Chapter 691

End Game

Next morning, I woke up early,
from a dreamless, soundless sleep,
just as the sun peeked into our tents,
lighting the canvas into brilliant luminous colors.

To our dismay, clothes, sleeping bag and all were soaked.
Head to toe, I felt like I had come out of a swimming pool.

Spring dew was not to be trifled with.

Even the inside of the tent was dripping with condensation.

Fortunately, it was not too cold.

The temperature was rather forgiving for this time of the year.

This March, it felt almost like summer.

Chapter 692

End Game

As quick as my fatigued body could,
I clambered out of the tent,
to discover Airu and Akira outside already.

"Good morning." Airu smiled at me.

"Morning." I yawned, glancing from Akira to her.

She gave me a reassuring look to say everything was fine.
As always, she had read my mind.

"Here, thanks for the jacket."

My jacket was neatly folded in half,
as good as new.

"Are you warm enough?"

I questioned her thin sweatshirt.

She nodded.

Chapter 693

End Game

Akira was busying himself
with his tent now,
his back to us.

Tonight, we would be staying at a hotel in Osaka.

Of course, travellers must move on.

Nothing was permanent.

Not places,
not people,
not time.

Things were changing faster than they ever meant to be.

To accept the change is the only right path.

Chapter 694

End Game

Surprisingly, the remnant of the fire was still smouldering.
Under the spring dampness, struggling to stay alive.
Did it have the strength to become a fire again?

The possibility of that was close to zero.

Yet, a little disregarded cinder might be the cause of a wild forest fire.

Without much choice, I made sure to give it a firm stamping.

"What are you doing?" Takashi yawned behind me.

"It was still smouldering."

"Oh." He shrugged.

Behind me, I heard Airu cry out.

"Looks like someone needs help."
Takashi laughed.

Chapter 695

End Game

She was clutching her hand,
eyes narrowed in pain,
when I approached.

"I'll do it." I offered.

I saw a flicker of stubborn hope cross over her face.

Instead, I knelt down and took the tent poles from her.

"Gotta watch out for this piece."

She nodded.

I smiled. She was definitely different from anyone I've met.

In her eyes, I could see the undying determination,
a headstrong will to win all her fights.

Even if it was only a tent pole.

Chapter 696

End Game

Soon, with everyone's help,
we managed to get the tents cleaned off and packed.

Soshi had to be the last one to wake up no doubt,
stumbling out when we started taking his tent apart.

It was nearly ten by the time we finished.

Miraculously, large tents and bulky sleeping bags
became trivial with a little effort.

Mobility was once again child's play.

"What's the plan for today?"

Chapter 697

End Game

We were settling against our luggage now,
having found a new way to use them -- seats.

"Tonight we'll be in Osaka."

Miko grinned. "Can't wait. Shopping galore!"

"What time is our train?"

I glanced at the time.

"We could head out after lunch or now, if we eat lunch there."

"I definitely want to try Osaka okonomiyaki."

There was no way Juria would give up on Osaka cuisine.
How she maintained her physique despite her love for food, was a mystery to us all.

Takashi seconded her implied suggestion.

"Well, let's head out as soon as possible then!"

Chapter 698

End Game

Osaka was an old city,
home to famous cuisine,
staples of practical flavoured fast food
and extravagant nightlife scenes.

Rather than Kyoto's artistic finesse and delicate elegance,
Osaka was its opposite, all about getting down to business.

There was no time for slow meandering,
but instead was fast paced, without room to breathe.

To wrap up the vacation with Osaka was like throwing a last farewell party.

The epitome of fun.

The final stretch.

"Here we go!"

Chapter 699

End Game

The closer we got, the rowdier we became.
It seemed like the spirit of Osaka
was already lingering over our seats.

The rhythmic bumps of the train was not a lullaby this time.
Instead, it was a steady dance beat,
each sending a spark along our spines.

We were finally leaving the recesses of serenity.

The trees, the gentle wilderness, all behind us.

The big stages were now just a kick in the back,
sending us along towards more.

Chapter 700

End Game

"Oh, I'm starving." Juria rubbed her stomach.

We laughed, gathering our luggage.

According to the guide maps, we could get off at the next stop.

Right in the middle of the busiest, liveliest districts in Osaka -- Namba.

It was crammed with the best dining options, karaoke bars, salons and stores.

"Here we are."

Chapter 701

End Game

It took us a while to find our bearings amidst the unceasing distractions.
Sights and sounds, people everywhere, our concentration in disarray,
was not a good combination.

It was just like downtown Tokyo, except even worse.

Within minutes we were lost, due to our low attention span.

"Look at that!" Miko was holding on to Juria's arm tightly.

Next to Soshi, Akira was staring down a group of street performers.

Takashi sighed. "This is totally not working."

Chapter 702

End Game

"What were we originally supposed to do?"

"Find food?"

"Oh yeah, I'm starving."
Juria looked disappointed in herself.

