Disclaimers!
~ 3 ~ In Need of a Friend ~ 3 ~
Akemi and Takara sat in a diner at a booth as they ate their omelets.
"This is so good", Akemi moaned out as she took another bite.
"I know right, I come up with the best ideas", Takara said with a full mouth.
"So how will you tell Charles that you are now an assistant to the lead singer of Phoenixey", Akemi said. "I still can believe that though!"
"What, that you're in Phoenixey?"
"Not just that, but I'm the lead singer! If it was back up it wouldn't be so mind blowing, but lead?"
"I know right, your face will be on everything!"
"I know!"
"And about Charles, I'll just let him see that you are the new lead singer on TV. We all know he'll call to congratulate you then I'll say surprise, I'm her assistant!"
"I will pay you, you know that right!"
"Really? Cool, I wasn't even thinking about that", Takara said staring out the window. "No really, I was just thinking we won't be separated like all those other famous people. We'll spend all our time together."
"You know what I'm thinking", Akemi said drinking her water.
"What?"
"We should totally live together like we planned on doing in college and stuff. That'll be so cool! You know, when we graduate and stuff."
"We should do that. But how will we juggle school and our careers at the same time?"
"We'll manage it", Akemi said finishing her food. She looked at her phone for the time and saw that it was 7. "We should go if we still want to get those frappes."
"Mm you're right", Kara said swallowing the last of her food.
Akemi paid the bill and Kara left the tip and they left and got in Akemi's car. Akemi drove to the coffee shop and the waited in line till it was their turn.
"How do you think the people at school will act once they see you after they find out", Kara asked.
"I have no idea. Probably fake like the people in the movies."
"Probably. Do you think Brandon will come and ask you out?"
"No, I don't really care. I got over him after I found out how much of a jerk he was", Akemi said rolling her eyes. "Did you know the reason why he calls me Violet is because he didn't noticed me when we bumped into each other the first time we met?"
"What? I thought it was because of your weird eye color!"
"That's what I thought! And I love my eye color by the way!"
"I know, I do too. It's just really unusual. Its violet with silver sparks! Who has eyes like that?!"
"I don't know. I'm unusual. And I always thought it was a mixture of my parents' eye color."
"But it's weird to have violet eyes! I've only seen you and your mom with that color eyes. Your grandparents doesn't even have the eye color. And you're human!"
"May I please take your order", said the cute cashier guy.
Takara winked at Akemi when they noticed how cute he was. "Yeah can we have two mocha frappes?"
"Only if I can get your number with that sweetheart", he said to Takara with a smile totally ignoring Akemi.
"I'm sorry, I'm taken. But my friend is available", Kara said with a smile towards Akemi who just gave a small smile.
"So two mocha frappes", he said smile faltering and looking down at the register.
Akemi frowned at his rudeness. A no would've been enough, you don't have to ignore me you bastard!
"Yeah", Takara said not liking that he just dissed her best friend. When he walked off to make the drinks she turned to her friend with a small smile. "Don't worry, he's not that cute anyways. No asshole is."
"I'm good, I prefer not to be anyone's second anyways."
When he came back, he placed the drinks on the counter and looked up at the girls. He rolled his eyes at Akemi and went to Takara. "That will be $7.61."
Takara took out the ten bucks and handed him the money. He gave her the appropriate change in return. "Thank you", she said grabbing the drinks.
"Have a nice day!"
"Now that I met you, it's a little too late for a nice day", Takara shot at him, making him frown. Once they were out the door she laughed. "We are so going to have an awesome day, I just wanted him to feel bad!"
"You are so mean", Akemi laughed out.
"That's one of the reasons you love me!"
"You're so right though", Akemi said as she sipped her drink. They got in the car and pulled out of the coffee shop parking lot.
"I have a question for you Ms. Akemi", Takara said professionally.
"Yeah what is it?"
"Would you try dating Inuyasha?"
Akemi choked on her mocha and hit the brakes.
"Damn, Kemi! Kill us why don't ya?!"
"Sorry! I just wasn't expecting that", she said as she received horns blowing at her.
"Well are you going to answer my question?"
"Um, no I wouldn't."
"What? You'd deprive your future hubby of love", Takara asked with a fake gasp.
"It's not that, it's just after him finding out I was bullied and all... I don't want him to do it out of pity. And he might be a suspicious of me, you know. I'm the new lead singer! He just dumped the old one for cheating, he might not want me because of what happened before. Wouldn't you be all hesitant if your ex you dumped cheated on you and here's another guy coming to take his job? He might be like guy before him?!"
"Oh Akemi, you think too deeply into things! He said he was way over Kikyou because he should have known she was cheating!"
"Yeah okay sure", Akemi said trying to think of something else to talk about. "Speaking of which, do you think the girls will like me?"
"Oh c'mon I'm sure the other Phoenixes will like you!"
"Phoenixes?"
"Yeah Inuyasha said that's what they call themselves. Separately they are Phoenixes, together they're Phoenixey."
"You had a real good talk with Inuyasha didn't you", Akemi laughed out.
"I told you it was easy to talk to him! He's so cool Akemi. Such great boyfriend material for you."
"He probably don't even like me! So stop making a big deal out of it! Me and Inuyasha will not date, okay? Besides… with what just happened with Brandon, I'm not sure I'll date soon."
"Akemi, you guys weren't even together!"
