《With You, I'm Everything》


 Chapter 0: Meeting Her Again

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    "Before everything changed, life was simple -almost too simple."


    My days were the same, as predictable as the last. Wake up, go to school, come home, repeat. There was comfort in that process that helped me speed up the time. But, it started slowly crumbled, again and again.


    I didn''t think much of the future back then. I didn''t need to. The present felt like it would stretch on forever, unchanging, like a ticking clock that you never pay attention to.


    But the crack began to show. It was quite big that I can see it. I couldn''t ignore them anymore. Friendship that once felt solid is now seemed fragile. The conversation that used to flow out easily are now hard to hold on.


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    I thought it was just a phase. Like when you turn to a teenager, your emotion built within you changed. But for me, it wasn''t the case. People around me started to walk away from my life. I couldn''t handled the peer pressure within me. So, I tried focusing on my studies, on distractions. It works sometime, but it was still painful to watch. The friend that had connection with me, I once valued, slipped through my fingers. The sense of detachment grew, and with it, a creepy fear that maybe I was the problem.


    Then, one day, everything changed. She walked into my classroom- a transferred student, who despite haven''t long seen, was unmistakably her. The sight of her still makes me love her despite the years. Even if she had matured, she still look as beautiful as she was in middle school.


    The sight of her makes me regret not telling her "I love you". It was the most regrettable days of my life. But, this time, I can restart our relationship slowly and steadily.

 Chapter 1: The Last Summer Holdiay

    "Ahh, what a summer holiday!"


    This was the last day of my summer holiday. How sad. I don''t usually go out with my friends. So, I ended up watching TV, reading manga, or I walk down the street when I have time to spare. To most people, it might seem like wasting their youth. But for me, I usually liked it when I do those sort of things that doesn''t cause a lot of energy.


    Watching TV have always been my favorite pastime of mine. It''s not just the shows themselves, but a way they offer a brief escape from reality. I find myself drawn to genres like - slice-of-life series or a well-crafter realistic stories. Each shows gives me a temporary distraction from my daily life, wrapping me in a world where the most pressing concern is what happens next on the screen.


    There''s something comforting about it, especially when I''m good at reading manga. I''ve always liked slice-of-life, especially the ones like Barakamon. There''s something soothing about watching them having a big smile, much like mine, where the biggest problem is how to spend the afternoon.


    Then, there are romance series. They''re different, and yet... I can''t stop reading them. Maybe it''s because, deep down, they reminds me of her. Even though I had already push those feelings away, it still creeped up to me whenever there was a page about broken relationship. The stories may be frictional, but they reflect something I''ve never quite let go.


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    I turned the page, my eyes skimming over the panels, but my mind was somewhere else. Her. No matter how many years had passed, I still loved her. But I never confess to her. I''d tried- so many times before middle school graduation.  I remember the days when I''d psyched myself up, rehearsing the word in my head. "I love you". But when the moment came, the word was stuck in my throat. Even though it was just a simple word that had only 3 letters, it held a powerful meaning that had make me unable to say a word to her. Then, time ran out before I could find the courage.


    As I closed the manga, my thoughts wondered back to the routine I''d been living- days filling with quite solitude and the comforting peaceful life I had. The start of the school year was around the corner, and with it, the usual pattern of waking up, attending classes, and going back to my own world after school.


    But this year, my instinct are telling me that it is going to change. I''d heard rumors about a transfer student joining our class, and despite the effort, her remain still attached. I couldn''t shake the feeling that this wasn''t just any transfer student. But, I couldn''t care less even if it''s not her. I''d wish for her every time where a transfer student joined in. It''s probably just my instinct had been desperate to meet her again.

 Chapter 2: Transfer Student

    Summer had faded. Now, it''s long gone again until next year. I''ve grown used to the loneliness surrounding me, like an old friend that lingers quietly in the background or a side character that we''ll never understand why is it there.


    As I walk my way to the school gates, there was something bothering me, like an unfamiliar unease settling in, that I''ve never felt before. I couldn''t quite pinpoint why. Maybe it was because of the new school year that I''m experiencing. It doesn''t really bothers me but the sensation sends me a chill down my spine.


    "It''s probably a cold," I said.


    The school hallways was filled with student chatting loudly. They are all talking about their summer holidays. That''s probably why it''s crowdy than usual.


    I walked through the crowd of people hoping to reach my classroom as quickly as I can. I usually don''t mind loud noises or being surrounded by others, but the way they pressed in around me was frustrating. It was annoying to feel invisible, as in my presence barely noticeable by others.


    After countless steps that felt like hours, I finally made it. The classroom looked just as it always did- neat desks, sunlight shining through the windows, nothing special about it. Except for one thing: a girl from my class always take my seat, most likely it was because it was right in front of her best friend, "Aiko Kawasaki".


    I approach the girl who had taken my seat, I asked, "Excuse me, but I think that seat is assigned to me. Could you please move to your seat?"


    Though I asked politely, she looked up at me with a smirk before gathering things. "Oh, really? Sorry, I didn''t know the seat was reserved," she said. With a shrug, she moved to a different spot, clearly unbothered by what she had done.


    That''s the only way to let her move to a different spot. It''s to ask politely. Rumors says that she had a boyfriend from upper class that apparently beat up students that messes with their things. I certainly don''t want to be beat up into a pulp after a nice long summer break.


