AN: Greetings everyone! It's nice to be back indeed! Although this chapter seemed to appear short and well…boring? Oh whatever, just read people…Anyways, let me just inform you, this story only has one more chapter to go which is actually the epilogue and then it's finished at last! A warning though, this may seem to be a cliffhanger. I myself wasn't satisfied with the way things turned out in the end, what I mean to say is, there is not much Aya-Rei romantic moments which is supposed to be the goal of my story. So if God permits and if my 'brain' permits it, I would perhaps write a sequel. I'm not sure yet since this depends on my readers' reactions. If they want it enough to actually ask for it, then I may just write it, if not, then what's the point? Anyway, I apologize for making you all wait. So scroll down and start reading, people!

But before that, allow me to thank all of the people who're kind enough to take their time and give me a review:

cold summer night - Thanks for the review, BTW, what does 'Danke schon' mean? confused look

Chiby Angel-chan - Of course, to the person who kept me inspired, thanks very much for sticking with me through thick and thin, if ever there is such a saying, can't remember, I'm kind of dazed right now. Well, all I want to say is, I can't thank you enough. grateful smile

Rin-Ainochan - Wow thanks very much for your review, that was certainly unexpected...well, hope you'll still find this chapter interesting. I hope to hear from you soon again!

idioticsmile - Here's the next chapter! Sorry for the long wait, thanks also for the review!

To Black-HunterXX and Suuki-chan, thanks for your previous reviews!

To LeNe03 and Vagirl, thanks for including me on your favorites list!

To idioticsmile, thanks for putting me on your story alert list!

Disclaimer: Super Gals isn't my property...now onto the story (which is definitely mine!)

Chapter 9: "For the Last Time"

What's so special today, that even in the midst of experiencing unbearable heartaches, Aya Hoshino still felt a slight hope of something wonderful to surprise her for her…birthday? Birthday, another plus one to her age. So it's goodbye sixteen and hello seventeen now. And it's also about to be farewell high school and greetings college too. A few more months to go then. Anyway, it's not as if she's really that much hoping for her friends to secretly plan some sort of surprise for her, right? Ok no use lying, maybe just a little, considering Ran who never runs out of plans, yes the mastermind never takes a day-off.

Even now though, after stating her condition of erasing Rei Otohata in their group, Aya still can't help but hope for some miracle to happen today on her birthday! It has in fact become her birthday wish. But still, a part of her kept on struggling to extinguish that little flame of hope not wanting to undergo the pain of hoping for nothing again. Sigh, how can she be so torn in between like this?

As she sat there with her friends Ran, Miyu, Yuuya and surprisingly Tatsukichi came as well, she can't help but feel incomplete. As if the other one's absence felt so uncomfortable and empty for her. 'Alright I give up! I really wish Rei could come…' she thought feebly as she became aware of herself surrendering to her unstable and capricious emotions. She then looked out through the windows with a wan expression on her face. She's beginning to really regret ever attempting to move on with her life and abandon her love for Rei. How can she? It just seemed so impossible for her to do. Oh the birthday celebrant felt miserable even on this one special day, how awful could things get?

Suddenly, as she broke out of her berating, she noticed something peculiar. Normally, Miyu, the ever sensitive and observant one to always catch Aya spacing out, would always ensure that no friend of hers will be lonely by cheering them up and asking them of their troubles. She's a good listener by the way, and her shoulder is just too perfect to lean on to, that's it for Aya, oh how she had gone so dependent on her friends lately. Anyway, now though, Miyu was practically ignoring her even though the black-haired lass was already sending her signals of distress asking for help and comfort. Curious, Aya surreptitiously stole a glance on her oblivious friend and there she saw her engaged in a serious conversation with Ran and even Yuuya. They speak in low voices and since Aya was sitting across from the four of them, she was not close enough to allow her to hear what they were 'so seriously talking about'. So whatever that is, she has absolutely no idea.

"Daijoubu yo Aya-chan (It's alright Aya), today is your birthday so you'll definitely have fun! Erm…Are you looking sad because of the long time it takes to prepare our food? Are you starved already? If you want, I could follow-up our order to—"

Aya was startled as Tatsuki attempted to strike a conversation with her. It's not that they don't talk to each other, it's just that it is kind of rare for the Machida black Tatsuki to ever pay her attention at all since apparently, he is constantly absorbed with just Ran and no one else.

"Oh I-I'm fine. That won't be necessary, I suppose roasting a chicken takes a lot of time so, it's better if we just wait. I'm not that hungry yet anyway. What about you?" she said this with a faint smile then remained facing him instead of turning to the windows to resume her vigil. She wouldn't want to snob this kind soul in front of him who offered to entertain her while her friends silently continued to plot something without her knowing what it is, be it good or bad, it was still unfair of them to exclude her. So in the meantime, let them do what they want while she'll keep herself occupied with this nice guy by accepting his offer of conversation.

