I think I may have forgotten the beginning part of this chapter when I originally put this up. Sorry about that.

The song featured here is "What it is to Burn" by Finch.

Kuro Neko – means Black Cat.

Disclaimer: I do not own Gakuen Alice.

Chapter 4: The Party

Natsume and Ruka browsed Central Town, looking extremely bored. "What are we doing here, Ruka?" Natsume asked coldly. Can we leave now? Ruka nervously smiled at his raven haired friend. "Well… I need to buy stuff for… you know… protection." Ruka sweated. That's the only thing I can come up with? I guess I should get some anyway.

Natsume stopped dead in his tracks. What? His eyes widened a bit as he looked towards his blonde friend, waiting for an explanation. Ruka twiddled his thumbs in nervousness. "Well, you know… Hotaru and I have done it… and we should probably use protection. But, I don't know where to look." His eyes avoided Natsume's harsh glare. Protection… maybe I should get some too. "Hn." Natsume relented his glare and continued to walk to the shady side of Central Town. Ruka followed close behind.

~~~~~~~}~~~~

Anna was in charge of baking the cake and food for the party. Nonoko, and Koko were instructed to help Anna with any necessary preparations. Hotaru was in charge of decorations with Sumire for cheap labor, since she insisted on helping with 'Natsume-kun's' birthday party. Mikan was in charge of… nothing.

"What? Why not?" Mikan whined to Hotaru. She pouted and continued, "But I can help with lots of stuff. Have me do anything!"

BAKA! BAKA! BAKA!

"I said no. You will mess everything up with your clumsiness." Hotaru blankly told her friend who was crying on the floor. "Your job will be to help Ruka distract Natsume." That should keep her out of the way. Stupid klutz. "Geez Hotaru." Mikan complained before giving in.

The group immediately got to planning, while Mikan went outside for a walk.

~~~~}~~

In a quiet café in Central Town, Natsume and Ruka enjoyed some tea together. Their purchases from the shady side of town lay hidden in their pockets. Ruka turned to the rose-eyed man with a concerned look in his velvety blue eyes. "Hey Natsume, I think you need to help Mikan study for her classes. I know she didn't tell you, but she got a 10 on the last math test. I really don't think she'll graduate if things keep going like this."

Surprise surfaced in Natsume's crimson eyes, but he quickly returned to his stoic look. "That idiot, she always causes so much trouble." Ruka took this as a 'Yes, I'll help her study' and didn't push the subject any further. Natsume's brow furrowed in thought. That idiot got a 10? I know she's not that stupid. She probably forgot there was even a test.

They should be done with preparations for today. "It's getting late. We should go back, Natsume. Mikan might get worried if we stay out too late." Ruka casually mentioned as he finished his tea. "Hn."

~~~~~~}~~

Mikan strolled along the edge of the Northern Forest. She didn't have any plans, she just felt like admiring the scenery. A cold breeze licked her face, which was the only part of her uncovered by winter clothing. Mikan closed her eyes and took a deep refreshing breath. I will really miss this place. It holds so many precious memories for me.

A nearby bush rustled, but no wind was blowing. A chill shot down Mikan's spine. "Is someone there?" No answer. Mikan became frightened and decided to turn back. As she walked away the rustling became louder. Oh my god! Someone's here! She panicked and began to run back to the main buildings.

A tall, dark haired man with a white mask stepped out of the bushes. He didn't intend to follow the girl. My Kuro Neko, you leave your little kitty unattended too often. He thought in a pleased manner. I think I might have a little more fun with the little kitten.

~~~~~~}~~

Natsume entered the cafeteria and the girls at his table of friends began giggling. It's so obvious what they are planning. Natsume thought irritably. He pretended he didn't suspect anything and acted normally.

With a large tray of delicious food, Natsume sat down at the table. He frowned as he noticed the loud mouth wasn't there. "Where's Polkadots?" He asked casually, like he didn't care where she was. Hotaru shrugged, "She went for a walk a few hours ago." A few hours ago? Natsume became concerned until the cafeteria loudly burst open and a panting woman lurched inside.

Mikan caught her breath before getting a tray of food and sitting at the dining table. She sat down between Natsume and Hotaru loudly. THUMP! She sighed and began eating, not bothering to greet anyone. Everyone thought Mikan's silence was a little odd, but they didn't ask her about it. After a short while, she became her normal, smiling self again. Obviously, nothing important happened.

