The quiet sounds of the TV could be heard in the background, mingling with the fridge's low hum. Suddenly, the familiar sounds of popping corn filled the room. The stove was on, and inside the pot, the kernels began to pop slowly, one by one, before gradually speeding up.
Airi stood in front of the counter, watching the pot intently. Two bowls sat beside her, ready to be filled with freshly popped popcorn. She sighed softly, her expression a mix of anticipation and weariness.
Turning her head, Airi glanced at the large digital clock under the TV, where Kenzui's old gaming console collection was neatly arranged. The clock's glowing red digits showed 1:27 AM. She couldn't help but feel a pang of concern. Kenzui should have been back by now.
Airi's eyes lingered on the clock for a moment longer before she returned her attention to the popping corn. She shook the pot gently, ensuring every kernel had its chance to burst open. The rhythmic popping was almost soothing, a small distraction from her growing worry.
In the dim light of the living room, the consoles cast long shadows across the floor. Each one held memories of countless hours spent together, like the times when Airi was laying in the couch watching Kenzui play games online. The thought of her friend out there, possibly in trouble, sent a shiver down her spine.
The popcorn reached a crescendo, the rapid popping slowing down until only a few stubborn kernels remained. Airi turned off the stove and carefully poured the popcorn into the bowls, the aroma filling the air. She set the bowls on the counter and wiped her hands on a dish towel, her mind still racing with thoughts of Kenzui.
Airi sank into the couch cushions, the soft glow of the TV casting a flickering light across her face. The ambient lighting from the kitchen bathed the room in a gentle warmth, contrasting with the sharp illumination of the television. As she attempted to focus on the program playing before her, her eyes twitched with an uneasy restlessness. The scenes on the screen blurred together, meaningless shapes and colors dancing in her periphery.
Frustration tightened Airi's jaw as she squeezed her eyes shut, trying to block out the distraction. She let out a deep, steadying breath, attempting to calm the whirlwind of worry and uncertainty that churned in her mind. The untouched bowls of popcorn sat beside her, their buttery aroma filling the air unnoticed.
Then, a shift in Airi's expression betrayed a spark of realization.
She reached into the back pocket of her pajamas, retrieving her phone with ease. The screen illuminated with a familiar glow as she unlocked it, her thumb tapping through the apps until she found the contact labeled "Kenzui Iwasaki" in her recent calls. The profile picture displayed a snapshot of them beaming proudly in their graduation gowns. Airi stared at it for a moment.
With a sigh of relief mingled with lingering worry, Airi pressed the call button. The phone rang once, twice, and just as she feared the worst, a faint sound echoed from behind her. Startled, she turned to find her own phone sitting beside the second bowl of popcorn she had prepared for Kenzui. The ringtone chimed softly, a stark reminder of the silence that greeted her call.
Airi's nerves frayed with each unanswered ring, her patience worn thin. With a sudden surge of determination, she sprang from the couch, the cushions compressing and rebounding with the force of her movement. Her steps were swift and purposeful as she crossed the living room, the floorboards creaking softly underfoot.
Her eyes fixed on the main entrance at the far end of the room, illuminated faintly by the streetlights filtering through the curtains. Without a moment's hesitation, Airi reached for the navy blue coat hanging on the coat rack beside the door. The coat, worn but sturdy, felt cool against her fingertips as she yanked it off the hook.
Airi's movements were urgent, almost frantic, as she shrugged into the coat, the familiar weight settling around her shoulders. The scent of fabric softener and a hint of Kenzui's perfume scent to the coat, a comforting reminder of their shared moments. She adjusted the collar with a quick tug, smoothing down the sleeves as she prepared to face the chilly night air.
The door slammed.
Airi's thoughts raced like a turbulent river, swirling with a mix of frustration and concern. She felt a pang of anger towards Kenzui for causing this worry, but beneath it simmered a deeper sense of helplessness and guilt. All this time, she had tried to be there for Kenzui, to watch over her like a sister, but now it seemed futile. No matter how much she cared, she couldn't protect Kenzui from her own choices.