"That's not what I'm scared about! It's me making a friend out of a guy then liking him and asking him out only to find out he thinks of me as a guy!"
"That's because you're muscular and all."
"I'M NOT MUSCULAR, I'M STRENGTHENED!"
"Okay, okay fine you're strengthened", Takara said throwing up her hands. "Shit, gotta snap on people!"
"Sorry, I'm just nervous."
"About what? I'm sure they'll welcome you with open arms. If Kikyou was really a bitch like they put out, they'll be ecstatic to have you there instead of her."
"Or they could be hesitant because of what happened with Kikyou."
"I'm starting to think the world looks hesitant to you because you're so hesitant about the world", Takara said drinking her caffeine.
Akemi just rolled her eyes at her friend as they reached closer to their destination. "That's not true."
"No it's true and it's perfectly normal! It's like a little girl expecting the world to be nice because she's surrounded by a nice family. But in your case you're surrounded by bullies with only a couple of people nice to you, you're dad and my family. For the little girl, it's called being naive, for you it's called being scared. And seeing what you've been through its totally understandable!"
"Then stop hassling me about it."
"But it's not okay, Akemi! I'm on you because I don't want my friend to hide from the world! If you do it will affect your future and life. You'll be like those scaredy cats that lock themselves up in their houses and order their groceries by phone as they live off the income of being an author."
"Are you comparing me to the lady off of Nim's Island?"
"That doesn't matter, right now! What does matter is that I want you to be free. I promised your mom that I'd make sure that it happens. If I have to drug you up with ecstasy in order for that to happen, god damn it, I will!"
"Okay…" Akemi said as she pulled up in the parking lot of the recording company. "Here we are." They both stepped out of the car and begun to fix their appearance.
Akemi was wearing a gray long sleeve shirt that said "MAKE LOVE" in black letters with black legging jeans, black All Star Chucks and a gray beanie. Takara was wearing a purple hoodie over a white t-shirt with an owl on it, some blue jeans and purple All Star Chucks.
"How do I look", Akemi said.
"Like you want to make love", Takara said with a devious smile. "I thought you didn't want to date Inuyasha."
"He may not even be here", Akemi said rolling her eyes.
"Oh he will, he told me."
"Are you sure you're not trying to date him, I mean fuck!"
"I told you Akemi-"
"Yeah, yeah he's a nice guy and real easy to talk to", Akemi said mocking Takara's voice as they walked in with mochas in their hands.
"I don't sound like that", Takara said giving a straight face.
"Oh yeah, and Steve Harvey isn't the king of comedy and Chris Brown isn't sexy."
"Really Akemi, when you bring the Breezy into this it's not even funny", Takara whined.
"I know", Akemi laughed. They both walked to the front desk and Akemi spoke to the lady there. "Hi, I'm Akemi Hines. I was told to be here to meet up with Phoenixey."
"Oh so you're the new lead singer", the lady said with wide eyes.
"Well, that's what I'm told", Akemi said with a soft smile.
"Oh thank god, Kikyou was a bitch! I'm so glad you're here", the lady said. "I'm Yura Hare, it's nice to meet you Akemi."
Akemi shook Yura's hand with a smile. "It's nice to meet you too! I'm glad to be here."
"So what you're gonna do is walk down this left hall to the elevators and take it to the top floor. After that at the end of the hall on the right is the conference room. You're pretty early so no one might be there… but that's good! Shows you are determined and someone to count on."
"Really? I'm early?! I didn't even now", Akemi said as both her and Takara took out their phones.
"Bro, we're fifteen minutes early", Takara said. "Cool."
"I'm sorry and you are", Yura said.
"Takara Rose, Akemi's assistant!"
"An assistant? Already?! Please don't tell me you think you need one because every star must have one", Yura begged. "That's the same thing Kikyou said. Instantly I knew she was going to spoil."
"Uh no", Akemi said.
"Akemi's not even like that", Takara said.
"Really I'm not, the reason why I asked her to be my assistant is because she's my best friend and I want her by my side every step of the way. I mean it's been that way since we were kids, why stop now?"
"Aww that's so sweet", Yura said. "That's what Inuyasha said when he started. You should meet him."
"She kinda already did", Takara said. "Before passing out that is."
"Shut up, he told me we were getting married. That and finding out I'm in Phoenixey was a lot to take in!"
"He told you that you were getting married?"
"Kara told him he was my future hubby, he was only kidding."
"Oh well let me warn you now", Yura said. "Inuyasha is a really sweet guy, but a huge flirt."
"Really now", Takara said winking and elbowing Akemi who in return slapped her arm.
"Oh yeah, he came in here and flirted so badly I almost turned into a cougar! But he will stop once he's in a relationship unlike his friend/assistant Miroku. He's a perv. Keep your asses covered, he's a handy one."
"Isn't he in a relationship with Sango, the bass player of Phoenixey?"
"It's hard to tell. One minute she's knocking the hell out of him, the next, they are all lovey dovey. It's pretty cute if you ask me. Well I should stop, you need to get upstairs. It was so nice meeting you, Akemi. You too Takara. If you ever want to hang out or just talk, don't hesitate to come to me. You guys seem fun. So glad you replaced Kikyou!"
"Thank you", Akemi said. "It was nice meeting you too. Bye!" With that the girls waved goodbye and followed Yura's direction to the elevator once they were on Takara and Akemi looked at each other.
"She has really cool hair", Takara said.
"Yeah it's easy to have cool hair for a hair demon, they're so lucky!"
