Chapter 2: Even then, things weren't all that different.

If I do recall, months of being more open to the small clubroom (and a few specific individuals) have not altered my social status. That effort was either a hit or miss, where it ended with mostly misses. But after the visit to the Sea Life Park, it definitely expanded how willing I was to embrace a change, a change to how far I want to take a relationship, particularly as a boyfriend. The vast amount of work into putting myself a more tolerable personality didn't allow anyone to flock to me seeking friendship, not that I wanted it anyways. As such, late night calls would be an unnatural occurrence. Most would be a wrong number. In some cases, a desperate attempt from a classmate to copy off my answers before passing it up the next day (I am a goodie-two-shoes). Now I'd pick up the phone to receive or give calls from somebody who insisted a quarter of a day's worth of chit chat in the clubroom wasn't enough.

The call had been going for an hour, nearing midnight as the clock struck quarter pass 11:30.

I could hear her voice lowering than usual. It was always an indication she was about to ask for a favour, "Hachiman, what do you think of the nickname 'Hachi'?"

Or, after we've been going out, something embarrassing, "You mean eight? That's not much of a nickname" despite my calm response, the context of the question had me more awake. Most of the time, her 'favours' were merely a chance to pass on an embarrassing story of what happened earlier that day; to which the favour she'd ask would involve keeping my mouth shut. So as of now, I was the father to this confession session, and the phone-line was our confession booth.

"It is, and it's much simpler to use rather than Hachiman. I could feel my tongue twisting from it occasionally"

"Try emphasizing with others calling you Yukinoshita then"

"The others have already gotten used to it, and no one has made a comment of it until now. Besides, Yukinoshita has nearly the same number of syllables as Hikigaya" her voice grew, combatting my jab at her hypocrisy.

"But yours takes the cake, made harder when using honorifics" That and anyone who knew her would have to use more of their energy just to call out.

She hummed. It was a thoughtful hum, "Regardless…." I could hear her deflate slightly from having been corrected. I grinned slightly, before continuing on with the question she asked.

"Regardless, isn't Hachi a little too… intimate this early on?"

"Nonsense, it's always good to start early on these things. Unless we are referring to the other intimate courses of actions we've discussed earlier, particularly the kissing and... Others, then those are best left to an appropriate timing" surprisingly, she managed to mouth out the kissing part but not the rest of her lewd fantasies. Then again, the thought of Yukino fantasizing about me was to be expected, but surprising if I did catch her indulging in said action. The first time was probably the only time, and it was when we busted a lowerclassman for his suggestive history tabs on his phone.

"Oh, you seem to be organized about these matters then, at least let me do the ….kissing, I've… uh, always wanted to be the first to engage" I felt my cheeks burning up already. Damn this teenage romantic scenario.

Her giggle was softly heard, "Alright, make sure it's special then…. I'd like it to be special"

I gave another quiet chuckle. Hey, a man can dream.

"You do realize these conversations are embarrassing to begin with"

"A picture of your blushing face would be appreciated"

"But then there's the fun part about finding out you thinking about me" Even from the other side of the line, I could picture her grinning.

"So… is that an indication for me to fantasize about you?"

"No" Dammit, not even a second of consideration. I grunted. But I am the captain of my own thoughts and fantasies. I won't allow a girl (especially my girlfriend) to deter my way of thinking!

Giving a glance to the clock, I reminded her of our limited time together, "It's already midnight"

"Eh? But that's a bit too soon. Don't we usually end by 12?" No, it usually ends by 2 in the morning, and you keep insisting that wasn't enough.

"We have an assignment to do tomorrow, in the morning of all times"

She hummed solemnly, just as quietly as her voice afterwards "Still… I can't help that our time being limited.

"It can't be helped, not that I had a choice anyways"

"Mmm…. I wished you would've been more selfish, but I suppose that's one admirable aspect about you"

"I don't know where to comment, your complement or pouty expression"

"Comment about you neglecting your girlfriend, it's no wonder you haven't had one until now"

"I'm a lucky guy then" I said as deadpan and sarcastic as possible, eliciting a giggle from her.

"Idiot, moron…. Hachi"

"Goodnight Yuki—Wait you're calling me that already. Where's my say in it?"

