Chapter 16: The First Kiss

"Shimizu-san, I have already done my round and taken Fuji-san temperature, blood pressure and did an IV drip for him. Aida-san going to have an operation tomorrow early morning, so he is currently fasting. Arita-san have an appointment with the radiologist at 2:30p.m, I will bring him to the x-ray room after lunch," Kotoko reported smoothly which stunned everyone.

For the first time, she did not forget any single detail and even knows what to do next.

Tomoko, Marina, Keita and Motoki could not believe their ears. Is this the Kotoko they know? Or is it someone who pose as Kotoko? Or is she possessed? What happened while she was away? Did she go through some transformation lessons?

"Well done… Kotoko, you can go for your lunch," Shimizu replied with a smile, trying to recover the shock from Kotoko unusually good performances. If this was the result for approving her urgent leave, Shimizu wished Kotoko would apply earlier.

"Hey Kotoko, wait for us!" Marina exclaimed when Kotoko walked away.

Kotoko tried to be unaffected by their intense gaze studying her like some alien as she ate quietly.

"Aren't you eating? The food is turning cold." Kotoko broke the silence as she doubted they would stop their staring anytime soon.

"Are you the Kotoko we know?" Marina asked cautiously. "Not being possessed by some spirit or anything?"

Kotoko rolled her eyes and ignored it.

"Can't believe there is a day where Kotoko never makes any mistake," Motoki added in disbelief.

"Half day. The morning just ended," Tomoko corrected innocently but her comments always hit at the core sharply.

"Maybe she will resume her old self after lunch." Keita spoke and started on his lunch.

"How can you have such low confidence in me? It can be the start of my path to be a successful and professional nurse." Kotoko declared proudly.

They burst into laughter immediately.

"Kotoko, you never fail to make my day," Marina said, trying to suppress her laugh.

"If it is from anyone but you, I will believe," Motoki added.

Next was Keita. "If that happens, it will be a miracle. And what do you think is the possibility of a miracle happening?"

"Though I agree with all of you, we can't be so bad. Must give Kotoko some encouragement as friends," Tomoko said kindly.

"Eat your food before it turns cold." Kotoko sulked and then smiled at them, a seeming innocent smile. "If any of you gets sick, I will ensure I'm the nurse in charge and give you an unforgettable experience."

The effectiveness of that sentence was instant as none of them talked further.

"I will not come here if that happens," Keita muttered to himself.

For the first time, Kotoko felt victorious. The peaceful moment last for some time until Motoki asked seriously, "Kotoko, is there anything bothering you?"

She froze for a second before lifting her head up and met him in the eyes. "Of course not, why would you ask that?" Kotoko laughed it off to mask her surprise at his acuteness.

"Really?"

"Yes, have you forgotten who am I? If there is anything bothering me, do you think I can hide?" Kotoko said with firm conviction.

"Exactly Motoki. You must be thinking too much."

Motoki paused and considered Marina words. "Somehow my sixth sense tell me otherwise."

Keita laughed. "Moto, have you forgotten your gender?"

"There's no theory that only female have sixth sense."

"Hello, lets change topic," Kotoko interrupted, putting an end to the argument. "Shall we discuss what to do this coming weekend? Bowling? Karaoke?"

"Before that, let's invite more people," Motoki declared. "The more the merrier.

They gave her a puzzled look. "Who do you want to include?" Keita asked.

"Marina, ask your boyfriend to join us and he will definitely drag Irie-sensei in," Motoki said confidently. And as if to prove how befitting he was as Irie Naoki fans' club president in the university days, Motoki added, "Kotoko, ask Aizawa-sensei along too. Then Irie-sensei won't be suspicious. I notice they seems to be closer than before, especially the last few months. I wonder what cause the change."

Never underestimate the observation and investigative skills of a fan club president.

Kotoko ignored the ripple effect Motoki statement had caused inside her, instead she exclaimed, "What?"

"You are close to him. And if Funatsu fails to drag Irie-sensei in, you will do that job."

"What?" That was all Kotoko could utter.