"How'd you… oh wait never mind! Forgot you had miko powers! You know with you not using them and all, it gets hard to remember."
"Yeah I know. Sometimes I forget until a demon walks pass and my inner alarm goes off."
"Why do you call it an alarm? Just say your spidey sense are tingling!"
They both laughed as the elevator doors opened. "It's not like that, I call them alarms because my body tenses up like I'm in danger, preparing for anything. You know, like when you set your house alarm and when you walk in, the alarm automatically goes off."
"Oh, got ya", Takara said with a nod.
They took a sip of their mochas as they walked into the conference room. The lights were on but just like Yura said, no one was there. They sat down and begun talking about random things like how Takara's and Charles's children would look.
"I love Charles's eyes, I want them to have his", Takara said picking her nails as she sat back in her with her leg crossed over the other.
"You have really pretty eyes though. They're all sparkly and hazel."
"Yeah but Charles's eyes are GOREGEOUS! With the blue color growing lighter as they get to the pupil. And when his mood changes it either brightens or darkens. It's so sexy! Demons got perks, bro."
"I know right, you're so lucky!"
"You can be lucky too, just date Inuyasha."
"Kara, we've talked about this!"
"Yeah, I know! I don't know if he is ready, and I know I'm not ready because of the thing with Brandon. BLAH! BLAH! BLAH", Takara said imitating Akemi with talking motions with her hands.
"I don't sound like that at all!"
"Yeah and Chris Brown isn't sexy", Takara said with a smile.
"You're not right, you're not right at all", Akemi said shaking her head as she relaxed in her seat.
When the room feel into a comfortable silence Inuyasha walked in the room. He was wearing a white t-shirt with a khaki jacket and gray jeans with his sunglasses hanging off his shirt. "Oh hey there beautiful."
Akemi's eyes widened as both her and Takara sat up.
"Oh god, you scared me shitless", Takara said. "Sup Inuyasha, how are you?"
"I'm good", he said with a smile. "But I'll be better if the beautiful lady behind you respond to my greeting."
Akemi's face went extremely red at what he said. "H-hi, Inuyasha…"
"That's much better", he said with a bright smile. "Now I'm great."
"Wow you really are a flirt", Kara said.
"Who told you I was a flirt."
"Yura."
Inuyasha let out a chuckle as he pulled a seat out in front of the girls so that they were in a triangle. "I'm not that bad. There are worse, like my assistant."
At that a guy walked in. He was wearing a black button up with his sleeves rolled up, a gray vest and bow tie and black faded jeans.
"Inuyasha what should we… oh hello gorgeous!"
Akemi looked at Takara who looked at her. "He's talking to you", Takara snapped.
Akemi looked back at the guy and noticed he was looking straight at her. "Oh", she said not expecting that.
"Speak of the devil", Inuyasha said. "Akemi, Takara this is Miroku. Miroku this is Akemi and Takara."
"Well, what a beautiful duo we have in the room. Would any of you ladies mind baring my children?"
"Oh okay, not! I have a boyfriend, and if he heard that from you he'd kill you", Takara said.
"Aren't you taken anyways", Akemi asked with an arched brow.
"That's his catch phrase. He says it whenever he sees beautiful women", Inuyasha said. "Miroku, you were asking me something, what was it before you get yourself killed."
"Oh what do you want for lunch?"
"It's 8 in the damn morning! We just had breakfast and you're wondering about lunch", Inuyasha snapped.
"It's called thinking ahead my dear friend. Also known as planning." At that Miroku's phone rung and he took it out. "Excuse me but I have to take this." And he left the room.
"That's your best friend", Takara asked with an arched brow.
"I'm sorry about him, he doesn't know any better. He's still a child maturing."
Akemi giggled at that.
Inuyasha looked at her and a smirk grew on his face. "You have amazing eyes", he said. "Miroku has violet eyes but the silver in yours sparks life to the violet."
"Oh thank you", Akemi said looking away.
"Aww that was so sweet", Takara said. Both Inuyasha and Akemi looked at her. "Oh I'm sorry, didn't mean to bring a hammer to your delicate moment there."
Akemi stuck her tongue out at her friend as Inuyasha laughed.
"I thought I might give you an update on the girls, would you guys like that?"
"That would be good for Akemi because she's scared that they won't like her."
"Well you have nothing to worry about, because they'll love you", Inuyasha said as he smiled at them. Akemi couldn't help but return the smile. "Okay so you have Rin she's the nicest one out of all of them and the oldest. She's twenty. If you need any advice go to her, she gives the best advice ever. Kagome, my cousin, is also nice but not as nice as Rin. She has her mean moments. She can be scary, just don't piss her off. She's the youngest of the four, she's 18 going on nineteen. Even though she's the baby she's the most mature and will always have you back. Then you have Sango, Kagome's closest friend who's nineteen, the second oldest. She'll kickass but is nice too. Just stay on her good side. And last but not least Ayame, she's straight up badass. Just don't' make her angry, but other than that she's cool and the partier."
Akemi nodded and Takara looked between her and Inuyasha with a smile.
"Personality wise, Rin's the nice one, Kagome's the fashionista, Sango's the smart one, and Ayame's the badass partier. Oh and she's nineteen. Which reminds me, how old are you?"
"We're seventeen", Akemi said. "Still seniors in high school."
"Okay", Inuyasha nodded. "I'm nineteen or did you know that?"
