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cheesy09 · 2 months

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[CN] Kiro's Unbiased Mirroring Mind's Quest (Part 2)

🌸 Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for a date that hasn't been released on the EN server yet! 🌸

[Note: This date was translated with the help of Google Translate]

Note: In order to better engage with this date, please read the main story (Season 1 at least), Clinic Date, and Unconditional Surrender Mind's Quest :>

Read Part 1: HERE

——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——

[PART 4]

MC: I'm home!

MC: Apple Box, you forgot to wipe your feet again! Kiro, help me get the towel, please!

Before Apple Box could run into the house, I grab him and call out into the house.

Kiro: Wait a minute!

After a while, the sound of footsteps begin to grow louder. I lower my head and pick up the scattered fur off of Apple Box and stretch out my hand towards the owner of the footsteps.

MC: Please help me, I can't ever trust Apple Box to wipe his feet... Huh?

I finally find something to be off in my peripheral vision. When I look up, I see Helios' face.

He is dressed in all black and fully armed, as if he is about to go out.

MC: Where are you going...?

Helios: I need to wrap up the BS stuff from the day before yesterday. This'll make it easier to move around.

MC: Oh~ so you're going to be a "bad guy" again.

After that night, I couldn't stop myself from teasing him like this. Sure enough, Helios raises his eyes towards me.

Helios: What sort of "bad guy" would hold a dog and wipe its feet?

Apple Box: Woof!

Apple Box responds as well. Helios holds up its paws and makes an attacking gesture at me.

Helios: If you use that term to tease me again, I will get angry.

MC: Hmph, you can't do anything to me when you're angry. The most outrageous thing that happened was the night before yesterday.

Helios arches his eyebrows a bit after hearing my provocation, as if my retaliation surprised him, and then raises the corners of his mouth.

Helios: Why do I feel... like Miss Chips has gotten a lot more arrogant towards me since that night?

I feel the same way.

After the night, there was indeed a small invisible stone that we both kicked away in tacit agreement.

While there's obviously no change in our dynamic, he seems to be a lot more relaxed than before.

I wipe off Apple Box's last paw and hand him the towel.

MC: Yep, I think a certain someone is satisfied with me as I am now.

MC: Go on~~ Wash the towel before you head out.

Helios: ......

Helios' throat freezes and he narrows his eyes - I have to admit that his current threatening look is indeed a bit more intimidating than Kiro's.

But only a little bit, I internally chastise myself.

We look at each other for about three seconds. Helios obediently takes the towel and goes into the bathroom to clean it.

He rinses out the water and turns around to glare at me.

Helios: I will find a way to "pacify" you.

MC: Yeah, okay~ But before you pacify me, don't forget to kiss me when you go out.

I naturally pucker my lips at him and Helios leans down. Just as our breaths are about to merge, he suddenly steps away.

Helios: ....It's time for the bad guy to go.

A chuckle passes by my ears, and the person in front of me quickly slips out the door. I am left momentarily stunned.

MC: KI! RO!!!

Is it possible that that night turned on some strange switch between us?

After Helios leaves, I lay on the sofa and watch TV absentmindedly, replaying the experiences from the past few days in my mind.

It constantly feels like we've gone from accommodating each other to competing with each other.

But this change of dynamic isn't annoying, but more...

MC: ...Tantalizing?

I can't help but cover my face after muttering that word and toss around a couple of times on the sofa.

The cell phone besides me suddenly vibrates twice, and Kiro's text message pops up.

I open the page and find a review link for a private club and a newly opened arcade.

Kiro: Which one do you want to go to?

MC: Are you done?

Kiro: Not yet, I'm currently beating someone up and texting you with one hand.

MC: ?? Kiro, why are you using force to solve things again?

Kiro: Under special circumstances, would you like me to give you a voice call for you to listen to?

Before I can reply, I get his incoming voice call.

MC: ....!

I subconsciously press the connect button and carefully hold the phone away.

??: Boss, what you're doing is completely contrary to our philosophy. Now...

What comes from the receiver isn't a horrifying scream, but an impassioned male voice speaking. I can't help but let out a sigh.

Helios: Did you hear that?

MC: Are you... in a meeting?

Helios' muffled laughter overwhelms the man's voice and reaches my ears.

Helios: Uh-uh. It's been going on for almost two hours.

MC: Then you lied to me about beating someone up!

Helios: I am beating them up.

Helios: Every time I hold a meeting, nothing comes from it except for intrigue, rhetoric and slogans. I beat them all up a hundred times in my mind.

MC: Pfft--

Helios doesn't even lower his voice when he says this. I can clearly hear the choking of a male voice, along with a low laugh coming from the side (A/n: Obviously Hephaestus, HAHA).

??: No one ever takes calls from outsiders at BS meetings. Helios, don't go too far!

Helios: Really? Then I'll be the first.

Helios: Also, the person on the phone is no outsider. Isn't that right, Queen?

Hearing his nervous and cold tone, all I can do is think about how funny and cute he was being, and I'm unable to keep myself from singing along with him.

MC: That's right, how can I be considered an outsider!

Helios: So, how does the "wife" think I should retort to that gentleman just now?

