Chapter 521
Forbidden Fruit
Next morning we woke up early to the sound of knocking on our door.
The sun had not fully risen yet and through the shoji screens the pink hue of dawn filtered through.
Even the birds outside had just woken, singing quiet melodies, welcoming the day.
It was a fresh new day.
Yawning and stretching, I heard Airu answer the door.
We had forgotten there was a wake up call.
"Hai, wakarimashita." Was her voice, soft and gentle.
I could hear the tiredness in her tone.
Last night we had all fallen asleep without incident.
Everyone was so exhausted.
I could only remember blacking out as soon as I fell into the futon, dreamless...
Had anything else happened?
*Wakarimashita - (I) understand. (Past tense of verb wakaru)
Chapter 522
Forbidden Fruit
Then, I remembered,
everything rushing into my mind like a breached dam.
My promise.
My feelings.
I must be insane.
Why did I agree?
Still, I promised her.
Still, I owed her so much.
I knew I couldn't turn back now.
Right?
She... meant alot to me.
If I could repay her for everything it would only be here and now...
Just these few days.
Chapter 523
Forbidden Fruit
"Ohayou." A few feet to my left, Takashi yawned.
"Morning."
I finally stumbled out of my futon.
And into someone.
"A-Airu."
I caught her before she fell.
She was blushing profusely and looking at the ground.
"G-good morning."
I nodded awkwardly.
"Yeah..." I didn't know what to say. "Did you sleep well?"
I had a feeling it came out wrong.
She just tipped her head.
We were silent for a moment.
No one had seen.
Just a few days.
Then everything will be back to normal.
Right?
*Ohayou - Good Morning
Chapter 524
Forbidden Fruit
"I need to use the washroom."
She slipped away, disappearing behind the door and out of sight.
I watched her go, a strange feeling in my heart.
All I could think was how cute she was acting.
That took me off guard.
I shook my head. What was I thinking?
It was like I had become a child again.
How could I be feeling these things?
There was so much we've went through
and yet my feelings were becoming the same as that of an immature child.
I had lost these kinds of feelings a long time ago.
Why must I feel this way again?
Chapter 525
Forbidden Fruit
"She's cute huh?" I heard a voice in my ear.
I jumped and spun around.
"Akira! What the..?"
He gave a little chuckle and flashed a knowing smile.
"I'm using the bathroom." He threw a towel at me.
"We've got some things to do today, don't be a slacker."
I smirked. "Whatever."
He clapped me on the shoulder and ambled out of the room.
I stared at his back.
Sure, he was a smart-ass as always.
But that was strange.
What was that about?
Chapter 526
Forbidden Fruit
When I got to the men's bathroom, Akira wasn't there.
I didn't think anything of it.
He had a weird sense of humor.
He was probably just teasing as usual.
I smiled inwardly. My friends... they were an odd bunch.
Yet, this trip will bring us closer together than ever.
We were going to have a great time.
Especially since I promised her after all.
Chapter 527
Forbidden Fruit
"Wake up you sleepyhead!" Miko smacked him with a pillow as hard as she could.
We all laughed at the lack of response.
"Is this guy dead?"
The sleeping miracle of Soshi was still out cold.
Everyone had finished their morning routines already but he hadn't even stirred.
Seeming rather determined, she finally decided to fetch a cup of water.
The cold water did the trick.
As soon as she poured, he jumped and released a string of incoherent curses.
I tackled him, laughing.
It was the start of a good day perhaps.
I would leave my worries behind.
Chapter 528
Forbidden Fruit
The maid brought us a feast for breakfast,
delicate dishes of all kinds in multicolors,
well enough to satisfy our deprived stomachs.
Time pressed and too eager to embark on our adventures however,
there was no time to savor each bite.
Instead, all over the table were maps, travel brochures and books.
"It must be so pretty there!"
"Well, we'll soon find out."
"I can't wait to go!"
Soon, with our route planned and gear packed,
we bade a quick farewell to the innkeeper,
shouldering our backpacks and trudging away from our sanctuary.
Into a land of the utmost grace and beauty.
Chapter 529
Forbidden Fruit
We had to take the train as usual.
Here in Kyoto, everything was less crowded,
and more refined; people held an air of elegance.
For thousands of years, Kyoto was a powerful imperial capital,
cultured and founded on graceful traditions.
The spring air itself harboured this same spirit.
I took a deep breath.
It was definitely refreshing.
There were no regrets about coming here.
Chapter 530
Forbidden Fruit
"This is amazing!" I heard the wonder in her voice.
Airu spun slowly around in a circle in awe of the scene in front of us.
Pausing every now and then,
she would snap a few pictures with wide eyes,
like that of a child, until the breeze caught her hair,
brushing it into her face.
We had reached our destination within a few minutes by train,
putting us at the edge of Higashiyama District.
As expected, the beauty of Kyoto's gardens was beyond our imagination.
The precipice of divine inspired architecture and the serenity of nature.
Trees and flowers, budding into a blaze of vibrant colors.
Bird call from branch to branch, dancing in the spring air.
Each step brought us under the canopies of ancient trees,
whispering gentle stories of the old.
Here, it was like all worry could be extinguished.
A secluded world away from reality.
Chapter 531
Forbidden Fruit
We stopped by a river,
next to overhanging canopies
and a quiet wooden bridge.
We reached Maruyama Park, one of the most famous in all of Japan.
As always, there was quite a substantial amount of visitors.
