My Second Lead

Chapter 11 - Cloud Nine

In the midst of a cold and dark room, a faint glimmer of light roused me from my slumber. My heart raced, its thumping echoing louder than the clock's ticking. Barely catching my breath, I realized I had made it through the night. Here I was, in Akira's room. I stole a glance at the clock; it read three o'clock in the morning.

Akira and I have a date later! I averted my gaze, feeling the sleepiness scatter from my senses. The realization of our upcoming plans filled me with nervousness and excitement, creating a whirlwind of emotions within me. I believed the conflicting feelings, and I was both nervous and excited.

With a determined resolve, I closed my eyes, attempting to persuade myself back into the embrace of sleep. I knew I needed rest to prepare for the day ahead, eagerly anticipating the time I would spend with Kira.

A few hours later, I found myself awakened by the continuous vibration of my phone. Startled, I reached for it and glanced at the screen to see who was calling me. Surprisingly, it was my mom calling at this early hour. I hesitated for a moment, unsure whether to answer the call or not. I glance at Akira, still peacefully asleep, before picking up the call.

"Hello? Good morning, Mom. Is everything alright?" I spoke softly, trying not to disturb Akira's slumber. My voice carried a hint of weakness, hoping she wouldn't wake up. To my surprise, my mom's words held a peculiar concern, "Gin, I don't have any particular problem, but I just wanted to make sure you're okay with Akira. I know things might be awkward because you have feelings for her." My mom's concern for me was apparent. In fact, she was well aware of my feelings towards Akira. "Don't worry, Mom, I've got it under control. By the way, I've asked Akira to go out with me later. But first, I'll head home to change and pick her up. Thanks, Mom, and bye for now." With those words, I ended the call.

Afterwards, I came to Akira's bed, fascinated by her peaceful sleeping face. "Wow, she's adorable. I wish I could kiss her right now!" I whispered to myself, unable to resist the thought. I gently shook her awake and said, "Hey, Akira, it's time to get up. I need to go home now; it's already six o'clock in the morning." She stretched her limbs before responding, "Oh, Gin, good morning. Hold on, let me make you breakfast before you leave." She swiftly got out of bed and left the room. "Take your time getting ready, Gin. I'll prepare our breakfast. Just come downstairs once you're done, alright?"

I stood there for a moment, lost in my thoughts as if I were daydreaming—I imagined walking hand in hand with Akira in the park; we found ourselves sitting on a bench, gazing into each other's eyes. The anticipation grew, and my face slowly inched closer to hers until I stole a tender kiss and... "Hey, Gin!" she called, wondering why I hadn't responded. I could feel my face flushing red. "Are you daydreaming about something?" she inquired with curiosity. I searched for an answer, trying to find the right words. "Um, no. I mean, well, you see... I was just busy organizing my things, you know," I replied, my voice slightly stuttering. She chuckled. "You always have a way with words, don't you? Let's head downstairs and have breakfast."

I couldn't help but ask her, "Hey, you Ugly Chibi, where do you want to go for our walk later?" I playfully teased her.

"Don't call me Ugly; look at yourself in the mirror. You look like a mess!" Akira responds, showing her aggressive side. She was always cute when she got a little defensive, which made me want to tease her even more,

"Hahaha! My apologies. I didn't mean to offend you. So, what's your answer? Where would you like to go?" I pressed, eager to know her choice. She remained silent for a few seconds before finally speaking up. "Ahem. How about Tokyo, Gin?"

I was taken aback, finding it hard to believe. "What? Tokyo? It's nearly three hours away by train, and the fare would be way too expensive for my allowance." Akira burst into laughter. "Gotcha! Hahaha! I was pulling your leg. You should have seen the look on your face! Hahaha!" I fell silent for a moment, feeling a little dejected. "I'm sorry. Seriously, let's go watch a movie later," she added, trying to make amends.

After finishing our breakfast, Akira and I tidied up, and my spirits lifted again. "Hey, Chibi! I'll come pick you up after lunch. Don't forget, okay?" I cheerfully reminded her. "Sure thing! Don't worry; see you later, Gin!" she smiled.

I felt like I was walking on air as I left her house. I couldn't believe that after years of being best friends, this was finally the moment to go on a date with Akira. Even though we're not a couple now, the right time will come when she'll confess her feelings for me, choosing me over Mr. Mizuki.

"AKIRA!!! PLEASE, FALL IN LOVE WITH ME!" I couldn't help but exclaim, my heart yearning for her love.