ICHITORA

It just turns out that you wanted it to be a surprise.

You fished the phone out of your pocket, dialing right away Chifuyu’s mobile number. It didn’t take long for him to answer.

“Hey, is he already there?”

“I should be the one asking you that!” You can’t help but notice your hands starting to sweat for no reason. You rubbed it off hard on your pants as you walked back and forth in front of your door. “He hasn’t arrived yet.”

Chifuyu chuckled on the other line. “Relax, I’m just kidding. Don’t be so tense. He’s still with me.” There was a hum and a short silence. “We’re still at Baji-san’s grave. He’s still currently having a conversation with him.”

You nodded as if he could actually see you. “Okay, let me know if you’re on your way here.”

—

As Chifuyu hung up, there he saw Kazutora’s figure making his way towards their car. His blooming face innocently stared at him as he got on the car’s shotgun seat. His mind is puzzled as to why Chifuyu is grinning like an idiot while staring at his phone.

“Since when did you get a girlfriend for you to smile like that?” He asked with a smirk plastered on his face. Chifuyu started the car engine, shaking his head to answer his question.

“Dumbass. Is it wrong to smile at your phone for no reason?”

“Yes. That simply implies how idiotic you are.”

“Shut up!”

Kazutora was musing by the window as Chifuyu drives. Both of them in silence. It was then Kazutora realized how familiar the road signages are.

Wait…

His head perked up, glancing at his companion. “Aren’t we going back to the pet shop?”

Chifuyu didn’t answer. Now the yellow-eyed lad raised a brow in curiosity. “Oi, Chifuyu.”

“I’m not deaf.”

“And you’re not a mute as well,” Kazutora snorted. “Where are we going? This is literally going towards...”

Oh.

Oh.

“You literally forgot to pay your girlfriend a visit. Are you even serious?” Chifuyu’s teal eyes are set on the road. His other hand is on the wheel while the other adjusted his black necktie that rests on top of his black button-up sleeves.

“It’s not like that, fucker. I just want to finish all the remaining business before I head home.”

“Well, I think it’s now time to head home.”

What?

Kazutora fell silent for a while, making Chifuyu continue. “It’s your birthday. Take this day off as a birthday gift.”

The other young man beamed. He playfully punches on Chifuyu’s shoulder as his heart now picks up some pace. He was partly excited to see you and spend his day with you that’s why. To him, it didn’t matter how long you have been together, it’s always the same feeling he looks forward to every day.

The feeling of being home.

—

Your breathing hitched as your eyes squinted on the window. There’s no mistaking it, it’s that black car Kazutora usually uses when he fetches you at your work or when going on a date— that if Chifuyu was not too busy to lend it.

Now your heart starts pounding as if you’ve gone through a marathon. You can see it, Kazutora’s lone figure, getting out of the car as it soon starts to skid backward. You simpered.

—

Kazutora’s eyes are shining by the time he gets out of the elevator, just a few doors away from your shared apartment. He’ll take you out today on a dinner date, not knowing what he is about to get into. He’s certain of one thing though, it’s the fact that you’ll be delighted to see him arrive early.

He looks at his watch before twisting the doorknob.

“Love I’m—“

Pak!

Kazutora flinched at the sudden sound of confetti just a meter away from his face.

“Happy birthday, Tora!!” you yelled with the edges of your lips reaching your ears. The shock painted on Kazutora’s face is evident, yet his involuntary beam shows together with his ears reddening.

You leaped to embrace him tightly, burying your nose on the crook on his neck as he wrapped his arms around your waist. He didn’t mind you hanging onto him like that, in fact, he loves it when you perform such action. You can feel each other’s hearts screaming at each other in enthusiasm.

It took a little while before you decided to pull out from the hug. This allowed him to roam his eyes, appreciating all the decorations without a word.

Wow. Just wow.

He’s amused.

He remembers the birthdays he spent alone in his cold home. Those times where his mother didn’t give a damn about his special day.

You took out a customized party hat in a tiger pattern, putting it on his head. His doe eyes widened for a moment. He called out to your name, chuckling. “Hey, I am not a kid.”

“And?” You tilted your head. “Allow yourself to be one today, my love.”

Kazutora was taken aback by that.

You and Kazutora had known each other for years, been in a relationship for so long that you know exactly how your farts smell. You have been with each other for ups and downs to which is why he thought you could’ve been pertaining to something else with your reply.