This year, it had been quite warm.
We could see the cherry blossoms beginning to bud and bloom.
Soon they will fill the sky with pinks and whites,
the palette of spring.
Most of the time, we were silent.
There was perhaps only the sound of our cameras clicking
and low awe-filled chatter of other tourists.
The beauty had rendered us speechless.
Chapter 532
Forbidden Fruit
I felt Airu come up beside me.
She smiled.
"Let's take a picture?"
I smiled back. "Yeah."
We asked Miko to take the picture.
"1, 2, 3!"
Airu's arm snaked through my own and I felt her lean close against me,
the smell of her hair wafting over me.
"Cheese!"
Behind us, heaven became our background.
The trees reflected in the calm stream,
the subtle curve of the bridge,
a lush assortment of soft pastel colors.
Nothing could describe the scene.
The camera would never be able to capture all that we've experienced.
It all felt like a dream.
A dream of only a few days.
We smiled again, making sure we looked happy for the picture.
This happiness... would it end?
A few days was all it would last.
Chapter 533
Forbidden Fruit
The pictures didn't stop,
everywhere we went,
were scenes captured forever.
Airu made sure to take a photo with just the both of us,
before gathering the others.
I knew the pictures were important.
Our memories one day would fail to remember.
This dream one day would cease to exist.
Even though pictures were not even enough to tell our stories,
yet, the pictures were the only proof of its existence.
For a few days, we were in paradise.
Chapter 534
Forbidden Fruit
From shrine to shrine, park to park,
the entire district was adorned with wonders.
We were only at the beginning of our pilgrimage,
since the beauty did not stop within this district.
All throughout Kyoto were sudden escapades into serenity,
a patch of paradise, the only remnants of past glories.
As if paradise was only available in history.
We stopped by a quiet restaurant in the recesses of an old street,
framed by rustic wooden walls for a quick meal,
moving on before the day waned.
"We're heading here next!"
"The Philosopher's Walk."
Chapter 535
Forbidden Fruit
"Oh, I've heard about it!"
"It should be really pretty."
"Yeah, it's where couples," Soshi stressed, glancing meaningfully at Takashi. "frequent."
Soshi received a punch on the shoulder as a reply.
Juria seemed to blush.
"Well, let's go!" Miko grabbed Soshi's arm and tugged him along.
Above, the sun smiled down at us, warm and bright,
painting golden rays across the pale blue sky.
The sun would only get brighter and stronger,
spring on its way to welcome summer soon.
I felt someone brush against my arm.
Chapter 536
Forbidden Fruit
"Airu?"
She was a step behind me.
"Nothing." She looked away.
I offered her my arm.
"Eh?" Her surprise was apparent, her cheeks flushed with rose.
"Come on, let's go."
She leaned closer.
I felt a hand reach around my arm hesitantly,
warm against my jacket.
Couple?
We weren't like that right?
Chapter 537
Forbidden Fruit
The walk was long but we didn't mind one bit.
With Airu in tow, it felt rather comforting.
Knowing that we would support each other through thick and thin.
That was something irreplaceable.
We weren't a couple. That term would not work for us.
Nor have I felt this way about someone before.
It was different.
It didn't seem like "love".
I couldn't decide what the word "love" means anymore.
I just knew we would help pick each other up, wherever we fall.
That in itself should be enough.
Chapter 538
Forbidden Fruit
Every now and then we passed by parts of the city,
bustling with noise and a hunger for efficiency.
Then, we would retreat into the peaceful suburbs,
old wooden houses and shacks lining our path.
As abruptly as we had left, we returned to sparsely populated areas,
thick with trees and a view of the great mountains to the right.
Such was the rhythm of life in Kyoto.
Airu smiled. "Somehow, I've never been happier."
She moved closer and pressed up against me.
"Yeah... this has been amazing."
"Don't regret coming here hmm?" She laughed quietly.
"Nope. Guess not."
"I'm glad you came with us, Seiji. I'll remember this forever."
I smiled back. "I will too."
I had to wonder what she was thinking however.
Did she think the same way I did?
Chapter 539
Forbidden Fruit
Our steps matched eventually.
Each step that she took however,
had a light spring to it -
as if she was a cheerful child.
She was still wrapped around my arm,
every now and then smiling to herself,
looking at our feet lost in thought.
We were on the Philosopher's Walk.
On one side a steep drop met with the canal below.
On the other side were little wooden houses here and there.
Somehow, this narrow path was the most unspoiled of all Kyoto.
The cherry blossoms above were starting to open up,
pinks and dark reds broke through the green.
Like the wings of some heavenly creature,
they embraced all those underneath.
There was only peace and quiet.
Birds and the crunch of our feet on the ground.
There was certainly nothing more beautiful.
Chapter 540
Forbidden Fruit
"What are you thinking about?" I asked her.
Ahead, the others were a fair distance away,
leaving us in our own world of two.
She smiled. "This is so nostalgic. Memories."
"Want to tell me about it?"
"I'm just so glad you're the one here with me now."
She rested her head against my shoulder.
I hesitated but she didn't notice.
"Before my sister died, my parents once took us here."
"I was little, but I still remember how happy we were."
Tears started to gather in her eyes.
"Mom and dad were holding my hands.
Sister was up in front spinning around in circles
as the cherry blossoms drifted down."
"I was so happy."
Chapter 541
Forbidden Fruit
She sighed. "Luckily, I've got you now." She smiled again.
"Well. A few days?" She added reluctantly.
