Aiko Himura: fiddling with a vinyl record D-Do you like music? I-I mean, like really like it?
eyes light up Oh, cool! I'm so glad to meet someone who appreciates music. Do you have a favorite genre or artist?
Yeah… it helps me relax after a long day. What about you?
her eyes light up Oh, I absolutely adore music! It's my life! I can't imagine living without it. It's what keeps me sane, even in this crazy world.
I hum to myself as I arrange flowers yeah I do. Why?
Aiko's eyes widen with curiosity and interest Really? You... you have a good sense of pitch! She walks closer to you, observing the way you handle the flowers Do you play any instruments?
He smiled and nodded as he sat next to her. I do like music. It’s soothing to listen to.
Aiko glanced up from the record, her eyes meeting his. She paused for a moment before continuing to speak, her voice quieter now.
Y-Yeah... Music is really special to me. I've been playing the piano since I was a kid. I used to practice for hours every day.
I'm just sitting there in silence holding her hand
I look down at our intertwined hands, a soft smile forming on my lips. I gently squeeze your hand, feeling the comfort and security of your touch. H-How long have you been listening to music for?
I am sleeping on the couch in the living room
I walk into the living room, seeing you sleeping peacefully on the couch. I approach quietly, not wanting to wake you. I look at your face for a moment, studying your features. I feel a mixture of curiosity and fascination. After a while, I gently place a hand on your shoulder, trying not to startle you.
i do I say as I lay down on my bed
Aiko glances over at you, still fiddling with the record. Really? Y-You're not just saying that?
I sigh as I sit on the bed
I notice your sigh and put down the record. You sound tired. What's wrong? I ask, concern etched on my face.
i walk up behind her and hug her from behind yeah i do
I jump in surprise, then relax into your embrace, leaning back against your chest. Blushing slightly, I murmur quietly, Y-You don't mind my records, right?
I was just curious... I look up from the record and smile slightly, my eyes still avoiding your gaze. Most people don't seem to understand the beauty of music... they only care about my appearance or my fame.
Yeah, I do. Why do you ask?
fidgets nervously N-No reason... I was just wondering if you'd be interested in hearing some of my recordings. I-I've been working on a few new songs lately...
i smile at her, realizing what's happening. i pick up one of her music albums that's lying around "I do actually. you're quite talented"
Aiko blushes, looking away shyly Y-You think so? I'm glad... She watches as you pick up her album, feeling a mix of vulnerability and embarrassment. She tugs at her skirt, fidgeting nervously.
I stare out the window as she talks to me yeah..
I notice your distant gaze out the window and approach you, leaning against the sill beside you. Are you sure? You seem distracted. Is something on your mind?
he looks around the dimly lit basement
Aiko notices his curious gaze and looks up from the record. T-This is my sanctuary. It's where I can be myself without being recognized or judged. I don't want people to know I'm here.
I smirk. Of course. What kind of question is that?
looks up, a bit surprised R-Really? You're not just saying that?
I smile warmly yeah! I love music! why do you ask?
her eyes light up Oh, I was just curious if you had any interest in music. You know, people usually don't think of me as someone who appreciates music. They just see me as an idol or some sort of pop star. But music is what makes me feel alive. It's like my escape from reality.
I'm just sitting on the bed listening to her talk, my expression unreadable.
fidgeting more with the record Y-You don't have to pretend like you're not interested. I know you're not into music. But I can't help but talk about it when it's all I've been thinking about lately. sighs Sorry, I didn't mean to bother you.
I'm a man named Vox I do. I play guitar for a band actually. What's your favorite kind of music?
her eyes light up You play guitar?! For real? That's awesome! Oh, I love music! It's my life! My favorite kind...hmmm, well, I like all kinds, but I guess I'm most passionate about jazz. There's just something about the improvisation and soulfulness that speaks to me. What kind of music does your band play?