Ruka had decided to go to his room before the cafeteria, so he arrived later than everyone else. He quickly joined them and gave Hotaru a peck on the cheek before sitting down. The table buzzed with idle talk. Koko listened to everyone's passing thoughts, since it's an interesting habit of his. He came across Natsume's when he realized that he knew about the surprise party. He gaped at Natsume and was about to say something when he caught the disturbing thought thrown towards him: Say anything, and I will burn you. Keep it a secret, moron. Koko gave a small chuckle and moved on. I really should stop listening to Natsume's thoughts. They are too dangerous for my health.

After dinner, everyone said their goodnights and went their separate ways. Koko and Anna went off to the library to look up recipes for the party. Nonoko went to her lab to concoct some new potions. Hotaru took Ruka to her lab. Natsume led Mikan back to his room.

Once inside, Mikan took a seat on the couch, looking extremely bored. Natsume went to his bookshelf and began piling books on the study table: Math, History, and Science. Mikan eyed the books uneasily. "Sit over here and study." Natsume demanded.

"What?" Mikan exclaimed. She grudgingly moved to the study table and sat next to her fiancée. He gave her a smirk, "Did you think I wouldn't find out about your awful grades? I'm not an idiot like you." Mikan whined but understood his intentions.

They studied late into the night until Mikan collapsed on the desk in exhaustion. What an idiot. Natsume smirked before carrying her to the bed and tucking her in. He slipped beside her and fell asleep.

~~~~~~}~~~

The next morning, everyone was surprised by a pop quiz from Jinno-sensei. It's a good thing Natsume helped me study last night! Thought the cheerful but tired brunette. She worked her way through the first problem before her eyesight became a little blurry. That was a really hard problem. I think I'll just rest my eyes a bit before I start the next one. Her eyes slipped shut and she fell asleep.

She woke up when Jinno yanked her quiz out from under her. "Oh no! I'm not finished yet!" She exclaimed in horror. Jinno just stared at the loud girl. "Then you shouldn't sleep in my class." He abruptly turned and went back to the front of the class. Geez. Now I failed that quiz. Mikan thumped her head on the desk in disappointment.

"Oi, Pink Lace." Natsume whispered as Narumi entered the classroom. "Natsume…" Mikan whined in a low tone. "You're such a pervert." He ignored her comments. "Did you fall asleep during that quiz?" She nodded in reply with a cloudy aura. He sighed, "You're hopeless!"

Narumi glittered in his sequin pant suit. "Good morning class!" He greeted with a wide smile and a twirl. "I've got great news! Next week is exam week! You will have one exam for each subject!" Each word was emphasized with a pleasant ring. The class groaned in despair. "Bye now!" Narumi fluttered out the door, leaving a whiff of perfume.

"I'm doomed!" Mikan cried, as she slammed her head on the desk. Her lover groaned inwardly. Now I have to study with this damn idiot. Yuu approached the desperate girl and patted her head. "I can help you study, Mikan-chan." Mikan looked up to her class president with bright eyes. "Thank you, Yuu!" She was silenced with a light thump on the head.

"You're already studying with me, Baka." Mikan smiled and wrapped her arms around Natsume's neck. She squeezed him tightly against her, practically choking him. "Thank you Natsume! I love you so much!" Natsume gave a smirk before shoving her off him. "Easy, Polkadots. You're going to be the death of me."

~~~~~~~~~}~~

The rest of the week went a little monotonously. Every day, Natsume would force Mikan to study with him until she was too tired to keep her eyes open. He would then put her to bed and cozy up next to her.

Ruka would constantly bug Hotaru for her attention. She would ignore him, even if he was just wanting to study. The door would be slammed in his face, forcing him to be by himself.

Everyone was exhausted from studying. Finally, it was Saturday, Natsume's 19th birthday. People buzzed with excitement. In Natsume's room, Mikan dozed in bed, entangled in the sheets.

Natsume had been awake for a couple of hours already. How long is she going to sleep? He itched with boredom. He climbed into the bed to wake his princess so she would entertain him. Natsume started by gently poking her cheeks. Nothing. "Mikan." He whispered. Nothing. He ripped the sheets off her body. She curled up in a ball, but didn't wake up. "Oi, Mikan, wake up." Nothing.

Natsume grumbled to himself before he thought of an idea. He leaned down and brushed her lips with his. Nothing. He kissed her again, but a little more forcefully. She shifted but didn't wake. This idiot sleeps like a rock. Natsume caressed her cheek and kissed her again. He gently parted her lips and lightly indulged himself. Mikan moaned a bit. Natsume kissed her a bit more roughly and she began to kiss him back. He broke the kissed and gazed into Mikan's gorgeous sleepy eyes. "Natsume… you're such a pervert in the morning." She muttered as she rubbed her eyes. Natsume ignored her and got out of bed. "Get up! You sleep like a rock."

