Classroom Heartbeats

Chapter 9. The Petty Clash Ends!

One Friday afternoon, Kibin, with a thoughtful gaze, decided it was time for a new pair of glasses. His current ones had been with him for two years, and their lenses had seen better days. He headed to Maeda's Eye Clinic, conveniently located next to the bustling market.

As he entered the clinic, the cool air conditioning was a welcome relief from the warm afternoon sun. The clinic was bright and welcoming, with a clean, modern design. Two women were engaged in a lively conversation at the counter. One of them, seated behind the counter, looked up and greeted him with a warm, "Good afternoon."

"Good afternoon," Kibin replied, feeling slightly nervous. "I don’t have an appointment. It’s my first time here, and I wasn’t sure if I needed one."

The woman behind the counter smiled reassuringly. "That’s okay. We can still accommodate you. Our next scheduled appointment isn’t until 5 pm. Could you please fill out this form and sign wherever there's a check mark?"

Kibin nodded and took the form, his hands slightly trembling. He filled it out carefully, double-checking his details. After completing the form, he handed it back to the woman and moved to the waiting area.

The waiting area was comfortable, with plush chairs and a few magazines on a side table. Kibin’s heart raced as he glanced around, trying to calm his nerves. He had heard good things about Maeda's Eye Clinic but was still apprehensive about meeting a new doctor.

A few minutes later, a nurse called his name. Kibin stood up, took a deep breath, and followed her to the examination room. Dr. Miyuki Maeda, a kind-looking woman with a gentle smile, was waiting for him.

"Hello, Mr. Longcop," she greeted, glancing at the form he had filled out. "So, you’re from the Philippines. Is this your first time in Japan?"

"Yes, doctor," Kibin replied, feeling his nerves starting to ease with her friendly demeanor.

"According to your records, you underwent LASIK surgery in the Philippines three months ago," Dr. Maeda continued.

"Yes, the surgery went well, but recently my eyes have been feeling itchy, which is why I came here for a consultation," Kibin explained.

Dr. Maeda nodded. "Please sit at the slit lamp machine. Ensure you are comfortable, place your chin on the chin rest, and rest your forehead on the forehead rest."

Kibin followed her instructions, feeling the cool metal of the chin rest. He focused his eyes on the light in front of him, trying to stay as still as possible.

As Dr. Maeda examined his eyes, Kibin felt a mix of anticipation and slight anxiety. The doctor meticulously inspected the different parts of his eyes, including the cornea, lens, and retina.

After the examination, Kibin returned to his seat. Dr. Maeda approached him, her expression reassuring. "I checked your corneal flap, a thin layer created with a microkeratome on the surface of your cornea. I also examined the corneal surface for any irregularities or inflammation, and fortunately, I didn’t find any. I can confirm that your LASIK surgery in the Philippines was successful. It's been three months since your surgery, and I can see that your cornea is completely and fully healed. You can even stop wearing your glasses now."

Kibin sighed in relief. "That’s great to hear, doctor."

"You mentioned earlier that your eyes sometimes feel itchy," Dr. Maeda noted.

"Yes, they do," Kibin confirmed.

"Itchy eyes are normal, especially during the healing period post-LASIK surgery. However, I did notice some dry areas in your eyes. Are you using artificial tears?" Dr. Maeda asked.

"I ran out of them last week," Kibin admitted, showing her the container of his previous artificial tears. "This is what I’ve been using."

Dr. Maeda examined the container and smiled. "Good news, we have this eye drop available at the clinic. Would you like to purchase it?" she asked.

"Yes, I would like to buy it. I've been looking for this eye drop since last week. I'm glad I came here," Kibin responded, feeling a wave of relief wash over him.

The doctor stepped out momentarily to get the eye drops. Kibin took the opportunity to look around the room. His eyes fell on two framed photographs on the wall, showing a young man with a bright smile.

When Dr. Maeda returned, she handed him the eye drops. "Doctor, is that Kentaro in the picture on the wall?" Kibin asked, pointing at the photograph.

