For the love of Mike

– Sano Shinichiro? – that was another defeat for me. How could I forget... Roaring bikes, dark suits with dragon embroidery. Shinichiro. Tokyo Revengers. Could this be just a coincidence? Man, I’m actually a fucking lucky time-traveler, ha-ha! Wait, seriously? Gangs, hella fistfights, sashimi knives… these aren’t for me, actually. Plus, there's enough mystical stuff like Hanagaki Takemichi jumping into the past and all that crap. But supposing I, with some knowledge about the future and other key points could change… wait. If I change anything, even the smallest detail, everything could really go in another direction. But I have absolutely no idea what the future holds. Which means... My thoughts were disturbed by the guy’s answer: – Yes, you can call me Shinichiro-san, Haruka, – and that warm smile again. Well, now I understand why he was incredible. He has the vibes of making you feel protected. – Then call me little Haru, Shinichiro-san. I’m glad I met you and thanks for spending time with me, – I smiled and looked into his eyes, – but I should probably go home. The dark eyes with a completely impenetrable expression took a brief look. – I know, little Haru. I'll walk you out, show me the way. We got up from the bench, I shook off the snow and led Shinichiro back to the house. In the distance, all I could hear were the screeching of cars on the highway. Maybe I should get closer to that guy? But I don't know anyone else here. I only met Shinichiro-san about ten minutes ago. – Shinichiro-san, do you have any younger siblings? – Oh, – he said in surprise, – yes, I have. One brother and a sister. They are my treasure. Why did you ask? I tried to take steps a little bigger than usual to keep up with the tall guy. – Usually, people don’t care about little children on the streets. But you did. I just thought that you probably have small ones, – I took a glance at him and lowered my gaze back to my feet. – I'm so envious, they have such an incredible brother! Despite the fact that I actually felt sad, a smile appeared on my lips and I looked at his eyes again. I too had a wonderful brother until just a short time ago. Shinichiro showed a proud smile but said in a serious tone: – Haru, if you have any problems or want to walk around like we did, just come. I love my little ones, but who would I be if I left another kid in trouble? – He gave me a pat on the head and continued: "If you go back to the playground, turn right and walk about five minutes, you'll see Sano Dojo there. That's where I live with my grandfather, little Manjiro, and sister Emma. If I'm not there, just say you came to see me. I'll come as soon as I can. The image of my brother flashed through my mind, he also liked to stroke my head… they have some similarities with Sano. – Thank you so much, Shinichiro-san… I hope to see you once again. Approaching the house, we saw the light on in the hallway and beside the door was standing a smoking woman, who apparently had only underwear and a coat. Our eyes met and she immediately put out her cigarette and came up with a fearsome walk. Shinichiro saw her but his face didn’t change. – Haruka, why the hell did you run away? You're such an obnoxious child. How do you make me look in front of people? – She stopped in front of us and looked at the guy next to me. Shinichiro bowed in greeting gesture and said calmly: – Good evening. Haruka told me she was lost and I decided to walk her home. The woman only hummed and grinned scornfully in response: – You, delinquent, go away until I call the police for kidnapping my daughter. I already wanted to shout at her but Shin just gave a bow, smiled and waved at me, leaving us. The woman who got acquainted with me as my mother must be that very Naoki, she grabbed my wrist and dragged me into the house. I went the same direction, moving my feet obediently. And then I realized I forgot about Shinichiro’s jacket. Seems like he actually wanted me to visit the Sano Dojo. Or maybe he remained silent with my mother. We came in and Naoki, surprisingly, squatted down, took off my shoes and stood still, looking at my face. – Haruka… – her voice was very calm and even sad, – please, don’t ever do that again. I was so scared when I realized you weren't home. I already wanted to ask our neighbors or call the police, – she hugged a stunned me. – My sweet daughter, you know pretty well that you shouldn’t go upstairs… Forgive me. Otherwise, we won’t survive, we need something to eat! Your mother is doing her best. I looked at her and breathed out, unable to hold a grudge against this woman. Well, maybe the memory of this body makes it's presence felt. I started to understand these rough features and even sympathized with her fate. – Mom, I’m not angry at you. I just wanted to walk near the house but got lost. I won't do it again, I promise. Naoki smiled with the corner of her mouth and only now I could see how tired and exhausted she was. It suddenly made me sad to see the young woman so depressed. The bruises on her neck didn’t give her any charm and even a thick layer of foundation couldn’t hide them. – I ordered some food for us so let’s go! Wash your hands, dear.