"How could you forget that?" Takashi joked.

"I don't know." But her eyes looked pointedly at Miko,
who was already staring through the windows of the next shop.

I was starting to realize the danger of the Osakan streets.

They were potent with distractions and temptations.
A mysterious power gripped every soul
steering them towards hungry mouths,
competing for the next customer.

Soon, minds became clouded, judgement irrational.
We would lose track of our true intent.

And this was only the beginning.

"Well, let's find food. Okonomiyaki here we go!"

Chapter 703

End Game

The burning of the hotplate seared our faces,
smoke rising in front of our eyes,
as if we had returned to the campfire.

I was already sweating from the heat alone.
What would happen if I were to swallow a piece?

Yet, we could only be mesmerized by
the okonomiyaki batters sizzling violently
on the grill in front of us.

Each became a thick mouthwatering pancake,
a staple of Osakan cuisine, famous all throughout Japan.

We had been warmly welcomed by a balding heavyset man
just minutes ago, directing us through a packed interior
towards the far corner where we claimed a teppan to ourselves.

Younger waiters brought us our orders,
almost at the snap of our fingers.

Despite it's strong irresistible flavours,
I never enjoyed the cooking process.






*Okonomiyaki - Mixed batter of flour, grated yam, eggs, cheese, shredded cabbage, various vegetables and selections of other ingredients such as meats, octopus, squid, shrimp, etc. Okonomiyaki is sometimes compared to an omelette or a pancake and may be referred to as "a Japanese pancake" or even "Osaka soul food."

*Teppan - hotplate grill

Chapter 704

End Game

"Now, this is life." Soshi chuckled, his mouth stuffed full.

We divided the okonomiyaki into bite sized slices, like pizza.
Each bite was scorching, heat rising into my head,
but all the same, there would be no stopping.

Caution no longer applied in Osaka.

"Don't talk while you're eating!"
Miko slapped his hand away from the plate, before she forked his share.

"Hey!"

Beside me, Takashi was busy sharing his portion with Juria.

I smiled at their newfound affection, a hint of jealousy tickling my heart.

Chapter 705

End Game

"Ne, do you mind getting me a piece of that?"

Airu who had managed to claim the seat on my right raised her plate.

At the other end of the table,
the okonomiyaki with a layer of fried noodles beckoned.

"Of course. Get it yourself." I teased.

She pouted and stuck out her tongue,
before grinning when I did as she asked.

I couldn't tell whether it was out of courtesy
or if I had been hoping for such a chance.

"Thanks." Her eyes smiled at me.

In the end, I decided it didn't matter.

Chapter 706

End Game

"So you really didn't hear what I said before?"

We were walking now, full til we could barely move.

Okonomiyaki was a glutton's heaven,
a merciless dish of such heavy portions.

We made a resolution to walk it off.

Which was perfect for the ravenous shops.

Each step was accompanied by pleasures.
The pleasure of the eye. The ear.
Only our noses fended off the smell of food,
inviting a feeling of rising half-digested
okonomiyaki in our throats.

We ignored the restaurants and turned our attention to other spectacles.

My attention couldn't be taken away from Airu though.
I had made sure to walk beside her.

I had a nagging feeling that she knew,
and was playing her cards all along.

Chapter 707

End Game

"When?"

"On the hill."

"Oh..." She tilted her head, as if she was thinking.

Suddenly her eyes widened. "I'm so sorry. I fell asleep on you!"

I laughed. "I'm not saying it again."

"No!" She gave me a pleading look. "Tell me!"

"You were the one who fell asleep on me!"

"Shush."

"Don't worry. It's nothing important."
I plastered a smile on my face.

Did I want her to know?

Would it be nothing important soon?

Everything fading away as it usually does.

There was nothing I could seem to hold on to.

What would these last two days in Osaka amount to?

Chapter 708

End Game

"Hey, Airu, come with us!"
Miko was dragging Juria into a store by now,
her helpless eyes calling to Airu for help.

She shook her head.

Then, she looked apologetically at me,
before disappearing into the murky depths.

The small shop was one of many crowding the pedestrian-only side street.
There was no room for the guys, because all we could see were women's fashion.

That was fine though because street performers had just started their work.

I decided I would tell her later.

Chapter 709

End Game

A gathering was slowly forming around the performers.
We pushed our way closer, peering amongst the many heads.
It was a dance crew, dressed in baggy sweatpants and t-shirts,
imitating American hip hop.

I snorted at their pretentious actions.

Their flailing arms as they spoke betrayed their insecurities.

Why did they have to imitate someone else's style?
Could they not find their own identity?

"Oh, they're good." Soshi's voice was full of admiration.

The music started.

Chapter 710

End Game

I shuffled sideways so I could see them.

The beats pounding from their small makeshift speakers was shattering static.

Good? At what?

What could they be possibly good at?

If they couldn't sing or play instruments, how is that music?

I heard the crowd cheering. What did they see?

