A cold night of January: Let it all fall...

Title: A cold night of January

Fandom: ONE OK ROCK

Chapter: 4

Characters/Pairing: Tomoya

Rating: all ages

Genre: slice of life, drama.

Disclaimer: You may find a terrible grammar, be warned.

Especial disclaimer for members of House Kanki: I promise this isn't the last chapter. Relax, it will all be worth it at the end.

Not yet convinced, 14 years old Kanki Tomoya revolved between his fingers a new set of drumsticks, lying on his bed, feeling the moonlight bath his body as it entered through the window.  The fraternal Christmas gift wasn’t enough to change his hobby from baseball to music. To make things worse, the New Year money was specifically given to him so he could change those old drums his brother left him. “Go to music school. You’re good at it”. Maybe nii-chan was right. But, for Tomoya, the only thought of leaving Hyodo, and therefore, his family and friends, was too much to handle.

For some reason, his brother managed to talk his parents into this madness, and has been insisting him for 3 months now. Maybe it was some way to see his own dream fulfilled through him. After all, he never got to be a famous drummer as he wanted. You’re too selfish. This isn’t my dream, this is yours. All he ever wanted was to play baseball. Sure, he always liked when nii-chan taught him to play. He was always nice and patient, the definition of a good teacher. Plus, it was the only moment when they could be alone, and enjoy each other. At least, since they were kids. Still, is not my fault that you decided to marry early.

Craving for fresh air, he sneaked out of his house, trying not to get caught by his parents. He grabbed his bike, and hit the road.

It was a clear and cold night. The air was somehow dry, even when it had been raining until the night before. There were huge puddles where rice pads should be during summer and it was cold enough to see the moon reflect on the smooth surface of the frozen water. They looked like giant silver lakes. He stopped on the side of the road to watch the scenery. The cold breeze ruffled his already too long hair. A sigh escaped his lips, leaving a trail of mist behind. I need to make him understand. I can’t leave them, not my family. He shook his head in frustration. How did you do that? How did you managed to convince mom and dad? They talked you out of it, but now they’re talking me in? I just don’t understand. Why me? Why?  

With the recent thoughts still flooding his head, he hit the road again. His legs ached because of the intense cold, but he kept pedaling hoping they would get warm with the exercise. Bending his toes inside his boots, he felt the cold texture of the sock’s fabric against his bare skin. A long chill went down his spine. He clenched to the handlebar while starting to pass a curve. Beyond there was a long descent, straight as a ruler, that he used to ride when he was little.

This is it. After the descent, I’ll have my head clear. I’ll have my decision made and it will be what’s best for me. He stopped pedaling as the descent began. Driven only by the inertia of the fall, he slowly let go of the handlebar, and prepared to stand on the pedals. As he raised his arms, he felt the wind leak through every hair, and every fiber of his clothes. The cold burned his skin and permeated his bones.  And so, while closing his eyes,  his thoughts began to emerge, along with some long forgotten memories.

The first lesson with nii-chan, when he was just 6 years old. “This is the bass drum. And if you press this pedal here, it will make a BOOM.”  After that he got so fund of it, that he just kept adding more bass to all the rhythms. At the end, he added another bass drum to the set. He could still feel the anger from that time when nii-chan suggested him to use a double pedal. He was sure he could get the same sound just with the speed of his feet.

There was also that time. A couple years ago, the last time nii-chan stayed for the night without his wife. Tomoya remembered waking up late at night. It was a warm summer night, and the back door was  open wide. As he draw near, he heard his brother talking to someone. At first he thought he was just on the phone. But after a while, he realized he could hear the other’s voice. It was a very delicate but confident woman’s voice. They both sounded very serious, as if they were discussing something important. “So that means I can’t do it?” “I’m sorry, but that’s just the way it is. I know it’s not fair to you, but there’s nothing I can do. Even if I wanted too.” “No, don’t get me wrong. I think he deserves it. I’ll try my best. I promise.”  And the memory vanished, as easy as it had emerged.

The moon was still high, in all its glory, bathing with its light the long descent, as  showing  its travelers the road.  Tomoya could feel the light leaking through his eyelids, turning every idea into a pink shade that covered everything.

A roaring sound forced him out of his trance. As soon as he opened his eyes, he got dazzled by the bright light in front of him. Oh, right. I forgot my safety vest . His body, already numbed because of the cold, softened  the pain.  Near his left ear, the beat of the engine pistons wove a fast requiem, accompanied  by  the scratching sound of several tires trying desperately to avoid the inevitable. Ah. It needs more bass drum.

To be continued.

A cold night of January: Fate?

Title: A cold night of January

Fandom: ONE OK ROCK

Chapter: 3 

Characters/Pairing: Toru/Stranger

Rating: all ages

Genre: mistery, friendship, slice of life.

Disclaimer: you may find a terrible grammar, be warned.
It was late that night. 16 years old Yamashita Toru, got tired of waiting in the sidewalk of an ordinary convenience store. The expected never showed up.  He turned on his heels, and started walking to the train station.

Kicking cans all along the way; he muttered his frustration out, low enough to let his voice be covered by sound of the tinkling garbage. “He pisses me off! I don’t understand. It’s just a fucking rehearsal! Why wouldn’t he come? Plus, he could do so much better… He’s wasting his entire potential.” His thoughts wandered from his band to the intended vocalist. He kept walking, almost by inertia, trusting his muscular memory to orientate his footsteps. He never realized he was actually going in the wrong direction.

Suddenly, his feet found no support. A loud crack sound was heard. In the middle of the fall, Toru was getting ready to find his nose crashed against the concrete of the road. But, that never happened. Somehow, he floated away from the concrete, and got back on his feet again. His face turned into a very recognizable “WTF” in a matter of micro-seconds. 

-Aren’t you going to thank me?-

The mysterious voice got him by surprise. He immediately turned back only to find a tall onne-san standing behind. She had long dark blonde hair, and silvery skin. Or at least, that’s how it shined under the street lights. He kept staring at her for a few seconds, and when he opened his mouth to speak, the words got stuck in his throat, unable to produce a decent “What?”

-I said: Aren’t you going to thank me? I just saved you from busting your face in the street.-

-Thank you. It just that… You took me by surprise. I’m sorry.-

-It’s OK. Can I talk to you about something?