Tatsuki meanwhile, blushed slightly as he realized his stomach had once again declared its state by asking Aya about the food. He should have just thought of a better topic a while ago. But then, the black-haired lass smiling across from him, doesn't seem to mind at all. It appears she was used to Ran and her humungous appetite that Tatsuki's didn't surprise her at all now. And so, putting up a goofy and toothy smile, he proceeded to crack a joke to make the birthday celebrant smile somehow.

Fifteen minutes had passed since they entered the R restaurant and chose the perfect spot to celebrate Aya's birthday. By that I mean, they chose the table farthest to the door for privacy's sake and also, so that no one could be given the chance to interrupt them once the fun starts, whatever the definition of fun for Ran is. Miyu meanwhile, was actually feeling a bit nervous for she doesn't have enough confidence in Ran's plan as it sounded like she's leaving everything up to Rei Otohata to make Aya's birthday one lovely memory she won't ever forget. However, knowing that guy, Miyu wouldn't count on him. What with his sharp tongue and cold stares? Where would that get him to? It's not that she hated him or anything, it is just how she sees him, according to what he is making others see about himself. But maybe, she is mistaken, maybe…

"Did you try calling him again today Yuuya?"

"N-no, the hell would I do that! I'm not that stupid as to try and contact him after that—that night. I swear if he sees me again he won't hesitate to swallow me whole if he's kind enough not to mince me first. So Ran, do warn me if you see him near, I'd get my butt out of here before something nasty happens to me."

"Not in front of us, he won't spill any blood Yuuya. So stop being a chicken and be brave for once! Just think of this as a gift for Aya-chan. Besides, knowing Otohata-kun, he was never the type to easily lose his cool, unless you did something morally damaging to him, or something that's bound to ruin your friendship or something he'll take as offending. You should be the one to know that, you're his closest friend, are you not?"

"…."

"What? Don't tell me you did something to him Yuuya?"

"…"

"Hey don't give me the silent treatment! Stop attacking my conscience because there is nothing that I have to be guilty of! That plan, about you pretending to have feelings for Aya and all that drama, you know it was all for the sake of hooking up those two. It's not as if it's real or something, isn't it?"

"W-well…I…I…"

"Stop stammering! Gosh Yuuya, what's with you? Is the Ice Prince really that scary to be angered?"

During this whole conversation, Miyu chose not to interfere as she was secretly studying Yuuya and of his reactions towards Ran's questions. Ever the perceptive one, she could easily sense there is something he feels for Aya. Even so, it wouldn't be a good idea to let it be known. Rei knowing it was bad enough, imagine if Ran would be given the chance to get a hold of such sensitive information—

"Tatsuki, why don't you entertain Aya-chan for a bit while we have a meeting here?"

Miyu broke her scrutiny as she noticed the black-haired lass' distant look and the sad expression on her face, almost as if wishing for her prince to arrive and sweep her off her feet. 'Just hang on Aya-chan, we'll work this out…'

And that was when Tatsuki tried talking to Aya, hoping to keep her preoccupied while the three resumed their meeting. But still, no matter how much they talked about this 'plan', Miyu can't seem to shake away the feeling of a possible failure and disappointment on Aya's part. For all she knows, the guy cared nothing and so, he'd probably decide not to just come. It'd be a miracle if things will turn the other way around.

"I personally talked to him yesterday over the phone, of course we first had a little verbal sparring, it simply can't be avoided since he's too arrogant and I'm way aggressive but I can assure you, he is a man of his words. He will come today, period. Let's just all be patient and wait."

On the other hand, Tatsuki can't seem to keep Aya entertained long enough to divert her attention and to keep her from being suspicious of what Ran and the rest were discussing about.

"Uhm…What exactly are we waiting for?"

At that precise moment that Aya spoke up, silence fell upon them and all froze to stare behind the innocent girl. They all ceased to move partly because of the sudden unexpected question, but more so, because of the new arrival.

"What? Why are you all staring at me like that? What's—"

She wasn't given the chance to finish her question as a bouquet of white roses suddenly materialized out of nowhere. Well, that was what Aya thought, since she was too surprised and shocked to even notice the person holding it.

"I guess the party can't start without me."

Aya cringed, closing her eyes and savoring the feel of that very familiar voice, a voice she would recognize anywhere, anytime. It's the voice belonging to—

"R-Rei?" was all she managed to say before opening her eyes to see the dark-haired lad standing in front of her, as if to prove she's not just imagining things and getting delirious.

"Happy birthday Aya…" he said softly to the still paralyzed girl who remained seated and unmoving on her spot.

For a moment there, all eyes kept focused on the two as if expecting for something more to happen, like the two of them embracing. 'Oh well, as if that would happen…' Aya thought feebly as she realized once again how she had readily gave up on her emotions. Even so, Ran and the rest were pretty much relieved that their mascot came, else the party will lose its very essence, which is to make Aya happy on this special day.

Seeing as how Aya won't snap back to reality unless somebody makes her, Ran didn't hesitate to break the silence. "So you came after all. You had us worried though, took you long enough. Oh, you look good by the way." Ran tried to hold back her laughter at the sight of the Ice Prince holding a bouquet of flowers. It was almost unthinkable! Who knew he'd actually heed Ran's advice? Seeing him standing like that, holding something like 'that', would be the last thing Ran thought of seeing him with, ever. But now…

Rei temporarily turned his attention from the birthday girl to face Ran. Of course, he has to get even, he can't allow the number one gal to trample with his pride.

