ladestiny92 | Entries tagged with x: mystery

Title: Where I Belong
Author: Saida
Fandom: Hey! Say! JUMP
Pairing: Takayama, Yamabu, Arijima, Chiitaro
Genre: Romance, mystery? xD
Word Count: 1763
Rating: Pg-16
Disclaimer: I do not own the boys..xDD
Notes: So like...I know this is not my best chapter, and it's probably awkward and un-organize everywhere...but still...enjoy?
Previeous chapters: Prologue, Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6, Chapter 7 , Chapter 8, Chapter 9, Chapter 10, Chapter 11, Chapter 12, Chapter 13, Chapter 14, Chapter 15, Chapter 16, Chapter 17 , Chapter 18

'W-Where am I?' Yamada thought as he looked around him. He was in a long, dark hallway with lots of doors at either side. Suddenly, a figure apeared in front of him. A very familiar man.

The man smirked at him. "It's been a while, ne, Ryosuke?"

Yamada woke up with a start. Beads of sweat covered his forehead. 'That newspaper article is really getting to me..." Yamada sighed, resting his head back on his pillow. Images still running wild in his head, preventing him to sleep. He looked at his bedside table. His clock showed that it was still 3 a.m. On the other end of the room, Chinen was snoring loudly. He sighed again.

He got off his bed and put on his over-sized sweater. "I'll just take a walk around the garden," he whispered to himself.

------------------------------------------------------------

Inoo sat on the bench, looking at the full moon. He couldn't sleep, too many things were on his mind. He pushed up his sleeve, and looked at his hand illuminated by the moon. Faint bruises were visible if anyone watched closely. He sighed, pushing his sleeve back down. For years, he had kept a secret that only his parents and Yabu knew. 'And now,' Inoo thought, 'I wouldn't be able to hide it anymore.' Sighing, he said softly, "He will finally know."

"Who will finally know what?"

Inoo was startled when he heard the voice. "Yama-chan," he said once the teen sat beside him.

Yamada gave Inoo a smile. "Looks like this is a popular place to think, huh?"

"Yeah," Inoo returned the smile. After a short silence, Inoo asked, "So, something's troubling you?"

Yamada sighed. "I guess." He looked at Inoo. "What did you meant by 'he will finally know'?"

It was noticeable that Inoo was very uncomfortable by that question. He fidgeted in his seat, and played with his fingers. Noticing it, Yamada added in, "You don't have to tell me if you don't want to."

Inoo let out a deep breath, "Actually, I'm sick."

Yamada raised his eyebrow. "As in..."

"I'm dying."

Yamada stared at Inoo, his mouth slightly opened. Nothing came out from his mouth forawhile. Inoo just waited silently for Yamada. When he finally got himself together, he said, "Have you told the others?"

Inoo shook his head. "Other than you, Yabu is the only one who knows. Other than that, no one." For awhile, Yamada looked troubled, as if he was debating whether he should voice out his question or not. Knowing what was playing in Yamada's mind, Inoo said, "I have leukemia. And I only have a month or so to live."

Yamada's eyes widened. "But you were fine before. You can't be...you...one month?..." Yamada felt a lump in his throat, fear forming for his new friend.

Inoo smiled and put a hand on Yamada's shoulder. "Thank you for your concern, Yama-chan." He chuckled. "I can't believe you're the same cold person who first entered the academy."

Yamada fought back the tears. "Was that supposed to be a compliment?"

"You bet it was," Inoo laughed. Then, he got serious again, "Yama-chan, you don't have to worry about me so much," he said. "I've prepared myself for this a long time ago. I'll be..." for some reason, tears started clouding his eyes. "I'll be fine." But as soon as those words left Inoo's mouth, he broke down.

Yamada looked at Inoo, memories of his past returning to him.

"But Ryo-chan, I can't let you do it. It's too dangerous," Yuto said.

Yamada looked at Yuto with a sad smile. "Don't worry too much about me, Yu-chan," he said. "I'll be fine." But soon after, Yamada broke down in tears.

Yuto took Yamada in his embrace and whispered comforting words in his ears. "Ryo-chan, please don't cry. I'll try to break you out of here as soon as possible."

Yamada did as Yuto did for him at that time. He pulled Inoo in his embrace and whispered, "It'll be okay, Inoo-chan. You're strong, and you will overcome this."

After awhile, when Inoo had finally calmed down, he pulled away from Yamada, looking at the latter boy with a smile. "Thank you, Yama-chan." He looked at the lake again. "I...I'm not scared of leaving this world. But..." he whispered in a soft voice, "I'm just afraid of leaving him."

Yamada didn't know whom Inoo meant, but he could guessed who it was. Although there were questions Yamada wanted to ask, but he kept his silence, playing the role of a good friend, listening faithfully to his friend's words.

"Our houses were just beside one another's, we were basically friends since we were born. He always came over when he had the time, and sang whenever I practiced the piano. Between us six, he said I was his bestest friend. Since we were little, I was always there for him. I listened to his worries, his confessions, everything. Whe we entered this academy, he called me everynight before he went to sleep." Inoo chuckled. "He said it was a tradition." Tears filled Inoo's eyes again, a lump forming in his throat. "He said I'm the only one who won't leave him." Tears freely ran down his cheeks but he didn't bother to wipe them off. "But now I'm going to leave him...just like Taiyou did."

Taiyou. Yamada remembered that name. Takaki had mentioned it before. "I'm sorry to ask, but...who's Taiyou?"

"He was Hikaru's cousin, and his first crush, or shall I say, first love."

There was a moment of silence before Yamada said, "You are very brave, Inoo-kun. You've been watching from the sidelines for that long, and even now." That moment, when Inoo saw Yamada's eyes, he saw it full of admiration and respect towards him.

Inoo smiled gratefully. "Thank you." He wiped his tears. "Ne, Yama-chan, I thought you were having a problem." Yamada looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "I mean, that's why you came here, deshou?" Inoo put on a smile. "Now, let's hear them out."

This time, it was Yamada's turn to give him a grateful smile. "Thank you, Inoo-kun, but I think it's enough for tonight, ne?" He stood up. "I'm going back to bed."

---------------------------------------------------

"You looked tired," Shoon said to his lover, snapping him out of his thought.

"Shoon," Yabu greeted his lover as he placed a cup of coffee in from of him. Then, Shoon placed a kiss on Yabu's lips before sitting next to him.

"Want to tell me what's the problem?"

Yabu sighed. "I don't know. I guess, I'm just worried about Kei."

"About him and Hikaru?"

Yabu shook his head. "About other things too."

"About other things?" Shoon raised his eyebrow.

Yabu mentally slapped himself for saying something he shouldn't have. "Forget it, Shoon." He smiled. Placing a hand on Shoon's, he changed the subject. "Ne, will we be doing anything special tonight?"

Knowing Yabu didn't want to pursue that subject further, he followed Yabu's lead. "Why, of course!" said Shoon. "It IS our 8th year anniversary," he whispered huskily before nibbling Yabu's earlobe.

Yabu's breath hitched as all the blood went to his face. "Shoon!"

Shoon laughed. "Gomen, but teasing you is just so much fun," he exclaimed.

