Volume 1 | Episode 2 - We did it

I am lying down on my bed as I stared blankly towards my ceiling. Though I am rather recalling the events that transpired just yesterday night. The same flashy-colorful lights that can attract ones attention, which shared by the performers up on the stage.

Glitter*Green... was their name... Their music made me feel like I just went back in time that I first witnessed a heart throbbing band music.

Even when it's been such a long time since I had gotten back to this kind of thing... It never fails to amaze me. I wonder, do the bands of this generation surpass those of the old era?

Hm...

"Don't be afraid, Tsukame Tsukame..." I hummed out the lyrics of Glitter*Green's song. It was honestly catchy, not even gonna lie.

Oh and there was that as well... When Toyama out of nowhere asked to form a band with me and - If I can remember properly from that short haired girl - Ichigaya.

It was an awkward moment to the point that the blonde had to storm off with the guitar. Meanwhile, I basically just turned down her offer kindly for personal reasons.

I hope she's not hurt by it though...

. . .

"I'm gonna perform here one day! I know it!" I recall the words said by Toyama last night. And the look in her eyes speaks for itself that she's determined to make that come true...

. . .

. . .

I sat up from by bed. Sighing, my eyes wandered off towards the open window with an apparent sunshine piercing through. "Welp.. Time to get ready." I huffed as I hopped off of my comfortable bed sheets while taking Gura-chan with me

[ Location ] [ Hanasakigawa Girl's(?) School ]

"I smell another freshly baked bread. And it's coming from you again, Yamabuki-san." I pointed out after taking a few more gentle whiffs. Me and Yamabuki were currently walking inside the school grounds as we casually conversed.

"Care to take a guess?" Are you challenging Moi?

"Hmph." I gently puffed my cheeks at her words before taking a quick sniff at her again. "Some anpan... melon pan... and... shokupan?? No wait... That smells like chocolate..."

"You know it's kind of awkward for the both of us when people stare." Yamabuki pointed out sheepishly. I leaned back a little, cocking a brow as I process her words.

"Hm? What do you mean?"

"The way you're... sniffing on me..." She added with an embarrassed tone in her voice..

Oh... I see...

"Oh right... Sorry if that bothers you." I gave out a sheepish chuckle as I scratched the back of my head.

"No no, It's fine." Yamabuki waved it off with a gentle smile on her face. "It's not like you were trying anything. Plus, It's kinda hard to picture you in that sort of manner. If you know what I am getting at."

"Are- You- Making- Fun- Of- My- Height?!- MADAM!?-" I said, poking her side with each word I said.

"Ow Ow Ow!!! H- Hey! S- Stop it!!" She gave off a laughter towards my physical attacks.

Suddenly, our attention shifted when we noticed a certain blonde ran pass us like in some sort of rush. "Huh? Was that..." I murmured.

"Ah! Saaya! Katsuhiko-chan!" And there, following behind the trails of Ichigaya was Toyama Kasumi herself and her cheery smile as she waved her hand towards us.

"Mornin'." Yamabuki replied in courtesy. Meanwhile, I simply raised my hand and greeted Toyama with a 'Yo.'

"Good Morning!" The brunette greeted back with a smile.

"I just witnessed a rare sight." Yamabuki spoke.

"What?"

"Ichigaya-san running like mad! As if someone was chasing her." Yamabuki said with a rather amused smile on her face. Toyama seems to look confused. "You know? The student representative from the entrance ceremony?"

"That was her?" I tilted my head while my eyes also wandered off to Toyama because I had a small assumption of why Ichigaya was in a mad dash.

Then all of a sudden. Toyama gasped before dashing her way inside the building. "Huh. I wonder what's up." Yamabuki spoke.

"If only we knew..." I simply gave off a sheepish smile. Not wanting to discuss further of... whatever this was...

. . .

As we walk silently down the hallways. I was mindlessly looking around before I began to halt when I noticed Yamabuki taking a pause in front of a classroom that isn't ours.

She was slightly peeking her head inside. "Are you looking for someone?" I called out to her, to which she lightly flinched as she turned to me.

"O- Oh.. Um... It's nothing." She waved off my concern.

Politely, I didn't pry further. "Alright then." I nodded my head slowly before walking forward towards our classroom. I took one glance towards Yamabuki and I caught her peeking inside that classroom once more before catching up to me.

Just a few walks a way to my destination. I suddenly halted when a familiar blonde walked out of a classroom. "Oh, it's you." It was Ichigaya... with an annoyed look on her face.

"Looks like you woke up on the wrong side of the bed." I stated. She merely scoffed silently. Which I guess confirms my statement.

"Look... Do me a favor and do something about your friend over there?" She told me as she slightly glanced inside the classroom.

"Who?" I asked as a looked inside. My eyes slightly widen when I saw Toyama inside. "Huh?" I let out, turning back to Ichigaya, whom was already gone. As I looked around, I noticed her making a mad dash towards the distance.

"What?!" Out came Toyama with a perplexed look on her face for when she saw Ichigaya running away.

"What did you do, exactly?" I asked. To which she shot me a confused look.

"huh?" She replies with obliviousness.

"She's running away again?" Behind me, Yamabuki arrives at the scene.

"Saaya!" Toyama happily said as she went and planted her two hands on top of Yamabuki's shoulders. "Guess what? Arisa has this really cute guitar! It was shaped like a star! Oh and it sparkles!"

"A guitar, you say?" Yamabuki said whilst smiling.

Toyama nodded in response, forming sort of a proud look on her face. "I'm actually forming a band!"

"You're planning to." I corrected her.

"I am going to!" Toyama said with determined eyes.

"Didn't you just declare that out of nowhere? You gotta at least have some preparations or some stuff."

