Sunday, August 22, 2010

So It's You - Part 7

Seasons passed by, and it was my third spring in the university.

I’ve waited for this season to come, and as soon as my classes are over, I ran up to the park, hoping to see her once again. And there she was, sitting on our usual spot. I smiled to myself as I walked up to her. But then, that smile slowly faded as I got closer to her. Her usual happy face was replaced with a sad one. Her thoughts seems to be somewhere else, as she never noticed that I was coming up to her. Her fingers fidget on her blouse, and her eyes was trying to control the tears from falling down her face.

“Hikaru…” I called in a soft voice. She looked at me. She bit her lips as the tears finally fell from her eyes. I sat next to her, and then she buried her face onto my chest as she cried. “Ya Lun…” she whispered as she sobbed softly. I stroked her hair as I embraced her into my arms. I let her cry on my shoulder, hoping that whatever she is feeling right now, it would ease everything with my embrace. “Grandpa… he…” she managed to say in between sobs.

At the start of that year, Rihito-sensei fell sick and was forced to take a leave. And maybe this is the reason why Hikaru is sad. She came here to see her beloved grandpa sick. “They… they said… they said grandpa will be… be….” Then, she cried again. Rihito-sensei is sick, and from what I’ve heard, his condition has worsened. I’m worried about Hikaru. From what I know, she became this way because of a tragedy that happened to her and her family. And now, there will be another tragedy that’s going to happen to them, and I’m not sure if she could take everything.

I walked her home, and we saw Aiba by the door. “Thank God, you came back…” he said as soon as he saw his sister.. I watched as Hikaru she retreat back inside the house. She looked so lifeless, like someone have taken out her soul. It was breaking my heart to see her like this. “Hikaru have been like that since she learned about grandpa’s condition…” Aiba said. I looked up at him, and he gave me a sad smile. “I thought that when she sees you, her depression would somehow lessen but… but I was wrong…” he continued.

I looked by the door, wondering how Hikaru was coping with everything. “She’s not used to this…” AIba said once again. “When we were young, we had a car accident, and she saw our dad die before her very eyes. Since then, she was never the same again. I’m afraid that if grandpa…” he paused for a while, and shook his head. “I wish things would not happen this way. I… I’m so worried about her.” He continued. What can I tell him? Can I tell him not to worry, for everything will be OK? I know not everything will be all right, and Hikaru will not be all right. I knew that a tragedy will soon struck their family, and she will never be ready for it. She will never be ready to lose her grandpa.

--

I walked inside the house, into Rihito-sensei’s room. He was sitting up with a book in his hand. He looked up at me, and smiled. “Ya Lun! I’m glad you were able to come!” he said. There was a weak smile on his face. I smiled back, and nodded my head. I walked up to him, and sat on a chair beside him. “It’s spring once again, isn’t it?” he asked. “It is.” I told him. He looked outside the window, and I can see the smile slowly fade from his face. “It’s funny how seasons pass us by without us even knowing it. I’ve lived into 70 springs, and here I am…”

He looked at me, and let out another faint smile. “An old, sickly and weak man.” He said. “I don’t think you’re that old, Rihito-sensei.” I told him. “I can’t deny it anymore, Ya Lun. I am old, and one day, I will have to go.” He said. He let out a sigh as he looked outside the window again. “All my life, I had regrets, about things that I didn’t do, and words that I didn’t say. When my son died, I was not able to tell him how much I love him, and how much he made me proud of him. When my wife died, I was not there beside her to see her go. When Hikaru and Aiba was born, I wasn’t there to witness their arrival. There are mistakes I made, things I forget to do, things I regret to do… but all in all it sums up life. The measurement of how well you lived your life is with the things you have said and done, with the mistakes and the lessons you learned, with the regrets and the what-ifs…” he said.

“Are… are you ready? Are you ready to go? To leave us all behind?” I asked. I could hear my own voice quivering as I asked that question. “It’s not a question if I am ready to go. I am ready to face my death. It’s a question if the people who loved you are ready to let you go when you die…” he answered. “Hikaru? What about her?”
“Hikaru will have to accept it. She have not accepted her father’s death, because she was not ready for it. As for me… I will do everything to make her ready for my departure.”
“But will Hikaru be able to accept it?”
“All my life, I prayed to find someone who could take care of Hikaru, who could love her the way that I do. Who could protect her, and accept her for who she is. I prayed for someone to be there for her when she needs someone, and they sent you to her, Ya Lun. Knowing that you will always be there for her, I will be at ease, and I could die peacefully knowing that my granddaughter is in good hands.”

I lowered my head as he speaks. It is a great honor for me that he chose me to take care of Hikaru. But now, more than ever, I am scared. Not for myself, but for her. I can be there for her, that’s for sure. But I’m worried that Hikaru will not be able to accept things as they are. “You will take care of Hikaru, right, Ya Lun?” he asked. I looked up at him, and let out a smile. “You have my word.” I replied. “I will look after Hikaru from this day, onwards.”

--

As the springtime passes by, Rihito-sensei grew weaker and weaker each day. I made sure that I am there always for Hikaru to make her feel at ease. I know it was hurting her as well to see her grandfather dying.

It was one Saturday afternoon, and we were at Rihito-sensei’s room. Hikaru was sitting on the floor, her head was on her grandfather’s hand. “Grandpa…” she called. “Hmmmm…” Rihito-sensei said in a weak voice. “Are you… are you… going to where papa is?” she asked. I heard Rihito-sensei let out a weak laugh. “I am, if God will allow me to be with your father…” he said in a weak voice. I looked at Hikaru, and saw a tear falling from her eyes. “Grandpa… when… when you see papa… will you… will you tell him that I love him?” she said. Rihito-sensei smiled. “I will…”
“Will… will you tell him that… that I’m sorry… for that night… because… because I….”

He turned to her, and patted her head. “Hikaru-chan… it was not your fault. You were not at fault that night. It was… an accident, and no one blames you for that…” he said weakly. She closed her eyes, and let the tears fall down from her eyes. “I’m going to miss you, grandpa… I know you’re tired… really, really tired… you can rest now… I promise I will be OK… I will try to be OK….” She whispered. “When I’m gone, I will still watch you from above, my princess. I will always look after you… and someone else will take care of you when I’m gone…” he said.

He looked up at me, and smiled. He mouthed a word of thanks to me as he consoled Hikaru. I took a deep breath, and smiled at him, and then I turned my back. I knew I had to be strong for them, especially for Hikaru. But at that moment, I wanted to break down and cry, but I can’t let them see how weak I feel inside. I don’t know if I could do it without Rihito-sensei. I don’t know if I could take care of Hikaru the way that he did for the past years. I don’t know if I had enough patience to be with her. But I know that I love her. And maybe he sees that love I have for her, that he is more than willing to hand her to me, to ask me to take care of her. But still, I’m scared. I’m scared that I will disappoint him, and that I will disappoint myself and Hikaru even more.

Maybe it’s OK to scared once in a while… and it’s OK to be scared at this moment.

