Chapter 2 is up! As mentioned, this fan fiction is specifically written for the purpose of healing our Zeki hearts with fluff medicine and adorable Zekiness. Hence, this story is situated in a perfect world where nothing can stop Zero and Yuuki from being together. :'D

So read away, lovely readers! And enjoy the romance to your heart's content. If you like what you read, we would greatly appreciate if you left a review and told us what you thought about it. Reviews are LOVE! And guess what? They're FREE! XD

Written by:

Zero Kiryuu: Shizza24

Yuuki Kuran: LeVampireCat

Characters (c) Hino Matsuri

~Chapter 2~

A Dance into the Moonlit Night

~Zero Kiryuu POV~

The pain in my wounds is almost completely gone now but I still feel sore, I notice as I make my way towards the large ballroom. I'm wearing a black suit with a white collared shirt and a dark blue tie; nothing fancy. My prefect armband is loosely curled around my left arm.

I've never really been a huge fan of dancing. Mother, however, used to be obsessed with it. The moment Ichiru and I had been able to walk, she hired us a dance instructor and oversaw the lessons herself. The memory is a distant one, so far away it's hard to believe it had even happened. I dismiss it along with the small pang it creates somewhere deep in my chest.

Entering the hall, I walk straight ahead, ignoring the glances I see some girls shooting my way. They're probably afraid of me. The hall is ostentatiously decorated as usual. The Chairman always makes sure to get students to decorate every single spot in the entire interior. It sure must have taken a hell of a lot time. The decorations are a bit overdone, but they don't hurt my eyes so I don't mind them. I spot a quiet corner and go there to stand against the wall, leaning casually as I check the place for anything out of the norm.

The students are all dressed to their very best, especially the Night Class students. The Night Class is a group of elite students with outstanding grades. The reason they have a separate, special class is because they all belong to, or are in some way connected to high ranking families or school donors and sponsors. Since they consider themselves a status above the normal students and get all the attention they want, they act like complete celebrities. I can't say I'm a huge fan. In fact, it's quite the opposite. The Chairman had once insisted that I join the Night Class too. I had immediately declined. There is no way in hell I'm ever associating myself with a bunch of spoiled, rich brats.

I run my eyes through the length of the ballroom another time. Most of the students are busy dancing the night away. The Day Class girls are fawning over the Night Class boys as usual. Some Day Class guys are trying their best to grab the attention of the Night Class girls as well. Pathetic. I sigh. I hate being stuck here for god knows how many hours. The squealing gets a bit higher and I turn to see none other than Kaname Kuran walking inside from the balcony. He looks up from the girl that he's talking to, and our eyes meet for the briefest second as we silently exchange a cold glare. Kuran is Yuuki's brother, and let's just say that's the only reason I haven't shot him in the head by now. He and I have never gotten along, the reason being the fact that he's an absolute douche-bag. The Kurans are one of Cross Academy's major sponsors and they were the ones who primarily helped establish the Night Class. And that's why the Chairman is always sucking up to them. That's the reason Kuran Kaname is the Night Class head. Yuuki too, would have been in the Night Class as well, but I heard that she wasn't able to pass the entrance exams for the elite class since it is much more difficult and advanced. To be frank, I'm a bit thankful that she didn't pass and was hence admitted to the Day Class. The Night Class never looked like her type of crowd anyway.

"Um, excuse me... Kiryuu-kun?"

I turn my head to the meek, feminine sound and notice one of my classmates standing a few feet from me. She's a bit short, but taller than Yuuki. In fact, most girls are taller than her. Her large eyes look rather embarrassed, and her face is flushed. I keep quiet and wait for her to continue.

"I... I was wondering if maybe, you were free to dance... with me..?"

She's kidding, right? I'm a bit flattered that she approached me, but I've no interest in dancing. And I've no interest in her either. I slowly shake my head as I form my reply, "I'm sorry, but I'm busy." I tell her as I walk away from her to patrol the other side of the ballroom, ignoring the whispers surrounding my little encounter with my classmate.

I've never really been interested in any of the girls in this school. Well, not until recently, I admit. Speaking of which... where is she? I had noticed that she wasn't present in the ballroom the moment I entered. Then again, it has only been 30 minutes since I left her at the infirmary. Girls usually take their time to dress up, or so I heard.

It's as if on cue that the doors to the ballroom creak open. And the sight presented before my eyes is one that leaves me utterly, and completely... breathless.

