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Chapter LXXXVI: Castle on the Hill, Part 2
The following week, the Class Rep sits at her desk, a nostalgic smile playing on her lips as she reminisces about the music video they shot at the grand river view-deck. With the enthusiasm still fresh, she turns to Toshiro, who is engrossed in his homework.
"You know, Toshiro," she begins,
"I was thinking about how much fun we had shooting that music video. Maybe we should go to another place to finish it."
Toshiro looks up, intrigued.
"That's a great idea. We only finished half of the song, so it makes sense. But where should we go?"
He pauses, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.
"Are you thinking what I'm thinking?"
The Class Rep nods eagerly.
"Absolutely. How about a beach scene? It could be the perfect backdrop."
The couple decides to consult Satou, who lives near the coast. They catch him during lunch, and Toshiro wastes no time asking,
"Satou, is the coast near your place any good for a music video?"
Satou looks up from his bento box, shaking his head.
"Not really. The last time I was there, it was full of garbage and overcrowded, especially at sunset. It's not ideal."
The Class Rep sighs, disappointed.
"Well, that's a bummer. Do you have any other suggestions?"
Satou thinks for a moment, then snaps his fingers.
"There's a fancy resort about 5 kilometers from the city and 2 kilometers from the nearest town proper. The beach there is known for its black sand and vibrant sunsets. It’s usually much cleaner and less crowded."
Excitedly, the Class Rep and Toshiro thank Satou and quickly notify the class about the new plan. Everyone eagerly agrees to meet at the resort on Saturday.
Saturday arrives with clear skies and a gentle breeze. The class gathers at the resort, taking in the picturesque surroundings. The resort itself is a blend of modern luxury and natural beauty, with palm trees swaying gently in the wind and the scent of the ocean filling the air.
However, not everyone could make it. Akiko and Gin had prior commitments and couldn’t join. Despite missing their friends, the others were determined to make the most of the day.
Kota, feeling a bit out of place without Akiko, decides to bond with Enmei and Asahi. The trio heads out of the resort and down to the beach, their spirits lifting with each step they take on the warm black sand.
"Man, this place is amazing," Enmei says, looking around. "The black sand is so cool."
Asahi nods, pulling out his speaker and guitar.
"Perfect setting for some music. Let's jam!"
Kota, still a bit nervous, tries to relax.
"Sounds good. What are we playing?"
Asahi strums his guitar, a familiar melody filling the air.
"How about we start with something upbeat to get everyone in the mood?"
They settle on a spot by the shore, where the waves gently lap at their feet. Asahi cranks up the volume on his speaker and begins to play, his fingers dancing over the strings. Enmei claps along, and Kota, though still anxious, finds himself getting swept up in the moment.
The sound of music attracts a few classmates who were exploring the beach. They gather around, some joining in the singing, others just swaying to the rhythm. The atmosphere becomes more relaxed and joyful.
Asahi, noticing Kota’s apprehension, leans in.
"Hey, man, everything okay?"
Kota forces a smile.
"Yeah, just worried about the time. We don’t want to miss the sunset."
Asahi laughs.
"Relax, Kota. We’ve got plenty of time. Just enjoy the moment."
Kota takes a deep breath and nods.
"You're right. Let's do this."
The sun begins its descent, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple. The class gathers once more, this time at the water's edge, to watch the breathtaking sunset. The golden light reflects off the black sand, creating a surreal and magical atmosphere.
Asahi continues to strum his guitar, switching to a softer, more melodic tune that complements the setting sun. The classmates sit in a loose circle, some leaning against each other, others lying back on the sand, eyes closed, soaking in the moment.
Kota, feeling a wave of contentment wash over him, looks around at his friends. Despite the absence of Akiko and Gin, he feels a deep sense of camaraderie and happiness. This, he realizes, is what makes these moments special—the people he shares them with.
As the last rays of the sun dip below the horizon, the group falls into a comfortable silence, the only sound being the gentle strumming of Asahi's guitar and the rhythmic crash of the waves.
Kota glances at Enmei and Asahi, grateful for their presence.
"Thanks, guys. This turned out to be a pretty amazing day."
Enmei smiles.
"Yeah, it did. And there's still plenty of time for more fun."
Asahi nods, packing away his guitar.
"Absolutely. Let's head back to the resort. I hear they have a great bonfire setup."
The class gathers around the bonfire later that evening, toasting marshmallows and sharing stories. Laughter echoes through the night, blending with the crackling of the fire and the distant sound of the ocean. As they sit together, Kota can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for these moments and the friends who make them unforgettable.
And so, under the starlit sky, they create yet another cherished memory, one that will stay with them long after their school days are over.
As the night wraps up, Kota heads to his motorcycle, ready to ride home. He turns the key, and... nothing. He tries again. Still nothing.
"You've got to be kidding me," he mutters.
Enmei, passing by, chuckles. "Need a jump?"
"Nah, it's out of gas," Kota replies, checking his fuel gauge and seeing it's empty.
"And the nearest gas station is still 2 kilometers away!"
He waves goodbye to his friends and starts walking. He tries to hail a taxi, but it’s a busy night and no cabs are stopping. Resigned, he starts the long trek to the gas station, grumbling to himself.
By the time Kota reaches the gas station, he's sweaty and exhausted. He fills up a small gas can and takes a breather. While he’s there, his phone rings. It’s Akiko.
"Hey, Kota! Where are you?" she asks cheerfully.
"Just, uh, getting some gas," Kota replies, trying to sound casual.
"Oh! Well, my grandma and I are having dinner in the city. Want to join us?"
Despite his exhaustion, Kota smiles.
"Sure, I’ll be there."
He heads back to his bike, fills the tank, and rides off to meet Akiko and her grandma.
At the restaurant, Kota joins Akiko and her grandma, who immediately starts grilling him about school and their relationship.
"So, Kota," Grandma starts, "how's your groove with Akiko?"
Kota, trying to sound polite and composed, replies,
"It's good, ma'am. We’re doing great."
Akiko pouts playfully, feeling a twinge of jealousy.
"Grandma, stop embarrassing him!"
Grandma chuckles.
"Now, now, Akiko. Just making sure my granddaughter is in good hands."
Kota blushes, and Akiko squeezes his hand under the table, smiling.
After dinner, they all step outside, the city lights twinkling around them. Akiko's grandma bids them goodbye and heads home, leaving the couple alone.
Akiko turns to Kota, her eyes soft.
"Thank you for coming tonight. And for dealing with my grandma's questions."
Kota grins.
"No problem. She's sweet. Just like you."
They share a tender moment, hugging and kissing under the night sky, feeling grateful for each other and the memories they continue to make.
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