Arrival

The sun begins to set over the island of Japan as an airline flight lands. Numerous citizens and some foreigners are excited with the plane landing safely on the tarmac. No one is more excited than Takumi Kazuo.

“I can’t wait to see Sakura again. We hit it off when we were teens so well.”

Everyone, including him, waits until the plane stops at its position for exiting to commence.

“Attention everyone, welcome to Japan, local time is 16:33, or 4:33 pm. Thank you for riding with us, we hope to see you again in the future.” Exclaims by a flight attendant.

Ding

Everyone gets up and either exits the plane or retrieves their luggage from the top compartments. Takumi gets a small bag from it and exits the plane in an orderly fashion. Exiting the jet bridge overview, he sees the brightly lit airport with numerous travelers and visitors meeting family and friends.

Following the signs, he sees where the main entrance is and to exit. Passing through various checkpoints, his smile doesn’t get put aside thinking about the apple of his eye.

As he nears the exit, he spots some breaking news appear on a tv screen.

“Breaking news, another victim of a mysterious string of attacks has been reported. Every person affected appears to have been found lying on the ground knocked out. Description varies of the attacker, but they say it’s most likely a hooded individual with red eyes.” A female reporter says.

Takumi shrugs off the news and begins to walk down. That is until he sees a photo of Sakura on the tv.

“In other news, famous resident Sakura Hoshino has announced her family will donate more money to local businesses suffering from recent financial issues.”

Takumi sees the still beautiful image of his sweetheart, surprised to see her new social status in the public eye. Her elegant black hair and beautiful blue eyes capture Takumi’s heart. Continuing his walk, he makes it to the exit.

Ring

Reaching for his phone, he sees the name of Sakura ringing.

“Hi Sakura, I just saw you on the news. Congrats on the announcement.”

“You’re so sweet Takumi. I can’t wait to see you again. How was studying overseas?”

“It was very busy for me, but I finally got my Bachelors. I can’t wait to see you again though. I have a lot to talk about with you.”

Kiss

Takumi hears a kiss from Sakura, making him smile.

“Tell me when you’re near, the press keeps bothering me and my family. Our security will let you in immediately.” Sakura adds.

“I’ll text you when I’m near your house. See you then Sakura.”

“Love you sweetie. Bye.”

Takumi and Sakura hang up as he signals down a taxi. After a few attempts, he signals down one and immediately gets in.

“Where to sir?” The driver asks.

“The Hoshino residence please.”

The driver looks surprised and turns around to face Takumi.

“Are you serious sir? That place is a circus now.”

Takumi nods.

“Yes sir. Also, don’t worry about the press or security. We’ll be let in.”

The driver puts his car into drive and proceeds to take Takumi to his destination. The special ward of Ota flourishes as its citizens walk and travel, while the sun begins to set. Takumi views countless businesses and classic Japanese architecture from modern to traditional buildings.

The car ride becomes more peaceful the moment it gets away from the busy traffic. More luscious green scenery is illuminated from the setting sun, making Takumi view the gorgeous landscape. A few farms are noticed by Takumi, specifically for produce.

“I should get some strawberries again for her. I wouldn't mind making a strawberry shortcake while I’m there, so I could show them an American delicacy.”

However, his peace comes to an end as an ambulance rushes past the taxi. Trying to see ahead, a few police cars are around a man all battered and having a depressive stare. The ambulance parks near the victim as the police flags down the taxicab.

“I’m sorry sir, you’ll have to take another road. Active crime scene here.”

The driver acknowledges the cop and turns right.

“I apologize sir, the fare will be a bit higher since we have to go around.”

“No problem, I can afford it.” Takumi says.

The sun fully sets during the drive; all roads were pitch black for a second until the streetlights turned on. Checking his phone, Takumi sees they’re a few minutes away from the home. He begins texting Sakura about his near arrival. In a few seconds, she texts him a thumbs up as the driver brakes softly.

“Sir, we have arrived.” Takumi looks ahead and couldn’t believe the home Sakura’s family owns. It was a massive manor with the style of traditional Japanese craftsmanship, a koi pond by the front entrance, and has a few stories above ground. The home makes Takumi and the driver stare as security comes by and opens the front gate.

“You may enter.” A guard says to the driver.

The driver pulls ahead and stops as they are near some steps.

“Okay, that’ll be 5,500 yen please.”

Takumi pulls out a credit card for the driver to swipe.

“Have a good day sir.” The driver says, giving Takumi his card back.

“Thanks”

Exiting the vehicle and holding his bag, Takumi walks up the extravagant cobblestone steps and sees the manor up close. Its size easily overshadows him, impressing him. Looking ahead, he sees a very familiar face waiting by the front door.

“Takumi! You finally made it!” Sakura yells.

She runs ahead and leaps onto him for a hug.

“I’m so glad you’re here!”

“Same here, Sakura. It’s been too long, how have you been?” Takumi asks.

“I’ve been doing well; my dad has been making my schedule busy on keeping his company top notch.”

Takumi pats on Sakura’s head.

“You are a miracle worker; you even looked pretty on tv.”

Sakura blushes.

“Thank you. I have to say, you certainly look fit.” Sakura peaks and admires his arm muscles.

“I had so much time to exercise over there and I took the chance. Definitely made me active. Say, what happened to the press from tv? Thought you were being bombarded by them?”

“They went away. Some other attack happened nearby and now there’s finally peace and quiet here. Although, I hope the victim is alright.” Sakura responds worriedly.

“I’m sure he is. Look, let's step inside and relax. We have a lot to catch up on.” Takumi says.

Sakura nods and grabs Takumi’s hand to guide him to her house. Unbeknownst to them, the gate that has let Takumi in reforms itself to nothing but a brick wall. All stars in the sky vanish, as a mysterious glow emits on the outside of the manor.