"Ooh ego", Takara said. "Just because we're fans doesn't mean we know you're whole life story."
"Just making sure because we got those girls who knows my birthday, age, favorite color, favorite food, my parents name, and have me everywhere", he said. "I was just hoping you two weren't those girls."
"We're not", Akemi said. "You're safe."
"Good, well everyone's on their way in so get ready", he said changing his seat to the one next to Akemi.
At that everyone else walked in and Takara winked at Akemi whose heart was about to explode.
It's them!
Kagome was wearing an amazing pink sleeveless top with a bow around the torso and ruffles at the bottom, light blue jeans, and pink flats with colorful earrings. Her hair was down. Sango was wearing a black and white polka-dot sleeveless top with skinny jeans, black flip-flops, and black floral earrings. Her hair was in a high ponytail. Ayame was wearing a pink polka-dot tank top with dark blue skinny jeans, pink floral earrings and matching flip-flops. Her hair was in two side ponytails. And Rin was wearing a gray sleeveless top with a black bow around the torso, light blue jeans with one rip at the knee, white sandals, and gray hoops.
"OMG", Takara whispered to Akemi. "They, like, have amazing outfits! I would've worn pink and black if I knew they were going to match." She then turned fully to the girls. "Do you guys plan to dress with the same color all the time?"
"No", Rin said. "It just happens. I guess since we are around each other for so long, we think alike."
"You got us two lead singers? What were they, like, I won't do it without the other or something", Ayame asked eying the girls.
"No actually one is an assistant", Kagura said excited. "Sit, sit let me introduce you guys." Once everyone was sitting Kagura stood. "Okay ladies, here is your new Phoenix, Akemi Hines. Stand up Akemi", Kagura said to Akemi.
Akemi just sat there staring at her favorite band in front of her.
OMG it's them!
"Akemi dear", Kagura said.
"Wow rebellious already", Ayame asked.
"No she's just really star stricken. She's met you guys before, I don't know why she's like this." She then pinched Akemi. "Akemi stand up, you're embarrassing yourself!" But Akemi didn't stand, no, she had her mouth wide open with her eyes. "OMG, I can't believe I have to do this." Takara stood up and pulled Akemi with her.
"Oh I remember her now", Sango said. "She's the one who stayed silent threw the whole time as we signed all of her things."
"She didn't say a word", Rin said. "And she still has the same reaction! It's so sweet we make her speechless."
"When she saw Inuyasha yesterday she passed out", Takara said.
"That was kinda my fault though", Inuyasha chuckled while rubbing his neck. "If I didn't say a couple of things she'd still be intact."
"We really need her to talk though", Kagome said.
"Takara would you mind do something. Leroy did say you're good at this."
"I hope you don't mind violence."
"I love violence", Sango and Ayame said in unison.
Takara then turned Akemi towards her and slapped the shit out of her. "WAKE THE HELL UP!"
"Ow Takara that really hurts! That shit isn't funny", Akemi yelled holding her red check. She then looked at the band across from her and blushed. "OMG I did it again didn't I? This is so embarrassing", Akemi said covering her face as she fell into her seat.
"It's okay sweetie", Rin said. "It happens all the time."
"Yeah but it shouldn't with your future band mate", Akemi said still embarrassed. "I'm such an idiot!"
"Look don't be so hard on yourself okay", Kagome said. "Actually we were expecting this. So its okay, really."
"Okay", Akemi said. "Maybe I should properly introduce myself then. Well me and Takara."
"Yeah don't forget about me", Takara said sitting.
"That would be a good start", Kagura said. "And then we can move on to the contract and all the other things."
Akemi nodded with a smile and everyone sat down. "Okay. I'm Akemi Hines, this is Takara Rose. We're best friends and have been since like birth."
"We basically complete each other. I'm the outgoing and crazy one, she's the quiet, calm, and talented one. Look at what she did to my nails!" At that Takara held up her hands to show off her manicure Akemi gave her.
"Aww that is so cool", Ayame said.
"They look professional", Kagome gasped.
"I want one", Sango said.
"I want one with flowers on it", Rin said excited.
"Girls", Inuyasha whispered to his manager and assistant who nodded in response.
"Well maybe we can have a slumber party one day", Akemi said quietly. "Me and Kara do it all the time while watching your concerts and stuff."
"That would be fun", Rin said.
"Yeah, we haven't did that since high school", Kagome said.
"But you can leave out our concert watching, we can just watch Channing Tatum movies", Ayame said.
"YUSH", all the girls said including Kagura.
"So how old are you guys", Sango asked.
"Seventeen", they said in unison.
"Our birthday is on the same day so it's pretty easy to remember", Takara said.
"November 19", Akemi chirped more comfortable.
"Literally friends from birth huh", Ayame said.
"Yeah our moms were besties in high school and it's funny because they were hanging out the day we were born", Takara said.
"Yeah they were at my house and Takara's mom's water broke and they raced to the hospital. While she was in labor my mom went into labor."
"Our moms said it was like we knew it was time to come out together."
"Your moms are cool", Sango said.
"Yeah", Akemi said with a small smile.
"Uh it says here that you said when you get a whole bunch of money you donate some to the Cancer Foundation", Ayame said looking at Akemi's papers. "Is that like a pageant show answer like end world piece or something?"
"No, my mom died of cancer when I was ten. I want to do all I can't to help others survive it. Because I don't want others to see their loved ones go through so much pain like I saw my mom. And for what, them to only die?"