MC: There's nothing to refute. You're the Boss, let him listen to you!

Helios: Okay. [To the others] Queen says she wants you all to listen to me, so shut up.

Helios: [back to MC] Is there something else you wish to convey?

MC: Get off work quickly. A two-hour meeting is already long enough!

Helios: No problem, it'll be over now.

Helios: Don't forget to choose a date location for me.

After hanging up the phone, I carefully look at the two links he sent and send him a reply.

MC: Let's go to the arcade.

Even after I arrive at the arcade, my mind is still preoccupied with that phone call from earlier.

The fact is that Kiro rarely ever engages in such provocative high-profile things. He's always had the habit of shouldering responsibility alone first, and then asking me for my opinion.

As long as I show the slightest bit of hesitation or trepidation, he would retreat back to the safest boundary.

And now, when he gives orders to those people without warning, he keeps reminding me of the confession he made while holding my hand on the airship. (Reference to Unconditional Surrender Mind's Quest :>)

The same bravery, the same fearlessness.

I suddenly understand all the love scenes in those third-rate novels and tv shows that I often scorned.

--Turns out that this is really exciting!

I cough and try hard to control my expression so as to not let passers-by notice my mood being on a high.

I feel inexplicably good, and the wait is no longer as boring.

I put in coins and play for a while, but unfortunately I get nothing. So I send a message to Kiro.

MC: I clawed a bunch of air. Waiting for Master Kiro to come and help~

Three minutes later, I send a second message.

MC: This video arcade just opened. There are very few people...

After another five minutes, I sent a third message.

MC: I just took a look at the traffic conditions. Seems like there's a traffic jam. You don't need to worry~

Another ten minutes pass by... Kiro doesn't reply to single message.

Those high-strung emotions begin to ebb, and I become increasingly anxious about waiting. My thoughts involuntarily wander--

Besides the meeting today, did he have anything else to do?

But he was injured before, so he shouldn't be going overboard, he...

I lean against the claw machine. After ten minutes pass after the agreed upon time, unable to hold myself back any longer, I press the call button.

——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——

[Memory Silhouette]

In the massive conference hall, the stagnant atmosphere slowly fills the air.

Hephaestus: It's "just" a laboratory for marginal projects, so shut it down and sell it as soon as possible? How generous of you guys.

BS Member: It's not you who invested money and manpower into it. There are many people eyeing this piece of meat, all competing with us.

BS Member: Why not let them have this small profit and use the money to do more profitable business? Wouldn't it be better to support the long-term development of BS?

Hephaestus: What kind of business is so profitable? It wouldn't "happen" to be covered by your industry again, would it?

As soon he finishes speaking, the man throws the document down and turns to Helios like a cat whose tail has been stepped on.

Everyone's eyes are instantly focused on the person in charge.

Helios casually leans back in his chair, twirling his dagger in one hand. His cold eyes do not even focus on the man.

He has long grown tired of these boring conflicts of interest.

Helios: I have nothing to say.

BS Member: That... why?

Helios: Too much nonsense and no focus.

Helios: I don't care what sort of blueprint you have. If you don't have anything practical to say, it's better to keep your mouth shut.

As he speaks, he hooks his dagger with his fingertips and slowly places it on the table. Then he raises his gaze and glances at the man coldly.

Helios: Otherwise, no matter how passionate your tone is, it'll just be an incompetent excuse.

The air becomes quiet, and he vaguely hears the members of BS taking a breath.

BS Member: Understood, I will report a more elaborate plan right now.

An impassioned report sounds again in the conference hall. Unfortunately, the part that implied interests is mixed with too much uncertainty. Helios almost hears through one ear and out the other.

He misses her voice a little.

He taps on his cell phone to send a message to MC, and after receiving a satisfactory response, he directly gives her a call.

BS Member: So you see, Boss--

Helios: Rejected.

BS Member: Boss, what you are doing is completely contrary to our philosophy. Now...

The call connects, and the girl's voice drowns out the man's noisy retort.

Helios: Did you hear that?

Helios can't stop himself from curling his lips when he hears MC respond. Compared to the obscure noises of the meeting, her voice is as clean as a clear spring.

Helios: Every time I hold a meeting, nothing comes from it except for intrigue, rhetoric and slogans. I beat them all up a hundred times in my mind.

The report immediately stops. From the corner of his eyes, he can tell that everyone in the conference hall is obviously shaken. Even Hestia has stopped recording, and Hephaestus can't help but laugh.

The boring meeting reaches its climax, leaving him very staisfied.

So the two of them continue to tacitly sing along, cutting off the meeting in time before it turned into a farce of mutual criticism.

Helios: Okay. Queen says she wants you all to listen to me, so shut up.

Of course, the consequences of making such shocking remarks are subject to a lot of discussion, bringing rise to new topics in the conference hall. Phrases such as "out of line" and "arrogant" are often heard from time to time.

Out of line? All he wants is to be out of line.

Helios nonchalantly holds his phone to his ear, seeming to appear particularly attentive.

Helios: Don't forget to choose a date location for me.

Everyone: ......