~Yuuki Kuran POV~

My heart is fluttering restlessly within the confines of my chest, it's so agitated it feels as if it wants to climb out of my mouth and escape. It refuses to be still even as I mutter soothing words to myself. The ball has already begun…after my encounter with Zero, I'm very much behind on my schedule. Even so, I refuse to leave the room until I look…perfect. To make matters worse, I spent too long in the shower, wasted far too much time deciding on scents and perfumes. Delicately shaped fragrance bottles lay scattered across my desk, glistening beneath the gentle light of my bedside lamp. The overhead light had somehow seemed too harsh. Make up remains more or less discarded…in the end only a soft coat of blush has been applied to my already rosy cheek bones. An eyelash curler sits beside a jewellery box in disarray. Trembling fingers grip the hair brush tightly as I add the finishing touches to my hair. The majority of the mahogany strands remain loose, falling just below my chest, however, a few strands have been carefully rolled at one side of my head, meticulously sprayed and pinned in place. Some more is tied loosely at the back of my head, more to tame the unruly strands than for aesthetic appearance. However, no strand remains out of place. I glance at the clock, my stomach churning uneasily. Almost half an hour has passed…I fear he will get bored and leave before I make my entrance…however, the Zero I know will stay and do his job….even if he is wounded and weary. I frown a little at this.

Slowly, I take a step backwards, wary of the precarious heels of my strapped violet shoes. I had fallen in love with them the moment I had laid eyes on them, the ribbons, reminiscent of ballet slippers, and petite bows strapped to the sides matches the silken fabric of my ball gown perfectly. Although fretful, the person staring back at me in the mirror isn't the same childlike schoolgirl who had stood in her place half an hour before, a young woman now stands in her place. I scrutinize my appearance in the mirror, still agonizing over my necklace, over my gloves and my hair. Another uneasy glance at the clock urges me to leave…whether I feel ready or not. I press a gloved hand gently against the refreshing cool glass of the mirror and offer my equally anxious reflection a reassuring smile.

" I'm ready."

I'm standing, paralysed with fear, outside of the ballroom, butterflies consuming my stomach. What if he dislikes my hair? Thinks my dress is too short? I falter as I reach for the door handle. Clutched tightly in my hand is the white Disciplinary Committee band. With fumbling fingers, I slide the band up over my bare arm, carefully adjusting it so that it doesn't slip down and cause irritation. I'm stalling for time. I've waited long enough.

Gradually, the heavy doors roll open with a drawling creak, drawing more attention to my entrance than I may have liked…or…perhaps…the perfect amount of attention. I had been picturing this moment in my head for weeks…playing it over in my mind. Entering the ballroom, capturing his attention like Cinderella and Prince Charming. I feel transformed as I take the first few shaky steps into the crowded hall, like a young woman and not a child. The room is softly lit by a multitude of colored lights. It's romantic rather than garish as I had anticipated. The streamers hang delicately from above, like the tendrils of exotic flowers in a lush and beautiful forest. The Day Class had done a beautiful job on the decorations. The Headmaster would be proud. My eyes scan the room, hungry for the sight of silver hair. I panic a little as the familiar form of my older brother appears in my peripheral vision, and I silently pray he hasn't spotted me. He would surely ask me to dance, if only to prevent me from spending the night with Zero. The two men had taken a dislike to one another, it seemed. My violet skirts swirl elegantly around me, only falling to my calves, my legs feel a little exposed, despite the lacy petticoats beneath the purple fabric. I shiver a little, a combination of anxiety and the cool air brushing my bare torso. I hoped my dress seemed mature rather than inappropriate…it wasn't revealing, but both my father and brother had exchanged stern glances with one another when I had presented it to them. It doesn't matter now…

A flash of lilac. Our eyes meet, locking on to one another as if staring into each other's eyes for the first time ever. Like a fairy tale. He stands across the room, his eyes seem somewhat wide as if he is surprised, and I silently hope that it's because of me. My legs feel as heavy as lead as I glide towards him, instinctively weaving through the throng of bodies without so much as acknowledging that anyone else is in the room. All I see now is him. As I draw closer I take in his appearance. He looks incredibly handsome…no…he looks absolutely….perfect. A simple black suit, accompanied by a midnight blue tie. Somehow the color seems to compliment my dress. A silly thought, as neither of us had planned things that way…but a prospect that brought a smile to my face none the less. The distance between us was covered in mere steps, and now I stand before him, a gentle smile plastered on my face, masking the giddy and light-headed girl beneath it. Tonight…I will take this man's breath away.