--

Aiba and I were busy preparing breakfast, when we heard a loud cry at Rihito-sensei’s room. We looked at each other for a while, and then rushed to his room. As we opened the door, we saw Hikaru by the floor. She was holding onto Rihito-sensei’s hand, and she was crying. “Grandpa….” She cried. “Grandpa… why did you have to leave now? Why now? Grandpa…”

I felt like someone poured cold water on my back. I slowly walked onto Rihito-sensei’s bed. I saw him sleeping peacefully, with a smile on his face. “Rihito-sensei…” I whispered. I held his hand, and felt how cold it was. I knelt down, and put my ear onto his chest, trying to feel his heartbeat, but I couldn’t feel it. I could hear his heart beating. I couldn’t feel his slow breathing.

Rihito-sensei is gone. He left me, Hikaru, and Aiba. He left the people he loved the most. He left us without giving us a chance to say goodbye for the last time.

I bit my lips as the tears finally fell from my eyes. He was the father figure to me while I’m staying here at the uni. He was the one giving me words of wisdom, especially when I needed it most. And now that he is gone, I felt like a lost sheep. Life, I guess, will never be the same without Rihito-sensei.

I looked at Hikaru, who is still crying hard after knowing that her grandfather passed away quietly. I put my arms around her, and pulled her into a hug. Together, we cried for our loss. I knew that moment that she needed me, and I needed her as well. She needed to cry to me. She needed someone to hold her and make her feel all right. With her in my arms, I could feel all my fears slowly disappearing. I felt like there was nothing to worry about. It was as if being with Hikaru and take care of her is something I’ve always wanted to do for the rest of my life. I looked down at her, and she was crying on my shoulder. “Hikaru…” I whispered. I pulled her close to me, and let her cry even more. “Ssssshhhh….” I whispered ot her. “Hush now, Hikaru… I am here… I will always be here for you… you still have me… I won’t leave you, ever…”

From that moment on, I will have to take care of her. I will do everything for her. I promised Rihito-sensei that.




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Sunday, August 15, 2010

So It's You - Part 6

The spring dance was held at the uni’s garden that evening. As we entered, I felt Hikaru held on to my hand tightly. I looked at her, and I could see the nervousness on her face. She looked at me, and I smiled. “Relax… you’re the most beautiful girl tonight.” I said. Her cheeks once again turned pink with what I said. “I feel like Cinderella already…” she whispered. “And I am your prince charming for tonight.” I said proudly.

All eyes were on us that night. I know most of them were surprised that I brought Hikaru to the dance. Just like before, some were talking behind our backs. “Ya Lun…” she called in a nervous tone. I looked down at her, and I could see how scared she is. “Why are they looking at us? Is there something wrong?” she asked. “They are looking at us because I’m with the most beautiful girl they have ever seen.” I said. She giggled at what I said.

I lead her to the dance floor, and a slow song began to fill the air. “Are we going to dance now?” she asked innocently. I nodded my head. “Didn’t the prince danced with Cinderella when he saw her for the first time?” I asked. She had that puzzled look on her face, which amused me the most. “But… this isn’t the first time you saw me.” She said. “It doesn’t matter. Cinderella is the prince’s first dance that night.” I said. “So, I’m going to be your first dance?” she asked again. I let out a laugh, and pinched her nose.

Then, she turned into a pout. “What’s wrong, Hikaru-chan?” I asked. “I…” she lowered her head. She fidget her fingers again, I know when she does that, there is something bothering her. “You don’t know how to dance?” I asked. She looked at me, and nodded my head. “Don’t worry, I’ll teach you. It’s simple.” I assured her. “What do I do?” she asked. “Just follow my lead.” I said. I held her hand, and put it on my shoulder. Then, I took her other hand, and hold it. I put my hand on her waist, and as the music filled the air once more, I leaned forehead on hers. “Make a step to your side…” I instructed her. She followed what I was doing. “And then make another step on the other side…” I said.

Before we knew it, we were slow dancing. I was gazing into her eyes as we danced. Whenever I look at Hikaru, it felt like the time always stands still, like we were the only people in the world. I felt like wanting to get lost into those big black orbs. I felt like gazing into her eyes forever. I could look into her gentle face, and not get tired of staring at her.

I thought of my life before she came into my life. I knew it was a boring one. All I did was to study, and to study is all I do all my life. My life felt empty, and I feel that I didn’t have any purpose, whatsoever. There was nothing exciting to look forward to. When Hikaru came, my once dull world was suddenly filled with colors. I look forward to each day of seeing her. I look forward to each springtime that we will be together. I never cared about someone as much as I cared for her. I had the urge to protect her, to always make her smile. She was the one who brought the smile on my face, the one who made me realize that life is not all work. She brought out the kid in me. I don’t know where I’d be without this girl. When she’s not with me, I wish I could fast forward to the day she’ll be here with me. When she’s beside, I wish that time would be much longer.

“Ya Lun…” she called in her soft, sweet voice. “Hmmmm…” I said with a smile. “I… I like you… I like you a lot…” she whispered. “I like you too… I like you a lot…” I whispered to her. She rested her head on my shoulder as we continued to dance.

Just having her beside me feels so good. Just having her in my arms feels so right. If loving her is wrong, then I don’t want to be right for the rest of my life.

--

My only mistake that night was I let Hikaru out of my sight.

I left her for a while to get her something to drink. Then, Gui Gui came up to me. “Ya Lun…” she called. It took me one look to realize that she is drunk. “Gui Gui.” I said. She smiled at me, and held on to my arms. “Ya Lun… be with me tonight, please… leave her… stay with me…” she said. I let out a sigh as I looked at her again. “I can’t Gui Gui. I promised her grandpa –“
“Then take her home and be with me!”
“I can’t. She is my date. I can’t abandon her.”

She pushed at me, and glared at me angrily. “Why her?!” She shouted. “Why her?! Why does it have to be that crazy girl?! I am much better than her!” she shouted at me. I closed my eyes, and took a deep breath. Then, I looked at her. “I explained everything to you, Gui Gui. What part of it can’t you understand?” I asked. “I can’t accept that I’m going to lose to a crazy girl like her.” She told me.

Just then, I heard a loud cry. I looked back, and I saw a group of boys making fun of Hikaru. They were circling her, while Hikaru was crying. I rushed to her to save her. “What do you think you’re doing?!” I shouted at the boys while pushing them. “Oooh, prince charming have some to save her little princess!” one of them said mockingly. I took Hikaru into my arms, as I protect her from the others. Everyone’s eyes are on us once again. Some were laughing. Some were making remarks. Some were worried. I looked at them, angrily. “You have no right to make fun of someone just because of their condition!” I shouted at them. “Who do you think you are, our father? And it’s your fault! Why did you have to bring that cuckoo here at the dance?” one of them said. “For a scholar like you, you sure are dumb.” Another said. “Cuckoo! Cuckoo!” another one teased.

I couldn’t control my anger anymore. I clenched my fist, and began to hit them. I swear I could almost kill one of them, if only Osamu and Da Dong did not come to pull me away from them. “Ya Lun! Stop it!” Osamu said. “Why are you acting this way just because of that girl?” Da Dong asked. I looked at him, then I looked back at Hikaru. Her head hangs low as she cries. She bit her lips as she looked up at me. “Hikaru…” I whispered. Just then, she turned and ran away from me. “Hikaru!” I called.

I looked at everyone who witnessed that scene. I was angry because of what happened. I was angry because they let her be hurt by their word. I was angry because they were making fun of her. I was angry because they could not accept her.

I was angry because I am hurting the most because of what they did.

