Flutter

By Funakounasoul

Disclaimer: Everything's owned by Kiyohiko Azuma.

Author's Notes: Oh man...I'm so busy right now. I'm under a lot of stress -- school, graduation, college, home, internet, art, music...No wonder I couldn't finish this thing...and then I had to get reacquainted with King of Fighters...Gah, I'm so obsessed with that series! Anyway, here's the last chapter in the High School Bet Arc. (One more arc to go...)

Oh, and while you're reading, be sure to be on the lookout for something strange. I tried something different in this chapter. Do you think you have the eyes to find it?

CHAPTER NINE

The sun barely peaked through the sky as the city slowly began the new day. Adults and children alike were heading out for their jobs and schools. For many students, today marked the first day of the new school year. All were quite anxious to see how this new year would start, from naïve preschoolers to veteran high school seniors.

Of the many students making their way to school was Yomi. Yomi stood by the entrance of her school and sighed. The spring air was quite pleasant this morning, a sign that the day would turn out wonderful. However, something was gnawing at her mind. It seemed she was forgetting something, something important. Yomi shook the feeling off, though, and made her way inside.

"Hey Yomi!" Kagura yelled, her voice penetrating through the mass of students, "Good morning!"

Spotting the spiky haired teen, Yomi walked up to Kagura and greeted her. "Oh, good morning, Kagura."

"Where's Tomo?"

"I don't know. She called me this morning, telling me she had some sort of surprise for all of us."

Both girls headed towards the third floor, unfazed from the lack of shuffling in Class 3's roster. Finding Sakaki sitting down in her usual spot, they talked about trivial things until Chiyo and Osaka entered the classroom.

"Oh, where are Tomo-chan and Kaorin?" the petit prodigy asked, noticing the lack of friends.

"Tomo's coming," Yomi replied, "but Kaorin's in a different class now."

Suddenly, the familiar shriek of the aforementioned girl rang through the room, "Good morning everyone!"

Everyone looked up to see Tomo with her apparent "surprise" -- a haircut. Her hair, now reduced to neck-level, was quite noticeable from her earlier, longer hairstyle. Out of all the years they have spent together, Yomi had never seen Tomo with hair this short. Even to her, it was a sight to see.

Chiyo walked up to Tomo and looked at her new style and asked, "You cut your hair?"

"Yep! Chopped it all off yesterday!" Tomo paused, flicking part of her hair in emphasis. "Well, what do you think? Do you think the seasons themselves are taken aback from my new charm? I am a third year student now, after all!"

Chiyo inwardly grimaced. To Chiyo, Tomo looked as if she was once again a first year student. Chiyo then wondered why she cut her hair so suddenly. She had it so long before, she thought, why the sudden change in hairstyle?

Before she asked Tomo, however, Chiyo stopped herself and walked over to Yomi. Perhaps it was better to ask the very person who puts up with Tomo's antics on a daily basis. "Yomi," she whispered, "did Tomo have a..."

Yomi froze. Everything slowing down around her as those four words echoed in her head. Did Chiyo know about their relationship? She was only a kid! Maybe she asked if Tomo had a boyfriend. Yeah, she thought, that was it. Yomi quickly blurted out the only thing she could come up with, taking on a strange face as she did so. "Ahaha! No way, no way!"

After hearing Tomo explain her haircut -- giving up the Fujiko look and going for the look of a pop star -- everyone headed to their seats. Yomi looked at her sternly. "What's the real reason behind the haircut, Tomo?"

"What? I was telling the truth." Tomo smiled, causing the ever-doubtful Yomi to believe there was more to it than that.

"Besides," Tomo added, "today is that very special day! I will announce the details at lunch!"

"Special?" Yomi wondered what that meant. Indeed, she was forgetting something. However, no matter how hard she thought, she could not recall anything important. Frustrated, Yomi rested her chin on her hand and sighed.

"Why does my memory have to fail me now?" she muttered as the first bell rang.