    After settling into my seat, I looked around the classroom. It felt forever since I was in this classroom.


    Then, my eyes landed on Hikaru. He''s one of the few people who considers me as a friend, unlike most people who just use me as a convenience, like when a toy breaks, it doesn''t hold any value anymore.


    He waved at me with his usual easygoing smile, and I couldn''t help but feel a sense of relief. He was the first one who supports me in a way where I can live for tomorrow.


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    "Morning!" he said.


    I shrugged with a half-smile. "Morning".


    He then seat in his assigned desk which is beside me.


    "Hey, do you know today there is going transferred student in this class?" he asked.


    "Yeah, I heard a rumor about that, I replied. "Any idea who they might be?"


    I was trying to get a hint about the transferred student. Despite what I knew I still hoped that it was the girl from my middle school.


    Hikaru shook his head, looking puzzled. "No clue, I heard it''s someone new, but no details. Why are you asking for more specific?"


    I didn''t want to reveal anything about my past or the girl. "Not really. Just curious."


    Before Hikaru can replied back, the classroom swung open. The teacher "Mr. Takanashi" entered the classroom. Everyone in the class quickly get to their assigned seat. They were surprised that Mr. Takanashi was the new homeroom teacher.


    Mr. Takanashi was not only our new homeroom teacher but also our math teacher. For everyone including me, he''s probably the strict teacher in the school. I don''t know why, but his gaze gives me creeps to the bottom of my core. When I tried to speak with him, instead of words coming out of me, fear was the first one to appear.


    "Good morning, class," he said. I am Mr. Takanashi, your new homeroom teacher and math teacher. We have a lot of work to cover this year. So I expect everyone to be on their best behavior and give their best effort.


    He then turned to the transferred student who was outside the classroom. "Why don''t you introduce yourself?"


    She then stepped into the classroom and took a deep breath, and spoke. "Hello everyone. I''m Ayumi Tanaka. I''ve just transferred here from another school. I hope we can all get together well."


    As soon as she said her name, I was surprised. "It finally came true" I said, with a silent voice." She finally came. Water started dropping from my eyes. It wasn''t tears of meeting a crush long ago, but a tears of happiness that it might be fate working its magic all along.


    Luckily, I was able to keep my composure as Ayumi Tanaka settled into her assigned seat. The classroom was all eyes on the transfer student. They started talking to the transfer student one by one, probably more and more.


    Mr. Takanashi cleared his throat, drawing everyone''s attention back to him. "Let''s make sure to welcome Ayumi properly and help her get used to this environment. I''ll give you all time some time to introduce yourselves and make her feel welcome.


    All the students started going to Ayumi and introducing themselves. The classroom noises was getting louder.


    I watch from my seat, looking at crowd of students surrounding Ayumi. It was so crowded that I couldn''t see her anymore.


    Hikaru leaned over and said, "Looks like she is getting popular, huh? It''s crazy how everyone''s drawn to her. Aren''t you going to go over there and say something?"


    "Nah, it''s too crowded." I said.


    That''s not only the reason that I didn''t want to talk to her yet. I felt nervousness like I couldn''t just talk to her. It had to be a perfect moment. Besides, getting through the crowd it''s basically an impossible task for me. After all, I''m labeled as an outcast.


    Well, maybe it''s not too bad to seat and watch her from afar for a while. It might not take long but I do hope I can get a second chance again.

 Chapter 3: Her

    I watched her laugh with her new classmates, it wasn''t too bad but I could feel a sharp sense of familiar ache in my chest- one that reminded me of just how much time had passed, that I still regretted it till this day.


    Back then, we used to talk a lot. A simple conversation with no value in it. We played games during breaks and lunchtime, hangout a lot, going on midnight strolls at Central Park. It was fun doing that with her.


    My most cherished moments with her was the midnight strolls because, it was the only place, where we could share secrets with each other and our dreams that we wanted to do. The feeling back then was the realest I''d wanted to redo.


    Then, the bell rang, it was time for breakfast. The cafeteria is one of the most brutal places you''ll ever go. Whether it''s breakfast or lunch, a lot of students always pack up the cafeteria until there''s barely any food left. I''ve learnt from my mistake back then, so I had always bring a bread from the supermarket beside my house and a homemade lunchbox. But, today was different. I had forgotten to bring my lunchbox...


    It terrifies me, because of the incident back then where I only relied on cafeteria food. The cafeteria was so crowded, the students were practically squeezing against one another. Since I starving to death, I decided to squeeze in. Luckily, buying food was easy for me because of my physique, but what traumatized me was a lot of unexpected punches out of nowhere in the face, shoulder, stomach.


    I stood there for a moment, trying to prepare myself. If I had been more prepared, I would''ve worn protective gears from getting bruises again. But here I was, completely vulnerable from simple attacks that I can''t even handle.


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    Taking a deep breath, I stepped forward like a man to the squeezing ball of students. Bodies were pressed against me from all sides but I still managed to stay on my feet. I prepared a body guard defense that I learned from boxing. The impressive part was that the guard worked¡ªat least for my head and ribs. My legs, however, were still getting kicked.


