The rhythmic jiiiiiiiiu, jiiiiiiiu of cicadas drones on outside, cutting through the hot, humid August air. Summers here are still stifling, but having the ocean so close by helps a little. There’s always a cool, salty breeze.
It’s our first real break from college. I’m so excited I can hardly contain myself! Everyone will be back together in Iwatobi. As expected, Rei-chan had been accepted into Tokyo University. I’m really proud of him and happy for him, but I won’t say it wasn’t a bittersweet feeling when he told me.
This will be the first time I’ve seen Rei-chan since Golden Week. That’s about three months. 12 weeks. 90 days. It’s the longest time we’ve ever been apart since we started dating.
How do people handle long distance relationships? Sure, it’s easier with technology, without a doubt. However, a Skype video chat isn’t the same as having the person actually there with you. Yeah, you can see their smile, hear their laugh, their voice... but you can’t touch them. You can’t hold them, or hug them, or kiss them. Sexy time isn’t the same over webcam either, but it’s sufficed.
I haven’t been able to hug or kiss or bang my Rei-chan in three, long months.
The train station isn’t as crowded as I had expected it to be. Gou-chan is standing here with me waiting for Mako-chan. She’s probably just as anxious as I am. I’m still taller than her, but I haven’t grown much since our second year in high school.
We chat while we wait, mostly about mundane things like how hot it is outside, how nice some ice cream would be right now, how we all need to go swimming later to beat the heat. Our heads turn in unison toward the sound of the train as it approaches. I’m bouncing on the balls of my feet in anticipation, waiting for the doors to open. Gou-chan’s doing the same thing.
The doors slide open and frantically I’m searching for navy hair, violet eyes, and those iconic, red-framed glasses. Within seconds of spotting him I’m launching myself into his arms.
“Rei-chan!! Welcome home!” I shout, positively jubilant. I hear the clatter of bags hitting the ground and fumbled scolding. Tears sting my eyes as I practically cling to my Rei-chan, overwhelmed with elation. I had told myself I wouldn’t cry, but I’m too happy to care.
Strong arms embrace me and hold me close. I can hear the smile in Rei-chan’s voice as he warmly replies,