Toru looked at the watch on his wrist. He was going to lose the last train.

-Ah… Maybe in another time. I have to go. I’m sorry. Bye!-

He ran as fast as he could, realizing how far he actually was from the station. For some reason, he lost track of where he was going, and that never happened to him before. Especially, not when going to the station, a road he walked every day.

He finally caught the train on time. Almost breathless, he sat on the first sit he saw, and laid his head on the back. Thereupon, he closed his eyes out of pure fatigue. He was lucky tomorrow was Sunday, and he didn’t have school. He thought he’ll be able to get a good sleep.

-Is now a good time? - The voice sounded somehow familiar.

Startled, he turned his head both sides trying to locate the owner of the voice. He didn’t record how much time had passed, but he didn’t remember to see anyone on that wagon when he entered.

 There, a few seats away, was the strange onne-san, staring at him, as if there was nothing weird on the fact that she just appeared in the train. Some chills ran on Toru’s spine.

-Um… How did you get here? - He would’ve sworn he saw her walking the opposite way.

-So you want me to answer a question… That’s not fair-

-Eh? Ok, what do you want from me? Why are you following me? - He got impatient.

-What makes you think I’m following you?-

-Well, you’re here. That’s pretty obvious! - This was too much. He was too tired, and didn’t have the energy required to deal with a crazy girl.

-Maybe, I was coming here on the first place. Don’t judge a book by its cover.

Somehow, the girl’s expression was very calm. “Maybe…” thought Toru, “I’m not her first victim.” Luckily, in the meantime, the train got to the station where he had to go down. He left in a hurry, making sure he wasn’t being followed. The last thing he needed was some creepy girl stalking him at home.

In the morning, he took extra time to have a proper breakfast. It seemed like ages ago, since the last time he had his grilled white salmon and his barley tea in the same meal.  Everything was going great. If things go as he expected, that stubborn brat would agree to his petition, and they would finally have a vocalist. That’s all he wanted.

He left his house, and headed towards the train station. This time, he wasn’t going to the usual convenience store. No, this time, he headed to a dance studio located in Shibuya, Tokyo. So it was going to be a long ride of at least 4 hours.

Once in the shinkansen, he sat right next to the window, and watched the landscape run by as it turned into a soft lullaby, dragging him to a deep sleep. Suddenly, a loud woman’s voice woke him up. “We inform the passengers we’ll be arriving to Tokyo soon. Please, gather your luggage and wait in your seats until the unity stops the motion.” The trip felt shorter than the last time. “This is a good sign”, he thought.

He checked his watch, while leaving the station. He still had 2 hours left, before he headed to Shibuya and an incipient headache, that he better took care of it soon, or he’ll regret it later. He decided to walk around the city a little bit. Looking for a pharmacy, he went through several streets, not before asking to also several strangers. Toru finally found one, and began his hunt for a bottle of painkillers.

It was a small place. There was a large hall, with an equally large counter on one side, and several shelves on the other. He stood in front of a rack that had a sign on top that said “Analgesics”. Under it, there were hundreds of different brands, which made the decision very difficult for him.

Grabbing five different boxes, he headed to the counter to see if maybe, the employee would help him decide. Behind it, there was girl, dressed with a short, white coat. She seemed to be arranging some boxes in the rack placed close to wall. Since he had time to spare; he thought it’ll be better to let her finish before asking for his painkillers. He turned around, and paid more attention to the shelves in front of him.

There was this large shelf, with many different glass jars. They appeared to be old, and had herbal plant content, with tags on them. The names were pretty strange also. Eruca sativa and Mulinum spinosum, were the only ones he could at least try to pronounce. There was also a big one, with pretty little bluish flowers inside. Giving in to curiosity, he reached for it.

-No! Don’t touch that!

Scared, and a little embarrassed, Toru turned around to face the owner of the voice. There, dressing the short coat he saw before, was the strange girl from the previous night.

-I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to be rude. But that jar has digitalis purpurea on it. It’s been there forever, but God knows how much active principle has left. It is best to leave it as decoration, if you don’t want to die.

-I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have done that. - With his current blush, it took a while for him to get out his shock. - Wait a minute… Aren’t you that girl from last night?! How is it…?

-It’s OK.  I can see for these – she pointed to the boxes on the counter- that this isn’t a good time. I won’t bother you for now.

That answer surprised him. He was really preparing for a thread of incessant questions. But instead of a fanatical stalker, he got a good employee, who apparently just saved his life. Playing with his fingers, in a very awkward attitude, the words didn’t seem to leave his mouth.

-T-t-tha-than… UGhhh! - His body language showed a complete defeat. - Ano… It’s OK. You can ask me anything you want.

-What kind of pain are you suffering from?

-Eh?? Is that what you wanted to know all this time?

-Don’t be silly. You obviously don’t know what drug to pick. I’m just trying to help you.

-Oh... OK. – He bent his head trying to hide his sudden blush. -  It’s like a pulsating pain, in the back of my head.

-Hmmm… OK. – She turned around and grabbed another box form one on the shelves behind her. She made a soft giggle while doing so.

-What is it so funny? - The effort to sound angry was useless. His headache wasn’t incipient anymore.

-That’s guilt.

-Eh?

-The pain. My grandmother used to say that a pulsating pain meant that you were doing something wrong, for selfish reasons. Therefore, the guilt for doing so caused the pain.

-A so… Well, I don’t know what you’re talking about. -  A pang of sudden pain forced him to flinch.

-A so… well, apparently you do. - She handed him a little green box that said “ergotamine”.

-Why do you care? I can’t tell if you’re just trying to be nice, or…

-I am. I’m trying to do something nice for you, but you don’t let me.

-Eh? What is this got to do with my headache? That’s the only problem I have, and you’ve done enough for me. Thank you.

Angry, and suffering another pang, he headed to the door.  He was then blocked by the girl. She suddenly seemed taller, and more threatening. Covering his forehead with her hand, she pushed him back inside the local. A flash came out of nowhere, and all of the sudden, Toru found himself sitting in one of the waiting benches inside the pharmacy.