"Mou," Yabu pouted.

Shoon kissed Yabu's forehead. "I'll make it up to you, ne?"

Yabu gave it a thought. "That means we have to throw Takaki out again?" Shoon just laughed at the idea.

"Speaking of which, where did Takaki ended up last night?"

Yabu shrugged. "He can go anywhere as long as he doesn't crash into Yama-chan's room."

"Well...Yama-chan IS legal..."

Yabu gave his a lover a glare. "It's best if TAKAKI doesn't notice THAT," said Yabu. He crossed his hands over his chest.

"Yabu-kun."

Yabu and Shoon looked up upon hearing the voice. "Oh, it's you, Nakajima-kun."

Yuto nodded his head. "I was wondering if you could pass this to Ryo-chan. It's very important if he read it."

Yabu and Shoon exchanged a look, then, Yabu nodded. "Sure, we'll pass it to him."

After Yuto left, Shoon let out a whistle. "What was that all about?"

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Ryutaro sighed for the nth time as the knock on the door continued. He knew Chinen won't stop until he get what he want, and Ryutaro had learnt it the hard way. He went off his bed, and dragged his feet to the door. "What?!" he said.

Instead of an answer, Ryutaro got more than what he bargained for. Chinen threw himself at him.

"What the hell are you doing, squirrel?!" Ryutaro cried out.

"I decided that I love you, so I want to be your lover," Chinen exclaimed boldly.

Ryutaro looked at Chinen with a raised eyebrow. "Are you CRAZY?!"

Chinen let go of his hold on Ryutaro and looked at the younger boy's face. "I always get what I want, so I will get you...slowly."

"You can't always get what you want. Grow up, you childish brat," Ryutaro rolled his eyes. He knew it was weird saying that to an older person, much less a senpai, but who cares.

Chinen threw his arms around Chinen's neck again. "I don't care. As long as I know I love you, so I will pursue you no matter how long it takes."

Suddenly, Ryutaro could feel his heart did a flip, and his face grew warm. All this while, it was always him chasing Yuto, and not the other way round. Now that he had someone chasing him, he felt a surge of happiness in his heart.

"Ryu-chan?" Chinen said, putting a hand on Ryutaro's forehead. "Are you okay?"

"N-Nani?" Ryutaro replied. Finally snapping out of his thought, he answered, "Of course I'm okay."

Chinen just shrugged the matter off. "Ne, tomorrow is a weekend, and the others are going to town. Want to come?" He gave Ryutaro his puppy eyes. "Please... Everyone else has a date except for me."

For some reason, Ryutaro now found it hard to resist Chinen's puppy eyes. After a moment, Ryutaro sighed. "Alright, alright, I'll go." Then, he added in, "BUT...This doesn't make me YOUR lover."

Chinen just grinned widely at Ryutaro's statement.

Current Mood: sleepy

Title: Where I Belong
Author: Saida
Fandom: Hey! Say! JUMP
Pairing: Takayama, Yamabu, Hikato, Hikanoo (more coming soon)
Genre: Romance, angst, mystery? xD
Word Count: 2009
Rating: Pg-16
Disclaimer: I do not own the boys..xDD
Notes: Finally, I've finished this....;w; I'm so sorry...It's been like...how many days since the 12th chapter... I hope you'll like this. Comments are always appreciated. :)

"And now, we're back in school again," Takaki said, his head on the table.

"Act more like an adult, will you?" Yabu said without taking his attention off his work.

"But..." Takaki whined. "I want to spend more time with Yama-chan." On Christmas' Day, Takaki and Yamada had officially become a couple.

"Quit your complaining and help me get some work done," Yabu said, pushing a another pile of papers in front of Takaki.

"Hai~" said Takaki. When he was about to do his work, he caught sight of Yuto. Takaki stood up. "Sorry Yabu, but there's something I have to do now." He immediately followed Yuto before he lose sight of him.

"Great!" Yabu said sarcastically, continuing on with his work.

---------------------------------------

"Nakajima-kun, wait up!"

"What is it, Takaki-kun?" Yuto asked as soon as Takaki stopped in front of him.

"Yama-chan and I are a couple now."

Yuto kept his face stoic as usual. "I am fully aware of that, Takaki-kun." Who wouldn't be when Takaki kept acting like a love sick puppy around Yamada, which annoys the younger teen to no end.

"I won't give Yama-chan up to anyone, including you," Takaki said.

"If you mistreat him, I'll take him away from you, be it by force," Yuto said as he walked pass Takaki. Takaki just glared at the other teen as he disappeared from sight.

---------------------------------------

"It's you and me again," Yamada said, looking at the man-made lake in front of him. When he first transfered to the academy, he would always spend time there, clearing his mind, talking to himself. The lake was like his silent listener. "I can't believe it's been four years since I last been with someone," he said after a few moment of silence.

Flashback

"Keito, let's go for a cousin-bonding time this weeked," Yamada grinned.

Keito scrunched his face and then, glared at Yamada when some of the girls that passed them in the cafeteria giggled. "Great~" Keito said. "Thanks for the humiliation, cousin."

Yamada smirked. "You are welcome, cousin." Two years had passed since Yamada was found, and with
the help of each other, Keito and Yamada managed to open each other's heart.

Before Keito could retort, a guy, 17 years of age, said, "Allow me to interrupt," and when Keito Yamada looked at him, he kissed Yamada on the lips and said, "Hey babe."

Both Keito and Yamada frowned. "Ren, I told you not to call me that."

Ren began kissing Yamada's neck, and said, "I know you love it, babe." Yamada just sighed and didn't say anything. He had started dating Yagami Ren, a senior student, two months ago.

Keito frowned deeper. He knew what Yagami Ren was like, and he didn't like him. He also didn't like Yamada dating Yagami Ren, but he had never seen his cousin so happy. He knew Yamada love to be loved, not just family love, but romantically too, so he decided not to say a word.

"Hey, Yama-chan, meet me after school," Ren whispered in Yamada's ear before he left.

"Hai," Yamada replied, smiling. Once Ren had left, Yamada realized Keito was staring at him. "What?"

Keito shook his head. "It's nothing," he took a bite of his sandwich. Although Yamada didn't totally buy it, but he just nodded his head.

After School

"So, where are you taking me, Ren?" Yamada hugged the older teen tightly so that he wouldn't fall off the motorcycle.

"A fun place," was Ren's answer.

When Ren stopped in an abandoned factory, Yamada frowned. "Ren, why did you take me here?"

"Because we're going to have some fun," Ren smirked. At first, Yamada's mind became blank. He began running, but Ren caught was faster. He caught up with him in no time. Ren pinned Yamada to the wall.

Yamada closed his eyes. He was once again reliving his nightmare. "Do you think you could run away from me?" Yamada's hands was pinned above his head. Ren kissed Yamada's lips, and trailed down to his neck. He whispered, "It's your own fault, Yama-chan," he bit Yama-chan near the pulse. "Every time you resist making out with me, the more I want you."

"No!" Yamada struggled. "Please stop," he sobbed.