"Yes, that’s Kentaro. You know him?" Dr. Maeda replied, a bit surprised and pleased.

"Yes, he’s my classmate at the university," Kibin said. "Are you siblings?" he added curiously.

Dr. Maeda smiled warmly. "No, he’s my youngest son."

"I thought you were his sister; you only seem about five years older than Kentaro," Kibin remarked with a chuckle.

The doctor laughed. "Are you friends with Kentaro?" she asked. Kibin nodded, smiling.

"It’s good to know Kentaro has new friends. I was worried he might not make any. He can be a bit aloof and doesn’t often initiate conversations with people he doesn’t know well. I’m happy to hear he has friends," Dr. Maeda said, her smile sincere but her voice tinged with emotion, a hint of tears forming in the corners of her eyes.

"Alright, you can head to the counter and present this," she concluded, handing Kibin the eye drops.

Kibin exited the room and politely bid farewell to the doctor. He handed the eye drops to the woman at the counter to be wrapped and made his payment before leaving the clinic.

As Kibin walked, the doctor's words about Kentaro replayed in his mind. It struck him how Kentaro wasn't really antisocial; he just didn't enjoy mingling or engaging in small talk with people he didn't know well. Contrary to what some might think, Kentaro wasn't standoffish at all. In fact, he was quite pleasant to be around once you got to know him.

Kibin realized that perhaps he needed to give both Kentaro and himself a chance. A chance to truly understand and connect beyond the surface. Kentaro had his reasons for keeping to himself, but Kibin felt there was more to him—a depth worth discovering. With this newfound resolve, Kibin decided it was time to bridge that gap and foster a genuine friendship.

The afternoon sun cast long shadows on the pavement as Kibin walked, but his thoughts were brighter, filled with the promise of a new understanding. He felt a sense of anticipation, eager to see what lay beneath Kentaro's reserved exterior and hopeful that this might be the start of a meaningful connection.

Kibin was getting ready for his Japanese Language tutorial class, feeling a mix of excitement and pride. Today marked his last day, and he would be receiving his certificate for passing the Japanese Language examination. Determined to look his best for the occasion, he took extra care in selecting his outfit.

He chose a light blue denim jacket with two chest pockets, adding a touch of casual coolness to his look. Underneath, he wore a clean, white turtleneck sweater that lent a sophisticated touch. His dark blue jeans complemented the denim jacket perfectly, fitting him just right—not too tight, not too loose. To complete the ensemble, he slipped into a pair of gray high-top sneakers with white laces, giving off a relaxed vibe.

Yesterday, Kibin had visited the barber and gotten a fresh taper cut with a side part. The haircut was clean and modern, with his short, black hair styled to the side, creating a slight wave. The hair was tapered neatly around his ears and neck, giving it a sharp, polished look. The longer top added volume and character, making the overall style well-groomed and effortlessly cool. His new haircut highlighted his striking jawline, making him look remarkably similar to Rustom Padilla.

As he stood in front of the mirror, Kibin felt a surge of confidence. He admired his reflection, noting how the ensemble and haircut made him look sharp and sophisticated. Today was an important milestone, and he was ready to face it looking his best.

The walk to the language school was pleasant, with the early morning sun casting a warm glow over the city. The streets were alive with the sounds of the pedestrians and vehicles passing by. Upon arriving at the school, he was greeted by his classmates, who were all in high spirits. "Hey, Kibin! You look nice today. You even got a new haircut. " Jennie remarked, giving him a friendly smile.

"Thanks! I figured I’d dress up a bit for the occasion," Kibin replied with a smile.

Kentaro entered the classroom, ready to start the lesson, and immediately noticed Kibin sitting quietly at the back. The room was already buzzing with the energy of students eager to hear their results.

"Okay, everyone, before we begin our new lesson, I have the results of our activity from last week. I’m happy to say that you all did very well." The room erupted in applause as Kentaro spoke. In that moment, Kibin looked up and their eyes met.

"Guys! I have an announcement," Kentaro continued, his tone taking on a more serious note. "Today is Kibin-kun’s last day with us."