"Kotoko, stop saying what. Say okay."

"Huh?"

"Kotoko!" Motoko resisted the urge to strangle her.

"Moto, your motive is so obvious. You just want more time with Irie. Funatsu and Aizawa are just cover," Keita exposed, rolling his eyes.

"My gut tells me this time it will be a success," Motoki said surely. He tried many times and failed many times. "As Irie Naoki's fan club ex-president, it is unforgivable that we did not have a gathering together, not even once."

"That's because it is an unofficial club," Tomoko stated innocently.

"Staff retreat, activity day or other corporate events," Keita answered. As part of staff welfare, the staff recreation club will organize events for the employees and whoever interested can sign up for the event. There are staff retreat, by batches, for employees too.

"It's different," Motoki insisted. Keita decided not to argue further and focused on his lunch instead. Motoki continued, "Come on, lets discuss what activity shall we do. Kotoko, why are you so quiet? You are so enthusiastic earlier."

Kotoko forced a smile. "I've suggested earlier."

"What does Irie-sensei like to do?" Motoki asked.

Kotoko replied with further questions. "Aren't you his fan club president? I thought you have all the information?"

"To find out if there is anything I missed. You are in the same high school and university, albeit a few years, as him."

"Tennis I suppose? His skill is professional level."

"Anymore?"

"Reading. He likes to read." She could not tell them that she saw him with books, even at home. She noticed he reads a lot, maybe partly due to his profession, it becomes more essential. He read newspaper, books but not just limited to medicine, journals, reports and thesis.

"But we can't do a reading club. I will sleep," Marina remarked.

"But then Funatsu will be very enthusiastic," Motoki teased, laughing.

Marina shivered at the thought as it was true.

"I think anything is fine. Since he is a genius, there is nothing he can't do," Kotoko concluded.

"Exactly, why make yourself so troubled?" Keita said, not understanding their thinking.

"Let's go bowling. It has been some time since I last played. Time to polish my personal ball." Motoki smiled with sinister intent.

"Motoki, teach me and then I can have a competition with Funatsu and when he lose…" Marina also gave that same smile as Motoki.

"What?" Motoki asked curiously.

"I will tell him to follow my date plan. Ban him from doing any boring educational activities with me for a week!" Marina laughed victoriously as she imagined Funatsu despair expression. "Can you believe it, during our dates, it will definitely have at least one visit to some museum or exhibition or library!" Marina cried.

Motoki patted her shoulder comfortingly. "I will teach you and help you master in days. Let's start from today!"

"Okay! Let's add singing to the list too. We need some night activities."

"Good idea, and then for dinner…"

In the end, the group discussion on the outing became a discussion between Motoki and Marina. As for the rest of the members, they talked about general topics among themselves, clearly their input not important.

Kotoko stood outside the hospital entrance and stared at the weather. It was raining. She sighed. She dislikes rain since that fateful accident. It just gave her a bad feeling. However, she prepared an umbrella wherever she goes as the last thing she wants is to get stuck in a rain. She was ready to walk off until she saw him.

"Irie-kun," Kotoko called out. "Going home?"

"Yes."

"Did you bring an umbrella?"

"Yes, you?"

Kotoko showed him the umbrella and smiled.

"Let's go," Naoki said.

Both of them walked quietly to the train station. Kotoko did not know what to talk to him after that day. She tried to act natural but with the silence, it was very difficult. Due to the shock of Naoki's revelation, Kotoko took a few days leave and went on a short trip after confronting her father.

"Heard you are joining us this coming Saturday?" Kotoko broke the suffocating silence. The moment Naoki agreed, Motoki immediately informed her.

"Funatsu say he will cover my duties for one night if I go," Naoki replied.

That caught Kotoko interest immediately. She wondered how Marina managed to bait Funatsu or what she promised him.

"I'm surprise you agree to it." Kotoko expected him to reject as he did not like to attend social gathering especially one with an obvious motive.

"You are going, right?"

"Yes," Kotoko answered, puzzled by the sudden change in topic.