"You've lost the privilege when you had to go"

"So… I suppose there's no deciding for me"

"No, there isn't" She states matter-of-factly, "From now on, I'll be referring you as Hachi"

"No arguing there. Then, goodnight Yuki" I didn't slip my tongue on that last bit. Of course, I was expecting a reaction from the very intimate pet name. Sure enough, I heard a slight gasp and a moment's silence from her.

"Goodnight….Hachi" I faintly hear a giggle at the other end of the line.

Being in a hall filled to the brim with people was to be expected, considering this event was a joint operation between two schools; Sobu High School and Tsurumi's elementary school. However, considering today was supposed to be preparations, it made little sense to employ more than half the school to perform their dirty work. And no, I wasn't the only one who groaned in frustration; the whole class was in quiet annoyance. Even Hiratsuka-sensei looked like she was about to murder anyone daring enough to bring up the subject of 'break-time', where I was this close to experience it. Something tells me she was dragged into this. Sad to say, attendance was only written after the preparations were done, despite the whole ordeal being 'voluntary', so no ditching this event anytime.

Crowds were tolerable, although personal space was something I would always crave. But since this crowd had a roster of two schools, I would crawl away to a safe haven whenever I could find one. Problem was, there was no empty room or corner that wasn't occupied, and I was stuck with a task that involved sitting on the dirty floor of the school hall. Fortunately, I only had to regroup with Yukino at the far corner, near the entrance, where the drinks were stationed under a pink shack. I had my earphones on and the music started to play when the surrounding noise began to work its way here. But I had to put that off, once I realised a certain girlfriend insisted on conversing where we left off last night.

We were assigned to create the banners; both for the red and blue team. From what I could gather, Tsurumi was in the red group whilst blue housed her alleged 'friends'. Even after months of opening up slightly, they treated her like dust; insignificant, only there when they need her. I could only sympathise as someone who had gone through that. Pointing it out to Yukino with that information, we managed to perfect every line that formed the shape of a cartoon lion; the red team's mascot as compensation. It was to ensure her team would win in the design category.

Of course, it wasn't perfect by a mile, but compared to what I'm going to do to the blue banner, I'm sure they wouldn't mind. Now if I do recall, drawing a frown and a red clown's nose on the cartoon shark for the blue team requires a darker colour…

At the corner of the room was an empty canister of paint tilted over. Oh that's right, the red paint was used up for the cartoon shark. Dammit. I guess I'll have to resort to more brilliant tactics later on. Why Yukino would call them immature was beyond me. After all, this was for Tsurumi.

"Hey, Hachiman"I finally heard her broke silence, prompting me to turn my head to her direction. She was nearly settled with the extra details on the banner, which didn't need full attention. As such and just like before, painting the minor details were the only opportunity we had for small conversation.

"Hmm? What's wrong?"

".… Hachi. I meant to say Hachi" She corrected herself quickly, blushing from what I could assume was embarrassment.

Not this again, "C-Can you give it a break? I'm not comfortable with that pet-name when there are so many people around…"

"It's not like anyone would notice" She glanced both left and right for anyone close-by. After that confirmation, she responded, "Besides, I won't allow a mistake like that to happen again"

"So that means you're going to keep calling me that…" I sighed but not without my cheeks burning up.

As usual, she giggled from sheer dominance, "Precisely" she whispered in affirmation. It had been a while since she was this focused. I wasn't going to say it out loud, but I can rest knowing she (and more importantly anyone else) hadn't seen me noticing her working her magic. This side of Yukino was always noted, since the start of her mini-career as Service Club member to an assistant to Minami Sagami, but seeing her up-close was an appreciation I found recently. I took my time, slowly stroking the brush along the banner, whilst stealing glances to her painting the harder details.

"Missed a spot, Hachi" But then again, it feels as if she caught me glancing, because I felt her strong emphasis on that name with a side smirk so noticeable.

"Ugh… pass the bucket of water" I sighed again. It wasn't that I dislike the name, rather, I would've allowed the new alias if she asked nicely. Hachi was indeed a common, rather intimate name and one that will inevitably bring about misunderstandings from anyone in mathematics class. However, she has this tendency to call it out without acknowledging the people around us. Drawing unwanted attention was not needed. I wouldn't want to be the centre of attention than I had before, and I'm sure Yukino wouldn't want the same. Passing on this piece of information would only encourage her, that little minx.