    As I got closer to the counter, enduring the pain, the smell of the curry hit my nose. I spotted it right in front of me and quickly tried to snatch it, but the problem is, my leg was stuck. I couldn''t see what was holding me back but I couldn''t give a damn about it. So I endured the pain in my ankle and manage to snatch the tray of curry rice.


    Well, almost. There was a hand grabbing the tray. I tried to forcefully snatch it away but the hand- especially the fingers, are like a professional rock climber gripping it. I looked over, ready to confront whoever was holding the tray. To my surprise, it was her- the transfer student. Ayumi.


    We stared at each other briefly. That was the time that I couldn''t recognize her. Maybe she had gotten prettier? or maybe taller? But still, staring at her was uncomfortable when we are just trying to snatch the last curry rice.


    "Sorry" she said. "I didn''t mean to startle you."


    I tried to response, but something was making me unable to. It was like it had pulled me to the memories I once had with her- happy, sad, fear, all of it that could make me want to do it all over again.


    She game me a small, apologetic smile and released the tray. Our hand touched when I took it from her. This enough gave me a small courage to say something.


    "Welcome back" I manage to say, even if it''s a simple word that I should have said earlier, I felt relieved that I said it.

 Chapter 4: Me

    The cafeteria was noisy as always. I could still remember at how loud it used to be, even louder before summer break.


    I sat at my table, alone, watching group of friends chatting.


    "Maybe I should join?" I asked myself.


    Well, I''ve been lonely, too lonely. The only person who talk to me, or at least bare with me was my parents, my little sister, and my best friend. They were the ones who had me out of the dark. If they weren''t there for me, I don''t even know what to do, or what to start anymore.


    I sigh, looking at the group. "Maybe next time." I said.


    I glanced over at a empty seat across from me, remembering the times where we used to sit. Just like that. A empty seat that nobody wants to seat at, and somehow, the noise didn''t even bothered me back then. But now, it''s like hearing at a market with a lot of people that yap all day for bargaining. It''s just... annoying.


    I shook my head, clearing my thoughts. She''s back now. Never again, am I going to think back with such regret that I don''t want to face what''s in front of me. But it didn''t change the fact that everything had moved on.


    I looked down my tray, half-eaten and cold food. Maybe I should just leave. There was no point in sitting here, remembering the past again and again. But still, staying here makes me want to remember the old days more.


    I pushed the tray aside, not wanting to eat anymore. I had lost my appetite because of her. The memory of her had me wished to start over again.


    Just then, Hikaru walked towards me. "There you are. I''ve been looking for you. You just walked out without saying a word.


    "Ahh, sorry, I forgot to bring my lunchbox."


    You see, that''s the kind of friend Hikaru is- always looking out for me. Even though he is popular, he still have my back whenever I need it.


    Hikaru then sat down opposite of me. "So, what''s up? You don''t look like your usual self, ya know?"


    "Nah, I''m just hungry."


    I didn''t want to say it, or rather, I''m afraid. What if he tell everybody about? I know that he isn''t that kind of person that would stab anyone in the back. But, still, I''m afraid, too afraid to tell him about the past.


    "Hey, you don''t have to tell me about it if you''re not ready" Hikaru said.


    I looked at him, seeing the sincerity in his eyes. His words were comforting, but I don''t think I could. It''s just, not the right time yet.


    "Thanks" I said.


    He nodded, a reassuring smile on his face. "Whenever you''re ready then, I''ll be sure to help.


    "I''ll appreciate it." I said.


    Then, the bell rang, signaling the end of breakfast.


    "Damn, it felt like dinner time" I said.


    The long moments I spend lost in thought about her felt like hours. But now, it''s only the end of breakfast...


    I stood up, picking my tray. The cafeteria was starting to get empty. "Finally, the noise is gone". Hikaru was already waiting for me at the exit.


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    "You survived breakfast. Not bad" he said.


    I was a little impressed with myself too. All the trauma in this cafeteria that I once had was finally gone. Now, I''m someone who is not going to be afraid of this cafeteria anymore. That was one of my wish that I''m glad it happened.


    We walked together to class. The hallway was filled with noise, students rushing to their next subject. Luckily for me, my next class was in the same room where I had homeroom.


    As we entered the classroom, I noticed a few student taking their notebooks and chatting with their friends. I made my way to my seat behind Hikaru.


    And then I saw her.


    Ayumi was sitting by the window, staring outside. Our brief exchange¡ªbarely four words¡ªhad my heart skip a beat. It was hard to believe that something so small could stir me up this much. No wonder I still have a crush on her.


    I wanted to talk to her again. No-needed to. But what could I say? Even a simple conversation couldn''t make me act like nothing had changed.


    Then, the teacher walked in. It''s Mr. Nakamura, our history teacher. He settled his things before starting the lesson on the Meji Restoration. His lectures were boring and engaging at the same time, but today, all I was thinking about was Ayumi.


    The other lessons were the same. I wasn''t really paying attention to all their lectures. The only thing that I was focusing was the memories with Ayumi.


    Finally, the bell rang, signaling the end of the day. Hiroshi, who was sitting in front of me, nudged me awake. I had been so lost in my memories of Ayumi that I¡¯d dozed off, trying to escape into those thoughts for a while.


    I gathered my things and I walked out of the classroom with Hiroshi. The hallway was empty, but in the classroom there were some students chatting their friends.


    "Wanna drink some coffee?" I asked.


    "Ya sure" he replied.


