Yumi gently pushed open the door, her breath catching at the sight before her. Kiko stood with her bare back infront of the mirror in the corner of the bedroom, struggling to fasten the intricate ribbons of her corset-like dress. The soft light accentuated the graceful curve of her spine, and Yumi felt a flush rise to her cheeks.

Hearing the door creak, Kiko glanced over her shoulder, her eyes meeting Yumi’s. A relieved smile spread across her face.

“Yumi, could you help me with this? It’s a bit tricky,” Kiko asked, her tone light yet inviting.

Yumi nodded, stepping into the room, acutely aware of her own attire—a simple bathrobe loosely tied at the waist. She approached Kiko, her fingers trembling slightly as she reached for the ribbons. The proximity made her heart race, each breath filling her senses with Kiko’s subtle scent of Sakura perfume.

As Yumi deftly tied the ribbons, her fingers brushed against Kiko’s skin, sending subtle shivers through both of them. The air seemed to thicken with unspoken words and shared breaths.

“Thank you,” Kiko murmured, turning her face slightly to face Yumi. Their closeness was palpable, and for a moment, neither moved.

Seeking to ease the tension, Kiko asked softly, “Yumi, what made you decide to leave home so early to chase your dreams?”

Yumi took a step back, her gaze dropping as she gathered her thoughts. “My family… they were very strict. Pursuing music was out of the question for them.”

She paused, a distant look in her eyes, yet a warm smile Kiko could not see form behind. “Taka and I planned our escape during school. One snowy night, he waited outside my window. I cut my long hair, climbed down a rope into his arms, and we ran away with just our bags.”

Kiko listened intently, her expression softening with empathy. “That must have been tough.”

Yumi shaked her head side to side gently. “No, it was actually one of the best moments in my life. It´s a precious memory of freedom and rebellion, that me and Taka will share forever."

Yumi suddenly sighs "However then we started working at the bar, trying to form bands, but nothing ever lasted. Meeting you reignited that passion we had when we first ran away actually. Taka might not seem happy about you now, but I actually think he´s grateful that you´re here.. somewhere, deep deep inside” Yumi let´s out a small laugh filling the air with a sweet light atmosphere suddenly. 

Kiko can´t help herself to feel it, and turns around with a playful glint appearing in her eyes. “So, your parents are really rich, huh?”

Yumi’s cheeks flushed, saying “Well… we were comfortable.” while looking away and taking her hands of kiko´s dress. 

Kiko chuckled softly. “That’s what rich people say.” with her eyes teasing Yumi. 

The shared laughter eased the lingering tension, drawing them closer as they prepared for the night ahead, their bond strengthening with each shared moment.

Yumi´s eyes became soft..

So this is what it feels like to have a girl friend who is not jealous or judging. It feels really nice, having Kiko by my side, even if she doesnt know it yet. 

Kiko adjusted hair to fall softly on the side. Then looked at Yumi, “All set. Mind if I borrow a cigarette while I wait for you to finish?”

Yumi offered a small smile, though her heart raced. “Go ahead. I’ll be ready in about fifteen minutes.”

Kiko nodded appreciatively and exited the room, leaving Yumi standing alone. As the door clicked shut, Yumi pressed a hand to her chest, feeling the rapid thump beneath her palm. She took a deep breath, whispering to herself, “Don’t go there again… not with her.”

The room seemed to hold its breath with her, the air thick with unspoken emotions. Yumi shook her head slightly, as if to clear her thoughts, and turned her attention back to getting ready, determined not to feel her heart race again.