Finding Juliet [VERY slow updates]

Act XI

"And this concludes our ice show tonight! Thank you, everyone!"

The host said her final words while the rest of us bow and wave at the cheering audience. Kenae and I did a small exhibition on a small town here in Nagoya. We still have a lot to go! There aren't much donations but the people are nice enough to donate. They recognize me as the junior champion and I'm really overwhelmed.

However, one thing still bothers me.

2 hours before the ice show..

"How are you guys doing?" A familiar voice echoed through the rink. Ken and I who were practicing the choreography for tonight looked at the door and saw Ranmaru waving at us. He wore a cap, is he trying to disguise himself?

We excused ourselves and went to meet our friend. Kenae high-fived him but I think he forgot about me. Ken didn't show any emotions though, she doesn't look happy to see Ranmaru.

"What'cha doing here, Maru?" Ken asked, crossing her arms. Ranmaru laughed and scanned the rink, sighing.

"Why? Am I not allowed to join the fun? You guys seem to be enjoying!" He then looked at me, grinning. "Why didn't you invite me,  Yuzuzu?"

I sheepishly reached for my neck. "Ah, well, I wasn't really planning to invite anyone. Besides, Ken-"

"Did my father send you here?" Kenae cut me off immediately. Ranmaru raised his brows at her. I feel like something wrong's going on.

"No.. no? I heard that you two are here and wanted to join, that's all!" Ranmaru sighed again. "Why..? Did you not tell your dad about this, Kenae?"

I glanced at Ken and saw her dull expression. She suddenly took Ranmaru's arm and went outside. I stepped once but she spoke, "Stay here, Hanyu."

And so I stayed.

-----

"Did you tell my dad?" She whispered at me while holding my arm still. "Don't tell me you did, Ranmaru."

I chuckled, "Whoa, I told you, I'm just here to join you two! And we're best friends right? Why would I do that?" After that assurance, she let go of me instantly. Ken sighed in relief.

"But why are you here with Yuzuru though?" I asked. She didn't look at me and placed her hands on her waist.

"To help him with his town. You know this boy's really trying hard to earn for Sendai."

"And you went here personally? By yourself? You could've invited the gang, you know. Haruki and Harumi are disappointed back home." I spoke. She didn't respond.

"Ken."

"Just.. Just let me be. Just this one summer, Ranmaru." Kenae finally turned to me, her eyes pleading me to let her stay here in Nagoya. She wasn't like this before. She doesn't even wanna hang out with me that much to the point where she sneaks out. I've been her best friend ever since. I lowered my gaze and tried not to meet hers.

"Alright, you knucklehead." I put up a smile and she did too, clinging her arm on my neck, gently punching me.

"Thanks, I owe you one."

"Actually, you owe me a lot, you know that?" We both laughed and I clung onto her as well.

This wasn't my intention.
I wanted to take her back -- away from this newbie who thinks he could get my best friend away from me that quick.
I wanted to call her dad and tell him that his kid just went to Nagoya just to "help" a fellow skater. Why would she go to this extent though?
If I just don't love you thiiiis much, Kenae.

"Yeah, yeah. I know." She grinned at me. My smile faded all of a sudden as I try to muster up courage.

I took her arm off of me and instead held her hand, looking at it directly.

"You know what, before I leave, I want to tell you something." I said, squeezing her hand.

"Mhm? Is this another corny joke of yours? I swear to Plushenko I-"

"No, listen. I know we've been best friends for a couple of years now. Heck, it's not even a couple. You see, I've been.. I've been trying to sort this out and finally.. I finally figured that.."

I looked at Ken directly in her eyes, seeing the confusion reflecting in them. I opened my mouth but the words seemed to be stuck in my throat, like they won't come out at all or something.

"Ken, I think I.."

"What's taking you two so long?"

The door swung open and Yuzuru appeared, breaking the momentum. He saw our hands so I let go, putting mine into my pocket.

"What did I tell you?" Kenae rolled her eyes and faced him instead.

"Sure, sorry, but they're looking for us already. This is our final practice before the show! Let's go!" He stretched his arm and offered his hand. Why would you do that? It's not like Ken needs assistance for walking.

"Alright," Ken exhaled deeply and reached for it. I looked closely as I tighten my fist, but then Ken turned to me once again. "What was it that you're gonna tell me by the way?"

I gulped and eyed Yuzuru while he puts his hand down. I switched my focus to Ken and forced a laugh.

"I think.. I think you're growing up ugly."

"Why, you idiot!" She flicked my forehead as Yuzuru goes to her to stop her from throwing a punch, laughing.

"See you around, Maru?" Yuzu smiled.

"I'll see you around. I might watch your show later, guys. Good luck!" I saluted them and ran away without looking back.

After making sure that I'm far enough, I took my phone and answered.

"Hello, Mr. Arisawa?"

~
Annyeong. I'm trying my best ;_; school's over here in canada yay. Let's hope for muse and updates.