"Wow I'm sorry to hear that", Ayame said feeling sympathy.
"It's okay", Akemi said.
"So what do you ladies think", Kagura said. "In or out?"
"Well, I like them", Kagome said. "I really want that mani-pedi!"
"So is that a yes", Kagura asked hopeful. Akemi and Takara held hands in hope.
"That's a hell yeah!"
"AAAHHH", Akemi and Takara screamed while jumping out of their seats.
"Thank you, thank you, and thank you", Akemi said shaking all of their hands. "And Kara, without you I wouldn't be here. Thanks for being the bestest friend ever!"
"You're welcome, you know, just doing me", Kara said flipping her hair.
"Okay so we have two additions to the group", Rin said standing up with the others. "The shy one for Akemi and the outgoing one for Takara."
"Aww you guys would include me in you're Phoenixey circle", she said tearing up.
"Of course, you may not be in the group but your still apart of it. You got Akemi here right? So we owe you", Kagome said.
"With that said", Kagura added reaching into her pocket. "Here's the Phoenixey necklace and keys, for both of you. We normally wouldn't give these to people outside the group Takara but, for you we'll make an exception.
The necklace was a phoenix charm with an orange/red jewel hanging from it.
"Oh these are gorgeous", Takara said.
"I'll never take it off", Akemi said in tears. "But what are the keys for?"
"They are for the Fire Nest, the Phoenixey headquarters, the mansion we all live in", Kagura said.
"You all live together", Takara asked.
"Yeah it makes it easier for us", Sango said.
"But we can't live with you just yet, we still have school, and we don't know what our parents will think", Takara said.
"It's okay", Kagura said laughing. "You can wait until you graduate which isn't far right?"
"School just started last month", Akemi said.
"Oh", Kagura said. "Well it's still okay, but I won't lie to you, Akemi. Being in school and your career together will be a lot of work. With staying up late in the studio and homework, you'll have a lot to deal with."
"She can handle it", Takara said. "She's been dealing with shit for the longest."
"What exactly do you mean", Ayame said.
"I'm not the most loved person at school", Akemi said with a blush.
"Oh my, Akemi are you bullied at school", Rin asked. With her hand over her mouth.
"Yeah", Akemi said looking down with a nod. "Kind of a daily thing..."
"But she broke someone's nose and someone else's jaw. With one hit!"
"I love you", Ayame said hugging Akemi. "Don't worry about the bullying crap, I got your back. If anyone steps up to you just call me okay. You're too nice and adorable of a person to be picked on."
Akemi blushed with wide eyes. "Uh okay."
"Besides once everyone finds out that you're the new lead singer of Phoenixey tomorrow, they won't be bullying you anymore."
"Wait tomorrow?"
"Oh yes, I didn't tell you", Kagura said. "Okay ladies we need you here tomorrow at 5 in the morning. Yes 5. The reason why, Akemi we're giving you a makeover."
"Why do I need a makeover", Akemi said looking down at herself with a frown.
"Akemi you're cute but…" Kagura said hesitantly.
"But what", Akemi said trying not to get offended.
"Well you eyebrows are bushy, I'm sure your hair can shine, and sweetie you just look like you are depressed", Kagura said. "I know that you used to be but you can't be anymore. We're going to change you up a bit. You need to show skin!"
"I can't show skin! My skin is terrible!"
"No it's not", Takara said. "She has the skin of a baby. She's scared of what people will think. She's a bit muscular."
"I'M NOT MUSCULAR, I'M STRENGTHENED", Akemi snapped. "How many times do I have to say that?!"
"Anyway she hasn't worn short sleeved shirts, shorts, or skirts in years. She's got an athlete body."
"I just don't want people to say I'm build like a man again", Akemi whispered to herself.
"Wow they're really harsh to you aren't they", Sango said sadly.
"Telling me to kill myself every day is a little bit more than harsh", Akemi said laughing a little with tears.
"Oh god", Kagura said. "I didn't even know about this. Akemi how come you didn't tell us?"
"It wasn't important at the time?"
"This is always important", Kagome said.
"Akemi you're an example to all of the kids who are being bullied. You can change something, you can help people. Not only people with cancer but people with low self-esteem", Rin said.
"You really think so", Akemi said.
"We know so", Ayame said. "All you have to do is tell your story and make sure everyone believes in their selves."
"No matter what, you should always come back alive", Akemi said with a small smile.
"You just added a new meaning to our motto", Kagome said.
"Now you definitely need this makeover. A new you, time to change your attitude."
"I like the sound of that", Takara said. "I'll have the old Akemi back."
"So what do you say", everyone asked Akemi in perfect sync.
"Uh, I guess that'll be fun", she said with a smile.
"Great, so ladies be here at 5 and we'll change Kemi's complete look. Then we'll go to the studio of Spunk TV-"
"SPUNK TV", Takara screamed. "Akemi, you're going to be on Spunk TV! All the hottest celebs were on Spunk TV!"
"They will interview you all and then you'll perform", Kagura said clapping her hands with a shrug.
"Wait I'll be performing with Phoenixey on Spunk TV?"
"Yeah, isn't it exciting", Rin asked.
"I love going on Spunk, they are so hype", Ayame said.
"Yeah it's exciting but what song will we sing, I mean we didn't make any yet or rehearse or-"
"Calm down Akemi", Kagura said. "The performance on Spunk is just to see how you ladies sound together. It's just practice and you'll perform The Writer."