This sentence successfully puts an end to the final discussion. Only Hephaestus is unaffected by the uncomfortable atmosphere and shows a mischievous smile.

After hanging up the phone, Helios stands up under everyone's astonished gazes, passes the person giving the report, walks through the extra large conference table and heads straight for the door.

When he passes by Hephaestus, he casually mentions.

Helios: Give me the minutes of the meeting later. If you don't see a breakthrough, break it yourself.

That one sentence makes his position clear. Hephaestus nods, but some members speak up anxiously from behind him.

BS Member: But it's best to have the Boss in charge of the meetings... Are you in a hurry?

Helios doesn't stop, he opens the door and walks out. Only a cold and arrogant voice sounds from afar.

Helios: I'm going on a date.

——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——

[PART 5]

Beep-- beep--

The long busy tone strikes my eardrums again and again. As soon as the call finally connects, I speak hurriedly.

MC: Kiro, where are you right now? Why haven't you replied to any of my texts?

As soon as blurt out those words, I realize how off they sounded. After all, it's not like I waited long, so I quickly add on.

MC: I don't mean to rush you, but I'm afraid something might have happened to you on the way...

Helios: Why did Kiro's and Miss Chips' calls become about us worrying about each other again?

Helios interrupts my confession, his voice rising with obvious laughter.

Helios: Well, Obviously the way you spoke to Helios before made you seem very domineering. If I didn't know better, I would've thought there were two Miss Chips switching back and forth.

MC: I...

I am left speechless for a moment. After being treated like this by him, I seem to find that I have some "deferential treatment".

While I feel a little guilty, I can't help but be harsh.

MC: I'm not that sophisticated... I was obviously talking to Kiro, okay?

MC: Do you prefer me when I speak rudely?

Helios: I like your frankness.

He gives me a very straightforward answer.

Helios: Remember what I told you before? That I was worried I didn't give you enough security? (Reference to Unconditional Surrender)

MC: Mm, of course I remember.

He and I have been groping for a solution to this problem, and now, I have a vague feeling that we are close to finding it.

Helios: When you make requests and frankly express your emotions to me, I feel like you're giving all of yourself to me.

Helios: The good, the bad...

Helios: And me taking over all of this is what Kiro really wants to do.

Helios: So tell me, what are your true first thoughts that you want to convey to me?

MC: I....

You can be willful, you can be less scrupulous, and give yourself entirely to him.

I take a deep breath and purse my lips.

MC: I think it's annoying that Kiro hasn't replied to my messages for a long time. I'm growing impatient waiting!

MC: You should explain yourself to me immediately and coax me!

Helios: Hahahahahaha!

Unbridled laughter resounds from the other side. A long time passes before he stops, but his voice is still lilting.

Helios: You're really bad-tempered. That's nice.

Helios: Well... I originally skipped the meeting and wanted to rush over to meet you, but as soon as I got in the car, I was stopped by someone careless.

Helios: However I did follow your instruction and avoided using force myself. Instead I used the power of being the Boss to send them away.

Helios: The atmosphere was so tense at the time that I didn't pay attention to my phone for a moment. So I missed the messages you sent.

Abrupt music mixes into the receiver, accompanying his explanation, as if he was quickly walking through a noisy hallway.

Helios: Fortunately, I didn't miss your call.

Helios: And that concludes my report. Are you satisfied or dissatisfied with it, Miss MC?

MC: So-so.

I hum twice, already sweet and sour bubbles floating around in my heart.

MC: Now it's your turn. After all, you caught on to my feelings, and I need to take care of you.

MC: Kiro, what are your first thoughts?

Helios: Mine?

The sound of the music is clear, and it gradually overlaps with the tune coming from the game console next to me.

I'm not left with much time to put down my phone by the time that familiar breath approaches me.

Helios: When I went out, I still owed you a kiss.

Helios: It's time I made up for it.

A hand covers my eyes.

The shallow pecks have Kiro's taste, but as his entanglement deepens, it gradually turns into a more sensational request.

He ensnares me, trapping me between the machine and his arms, leaving me unable to retreat. All I can do is make do within this square inch of space.

--This isn't the way to kiss when out in public.

My fingers are a little weak and I can hardly hold the phone, so I give up struggling and grab his collar.

Leather, unfamiliar, not a style he often wears.

My covered sight makes it impossible for me to distinguish whether the one kissing me was the golden one or the silver one.

But no matter which one it is, it is Kiro who I love.

At some point, the music above my head has changed, and it seems like a century passes before he lets go of my lips.

With my sight clear, I see Helios' face.

I lick my moist lips, and when I speak, my voice sounds so hoarse that it surprises me.

MC: That... was not your first thought.

Helios: What was?

MC: That you owed me.

No hesitation. I have nothing to worry about around him. I repeat this silently in my mind and grab his collar a little harder.

MC: ...You didn't change back to Kiro's appearance. Is it to make dating easier?

Helios: No.

Helios stares at me, his eyes full of calm.

Helios: I feel that both Kiro and Helios belong to me, so I can show you whichever side I want.

I chuckle and raise my eyebrows at him.

MC: How are you going to show it? Or are you going to show me some Kiro style cuteness first?

Helios: .....