A wave of surprise swept through the room. Jennie, looking puzzled, raised her hand. "Why is that? Isn’t this tutorial mandatory for non-Japanese speaking students? Is he transferring to another school?"

Kentaro shook his head. "No, he’s not transferring. The reason Kibin won’t be continuing," he paused and pulled an envelope from his bag, "is because he passed the Japanese Language examination. He took the exam at OSA and, since he passed, he no longer needs to attend this tutorial."

A student in the front, eyes wide with curiosity, asked, "Can we also take the exam?"

"Yes, of course," Kentaro replied, "but I must warn you, the questions are quite challenging. I recommend completing this tutorial because the lessons we’ve covered are just the basics. The exam includes situational and translation sections."

Kentaro then invited Kibin to the front of the class to receive his certificate. Kibin walked up, his steps steady but his heart racing. Kentaro handed him the certificate with a warm smile. "Congratulations, Kibin. You’re now exempted from this class."

Kibin returned to his seat to gather his belongings. As he did, Jennie approached him.

"Kibin, are you leaving now?" she asked, her voice tinged with disappointment.

"Yes, I am," Kibin replied. "I don’t have anything else to do here."

Jennie, looking a bit determined, asked, "Do you have plans at your apartment? Are you busy?"

"No, not really," Kibin said.

"Since it’s your last day, how about we all go out for lunch? Please wait for me outside!" Jennie pleaded, her eyes hopeful.

"Okay, I’ll wait for you," Kibin agreed, smiling as he left the classroom.

Kentaro began the lesson, and Kibin walked outside to a bench under a sakura tree near the stairs in front of the administration building, beside building 5. It was peaceful there, with the gentle rustling of the sakura leaves in the breeze. He took out his headset and turned on the FM radio on his phone.

The DJ's voice came on, announcing the next song, "Anone" by Arekun and Yuika. Kibin listened as the song began to play, its lyrics about unrequited love and the regret of unspoken feelings resonating with him.

Meanwhile, back in the classroom, Jennie raised her hand, interrupting the lesson. Kentaro paused, looking at her expectantly.

"Yes, Jennie, do you have a question?" he asked.

"It’s not related to the topic, but can we all have lunch together at the restaurant like we did last time?" she asked, hopeful.

The other students eagerly agreed, and Kentaro nodded. "Sure, that sounds like a great idea."

Jennie beamed. "Kibin is waiting for us downstairs. He will wait until we finish the class."

The sakura leaves swayed gently in the breeze, painting a serene picture against the sky. Fluffy white clouds drifted leisurely across the sky, occasionally shielding the warm rays of the sun. The weather was as beautiful as Kibin's mood while he listened to the song playing in his ears. The gentle rustling of leaves and the soothing melody created a perfect moment of tranquility.

Inside the classroom, Kentaro couldn't shake the curiosity that had been building up since Jennie’s suggestion. He glanced out of the window, his eyes searching for Kibin. Seeing him sitting calmly on the bench under the sakura tree, Kentaro felt a small sense of joy. Despite not having many conversations with Kibin, the thought of sharing lunch after class brought a warmth he couldn't quite explain. Unlike before, their gazes no longer held anger, irritation, or tension. Instead, their looks hinted at an unspoken understanding and mutual respect.

From his vantage point, Kentaro observed Kibin. His natural charm was undeniable, but there was something different about him today. When he had approached earlier to receive his certificate, Kibin had an aura of brightness, as if he was radiating his own light. This same glow was evident now as Kentaro watched. Kibin’s face was serene, his features gentle and illuminated, almost as if small bubbles of light were passing behind him, creating a surreal and enchanting scene.

Kibin sensed someone looking at him and glanced up at the classroom window. He saw Kentaro gazing back. Although Kentaro wasn’t smiling, his kind eyes and expressive, almond-shaped gaze spoke volumes. As the wind rustled the sakura leaves and their eyes locked, Kibin felt a strange sensation wash over him. It was a feeling he knew wasn't right, yet it continued to flow through him, filling him with warmth and comfort.