"But this is my second time here. I'm glad it is another happy time."
"At least, the Philosopher's Walk won't give sad thoughts."
I looked up at the blossoms.
How many stories have you heard?
Those hurting, those crying, those happy, those in love.
Thoughts and memories that are left lingering here.
But from these memories the story continues on.
I smiled at her.
"Sad or happy, they will become our memories."
"And we will live on."
Chapter 542
Forbidden Fruit ii
We realized we were alone now.
Everyone else somehow disappeared.
Too caught up in our own thoughts were we.
"We're behind. Let's catch up with them."
She nodded.
I grabbed her hand.
I felt her surprise as I pulled her along.
I wasn't sure why I did that either.
Yet, it was the only right thing to do.
Chapter 543
Forbidden Fruit ii
Her hand was warm against mine, our fingers entwining.
I didn't look back as we ran, but somehow, I could feel her smiling.
It felt different. It wasn't like anything I've felt before.
Her hand was comfortable in mine.
But it didn't melt into my own quietly.
Instead, it made me want to continue running forever.
"There they are!"
Chapter 544
Forbidden Fruit ii
"You guys are so slow!"
"Oh, let them enjoy their private moment." Soshi teased.
"Shush!" Airu blushed and let go of my hand quickly.
The others looked at us suspiciously.
"Well, let's get going." I had to change the topic.
Miko grabbed Airu and Juria's arms,
leaving the four of us behind.
We grinned and followed.
At that moment, I realized we all had changed.
Like we had grown up.
It wasn't just me.
Everyone else had too.
Chapter 545
Forbidden Fruit ii
"So how's Juria?" I winked at Takashi.
He grinned triumphantly. "She said yes."
"You asked her last night?"
Soshi came between us and draped his arms on our shoulders.
"Yeah, I guess."
"I'm happy for you." I smiled.
"It's about time you got a girlfriend."
We chuckled.
"He's the nerdy guy, this must be early for him!" Soshi patted his head.
Takashi laughed and tried to swat him back but to no avail,
Soshi managing to escape somehow.
"Hey come back here!" Takashi ran after him.
As I watched their commotion, I couldn't help but smile.
We still had the kid in us.
I was relieved.
Chapter 546
Forbidden Fruit ii
"What about your end?"
Akira came up beside me now,
watching as the other two ran around noisily.
"My end?"
He was looking straight ahead, emotionless.
"Airu."
I hesitated. What did he know about us?
"What do you mean? Everything's going fine-"
"You know exactly what I mean." He didn't bother to stop.
I narrowed my eyebrows, putting on a bothered expression.
He was still looking forward.
What is he trying to get at?
Chapter 547
Forbidden Fruit ii
"You know exactly what I mean." He repeated.
"No, I don't really. What's going on Akira?"
He gave me a hard look.
I felt my blood boiling.
Who did he think he was?
Suddenly, he smirked.
And suddenly, I wanted to punch in his smirking face.
"What's your problem?" I stopped in my tracks.
He shrugged and continued his pace.
Then he stopped.
"You never deserved Aoi."
Chapter 548
Forbidden Fruit ii
"What?" My fists trembled.
"You never deserved her."
"Shut the hell up."
"You were the cause of everything."
"What are you talking about?"
"Everything happened because of you."
"You don't know what I've been through."
"You don't know what you did." He snarled.
"When did you become like this?"
"Ever since you came into the picture."
"Fuck off Akira."
There was silence for a little while.
Everyone was far off in the distance.
If I pummelled his face into the ground right now, no one would see.
There was no way he could be saying all this.
I had cherished Aoi with everything I've got.
But he didn't stop. "And now this."
Chapter 549
Forbidden Fruit ii
"What?"
"Now you're letting the slut all over you."
"Who the hell are you calling slut?"
He smiled at me. "You know who."
"Don't beat around the bush, Aki-pan."
I used his old nickname.
One that I hadn't in years.
One that would for sure make him angry.
I watched as he clenched his fists.
Then, he continued.
"Airu. The slut."
Chapter 550
Forbidden Fruit ii
The next instant, he was on the ground.
Then I was on the ground.
I had made sure to hit him with all my strength.
But his small frame didn't skip a beat.
I felt his fist driven into my stomach,
sudden pain burning through my blood,
exploding into my head.
The world was spinning around us,
the pinks flashing overhead
as the rays of the sun pierced through the branches.
But he wasn't strong.
I managed to push him down into the dirt below.
I raised my fist high, prepared to strike.
Chapter 551
Forbidden Fruit ii
I clenched my fist.
"Hit me."
He grinned crookedly, blood smeared over his face.
There was nothing I hated more than this look.
I remembered the same look many years ago.
A sandy playground.
Scorching sun beating down on us.
Sweat soaked shirts and dirt-filled shoes.
A ring of kids around us chanting "fight!"
But hadn't things changed between us?
Why was he still acting this way?
"Hit me. I deserve it don't I?" He said again.
I drew back my arm.
"Akira!!"
Chapter 552
Forbidden Fruit ii
"Seiji! Stop!!"
Just as I was about to swing, someone tackled me.
"What's wrong with you??"
Airu shouted at me.
I blinked at her blankly.
In front of me, Soshi was holding back a struggling Akira.
"Seiji! I'm going to kill you!" He was shouting hysterically now.
"What on earth happened??" Takashi pulled me up.
Suddenly, all the fight left me.
What happened?