"Zero-senpai…I hope your injuries aren't bothering you." I smile warmly up at him, admiring his smartly clad appearance…even his tie is fastened…however, with a gentle smile, I reach up with both hands to adjust it slightly, carefully tugging at it so that it sits more comfortably at his collar.

"You look very handsome tonight…" I tell him, saying the words slowly as I work. A warm blush coats my cheeks as I say this, and I take a deep breath in order to maintain my cool.

"I didn't even know Zero-senpai owned a suit!" I continue with a gentle laugh.

"But one thing is missing…" I say with mock concern, before gently unfastening the delicate red rose from beneath my left collar bone and pinning it to his breast pocket, smiling blissfully the entire time. I work slowly, enjoying every moment of contact I can share with this boy…I yearn to be close to him right now. The nightmarish scene from earlier is fading a little now that I know he is safe…and that he is here right now. My cheeks are burning. Does it mean something to give your corsage to a boy? It seemed like the kind of thing a girl might give to her…

"A rose in the pocket for the men…there. Now you look…perfect." I tell him, my breath catching in my throat as I stare into his gentle lavender orbs. Instinctively I reach up to brush my fingers against his pallid cheek. However, I freeze, realizing this is something I've never done before. Perhaps he would think I was being too familiar. Instead I stand transfixed, not entirely sure whether to proceed, or whether to simply drop my arm. My mind is spinning as I try to decide what I should do, not wanting to seem strange to him. Swiftly, I pretend to brush some hair away from his cheek, silently admiring his jawbone. It was true…Zero was handsome. Even thinking about it made me feel a little…flustered. I had seen some of the braver girls in his class flirting with him…the memory made my heart skin a little. I couldn't deny my feelings any longer...

~Zero Kiryuu POV~

She's flawless. Absolutely flawless. I try to keep my calm as she fixes my tie and puts a rose in my pocket.

You look very handsome tonight… Her comment is still ringing in my ears as I do my best to keep that blush off my face. These emotions are perplexing. Why do I feel this way when she's around? Why does her smile make me feel so... weird? And I don't understand why she even made that comment. I don't get what she sees in me.

Kuran Yuuki... just what is she... to me?

More importantly... what am I to her?

My head is a clouded mess of emotions as I look down at her small form. Her lavender dress fits her petite figure perfectly, her long mahogany wisps falling down her face as they frame her flushed cheeks against their rich, dark chocolate. Her deep, brown eyes are shimmering in warmth, and the sweet, rosy scent surrounding her is intoxicating my senses.

This girl. She's different, for some reason. The most confusing aspect about her, perhaps, is her constant fussing and worrying over me. I don't understand why she cares about me so much. Ever since I met Yuuki in the Chairman's office, she has constantly been by my side, watching over me. She's always nagging me about eating properly, attending classes, performing duties, so on and so forth. She once came to visit me in my dorm after duties and somehow it resulted in her realizing that I had a limited amount of belongings, particularly clothes. Yuuki literally went as far as dragging me to town to shop for clothes and shoes. It was an outrageous experience. I'll just leave it at that.

I don't get this girl. At all. I don't get why she cares so much. I'm not used to others looking after me. To be honest, it's rather irritating. But I think I'm starting to not mind it too much.

She touches my cheek and I'm jolted out of my thoughts, my eyes widening ever so slightly as the warmth of her fingers seeps into my skin. Again. My chest is doing that weird thing again. I try not to get too worked up. After all, she's only clearing some unruly strands from my face. Her fingers leave my face and I can already feel my skin getting colder.

I notice the stares of the people surrounding us. The classmate I had rejected earlier is also looking this way. One of the glares, in particular, is extremely cold and hateful and I can feel it burning in my back. I ignore it, focusing my attention on the person standing before me instead.

If it's Yuuki... if it's her then... I don't mind asking her to dance.

"...thanks." I mumble rather quietly. "And you too... you look... nice." Words. They'll forever be my enemy. She's smiling one of her signature, sunny smiles again, the color on her cheeks darkening even more. Looking at her dark, auburn gaze and her warm, dazzling smile, I know it. There's no going back.

I soften my gaze and offer her my hand for a dance. "Say... do you mind?"

~Yuuki Kuran POV~

I can feel his eyes on me, and even his gaze, while gentle, seems to engulf me completely. The smile on my lips is fixed, even if I attempted to hide it, it would be impossible.