Ren chuckled evilly. "There is no use struggling, Yama-chan. Physically, I am stronger than you. You can't escape me now." Yamada felt his legs giving up on him. He closed his eyes, resigning to fate.

--------------------------------------

Keito and his father sat in the living room restlessly. Keito looked at the clock every five minutes. It was almost midnight, and Yamada haven't return home yet.

"Keito, did Ryosuke told you where he is going?" Okamoto Kenichi asked worriedly.

"Ryo-chan has a date with Yanagi-senpai today," Keito answered. "I tried calling Yanagi-senpai but there was no answer."

Okamoto Kenichi finally stood up. "I'm not going to wait any longer," he said. "I'm going to make a police report." Just as he was about to reach for the phone, the door opened. Yamada entered the house, limping,
his clothes ripped at places, covered with dirt and blood.

"Ryo-chan, what happened?!" Keito was about to reach for Yamada when his cousin pulled back. Keito stayed at his place, looking at his cousin with a surprised look. "Ryo-chan..."

Yamada dropped to the ground and began crying. Keito took Yamada in his embrace, and this time Yamada didn't resist. Keito's eyes met his father's. His eyes was filled with anger and rage. He never trusted Yanagi and his instinct was right. Once they took Yamada to his room and made sure he was asleep, Keito stormed out the room, towards the living room. He took his shoes and began putting it on.

"Where do you think you are going?" Okamoto Kenichin asked his son. He was standing behind Keito, his hand crossed across his chest.

"I'm going to kill him," Keito said through gritted teeth. Keito was about to walk out the door when his father grabbed his hand.

"You will not do such thing, Keito!" his father snapped. He turned Keito facing him, and gripped Keito's shoulders with both his hands. "I will file a police report, and they will handle it."

Keito's eyes widened. "But there will be a few court meeting if we're going to press charges." He added in. "Otou-san, you know how Ryo-chan hates that."

"I know," said Okamoto Kenichi regretfully.

---------------------------------

Yamada lay still on the cold floor, his trousers and boxers pulled down, his shirt ripped open, and Ren on top of him. Yamada's voice was hoarse from begging Ren to stop for the last three hours. Yamada was lifeless, dry tear-stains on his cheeks. He no longer tried to struggle.

"Come on, Yama-chan, moan my name," Ren said as he sucked Yamada's length while pinching both Yamada's nipples. But Yamada just lay there motionless, his mouth glued together. "If that's the way you want to play it..." Ren thrust his member inside Yamada without preparing the younger teen. Yamada screamed in pain.

"Shhh~ Ryo-chan, I'm here," Keito said as he sat on Yamada's bed, beside his cousin. Yamada woke up from the nightmare, shivering and his face full of sweat. There was tears on Yamada's face. He hugged his legs to his chest and rocked himself back and forth. It pained Keito to see his cousin like that, back to the way he was two years ago when they just found him.

Okamoto Kenichi, who heard Yamada scream, was standing at Yamada's doorway, leaning against the doorframe.

The next day, when Okamoto Kenichi went to the dining hall, breakfast was already served, and Keito was already seated at the table.

"Ohayou, otou-san," Keito greeted. Okamoto Kenichi nodded a reply. His father sat beside him and reached for the morning paper while he poured his father a cup of coffee.

Then, it was silence. The only sound that could be heard was his father turning the papers. But then, it stopped after a minute.

"Dad, I think we should move back to England." Okamoto Kenichi closed the newspaper, and put it down beside his plate. He looked at his son. "Dad, let's move back to England. I can't stand watching Ryo-chan like this; broken, scared,...betrayed. Please dad, the new environment would be good for him."

After a short pause, Okamoto Kenichi nodded his head. "I was thinking of the same thing last night." Keito saw regret in his father's eyes. "I made a mistake by leaving your aunt with that man," Okamoto Kenichi said. "And my second mistake was not taking any actions when I found out he was abusing your aunt and Ryosuke." Okamoto Kenichi put his hand on the table. "I am not going to continue making mistakes."

"Otou-san..." said Keito.

"Keito, go to school today, inform your teachers and gather all yours and Ryosuke's things," said his father.

"I'll stay home, and watch over Ryosuke." Keito nodded his head in agreement.

END OF FLASHBACK

"Yanagi Ren..." Yamada said, as he pulled his legs up the bench and hugged it to his chest. He closed his eyes and said softly. "Because of you I created my stone mask, and because of you I threw away my feelings for others, except my family."

Suddenly, Yamada felt someone sitting beside him. He opened his eyes.

"Ryo-chan," the newcomer said.

Yamada was a little surprised to see him. "Yuto."

Yuto handed Yamada a cup of warm coffee, which Yamada gratefully took. They drank in silence for a moment, before Yuto spoke, "It's been a long while, ne, Ryo-chan. It was so busy at Takaki-san's mansion,
we didn't get a chance to talk properly."

"Un." There was another short pause. "Yuto, I'm sorry...about before." Yamada turned to look at the other teen. "I was surprised to see you so..."

"It's okay," Yuto cut in. "I was at fault too. I should have searched for you once I recover my strength. But I got too comfortable staying with the Morimoto's..."

"I'm glad you found a good family to look after you." Yamada knew that ever since Yuto and his sister was adopted and left the orphanage, they never had a descent life. Then, Yamada realized something. "What happened to Mio-chan?"

There was a grim expression on Yuto's face. "After you escaped from Odagiri, Mio-chan's condition worsen." Yuto looked up in the sky. He could remember the time before his younger sister died.

Mio smiled, looking at his brother. "Onii-chan, now that I'm gone, nothing is holding you back. G-Go."

"Yuto, you're still my best friend, aren't you?" Yamada asked. Yuto nodded his head. "Good," Yamada smiled, as he rested his head on Yuto's shoulder.

"I will protect you, Ryo-chan."

Yamada chuckled. "Then, what about Morimoto Ryutaro?"

Yuto was a little bit startled to hear Ryutaro's voice. "What about him?"

Yamada sat up straight again, and looked at Yuto with an amused expression. "Come on! I saw how Morimoto Ryutaro looks at you, and come to think of it, I bet that was why he was hostile towards me."

Yuto raised an eyebrow. "I believe you were the one who was acting hostile." Before Yamada could retort,
Yuto gave him the 'don't-try-to-deny-it' look.

Yamada puffed his cheeks. "Fine!" After a while, Yamada sighed. "But seriously though...Yuto, what are you going to do?" He looked at Yuto in the eyes. "I've found my family now. Keito and oji-san are both very protective of me, and now...Takaki-kun too." He blushed thinking of Takaki.

Yuto smirked. "I know you love being the mathcmaker, but unfortunately, I only think of Ryutaro as my own brother."

"Have you told him that?" Yamada asked, resting his head on Yuto's shoulder again.

"Yes."