The man in front of me was tall; he blocked out most of my vision.

Then, he finally moved.

At last I could see.

The first thing I saw was their smile.

Chapter 711

End Game

Five of them, grinning from ear to ear,
like they had no care in the world
about what others thought.

One was in center stage now,
spinning like a top just on his arms alone.

Was this the peak of human finesse?

It wasn't finesse because of their skill.

No, rather, there was something else.

Something that made them shine.

As bright as a star.

Why were they grinning so much?

What did they find in doing this?

Chapter 712

End Game

Every moment, they were putting forth their best.
I could feel it. Their strongest determination to give everything their all.
And they looked like they were enjoying every moment of it.
Every moment they were holding on to it and savouring it.

Straight from their hearts, their motions became faster and faster,
a moving blur, driven with energy that fed from the exhilaration in the air.
They became in tune with their music.

Instead of pretense, there was nothing but authenticity.

It was all of a sudden confusing to me.

Their movement was painful to watch.
Because I was once again on the side lines, watching.

Why did I not have this kind of feeling raging through me?

What was I missing?

Even music hadn't spoken to me.

Why was everything disappearing from my hands?

Chapter 713

End Game

"Seiji!" I felt someone jump on my back.

"What was that for?"

Airu laughed. "I don't know."

I turned away from the dancers,
beats still ringing in my ear.

"Did you buy anything?"

"Not my style." She shrugged.

"But obviously someone did."

I followed her gaze and stared, amused, at a laden Miko.

"She bought that much already?"

"I tried to stop her." Airu tried put on an innocent look.

"Coming from the girl with a limitless credit card."

I grinned. She grabbed my arm and pulled me away.

Chapter 714

End Game

I didn't look back,
but in my mind,
I could see the images
of their dancing
replay, over and over.

I had to find that same fire that kept them going.
Complete abandonment of everything.

"Seiji?" She peered at me curiously.

"Hmm?"

With our hands in our pockets,
we were walking towards our hotel now.

"What are you thinking about?"

I shook my head. "Nothing."

She raised an eyebrow but decided to buy it.

"I was saying, do you wanna go sing karaoke tonight?"

Chapter 715

End Game

Singing. She said.

If I sang this time, would everything come back to me?

Or would it be pointless?

Would singing remain forever far from me?

If I sang, it had to mean something to me.

A long time ago it seemed was the only time when it did.

I could barely hum a song now.

She stared at me thoughtfully.

"You don't have to sing if you don't want to."

I smiled. I told her it would be alright.

Chapter 716

End Game

"So you'll go right?"

She looked so eager and full of expectation.

I couldn't say no.

So I told her I would.

I watched her beam at me and rush over to the others.

Miko gave a loud hoot of approval when she heard of Airu's idea.

Apparently, I had been the first to know.

If I had said no, what would she have done?

I pushed the thought away. It didn't matter.

Chapter 717

End Game

Our hotel was just around the block now,
stationed right in the middle of upper scale shopping districts,
that ran underground all throughout the streets.

Here, there were many large, fancy hotels,
rising out of the sparkling city lights.
To stay in one, was a fortune every night.

Yet, it was worth it.

So we thought.

Chapter 718

End Game

We checked in with a slim upbeat young woman,
light orange hair just licking her shoulders,
most likely fresh out of college.

She gave us a polite smile as she handed us the key cards.
A smile flawless and practiced, she could've mastered it in front of a mirror every morning.

"Rooms 521 to 523. Enjoy your stay."

We bowed and luggage in tow, headed for the elevators.

Past the polished white marble surfaces and bamboo plants,
under the overhanging oriental style chandeliers,
through the hushed echoing interiors,
into our new paradise of comfort.

I pressed the button that gleamed with a red number 5.

Were we to call this home?

Chapter 719

End Game

"It's not fair that we have to have three people in a room!"
Miko protested. The girls nodded in concurrence.

The rest of us had no complaints, but they weren't ready to back down.

"Unless one of you wants to sleep in a room with a guy, you girls all have to be in one..."

They pouted in unison, glancing at each other.

Was anyone willing to make a sacrifice? Their eyes asked.

Juria interrupted, pleading with Takashi. "One of us gets a room to ourself then!"

"What??" Takashi laughed. "No way! That's not fair."

"Four of us in one room? Do you know what could happen?" Soshi joked.

Airu made a disgusted face before grinning. "Just keep it quiet."

"You sick person!"

Chapter 720

End Game

"Please?" Juria was whining with Takashi.

Suddenly, because of their relationship,
there seemed to be a newfound advantage over us.

"It's not his decision to make." Soshi chimed in, smirking.

Juria shot him a dark look, her eyes twinkling with danger.
It seemed like it was innate nature for women to wield such powers.
I chuckled as Soshi finally decided to close his mouth, rather reluctantly,
tail between his legs in submission.

I caught his eyes and shook my head slightly.
It looked like there was no way out of this.

