Guardian Angel | Toru

Chapter 11: Time

Tonight, ONE OK ROCK is performing once again at one of Japan's biggest stadiums. Although I have already met them as a group before, I can't help but be in awe of the position I am in and my current surroundings. Not to mention, what my stubborn sibling has given me. Even though she doesn't show it often, she really does still have a good side. This is the best sign of apology she has given me so far though.

Following what S/N told me to do, I head towards the area that seems to lead backstage. I don't head straight there though, since something catches my eye-ONE OK ROCK's merchandise stand. The only place that I heard is going to be selling ONE OK ROCK's special album. The album that I created the cover for. Seeing it on display and OORers getting their hands on it with smiles plastered on their faces makes these mixed emotions I've had ever since I stepped out of the car slowly fade away. It doesn't last though, once I walk away from the scene to head towards the security to show them proof by showing them my pass and to be cautious, my ID. Surprisingly, I am allowed to go backstage without a problem. From then on, with every step forward, I gain back such emotions.

Hesitantly stepping closer to the side of the main stage, my ears slowly become flooded with thousands of crazy, screaming fans. My eyes are also blinded by the colorful orbs of light that fly on stage. When my eyes come to, they capture every member's movements and talents. What they can't, however, is the power or energy and the many feelings they continue to deliver to their audience. My heart and soul do instead.

• • • •

Before I know it, the concert is about to come to an end. Taka, Toru, Ryota and Tomoya end their last song with a touching one and a few final goodbyes before leaving another memorable stage. But before stepping off stage, I hide from them into the shadows.

I thought about something while they were performing with all their might and by the time they are done, I make up my mind. I am dedicated to accomplishing what I have to do tonight. It has to be done. It just has to be done before they go on tour again.

Since I am already given the opportunity, I force my legs and feet to move a certain direction.

"Y/N..?"

"Hey."

"You actually came and you got in backstage too. Guys-," Toru chortles before replying to me.

He then tries to turn to the others to let them know that I'm here. But before he does, I quickly grip onto one of his arms with my dominant hand to stop him.

"You don't need to tell them I'm here."

Realizing what I had just done, I quickly release my grip and try to act as natural as possible like I do when I'm with him.

"Your guys' entire performance was outstanding by the way. I have to admit I cried maybe even more than once," I speak from the bottom of my heart as a fan, which makes Toru turn his attention to me and snigger this time.

"But the reason why I'm here is that I need to talk to you about something alone."

The look on Toru's usual readable face changes into confusion and suspicion.

"Alright. We're going to clean up after the audience leaves. After that, I'll meet you outside near the back exit. Not many people should be around there or around at all by then, so quietly wait there for me," he says before taking his leave to catch up with the three and the rest of the crew.

• • • •

I'm surprised how cold it got compared to the afternoon when I was drowning in heat.