「Anonymous」Chapter 5
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arashikuro <3Summary: Aiba Masaki works for a prestigious and severely strict company where flaws lead to imminent dismissal. When a mysterious phone number appears to have stolen Aiba's contact and begins to message him, Aiba must choose if he would rather ignore a stalker or answer to their cry for help, all while he undergoes the task of uncovering their identity.
Chapter 5
‘Did you get a haircut?’
‘What are you assuming?’
‘I’m just curious. Did you?’
‘If I say yes, are you going to trace down whoever
had a hair cut in the office?’
‘If I did, would I find you?’
‘No.’
‘…’
‘Are you just saying that, so you mislead
me into thinking you didn’t get a haircut?’
‘What’s with you and the haircuts today?
I didn’t get a haircut!’
‘And even if I did, I wouldn’t say something
so obvious.’
‘Then… did you get a new tie?’
‘How would you know who’s wore which
tie before?’
‘I could ask around.’
‘People will really think you’re a creep who
obsesses over ties.’
‘Then, when I come around you,
would you answer me?’
‘I will probably laugh.’
‘That would give you away.’
‘Are you sure you wouldn’t just freak out?’
‘Freak out? What do you take me for?’
‘Honestly? Maybe like a young kohai,
since you do talk to me like your senpai.’
‘Are you getting cocky?’
‘Well, you asked.’
‘Am I wrong?’
‘I never said you were.’
‘That doesn’t mean I’m wrong!’
‘No comment.’
‘This is supposed to be the part you confess
your admiration towards me.’
‘Says the person who comes in late
almost every morning.’
‘Hmm. So, you are quite observant,
aren’t you?’
‘Rather, it’s hard to miss.’
‘I see.’
‘Since we are just assuming then,
why can’t I assume anything about you?’
‘I didn’t say you couldn’t,
I’m just clarifying.’
‘I think you’re just shy, that’s all.’
‘But that’s nothing bad.’
‘It’s actually cute.’
‘…’
‘What?’
‘Did you just blush?’
‘No.’
‘You’re a bad liar, Anon.’
‘I can see your cheeks reddening
from here.’
‘What?’
The sound of smashing glass emerged from the back of the office, suddenly. Not far from the break room the secretary was sprinkling apologies as he’d made a mess of the director’s coffee, staining the carpeted floor. He proceeded to pick up the shards when a couple of employees came to offer their help, suggesting Ohno prepared a new drink for the director right away.
This wasn’t the first time Ohno had lost his sense of direction that morning. Today had also marked the first time the secretary was running late for work. Even if it was no more than 15 minutes that Ohno took to get there, his delay was still a huge setback on the director who’d been asking for Ohno since early morning. For anyone else, making the director wait would have meant a notice of their dismissal right the next morning, but Ohno’s position was far too irreplaceable for even Sakurai to toy with.
“You think he’s okay?” Asked Jun, observing beside Aiba. But Aiba knew very well a miss of this degree would be of minor concern compared to the gravity of work Ohno managed to pull off for the director weekly.
“I don’t think he would be here if he weren’t.” Aiba returned to his phone, replying to the unanswered message displayed on his screen.
‘I’m kidding.’
~~~
That noon, Aiba decided to take a leap and invite Matsumoto for lunch, but the younger had to excuse himself this time, as he was getting prepared for his project evaluation that same day. Despite feeling defeated, Masaki understood and, after giving all his support, he compromised with visiting the café again today.
In truth, Masaki didn’t want to show up at the café on his own, as he was afraid he would catch Nino in a bad mood. He wasn’t sure how much more he had to listen to the millions of reasons of why his friend was against his bonding with Anon. If anything, Aiba had thought of all those consequences and perhaps even more, but gradually he had seen in Anon an understanding. That he was not luring him into danger, but instead he wanted to keep Aiba as away as possible to hide his identity. And Masaki found nothing harmful towards him in his reasons, only things harmful to Anon himself.
Nino had yet to understand Anon was not like any stalker he may have come across. That wanting to help Anon get out of his comfort zone was Aiba’s decision, and if that still didn’t convince Nino, he would just have to maintain his trust in Anon.
Once Aiba arrived at the café, he took a seat by a far side table, just the right spot where Nino could see him over the counter. The barista was still in the middle of his shift, serving coffees and taking orders with great focus. His movements trying to match the speed the orders were shot at him.
Aiba found himself amused as he observed the other. He could barely recall a time he had seen Nino so emerged in what he was doing, other than when he played video games. There was something noticeably different in him, like a new glow in his body he couldn’t trace. Somehow, the Nino he observed today was different from the one who sat across him at the ramen shop every other night.
‘Masaki at 9’o clock’
‘Also, a latte would make me love you.’