Often…I find myself forcing a smile for people. That's not to say I am an unhappy person…generally I try to be an optimistic kind of girl. However, at times I feel pressure from my parents…I am representing our family, a prestigious family, at this academy…I have already disappointed them once by failing the entrance exam for the Night Class….and as a result, I feel obligated not to falter again….my mind is wandering. A lot of the time I feel as if I have to act carefree just so that no one realizes how scared I am of making a fool of myself…my brother shadows me constantly, the Headmaster keeps a watchful eye over my failing grades…There are times when I wonder…if I even belong in my family at all…if I belong at this Academy at all.

However

When I am with this person….when I'm with Zero…I feel like I can be myself. He doesn't care about my background, nor does he seem to care about my brother's constant surveillance…if Zero wasn't here, I would have spent months engulfed in fear, considering all of the blunders that could possibly take place on my part…I would have entered the ballroom in a modest dress, in plain colors so as not to draw attention to myself…I would have loitered at the edge of the room, away from the critical gaze of the other students and faculty…I would have shared a dance with my brother alone…because no other boy would dare to develop any sort of feelings for me. Not with Kaname Kuran scrutinizing their every move. Not with the Headmaster's wary gaze following them around the room.

But Zero is here with me…he puts me at ease. When we patrol the grounds…when he walks me to class…even though I know we're being watched…that occasional rumours spread through the students like wildfire, until they final reach my brother's ears…none of it seems so bad. The moments I cherish the most….are the ones we share privately. The nights he has stayed with me, well into the early hours of the morning...to tutor me…the nights we have stayed up, until the Sun's rays begin to infiltrate the velvety darkness of the night sky, alone, in the Headmaster's private quarters, sitting at the table drinking pots of coffee…the lights dim and comforting…just so that I can confide in him…about the things I'm scared of…problems that will never measure up to his…and yet he listens contently as if…they're his troubles too. Without a word…he lets me pour my heart out…the only things left unsaid are the words I want to speak the most.

...thanks. And you too... you look... nice.

His gentle voice draws me away from my memories. My heart seems to swell as I look up at him beneath curled eyelashes. I no longer have control over my lips, as the break into an even wider smile at his words. To anyone around us…those words may not sound like much…however…knowing Zero as I do, I can feel the meaning behind them…as if he had just told me I look beautiful. I tuck a loose strand of hair behind my ear, still beaming giddily. I'm getting ahead of myself…I need to calm down…

My gaze returns to his face, as I knew it would. His expression changes. His usually fair complexion appears to be tinted a very soft shade of pink…perhaps it is merely the lighting…his lavender eyes look…different somehow. His gaze is gentle, and I feel myself move a little closer, as if drawn in by his very being. He holds a hand out, offering it to me. My heart skips a beat.

Say... do you mind?

It takes all of my strength to supress the squeal of joy that is rising in my throat. In my mind I had pictured this moment…imagined romantic words like sonnets…but this was more pleasing to me than any poem or love song could be. The reality of it was overwhelming. My jaw almost aches from the smile that has presented itself on my lips. I'm unable to stop it. I smile, forming my response in my mind.

"I was afraid….you wouldn't ask." I smile playfully, a soft blush pooling my cheeks as I reach out for his hand. My playful tone concealed the fact I was revealing my biggest fear to him…Gently, my fingers brush his, and I allow him to lead me into the heart of the room. I am aware of the myriad of eyes settling on us as we walk, hand in hand until he stops. My stomach is fluttering, and I understand completely why some people call it 'butterflies'…only it feels as if one has escaped into my chest as well, beating it's tiny wings eagerly against my ribcage in an excited frenzy. I inhale deeply in a bid to calm myself.

Our fingers intertwine, and I yearn to feel his skin against my own fingertips, and somehow regret wearing gloves. His fingertips grace the bare flesh of my upper back, the moment is brief as he adjusts the position of his hand, however the mere touch sends electric sensations through my skin, heating my entire body like a flame being ignited. The sound of the butterflies wings beats loudly in my ears as I'm pulled closer to him. I rest a hand on his shoulder, unable to ignore how broad his shoulders were…the size of his hand gripping mine gently was also a reminder of the year that separated us. One of the more prominent reasons my family would disagree with our being together…as…more than just friends.

My breath catches in my throat as he begins to lead, and somehow I follow. I feel as if I'm frozen with fear, and yet my body knows exactly how to respond. I've danced like this before…my brother had taught me when I was a child. His dark hair catches my eye at the edge of my peripheral vision….a constant reminder that we are being watched. However, right now my body feels too light to be weighed down by the dark shadow my responsibilities cast upon me. I'm in Zero's arms, and I feel safer than I ever imagined I could feel. As we spin slowly around the ornately decorated room, I become more at ease….I had been worried that perhaps…this wouldn't feel right…we we're only friends….however, it isn't awkward. It feels natural.

