Chapter 50: Flavors of the Rain

After spending the whole afternoon by the lake talking about random stuff, we decided to get on our way to journey through our next stop. On our way there, the sun already started setting and dark clouds were starting to accommodate us. It smelled like rain so we closed the car windows. It appears that I was right, a few minutes later it started raining. 

"Ever imagined if the rain has different flavors?" Asked Yukino. 

"What do you mean?" 

"Imagine if some rains are lemonade flavored, some are strawberry, stuff like that. If that happens I'd wish for rain much more often so I can drink varieties of it." 

"That would be out of the question. Rain carries bacteria and all other stuff that can make you sick." 

"Such a bore." 

"I'm just being realistic here. Besides, the rain already has its own flavors." 

"What do you mean?" 

"Doesn't it give you different tastes? The rain tastes sweet when you feel love and happiness. It tastes sour when you're jealous. It tastes bitter when you're frustrated or flooded with regret. And the rain tastes bland when you're alone and sad." 

"I guess you're right. It may differ though. Do you hate the rain then Aoi?" 

"In fact, I love it. The rain would bring out my emotions that I've sealed from within. It makes me face reality head on."

"I hate it, Aoi." 

"Why?" 

"It feels like whenever it rains, I realize how time is running short for me. When I can be out there bonding and doing stuff with other people, I would instead stay at home and waste my time being alone." 

"It's different this time though. I'm here, Yukino. I'll be here holding your hand." 

Yukino then held my hand after saying those words. It made me realize how every bit of time matters to Yukino. Every hour, minute, even seconds, should be cherished. She will soon leave and she won't be able to bond with us more than she wanted to. It aches my heart how this would all end soon. That I won't be able to give her everything she wants. 

"I guess we have to stop by a hotel for tonight, this rain just won't let up." Said I.

"See? This is why I hate the rain. But I guess I don't hate it that much right now knowing that you're here with me." Said Yukino with a smile. 

A few hours of driving later, we reached a hotel in Ikoma. We decided to spend the night here since we won't be able to do anything outside anyway. 

"Go on and ask for a room Yukino. I'll just park the car. Don't forget your umbrella."

"Sure!" 

I parked the car and went for my third cigarette of the day. My progress should really be commended in my opinion. I'm proud of myself right now for going this far in my journey to stop smoking. I went on to the lobby of the hotel to see Yukino sitting there fidgeting with her phone.

"Were you able to get us a room?" 

"Yeah." Said Yukino showing me the keys.

We made our way to the room and it was surprisingly spacious for two people. The floor was made with tatami flooring which looked traditional and neat. The place gave us a comforting ambiance which made it really serene in this rain. 

"I guess we'll be sleeping on the floor." 

"Do you not like it?" Asked I.

"I don't mind it. It's a new experience for me anyway." 

The room has a shower room so I let Yukino take a bath. While Yukino was in the shower room, I arranged the mattresses on the floor so she can take a rest after showering.

"It's your turn Aoi." 

I took a bath and I'm really glad that this shower has a heater. Otherwise we'll be freezing to death considering how cold it is right now during the rain. A shower after a long and tiring journey really replenished my body.

As I came out of the shower room, I saw Yukino already sitting by the mattress waiting for me. 

"You should've rested already. You must've been tired right?" 

"I am, but I wanted to wait for you." 

I quickly changed, turned off the lights and laid down the mattress beside her. 

"Aoi." 

"What? Go to sleep already." 

"Would you still fall in love with me if you knew I was dying from the moment we met?" 

"I probably would." 

"How come?"

"Seeing how dazzling you are under the moon, how radiant you are, and how you lit up my crumbling world. Nobody would blame me for falling in love with you." 

"Then, do you resent me for all of this? That I made it impossible for you to not love me even when knowing I'll be leaving you?" 

"I don't. In fact, I should be thanking you for bringing me back to my feet. You brought me back when I was in search of myself. How could I resent you for that?" 

"I'm sorry Aoi. I hope that in another life, we get to spend more time together." 

"I'll come and find you then." 

Yukino fell asleep right after that conversation with a smile on her face as she held my hand. A few hours later, I was woken up. I went near the window to go for a smoke. I've made up my mind to not go abroad and tell Haruto about it.

I called him hoping that he would answer. And he did.

"Yo Aoi. Enjoying the trip?" 

"Yeah, It's been great thanks to you." 

"Is that why you called?"

"Not exactly. I won't be going abroad, Haruto. I'll stay here by Yukino's side until it's time for her to depart. I've already made up my mind so there's no point in arguing with me this time. I just wanted to tell you." 

"I wouldn't argue anyway. I just wish the two of you happiness and for Yukino to live her final days being the happiest person." 

"Thanks Haruto. It's not like I'm quitting on writing, I'll just be a writer here in Japan. It wouldn't be so bad anyway. Bye" 

I went straight to bed after the phone call with Haruto. Just like what Haruto said, I want Yukino to be the happiest. I won't leave her here.

The rain tonight tasted sweet. I guess I really am happy, and in love.