Chapter 721

End Game

Moments later, we sighed, sitting down on whatever surface we could find.

"This is totally unreasonable." Akira sank into the edge of the bed.

"What do they want an extra room for anyway?"

Someone chuckled.

"Keep those thoughts to yourself." I laughed.

Hotels in Japan were known for its cramped interiors.
Other than the foot between bed and wall, we could barely move.

The two small twin sized beds were pushed up side by side,
grey quilt against quilt, competing against the black and white color schemes.
Dull ambient lighting was meant to fade softly against the walls,
an effort to look pristine and sleek,
but with the four of us, romancing us was simply taunting.

To fit the four of us in one room tonight would be quite a stunt to pull off.

"I'll take the couch." I said.

Chapter 722

End Game

"You sure?" Takashi raised an eyebrow.

"Gotta make sacrifices for the team."
Akira shrugged.
"I'll just sleep on the floor."

"What floor?" I chuckled.

"Next to the door."

I followed his gaze.
Behind the door was a narrow hallway,
the floor covered with a velvety carpet,
that luckily looked clean.

If he were to lie down, it would be just enough.

"No way."

"I think we can fit three on two beds though."

"Just not four."

Soshi looked apologetically at me.

"I offered didn't I?" I smiled. "Take it or leave it."

I couldn't help but feel guilty though.
I wanted my own space.

Chapter 723

End Game

"It's stuffy in here."

Takashi was trying to open the window, but to no avail.
It was stuck, as if it hadn't been open for a long time.

"Let me try."
Soshi clambered,
rather clumsily over the beds,
stumbling beside Takashi.

Four guys in one room was not a good idea.

But, it would only be for one night.

That was what we had told ourselves.

"Take your time getting the windows working, I'll step out first."

"Alright, Sei."

Chapter 724

End Game

The hall was refreshing compared to the confined jail cell of a room.
The same minimalistic black and whites greeted me
but the air was much fresher, albeit the whiff of laundry clothes.

Osaka was not as we had expected.

Our comfort was definitely in jeopardy this time around.

Unlike the spacious Kyoto quarters,
or open fresh air amidst the great outdoors,
Osaka was all down and dirty.

Our hotel room definitely didn't want us around much.

Luckily, karaoke tonight might allow us to stay a rather lengthy amount of time.

I'd prefer the karaoke room over our hotel.

Airu's idea didn't sound bad at all.

Chapter 725

End Game

The door next to our room was ajar.
A silver number reading 522 reflected the image of my face,
gazing, swimming in a blur.

I knocked. Once, twice, three times.

"Miko?" I heard a voice before the heavy black door swung open.

It was Airu.

"O-Oh. Hey!" She fidgeted.

"So you got this room?"
I laughed.
"I thought Miko was the one complaining."

"I know right?"

She shook her head in exasperation.

"Apparently, she couldn't handle sleeping alone though."

"That girl." I grinned at her immaturity. "She's like a kid."

"Yeah right?" She pushed the door open further.

"You want to come in?"

Chapter 726

End Game

I hesitated for a moment.

But she didn't notice and spun her heel,
heading back into the room.

Her room was slightly larger than our own.
Instead of black and white, it was light beige and cream,
with pressed sheets as white as snow.
The curtains and windows were wide open,
inviting an invigorating flowery breeze.

I looked on in envy.

Next to the foot of the bed,
her suitcase was thrown open,
but her clothes remained folded inside.

It took a while to register, but I turned my glance away
when I realized what I was looking at.

She blushed and dropped the cover close.

"Sorry. I was just trying to find something."

"What were you looking for?"

"Oh, nothing really."

I looked at her curiously but she avoided my gaze like the plague.

Chapter 727

End Game

She sat down on one of the beds,
rather uneasily, crossing her legs.

Then she decided it wasn't a good idea,
straightening out her legs and rearranging her shorts.

Her awkward tension was quite obvious.

What was she thinking about?

Instead of asking, I shook my head, sighing.

"Why do you get a better room?"

"Huh?"

"It's bigger than ours." I laughed. "And brighter."

She looked sorry.

"You should see how dark and romantic that room is."

She had a strange look until she cracked up.

"That must be so weird."

"No weird thoughts now." I warned.

"What? You're the one who said romantic!"

She broke up into a fit of giggles.

Chapter 728

End Game

"Hush!"
I rushed over, covering her mouth with my hand, trying not to laugh.

The door down the hall just opened.

"Don't make us sound that way!"

She fell on to the bed squirming in laughter.

"What? What are you thinking about? Geez!"

"Nothing!" She protested.

Instead, I attacked her with my tickling fingers.

"Stop!"

I didn't skip a beat even as she whacked me with a pillow,
scrambling towards her until she squealed.

"Gah! I'm ticklish!"

"I can totally see that!" I chuckled evilly.

"No! Stop!" She was on the verge of hysterical tears now, rolling away.

Suddenly, a second later, my foot slipped.