“Why do you people have to judge someone because of the way they act?!” I shouted angrily at them. Everyone fell silent. “Are you all happy because you have hurt someone?! Huh?! Are you all happy that she ran away from me?! You don’t know her, all right?! You don’t know Hikaru the way that I do! You only proved to me that you guys are the worst… and that she is much better than all of you!” I could feel my tears in my eyes as I lash it out on all of them.

I took a deep breath, and walked away from them. I don’t need them, those kind of people. All I need is Hikaru.

--
I looked for Hikaru all over the place. Finally, I found her sitting by the stoop of a building. She curled into a ball, and as I got nearer to her, I could hear her muffled cry. I heart was aching to see her this way. “Hikaru…” I called in a low voice. She looked up at me. I could clearly see the crystal tears from her eyes. “Ya Lun… I… I’m sorry…” she said. I sat next to her, and then wiped the tear from her eye. “No, I’m sorry… I’m sorry that I left you alone. I’m sorry that I wasn’t there when they made fun of you.” I said.

I cupped her cheek with my palm, and gazed into her eyes. Why is the society so cruel to someone as gentle as her? It wasn’t her fault that she became this way. It wasn’t her choice at all. I could feel her pain. I could feel my heart being stabbed into a million pieces seeing her crying. I pulled her to my chest, and hugged her tight. I was wishing that by my hug, all the pain she is feeling would finally disappear. I hushed to her as she cried. “Ssssshhhh… don’t worry, Hikaru… I am here now… they can’t hurt you anymore. I won’t let them hurt you… you’re safe here with me…” I whispered to her.

We stayed that way for a long time. When I looked down at her, she was already sleeping peacefully in my arms. I smiled to myself as I looked at her. If only I could see her this at peace, then I would be happy. “I love you…. And I will protect you with all my life, Hikaru…” I whispered to her. I wish she could hear what I was saying. I wish she could understand what I feel for her. But she is still a child. I don’t know if she would be able to comprehend my feeling if I tell her about it.

I leaned down on her, and kissed her on her forehead. I felt her stir after I kissed her. She slowly opened her eyes, and smiled at me. I leaned down at her once again. I was ready to kiss her lips, but then we were interrupted by a loud sound and the light from the sky.

Fireworks.

“Wow…” she said in awe. I saw that smile on her face again. It was as if she has forgotten her humiliation a moment ago. It was like everything is all right now, and that nothing ever happened. “It’s beautiful…” she said to me. As she looked at me, I smiled at her. “Yes, it is.” I said. I put my arms around her, and she leaned on my shoulder as we watched the fireworks together. As we watched the fireworks, I felt her hand reach my hand. She looked up at me, and smile.

Maybe… even without words… she understood how much I love her.



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So It's You - Part 5

I walked the school’s hallway. I noticed the looks on the students’ face as I passed by them. I could hear them snickering. Some looked at me with pity. Some looked at me as if I assassinated someone. I could hear them talking behind my back. And I know the reason behind all of this – it’s Hikaru.

Rumors do spread like wildfire. Before I knew it, everyone knew that I turned down Gui Gui, the most popular girl in school, was turned down by me, Yan Ya Lun because of Rihito-sensei’s crazy granddaughter. I was mad. I was angry. Who are they to judge Hikaru, anyway? They never knew her the way that I do. They could never realize how special she is. The problem with people is that they easily judge a person because of how they perceive them to be, and not really get to know them better. Sometimes, I feel Hikaru is much better than these normal people, because she never judged them the way that other people judges her.

“Ya Lun!” I heard Da Dong call me. I stopped walking, and he came up to me, putting his arm around my neck. “So, I heard about your girl…” he said. I simply glared at him, but that did not stop him to make snide remarks. “She is Rihito-sensei’s granddaughter, no?” he asked. “Hikaru.” I pointed out. “Oh, yes… the seven-year-old girl? I never thought that you’re into… much younger girls… Aren’t you scared that you’ll end up in jail because of corruption of minor?” he said.

I feel my blood boiling on top of my head, but then I have to control my temper. “She is the same age as us.” I snapped at him. “So I heard. But… your girlfriend still acts as if she’s seven years old. Tsk tsk tsk…” Da Dong said. I stopped walking, and turned to face him. “Look, Da Dong.” I said in a firm tone. “If you can’t say anything nice to her, just shut the fuck up.”

I walked away from him. I was pissed off with his snide remarks about Hikaru. I hated the fact that one of my friends could be so narrow-minded like the rest of the people. If only they could see how Hikaru makes my day happy. If only they could see how I changed to be a better man because of her. Unfortunately for them.

That afternoon, I walked to the park, and as usual, I saw Hikaru sitting by the bench. The moment she saw me, her face lightened up. I know she waited a long time for me, because I know, I do. Seeing her just makes me forget all the ridicule and insult I had for the day. It was all worth it, for her. She stood up, and ran towards me. She put her hands behind her back, and swayed from side to side. “I’ve got a surprise for you!” she said in a sing-song tone. “All right, what is it?” I asked. “Guess.” She replied.

I let out a laugh. “Hmmm… let me see… a candy bar?” I asked. She giggled as she shook her head. “One of your origamis?” I asked again. She shook her head again. “What is it?” she asked. Slowly, she took her surprise for me from behind. It was a white teddy bear. “Here!” she said, handing it to me. I took the teddy bear from her hand, and smiled to myself as I looked at it. “That’s my favorite teddy bear, Ah Bu.” She said. I looked at her, and smiled. “Thank you. But… why are you giving it to me?” I asked. “When I feel lonely, I just look at Ah Bu, and talk to him. It helps me a lot. So, I’m giving this to you. Because… you seem so sad lately… and when I go back to Osaka at the end of spring, I know you’ll be sad like me. I have a lot of teddy bears like Ah Bu, but I know that you don’t have one. So I gave it to you… so that when you’re sad, all you have to do is look at Ah Bu, and then think of me… and then I will be there for you. I will be there for you even if I’m far away.” She said.

I stared at her for a long time. My Hikaru. My lovely and gentle Hikaru. Sometimes I wonder what is it that I’ve done to have someone like her in my life. I walked up to her, still staring at her smiling face. She was gentle and fragile. She shimmered under the sunlight. Sometimes, I felt that this girl standing before me is not human, but an angel sent down to save me from my life. “Thank you…” I whispered to her. I pulled her into a hug, and hugged her tightly. I closed my eyes as my fingers brushed through her curly hair. For that one moment, I wanted her to be mine, to make her feel my heart. I wanted so much to tell her that I love her, I wanted to so much to kiss her to let her know how I feel, but I was afraid that would scare her away.

“Ya Lun…” I heard her call my name. “Hmmmm…” I said as hugged her close to me. “I… I like you…” she said. I let out a smile. “I like you too… “ I whispered into her ear. I closed my eyes once again, and let myself feel her warmth. I wanted to be this way forever. I wanted to be with her forever.

--

I sat in front of Rihito-sensei. The chess pieces before me stood still in their place, as I determine what move I’m going to make. Saturdays have always been a chess day with Rihito-sensei, and it also gives me an opportunity to spend more time with him and Hikaru. I have no more moves left. I have a few pawns, a bishop, my king and my queen left, and any minute now, I know he will beat me again.