He cannot explain how his chest wanted to burst out from joy. The way he scans the place for another round changed the vibe it gives— he could almost think this is fantasy.

Hanemiya Kazutora is indeed home.

You pulled the hem of his cream-colored long sleeves, taking him to the dining area where the dishes you both cooked and ordered are arranged. You saw the way his eyes glimmered as he wrapped an arm around your waist.

Kazutora kissed your temple. “Wow... I... I... You prepared so much for me I can’t— I don’t know what to say.”

“There’s no need for words, Tora.” You replied. “Having you here with me is what’s important, plus to have fun!” You took out another party hat that has the same design as Kazutora’s, wearing it.

Have fun.

Allow yourself to be one.

Kazutora’s childhood was robbed from him, it included his capability to enjoy his birthdays the way a kid should enjoy theirs, and here’s the two of you, celebrating in a different theme.

He doesn’t know how to keep all these feelings in his heart, that he can’t even bring to say it.

You held his hand, his simple facial expressions were already enough to express his thoughts that clogged in his throat. “You deserve the world, Kazutora.”

His day couldn’t get any better.

He pulled you again into a tight hug, peppering your face with some kisses. There he whispered, “I love you so much.”

You looked up to him, tip-toeing to give him a peck on his lips.

“’m sorry!” Kazutora chuckled lightly. He took a deep breath, pushing on again to the road as if nothing happened.

“Did you see something strange again?”

Kazutora shook his head. He continued driving, eyes gazing at the rearview mirror of the black vehicle he was maneuvering. He just saw two kids exchange punches. If he was not mistaken, he would assume that one of them was not experienced in fighting by the way he attacked, let alone his clothing screaming as if he is coming from an average family.

How long has it been? A month or two? Kazutora was no longer certain how long it had been ever since he got released with Chifuyu waiting for him. It was all fresh, everything seemed new to his eyes that he couldn't help observing as much as he could. It was until he saw those children on the sidewalk, just near a newly opened arcade. It was a scene that shallowly brought entertainment to him, given that he felt like a part of his past just replayed without any warning.

“𝘏𝘦𝘺!” 𝘒𝘢𝘻𝘶𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘢 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳’𝘴 𝘸𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘵, 𝘨𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮.

“𝘌𝘩? 𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘻𝘪𝘯𝘨~” 𝘏𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥.

“𝘋𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘭𝘢𝘺 𝘢 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥!”

𝘉𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘦𝘬 𝘢𝘭𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴.

“𝘋𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘬 𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘦!” 𝘏𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘸 𝘢 𝘱𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘩. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘑𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘸𝘰 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘣𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘢𝘥𝘦.

“Where are we headed to again?” Kazutora inquired slowing down over a traffic light that speaks yellow.

“Takemichi’s.”

“Oh.” Kazutora simply raised his eyebrows from the answer. It’s been a long time as well since he last saw that lad. Just remembering his name brings a light smile to his face. That blond eye opener who mourns for everyone. “Why?”

“I just have something to take from him.” Chifuyu’s tone was serious, just as how his eyes are glued on the road as if he manipulates the wheels they’re using.

Kazutora didn’t bother asking anymore and proceeded, allowing the other man to guide his directions. This will be the time where he will be seeing someone else he knew aside from Chifuyu— and if he’s going to be honest with himself, he doesn’t know if he’s ready to see him, rather if he’s ready to be seen by people who were linked to him right from the very beginning.

His hands are sweating from the thought.

“Stay here for a while,” said Chifuyu as soon as they halted. Kazutora’s doe eyes shone shapes of confusion but dared not to ask why. It must be important that he has yet to know what is it about. He only laid back on his seat, fidgeting with the hem of his clothes and scanning the building before him. It was only a simple two-floored house painted in white. Nothing too interesting, to him at least. As much as possible he wouldn’t want to do anything that would irk Chifuyu, not when he has been showing him kindness the moment he was born to this world once again.

A knock almost startled him, his innocent face even more puzzled to see Chifuyu through the tinted window, trying to see him inside.

“Let’s go.” He beamed a little. Kazutora followed like a puppy, making the car door click before leaving. The vibe in the place was pleasing, there then he remembered Takemichi. Of course, it’s him. It seemed like everywhere Takemichi goes and touches cleanses the impurities that live within, giving it a memento of peace.

I wonder how he is right now.

