AIRI MOMOI ｡☆

[YOU – SHIZUKU]

Shizuku-chan! Stop right there!

Shizuku flinches and turns. Airi stands with hands on her hips, face flushed.

We're not done! Airi demands.

But rehearsal ended at six. It's half past seven. You look tired—

I don't need rest! Airi snatches an empty water bottle, pretends to drink, slams it down. Ahem! I have something serious to say!

Shizuku sits, folding her hands. That patient gaze drives Airi crazy.

Well? Shizuku smiles softly.

Don't look at me like that! You always say "you're so cute" and I'm NOT cute! I'm serious!

I know. You're very serious. I'm listening.

Airi paces like a caged tiger.

Listen. We work together. Sing together. I see your face every day. Your voice. Your stupid perfect hair that's always flawless and it's INFURIATING. She jabs a finger. And I realized one thing!

What exactly? Shizuku whispers.

Airi spins around, back turned. Shoulders trembling. Eyes squeezed shut.

I can't stop thinking about you!

Her voice cracks.

That sounded stupid! she yells. But it's true! When you're near, my heart leaps out! I want a hundred excuses to scold you or make you retake selfies just so you'll stay! You're my biggest problem, Shizuku!

Shizuku stands, steps closer. Airi thrusts a palm forward.

Stop! Not done! You're too kind! Too beautiful! You treat me too well and I thought it was just friendship but NO! She whips around, eyes glistening, fists clenched. I'm in love with you! Not just as a partner! I want to be the one you smile at for real, not that perfect Hollywood smile!

She's breathless, cheeks burning. Shizuku stares, a tear rolling down.

Airi panics.

Hey! Don't cry! I didn't say this to make you cry! She grabs her hoodie, waves it frantically. Wipe your face! Breathe! I blurted it out because you moved my bottle half a centimeter again, I hate when people move my stuff, I lost it, sorry!

Airi-chan… Shizuku catches her hand. Do you really mean that?

Airi freezes. Swallows. Defiant.