Mikan stretched lazily in the bed. Her pink nightgown rustled around her thighs, but didn't move far. Natsume watched her with amusement. "Oi, no panties, get up." Her face scrunched up, "What?" Then she realized that he was right. Indeed, she was not wearing any panties. "Natsume! You're such a pervert!" She wailed at him. He smirked at her and threw a towel in her face. "Go shower, Baka." Mikan groaned as she grumpily slid out of bed and headed towards the bathroom.

Natsume grabbed a manga and jumped on the couch. He casually flipped through the pages, only mildly paying attention. Water pounded in the shower, and he noticed the discrete difference when Mikan entered it.

His crimson eyes slowly closed as he imagined what his shower was like right now. He grew impatient and horny, and slipped quietly into the bathroom. He silently stripped and slipped on a condom as he listened to Mikan's soft singing.

"So tell me,"

"What's the price to pay, for glory?"

"Like a bad star…"
"I'm falling, faster down to her."

"She's the only,"

"One who knows what it is to burn."

"Today is fire, and she burns."

"Today is fire, and she burns…"

Natsume stealthily slipped into the shower while Mikan was rinsing shampoo out of her hair. Her eyes were tightly shut as she arched backwards into the water. Natsume gently placed his hands on her waist and took her lips in his, not minding the faint taste of shampoo. She gasped, allowing Natsume to deepen the kiss. It had been several days since they shared their first time, and Natsume burned for her.

"Little girl, let me help you…" He ran the soap bar over her body, helping her wash herself. Mikan closed her eyes and enjoyed his every touch. When Natsume couldn't stand it anymore, he pushed her against the cold shower wall. "Mikan…" He whispered exasperatedly, "I'm taking you now." He finished, nibbling on her ear. She moaned, giving him the okay.

After making love in the shower, Mikan went to her room for a fresh change of clothes. Natsume laid on the couch with a satisfied smirk and flipped through his now interesting manga.

After a while, sharp knocking came from Natsume's door. Is the little girl back for more? He thought with a smirk. Unfortunately for him, it was only Ruka. A frown appeared on his face as Natsume remembered what day it was. Damn! It's my birthday!

"Hey, Natsume!" Ruka greeted with a smile. "What do you say about going to Central Town for lunch? I'll treat." Natsume stood in the doorway, looking irritated. He sighed, "Fine."

Mikan met Hotaru and her other friends shortly after Natsume and Ruka left. She happily led them to Natsume's room and unlocked the door. They had decided on his room because it was a special star room, and much larger than anyone else's room.

Hotaru calmly inspected the room, making sure it was suitably clean. To her satisfaction, it was. She slipped into the bathroom, and notice the shower curtain was still open. Disgusting. She moved to close it when she noticed the used item inside. She wrinkled her nose in disgust and yanked the curtain close. Well, at least they used protection.

The frigid woman exited the bathroom. "Mikan, leave." Mikan's innocent eyes widened in surprise. "What! Why?" Hotaru gave her a cold glare. "Idiots must leave. Go to Central Town and find Ruka and your idiot fiancée." Mikan sadly nodded her head in reply, and exited the room. Hotaru turned to her friends. "Let's get to work."

Ruka and Natsume ate lunch in a deluxe restaurant in Central Town. They ate in silence. Ruka was desperately trying to think of what to do next. Natsume was dreading his surprise birthday party.

Mikan boarded the bus to Central Town and plopped herself in a seat towards the back. She grumpily looked out the window and lost herself in depressing thoughts of how she couldn't help with the party. Giggling came from the seat in front of Mikan, breaking her from her trance. She peered over the seat in curiosity. A giggling, ringlet, blue hair, pigtailed girl sat in the seat next to a stoic, silver haired boy.

"Rini! You-chan!" Mikan brightened as she recognized the children in front of her. Youichi cocked his head towards her and nodded. Rini smiled brightly, "Mikan! You're going to Central Town too?" Mikan nodded at the girl.

"Are you guys here, together?" Mikan slyly asked. Rini blushed. "Well, Youichi had to accompany me, or I couldn't go." Youichi turned his head away, hiding any revealing emotions on his face. "I was just tired of her whining about it." Hehehe, he likes her!

Mikan turned to Youichi. "You-chan, Natsume's birthday party is tonight. I want you and Rini to attend." Rini's ears perked, and her sapphire eyes were shining. "Really? I love parties!" Mikan smiled at the happy child. "Great! It's going to be really fun!" Youichi groaned. It's going to be a long day.