He almost bumped at Chifuyu’s figure due to his musings, not noticing him stopping by another door made with wood. The raven head glanced at him, gesturing to him to open the door.

“What?”

“Open the door.”

“Why?”

“What do you mean why? Just open it.” Chifuyu chuckled. Weird.

Kazutora could only crease his forehead. He then twisted the knob, pushing it open—

He froze.

There was a pair of eyes, and then another, and more—

All eyes are on him.

Kazutora’s certain his heart dropped its beat.

Chifuyu smirked, walking past him. “Come on in, Kazutora-kun.”

“Oi, Kazutora.” He couldn’t believe his ears. The deep voice simply came from a man in a simple plain blue shirt and gray shorts, relaxing on one of the seats. “It’s been a while.”

Wait.

His brain cells buffered upon processing what’s before him.

There in front of him was a backyard behind Takemichi’s place, where the Tokyo Manji Gang members waited for him, just in their casual outfits. Draken, now with black hair, sits with someone who had a scar on his face while Mitsuya was on the side, fanning the steak he’s grilling together with a taller lad with blue hair. Pah chin was drinking with another guy he isn’t much familiar with, and then the rest were chit chatting matters that didn't register in his ears.

𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴... 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘢𝘯 𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵?

“... Kazutora-kun?” The called lad sharply glanced back, seeing Takemichi who also possessed dark-colored hair, now resting naturally on his head. He smiled widely at him, eyes concaving. “Finally, you’re here!”

This is overwhelming Kazutora. It makes him want to explode. He only expected to meet him and now there he acts like a statue in front of everyone else. Takemichi tilted his head. “Happy birthday! I’m sorry this is all we could do for ya.”

The words and letters are in chaos inside Kazutora, he tries to trawl the words to explain what’s going on, only to end up fruitless. Takemichi escorted him to Draken, now beside Chifuyu who’s in his work clothes. The twigs and branches inside a circle formed with rocks at the center caught Kazutora’s eyes as they reached their short destination.

Draken eyed his companion, introducing him to Kazutora. “He’s Seishu. Seishu, he’s Kazutora.”

They nodded at each other without a word. Kazutora simply is afraid that he’d end up stuttering since the shock still hasn’t calmed down in his system. His eyes scrutinized Draken’s face. He still couldn’t believe it— his friend, just a meter away from him.

“The fuck are you staring at?” Draken questioned, breaking Kazutora’s train of thoughts. He lets out a silent laugh. “You looked like you’re seeing ghosts.”

“Let’s let him recover,” Chifuyu said, crossing his arms. “I’ll introduce him to everyone else later.”

“How has it been, Kazutora-kun? I’m happy to see you again.” Takemichi entered, drinking a glass of juice, “Chifuyu told us that today’s your birthday so we tried setting this up so that it can also cater to everyone.”

Oh.

𝘖𝘩.

It’s his birthday today. He nearly forgot.

Kazutora had been spending his years in a four-wall cell on his own that he forgot about celebrating days already.

“You... you didn’t have to do this.”

“Oh, come on, it’s gonna be your birthday after getting released,” Draken responded. “A little gathering won’t hurt.”

The rest of the time was spent trying to catch up with each other. Kazutora nearly bit his tongue on each unfamiliar person being introduced to him by Chifuyu as they sauntered. There were few exchanges of words, eating together and finally gathering in front of a bonfire as soon as the moon decided to join their party. Silence never landed on them as there will be one murmur after another, teasing and shoulder lifting laughter.

It was as if they didn’t have any problem at all concerning themselves.

Kazutora watched the blaze dancing in front of them, eyes penetrating the brightest color it emits.

“𝘓𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯, 𝘒𝘢𝘻𝘶𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘢,” 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘦 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘵 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘳, 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘧𝘧. “𝘛𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘢 𝘷𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘦.”

𝘒𝘢𝘻𝘶𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘢’𝘴 𝘦𝘺𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘤𝘶𝘮𝘣𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘭𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘶𝘦𝘴, 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘮.

“𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘦. 𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘰𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘴, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘢𝘳𝘦...” 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘺 𝘨𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘵 𝘒𝘢𝘻𝘶𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘢. “𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴.”

“... 𝘉𝘢𝘫𝘪...”

Kazutora’s eyes are threatening him with some tears the longer he stares at it.

