The moment they get off at Shibuya, Zoe's heartbeat stops. The legendary crossing unfolds before her eyes, reminiscent of scenes from movies where people resemble tiny insects scurrying in every direction. The place is a vibrant mosaic, with multi-traffic lanes, stop lights, towering residential buildings, upscale businesses, coffee shops, bars, retail outlets, and a multitude of restaurants—truly a city within a city.
The neon lights, either for advertisements or mere embellishments coming from the tall buildings, illuminate the intersection. Zoe gazes down from above, the city spreading below her, and it feels as though she's free to jump. She feels a prickling sensation along the back of her neck.
Jesse and Zoe descend the escalator and take photos at the Hachiko statue, which was surrounded by people, mostly tourists. She remembers how she bawled her eyes out when she watched the film years ago. She asked for a pet dog after that. The request was immediately turned down.
They also take photos at the scramble. They try to capture a few good ones, although too many people are walking by. Afterward, the two of them stand close to the entrance of the station.
"Wow, this place is too crowded," Zoe mumbles.
Jesse chuckles and asks, "You okay?"
"Yeah. I'm overwhelmed. Trains are always jam-packed, and footsteps just come from everywhere. Tokyo feels so... Alive."
As Jesse glances at her watch, a smile spreads across his face. "They'll be here soon," he reassures Zoe, who begins to fidget nervously. The whirlwind of events is catching up to her, and everything feels like it's moving too quickly.
Jesse notices her worry. She touches Zoe's arm soothingly.
"Relax, Zoe. This is why you're here, right? You want to meet new people. You want to broaden your horizons."
Zoe nods shyly.
Jesse can read Zoe like an open book, and it vexes Zoe to the core. Other people can easily recognize whatever she's feeling no matter how hard she tries to look nonchalant.
Besides that, she's beginning to think about Seth and her parents. She hasn't sent them a message since she left the dorm. They're probably trying to reach her.
I really need to buy that sim card.
A few minutes later, Jesse saunters to a group of unfamiliar students composed of three guys and one girl. The girl in a gray wool coat waves her hand at them. Amid the crowd, it's hard not to notice them since they are way too diverse.
To Zoe's surprise, she spots Kaito among the guys. He squints at her, giving a discreet nod, which she reciprocates. The sight of him instantly brings her a sense of calm, as if his presence reassures her that it will be alright.
"Hi everyone, this is Zoe. She's from the University of the Philippines. I met her at the orientation," Jesse says. "Zoe, here's everyone."
The girl with long, black hair steps forward, extending her hand for a handshake. Her sweet smile adds a touch of elegance to her appearance, with slight wrinkles at the sides of her mouth that only enhance her sophistication. Zoe is captivated by her beauty. "I'm Marie. I'm from Canada. It's nice to meet you," she says warmly.
Next up is Taylor, with his brown, curly hair and striking, round, steel blue eyes. His pale complexion gives him a distinct charm. Taller and thinner than Kaito, Taylor exudes a playful vibe, winking at Zoe before shaking her hand. "Hey. I'm Taylor from San Francisco, USA."
The sole Japanese guy, Naoki, introduces himself calmly. "Hello. I'm Naoki, a non-exchange student." His appearance is characterized by a skinny frame, an oval-shaped face, and long, jet-black hair that partially conceals his ears. Zoe notices the indifferent expression on his face, wondering if it will be easy to engage in conversation with him.
YOU ARE READING
The Spring I Met You
Roman d'amour"Things that are special, though temporary, tend to last longer in our memories," Kaito says. Zoe recalls the Hanami party that they had and everything that has happened since she arrived. She remembers every detail perfectly. She nods slowly. "You'...