"I take that he didn't take it too well?" Yuto simply nodded his head. "Don't worry," Yamada said again. "One day, he'll see."

tbc

Current Mood: sick

Title: Where I Belong
Author: Saida
Fandom: Hey! Say! JUMP
Pairing: Takayama, Yamabu, Hikato, Hikanoo (more coming soon)
Genre: Romance, angst, mystery? xD
Word Count: 1369
Rating: Pg-16
Disclaimer: I do not own the boys..xDD
Notes: Nyaaa, it looks like this multichap is going slower than I planned...-_____-ll I better write a longer chapter soon or else, this fic WILL go slower...nyaaa~ ... Comments are appreciated as always...:3
Previeous chapters: Prologue, Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6, Chapter 7 , Chapter 8, Chapter 9

GLOSSARY:

Okamoto Keito - 19 years old
Yamada Ryosuke - 19 years old
Nakajima Yuto - 20 years old
Chinen Yuri - 19 years old
Morimoto Ryutaro - 18 years old
Yabu Kota - 22 years old
Yaotome Hikaru - 22 years old
Inoo Kei - 22 years old
Takaki Yuya - 22 years old
Arioka Daiki - 21 years old
Yamashita Shoon - 23 years old
Morimoto Shintaro - 12 years old

Keito looked at the clock on the bedside table. 1630 hours. "I'm late," he said to himself, remembering what their host had said earlier. He just came out of the bathroom when a knock was heard. He quickly went to open the door.

"Inoo-kun?" Keito said, surprised.

Inoo smiled. "I heard you hadn't eaten?" Keito looked surprised when he saw Inoo was holding a tray of pastries. "May I come in?"

"U-Uhm, sure," Keito said. Inoo placed the tray on the bedside table. He sat on Yamada's bed as Keito sat on his own bed so that they'll be facing one another. "So, why are you here, Inoo-kun?"

"Oh, well, Saya oba-sama told me to bring you some food for tea," Inoo explained. When Keito looked confused, Inoo said, "Saya oba-sama is Takaki's mom."

"Oh..."

"She also told me to be your guide in this house while Takaki and the others are out," Inoo added in.

"Out?"

"Yeah, Takaki took them out to town," said Inoo. "Eat up."

Keito nodded his head, taking one of the castella cakes. They ate in silence. However, for the entire time, Keito kept glancing at Inoo, but then, quickly looked away again. Inoo could sense it though. He looked at the teen. "Is there anything you wanted to ask me?" Keito choked on his tea. 'Drats, caught!' Inoo eyed him. "So..."

"Earlier, when Takaki-kun told Mrs. Takaki where Yaotome and the others were, Mrs. Takaki said, 'It's already that time of the year'. What does she mean by that?" Keito asked, curious.

"Today is the death anniversary of their very, very close friend, Taiyou-kun."

"Taiyou?"

"Taiyou-kun was Hikaru's cousin, and Hikaru, uhm, he had kept some feelings for Taiyou a long time ago," explained Inoo. "Although he doesn't harbor those feelings towards Taiyou anymore, but he's still special to him."

"How long..."

"Six years ago." There was silence again. "Ano, Okamoto-san... do you like Hikaru?"

"E-Eh? What do you mean, Inoo-kun?"

Although Keito tried to cover it, but Inoo could see Keito's slightly blushed face. Inoo chuckled, trying to prevent an awkward situation. "I'm sorry, Okamoto-san," he said, smiling. "Hikaru being your roommate, I hope he doesn't bother you much. He seems to have some affections for you." Somehow, when Inoo said that, his heart clenched a little.

"I don't know though," Keito said quietly. "I don't know if I should trust him that easily." Inoo looked at Keito. From the way he said it, it's as if he had experienced a bad past. Inoo stood up.

"Okamoto-san," he said. "Want to play a duet piece with me?" Inoo added in, "I assure you, the Takaki family has a grand piano with good sound quality."

"Sure," said Keito. As they were walking towards the gallery, Keito exclaimed, "Takaki-kun's home really is like a mansion."

"It's because Saya oba-sama loves a relaxing place," Inoo explained. "The Takaki family has been in the hotel business for generations. So, to escape from work stress, Saya oba-sama had this European style mansion made for her to just relax in the mountain area. These whole place; the mountains, the beach, it's the Takaki family's property."

"Wow," said Keito. "Inoo-kun, I have a question."

"Yea~?"

"How did you know Yaotome-kun and the others?"

"Our families are friends," Inoo answered. "All of us were born in a rich family, so we're pretty close."

"I see," Keito added in, "that's nice."

Inoo smiled. Now he knew what Hikaru saw in Keito.

---------------------------------------------------------

"You guys go ahead inside," Takaki said, looking at the still-sleeping Yamada.

"Okay," Daiki said. "Iku, Chinen~" he said.

Takaki smiled, looking at the sleeping Yamada. 'He must been tired from the moning's flight, and now, the visit to town.' Takaki took Yamada in his arms, carrying him bridal style. As Takaki walked up the marble steps, he chuckled at Yamada's sleeptalking.

"Nyaa~ That's so sweet," Yamada sleeptalk.

Takaki smiled at that. 'You're so cute!' he thought.

Yamada unconsciously nuzzled at Takaki's chest. "That was fun, Yuuyan~!"

Takaki stopped in his tracks. He knew Yamada was only sleeptalking, something he said unconsciously, but still... "Yama-chan called me Yuuyan," Takaki said to himself, smiling goofily. He was staring at Yamada's sleeping face that he didn't see the small puddle on the floor.

Chinen, who just came with a mop in his hand didn't get to warn the his senior on time. Chinen winced as Takaki fell to the ground, on top of Yamada. Daiki immediately ran towards Chinen when he heard the crash. When he saw Takaki on top of Yamada, he was about to say something when Chinen clamped his hand on Daiki's mouth.

"Shhhh~!"

Takaki was on top of Yamada, he could feel Yamada's chest rises up and down every time the teen breathes. Without realizing it, Takaki leaned closer, and closer towards Yamada's lips. He was about to kiss it until...

Yamada's eyes shot open. "What the hell are you doing?" he asked, a stoic expression on his face.

"E-Eh?" Takaki immediately went off Yamada. "Nande mo nai!" he said. "U-Uhm, d-dinner should start soon. You better take a bath."

"Un~" Yamada said, standing up. Then, he looked at the three. "Why was I on the floor?"

---------------------- -------------------------------------

"MY ENGRISH BOY!!!" Hikaru yelled at the top of his lungs when he, Yabu and Shoon just arrived inside Takaki's mansion.

Yabu shook his head. "Will Hikaru ever act his age one day?"

Shoon laughed, his hand wrapped around Yabu's waist. "I don't think so, Kota." When they arrived to the dining hall, Hikaru was already there, glomping poor Keito

Shoon and Yabu went to Takaki's mom at the head table first. "Ohayou, oba-sama," Yabu and Shoon bowed a bit.

"Ohayou," Mrs. Takaki chuckled. "Why are both of you being so formal? I've known you since you were toddlers!" She took Yabu and Shoon in a hug. Then, she said, "Sit down, have some breakfast."

"Hai~" As Yabu and Shoon took the empty seats next to Inoo. Yabu glared at Hikaru. "Hika, let go of Okamoto-san now!"

Still glomping Keito, he pouted, "No." The red-faced Keito didn't say anything. Yamada, who was sitting the opposite side of Keito, smirked, watching his cousin with an amused expression on his face. Chinen was too busy with his ice cream to bother with Hikaru, while Takaki and Daiki were having a heated argument about which syrup is the best to be eaten with pancakes.