The instant Masaki gazed at Nino again, he noticed the younger had already found a distraction in his phone. Masaki perceived the moment Nino’s stiff shoulders loosen and his face lit up by something that radiated in the curl of his lips. There was small reveal of teeth and light chuckle hidden under his breath that was caused by the small screen of his phone. It was a smile he hadn’t seen in him in a long time.
And as quickly as it happened, it faded. The whole glow was switched off, transforming his look into something Aiba couldn’t read. Until his eyes finally met with Aiba’s, as if considering his presence and he moved away, back into the bar to prepare his drink.
~
“I thought you said you were going out with Matsu-hot.”
Aiba rose his eyebrows at Nino. To get to a nicknaming stage, it must mean Nino really did approve of Jun. “I wouldn’t call lunch break ‘going out’, but yes. I tried asking, but he’s waiting for his evaluation with the director. I’m sure his stomach is thinking about everything but food. It was better not to bother him.”
“You think he would get scared of Sakurai?” Nino propped his elbow on the table, cupping his chin in his hand.
“I don’t consider him easy to intimidate. But it is his first time with the boss. Anything could go wrong.” Aiba paused over his food to process that thought. “Oh no… You think I should have said something to him beforehand?”
“I guess a warning wouldn’t have hurt,”
“Maybe I should text him,” Masaki took out his phone which Nino glanced at with a strange look. “What am I saying? I don’t even have his number.”
“Text Anon instead and see what happens,” Nino’s suggestion gained him a look from Aiba. He certainly didn’t expect him to be the one to bring it up and for a moment, he was unable to tell if he was taking a wild guess or he tried to prove something. “That is… assuming he is…?”
“It wouldn’t hurt to try,”
“But what should I say?”
Nino shrugged. “You’re the one who’s been talking to him all this time, you should know what he would respond to.”
“But Anon is … His not very clear with what he says. It’s like he answers with another question,”
“Then stop with the questions and make a statement. He’ll keep hiding if you give him the chance to.”
Aiba hesitated over the keyboard, seeking the words that could give him just a speck of indication if Nino’s assumptions could be proven.
“Maybe, If I say ’Good luck’ Matsumoto would know what I’m referring to?”
“And catch him off guard?” Nino thought about it for a second, admitting it was a solid plan before shrugging off his approval. “That works.”
Aiba began typing into his phone, sending the message to Anon and waiting for a response.
“What’s the average of Anon replying to you this time of day?”
Aiba started at his phone, not wanting to miss a signal of Anon’s reaction. “Usually, right away. He doesn’t like our conversations to delay.”
“Meaning that freak is always on his phone practically waiting for you to notice him, and that doesn’t creep you out in the slightest?”
“Shh! He is typing,”
Nino rolled his eyes, his words overpowered by the text message that popped into Aiba’s phone. “What did he say?”
The more Aiba’s eyes traced over the text, the more his expectant look faded. Deprived from a verbal response from the older, Nino snatched the phone from Aiba’s hands, reading over their small exchange himself. A message from the recipient reading ‘You too’, sitting in the bottom of the screen.
Aiba surrendered, his hand holding his head as a frustrated sighed escaped him.
“So, we’re dealing with a smartass now?”
“He is usually like this too…” Aiba sighed. “I don’t understand how he makes me speak so honestly with him but all he says are things that don’t give much of a lead. And he makes me believe they do, but I still have no idea of who he is.”
“Looks to me like you two are getting along quite well.”
“Yeah… he is not a bad person. He only has some trouble getting to know new people. But honestly, he is very good with words and he is very understanding. Sometimes funny, even if he doesn’t try to be. And he is trying his best to be honest, but he’s insecure about himself and that doesn’t let him be the person he really is.”
“Oh my god, you’re flirting with him!?” Aiba sight rose, realizing Ninomiya still held on to his phone, searching through his history of chats with a certain look of disgust.
“What? No! Give me that,” Aiba snatched the phone out of Nino’s hands and made a quick inspection of what he was looking at before locking it’s screen off.
Ninomiya restrained his words from cutting lose and instead making his thoughts readable through a perturbed gaze. Aiba ignored him knowing it would only lead for them to resume their dinner’s conversation, which he wanted to avoid most of all. Ninomiya left out a sigh.
“Anyway… Is there a reason for why you don’t have Jun’s number?” Asked Nino.
“Not in particular. I just haven’t asked, but I don’t know if it’s the right time. I mean, wouldn’t it be weird if it was him who came up to me and asked for my number?”
“You literally share a desk with him,” Said Nino making Aiba shift on his chair, feeling rather judged. “You’re the only person he talks to as far as you know. Isn’t that enough?”
“What do you expect me to tell him?”
“’Hey Matsu-hottie! I think you’re very attractive. Wanna make out some time? Give me your number,’”
Masaki cringed with Ninomiya’s words. “… Fine, I’ll just stick to that last part.” Nino nodded approvingly, glad his point was proven.