The pain was certainly gone, but he could still feel discomfort in his head. For some reason, that pulsating “pain” was still there, but without the pain itself.

The girl was standing in front of him. Leaning on the counter, crossed legs and arms, she watched him with a calm expression.

-Are you feeling any better? - There was a strange glow in her eyes that he couldn’t figure out entirely.

-Ah, I don’t know… What just happened?

-I took away the pain. You should feel better, if that’s the only thing that was wrong with you…

-I’m sorry. -The guilt was starting to become a burden. -  There are other things that are wrong with me. I know that you probably mean right with this, but, please, understand me. I can’t trust a stalker…

- Like you expect that boy to do, I understand.

-What? What boy? What are you talking ab…

-That boy from the combini store. The one who’s in that pretty boy band.

-What? I’m not stalking him!!

-Oh, really? Chasing him everywhere, forcing him to accept your proposal, even if you haven’t introduce yourself properly…

-No! No… I… just…- his voice faded away.

She was right. He was being selfish. Insisting all the time, still thinking that it would work, even if it hasn’t. After all these months, without any positive result, and he still insisted in taking the same strategy. Blindly, foolishly, insisting. Maybe, it was stalking after all.

-You know? Everything would be easier if you just start over. Make a clean slate, and introduce yourself.

-After all that has happened, I’m not sure he will…

-He will. Trust me. Everything is better when you’re honest. -  At last, the glow on her eyes was nothing else than honest concern, and the satisfaction of a job well done.

That night.

Like the weird onne-san assured him, everything went strangely well after he introduced himself. Taka (he realized he never actually asked him what his real name was), finally accepted, and went to see a rehearsal. After an entire hour arguing about the melody of the new song, they decided to take a break.

Toru went to the building’s terrace. He found Taka with his head high, gazing upon the night sky. The poor light made his hair look almost as dark as the night. Toru got closer, and sat next to him. He picked his cigars and offered him one.

-No, thanks. I’m quitting.

-Eh? Really? The cancer ads got you, ha?

-Not really. More like my future got me.

-Your future?

-Yup. I’ve decided I’ll join the band.

Toru spat his cigar out.-Hontou?! Yokatta!

Taka smiled back at him. He seemed at peace; as if he had made amends with himself.-Can I ask you something?

-Yeah, sure. -  Toru took a puff of his cigar.

-How did you know I’d say yes?

-I just thought that if I waited long enough, and insisted long enough, you would eventually come to your senses.

-But, why did you wait? Why me?

Toru searched his mind for an answer. But nothing he could find seemed enough. He didn’t know why either.

-I guess… I… I waited for you because… honestly… I didn’t want anyone else.

-Why not? What is it with us?

-I don’t know… Hahahaha… Fate?

Toru laughed at his ridiculous answer and hoped Taka did the same. For some reason, he didn’t.

-Yeah, fate.

His eyes, bright as the stars, said everything.

A cold night of January: The second day of the year.

Title: A cold night of January

Fandom: ONE OK ROCK

Chapter: 2 

Characters/Pairing: Ryota/Stranger

Rating: all ages

Genre: mistery, friendship, slice of life.

Disclaimer: you may find a terrible grammar, be warned.

On the second day of the year, 15 years old Kohama Ryota, found himself walking to the music store. This had been happening quite often during the past few days. The eager to get himself a new bass was too big to contain.

Holding his freshly acquired money with his left hand, he buttoned up his black coat, and tied his green with white stripes scarf (a Christmas present from his onne-chan) around his now cold neck. Running through the passing cars, and being exited enough to ignore the traffic lights, he crossed the street in order to get to the store.

Inside, there was Christmas décor everywhere; apparently, the owner was too lazy to remove them. Ryota walked straight to the counter that had that big ass five strings bass he wanted so much. He stayed there for a long time, staring at the magnificent instrument, as if it had some strange power that kept him hypnotized.

-You would look really good with that on your hands- The strange voice forced him to snap out of his fantasy.

-Excuse me? - The figure of a tall onne-san appeared in front of his eyes. She had long dark blonde curly hair, a rare silvery skin and “golden eyes? WTF! She must be using contact lenses, for sure!”

-Think about it! I know it looks big, but I bet you’ll grow taller in a couple years. It’ll look awesome! - She said with a charming smile.

Ryota felt his heart go heavier. Something wasn’t right.  People always told him he had some sort of sixth sense, and this time, it was telling him to be careful.  He got closer enough for her to be only one who listens to him.

-What are you? - He whispered in her ear with the softest voice he could make, although hormones didn't help much.

She looked straight into his eyes. Ryota felt as if she could pierce his head out of pure intensity. He tried to look away, but there was a sort of gravity that drowned him and prevented him from doing so.

-What and not who… That’s an interesting question. – A smirk appeared on her face- I knew you were good, but I didn’t think it was this much- Her eyes shined with a reflexive glow.

She was right. That was a strange question, but somehow, it seemed fitted. He contemplated her crooked smile for a while. Her upper lip was thinner than its lower counterpart.

-You didn’t answer my question…-

-Why ask a question when you know you won’t like the answer? -  Again, the crooked smile showed up.

-Curiosity is one of my major features. - If this was a challenge, he wasn’t going to lose. That was for sure.

-Alright. But I bet for the money you have on your left pocket, that you won’t believe me if I tell you the truth. - 

-What makes you think I have any money with me?-This time was his turn for the crooked smile.

-Exactly 45.000 yen. A large effort from your parents and sister.-

Ryota dropped his jaw. Was it possible that she was a sort of psychic? How else would she know about onne-chan anyway?

-How do you know? -  His nerves managed to make him stutter a bit.

- I didn’t. You just told me. You’re too young for these kinds of games, my dear. - She shook his hair with her left hand.

Ryota felt his nerves switch to anger in an instant. She was good, but that didn’t mean she could mock him for free, and in public.

-Fine!! What do you want from me? - His pout was now too evident.

-Two things!- her smile went from crooked to full of warmth- First, I want you to promise  you will  keep practicing no matter what or how you feel about it. You, my friend, are going to be one hell of a bass player. Trust me, I know.-

-Yeah, right… And you know that because you can see the future…-

-Actually, I can. – Her voice sounded honest.

