Instead of answering Terashima Kyoko's question, his gaze flickered back onto the girl. She's so bright, so beautiful and radiant. Even now, there's a beautiful light around her. She probably can't see it herself, but it's still there.
Little Lila, from now on, she will face numerous more obstacles. He can't say for sure that even once he's done with all his work that he will be able to help. After all, this is her journey. However, he will do the best that he can to support her.
______________________________________________
Two days later. 7:30 am.
The showdown with Kyoko-nee is later today, but it doesn't hurt to get extra practice. So she's been practising for the past two hours. Lila looked at the score sheet again and paused, maybe she can make some changes? So it would suit her present voice. As Kotori-chan said, she's still able to sing like she did before. After that conversation, at night she tested it in front of Haruka. Haruka didn't say anything but he held her so tightly. Was he afraid? Afraid that she would leave if she regained her voice from back then.
She decides to search for him and gathers her belongings, as she made her way up the stairs, deep in thought. She wants to do something for Kyoko-nee, today's stage she will be able to repay her. But, how about Haruka? When will she be able to repay the kindness and love he's given her?
Ah, he's really here. There's a place called the 'nap room' in this house Kyoko-nee made them stay in and she often finds Haruka there. Is he sleeping? She shouldn't disturb him. But, seeing that there was no blanket around him, she frowned. He's going to catch a cold like that. Lila walked over, but the moment she got closer, he grabbed hold of her wrist and pulled her towards him.
"H—Haruka."
His lips grazed on her neck, as he murmured, "Mmmm...you're here."
"H—Haruka, go to sleep on the bed if you're tired." Lila was incredibly flustered.
"It's fine, I was just waiting for you to come here."
Thump. Anyone can say these words, but when Haruka says it...
She felt his hand brush against her cheeks, "Aren't you the tired one? Get some rest. You've been practising since 5 haven't you?"
"I'm all right... I'm more worried about you."
"Did you need me for something? Or did you come here to be attacked by me?"
She pulled away from him, "I—I wanted to ask you something.."
It's dangerous to get too close to him, she can't forget that even for a second. Because the moment she does. Haruka won't hesitate. She doesn't want to be held by him, in that manner now. Not when everything is unsettled.
Haruka runs his hand through his hair, "What is it?"
"So I will sing start of a dream for the showdown. I was wondering though if it would be better to make adjustments to suit my new style of singing."
"Huh? Wouldn't it be easier to sing it like you always have?"
"I want to do something different."
Haruka paused. Maybe she's being unreasonable. The showdown is later after all. Her thoughts broke off when he stood up and picked up his guitar from the corner. Although Haruka seldom plays music in front of other people occasionally. He would play for her, "Let's try your ideas first."
"Ah—yes!"
He's kind, she wonders why people can't see that.
....
"How is it?"
"Yeah, your singing has gotten better since the audition. However, something's wrong."
Oh.
Haruka strummed a few chords on his guitar, "Do you miss him that much?"
Eh?
"When I said something's wrong, I don't mean your singing itself. You sang perfectly. I'm talking about your emotions."
As she recalled what she said to senpai that night, she paused. Should she talk to him about that? She already told him the story about when she and Kiryu first dated.
"Whatever it is, I'll say this much. I've always loved your singing."
"...Haruka?"
Seeing a gentle expression on his face, her heartbeat sped up. She's never seen him look like this before. "You figured it out a long time ago I'm sure."
"Um, you're my fan? Wah, that sounds strange."
"Well, if it was only that simple."
Lila looked at him puzzled.
"I love your voice and everything about you. Terashima Lila."
!! W—wasn't he supposed to give her advice, why is he confessing?
Haruka continued, "Well, I'm saying this now. But even I understand what will happen when you meet with him. The one you love is Austin Kiryu, I understand all too well. I don't want you to hesitate because of me. Sing. Show everyone where your feelings lay, and if by chance I'm included, even without romantic affection, I will be very happy."
.
.
Lila wrapped a blanket around him. He fell asleep, she glanced around and saw the surrounding documents. All of them were plans regarding her upcoming activities. He's so foolish, working so hard for her sake like this. She takes a deep breath as she briefly closed her eyes. Truly, she understood a long time ago didn't she? She's been circling around and avoiding the issue but it's clear what she has to do. Her voice, her singing, all the deep emotions behind her songs. All of it is connected. No matter what shape or form it takes, everything's connected to music, to Kiryu for her. Her dreams, even now it's to build that grand future with Kiryu. But something's also changed now.
.
.
7:00 PM
It's okay, it's all right.
Change is scary, but she will look forward. Like she always has done.
Her thoughts broke off when her sister grabbed hold of her hand, "Wahh! Your hands are pretty Kyoko-nee."
Laughter escaped her lips, "My, my. Not nervous?"
"Well, I am but.."
"But?"
"It's okay now, I want to settle my feelings. Towards singing, towards love.."
"Correct. Should I give you a prize if you beat me?"
Lila pouted, "I'm not a child!"
.
.
[START OF A DREAM]
Lyrics: Terashima Sumire
Composition: Terashima Sumire
"When I look up at the clear sky
And extend my hand.
I am reaching out for my dream..." Kyoko sang.
"I find myself at a loss at times, stumble and fall down.
I doubt myself.
But not for long.
You took my hand in yours and said, 'let's achieve our dreams together.'
I realize I'm not alone." Lila sang.
"We may be rivals competing.
But, were also dear friends.
All the sweat, tears, pain and happy moments we felt will one day be rewarded." Kyoko sang.
"So we must preserve.
As long as you continue looking ahead and not surrender.
You'll be able to shine brightly." Lila sang.
Look towards the sky, look ahead.
What do you see?
It differs for everyone, but surely it's the path to your dream." Lila and Kyoko sang.
"The closer you get, the more you'll experience.
The brighter you'll shine." Kyoko sang.
"The more obstacles you'll face, the more changes you'll experience. But do not forget where you started." Lila sang.
"As long as you remember this.
There will always be light in the path towards your dream." Lila and Kyoko sang.