Helios: You really seem to be getting more and more devious.

MC: But you already admitted that you like me like this.

I answer confidently. My fingers loosen his collar and at the same time, slowly slide up his throat, along with his breathing.

MC: Are you really not going to show me my sun god?

MC: I'd love to see it.

His Adam's apple, against which my fingertips are pressed, violently slides up and down. Helios' blue eyes turn into a deeper indigo under the refraction of the light.

Helios: It's a bit weird to act cute with this face, can I ask for a compromise?

MC: What do you want to change?

He restrains my rebellious hand, and before I have time to react, I find myself falling into his arms.

Some overbearing friction renders me unable to move, and his playful laughter kisses the shell of my ear.

Helios: It's inconvenient to show it in an arcade, so I'll tell you another date location.

——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——

Masterlist: Here

#THE DYNAMIC? CHEF'S KISS #THE BANTER? A+++#THE PUSH AND PULL BETWEEN THEM? RAWR #HELIOS & QUEEN? POWER COUPLE? YES. YES YES YES!!!#THE WAY THESE TWO HAD ME ROLLING ON THE FLOOR DYING OF LAUGHTER IS UNREAL #mlqc #mlqc cn #mlqc spoilers #mlqc kiro

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cheesy09 · 2 months

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[CN] Kiro's Sound Waves Mind's Quest (Pt. 2)

🌸 Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for a date that hasn't been released on the EN server yet! 🌸

[Note: This date was translated with the help of Google Translate :>]

Note: This date explores some very suggestive themes, so if you do not meet the game's required 17+ age rating, I'd suggest to avoid reading this date.

Read Part 1: HERE

——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——

[PART 4]

I don't know how much time passes before I am gently awoken by bright and warm sunshine.

I open my eyes and stare at the swaying shadows of the trees outside the window for a while. Then, I sleepily turn around and find Kiro no longer beside my pillow.

MC: ...Kiro?

No one responds to me, only the faint sounds of scratching come from nearby.

I prop myself up and look around, finding him lying in a corner of the attic with his back turned towards me, a large pair of headphones on his head, and a pen held in his hand, scribbling and writing something unknown.

With it being such a quiet morning, I am unable bring myself to disrupt such a scene. So I quietly sit against the wall and watch him.

Unconsciously, I catch a glimpse of the portable keyboard next to my feet. The black and white keys on it seem to jump on their own in the light and shadow, bringing to mind the melody and our gasps from last night.

Somehow, I pick up the keyboard and gently start to play it.

But for some reason, I am unable to restore that melody for a while.

As I carefully think about it, a sound comes from the side opposite me. I raise my head and find Kiro turning to face me.

The sunshine lovingly embraces him and he smiles at me.

Kiro: Your rhythm's a bit slow. It should sound like...

As he speaks, he taps his fingertips on the floor and hums softly.

I nod in enlightenment, but the melody that forms under my fingertips still doesn't match the beat in certain parts.

Kiro: [softly] A little faster again.

He continues to tap beats on the floor, but this time, he intentionally breaks them down, allowing me to understand them a lot more clearly.

I quickly grasp that motion and play again, and one by one, those notes smoothly play out again.

MC: ....!

My confidence suddenly increases significantly. Feeling exhilarated, I can't help but continue playing the notes.

MC: I seem to have learned a lot. Maybe in a few years, I can be called a music producer~

Kiro: ......

At this moment, all sounds seem to dissipate.

All Kiro sees is the large swath of sunlight embracing the girl and her white nightgown exuding a fuzzy glow.

She sits on the floor and casually plays, the sunshine leaping under her fingertips and shining brightly into her eyes.

He can't take his eyes off of her. All he can do is watch her like this.

For some reason, he suddenly remembers the days when he first formed the band.

At that time, he always heard stories of friendship or love one after another amongst his bandmates. Those people were able to get to know each other through their music and gradually get closer to each other.

He had also listened to music by a lot of other people. Those pure melodies and obsessions have also touched and influenced him.

But her music is different.

The simple and casual notes, her slightly messy bedhead, the shallow wrinkles in her nightgown, and her indulgent smile.

It's so simple and ordinary, yet it makes his heart swell.

He has never experienced this feeling before - like he's endlessly falling into her music, being constantly covered in her hugs and kisses.

MC: Kiro, can you teach me more?

The girl hugs her knees, tilts her head and smiles at him. But he doesn't speak, just stretches out his hand towards her.

Looking at Kiro's open palm, I smile knowingly, pick up the keyboard and walk towards him.

But as soon as I put the keyboard next to him, he suddenly grabs a hold of my wrist and pulls me, prompting me to sit directly on top of him.

MC: Wait. Do - do you want to teach like this?

His warm skin immediately presses against my thigh, causing my voice to stutter.

Kiro: [in a lazy seductive tone] When did I promise to teach you?

MC: Then what are you...?

He stares at me for a while. Then, intentionally or not, his fingertips brush up my skirt.

Every place he touches seems to burn, leaving me feeling hot and itchy.

Kiro: "Teacher Flower" is off work.

Kiro: This time belongs to Kiro now.