Chapter 553
Forbidden Fruit ii
"Seiji needed someone to beat sense into him." Akira spat.
"Do it then! But don't you dare insult her, Akira!"
There was only fury in my eyes. I didn't care about anything around me.
All I could see was his smirk and crazed eyes in his frail frame.
My fists trembled in anticipation.
I could imagine driving my fist into his face again and again.
I felt arms holding me back.
Let me closer. Let me at him.
There was something in him that I wanted to destroy.
Chapter 554
Forbidden Fruit ii
"Oh so honorable aren't you?" He smirked at me.
I lunged forward but these arms wouldn't let go.
"Just stop! Both of you!"
Airu stood between us, tears streaming down her face.
I stopped. Don't cry. Please.
Akira grew silent.
As abruptly as it had started, all became silent.
The pink petals above stared at us.
We had broken the peace.
Chapter 555
Forbidden Fruit ii
We stared at each other.
I waited. For someone to yell at me again.
Ask me why I hit him.
Hate me for hitting him.
Hate me, Airu.
Hate me, Aoi.
Hate me for ruining the trip.
He told me it was my fault.
Everything was my fault.
Instead, there was silence.
Silence was something I never wanted.
Chapter 556
Forbidden Fruit ii
Then, he shoved Soshi aside.
Without a word, he spun around and left.
Uncertain of what to do, no one moved.
No one said a word.
Was silence the best answer?
Somehow, silence knew all.
There wasn't anything left to say.
I didn't belong here.
I realized the truth.
I didn't belong in a place with a false sense of hope,
a false sense of joy,
a false sense of peace.
Chapter 557
Forbidden Fruit ii
"What the hell happened between you two?"
Takashi shouted at me.
I shrugged.
There was nothing I could say.
The things he said, weren't totally wrong.
The things he said, I already knew.
Didn't I?
I just hated hearing it.
I couldn't stand him saying it.
Someone weaker than me.
Chapter 558
Forbidden Fruit ii
Suddenly, I felt someone hug me.
Tightly.
Two arms wrapped around my waist.
I looked down.
It was Airu.
I stared blankly ahead.
What was she doing?
Didn't she hate me?
"Why..."
Chapter 559
Forbidden Fruit ii
"He said something about me right?"
"What..?"
"The one he insulted was me."
She stepped back and looked at me with teary eyes.
"I know what he thinks of me, Seiji."
Everyone else stared at us, clueless,
or acting clueless as to what was going on.
I shrugged. "I just wanted to hit him."
She shook her head.
"Seiji...I know."
"What do you know? I said, I just wanted to hit him."
Takashi shoved me.
Chapter 560
Forbidden Fruit ii
"Stop acting tough."
He pushed me again hard. "Or I'll kill you too."
"All this is because you are acting tough."
"Be honest."
I glared at him. "What do you know?"
"We all know a lot more than you Seiji."
"Trust us."
"I ruined the trip for you."
They hung their heads, looking down.
Above, the sunlight streamed through the branches above.
It was past noon and slowly, the sun was sinking behind the horizon.
"Seems like I always ruin things."
Chapter 561
Forbidden Fruit ii
Takashi snorted. "What are you talking about? Not everything has to do with you."
"There were many other things that happened, that had nothing to do with you." Juria added.
"Just because you're stuck in your own little world." Takashi kicked a rock down the path.
There was silence again.
My fists were gone now, hands at my side.
"Believe us, we know what's going on."
"This isn't Akira's first time. I nearly hit him too."
Soshi muttered.
"That guy is always on our backs."
"He's always so damn impulsive!"
"But I guess so are you Seiji..." Soshi shrugged.
I narrowed my eyes.
That was probably true.
Chapter 562
Forbidden Fruit ii
Takashi exhaled loudly, a reluctant acceptance of truth.
"Yet, the things he says aren't all wrong."
We stepped to the side as a few joggers passed by.
My eyes followed them till they disappeared behind a humble wooden shack.
Slowly, my racing mind and wound nerves unravelled,
tension between us drifting up to the sakura trees above.
Another string of memories, another string of thoughts,
unspoken, collecting like dew on the branches.
The peace of the trees gradually returned,
its gentle pink petals were forgiving.
"Is he going to be alright?"
Miko glanced in the direction of the street Akira went.
"His relatives live around here. He knows his way around."
"Oh."
Chapter 563
Forbidden Fruit ii
"We'll be alright." Juria said quietly, as if to reassure herself.
"We've been through a lot already. This won't change anything."
Soshi nodded. "Cause we're your friends. Akira's too."
"Both of you are wrong."
"But whatever happened between you two...we won't blame you."
"We probably know a lot more than you think."
Miko pushed Airu forward.
Airu blushed. "What?"
Chapter 564
Forbidden Fruit ii
"Seiji, we support you in whatever decisions you make." Takashi said.
"We'll never completely understand everything you've gone through." Juria's voice was soft.
"Or what you are going through. But don't think we're stupid!" Miko smiled.
"Friends are your comrades. We'll fight together. For the future." Soshi grinned.
"Friends are family." Airu took a step closer.
I nodded. "You're right."
"We'll talk to Akira too."
I smiled weakly. "Thanks."
It was all true, no doubt.
I would try to trust them.
Yet, I had a feeling everything wasn't as simple as they tried to make it.
Chapter 565
Forbidden Fruit ii
Later that evening, Akira was nowhere to be seen.
For the rest of the day, it was quiet,
only brief polite conversation exchanged.