Her mind replayed their shared history, from childhood antics to teenage rebellions. Airi had always been the cautious one, the responsible friend who kept them both out of trouble. Kenzui, with her fierce and "so called" independence, often pushed boundaries without a second thought. But Airi couldn't stop worrying for her friend even though Kenzui's personality was rather challenging to put up with. She couldn't shake the image of Kenzui's carefree spirit clashing with the harsh realities of their world. The incident with the principal had been a turning point, a stark reminder of how fragile their lives had become. It had served as a trigger, unlocking a floodgate of fears and doubts that Airi had struggled to contain.
Yet, as she walked in the halls of the apartment complex they were staying at, Airi felt a subtle shift within herself. Her worries began to lose their sharp edges, their hold on her gradually loosening. With each step, she detached herself from the immediacy of the situation, allowing a sense of calm to settle over her. It was a familiar coping mechanism, honed through years of navigating Kenzui's unpredictable whims and decisions.
Airi exhaled slowly, the cool night air filling her lungs as she forced herself to let go of the anger and frustration. She couldn't control Kenzui's actions, but she could control how she responded.
And in that moment, Airi stood before the elevator, her finger hovering over the button to call it.
The elevator itself was a luxurious contrast to the simplicity of the apartment complex, its opulent design a stark departure from the mundane surroundings. The walls gleamed with a glistening gold finish, interspersed with accents of black marble flooring that exuded elegance. A plush red carpet adorned the floor, adding a touch of warmth to the otherwise sleek interior.
In front of her, a massive mirror stretched across the back wall of the elevator, reflecting Airi's figure back at her. She met her own deep green eyes in the mirror, a swirl of emotions evident in their depths. Her brown afro hair framed her face in unruly waves, a testament to her free-spirited nature despite the current turmoil.
Airi adjusted the beige knitted pullover that draped loosely over her frame, finding comfort in its softness against the cool night air. The sweatpants and pair of cozy slippers completed her attire, a stark contrast to the polished surroundings of the elevator.
With a sigh, Airi turned back to the digital screen and pressed the button marked '0'. The elevator responded with a soft beep, the gold doors sliding open smoothly before her. The familiar hum of the elevator machinery filled the space, punctuated by the soft chime as she stepped inside.
As the doors closed behind her, Airi's gaze remained fixed ahead, her thoughts drifting back to Kenzui. The calmness she had cultivated began to waver, replaced by a renewed sense of determination. She would find Kenzui, wherever she was, and ensure she was safe. Was it going to be now? That she didn't know. With each passing floor, Airi's resolve strengthened, fueled with a mix of emotions of determination and worry.
The elevator descended in rapid motion yet steadily, carrying Airi at the bottom of the building.
Her footsteps echoed softly on the pavement as she walked down the pedestrian road, her head scanning the empty street for any passing cars. But the road was deserted, a silence enveloping the area that only deepened her sense of isolation. She glanced down and sighed heavily when she noticed her slippers, a realization that brought a wave of exhaustion crashing over her. It wasn't just physical tiredness; it was a weariness that seemed to seep into her bones, a culmination of the night's emotional toll.
As she walked, a bright light caught her eye. She looked up to see a small convenience store, its neon sign flickering in and out of life. The sign read "24/7," a beacon of artificial light in the otherwise dark street. Airi hesitated for a moment, her eyes fixed on the sign as it flickered, casting erratic shadows on the sidewalk. The light seemed almost mocking, a reminder of the relentless march of time and the unending cycle of worry she found herself in.
She approached the store, the automatic doors sliding open with a soft whoosh. The fluorescent lights inside were harsh compared to the dim street, and she blinked against their brightness. The aisles were narrow and cramped, lined with shelves stocked haphazardly with snacks, drinks, and household items. The store was empty, the only sound the low hum of the refrigerators in the back.
As Airi stood just inside the store, a young lady emerged from the back, her sudden appearance catching Airi off guard. "Customer!" the lady called out, her voice echoing through the quiet store. Her words alerted another person across the room, who glanced up briefly before returning to their task. The young lady, chewing gum nonchalantly, started walking toward Airi, with a trash bag in hand.
Airi raised her hand slightly, hoping to catch her attention and ask a question, but the lady's eyes passed over her as if she were invisible. She walked right past Airi without a second glance, heading straight for the sliding doors. The doors slid open and closed with a soft chime as the lady exited, leaving Airi standing there, feeling more isolated than ever.
Shaking off the brief encounter, Airi made her way to the refrigerators. She quickly grabbed an iced Americano sealed in a plastic package and a plastic bottle filled with ice cubes. The cold air from the open fridge felt refreshing against her skin, a brief respite from her growing anxiety.