Kibin smiled at Kentaro. It was the first genuine smile Kentaro had seen from him. Gone was the forced, awkward grin of the past, replaced by a rare and beautiful smile.

Kentaro felt a wave of happiness at Kibin's smile. His face warmed, a sensation he couldn’t quite explain or understand. But he knew he liked it. It was a moment of silent connection that spoke louder than any words could. As the clouds drifted, the sakura leaves danced, and the unspoken understanding between them grew stronger, promising new beginnings and deeper bonds.

As the minutes passed, their mutual gaze intensified, heightening the palpable tension between them. Each felt the electric charge, yet neither knew how to escape the bizarre situation. They were both acutely aware of the weirdness of it all.

The classroom was filled with the murmurs of other students, but to them, it was as if the rest of the world had faded away. The soft hum of the wind created a rhythmic backdrop, barely masking the nervous energy that crackled between them. Breaking the spell, Jennie peered out the window and called out for Kibin, snapping them back to reality. "Kibin! Over here!" she shouted, waving her arm vigorously. The sound of her voice cut through the tension like a knife.

"We're almost done with class," Jennie announced, her voice bringing an end to their silent exchange. "Let's wait a bit longer, and then we'll head out for lunch. The whole class is coming, and Kentaro will be there too."

Kibin nodded, acknowledging her with a thumbs-up, grateful for the distraction.

Once at the restaurant, Jennie scouted for a suitable spot for the three of them. The air was filled with the aroma of fresh-cooked food, and the cozy ambiance buzzed with the chatter of customers. Once seated, they placed their orders: Okinawa Soba, SPAM onigiri, Sata Andagi, and Hirayachi.

Jennie leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with pride. "Congratulations, Kibin, on passing your examination. That's impressive!"

Kibin smiled shyly, a hint of pride in his voice. "Thanks, Jennie. Actually, I had already studied Japanese back in the Philippines, so I could speak it a bit."

Jennie's curiosity was piqued. "Were the questions tough?"

Kibin shrugged nonchalantly. "If you take the class seriously, I'm sure you'll pass."

Jennie nodded, determination in her eyes. "Of course, I take our Japanese Language class seriously."

Her expression turned playful yet inquisitive. "But Kibin, you took the exam without telling us. Did Kentaro know about your plan?"

Kibin's face clouded with a mix of regret and explanation. "I didn't tell him because, at that time, my mind was a mess and I was still adjusting to Okinawa. When I found out I could take the exam, I grabbed the opportunity. But I know I should have informed you."

Jennie then turned to Kentaro, who had been quietly eating. "When did you find out Kibin took the exam? Didn't you suggest he continue with the tutorial?"

Kentaro sighed, a resigned look on his face. "There's nothing I could do. It was his decision, and he knows what's best for him." He then grinned mischievously. "Jennie, you ask too many questions. Just eat."

Jennie laughed, a warm sound that lightened the mood. "It's just that you two are so quiet; you don't even notice me trying to entertain you. You're boring conversationalists," she teased.

After their meal, they took photos in the restaurant's designated area. They captured group pictures, wacky photos, and individual shots. Jennie arranged for a picture with both Kentaro and Kibin, standing between them. "Kentaro-kun, Kibin-kun, now it's your turn. Where's your phone, Kibin? That's what I'll use," she demanded with a playful bossiness. Kibin hesitated, but eventually handed over his phone.

Kibin and Kentaro stood apart, looking awkward. Jennie clucked her tongue in annoyance. "Why are you standing so far apart? Get closer," she urged. She adjusted their positions, making their shoulders touch. Jennie decided that since Kentaro was taller, he should place his right hand on Kibin's shoulder, while Kibin's right hand rested on Kentaro's left waist. She stepped back, assessing her work with a critical eye.

"Perfect," Jennie declared with a satisfied nod. "Okay, say cheese!" she cheerfully instructed, snapping the photo as the two boys grinned, finally breaking the tension of the day.