Chapter 729

End Game

And suddenly, we were too close.

Way too close.

I could feel her heart pounding under me.

Pressed against the bed.

What just happened?

Her eyes looked into my own,
into my heart, into my soul.

They were too big, swimming orbs of dark brown and swirls of orange.

We were both frozen, speechless.

Only her warm breath was against my cheek, the only silent words.

Seiji, what on earth are you doing?

Chapter 730

End Game

I nearly leapt off the bed,
peeling myself away from her gaze.

I looked away.

"M-my bad."

She didn't reply, still unmoving on the bed,
her chest rising and falling unsteadily.

"I'm sorry."

I hung my head.

I had hoped things wouldn't become more uncomfortable.
Yet, every time I was near her, there could only be more accidents.

Would it scare her away?

...would I lose her?

Just like everything else?

Everything would escape.

There was only a day left.

Before everything would disappear.

Chapter 731

End Game

"Sei! Airu!" Someone was at the door now.

"O-Oh Miko!"

I turned to see Airu
sitting up now,
out of breath.

"We're coming!"

"What are you guys doing?"

She blushed a deep hue of red.

"I was helping her look for something..." I lied.

Chapter 732

End Game

Airu was trailing slightly behind me.

"Sorry you couldn't find what you wanted to."

She shook her head smiling. "It's okay."

For a moment, it was as if everything had returned to normal.

She closed the door behind her;
a loud click announced it was locked, echoing down the corridor.

I paused as to wait for her but she was beside me already.

"We've got the elevator! Hurry up!"

Chapter 733

End Game

I felt a small tug on my arm,
just enough to seem hesitant.
The others were slightly ahead now,
as if she had waited for a bit.

"Seii..."

Her eyes were fixed to the ground.

"Yeah?"

She seemed to take a deep breath before continuing.

"If you want..."

She finally looked up at me, a glint in her eyes,
a harmless twinkle playing innocently.

What was it?

"You can share the room with me."

Chapter 734

End Game

What did she say?

I stared at her blankly.

"What?"

"If you want to, you can share my room."

She said a little more boldy, avoiding my steady gaze now.

As if it wasn't enough, she added.

"It would be okay if it was you."

She looked away, stammering.

"You probably wouldn't get any sleep in that room."

"Is what I meant of course."

Instead of scaring her away, it seemed she had gotten more comfortable with me.

That could not be a good thing...

Could it?

Chapter 735

End Game

After what had happened,
what made her say that?

Beyond all, my curiosity rose, not comprehending at all.

I could never understand what she was thinking.

She still avoided me, staring straight ahead.

Oddly, her eyes would never reveal any of her thoughts,
yet it gazed into my own, deep into my soul.

What did she see in me?

Did she always understand my thoughts?

I wished she could tell me what I was thinking.

What I should do.

"It's alright. I've got the couch."

I finally replied, faking a grin.

Chapter 736

End Game

What was that?

I couldn't tell whether it was a flicker of disappointment in her eyes,
or was it the sun glinting off of the cars?

I was tempted to say yes.

She was more intriguing than I've ever known.

It was as if she would tell me why if I had agreed.

What she was thinking and what she wanted.

Maybe she would tell me what I wanted.

Her eyes finally met mine for an instance,
brown bangs sweeping in the breeze.

In her eyes, I saw a reflection.

Of myself.

Was that me?

I looked away.

What had I been thinking?

This couldn't be me.

Chapter 737

End Game

She smiled quietly.

"Okay. Just don't hurt your back."

I nodded.

Was that what she was worried about?

Was it I who had been over thinking?

I had a feeling the answer was no.

That same feeling that she was much deeper than that.

She knew what she was thinking.

She knew what she was doing.

She knew what she wanted.

And I wanted to know.

Everything.

Chapter 738

End Game

The others were far ahead of us,
turning this way and that,
searching for our next destination.

We were always together.

Like it was meant to be this way.

It was just us, and the cars.
Streaming past, their destinations in mind.
But Airu, was like the cars.
She had something in mind.

I needed her. To tell me.

Everything.

I turned to her but I didn't know what to say.

She was a few steps ahead.

I had been slow.

Chapter 739

End Game

Her eyes were fixed to the ground.
One foot in front of the other.

Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep.

"Airu! Watch out!"

But she kept going.

I froze, wide eyed.

No. Not this. Again?

Chapter 740

End Game

"No!"

It couldn't happen again.

Something threw me forward.

Right into the middle of the road.

Three steps of mine.

And I was there.

I was faster this time.

She was tight in my arms.

Safe?

Chapter 741

End Game

"Don't move."

Her head was against my chest,
my arms cradling her as if I was trying to protect her.

I had made it in time.

I wouldn't let her go.

I wouldn't let something disappear from me again.

I would do everything I could.

What I wanted...

The sound of car horns erupted around us.

We were in the middle of the road.

Chapter 742

End Game

"Airu! Seiji!"

"Are you alright?"