His very first birthday where he made his first genuine friend who wouldn’t befriend him for any benefit. His best birthday that engraves in his head that assured him that he’s no longer alone.

Baji Keisuke.

“...Thank you.” He mumbled mindlessly at the fire, audible to the people close to him.

“Don’t be.” Draken patted his back. “Remember? You’re always a part of Toman.”

On his other side, Mitsuya spoke with his eyes closed, a grin plastered on his face. “You’ve repented and paid whatever you have done in the past. You deserve to move on and start again, Kazutora.”

“Baji-kun would tell you the same for sure.” Takemichi butted in.

There he can’t hold it.

Kazutora bit his lips as his tears raced down his cheeks. He couldn’t control it. He couldn’t control the way his heart was jumping in both joy and longingness. He’s having a hard time breathing.

In this fire, he’s surrounded by people he used to loathe. People are here to be with him, giving him a warm welcome after the cage finally opened for him to go. The weights on his shoulders remained, but now that he’s here, it was as if he was being told by the universe that it’s okay. Oh god, if this is a dream, he wishes not to wake up anymore.

But thank goodness, it wasn’t.

It’s real.

He’s not alone.

Baji isn’t the only strength he can rely on.

“If 𝘩𝘦’𝘴 here...” Draken paused, eyes also praying some wishes over the fire. “He’d absolutely wish you the best.”

Ah, right.

They didn’t have to know who he is pertaining to. After all, he’s the only person who isn’t present— where little did they know that as they think of him, there he stands on one of the rooftops among the towers of Shibuya, gazing at the city lights with darkened circles under his deep eyes. The wind plays with his white dyed hair, allowing to give emphasis towards the iconic tattoo on his nape.

Kazutora heaved a sigh. He highly hoped for him to be alright wherever he may be as well... Even if he knew he wasn't.

Perhaps his day wouldn’t be complete without the yearning emotions knocking on his chest.

But today is different.

The way his sandy-colored eyes look at the enthusiastic fire also became different. He communicated with it as it said, 𝘞𝘦𝘭𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬, 𝘒𝘢𝘻𝘶𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘢.

There he makes his second vow to it, that one way or another he’d stick with them, that he has more friends who neither wouldn’t be biased to his past sins nor take advantage of him.

That he is Kazutora Hanemiya,

A smoke made its appearance not too far from them, probably just a few cars away. It looked raging mad by the way its darkness occupies the sky. Kazutora raised his eyebrows.

“Huh? What was that?” Chifuyu mumbled under his breath. He propped his arm on the door and leaned his head on his fist. Kazutora did the same on the opposite side, hoping to take a glimpse of what’s going on outside.

“Damn these kids!” They overheard an annoyed old man on the neighboring vehicle. It was so loud that not even the music could cover it. Kazutora tilted his head more.

It was a small car on fire. Barely recognizable as the firemen did their best to put it off. The only thing that’s left was its bones, scrap materials no one would use.

So, that’s why the traffic became heavier.

Kazutora tucked his yellow side bangs on his ear, smirking as he squinted his eyes for a bit.

“What a lame ass.” Another person said, neither Chifuyu nor Kazutora made an effort to respond. Kazutora glanced at Chifuyu, watching the raven haired man with a tiny smile on his lips. For that moment it was as if they shared one brain cell. One brain cell that provides a huge impact straight down to their hearts.

It was some kids’ doing they say?

Of course, it only reminds them of a certain person.

Both of them didn’t have the guts to bring it up though. Their heads are connected under one idea, yet they prefer to keep it to themselves, putting it as a way of telepathic communication. It didn’t have to be talked about.

It wasn’t as if it’s a sensitive subject for Kazutora and Chifuyu, in fact the memories of the past with 𝘩𝘪𝘮 stood to be the teas they share when they have nothing else to do in the pet shop.

And how funny it could be that 𝘩𝘦 is the reason why both of them are settled in the car at the moment.

It didn’t take too long before they arrived, taking the items they brought with them until they halted in a specific family grave.

Now, the air feels like chunks of solids that are heavy to breathe on. The wind passed by from time to time, the leaves reminding them to remain reverent within their stay. Chifuyu sat like what he usually does, not minding his slacks attracting some dirt. He took a few foods out of the plastic bag, not missing the iconic peyoung yakisoba he and Baji used to share. Alongside it was a small cake and a few cans of drinks.