"HIKA! LET OKAMOTO-SAN GO! OR ELSE!"

Hikaru stuck out his tongue. "NO WAY!"

From under the table, Keito kicked Yamada's leg once. In Yamada's and Keito's personal language, that means HELP. Yamada just smirked. Keito glared at his cousin. He kicked Yamada's leg three times. Translated, that means, THERE WILL BE CONSEQUENCES. Yamada smirked even more, taking out his cell phone. Keito shot daggers at Yamada.

"You wouldn't dare!" he mouthed.

"Oh, I would," Yamada mouthed back. He took a picture of Keito being glomped by Hikaru. Keito kicked Yamada's leg five times. Meaning, I WILL GET YOU FOR THIS! "Sent!" Yamada mouthed at Keito, pressing the sent button.

Keito death glared Yamada. "You will pay!" he mouthed, a dangerous aura looming around him.

"APPLE SYRUP IS BETTER!" Daiki yelled at Takaki.

"NO!!! HAZELNUT SYRUP IS BETTER!" Takaki yelled back. Both of them turned to Takaki's mom. "MAMA/ OBA-SAMA!"

Mrs. Takaki shook her head at the craziness. She looked at her watch. "Oh my, I'm late," she said. "Gomen ne, Yuya," she said, not a trace of sympathy in her voice. "Tata," she said, escaping the madness in the dining hall.

--------------------------------------------

IN LONDON

A man called Okamoto Kenichi, sat in his big living room, in front of the fireplace. A was reading a music score when suddenly his cell phone vibrated. He smiled. He just received a picture message from his nephew, Yamada Ryosuke. Okamoto Kenichi opened the message. When he saw it, he laughed, hard. He took off his reading glasses, wiping off the tears from laughing so hard.

In the picture, Keito was being glomped by Hikaru, by what Yamada wrote, and Keito's face was red.

'Ah~ It looks like Keito has finally open up his heart again,' Okamoto Kenichi smiled.

Title: Where I Belong
Author: Saida
Fandom: Hey! Say! JUMP
Pairing: Takayama, Yamabu, Hikato, Hikanoo (more coming soon)
Genre: Romance, angst, mystery? xD
Word Count: 918 <----------------I FAILSSS! ;______;
Rating: Pg-16
Disclaimer: I do not own the boys..xDD
Notes: Nyaaaa~ this is the 9th chapter, Jen! I faills at it...and...it's quite a boring chapter I guess. But I need to sleep early, and I wanna post tonight, so I end it there... Comments are always appreciated...:3
Previeous chapters: Prologue, Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6, Chapter 7 , Chapter 8

"Uwaaa~" Chinen and Daiki said, looking around the mansion as Takaki led them to the living room.

Takaki rolled his eyes. "Dai-chan, why are you 'Uwaaa-ing' with Chinen?" Takaki asked. "It's not like you've never been here before.

"Well, it's bigger compare to when I last come here," said Daiki.

Takaki glanced behind him, at Yamada. As usual, the younger teen was silent. So was his cousin.

Once they've arrived to the living room, Yamada saw a beautiful woman, in her late forties, waiting there. "Mama," Takaki said as he stepped into the room.

"Yuya," the woman said, standing up.

"Hisashiburi, Mrs. Takaki," Daiki greeted when they went to where Takaki's mom was seated.

"Hisashiburi, Daiki," Mrs. Takaki smiled. Then she noticed the other three teenagers.

"Mama, this is Chinen Yuuri," Takaki introduced them. "He's in the same division as I am, and he's really good in acrobatics."

"Uwaa~ sugoi!" Mrs. Takaki said, causing the carefree Chinen to blush.

"Thank you for having me today, Mrs. Takaki," Chinen said.

"It's my pleasure, Yuuri-chan," she said. When Takaki was about to introduce Yamada, Mrs. Takaki said, "And these must be Yamada Ryosuke and Okamoto Keito," she looked at the two teens. Hearing his name being said, Yamada looked up.

Takaki looked surprised. "How'd you know, mama?"

"Because I've been to Yamada-san's concert and Okamoto-san's piano recital while I was in London two years ago." Mrs. Takaki smiled. "Besides, Okamoto-san's father is an old acquaintance of mine."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Takaki," Yamada and Keito said at the same time.

"The same goes for me, Yamada-san, Okamoto-san," said the woman. After awhile, she realized something. She looked around. "Are?" she said.

"Something wrong, Mrs. Takaki?" Chinen asked.

"Kota-kun, Shoon-kun, Hikaru-kun and Kei-kun aren't coming this time?" Mrs. Takaki asked.

"Inoo will arrive later today, while Yabu, Hikaru and Shoon will only come tomorrow," Takaki explained.

"Ah~ It's already that time of the year, ne?" said Mrs. Takaki. Takaki and Daiki nodded their head. Yamada and Keito, on the other hand, were curious although they didn't show it. "Aaah~ Yuya, your friends must be tired, ne? Why don't you show them to your room?"

"Hai, mama," Takaki said. He looked at the others. "Let's go."

-----------------------------------------

Yamada and Keito were given a room, and Daiki and Chinen shared another.

"Whoa~" Chinen said, his eyes wide when he saw the size of the room. "Yuuyan, this is like a first class suite!"

Takaki chuckled. "You're exaggerating, Chinen."

They left Chinen and Daiki there to settle down as Takaki showed Yamada and Keito to their room. "This is Yabu's and Hikaru's room," Takaki said, pointing at the room next to Chinen's and Daiki's. "And this is Shoon's and Inoo's room," he said, pointing to the room next to Yabu's and Hikaru's. "This will be your room," Takaki said when they stopped in front of the third room. If you ned anything, just come to me." He pointed at the room across theirs. "That's my room," he said.

"Arigatou, Takaki-kun," Keito said.

"Tea will be served at four in the evening," Takaki said. "So, in the meanwhile, you can settle in and rest. It was a long journey."

Takaki left as soon as they entered the room. "Hmm~ two beds," Keito and Yamada said at the same time. They looked at one another. Three, two, one. Immediately, they started to run. However, Yamada arrived to the bed beside the balcony.

"You lose," Yamada stuck out his tongue at Keito.

"Fine," Keito huffed as he went to the other bed.

Yamada sat on his bed while Keito began keeping his clothes in the cabinet. "So, what's your current impression of Takaki-kun?" Keito asked out of the blue.

"W-What do you mean?" Yamada began playing with his hands.

Keito chuckled as he reached for Yamada's luggage. "I know you, Ryo-chan, and I know the whole ride, you were trying your stoic mask on," he smirked.

"I don't understand what you're talking about," Yamada looked away.

Keito chuckled as he kept Yamada's folded clothes into the cabinet. "You like him, right?"

Yamada lay on his bed, and Keito lay beside him. They stared at the ceiling. "We're taking this risk, right? By giving them a chance, we're taking a risk."

"I think...this would be a right decision," Keito said. "They seems...genuine enough."

"Ne...I just realized something," Yamada said, looking at Keito.

Keito looked at Yamada. "What is it?"