Twelve bells marked the beginning of lunch. As everyone made their way to their favorite lunching spots, Tomo grabbed Yomi and led her to the schoolyard. Yomi noticed that Tomo led her to a hidden part of the entire school. Whatever Tomo wanted to tell her was probably too personal for even the rooftop. The strangeness of it all took Yomi by surprise.

"Why are we all the way out here?" she asked the shorter girl.

Tomo sighed, "We're here so I can announce my reward!"

"Reward?" Yomi's eyes widened. That was the important thing that had slipped her mind! Looking back at Tomo, she asked her to continue.

"Wait just a minute, my dear Yomi; I still have to answer an earlier question!"

"What? This is no time to think about this morning!"

"I still feel like answering it truthfully..."

"Ugh, fine."

"Why, thank you!" Tomo cleared her throat, paused, and finally replied, "The simple answer to my haircut is -- I wanted a new look, is all."

Yomi's jaw dropped. "That's all? That's the only reason?" Grabbing the smaller teen, she yelled, "There has to be more to it than that! You always have big, exaggerated explanations!"

"Woah, woah...Yomi, relax, there's a first time for everything!" Tomo watched as her girlfriend's sudden burst of energy subsided. Taking Yomi's hand into hers, she gave Yomi a sincere smile and asked, "Don't you like it?"

"Of course I do...It's just so...different from the styles I've seen you wear before. It's just so...short."

"Short, eh?"

"I've never seen you with hair this short. When you arrived this morning, the sight kind of took me by surprise...It does suit you, though."

Tomo's grin widened. "Well, I'm glad you like it!"

"Now then, will you now announce that thing you're talking about?"

"Ah yes, the announcement!" Tomo began her explanation, reminding Yomi about the bet they had made earlier. She also stated how she had warned Yomi that she would have it on the first day of the new school year. Yomi gasped, suddenly remembering about that ridiculous bet as well as the date, after thinking back to the night Tomo revealed her intelligent side. She could not help it, though -- Tomo's sleepy state that night made her speech sound unintelligible. How she forgot about the whole thing she did not know, but having Tomo answer everything for her lately was all too bizarre for her.

"So, what is this 'reward,' dare I ask?"

"Oh ho ho, that's where my announcement will end for now!" Standing up, Tomo raised her finger and dramatically pointed it towards Yomi's annoyed face. "Just meet me at the park before sunset. You'll see!"

The bell rang soon after. As the two girls headed back into the school, a lone figure watched them from the windows of room 3-3. Absentmindedly, the figure stared into the clouds, watching each individual cloud passing by. Usually, they hardly paid attention to the world around them, but today, the figure decided to plan their afternoon early for once. Perhaps they were just more alert today than usual, a feat rarely accomplished by this person. In fact, no one really thought this daydreaming student ever wandered within the realm of the ordinary. Hearing the bell ring once more, the person simply turned around and headed for their desk.

Entering the room a few seconds later, Tomo and Yomi looked down on the sleeping form of Osaka. It seemed that girl was always asleep, even after lunch. Facing Kagura, who had just sat down herself, the two smiled at their friend and sit down. Kagura only nodded in reply as the door loudly slammed open, revealing the class' afternoon teacher. It was going to be another ordinary afternoon.

The end of the day found the two girls parting ways. Tomo had reminded Yomi that her announcement would come before sunset, so she recommended she come in nice, yet comfortable, clothes. It was now fifteen minutes until six. Dressed simply in a long-sleeved shirt and a pair of jeans, Yomi decided to make her way to the park.

At this point in time, Yomi was desperately trying to figure out what Tomo's "reward" was. Many thoughts passed through her head, some frightening while others were more enticing. Tomo was a random girl -- most of the time her actions were destructive, yet there were those rare times she showed a warmer side, the side she displayed mostly during their quality time. Yomi only hoped it was the latter, though something in the back of her mind assured her there was nothing to worry. Still, there was yet another feeling something strange would happen. Finally reaching the entrance to the park, she looked up and sighed; she hated it when both doubt and certainty waged a war within her mind.