We returned to the inn without much incident.
Exhausted beyond measure, we decided to turn in early.
In time for dinner that we slowly became accustomed to.
The rest of the sights we came across were as magnificent as ever.
Airu was beside me every step of the way, clinging on to me without fail.
But whenever I saw her I could only be reminded of Takashi's haunting words.
That they would support whatever decision I made.
I didn't want a decision.
I didn't want to have to make any decision.
I only wished that nothing had changed.
Yet, that was impossible.
Everything had changed.
The future is the only destination I had.
But the peace in my heart hadn't been restored.
Chapter 566
Forbidden Fruit ii
"Where's Akira?"
It was ten thirty already.
There were a few worried glances.
Takashi waved a hand. "He'll be fine."
"That guy is tough."
"Plus, he knows this place."
"And his relatives are around."
We smiled nervously,
breathing out slowly in an attempt to relax.
"Tomorrow is the rock festival isn't it?"
Juria nodded. "Mhm. For two days."
"This is our last night here then."
Chapter 567
Forbidden Fruit ii
"Tomorrow night we'll be camping out."
"Sounds like fun!"
"Camping out under the stars and all..." Airu's voice was dreamy.
"Yeah... with all the bugs?" Miko said in disgust.
We laughed.
"We brought the tents right?"
Soshi looked around frantically. "Oops. I forgot."
"What??"
Chapter 568
Forbidden Fruit ii
Juria soon looked murderous.
But Soshi started cracking up.
"I'm just kidding."
"But it'll be quite cold huh?"
Miko raised her hand high into the air.
"It's okay, I've got thick blankets for everyone!"
"Oh my god! Let's make a campfire there!"
"Yes! Yes!"
"Roasted marshmallows!"
"Campfire songs?"
Suddenly our spirits were returning.
The warmth of a campfire.
The excitement of another journey into the unknown.
No matter what we will keep moving.
Chapter 569
Forbidden Fruit ii
I just had to hope the uncertain future would become brighter.
Whatever choices I made, they would become my future.
Airu met my gaze.
She gave me a gentle smile.
As if she always knew what I was thinking.
Whatever choices I would make tomorrow,
a week from now, a month from now, a year from now.
Whatever choices I would make as the me of tomorrow.
They would be my choices.
They would become my future.
And we only had to keep moving.
Without looking back.
Chapter 570
Forbidden Fruit iii
Akira never returned that night.
We called his phone many times,
only to receive a message saying the line couldn't connect.
Struggling hard not to become dispirited,
we could only go to sleep,
praying that all would be okay.
Kyoto was not a dangerous city.
He only wanted some time alone.
Was what we convinced ourselves.
Chapter 571
Forbidden Fruit iii
My sleep was troubled.
I could see Akira in my mind,
blood smeared over his face,
under me as I hit him over and over.
The whole time, he was smirking.
Then I saw Airu floating through my mind,
her soft smile, her warm arms,
the smell of her hair.
Most striking of all, was this mysterious feeling about her.
So strong yet weak at the same time.
Yet, there was something I couldn't understand no matter how hard I tried.
She was slowly getting further and further away.
Then I saw Aoi, her sleeping form.
Quiet, silent, peaceful.
Suddenly, she sat up calling my name.
As she did, memories streamed through my mind,
the past happiness that had been long gone.
Aoi...
Chapter 572
Forbidden Fruit iii
I felt myself roll over involuntarily,
as if my body didn't belong to me.
The windows' paper shutters were slightly ajar.
I could see the moon from here.
The moon hung so high above.
Would I ever reach it?
Chapter 573
Forbidden Fruit iii
Next morning,
we woke up to a surprise.
"Akira!"
Miko hugged him.
"Welcome back." Soshi gave him a forced smile.
I stared at him through sleepy eyes.
He stared back.
All was silent.
No one dared to breathe.
What was going to happen now?
Suddenly, he came towards me.
Chapter 574
Forbidden Fruit iii
I took a step back in defense, but he came to a halt in front of me.
"I..I just wanted to say I'm sorry, Seiji." He met my eyes.
All I could see was fierce determination.
"It was stupid of me to say all those things."
"I don't really know what you're going through."
I waved him off. "Nah. I'm sorry for getting angry and hitting you."
I looked apologetically at him.
Then I gave him a smile.
But there was still something in him.
That I wanted to hit.
What was it?
Chapter 575
Forbidden Fruit iii
"I'm glad you're alright." Airu breathed out in relief.
Akira smirked. "It was nothing. His punch tickled."
We all laughed, tension in the air disappearing,
as suddenly as he had appeared.
"You cocky jerk." I joked.
I put my arm on his shoulder. "Nice to see you back."
"Yeah."
Everyone else beamed.
Yet, was this all an act?
Were they for real?
Chapter 576
Forbidden Fruit iii
Shortly after, with our bags packed,
our stomachs full, spirits restored,
we headed away from our inn, reluctantly.
It was the last time we would stroll on its wooden walkways,
pass by its gardens and ponds, soak in its hot bath,
greet our gentle hosts and maids.
Here, we left behind our mark.
Our thoughts. Our feelings.
Our laughter. Our tears.
All we will take away now was what we came with,
our memories and our pictures.
To prove our existence, we stopped by the entrance.
Next to the gates and on wooden fencing were many etchings,
carvings and handwritten messages, delicately embroidered by previous guests.
Like us, they have left behind their mark.