At 5:00 PM, the sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm golden hue over the bustling streets. Kibin was preparing to go to the market, donning his favorite hoodie with "Khen-khen" emblazoned on the back. He loved the comfort it provided, like a familiar friend wrapped around his shoulders.

Meanwhile, Kentaro was getting ready for his evening jog. He put on a comfortable hoodie that read "Love, Japan," a piece of clothing that always brought him a sense of pride and connection to his heritage. He took a deep breath, savoring the crisp afternoon air, and began his jog through the park, waiting for the traffic light to turn green before crossing the intersection.

As he reached the other side, he noticed Kibin on the opposite side, waiting by a restaurant to cross the street. The light turned green, and both started walking, their paths unknowingly converging.

The intersection was alive with the scent of sakura leaves and the distant hum of city life. Kibin and Kentaro stood out among the crowd, each wearing a hoodie that told a different story. When they passed each other, they noticed the writing on the back of their hoodies: "Khen Khen" and "Love Japan."

For months, these two had been ships passing in the night, their paths never crossing. Yet, fate had a different plan. Kentaro had once helped Kibin at the departure area, and Kibin, always seen aiding others, had unknowingly caught Kentaro's attention too.

Today, as if the universe had conspired to bring them together, they finally saw each other.

Kentaro was on one side of the street, and Kibin on the other. The cars moved, the sounds and horns blaring, the noise of the people slowly faded away as the surroundings blurred. The only clear image was of each other, standing on opposite sides of the street.

Kibin’s heart pounded as he saw Kentaro wearing the familiar hoodie. He had imagined this moment countless times, wondering what the person who had helped him looked like. Now, here he was, just a few steps away.

Kentaro turned around. His eyes met Kibin’s, and for a moment, the world around them faded. The hustle and bustle of the city became a distant murmur. Finally, he saw the mysterious guy he wanted to meet and talk to. They both smiled, a mix of surprise and recognition lighting up their faces.

The two stood there, the intersection light changing colors, but neither of them moved. They were lost in the moment, both feeling an inexplicable connection.

Kentaro finally crossed back to the other side of the street, his heart racing. "Hey," he called out, trying to sound casual despite the flutter in his chest. "Do you want to grab a coffee or something?"

Kibin, feeling a sense of destiny, smiled warmly. "I’d love that," he replied, his heart feeling lighter than it had in a long time.

As they walked towards a nearby café, the city lights began to twinkle like stars, and the sakura leaves swirled around them in a graceful dance. The afternoon was filled with easy conversation and shared smiles, the beginning of a beautiful connection forged by fate and serendipity.

That night, Kibin lay in bed, staring at the ceiling of his dimly lit room. Every time he tried to close his eyes, the image of Kentaro's face floated before him, preventing any chance of sleep. The room was enveloped in darkness, except for the soft glow of his phone as he checked the time—past ten o'clock. By now, he should have been fast asleep, but instead, he was wide awake. Memories of the day's events flooded his mind, each one more vivid than the last.

He remembered the picture they had taken together. Opening his gallery, he scrolled until he found it. He zoomed in on Kentaro's face, touching the screen gently as if trying to make a connection through the digital image. A smile tugged at the corners of his lips. Their relationship had changed so much; from bitter arguments and fights, they were now drawing closer with each passing day.

Meanwhile, in his own room, Kentaro was experiencing the same restless night. He lay in bed, tossing and turning, unable to find a comfortable position. Sleep eluded him as the day's events replayed in his mind like a never-ending movie. Staring at the ceiling, he marveled at how quickly everything had happened, as if destiny and the universe had conspired to bring them together, especially their encounter at the intersection.

The image of them entering a nearby coffee shop, kept on coming in Kentaro's mind. They bought iced coffee and Dorayaki, those fluffy pancakes filled with sweet red bean paste. Their conversation began with the tensions and conflicts that had once plagued their relationship.

"Why were you so angry with me?" Kentaro asked, his voice hesitant yet determined to understand.