"Ha! That's so funny, we were just singing that song the other day", Takara said on her phone.
"Uh Kara, what ya doin", Akemi said.
"I'm your assistant, I'm setting up you're schedule! DUH", she said looking at her as if she were stupid.
"Oh that reminds me", Kagura said. "I've got you a planner device", she said taking out the device. "You can use this."
"Oh shit, this just got real", Takara said using the device. "Wow it's so cool!"
"Ooh let me see", Akemi said.
"No mine", Takara said snatching it away from her like a child. "You no touchy! All mine!"
"Fine, ya big baby!"
"You know what we should totally do that slumber party thing tonight at the Fire Nest", Sango said.
"Oh", Akemi said. "We can't do it tonight. We're celebrating at Kara's house", she said sadly.
"Aww", the girls said deflating.
Then Akemi and Takara gasped. "Maybe you can join us for dinner", they screeched out together.
"We can have the slumber party at my house afterwards", Akemi said.
"I'll call my mom", Takara said taking out her phone and walking out the room.
"That'll be great", Kagura said. "You'll ladies will be able to get to know each other better."
"You won't join us", Akemi said sadly.
"Sadly no, I have divorce business to take care of", she said. "But we'll do it another time at the Fire Nest."
"Okay", Akemi said with a smile.
At that Takara came in. "Mom said that'll be great. We're having lasagna."
"YUSH", Akemi said. "That's my fav. Beef or turkey?"
"Both", Kara nodded.
"We're having two? This is the best day ever!"
"You guys can follow us to my house", Takara said. "Unless we have something else to do."
"We do actually", Kagura said. "The contract and business. Can everyone else wait outside while me, Akemi, and her assistant talk business?"
"No problem", Kagome said. They all began to file out the room and the three sat down.
~ 3 ~ An Hour Later ~ 3 ~
"Okay, we'll see each other tomorrow", Kagura said packing up her things.
"That we will", Takara said. "5 o'clock sharp!"
"That's my girl", Kagura winked. "I have a feeling this will work out way better than it did with Kikyou. I'm happy you're here to join us Akemi."
"I'm happy too."
And with that everyone left the room. "Kemi, I have to pee, wait here", Takara said outside the door.
"Uh okay", Akemi said standing there.
She leaned against the wall and folded her arms as she waited for her best friend.
"How does it feel to be a Phoenix", said a familiar voice making her jump.
"Oh! Uh… Inuyasha."
"Sorry didn't mean to scare ya", Inuyasha said.
"I-it's okay", she said moving her hair behind her ear. "Uh it feels great", she said shyly.
"You're so shy when talking to me", he said with a smile.
"Well I um…" She begun to play with her lock of hair again like she did when she talked to Brandon.
"You're really cute, you know that?"
"Hehe", Akemi giggled with a blush as she looked away. "You're just saying that…"
"No I mean it. Do you think you can ever be comfortable around me? I'd like for us to have a proper conversation without the breaking of sentences."
"Inuyasha… you don't have to do this", Akemi said shaking her head eyes closed shut.
"Do what, make a new friend?"
"No, you don't have to be nice to me because you know I'm being bullied. I don't need your pity. It makes me feel weaker than I am and already feel."
"I'm sorry, I'm really not trying to put that impression on you. I was trying to talk to you. I mean, you seem very interesting at the auditions and your files said you had some really cool hobbies. I wasn't showing you pity. I was trying to make a friend."
"But why me? You have a best friend and your cousin and Phoenixey all of a sudden you're looking for a friend in me? Try Kara, she already sees you as a friend! I'm not really good with people showing I don't have much experience."
"I don't know, you just caught my eye. And with everyone else, I can't really talk to them the way I want to. Miroku makes a joke out of everything and Kagome doesn't exactly get my point of view. Your friend well... she doesn't seem as interesting as you-"
"You just want someone to talk to huh", Akemi asked. "Everything is hard to take in, with your break up and finding out the love of your life cheated on you?"
"That's exactly what I feel", he said. "You get it. You had a hard break up too?"
"No", Akemi said looking away. "There was no boy for me. It was me losing my mother. I had no one to talk to. The person there for me was Takara. And About the love breaking your heart thing, it was a boy I had a crush on since freshman year. He totally blew me off and dissed me. Told me I would be bad for his rep and that I was basically a dude and all the other crap."
"I don't think you're a dude", Inuyasha said with a smirk.
Akemi smiled at him and looked down. "That's because you haven't seen me play sports."
"Well a girl as pretty as yourself, I don't think my mind will change", he said with a smirk. "I like talking to you, it's like you understand so much."
"I guess I do", Akemi said blushing. "I'm not much but if you really need someone to talk to or a friend, I'll be there. I know it sucks not to have someone there for you. I experienced it until I found out I did have someone. No one should have to feel the way I did. So here's my number…" she said reaching in her purse to get a piece of paper and pin. "Call whenever you feel you need to talk or express yourself. Even if it's like as soon as you get home because your parents bug you or whatever. Just call, I think I'm a great listener."
"From what I'm experiencing, I say you are", Inuyasha said accepting the paper. "Thanks Akemi, you're a good person."
"I try", she said with a small smile. "See you around?"
"Oh yeah, definitely!"