They were shouting from the other side of the intersection.

We were the only ones left behind.

Stranded in between lanes.

A stampede of vehicles now flashed by;
the close proximity was a hurricane,
each trying to push us back and forth in their wake.

Despite how safe we felt inside a car,
how colorful and sleek they looked,
to be next to one was their treachery.

"Don't move."

I said again, holding her tight to me,
looking down at the top of her head.

Then I noticed her tears.

Chapter 743

End Game

"Airu!" I couldn't contain myself. "Are you alright?"

I released my arms and examined her, tears streaming down her face.

"Are you hurt?"

She turned away, sniffing. Her sleeve wiped away most of her tears.

A pain in my heart suddenly overwhelmed me, so strong
it pierced through my body, echoing in every cell.

"What's wrong?" My voice broke.

I couldn't stand seeing her in such a miserable state.

She shook her head, avoiding my gaze.

Beside us, a truck loudly clamored by, shaking the ground beneath our feet.
I pushed her to the side, its rusty metallic fringes narrowly missing us.

Chapter 744

End Game

She finally looked up at me.

Her beautiful orange-brown eyes trembled, dull with a deep sadness.

How did she manage to hide such a painful emotion?

I could feel her will to escape.

From me.

But I held her tightly.

"It hurts..." Her voice quavered.

"Where?"

"It hurts so much... to not say anything."

"Then say it!"

"I can't."

"Why?"

"It'll ruin everything."

Chapter 745

End Game

"It won't." I promised.

I pressed her closer to me.

The unspoken words.

We probably both knew.

"Can't."

It was dangerous now.

If she said anything, everything would be changed.

What would happen, once everything was over?

Which would be reality, which would be fantasy?

Chapter 746

End Game

The cars stopped.

The storm whirling around us had stopped.
We were left still standing.
Still standing because we were standing together.
What would have happened if we lost each other?

Green light flashing.

I grabbed her hand and pulled her towards safety.

We were safe.

We were still alive.

Another day to go.

Chapter 747

End Game

"Thank God you guys are okay."

Juria gasped,
wrapping her arms around Airu,
like she was hauling her in to safety.

Airu's eyes were still slightly red from the tears.

She smiled at me though.

"Thanks."

"Don't do anything stupid any more."

She nodded slowly.

She looked so weak and vulnerable.

"Promise?"

She looked me in the eye. "I promise."

Chapter 748

End Game

She had always been strong on the inside.

But did I not know her enough?

I had no idea how she was feeling.

Her eyes always hid the truth.

"I'll make you know that you don't have to hide from me."

"What?"

She must have heard me.

"You know," I started. "We've got to talk a lot more."
"Sorry that I never listened to you enough."

"What are you talking about?"

"I'd like to know you more."

Her eyes searched mine for meaning.

But all that was in my eyes was truth.

I knew she understood.

She smiled, brightly.

Chapter 749

End Game

Soon, we arrived at a set of stairs, descending steeply below the earth.
Underneath, instead shadows, it was lit with a thousand suns.

The shopping underworld. Heaven or hell, I didn't know.

I heard Miko's excited squeal and Soshi's low whistle.

"Thus, begins our adventures in odyssey."

"You mean, in wonderland." I grinned.

"Or maybe candy land." Juria joked.

We laughed.

I took Airu's hand.

We won't let go of what we have left.

Chapter 750

End Game

Just like the city core, even the underworld was full of wandering spirits.
Every corridor of the commercial labyrinth, full of bright signs and store displays,
fake mannequins and real customers, flitting this way and that.

Movement.

Sounds.

Images.

There was no stop.

No time to stop.

The only place where time stopped in Osaka
was while we were still stranded between lanes.

"Look at that!"

Chapter 751

End Game

As always, it was Miko.

She grabbed the nearest arm
- which happened to be Soshi's -
and pushed their way through the store.
His desperate look cried a quiet "save me"
but no one heeded his call.

We laughed though, seeing how the store was full of women's fashion.

The laughter suddenly broke down my defenses.

This was no longer the underworld.

This was heaven.

"Airu!" I winked and pulled on her hand. "Let's go."

Chapter 752

End Game

"Hey, wait up!" Takashi called.

We ignored them, taking off, running steps, disappearing into the crowd.

These last moments were precious. There was not much time left.

I could feel her hand firm in mine. She was thinking the same.

"We'll call you!" They called.

I knew what they must have thought of us.

But, I didn't care any more.

I was desperate. We were desperate.

I could feel it.

I knew after the last day, something will change.

For all of us.

Run.

Chapter 753

End Game

She was huffing and puffing by the time we slowed down.

We left them far behind us.

Freedom. We would win.

We had no idea where we were, but it didn't matter to us.

Nothing mattered anymore.

No. Only one thing mattered right now.

I squeezed her hand.

She gave me a light squeeze in return and smiled.

"You don't have to say anything." I said to no one in particular.

"Hmm?" She turned to me.