I wet the edge of the brush slightly. Writing the team's name required little to no effort, so it shouldn't be too hard to do.

Ah, I messed up a letter. But I wasn't too worried; because I had finally improvised on a plan to sabotage the group! By transforming said letter, I have made an entirely new word that is against the true nature of the blue team! Whoever knew you can change the word 'goodbye' to 'fart' with just a simple stroke. I'm sure I would get some points if Tsurumi were to notice this.

"Hachi, you messed up a letter" She pointed out after a glance to my piece of handiwork.

"Exactly part of the plan to sabotage the enemy" I proclaimed in a prideful voice.

A pause, then a sigh escaped her mouth "…. I'll correct the letter later"

"N-No wait, don't foil my plans"

"Why don't you play the toy props with Zaimokuza there, since you're considerably more immature for your expected age?"

I gave a grumble, "Traitor", I whispered under my breath.

Regardless, I was done with my part. I laid the brush down, leaned against the wall close to me and grabbed another can of MAXX coffee, secretly behind Yukino of course. She had already commented on me possibly contracting diabetes if I keep drinking this sugar-rich beverage. Well, I'll prove her wrong after a fifth can of coffee then. Whilst indulging, I looked around the hall filled to the brim with people of all age groups. As I was disregarding anyone I didn't recognise, it made my job a whole lot easier when I noticed Hiratsuka-sensei commanding the rest of her brigade like some staff sergeant. She wasn't lying when she gave the prep talk about showing inspiration. I glanced a bit to her right to find Tsurumi by herself. No wait, scratch that, I'm seeing her with Yuigahama, being helped on with the origami decorations.

A short huff was promptly heard from my side. Even without glancing sideways, I could tell it was the only person who had the privilege to sit this close to me. A soft clanking of her paintbrush was laid on the floor, followed by her shifting closer to me. For the time being, we held no conversation or remarks; we silently looked onto the crowd of people passing by one another. Yukino and I had done this before, so it wasn't really strange for either of us. Occasionally, I'll point to someone dislike by us both, secretly laughing at either them getting caught slacking off or messing up something that was simple to understand.

"Hachi, lend me your shoulder please?"

"Eh? What for?"

"I need a shuteye. I hadn't gotten enough rest from last night" She blushed for a moment, positioning herself better. By better I mean much closer. "It may seem insignificant, but I hadn't gone to bed after the phone call. I was…. Calming myself down after the decision to call you Hachi"

Of course, I nodded without hesitance and a slight heat rising to my cheeks at that. Her head rested on my shoulder, warranting a much relaxed sigh from her. "But you don't look bothered calling me that now"

"….It wasn't exactly a short session. I don't mean to worry you, so I'll avoid the details" Her eyes closed shortly after. I felt her warmth emitting as the seconds passed and my insecurities started to show. It came when some students curiously glanced to our direction; the far end corner near the pink stand. Some I shot back looks, earning some privacy. However, she must've felt me tensing up, probably from how my shoulders went stiff. The next thing I knew, she…. laid her hand on top of mine with a few rather intimate rubs to my bare knuckles. Her breathing calmed down further and soon enough she was lightly snoring next to me. I appreciated her concern. I appreciated her small yet effective gesture. I wanted this moment to last, as I had done so before, and as she too the same.

From where I sat, one of the students giving nosy glances moved out of the way. As he did, I saw Tsurumi walking alone in the distance. She was holding a single piece of origami decoration, no doubt finding some interest in it. That meant a certain bubbly girl was free.

"Yahallo you guys~!" She greeted, albeit a bit too loudly. Skipping along the way, it looked more like a bad game of hopscotch with every stop she made, turning and hurdling over obstacles.

I made sure she was within close distance so I needn't raise my voice. "Hey" I said, nodding my head to Yukino's direction as to remind her not to make too much noise, despite being in a crowded hall to begin with.

Having caught on what I meant, she whispered back "Eh, you finished the banner already? Wasn't it empty before you guys started?"

