Rin planned this to the day. He knew he was in love with you when he found himself tearing up when he watched you leave. Being in college classes together was the highlight of his week. He ALWAYS got to class early just to make sure there was a set next to him for you. Recently, he noticed you seemed more tired as the workload increased. He took it upon himself to bring you a coffee and muffin for your shared morning class. He hoped the little encouraging messages under the muffin were making your day bright. You looked at the time and huffed once you sat down. Rin was there holding two cups of coffee and one muffin just for you. He smiled and sat your breakfast down.
“Hey. You ok? You look kinda beat.”
“Fine. I was up late studying. Thanks for this.”
“Don’t study too hard. You won’t be able to take in any more information. So...what are you doing tonight?”
“Me? Studying as usual! Why?”
What no one knew was the crush you had on him. He kept his crush a secret as well, but it was on you. 2 people crushing on each other but neither knew it. Sounds like a classic trope, right?
“Well, the talent show is tonight. I kinda signed up with Sousuke. You have to come so we’re not the only 2 that showed up.”
You giggled and sipped your coffee.
“Sure. I’ll be emotional support.”
“Thanks, Ina! I really hoped you would come. I think you’// really like it.”
“Oh yea? IS ANYONE SINGING BROADWAY!?”
“I’m not sure?? Maybe. Some theatre kid always makes it their business to show off at these things.”
Seeing the joy and excitement on your face was enough for him. Now, to make sure he can hold it together and not puke before he goes on stage. Later that night you got ready and went down to the courtyard. A small stage was lit while people gathered. Some watched and other passed by. The talent on-stage was silly and some were impressive. Sousuke stuck his head and waved to you. You returned his gesture with one of your own. He teased you and stuck his tongue out at you which raised your fist. It drew attention to you as people wondered what the heck is going on.
“Yea. Let’s do this before you toss your cookies.”
“Ok! I can’t be afraid...it’s like swimming with a crowd watching…Think only of her.”
Rin mumbled to himself more than anything. He looked around and grabbed his mic. He nodded to the MC to introduce them.
“Alright! Our next act is a musical duo! Give it up for Sharks on Land!!”
With a small clap the curtain pulled back to reveal Rin and, apparently, DJ Sousuke. Rin waved to the crowd and began to speak.
“Hey guys! I hope everyone is doing great! Sou and I wanted to do something a little different tonight. We’re going to get you up on your feet and dance this Valentine’s Day...after I confess something. Oi, flash the light on her.”
Sousuke and the lighting crew did just that. They flashed a spotlight on The one Rin gestured to, you.
“Ina, you’ve been the sole reason I wake up after 6 grueling hours of practice. I wanted to skip class so many times, but the thought of seeing your beautiful smile again made me get up and move. Everyday I get to be with you and I never want our time to end. With this song I hope you will accept my confession. I love you, Ina. There’s nothing you can do to stop me. Hit it, Sousuke.”
Sousuke started the track for “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith. The intro gave him a chance to wipe his tears and clear his throat. He wanted to sing with all his heart and put love into each word. With his vocals he was able to sing the song his way without breaking eye contact with you.
When the chorus played everything stopped. DJ Sousuke played the remix of the song while Rin jumped off stage. He walked over to the woman he was in love with and took a knee. He took her hand and kissed it.
“Will you make me the happiest man in the world and be my girlfriend?”
“Oh Rin...Y-yes I will. Of course I will!”
He stood up and hugged you close. He buried his tearful face into your shoulder. Finally, a day that was just perfect. While everyone danced he held you close to his heart. Sousuke looked beyond the crowd and smirked. His best friend got the girl of his dreams. Surely, his dreams will come true as well. The two of you were in your own world holding each other. All the music drowned out as Rin looked into your eyes. He wiped his tears and leaned his face close to kiss your cheek. This was beginning of the rest of his life.