"Hm." Toyama slumped in a pondering manner. "Hmp! I'm sure we can work this out! You should at least give me some encouragement!"

"That's fine, I guess..." I sheepishly said.

"What made you decide to form a band, Kasumi?" Yamabuki asked in genuine curiosity.

"See, Katsuhiko-chan and I went to a music venue yesterday! Everything there was so sparkly! Especially the lights on the stage! They were so pretty!"

"So I see you have found what you're looking for then?" Yamabuki said with a soft giggle. "That sparkling and heart-pounding thing you were talking about?"

"Mhm!" Toyama nodded profusely and albeit... cutely. "Do you wanna join us, Saaya? It's gonna be fun!"

"Who gave you the permission to say that I am joined in?" I gave Toyama a deadpan stare.

"Eh?! But you must! Didn't that concert spark some motivation into you?! Surely you must have felt the Kira Kira Doki Doki as well?"

I gently avoided her gaze for a short while as I muttered. "Perhaps..."

"Ehh!? Come on Katsuhiko-chaan~! Please~~"

. . .

. . .

"no." I responded nonchalantly. To which earns me a cute pout from her.

I hear Yamabuki give off another dose of soft giggles. As If out of amusement. She looked at us with a gentle smile, saying; "I'll cheer you guys on."

. . .

. . .

"you know, that could mean two things..." I mumbled.

[ Location ] [ Hanasakigawa: Court Yard ]

"Katsuhiko-chan! Wanna join us for lunch this afternoon?" Toyama offered to me. Me and her were currently making our way towards the nearby vending machines to buy some drinks.

"I'm not sure if I could... I may get caught up with my club's shenanigans again." I replied.

"Oh right. You're in a club..." Toyama said as she slumped.

"Why do you sound so dejected?"

"Hmmph... Incomplete... I thought we could all hang out together~" she gently whined like some sort of little child.

I heaved a sigh. "There's still a next time, you know? Don't be too bummed out by it now."

"But what if you're not free again?"

"I'll try and manage. Don't worry about it." I shrugged as I make my way in front of the vending machine.

I looked up and noticed that the drink that I want was at the top most shelf.. And the button for it as well.

I want to try and reach out for it, but I am confident enough that I can't.

I looked around, and noticed an empty crate just right beside the vending machine. I grabbed it, placed it down in front. And got on top of it.

And there, I finally got what I wanted. The soda can clanked and thud as it landed down the pick-up box.

As I finally got what I wanted. I noticed Toyama staring at me weirdly. To which I cocked an eye brow, wondering what was up.

"W- What?"

"You look really weird standing on that crate." She said. She looks like she was about to burst into a fit of laughter but she held it in.

"I can't reach, okay?!" I retorted.

"You could've asked for my help, you know? I could've just carried you... like.. THIS!" all of a sudden, I've been lifted up off the crate by Toyama.

"W- Wha- Hey!! What gives!? Put me down this instant!!" I flail my arms to escape, But Toyama really held my waist tightly. How is she able to carry me so easily?!

"U- Um.." Toyama stopped when we heard that voice. We turned to see a familiar looking girl. And said girl was giving us a baffled expression.

"Now you're making things more awkward..." I grumbled. Out of nowhere, Toyama dropped me on the ground, it was so sudden that I almost tripped and fall. What in the world, you can't just drop a small bean like me that way!

"It's you! We saw you yesterday!" Toyama says as she walked up to the girl. If I remember correctly. I believe her name was Ushigome... "Do you play in a band? How long has it been? What do you play? Or do you sing?"

"Hey hey, what in the world are you doing?!" I scolded the brunette.

"What? I am just curious about her."

"It sounded like those questions are only for your own benefit." I said, giving Ushigome an apologetic look in behalf of this carefree cat girl.

The former tried to respond. But stuttered with a familiar dialect. "Kansai?" I pointed out.

"How cute!" Toyama expressed.

"I moved here when I was in middle school..." Ushigome meekly says. Then sighs in embarrassment. "huuhhh.... Sometimes it comes out when I'm not paying attention..."

"Don't worry! Like I said, It sounds cute~ Though, you're not in a band..."

"How does that even correlate?" I deadpan.

"Actually... My sister..." Ushigome uttered.

It was then I realized. "Now that you mentioned it... Was the vocalist in Glitter*Green your older sister?" I managed to find out when I was looking through names of the members on the list.

"Mhm.." she shyly nodded. "She also plays the guitar."

"Wait.. so that was your sister?!" Toyama exclaimed in utter surprise. "That was so awesome! Your sister was so cool yesterday!"

"Yeah!" Ushigome nodded in agreement.

"She really sparkled on stage!"

"Yeah!" Ushigome nodded in agreement.

"I wanna perform like her too!"

"Yeah!" Ushigome nodded in agreement.

Toyama went and gave Ushigome a big embrace. "Let's do it together!"

. . .

". . .eh. . . ?" Ushigome uttered.

I delivered a chop on top of Toyama's head, to which she yelped. "Ow!!"

"Oi, don't get ahead of yourself." I scolded.

Later on. I took my leave to go attend to my club. Toyama was still insisting that I should stay and join them for lunch. But as I've said, there was still a next time. And again, she was still disappointed.

I better make that promise come true sooner then... If I can, that is.

No sooner, I arrived at the club room and I was met with the members gathering around in a group formation as they pay heed towards our club president's words.

"Now that we are all here! Let us begin our all-together feast!" Yui Takahara, our club president, elegantly said as she presented to everyone the food that was prepared...

...so this was the meeting all about?? Sure seems nice... and a surprise, might I add.

"Fellow followers of mine. Let us begin our banquet!"

I sighed. As the others loudly cheered.