After some more shopping, with her items in hand, she moved to the checkout counter.
Airi dropped everything on the counter all at once, the clatter breaking the store's silence.
As the items settled on the counter with a soft clatter, Airi took in the stillness of the shop. It was the kind of quiet that only came in the after-hours, when the rush of the day had long passed and the world outside seemed almost asleep. The air was filled with the faint, familiar scent of a convenience store: a mix of cleaning products, packaged snacks, and the subtle aroma of brewed coffee that lingered from the self-serve station.
The lighting inside was bright and starkly white, casting a sterile glow over the aisles and creating sharp shadows in the corners. It gave everything a slightly surreal, overexposed quality, making the shop feel like an oasis of artificial light in the surrounding darkness.
From the back of the store, a woman emerged, her footsteps barely audible on the tiled floor. Airi didn't lift her chin to greet her, but her eyes, weary yet observant, met the woman's gaze. They stood facing each other across the counter, the moment stretching out in the quiet of the store.
"Hello," said the manager, Liu, her voice breaking the silence with a soft, almost soothing cadence. "I sure didn't expect you to be here at this hour" she continues, her Chinese accent noticeable as she spoke.
"Ring these up, I have to go run errands" Airi said, her voice tinged with urgency. Liu seemed impressed, raising an eyebrow as she scanned Airi's tired face.
"Again? I thought we were over this" Liu remarked, her tone carrying a mix of concern and mild reproach.
"No, it seems" Airi replied, placing her palm on her forehead. "I don't know where she will be this time. I mean, I didn't even see it coming, so..."
"So? Do you seriously have to go after her?" Liu interrupted, her eyes narrowing slightly as she took in Airi's weary expression. She noticed the dark circles under Airi's eyes, a testament to many sleepless nights.
Airi met her gaze, her frustration mounting. "I'm worried."
Liu placed the scanner on the countertop and reached out, grabbing Airi's hands and placing them on the counter. "Airi," she said gently, her voice softening. "Let her be. She's going to be an adult soon."
"So? I'm worried still" Airi repeated, her voice rising in volume, betraying the depth of her concern.
Liu drew back, looking at her with a straight face, her expression calm yet firm. "She'll come home~" she said in a playful manner, trying to lighten the mood. "She always does."
Airi sighed, her shoulders slumping. "But what if this time is different?"
"It won't be," Liu assured her, scanning the items with a practiced ease. "She just needs to figure things out on her own. You can't always be there to pick up the pieces."
Airi watched as Liu efficiently bagged the items, her mind still racing with worry. She knew Liu was right, but the fear of something happening to Kenzui gnawed at her insides.
"Here you go" Liu said, handing over the bag of groceries. "Take care of yourself too, okay?"
Airi nodded, taking the bag. "Thanks, Liu."
"Anytime," Liu replied, her smile warm and reassuring. "And remember, she'll come home."
As Airi turned to leave, the weight of her worries still heavy on her shoulders, she couldn't help but hope that Liu's words would prove true. The night air hit her face as she stepped outside, and she took a deep breath, steeling herself for whatever lay ahead.
Airi's presence was unmistakable, her aura palpable even from a distance as she walked along Edo-dori Avenue. The towering gold walls of the apartment complex stretched upwards, gleaming under the streetlights and creating a stark contrast against the night sky. She took a left turn, heading towards the revolving doors that marked the entrance.
As Airi stepped inside, the cold night air was immediately replaced by the inviting warmth of the lobby. The calm atmosphere of the reception area enveloped her, a stark change from the bustling city outside. Soft, jazzy music played in the background, adding a touch of sophistication to the setting. The quiet, soothing melodies filled the air, creating a relaxing ambience that was both welcoming and comforting.
The reception area was elegantly designed, with plush sofas and armchairs arranged tastefully around low tables. The lighting was warm and gentle, casting a soft glow over the polished marble floors and the rich, wooden accents that adorned the walls. The entire space exuded a sense of tranquility, a haven from the chaos of the world outside.
Behind the reception desk, two kind ladies attended to their tasks with practiced efficiency. Their smiles were genuine, and their demeanor radiated warmth and friendliness. As Airi approached, they looked up and greeted her with respectful nods.