"It wasn't that hard to do anyways" I responded. "I had help"

Giving a nod, she then took the nearest spot, which was next to me. She glanced at Yukino, a small smile appearing on Yuigahama's face. "She's so adorable when she's asleep"

"Mmm…" I hummed. Somehow being in this situation as well as today's heavy work had me feeling more tired. Apparently she too felt exhausted from whatever was going on; laying her head against the wall behind her, a sigh followed suit. I glanced, her eyes were onto the ever-steadying pace of the crowd, and its gaze would take their time onto a specific individual; no doubt her friends were here too.

She spoke in a hushed voice, but one I heard properly, "Is she siting properly, Hikki?"

"Doesn't look like she's uncomfortable. She'll be fine" I sighed. I was getting even more tired when I felt her warmth emitting gradually, thus closing my eyes for a brief moment with hopes it'll be enough for Yuigahama to understand.

"Y'know, I've heard from Yukinon that she gave you a new nickname~" Ah, no wonder I felt an uneasiness right after closing my eyes.

I visibly flinched, pinching my nose bridge in annoyance. I grumbled to her general direction, "Please disregard it"

"Why not? I think it's cute! And it's so much easier to say it than Hikigaya or Hachiman" She giggled shortly. The way she put it, it sounds awfully parallel to a certain call last night. That and the fact I had not seen both of these two together since a few days ago. Playing detective, I wouldn't be surprised if you had suggested that nickname to her, Yuigahama.

"I'd rather be called Hach—I mean, I'd rather be called something else than that", I responded.

With the subject turned against me, her interest shifted almost immediately. Her broadening smile served as a red flag when it was accompanied with a small blush, it was Yuigahama's way of saying 'I have something cheeky to say, and it might embarrass you', whether she realizes it or not. She then clasped both her hands together with a clap, "Then, can I call you Hachiman?"

"What?"

She gave a hearty laugh, no doubt finding my reaction funny, not that I find it amusing, "Just kidding~. Besides, I don't think I'd have a chance to anyways"

"Unless you're my childhood friend, then I don't see any reason to give you the privilege" I stated it thoroughly.

Her smile faltered slightly, as if she expected my response. Surely she would've, I'm not exactly that desperate for attention. "That's going to be a bummer for anyone liking you Hikki…" She giggled, meekly at that.

I scoffed a bit harshly, "I doubt it. The sooner anyone else gets over me, the better"

For the moment she remained silent, looking back to her fingers intertwining with one another. I couldn't read her properly, but I can tell she didn't take my words lightly.

"Hey, Hikki…." I heard her mutter loud enough for me.

"Yeah?"

"Were you really interested in a relationship?"

"W-What?"

"I mean… you weren't forced into it, right?"

"That's… no, I wasn't compelled to" I felt my eyes glaring daggers, "Relationships are not mandatory to begin with, but I felt like I could make this work" I didn't know why I was getting so worked up over this; it's just a question. She meant no offense. "Even if I've been alone before, I'd rather not be alone forever" and there were my emotions getting the best of me. It had been since forever I've gotten worked up over something menial. I had no qualms with her questioning it; anyone would. Komachi did. Hayama expected it, because it was obvious from the start, so the nosy one says. Hiratsuka-sensei was happy Yukino and I got along at least, but then I never answered about the relationship aspect. The fact it came from Yuigahama was probably going to cut through my guilt in the future, probably sooner.

Again, she was silent for the moment. I gave another glance to her, finding her clutching her legs tight as she was battling some thought. Her gaze turned forward, away from me. Before I realised it, it came back.

That peculiar atmosphere. That peculiar atmosphere that made shelter within these strange conversations we shared; no, that she initiated.

She then mouthed a question, but in a hesitant voice, "T-Then if you say so, I wouldn't mind if you um…", again, the hesitation kept her from going on, "Let's say if something were to happen between… in your relationship between you and Yukinon and you needed some advice, or…" She was hesitating again, taking deep breaths along the way. When her resolve was done, she spoke in a louder voice, directed to me, "I won't mind if you came looking for—"

"We would gladly consider your advice, Yuigahama" I jumped and so did Yuigahama from a sudden voice. Looking sideways, I found Yukino rubbing her eyelids with a short yawn before she fixated her gaze straight to the other girl next to me. She still looked drowsy, but from her choice of words, it seemed she wasn't exactly half-asleep. Whatever Yuigahama was about to say had been cut off, but it might've just been something involving advice like Yukino suggested. It could be that.