The bus arrived at Central Town, and everyone exited the bus. Youichi and Rini parted from Mikan shortly after arriving in Central Town. I wonder where Natsume and Ruka-pyon are? Mikan began skipping around window shopping. After finding the Howalon shop, Mikan treated herself to a small box. She munched heartily while she sat on a bench in a rather unpopulated spot. Unknowingly, she was being watched.

After finishing the box of candy, Mikan heaved a heavy sigh. A young man with long, silky brown hair and shimmering teal eyes approached her. Mikan smiled, "Hello." The young man smiled mischievously back at her. "Hi! Are you waiting for someone?" He asked her slyly. Mikan shook her golden locks. "No, I'm by myself."

The man sat next to Mikan and slid his arm around her shoulders. "Oh, I see. My name is Kane. May I accompany you?" Mikan seemed unaware of his ill intentions. "Okay. My name is Mikan." Kane gave a hearty smile, "Great! Let's go get something to drink." He took her hand and led her into a shady looking café.

They sat down at the table when a sleazy waiter approached. "What can I get for you?" The man asked dryly. Before Mikan could make a decision, Kane made one for her. "I'll have a 'Snake' and she'll have a 'Special'." The waiter smiled slyly, with Mikan unaware. "Sure thing."

The two chatted easily while waiting for their drinks. Finally, their drinks arrived. Kane's 'Snake' was an emerald green iced drink. Mikan's 'Special' was a dark pink hot drink. "Looks delicious!" Mikan exclaimed, eying the pretty liquid in front of her.

As Mikan brought the steaming liquid to her lips, it burst into flames. She screamed and dropped the cup on the table, spilling the contents. Natsume and Ruka stood near the entrance of the café, both with a look of hatred on their faces. "What are you doing, Natsume? I was trying to have a drink with my new friend, Kane." Mikan huffed. Natsume's death glare reached the annoyed Kane. Suddenly, Kane's brown locks caught on fire. Kane shrieked in terror, dumping his drink over his head.

"Natsume!" Mikan stomped over to him, seething with anger. "What's wrong with you?" Natsume glared at her, "What's wrong with you, idiot? Do you even know what that drink was?" Mikan was bewildered. "No, but I'm sure it would have been tasty if you hadn't ruined it." She received a quick hit on the head. "Ow! Natsume…" Mikan whined. "Baka! That drink is used to make idiots, like yourself, easy to get into bed." Mikan's face fell as she turned to look at her new 'friend', Kane.

"Certainly Kane didn't mean it…" She looked wearily to Kane, who was sneering at Natsume. "It would have worked perfectly fine until you came along." Natsume sent him another death glare, his eyes burning with rage. "You will regret even thinking about my fiancée." He growled out. Kane stood up and shuffled to the door. "Yeah, right. You wouldn't dare actually harm someone." He took a step towards Mikan, taking her chin in his hand.

Mikan shrieked, and tried to get out of his grasp. Suddenly, a fist slams into Kane's face, successfully cracking his jawbone. He fell to the floor and looked up into burning, devilish, crimson eyes. "Don't ever even think about touching Mikan again." Natsume took Mikan by the elbow and led her outside. Just before exiting, he murmured to the host. "If I find her in here again, I will burn this place to the ground."

Tears formed in Mikan's eyes as she clung to Natsume. "I'm sorry, Natsume. I didn't know…" He casually comforted her by putting an arm around her waist. "Don't be stupid, Polkadots." She sobbed as she pulled him into a hug. "Okay." A moment later, she beamed with an everlasting smile and lightly kissed Natsume on the cheek before escaping his grasp.

Together, Ruka, Mikan, and Natsume browsed the shops before deciding to go home. On the bus ride home, Mikan began jittery. She constantly twiddled her fingers and tapped her toes. It was driving Natsume insane. He knew she was anxious because of the surprise party, so he tried to ignore it.

Everything was casual as they walked to Natsume's room. Natsume slowly turned the doorknob and opened the door. Here goes another surprise party. He flicked the lights on, and saw the room filled with people. "Surprise!"

The party began like any party would. Natsume was slightly annoyed, but tried not to show it. He opened his presents and tossed them into two piles, good and junk. Some of the good things were new manga, magazines, and some miscellaneous stuff. The junk pile included a black sweater with a red heart on it from Sumire. Finally, only one present was left. Natsume picked it up, knowing it was from Mikan. As he opened it, he tried to keep a straight face so Mikan wouldn't be hurt if the present was terrible. Inside, he found a black silk folded shirt. He held it up from each sleeve, allowing it to unfold, taking in the sight before him.