Kibin sighed, stirring his coffee thoughtfully. "On the first day of class, I asked you where the OSA was, but you just stared at me and walked away. I thought you were being rude."

Kentaro's eyes widened in realization. "I remember that. It was under the sakura tree by the administration building. I had my earphones in, listening to music. I didn't hear you at all. I just felt someone behind me and moved away, thinking I was in the way."

A small laugh escaped Kentaro's lips. "So that's why you were mad at me? A simple misunderstanding?"

Kibin nodded, a smile spreading across his face. "Yep, just that."

Their laughter filled the cozy coffee shop, the tension between them dissolving. Kibin then asked, "Do you remember helping a stranger at the airport who almost tripped?"

Kentaro's expression softened with recognition. "Yeah, I remember. How do you know about that? Were you at the airport?"

Kibin revealed, "I was the one you helped in the departure area. I wanted to thank you, but you walked away before I could. I only saw 'Love Japan' on your hoodie. I also saw you help an elderly couple cross the road at the intersection. I tried to catch up to you, but I couldn't."

Kentaro's heart swelled with emotion. "I was looking for the person wearing the hoodie with 'Khen-khen' on the back. I saw you help an elderly woman at the market and wanted to meet you."

Now, face-to-face, their conversation flowed naturally. The strangers they had longed to meet were finally before them, and their shared experiences created a bond neither had anticipated.

As they left the coffee shop, the sounds of the bustling city accompanied them—the hum of cars, the changing colors of the stoplight, and the street lights twinkling like stars in the night sky. They shook hands, a silent promise of a new beginning.

"Friends," they said in unison, their voices filled with hope and the promise of what was to come.

Kentaro descended the stairs, his bare feet feeling the coolness of the floor beneath him as he made his way to the kitchen. The house was silent, save for the faint hum of the refrigerator. He opened it, searching for a juice that might calm his restless mind. Despite the array of drinks staring back at him, nothing seemed to appeal. Sighing, he decided to leave the house for a walk, hoping the night air would clear his thoughts.

The neighborhood was quiet, bathed in the soft glow of streetlights. As Kentaro wandered, he noticed a convenience store still open, right next to the apartment building where Kibin lived. He entered the store and headed straight to the drinks section. There, under the harsh fluorescent lights, he spotted a familiar silhouette—Kibin, hunched over, engrossed in examining the beverages. A smile tugged at Kentaro's lips as he quietly approached.

Clearing his throat, Kentaro caught Kibin's attention. Kibin looked up, startled to see Kentaro standing beside him.

"Oh, Kentaro, it's you. I didn't notice you. I'm looking for something to drink that might calm my mind. Too many thoughts running through my head, and I can't sleep," Kibin admitted, scratching his head in a mix of surprise and embarrassment.

Kentaro nodded understandingly. Without a word, he grabbed two bottles of Koji Amazake, a non-alcoholic, sweet drink made from fermented rice known for its calming effects. He understood Kibin's struggle, as he too had been unable to sleep, his mind replaying the day's events.

He took the bottles to the counter, paid, and returned to Kibin, who stood there, stunned and silent. Kentaro handed one of the bottles to Kibin, who accepted it gratefully.

"Let's sit outside," Kentaro suggested, leading the way.

Stepping outside, Kentaro sat on a bench by the entrance of the convenience store. Kibin, still speechless, followed and sat beside him. Despite his reluctance to admit it, Kibin was often awed by Kentaro's thoughtful gestures, like opening a drink for him.

"Drink this," Kentaro said softly, handing the bottle to Kibin. "It should help calm your mind and make you sleepy."

The night air whispered around them, cool and soothing. The stars glittered overhead, and the streetlights cast a warm glow over their surroundings. Sitting side by side, Kibin and Kentaro sipped their drinks, the sweet taste of Koji Amazake soothing their minds.

They continued to talk, sharing their thoughts. The night air carried their emotions, blending with the sounds of the city. The stars continued to glitter overhead, and the streetlights cast a warm glow over the two friends, their bond deepening under the night sky.