I can tell that If I tell Toyama that this was the meeting that I had to attend to, she'd be more disappointed than she currently is. I could either go back and join them... But I feel like it would be rude of me to suddenly leave. Especially if our club president went out of her way to do all of this.

So... with all of my heart...

Toyama.. I apologize for this.

[ Later on ]

It was time for us to head home.

I would be waiting for Toyama so that both of us could walk home together like always. But it seems that she had already went off without me.

Wow... is she really that upset that I didn't join them? Or was it just me?

But I guess I should apologize once I meet up with her tomorrow.

While I was silently contemplating and walking my way back home. At a particular lane, I stumbled across an all too familiar star sticker.

"Huh... I'm surprised that you're still stuck on the same spot." I said as I picked up the little thing from the ground.

If I remember correctly, the next one was right around... that fence... and then that pole. Without realizing, I somehow ended up following the trail of star stickers again.

And now I found myself right in front of the very same pawnshop known as Ryuuseido. "I have no idea why I ended up here... But here I am.." I muttered to myself as I looked around my surroundings to see if I can find anything in particular.

The streets around here seems to be rather quiet. Albeit, peaceful.

Before i could even decide to go back home. But with one glance to the side. I saw a very familiar brunette walking through the narrow pathway. The same path leading to the Ichigaya residence.

"Toyama-san?" I let out. Wondering why she's here at this hour. Is she perhaps acquainted with Ichigaya now? I guess there's only one way to find out.

I quietly trail behind Toyama's tracks. And once I did, I then saw her stopped right in front of the warehouse door. "Arisa!" I hear her call out.

"This is trespassing, you know?" The blonde inside the warehouse responded. ". . . you're here too...?" I flinched when she spotted me. To which Toyama turned around and was surprised to see me here.

"Katsuhiko-chan! What are you doing here?"

That's a good question.

Why am I here??

Well, aside from being curious of what she's up to, that is... I could've done something else.

"That's my question." I responded to her without answering her question to mine.

"I was worried about Arisa when her classmates said she left school early."

"Well, that's kind of you. But I don't think she warrants any of it." I said. I slightly glanced to Ichigaya, whom just rolled her eyes.

"I didn't to take any afternoon classes today. And even if I missed some classes, I'd still get credited in the end."

Really..? How does that even work..?

I dunno. I'm not a top student.

"So that's why you don't come to school a lot..." Toyama concluded.

"Think it's wrong?"

"Isn't it wrong? You can't hang out with your friends or have lunch together with them."

"Excuse me? Are you here to brag? Preach? Like what you're friend said here, I don't warrant any of your sympathy. Even if a teacher put you up to this."

"No no no! That's not it!" Toyama said.

"Honestly, Toyama-san. You shouldn't try and force people, you know?" I walked up and stood beside her when I noticed the brunette was even paying any attention to my words, but rather, she was looking inside and at a particular object resting beside the wall.

"Oh look! It's the Random star!"

"Hands off the merchandise." Ichigaya told as she got up before walking towards us. "300,000 yen."

"What?" Toyama replied confusedly.

Meanwhile, Ichigaya shot us a smug look. She lifted her phone and showed us what was on the screen. "It might increase by now."

"Huh? An Auction...??" I tilted my head.

"One... Two... Huh!? Three Hundred Thousand?!" The brunette exclaimed in pure shock.

"It'll go higher eventually, of course." The blonde spoke as her smug face lingered. "Even if this is trash to me. This thing is worth something to someone out there." 

Toyama glanced at the guitar case once more with disbelief plastered on to her face.

"You can't do anything about it now unless you have the money." I told Toyama as I tried to reassure her.

"Exactly." Ichigaya nodded with confidence. That came off a little rude there, you know? "Now if you'll excuse me. I have something else to finish here... So if you please.." She started to pushed the both of us out of the warehouse. "Out you go!"

"B- But..."

"Look, Toyama-san. We should be leaving now." I once again put my hand on her shoulder to assure her. She looked at me in the eye before sighing in defeat.

"Okay..."

. . .

Without anything else left to say, the two of us left.

We silently walk down the quiet streets. I looked over to Toyama who seems to be a little dejected after recently.

Did she really like that guitar that much?

"Toyama-san. Don't be discouraged, alright? I'm sure there might be some way you could get a guitar like that. But if you still aim for that sort of guitar, then the viable option would be is to get a part-time job. Hm.. but no.. we're talking about an Auction here... so i guess that wouldn't work as much..."

"But yeah, regardless! If I ever learned anything cliche. Is that giving up is never an option! Just try with all your might until you reach that goal you sought out for."

Toyama paused in her tracks. Pondering about my words of encouragement. She turned back to me, a beautiful smile would show on her face. Her expression seems delighted, as far as I can tell.

"You're right!" Toyama said determinedly. "You're right, Katsuhiko-chan!"

"My advice was a little bit cringey and all. But I'm happy that it helped motivate you." I gave her a genuine smile in return.

"Yosh!" She expressed as she runs off ahead of me. Twirling and dancing around with her arms spread wide open. The gentle light of the sunset complements her as a whole. Making me witness and capture a beautiful sight right before my very eyes.

. . .

You know, I honestly admire her sense of determination. Yeah, I know she was feeling all dejected just a few moments ago. But I guess with just one single push. She'd get back on track and keep going.

I honestly hope nothing goes wrong that I would end up to be blamed for...

[ The Next Day ]

Everything went by so smoothly during class. Nothing much had happened, even at the culinary club. It was just a regular day.

Well, there was one thing I noticed. Is that I hadn't run into Toyama as of late. Aside from classes since I often see her at that particular time. But when it ends, she'd suddenly just vanish.

I really hope she's not up to anything rash...

Since she wasn't anywhere in sight as of now. I guess I'm going home alone again today.