Naoki noticed her confusion but did not choose to clarify. Though that was one of the reasons he agreed to the gathering, another reason was he wanted to see the kind of people they were. He knew them, being in the same university and hospital, but it was on a superficial level.

"Why the impromptu gathering?"

Naoki sudden question interrupted Kotoko thought.

"We planned this weeks ago. The impromptu part is asking you, Shuichi and Funatsu along." Kotoko told him how it all started.

Kotoko looked out at the scenery as the train moved, droplets of water trickled down the window. When could she stop having that sadness whenever it rains? It has been years. Turning her gaze away from the window, she faced Irie-kun instead.

The question popped out before she could stop herself. "Irie-kun, do you like rain?"

Naoki looked at her, surprised by the sudden question.

There were minutes of silence till Kotoko thought he would not reply. "Neither like nor dislike. Just that it reminds me of a decision I made and regretted ever since."

The expression and tone when Naoki said it caused Kotoko to shift her eyes away.

"Genius also makes mistake," Kotoko muttered, facing the window.

"Genius is also a human."

"What about you? Why do you ask me that?"

"Just a random question, nothing much. I dislike rain though."

Naoki immediately able to connect the scene he saw earlier with her answer. He quietly observed her before he made his presence known. She just stood there still, staring at the rain for minutes.

Naoki knew the subject had ended for her with her tone of finality but not him. "Why?"

Kotoko did not answer.

"Does it remind you of anything?"

"No. It didn't make me feel good whenever it rains. So I don't like rain. Don't ask me why. I don't know too," Kotoko finally answered, slightly annoyed. She knew Irie-kun would not give up until she replied.

What Naoki did next was totally unexpected. He held her hand. She tried to shake it off but it was a futile effort.

"We are engaged," he reminded her.

"No, we are not."

"I can tell my mum and it will be a fact."

Kotoko stopped struggling but she stopped talking too as a sign of protest and focused her attention on the train surrounding, observing the people and stared into nothing.

Right after Naoki told her about the sudden engagement, she went to talk to her father. Initially, she was angry with him for not telling her something so important but he believed it would be more appropriate for Naoki to personally tell her. Although her father gave his verbal approval, the final decision still lies on her.

Her logic told her she should reject but another side of her said no. It was unlike her to be so indecisive and to think so much over something. She did not understand herself either. When it comes to Irie-kun, she was not herself. Thus, they were now in an ambiguous relationship. She did not know to consider him her friend or more than that. If he was her friend, she would reject his proposal. However, she could not imagine standing beside him as his partner.

Kotoko tried to ignore the warmth of his hand, that sense of security and unreasonable happiness she was feeling now. It only confused her further. "You promise to give me time."

"I did. It doesn't mean I can't shorten the time," Naoki answered smoothly.

Kotoko knew she could not win him in an argument.

"I can't understand you," Kotoko muttered softly to herself. "It shouldn't be me. It should be someone perfect. A very pretty and smart woman. It should be someone more elegant, someone who can cook and practically do anything. Someone who is rich and has an influential background."

What is that sadness in her? Why does it seem like she has an idea of the kind of woman meant to be with him? Kotoko shook it off. It was natural. A handsome guy with a pretty woman. A perfect man with a perfect woman. This was about compatibility.

"I won't repeat the same mistake I did years ago," Naoki answered expressionlessly.

Kotoko tilted her head, confused, completely unaware that Naoki was not happy. Naoki is the type he would hide his emotions behind. So, the angrier he was, the colder he appeared to be.

"I know who suits me best," Naoki added, holding her hand tighter. "Don't think unnecessarily, it is not like you."

Kotoko sulked and turned away, refused to look at him. It did not pay to be kind at all.

"Morning Pa, Uncle Irie, Aunty Irie." Kotoko took a seat at the dining table beside her father.

"Morning Kotoko-chan!" Mama greeted cheerily as she put the last plate on the table.

"Morning Irie-kun, Yuki," Kotoko greeted as they joined the table.

It was a lively breakfast session as always. The two fathers talked to each other about some fishing places, Mama and Kotoko talked about the recent tv drama and Yuki talked to Naoki about his school.