Like us, they will move on. To the future.
Chapter 577
Forbidden Fruit iii
"Here, pass me the marker." Takashi's voice was barely above a whisper.
In the cover of the early morning bird song, and muted sun,
all was quiet and silent, as if the whole world was tuned in to our breathing.
I heard the scritch-scratch of the permanent marker,
weaving dark lines and curls into the wood.
Takashi. Juria. A heart in between.
I watched as they beamed at each other warmly.
Juria stole his marker and painted a decorative border,
the message's own protective shield.
It would be untouched from then on.
I felt a nudge.
"Let's write our names." Airu smiled.
Chapter 578
Forbidden Fruit iii
I followed her to our own little corner, untouched wood.
She passed me a marker.
"Hold on a sec."
I had another idea.
From my pocket I pulled out a small folding knife.
She looked astonished. "Hey, good idea!"
I grinned and pulled out the little blade.
Slowly, I etched the characters of my name on to the wood.
Seiji Narimiya.
Then,
Here lies our memories. Here begins our future.
I took a step back and examined it.
I was satisfied. It looked perfect.
Permanent, frozen in time, written in wood.
Chapter 579
Forbidden Fruit iii
Airu looked at me thoughtfully.
Then she took the knife from my hands.
"Watch this."
Her tongue between her lips in concentration,
she drew in her name under my own.
For a moment, I was wondering if she would carve out a heart,
like Takashi and Juria. How would I react to that?
I was relieved when she simply continued my phrase.
Memories that will never be forgotten. A future that would never be forsaken.
She smiled.
"We're quite the philosophers aren't we?" I chuckled.
She laughed. "After the Philosopher's Walk, who isn't?"
Below our message she added another line.
Never put boys in a public bathtub.
I stared at her incredulous before cracking up.
Soon, we were both laughing,
even as we left the inn, never to return again.
Chapter 580
Forbidden Fruit iii
A few hours later, we found ourselves hurtling out of the city,
buildings becoming scarcer and scarcer.
It was like this every time we left a city.
Our comfort zone, left behind.
Wandering off into the unknown.
The beauty and peace of Kyoto would forever remain behind us.
Before long, we would forget what we have seen or witnessed.
Travellers who did not belong there could only spectate,
before moving on towards the future.
For the locals, it was their reality, their past and present.
"Farewell, Kyoto."
Chapter 581
Forbidden Fruit iii
"You guys want some?"
Juria offered.
"Always prepared aren't you?" I grinned.
Takashi rubbed her head playfully.
"Never stops eating. She's going to make me fat."
The pocky stick crunched between my teeth.
Airu was nodding off beside me already, arms wrapped around herself.
Like always I had an unsuspecting urge to embrace her.
Instead I put my jacket over her.
The jacket that she bought for me.
I couldn't forget how she tried to help me get up.
I would not forget that.
Chapter 582
Forbidden Fruit iii
We reached the outskirts of Osaka soon.
By now we could make out the cherry blossoms here and there.
Osaka was a warmer climate and enjoyed an earlier blooming season.
Still it was a bit cool to be camping out.
Yet that wouldn't stop the music fanatics awaiting their favourite bands.
Most bands that were performing were small time acts,
based out of their local scenes, hoping to pursue their dreams.
With nothing to lose, with everything to gain.
The music festival showcased the best of these small town groups.
But one particular stage was rumored to feature bigger artists.
I had heard YUI was performing. It would be a surprise act.
Being the biggest influence to Aoi and I, I could not miss this.
After all, Yuya was right.
I could not forget who I was and where my roots are.
Things may change but perhaps my talents will not.
Music runs through my blood.
Just the thought of the festival made my heart beat faster.
Chapter 583
Forbidden Fruit iii
Beside me, Airu had collapsed onto my shoulder.
But I could not dose off.
My nerves were tingling with
excitement each passing moment.
Each passing train station,
every fiber of my body resonated
with the same anticipation.
I knew as soon as I saw the stage
I would once again long to be on it.
Like a strange incurable illness,
my fingers would itch and my feet would tap.
It was like that every time.
A feeling I could not part with.
Chapter 584
Forbidden Fruit iii
Yet, it had taken so long to return to the core of who I am.
With so many things that happened,
it was only now,
that I could feel the rhythm in me again.
The beat of my heart's true desires?
If I could cast away all my worries and thoughts,
if I could forget everyone around me,
if I could be in the present moment,
I could feel it again.
But did Airu feel it too?
I hoped she would.
Chapter 585
Forbidden Fruit iii
"Wake up!"
I nudged her.
She shifted and curled up into a ball.
"Mmm.."
"We're getting off without you!" I joked.
But she wouldn't budge.
In exasperation,
I put her arm on my shoulder,
hefting her up against me.
She was still out cold.
"Geez..."
Chapter 586
Forbidden Fruit iii
It took quite a bit of work to try to wake her.
But as if she was under a spell, our attempts were in vain.
Soon, without a choice, I had her on my back,
struggling to keep her from falling,
her hair lightly caressing my neck.
Despite Akira's sidelong glances,
I couldn't help but feel responsible for her.
Her strength only contrasted her weakness
in moments such as these,
as if she always had been desperately trying to hide her true nature.
She had always helped me so much,
like she owed me something.
Instead, I probably owed her more.
I wouldn't hesitate to protect her if she needed it.
Chapter 587
Forbidden Fruit iii
We had a long walk before we made it to the campgrounds.
The music festival wasn't that far off.
