Bonded By Love

Memories in the Distance!

It was time for school and as expected, the boys got in trouble for trespassing Samezuka. Apparently a staff member caught them swimming in the pool.

I've heard from Makoto that Rin won against Haru which surprised me. They soon walked out and I noticed Haru walking away.

"Ms. Ama wasn't much help. I wonder how the fish saying goes..." Makoto questioned. "Haru, do you-" He turned around and noticed he was missing. "Huh?"

"He's over there" Nagisa pointed out.

"When did that happen" Makoto signed.

Kou walked towards us.

"Ah, Gou!"

"I told you to call me Kou!" She stated.

"Does it really matter?" Nagisa questioned cutesy.

"It does! I'm Kou!"

"Gou."

"Kou!"

"Gou."

"Kou!"

"Kou."

"Gou!"

Immediately realizing what she said, she put her hands to her head. "Damnit!"

Nagisa made a peace sign, smiling in victory. I laughed at their remarks.

We went to the staircase to talk, I was sitting by the window not really paying attention.

"So were you able to see my brother?" Kou asked.

"Yeah, about that...I don't wanna be rude and hurt your feelings but he's a jerk!! I mean we haven't seen the guy in 5 years! And the first thing he does is challenge Haru to a race. He completely ignored me and Makoto. We didn't get the chance to talk about anything." Nagisa looked down sadly.

I frowned at what he said. 'Rin, a jerk? He was so sweet and kind before. What happened in Australia.'

Kou looked at them confused and turned towards me. "Airi-senpai, you didn't go with them. I thought you would take the chance to see him, I'm sure he'll open up to you".

"I didn't want to. I have expectations from teachers, I can't go trespassing into places." I shrugged.

"Have you heard anything from Rin, Kou?" Makoto asked

Kou shook her head. "I've sent him texts and called his cell without any luck. I've even called his dorm number, but he didn't come to answer".

"How come he's changed so much? Did something happen in Australia?" Nagisa questioned.

Kou looked down sadly "I don't know. I was hoping that he'll open up after meeting you guys. But looks like Airi-senpai is our best option."

Makoto gasp "Are you the reason Rin showed up at the swim club?"

Kou raised her hands defending herself, "I wouldn't put it that way...I was just trying to help. I happened to overhear your conversation, so I sent him a text. But he never replied".

"That's why you went to Haru's place yesterday?"

"Yes I was hoping he might have some answers."

"Hey, I just had a great idea!" Nagisa yelled. "Let's start a swim club! Then we can see Rin at tournaments."

"Uh, I'm not sure Haru would be on board with that."

We went to Haru's place to see if he would join. I decided to tag along since I had nothing better to do.

"Whatever. Knock yourself out." Haru said nonchalantly.

"Huh? Really? Yay! We're good to go then!" Nagisa cheered. "I'm so excited!"