After their words had settled, the two men were startled by a new presence at the table, making both jump as a third chair was pulled from under the table suddenly.
“Matsumoto!” Aiba was certainly surprised to see he had finally joined them and a little shaken he could have overheard his conversation with Nino. “W-What are you doing here? Didn’t you have your-”
“I did…” Said Matsumoto, his face hidden in his hand, not looking as relieved as Masaki hoped. Then again, neither was he when he had his own meeting with the director.
“How… did it go?” Aiba was almost afraid asking would displease him, but he couldn’t help but address his frustration.
Matsumoto sighed heavily. “I guess I know why nobody likes that jerk.”
Aiba couldn’t say he was surprised. “If it makes you feel better, he treats everyone just the same.”
“Did he say you were underperforming after you’ve done nothing but meet with deadlines and hand every single damn report they ask for?” Said Matsumoto out of annoyance more than wanting to raise his voice at Aiba.
Ninomiya snickering gained not only Aiba’s but Jun’s stare. “That guy is insane. Seriously, what do they expect you to pull out of your ass?” Aiba’s eyes widened at him warningly. He could never be too careful with Nino’s sharp tongue.
“I don’t know…” Jun responded, his voice reflecting the opposite of joy.
“Did you try defending your point in a way he could understand?” Asked Masaki.
“I did everything I could! I didn’t want it to get out of hand but… I think a word or two must have slipped out.”
“You talked back at him?” Asked Aiba, exchanging a look with Nino.
“What else could I have said? He thought I was incompetent, saying I’ve been wasting my time and that I had nothing done! I had to defend myself somehow. I wasn’t going to let him degrade my work. That was the most unproductive evaluation I’d ever been in. Instead of saying all I did wrong, why won’t he just say what he wants from his employees? It’s not like I can read his mind.” Matsumoto drew a sigh, trying to relax his body, and remember he was no longer in the conference room, nor was he being stared at by the director’s judging look. “I did bad, didn’t I?”
“It wouldn’t be smart to lose your job in the first month.” Remarked Nino not being of much help to ease Jun’s state.
“Don’t overthink it too much,” It was Aiba’s turn to comfort him. “Just focus on what you have to do and it’ll be up to him to recognize your effort.”
“Wont they give him a break?” Stepped in Nino. “Let the poor man make his mistakes first before throwing him away?”
Aiba shook his head. “Director Sakurai is… hard to please.”
“Hard to please?” Nino rolled his eyes. “Someone ought to teach that guy how to lay it off. You can’t expect everyone to be on his same level when they’ve just started. Doesn’t he notice that cutting everyone off is just disrupting that progress even more? On top of that, for things that could be worse! People like him really make me wish someone gave him a taste of his own medicine. But, who knows, I could be judging him wrong. It’s not you guys’ fault however long he’s gone without getting laid.”
“Nino!” Aiba said warningly.
“It’s obvious! Why else would you’ve been sucking on that jerk all these years?” Ninomiya leaned in closer to their table lowering his voice for only them to hear. “If he ever fires either of you, just make it so that he regrets it.”
Aiba knew Nino only said what was fair but he couldn’t help but feel his circumstances were wrong. Aiba was certain the director’s constant dismissal of employees was not an act Sakurai particularly took pleasure of as everyone thought. He trusted Sakurai’s judgment had to be different when it came to the sake of the company, that’s why he only demanded the best performance and the best results. Therefor Aiba would never be able to please Nino’s call for revenge, not while it was unfair to their company and his coworkers.
Aiba turned to both men at either side of the table and noticed the deep gaze Matsumoto had lost himself in, as if he had considered Ninomiya’s word for a second. He must still be bitter from his meeting and if anything, Nino’s words would indulge him better than anything Aiba could say now.
~
‘Good Morning.’
‘The train is more crowded than usual.
Wonder if there’s something going on today.’
‘I’m sorry, I completely lost track of time.’
‘Did Anon just oversleep?’
‘Is it so surprising?’
‘You know that probably means I’m rubbing off on you.’
‘Oh no…’
‘You really are a bad influence on me.’
‘You’re welcome!’
‘Still… I’m closer than you, seeing that you’re
taking the train right now.’
‘What!? How?’
‘Guess I haven’t quite been cursed yet.’
‘Do you live that close to the company?’
‘Who knows?’
‘Good luck getting here on the mark.’
‘Thanks…’
~
The line at the elevators didn’t seem to be getting any smaller. When a new elevator finally arrived, it became so cramped the person before Aiba asked him to take the next one. Although he complied, Aiba cursed under his breath, knowing his timing couldn’t have been worse.
He clicked on the controls several times, hoping he still had a gap to make it before they would notice his absence. Finally, his pleas were responded with the next elevator turning up, with a single person getting off that same floor. A person Masaki turned to look at twice before realizing he had seen before. But his presumption was not confirmed until he caught a glimpse of the other’s profile, which he recognized from seeing almost every single day.