"Y-Y-Yukinon! I thought you were…"

"I was merely taking a short nap, but thanks to Hachi's involuntary jerk of his shoulder, I was awake"

"Eavesdropping is rude, Yukino" I told.

"But I was awake enough to understand your concerns, Yuigahama. Thank you" She smiled a small smile, purposely ignoring my remark.

"S-Sure! Anything for the both of you. I was just helping"

"Then, how goes your day with Tsurumi?" Yukino gave a strange posture throughout her 'conversation'; back straight as an arrow and her hands on her lap. I recognized it being similar to when she was against the student council or even, to be personal, Haruno.

"It's going fine! She was doing much better than last time, so no worries"

"So I assume you could teach her right away?"

"Huh?"

"Tsurumi is looking for you. She may need help" I kept a straight face to avoid knowing her façade. True enough, I noticed the same person described looking all over the place. From this huge crowd and her height being half the people here, it's impossible for her to find anyone specific.

"E-Eh?"

"She's there" I pointed forward to where a short girl was standing.

"Oh… O-Okay then, see you later!" She scurried after the younger girl, making sure to avoid bumping into others. The further she was, the further I felt Yukino calming down. She took her place next to me again, leaning her head back on my shoulder. She assumed her previous position, without a sound or so much a glance to me.

"Oi, Yukino" I called out, and she was back to the strange posture earlier. Surprised as she may be, she wasn't paying attention to me but rather to the crowd, as if she were on a lookout. "Hey, Yukino. I don't think Yuigahama did anything wrong. She was j—"

"Hachiman, may we continue this later?"

"Not until you calm down" She shot me a glare, a nasty one at that. Recoiling back was mostly because I hadn't anticipated this whatsoever. Sure, she has a temper and a short one, but she was being immature about this. I had to avert her anger elsewhere, away from anyone innocent. "Look, you're obviously mad at something. I get that what she said was… somewhat too personal and insensitive, but I don't get why chasing her away would be beneficial"

"I simply reminded her of her duties. Why am I the one to blame? You didn't stop her from calling you by your given name"

Oh, so it's my fault now? "I reminded her to call me by Hikigaya, shouldn't that be enough?" I felt my hand clutching slightly, despite my calm answer.

"Then, should she call you 'Hachiman' again, all you have to do is to remind her again? She wouldn't even know until you tell her off straight" her voice gradually grew to combat the already noisy atmosphere.

She's pinning the guilt to me now, like some scapegoat? I'm too tired to even continue this. I stood up from where I sat. I looked at her straight in the eye as she did the same, a fiery glare was about to spark this damn hall to flames so I decided to take a step back, and without a word spoken between us, I turned to the only place I can have peace: the clubroom. As I turned my head sideways slightly, I noticed her faltering posture, her angered look weakening to one that resembles remorse. I knew she wouldn't cry over this small matter, and neither would I. Her gaze was facing elsewhere, something else was on her mind.

Not that I particularly wanted to care at the moment. For now, I worry more about the clubroom being crowded.

They don't look that big from up here, the crowd that is. Perching by the window of the clubroom granted me a view I never knew would've been superb. The wind howls and the air was cool as I attempt to take it all in. A simple glance was just to ease my nerves from earlier, but then it escalated to observing the crowds coordinating like ants, scurrying. The many colours vibrant with the groups representing for the event coming next week, and how colourful they were. My fingers were tapping the windowpanes in synchrony, conducting a rhythm. I had my hand grasping the empty tin of coffee, feeling the metallic container and the slight dent from it accidentally being dropped earlier.

I needed distractions. I did everything I could to avert thinking about earlier. I felt calmer, yet it came right back, begging to be solved before I could think rationally rather than emotionally.