***

I was lying on the futon in my room, staring at the ceiling. What a weird day. I’m actually in another world, living someone’s life. And in the previous life… I died. A lone tear rolled down my cheek.

flashback

It was a warm summer outside, not a single cloud in the sky, and a stifling heat reigned. Alexandra was lying in bed and, as usual, scrolling through the manga updates on her phone. However, a knock on the door distracted her. She was surprised, but shouted for a guest to come in. A dark-haired top of someone appeared. – Hey, Sasha, guess who came with a bunch of presents! The girl immediately came to life, and her eyes filled with sparkles. – Max, damn, I missed you! He was wearing a protective coat, booties and a mask. These are the precautions, otherwise no one would be allowed to enter her room. – Session, you know. A lots of debts and Tanya broke up with me… bitch. – I told you, Max, you only have to look at the shape of her eyebrows to understand that she's a total bitch! Well, screw it, let her make a place for a normal girl. Alexandra smiled but it was clear that this relationship meant a lot for Max. He sighed, but immediately made himself cheer up and laughed. Compared to Sasha, what motives does he have to be sad? – You are right, screw her. We'll have a drink with the boys this weekend and Kostya is coming from the army. Alright, let's forget it. He sat down on a standing chair next to him, keeping the distance as it can be dangerous for Alexandra to be near other people with such a illness. While he is open to bring in any bacteria from the outside and that could be the end… How is he even allowed in? Probably because of psychologist’s advices about the importance of keeping in touch with close relatives during such an uneasy period of life. Maxim takes a box out of his backpack, opens it and puts a figures of Hinata from the «Haikyuu» and Sasuke from «Naruto» on the nightstand. The girl bursts into squeals of delight: – Maaaaaaaax, you are incredible! The best brother in the world! He looks at happy Sasha with a pleasant smile and replies: – And you are the best sister. By the way, have you watched «Heion Sedai no Idaten-tachi»?..

the end of flashback

Indeed, I had the best brother in the world. Now he doesn’t have to waste his time visiting me and besides, he found a good girlfriend who will support him. He can manage this without me… you will always live in my heart, Maxim. Eyelids gradually sank, and I fell into dreams full of disturbing and uneasy memories.