-What…? But, I’m the only one that doesn’t know how to play anything. I’m barely starting, and there’s no way I can ever catch up to them. Plus, I’m…- He made an effort to contain his upcoming tears.

-Hey! I’m the one who sees the future! Trust me, make this your new year’s resolution. You’ll be alright, I promise. - She finished the line by kissing her index finger while forming a cross sign, first vertical, and then in horizontal way.

-Hey!! Kid! Are you Ok? - A low deep voice called from the other side of the store.

Ryota followed the voice, just to find out it was the owner who was talking to them.

-Quick!! We don’t have much time! - She forced him to face her again; by holding his chin with a very delicate touch- I want you to give Alex this message…

- Hey! Kid! I’m talking to you!!- The owner was getting impatient.

She whispered the words on his ear.

-You’ll know when the right time comes…

-Hey, kid!!- A heavy palm slapped his right shoulder, forcing him to turn back at it.

-Hai!! I’m sorry!! Is there something wrong?-

-Eh??  You tell me. You’ve been talking alone for an hour. - The look on the owner’s face was true concern.

-What? No, I was talking to…- Ryota turned back just to find his strange companion gone. There was no trace of her, only the five strings bass as a final silent witness of the strangest day of his life.

 May 6 of 2009.

A 19 years old version of Ryota is on the phone with Alex. Lying on the hotel bed, he plays with the phone cable, while trying to calm down his depressed friend.

-Dude, it’s going to be OK. But you have to stop drinking so much. If you keep going like this, your liver is going to be a mess in a couple of years. That’s not cool, man.- His voice trembled due to the fatigue the recent concert left on him.

- Yeah, you keep saying that, but…

-But?

-But today would’ve been the release if it wasn’t for me. I hate myself for that.

-Again?!! Dude, we already talked about this. Everything is going to be fine. The fans are going to be fine, the band is…

-I know the band is going to be fine!! You guys are awesome… It’s like you never needed me in the first place…- His voice trailed off into a sob.

“So this is what all is about”. Ryota scrambled his head in search for an answer. There was no nice way to explain it. They weren’t better than before, they were just different. But it was true they were also awesome. After Alex left, the four remaining members felt more in balance and that allowed them to create better songs. “Tsk! One single answer… Is it too much to ask?” Suddenly, a stream of words appeared in the back of his head. “You’ll know when the right time comes”.

-Dude!! Are you still there??!!-  His voice brought him back to reality.

-Sorry, what?

-Look, if you’re sleepy or something, just tell me, and I’ll leave you alone…

-What? No, it’s nothing like that. I was just thinking, that’s all.

-Thinking? About what?

-About something a fan told me, a few days ago. She was very pretty, by the way.

-Really? What did she say?

- She said: “We still miss you, and we always will”.

-What? Miss who?

-Who do you think, dumbass?!!

-Oh… Hmmm… Right... She meant me...- suddenly, the atmosphere became wormer- Ah... I’m getting sleepy… Sorry I kept you up so late… I…- Ryota could perceive a hint of relief on his voice.

-It’s Ok. Just promise to not get drunk. I don’t want to risk my life buying you a new liver in the black market…

-Haha… Don’t worry, I won’t. Thanks dude!! Bye!!

He hung the phone. The clock on the wall struck 00:12 am.

A cold night of January

Title: A cold night of January

Fandom: ONE OK ROCK

Chapter: 1

Characters/Pairing: Taka/Stranger

Rating: all ages

Genre: mistery, friendship, slice of life.

Disclaimer: you may find a terrible grammar, be warned.

On a cold night of January, 16 years old Moriuchi Takahiro sat alone in the only bench near the frozen lake of the park. He stayed in silence for a few minutes, trying to clear the fog that clouded his mind. Things have been hard lately. The relationship with his father had gone nose diving, especially, since he drop out of school. His band was consuming most of his time. All the dancing, and photo shooting was fun, but he didn’t really feel like this was his “raison d’être”. “Nope, I need more. I can’t just stay here, and do whatever they tell me to”. He ran his fingers through his spikey copperish hair.

-Ugh, one day I’m going to get rid of it. I miss my black hair- he murmured with his high pitched husky voice.

-Yes, you should. I miss your black hair too. -  Takahiro oppressed a scream. His black beady eyes witnessed a tall onne-san sitting right beside him.

-Eeeehh??!! Whe… When…When did you…

-I’ve been here for a couple of minutes; I guess you were a bit distracted. I’ll leave if you want me to.

-Eh? No, please, don’t. This is a public park; you can sit wherever you want. I’ll leave.

-Hmmm… That would be a shame. I find your story very interesting.

-My story? … - Takahiro paid attention for the first time. She was definitely taller than him, with long and curly dark blonde hair, and a pair of big golden eyes. “Golden?  Nah, it must be the light of the park.” The whole scenario made her look like a character brought out of a fairy tales book.

-Yes, you’re Mori-chan, right? - Her smile revealed a set of crisp white  teeth.

-How do you…? Oh my God!! You’re a fan!!- He took a step away from the bench. –I’ll give you an autograph, but please, don’t follow me. - He hugged his body on a self-protecting attitude.

-Hey, relax! I don’t want an autograph, and I’m not a fan.

-Then, you’re a stalker!!

-Geez!! No, I’m not a stalker either!! Sit down, there’s no reason to panic.

- If you’re not a fan, or a stalker… Who are you? How do you know me? What do you want from me?

-Nothing. I want nothing from you.  I just happen to know you, and saw you look a bit troubled. I just thought I could help.

-But, how? How do you know me?

-I’m your friend. You just… don’t remember me. Yet.

-What?? That’s it!! You’re crazy!! I’m out!! – He zipped up his jacket and started walking.

-No, wait!!-  She walked right behind him.

-I’m not listening to you!! Stop following me or I’ll call the police!!

-You got to stop smoking!!- Said, almost breathless. Takahiro had already run about half of the lake’s length before stopping cold; and she seemed to have a hard time following the agile young man.

-What did you say?

-Quit smoking. It’ll ruin your voice.

Takahiro took a sniff out of his scarf. There wasn’t any trace of cigarette smoke, how could she know?

-It’s not the smell, don’t worry. I won’t tell anyone, I promise.

- You’re not with the company, aren’t you?