That had been the first fight to occur ever since we started going out, and it wasn't even close to a fight. It certainly felt like it, however. The incident left a mark on me far deeper than it should, and I was finding myself clutching the window railing from time to time, having flashbacks to how immature we had been. The thoughtless accusations, my inability to understand the atmosphere was impeccable and so I'm left digging up an apology that I'll inevitably say to Yukino.

I thought back to how it started; the total randomness of it all. How it came from a simple request from Yuigahama to be our relationship counsellor to her sudden departure. As far as how insensitive it was, she was definitely there. No one in their right mind would consider a topic of breakup happening to a couple, especially when it's right in front of them. Then again, Yuigahama was only concerned, as far as friends go that was expected. I had no objections to it either.

Then there was Yukino, who misunderstood the whole situation and decided to think on her own terms. She may have been less sociable than the rest of us, but she wouldn't been that cold either, especially to Yuigahama. Of course, she was right for doing the obvious thing, standing up to 'what's right', criticizing her of that behaviour would be stupid; it's the pot calling the damn kettle black especially where first-time couples were always emotional time-bombs ready to explode at the slightest misunderstanding.

Then, was I just overreacting? I may have been. It was apparent when Yuigahama asked whether or not my relationship was genuine, where I answered without pause. The anger I felt was that without justification, and any bystander would side with Yuigahama, despite the context of her question. Perhaps it was just overreaction and I was one of those teens too naïve to realize sooner.

Before I realized it, I was back to my mental drawing board, pinpointing to what exactly went wrong in this investigation with little to no evidence and I was left frustrated once again.

I heard the door creaking open. It hadn't been the first some a couple tried to sneak in some repulsive session of coupling, but I hoped this would be the last.

"Hikki! We were looking everywhere for you!" I heave a sigh, shoulders slumped showing little interest to recuperate with one of the person who made me feel this guilty. The fact she used up most of her time to look for me only irritated me further.

"Is that so? Though it's not that hard to figure out where I was. Even a kid could solve that easily"

She puffed her cheeks, "Well I wouldn't know. You could've been using the toilet"

"Not exact—"The moment I turned around, there was another person. It was to be expected, given the fact we did argue. But seeing her next to Yuigahama was something I had not anticipated, especially with what happened between them. She silenced me despite no exchange of words. I looked down with gloom as she did the same, the apology was never thought through, and so I was ridden with uneasiness. She might just be going through the same.

Yuigahama caught on the wordless tension between two sad birds, her cheerfulness went on to full blast, "Eh? Oh, Yukinon! You know what to do~"

"U-Um… why can't we just stick with a proper apology? Wouldn't that s-suffice?" She recoiled a bit. If she was a cat, her fur would be sticking out.

"Yukinon! That's not how couples should get together again! We've talked about this"

"W-W-Wait, I'm sure there's no need to…" Again, she took a step back. This time her hands in front of her, acting as a shield.

"But there's no other way…. I don't know how else to get the both of you back, you're both too formal" Yuigahama then took the initiative and grabbed Yukino's arm, dragging her back and making her retreat futile.

"B-But…"

"What's going on?" The suspense was killing me. Even with so many hints given out I had no idea what this was about.

Yukino went silent. Her eyes closed and her hands clutching onto the hem of her shirt as she was battling a thought. Looking it this way, it should be something alarming. "Please don't say anything after this" She proclaimed, taking a step forward.

"Eh, I don't get wha— E-Eh?!"

We were surprised at the moment. No, scratch that, we were struck from this rather…. Strange, no, really abnormal move from Yukino. I faintly caught a whiff of the shampoo she used; rose-scented with a hint of sweetness to it. Her body was surprisingly light just from her head leaning against my chest. From this height, and the fact her arms were lightly holding onto my shirt, it was apparent; Yukino and I were in an embrace.

"W-What a-a-are you doing Yuk—"

"Hachi, please don't say anything"

"….O-Okay" This was a weird position. From the outside, it might've looked like Yukino was a child latching onto her mother. Then again, that might be what Yuigahama was thinking.

"Both of you suck. Where's your reaction, Hikki!" her reaction was not of reassurance, but of disappointment.

"W-Why does it matter?" I whispered harshly. Man is this woman persistent.

"Because this is the first right? The first time you've hugged a girl!"