"Kotoko, what time are you going out?" Mama asked

"I will be leaving house around 12 plus, why?"

"I guess we can't make it then to the salon to do up your hair."

Mrs Irie did not miss that puzzled look on Kotoko face and with a bright smile, she answered in a tone that hinted it was obvious and very natural. "For your date with Onii-chan of course!"

Kotoko coughed. Her father almost spitted out his tea while Mr Irie almost choked on his food. Yuki looked between Kotoko and Naoki in disbelief. Naoki continued his breakfast as if nothing happens.

"You have to be at your best!" Mrs Irie added excitedly.

"Aunty, it is not a date. We are going out with a group of friends," Kotoko corrected her gently. "It is just a casual outing."

"You can always plan activity after that. Both of you can come back late or even till the next morning. I won't mind at all," Mrs. Irie said dreamily.

"Aunty!"

Mama grabbed Kotoko hands and said firmly, "I've never give up on my dream of you married to Onii-chan. You are still the most suitable one for him. That feel was stronger than ever since you came back. I gave up once years ago but not now anymore. I know you are the destined one for him."

Kotoko did not know how to respond. She could only say Irie-kun and Aunty Irie are indeed mother and son. The bond of blood is not to be underestimated. Then Kotoko turned to Yuki, waiting for him to say something but he was surprisingly quiet. Unfortunately, she could not count on him to escape from this conversation.

"Mama, this can't be rush," Papa said gently as always.

"I didn't. I just push a little to speed things up," Mama defended.

"Just don't overdo it," Papa reminded.

Mama sighed disappointedly. "There is not enough time to go to salon."

Kotoko was relieved.

"We will go another day," Mama said cheerfully.

Kotoko smiled in response.

"Kotoko-chan, why are you so calm on a date with Onii-chan?" Mama exclaimed, sad.

Kotoko stiffened for a second before answering with a smile. "Aunty, it is an outing with friends."

"In the past, you will be very excited about it."

Kotoko could detect the faint hint of sadness and disappointment when Mrs. Irie said that though she tried to mask it. Kotoko felt guilty. Worse, she did not know how to answer that.

Just then, Naoki spoke. "Mum, we will arrange one."

It was short but the effect was great. Everyone stopped eating, too stunned to react except Mama. The look on her face was like she strikes lottery.

"You mean on a date with Kotoko?" She needed confirmation. It sounded too good to be true.

Naoki nodded.

"Onii-chan!" Mama hugged Kotoko tightly in joy and then turned to Naoki and said proudly, "I'm so happy! You are enlightened, at last!"

On the other hand, Kotoko wished to kill him badly. She did not dare to glare at him for too long, afraid other people would notice it. So, she was cursing and swearing inside, especially at how natural he was when he mentioned that, in that casual cool manner. It was as if this would be their first date. Is there anything that he could not do? Such a good actor.

"Kotoko-chan, we must start discussing. We have to decide on date, location, how to dress you up, arrange appointment to do your hair, do some shopping…" Mama started listing out all the things to be done excitedly. Kotoko tried very hard to resist the temptation to give him a kick under the table but she doubted her accuracy. It would be very embarrassing if she missed her target.

As for the culprit, he was eating his breakfast peacefully as if nothing happens.

During their outing, Kotoko talked more with Tomoko, Shuichi and Keita as Naoki was being occupied by Motoki, Marina and Funatsu. Motoki was so happy that Naoki joined them as it was like a dream fulfilled as Irie Naoki fan club president.

First, they had a bowling session. Much to Marina delight, she beats Funatsu. Shuichi was impressed by Kotoko amazingly good score, as her score was very close with Motoki and Naoki, who were the top 2 among them. Kotoko just gave Shuichi a smirk in return.

After bowling they went for dinner. Much to Kotoko's dismay, the most talked about topic was her.

"Hey Aizawa-sensei, what do you think of Kotoko's work performance in the past few days?" Marina asked.

Shuichi answered honestly, "Amazing. Unbelievable. Never expect there will be a day like this."