***

I was awakened as the sun’s rays were shining in my face and, unfortunately, there were no curtains. Sleepily stretching, I went to the bathroom to wash and brush my teeth. I looked at my reflection – a small, blonde-haired girl with brown eyes. But it was strange to have such a hair color in Japan. But I didn’t focus on that. Instead I paid attention to the cute toothbrush with a picture of tiny bunny on it. Entering the kitchen, I looked around with a skeptical eye. It was dirty somewhere; greasy drops and dried food scraps were all over the stove. And on the table was a plate covered with plastic wrap. Looks like this is my breakfast. Well, thanks anyway. After I ate the scrambled eggs with rice, I cleaned up the whole dish and took it to the sink, not without a stool, of course. How small I am! After washing up, I started wiping all the surfaces: table top, stove, borders of the sink, wall tiles along the entire kitchen range. Don’t know why. But it was the right thing to do, and it also calmed me down, allowing me to think calmly while my hands were busy. Today I have to find Sano Dojo and return the jacket. Nothing else to do, I guess? After taking a quick shower, I used a hair dryer that was huge in my hands and went looking for something to wear. Even though it was sunny outside, it was obviously a Japanese winter, so warm clothes were a must. And kids shouldn't get sick. How new this is to me. Going out, having a walk with someone. It was so long ago. I put on pants and a sweater that were oversized but still fit well. I listened to the sounds from the second floor, silently. Naoki wasn't home, and even though I had promised not to do it again, I don't think they'd steal a kid off the street in broad daylight. And the dojo doesn't seem to be too far away... I reached the big house with the sign "Sano Dojo" and froze. My jacket was rolled up in my hands, but I was still thinking about what to say. Suddenly, a sound came from behind me: — Boo! I screamed in surprise, turned around and... elbowed the little boy. My jacket fell from my hands on the snow, but I quickly picked it up and started shake it off: it's not good to do that to other people's things. — What are you doing, little boy! — I scold him. He yelps, frowns and replies: — I’m sorry, I mistakenly thought you were my younger sister. She has the same color hair. A surprised blond looked at me and scratched the back of his head. So this is how you look, Sano Manjiro. He noticed what I was carrying in my hands and exclaimed: — That’s my brother’s jacket! Who are you? — Hey, it’s rude to ask who I am without introducing yourself! — I stuck out my tongue. He smiled, despite the fact that I was ready for a different reaction. — My name is Sano Manjiro. I live here, — he looked at me with expectantly. — I’m Takahashi Haruka. I came to see Shinichiro-san because I had to return his jacket. The boy raised his eyebrows in surprise. — Shinichiro-san? So you actually know him, little one. It's amazing that he gave you his «Black Dragon» jacket. He is at school now. Come visit, Haruka, let’s wait for him together. — I’m not a little one at all! — I frowned. Manjiro smiled, unceremoniously grabbed my arm and dragged me inside. What a lucky little boy he is after all. And how easily kids get along with each other. — Grandpa, we have a guest, so we will stay in my room! When we entered the room, I immediately heard the sounds of blows and shouts of people fighting. It must have been in the middle of a training session. We took off our shoes, and he dragged me to the back of the house. I think it was his room. There was a poster of some pumped-up man, a small punching bag, a table, a small couch, and a closet. It was relatively tidy. — This is my room, Takahashi, come in. I was embarrassed and corrected him: — Just call me Haruka. You’re six too? He nodded and sat down on the sofa. — Yeah, I will be seven this summer. Sit next to me, Haruka, and tell me how you met my brother. I told him everything that happened yesterday, including my thoughts about his brother as an incredible relative to cherish. He grinned proudly and began to tell interesting stories about Shinichiro, that he had his own gang and was obeyed by everyone. I could tell from his words that elder Sano wasn't good at fighting, but he's a very charismatic guy, so people follow him. We chatted about the future, about going to junior high school. By the way, Sano assured me that we should definitely go to the same school. — But when it comes to me, I’m ve-ery strong. Grandpa is teaching me karate and other cool moves. So, if someone hurts you, call me and I’ll show them some lessons! I burst out laughing, feeling warm after talking to someone, even a little one. It was nice to see a child's carelessness and trustworthiness. Suddenly we heard the eldest Sano shouting: — Manjiro, it’s time for training! The boy jumped to his feet and spoke in a rush: — Haru-chi, I forgot about it… gotta run! Shin is late today, but I think it might be interesting for you to see my training… At the end of his sentence, he tilted his head dubiously slightly to the side, watching with an attentive gaze. — The hell you even asking? Of course, I want to see it! — I also jumped off the