    I was craving for coffee. Not sure why, it''s probably because I''ve developed a habit over summer break, and now I was practically a addict.


    We made our way to nearby caf¨¦, the ones that I frequently go. The coffee here was better than the other caf¨¦ shops I tried. We settled in and order our drinks- I went for an iced espresso, while Hikaru ordered for a latte.


    "So, What''s bothering you today? I noticed you were pretty distracted."


    I wasn''t sure what to reply. The question had caught me off guard. I just wanted a moment to cooldown after she came.


    I took a long sip of my iced expresso trying to stall time, and it work.


    "Hey, it''s fine if you''re not ready to talk. Sometimes just having a friend could help."


    I appreciate his understanding. Hikaru wasn¡¯t the kind of friend who would push you off the edge if you didn¡¯t share your secrets.


    "I''m really grateful for that. Maybe next time I''ll tell you, when the time is right."


    "No problem. Take all the time you need. And if you ever need a distraction, I can find us something fun to do on the weekends."


    "Alright, I''ll keep that mind" I said,


    With that, we finished our coffee. The skies is turning dark.


    "We better get going." I said.


    "Ok" he replied.


    We walked down the streets, going towards my house. His was was just one block away from mine so it''s more convenient for him to stop by my house first.


    "So, what''s your plan for weekend? Hikaru asked.


    "Nothing much. Just staying at home reading mangas or something."


    "Oh, well, if you''re that free, let''s go somewhere this weekend."


    "Ya sure, but you''re the one who is going to plan."


    "Alright."


    As we reached my house, I turned to Hikaru. "Well, this is it. Bye." I said.


    "See you tomorrow at school." he replied.


    He heads off toward his own house, disappearing around the corners.


    "Ahh finally. I''m home." I said.


    I was finally at my house. The comfort zone that had me lazed around in the summer break. As usual, my little sister was curled up on the crouch, watching her favorite show. I don''t talk to her during school days because I have no energy to do so. So our interactions with each other was kind of like a friend relationship.


    Then, I walked into the kitchen. My mom was preparing food for dinner.


    "Hey mom." I said.


    "Oh, you''re back, Haru. How was your day?" she asked.


    "It was alright, just the usuals."


    She nodded and continue stirring the pot. I took a seat, watching her cook. Finally I could enjoy the quiet moments before dinner.

 Chapter 5: Registration for a Club

    It was the first time in a long while that I woke up with something other than emptiness on my mind. Just seeing her again, was enough to stir me again. The quiet life that I had, my everyday life of being unnoticed, suddenly felt like it was suffocating me.


    I used to have a group of friends, with Ayumi in the center. We were inseparable, and those days felt the best. But as middle school hit, things changed. While everyone adapted, I struggled and stepped back, unable to keep up. Ayumi moved on, and I convinced myself that being alone was safer than risking more rejection.


    If I were to look at them now, I would be surprised by how much they''ve changed. My old friends, especially Ayumi, had all moved on.


    Now, with her back in my life, I could-


    "Come on, Haru! Mom''s calling us for breakfast!" My sister''s voice pulled me back from my thoughts. I stood up from my bed. stretching my body to get ready for the day.


    It was the usual routine in the morning, with my parents drinking coffee while reading newspaper and my little sisters eating her breakfast. I sat down at the table, grabbing a slice of toast. I looked at them and gave a faded smile as I leave the house.


    The train was crowded as always. The train was packed with people, especially adults carrying suitcases. There were no shortcuts to go to school early even though the train was very crowded. It was like the students in the canteen at lunch, but this was worse because there were a limited space around the train. The worst part was the train is quite small for a average train to be.


    After arriving at my destination, I quickly hopped off the train. It was exhausting. I sat down at the bench for a while reading through my manga, and then start walking again.


    The school was as noisy as always. students chatting loudly around the hallways and their classroom, juniors playing at the hallways around the science labs, things are never going to to change if you don''t force them to. That''s the life that I got to live for years. I''ve endured it so much that somehow, it don''t pain me anymore.


    What goes around, comes around.


    I went in my classroom and settled in my seat. I looked around to see that most of the students were standing up chatting silly things. I wondered when is the homeroom going to start?


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    Hikaru leaned closer, a hopeful smile on his face "Nice morning isn''t it, Haru?" Hikaru said.


    "Ya, it is" I said. By that question, I know that he''s really trying his best at it. For a friend who wants to escape reality by dreaming about the past. It''s pathetic...


    Then, Mr. Takanashi came in to the homeroom.


    "Good morning class." he said, taking a seat. "As you all know, this week is the inspection day for all the extracurricular club. The students that are going to be inspecting the clubs are the student council. And, if none of you join the club, we will have to force you to join a random club. So join fast or you''ll get it.


    This time, I was in trouble. "Hey, Hikaru, you got a club to join?" I asked. I didn''t want to join any club because I simply have no energy to stay after school.


    "Ya, I joined the karate club. I''ve always wanted to try it. How about you?" he replied.


    "You gotta help me for this problem. I don''t really want to join any club. Helllppp!" I asked. Even if I were to join a club, I would be kicked out from the club because I suck at everything except reading and watching TV.


    "Hmmm. Maybe literature?" he replied.


    Damn. That was a good idea. Literature means reading book, and I could read book without moving a muscle except flipping pages. "Thanks man." I said.