"You're Yaotome's roommate, aren't you not?"

"He's crazy about you right," Yamada said. "Do you think..."

"Think?..." when Keito's mind started to function, he scrunched his face. "Ryo-chan!"

"What? If he can stalk you, there's a probability he could do that."

"Well, thank you very much for putting that thought in my head."

-----------------------------------

Keito and Yamada had played some guessing games until for about half an hour later when Keito fell asleep. Yamada sighed. "Great, now I'm alone...and bored." So, Yamada decided to wander off.

"Yama-chan," he heard someone called his name as soon as he went out of hir room.

"Takaki-kun," he said, when he turned around, realizing who it was.

"Wanted to go somewhere?" Yamada shrugged. "You love gardens, right?" Takaki said.

"Hn," Yamada replied.

Takaki took Yamada's hand. "Then follow me."

It happened so fast that that Yamada didn't get to react when Takaki pulled him, leading him towards the garden. But after awhile, Yamada's mouth curved into a smile. 'I'm going to take this chance,' he thought.

( You're about to view content that the journal owner has advised should be viewed with discretion. )

Title: Where I Belong
Author: Saida
Fandom: Hey! Say! JUMP
Pairing: Takayama, Yamabu, Hikato, Hikanoo & Chiitaro (more coming soon)
Genre: Romance, angst, mystery? xD
Rating: Pg-16
Disclaimer: I do not own the boys..xDD
Notes: ANOTHER UPDATE!!! XDDDD I FAILLLSS!!! =W= And yush! It's still short...=w= Blame my laziness, but dont worry though, the next update will be within this week. So, enjoy? Comments are appreciated. x)

( Read more... )

Takaki grinned goofily. "Because no one can say no to Shiina-sensei!"

Yamada looked away to hide his blush. Luckily none of them notice it though. He stopped walking when Shiina-sensei and the other two stopped walking. "A ramen shop?" he said when he saw the restaurant in front of him.

"Yes, tonight we will be celebrating here! Besides, I've heard from a friend that this restaurant makes wonderful ramen." She has stars in her eyes as she entered the restaurant.

"Irrashai!" the waiter greeted.

Shiina-sensei bowed slightly. "Arigatou."

"Morimoto-kun?"

"Yaotome-kun, Takaki-kun," Ryutaro said surprised. He glared when he noticed Yamada. "I'll show you to your table," he said. Yamada just ignore Ryutaro's glare.

After taking their orders, Ryutaro returned to the kitchen. "You know him?" Shiina-sensei asked, motioning towards Ryutaro.

"Oh, we met at the cafe a few days ago," explained Hikaru. "He probably will be entering the academy the next semester."

"Clarinet player," added in Takaki.

"Sou ka?" said Shiina-sensei. "He doesn't seem to like Yamada-kun though." The three of them looked at said person. Yamada just sat there like his broody self.

Takaki laughed sheepishly. "They had a bad start."

About ten minutes later, their food arrived. "Ittadakimasu," all had said a loud except for Yamada. "OISHII!!!" Shiina-sensei had said when she finished hers within five minutes. Hikaru and Takaki stared at her wide-eyed while Yamada just didn't care. "I want another serving!" Takaki's and Hikaru's jaw dropped.

Mrs. Morimoto chuckled when she arrived to their table with her notepad. "Which ramen do you want to try next?"

"The same order," she grinned from ear to ear.

"Your order will arrive within 10 minutes," Mrs. Morimoto said. When she was about to go to the kitchen, the door opened. "Ah~ Yuto!"

"Tadaima!" Yuto said. He just returned from a delivary.

Hearing that voice, Yamada immediately stood up and turned facing the door. Yuto almost dropped the thing he was holding when he saw the teen in front of him. But although he was surprised, he kept himself together, and didn't say anything. Ryutaro was at the kitchen door at that time so he saw the scene between Yamada and Yuto. Although they didn't say a thing, but Ryutaro could feel there was something between Yamada and Yuto. He decided he had enough, and returned to the kitchen.

------------------------------------

"This is my son, Yuto," Mrs. Morimoto introduced them.

"Konbanwa," Yuto greeted, bowing slightly at Shiina-sensei, Hikaru, Takaki and Yamada, but avoiding contact with the younger teen.

"Yuto, why don't you go help your father in the kitchen?"

"Hai~" said Yuto. He walked pass Yamada without saying a thing.

Takaki looked at Yamada's direction as he returned to his seat. However, he couldn't see traces of emotions on his facial expression. Yamada Ryosuke was good at masking his expression, Takaki admitted.

--------------------------------------

"Wait!" Suddenly, someone grabbed Yamada's hand. He turned a little to see Yuto, panting to catch his breath. "Ryo-chan."

"I knew it was you," Yamada said softly. Yamada was looking at the ground.

"Ryo-chan..."

Yamada looked up, looking at Yuto, his eyes filled with tears of anger. "Why?!" he asked. "Why didn't you look try to reach me?!"

Yuto tried to avoid Yamada's gaze. "Because I thought...I thought it was for the better."

"For whom? For you?!"

Yuto put both his hands on Yamada's shoulder, looking straight into Yamada's eyes. "Look, you have a new life now, and I didn't want to destroy it for you."

Yamada pushed away Yuto's hand. "I was worried about you." Yamada left before Yuto could say anything else.

Shiina-sensei and Hikaru was already far ahead, while Takaki stayed behind to wait for Yamada. He could hear Yamada's and Yuto's conversation. This made him more curious of the younger teen's past. When, Yamada passed him, he out on a smiley face. "So, had a good talk?" he walked next to Yamada.

"Hnn."

----------------------------------------

"Did you know that kid from earlier, Yuto-kun?" Mrs. Morimoto asked as soon as Yuto entered the kitchen. Since it was almost time to close the shop, she started washing the dishes while Ryutaro worked out front.

"Un," Yuto answered.

"Who was he? I've never seen him around before."

"Just an important friend from the past."

"I'm going out for a walk," Ryutaro suddenly said out of the blue. He sounded angry. They didn't even realize Ryutaro had entered the kitchen. Before Mrs. Morimoto could reply, Ryutaro went out of the family restaurant.

Yuto sighed. He knew Ryutaro must have overheard him talking to Mrs. Morimoto. "

-------------------------------

'Kuso, kuso, kuso, kuso!' Ryutaro thought. He kicked the rock on the ground. "KUSO!!!"

"Are you angry at me, Ryu-chan?"

Ryutaro was startled when he heard Yuto's voice. He turned around to see Yuto panting, catching his breath. Apparently he had been running to catch up with Ryutaro. "Why did you pretend you didn't know Yamada Ryosuke a few days ago?"

"Ryutaro, Ryo-chan was someone from my past."

"From the way he reacted upon hearing your name, it's as if both of you shares a special relationship."

"We do share a special re-..." Ryutaro began walking again, not bothering to listen to Yuto. "Ryutaro, wait!" Yuto began chasing the teen again. He caught Ryutaro's hand and turned the teen around so that they'll be facing one another. "Why are you so angry at me because of that?"

"Of course one would be angry if they know the person they like likes another person!"

