Note: This is my take on what happens when Tsukasa returns after four years and how the time has changed everyone. The main focus is on Tsukushi and Tsukasa but I'm also going to throw in a little OC. I hope you enjoy this fanfic that has been stuck in my head for quite a while and I'm happy to finally get it written down.

"Kanpai!" The group of girls yell as their glasses clink together in cheers before drinking. Tsukushi Makino looks around at the faces of her closest friends, Yuki Matsuoka, Sakurako Sanjou, Shigeru Okawahara, and her most recent friend and roommate, Karin Hisakawa.

Sakurako pours another round of sake for the group before standing up sluggishly. "I would like to say a few words for Tsukushi. First I would like to thank Karin. You convinced Tsukushi to get an apartment with you in your freshman year and have lived together since."

Karin laughs, "I'll admit it, I suck at cooking. That's why it was part of our rent agreement. I pay three fourths of the rent if Tsukushi did all the cooking. I think she got the better end of the deal! I got a better meal then I deserved." Tsukushi blushes at the compliment.

Sakurako continues, "Second is Shigeru for giving Tsukushi private lessons in the matters of being a "Lady". I also want to thank you for all the shopping trips and vacations you've helped planned. Last but not least is Yuki who has been the back bone and support for all of us through the years. You've helped Tsukushi at work and have become a friend to the rest of us. Tsukushi, after three years, you've grown and matured, become independent and still remained dependent on all of us here. The semester is ending and we all know what that means. You've waited four long years and the time has finally come for Tsukasa to come home. So I would like to make a toast to the end of a long long distance relationship." The girls cheer and drink.

"Tsukushi", Shigeru gets her attention. "The last time you spoke to Tsukasa, did he say exactly when he was coming home?"

Tsukushi shakes her head. "He didn't say anything about it. The only thing he said was 'see you soon'."

"I would like to know the date", Karin states. "Since I have to know when to start looking for a new roommate."

"Are you in a hurry to get me out of the apartment that much?"

Karin leans over and hugs Tsukushi. "No, I don't want you to leave at all but someone has to help me pay the rent. I'm not going to ask my family for money now that I've proven I can live on my own successfully. How about we make a deal? You keep up residence with me until Tsukasa proposes."

Tsukushi turns beet red in embarrassment. "Pro…pro...proposes?!"

The others girls laugh as Sakurako remarks, "Did the thought never occur to you that marriage would be the next mark in your relationship with Tsukasa?"

"I've thought about it but never has it become so realistic. I've been preparing for it the last three years subconsciously but have never thought about it that much in reality."

Karin relaxes back into her chair. "Don't worry about it just yet. I think Tsukasa would be smart enough to let you graduate first before actually having the wedding. You only have to take a few more credits which can be finished over the summer. Plus, we have to have enough time to plan and throw your bachelorette party."

Tsukushi's red face turns pale as she imagines what crazy things her friends are thinking of doing for a bachelorette party. The girls burst out in laughter again as the night goes on and more drinks are served.