    After the end of the school day, I packed my bags and went to the literature club to register. The club was not that many people because of how the paper was placed on the board. So I would consider it not popular, and peaceful.


    As I went in the literature club, I stared at Ayumi and wave at her.


    "Hey, Haru..." she said.


    My heart was beating fast. It was totally unexpected. I though she would go to a sport-like activity considering she was quite hyperactive. I guess I''ve been escaping reality too much that I am mixing up with the actual one. She was used to be one. But now, she is interested in literature. It was quite exciting to see a change in her.


    "Hi, my name is Rina. Are you here for the registration?" she asked.


    "Ya, I am" I said. As far as I know, Rina is a senior that has been in the literature since her first day. She once wrote a book that got popular within a day.


    After registration I went home immediately. All the memories that wasn''t suppose to trigger came gushing out again. I Ignored my parents and went to my bedroom. I threw my bag at the floor and hopped on my bed. I wanted to go shower but at this state I would rather sleep like this.


    As I lay there, my eyes started feeling heavy, flashes of memories of the friend group started playing. It was fun.

 Chapter 6: Being a Class Representative

    When I walked into the classroom the next morning at Asai High School, all eyes were on me- if only for a moment. I didn''t what was that for and so I settled in my seat.


    "Hey, Hikaru. Do you know why was everyone staring at me just now?" I asked. I didn''t know what was going on before I went into the classroom, but I could definitely feel that something bad was about to happen to me. The kind ominous impression that I hadn''t had since middle school, back when I had zero friends, a state I couldn''t shake off.


    "Ya, dude. You know you are getting the most votes for Class Representative," Hikaru said. "Everybody''s talking about it."


    "Why me, though?!" I asked. Being a class representative basically means providing support and planning out events for the class. It doesn''t makes sense consider that I have no whatsoever traits that I can help out to be a Class Representative.


    "It''s not just the students, even the teacher have vote for you." he said.


    Before I could speak, the bell rang and the Mr. Takanashi entered the classroom, going straight to the point. "As you all know, Haru is our class representative. Now, I need someone to step up as Vice Class Representative and a Secretary. You''ve got five minutes to vote."


    Immediately, everyone turned to each other. They were discussing and randomly voting.


    But for me, I''m still thinking back about the possibilities of me having the most vote as the Class Representative. I was wondering if it was because of my lack of social skills that the teachers voted for me or because nobody else wanted the responsibility of being a Class Representative? Hmmm? Forget it, maybe it was both.


    After a few minutes of discussion, Mr. Takanashi clapped his hands to get out attention. "Alright, times up. Let''s collect the votes and see who is our new Vice Representative and Secretary will be."


    Mr. Takanashi moved around the classroom to collect the slips of paper. After a while, he returned to the front of the class with the stack of votes in his hand. He skimmed through them, with a surprised look. "Alright, let''s see. For Vice Class Representative, the person with the most votes is Ayumi."


    My heart skip a beat. Ayumi? For the first time, I was paired with Ayumi. Back in middle school, I was never this lucky. I had never ended up the same group as her- never even close. Unlucky was how I would describe my life back then. But now, maybe things were going to be different. Maybe fate had other plans.


    Still, I could have guessed it was Ayumi. In this class, everyone always pick the new student, like it''s some sort of their twisted initiation. In my class, there''s always been this undercurrent of bullying ¡ª obvious, but it''s there. The quiet ones, the ones who don''t quite fit in, they''re the ones who end up with all the responsibilities no one else wants. And Ayumi, being the new girl, probably didn''t even see it coming.


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    "For Secretary, the student with the most votes is... Hana."


    As soon as the name left Mr. Takanashi mouth, the room instantly feel into silent, sort of. I could hear whispers, or discussion going around the class about Hana. It was clear some of the students weren''t expecting her to get the role.


    Wait, Hana??


    I was surprised when I heard the name "Hana" in the most votes for Secretary. Hana isn''t an outclass, in fact, she is popular within the school because of her looks and she has no boyfriend. She is talented in sports and got straight A''s in her exam. So, she is basically every man''s dreams.


    But for me, she is just a regular student in the class. Most people might argue with me, but my heart has already been taken by Ayumi, so I have no interest in other girls, even if they''re perfect like Hana.


    Mr. Takanashi wrapped up the announcement, congratulating Hana and Ayumi. The class was still whispering about the votes.


    Hikaru nudged me with his elbow, "Man, you''re really something. You''ve got the most votes for Class Representative, and now you''re surrounded by the school''s most popular girl.


    I looked at him, my eyes were straightly staring at him like he said something that gave a huge misunderstanding. "It''s not even like that. I don''t even know why I have the most votes for Class Representative. And besides, the class just wants someone who they can listen and support."


    "Sure, sure," he said.


    Hikaru laughed softly and leaned back in his chair, glancing at the front of the room. "You know, people notice you more than you think. Maybe it''s that whole ''quiet, mysterious guy'' thing you''ve got going on. Works for some people."


    I sighed, leaning my head against my hand. "If by ''works,'' you mean I''m the perfect target for everyone to dump their responsibilities on, sure."


    "Hey, at least you''re not invisible anymore"


    "Yeah, great. Just what I needed- more attention."


