A Day in the Life of Hisao

"Ugh, stupid Kenji and his feminist ideas caused me to stay awake almost straight through the night. Why would it be that my room made a better barricade than his own?"

I slowly rise from my bed. The room is holds a slight chill but I don't mind. I look over to my desk where the pills which keep me going lay. Now which ones do I need today? I take a list out of the drawer and look it over. So that one is the pink one, the other the blue and also that puke green colored one. The guys who make these things must really have interesting taste for I'm sure they color these things. I take a bottle of water out from under my bed and pop each pill. The clock on my desk is flashing 12:00.

"Crap, I forgot to reset my clock after Kenji unplugged everything. Emi isn't going to be too happy if I show up late. Those puppy-dog eyes will get to me for sure."

I dig my watch out of the drawn and see that I woke up on time. Guess my internal clock is already getting used to these morning runs. I change and head out the door.

I was still a bit tired after spending much of the night unable to fall asleep and let it show with my greeting to Emi.

"Morning Emi," yawning.

"Hisao, don't tell me you stayed up late last night."

"Well I did have some work to finish."

"You had all weekend. Why didn't you do it then?"

"Kenji was using my room as a blockade for most of yesterday; so I spent the time trying to kick him out."

"Hehe, I could see that as being a problem. Anyways, you look really tired. Maybe we should pass on you running today."

"Really?" I start to feel a slight ray of hope shining on my life.

"No," those hopes burn up faster than dried pine needles.

Her face is just too cute to resist as I start my stretches. She averts her eyes whenever she notices me looking at her. She really is a cute one. After I finish my stretches we begin with a slight jog and then slowly pick up the pace.

"Come on Hisao, you can do better than that."

I'm still a little tired so sluggish I am but Emi didn't have to go ahead of me like that. It is always nice to have someone to talk to when running. Eventually she laps me but decides to stick by me this time. Who would have thought I would be running again; even if it is only a slight run and with a cute girl such as this. A scene of the faithful day that changed my life replayed itself in my mind. Emi cuts the film off abruptly.

"Here, I guess I can run next to you and keep company. You can be done when you do as many laps as me."

"Isn't that a little unlikely seeing as you just completely lapped me?" I barely managed to get the words out as I was now starting to pant.

"Fast in the mind but not in the legs," I manage to pull off a slight laugh at her attempted humor.

After two more times around the track my head starts to go a little light. I can tell Emi is letting me run ahead of her so I can fulfill her little condition. Eventually I start coming up right behind her. My head is sagging to the ground but I push on. I keep telling myself, 'almost there,' when out of nowhere.

"His…" *crash*

My head aches like there is no tomorrow as my heart starts to beat faster. What was it I hit? Breathing heavily I try and pick myself off the ground but instead of feeling the texture of the track something soft and smooth takes its place. My eyes open slowly only to be met by a beautiful green shine that could make anyone loose themselves…wait something isn't right here. My hand instinctly squeezes what I know to be…my eyes wander down to where my hand is and the next sound confirms my suspicion.

"Hmmmm," It was Emi's breast!

"Ahhhhhh," I quickly retract my hand and stumble backwards. "E-emi…I-I'm sorry…I didn't mean…I…I…," Oh no.

I grab my chest and clench my teeth. Am I really going to die here? My heart starts beating totally out of pace but it didn't seem like any of the other times. This time it seemed…different, not a pain but just real sense of pleasure. No way am I getting off on a heart attack.

"Hisao!" Emi races over to where I landed after my retreat. Her eyes are full of tears and she is acting hysterical. "Hisao, speak to me! Oh, I have to get someone," I grab her arm before she runs away. My heart stood silent for a second and then started to act as though nothing but the fatigue of running took a toll.

I…I'll be alright Emi. Just a moment of shock that all."

"Are you sure you're okay?" She's still on high alert. "I feel like this is my fault, I…I shouldn't have pushed you so much in the running and then stop without any notice."