He felt an urge, almost a reflex, to call Kazama’s name, having heard nothing of his friend for a long time and finally finding him here. But the elevator would’ve closed on Masaki, if it wasn’t for his quick reaction to hold the doors. The more he hesitated to call him, the further Kazama walked away. With just a look from his wrist watch, he resolved it was not the right time.
After marking his floor, he could at least rest assured he would make it today, but because he didn’t seem to be learning his lesson, he wrote a mental note to fix the mess he’d made of his morning schedule soon.
The doors were abruptly stopped yet again by a new hand. Immediately noticing someone’s attempt to get in, Aiba helped holding the doors so they would slide open again, just so he would immediately regret it.
Perhaps it was the expectation of it being another employee running late, that finding the director by the door step seemed like a setback to his morning, or perhaps the fact that this would be the second time he had to get off an elevator to provide the director the ‘honor’ to ride it on his own.
Nevertheless, Masaki bowed to him respectfully and began to step out of the elevator when Sakurai held up a hand, signaling him to stop.
Aiba froze on his feet when instead Sakurai stepped into the elevator and marked his floor on the panel, letting the elevator doors close with them still inside.
Aiba stiffened as the elevator started to ascend. Was this legal? Wasn’t he breaking some sort of rule? Wasn’t the secretary the only one capable of standing so close to the director? Where was Ohno anyway? The questions in Masaki’s head came as quickly as the floors they rode past, the air inside the compartment of the elevator growing tighter as a daunting silence stood between them.
Aiba’s sight rose to Sakurai, standing a little more than half a meter from him. He couldn’t think of a time he’d stood beside him for more than a second. He wondered if this was what Ohno felt every moment of every day when he accompanied Sakurai everywhere. He was surprised to see just how clean and sharp his outfit really was. Masaki turned away quickly realizing he must have stared for too long and returned to look down, trying to make himself as miniscule as he could.
The elevator began to halt before finally opening its doors on an unfamiliar floor. Sakurai blurted what seemed like the smallest “Good day” Masaki had ever heard and walked out. It was strange to see him stop at a different department from their own, but he supposed he had his own work to take care of.
The elevator doors closed again and Aiba felt every muscle in his body relaxing. He hadn’t even arrived at the office and he’d already felt like he had gone through a stressful morning. Aiba leaned against the walls of the elevator, taking a deep breath just to be startled right back again with a tremendous clang and the sudden halt of the elevator that made the whole floor under him tremble.
~
‘Anon?’
‘Are you there?’
‘Always.’
‘I’m sorry, this may seem like a bother to you.’
‘You know it never is.’
‘Then… will it be fair that I ask something
from you?’
‘If it’s in my capability, I suppose
I could help.’
‘Are you in the office?’
‘Yes?’
‘Would you go to the elevator for me?’
‘Wouldn’t it be a little too obvious?’
‘Look at my desk.’
‘I’m not there, right? You don’t have to
worry about me seeing you,
so would you please help me?’
‘Alright, just give me a second.’
‘Call for the elevator.’
‘Did you do it?’
‘I’m waiting.’
‘Let me know which one comes up.’
‘Right side.’
‘And the left side?’
‘It doesn’t look like it’s coming up.’
‘I can’t see which floor it’s on either.’
‘I think it’s between the 28th and 30th,
I don’t know.’
‘Aiba, what’s going on? Where are you?’
‘Are you inside the elevator?’
‘Yeah.’
‘I’ve been trying to call from the emergency line,
but it’s not working.’
‘The whole system seems to be down.
I can’t even open the door.’
‘I didn’t know what else to do.’
‘Why didn’t you tell me sooner?’
‘How long have you been there?’
’10 minutes, more or less.’
‘And it just occurred to you?’
‘Are you hurt?’
‘Is it just you in there?’
‘Do you feel dizzy?’
‘Is the AC still working?’
‘Aiba?’
‘I’m fine. I’m not hurt. Yes, it’s just me.
I don’t feel strange or anything, but a little warm.
The AC isn’t working either.’
‘Damn it, Aiba.’
‘Please hold on, I’m getting help.’
‘Thank you.’
‘Are you mad?’
‘…’
‘I’m sorry.’
‘Don’t. This wasn’t your fault.’
‘I’m sorry I’m making you worry so much.’
‘Anyone would do the same.’
‘Not like you.’
‘…’
‘Others would be worried that someone was
stupid enough to get stuck in an elevator,
but you worry about me, genuinely, and
that is something I can’t thank enough, Anon.’
‘I’m bound to worry about you.’
‘As a friend?’
‘Of course.’
~
‘Someone just arrived. They’ll be working
with the elevator panel to see if it’s a malfunction.