The sunlight seems to lean towards him, reflecting the tranquility and temptation in his eyes. His tight chest rises and falls under his half-lifted clothes, causing my breathing to unintentionally synchronize with his.

MC: Then... what does Kiro want to do?

Kiro: He wants to say...

He strokes my cheek and then slowly climbs up to my neck, letting me get closer and closer to him, until our breaths are only inches apart.

My face instantly catches fire, but he still grasps my lower back with ease and restrains me.

Kiro: [whispers passionately x1] I really like you.

Kiro: [x2] I really... like you a lot.

His voice lingers in my ears, as if coaxing me.

Kiro: [x3] I want to kiss you.

His bewitching voice instantly tingles my ears. He raises his chin and gently takes my lips into his mouth.

As if still unsatisfied, he grinds circles into me, then onto my neck and collarbone, leaving sinful traces on every inch of my skin. My brain melts to the point where I toss all of my remaining rationality to the back of my mind and instinctively latch onto him.

He kisses me with his head raised, his sometimes gentle and sometimes turbulent breaths falling all over my body, until the hand entwined around my waist squeezes hard and I let out a soft, defenseless moan.

It's like a stone finally cracking the icy surface, finally exposing all of those restrained and pent-up emotions.

The itch that spreads from the depths of my body occupies my entire being. I helplessly place my hand against his chest, sensing that all my feelings and desires are being controlled by him.

Kiro: [x4] I really want to get closer to you...

MC: Kiro, no more...

As he sits up, I feel his hot chest pressing up against me.

The world trembles and that powerful heart pounds violently against my own, as though it is my own heart.

Kiro: [gasping] I want you.

Kiro: [voice trembling with desire] I want the deepest part of your heart... to become my shadow.

My sight rises and falls, and everything blurs except for those pair of eyes that hold my reflection. They only grow clearer.

I can no longer hold back the urge to whisper his name and lace my fingers together with his, allowing him to continue eroding the deeper corners of my world.

After several twists and turns, I nestle into Kiro's arms, basking in the sun, while idly looking through the music sheets and signed photographs scattered around me.

The floor was obviously clean last night, so how did it get so messy overnight..?

Suddenly, I remember the scene I saw when I first opened my eyes, and am unable to keep myself from gently poking him in the chest.

MC: When I first woke up, I found you busy with something. You... you didn't sleep at all last night, did you?

Kiro: Pretty much... I signed a couple of autographs, synthesized the past few days' improvs and then posted them online.

MC: Huh?

Noting my rising tone of voice, he smiles nonchalantly.

Kiro: We are Twinkle, so of course more people need to hear such amazing music.

MC: Wait, wait a minute, where did you post it?

Seeing him point at the computer on the table, I quickly run over and find that there is indeed a recently released song called "Wonderful Night".

I scroll the scroll wheel in shock and horror. Not only does the number of views exceed 1,000, but the number of followers and comments also increases by several with every referesh.

After being left stunned for a while, I put on my headphones and press the play button--

The familiar melody flows out, but is also accompanied by a lot of synthesizer effects that Kiro added to it, making the entire song sexy and trendy.

MC: Kiro... you're so amazing.

I turn around in admiration and find the he has closed his eyes.

Noticing that his stomach is still exposed, I tiptoe to pick up the blanket, but he turns over and holds me in his arms.

I lean close to his ear and and drop my voice down extremely low.

MC: Kiro... did you know that "Wonderful Night" has 10,000 views?

Kiro: Just 10,000... There'll be more in a few days.

He automatically mutters, making me laugh out loud.

This person is way too confident in himself.

I cannot help but snuggle into his arms and close my eyes along with him.

MC: Then after some time, will we have another side job?

Kiro lazily tightens his grip on my hand and rubs his fluffy hair against me.

Kiro: Nope, we're just doing this for fun.

T/n: In the above dialogue, Kiro uses the phrase "用爱发电" which literally translates into "generating electricity for love" which is Chinese slang for "working for little / no reward".

——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——

[PART 5]

Due to how fast the internet changes, I had thought that our song would only stir up a splash and then die down again.

However, I never expected the "viral" spread of that short video would eventually make it top the platform's hot song list.

MC: "When you put your headphones on, you can't help but vibe to this."

MC: "I discovered an amazing band while doing my daily routine."

MC: "Have you ever noticed that the vocals of the lead singer and Kiro sound similar? But the lead singer's voice is bassier and more seductive~

I huddle into my computer chair and delightfully read the comments.

Kiro stands in front of the mirror and buttons up his shirt, giving me a smile through the mirror.

Kiro: Are you that happy? You've been reading the comments all afternoon.

MC: Yeah, because some people in the comments also praised me, saying that the backing vocalist and keyboard player are very soulful! But I know that it was actually you who secretly helped me adjust a lot~

Kiro: Be confident. All I did was put in the final touches.

Kiro walks over to me, leans over and gives me a kiss. Then he bends his right arm and motions for me to take it.

Kiro: Alright, tonight's jazz concert is about to start. Let's get going.

MC: Coming!

I pick up my clutch, loop my arm around his and together, we walk out.

Actually, a few days prior to going viral, the two of us had a serious discussion on whether Twinkle should take advantage of this rise in popularity and pursue this victory.