"It's alright Emi," She looks at me with tears still in her eyes. "You were only trying to push me because you want me to become stronger. Besides, it is I who should have been watching where I was running," I smile at her. "It's getting close to class time. Why don't we head back and get ready. I would hate to not have taken a shower before class; considering how sweaty I am." After having picked myself off the ground I reach out to give Emi a hand. She accepts and I pull her up of my own strength. It was as if I have become completely re-energized.

On the way back to the dorm Emi was constantly asking me if I was alright. She looked sad so I kept reassuring her that everything was fine.

"You know, Emi. Sometimes the best things in life are those that we have to slow down in order to acknowledge. Otherwise, you'll just pass them by without even knowing they exist," she blushes which in turn reminds me of another issue. "Don't worry about it. I won't tell anyone about our accident today." I also begin blushing after recalling those events. "This will just be a secret between you and me. No one else will ever know, agreed?"

"Agreed."

Emi and I had split before our corresponding dorms and I had just returned from the shower. I was half dressed for class when there was a knock at the door. I figured it was Kenji because he had just asked me for money last night and again in the bathroom. He sure is a persistent one. As I open the door I begin my rant.

"Kenji for the last time, I already said I don't have any more money." I stop and stare a good 5 seconds at who my guest was. Emi! I was shirtless so she could see the scars on my chest plain as day. "E-emi?" I slam the door when I realize what has happened. "Give me just a second." I frantically pick up my shirt and throw it on. I always said I wouldn't be ashamed of these scars but when the time came to it, I was. I guess this is how Hanako feels all the time, except she can't hide it as well as I can. I open the door once again.

"Sorry, about that. I ummm…just don't like to be seen by girls without my shirt on. I guess you could call me shy in some way, haha." I try to pull out a fake laugh but it seems that Emi already knows the reasons. She looks spaced out so I try to pull her back. "Earth to Emi, come in Emi."

"Huh…"

"You came here for some reason?"

"Oh, I wanted to give this to you earlier but I forgot." I notice a small box in her hands.

"What is it?" I open it up. "This is a lunchbox?"

"Yeah, I made it for you earlier this morning. I filled it with some good, healthy stuff for you."

"It looks delicious; I didn't know you could cook Emi."

"Well, I dabble."

She is so kind, always looking out for my health. Sometimes she over does it, but I know it's only because she cares. I wonder if she wants me to eat with her today.

"Thanks Emi. I know it will taste exceptional. Would you like me to eat with you and Rin on the roof today?"

"I actually have a meeting with the track team during lunch so I wouldn't be there and I think Rin is going to be in the art room but I'm not too sure."

"Alright, thanks again for the lunch though."

We exchange goodbyes and I get back to preparing for class. I had heard of girls preparing lunches for the guy they like but could this really be the reason. My mind flashes back to this morning. It wouldn't be too bad you know.

I enter class 3-3 before the bell rings to find Hanako sitting in the back of the room reading a book. I decide to go say hello and see what she was doing for lunch since I would rather not get pulled into another Council lunch. More than likely I'd end up paying again and Emi's lunch looks so tasteful I'd rather enjoy it today.

"Hey Hanako, how are you this morning?"

"Ah, Hisao…umm…good morning. I-I'm doing fine; how about you?"

"Oh, you know same old same old," I let out a laugh before hearing the rest of the students arrive along with the bell. Looks like Mutou is late again. Then a sound like a bat in the night reaches my ears or should I say my eyes because I could practically see the source without having to turn around.

"Hicchan!"

Misha appeared to be a loud one from the start and it seems that appearances are everything in this case.

"Hicchan!"

"Looks like I better get before Misha decides to force me to my seat. I'll talk to you later Hanako."

"S-sure."

I make my way towards the desk as Mutou finally decides to make his grand entrance.

"Sorry, to be late again but I was lost on the path of life."

That sounds so familiar yet I can't place my finger on the source. It was almost like it was read from a script. Oh well, another day another doughnut; and Misha had two, literally.

When the lunch bell rang Misha and Shizune had already left. I start packing up my things when I feel a slight tap on my shoulder.

"Yes….oh, it's you Hanako."

"Y-yes…..well, I was kind of hoping…..that you would join me and Lilly for lunch today."

Looks like I didn't have to ask. I smile at her.

