Killing Yuki

Chapter 3.I - I Almost Lost You There

"Well, you can call him."

"You're right. I'll talk to him later. I'll borrow 'kaasan's phone."

"I hope they catch them soon. The entire city is up in arms because of what happened to you."

"Really? How?"

"The media caught wind fast and made a huge deal out of it. Well, it's a huge deal, alright. I mean, they usually target large cities like Tokyo, and now they're here. Who knows where else they're prowling."

"Thank goodness I was unconscious the whole time."

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, the media coming here? I don't think I can put up with that."

"Oh yeah, they did come. I figured you wouldn't like it. But wait until the cops come knocking on your door."

"I feel fine, but somehow, I'm terrified to go outside."

"That's normal. After what happened to you, it's a miracle we're even talking right now. You're strong, Yuki."

"I don't know about that. I feel like I've been in a similar situation before."

"You mean like past life? You're beginning to sound like our geek classmate, Shinji. Did you hit your head during the incident?"

"Aho! It's not like that. I just feel it inside me. I can't explain it, though. It's like I've died before."

"Enough about that. I'll let you rest now. I just dropped by to check on you."

"Thanks, Kazuki. I appreciate it."

"Anytime, Yuki. I'll let your classmates know you're okay now."

Yuki slept for a few minutes and was roused by a crunching noise near the bed. His mother had just returned and was emptying the paper bag of fruits.

"Did I wake you?" she asked.

"No, it's okay, 'kaasan. I'm actually waiting for you."

"Why? Do you need anything?"

"Hmmm, can I borrow your phone? I'll just call Ren."

"Sure. Here." She handed over the phone and went back to peeling some tangerines.

"Do you want me to go outside?"

"It's okay, 'kaasan. You can stay."

Knowing Ren's number by heart, Yuki managed to dial it easily. It took two rings before Ren answered. After everything that had happened, everyone, especially Ren, was overwrought. It's not like the kidnappers had already been apprehended.

"Hello. Who's this?" Ren cautiously asked.

"It's me," Yuki answered without introduction, trusting Ren would recognize his voice.

"Yuki?"

Ren had heard that voice countless times. He'd memorized its tone and frequency. He knew right away that it was Yuki. It was the first time he cracked a smile after the incident.

"Yes."

"How are you?"

"I'm okay now. How about you?"

"I'm fine."

"Are you sure? Kazuki told me a different story."

"That guy. I'm okay, I promise."

"Hey, Ren, don't think about the incident too much, okay?"

"How can I not? It's my fault you're hurt."

"No, it's not. Why would you think that?"

"Because..."

"Listen, you'd definitely do the same for me. And I'd do it again for you."

Ren didn't know how to react to those words. He had never heard Yuki being too vocal about his feelings before.

"I'm just glad you're safe."

"Arigato, Yuki. I owe you one."

"Don't mention it. So, you're going to get out of your room and eat, or I'll go there and drag you downstairs myself?"

"Okay, boss. I'm feeling much better now. Can I visit you?"

"Of course. I want to see you, too, in one piece."

"Really now. I'll bring my new guitar."

"Woah! Can't wait to see it."

"Forget about the songbook. 'Tousan bought me one. And I figured you need the one you have, too."

"Alright. Got it. I'll hang up now. 'Kaasan needs her phone. Just get your arse up here as soon as you can, okay?"

"Thanks again. I will never forget what you did for me."

"Don't be too dramatic. I'm just happy you're alright. I'll trade my life for yours anytime."

Ren went red and speechless.

"Aho! I won't let anything like that happen to you again. I almost lost you there."

"Me, too. Let's just be careful next time."

"Okay. I'll hang up now. Rest well."

"Bye."

"Bye."

Yuki hit end call and placed his mother's phone on his chest. Then, he dozed off with a smile on his face. He had never heard Ren speak those sweet and caring words before. 

He didn't know Ren had such a soft side, but it made him happy. If there was one positive aspect of the recent tragedy, it was that it had ignited a glimmer of hope within Yuki.