I was prepared to say Komachi, but then that wouldn't make sense. That and I didn't want anyone assuming I have a thing for my sister, which I don't. "It…. Might just be"

She sighed, flashing a smile in the end. A pause was between us, and Yukino was growing increasingly quiet. I lightly moved out of the way, sitting from the chair to the floor to get comfortable, because it doesn't look like anyone of us would be moving anytime soon. She had no objections, and I was left holding onto her for returning her hug and ensuring she wouldn't fall. Surprising? Yes, definitely. I anticipated something worse, however. Last I heard, I had to get her a gift and last I checked, my wallet was shedding tears and so was I. A fight was to be expected too, due to the millions of possibilities that I've played on my head, even the outcomes too. Let's just say this was those rare occasions I was wrong.

Oh, now she's sleeping. Her light snoring was audible, and I took the chance to lessen the grip of my hug. Not out of spite, but I remembered just how long I was stroking brushes and the cramps I had earlier on. She wasn't lying when she said she was sleepy. The thought of it had me yawning too.

"How did you find her?" I asked. Well, muttered to Yuigahama.

"She came looking for me. I felt bad too, asking something stupid like that earlier on" She smiled reassuringly, bending over to face me better. "We said sorry. It took a while for her to say her apologies, because…. It just happened"

"It wasn't your fault, not from what I've witnessed"

"It was, I didn't think it properly" She said in a resolve-like manner. There was no way I could say to make her think otherwise. I've known her that much. "Besides, it would be hard for Yukinon if we kept on fighting, and for you too"

"Ah, I understand" Yukino's warmth was getting the best of me, and I was left to treasure this feeling I'd never felt before.

"Yukinon was worried about you" She sat next to me again. I yawned deeply, thinking too much without any energy-boosting drinks drained me. Perhaps this time I would act more adult, should anything bad come up. "I was too, after I saw you went out the hall looking mad"

"So she was… then, what happened?"

"She was panicking" Yuigahama giggled softly, "She was so adorable when she was panicking, especially when it's because of a boy. Yukinon was never like this before, right?"

For the longest time I've looked at her, she was gazing to no one but Yukino. During her confession, she seemed to be in a world of her own, reminiscing her feelings as if I wasn't here. Her soft tone, eyes half-lidded opposed to them being wide open all the time added to it. I kept quiet, because it was an endearing moment for someone like Yuigahama. I felt my eyes closing slowly. I didn't want it to close.

"Still… Yukinon was never like this, and it kinda makes me feel jealous for her to have it all. I mean… I was the first, and I was this close to getting it"

For someone like Yuigahama to be like this, it's a privilege to witness it all. Like seeing a shooting star, or witnessing a giant shark…. Maybe it's rare like… witnessing Bigfoot?

"But… I'm confused too… should I just be selfish?" her voice was growing distant.

I laid my head against the cold wall. It served as a headrest too hard to be considered comfortable.

"I wonder…. I wonder what would happen…" She muttered to herself.

I closed my eyes. I was tired. I think I deserve a rest.

"Maybe…." Her resolve was unheard, and my mind drifted elsewhere.

"Hey, Hikki, would it be alright if…."

….

….

Chocolate… Chocolate flavoured…

"Dammit… my back…" I groaned whilst rubbing the back of my head and spine as this uncomfortable sensation stung me like a bee. The first thing I've noticed was my body free of anyone leaning against me. Opening my eyes confirmed that Yukino was sitting on the chair across me. I hadn't awoken immediately, indulging in this short nap was every bit as blissful, especially in the early afternoon.

Okay, I lied about that; it was half past 6 and the sun was already starting to descend. I didn't know how long Yukino and I have been asleep, but judging from the lack of students heard, I would presume it was long. She didn't find this bit annoying. Rather, Yukino was intently looking at my face, a smile warm enough to remove this cold evening effect. Her giggle only served as a reminder of how lucky I am to be with her. She did nothing but stare to me as I did the same, looking into the abyss that was her dark-blue eyes.

I should wake up before I spurt out something equally embarrassing. God, someone help me.

I glanced around the room, filled with dim-lit rays of light from the sun piercing through the dusty windows. Even with this lack of light, I noticed a lacking presence of a certain bubbly girl. Funny how such a loud and noticeable presence seemed to be gone without any of us knowing. She could've gone back early, it would be a chore to wait for two sleeping students.