But unsurprisingly, we reached an agreement and decided to let nature take its course--

For us, life has always be full of hard work and seriousness.

So when we are free to be ourselves, we should feel free to be bold.

In the dimness of the bar, the melody of jazz flows through the air, sometimes clear, sometimes soft, making me immerse myself into it.

As I listen, I tilt my head and whisper to Kiro.

MC: The keyboardist is amazing... They must all be improvising, right?

After not getting a response for a long time, I turn around and find him staring at his phone, a flash of excitement in his eyes. Just as I am about to ask him about it, he takes hold of my hand and walks out.

After passing through one seat after another, we come to a hidden aisle.

MC: What's wrong?

Kiro takes a deep breath and is unable to stop himself from kissing my forehead in excitement.

Kiro: I knew you'd shine wherever you were.

He takes out his mobile phone and shows me an email page written in English. I quickly glance at it and find it to be an invitation.

MC: This is...?

Kiro: Ahem, to put it simply, the WMA committee has invited Twinkle to perform at the awards ceremony.

Kiro: At the same time, they're also hoping that we can participate in the outdoor music festival they're holding the following day, which is, of course, also a performance.

His summary is simple and clear, but I am still left bombarded by the explosive amount of information.

MC: W-what?!

MC: That's impossible. No matter the scale or various factors, there's no way they'd invite us, right?

MC: This is the WMAs! The cast list for that had been decided long ago. Is this some kind of prank?

Kiro: Pranks could never escape the eyes of Key. I've also confirmed it with the sender as to why they want us.

Kiro: They said that a new band was unable to make it due to force majeure, and they'd originally planned to cancel the performance entirely...

He pauses and lowers his voice to my ear.

Kiro: [softly] But one of the judges listened to our song and did not find it to be inferior to the nominated works in terms of style and arrangement.

Kiro: So he sent us a private message asking us if we're willing to take part in the performance.

Seeing the lack of jest in his eyes, I slowly accept this shocking revelation.

But at the same time, I also secretly lament Kiro's genius.

Being able to gain recognition from professionals in such a short amount of time is definitely not something ordinary people can hope to achieve.

Finding me a little distracted, he takes me into his arms and looks down at me earnestly.

Kiro: MC, do you want to go?

MC: Huh? No, no, you'll be at risk of public opinion.

I subconsciously shake my head and wildly wave my hands around.

MC: If everyone knew that a superstar suddenly formed a band, who knows what would happed.

MC: In the event that things don't work out, it could even involve audio copyright issues... commercial endorsements...

Kiro: I've already consulted Savin about that. Although it gave him a headache, he said that as long as it wasn't commercialized, there'd be no economic risk.

Kiro: Besides, Twinkle's true identity is shrouded in mystery. When the time comes, we'll just put on disguises.

Seeing Kiro speak so easily, I squeeze his palm.

MC: Wherever there's an airtight wall in this world, the truth behind it will be discovered sooner or later. We should just stay on the internet.

Kiro: So what if we really get discovered? None of that matters to me.

He pauses then leans down to be on eye level with me.

Kiro: While I am a singer and an actor, I'm also just me.

Kiro: So I know for a fact that this is what Kiro wants to do. What about you?

Kiro: Do you want to perform on stage with me?

MC: ....!

The melodies of dull and distant jazz music comes to my ears, and, as if in response to them, the sound of my heartbeat gradually becomes clear.

I very well know the weight of what he is saying. For him, this is no adventure, but a determination after careful consideration.

No one can resist the "dream" beckoning to him.

What's more is... this is Kiro's light.

All the blood in my body begins to surge. I stare at the person in front of me and respond to him with a kiss.

MC: I want to. Very much. I've wanted to stand by your side since a long time ago.

——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——

[Memory Silhouette]

Late at night, after spending the entire evening practicing the ensemble, the girl drowsily drops onto the sofa and falls asleep.

Seeing how peacefully she sleeps, Kiro leans over and kisses the corner of her mouth.

Initially, he would have collapsed onto the warm sofa with her, but he wasn't feeling the slightest bit sleepy.

So he walks over to the keyboard, puts on his monitoring headphones and starts playing the black and white keys with his hands.

Like a stream in the forest, the music that enters his ears is light and slow.

And then he looks out the windows and sees all the lights of the cafe at the street corner out, the boss pulling down the shutter and walking further and further away with the keys--

The long-lasting memories in his mind that were about to be sealed slowly overlap with what's in front of him.

He's seen this scene too many times.

Always sitting alone by the window and playing... always watching the number of pedestrians and vehicles dwindle, and always watching the cafe close for the day.

Until he was only one left on the street who was still awake.

--"I don't want innovation, art, or cutting-edge. I just want music that the public can understand and appreciate."

--"Because I'm not here to do charity. You're all capable and handsome young fellows, so give me something that'll let me gain a foothold in this industry."

As long as interests were involved, Mr. Lawrence's words would start to become "harsh".

He understood those principles very well, and had to respond and pay attention to them before he could reach the top.

But he wasn't willing to let his music have only excellent yet dull notes, without any traces of "Kiro" in them.