If not, they’ll have to check the power line.’
‘That’s good to hear.’
‘How are you?’
‘It’s somewhat hot in here, but nothing
I can’t stand.’
‘How’s the office?’
‘Slow and noisy since the fire brigade is
working on our floor. The secretary is trying
to get them back to work.’
‘It’s a mess, isn’t it?’
‘And the director?’
‘He spoke with the fire brigade already.
He wants them to be finished as quickly as
possible so everyone can get back to work.’
‘He looks very stressed.’
‘Really? That’s… surprising.’
‘Why?’
‘He usually never leaves his office.’
‘Would he be the director if he did?’
‘Guess not.’
~
‘Are you bored?’
‘If by that you meant to ask if I have
anything better to do in here,
then yes, I am bored.’
‘I suppose I could keep you company.’
‘Don’t you have work to do?’
‘Everyone is distracted,
I don’t see why I can’t take a break
and distract you for a while too.’
‘Alright then, carry on.’
‘Is this the first time you’ve been
caught in such a tight situation?’
‘Haha, very funny.’
‘At this degree, yes, I suppose.
Although I have been locked out of my
own apartment may times, does that count?’
‘Of course. Your turn.’
‘Do you usually panic like just now when
I told you I was here?’
‘I didn’t panic.’
‘It sure seemed like you did,
asking all those questions,
calling the fire brigade.’
‘I just delivered the message.’
‘And I’m thankful for that.’
‘Why were you running late again today?’
‘I didn’t hear my alarm. It hasn’t been enough
to wake me up lately. I should really take
care of that soon.’
‘You think I wouldn’t be stuck here if
I hadn’t over slept?’
‘I’m pretty sure.’
‘That is just how fortunate I am.’
‘Do you usually carry such bad luck?’
‘I do.’
‘In some things, more than others.’
‘Like what exactly?’
‘Relationships, I guess.’
‘Oh.’
‘I’m sorry I made two in a row.’
‘That’s fine.’
‘Have you ever been in a serious relationship, Anon?’
‘… I can’t say I haven’t.’
‘Are we having this type of conversation now?’
‘It might be so.’
‘Would you tell me about it?’
‘You seriously want to hear about
my past relationships?’
‘Yes. Why? Can I not ask?’
‘Hm…’
‘Just get on with it!’
‘You wanted to distract me no?
‘Fine…’
‘It was some time ago, I don’t think I was even
working for the company as I am now. I started
seeing someone I met through family and friends.
They wanted us to be together more than ourselves.
It was nothing memorable. It lasted over a couple of
months. That’s all.’
‘Was it forced?’
‘I wouldn’t call it that.’
‘Then, why? Didn’t you like them?’
‘It didn’t work out for me, although
she tried more than me.’
‘She?’
‘I’m sorry, I must have misunderstood you.’
‘Don’t think about it too much. ‘
‘My turn?’
‘Mhm.’
‘I know you mentioned some time ago you’ve
had bad experiences with partners. Would you
enlighten me on that now?’
‘True, I had my bad ones. Unfortunately,
they are larger in number than the good ones.’
‘I want to hear them.’
‘All of them?’
‘If it’s possible.’
‘That’s a lot of bad dates.’
‘It’s your chance to rant. You can tell me anything.’
‘Fine, just a couple. I want to make more
questions.’
‘After you.’
‘But where should I start?’
‘First love?’
‘High School, second year. They were my senior.
It started around our summer break, they asked me
to the festival and unfortunately, I agreed to go.’
‘Unfortunately?’
‘We spent the evening together, I thought he
must have liked it so much he kissed me.
He asked me out again for another time and
I selfishly agreed. Weeks after we’ve been going out
and keeping things between us, I find him talking to
his friends about a bet. That they would pay him even
more if he kissed me at the movies.’
‘That was the end of it for me and I pretended he didn’t exist.
It wasn’t easy when he still followed me around wondering
why I was mad at him, but eventually, he understood.’
‘Aiba… I’m so sorry.’
‘It’s in the past. I don’t mind anymore.’
‘Maybe… It was wrong of me to ask.’
‘What? You didn’t believe me when I said they
were bad?’
‘I did, it’s just… I shouldn’t be asking you to
revive those memories.’
‘I’ve repressed them enough. It’s fine, Anon, really.’
‘Alright… But if you want to stop, just say it.’
‘I will.’
‘But I still want to hear what your first love was like.’
‘It is only fair.’
‘College, first year. My roommates dragged me
to a party after our winter break finals. I met them
there, we had our drinks, a few stares and a couple
of songs later, we got into talking. We bonded over
our boredom and sneaked out. It was only talk and
dying under the cold night but their company somehow
made it warmer. At some point they suggested we dipped
into the college ground pool but it was way too cold for any
of us to agree. Instead they invited me to their dorm where
they promised me heat but I had to refuse. I knew what they
wanted, but I just couldn’t give it to them. I’d never done
something like that before so I suppose I felt very nervous
and refused.’