. . .

. . .

Home... I did say I was planning to go home.

But for some unknown reason... "How in the world did I end up here...?" I guess I was walking absentmindedly to the point of me arriving at the pawn shop again. The streets were as quiet as always. "Oh bother..."

Hm.. I guess It wouldn't hurt to take a look for once.

Sighing. I made my way through the same narrow pathway that leads to Ichigaya's warehouse of junk.

And there I saw the blonde outside, continuing whatever work she has with moving out some stuff from the warehouse.

She wasn't alone at doing the work though. Surprisingly, Toyama was present here as well.

"Oh! Look, it's Katsuhiko-chan!" The cheerful brunette waves her hand towards me. I waved back to return the greeting, while I gave a sheepish look.

Meanwhile, Ichigaya shot me a stern look like she seems to always do.

"Anyways..." I disregarded whatever she has towards me. "What're you doing here?"

"I'm helping Arisa!" Toyama replied.

I looked around the place and it turns out to be true. To some extent??

But yeah, I guess I can see that. "Didn't know you guys were this close."

"What?! No!" Ichigaya retorted. "She's trespassing here again."

"If that's the case. Shouldn't you be kicking her out by now?" I stated. Meanwhile, she seems to stutter as she struggles to find the right words to reply with.

Eventually she spoke once again, "She's helping... So I guess it can't be helped."

Sheesh, make up your mind already...

"But like I said. This won't mean that I'll be giving you the guitar that easily. Got it!?" She pointed towards Toyama. Whom in return just chuckled.

"I'll have to remind you once again that getting that guitar will be hard."

"Why?" Toyama asked.

"The price has already increased an amount around 600,000 yen." The mention of the current price seem to have shocked Toyama.

A moment of being utterly speechless, for a few moments, Toyama shook her head and then smiled. "That won't stop me!"

Eh?

"Even if the price goes by a million, I will strive hard to get that guitar!"

"Excuse me?!" I know she's determined. But she's just being ridiculous!

Ichigaya was taken aback from her words. "You have some guts saying that with such pure confidence..." Ichigaya commented, but then showed a mocking, yet challenging smile. "Well then, I would like to see you try."

"I will!" Toyama puts a fist up in the air. "Because Katsuhiko-chan told me that I should never give up!"

I immediately flinched upon that mention. I could feel Ichigaya's sharp gaze piercing towards me after finding out where Toyama got the motivation and encouragement.

I only chuckled in response, I think I should leave now... I just don't like the way she's glaring at me at the moment. . .

The following day, and as usual, it was normal.

I did what I always did, listen to class, lunch with my friends. And few hours of decent club activities. Needless to say, Nothing unsual happened to be honest.

Another long day of class and it was, yet again time for us to head home.

From there on out, a little routine had occurred after I had once again made a visited towards Ryuuseido.

There, I saw Toyama helping out Ichigaya again. Obviously her reason is for the guitar.

I always stood there, unnoticed it seems as I watch them continue doing their work.

And then, it continues on...

Day by day, I absentmindedly go there. Checking to see what they're doing.

I don't even know why I was always there... But, if i know one thing. I felt a little worried. And I don't even know why as well...

One thing interesting to note is that Ichigaya decided to reward Toyama by letting her have a quick peek at the Random Star.

I find it surprising that she even accepted it, only having to look at it for a few seconds or more after several moments of helping her out.

I could only shake my head. This is Toyama, it seems.

Accepting even the smallest of things.

The following day. I found myself behind the bushes, taking my lunch. This place here seems rather cozy with all the shade from this tree. I could just sit back and relax here if ever I wanted to find a place to rest my mind.

The gentle rustle of the leaves and the breezy wind just feels very relaxing. I have to enjoy every single moment of this while savoring each bite of my Yakisoba bread.

Before taking another bite. I was cut off when I heard footsteps running towards my direction.

Before I could even confirm for myself as to who it was. A familiar blonde girl jumped and hid behind the bushes. Catching me off guard.

While at first she didn't notice that I was here. It wasn't until after she took a deep breath from all the running she seems to be doing.

"What the..." She was as surprised as I was.

"Hello, Stranger." I greeted casually.

"What... in the world are you doing here of all places?" She asked.

"I'd be asking you the same question." I replied. "But to answer yours. I just find this place comfortable if I want to have my lunch alone."

"Oh... is that so.." She seems perplexed. Not that I have any complaints.

"Anyways, what about you? Seems like you've been on a marathon." I asked as I gently nibbled onto my food.

"Your friend has been following me... A lot..." Ichigaya answered with an annoyed look on her face.

"You mean Toyama-san?" I tilted my head. "Huh... No wonder I couldn't find her anywhere."

Ichigaya peeped over the bush just to make sure Toyama wasn't around. She sat back down and leaned her back against the tree.

...I was hogging this spot...

Ichigaya then told me of what Toyama has been up to as of recent. Like as she explained, she was following her around. Not just in school, but to her place as well. She even had breakfast there.

"Huh.. She's either desperate for that guitar, or she genuinely wants to be your friend."

"If only someone didn't give her some ridiculous encouragement..." She shot me an accusing look.

"Ridiculous? Oh come on. I was just trying to help her out!" I replied with a shrug as I continued to nibble on my bread.

"Regardless of her helping me out at the warehouse. I'm still adamant of giving her that guitar." Ichigaya said firmly. She then showed me the auction again. "I mean, just look at how much had increased for it's price! Six hundred thousand!"

I gave her a questioning look. "That's rather merciless of you."

"Hey, I'm just doing business, is all." She huffed as she crossed her arms. "She's honestly troublesome."

"She's still helping you out on your workload, so cut her some slack."

. . . .

. . .

"I.. suppose so..." Ichigaya muttered.