“I know what you’re thinking, Ya Lun.” He said with a smile. I gave the older man a puzzled look. “You are thinking of a way to protect your queen.” He said. I nodded my head. “For sure, when you make your move on me, it will be checkmate.” I said. “When we play chess, you always tend to protect the queen….” He said. He made a move, and I thanked heavens it was not checkmate. “You sure do love your queen. And you sure are protective of her.” Rihito-sensei commented. He looked up at me, and smiled. “And I understand why. Because without a queen, a king is nothing.” He said.

I gave him another puzzled look. “Rihito-sensei…”
“Do you believe in the saying that behind the success of man, is a woman?”
I nodded my head.
“And do you believe that behind a man’s change is a woman who made him change for the better?”
I stared at him for a long time. “I don’t understand…” I finally said, moving one of my pawns. “A man will not protect a woman with his life without a reason. And the reason will always be one thing.” He let out another laugh as he moved his king. “Love.” He said. He let out a sigh as he looked up at me. “Love will always be the reason for everything, right, Ya Lun?” he said. I nodded my head. “And when you’re in love, you don’t have to find a reason why. You love because you feel love.” He added.

I wonder if Rihito-sensei have been hinting about my feelings for his granddaughter. Would he be mad? Would he think that I’m taking advantage of his granddaughter? Would he ask me to stay away from her? “Have you ever felt the need to protect someone, Ya Lun?” he asked again. “If I do, does it equate to being in love?” I asked. He shook his head. “There are times that you need to protect someone because it is your obligation. There are times that you protect someone because you felt that you have to. And there are times that you need to protect someone because it comes to you as an instinct to protect that person.” He answered. “So, which among them is love?”
“I ask you… which of them do you think is love, Ya Lun?”
“If it’s an obligation, I don’t think it’s love. If you feel that you just have to protect someone just because you felt that you have to, I don’t think it’s love either. Maybe when protecting someone becomes an instinct, it is equal to love?”
“You’re wrong.”

I looked up at him, and saw him make another move on the chess board. “You love someone, and you protect them because you know that having them without you by your side will hurt you. When the one you love is hurt, the pain you are feeling is a hundred times of what that person feels.” He said. I glanced up at him, and saw his lips turn into a smile. “When you hear people say something bad about Hikaru, why do you easily get mad? Is it because you are hurt with what you’re hearing?” he asked. “They never knew Hikaru in the same way that I know her.”
“But you are hurt as well. You are hurt, even though Hikaru could never hear what they say… You protect Hikaru from them because you are hurting for her.”
“And because I protect Hikaru…”
“It means that you love my granddaughter.”

I froze in my seat. Rihito-sensei knew what I really feel for her, and I don’t know what will happen next. “For the past ten years, I’ve been praying to the gods. I’ve been praying to them to watch over Hikaru. I am an old man, Ya Lun, and I don’t have much time here on earth. I can’t always be there to protect her.” He said. “There will be other people willing to protect Hikaru as well. Maybe you just have to give them a chance.” I told him. He let out a laugh, and then he stood up from his seat. I watch him as he retreat back to the kitchen. “The spring dance is in a weeks’ time, isn’t it?” he said. “Yes.” I answered. He looked back at me, and smile. “I bought a lovely kimono for Hikaru for the dance. I hope you’re still interested in taking her to the dance.” He said.

My smile widened upon hearing what Rihito-sensei said. Finally, he agreed to let me escort Hikaru to the spring dance. “I still am.” I said. “Thank you, Rihito-sensei.”

--

The spring dance came.

I waited in Rihito-sensei’s living room. I could feel my heart beating fast with each second that passes. I’m waiting for Hikaru to come out, so that we could go to the dance together.

“Ya Lun…”

I heard that familiar voice. I stood up from my seat, and saw her – my lovely Hikaru. She was wearing a pink kimono with sakura design. Her long curly hair was tied behind, and flowed through her shoulder. The child in her seem to have gone, and was replaced by a young lady. She was lovely – much lovelier than the beginning of spring when I saw her once again.

I was speechless as she walked up to me. She smiled at me, and at that moment, I felt that my world stopped. When I didn’t respond to her call, the smile faded from her lips, and she lowered her head. Her fingers fidget on her kimono. “I… I…” she stuttered. She shyly looked up at me, and I smiled at her. I held her by her shoulder, and looked into her eyes. “You’re beautiful tonight…” I said. Those words were enough to put the smile back on her face. “Grandpa bought it for me!” she said gleefully. She twirled around to let me see how beautiful her kimono is. “Look! Do I look like Cinderella now?” she asked me. I nodded my head in awe. “More beautiful than Cinderella.” I said.

“And since you are Cinderella tonight…” I heard Rihito-sensei said. He looked up at me, and smile. “I expect my princess to be back by midnight.” He said to me. “I will take her home before midnight.” I assured him. I looked at Hikaru, and smiled at her. I extended my hand to her, and she took it excitedly.

This will be a memorable night for the two of us. That, I know.






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Saturday, August 14, 2010

So It's You - Part 4

“So I heard you turned down Gui Gui.” Osamu said as he sat beside me at the study hall. I was busy taking down notes that time when he was talking to me. “Yeah.” I said monotonously. “And I heard there’s this cute chick that visited you here at the uni. I glared at him. I saw that he have this playful smirk on his face. “Watch your words.” I threatened him. He laughed. He didn’t take it seriously. “So, who’s the hot chick?” Osamu asked. “Can you treat girls a little bit nicer, Osamu. She is not a chicken.” I told him in an annoyed tone. “Fine… so, who is this new girl? Where did you meet her? Are you dating her? Is she the reason why you turned down Gui Gui?”

I put down my pen, and face him. “Her name is Hikaru. I met her last year. I am not dating her, for she is a friend. A special friend. And yes, she is the reason why I turned down Gui Gui.” I told him. He gave me another smirk. “Special friend, huh? So you like her?” he asked again. “I do.” I said proudly.

I like Hikaru. I know I’ve said this before. I like everything about her. She can never be compared to any other girls, especially to Gui Gui. “So, when can we meet the girl that made the great Yan Ya Lun fall in love?” he asked again. “I’m planning to make her my date at the spring dance. So, don’t worry. You’ll meet her soon.” I told him. And with that, Osamu stopped asking me questions about Hikaru.

--

I met Hikaru at the park that afternoon. We were just sitting at the bench as she ate the ice cream that I bought her.

Spring dance is coming in a couple of weeks. Last year, I decided not to go, because I found no reason to go at all. This year, I want to go. I want Hikaru to go with me. It would be an honor for me to be her first dance. It would be great to have her beside me as we watch the fireworks light up the night sky. “Hikaru…” I called. She looked at me, and gave me a smile. “Ya Lun.” She said in a sing-song tone. Why is it that when she calls my name, my heart starts beating fast.

“I want to ask you something…” I began. She was all ears to me. “The… the spring dance is coming soon…” She nodded her head as I speak. “And… and I’m wondering if you would like to go with me… I… I can ask permission from your grandpa if you like.”

She just stared at me for a long time. I was nervous, for she might turn me down. “What is a spring dance?” she asked innocently. I could help but laugh at my silliness. Of course, how would she agree to be my date if she doesn’t know where she’ll be going to? “It’s a celebration being held at the beginning of the spring. All the student will go there, and dance.” I explained. Her face lightened up, as if she discovered something. “Ooooohhh like the one Cinderella went to when she met the prince?” she asked. I smiled, and nodded my head. “So, we’ll be going there and dance? You will dance with me?” she asked. “I will certainly dance with you the whole night. And then, we’ll watch the fireworks.” I said. “Fireworks!” she said as she clasped her hands excitedly. I nodded my head, and smiled. “I want to go! I want to go!” she said.