I could hear the distant sounds of roaring guitars
and screeching microphones echoing into the sky,
while musicians prepared for the battle up ahead.
It was like war.
The war inside the mind,
as anxiety and nervousness clouded judgement,
as self-confidence was challenged.
The war of the body,
as the performers' energy and skill was tested,
as proper care and treatment of health became vital.
The war between emotions,
as passion and inspiration was brought out,
as the band's chemistry and mood began to set the stage.
The war of people,
as workers and volunteers were sorted out and organized,
as conflicts arise and cooperation was shaken.
Those who would win were the ones who gained victory over it all.
Chapter 588
Forbidden Fruit iii
The sun was slowly sinking.
It was late into the afternoon now,
and we just arrived at the festival grounds,
legs aching from the long hike.
Stretching before us were booths upon booths of canvas covered tables,
selling band merchandise, food, drinks, and sponsored products,
a myriad of colors and smells.
As far as the eye could see,
people swarmed back and forth.
Just like downtown Tokyo.
"This is Area D I believe."
Juria said, checking a flimsy paper brochure a lady was handing out.
"There are seven stages..." She continued.
"That's huge." Miko's voice was full of bewilderment.
"Where shall we go?"
"Food first! I'm starving!"
Chapter 589
Forbidden Fruit iii
At the sound of food,
Airu finally woke up,
surprised to find herself on my back.
She was blushing when I set her down.
"You totally passed out." I patted her head.
"I'm sorry..."
She looked embarassed but kept up the pace beside me.
"You were quite cute looking."
I heard my voice say.
I could hardly believe what I just said.
Chapter 590
Forbidden Fruit iii
She hesitated for a moment.
"Wait, what?"
I shrugged. "Nothing much."
She looked at me for a moment but kept silent.
We found ourselves laden with food a while later,
Miko and Juria responsible for most of the purchases.
Instead of sitting down at the picnic tables with the others,
we decided to roam.
"What kind of music are you into?"
I was curious. I realized I really didn't know that much about Airu.
"I kind of listen to everything?" She smiled.
"Oh I see." I was mildly disappointed.
Chapter 591
Forbidden Fruit iii
"But you know,"
She said, glancing at me.
"I've listened to YUI for years."
As if she read my mind.
I stared at her for a bit.
"You know, you always seem to read my mind."
She giggled.
"You're just easy to read." She winked.
We were leaving the food stalls now,
in the distance we could see Stage D,
rising up like a lumbering behemoth
from the green turf of the campgrounds.
Here the crowds grew thinner.
Either they were near the picnic tables
or flocking towards the stage.
"Hey, let's check that stuff out!"
Chapter 592
Forbidden Fruit iii
She grabbed my hand and pulled me along,
making a beeline straight for the merchandise booths.
"This way."
Her fingers curled tightly around mine.
Not letting go.
Nothing felt more right.
I was beginning to accept my feelings.
It was a scary thought.
Should it be my mind or my heart that makes decisions?
I stayed a step behind her, so she couldn't see my expression.
I felt as confused as my facial expression probably let on.
Somethings just can't be right.
Yet, was it wrong?
Chapter 593
Forbidden Fruit iii
"No way!"
She exclaimed, rushing towards the t-shirts.
"Collective Dystrophy stuff!"
"What's that?"
"I saw them perform at a live house."
She laughed as she picked up one of the shirts,
holding it up against herself to check for size.
White and red on black. Typical grunge fonts.
"They're really good!"
I grinned. "Weird name."
"They sing in English." She said matter-of-factly.
"Wow." I was now genuinely interested by her taste in music.
"I've got to hear them."
She nodded. "Let's ask them where they're performing."
Chapter 594
Forbidden Fruit iii
"They're playing here, Stage D at 6 o'clock, miss."
The person at the booth was tattooed all over his arms,
dressed in one of the black t-shirts, tight over his skinny frame.
There weren't many people around this area, as these were the lesser known bands.
Most flocked towards Stages A and B where the bigger acts were performing.
I checked my phone. 5:10.
There was still two more hours before YUI would perform.
I must make it.
"Thank you!"
Airu beamed at me, grinning from ear to ear,
like a small child, eyes twinkling mischievously.
I remembered when Aoi took me to the live house last year.
She had the same look on her face. Excitement.
Uncontainable happiness.
I wished Airu the same.
That she would continue to shine like this.
Forever.
Chapter 595
Forbidden Fruit iii
"We've got to see them play."
She was almost jumping up and down.
I put my hand on her shoulders, laughing.
"Calm down. We'll go."
Her eyes lit up. "Alright. You said so."
"Yeah."
She glanced at her watch. "Should we meet up with the others?"
"We still got a little time, I think."
Triumphantly, she steered us towards the next set of booths.
I glanced one last time at the black shirt.
Chapter 596
Forbidden Fruit iii
Two onigiri after, we were out of our provisions.
The rest of the booths were relatively similar,
Stage D only hosted various independent bands,
most of which were unknown to the world.
However, Stage D also had the largest number
of talent searchers and representatives from companies
looking for the next breakthrough.
We decided to return to the picnic area.
With half an hour left,
we had to meet with the others,
before heading towards the stages.
Chapter 597
Forbidden Fruit iii
There were seas of people now, rushing to and fro,
hoping to claim better patches of turf to stand on.
The food stalls were clearing up,
most have finished their hasty meals.
Not surprisingly, litter was at a minimum.