She found Tomo at the same spot they always met -- underneath a large tree near an old path. In the case of muddy grass, they would sit on a stone bench nearby -- the very bench they originally discovered they were in love with one another. Yomi noticed the large blanket underneath the tall tree. Maybe the reward was a pleasurable one after all. At least, she was hoping it was. Tomo was pacing around the field, obviously impatient. Yomi smiled -- it was typical Tomo behavior, after all. She waited a little while longer before she made her presence known.

"Hey, you're late!" Tomo immediately yelled upon seeing Yomi, "People with glasses are never supposed to be late!" Tomo continued yelling, pointing a finger at the girl to further her point.

Yomi only huffed, reminding the girl she had done this before, and sat on the blanket. "...And since when are people with glasses always on time?" she managed to mutter quickly.

Unfortunately, Tomo overheard the muffled question and sighed. "Well, when you think about it, the ones with glasses are the responsible and reliable ones. They're smart, they're always on time, they're enthusiastic over the dullest things..."

"That's a stereotype...Need I remind you of our grade school days?"

"Oh yeah! You actually believed green gelatin was radioactive!"

Yomi's anger quickly rose, as usual. "Look who's talking! You're the one who thought it was alive!"

"Hoo boy, those were good times, though! Back then, you believed everything I said!" Tomo laughed, much to Yomi's displeasure. Yomi immediately tacked the unsuspecting girl, pinning her to the ground. Tomo only grinned in response, "Woah...aren't we rushing into things? How ever did you figure it out?"

"What?" Yomi quickly sat up and blushed, "What are you talking about?"

Tomo faced her companion, her smile failing to diminish. "Allow me to explain..." Standing up and thrusting her fist in the air, she declared to the bet's loser, "Yomi, the time has come...I have waited month after month for this great moment! It is time to announce my reward!!"

"So what is it already?! Your constant teasing and lack of real 'reward' knowledge is getting on my nerves!"

Suddenly, everything became silent. Yomi watched as the previously obnoxious girl lowered her arm and stood absolutely still. She had a relaxed pose, but for a girl who was always moving, she appeared as stiff as a statue. Tomo was actually nervous and had taken advantage of the off-topic conversation to stall the moment. Originally, Tomo's earlier attitude caused Yomi to believe she was going to do something embarrassing. Seeing her now, it made her wonder what kind of thing Tomo had in mind.

Tomo sighed, this time with more hesitation. Being Tomo Takino had its advantages, however. As quickly as she had become a statue, her second wind arrived, providing her with a bit of courage. Yomi was glad when she saw a smile form on the other girl's face.

"Yomi, don't get mad or freaked out or anything, but..."

"Yes?"

Tomo slowly kneeled and held the taller girl by her shoulders. "For my reward...I want us...to take our relationship...further."

Yomi stared. "Further?" she asked, "Further as in...?"

"Yeah, that kind of 'further.' I mean, we've been romantically together since this time last year. I know we've gotten closer since then." A giggle escaped Tomo's lips, but she quickly frowned. "To tell you the truth, my original prize was going to be you doing my homework for the rest of this year...I hope you're not mad or anything..."

"Mad?" Yomi looked at her newly dismayed girlfriend. She had to admit, this did catch her off-guard. Nonetheless, it did not anger or bother her one bit. After all, most couples always meet this stage in their relationships -- at least, Yomi believed so. Smiling back at Tomo, she replied, "I'm not mad. In fact, I'm happy you chose this. At least with this, I don't have to work my butt off just to save your butt from school for an entire year..."

The two shared a laugh. After it died down, Yomi spoke again, a blush slowly growing on her face. "But one thing still bothers me...How are we going to do this? This is...our first time, you know. The farthest we've ever gotten was when we cuddled while stroking each other's hair...oh, and that time we French kissed after reliving our childhood..."

Tomo smirked, her old personality finally making a permanent comeback. "Well then, let's do that, but with our clothes off! I mean, there's not much of a difference, is there? That is how they do it in the movies, right?" Before Yomi could answer, Tomo had already begun to take off her shirt, but the taller girl quickly stopped her.

"Tomo, no!" Yomi yelled unintentionally harsh. Recomposing herself, she whispered, "Besides, I don't think they get right to it in the movies! Anyway, don't you think we should take this slowly? Maybe we can start...you know...like that one night and...maybe..."

