Fragments Of Us

Toshi leaned against the railing on the rooftop of the college building, the spring breeze teasing his white hair. Aiko stood beside him, sipping soda, her expression calm. The warmth of the sun bathed the two in a cozy, tranquil vibe.

Breaking the silence, Toshi asked, "It's been a week. So... did you figure out why you broke up with Ren?"

Aiko took another sip, her eyes focused somewhere distant. "Yeah, kind of. I guess I wanted something... but not from her," she said casually.

Toshi turned to her, curious. "So, what is it you want?"

"Dunno," Aiko replied simply, finishing her soda with a quiet sigh.

Before Toshi could probe further, the sound of footsteps echoed from the stairway. Turning toward the door, he saw Alex, Mitsuki, and Hayato step onto the rooftop.

"Hey, Toshi!" Alex called out, waving with his usual enthusiasm. "What're you doing up here with your neighbor?"

"Just chatting," Toshi said with a shrug. "What brings you guys here?"

"Needed some fresh air. And it's Friday, so we're thinking about karaoke. You in?" Hayato asked.

"Yeah, I'm in," Toshi said, glancing at Aiko. "Wanna come?"

"Nah, I'm good," she replied, her tone flat.

"No way," Alex cut in, grinning. "You always stay cooped up at home. You're coming too—no excuses!"

Aiko didn't argue, simply giving a noncommittal shrug.

"Well then, see you after class!" Alex said as the group headed back down.

Later that evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, the group strolled through the bustling streets of Arden. The city was alive, bathed in a kaleidoscope of colors from vibrant neon signs and illuminated billboards. The hum of conversations and distant street performers filled the air, blending with the soft roar of traffic. A sleek building with glowing letters that read Karaoke – By Horizon Entertainments stood out amidst the urban glow.

Toshi's gaze lingered on the bold Horizon logo, his jaw tightening subtly. Horizon really is everywhere, he thought, the irony gnawing at him as he shook his head.

"Come on, guys!" Alex called, pushing open the glass doors.

The lobby was welcoming, with warm lighting, plush decor, and faint music drifting from private rooms. The subtle hum of conversations and the smell of fresh snacks created a cozy atmosphere. After checking in, the group was led to their assigned room—a snug space with plush seating and a low table piled with snacks and drinks.

Toshi dropped onto the sofa beside Aiko, grabbing a pillow and hugging it lazily. "I'm not singing. I'm just here for the food. You guys go ahead."

Alex rolled his eyes. "Classic Toshi," he muttered, but the group quickly got into the spirit, taking turns at the mic and laughing at each other's attempts.

After a few rounds, Mitsuki suddenly stood, clearing his throat with dramatic flair. "Alright, everyone, listen up. I've got something to share."

Toshi, mid-sip of his soda, raised an eyebrow. "What's with the theatrics?"

Mitsuki exchanged a brief glance with Hayato, whose small, sheepish smile betrayed his nervousness. "Well," Mitsuki began, his grin spreading, "Hayato and I are dating."

The room fell silent for a beat. Aiko's eyes widened ever so slightly, while Toshi froze, the soda can still poised at his lips. "Wait—what? Since when?" he asked, setting the drink down and leaning forward.

"About a month now," Mitsuki admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. "Figured it was time we let you know." Then, with a teasing smirk, he added, "And honestly, Toshi, you should start dating too. Half the boys at school are into you, you know."

Toshi rolled his eyes, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "I'll pass. But congrats to you both."

"Congrats," Aiko echoed softly, her smile polite but distant.

The room erupted into teasing and lighthearted banter, the news quickly becoming a source of laughter and celebration. The rest of the evening passed in a blur of music, snacks, and camaraderie before the group finally parted ways, their spirits high.

Back in his apartment later that night, Toshi sat cross-legged on the floor, immersed in a game. The rhythmic tapping of buttons and the glowing screen illuminated his otherwise dim room. It was a quiet, solitary ritual that helped him unwind.

A sharp knock at the door broke his focus. He glanced at the clock—10:46 PM. His brow furrowed. Who could it be at this hour?

When he opened the door, Aiko stood there, her expression unreadable. Toshi blinked, surprised to see her. "Aiko? What's up?"

She stepped inside without waiting for an invitation. "I… have a question," she said, her tone unusually serious.

"Alright." Toshi walked to the fridge, grabbing a soda. He tossed one to her before sitting on the couch. "Shoot."

Aiko hesitated, her fingers curling around the can. "Are you… into boys too? I mean, are you… gay?"

Toshi froze for a moment before exhaling a quiet laugh. "That's how things are supposed to be, isn't it? It's not exactly a question people ask."

"Yeah, I guess. Sorry, I didn't mean to be—"

"But," Toshi interrupted, his tone quieter now, "I don't think I am. I'm not into guys… but I don't know who I'm into. It's like… I'm searching for someone, but I can't find them."

Aiko sat down across from him, her gaze softening. "I get that. I feel the same way. Like there's this… void, and I don't know what's supposed to fill it. Maybe that's why I broke up with Ren."

Toshi leaned back, staring at the ceiling. "Lately, I've been asking myself so many questions. About relationships. About the world. Were things always like this? Were relationships always just… this?"

Aiko tilted her head, studying him. "I never thought about it, but… now that you mention it…"

Toshi sat up suddenly, shaking his head. "Forget it. I'm dragging you into my weird thoughts." He grabbed a controller and turned on the TV. "Wanna play something? It'll take your mind off this existential nonsense."

"I don't play games much," Aiko admitted.

"Then now's the time to start." Toshi handed her a controller, his smirk inviting. "It's an easy one. You'll pick it up in no time."

Reluctantly, Aiko accepted the controller. The unfamiliar world of video games unfolded before her as Toshi guided her through it. For the first time that evening, a faint, genuine smile broke across her face.