When You Smile - Complete

Chapter Nine - A Little Trouble

Chapter Nine – A Little Trouble

Miyako shifted a little, tightening the hold she had around the pillow at her side.

A small sound startled her. It was familiar to a voice, but unfamiliar in its use. It was Tezuka. Then she remembered; they’d been sitting there talking when she’d fallen asleep. But that meant…

She slowly opened her eyes and bit back the gasp. Then there was a sharp and loud sound coming from somewhere else in the house. And then a familiar voice calling her name. Tezuka stirred and Miyako sat up. “Dad?...” She muttered, still groggy from sleep. She turned over and looked at the clock on his nightstand. She groaned. “It’s so late, why did he come?”

“The rain’s stopped.” Tezuka replied righting his glasses.

Miyako grumbled, slapping a hand to her forehead. “He’s such an idiot.”

Tezuka chuckled and climbed out of the bed, detangling his feet from the bunched up blankets. “You should get your uniform and change – I don’t think he’ll favour you being in my clothes.”

“He’ll live.” Miyako said, following close behind him. “He’s never going to live this down.” She said, taking his hand as they reached the front door. “Play along.” She whispered.

Tezuka released her hand. “He probably hates me enough already.” He suggested and opened the door.

“Dad, what are you doing?” Miyako asked instantly.

Naoko reached out and grabbed her arm. “Come on, we’re going home.”

“Fine, but you won’t drag me.” Miyako stated angrily, pulling her arm free. “Besides I need to collect my things.”

“Hang on, are you wearing his clothes?” Naoko demanded.

“Would you be quiet, his parents are sleeping?” Miyako hissed, stepping up the ledge to the hallway. “I need to get my uniform.”

Tezuka stopped her. “Let me get it.” He suggested then breathed. “Don’t leave me alone with him.”

Miyako giggled as Tezuka fled down the hallway. Then she turned on her Father. “You’re horrible. It’s nearly half past eleven at night. Are you crazy?” She hissed, picking up her bags and socks and slipped her shoes on her bare feet.

“You said if the rain stopped before midnight then I could come and get you.”

Miyako glared at him. “That was an example. Half past eleven is still late.”

Naoko shifted his feet nervously. “I just wanted to have you home. I didn’t know what to think when I found out the guy was special to you.”

Miyako rolled her eyes to disguise her blush. “He’s just a very good friend Dad. If something was happening then you’d know before now.” She explained, looking away.

Tezuka returned with a full plastic bag in hand. “It’s still a little bit wet.” He said, handing her the bag.

“Thanks, Tezuka.” Miyako said. “I’m sorry about this. Dad’s just a little paranoid about his little girl’s safety, that’s all.”

Tezuka looked up at Naoko and bowed. “That’s perfectly understandable.” He then looked back to Miyako. “I’ll see you at school on Monday?”

“Absolutely. We have to make up for all that time we missed out on last week.” Miyako replied.

Tezuka smiled slightly. “I look forward to it then.”

“Me too.”

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