There was merely silence after that, while i was taking bites out of my Yakisoba, I took a glance at the blonde. All she was doing was staring up into the distant blue sky. I don't think she's literally staring at it like as I do.. She must be contemplating things that I care not to ask.

But regardless of that. I am one that dislikes silence whenever I am not alone.

So with that. I kindly broke the silence. "About that live show the other day." I began. To which caught her attention. "

"What about it?"

"Do you perhaps enjoy it?" I asked slowly as I nibbled onto my food.

Ichigaya gazed upwards once again before answering my question. "I would be lying if I said I don't." I honestly expected her to deny it. But I guess I'm wrong.. "It was good, If I had to be completely honest."

"Is that so? Glad that we have the same opinion then." I smiled warmly.

Ichigaya sighed. "But it wasn't as good as the band's that I prefer listening to."

"I beg your pardon?" I cocked a brow at her statement.

"Nah, you wouldn't understand." She digressed the thought.

I merely pouted. "Seriously? It's not like I'd berate you or anything."

"I'm taking that with a grain of salt. " She crossed her arms as she looked away.

"I'm guessing you listen to rap music then." I shrugged nonchalantly.

"NO I DON'T!" she retorted. "Why would I listen to something like that?!"

"I dunno. You wouldn't answer my question. So I just assumed this was the case."

"I am not into that kind of genre!"

"Then what are you into?"

At this point, she grew a little frustrated by my words. "Fine! I'll tell you! But I swear to god if you tell anyone this. I'll kill you."

"Don't worry. I won't bother telling anyone... it's not like I would do so to begin with..."

"The band that I am into... Is known as Unique United Stars..."

"Or UniUni for short." She added. Looking away. Expecting me to say something negative about her opinion.

Unfortunately for her. I won't. "Oooh. You like them as well? You got good taste." I said casually.

"Huh?" And she seems confused.

"We all like that band. Like me for example." I said as I gazed above wistfully. "The band is so unique. It holds something dear to me.... Uhm.. Nostalgia and all that." I sheepishly chuckled.

"Huh.. really? I am basically the same as well." Ichigaya genuinely said. "In fact, I don't remember a time where I am not listening to their music at all!"

"So, up until now, you still listen to them. I presume?"

"Exactly!" She said with a passion. This is somehow amusing. But I can't tell her that. "They have this unique charm, you know? Which is exactly why they have the word unique in their name!"

. . .

"Ugh... to be entirely honest. After that they had won second place during the Future Star Fes.... They're... gone.. and I was kinda bummed out about the news regarding why..." She hugged her knee with a saddened look on her face.

. . .

I can honestly feel the same as well. . . Regarding that one fateful event. . .

"We all gotta have to accept the fact, you know?" I said. I felt my stomach churn after saying that... But I shook it off momentarily. "But yeah, I'm kinda surprised that you're a fan of them as well. I never even picture you as one."

"Is it really that surprising?" Ichigaya muttered.

"My first impression of you is someone who acts like an old lady." I confessed, to which she gave me an offended look. I merely just laughed it off. "But I guess not."

Didn't I say something about not to judge a book by its cover? I feel like a hypocrite for a moment. Heh.

"So... May I ask what you were doing inside of that warehouse?" I began to ask

"Huh? Why would you want to know?"

"I'm just curious, is all.."

In the end, she just ended up telling me after pondering about it. "My grandmother told me that if i cleaned up that place, I'll be able to have it for myself... Plus the basement below it."

"How is your progress?"

"Almost about done... And admittedly, ever since Toyama-san helped out, i didn't expect I'd be done sooner." She then looked at me, giving the same look she always does. "You could've helped us you know? Instead of just standing around like an idiot while watching us."

"Oh no.. I've been caught." I gave off a sheepish but nonchalant chuckle.

"Which leads me to wonder. What were you doing that entire time?" She asked.

"I guess I'm just trying to make sure Toyama-san stays out of trouble?" I spoke. Finishing up one more bite of my food.

"Again. You could've at least walked in and helped out instead of just standing around idly." She says as she glances to me with stern eyes.

"Well, I'm sorry. I just didn't want to be added to your... annoying person list."

"Seriously?" She only said, slouching down onto her seat as she again gazes up above towards Toyama-san face...

. . .

Wait a second-

"Found you!"

"KYAH!!" Ichigaya fell into the bushes out of pure surprise. Rustling into the bushes. I could audibly hear her grumbling.

Eventually, she got up and stared down at Toyama in utter disbelief. "How the heck did you find me!?"

"I just heard your voice around here." Toyama explained briefly. Ichigaya looked over to me with her eye twitching.

"That's your fault, not mine." I raised my hands in defense.

"Shut up!"

"Oh, Katsuhiko-chan! What are you doing here?"

"I was peacefully having my lunch here. It was great." I smiled with a silent chuckle.

Just then, I could hear loud rustling noises. We looked over only to see Ichigaya- yet again running away for dear life.

"Ah, Arisa! Wait!!" And there she goes... Leaving me hear in this otherwise comfortable area.

"What's the point of Ichigaya-san running away if in the end, she will be followed all the way back home?" I muttered under my breath.

. . .

Looking back at it. Is Toyama trying too hard to get that guitar? I am worried that eventually someone else might get it before her. And considering the upping price in the auction. It's safe to say that the only thing she can do is to persuade Ichigaya.

Which does not seem to work thus far.

Hmm...

. . .

. . .

I may have a better idea.

[ Third Person POV ]

After a long session of moving and dusting the whole warehouse, it was practically night time again. With Kasumi Toyama out at the front door of the Ichigaya residence, she was about to bid her farewell.

"You should stay here for the night." Said the old woman who seems to be the grandmother of Arisa Ichigaya. In response to her offer, Kasumi simply shook her head.