- No, I’m not. I just want to help. You know, be a Good Samaritan. I mean, it does look like you could use an ear.

-I guess I don’t have that many friends to talk to.

-I’m all ears!!-  Her eyes seemed to have a warm glow, and Takahiro felt his face flushing red.

Now that he was facing her, she looked somehow familiar. There was something about her voice that made her sound trustworthy.  They went back to the only bench near the frozen lake. Takahiro kept rubbing and blowing his hands, while wandering why didn’t he bring any gloves with him.

-So… You don’t know I’m in a band…

-NEWS, right? I do know, I just don’t like it.

-What? Why?

-It doesn’t explode your potential. I think you could do a lot better. That’s all.

A smirk appeared on his lips. The image of a tall and dark stranger with big and piercing eyes crossed his mind.

-Someone told me the same thing, a few days ago.

-Someone?

-Is this guy. I don’t really know him. But he keeps insisting that I join his band. A rock band, can you believe that?

-Ah!! Him. Yes. You should go, give it a try.

- Him?? Do you know him?

-Hmmm… You could say so, yes.

- Did he send you?  ‘Cause, in that case, you can tell him I’m not interested.

-No one sent me.  I’m here on my own behalf. And, I still think you should give it a try. In life, you only regret the things you didn’t try.

-Still, it’s rock. I don’t think I’ll like it. I’m very fund of my vocal arrangements.

-The question is… Are you happy?  ‘Cause if you honestly tell me you are, I’ll walk away and won’t bother you anymore. You’ll never see me again, I swear.

In that moment, a large bird threw into a tailspin over the surface of the frozen lake, capturing to what it looked like a sewer rat. The majestic movement caught the boy’s attention. His dark deep eyes looked over the animal’s outline as it flew away with its prey, bathed by the moon light.  There was something about hawks that always managed to amaze him. Whether it was their hunting skills, the braveness, or maybe the immense sense of freedom they seemed to have. To be able to fly away, not caring about consequences or responsibilities, it sounded like a dream. But, for the hawk, that was a reality.  A surge of envy crossed Takahiro’s heart.

-You could be like him, you know?

-Eh? - He was still immersed in his thoughts.

-The hawk. There’s a lot from that animal inside you. You could be free too. All you have to do is give it a try.

Takahiro dropped his jaw. She reached her hand and put it back in place.

-Don’t be so surprised. You’re and open book to me.

-Are you a psychic?

-Ahh! Isn’t it beautiful? A child’s innocence, it’s rare to find these days.

- Eh?? I’m not…

-You’re 16, I know. Let’s just say I can see the future.

-The future… You’re weird! - A silly smile appeared on his face.

-We’re all weird in our own twisted little way. -  Her skin showed a silver glow under the moon light.

-And here I am, thinking I was the only one…

-Look, - a giggle escaped her mouth- you can’t lose if you just try, OK?  This band, it will change your life, for good. It will give you the freedom you want. It’ll be like love a first sight, I promise.

-How would I know? I’ve never been in love…- The innocence flew out of his eyes that couldn’t stand the pressure of meeting his partner’s.

-When the time comes, you’ll know. – The words resonated in the back of his head.

When he finally had the courage to lift up his head again, his strange companion was gone. No trace was left of her.  The moon, shining on the frozen surface of the lake, seemed to have disappeared with her too.

As if he just woke up from a long dream, he stretched and started the long walk home, wishing his father wasn’t back from his tour, yet. “Just a little more peace, please.”

(Two days later)

Takahiro walked out of the dance studio, after saying good-bye to everybody.  These dance lessons were getting too ridiculous. The new choreography was a matter of laugh, and he didn’t know how much he could bear it anymore. It’s not like he could refuse to dance, or anything like it. In the last MV, he had to use a funny little astronaut suit, and damn, that thing was hot.  His thoughts wandered between the dance choreography and if smoking was really a good strategy to get kicked out of that hell.

-Yo!!

The tall and dark stranger, with big piercing eyes, was waiting outside the studio.

-Oh! It’s you again. Hi. - This wasn’t the right moment, really.

-Hi! I realized I never actually introduced myself properly. I’m so sorry. I’m Toru, Yamashita Toru. - The bow left him almost at Takahiro’s height.

Behind Toru’s head, he could see the usual park.  In it, a tall onne-san, with long curly hair and silvery skin was calling a hawk. The bird crossed the sky over the boy’s heads, uttering a shrill howl, and landing on the lady’s arm. A wide smile appeared on his face.

-Oh! Right. It’s Ok. I’ve been acting like a douchebag, I’m sorry. I decided I’ll go see a rehearsal.

- Really? That’s great!!Oh, wait, what was your name again?

-Taka, you can call me Taka (hawk). 

The love affair

Title: The love affair.

Fandom: ONE OK ROCK

Chapter: One shot.

Characters/Pairing: Tomoya/Lab; Toru/Taka

Raiting: +13

Genre: Romance, BL (boy x boy), Shonen Ai.
Disclaimer: This is a spin off story, of a wonderful fanfiction I read a few weeks ago. You can read it here. On the side bar you'll find the rest of the chapters. Some phrases of that story were used here. Please, read it and enjoy! 

After that chat, Tomoya felt relieved. He head back to his room, with this lighter feeling on his chest. He finished the last cigarette of the night, and tossed the end on a trash can near the lobby. "Yes, Toru is to be trusted", thought, while opening the door of his room. With one quick look, he noticed Ryota sleeping on the usual stretching position. See, Ryota had this bad habit of placing his legs and arms, hanging on both sides of the futon, which made practically impossible to share a bed with him. Tomoya had a bad time during camping trips because of it. This and the bright pink boxers, that Ryota used to share with Toru, were the only two things he didn't like about him. "You seriously need to change those, at least buy new ones", he whispered, hoping his friend wouldn't wake up.