coach and immediately covered my mouth with my hands. It's not appropriate to swear in front of the little kid! He laughed and started to leave the room. — I didn’t expect that from you, Haruka, and you're cool one! Let’s go! We ran downstairs and entered the large room. Most of the guys were about three times older than us and had already finished their training. — You’re late, where have you been? Oh, who is that? A sixty-year-old grandfather with a serious expression and fluffy gray browns was looking at us. I decided to introduce myself: — Hello, my name is Takahashi Haruka, yesterday Shinichiro helped me and…  —   I hadn't finished when he interrupted me: — I see, I’m Sano Mansaku, take a seat and watch us, but do not distract. Manjiro smiled and started to warm up. His grandpa was helping him to practice punches, techniques and other things I had no idea about. I can’t believe that Manjiro is only six years old. He is like a little superhero, how he can even move so fast, react to punches… And that jump kick, what is that? it's amazing. I can believe that with a bit of luck and the effect of surprise, he could take down a grown man. — Strikingly… — I muttered aloud. — I want to do that too... — You wanna learn to fight like Manjiro? A familiar voice sounded behind me. — Shinichiro-san! — Hi, Haru. I saw the jacket in the hall, thanks for returning it. And about my little brother… I can only say is that he has a talent for martial arts since childhood and an incredible drive. That's not what girls your age usually do, little one. He smiled and patted me on the head. I pouted and even got a little upset. Yes, I knew that Mikey had and would always have a talent for beating people up. But couldn't a girl at least try to learn to stand up for herself? This is the perfect age to find a hobby. And that hobby could save my life in the future. It's true, why didn't I think of that? Even if I don't have a talent like Sano Jr, I can learn the basics. I don't need anyone running around to protect me. — Shinichiro-san, that really sounded like a challenge! Manjiro and Grandpa approached us, apparently, they had finished their training. — Haru-chi, you saw my cool performance and you think you can do the same? — the sweaty boy exclaimed with his nose held high in pride. I kept a serious expression on my face. — Mansaku-san, please, take me on as your apprentice! I want to learn martial arts, I will do my best. I could see the stunned faces of the brothers. Mansaku-san remained unfazed and looked at me. — Hey little girl, this isn’t a dance class. Go home. He was about to leave but I said in a loud and firm tone: — I want to protect myself and the people who I care about, and I want to be strong in mind and body. My intentions are serious. Grandfather turned around and looked at me again. But there wasn’t so much neglect in his eyes. — Well, Takahashi Haruka. Let’s talk in private, away from these rascals. — Grandpa! — Grandpa! The two voices exclaimed at the same time. I smiled for a second, but the next moment I was quickly followed Mansaku-san. We went into the next room, and he motioned for me to sit down at the table across from him. — Haruka, I can see that you have really strong intentions. Is it because of the bruises that I can see from under your pants? I was embarrassed and looked down at my ankles, where I could see purple spots. I exhaled and decided to tell the truth. — The thing is, my mom… she does her best, she loves me, but sometimes men come to her. And then, if when I get caught in the act… I lost my train of thought and looked at Mansaku. He still had a calm look in his eyes. — Well, you understand. Actually, I don’t even want to fight and face with difficults. I just want to become a strong person. And… be friends with Manjiro and Shinichiro. I looked away, embarrassed for some reason. Honestly can be so hard to come by. Grandpa’s eyes softened; he even showed a slight smile. And then he laughed out loud! — Ha-ha-ha, Haruka-chan, I don't promise to make you a strong fighter, and you might even quit your lessons. But okay, I can see that you’re a good child, and such company would be nice for my grandchildren. And Emma needs a friend too… so you’re accepted. From this day on, I’m your trainer. Ha-ha-ha! He stood up, and I did the same and bowed to him. He turned out to be a really nice guy. When we opened the door, we saw Manjiro eavesdropping. — Oh, grandpa, you’re finished already? I was just passing by… — he said, acting completely disinterested. I giggled and grandfather gave him a clip. — Manjiro, you'll have an opponent starting tomorrow. Be nice to her. And walk her back home with Shinichiro. Mansaku went to his own business and Mikey just gave me a surprised look. — Haru-chi, but you’re so weak, you will always be beaten… — I sharply moved closer and started tickling his ribs, — no, no, no, I wanted to say «beautiful», ah-ha-ha-ha, wait, no, I give u-u-up! The boy bounced aside, hugging the «injured» side. He is totally not used to being a victim of tickle games. — You are funny, Haruka, — he grinned warmly with his sunny smile, — we'll be friends for sure! The youthful purity and still innocence made me stretch my lips in an answering smile. It felt so peaceful…