"I didn't know…that Zero-senpai could dance." I speak softly, savouring his name on my tongue as if it were a delicacy. The statement is still somewhat light hearted and playful, however, I avert my gaze to his chest as I continue…hoping to wade a little deeper…

"Actually…there's a lot….that I don't know about my senpai…" My cheeks are on fire with the blush that consumes them like flames. My senpai….It had been unintentional….and yet there seemed to be meaning behind it…I has subconsciously confessed myself somehow….without even confessing….I wasn't even sure if he would notice, and yet my body was trembling uneasily. What if he thought I was being too familiar.

My grip tightens on his hand.

~Zero Kiryuu POV~

Her warm, gloved hand fits perfectly into mine, our steps falling in pace so naturally that I'm rather amazed. It's been years since I danced, yet with Yuuki in my arms, following my footsteps so diligently, I don't feel out of practice at all. It's as if everything about us is falling in perfect harmony tonight, the soft beat of the music guiding us as we slowly dance into the night.

"Actually…there's a lot….that I don't know about my senpai…" Her voice is rather quiet over the beat of the music.

Well, that's true. I don't think I've ever shared anything about myself with her, or anyone else for that matter. My past isn't exactly something I like to talk about. "There really isn't much about me that you'd want to know." I try to avoid her question, but somehow it feels that she wouldn't let this one go as easily.

"That's not true! I want...I want to know everything about Zero-senpai..." Her cheeks are brighter than tomatoes, yet her firm gaze is locked into mine. Once again, I fail to comprehend this woman.

"And... why is that?" I voice my honest confusion. Why do you care? I really don't understand. I'm trying to get used to the erratic beating of my heart, but for some reason my attempts at taming my nerves are not working.

"Because...I..." She pauses as we make another twirl and she circles around in her spot, one hand holding mine as her hair dance about her face. We're now facing each other again as she returns in my embrace, her hand placed on my shoulder as mine rests on her slim waist. I can see the soft features on her face getting rather firmer and determined, as her unwavering gaze locks into my eyes. "Because I want to be Zero-senpai's ally."

The music beats and we freeze in our spots. My eyes are not doing well to mask my surprise as I hear those words. Never. I'd never expected her to say that. Or anyone else for that matter. I'm still as confused at her response as I was before, but another emotion is also pooling into my chest, engulfing it in a rather strange warmth that I've never experienced before. Most of my life, I've relied on no one but myself so I can't say I'm an expert at understanding those around me. I've never had others to rely on, and frankly, I was hoping to let it be that way. But maybe... another person to rely on... maybe it's not so bad? No. I mustn't give into this temptation at any cost. I, who have seen the loss of my loved ones with my own eyes, should know better. To think I would have learned my lesson by now. I sigh. My defenses are getting weaker.

I'm so absorbed in my own thoughts that a few moments pass before I notice Yuuki getting rather flustered at her bold declaration. Maybe she took my not replying as an attempt to push her out? I'm feeling bad for her. But there's no helping it. I'm just no good with others. I don't know how to react around them, and especially her.

"Besides..." Yuuki breaks the awkward pause, adding a little more strength in her voice as well as her eyes, "It's not fair. Because you know a lot of things about me, but I don't know anything about you." She does have a point there. "You know about my family... my likes and my dislikes... but I know nothing about your interests, or dislikes, or your family." There's a small frown on her face. It looks cute. But just a little bit.

My lips curve into a shadow of a smile, and I admit defeat. Yuuki is right. The situation is rather unfair. I guess I can tell her. There isn't much to say anyway. Hoping I don't sound or look too awkward, I put up my most expressionless face. "Well... I enjoy horseback riding, and shooting in my free time. I don't mind studying sciences and math either. As for my family..." Ah, I see the word still stings. I swallow an inaudible gulp. This painful pang is rather troublesome to deal with. Then again, I've never told my family circumstances to anyone else. It almost feels as if I'm summoning this pain and letting it out, sharing this burden and shifting it to Yuuki's shoulders instead. It's a strange feeling.

I continue, choosing not to drag this out any further. "I don't have one. My parents and brother died in a car accident six years ago. The Chairman has been taking care of me since then."

There. I said it. This is the first time I have ever spoken so much about myself. The feeling is rather unreal. My heart is pounding in my chest; but I feel strangely... relieved.