After brushing his teeth, and taking off his clothes, Tomoya sat on his bed and watched Ryota sleep. "I wonder how he sleeps whenever he has a girl in for the night. Those girls must be saints if they can pull this off."  That triggered a nostalgic feeling. He hasn't been having any girl at home lately, except for those casual one night stands that only took care of the urgency. "Do you have anyone you love then, Tomo-chan?"  Toru's words still resonated in his head, and made his heart feel heavy again. "Well, is not like I'm desperate to look for love right now".  That wasn't entirely true. He had given up.  The only thought of it made his body trembled. He wasn't getting any younger; in fact he was the older of the quartet. He couldn't keep any relatively long relationship because of the band's tours, and his childish attitude towards everything, made every girlfriend he ever had, think he wouldn't be a serious husband, much less, a father. “No", he shook his head, " I got to stop thinking about these things, it's getting late, and I have to sleep." He closed his eyes really hard, hoping those thoughts would be gone in the morning.

The place was bright white, and smelled strongly like disinfectant. His eyes felt dazzled as he tried to adjust his sight to the female figure that was in front of him. "Tomoya! Ayos ka lang? Gumising ka!" The voice was musical, like little bells in ragtime. "Tomoya, Tomoya!!" He struggled to open his eyes, only to see Ryota's face way too close.

-Kuso!!! What are you doing? You scared me!!!- said, while trying to move away.

-I could ask you the same thing!! It's almost nine. We were supposed to leave at 8:30!!!- Ryota threw some clothes into Tomoya's bed. - Hurry up!! I'll wait for you in the lobby.

He grabbed the clothes and started dressing as fast as he could. "Oh, no!! This better not be the same pink boxers..." murmured as he inspected the room to see if they were forgetting something. He took the boxers and put them in a bag inside his backpack. He ran to the lobby, sliding his feet in the well-polished floor of the hallway. There was Ryota giving him the hurry up sign.

-I just made a huge sacrifice. You should thank me later. - Tomoya said with a giggle, thinking about the pink boxers.

-What? What the hell are you talking about?  C'mon, let's go. - Ryota handed over the keys, and they both walked out of the hotel.

 Outside, the manager was using a very colorful vocabulary to describe how angry he was about the band arriving late to the next concert location.

-What part of "we have to leave at 8:30" you didn't understand? - The look on the manager's eyes was worthy of fear. - Did you go to celebrate last night? Even though I told you not to.

-We didn't. I swear! We just overslept. Seriously, my phone run out of battery, so we missed the alarm- Taka's voice trembled as he tried to calm the manager. On the other hand, Tomoya was just glad that he wasn't the only one who woke up late.

After the boys managed to calm down his beloved manager, they set off. The trip was relaxing. Tomoya could see Taka and Toru smiling and giving each other knowing glances across the van. "So, he loves him back. Nice." Tomoya smiled. He was happy that the problems had been resolved for good. In the back of the van, Ryota gave a loud snore. 

-How is it he can sleep so easily? I could swear he slept like a log last night! - said with laughter.

-Maybe the wet dream he had, didn't let him rest properly. - Taka said, giving Toru a naughty look, which made the Leader blush.

-Oh, shut up!!- Toru threw his backpack to Taka, and hit him in the head.

-Ouch!!- Taka laughed out loud.-I'm just saying, he told me about it this morning.

-What? Are you serious? - Tomoya started to think his sacrifice was a real deal.

- Yeah, he dreamed about this Megumi girl. Apparently she used to be his classmate or something...

-Oh, God!!!- Tomoya threw his backpack to the other side of the van, nearly waking Ryota. Taka and Toru looked at him stunned. He knew who Megumi was, and every time Ryota dreamed about her, he would have to wake up to change his sheets. The effect she had on him was as strong as her name.

Finally, they arrived. After leaving the luggage in the hotel, they headed to the live house to start the sound check. As they walked in, they saw their instruments already placed on the stage. Toru’s guitars and Ryota’s basses were displayed on their respective racks, Taka’s red microphone was already on its stand, but the drums weren’t ready yet. As Tomoya approached the stage, he could hear the staff arguing in the backstage. He stayed behind a border curtain to keep listening.

-Where is the bass drum? Please, don’t tell me you lost it! - A tall, long haired guy was yelling to a much shorter, childish looking girl. The girl turned around, and addressed to another girl, a tall foreign one, wearing a full yellow outfit.

-Ano… Can you help me to search for the drum? My boss will kill me if I don’t find it. - The childish girl looked quite nervous, while rubbing her hands eagerly.

-Sure, honey!! Where should we start first? - The yellow girl said in English. Her voice was shrill. It sounded like fingernails on a chalkboard. The childish girl responded with a cheerful look on her eyes. They draw closer and started discussing on a very low volume. Tomoya couldn’t hear what they were talking about, but he decided to follow the shrill voiced girl, once they split up.

-Sumimasen, I’ll help with the search, if that’s alright with you. They’re my drums after all. - The girl looked back at him, and only nodded in approval. The outfit of this girl was very confusing; it was a two piece suit, with large pockets in the front of the upper part. These were full of many things Tomoya couldn’t identify. Besides that, as if her clothes weren’t showy enough, she had a bright purple stethoscope hanging on her neck.

-Hmmm… May I ask you something? -  He said, while opening some large boxes piled on the side of the stage. She nodded again.

-Who are you? – She looked at him confused. - I mean… Wha…Why are you here? What’s your job? - Tomoya stuttered a little bit. Apparently she had a strange habit of maintaining eye contact when chatting, and that made him uncomfortable.

- Okay, I admit I look weird, but I also thought it was pretty obvious what my function was here. - She pointed at the stethoscope on her neck. – I’m the medical personal. - She said rising one eyebrow.

-Oh, I see… I just… didn’t think that thing worked…- he murmured to himself.

-I’m Nani, by the way- she offered to shake hands.

- Hahahahaha, What? - He shook her hand while trying to control the motion caused by the laughter.

- Yes, exactly!!- She laughed so loud that some people glared at her.

After an hour, they found the bass drum, hidden in the back of the transport truck. The staff helped Tomoya to finish installing his drums. The sound check began. The band started rehearsing the set list they had decided for that night. During “Deeper Deeper”, Tomoya saw how Nani, who’s been sitting in the bar and playing with her phone the whole time, suddenly runs to the main door. She opened it and freaked out. A shorter and slimmer girl was standing in the portal. She was Asian, but certainly not Japanese, with long dark hair, and a face that made her look exotic. She was also wearing a yellow t-shirt. Both girls giggled and hugged each other for a couple minutes. The scene distracted Tomoya, and failed some passages of the song.