"Have a good night, Miss Airi," they said in unison, bowing slightly as she walked past. Airi acknowledged them with a tilt of her head downwards, appreciating their politeness and the familiar comfort of their presence.
She made her way to the elevator, her steps steady and purposeful. The soft hum of the jazz music followed her, blending seamlessly with the muted sounds of the reception area. As she reached the elevator, the doors slid open with a quiet whisper, and she stepped inside.
Airi tapped the number 17 on the keypad, and the elevator responded with a soft clinging sound. Within seconds, it whisked her up to the seventeenth floor. The doors slid open quietly, revealing an empty hallway bathed in the muted glow of overhead lights.
As she stepped out, her head instinctively tilted to the left, drawn by a soft thud. Her eyes widened in shock at the sight of her apartment door, slightly ajar. The plastic bag in her hand crinkled as she clenched it tighter, a mix of dread and urgency flooding her senses.
Slowly, she began to walk towards the apartment, her body hugging the wall for support and stealth. Her breaths grew shallow, ears straining to catch any sound. The light footsteps from within the apartment reached her ears, faint but unmistakable. Each step she took seemed to sync with the rapid pounding of her heart.
As she neared the door, her mind raced with possibilities. Was it an intruder? No way. It can't. But what if? The thought of it sent a chill down her spine. She swallowed hard, forcing herself to remain calm and focused.
With one final deep breath, she reached the door. Her fingers brushed against the cool surface, pushing it open just enough to peer inside.
As Airi pushed the door open quietly, she was met with the unexpected sight of a figure staring blankly at her. The dim light from the hallway cast an eerie glow on the scene, making it hard to discern the person's features at first. But then their eyes met, and recognition dawned.
"Kenzui?" Airi exclaimed, her voice a mix of relief and surprise.
Kenzui stood there, mid-bite into a ham sandwich, her cheeks puffed out with crumbs. Her pockets bulged with wrapped onigiri, a makeshift stash of snacks. She had her hood up, but her long ash-blonde hair spilled out messily, framing her face in an unruly cascade.
Kenzui looked almost comical in her state, like a mischievous child caught red-handed. She chewed slowly, her eyes locked onto Airi's, as if processing her presence in slow motion. The room was filled with a strange tension, a blend of Airi's pent-up worry and Kenzui's nonchalant demeanor.
Airi stepped fully into the apartment, letting the door close softly behind her. She set the plastic bag on the counter, the rustling breaking the silence.
"What are you doing here?" Airi's voice was gentler now, the initial shock giving way to concern.
Kenzui swallowed her mouthful of sandwich and shrugged, her expression unreadable. "Got hungry" she mumbled, reaching into her pocket to pull out an onigiri. She unwrapped it with deliberate slowness, avoiding Airi's gaze.
Airi sighed, the tension easing out of her shoulders. She took a step closer, her eyes softening. "You scared me, you know that?"
Kenzui finally looked up, a hint of guilt flickering in her eyes. "Sorry" she muttered, her voice barely audible. She took a bite of the onigiri, chewing thoughtfully.
Airi shook her head, a small smile tugging at her lips. "You and your midnight snacks and errands" she said, her tone a mix of fondness and exasperation.
"Where the fuck have you been? It's been so many hours since I saw you at school" Airi demanded, her voice shaking with anger and relief.
Kenzui paused mid-bite, her eyes widening in fear. She quickly wrapped the sandwich back up and stuffed it into the front pocket of her jacket. "You're the one who left me at school with the principal" she retorted, her voice a mixture of defiance and fear.
Airi stared at her, taken aback by the audacity of Kenzui's response. "Excuse me?" she said, her tone rising.
Kenzui interrupted, "Oh, and yeah, I went to see some of my old friends." She walked to the fridge, grabbing a bottle of water with a nonchalance that infuriated Airi.
Airi felt her worst fears confirmed. "Kenzui, I—"
Kenzui cut her off again. "Report done. I'm going to sleep after I'm full" she said, heading towards the hallway.
"Iwasaki!" Airi yelled, using Kenzui's last name in a desperate bid to get her attention.
Kenzui stopped and turned her head, staring at Airi with a blank expression. She let out a humorless laugh. "Ha! This is bullshit," Airi fumed. "I can't communicate with you properly anymore."