However, I can't say the same for Yuuki. Her eyes are now as wide as saucers, glimmering in the tears that are threatening to fall. I wasn't expecting her to react like this. Then again, she probably hadn't seen this coming either. Her infinite cinnamon pools are a myriad of all sorts of emotions- hurt, pain, sympathy, worry... I search deep into her eyes, but I can't find it, that one feeling that I detest when others show me... pity. I don't find it. I have a sudden, strong impulse to crush her into a hug. But I hold myself back. I'm already imposing way too much on her kindness.

"...Zero...I never knew...I'm sorry." Is all she manages to say in a meek, broken voice.

"Nah, it's alright. It was a long time ago." I'm trying my best to brush it off.

"Does it hurt...talking about them? I'm so sorry!"

"Silly. I told you I'm fine, didn't I?"

This is getting rather awkward.

"Even if you say that, I can't help worrying...because Zero-senpai hides his heart."

"And don't you know all about me, Miss I-know-everything?" I tease. I'm a bit embarrassed at her comment, and try my best to change the subject.

But it's then when she does the unthinkable. Before I know it, her arms crush me into a mind blowing embrace, leaving me utterly astounded for a good minute before I realize what's happening and my chest almost explodes from sensory overload. The surprising amount of strength in her limbs isn't the only reason I'm finding it hard to breathe.

"Yuuki..."

~Yuuki Kuran POV~

Actually…there's a lot….that I don't know about my senpai…

The pause that ensues after these words is agonizing. This person has never been particularly open with his emotions…and seems to conceal them, not only from me, but from the world at any cost. Anxiously, I stare up at him, searching his lilac gaze for some indication of a response. Did he notice…did he notice the emphasis on the word my…is that why he is taking so long to respond? His soft lips part a little as he forms a response, and the gestures causes my heart to race fretfully as I await his response.

"There really isn't much about me that you'd want to know." He replies slowly. His tone remains gentle, however he averts his gaze as if attempting to shy away from the subject. Perhaps on another, less unique night…I might have dropped the subject, sensing his unease at the prospect of having to open up to me…but…tonight isn't a normal night…and…I'm feeling a little brave behind the guise of the grown-up-Yuuki I have created for myself. Still…is it okay to ask him these things? Without thinking too much, I blurt my response out hastily before I lose the nerve to do it.

"That's not true! I want...I want to know everything about Zero-senpai..." My voice is unsteady, and I can feel the heat of flames burning in my cheeks again. Why am I so determined to pry into his past? Is it because I really don't know that might about the person I cherish so much…or is it because I'm scared that we will never be able to come any closer than we are now if I can't begin to penetrate the wall Zero has built around himself?

"And... why is that?" My heart skips a beat at his question, as if he is somehow able to peer into my mind and read my thoughts…he asks the exact question I myself am contemplating. I swallow much more audibly than I intend, my grip on both his shoulder and hand tightening a little. I'm suddenly very conscious of his hand on my waist, of how I feel about being so close to him. His scent is pleasant, I wonder if he is wearing some sort of gentle fragrance, a cologne of some sort. I feel myself instinctively moving a little closer as we step in sync, as if we have practiced this dance many times before. This feels natural. Even if I feel giddy in his presence…even if he makes the butterfly flutter excitedly in my chest...there is something invisible between the two of us…something so tangible that…I'm sure if he opens up to me…just a little more…it will become entirely clear. I open my mouth slowly.

"Because...I..." However I am forced to pause as the dance signals it is time for me to spin. As his hand leaves my waist for a moment, I hunger for its warmth to return. I cling to his hand as if I am fearful he will disappear if I release it from my grasp. We're together again. His hand rests gently on my waist once more, almost as if he is comforting me somehow. I lock my eyes on his, mentally asking him not to break this mutual gaze as I speak. So many words filter through my mind, all of them seem very bold…all of them hint at the feeling I have been trying to conceal from him for some time….

"Because I want to be Zero-senpai's ally."