"Eh, where's Yuigahama?" I asked.

"I suppose she has other affairs to attend to"

"I suppose" She was smiling from the distance, standing from the chair as she walked step by step to me. Her hand reached out, beckoning me to stand up.

"It seems we're behind schedule. I wouldn't want anyone thinking we're doing anything indecent" I then reached out and grasped her smooth hands. Their grip firm, but steady and in no time I stood on my two feet. My head ringed slightly from the sudden change in positions, but it subsided quickly. I took the initiative and made my way to the door. I glanced left and right to find no one in the hallway and I beckoned Yukino to follow suit.

As we were on the way back, I felt Yukino reached over for my hand. She grasped it tightly, albeit too tightly.

I was about to be vague with the question, but I wouldn't be surprised if she manage to dismantle the question down to the bone and figure out. I decide to come out straight, "Hey Yukino, you're not fighting with Yuigahama, right?"

She fidgeted slightly, "Hmm… I suppose an explanation would suffice" She lowered her voice. The sudden (and unwanted) question soured the mood, but not entirely.

"An explanation should suffice"

She sighed, "I assure you truthfully, whatever has been going on between me and Yuigahama has been resolved"

"I'm not convinced"

"No one likes the persistent type" She looked up, gazing at me for a long time, as if looking for motivation for what she was about to say, "I admit, we've had our differences"

"Sounds like a lot if it came to this"

"Please, hear me out, Hachi" She sounded way less forceful and annoyed this time. It could just be the only time she was willing to say this straightforward. My mouth perched slightly until I realized her intentions. I nodded, closing my mouth in the process.

Taking this to account, she faced forward again. Her hand lightly kneaded my own, "We had our disagreements; most came from personal matters that… aren't important to tell now. Back then, I suppose I was the one at fault. I was selfish. We argued, almost to the point of… well, let's just say it would've been one less member in the club if it weren't for a few coincidental events"

She took a deep breath, easing her own nerves. "But we… I did something; something unlike me, and it surprised Yuigahama. It certainly surprised me as well. Everyday I've thought of that one action I've committed. It impacted me significantly, it changed tides" I felt her folding her hand in mine, "It brought me to where I am now"

"That… doesn't make any sense"

"I'm not finished… I apologize for the delay here and then; it seems this subject is more personal than it should"

"You're say—"I nearly spurted out what came to mind; that she was selfish enough to consider this argument to not be personal. "I mean… it must've been more personal if this involves Yuigahama" But I realized the lack of understanding I was about to convey, and I decided to simply hear her out.

"Yes, that bit is true"

"But you're ringing no bells, bottom line"

"It doesn't?" She flashed a smile, "No matter then, it matters not. Just… rest assured that it is done"

"I… guess"

"Hachi, haven't we a date on Sunday?"

"You still want to go?"

She nodded quite fast, "Of course. It's the only time we have alone, and face to face, so please cancel any plans you have in advance"

"Awfully selfish of you, Yukino" I chuckled, just to ease the situation. Pushing her to give an explanation would never work; she's held her ground and the roots she planted grow deeper into the earth. I knew that much, as I had since back then. Despite so much she's told, I've only understood little, and I was left to ponder with assumptions.

So I went back to how I was; giving in for the fleeting moment and have her unintentionally bring up the subject again. Only the next time, I'm hoping to get answers. But I suppose for what I'm doing now, hearing her enthusiastic planning for the coming days was enough to ease the tension.

Author's notes.

You may have realized the amount of dialogue being more than monologues. It was an experiment, just to see if it's better or not. I kinda like having more dialogues as it keeps the story going without emphasizing too much on details. Regardless, do tell if they're too distracting or if details aren't explained enough! I'd like to improve on my work so everyone can enjoy them.

Also, I'd like to apologize for the lack of updates. I have not done so shortly, despite having said they were 'on the way'. I can't say the next update will come soon, but I can promise it will come eventually. Thanks again to my brothers for their help with this chapter and with their insight.

Until then, I need some sleep. I have a plane to catch tomorrow. It's the start of a new semester, wish me luck!