‘After that night I never saw them again on campus.
I found out they weren’t even a student, but some student’s
relative that lived abroad and had only returned for the winter.’
‘If you would have known that sooner,
would you have slept with them that night?’
‘I thought about that many times…
The me back then would have said yes.’
‘And the you right now?’
‘I think it’s better this way. It’s not like it was
my first and last.’
‘Alright I suppose it’s my turn. Tell me about
a date that wasn’t a total disaster.’
‘Hmm… that’s a tough one. It’s not like I go out
with people all the time. I’ve only been
in 3 relationships.’
‘And were any of those worth it?’
‘One learns. Maybe I would have made the same
mistake with someone else.’
‘That’s true.’
‘A not-so-total-disaster, huh? I suppose my second
relationship didn’t end as badly. He was sweet
and all but there simply was no communication.
Hell, I think he forgot I even existed sometimes.
He just never took care of me enough.’
‘I’m sorry, you lost me at “Forgot I even existed”.’
‘He never texted or called me. He never invited me out,
I was always the one arranging dates.
He always wanted me to go to him but never
the other way around. There was no compromise.
I didn’t want that. Eventually, I got a feeling that he
was trying to get rid of me as if I was a burden, so I left.’
‘I have another question if I may.’
‘Yes?’
‘Have you dumped all of your boyfriends?’
‘Now that you mention it… yes.’
‘I see.’
‘What about you?’
‘Did you dump her?’
‘…’
‘I did.’
‘Because you didn’t love her?’
‘Because she was not what I wanted.’
‘Go ahead, make your question.’
‘I suppose… your third and last relationship?’
‘Right…’
‘Two years ago, I met him at a restaurant I use to frequent.
I saw him occasionally until we found the guts to talk.
We got to know each other more and started going out.
It’s the longest I’ve been with anyone and the longest
anyone has lied to me. I still don’t know why he decided
to tell me himself, that he was married and had a family,
I don’t know why he confessed it to me like that.
But I was really mad.’
‘At him for all he did for me that time we were together
and at myself for feeling the smallest bit forgiving
because he at least had the guts to tell me himself.’
‘It’s been 8 months since we broke up.
I haven’t given myself the chance to look for anyone
else since then.’
‘I will stop here.’
‘Alright.’
‘I have something to ask that it wasn’t
very clear to me.’
‘Yes?’
‘Was your first love a woman too?’
‘…’
‘I suppose I have to say no.’
‘Oh, okay.’
‘Then, you haven’t been in love with anyone else?’
‘For a while, no.’
‘Not even your friend?’
‘My friend…?’
‘The coffee boy.’
‘Nino? No! He is just a close friend.’
‘Gosh, why does everyone think we’re together?
We are not!’
‘Sorry. It wasn’t very clear to me.’
‘Don’t get me wrong, he is a great guy,
but we’ve never thought of it that way.’
‘Why not?'
‘I guess we just want different things.’
‘What do you want?’
‘Me… I’ve always wanted what everybody had.
Someone I can trust. Someone who loves me.
Truly loves me. I don’t want to be a bet, a burden
nor a second choice. I want genuine feelings,
something honest. Real.’
‘I’m asking for too much, I know.
Yet if I were given the choice, it wouldn’t hurt to ask.’
‘Believe me when I tell you, that is what
you deserve.’
‘What do you want, Anon?’
‘Me…?’
‘Do you know?’
‘I do.’
‘Then?’
‘I want you to get out of there. It’s been hours.
I don’t know why they are taking so long.’
‘It must be serious then.’
‘How much time do they need to waste fixing
one elevator?’
‘Thank you.’
‘For?’
‘You worrying about me somehow makes me calm.’
‘I suppose someone has to.’
‘But, why are you worrying?’
‘…’
‘Anon, are you in love with someone?’
The elevator made a tremendous rumble before it’s lights and controls came back to life, shaking as it began to ascend once more. Masaki, who sat by a corner of the compartment, barely had the time to recollect himself before the elevator stopped once again, this time opening its doors and revealing his floor. A group of firemen, the same ones who worked on the elevator, received him at his exit.
Masaki quickly hopped on his feet, bowing, and thanking the firemen profoundly, before finally stepping out of the elevator as he could finally catch his breath again. He didn’t take more than two steps before he was clutched by Matsumoto, who held his arms tightly and worriedly.
“Are you okay? Are you hurt? What the hell happened in there?” Immediately the questions flowed out of his lips and Masaki could barely follow them by the sudden closeness of their bodies.
“Let him breathe.” The next voice that stood between them made even Masaki collect himself. The director approached them, his presence so unexpected, Masaki didn’t have time to think of what to do first; either to apologize or greet him.