"We'll just enjoy this while we can."

There was a hint of sadness in her eyes.

I was learning to understand her better.

I watched as it turned into joy.

She nodded.

"You're right."

"We already know."

Chapter 754

End Game

"Do you want one?"

"Mhm."

She gave me a childish smile, waiting to be spoiled.

I nearly laughed out loud.

"Fine." I tapped her on the forehead.

The lady at the stand bowed kindly as I approached,
her greying hair bobbing, barely concealed by the black dye.

"Two dishes of takoyaki to go please."

"Of course."
She winked at me as she began to pack up the takoyaki.
"Not one to share?"

"She's quite the eater." I grinned.





*Takoyaki, a signature Osakan snack or dish that consists of dumplings made of octopus, tempura, ginger, green onion, brushed with takoyaki sauce and mayonnaise, and topped with green laver (aonori) and katsuobushi (shavings of dried bonito). There are many variations to the takoyaki recipe. Often eaten with dips now.

Chapter 755

End Game

"Thank you very much. Please enjoy."

The lady bowed again, courteously.

I returned it naturally before joining Airu again.

"Here."

She gratefully accepted the styrofoam dish and beamed at me.

"Thanks."

I shook my head in an attempt to reply, a dumpling already in my mouth.

"You know?" She started.

I made a sound in my throat of curiosity.

She looked uncomfortable.

"Umm..."

Chapter 756

End Game

Her chest heaved as she took a deep breath,
a takoyaki skewered in one hand, dish in the other.

She spoke quickly, as if she didn't want me to hear her.

"For today, can we.. uhh.. try to act like.. we're.. uhh... together?"

Despite her pauses, I heard her clearly.

Her voice itself wasn't uncertain. Rather, it was calm and confident.

Like she already knew the answer.

And no matter what my mind or heart was saying, the answer was one.

The answer was yes. I heard myself say it. Almost without hesitation.

At the moment, as if a spell had overcome me, there was no other answer I could give.

I didn't even think about it.

Had I given it some time, maybe it would have been harder to agree.

To fall deeper into temptation.

To fall deeper into sin.

The sin of the present.

Chapter 757

End Game

"Feed me." She stuck out her tongue.

We were sitting down, side by side,
perched atop high bar stools.
The shopping aisle had emptied out to a food court.

"That's abusing your privileges." I chuckled.

She looked crestfallen.

"I'm kidding." I said reluctantly. "Say ah."

She looked genuinely happy as I speared a takoyaki with the toothpick.

Her contented expression as she chewed,
ever so slowly, deliberately, carefully, savouring every bite,
was enough to kindle a warmth spreading through my body.

A feeling that was so familiar, like I had felt it before a lifetime before.

But from where?

Chapter 758

End Game

"So what else do we have to do?"

"As a couple?"

"Yeah.." She mumbled.

I could hear the sadness in her voice.
What we had to do in whatever time was left of this pretense, a fantasy.

"What do you want to do?"

She played with her hair. "Let's see..."

"We watched the stars together.

We had a campfire together.

We went to a concert together.

We strolled in a garden at night.

We took lots of pictures.

We shared our food.

We went shopping.

We travelled together.

We.... held hands."

Chapter 759

End Game

We were silent.

"What..." Our eyes met. "Else?"

Our thoughts becoming one.

The world around us fading away.

All sounds muted.

All images blurry.

All I could see was her face.

The shape of her cheeks,
her elegant silky bangs,
her small delicate nose,
her bewitching hazel eyes,
her long dark eyelashes,
her soft wet lips,
the smooth contours of her neck.

Chapter 760

End Game

Every part of her wanted to know.
Every part of me wanted to know.

What else should we do?

What else would we do?

What was the line between fantasy and reality?

Between act and real emotions?

She was closer now.

Was she moving?

Was I moving?

When it came to her, it seemed like we could only get closer.

And closer.

There was nothing to stop us.

Chapter 761

End Game

I was close enough to see every single eyelash, fluttering close.
I could hear her heartbeat, pounding fast.
Her warm breath against my lips.
We were here before. Where we left off last time.

This was only right.

I could not resist.

Everything had faded away.

We didn't care where we were.

Chapter 762

End Game

My hand found its way to her waist,
sliding up her back.
She shivered under my touch,
a feverish reply, drawing me closer.
Wanting more.

Her lips parted gently.

Chapter 763

End Game

Her lips were warm, soft and wet.
They melted against my own.
They tasted like candy.

Chapter 764

End Game

A feeling in me.
Like I wanted more.

Chapter 765

End Game

Her arms wrapped around my neck and our lips desperately explored.
Hungry and starved, like they had been waiting for too long.
With each passing moment, a fire grew in us,
leaping up to consume us from the inside out.
She was swallowing me, deeper, into temptation. Into lust.
She made a quiet sound.
More. We wanted more.

Chapter 766

End Game

Beep. Beep. Beep.

A familiar jingle.

