NOVEL WEB Chapter 9: It’d be best if people didn’t know you were here
Mika was deep in thought as she looked around her modest apartment, preparing herself for the changes she needed to make.
Her apartment was small but functional. The large living room, where she spent most of her wake time when she was at home, extended into a kitchenette with a flimsy table and two metal chairs. She never needed two chairs, but that was just how things were when she moved in, and it actually never bothered her—sitting opposite an empty chair.
It wouldn't be empty anymore…
Beyond the living room was Mika's bedroom—her sanctuary. A separate room, even though small, it felt just right for her as a refuge from worries and problems. It had a window overlooking the parkette behind the building that she'd look out of in the mornings, when she could see the sun rising between large buildings to the east. It was where Mika had experienced both the worst and best moments of her life over the past two years. It was where nightmares occasionally visited her, but it was also where she'd had the happiest dreams of her life.
The bedroom was to remain her safe harbor, that much Mika knew for certain. No matter what changes came, she needed that place to retreat to, to recuperate and renew herself when the world became too much.
She had decided to place Matsuda-san in the living room. It wasn't ideal, but it was the best she could offer given the circumstances. By the living room's window stood a small couch and a modest table – the only pieces of furniture in the room. It wasn't much, but it would work for Matsuda-san — at least for now.
Mika couldn't help glancing at the couch.
That's where he would sleep.
It seemed hard to comprehend that soon, someone else would be sleeping here. Every time she would walk into the living room, she would see Matsuda-san. So close. So often.
And the washroom…
Mika had never shared a washroom with a man before. How would that work? Wouldn't it be awkward? She let out a deep sigh, trying to calm herself down.
And we'll share the washroom.
Mika gathered a few of her belongings from the couch and table and moved them to the bedroom. She found a spare blanket for Matsuda-san to use and brought it out.
Then she fed the cat, who was watching her calmly, patiently waiting for his turn.
"You're the smartest animal in the world I've ever met," Mika said, setting the food out.
Just as the cat finished the meal, they heard a quiet knock on the door.
He's here…
Her heart quickened as she hurried to let the teacher in.
No time for hesitation now.
What's done is done.
She opened the door. Kenji Matsuda's face was barely visible behind the towering stack of boxes in his arms.
"I'm sorry," he said. "Can I come in?"
"Of course," Mika said, holding the door open for him.
He put down the boxes and turned to her, his face full of discomfort.
"I have to get two more from the lobby."
When he brought in the rest of the boxes, Mika showed him the place she set up for him. "Would this be okay?" she asked, her voice faltering.
"Oh yes, yes, it perfect," said Kenji, also stuttering. "I'm sorry for all the inconvenience."
"It's no trouble," Mika said, though the words felt like a lie on her tongue. "You're here to help me, and I appreciate it."
There was another knock on the door, and both of them froze.
"Who's there?" called Mika.
"It's me," she heard Seiji's voice.
"Please, sit on the couch for now," Mika whispered to Kenji. He silently obeyed.
Mika cracked opened the door. "Hey Seiji," she said, feeling her cheeks growing pink. "What's up?"
"Is that yours? I saw it on the floor just over here," said a confused-looking Seiji, showing her a bundle of papers.
Mika's pulse quickening as her eyes scanned the title: History of Matsuda Ichizoku.
It must be Matsuda-san's!
"Oh yes, thanks Seiji," she said, quickly snatching the manuscript from Seiji's hands. "Have a good day!"
"See you Mika," mumbled Seiji as Mika closed the door.
She stood by the door until she heard Seiji's footsteps die down, and then went back into the living room.
"The neighbor found it," she said, handing the manuscript to Kenji.
"Oh! I must've dropped it. Sorry Mika."
"Not to worry," Mika smiled awkwardly. "I just thought it'd be best if people didn't know you were here." She clasped her arms and quickly felt the need to clarify: "For your own protection."
Kenji nodded. "Of course, you're right. It's the best course of action."
They glanced at each other, unsure what else to say.
I didn't think Matsuda-san was as sensitive as he is. He seemed more aloof and confident to me before.
She blinked.
What am I thinking about?!
"I'll make some tea," Mika said, rushing to busy herself.