Chapter 7: Ch6: A new beginning
It's April 1st.
Tomorrow is my first day of high school. Today, my mom and I are arranging my student room since I won't be in the same prefecture anymore.
Yes, I'll be staying on campus here.
Shiketsu High School is located in Hyogo, while my mother and I live in Hosu City, which isn't nearby – it's about a 2 hour and 40-minute commute.
"Takashi, are we good? Do you have everything you need?"
"I think everything's good... oh wait, I think I'm missing my PSbox15." I'm trying.
"No, you won't get me. That's not an oversight. I told you you wouldn't have it here. If you want to play it, you'll have to come back to the house and see me." My mother says to me in a playful tone.
"Alright, alright, I'll come by from time to time, don't worry. When I can, I'll make sure to visit Tamaki and Mirio too."
"Yes, they should come by the house too. It's been a while since I've seen them, and especially since I've tasted Tamaki's cooking."
"Honestly, I admit, I've really missed that." He's really good at this.
"But your mother, she's not going to be missed, huh?" she says, giving me a tap on the shoulder.
"That's not what I said. Like I told you, I'll come by often."
"Alright, I'm going to head out. Now that I've checked and made sure nothing's missing, and that there are no issues with the room, it reassures me a bit more." She gives me a hug.
"You've grown so much, you remind me of... never mind."
"My father." I say it, which surprises her.
"Yeah, by the way, why have you never asked me, never inquired about him? Don't you want to know?" She asks me with a sad look in her eyes.
"I'd rather wait until you're ready to tell me yourself." Well, I already know who it is, but is it really important in the moment? Nah.
"I see...I see. You know, Takashi, I haven't always been the best mother to you, but you know I love you. Don't put too much pressure on yourself. I'll always be proud of you, no matter what. I should have told you this earlier."
"Mom, once again, don't worry. I've never felt pressured. Let's just say you want the best for me, and that works for me because I like being the best."
"If you say so, my son. Alright, this time I'm really going. Take care of yourself, kisses."
"Yeah you too, be careful on the way back. Make sure you get home safely." And she left.
Later in the day...
"Mirio, we can't hear you, your mic is off. We just see you talking to empty air."
" How did I mute myself on FaceTime without realizing? Anyway..." He whispered." I didn't notice I had it muted, sorry guys. So, how's Hyogo going?"
"Yeah, what's it like? I've never been there," said Tamaki.
"Honestly, I arrived yesterday, so I didn't have much time to explore, but it's nice from what I've seen on the way. It's different from Hosu City, there are fewer modern buildings. Wait, let me show you a bit," I turn the camera on my screen and show them through the window.
"From what I can see, I like it." Mirio added.
"It looks quieter than here," noted Tamaki.
I turn the camera back to myself. "By the way, how's everything with you guys, ready for your return to school?"
Through the screen, the two of them looked at each other, then Tamaki replied first. "We barely passed the entrance exams, so I'm not feeling too calm."
"But we passed, Tamaki. We're in 1-B, so the only thing we have to do is give it our all from the start. And from there, there's no way we won't improve"
"But yes...If you say so Mirio, here we are. How do you feel about your return to school?" The optimistic Tamaki asks me
"I don't know, I'll see how it goes tomorrow."
"I knew you were going to say that." Mirio said.
"Alright guys, it's getting late, I'm going to bed. Good luck with your first day, Takashi, and see you tomorrow, Mirio."
"Yeah, see you tomorrow, Tamaki, and we'll catch up, Takashi."
"Yeah, see you," and we hung up.
The next day, the big day...
I got up early, feeling excitement for the first day. After taking a quick shower, I carefully dressed in my school uniform.
The white collared shirt was crisp and neat, the fabric slightly stiff from being freshly ironed. I paired it with the dark blue pants, which fit perfectly, and then slipped on the dark blue jacket, its edges sharp and clean, with the Shiketsu logo subtly embroidered, a proud symbol of the school.
The unique part of our uniform was the hat – a dark blue and orange cap with in it the logo of the school, which not only made us stand out but also reminded everyone of our school's distinct identity.
I adjusted the cap just right on my head.
It was a little tight at first, but it made me feel like I was truly part of something new, something important. As I looked in the mirror, I couldn't help but feel ready for whatever this day would bring.
"Man I'm not gonna lie, you're looking fresh" I said, talking to my reflection in the mirror.
I grabbed my school bag, closed the door behind me, and headed down to catch the bus to school.
On the way, I noticed other students making their way to the same destination. Some were chatting with friends, while others seemed just as focused and quiet as I was.
Arriving at our destination, I could already see the school grounds ahead, bustling with students. The familiar sight of the Shiketsu High School gates gave me a sense of anticipation. I could hear the chatter of other new students as we all gathered near the entrance, some in groups, some by themselves, all preparing for the day ahead. The school building loomed ahead, impressive and intimidating at the same time. This was it—the start of a new chapter.
"Takashi, I didn't tell you, but I'm here too!"
"Huh?" I recognized that voice and turned around.