A sound so distant, it could have been from another world.

What was it?

All of a sudden,
reality became a slap on the face,
knocking us apart.

What had we been doing?

Chapter 767

End Game

She looked just as flustered as I did,
her cheeks burning with color.

I looked away.

This was too much.

We went... too far.

What have I done?

What have I done?

What have I done??

Chapter 768

End Game

What would happen when this was all over?

Have we crossed the line?

How can we return to where we came from?

What we were before?

This wasn't a path I could walk... right?

All around I could feel the angry accusing glare of the world.
A painful pressure on all sides, threatening to suffocate us,
pull us apart and tear me to shreds.

"You should have known!"
Voices of contempt called out.
"Why did you betray us?"
"You liar!"
"You're a sinner!"

I was condemned to hell.
I had to be. What had I done?

Chapter 769

End Game

"We... kissed."

I heard her voice, piercing through my world of befuddled thoughts.

She turned to me, so much joy in her eyes, they could've been stars.

"Thank you, Seiji."

I stared at her, confused. Why was she so happy?

"That was my first."

"I'm so glad I had given it to you."

She blushed.

"My world is complete."

Her eyes shone.

Chapter 770

End Game

The same jingle again.

"Yeah."

"Where are you guys? Wanna meet up?"

It was Soshi, his voice as cheerful as usual.

"We're at a food court."

"Oh really? How could you leave us out of food?"
He laughed. "We just arrived at a food court."

They arrived too late. I glanced at Airu.
She was still reeling with happiness.
I was responsible for this.

I had to stop this now.

"We're next to MOS Burger. Do you see us?"

Chapter 771

End Game

Between the many famished heads floating in front of menus,
I could make out the others heading our way,
Soshi a head taller than most.

They waved at us, like everything was the ordinary.

It was a weird feeling.

I was relieved I didn't have to be alone with Airu.
Yet, something inside me told me I wanted more.

She grinned and waved back at them, enthusiastically.

With the other hand, she slipped her fingers into mine.

Was our act still on in front of them?

Wasn't this going too far?

Airu, what are you thinking?

Chapter 772

End Game

Through her fingers, it was like I could read her thoughts.
Her hand was warm and comforting against mine.

Slowly, my racing thoughts grew to a faint murmur.

Even what had happened before became far away.

All I could feel was her fingers and her steady pulse.

She smiled at me, full of resilient trust.

I opened my mouth.
As if to say something, but no sound came out.

What... should I do?

She tugged my hand gently.

"Let's go."

"We'll have time after right?"

Chapter 773

End Game

"I'm hungry."

"You're always hungry!" Takashi retorted affectionately.

Juria stuck out her tongue before wrapping her arm around his.

We were heading away from the cafeteria,
as the clock ticked unfaltering towards evening.
We wouldn't have time after.
Time was passing. Time was leaving.
Surely, everything would be all over.

I felt Airu's fingers tighten against mine,
as if I would run away, like our time.

Chapter 774

End Game

I would've told her that her touch was like a spell.
There would be no way I could run away, even if I tried.

Everyone else turned a blind eye, as if nothing was different.
Yet, this pretense, this act, would eventually become disastrous wouldn't it?

Who was going to deal with it in the end?

I didn't want to have to be the one.

Like Airu had said. If anyone had said anything, it would all be ruined.

But even if no one said anything, it might still be ruined.

I squeezed her hand tighter.

Everything we shared, we might lose it all.

Chapter 775

End Game

"Alright, karaoke and dinner then?"
Miko grinned lopsidedly,
fumbling with her shopping bags,
as if she was in drunken stupor.

"Yeah, my legs are tired." Juria rubbed her calves.

Soshi chuckled. "Ask Takashi to piggy back you."

"Oh hush!"

"Airu, you've been to Osaka before right?
Where did you say was good?"

"A long time ago..." She shrugged, pausing in thought.
"I think I remember where it is, follow me then!"

Chapter 776

End Game

With me in tow,
Airu led the way hurtling rather hastily
through the evening pedestrians,
eager to find ourselves a satiating meal.

In the company of Juria,
it seems all we could get done was food.

As muddled my thoughts were,
I vaguely remembered the last time I sang.

It was probably what seemed like years ago.
At the park with friends, given a guitar and asked to play.
It seemed like life was so much simpler then.

I had been taking a break... from...

"Seiji.." Airu's voice came through.

Her face looked soft under the glowing sunset sky.

"We can add something else to the list tonight."

She smiled genially.

"Let's sing together."

Chapter 777

End Game

I wanted to tell her I couldn't sing.
I wanted to stop this from going any further.
But I couldn't. I couldn't.

My lips, lips that had shared her own, became a slight smile.
"I'll sing with you."
A voice that was not my own replied.

Her face filled with luminous joy,
and she leaned closer to me,
wishing every part of her body
to be against mine.

Her touch sent a tingling along my spine.

Her happiness broke through my last reservations.