Yuto's eyes widened. "Ryutaro, I didn't know." He never had thought that the younger teen had feelings for him.

"Of course you didn't," Ryutaro spat out. "To you, I'm just like a younger brother."

"What are you saying Ryutaro? Of course you're like a younger brother to me."

"I want more!" Ryutaro snapped. "Ever since you first came to my family, I've fallen in love with you." He immediately wrapped his arms around Yuto's waist, his face burried in Yuto's jacket.

"Ryutaro..." Yuto said under his breath.

-----------------------------------

"Home sweet home," Hikaru said as soon as the bus stopped inside the academy's compound.

"And we arrived on time for lunch too," Takaki said. Takaki and Hikaru looked at one another. Their eyes shone with a mischievous glint. "The king-sized udon will be served today."

"The usual bet?"

"Of course," Takaki smirked. Mischievous aura surrounded them as they walked towards the student's lounge.

Shiina-sensei shook her head. "Any normal person would return to their dorm first." Then, she realized Yamada was still there. "You're not following them?"

"Iie," Yamada answered. "I'm off to bed."

Shiina-sensei shook his head. "And that kid might be nocturnal..." she sweat dropped.

------------------------------------

When Yabu and Shoon arrived to the student's lounge, they were surprised to see the students surrouned a certain table, and creating quite a ruckus. "I wonder what's going on over there? Yabu said to Shoon.

"I have no idea," Shoon shrugged. Then, after a moment, he said, "Wait, Kota, today is Friday right?"

"Yes, why?" Yabu looked at Shoon. Then, realization hit him. "Takaki and Hikaru."

"Alright people, clear out," said Yabu and Shoon said. Moments later, the crowd that surrounded Takaki and Hikaru cleared away. Takaki and Hikaru still hadn't notice Shoon and Yabu standing in front of them though. They were busy eating their king-sized udon.

"Hikaru, I am so gonna beat you today!" Takaki said with his mouth full. He's leading by one bowl.

"Not if I can help it," Hikaru replied, mouth full as well.

"Ahem."

Takaki and Hikaru didn't look up.

"Ahem!"

Again, Yabu was still ignored. Shoon sighed, knowing what's coming next. "STOP EATING YOU TWO BAKAS!" Yabu shouted, causing Takaki and Hikaru to drop their chopsticks and looked up. They laughed sheepishly. "Uhm, konnichiwa Yabu?"

Yabu hugged his hands at his hips. "How many times do I have to tell both of you that NEVER cause a commotion in the lounge EVER AGAIN!"

Hikaru looked at Shoon and mouthed, "Help us!" Shoon just shook his head. "Shoon won't help us," Hikaru whispered to Takaki. Yabu was still lecturing them.

"I guess we'll just have to use that!" said Takaki. Hikaru nodded his head.

"On the count of three," Hikaru said in a low voice so that only Takaki could here. They motioned towards Yabu.

"Are you two listening?!"

"Three!" Hikaru shouted and both of them pushed Yabu towards Shoon. Then, they made a run for it.

"That'll keep Yabu busy for awhile," Hikaru said as they laughed. When they was quite far away from the student's lounge building, they stopped running.

"Hmmm~ What should we do now?"

"We don't have any classes on Friday," Hikaru said. Then, he saw something that made him perked up. "Now I remember, there's something I have to do." Takaki looked at him questioningly. "Stalking a certaing English boy."

Before Takaki could retort, Hikaru had run off. He sighed. "Now what am I going to do?" He looked at the sky. 'Maybe I should start stalking to?' he thought.

Title: Where I Belong
Author: Saida
Fandom: Hey! Say! JUMP
Pairing: Takayama, Yamabu, Hikato, Hikanoo (more coming soon)
Genre: Romance, angst, mystery? xD
Rating: Pg-16
Disclaimer: I do not own the boys..xDD
Notes: ANOTHER UPDATE!!! XDDDD I FAILLLSS!!! =W= It's still short....*sigh* As usual, comments are appreciated...xD

Keito once again went to the garden. It was cloudy and windy that day, the perfect day to sit outdoors. He stare at the lake in front of him, but his mind flew elsewhere.

FLASHBACK

'Splash.'

Keito fell into the puddle, his books scattered nearby. Laughter of his bullies could be heard.

"We told you we want 100 000 yen, not 1000 yen," one of them said.

Keito stood up, his school uniform soaked with dirty puddle water. He began collecting his books.

"Hey, are you listening to us?!" the leader of the bullies asked, pushing the books out of Keito's hands once again. "Just run along to daddy and ask for that little sh*t of money."

"No," Keito muttered under his breath.

"What did you say?!" the bully with blonde hair and many ear piercings, asked.

"I said NO!" Keito yelled.

All the four bullies cracked their knuckles. "You dare to defy us?"

------------------------------

"Quiet please," Shizuka-sensei said and in just a few minutes, the students of class 1-A shut their mouth. "This is your new classmate, Okamoto Keito. He just transferred from Seiyou Junior High," she motioned towards Keito. "Okamoto-san, would you please introduce yourself?"

Keito just stood there, didn't say anything.

"Okamoto-san?"

Keito's head snapped up, looking at the teacher. Glaring to be exact. After a few seconds, he turned back his attention to the whole class. Glaring. That caused the students to whisper among each other.

"Alright, alright, minna," the teacher said, "quiet down please." She looked at Keito. "You may take your seat at the back row near the window."

"Hai," Keito said. On his way to his seat, he passed by a guy wearing spectacles. "What a snob," Keito heard the guy say but he just ignore him; no emotions on his face.

It had been a week since Keito transferred school, yet he was being a lone wolf. Everything he did, he did it individually. During lunch breaks, he sat by himself, in class, he never talked to any of his classmates, unless it was necessary.

One morning, Keito was about to enter the classroom when he heard people talking. Keito decided to stay outside the classroom and listen to the conversation.

"That Okamoto-san is such a snob," a voice Keito identified belonged to Inui, said. "Just because he's rich, a piano prodigy, and is a genius, he thinks he can look down on us."

"I agree," another said angrily. Keito figured it belonged to Akito. "Utsui-sensei, I don't need a lab partner. I'm completely capable on my own," he mimicked what Keito said in Keito's first day in Biology class.

"But he does has a nice tan," a girl said.

"And nice muscles," another girl added in dreamily.

"Un, un," a few more girls agreed.

The boys glared at the girls. "Whose side are you supposed to be on anyway?"

Keito decided to acknowledge his presence. With one push, he pushed open the sliding door. Everyone looked at him, and he looked back, his expression remained stoic as ever.

"Ohayou Okamoto-kun," one of the girls, Keito recognized as Maihara, greeted him.

Keito's expression remained stoic as ever though he did gave a little nod. He was about to go to his seat when one of his classmates, Nakai, tried to trip him. Keito tripped a little. However, Keito kept his cool and continued his way to his seat as if nothing had happened.

-----------------------------------------

"Otou-san, I'm home," Keito yelled out, locking the door after he had enter. When he passed the living room, he saw a note on the table. Keito read it out loud, "There's an important meeting I have to attend. If everything goes well, a guest will be staying with us. Please prepare the guest room just in case."