-Mr. T, what’s wrong? - Ryota and the guys had stop playing, and were now looking at him. Tomoya was the most experienced with musical instruments among the quartet, so failing a song he wrote himself was very unusual.

-You got distracted by those girls, right? - Taka had that naughty look in his eyes again.

-Eto… no, I was just…- Tomoya felt like his face and neck had set on fire.

-Okay, no matter how cute those girls are, we have a concert tonight, so let’s keep practicing. - The leader had spoken, so everyone agreed and focused during the rest of the rehearsal.

The concert that night was amazing.  The live house was completely full. Tomoya could feel the crowd’s passion, and that only made him more enthusiastic. Taka sang like there was no tomorrow, and Ryota, topless as always, made the audience scream every time he hit the bass. Toru’s high kick during the instrumental, made Tomoya think he could hit the spotlights. They greeted the public, and headed back to the dressing room. For the boys’ surprise, Nani was waiting them inside.

-Nani!! What are you doing here? -  They were feeling fine after all, and no one was injured, thought Tomoya.

- Prostate exam. It’s routine. - She was holding a pair of blue latex gloves, with a very serious look on her face.

- What?!- Taka had a frightened look on his eyes, and was covering his butt with both hands.

-Hey! I should be saying that! – Toru’s immediate red face showed that he realized he had just made a huge mistake. Taka was staring at him, all blushed and trembling like a little puppy.

-Hahahaha! That’s a good one, Toru! - Luckily, Ryota was naive enough to misinterpret this. Tomoya and Nani just limit themselves to look astonished at the two flushed musicians.

- Anyway…- She shook her head and addressed to Tomoya. - Can you do me a favor? Would you sign this for my friend? She’s waiting outside. - She handed Tomoya a blue glittered pen and a Jinsei x Boku album cover.

- Yeah, sure!! Wait… why don’t you tell her to come and we’ll take a picture or something. - For some reason he wanted to see her up close.

-Oh my God!! Really? Are you sure that’s not a problem? - She looked at the other guys for approval. Taka reacted covering his butt again.

-Sure! I would do anything for her! - Nani almost dropped her jaw. -  Eh? Ah… You! I meant you! ‘Cause you helped me with my drums this morning and… That’s the least I could do, right? -  It was too much to ask for that to go unnoticed.

- Oh! Right! Thank you! I’ll go get her. - She left the room with a notorious tremor in her hands.

-Wait, so that means there’s no prostate exam? - Taka had a hopeful brightness in his eyes.

- What? You actually fell for that?!- Toru hit Taka’s head with a cushion.

A couple minutes after, Nani came back with her friend. She was just like he remembered, with the long, silky and dark hair, and those beautiful exotic features.  She was clenching to her camera and, for Tomoya’s surprise, one of his drum sticks. This made him feel warm inside, which also got him a little scared.

-This is Lab. One of your biggest fans. - said Nani, getting the girl to blush completely.

- Nice to meet you! - He leaned and kissed her on the cheek. “Kuso! What am I doing? I’m going to freak her out. Control yourself!” he thought to himself.

- Oh! Wow! Nani, did you taught him that? - She giggled and looked at Nani with glossy eyes.

- Ah… No. But…- Nani glanced at Tomoya. – Why don’t I take you two a picture together? - She grabbed Lab’s camera, and pushed Tomoya next to her friend.

Tomoya couldn’t help but to hug Lab. His body was moving by itself, and for some reason, he didn’t wanted to stop it. He could feel Lab’s soft skin in the palm of his hand, and he was enjoying it. Besides that, for Tomoya’s delight, she smelled like watermelon, his favorite fruit. All of these sensations made him feel a little intoxicated, and he was having a hard time controlling his impulses.

Nani finished taking the pictures. She returned the camera to Lab, and began to say goodbye to the guys. Taka was still hesitant to greet her, and doubted between hugging her or cover his butt. A small pain began to rise in Tomoya’s chest. He didn’t want to say goodbye, not to Lab, not yet. He had to come up with something quickly or otherwise, chances were he wouldn’t see her again.

-Why don’t we all go for drinks together? You know, to celebrate!!- Of course, the guys didn’t opposed. There was only waiting for the girl’s response to the invitation.

Nani and Lab dropped their jaws. They glanced at each other and nodded in approval, unable to say a word.

The boys changed their clothes, while Lab and Nani were waiting outside the dressing room. Ryota had made a joke about letting Nani stay inside, but Taka didn’t like the idea of having her around while he was taking off his boxers.  The rest of the quartet began to tease him with that; after all, this was the first time they saw a woman able to get the pervert Taka uncomfortable.

After asking, they headed to a local bar near the live house that one of the staff had recommended. The place was a nice traditional izakaya. It was small and private enough, exactly what they needed. Just as they entered, the boys ordered the usual beers, and Tomoya asked the girls what they wanted.

-I’ll have my beer with grenadine, please- Nani said to the barman.

-Grenadine? Really? Is it good? - Ryota seemed surprise by that improvised cocktail.

-Well, I like it! - Said Nani, smiling. - This is the only way I can drink beer, otherwise, I find it too bitter.-

-Oh! I want a glass of Emperador brandy- Lab seemed very happy, and her smile made something inside Tomoya shake like an earthquake.

This was strange for Tomoya, but somehow knew what was going on. He was falling at first sight. This is what Taka and Toru’s songs talked about. He thought he was familiar with the feeling, but he was wrong. This time was very different. Everything about her was interesting. Every time he looked at her, he discovered something new. And her voice… her voice was somehow familiar, like little bells in ragtime.

The night followed its course, and Tomoya did nothing else but to stay focused in Lab. He talked and listened to her for hours, not minding what Nani and the boys were doing. He had created a bubble around the two of them, and it wasn’t going to prick anytime soon.

-So, Lab… That’s an interesting name. Does it mean anything? - For the first time in his life, he wasn’t having any trouble finding conversation topics.

-Well, that’s actually a slang version of “Love” my friends came up with. My real name is Lovelle. - A crimson blush stained her cheeks. “Kawaii”, he thought.