Somehow these are the words that find their way out. They sound over dramatic, as if I'm mocking him. However, my expression remains set as if in stone, I don't allow my gaze to falter as I stare up into his gentle eyes. I may not have known this boy for very long but…ever since we met… I've felt a strong connection to him, like the ones I always imagine people speak about in books and , whether he knows it or not…he's changed me. Before I met him I felt like a porcelain doll. I was to behave and act in a way that would reflect well upon my family, who are in the public eye…I never thought I would amount to much. I've never been smart and diplomatic like my onii-san…I've never been beautiful and graceful like my mother…nor have I been kind and fair like my father. I love all of them dearly…they don't openly criticize my ineptness…and they encourage me to do well even when I'm struggling. I'm very fortunate. Yet I feel like a spare pawn in a game of chess…the type that is easily captured and not good for much else. I inwardly smile a little at the association, thinking of my father and older brother. I'm not even talented at chess. In any case…When this perplexing and curious boy had entered my life…I had felt a shift in my world, not noticeable at first…but as we began to spend more time together…as I began to realize the extent of his troubling behavior…I had felt as if I had been given a purpose. I wanted to cherish this boy. While the rest of the school seemed almost afraid of him, I wanted to be a person that he could turn to, should he need a friend. Just knowing that this boy needs me…even if…he's never spoken those words himself…

I suddenly notice we have stopped. We stand frozen like marionettes. Zero's usually neutral mask is breaking somehow. His eyes are noticeably wider than usual, his cheeks distinctly flushed pink. Seeing him like this…my pulse quickens. It's not unbecoming on him. To see such a gentle color on his cheeks…however, I'm not entirely sure this is the response I wanted. He has been silent for a while now. My palms feel sweaty beneath my silky gloves, and my entire body begins to feel clammy with embarrassment. The statement had been a peculiar one…perhaps he found it unsettling…when I had first started going to great lengths to buy him new clothes, and make sure he ate…I had been under the impression that he found it irritating…however, he never made any serious attempt to deter me from repeating the acts. However, what if now…it all seemed disturbing to him? It was a little peculiar…for a girl a year younger than him to behave like his mother or something. The heat seems to be rising, and I can't bear the silence any longer.

"Besides..." I croak, my throat dry from the tense period of waiting in silence. I clear my throat softly, hoping it isn't too noticeable above the music's gentle melody. I lock my fingers more tightly around his own, drawing strength from him as I proceed tentatively.

"It's not fair. Because you know a lot of things about me, but I don't know anything about you." I declare, scolding myself mentally at the scathing nature the comment seems to hold. It isn't my intention to seem confrontational, however my anxiety comes across that way...I'm beginning to sound more like everyday Yuuki…the girl who lectures him for not attending classes and trying to get out of Disciplinary Committee duties. I try to break the association. The Yuuki he is holding and the one who cleaned his wounds earlier this evening are different…on the inside, they're exactly the same…but tonight, I want to show him the mature, adult Yuuki…the one he can truly depend on to be there for him, the one he can confide in…if only he'd open up…even a little…

"You know about my family... my likes and my dislikes... but I know nothing about your interests, or dislikes, or your family." I continue, my tenor is noticeably softer this time, and I'm satisfied that I don't sound as childish as I may have if I had continued speaking in the frantic tone I had been. Speaking to Zero-senpai in such a tentative way…I feel a little as if I'm walking on eggshells. Even as I feel safe in his arms, I've never asked him so plainly to open up to me…I and always assumed…no…hoped, that one day he would naturally reveal more to me. However selfish of me…it seems I have become impatient. The dance is coming to an end, and I fear the conversation will cease with the final musical note.

Please…don't push me away…please…

In the blink of an eye, I notice something sweep across his face, something like a smile, quickly concealed by his familiar mask once more. My chest constricts. My brows knit into a slight frown.

"Well... I enjoy horseback riding, and shooting in my free time. I don't mind studying sciences and math either. As for my family..." I'm a little taken aback as he begins to speak. Horseback riding…I should have known…Zero-senpai often spent time in the stables, with an untameable horse named white Lily…I blush a little. The thought of Zero-senpai riding a white steed appeals to some childish memory within my heart of princesses and knights…Sciences and math…another thing I should have realized. I heard that Zero-senpai's grades were prestigious amongst the Night Class…that is, when he attended class. Rumour had it…he had even been offered a place in the Night Class at one time. I was silently thankful he had refused. However, even as I listened diligently, mentally noting every detail down in my mind, the word family, was what attracted my attention.

He pauses. I wait with baited breath, afraid that I'll miss what is to come if I even breathe too loudly. Is he finally going to tell me about the mysterious family I have never seen nor heard about?

"I don't have one. My parents and brother died in a car accident six years ago. The Chairman has been taking care of me since then." My heart stops in my chest, and I feel my chest constrict as if something is pulling tightly around my heart. I have only experienced this heavy feeling before…once. When visiting the graves of my grandparents. Although I had never known them, there had been an undeniably heavy atmosphere, like a heavy shade being drawn over a sunlit window…

What has this boy had to deal with all alone?