Japanese people never littered.
Airu tugged on my arm.
"Where did they go?"
Where we had last seen them, were only empty tables.
Chapter 598
Forbidden Fruit iii
"Do we have the right place?" I checked the map.
She traced her finger along the paper. "Yeah, this is the place."
"Give them a call."
Someone picked up soon after.
All we could hear was the roaring of an enthusiastic crowd.
Something was starting.
"Airu!" We heard Miko's voice, full of anticipation, over the noise.
"We're splitting up!"
"Meet--" There was a loud blare of an announcer. "--Stage B at 7!"
Stage B at 7. YUI would be there.
"Miko? Where are you??"
"Stage C! Stage C! Crazy stuff!"
I heard Miko's voice screaming.
Then silence.
Chapter 599
Forbidden Fruit iii
She stared at her phone blankly.
"That was rather loud." I stated the obvious.
She laughed.
"Yeah..." There was a little pause. "So where are we going now?"
I shrugged. "They're at Stage C right?"
"Mhmm."
Stage C was at least another 10 minute walk away from here.
I glanced at the time.
"We're heading to Stage D."
Her eyes lit up. "Really?"
I smiled and put a hand on her head.
"You wanted to right?"
She grinned. "Well, let's go then."
"We'll meet up with them later."
Chapter 600
Forbidden Fruit iii
Stage D was still relatively empty,
people were drifting here and there;
most of the excitement was probably at the other areas.
In the distance, I could almost pick up the noise of the crowd beyond the trees.
Would it have been better if we joined the others?
"I see them!"
Airu pointed towards the backstage area.
Behind a temporary row of curtains
I could make out a few figures
adjusting their instruments.
"Collective Dystrophy." I chuckled at the name.
The outdoor stage opened up to the sky, for all to see.
Without a sufficient cover,
if the weather didn't comply,
all below would be soaked.
But Airu was only full of excitement,
looking this way and that, taking in the world about her.
I felt her high spirits rubbing off on me.
Chapter 601
Forbidden Fruit iii
We were nearly at the base of the stage, that rose as tall as us.
All around us a crowd was slowly gathering, minutes to showdown.
Airu flashed me a grin. "We're so close."
"I'm glad you're happy."
She replied with a grateful smile.
"Hey hold on a sec." I told her. "I'll be back soon."
"What?" She looked at me, confused. "Where are you going?"
I laughed. "I'm still hungry."
"It's about to start though!"
"I'll be quick!" I called, pushing my way through the crowd.
Her smile.
I'll make her smile even more.
Chapter 602
Forbidden Fruit iii
I made sure I ran as fast as I could.
My heart was pounding through my ribcage,
the sudden exhilaration of an adventure spreading through my muscles.
I wasn't sure what exactly I was doing.
But somehow, it felt right.
Perhaps I was learning to trust my intuition.
Behind me I heard the announcer's voice testing the microphones.
It was starting!
Hurry!
Chapter 603
Forbidden Fruit iii
Instead of the food stalls,
I headed the other direction.
"Oh, you're back." The person said cordially.
I picked it up as soon as my eyes found it.
There it was.
The same one.
This one right?
"For your girlfriend hmm?" He winked.
I opened my mouth to interrupt but all of a sudden, I wasn't sure what to say.
Instead, I waited til he finished folding it roughly into a square.
"Thanks."
"Have fun, kid."
Chapter 604
Forbidden Fruit iii
Forcing down a grin, I rushed back towards the stage.
To find it filled now, packed and crammed body against body.
"I want to hear some noise!" The announcer said.
I swore under my breath.
Where was she now?
Without a choice, I ran towards the front.
Chapter 605
Forbidden Fruit iii
"Hey, you can't go this way!"
Someone was standing directly in front of me now.
I found myself surrounded by a few volunteers in bright purple festival shirts.
A group of mismatched figures, some obviously overweight,
while some looked more like coat hangers.
"My friend is in there."
I pointed just over the barricade fence.
"Well, you'll have to walk around."
"Oh, okay."
I shrugged.
"Good luck finding her, man."
I thanked them and turned back where I came from.
I waited.
Chapter 606
Forbidden Fruit iii
"We now welcome our first band, straight out of Chiba City."
"Collective Dystrophy!"
I heard the crowd roar and cheer, waving little glowsticks and wands.
I thought I heard Airu's voice.
That was my cue.
The volunteers had turned their attention towards the stage.
Within seconds, I had cleared the fence, landing firmly on the other side,
despite the protests of the volunteer squad.
Soon, they lost me in the crowd, jostling this way and that.
I was free.
Chapter 607
Forbidden Fruit iii
"Airu." I whispered in her ear.
She jumped a little, shaken out of her reverie.
"You!" She punched my shoulder.
"Where did you go??" Her eyes looked angry.
I shrugged. "Just put this on."
"Eh?"
I pulled the shirt down over her neck.
Her eyes changed from anger to astonishment.
It fit her.
Perfectly.
I grinned, triumphant.
Chapter 608
Forbidden Fruit iii
"You.. idiot."
"What?"
"You left me here, alone."
"Don't you know? I thought you wouldn't come back."
I stared at her speechless.
"Why would I do that?"
She looked down at her new shirt.
Then she smiled.
The biggest, brightest smile I've ever seen her smile.
"Thank you." She hugged me, squeezing me with her arms tightly.
Her body was warm against mine.
Even as the crowd cheered all around,
I heard nothing but Airu's heart against me.