Kazutora, with his hair resting on his nape and shoulders, followed, going down like a frog to take another yakisoba with him. His eyes scanned the engraved characters on the marbled tombstone that didn’t look like one to him. For him, the characters before his eyes just morphed into a person he also had been longing to see for a long time.

Oh lord, he wanted to hug him so bad.

If the deities would grant him permission to see and embrace him again, he will not hesitate to do so and not let go.

“Oi, Baji.” He greeted. Chifuyu said nothing, preparing to split the yakisoba to offer it to Baji. Kazutora was certain he had something to say. He has thought of it multiple times on their way here as if he’s memorizing a script, however the way his heart clenches made him lose all the words he knew. “I...”

“... I saw a car on fire a while back.” That caught Chifuyu’s attention. He gazed at Kazutora. The wind blows, allowing him to see how his sandy eyes shone upon his words.

Within Kazutora’s smile, it reminded him of the first best birthday he ever had in his entire childhood. The memory that stayed with him after his brain forced to control, alt, delete the existence of his traumatic past.

The vehicle was burning so bright in their eyes. Just the same way it ignited their friendship the same day. Before Kazutora could even gather himself, he already had a friend who would dedicate himself to stay by his side.

September 16. It wasn’t a bad day at all, he just got the best gift he would treasure to this very day.

It aches.

Time flies as some would say, but the memories don't. The memories that can contain different emotions every second just stays. It knows how to keep up.

The longer Kazutora envisions Baji sitting in front of them, the more he wanted to tear up.

But he can’t.

His tears are too shy to show their existence. He does not intend this day to go down like that.

“I’d always share my birthday with you, you know that.” Kazutora’s voice almost wavered. Chifuyu bit his lower lip, looking down. There weren’t many words, yet the feeling felt too overwhelming to take in, it naturally oozes out from them without them knowing.

Kazutora sighed. His heart feels like it's dropping every second. He’s breathing under the water and every inhale stings.

“We used to eat peyoung yakisoba together,” Kazutora whispered, just enough for Chifuyu to hear. “One for you, and one for me.” His hand was trembling a bit as he opened the food. “But I guess this time you have to split it with this dude beside me, huh.”

Chifuyu smirked. He raised his noodle like a glass of wine. “Happy birthday.”

The containers collide. “Cheers.”

Perhaps it wasn’t just his birthday the two of them are celebrating.

Kazutora would rather like to put it as the birth of his and Baji’s precious friendship.

“Baji and I exchanged punches the very first time we met,” Kazutora stated just a little while as he and Chifuyu alternatively told Baji some stories of how their lives went. The grave stood there like a diary, both hoping for their words to reach the deceased wherever he will be. There then the older lad tilted his head, emitting a jingling sound from his earring. “He pierced my ear the same day.”

—

Chifuyu chuckled. “Well, that’s Baji-san for you.” He smiled. “I remember Mikey-kun telling me a story one time where Baji-san used to name himself Edward while he was named Michael— Mikey for short, just when they were still kids.”

Kazutora stood in disbelief. He beamed, averting his eyes to the Baji family grave. “Really? What a lame-ass. I never have heard of that.”

“I couldn’t believe it as well. I tried imagining myself calling him Edward-san instead of Baji and I just couldn’t take it seriously from there.”

They snickered.

“Edward,” Kazutora mumbled, both of them laughing again. “Who the fuck would name themselves as Edward?”

“You know, if Baji-san hears us right now he’ll be annoyed.”

“Oh, what is he gonna do? Rise from his grave? Because if the answer is yes then I wouldn’t stop calling him Edward.”

It was a simple conversation, yet it lifted up some of the unspoken woes they do their best to keep within themselves. It became like this. It was as if Baji was just with them. This place had become their comfort zone that they are a few steps away from committing weird shit right in front of his innocent tombstone.

Kazutora sighed, their chuckles fading out. He placed his hands in his pockets. “... Mikey.”

He didn’t know why the name slipped out of his mouth, hence the name also brings him back some memories, rather reminding him of one of the reasons why things have ended up like this.

And as if he was a summoning expert, he felt a presence on his back.

Kazutora didn’t move.

Chifuyu’s eyes widened for a split second with the newly arrived person’s appearance, still in his casual black tees and checkered coat, paired with black pants. His hair that is as dark as night, danced to the chilly breeze of the wind.