"No thank you." She said, much to Arisa's delight. Glad that she didn't plan on staying at her house just to further annoy her. "I'll come again, see ya'!" With that, Kasumi left with a wave of her hand.

"Yeah, yeah." Arisa replied, nonchalantly. Her eyes glued to her phone

"Arisa..." Her grandmother spoke.

"Yes?" The blonde replied, but didn't bother to look at her and just simply passes by. 

Arisa stopped when she sees Kasumi's text message stating that she really wanted the guitar and asked how much she wants for it.

She stared at it for a few minutes, having some thoughts on whether she will comply to her request or not.

But in the end, she just shook her head. It seems that it was too late for her.

"Sorry, someone had already bought it off." Arisa muttered. She could tell that if she told this to Kasumi. She would feel depressed, which is technically normal if the person didn't get what they wanted after working so hard.

Arisa felt the sympathy.

It was just another day... Rainy perhaps.

Right as the two girls inside the warehouse continued with the clean up. They would eventually take a short break. And with Kasumi being rewarded yet again by having her to stare at the guitar for a short while.

Arisa just had to wonder why Kasumi was still content with something like this.

There, having two cups of hot chocolate. The two girls sat down comfortably on the wooden floor. The blonde looked at Kasumi after taking a sip from her cup,

She began to ask the brunette, "Why?"

"Huh?" Kasumi responded.

"You really wanted to start a band, right?" Arisa said. "Do actually need to have specific instrument? Why does this guitar matter to you anyway?"

Kasumi Toyama stared at the blonde as she took a moment to ponder about what she had said.

Eventually, she shows a light smile before taking out her phone. The flap of it's cover revealing the golden star sticker which she had found the other day. "See this star? It's thanks to these stars stuck onto those walls and poles and stuff that I was able to find this place..."

"Hm.. So... it's like.." She only stopped there as she had to muster up more words for her response.

But, it was then Arisa spoke up. "I was the one who stuck them up." She admitted.

"You were?!" Kasumi said, utterly surprised. "You're the one who led me here?!"

"Back when I was in elementary school, I used to take piano lessons. And each time I play a song perfectly, I get a sticker just like that as a reward." Arisa said. Having a flashback about the old days. "Back then when I walked home, I'd usually stick them onto something... Probably things that I liked."

"Did.. You quit playing the piano eventually?" Kasumi asked in assumption as she looked over towards a lone grand piano at the corner of the room.

"To study for entrance exams... It was like that for a lot of kids." Arisa spoke with a gentle huff.

"Did it sparkle?" The girl asked again, which earns a confused look coming from the blonde. "While playing the piano, did it make your heart-pound?"

"Well... I do get nervous during recitals..." The blonde sheepishly replied.

"I found it too!" Kasumi said. "The thing that makes my heart pound and sparkle!.. Though i don't know if I'll be good at it or not... But it's just so exciting!"

The blonde stared at the girl with what seems to be a bored expression. Probably confused by Kasumi's statement.

It was albeit surprising... actually. That she has a motivation of her own. Though Arisa wouldn't admit that she's envious.

Then, the brunette got up from her seat. "Arisa, let's start a band!"

"Hahhh?" She was earned by a baffled reply from Arisa.

"In a band, there's a guitar, the bass... hmmm... and the keyboard too! You like piano, right?"

"You know I can't play anymore." The blonde said, whilst slightly tilting her head.

"That's okay! Didn't that concert the other day got your heart pounding too, Arisa?!"

Arisa widened her eyes at the statement as she looks away.

"No.." She replied. To Kasumi, she has no idea that she was lying.

The only time Arisa ever admitted it is from that time she was with Katsuhiko.

Though she didn't specify whether it did or did not make her heart pound just like Kasumi's. Though to answer it for herself internally, it did...

It brought nostalgia to her back in the days during the olden era.

Arisa's reply earns a disbelieved tone coming from Kasumi. "Why?!"

"Look, If this goes any further, I am not showing you that guitar anymore!" Arisa warned, which caused Kasumi to panic.

Even though knowing that... in the end... Kasumi won't get the guitar by buying or bribing for it.

After another hour of cleaning session, They were finally done. The place was clean, and barely any dust was scattered about. "All finished!" Kasumi said in a sigh of relief after all that work.

"Good work." Arisa said. It was then Kasumi hopped and skip towards the guitar case placed right above a short shelf.

"Wait." Arisa said, causing Kasumi to abruptly halt on the spot.

"..Go ahead.." From that signal, Kasumi raised both of her hands upwards in a cheer.

When she slowly reached out for the handle of the guitar case, it suddenly snapped!

The case fell on the floor. Once collapsed, the case broke itself into two and a singular guitar string snapped.

Witnessing this, Kasumi slowly tear up with remorse. "I- I'm sorry.. I wasn't holding it properly...!" She sobbed, wiping the tears that are still flowing out from her eyes. "I'm sorry!.. Oh no... I'm so sorry!"

Arisa could only stand there and watch the crying Kasumi.

The case seems to be in a bad shape, though not entirely bad. It can still be fixed. Like the string on the guitar.

If this is what she'll present to the one who bought the guitar, who knows how they'll react to it?

Then an idea popped into her head. Taking out her phone from her pockets, she scrolled through the map.

"Toyama-san." Arisa called out. But no response from Kasumi. "Toyama-san?" She called out again, still no reply, and only a weeping Kasumi staring at the broken guitar which she blames herself for its current state. "Toyama Kasumi!!" Arisa shouts abruptly. Which finally manages tograb the Kasumi's attention. Looking towards her with fresh tears visible in her eyes. "Let's go." She said, showing a map with a location of a nearby music shop.