    Before Hikaru could crack back with another joke, Mr. Takanashi cleared his throat and began speaking. "Alright class, settle down. Now that we''ve got our representative, it''s time to start planning for the upcoming school festival."


    School festival? I had completely forgotten about that. Being the Class Representative meant I''d be right in the center of planning."


    Mr. Takanashi continued, "Haru, as a Class Representative, you''ll be taking care of the planning. Be sure to cooperate with the Vice Representative and Secretary."


    "Alright," I said, standing up as Mr. Takanashi walked out of the classroom. I moved behind his desk, ready to start planning with Ayumi and Hana.


    It was normal for a teacher to leave for the class to have an event discussion because this school is all serious about events and earning money.


    "Come here, Ayumi, Hana," I called out. They both looked excited, probably because it is their first time planning or they just want to do it their way.

 Chapter 7: My "hidden talent"

    As I look around the class while standing behind Mr. Takanashi desk with Ayumi and Hana, I took a marker and started writing on the whiteboard.


    Events:


    - literature research


    That was the one that came in my mind since I joined a literature club. It''s not bad to have people knowing something that may pique their interest.


    "Alright, any ideas?" I ask, turning to the class.


    "Maybe we could have a sports event. There would probably be a lot of people joining. I can guarantee, and we sell tickets to raise money." Hana suggested.


    I nodded, turning around to write "Sport Events" in the column.


    "Any other suggestions?" I asked, looking around the room for any raised hands. Hikaru, sitting at the back, leaned forward in his seat.


    "What about a food store?" We could make more money." he suggested.


    I sighed, honestly, that suggestion was the dumbest thing I''ve ever heard for a festival suggestions. It would be so troublesome to get stocks, let alone enough budget Then, I got one from Hikaru''s suggestion and wrote down on the whiteboard "Cooking".


    "Any other suggestion? I asked. "One more would be great."


    A girl from the middle row raised her hand. "How about a cafe booth?" she suggested.


    "Good idea." I said. writing it onto the whiteboard. The list has only three suggestions on it which is enough. More than that, there would be chaos around the classroom picking what they want for the event, and I would be the one to settle them. Not really my style.


    The discussion soon ended, and next Monday was the last day to discuss.


    After school ended, I noticed a notification as I packed my things.


    Hikaru:


    Sorry, can''t walk with you today. I got to help out my mother in the store, and this weekend I''m not going to free. Sorrryyy!!


    I sigh, "Alright, work hard bro!" I replied.


    Since Hikaru isn''t free anymore, I was going to laze around the house, freeloading my parents and go watch TV or something. This idea was practically worse than an average normal student, but I didn''t care. I have live my life this way, and I won''t be changing it.


    As I was walking down the stairs beside the art class, Ayumi called out to me. "Hey, wait, Haru!" she said.


    I stopped in my track, turning to see Ayumi catching up to me. "Oh hey, what''s up?" I asked.


    Ayumi caught her breath, then smile softly. "I was wondering if you were heading home. Thought maybe we could talk about the festival plans... You know, before things become hectic.


    "Ya sure. I mean, I was going home anyway." I said.


    She nodded, then started walking alongside with me. We then stayed completely silent because there was nobody to strike up a conversation.


    "So..." she began, "What do you think of the whole festival thing? I know you''re the representative, but you aren''t all that excited about it."


    "No, you got it wrong, I am excited too! And besides, everyone voted for me including the teacher. So, it leaves me no choice to actually plan the festival." I said. Obviously, that was a lie. I don''t really like festivals because there is nothing fun about it- at least for me.


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    Ayumi chuckled. "Yeah, I get that. But maybe it won''t be so bad. Who knows, we might end up having fun."


    "Maybe..."


    "Hey, do you remember middle school?" I asked, the question suddenly popping into my head before I even realized I was saying it.


    Ayumi glanced at me, surprised. "Yeah, I could still remember bits and pieces, I guess. Why?"


    "Well, I remember you''ve always being surrounded by people. You were very popular back then."


    Ayumi let out a small laugh, shaking her head. "Popular? I don''t know about that. It''s true that I am surrounded by people, but I can''t really call them as "friends" who could support me."


    I wasn''t sure how to respond to that. I''d always with her, and I thought that she is someone who had it all together. But hearing her made me realized I might not have known her as well as I thought.


    We continued walking until we reached the main road leading out of school.


    "So, for the festival... do you have any ideas?" she said.


    "Honestly, not really. I was hoping we''d figure out something together. You''re Vice Rep, right? Got any great ideas?"


    "Well, I''ve been thinking we could do something simple and fun. Maybe we should choose the cafe booth."


    I nodded, considering her suggestion. "Yeah, that could work. Next Monday I can talk it out with them for a simple one like yours."


    "Thanks. And also, it doesn''t have to be something crazy. Just something that people will go for joy."


    "Yeah, I get that."


    We stopped at the corner where Ayumi''s home was opposite of mine. Before I could continue walking to my house, Ayumi called out. "Wait! I almost forgot... Can I have your number?


    "Yeah, of course" I replied.


    "And, are you free this Saturday?" she asked.


    "Yeah, I am.


    "Alright, I''ll text you where to meet up later."


    With that, Ayumi gave me a small wave and turned to head down her street, I stood there, looking at the sky, wondering what just happen? Did I just get reality checked?


