I really wanted to write a story about the rivalry between Lettuce and Ichigo.
Not because I hated either of those characters, but because the issue of Ryou was never explored in the main story.
I really hope that you enjoy! ^_^
***
Lettuce picked up her horoscope for that day. Her star sign being Cancer, she quickly scanned through the pages.
Cancer- Don't question your feelings. Today is the day to make them clear. Only you can make the decision, but whether these actions will result in joy, sadness or anger, you cannot leave them be a moment longer.
***
Lettuce leaned against the counter at Cafe Mew Mew. It had been a really long day and she was exhausted. "RETATSU-RIN?!" Ichigo screeched.
"Yeah, Ichigo?" Lettuce replied sleepily. "YOU'RE AT WORK!!!! Hey, usually you're such a great worker! Turn up the pep, Lettuce! You know that we can't rely on the others," Ichigo joked, smiling dizzily.
Lettuce turned around to see Mint enjoying a cup of tea, Pudding breaking all the dishes in her craziness and Zakuro discussing confidential things with her agent.
She sighed. "Ok, Ichi-kun, I'm sorry," she whispered. "I'm just a little confused about things right now." Ichigo felt worried for her friend. "Well... If you ever want to talk about it, you know that I'm here."
"Thanks so much Ichi-kun," Lettuce grinned. Ichigo beamed, and then did a Ryou impression- "Now you're on floor duty. Clean it good!!"
Funny how friendships could turn around so quickly.
***
It was a few hours later and Ryou's business-first-fun-later voice was ordering everybody around. "Ok, that's it. You can all go home now." Lettuce looked up, her beautiful eyes staring right into Ryou's.
A mini stapede formed as Tokyo Mew Mew all struggled to escape from the cafe. Except Lettuce. "Shirogane... I really have to tell you some thing," Lettuce said calmly, her voice a tiny squeak.
Ryou nodded, and took her into another room. "Fire away, Midorikawa." He was very curious. "Th-the truth is, I've... really loved you... for a long time... And I've been unable to telly ou because I was so worried... but...."
Lettuce's voice trailed off as Ryou placed his finger on her mouth. "No more words, Midorikawa." Ryou's expression was unreadable. Lettuce's heart did a free-fall. What a way to get rejected! She fought back tears as she ran outside of Cafe Mew Mew.
She didn't stay long enough to hear Ryou's soft answer. "And I think I love you too, Lettuce."