The light atmosphere they built up had been adulterated. None of them said a word. Kazutora didn’t have to look back at who it was. Just the aura was enough to be aware of who’s with them without a doubt.

Mikey stood with hands in a praying position, shutting his eyes with his silent prayers for a few moments before straightening his posture. All of them were like statues, waiting for someone to try to break the silence. The yellow-eyed lad breathed slowly, feeling his heart slowing down in heartbeat.

Manjiro Sano.

Kazutora wouldn’t deny how awkward they are currently. Mikey forgave him and they ended on good terms. yet the graze in their friendship can no longer be mended. They’re now left as two individuals who pay respect to each other, without resentment and without regret as to how they want to put it.

“I—“

“It’s been a while, Baji,” Mikey said. His voice never ceased to strangle Kazutora in his words while Chifuyu was just there, paying witness to what can unfold next. “I hope you’re happy.”

Kazutora smiled. A genuine one. “... He is.”

Chifuyu, Kazutora, Mikey— seeing the three of them together all fine with each other would surely give relief to Baji wherever he may be, that’s what Kazutora would like to think. At least that thought comforts the weight he always carry with him since the beginning.

He didn’t die in vain.

They all looked at the grave with their sincere eyes, as if it was telling Baji that he could always be at peace. It was mixed with emotions of missing a loved one with a glint of happiness no word can describe. It felt like a story ending where one way or another they have to bid their farewell and go on.

“The others... they’re waiting.”

Chifuyu and Kazutora glanced at him, faces painted with confusion. There then they noticed a group of people not too far away from them. The latter’s doe eyes thought he was looking at something unreal, chest rose and fell— puzzled. The edges of his lips stretched involuntarily all the way towards his ears. He couldn’t believe he’d be seeing them all at once today. Not when he hadn't seen them together for years.

Pah chin, Draken, Mitsuya—

It’s the rest of the Toman founding members.

What he heard next was another surprise.

𝘔𝘪𝘬𝘦𝘺…

“Kazutora, happy birthday.”

Thus, the rest of the day was Chifuyu tagging along with Tokyo Manji Gang’s founding members for Kazutora’s birthday that also served as a small, unexpected reunion.

“I already ordered some food on UberEats. Thank you very much, Kazutora!”

The gang cackled.

“O-oi! Mikey— I didn’t even bring my wallet! Chifuyu!”

“Doesn’t sound like a me-problem at all. That’s on you, you bastard.”

“Don’t worry too much, Kazutora. Pah Chin got us!” says Mitsuya in his gentle voice.

“Oi, why am I even dragged into this?!”

“Mikey!” He jolted awake.

Mikey rubbed his eyes, still in a floating headspace. Another raging knock on his door accompanied by a panicked female voice. “Mikey! Open up!”

He groaned, forcing his body out of his bed. What could be the matter this time? Was it important enough to ruin his peaceful slumber?

“What?” He responded, laziness and annoyance laced in his voice as soon as he opened the door. Standing before him is his sister, Emma Sano, holding a candle with her. That made Mikey look around. There he noticed that the halls of their house were already near to pitch black, only being flash by the lightning that fleets from time to time. “No power?”

Emma nodded. Mikey inquired again, scratching his head. “Where’s brother?”

“Downstairs, he asked me to call for you.”

“Is there something wrong?”

No reply. Emma just turned to her heel, walking ahead. It left Mikey with no choice but to follow without thinking of anything. Thunders again are screaming in a distance, followed by the ruffling of leaves, dancing under the graceful drizzles from the sky where the moon refuses to bear appearance.

Mikey inhaled. Emma stopped by the kitchen, extending her arm for her brother to take the candle she’s holding. The lad raised a brow on her, rubbing his face as if doing so provides his head some clarity. Emma said, “Take it.”

“Why? You have two hands.”

“Just take it!”

Mikey is still pulling his brain cells together, he is sure there’s something off yet he couldn’t bring his words out of his lungs to ask. Therefore, he did what he was asked to take—

Just as his fingers wrapped around the item, Emma hurried and blew the candle herself.

“Huh—“

A confetti popped.

“Happy birthday, Mikey!!”

The lights switched on. And before Mikey could even realize, the greeting was a mixture of voices, all yelling at his face.

They belong to his friends who are just in front of him with their dining table in between.

Tokyo Manji Gang founding members.

The five of them are present, all in their cute Kigurumi. They were all smiling at him from ear to ear.