    I didn''t let the thought gaslight me and so I turn around and walk down the streets.


    I finally reached home. I opened the door with the greet of my parents and my sister watching TV as usual.


    "Dinner is almost ready" my mom called out from the kitchen.


    "Got it." I replied, heading upstairs. I went up my bedroom and dropped my bag on my chair. I sat on my bed, face looking down in a serious matter. Ayumi had asked me to hang out on Saturday. My heart was beating fast.


    Wait... I thought deeply. Since Ayumi is asking me out, so it''s Ayumi and I... alone? This might actually be a date? Every part of my body was telling me to be ready, to make it perfect.


    "Haru, dinner''s ready! Hurry down before it turns cold!" my mom yelled from downstair.


    I calmed myself down, before heading to the dinner room. I needed to focus on having dinner with my family first, but afterward, I''d find the perfect clothes. As I remember the conversation with Ayumi about the festival, I thought to myself "maybe the festival wouldn''t be so bad after all."

 Chapter 8: Saturday

    Finding a good, perfect clothes and pants is hard. I''ve been trying to find something since yesterday after dinner. My closet looks like a tower that is made with clothes at this point. I sigh, staring at the clothes that I had thrown. Too casual. Too formal. Too colorful. It''s like I''m trying to find a outfit that looks "cool".


    "What am I even doing?" I muttered, tossing a shirt aside. She won''t even notice what I''m going to wear. I was about to give up and just find a outfit that I would considered cool, but then there was a knock at my door.


    "Haru, what are you doing?" My sister''s voice came behind the door. Before I could answer, she opened the door. Well, barely opened the door. There were bunch of clothes on the ground that made it hard for her to open. But, she still made it through because there were enough space for her to fit through the door.


    "What do you want, Aiko?" I asked.


    "Nothing. Just curious of why are there so many clothes and pants on the ground?" she asked.


    "It''s... nothing. Since you''re here, could you help me find a good outfit. I''m going out later."


    "Ya, sure...."


    That question might have raise some suspicions in her, but she doesn''t mind at all? I was confuse of why isn''t she questioning anything like a detective? Well, maybe I''m overthinking, or she''s just in a bad mood or something.


    After some time of finding a outfit, she finally found a good outfit. It was a dark navy and a slim fit jeans. It was a good combination that I won''t be able to find with my fashion sense.


    "Do you really think this looks good?" I asked, as I held up the dark navy shirt.


    "That''s the best I could find. God your room is messy, clean it up!" she replied.


    "Alright, I''ll do it later. Now, I need to change. I don''t really have enough time left. You mind?"


    "You owe me for this one!" she said, as she left the room.


    After she closed the door, I hurriedly change my clothes, then my pants in less than 5 minutes. I was completely stress on my appearance, my outfit, my breathing. All this nonsense that I wouldn''t care about had now became a serious matter that I need to keep in check at all times.


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    Having everything prepared, I looked at the mirror one last time. The dark navy shirt fit me better than I expected, and the slim fit jeans gave me a more put together look than usual. "Not bad" I said.


    I grabbed my phone and check the time- 15 minutes left. Just enough time to go to-


    "Wait." I thought to myself. "She haven''t send me the location..."


    I hurriedly dialed her number. Each rang gave me a worried expression of "What if she doesn''t answer? What if-


    "Hello?" she answered.


    "Hey. I, uh, realized that you didn''t send me the location. Where am I supposed to meet you?"


    "Oh! Sorry about that! I though I sent it earlier. I''m at Cat Cafe. Do you know where that is."


    "Yeah, I know it. I''ll be there soon." I replied.


    "Alright, see you there!"


    Cat Cafe, huh? Where was it? That name does ring a bell.


    "Oh ya, that place" I said, after some time of thinking.


    Me and Hikaru used to go there because he really likes cat a lot. To the point where when I visit his house, it''s full of cats. Maybe about 10 or more. I don''t remember. It was a long time ago. But this year, we hadn''t went out that much compare to the past because he had some family matter that he needs to attend.


    I grabbed my jacket and headed out the door. I walked down the familiar streets that I hadn''t walk for a while. It was the streets that I always go when Hikaru invited me on something.


    The streets were the same: narrow, lined with the same cracks on the pavement and the occasional street vendor selling cotton candies. There were few elderly people sitting on benches, chatting with each other.


    I passed by a small playground where Hikaru and I used to hang out. At the end of our day out, we would always go to this small playground to get some rest before going home. Now, we''d barely go out together. His family situation had kept him busy, and I''d found myself doing nothing much.


    As I reach the familiar intersection, I stopped for a moment. There was the cafe, just down the street to the left. Cat Cafe. I could picture Hikaru''s excited face wanting to go there every time we pass by this Cafe. I laughed softly.


    Taking a deep breath, I crossed the street and made my way toward the cafe.

 Chapter 9: Is this a Date?

    As I approach the entrance at the cafe, I nervously stroke my shirt. The dark navy looks good, and I hope I made the right choice. I pushed open the door, with cats coming all over my legs.


    I look around the place and immediately spotted her, sitting by the window, looking at the phone. Without trying to hurt the cat, I slowly walk towards my seat where Ayumi was seating. As I get closer, she finally looks up from her phone and her face light up when she sees me.


    "Hey, Haru!" she says with a smile. "I was starting to wonder if you got lost."