Kotoko glared at Shuichi.

"I also wonder what cause the change in her." Shuichi moved his eyes towards Kotoko then Naoki as he said this and then looked at all the others to prevent suspicion.

Naoki acted normal while Kotoko talked to Tomoko, pretending she saw nothing.

"If Aizawa-sensei also did not know, then I guess no one will know," Motoki sighed disappointed.

"You should ask Kotoko, not me."

"She didn't say anything and I thought she might tell you something."

Shuichi smiled helplessly. "She didn't tell me anything."

"Shuichi, now I know you can't be trusted," Kotoko remarked coolly.

Shuichi immediately defended himself. He said as sincerely as possible, "No, no, you can trust me. My door is always open for you. I have always make time to hear you out, you should know that."

Kotoko chose not to reply.

Shuichi said dramatically, "Kotoko, are you the Kotoko that I know? Or is it some other person who pretend to be you?"

Kotoko was immune to the overused antics which had been happening for the past few days, frequently done by Motoki and Marina.

Then the next topic was how Kotoko became a nurse from Shuichi side of story, much to Kotoko's dismay. After having a good laugh, they changed topic to Marina and Funatsu and some gossips about the hospital based on Motoki's sources.

After dinner, they headed for the last activity for the day – karaoke.

To everyone's surprise, Funatsu sang amazingly well. His first song was a duet with Marina. Then along the way they had a PK match, see whose score higher as rated by the karaoke box and the loser would have to drink the drink mixture. They also played rock-paper-scissor and the loser would have to sing the song choose by the winner.

In midst of a singing challenge between Motoki and Keita, Kotoko left the room to take a break. It was at some alleyway away from the noise and she leaned against the wall, appreciating the quietness after hours of noise in the room. Somehow it reminded her of the karaoke session during her high school graduation. She should talk to Kin-chan to organize another one, a reunion after 10 years. It would be so fun to hear how their classmates have been doing etc.

Kotoko pushed herself away from the wall and straightened up. She turned and was surprised to see him. "Irie-kun, what are you doing here? How long have you stand here?"

"Not long after you left the room."

"Oh." That was all Kotoko could say. "It's too much noise, good to have a break from it, isn't it?"

Naoki did not reply to that remark but asked something else instead. "What are you thinking earlier?"

"Just about the fun we have and it will be good to organize another one for Tonan High 3-F class gathering after so many years. I remember we have one years back."

"Yes and my class is beside yours and our teachers get into an argument," Naoki added, observing Kotoko's reaction.

Kotoko smiled without adding more. "Well then, I'm going back. You?"

"Soon."

Kotoko was walking away but as she passed by Naoki, he grabbed her wrist and stopped her. Kotoko turned and tilted her head sideway, puzzled. Naoki pulled her towards him and in one swift movement, Kotoko was trapped between him and the wall behind her. They were so close till she could hear his breathing clearly but she was not scared. She looked at him.

"Before that, there is something we need to do."

Kotoko knew what he would do next but wondered why she did not stop him as he closed the distance between them.

I don't intend to like you anymore!

I will find someone much better than you in university!

Good, try if you can!

More memories and this time, she saw his face.

After what seemed like an eternity, Naoki let her go. Kotoko unconsciously touched her lips.

"Reenacting the scene of our first kiss," Naoki answered with a smirk.

Then he held her hand. "Let's go back before they become suspicious."

Kotoko was too overwhelmed that her brain stopped functioning.

Finally an update after so long and the first quarter of the new year has passed. O_O Time flies too quickly.

Hope my readers are not disappointed wth the update as I think the fic is getting draggy. I extend a little longer for Naoki to be more proactive and take more initiative but not sure if it goes well as that is my idea for the last few chps update (after all Naoki has it too easy in the original manga/anime/drama). It is supposedly to be a 15 chps fic. If it fails, sorry to all my readers, silent and those who give me reviews.

Anyway I think another few more chps and it will end. Lets hope it won't go beyond 20 (my target). =)

Thanks for all the reviews (I read every one of them), favourites and follows.

©Crazeblue27