My heart was beating fast once again. “She said yes… she said yes…” I thought over and over again. As soon as I walked her home that afternoon, I decided to talk to her grandpa to ask for his permission. “I don’t think that would be a good idea, Ya Lun…” he said to me worriedly. “You know Hikaru’s condition. She is not like those students at the uni. What if everyone makes fun of her?” he continued. “I’ll be there to protect her.” I told him. He shook his head. “I don’t think you can stay beside her all the time, Ya Lun…” he said.

I lowered my head in dismay. If Hikaru will not go with me to the dance, then I wouldn’t want to come at all. “I’m sorry, Ya Lun. I’m just protecting my princess. Not everyone can understand her condition the way you do… I know because it had happened before, and it only hurt her.” He said. “I understand…” I said in a low voice. I said goodbye to him, and went back to my dorm.

I understand where Rihito-sensei is coming from. I understand that he was just protecting Hikaru. I know it would be hard for the people around me to understand her condition, and not mock her. But she is the one I want to dance with on that night. She is the one I chose to love. Maybe people will not understand why of all the girls chasing me, I chose someone like her. The answer is simple – she is special, and she always makes me feel special. When I met Hikaru, she brought color to my world. She brought laughter and smile to my face. I felt like free man when I’m with her, and I can put all my worries aside. A person my age would start to have all kinds of problems. I know, because I do have problems of my own. Sometimes, I wish I could be as carefree as Hikaru is. I can only be like that when I’m with her. When I’m with her, I was able to do the things I missed during my childhood.

That night, I lay on my bed with her on my thoughts. My Hikaru, my lovely and gentle Hikaru. I know my life would never be the same without her in my life. I know I could never live through another spring with her. As I fell into a deep slumber, I came to a conclusion that I am hopelessly falling in love with this childish girl I met. And I wish… I wish I could let her know how I feel.

--

I was on my way to meet Hikaru that afternoon at the park, when I met up with Gui Gui. “Ya Lun… can we talk?” she asked. “I’m in a hurry, Gui Gui. Can we talk next time?” I asked. “Just give me five minutes of your time. I want to ask you something. I let out a sigh. I had no choice but to hear her out. “All right. What is it, Gui Gui?” I asked. “Who… who is she?”

I knew she was pertaining to Hikaru. I looked into her eyes, and saw the pain written all over it. I know I caused that pain. “Do… do you love her?” she asked. I nodded my head as an answer. “I do.” He said. “She… she’s Rihito-sensei’s granddaughter, isn’t she?” she asked again. I nodded my head. “Ya Lun, you know what kind of girl she is!” she exclaimed. I knew anytime now, she would throw a fit. I could feel anger building up inside me because of what she said. “Tell me, what kind of girl she is?”
“She’s crazy. She’s a cuckoo. She doesn’t act her age. She is someone that’s not fit to be your girl.”
“And what made you think you fit to be my girl? What right do you have to judge her?”
“Why her? Why do you have to love her? Why can’t you just choose me instead?”

I took a deep breath before giving her an answer. “Because she is special.” I said. “She’s special, and she made me feel special. Because she’s innocent and unpretentious. Because with her, I don’t have to worry about a thing. Is that enough reason, Gui Gui?” I said. I saw her slowly lower her head. “I’m sorry that I turned you down, but I have to be true to myself. I am in love with Hikaru, and nothing can change the way my heart beats for her.” I said.

Maybe Rihito-sensei is right. It’s hard for other people to make them understand Hikaru’s condition. For them, she is a crazy girl who had psychological problems, just because she acts like at seven-year-old girl. If only people would stop judging her, and see her the way that I do, maybe they would learn to like Hikaru. It hurts me so to hear people say those things to her. She was more than that. She is not crazy. All I know is that she is the smartest girl I’ve ever met. And I love her for being that.
“Ya Lun…” I heard her call my name with worry. We were sitting by the bench that afternoon. I looked at her, and saw her looking at me worriedly. “Are you OK?” she asked. I smiled, and nodded her head. “I’m OK.” I assured her. “You look sad…”
“I’m sorry if I’m sad.”
“Why are you sad?”
“Because someone said bad things about my special friend.”
“I will be sad as well if someone said bad things about you.”

She smiled. And that smile took away all the negative feelings I have right now. Just her one smile is enough for me to go on, to protect her from the people that misunderstood her. I wanted the world to see what she really means to me, and not to judge her just because of her condition.

My mind drifted again. I felt something on my shoulder, and as I looked beside me, I saw Hikaru’s head on my shoulder. She fell asleep on me. I smiled as I studied her sleeping face. She have a soft rosy white cheeks that I wanted to caress. Her lips are pink, and I want to give her a kiss. “Do you like me?” I whispered. “Do you like me as much as I like you, Hikaru?”

I remember that conversation last spring. She told me she like me. I don’t know if she liked me as a friend, or more than that, and I wish it’s the latter, because I know that I do like her – no, I love her. I love her with all my heart. I wrapped my arms around her protectively. The sun sets down, and I let her sleep peacefully on my shoulder. As I stared into the horizon, I made a silent promise to her. A promise that I will never ever break till the day I die.

I promise that I will love her and protect her for all my life.




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So It's You - Part 3

Spring day passes by.

I frequent Rihito-sensei’s house to keep company to Hikaru while he is at the uni, giving lectures. With each time that I spent with her, the more that I get to know her. There were a lot of things I learned about her, thing that I discovered with myself while I’m with her, and things that I find in common with her.

Like how she likes strawberry cakes. She loves eating the cake off the plate with her mouth, making her nose filled with icing. It never fails to make me laugh when she dips her face on the cake and have of her face had icings on it. And of course, I would have to help her clean up, because when she do the cleaning, the icing will just scatter all over her.

She loves making origami. Her favorite to make is a paper crane. She had a jar full of paper cranes that she always brings with her.

She loves to read books. Not just books that a child would read, but books that her grandpa had on. Sometimes, you could keep her behaved by handing her a really good book.

She loves to chase after butterflies. One time, I was too busy reviewing for a test, that she almost got lost chasing another fly.

She had an IQ of 150. She would have a bright future ahead of her, if not for that tragedy that happened to her and her family, which made her to be like what she is today.

I could go on and on telling what else I know about her. Without even uttering a word, she have let me into her world to take a peek, and soon I find myself liking what I saw. I look forward to each afternoon I’ll be spending with her, because it means there would be something new that I would find out about Hikaru. I love keeping her company because of this peaceful feeling I had when I’m with her. For once, I could be myself when I’m with her. There is no pressure, just a relaxing afternoon playing and kidding around.

But as days passes, the spring finally came to an end.

I stood outside Rihito-sensei’s house, watching as he put the luggage inside the van. The end of spring means that Hikaru will have to go back to Osaka. She stood beside me, her head hanging low. The moment Rihito-sensei told me that Hikaru have to go back to her family in Osaka, I became sad. But I guess there’s nothing I can do. She was just here to visit her grandpa for the whole spring.