Keito sighed but his lips curved upwards. Ever since his mother died when he was younger, it had always been him and his dad. Both of them had taken care of one another. Even though Keito's dad is a world-known musician but he was hopelessly clumsy with houseworks. In the end, it was Keito who did all the house works. Keito didn't mind though. Besides, his dad will help out sometimes, except for things in the kitchen... Keito wouldn't allow him to help out there.

Keito looked at his wristwatch. It was four in the evening. 'If we're expecting a guest, then I might as well go grocery shopping."

-----------------------------------------

As soon as Keito returned, he immediately went to prepare the guest room. There wasn't really much to prepare actually, just dust here and there and change the bed sheet. When he was done with the room, he began cooking dinner. Usually Keito would cook Western food since his dad loves them, but because they were having a guest, Keito decided to make Japanese food he didn't know which their guest prefers.

Half past seven, his dad still hadn't arrive yet. All the food had been prepared, and the table was set. Keito sat at his seat and sighed. Twenty minutes had pass and Keito began to wonder where his dad was. A moment later, he heard the front door opened and closed, and the familiar 'Tadaima' was heard.

Keito went to the front to greet his father and the guest. When he got there, he was surprised to see another boy, probably the same age as him, clinging to his dad. The boy looked awfully familiar to Keito but Keito couldn't place where he had seen him. Keito looked at his dad. Knowing the silent question, Mr. Okamoto said, "This is Yamada Ryosuke, 13 years old; my nephew, the son of my sister."

Then it hit him. That boy was his cousin. He had seen photos of him whenever a letter to his dad from his aunt came, telling about her life. At that time, Keito and his dad were still living in England. About two years ago, they returned to Japan when Mr. Okamoto heard of his sister's death, and Ryosuke was missing. Mr. Okamoto had been searching for his missing nephew ever since.

"You've found him," Keito stated, his eyes still locked on Yamada.

"Someone had found him unconscious on the street and sent him to the hospital about a week ago. The nurse working at the hospital called me today when they found his living relative; us."

Yamada didn't say anything. He was still clinging to Keito's dad's side, looking at Keito suspisciously. 'As if he was scared,' Keito observed.

Mr. Okamoto sniffed in the air. "You cooked Japanese food today," Mr. Okamoto said, trying to release the tension growing.

Keito chuckled. "You've guessed right, otou-san," he said. "Come on, both of you must be starved." Keito smiled at Yamada. He still looked at Keito suspisciously. 'Oh well, I don't blame him,' Keito thought. He must have had things hard during the time when he was missing.

"Oh yeah," Mr. Okamoto said as they walked to the kitchen. Yamada didn't say anything but followed from behind, his hand holding the sleeve of Mr. Okamoto's shirt.

During the entire dinner time, Yamada had been silent. Whenever Keito or Mr. Okamoto asked questions, he'll just nod or shook his head, didn't say anything. After dinner, Keito had volunteered to show Yamada to his room, which his dad agreed to.

"Maybe you could get through him," Mr. Okamoto whispered to his son.

Yamada was hesitant at first but Mr. Okamoto assured him that it would be alright, alas he agreed. The entire walk to the guest room was filled with silence. Yamada looked at the ground the whole time, glancing at Keito once in a while. He wondered why Keito didn't ask him any questions.

"Your room has an adjoining bathroom," Keito said. "I've prepared some clean clothes for you to wear tonight. If you ever need anything, my room is just next door." Yamada just nodded his head. "Well, I better go now," Keito said. "The kitchen will be a mess if left in my otou-san's hand." Somehow, that joke managed to make Yamada smile a little. Keito was just about to walk away when he felt Yamada grabbing the sleeve of his shirt. Keito looked at his cousin questioningly.

"Thank you," Yamada said, his voice barely above whisper. Keito smiled. Although Yamada still didn't talk much but at least this was a progress.

------------------------------------------------

When Keito arrived to the kitchen, he saw his father attempting to wash the dishes. "Otou-san, didn't I tell you works in the kitchen is off-limit to you?" Keito joked.

Mr. Okamoto was taken by surprise, he almost dropped the dish he was holding. Mr. Okamoto turned to his son, smiling sheepishly. "You've made dinner tonight, so it would just be fair if I help out a little."

Keito chuckled. "Alright, but just tonight." Mr. Okamoto laughed and continued washing the dishes while I sat by the kitchen table.

"Otou-san, what happened to Ryosuke?" Keito asked out of the blue.

"Hmm~..." Keito heard his father said. "According to the doctors, they had found fresh cuts and bruises on Ryosuke's body as well as old ones. They believed that Ryosuke might have been tortured the two years he was missing, and I believed so too."

Although his dad's back was facing him, but Keito knew his dad was angry. He was too. No one deserved to be treated the way Yamada was treated. Keito could still remember the rage his dad was in when they arrived to Japan, when they confronted his sister's, Yamada Sayu's murderer; Yamada Kyouhei, his own brother-in-law. He had confessed of killing his wife, Yamada Sayu when she tried to stop him from selling Ryosuke. But before they could ask about Ryosuke's whereabout, or to whom he sold Ryosuke to, Yamada Kyouhei had died of heart attack.

'I will surely get through him,' Keito thought with full determination.

---------------------------------------------------

"May I come in?" Keito asked, opening the door to the guest room. Yamada was already in bed, but he was still awake. Yamada gave Keito a small nod and Keito stepped in. He was holding two mugs of hot milk. "Hot milk?"

Yamada nodded his head again, sitting crossed leg on his bed. Keito gave him one of the mugs. Then, he sat on the bed too. It was silent again. They drank their hot milk. Yamada observed Keito. Keito just drank his milk, not asking anything. At last, Yamada said, "You're not going to ask me anything?"

Keito put his mug on the bedside table. "I won't ask until you're willing to tell me."

Yamada just stared at Keito, his mug rested on his lap. "Y-You're my cousin, right?"

Keito smiled. Yamada had start a conversation between them. "Yeah," he answered. "My dad is your mom's sister."

"I've never seen you before," Yamada stated.

"Of course," said Keito. "My father and I were sleeping abroad...until two years ago." It became silent between them again. A few minutes passed, and Keito said, "I'm glad my clothes fit you."

Yamada smiled. "It's comfortable."

Keito smiled back, "I'll take you shopping tomorrow for a new set of clothes."

Yamada smiled wider. Suddenly, he wiped his eyes, a few tears still rolled down his cheeks. "Thank you," he said.

For the first time since a long time, Keito felt a rush of panic. "Are you alright? Did I do something wrong?"

Yamada shook his head slowly. "No. It's just...I haven't been treated like that for a long time."

By instinct, Keito moved forward and hugged his cousin tightly. "Don't worry, Ryo-chan," he said. "My dad and I will protect you with everything we have, even if it will cost us our life."

"Thank you," Yamada said again.

A few hours later, after his late night bath, Mr. Okamoto went to check on his nephew. He smiled at the scene that met him. Keito and Yamada was snuggled close to each other, asleep. Mr. Okamoto slowly closed the door, not wanting to wake the two boys up.

END OF FLASHBACK