"Sure, I would love to join you guys. Shall we walk there together?"

"S-sure…of course," She was completely red in the face. Is she really this shy? I finish packing everything into my bag and stash it under the desk for safe keeping.

"Alright then, let's get going."

On our way to the tea room I notice that many of the students are rushing to get outside. It appeared really nice and warm out but I rather spend the time indoors with Lilly and Hanako. Upon arriving at the tea room we are immediately greeted by Lilly.

"Hanako, is that you?"

It still astounds me to know that Lilly knows when someone enters a room like that. We weren't particularly loud so maybe she has a sixth sense or something. I suppose I best let her know I'm here.

"I'm here as well, Lilly. How's your day been thus far?"

I start chatting with Lilly about a rumor involving her and me that supposedly Kenji had started. She wonders how I knew and I responded that a mole told me. That's right, straight from the mouth of the one who can't see but a few feet in front of him; Kenji. Along with hitting me up for money this morning he also laid on a warning to stay away from Lilly which lead into me hearing the entire rumor.

"Hanako, would you like some tea?"

"Huhh…."

"I said would you care for some tea."

"Y-yes…oh, sorry I was ummm…just spaced out there for a second."

Hanako looked as though something was on her mind. Throughout the rest of lunch I keep my eye on her. At times she would look sad or appear to be thinking about something. I remember the first time I spoke to her in the library and how she was so secluded from me but recently she has become more open. We had even been talking about reading the same book as if we belonged to a book club. There already is one of those at the school but I feel it's best for us to have our own. I haven't been talking to her much during lunch but while I attempt to strike a conversation with her…

*Ding-Dong, Ding-Dong* "Oh, that must be the end of lunch."

I pack up the empty lunch box of Emi's and help clean things up. Lilly had refused at first but Hanako and I ended up convincing her anyways. Mmmmm that lunch was actually very good. I'll have to thank Emi when I see her again. By the time we finished it as was almost time for class.

"We'll be heading back to class Lilly. Do want us to accompany you?"

"Oh, no thank you. I'll be fine. Now hurry up or you'll be late."

"W-we'll be fine Lilly. Please, take care now."

"Hehe, I will."

We leave but find ourselves hearing the final bell before reaching the classroom. If Mutou doesn't mind Hanako sometimes, I'm sure he won't mind us together. I spoke to soon.

"Well, where have you two been this fine evening? You know, never mind. Just… try not to let it happen too often."

He couldn't possibly be thinking what I think he is. I'm nothing like that and neither is Hanako. Impure thoughts start to fill my mind. No, no this will in no way do. Hanako is nice but would I really desire our friendship to go that far. She is kind and pure hearted. We share the same interests in books and other things but…her smiling face pops into my head. I look past the scars on her face, thinking about my own, she really is a beautiful girl. Her shyness for some reason really makes me like her more, so cute.

I had been sitting in my desk and was now being pestered by Misha about what Hanako and I did. Why is it that everyone thinks that when a guy is with a girl they must have obviously been doing something? I would rather listen to Mutou's lecture; okay maybe not.

Here we go again. Looks like I wasn't free of the Council duo today after all.

"Come on Hicchan, we got a lot of work to do today."

"But I thought the school festival was the hardest part and we were going to have a break now that it was over."

Those two were completely in sync destroying any excuse I could give them. A great warrior never surrenders but I'm more like a lvl 3 mage in this case. I feel as though I am being dragged to the Council room so I guess I have to help.

"Alright Hicchan, we need to get all of these letters stamped and mailed by tonight for the morning pickup."

"You have got to be…..how many of these things are there?"

"Enough for maybe…a couple hours."

"And this is why I said you need more than three people," no way am I staying here that long. Why can't they recruit a new member or two so this work is split up more? Then again, I wouldn't want someone to suffer the same cruel fate. Okay, I would if I got out of it.

"But it's so much fun just the three of us together."

"That's not the way I…..wait, where are you going Shizune?"

"She's going to get us some drinks, be grateful."

A drink would be nice. I decide to give in for another day.

"Looks like Shicchan is back!"

"What kind of drink did you get me, Shizune?"