"I get you! We'll let our instincts handle the rest!"

A few minutes passed with the two sitting shoulder-to-shoulder, yet neither one made any move. Despite having a plan, they were still wondering how to do this properly. They both knew that one should never fully trust in television and movies, which either skipped most parts or exaggerated things, as usual. Finally, Yomi came up with an idea. The idea was simple, she knew that, but it was perfect for this first time.

"Say, what if we just start by kissing? Sure that's how they start in the movies, but I think that's the only way to start...I think."

"Maybe...Remember how we kissed last summer at our first date? Didn't you feel like doing something else? I sure did."

"Hmm...You're right...again..." Unconsciously, Yomi took Tomo in her arms. "Why must you be so secretly intelligent?"

"Who knows?" was Tomo's reply. She wrapped her arms around the other girl's neck and kissed her on the cheek. "I probably got it from you!"

"Idiot. We're from two totally different families."

"Ah yes, but how long have we been together? After all, you did get some of my traits...Does 'super spicy croquette incident' ring a bell?"

"I swear you were the only one who wasn't offended..."

"That's a no-brainer! I am the Queen of Insult, aren't I?"

"No, that would be me."

"Oh yeah, you just do it in a different style. Boy, you and your sarcasm go a long way!"

Yomi simply huffed and kissed Tomo wholeheartedly. Tomo quickly returned the action, and soon the two found themselves in the same situation as that one summer's night. Both were surprised -- neither girl expected to begin so suddenly, especially while having a strange conversation that had nothing to do with the day's events. Now the two were convinced that they had one very unconventional relationship, but they did not care. It worked for them, so why should they try to change it?

The sun had begun to set, casting beautiful shades of orange and gold. By now, Tomo was lying on the blanket while Yomi cradled the smaller girl from above. Eventally, the two deepened their kiss and explored each other in a whole new way. A few cherry blossoms had scattered throughout the area, some landing around the two, adding a beautiful spring scent. The two took it slow, reminding themselves this was still only their first time, and started it with body caressing and the usual stroking of hair they already mastered. At one point, Yomi took off her glasses, as they were finally getting in her way. Tomo smiled sweetly; seeing her usually conservative girlfriend without her precious glasses made Yomi even more attractive. Tomo found herself instinctively unbuttoning Yomi's shirt -- she could not help it, she needed more. As if on cue, Yomi quietly complied and relaxed her hold on the smaller girl as she worked her way down the girl's dark blouse.

The two did not notice the sound of rustling grass nearby as a figure slowly walked into the area calmly. "Oh...Tomo...Yomi..." the small figure uttered. "Good evenin' to ya."

The two froze and looked up. Having the better eyesight, Tomo's gaze went up to the intruder's face and squeaked upon seeing their face. "O-Osaka?"

"What are you two doin' here?"

The two stood up quickly, Tomo retorting, "Well...what are you doing here?!"

"Well, I came to take a walk around the park. I guess I got lost...That's what I planned to do today, and I did it...But what are you guys doin' here anyway?"

An awkward silence came from the two. All of a sudden, Tomo had an idea. Without looking at Yomi, she quickly hissed, "Just follow my lead, okay?" Tomo then scratched the back of her head and laughed, "Darn! Our idea was a failure! You had to catch us working on the new game we were inventing!"

"Really? What kind of game is it?"

"It's...uh...Leaf Twister! Yeah!" Yomi simply gagged as Tomo continued her laughing fit and strange explanation. "We've already tried the successful fall version! Apparently, the spring version is impossible!"

Poking her friend on the shoulder, Tomo signaled Yomi to enter the conversation. Without sight, she could barely see the petals on the blanket, but managed to pick one up quickly. Adding her own twist to the tale, she replied, "As you can...uh, see, cherry blossoms are frail and small -- not the right kind of playing equipment. Tomo here had just lost while trying to put her right hand on a dark pink petal..."

"Well, I would've made it if your fat self wasn't in the way!"

"What?!"