-Oh!! That’s a beautiful name!! Your parents have a great taste. -  She responded with a cheerful glow in her eyes. They were like beautiful chocolate beads that shinned like 2 guiding stars in a dark night. Tomoya realized he couldn’t keep his eyes off her.  It was ironic how he was falling in love for the love itself.

 Around 2 am, a group of drunken men walked nearby their sector. One of them stopped by the table. He was obviously foreign, and very tall.  He stared at Lab with a crazy look on his eyes. She grabbed Tomoya’s arm and hide behind his back. The drunken man snapped.

-Hey you!! The pretty one! Why don’t go get a drink with me? Get away from these losers. - The man, who had spoken with a distinctive Spanish accent, slammed the table, spilling Toru’s drink.   

-Hey!! Calm down!! There’s no need for violence. - The leader’s answer only made him angrier.

-You calm down!! No one tells me what to do!!- The man lifted the table and threw it against the wall near the spot in which Tomoya and Lab were sitting. Everything happened so fast that Tomoya only had time to protect Lab with his body.

The place was bright white, and smelled strongly like disinfectant. His eyes felt dazzled as he tried to adjust his sight to the female figure that was in front of him. "Tomoya! Ayos ka lang? Gumising ka!" The voice was musical, like little bells in ragtime. He finally managed to adjust his sight, only to see Lab’s face very close. He could tell she’s been crying by the redness on her eyes.

-Oh! You’re finally awake! Thank God! I was so worried! - She started to cry again. Something inside Tomoya began to hurt. He couldn’t see her crying; he couldn’t bear it.

- No, please, don’t cry. I’m fine, I swear. Please, stop crying. - He held her face with his hands and wiped her tears with his thumbs. Her eyes were still glossy and Tomoya could see himself reflected on them. He felt the urge to kiss her, but he was also afraid she might think he was taking advantage of the situation. Instead, he hugged her very tight. She rested her head on his chest. Her body heat felt like a balsam to his sore body.

-I’m sorry. It’s just that I couldn’t cry before because I had to help Nani taking care of you. I assisted her, since the boys didn’t know what to do. She asked me to hold my tears and focus on the job. So, when I saw you waking up, I couldn’t hold them anymore. I’m really sorry. But we’re already here, and you’re ok, so, I’m fine. -  She said with a voice still broken.

That’s when it hits Tomoya. The last thing he remembered was covering Lab with his body. He looked around. It was a small room, and everything was white, including the curtains and the bed sheets.  There was a night table on the side of the bed; on top of it was a bouquet of daffodils. The bright yellow tint of the flowers was the only colored thing in the room, excepting him and Lab.

-Nani brought those. She says that color has healing properties. That’s why she gave me this T-shirt. It’s one of my favorites. - She smiled while showing her T-shirt to him. It appeared to be handmade, and like he remembered, it was light yellow. In the place of the heart, there was a couple of drumsticks, tied by a red microphone’s cord, which hanged upside down, and dripped red musical notes that shifted in to black, creating a big puddle or stain with the OOR logo in it.

- Are those my drumsticks? - He couldn’t believe his eyes.

-Well, you’ve always been my favorite…- It appeared that no more blood could run into Lab’s face. She was already as red as the microphone on her T-shirt. That made her even more beautiful for Tomoya’s eyes. He couldn’t help to smile.

-Aha! I see you’re awake. How do you feel? - Nani had just entered the room holding some papers and what it seemed an X-ray.

-I’m fine, Thank you! Where are the guys? -  Tomoya started to worry. Maybe something happened to them too.

- Oh! They’re fine, don’t worry. Toru is at the police station, with your manager, to see if they can do something about the idiot from last night. Ryota is contacting your family, and Taka is taking care of the paperwork from the medical attention. We told them we’d take care of you. – Nani was smiling peacefully. - Ok, so the blood work and the X-rays are normal, I think I can let you go. I’ll go get the discharge form. You can go whatever you want, but don’t leave the hospital until you’ve signed it, OK? -  With that being said, she left the room, not before winking at Lab.

- Eh? What are we going to do in a hospital? -  He kept giving an incredulous look to the door.

-There’s a place I want to go, before we leave. -  Her eyes were glowing intensively.

Lab leaded Tomoya to the hospital’s rooftop. She seemed very enthusiastic, although he couldn’t understand why.  When they got there, they saw the sun rising over the horizon. Tomoya checked his watch. “Right”, he thought, smiling.

-I know is not a school, but this will do. - She said smiling, while she leaned over the tall fences that surrounded the perimeter. The orange glow of the sun made her skin look like bronze.

-You know, there’s something I want to ask you. But I’m afraid you might get scared and run away. - Tomoya couldn’t resist the gravity center her eyes were to him.

-Ah, It’s OK. I promise I won’t run away. - She said in a giggle. Her smile was mesmerizing.

Tomoya decided to let himself go. He gently held her face with one hand, and placed the other on her waist. He stared at her eyes, feeling he could get lost in them. He leaned and softly pressed his lips against hers. Her lips were soft as the finest silk, and it was very hard for him to not cross the limits. In order to control himself, he held her tight against his chest.

-I love you.- He whispered in her ear.- I know I just met you, but I’ve never been more sure of anything in my life. I don’t want you to go. I’m afraid I might not see you again…- Took a pause to feel Lab’s heavy breathing against his chest. – Please, go on a date with me. - That’s it, he said it. He suddenly understood Taka and Toru, and repented of being angry with them. Now, his only fear was Lab’s rejection. She was a fan, but that was no guaranty. She may be already dating someone and he was just making things more complicated for her.

Lab raised her head, and looked up to him. Then placed her arms behind his neck, and brought him closer to her. Standing on tiptoe, she gave him a long kiss. She then whispered on his ear.

-I’d love to. -  She moved away to see his face. Tomoya smiled at her and showed his teeth. He felt something inside him shaking like an earthquake again, but this time was different. He frowned.

-What’s going on?- She asked, starting to get worried again.

- I’m very hungry!!- His face was really serious.

-Hahahahaha!! OK, let’s go get some ramen! - She grabbed his hand and headed to the door.

-I knew you were the one! - Said Tomoya with the most honest smiled he ever made.

 This would be a day he’d never forget.

                                                                                  The end.