Showered by the Stars

39. Distance between us

(Takeshima's POV)

In just one Sunday night, my thoughts were scrambled.

Minami-san looked divine. Even in the crowd of people, I immediately recognized her even with her mask on.

I took her to somewhere no one will see us. I wanted to be with her, alone. I wanted her to realize that I was wrong and that it’s her that I love. But when I finally got her alone with me, I lost control over my feelings and body and kissed her.

Her sweetness was something I craved for ever since the first time I tasted it. Her soft skin touching mine was something I want to remember forever. Her heart, I want it to be mine. I’ve fallen for her, completely. I wanted her to realize that and free me from this unrequited love.

Yet, as I let myself get sucked in, she was motionless. I snapped out. She stared at me blankly. She showed no feelings for me. I became petrified. How could this happen? No. I really love her. But when I got control over my body again, she already ran.

Why would she run away from me? Does she really hate me that much? But I love her, I told her didn’t I?

But maybe I need to tell her again. To make her understand.

I hastily went looking for her only to hear the news that she is now the fiancée of the guy who interfered back then when I was in her school. They danced together. My heart clenched. I can’t believe that they look good together. That man. I hate him. He took my place. I should be the one with her.

When I made sure that she was alone in the corner, I called out her name. But she ran away. I chased after her, I want to talk to her desperately. Yet, this annoying crowd of people prevented me from catching up to her.

I thought of going to her house, but I hesitated. She might hate me more if I did that. Following her everywhere, that seems like a stalker would do.

The next day, I couldn’t wait any longer. I need to tell her my feelings. But her house was surrounded by cars and the media.

“Excuse me. What happened?” I asked a neighbor.

“Ah! The girl who lives in that house seemed to have run away.” She replied.

What? Run away? Why?

After that, I came again the next day to check if she’s been found yet. She hasn’t. But the family seems to have calmed down a bit. Have they given up?

The media featured the incident about Minami-san. It shocked me extremely that the guy called Konoe Eri is with her. And the people are even saying they eloped. But the two families disagreed.

“There’s no need for them to elope. They are engaged. They might have just gone for some sight-seeing.” Konoe Daisuke said in a conference.

It bothered me the whole day. If they’re alone, what might they be doing? They didn’t do that, right?

It was on the third day that Minami-san appeared on TV. But her hair is black. Dyed? The guy was with her.

“Minami Mizuki-sama, where did the two of you go?”

“Konoe Eri-sama, where did you take her?”

“What did the two of you do?”

The reporters’ questions were unanswered. But then, it troubled me that the camera even caught them holding each other’s hands when they got out of the car.

Minami-san, what exactly are you thinking?

I knew that you are furious because I let you see me that way.

“Masato-kun! Can you come with me to the hospital?” Ai said.

“Er—where’s your dad?” I asked. I want to refuse but—

“He said he’ll be late coming home. But if you’re busy then I’ll—“ she said, looking sad.

Aww—Why can’t I just say no? But this is about her health—I’m a bit worried.

I sighed. “Okay. I’ll go with you.” I finally said. She looked happy.

I waited for her while she got her check up with her doctor. It took a while. The door opened. She came out.

“Thanks again, Doctor. Good bye.” She bowed, turning to me.

“How was it?” I asked.

“Ah—well, I don’t really understand those medical terms he just said.” She said, blushing. “But—I did hear something about heart transplant.”

“So. It’s come to that?” Ever since she was a child, she’s always had a weak heart. It looks like her heart may be reaching its limit and needs to be replaced in order to save her life.

“Yeah.” She said. “I wonder if they’d get one that will match. Geez—it’d be bad if I’d get complications. I’ll hunt them down if they do.” She said.

Ai, you’re still making it a joke? You’re going to die, you know.

“So, like I said. Forget about that promise you made with me. I’m sorry I blurted out those things when I saw you in Australia. I just hoped that you’d be here by side. At least, until I die.”

I remained silent. I don’t know what I should say.

“That girl. Minami Mizuki. She’s precious to you, right? You should go to her.” She said. That’s what she says.

“Even if I did, nothing would change. She hates me.” I said.

“Ah! But she might believe me if I will be the one to explain, right? I was the one who kissed you in front of her. I was the one who said that we’re lovers. So it’s only right that I should tell her that it was my own selfishness.”

I patted her head. “And I’m at fault that I let you kiss me in front of her. I betrayed her. But well—even if I still like her and all—I’m going to be by your side. So you shouldn’t give up. You have to live.” She nodded, teary-eyed.