“Hey…” I said in a low voice. She looked up at me. My heart wrenched upon seeing the sad look on her face. “Don’t be sad.” I said. I smiled, and pinched her cheek. She let out a faint smile at me. “Don’t worry, your grandpa said you’ll be back next spring. I’ll still be here next spring.” I assured her. “You will wait for me?” she asked in a hopeful tone. I nodded my head, and smiled. “I will wait for you.” I said. She held out her pinky, and I linked mine to her. “Promise.” I said.

Her grandpa called on her, and we both knew it was time for her to go. She smiled at me, and waved at me. As she got into that car, I was wishing that the seasons would change immediately. I wished that it would be spring once again so that I could see her.

I wish…

--

A year later.

“Ano…”

She shyly bowed towards me, then she handed me a box of chocolates. It was Valentine’s day, and I never expected that Gui Gui would come up to me and try to give me those chocolates. “Ya Lun… daisuki. I… I like you for so long…” she said. I let out a sigh as I looked at her. Gui Gui is a nice and pretty girl, and all the boys in school likes her. It would be flattering on my part to know that she likes me, but sadly, I don’t like her in that way. I can only see Gui Gui as a friend.

“Gui Gui…” I said. She looked up at me. I knew that if I accept her chocolates, she would think that I like her too, but it’s not the case. There is someone else that I’ve liked for so long -someone whom I’ve been waiting. Someone whom I’ve promised to see this springtime “I… I’m sorry, Gui Gui. I can’t accept your chocolates.” I said.

We were interrupted by someone calling my name. “Ya Lun!”

I could remember that happy voice, and the owner of it. I find myself smiling unconsciously as I look up. And there she is, Hikaru. She was smiling and waving at me. Just like the last time I saw her, her long curly locks were in pigtails. She was wearing a pink flowery dress. I felt my heart beating fast upon seeing her. The long wait is over, and my spring came earlier than I thought. Hikaru is here, and I felt like the happiest guy on earth. “Hikaru-chan!” I shouted.

I totally ignored Gui Gui, and ran up to Hikaru. I hugged her tight, and spun her around. I was so excited now that she’s here. Her giggling is like music to my ears, and I love it. I love it when she was happy this way. I am at my happiest when I’m with her. I held her by her shoulder as I grinned from ear to ear. “You’re early!” I said. She smiled, and nodded her head. “Aiba-chan needs to attend to some things so I went with him.” She said. I just nodded her head. “I missed you, Hikaru-chan.” I said. “I missed you too.” She said in a sing-song tone.

I looked into her face. For that moment she was in my arms, it felt that the time stood still. Nothing else really mattered to me, but Hikaru. I see her blushing as I stared at her face. She was so close to me, that I fear she could feel the heart beat raging against my chest. No one had an effect on me like this, no one but only her.

--

We went to the park that afternoon, playing and running around like little kids. As the dusk sets in, I walked her home. I was holding her hand as we walked towards her grandpa’s home. Sometimes, I wonder if Hikaru could feel how cold my hand is as I held her small palms. I wanted to laugh at myself for being such a giddy school boy around Hikaru.

I looked at her. As we walked her eyes were roaming around the flowers that’s surrounding the neighborhood. An ordinary person would never look at it with awe in their eyes. But then again, Hikaru is no ordinary person. She is a special girl. A very special girl.

“Oi! Hikaru-chan!”

We stopped in front of Rihito-sensei’s house. There, I saw him standing, with a much younger man beside him. She lets go of my hand, and ran towards her grandpa. “Dear, you’re back. I was worried you would not be able to find Ya Lun.” Rihito-sensei said. She smiled at him, and shook her head. “I know I will be able to find him no matter what. I was able to find him the first time!” she said proudly.

The younger man approached me, and extended his hand to me. “I’m Aiba. I’m Hikaru’s aniki.” He said. I took his hand, and shook it. “Yan Ya Lun. I’m Rihito-sensei’s student.” I said. “I heard so much about you, Ya Lun. For that past year, Hikaru have been talking to you nonstop.” He said as he laughed. He looked back at his sister, and smiled at him.

Just like last year, I found myself in the comforts of Rihito-sensi’s house. There was a cup of coffee in my hand, and I sat in front of Rihito-sensei and his brother. “When Hikaru found out that I need to go to Tokyo for some business matters, she insisted to go.” Aiba began. “Usually, every spring, we send her to grandpa for a change of scenery. The doctors said it might help with her condition. Nothing was the same during the past few years we send her here, but last year, something have changed.”

He looked at his sister, and let out a smile. Hikaru was making origami once again while we “grown ups” had a talk. “She easily throws tantrums. There are times that she would not speak for a long time, and just play with her toys. But last year, when she came back from her vacation, she became a behaved little girl. And, she always talks about a new friend she met while staying with grandpa. She was talking about you, and meeting you again. Hikaru… never had a friend. She always stays indoors. When she was young, kids made fun of her because of the way she’s acting. Even until now. We sometimes have to keep her from the world so that nobody could hurt her. She never had a friend, but you… you have been gentle and kind to her. And so, I was glad to finally meet you. To thank you for being a friend to my sister.” Aiba said.

I was flattered by what he said. I never thought that that small act of kindness could mean a lot to Hikaru’s family. “Is there hope for her? To get well?” I asked as I eyed on her. “I don’t know… we’re not losing hope. I believe that one day my sister will get well, and she will live a normal life. But for now, we all have to take care of her.” Aiba said.

Just like Aiba, I believe that one day, Hikaru will be back to her old self. And when that happens, I wish that she will remain as innocent as she is today.











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Friday, August 13, 2010

So It's You - Part 2

Masaki Hikaru.

That was her name. Apparently, she is Rihito-sensei’s granddaughter. I watched as she sat on the floor, making origami. I sensed something unique in her. She was different from the girls her age. I watched as she held up her newly made paper crane in the air, and looked at it like a prized possession. Her eyes beamed as she looked at her creation.

Rihito-sensei came up to me, holding two cups of coffee for the two of us. He looked at her granddaughter, and smiled. “You must be wondering, why she seems different, don’t you, Ya Lun?” he said. I looked his way embarrassingly, it was exactly what’s in my thoughts right now. He looked at me, and smiled. “She is special, Ya Lun. That’s what made her different. She is special.” He said. I still didn’t know what Rihito-sensei meant by that. Hikaru-chan did tell me a while ago that she is special. All of us are special, right? So what made Hikaru different and what made her difference special.

“She is a child. She will always be a child.” I heard Rihito-sensei said. “A child? She looks like she’s the same age as I am.” I said. He looked at me, and nodded his head. “She is seventeen years old. Yes, she is the same age as you… but you see… she is, and will always be a child.” He said. He let out a sigh, and watched her granddaughter as she played with paper planes. “Seven years ago, there was a tragedy in our family. And that tragedy had a big impact on her. For a year, she did not talk, and we were all worried about her. Then, the day came and she came back to us… but she was not the same Hikaru that we knew. It was like she… she was stuck being a seven-year-old kid. And since then…”

I finally understood what Rihito-sensei meant by her being special. “Since then, she remained a child.” He said with a smile. “Did her family sent her to the specialist?” I asked. I know I have no right to intrude to their lives, but I couldn’t help but ask. “Yes, a lot of times. They all said that what happened to her is caused by the trauma she experienced. They tried to cure her, but to no avail.” He said.