I notice she isn't carrying anything but signs something to Misha instead.

"They were all out. Guess we have been drinking too much lately, Wahaha!"

Not only do I not get a drink but now I get to hear that laugh again. Is this a punishment because of this morning? I know karma to be a tricky thing but really I feel as though one of those laughs gives me the right to be invisible and sneak into the girls shower.

I guess Mutou might have me pegged better than I know myself.

"Anyways, let's get to these envelops right!"

Shizune sits relatively close to me. I feel her aura rubbing against mine before I smell something in the air.

"Does anyone smell that?" I continue taking sniffs of the air trying to find the source. "I know that smell. Shizune….," The smell was coming from her person but it can't be what I think it is. "You smell…*sniff*….you smell…*sniff*…like my father's alcohol cabinet. Do you drink Shizune?"

I can't believe Shizune to be a drinker. Where would she have gotten it from anyways? An idea pops into my head along with a confounded theory. No f****ing way. That would be impossible and yet I wouldn't put it past her.

"Hicchan, can't you recognize a beautiful perfume when you smell one!"

"Per-perfume? Why would she be wearing perfume?"

"Don't you like it, Hicchan!"

Is that what girls think guys want now of days; a perfume that smells of alcohol. I notice Shizune's face turning red. I'm actually really scared right now; no I'm down right frightened.

"Evacuate, evacuate, women and children first! That means you Hicchan!" Misha pushes me out the door. "This is not going to be pretty."

Misha closes the door and I could swear I saw a flash of light go off through the cracks. Misha and I agree it is best I don't go back but before leaving I hear something like the ruffling of papers. I turn my head but the source of the sound eludes me, guess my imagination is getting the best of me. A nice walk would do me good.

The sun really is making it hot in comparison to the cold morning. I feel like walking in the garden to clear my mind. Along the way a few people I never met before were apologizing for the rumor they were spreading about me and Lilly. They tell me that as soon as they heard it was Kenji who started the rumor they disbanded it quickly. It seems like many people have the same impression of the guy as I do. Upon reaching the garden I notice someone familiar on the bench.

"May I share this seat with you?"

"H-hisao?" Lilly looks caught off guard at first but she quickly regains her elegant style.

"Yeah, it's me."

"Of course, please sit."

I sit beside her exponentially close. The bench wasn't very big so we were practically touching each other. I try and strike up a conversation to clear the awkward phase but Lilly beats me to it.

"What brings you to this area of the school?"

"Well, originally I got pulled by Misha and Shizune to help them with some SC related work but then I was kicked out. I think it was because of something I said to Shizune." Not the smartest thing to mention the alcohol issue. That theory is still pondering in my mind. I wonder how many other students have access to alcohol on school grounds.

"I'm sure that's not the case. I've never known you to say anything offensive."

"You have only known me for a while though."

"I can just tell." She chuckles with a smile that reflects the sunlight.

"Really. That's a pretty good talent you've got there then." I laugh to match her before initiating a new topic. "The flowers are beautiful today aren't they?"

"From what I can tell."

"Oh, I'm sorry Lilly. I should have thought...," way to go numbskull. Commenting about what the flowers look like.

"Don't mention it Hisao. I might not be able to see the colors but I can imagine them as an outline."

"What do you mean by that?"

"Even though I can't see the shape of something, by touching it I can picture an outlined image in my mind. Allow me to demonstrate." She takes a hold of my right hand and starts moving her fingers between mine. I feel a warm sensation traveling from my hand, to my chest, and finally through the rest of my body. "I see five fingers attached to a broad hand, with a little hair on the back, hehe."

"And you're able to picture that in your mind?"

"Exactly, and by doing that I'm able to predict what something would look like if I could see; ignoring the color of course," she really is amazing. Perhaps I should let her get to know me better.

"Then why don't you try to picture my face." I lift her hands to my face. The blood rushes to my cheeks as soon as her hands make contact. I hope she doesn't notice.

"O-okay then."

She starts moving her hands through my hair and then to my ears. She stops on my cheeks for a bit before moving towards my eyes, then nose, and finally lips.

"Got a good enough picture?" She retracts her hands slowly. They look like they are shaking a bit but she neatly folds them in her lap as normal.