Without any hesitation, the two ran outside of the warehouse with the guitar case on top of their heads to shield them from the falling rain drops.

Running with their own capable speed. They arrive at a music store labeled as Edogawa Music

Opening the doors into shop, prompted the store clerk by the counter to look towards their direction, stopping from playing her purple plush toy to welcome the customers.

"Welcome!" She says before widening her eyes at the presence of two high school girls all drenched from the rain, followed by heavy breathing. They sure did ran a very long way.

It was then Kasumi spoke with no utter hesitation. "Can... Can you please repair this for us?"

In response, the pinkish haired girl who magically appeared in front of them placed her two fists on her hips before saying. "Leave it to me!" She said positively. "Boss!"

Later on. Kasumi and Arisa were sitting by the table at the corner of the store, with Kasumi still apologizing for what she did as she felt immense guilt.

Arisa looked at the still sobbing Kasumi. How will she tell her? Even if the guitar is finally fixed. How will Kasumi react over the fact that the Random Star had already been sold off?

Arisa stared at the messages sent to her on her phone. She was apparently talking to her buyer. Saying that they will have their brother to be the one to pick it up.

"Thank you for waiting!!" The voice of the cashier grabbed the attention of the two, Kasumi stood up from her seat as she saw the guitar was finally fixed..

"Thank goodness!" Kasumi said in utter relief. "Thank goodness...! I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!" She started to sob again.

"The neck was a little warped, but we fixed it for you." The shop owner said. "It's case, however... It was pretty much a goner."

"Thank you so much! Thank you so much!" Kasumi repeatedly said. Grateful for all their help.

"How much is it?" Arisa asked.

"For basic repairs, plus a student discount! That's a three thousand yen payment!" The cashier said with a small quirky gesture.

"Alright then." Arisa said. Taking out her wallet to pay for the repairs.

"Ah, I'll get it!" Kasumi said.

After all of that, the two walked towards Arisa's warehouse again. Though it was a long walk.

Arisa carried the broken guitar case behind her back while Kasumi was hugging the guitar. Aside from the quiet foot-steps between the two individuals. Only silence filled the rest of their ambling.

It was about sun down as of the moment. The streets were completely engulfed by the sun's hue whilst the puddles on the ground reflecting the light coming from the sun.

At this point, it was about time for Arisa to tell Kasumi. "Hey..." She began, slightly glancing at her direction. "I'm sorry, but you really can't have that guitar... Not when it's already been bought."

Upon hearing those words, Kasumi could only stare at Arisa in disbelief. "W- What?"

"Again... I'm sorry.." Was all Arisa could say. She noticed Kasumi stopping in her tracks as she slowly started to cry. "Ugh.. Geez! You know there are other guitars that are the same as this you know?!"

"But... I want this one..." Kasumi meekly spoke in between her audible sniffles. Hugging the guitar tightly close into her arms.

"Just listen, okay? I'm sure you'll eventually find something like this someday." Arisa told. When she stopped to glance over to Kasumi. She noticed that she wasn't paying attention. "Oi, are you even listening?"

"...Katsuhiko-chan?" Kasumi murmured as she noticed a particular person behind Arisa. The latter turned around to see where she was looking, and there she saw him standing a little further away from them.

"...hey??" Arisa could only raise a hand to greet.

". . .So. Which one of you idiots thought it was a good idea to dash through the rain without an umbrella?"

Comically, Kasumi pointed an accusing finger over to Arisa. "H- Hey!!" The blonde exclaimed.

"I was on my way to check on you two. Only to see the warehouse being empty. I asked your grandmother and she told me that she saw you two rushing outside... into the rain. Seriously, what's up with that?"

Arisa sighed in exasperation. "We just had a predicament. Toyama-san here accidentally dropped the guitar case. Which ended up breaking a few parts of it in the process. So we had to be on a hurry to fix it since this item is already been sold off."

"Huh? Is that so?" He then looked over to Kasumi. "I know you're carefree and all, but you should've at least been careful."

"I'm sorry..." Kasumi meekly responded with guilt.

Katsuhiko sighed. "It's fine... Though what I'm more surprised about is the fact that you two didn't get sick in the process."

"Surprisingly." Arisa replied. "Anyways, what are you doing around these parts?"

"I'm here to take that." He pointed at the guitar Kasumi was holding.

"Huh?" This made Arisa confused. "I'm sorry to tell you, but let me repeat just one more time just in case you didn't hear me... This guitar has already been bought by someone."

"I know." Katsuhiko casually replied. "That's why my sister told me to pick it up."

Then it hit Arisa at that moment. "...wait a second... don't tell me you're..."

In response, Katsuhiko stuck out his tongue playfully. "Eeyup~"

[ How it Basically Happened ]

"Hey, Onee-chan. Do you mind if I ask you a favor?"

"Sure thing! What do you need?"

Katsuhiko then proceeds to show her the auction. With the item Arisa puts into which is currently at seven hundred thousand. "Would it be alright if you get this for me?"

"Didn't you already have a guitar of your own?"

"I know. But this is something else... so.. please???" He pleaded.

"Alright. Anything for ya." Mizoey Natsuki stared at the auction again. A confident smirk formed onto her face. "By my calculations... I think i'll bid this by a million."

". . . W- What..." The two females both said in unison.

"That's basically it." Katsuhiko shrugged.

"A million yen... That's a whole lot..." Arisa muttered out loud. Surprised by the outcome of this that she took a little while to process it into her head. "Why do you need a guitar anyways?" Arisa questioned.

"You can't just question a buyer like that you know? And as the saying goes. The customer is always right~" Katsuhiko said with a nonchalant chuckle.

"Katsuhiko-chan... I thought you said..."

