Months turned into a blur of days, and during this time, Asuka often found herself visiting Manjiro's mother. Their conversations were always warm, drifting through various topics, most of which revolved around Manjiro. Manjiro's mother had a soothing presence, one that made Asuka feel both welcome and responsible. However, no matter how the discussion began, it always ended the same way—with Manjiro's mother gently clasping Asuka's hand, her eyes glistening with love and concern, saying, "Take care of him, Asuka. He's stubborn, but his heart is fragile. He doesn't always know how to express himself, but he needs someone like you in his life."
Asuka would nod, her heart heavy yet determined, a storm of emotions swirling inside her—gratitude for the trust placed in her, a twinge of doubt about her own abilities, and a growing warmth toward Manjiro. She would walk home with a thoughtful look, her mind replaying the day's conversations. Some nights, she lay awake, staring at the ceiling, wondering which timeline they were in. Would Manjiro fall down the stairs? Or would he end up hurting Sanzu? She contemplated Shinichiro bringing the airplane for him. What if Shinichiro was a time traveler? Would Takemichi come back to the past this time?
She closed her eyes, hoping that if she could save Manjiro from falling down the stairs, maybe that would prevent Shinichiro from dying too. The weight of these thoughts pressed down on her chest, fueling her determination to be there for Manjiro, no matter what the future held.
---
A quiet Sunday morning…
At Manjiro's house, the sound of light footsteps filled the hall as he headed toward the living room. His mother, seated by the window with a cup of tea, looked up.
"Ji-chan, I'm going to Baji's place. Don't wait for me for lunch," Manjiro said casually, slipping on his shoes
The morning sun kissed the quiet streets as Manjiro made his way to Baji's house. Upon arriving, he knocked softly on the door.
The door opened, revealing Baji's mom, her kind eyes lighting up at the sight of him.
"Oh, you must be Manjiro! Welcome!" she greeted warmly, stepping aside to let him in. "Keisuke is in his room," she added, pointing toward the staircase.
Manjiro thanked her with a small nod and made his way upstairs. As he pushed open the slightly ajar door to Baji's room, he was greeted by an unexpected sight—Baji sitting cross-legged on the floor, a sleek black cat curled up in his lap.
"I didn't know you liked cats," Manjiro remarked, breaking the silence.
Baji glanced up, a rare smile softening his sharp features. "It's not mine. She belongs to our neighbor, but she sneaks in when my window's open. I guess she likes the company," he said, scratching the cat behind its ears.
Manjiro chuckled, settling down on the floor beside him. They sat in companionable silence for a while until Manjiro tilted his head, curiosity sparking.
"Where's Asuka?" he asked casually.
Baji smirked, leaning back against the wall. "Probably still sleeping. That girl is the queen of naps."
"But it's already 11 AM," Manjiro said, his brows knitting in confusion.
"Exactly. She's not waking up anytime soon," Baji replied, laughing.
Their conversation was interrupted when Baji's mom entered, balancing a tray of snacks. "Here you boys go. Let me know if you need anything else," she said with her ever-present smile before heading toward Asuka's room.
Moments later, the faint sound of stirring reached their ears. Baji and Manjiro exchanged knowing glances—it was unmistakably Asuka. A few minutes later, the door creaked open, and Asuka shuffled in, her messy hair and half-closed eyes betraying the fact that she had just woken up.
"Good morning," she mumbled, her voice groggy.
"It's not morning anymore," Baji teased, earning a playful glare from Asuka as she plopped down beside them.
Despite her initial sluggishness, the trio soon fell into an easy rhythm, their conversation punctuated by laughter and lighthearted jabs.
---
By afternoon…
Asuka joined them for lunch downstairs, where Baji's mom had prepared a feast of homemade dishes. The aroma of freshly cooked rice, grilled fish, and miso soup filled the air as they gathered around the table. It was a lively meal, with Baji cracking jokes, Manjiro chiming in, and Asuka occasionally rolling her eyes but smiling nonetheless.
After lunch, the three ventured outside, the golden afternoon sun casting long shadows on the ground. They played games, raced through the streets, and laughed until their sides hurt.
---
As the evening fell…
The day wound down with a calm that only close friendships could bring. Walking back home, the trio enjoyed the soft glow of twilight, their chatter slowing but never stopping.
Manjiro glanced at Asuka and Baji, a small smile tugging at his lips. He didn't say it aloud, but in moments like this, he felt a rare sense of peace. Deep down, he silently hoped this bond would never change.