But director Sakurai didn’t seem to be asking for a formal salute when he walked up to them, even when he wore that stern look that was almost imprinted in his eyes. For a few moments, there was nothing other than silence, as if something was taken in and released by Sakurai’s sigh.
“Are you okay?” Sakurai addressed him directly, perhaps for the first time not avoiding his gaze.
Aiba hesitantly nodded, afraid his response could be the wrong one he answered. “I’m… fine, sir.”
Sakurai nodded, confirming his words with his well-being, regardless of the sweat that stained Aiba’s shirt. Before Aiba could realize it, he felt a light weight patting on his shoulder as the director turned away. Closely behind him, it was Ohno’s turn to approach him, carrying a bottle of water which he handed over to Masaki with a slight bow, before turning away and returning to the director’s side.
For a second, his abrupt expression had paralyzed Aiba, but luckily Jun was there to prove it as well. That regardless of the constant rumors, the director did have a side of him that could sympathize with his employees.
~
“Are you sure you don’t want to take the stairs?” Said Jun to Aiba after the two had logged off their desktops and gathered their things to end their long laboring day.
Aiba sighed for the third time. “I’m not climbing down 24 floors versus barely seconds in the elevator.”
Matsumoto rose a brow at him. “So, you’re sure you’re not traumatized what-so-ever?”
“Positive.” Said Aiba, calling for the elevator hopefully for the last time that day.
“I’m surprised. It’s almost as if that time you spent in there was nothing.”
“Almost…” repeated Aiba as both men stepped into the empty elevator and marked for the lobby.
“Why, what were you doing in here?” Jun looked around as if he would find an answer there, only to earn a chuckle from Aiba at his poor attempt. The sound of Masaki’s hidden laugh gained a look from the younger. “You know, I was really worried.” Added Jun, his eyes never leaving Aiba even when his attention was caught on his phone to a message that had been ignored the whole day.
“You were?”
“When I heard someone was stuck and I saw your empty desk… I had a bad feeling. I couldn’t even work for the rest of the morning.”
Aiba paused, taking in the words that Jun spoke next to him. “How did you know it was me?” He said, his gaze encountering the other in the silence of the elevator, taking Jun’s words away.
Jun cleared his throat as he busied himself looking at his hands. “I had a feeling… it must have been you.”
A feeling. Aiba repeated this on his mind, wondering why he would be the type to worry so much from a hunch?
“I’m trying to say…” Jun’s words came out little by little. Although Aiba wasn’t trying to pressure him, he wanted to hear more. “I couldn’t help you, trapped in here all by yourself. It made me regret that I don’t have your phone number.”
Aiba’s eyes slightly widened. It certainly was a bold move coming from him, but it was better than what Nino could possibly suggest him. Jun didn’t have to ask twice for Masaki to give him his number, if anything it’ll surely score him points with Ninomiya.
The elevator arrived at the lobby shortly after and Aiba was ready to part ways before the other’s words had stopped him.
“I’m sure you’ve had one hell of a day and… I don’t know if it’s too sudden, but…” Aiba could barely follow Jun’s words by the delay they took to form out of his lips, but Aiba was sure that the subtle nervousness that hinted in his voice made that man even more adorable. “Are you busy… tonight?” It wasn’t until he uttered this words that Aiba found himself heedless, almost missing his lead. And even when he recalled what he’d said, he wasn’t too convinced they were right. A long second passed after another, where Aiba lost himself inside his piercing eyes, waiting for an answer to form in his mind, or anything that would let Jun know if he’d blown his chance or not. “That is… if you want to-”
“Hey, I’ve been looking for you!” This was the first time Aiba had heard Nino’s voice coming up behind him and felt such relief. Finally, Aiba could turn towards something that wasn’t Jun’s eyes or the floor. “Are you ready to go?” Nino asked, clearly taking notice of Jun and the ambience between them far too late.
“N-Nino! I almost forgot…” Aiba said suddenly. “I promised I would take him out tonight. I’m so sorry. Can we reschedule?” He said to Jun this time.
“Oh… sure.” He uttered rather doubtfully. “Then… I’ll see you tomorrow?”
“Of course! Good night.” Aiba gave him the most sympathetic smile he could manage and with a big pain in his heart seeing Jun’s faded look, he walked away as fast as he could, pulling on Ninomiya’s sleeve to follow behind him.
“Would you care to explain what the hell was that about?” Asked Ninomiya, trying to keep up with Aiba’s pace as they exited the company building. “Did you just do what I think you did?”
“I’m sorry, okay? You’re going to yell at me for that too?” His voice sounded rather upset, which only concerned Nino even more.
“But, what if he’s- “
Aiba stopped short on his tracks, letting go of Nino and letting his heart beat settle down once again. “That’s what I’m afraid of.”