"Not being in a band? I never said anything about not wanting a guitar, you know?" Katsuhiko said to clarify.

"oh..." Kasumi let out in response. Well, it seems that she has no choice whatsoever. Sooner, she slowly walked up to Katsuhiko. While feeling ever so reluctant, she held out the guitar for him to take. ". . .here. . ." She muttered.

. . .

But to Kasumi's utter surprise. Katsuhiko didn't take it. But rather, he just placed a finger onto the guitar and lightly pushed it to Kasumi. Which Kasumi in response gave a confused look on her face.

"It's all yours." At that moment of Katsuhiko's statement brought an immense mixture of feelings into Kasumi. Mainly surprise and pure confusion. 

"B- But..! K- Katsuhiko-chan..!? W- Why..? I mean.. I-.." Kasumi stuttered her words. Unable to say the words she wants to say as the sentiment prevents her from uttering a complete sentence.

"Look. I may have given you some encouragement to keep going. But I can't just sit there and watch you go for something that is completely out of your arm's reach."

"So, that's why. I got this for you instead... And look, you said that you wanted to start a band right? So take this as my way of supporting you. And a gift from me. Which ever you may like." He genuinely chuckled as he scratches the back of his head.

Meanwhile, Kasumi was genuinely touched. He really had to go out of his way to do this just for her...

Out of immense happiness. Kasumi latched her arms around Katsuhiko, giving him a warm embrace. Which caught him off-guard. "Thank you... Thank you!! I really am grateful for this!" Katsuhiko could her her voice crack as she hugged him. And he felt her tears damping on his shoulder. But he did not complain. "Thank you... Katsuhiko-chan... You're a great friend..."

Meanwhile, Arisa could only form a smile, or a smirk as Katsuhiko can tell. "You know... You didn't have to go all the way to buy it for her." She said.

"Why's that?" Katsuhiko asked.

"I... may have the idea of just giving it to her... Actually..." She muttered, while lightly scratching her cheek with a finger.

"huh? Then what happened to being adamant? Hm?"

"W-Wha-? Um... I didn't say that!" She obviously lied. "L- Look.. I just feel bad... okay?? So.. I uhh.."

"Oh? Is that so?~" Katsuhiko smirked. "Then if that's the case. I'll just ask for a refund."

"Wait wait wait waiiiitt!! HOLD UP!!!" Ichigaya insisted for him to stop. To which he just chuckles. "You really shouldn't have to go that far. I mean... Uhh..."

"I'm just kidding, you dolt."

"Excuse me?" Arisa replied with narrowed eyes.

"Aww... Arisa. You really do care!" Kasumi says as she shared the same hug to her as well

"Hahh?! No I don't!!" The blonde said as she tried to push the brunette away from her. Meanwhile, she notices Katsuhiko laughing under his breath. "What's so funny?!"

"So you really are a Tsundere, Miss Ichigaya-san~" Katsuhiko teased.

Arisa went all beet red. A comical smoke coming out of her head as she was fuming over the male. "Want me to slap that stupid face of yours?!?!?"

[ First Person POV ] [ Katsuhiko ]

"Owww.... Now that wasn't nice you know?" I hissed, rubbing the side of my cheek after receiving a stinging slap from the Ichigaya.

Meanwhile, she pouted at me. "Your fault."

"Whatever..." I simply replied with a nonchalant shrug.

Right as of now. The three of us were currently inside the basement right under the warehouse. It looks neat down here, to be honest.

"So this is the place your Grandmother promised for?" I asked as I looked around this rather spacious room.

"Yeah. Now I get to at least have a room where I can be more at peace." Ichigaya says.

"Are you guaranteed to have that peace you are talking about??" I teased.

"Shut up."

I sat on top of the green couch while Toyama and Ichigaya were nearby the shelves.

Ichigaya was setting up an amplifier to test out Toyama's brand new guitar. Once it was plugged in, Ichigaya signaled to her after she switched on the amplifier.

Though feeling a little nervous. Toyama slowly reached her hand towards the six strings. Strumming it all at once which resulted in a loud sound coming from the amplifier. Indicating that the guitar still works like a charm. Even Ichigaya herself was surprised.

"Woah..." Toyama uttered. "OH MY GOSH OH MY GOSH OH MY GOSH!!! IT MADE A SOUND, DID YOU GUYS HEAR IT!? IT ACTUALLY MADE A SOUND!!"

"Alright alright... Just calm down will ya'?" The blonde said, but it seems to me that Toyama-kept on going with her words. Goodness, look at how excited she is.

"Kasumi!!" Ichigaya called, which actually grabbed the brunette's attention.

Looking at her, while Ichigaya's gaze downcasted, with a slightly flustered look on her face. "Why... don't you practice here?"

"What?" Toyama-san said..

I am expecting a "but"

"But!" there it is...

"In return... at lunch time... We should... eat together... The three of us..." She nervously said while twirling a strand of her hair

"What?"

"Toyama-san, she's genuinely asking us to join us for lunch." I said on Ichigaya's behalf.

"If you don't want to, that's fine!" Ichigaya said with that Tsundere attitude of hers. But it wasn't until Toyama squealed in utter happiness as she jumped up and embraced the blonde.

"Katsuhiko-chan! Arisa wants to have lunch with us!!" Toyama-san said, rather excitedly.

"That's basically what I just said." I looked at the two girls in front of me. A warm smile forming across my face "This oddly feels so nostalgic.." I muttered.

Yeah... This... This just brings a whole lot of memories. Just looking at these two reminded me of two other certain girls back in the days.

One is carefree and the other is just plain serious most of the times.

. . .

. . .

I wonder if they're doing okay...

[ Chapter End ]

[ Up next! ] [ Episode 3 - Stage Frights! ]

Word Count - 8, 917 Words