"Yeah, you don't seem… too ugly."

"Wait, you're joking right?" I begin laughing after realizing that she was joking.

"You look like a handsome man to me."

"Thanks for the compliment Lilly. I guess I'll be heading back to the dorms now. Kenji wanted to discuss something with me today and I think it is the best time to straighten out these rumors at the source. Also, I might have a chance to get back some of the money he owes me."

I stand up slowly and turn to Lilly as she spoke.

"Knowing him, he will probably have some sort of excuse for not paying you."

"Guess I should try anyways. See you tomorrow Lilly."

"Alright then, talk to you later."

I leave with my face still red hot. I can't believe I did that. I remember the feeling of her hands on my face; they were really soft.

My walk took more time than I thought it would. The sun was near setting so it probably would be best to head back to the dorm. I see someone standing with their head tilted to the side looking at Rin's mural. Upon further detail I found it to be the artist herself. I approach from behind and speak over her shoulder.

"It seems you really can't find that rabbit can you."

I had made a reference of being able to see a rabbit when you tilt your head to the side. Rin said she never doubted it but I never saw her actually searching for it.

"Who says I was wabbit hunting?"

"Since when did you become Elmer Fudd?"

"Well I can't grow a mustache, or is that how you like your women," I smile as I walk beside her. To have Rin sport a moustache would be kind of funny actually. "You know, you're advice really paid off today."

"I need more information than that. I am full of so many philosophical sayings after all."

"The one about taking life slow in order to appreciate it. I used it on Emi today," Wait, isn't that the same thing I told Emi this morning? "She also seemed to be affected by how you see her body."

"W-what do you mean?"

Oh no, this has to have something to do with what happened between the two of us. Emi, I thought we agreed not a word. I start getting nervous for what she might say next.

"Were you two having a wrestling match?"

"Why would we…," wait a minute. "Good heavens nothing like that Rin!"

"Okay, but Emi did mention something about your condition. Did you have another episode?"

It's true that Rin is the only one that knows the exact reason I'm here and what I have to deal with. I even got the nerve to tell her about how I found out I had the condition and the time on the track. I have grown close to Rin over the last few weeks. Not in a romantic sense but for some reason the way we have a conversation always causes me to be more open with myself and her. Where else do you find someone that really makes you think about the world? Suddenly a loud grumbling noise pulls me from my thoughts. Rin looks shyly at the ground and then up towards me.

"How about we deal with your hunger condition first. Don't tell Emi but I secretly have a bit of chocolate cake in my room if you would like to share."

One of her favorite things to eat is chocolate. Luckily I was able to sneak it from the cafeteria with the help of Kenji a few nights ago. Sometimes that guy really does have a use.

"I do enjoy cake. It's so light and fluffy, almost like you are eating a cloud."

"Have you ever tried eating a cloud?"

"Fog is a cloud, just close to the ground. You open your mouth like this and bite," She motions as though snatching something out of the air with her teeth. *cough, cough*

"Are you okay Rin?"

"Bugs don't taste as good as a cloud. Now, about that cake."

I remembered that I wanted to get Kenji to pay me back today. I would hate to ask Rin for help but there is strength in numbers. She ponders about the word friend when I ask.

"I wouldn't really call him a friend. More like a bad acquaintance."

We arrive at his door where we hear several loud noises.

"It sounds like he is wrestling with a panda in there."

"Now where would he get a panda?"

*thump, crash* "Save me!"

"Okay, maybe your point has some validity," I pound on the door. "Kenji, what's going on in there? The doors locked, I can't get in."

All is quiet until his voice rings in my ears.

"The feminists have breached the walls! Send all available units to the front line! The pink destruction is here!"

"You're drunk again, aren't you?"

Kenji has rambled nonsensical things when drunk. A few nights ago he was even rambling about some high-tech male attraction spray he had confiscated from someone and how he planned on creating a resistant to it. I'm starting to believe that the alcohol isn't the only reasoning for his actions.

"I'm telling you, save yourselves!" *thud* Then all was quiet.