    I smiled back. "Yeah, I almost did."


    I settled in my seat and look around the cafe.


    "So, how''s your day been?" she asked.


    "It''s been alright," I replied, turning my attention back to Ayumi.


    Ayumi laughed softly. "I figured."


    She took a sip of her latte and asked "Do you know why I called you here?"


    That question got me by surprise. It''s an odd question to ask and I thought we were just hanging out like old times.


    "I don''t really know. Mind telling me?" I asked with a straight face.


    Ayumi laughed "I don''t know too! It''s just something that''s been telling me to ask you for a hangout since we haven''t seen each other for a long time."


    "Ahh. I get it!."


    I don''t. It must be a lie or something. Sure, we haven''t seen each other in forever, but asking someone to hang out without a reason feels suspicious. But maybe, it''s not...


    "So, wanna go somewhere next? It''s still early." she asked.


    "Ya, sure" I replied.


    I''d only stayed still because I still have my dignity to uphold. It''s still pretty embarrassing for me to get invited by a girl from my childhood. You can say it''s my first time. But, the question I''ve wondering, is this a date?


    "Then, Let''s go now!" she replied, with an excited face.


    "Wait, wait. My coffee hasn''t even arrived yet. Wait until I finished it, ok?" I said.


    "Ya, alright." she replied.


    After talking for somewhile about our life and finishing our coffee, we soon headed out of the cat cafe.


    "So.., where are we going?" I asked and checked my watch (1:09 p.m.). It''s still quite early to say it''s the end of the day.


    "Just follow me" she replied. She started walking straight to the road.


    "Ok" I replied.


    It was a awkward walk with her in front of me. I looked at her for while not looking ahead of her. She was dressed nicely and her standing in front of me looked beautiful.


    While we didn''t talk because we had nothing to say to each other, I was stressing out on what to say to her. I had used all my time in the cafe so I had barely anything to say. We walked to a place that I''d never seen before. It looks like a amusement park, That''s the only thing I can say with all the rides and booths. Basically all the common things that forms a amusement park.


    "So, this is the place that I wanted us to go to." she said with a excited face.


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    "Let''s go then. I''m excited." I replied.


    I looked around the outside structure of the amusement park while walking in. The name ''Star Land" seems familiar. Then, the memory popped out in my head...


    It was when Hikaru invited me to the amusement park called "Star Land" on Friday. That memory that popped out in my head becomes seemingly vivid.


    "Hey Haru! Wanna go to Star Land on Sunday this week." he asked, turning his head towards me.


    "Ya sure." I said.


    I looked at his face and it was a expression of sad, happy? I can''t remember, But, that memory makes me feel unease of something distress. It was a short vivid memory and everything else is too blurry for me to remember.


    I let that memory go for while and focused on what''s in front of me. Once I entered the amusement park, the surrounding around me changed with lots of people feeling happy and excited. I could see booth selling drinks and food, rides that goes from the air.


    This was the first time that I''d felt so excited about going to a place. I wished Hikaru was with me...


    "So, where do you want to go first?" she asked with a smile.


    I looked around trying to find a good place to have fun first, "Maybe.. that." I replied. I pointed at a random ride that seems fun to ride.


    "Sure, let''s go." she said with a excited face.


    She suddenly grabbed my hand and pulled me towards the ride. My heart pounded, not from the amusement park, but from the sudden contact with our hand. This generally feels like a date rather than just hanging out. It was nice.


    The ride was her laughing at me screaming because it was my first time riding. So, I was honestly scared. We then hope on to the next. Each one was different but fun. By the time we''ve ridden almost every rides, it was already 8 p.m. The lights at the park flickered on.


    We stopped by a booth that sells food. Ayumi ordered a dessert and I ordered takoyaki. The image of that food looks delicious so I had to order one to try. We found a bench that was located between the trees and sat together. There wasn''t a lot of people so it was good. I looked around the park while eating the takoyaki. I could see rides that we had gone and some that we haven''t tried.


    I took a bite of my takoyaki and it was delicious. There was a lot of umami that makes this quite tasty. I glanced at her enjoying her dessert, her expression lit up as soon as she tasted her dessert.


    After a moment of silence, Ayumi started talking. "This was fun, isn''t it?" she asked.


    "Yeah, it really is." I said.


    It really felt like a date, but I''m not sure if she also feels it that way. I wanted to ask her that. It was every boys including me worse nightmare. Confession. I was way to scared of the answer so I decided to wait a bit longer until I can say it.


    "Hey, Haru." she said as she looked up at the sky.


    "Yeah," I replied, looking at her.


    "Have you ever think what it would''ve been like if we hadn''t lost touch after middle school? she asked.


    That question caught me off guard. I did think about it. All the time. I''ve think of the possibilities of what would happen if we didn''t lost touch after middle school. My life would be better than this one, or maybe worse. I thought of a lots of positive possibilities and a few negative ones.


    "Ya, I guess..." I said.


    "Same. But it''s kind of nice how things were now, don''t you think?" she said.


    I looked over at her, and for the first time, I truly felt something deeper was happening. "Maybe this could actually change my life upside down." I thought to myself.


    "Yeah, it is" I replied.


    We stayed there for a while, eating our food. The night and the surrounding felt peaceful and we stayed quite. This will last as the best day I had with her forever..