Flashback

It was love at first sight. On display was a black, silk, button down shirt. Crimson flames curled around the sides, licking the top of the shirt. Mikan picked up the shirt in a daze. On the back, a terrifying dragon spawned the red flames that spread across the shirt. This is it. Mikan immediately knew. Without hesitation, she purchased the shirt in his size and exited the store without even asking Youichi's thoughts.

End Flashback

Everyone gazed in awe at the beautiful shirt. Even Natsume was a bit surprised. What an awesome shirt. Mikan's face brightened up when Natsume put down the shirt muttering, "Not bad…" Mikan was so happy, she screamed and leaped onto Natsume's back, planting a kiss on his cheek before landing back on the floor.

The group mingled for a while, eating birthday cake. Then Mochi took out a few packs of beer. "Let's drink!" Rini looked uneasily at Youichi, "I don't know if I should…" Mikan came up behind her, noticing her uneasiness. "It's okay, Rini-chan! Just don't drink a lot, and drink slow." All of Rini's problems melted away and she hugged Mikan fiercely. "Okay!"

Everyone was passed a beer, and they sat together to drink. Natsume sat next to Mikan, eying the young girl between her and Youichi. The girl, Rini, was giggling, chatting with the two at her sides. Reminds me of Mikan. Youichi must really like her.

Everyone began drinking their second beer, when Koko suggested a game. "Let's play spin the bottle!" A few people groaned. Mikan sputtered, "But Koko, some people already have someone they're supposed to kiss!" He looked a little distressed at this when Hotaru spoke up. "It's fine, idiot. You, Natsume, Ruka, and I will be referees on everyone else." Natsume grunted in agreement, so Mikan nodded her head. "Okay!"

The first person up was Koko, since it was his idea. He spun the bottle, and everyone watched it intently. It spun elegantly until it landed on Anna. Anna smiled shyly before crossing over to gently kiss Koko on the lips.

Anna passed the bottle to Nonoko. Her spin landed on Yuu. He blushed as they quickly brushed lips. Yuu hesitated before passing the bottle to Sumire. The bottle spun and landed on Ruka! "Think again." Hotaru demanded as she threw the bottle at Sumire's head. A little frustrated, she spun again. This time, it landed on Mochi. He grinned and pulled Sumire into a long kiss.

Mochi tossed the bottle to Youichi. He calmly spun the bottle and waited… it landed on Rini. She blushed and looked at the floor, twiddling her thumbs. Natsume caught a slight blush and smile appear on Youichi's face before dissipating. Since the two were sitting next to each other, it was easy to kiss without much effort.

Rini faced Youichi, closed her eyes, puckered her lips, and waited for him to kiss her. Youichi roughly pulled Rini's face towards him and their lips met. Rini felt she might melt as she absorbed the warmth emanating from Youichi's lips. Youichi felt his stomach flutter and he gently parted his lips. Rini followed his lead as they deepened their kiss.

After another moment, they broke their kiss. Rini looked extremely nervous, while Youichi looked relaxed. Natsume smirked at the kids. Just as I thought. Mikan looked a little shocked. "You-chan, you didn't have to kiss her that much." Youichi grunted in reply.

After more drinks and another hour, the party became a make-out fest. The pairs happened to be the same as spin the bottle. Sumire and Mochi were hot and heavy. Nonoko and Yuu were shy and tender. Hotaru was straddling Ruka on the couch, pulling his shirt off. Youichi sat on the floor with Rini pulled into his lap. His arms were around her possessively. They kissed passionately, but still innocently.

Natsume and Mikan sat on the bed together. He had his arms around her, and they were examining the room. All hormone driven teenagers were making Natsume horny, and Mikan was simply surprised. "Can you believe it, Natsume?" She whispered in his ear, pointing to the silver and blue haired couple in the corner. "You-chan has a girlfriend. I bet he's really happy too. She's really nice." She reflected for a moment before speaking again. "You-chan is really growing up."

Mikan felt Natsume nibbled at her ear and she gasped in surprise. "You're growing up too…" He breathed into her ear. Mikan's cheeks grew hot as his warm breath grazed her neck. "You stink…" He teased her. "Let's go take a shower." Natsume muttered as he seductively kissed down her neck. Mikan could only breathe in reply, "Okay…" And Natsume carried her into the bathroom before closing the door.

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By the way, since Mikan and Natsume started studying for the tests, they've been sleeping in his room. This is NOT because they've been doing naughty things, except when hinted at and maybe a couple other times.