Akemi gave a small smile and turned to run straight into Takara who wore a sly smirk on her face. "Uh huh, you don't want to be in a relationship with Inuyasha. Yeah okay, that's so believable after that scene", she said sarcastically. "Giving him your number won't help with that."
Akemi turned to look behind her to see that Inuyasha was gone. She was thankful he was because she didn't want him to over hear and get the wrong idea. She just didn't want to get hurt again and from the looks of it, she could tell Inuyasha needed a break from relationships. A friend more than a girlfriend.
"You don't understand", Akemi said. "C'mon I'll explain on the way down." She pulled Takara further away from the room Inuyasha was in and begun to explain. "Inuyasha knew I wasn't exactly comfortable around him, aka I get nervous and stutter in his presence. He wants me to be more comfortable with him."
"The reason you aren't comfortable around him is because you like him. You've liked him ever since you saw him on that show when they showed his first song's music video. When they said "Hi Inuyasha" and he said "Hello" you were all in love at the instant moment."
"I know, thank you for the reminder", Akemi said sarcastically as they boarded the elevator. "It was basically me telling him he didn't have to pity me. He said he wasn't, he was just trying to make a friend. I asked why me? He said you're interesting. And turned out he needed someone to talk to that kinda understands his pain. You know, no longer having the one you loved in your life? That's it. So I gave him my number and told him to call when he needed someone to listen because he said he liked talking to me and I understood him. There was no flirting and all of that crap. Well, on my behalf there wasn't."
"Uh huh. Oh so I guess that makes it alright? HELL NO! Face it Akemi, you'll become close to him even if you try your hardest not to. You're gonna end up with him. You guys are so compatible, so perfect!"
"Kara you aren't helping! It's not that I don't want to be with him or at least try, it's that I think we both need time before it actually happens. You know get to know each other first before we go racing into things. Here we could start dating immediately and when we find out we aren't working we'll ruin what could've been a great friendship. I don't wanna try that."
"I get it", Takara said finally understanding. "I understand now, I'll leave it alone until fit. Okay?"
"Thanks", Akemi said with a grateful smile then the elevator doors opened and the walked to the lobby where everyone else was.
"What took you guys so long", Ayame asked. "I'm hungry and that lasagna sounds really good right now."
"I had to use the restroom", Takara said. "And you're right the lasagna does sound good and now I'm hungry. Let's go."
At that they all left not forgetting to wave goodbye to Yura. Akemi climbed into the driver seat of her car as Takara got in the passenger's. They drove to Kara's house singing to all the songs that came on the radio. Luckily it was all the songs they knew.
"Do you know if they will let you sing some of the songs you write?"
"I hope so, because I already have lyrics typing in my head."
"Can you sing some for me", Takara asked with the puppy dog face.
"I would but I have to see how it looks and sounds first. I mean I'm just coming up with verses but they aren't in order and they are without choruses and bridges. So once I get a pen in my hand, some paper in front of me, and a piano or guitar I promise you'll be the first to hear. Okay?"
"I'm holding you to your word. I hear the first song that goes on the album, you know unless you write it with someone's company", Takara said as they pulled up into her drive way.
"Okay, Taki", Akemi said using the name she use to call her friend when they were kids.
"Ugh Akemi you know I don't like that name anymore. I'm not sure if you're talking to me or asking for chips!"
Akemi giggled as the girls got out of the car. "You have a lovely home Takara", Rin said.
"Thanks", Takara said unlocking the door. She walked in and allowed every to walk in before closing the door. "Mom, we're here!"
"It smells so good", Ayame moaned.
"Oh look at this", Takara's mom said. "I have six beautiful young women in my doorway. Hi I'm Karen, Takara's mother. It's nice to meet you. You have no idea how much these girls love you."
"Well, now there are a part of the family", Kagome said.
"I'm glad to hear that. Akemi your father is here and is in the dining room waiting on you with Daren. Why don't you ladies come on so we can eat?"
"Okay", they all said in unison. They followed Karen into the dining where Leroy and Daren, Takara's father, were waiting.
"Look it's the girls", Daren said. "How are you ladies today?"
"Great", they all said but Akemi. She said amazing.
"Well, I made your favorite, Akemi, to celebrate your great achievement in life. Your mother would be so proud of you."
"Thanks, Mrs. Rose", Akemi said with a small smile.
They all sat down and begun to enjoy their dinner. With jokes, laughter, and exchange of things about themselves they all had a good time. For Akemi it was nice. It's been awhile since she's been this excited about anything. But sadly, their time like this had to end. They did have things to do starting at 5 o'clock in the morning.
Akemi and Takara went to Akemi's house to set up for the four guest as the girls went to get clothes and toiletries for their stay for the night. Once they were all together they went into Akemi's room and did the one thing all the girls were looking forward to.
"How'd you become so good at this", Kagome gasped as she watched Akemi work on her nails. "You make it all look so easy!"
"It actually is pretty easy", Akemi said adding patterns. "I did this all the time with my mom. I am a deep thinker and because I was bullied a lot I thought into it really deeply and my mother didn't like some of the conclusions I came up with so she thought of many different activities for me and Kara to help clear my mind. I've kept up with them ever since."
"Wow", Sango said as Takara worked on her nails. "What else did she do with you guys?"
"She taught us how to play instruments", Takara said dipping in the polish. "Akemi more than me though. Akemi was more into it. I didn't have the patience to sit still. So she came up with something else that fit me a little better."