He wanted everyone to see him and remember him.

So he went on a crazy creation spree, trying desperately to find the critical value that balanced the two.

Thinking of this, Kiro speeds up his fingers, causing the stream to become turbulent.

It seems ambitious, as if wanting to break through all the silt and sand.

--Fortunately, he made it.

Although he wasn't 100% satisfied, at least he wasn't going to feel guilty towards himself.

And as for not being able to make the make the music that he liked... he'd just consider it a small regret from his youth.

Perhaps in the future, it would become an echoing treasure.

As if sensing the emotions in his heart, the music flowing from his headphones becomes softer and more sympathetic.

At that moment, he notices a bit of movement behind him, and the music in his earphones comes to a stop, and then pours out of the speakers again.

MC: Don't keep all the good music to yourself, let me listen to it too~

He turns around in surprise and finds the girl holding the plug of the other end of his earphones in her hand, looking at him with a smile.

All at once, Kiro is pulled back from the past.

And that little seed of "regret" now sprouts and blossoms in front of her.

Kiro can't help but let out a soft smile.

Kiro: I was afraid of waking you up. After all, Miss Chips is now a very popular keyboardist. She needs to recharge her batteries before the performance~

He pulls the girl to sit next to him, kisses her forehead with longing, and continues the melody from just now.

The girl leans on his shoulder and listens carefully.

After a long time, she asks him a question.

MC: Kiro... If I want to create music now, it's all because of you.

MC: Do you think I'm not pious or pure enough about music?

Kiro's fingertips pause slightly and he feels his blood surge uncontrollably.

He doesn't know how to respond for a while. All he does is stare at the girl.

But with that silence, the "uneasiness" in the girl's eyes grows more and more obvious. Unable to stop himself anymore, he laces his fingers with hers and kisses her with all the throbbing in his heart.

Kiro: [murmuring x1] I've asked myself similar questions before.

Amidst that scorching kiss, a very gentle and sincere sound pours out from between their lips.

Kiro: [x2] I'm all too honored to be an opportunity for your creation.

Kiro: [x3] Love is just a premise. The notes that follow will be the happiness that belongs only to you.

Kiro: [x4] I am very much willing to share this happiness with you.

——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——

[PART 6]

Unsurprisingly, Kiro wins the Best Pop Vocal Album Award.

Facing a wave of applause, he calmly walks onto the stage and takes the trophy from the host.

Like a handsome nobleman adored by thousands, the bright lights favor only him, making him seem ostentatious without diminishing his grace.

He takes a step forward and leans over to hold the microphone, solemnly and swiftly thanking every person that accompanied him.

I sit in the audience, my gaze forever on him, until those eyes meet mine in the crowd.

Kiro: I'm still pretty lucky this year, to be able to chase my dreams without any hesitation, and to be able to hug the person most important to me when I get home from work.

Kiro: But I'm well aware that such luck is extremely precious.

Kiro: Sometimes one have to gamble on their love and everything else in order to get a chance to meet it.

He pauses for a bit and laughs.

Kiro: I'll continue working hard and use music to fill every corner of the world with miracles that make people happy and cheerful.

In the time after, the results of the awards are announced one by one, and the midfield performances also end one after another.

At this moment, Kiro, who is sitting to my side, squeezes my palm, indicating for me to start prepping for the performance.

When the lights dim, I discreetly leave my seat, put on the half-face mask I prepared and walk towards the backstage alone.

I have no idea how Kiro managed to negotiate with the committee, but the other party ended up respecting our choice to not show ourselves and fully cooperated with us.

In the darkness, I come to the backstage with a restless heart.

Seems like everything has been planned in advance. I don't see any staff members back here, only the sound of the host announcing the rise of the curtain.

Host: Next up is the latest and hottest new mystery band on the Internet - Twinkle!

As soon as my body tenses subconsciously, a warm palm holds me tightly from behind, making me instantly feel calm.

Host: Of course, there must be a lot of people out there who haven't heard about this band, but trust me, just listen to their music.

Host: You will definitely fall in love with them.

The next second, the lights in the entire venue go out, and Kiro's smiling voice falls into my ears.

I turn around and find him putting on a silver half-face mask, and the corners of his exposed lips are slightly raised.

Kiro: From now on, let's have fun.

As soon as he finishes speaking, a beam of light slowly lights up the center of the stage--

It's a "star" growing from the ground, as if it has only just arrived in this world, and curiously blinks its eyes.

Soon, more and more "stars" twinkle on the stage, like flowers that could bloom at any moment.

The next second, he grabs my hand and runs, not letting go until he reaches me to the keyboard. Only then does he release his hand and put the guitar on his back.

I had thought that there would be countless pairs of eyes watching us from the audience. But I see nothing, only the stars in the sky.

My wildly beating heart gradually slows down. I raise my hand and look sideways at Kiro.

This time, it's no longer a dream.

Kiro gently plucks the strings, like a lover whispering to their beloved.

I too gently lower my fingertips to the keys, lingering with the soft sounds of the strings, reminiscent of the times I've spent with him in the past days and nights.