I felt my heart breaking the moment I eyed Hikaru. She is 17 with a mind of a 7 year-old kid. That explains the eccentricity I saw in her when I met her at the park, and the child-like way of speaking when she followed me at my dorm. “She is an innocent, young girl, and an old man like me tends to worry a lot about her. She is my only granddaughter, and she is my princess. But thinking about what had happened, I see this as a blessing from the heavens. It would always be a parent’s wish for their children not to grow up, so that they could enjoy their innocence and youth. But as for Hikaru…” Rihito-sensei let out a sigh. Words could not explain it, but I do understand what he feels. He loves his granddaughter so much, but she always worries him.

Hikaru looked back at us, and smiled. “Look, grandpa! I made a paper crane!” she said. He smiled, and nodded his head. “That’s a pretty paper crane, Hikaru-chan.” He said lovingly. She stood up, and gave her old man a kiss on the cheek. Rihito-sensei hugged her. “Grandpa, can I be friends with him?” she asked, looking at me. Rihito-sensei let out a laugh. “Of course, Hikaru! He is a nice boy. And, he’s smart too.” He said. Her eyes lightened up once again. “Really? Like grandpa?” she asked. He nodded his head. She looked at me, and smiled. “Can I be your friend?” she asked. Her eyes were filled with hope as she looked at me. I know I wasn’t that nice to her a while ago, but then she was still willing to be my friend. I couldn’t help but agree. I nodded her head, and smiled at her. “Really? Then, will you play with me at the park?” she asked. “Hikaru-chan, Ya Lun needs to study.” Rihito-sensei said. She gave his old man a pout. “Why? Isn’t he special, like me? When I saw him at the park today, I thought he is special.” She said. I smiled upon hearing what she said. “I am special. But… I need to study or your grandfather will fail me.” I said.

She looked at her grandpa, and give her puppy eyes. “Then, grandpa… can you not fail Ya Lun so that he can play at the park with me?” she asked. I felt my cheeks reddened at what she said. Rihito-sensei just laughed at her. “I’m sorry, dear. I can’t do that.” He said. My heart wrenched upon seeing that smile slowly fade from her face. “But we can still play at the park.” I said. At that instant, her face brightened up once again. “Really?” she asked. I nodded my head. “After my classes, we can go to the park and play. Do you like to play ball?” She nodded her head. “I have a yellow ball with me!” she beamed. “Then, tomorrow after my classes, we can go to the park and play. Just promise me you’ll wait for me at the park, and don’t chase that something again so that you won’t get lost, all right?” I said. She nodded her head. “I will. And besides…” she said. “I know that when I’m lost, you’ll be there to find me.”

--

As soon as the school bell rang, I took all my things and rushed outside the school. I ran towards the park to meet up with Hikaru. As I stopped to catch my breath, I saw her sitting still by the bench, that same bench were we first met. “Hikaru-chan!” I called on her. She looked at my direction, and smiled at me. “Ya Lun!” she called. I ran up to her, and she stood up the moment I approached her. “I’m sorry, I’m late.” I said as I catch my breath. She simply smiled, and shook her head. “It’s OK. I like to wait for you.” She said. I folded my arms, and smirked at her. “Then, what if I never came?” I asked. “I’d still wait for you.” She said innocently. I smiled at her. With someone like her, it’s hard to break a promise. There was something in me that’s been wanting to see her smile this way, and if the only way to make her smile is to keep my promise to her, then I will never let her down.

The whole afternoon, we were playing catch. I felt like a kid again while I’m with her. Since I grew up, I have never laughed this much when I’m with her. I’ve never felt this hyper and excited when I’m with her. Honestly, since I was young, all I did was study. I was never the typical little boy that plays outside their house with the other kids. All I did since I was young is to study. And so, here I am, playing like I never played before in my entire life. At the back of my mind, I was thankful to all the deities in heaven for letting me meet Hikaru… and the old saying is right after all – you don’t know what you’ve been missing till it arrives.

“I’m tired.” She pouted at me. I shrugged her shoulder, and led her to the bench. “I’m tired too. You exhausted me.” I said. She looked at me, and smiled cheekily. “You seem to enjoy playing catch, so I didn’t say a word.” She said. “Well, if you were tired you should have told me a while ago.”
“I can’t.”
“Why?”
“Because you looked so happy back there.”

I stopped, and let out a smile. “Look…” she pointed at me. I gave her a puzzled look. “You look much cuter when you smile. I bet all the girls will like you. Just like how liked you the first time we met.” She said. I felt my heart beating fast as she said those words to me. She liked me. It keeps on ringing on my head, and I could only feel much giddier. “You… like me?” I asked. She nodded her head. I don’t know if she’s innocent enough to know which kind of like she meant. It could mean having a crush on me, or it could mean she’s interested in me. “You… like me…” I repeated. She likes me.

And I have to admit that I’m starting to like Hikaru as well.

Her innocence.
Her naivety.
Her childishness.
Her silliness.
Her smile.
Her pout.
Everything about her just makes me… like her. Just her, simply her. I find it amazing that I am liking her. One minute, she was annoying the hell out of me. The next minute, I find myself pitying her. The other minute, I find myself wanting to make her smile even more.

“Oh…” she exclaimed. She held out her finger, and a yellow butterfly landed on her small fingers. “Miss Butterfly…” she said in amazement. Her black orbs sparkled as she looked at the butterfly. I can see the excitement and amazement on her face as she looked at the butterfly.

Rihito-sensei is right. She is special. She will always be special. And it’s not because of her condition. She may be different from any normal person, but she had something that a normal person wouldn’t have – her innocence.

The butterfly flew away, and she could only watch sadly as it leaves her hand. “Bye bye, Miss Butterfly.” She said sadly. Then, she turned to me and smile. “I was chasing Miss Butterfly yesterday.” She said. Now, it figures. The reason why she came to me, was because she was chasing that butterfly. “But I lost her along the way. Grandpa told me that I don’t have to chase it. He said I just have to wait for it to land on me… and so I waited. And today, Miss Butterfly landed on me. I’m so happy!” she said.

And she is philosophical, just like her grandfather whom she looks up to. I know that meeting Hikaru is more than a mere chance. It was as if she was destined to come into my life to impart a very important lesson to me.

It was as if she was sent to me, to make this springtime a special one. Just like her.




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So It's You - Part 1

Springtime is here once again.
I sat on the bench as I watched the people pass me by. The park is filled with different beautiful flowers. The grass is much greener than the last time. The petals from the Sakura tree are being blown by the cook breeze, as if making an illusion of pink snow.

And this is the fifth spring that I’ve been sitting here all alone.

I remember the very first springtime that I was here. I remember that I was minding my own business. I had no care in the world. All I wanted in mind is to pass Philosophy with flying colors. I was not the guy that would take note of all the beautiful things around me. I wasn’t who I am right now, not until I met Hikaru.

--

8 years ago.

I clutched the book from my hand as I found an empty bench at the park. I let out a sigh as I sat. It was the third week of school, and right now, we’ll be having a major quiz in Philosophy. I was supposed to be at the library to study for the quiz, but the library turned out to be a circus, as it was too noisy inside. The librarian didn’t even tell off those damn students. And so, I found the peace and quiet I need here at the park.

I was reading the third chapter of my Philosophy text book, when I felt someone sat beside me. I glance beside me, and I noticed a girl with long, curly black hair. She was wearing a pink gypsy dress, and her hair was pulled up in pigtails. I chose to ignore her, and continue reviewing for the dress.

