Episode 4:
Akado was having a stroll at the pier, thinking and reflecting about what he have done so far. He knew that he has done wrong in the past. He knew that he has to change for the better. This time, he must make use of every chance to get close to Haruka.
However, He remembered about Miyuki. He thought to himself: What have I done? Am I really betraying Miyuki, for loving another?
"No. You don't think in that manner."
"Mi..Miyuki?!"
"Do not be afraid. I'm here to say something to you. I know that you feel guilty for loving another, but it is time that you have to move on. It's time that you accept Haruka as your love. This I know. You really love her, don't you? I'll be happy for you..."
"Miyuki, please don't go. Miyuki? MIYUKI!!!"
Then, Akado woke up from his dream. Apparently, he received a message from Miyuki. He knew that Miyuki gave her blessings to him and Haruka.
Anyway, it was a Sunday morning.
A morning that everyone was looking forward to. Especially for someone who was looking forward to change his life.
He is Takeshi Nakamura, an ex-gangster, trying to fit in to society once again.
Currently, he is undergoing a group counselling session.
The counsellor asked the group, "So, how did you guys do today?"
"Feeling better. No problems here. Getting back on track, ma'am." Takeshi replied.
"That's great to hear. So, how about the rest? Any news from you guys?"
"Err... I have one..." A quiet girl hesitantly replied.
"Yes. What is it, Satomi?"
"You see, no one talks to me. I always feel left out in class. And the guy that I have a crush on, just don't like me."
"I see. Does anyone wish to help her? C'mon, are we all in a group or what?"
"I'll help her, if that is possible. But I don't think that she wants to talk to a troublemaker like me..."
"Don't worry. You are here, alright? Remember that you tell everyone here that you are feeling better? This might be the time for you to make new friends. Takeshi, I encourage that as this is your first step to re-integrate into society."
"I see. Thanks, ma'am."
"No problem."
Outside the counselling room, Takeshi approached Satomi.
"Hi, Satomi."
"Excuse me, what do you want from me?"
"I just want to be your friend. That is all. I'm so sorry if I scared you. Anyway, my name is Takeshi Nakamura."
"Hello, my name is Satomi Tanaka."
"So, are you still schooling?"
"Yeah. I'm now studying in Henderson Secondary School. How about you?"
"You see, I'm a school drop-out. Used to be a gangster, but now, I want to turn over a new leaf."
"But why? Aren't you suppose to be happy when you have money or power?"
"Nah. I don't like to harm others anymore. I am not that type of guy. I used to think like that. But now, I know it's time-wasting. Might as well be someone useful in society."
"I see. I have always wanted to become like you. But since you said being a gangster is not worth it, I'll take your word for it."
Takeshi took a look at his watch.
"My goodness! I'm late for work! Anyway, see you next week then, Satomi."
"Ok. Bye bye."
Takeshi then ran out of the building like a mad man. With hasten steps, he intends to get to his workplace just in time.
Meanwhile, Akado was on his way to work also. Yes, he works part-time at the video store.
Akado reached the video store on time. And then, Takeshi soon arrived.
However, Takeshi collided with Akado and then land on the DVD shelf. Luckily, no DVDs were damaged.
The boss of the store was furious.
"What is the meaning of this?! You guys are suppose to be here a minute ago!!"
"Sorry." Akado and Takeshi answered simultaneously. "We were caught in a traffic jam."
"Ok. Never mind. Clean up this mess."
"Yes, sir!"
Then, they tidied up the place.
During lunch time, Takeshi approched Akado and then they talked.
"So, Akado. How are you?"
"I'm fine, thanks. Anyway, why do you ask me this all of a sudden?"
"I know it's sudden. But you work here on Sundays so far, right?"
"Yeah. I guess so."
"Relax, my friend. I'm just here to take care of the staff, since I am the senior staff here."
"I see. Maybe we can meet each other some time."
"Yup. Other than this place. Man, we must go out and have a cup of coffee."
"Maybe next time. I've got school tomorrow."
"Okok. I was just about to ask you if you are free tonight. Maybe we can talk some more."
"I see. Anyway, I got to go. I'll see ya next week."
"Take care!"
"Yeah, you too."
So, Akado went back to his apartment, doing his revision.
Suddenly, someone called him on his cell phone. It was an unknown caller.
Akado picked up the phone.
"Hello. Who is this speaking?"
"Hi there, Akado. I'm Takeshi."
"Hey! How did you get my cell phone number?"
"You gave your name card, remember?"
"Sorry. My bad. Anyway, what's up?"
"I was just thinking. Since you are not free to meet me, might as well have a phone call."
"I see. So, what do you want to tell me?"
"You see, I need your help in getting a girl to go out with me. I am a screw-up in these type of things, you know?"
"No problem. We'll see through it next time. Right now, I'm very busy. So, see you next week."
"OK. Take care."
"Bye bye!"
Akado then went back to his assignments.
Then again, he kept thinking about Haruka.
Maybe he should give her a call...
To be continued. |