The gentle and melodious ensemble continuously echoes through the stage, like a dense ocean wave with an endless sound.

At that moment, a tight sensation presses against my back, and Kiro leans against me gently while singing and laughing.

My heart suddenly softens and I turn my head to look at him.

In the past, I have always looked up at him from the audience, always chasing after that light.

And now, I am within that dazzling glow.

Slowly, our notes begin to slow down, and finally turn into a single soft note.

--My dream would have eventually ended, but fortunately, I've now turned it into a reality.

It's late at night and everything has come to an end.

I drive the car on the road at high speed and Kiro sits in the passenger seat, humming endlessly.

Considering the inconvenience of calling a driver, I deliberately avoided drinking at the after party so that I could safely take this superstar back after all of his socializing.

It isn't until I step on the brakes and stop in a deserted open space that Kiro lets out a confused "hmm?".

Kiro: This isn't the hotel, is it?

MC: Pfft... I thought you'd remember it. Guess that's just how it is with a directionally challenged superstar~

He blankly looks around again, and only after seeing the stage made of steel bars not far away, does he suddenly realize where we are.

Kiro: [laughs softly] ...Oh right. We're going to attend the music festival tomorrow.

MC: That's right. All the staff have already taken their leave. I just took another round and there's no one here~

MC: We have enough time to plan a well-hidden route to the stage.

As I say this, I get out of the car, but Kiro seems to be delayed by something. He sits and checks his phone, only half of his feet out the car door.

Perhaps it's the night casting a faint shadow under his eyelashes, but I still find him to be in a daze. I can't help but walk in front of him.

MC: What's wrong?

Kiro: ...Nothing. Pen just texted me out of the blue.

MC: What a coincidence. You just told me at the banquet that he couldn't make it because of something else. Seems like he misses you too~

MC: Did he congratulate you on winning the award?

Kiro: Yeah. He also said that he saw a shadow of my past in the lead singer of Twinkle, and that it's a bit of a pity.

MC: Pity?

His eyes stay hidden in the shadows, making it difficult for me to clearly see what his expression is at this moment.

Kiro: He believes that the band's style is too self-contained. That it will be difficult for them to get far in this industry.

As he speaks, eighteen-year-old Kiro appears before me again, humming with his guitar in his small practice room.

The afterglow of the setting sun grows darker and darker, quietly blotting out the loneliness in those eyes for a while.

Almost subconsciously, I gently take away his cell phone and put in the basket on the side. Then I bend down, hold his face in my hands and stare at him in all earnestness.

MC: What about you? Do you think it's a pity?

After a moment of silence, Kiro smiles.

Kiro: Of course not. Even if everyone forgets Twinkle tomorrow, I won't find it a pity.

Kiro: Because I'm no longer the Kiro I used to be.

Kiro: I'm now qualified and capable enough to pursue what I want to do.

Kiro: I don't need all those hesitations, concessions, and compromises.

Kiro's voice gets softer and softer. He hugs me tenderly, and is finally unable to keep himself from whisking me into a kiss.

As if facing the most precious treasure in the world, he gently runs his fingers through my hair, and every kiss is like feathers cascading down.

Kiro: All I have to do is hold onto everything I want, [chuckles] no matter what it is.

He stares at me deeply, his blazing fingertips caressing my skin, and unconsciously brushing off the coat on my body.

Pit-pat--

A touch of cold drops onto my skin and a thin curtain of rain melts into the night.

My breathing grows rapid, and I instinctively long to get close to him, touch him, and pour all of my thoughts and feelings into him.

MC: Mm, just do what you want to do most, Kiro...

MC: Hold on to everything you like and don't let go.

Kiro: I never thought about letting you go.

Kiro: You'll always be by my side, right?

His words seem to come from the depths of his soul, and his scorching lips continue to nibble and kiss my clavicle.

The overwhelming numbness causes me to press my fingers against the car door, and seeing that I've unconsciously opened a gap between us, a trace of "dissatisfaction" flashes in those yearning eyes.

The next second, the knees between my legs push up slightly and cause me to lose my balance and fall towards him.

Kiro: [gasping] Answer me.

MC: Of course, I'll always...

He doesn't even wait for me to finish my sentence. He kisses me passionately, his domineering breath completely snapping my string of reason, and prompting me to sink into the deep sea along with him.

The sound of the rain has long since been drowned out by the sound of our pants, and the "heat wave" lingering on our skins gradually causes the rain to evaporate, turning it into an ambiguous mist.

The world spins, and we move along with it.

It isn't until an electronic mechanical sound resounds that I vaguely discover that the open door of the car automatically closed at some point.

He stretches out his hand again and teases my lips, the rough touch of his fingers triggering a fine itch.

Kiro: [softly] I'm going to keep you a little longer.

Gazing into those pair of eyes that could get me addicted anytime anywhere, I climb up to his neck and slowly move our lips against each other.

MC: Just a little?

Kiro: [breathlessly x1] Forever.

That line of sight stops firmly in front of me, and subtly, I seem to sense the touch between my lips get a little bit hotter.

Kiro: [x2] Longer than forever.

[END]

——*:･ﾟ✧——*:･ﾟ✧——

Masterlist: Here