can never deceive Mutsumi.

Before Mutsumi can stop her mouth, she spoke, “I never thought of you as my older sister though”, Mutsumi cut off calmly, ignoring the shocked face of Sakiko.

“But, I… thought of you as my sister… my family…”

It hurts. To see that kind face of Saki. Mutsumi knows she is hurting Saki by saying this. And by saying this, it completely seal off any exit. But…

“No. I am not. I never thought of Saki as my older sister”

–But Mutsumi can’t stop her mouth. It is too late.

“But if you want me to be your family, then I am willing to be Saki’s husband… ah, wife, spouse, or whatever Saki wants me to be”, Mutsumi continued, she still nervous, of course. Her heart race so painfully–painful and yet she feels so free. The feelings she harbor for that girl is left open.

“I love you”, those three syllables, honestly, are far too simple to represent her feelings for the woman before her.

But, Mutsumi is never good with words. She never is. But, if there are words that she can say without sutter or stumble regarding her feelings about Togawa Sakiko–it is that.

“I love you so much”, she repeated, this time her hand grip Saki’s, putting Saki’s in her cradle tenderly, warming up her cold hand–hopefully, Mutsumi’s aren’t too cold for that.

“But.. Since…?”

“I don’t know”, Mutsumi whispered as she bring Saki’s hand onto her lips, “Saki has always been important for me” and put a kiss on her. The place that Suzuki-san put his dirty lips onto. Maybe, Mutsumi’s lips are also dirty, but at very least, right now she wants to wipe off Suzuki-san’s.

Right now, Saki’s hand are hers to kiss.

Slowly, Mutsumi lets go of Saki’s hand, she bring a black box of necklace from her bag then she swiftly open it and put it on table.

“Mortis brought this for the date. But, I bought it since long time ago, because I think it suits you, Saki”

It is a simple design necklace. Platinum as its chain. Then adorned with velvety round sapphire. Saki can see each detail of handoworks in it. So beautiful and elegant.

“Saki is more beautiful than the necklace. This necklace is pale comparison. But, I want you to have this”, yet Mutsumi said that, with straight face, full of honesty with her eyes solemnly gazing at the necklace as she remembered the first time she bought that.

“Saki, I love you… I can’t live without Saki. I don’t remember what my life like before meeting Saki”

“But, I wish Saki to always happy even without me on your side”

Mutsumi told her, there is a bitter smile of resignation on her beautiful face, “But, even so, I love you. So will you be my girlfriend?”

Finally, Mutsumi looked up–only to see her childhood friends are brimming with tears–flown out from her eyes. 

“S-Saki?”

 Saki didn’t say anything, but tears keep flowing out from her eyes. Honestly, she looks so beautiful with tears. Her tears are like crystal under the restaurant light, each of them are so mesmerazing. Every part of Saki is so beautiful.

“I thought you have grown tired of me…” she sobs, “You never say anything to me, Mortis was being so cold to me–she didn’t say anything to me and keep leaving me…. Then… Then Mortis went to Umiri’s and went home with many perfumes on her… I thought you have become someone completely different… now that you hated me.”

“I- What… Saki, I am not… I am sorry”

‘Oh, Mortis… You really messed up’, Mutsumi facepalmed mentally, she will definitely scold Mortis after this for making Saki is this worried.

“Mutsumi…”, Saki called, her voice is calmer, despite her overflowing tears.

“I can’t live without you either”

Mutsumi nodded, she knows that–they practically grow up together. Since they were three they are glued to each others. She can’t imagine a world without Sakii. What’s her life prior meeting her?

“Being separated… made me realized that I can’t see you with other people”, Saki sobs, “I love you too”

“Saki…! I love you too….!”

Saki then reached out, “Please… Don’t leave me again…! Mutsumi…!”

“Saki…!”

When Mutsumi is about to embrace Saki, suddenly there is a clap.

Then another clap. Before it evolved into thunderous claps from every direction.

Mutsumi and Saki looks around–people are staring and smiling at them! Some of them even shed tears, Oh God! There are some people who said, ‘Oh my, what youngster–don’t you remember dear back then we also were like that’, the waiter gave out a thumb up, and so on. Like everyone–from pianist, waiter, staff, guests, and EVERYONE.

“L-Let’s go home”, Saki said bashfully after she bows to the guests.

“Y-Yeah, let’s go”

After some embarrassing and heartfelt moment for both of them, they finally step out from the restaurant. Hand in hand–but, unlike usual, it is way warmer and the heartthrobs are shared between them equally.

“That’s will be some memories”, Sakiko finally broke out the silence, which made Mutsumi smile in response.

“Yeah, I can’t wait to make more memories with you in the future”, Mutsumi replied as she intertwined their hands tighter.

Omake 1:

In a certain french restaurant:

"What should we do with the bouquet?"
"I think Wakaba-san left her contact information. Let's contact her quickly"


Omake 2:
Mortis: Seriously? Girlfriend only? With that proposing lines and all?
Mutsumi: ...
Mortis: You disappointed me, Mutsumi-chan
Mutsumi: I haven't prepared a ring for Saki! 
Saki: Mutsumi...!
Mutsumi: Saki...!
Mortis: Oh god damn you love birds....