Staring up into his calm lavender eyes, I couldn't believe that this was nothing to him…even if six years had passed…I got the impression that Zero-senpai had rarely spoken of this before…if he had ever spoken of it before. He seemed so at ease…and yet…how could he be? Guilt washes over me like a wave crashing against a cliff, and I realize how selfish I've been. How cruel it was for me to ask this of him. How terribly…self-centred my conversations with him have been. Complaining about frivolous things, about the family I can never truly measure up to…when this boy doesn't even have a family to call his own any longer. How completely insensitive of me. Staring at him….he appears even more alone than ever. A single figure standing alone amongst the other students. A lump has formed in my throat, and tears threaten to sting my eyes. Even now I'm being selfish…allowing myself to cry right now…when Zero is sharing his pain with me…would be the most selfish act of all. Right now…I want Zero-senpai to feel as if he can share these things with me…I feel honoured that he even confessed something so painful to me…

"...Zero...I never knew...I'm sorry." I stutter guiltily, not only apologizing for his terrible loss…but for asking…for being so insensitive over the years… I couldn't articulate my thoughts well right now, my voice quaking even now…I squeeze his hand tightly in my own, as if to reassure him that I won't abandon him. I realize the significance of the things I had said….his ally…somehow now…it seems like something more profound now. I don't regret it.

"Nah, it's alright. It was a long time ago." His tone is gentle, comforting…as if he is the one who should be consoling me! I shake my head, swallowing the lump in my throat swiftly. So many emotions are rising within me, I struggle to suppress them. He seems as if he's trying not to make a big deal out of it…but….I can't help but feel as if it's all a façade. He seems so fragile…as if…he could crack at any moment.

"Does it hurt...talking about them? I'm so sorry!" I blurt out. Even though I'm certain Zero-senpai wants to drop the subject…I simply can't. I don't want him to feel as if I find it awkward to talk about…I want to comfort him…My voice is breaking, and my eyes are burning the effort it takes to hold back my tears.

"Silly. I told you I'm fine, didn't I?" He replies. I should drop the subject. Things are becoming strange. He is trying to avoid the subject, understandably…the rising feeling in my chest is becoming unbearable. I shake my head. I can't. I know he's not. Why else would he neglect himself….get into fights…shut everyone out. His heart is suffering…surely…he must feel….alone. Abandoned by everyone. How could someone so young live alone that way? It seems he can't stand the Chairman…so…who else is there? Alone. An emotion I thought I knew…until now. I can't even begin to imagine…what he must be feeling right now…what he must have been feeling for six years.

"Even if you say that, I can't help worrying...because Zero-senpai hides his heart."

"And don't you know all about me, Miss I-know-everything"

I don't hear what he is saying. My mind is overflowing with thoughts, my heart ready to burst with emotions. In an impulsive moment, I release his shoulder from my grip, his hand is no longer intertwined with mine. I fling my arms around his torso in a crippling embrace. I cry freely into his chest, hoping it will muffle my cries just a little. I allow myself only a moment to fall apart in this way, before reigning my emotions back in just as swiftly as they had come. I can hear his heart beating frantically in his chest. It's relaxing somehow. I must have shocked him with such a bold gesture. I don't mind. I'm trembling, and yet, this is something I need to do. I bring his body closer to mine, so that our torsos are separated only by the sheaths of fabric between us. Our heartbeats seem to resonate. Even my own heart is in a frenzy because of the close contact. I don't know how he'll respond. However, this is the only way I know to truly convey to him what I want…I want to be…his…I can't finish that sentence yet. Not even in my own mind. So I settle on this; I don't want him to feel alone. Slowly, oblivious to everything else around me, I rise on my toes so that I can whisper in his ear. The intimacy causes my body to tingle. My skin is on fire.

"You don't have to be alone anymore…Zero…I won't leave your side…because…" My words sound desperate, even in the hushed tone I use. I purposely use only his first name…and hope that he won't be offended…My voice is laced with a myriad of emotions. Tears are slipping down my cheeks on to his suit. I pray that he won't notice. I take a shaky breath, before continuing…

"Because…I…I"

A/N: Sorry for leaving you guys on that cliff-hanger there. Nami-chan (LeVampireCat) and I were feeling a bit sadistic. _

Next chapter will have a special appearance~ ;3

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Till later~

LeVampireCat and Shizza24