Kenzui didn't respond. Instead, she opened the bottle and chugged down the water, her movements deliberate and detached. The silence between them was heavy, filled with unspoken words and lingering tension.
Airi watched as Kenzui finished the water and tossed the empty bottle aside. "Kenzui, you can't keep doing this" Airi said, her voice softer now, tinged with desperation.
Kenzui shrugged, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand. "I don't know what you expect from me, Airi" she said, her voice flat. She turned away, heading towards her room.
Airi stood there, feeling a mix of frustration, sadness, and helplessness wash over her. She knew this wasn't just about tonight; it was about everything that had led them to this point. The weight of their shared history, their struggles, and the unspoken bond they once had seemed to hang in the air, fragile and strained.
But she wouldn't let the night end like that.
"I'm so done with your shit, Iwasaki," Airi yelled out, her voice trembling with frustration. "I'm sick of it. You never tell me what's going on and leave me outside your life, but you still wait for me to save you?"
Kenzui shot back, "Fine then! I can assure you that today's none of your concern."
Airi's face flushed with anger. "Everything about your life is my concern! Stop making excuses and trying to avoid conversation with me."
Taking a deep breath, Airi tried to calm herself. "Sorry," she said, her voice softer now. "Just, stay out of trouble. I don't want you to end up like—"
Kenzui cut her off, walking up close and staring down at her. The tension between them crackled like static electricity. Then, unexpectedly, Kenzui burst into laughter. "You won't believe what happened today, for fuck's sake."
The sudden shift in mood left Airi reeling. She watched Kenzui, her expression a mixture of confusion and exasperation. "What are you talking about?" she demanded, trying to keep her voice steady.
Kenzui's laughter faded into a smirk. "I ran into some old friends, remember? Well, they weren't just any friends. They dragged me into something way beyond what we used to get into."
Airi's eyes narrowed. "What do you mean?"
Kenzui leaned against the kitchen counter, crossing her arms. "You're about to see something. Just, please, don't freak out."
Airi's interest was piqued now, a mix of curiosity and apprehension churning within her. She felt a strange tension building in the air, something unspoken and heavy. Her concern for Kenzui's well-being was now tangled with a sense of intrigue about what her friend was about to reveal. She watched Kenzui closely, her deep green eyes searching for answers in her friend's expression.
Kenzui stared down at the floor for a moment, her forehead beginning to glisten with sweat from the heat and nervousness building under her hood. She straightened up and shook her arms, trying to dispel the tension. With a deep breath, she looked up at Airi, seeking confirmation or perhaps a silent agreement to trust what was about to unfold.
Airi tilted her head to the side, watching closely and wearily. She could see the conflict in Kenzui's eyes, the fear mixed with determination. As Kenzui raised her hand, palm wide open, facing the knife holder on the counter, Airi's heart pounded faster. She waited, her mind racing with possibilities. Was Kenzui drunk? Drugged? The thought of her friend being under the influence of something was terrifying, but there was an intensity in Kenzui's gaze that suggested something more. Little did she know, her intuition was about to prove her right.
The wooden knife holder at the corner of the counter lifted upwards, the knives within it trembling. Airi's breath caught in her throat. She couldn't believe what she was seeing. With a swift movement of her palm, Kenzui dragged the knife holder across the table with immense speed, knocking down glasses, kitchenware, and groceries. The cacophony of shattering glass and clattering objects filled the room, a chaotic symphony that matched the turmoil inside Airi's mind.
The wooden knife holder now stood in front of Airi, its presence almost menacing. Kenzui's hand began to tremble, and as she did, the wooden case dropped to the floor. Four knives remained floating in the air, defying gravity. Airi's eyes widened, her breath shallow and rapid. She was speechless, her mind struggling to process what she was witnessing.
With a quick flick of her palm, Kenzui sent the knives hurtling toward the wall separating the kitchen from the living room. They impaled the wall with a series of sharp, metallic thuds, embedding themselves deeply into the plaster. The room fell silent, the sound of breaking glass fading into the background.
Airi stared at the wall, then back at Kenzui, her mouth opening and closing as she searched for words. She couldn't fathom what had just happened, and the realization that Kenzui possessed some inexplicable power left her stunned. The implications of this discovery were vast and unknown, but one thing was certain: their lives were about to change in ways Airi could never have imagined.
"This is... insanity."