"Yep, he's as drunk as a pirate in a galley of rum. Let's leave him be. I'll ask for my money in the future."

"You certainly have interesting friends. Is that why you were so inept on lounging with me during the Festival?"

"What? Don't even think something like that. You're nothing like him. You have your own unique way of looking at things. He just…well…I've got nothing."

She caught me off guard with that one. It is true that she has her own unique way of seeing things but that is what I like about her. Why does she think that would be the reason I hang out with her, especially during that night? She responds with a smile on her face.

"So the great philosopher can't explain everything. Then again, can anything really be explained?"

"There is the Rin I know. *grumble, grumble* Now I'm getting hungry. Let's head in before we run into another interesting predicament."

"Those all for your pants problem?"

"How many times are you going to think there is a problem down there?"

"Until you prove me wrong," what was that? At first I start to go red in the face. Could she really be asking to do something so fast? My heart pounds like a war drum just before the final battle. I try as I might to shake it off and convince myself that it was a joke. Yeah, Rin would say something like that. I begin laughing at the thought. "What's so funny?"

"The only way I would be able to prove that is to do something that would probably kill me. It would have to have a reason more than just your curiosity."

That last part sounded harsh to me for some reason. I can't explain it, but I feel as though I hurt her in some way. She looks sad. Now you have done it Hisao, but before I speak again she changes the subject.

"So…umm where is this hidden cake of yours?"

Maybe it is best if we move on.

"Just inside this cabinet," I pull the half eaten cake out of my cabinet along with several utensils and plates. The cake had the word CAKE inscribed on the top when I found it. Who honestly would do something like that? Maybe it was going to be used in an English class since that's what language it was written in. "Now remember, don't tell Emi. She would kill me if you do and that kind of defeats the purpose of what she is doing."

I recall our earlier topic and knowing Rin she will be quick…

"As I was saying before, Emi mentioned something about your real condition."

I feel cold before a flash of warmth restores my thinking process. My mind flashes once again to the incident but I recompose myself and answer her question.

"Well, I had a faint episode on the track today and she was just worried about me. It wasn't a big deal so I didn't worry about going to the nurse," I realize just how feeble I really am. I can't even run a few laps nor have feelings for a girl without something happening. Am I doomed to be alone forever? Will I die the next time a girl confesses her love for me or vice versa? I verbally let myself go. "I feel so feeble at times. Why did this happen to me?" I rant about my life. Why do I even try to resist. The first time I make love will be the time my heart explodes. Nurse will clean up the parts only to say, 'I told you so'. I just feel, I feel, "Like I'm going to fall apart by running just one extra step…"

"Push on."

"What?"

"Push on Hisao. Maybe not in a physical way, but you do have to get past it. We're here for a reason and a short time, just like those fireworks. Remember?"

Her words clear my mind immediately. They pierce my thoughts and I delve back to a night that seems special. Rin's head against my shoulder sleeping so peacefully, firework blasts reflecting off her face, those drowsy eyes of hers when she woke up and our discussion about the how something so beautiful could last for only a moment. Those fireworks knew they are only there for a second yet they shine as bright and explode as loud as they can. That in itself makes it all worth it.

"And we should make do with what time we have to shine as best we can."

"Besides, we wouldn't have gotten to meet each other if it wasn't the way it is."

She is right. I never would have gotten to meet such interesting people if fate hadn't bestowed this curse upon me. No, it doesn't feel like a curse anymore but the start of a new path. Rin, Emi, Hanako, Lilly, Shizune, and yes, even Kenji and Misha. They are all parts of this path that I now travel. Where the path ends I will never know if I give up on it. I smile to Rin as we enjoy our cake.

Before I fall asleep I say a little prayer. I'm not a deeply religious man but I feel as though it wouldn't hurt to ask.

"Rin is right you know. I would never have gotten into this spot if I never had this problem. I don't want to say thanks for putting me here or complain about the events that lead to this outcome. However, now that I am here it would be nice to have the chance at following this path. It would be interesting to see what is at the end and along the way."

I dream of walking on a path towards a dark figure. I can't make out who it is but it gives me a sort of hope. A hope that I will one day know who it is waiting for me.