“Hello!”

I looked at her, and she was smiling at me. I ignored her once again. “Are you new here?” she asked. I didn’t answer her. I continued to review, because Philosophy will determine if I would stay at this university or not, and staying here is much important that greeting her back. “Why so serious?” she hissed like Joker. I glanced up at her again, and saw her pouting. “Excuse me, but I’m studying here.” I said. “Studying should be done in libraries, not at the park. Grandpa always tells me that.” She said.
She had this giddy smile on her face. I looked at her, and observed her closely. I think there’s something wrong with this girl. “Well, your grandpa is wrong. Sometimes, you can’t study inside a library.” I snapped at her. She fidgeted her fingers on her dress as she looked at me. I was getting annoyed by her staring at me, but I decided to ignore her. There’s no use fussing over some childish girl. “Philosophy in Life by Arthur Tien. I like that book.” She commented. I gave her a glare. “I read that once. Grandpa made me read that. I like it.” She said with a silly grin on her face. “Seriously?” I asked her. She nodded her head. “Grandpa said if I read a lot of books, I will be smart. Just like him!” she said proudly. I could tell her grandpa is her hero. I closed my book, and turned my attention to her. “You finished this book?” I asked her. She nodded her head. “Are you also taking up pre-law at the uni?” I asked. She shook her
head. “I don’t study. I’m special.” She said proudly.

I don’t know whether I’ll believe her or not. Something is wrong with this girl, that’s for sure. Then, I decided not to mind her, no matter what. Philosophy quiz will start in a few hours, and I need to absorb everything that I could. There was a blissful silence between us, when she finally broke it by squealing. “Eeeeeee! Look! Look!” she said, pointing at the other side. I turned my book down, and look at the direction she’s pointing to. “What? What? What happened? Where is it?!” I asked. She looked at me, and let out a laugh. She was fooling me. “I saw a cute rose over there!” she said.
I counted one to ten silently, trying my best not to lash it all out at her. Then, she gave me that pout again. “Why so serious?” she asked. “Look, Joker.” I snapped. “I have a big test coming up. Now, if you will just let me study in peace –“
“You won’t have any quiz today.”
I gave her a startled look. “Excuse me?” I asked. “No quiz today!” she said. She stood up, hopped happily away from me. Finally, some peace for me.

--

I entered the room, and found Osamu-san by the door. “No quiz today.” He informed me. I gave him a puzzled look. “Professor Rihito is absent today. “ he said. I let out a sigh of relief. I wasn’t able to memorize all the things I need to memorize today because of that girl, and good thing Professor Rihito is not around. “Where is Professor Rihito?” I asked. “He had to take a leave because his granddaughter is coming today from Osaka, and he have to look after her.” Osamu said.

“Did somebody said Prof’s granddaughter?” Da Dong, another classmate of ours, asked, joining us. I let out another sigh. Da Dong is the uni’s biggest playboy, and if the topic is about girls, he gets interested easily. “Don’t be fooled, Da Dong. I heard his granddaughter is a little cuckoo… if you know what I mean.” Osamu said. Then, he turned to me. “So, Ya Lun…” he said. “Want to go and eat out with us? There’s this new Izakaya outside the school. “ I smiled at him, and shook his head. “I think I’ll use this opportunity to study more. I don’t want to fail.” I answered. I could see Da Dong’s eyes roll. “As expected of the scholar, Yan Ya Lun.” He said. The two of them laughed at me. I just gave them dagger looks. “Well, if you want to join us, the Izakaya is just across the uni. You can’t miss it.” Osamu-san said. I said goodbye to the two, and headed back to my dorm.

--

I stretched out my hands as I prepared to study. As I was opening the book, I noticed some shadow by the window. I stood up, and looked outside, but I couldn’t find anything related to that shadow. I sat back, and began to read, when I heard someone whistling. I let out a groan. So much for my peace and quiet once again. “Hey! Hey! Hey!” I heard someone say. I stood up, and opened the window to look if anyone’s outside. “Anybody out there?” I asked. “Over here!” I heard someone say. I looked around, but no one is in sight. “Where?” I asked. “Down here.”

I looked down, and saw her again. She had that childish grin on her face once again. “Hello!” she waved at me. “Miss, I have no plans of playing hide and seek with you…” I said. I was about to close the window, but she stopped me. “Wait!” she said. I opened the window once again. She pouted as she fidget on her dress again. “Can… can you help me?” she asked. She bit her lips after she speaks. “I… I’m lost… I… I couldn’t find my grandpa.” She said. “You’re lost?” She looked up at me, and nodded her head. She was on the verge of crying, I could tell that. “I was walking at the park… and… and… I… and… there… I… I walked… I… was trying to follow… that… and… and… I got here… and… and…”
I don’t know why. Although how she explains herself is child-like and I can’t understand a thing she was saying, but I find it amusing. I found myself smiling at her. “And… and I saw you… and I said that’s the nice boy in glasses, even though he was scowling at me a while ago… and… and…, so I followed you here… so… here I am.” She said. She lowered her head as she pouted. Anytime now, I’m scared she would wail like a baby.

“So, let me get this. You were following something, you got here, you lost your way, then you saw me and followed me, and hoped that I can help you?” I asked. She slowly nodded her head. “Do you remember where you grandpa lives?” I asked her. She shook her head. “All I know is that he lives in this small house filled with a lot of books. And there’s a colorful glass. And there’s a daisy outside.” She said. I feel sorry for this girl. She must be really new around the place, that’s why she got lost. Although I know I need to study for another exam, I couldn’t let this girl go walking alone around the uni. What is someone made fun of her, or what if someone harms her?
“All right,” I said. She looked up at me. I see her face brighten up as I smiled. “Let me get my jacket. I’ll help you find your grandpa.”

--

We walked around the block for a while, trying to find her house. I guess we were walking for almost an hour. “I’m tired…” she complained. I just kept my silence. She looked up at me, and smiled. “Piggyback me, please?” she said. “No.” I said firmly. She gave me another pout. “Please?” she said. I let out a sigh and then carried her on my back. I need to find her house soon.

“So, aside from a colorful glass and daisies, what else do you remember about your house?” I asked. She paused for a while to think. “Daisies!” she exclaimed. “And?”
“There are roses too.”
“And?”
“A mailbox.”
“And?”
“White fence.”

I looked around the area, and saw that all the houses around the area are identical. All of them have mailboxes and white fences. “You’re not helping me, miss. What’s the name of your grandpa, and do you know his number? Maybe we can call him to pick you up?” I suggested. “No number.” She said. This is getting harder than I thought. I wish she could help me find her grandpa really soon.

“Ah! There he is!” She said. I looked at the house she’s pointing too, and I saw a familiar old man by the porch. I saw his face lightened up upon seeing her. He immediately ran up to us, and she got off my back to give his grandpa a hug. “Hikaru! You worried me! Are you all right?” he asked. She smiled at him, and nodded her head. “The nice boy in glasses helped me, grandpa. He’s really really nice!” she said. The old man looked at me, and gave me a warm smile. “Thank you, Yan Ya Lun. Thank you for taking care of my granddaughter, and for taking her back here.” He told me. I smiled at him, and nodded my head. “You’re welcome, Professor Rihito.” I replied.



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