“What the fuck are you wearing?”

They snickered as Draken answered. “Stop being a piece of shit on your birthday, Mikey. Emma insisted we wear this one.”

Speaking of which, Mikey gazed at his side, losing sight of Emma that was no longer where she used to be. He looked around, eyes finally darting on two figures that were approaching them.

It was Emma and Shinichiro, also in their cute animal onesies. Followed by their grandfather who wears the same! He was watching them, arms crossed and eyes in a concave curve.

Manjiro Sano couldn’t help but smile widely.

“This is unfair. Why don’t I get to have my own Kigurumi?” He whined.

“You’ll get yours later!” Mitsuya said in his calm, soothing voice. “This surprise was Emma’s idea.”

“Besides, it’s better to celebrate your birthday with toman’s founding members first.” Pah chin added. “Takemichi and the others will come by tomorrow.”

Mikey gazed at their wall clock.

Ah. He almost forgot.

It is indeed his birthday. August 20.

“Blow the cake, Mikey!” Kazutora brought a funny-looking cake in the shape of dorayaki. It was a mess, the icing wasn’t placed too smoothly. He placed the cake on the table before defending himself. “Baji and I did that in their house. We did our best, okay!?”

Even Mitsuya covered his mouth to prevent himself from snickering. Baji bumped his shoulders to him. “Hey don’t be like that!”

“Well, there was an attempt,” Mitsuya replied.

Mikey didn’t say anything. His eyes are on the food as if it flashes him the memories of his past.

Two years ago, Kazutora and Baji broke into Shinichiro's motorbike shop in an attempt to steal a bike that was supposed to be his in the first place. The same day, two years ago when Kazutora nearly put an end to Shinichiro's life in the same motorbike shop due to panic and in order to protect his friend, Baji.

It turns out that Shinichiro was fast on his reflexes when Baji screamed Kazutora’s name, catching the strong whip of bolt cutter in his hand that left the said body part to be injured. The same time two years ago where they got scolded by Mikey’s brother and they both couldn’t stop apologizing— especially Kazutora who trembled and bathed in sweat.

And now here they are, offering him a cake they baked themselves instead.

The most important individuals in his life stand here before him.

His heart feels full.

“Oi, why are you tearing up, Mikey?” Baji asked, smirking. “Don’t tell me you’re too touched?”

“Shut up.”

“Oh, wait we forgot the flag, sorry.” They laughed as Kazutora pierced a small flag on the center of the cake with a small candle.

“These kids said they’d be having a sleepover, but I don’t think they’d even wink the entire night,” Shinichiro commented, making his way towards the group. “Quick, Manjirou. Make a wish.”

Mikey stared at the cake for a while, losing in the train of his thoughts.

Is there even something he could wish for?

He inhaled, taking a grasp of the overwhelming feeling in his chest. These people are definitely the best. He closed his eyes.

I wish we could stay like this forever.

Mikey blew the candle off.

And then it all went black.

The candle no longer flickers under the dim light as if it whispers secrecy. The thunder roars outside with the howling wind— all within the night’s deepest stay. There he paid no mind, consciousness still in the realm of dreams—

“Mikey!” He kept his eyes open.

He blinked, deep, black, eyes barely shutting close god knows how long. Mind still in a floating headspace he wished not to end. Another raging knock on his door— “Mikey, open up!”

No, it wasn’t Emma.

There wasn’t Emma at all. There no longer is Emma anymore.

Not even his friends in cute onesies telling him he will also have his own are present. There’s no Pah chin, no Draken, no Mitsuya— neither Baji and Kazutora are there.

No Shinichiro Sano is around.

It was just all a wave of delusion Mikey formulated in his head.

Eleven years ago, his brother was accidentally murdered by his friend, Kazutora. Pah chin went to jail. Baji sacrificed himself just for him and Kazutora. Emma, including Izana whom he later knew to be his brother, died the same night.

Now there he sits, in front of a small cupcake with a candle in the center. The fog of imagination he used to fill his heart, now vanishing into the thin air, leaving him empty.

The candle didn’t have any light. It was dead, just like how he feels inside. It’s his birthday today, and yet every second of his moment felt nothing new, still harrowing on how things have turned out— on how he turned out that he had to do actions like this.

“Quick, Manjirou. Make a wish.”

“Happy birthday, Mikey!!”