~
“So, he asked for your number, meaning he’s not Anon?” Nino spoke from the floor of Masaki’s apartment, as he fumbled in his phone games.
“But Anon’s been so careful so far. This is exactly what he would do to take away my suspicions of him, no? I mean, he has lied before, why wouldn’t he do the same now?” Aiba laid on his sofa, his phone lying flat on his stomach waiting for the slightest sign of life from Anon, but if he hadn’t texted him throughout the rest of the day, he had no chance to believe he would respond to him now.
“Hmm… I thought you said he was honest with you.”
“I’m not stupid, Nino.” Said Aiba, not letting him rub salt into his wound.
“Then how come you still don’t know what he wants form you? I thought you should have known by now.”
“Believe me, I tried.”
“Why is he ignoring you anyway?” the ringing of his phone games toned down, giving Aiba the chance to think straight.
Aiba looked at his phone to find no notifications waiting for him. “Maybe he is scared. Maybe I spoke too soon.”
“Maybe it’s not what he answers but what happens after.” Nino spoke the first words that meant something to Aiba. “Have you thought about that?”
Aiba looked at Nino from the sofa, his eyes still very lost in thought. When he couldn’t find an answer, he returned to look at his ceiling as if he would find it there, but there was nothing more left to think about other than how tired he had become after what seemed like the longest day.
~
After realizing it had begun to rain, Ninomiya decided to stay the night and take the sofa. Aiba had moved to his bed, trying to find that sleep that’d kicked in while he talked to Nino but shortly realized his mind was clouded once again with his unanswered message.
After a couple of hours of tossing around, he became irritated by even the position of his pillows. He rearranged himself once again and in the meantime, took hold of his phone. The screen illuminated the room as he searched for his recent messages and started to type.
‘I’m sorry if I asked something out of place’
‘I didn’t mean to upset you.’
He relieved now that the words had come out of his chest, but also a self-conscious feeling hit him, making him wish he could erase the message when it was too late. He set his phone on his night table and hid himself under the covers. Gradually, the tiredness finally began to kick in, starting to drift him off into a dream only to be startled back awake when his phone rang. His eyes shot open confirming it had not been his imagination, seeing his room illuminated by his phone’s light. It had to be…
‘What makes you think I’m upset?’
‘You haven’t spoken all day… since I came out of the elevator.’
‘I’ve been thinking that’s all.’
‘About?’
‘Don’t worry about it.’
Masaki knew those words weren’t going to let him return to sleep. His fingers typed into the keyboard.
‘Anon?’
‘Yes?’
‘Why did you start texting me?’
‘What is the reason you spoke to me?’
‘I need to know.’
‘You promised you would tell me when I asked again.’
‘Please… I need you to tell me.’
‘Anon...?’
‘I like you.’
Masaki sat up in his bed, his eyes never darting away from his phone even when it hurt to even look at the screen.
‘Make your next question.’
‘Why?’
‘Because I need to ask you something and it’s your turn.’
‘I have nothing to say.’
‘Ask.’
‘Are you hiding yourself to protect me?’
‘Are you hiding from me because it is against office policy?’
‘It could be.’
‘If the truth comes out, we could get in trouble.’
‘Most likely.’
‘Then, can I ask you something?’
‘Yes?’
‘Now that you know why, would you stop texting me?’
‘Do you want me to stop?’
‘I don’t want you to think I had bad intentions.’
‘I don’t.’
‘I won’t judge you like that, Anon.’
‘Then?’
‘I don’t know what to say.’
His hands fell over his lap, holding on to his phone tightly as he searched for the words in the darkness of his room.
‘Thank you.’
‘For being honest with me. For answering me.
For your feelings. I am very grateful.’
‘Just grateful.’
‘I wish I could give you the answer you deserve but…
that is all I can say.’
‘Your honesty is enough.’
‘Will this make things awkward between us?’
‘…’
‘I don’t think I’m ready to stop talking to you.’
‘If you still want to talk to a stalking creep
like me then, that’s up to you.’
‘I won’t pressure you on any further.’
‘No. You’re not a creep.’
‘You’re my friend.’
‘Yeah… I guess so.’
‘You are.’
‘And as my friend, I won’t abandon you.’
‘When I’m ready, I promise I’ll give you the answer you deserve.’
‘There is no need for you to.’
‘I will.’
‘You kept your promise.’
‘It’s what a real friend would do.’
‘You don’t have to pity me.’
‘I don’t.’
‘I just don’t want you to go.’
‘Why?’
‘I… don’t know yet.’
‘Will you tell me when you do?’
‘It’s a promise.’
A/N: End of Chapter 5. Anon has confessed! Aiba's reactions seems to be a little different than what Anon expected, but why? Will this change anything from now on? Thanks for reading and see you next chapter~!
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