"But Yomi..." The two bickering girls glanced back at their intruder, who was silent the entire time. There was a pause, both Tomo and Yomi hoping that their story was a success. It was Osaka they were explaining it to, so anything can happen. After a few more moments of silence, Osaka came back to the real world. "I saw you cheating. You raised yourself a bit to let Tomo get to the cherry blossom."

"No, that was a trap! Yomi was going to push me down!"

"Isn't that called cheating, too?"

"Oh...well...yeah...You caught me, Osaka. I was cheating." Yomi faked a sigh and raised her arms in defeat. Tomo tried desperately to stifle a giggle as Osaka gave the supposedly intelligent girl a nice, long talk about the harmful effects of cheating.

After awhile, Osaka finally left -- after helping the girl find the exit -- and the two were alone again. It was already nightfall; neither one was expecting to be out this late. Tomo sighed. Meanwhile, Yomi had found her glasses on the blanket and put them back on. A tight embrace immediately followed. Looking down, she heard Tomo making choking-like noises. Was she crying?

Moving the girl so she could see her face, she instantly regretted doing so. Tomo was laughing uncontrollably, so much that she was crying, but it was not the crying Yomi was expecting. The laughter was contagious, though, and Yomi found herself laughing along with the cheerful teen.

The laughter died down soon after. Tomo relaxed herself into Yomi's arms once again. "Why do we always have interruptions during our intimate times?"

"It's just like everything else," the taller girl replied, "It's a part of our wacky, yet wonderful relationship."

"I guess this day's ruined--" Tomo stopped, thinking back to the other times interruptions occurred. "Wait, let me rephrase that: I guess this day will end up better than expected, huh?"

Yomi grinned, "Yeah, you're right. In fact, my mother's working overtime tonight. Do you want to come to my place?"

"Boy, do I?! Let's go!"

An hour later, all was still in the Mizuhara household. Every room was dark, save for one -- Yomi's bedroom. Within the walls of the room, its two inhabitants were presently lying in Yomi's bed, appearing exhausted yet content. Tomo's usual grin graced her face as she idly fondled Yomi's brown locks of hair. Yomi simply smiled, quickly kissing the other girl on her bare shoulder and neck. They had finally achieved Tomo's reward -- to which Yomi granted wholeheartedly since it was first announced. They truly felt like they had advanced their relationship, and they never felt so relaxed.

The phone rang suddenly, causing both girls to jump. Yomi picked up the phone and cleared her throat before pushing the answering button. "Hello? Mizuhara residence."

"Oh, Koyomi? Are you home already?" It was her mother.

"Ah, yeah. There wasn't much to do today..." glancing at her partner, she quickly added, "Oh, Tomo's staying over for the night. Is that okay?"

"Of course! Tomo doesn't need permission to come anymore. Of course she can stay."

"Oh...Well, I'll see you tomorrow morning then?"

"Yes, I'll be back by one. Goodnight Koyomi...and good luck!"

"Goodnight moth--wait...What?" Before she got an answer, her mother had already hung up. Yomi stared at her phone, confused at her mother's message. Tomo, wanting to know what just happened, asked for information, but her sole response was a shrug. Shrugging herself, Tomo simply laid back down, Yomi following her soon after.

This was definitely one strange relationship...

TO BE CONTINUED

Oh my! What in the world's going on? What exactly does "good luck" mean? Does Yomi's mom know, too? Does this mean she approves? How many people know about their love life anyway? Are they THAT obvious?!

Anyway, yeah, sorry for the lack of description. I was trying to keep this as "T-rated" as possible...Besides, you guys have imaginations! You can imagine how the "reward" was accomplished! Also, I decided to make Yomi's mom the working mom. We don't really know any of the girls' parents (besides Chiyo and Anime Kaorin), and as for Yomi, we know she at least has a mom...

Ah, and did you catch what was funny about this chapter? Let me know in your review!

Ahem...Now with this silly little bet out of the way, Tomo and Yomi definitely have other issues to deal with! Of course, high school is also quickly coming to an end for the girls. What's going to happen to them after high school? Hah, you'll just have to wait and read the final chapters to find out!

Coming up: The beginning of the end...(of the story)