"And what was that", Rin said braiding Ayame's her up in a French braid for bed.
"Dancing", Akemi and Takara said.
"Even though it was for me more than her, Akemi enjoyed it way more than I did. And I loved it. She did it all the time with Mrs. Hines. But when she… passed she kinda stopped."
"I didn't stop I just don't dance as much. It's not the same without my partner."
"But I still dance", Takara said.
"So your mother was an artistic soul", Kagome asked.
"Very much so", Akemi said. "She's where I get all of my talents from. I get my athletics from my dad. And high levels of adrenaline."
"Is that why you are able to brake people in half with one hit", Ayame asked.
"Yeah", Akemi laughed. "That and the fact the dad is a monk. Well he's not exactly doing the works or nothing, we just have the spiritual power and such."
"I'm a miko too", Kagome said.
"I know, I can sense your power. All of yours actually. Sango's a demon exterminator and Rin is one of the brave souls that seem to be drawn to the power. Takara is one too, which is why we are best friends. Well one of the reasons."
"Brave souls that are drawn", Rin asked.
"Yeah, they are called Chasers. They are the humans that mate with demon and marry those who have a power source", Takara said.
"Oh I didn't know that", Rin said.
"Yeah, no one exactly pay attention to us because, well, there's nothing to really learn. We are just drawn to it like a mosquito is to light. Sources say the reason we a drawn is because the specific person we attach ourselves to are the people we are meant to know or who we're supposed to help out in some way."
"And it makes sense to us because without Takara, I'd probably be I don't know… not like this that's for sure. I wouldn't be doing so well in life."
"Huh… it makes perfect sense. Without Rin, Sesshomaru would be even more of a prick", Ayame mumbled causing everyone to laugh.
"So let's talk boys", Takara said.
"No Kara", Akemi said.
"Yes Kemi", Kara said. "Now raise your hand if you have a man." Everyone raised their hand besides Akemi.
"Well damn", Akemi said.
"Well Inuyasha likes you", Kagome said.
"Don't tell me that", Akemi said covering her ears.
"What you don't like my cousin?"
"Nope, it's the complete opposite. She's had the hugest crush on Inuyasha ever since he was first known to the world. She's always had his back in everything people held against him."
"Well shit, tell my whole life story", Akemi said with a roll of her eyes.
"I like the open Akemi", Sango said as everyone nodded. "So much better than the stuttering one because the open one is funny."
"So you do like my cousin", Kagome asked earning a nod from Akemi. "Then why don't you want to hear that he likes you?"
"Because he doesn't need a girl like me running after him because of some silly crush. He needs a break after what just happened to him. And I don't want to get any wrong ideas about someone's feelings again."
"Again", they all asked.
"Akemi had a crush on this dude at school since the fresh days. She thought that maybe he'd give her a chance because he was friendly and had a nickname for her."
"What was the name", Ayame asked.
"Violet", Akemi said.
"Oh that's cute", Rin said with a smile. "Is it because of your eyes?"
"No, but I'm glad that me and Kara aren't the only ones who would've guessed that. It was because the first time we met he bumped into me because he didn't see me. I'm the Violet from the Incredibles."
"Aw that's cold", Ayame said.
"That's not even half of it", Takara said. "When she went to ask him out, he shut her down saying she was practically a dude because she's athletic and has good strength."
"What the hell is wrong with that", Sango snapped.
"Nothing", Kara said. "It's something wrong with him! He also said she would be bad on his rep because of how she's treated. Shit I'd try to help, not make her feel worse! But I guess some people don't think so nicely!"
"I understand now", Kagome said. "You don't want to get hurt. And I appreciate you thinking of my cousin's predicament right now. It's really considerate. But believe this when I say it, Inuyasha would never hurt anyone like they did you. He would want to heal you. And I think… you guys would actually be good for each other. So when all is good and the time is right, you should maybe consider it."
"You really think so", Akemi said.
"Yeah", said Rin. "You guys would be cute together."
"Well how about you guys", Akemi said taking the attention off of her. "Who are you with because I only knew of Rin and Sango being in relationships?"
"I'm with a wolf demon named Kouga. You know, famous rapper", Ayame said. "He's a bit cocky but he's a good guy. Real romantic. He does things for me that no guy has ever done for me before."
"Aww", they all cooed. Then everyone broke into laughter.
"What about you Kagome", Takara asked.
"His name is Bankostu."
"WAIT", Akemi and Takara said. "As in Bankostu Sevyn?"
"Yeah you know him", she asked,
"OMG you know Bankie", Takara said.
"We were friends with Bankostu and his brother Jakostu in junior high. It was when they transferred to a different school when we lost them. That and the age difference. Then things got harder for me and Kara."
"How are they", Takara asked.
"Well actually they work with us. Bankostu is our security guard and Jakostu is and fashion manager. He deals with our makeup and all."
"So you mean", Akemi begun.
"We'll see both of them tomorrow", her band mates said in sync.
"In that case, let's take our sexy asses to bed", Takara said. "We have a lot to do in the morning."
"I agree", Sango said.
They all begun to settle into bed and Akemi turned off the lights. When she laid down her phone buzzed and she saw it was a text.
Goodnight, beautiful.
How'd you know I was going to bed now and not already sleep?
I just had a feeling…
Akemi frowned but shrugged it off. She didn't have time for deep thoughts. She needed sleep.
~ 3 ~ Coming Soon ~ 3 ~
Many Songs To Come