"I came, didn't I? So cut the chit-chats and let's get on with the celebration. You're just wasting time by hoping to ridicule me, which won't ever happen. In your dreams Kotobuki. Now slowpokes, shall we? In case you hadn't noticed, time's running and soon, Aya's special day will be over."

That gave Aya enough time to recover from her shock that she was now blushing madly, no wonder the four of them chose to sit across from her! They're giving room for someone to sit beside her! A big room, for that matter. One of them should at least have sat on her side to make it even, but no, just to set her up with Rei, they opted to squeeze themselves on the other side so that now, they were having trouble moving.

"In case you hadn't noticed too Otohata-kun, those flowers are to be given to the birthday girl here, it is not to serve as a mere decoration for the Ice Prince which is so not becoming for such a stiff person as you."

Ran smirked as he saw Rei's eyebrows twitching, apparently, she had hit the bull's eye and had somewhat made him feel embarrassed, which is to be considered an accomplishment indeed, for not many are granted the privilege to thwart the proud dark-haired youth. Another thing, perhaps the twitching of his eyebrows is blushing the Rei Otohata way.

"Here. For you."

Rei reluctantly handed the flowers to Aya who in turn received it with a sweet and appreciative smile. She was about to thank him when Rei added.

"Ran's idea."

'And stupid of me to have followed it, now I'm pretty sure I look like a…'

'A charming prince of every girl's dream, Aya's dream…' came another voice from nowhere. Rei was confused at first but decided to shun it instead. He didn't care.

Across from them, Ran glared at Rei almost wanting to punch him.

He's being a jerk again! So ungentlemanly! So typical of Rei Otohata!

"Why don't you sit down? There's plenty of room for you. Come now don't be shy."

Ran teased as she persisted to silently fight Rei. She is definitely never going to back out at this! Her reputation is at stake here! Ah wait, it seems I've said too much. Yeah yeah Ran's intention of doing this is purely for the good of her best friend, Aya Hoshino. All she'll ever want is to make the shy lass happy and that's that.

Struggling to keep a straight face, Rei settled himself beside Aya, keeping a certain distance to avoid raising unnecessary sparks that could distract him and harbor strange ideas to disturb him. Oh well, Rei is human and definitely a straight guy after all, so no doubt he can still be tempted despite his stony and strong character.

How uncomfortable and awkward their situation is! At last, the long wait is over for their order had finally arrived. And so for the rest of the afternoon, the group ate lavishly, with a few conversations in between, chattering and laughing here and there. Only Rei remained silent and Aya only speaking once in a while to politely answer some silly questions thrown at her.

It's time.

Time for the next stage.

Let's get personal.

Start to set the romantic mood.

Give them privacy.

Oh hopefully these two will hook up for good.

Yesterday, you're strangers. Today, you're friends. Tomorrow, you're going to be couples and in the near future, you'll be husband and wife!

"Miyu!"

Ran nudged the daydreaming girl persistently. Oh how she tends to drift off in the land of romance brought about by Aya and Rei. Again, typical Miyu. Upon Ran's interruption though, she was suddenly reminded of the plan.

"Nature's call!"

Miyu abruptly stood up as she gathered her bag and went straight for the exit.

"Where is Miyu going…?"

Aya sounded worried, not to mention panicky as her friends seemed to leave one by one. She doesn't like where this is going indeed, if her hunch is correct. No, this isn't the time to be left alone with Rei, she can't face him yet! 'Guys don't leave me please!'

"I'm going for some fresh air…"

Ran also stood up and followed Miyu, she had this evil grin spread widely on her face. Upon reaching the doors, she winked at Aya first before finally disappearing.

"W-wait for me Ran!"

Yuuya hastily stood up and practically stumbled towards the door, as if anxious to get away. He cringed upon feeling his best friend's poisonous glares directed straight at him, feeling Rei's message of 'I'm not finished with you yet' and that 'I'll deal with you later, so get ready'. It was creepy indeed.

Now that leaves Tatsuki. Aya pleaded silently for him to stay. However…

'Sorry Aya-chan, Ran's orders.'

"I-I'll take care of the bill. You guys have fun. Ja ne!"

Tatsuki practically dashed from them, unable to stand Aya's intense stares anymore. He was actually feeling kind of guilty to leave Aya like that. But given the circumstances, he has no choice. This has to be done one way or another.

And so, that further leaves just Aya and Rei, Rei and Aya, who now sat silently side by side, neither making an effort to start a conversation, both somehow wishing to be elsewhere than here. But then again, maybe not entirely. This is the moment Rei is waiting for anyway. The moment when he is to pour his heart out on Aya.

'This is so unlike me…' he thought with a sigh as he prepared what would probably be the longest speech to be made ever by the silent Otohata Rei, which will break his record of saying five sentences at most. Somehow, he was starting to doubt if he can even do that.

That's all for Part one people! The next chapter will be the epilogue...Stay tuned! This story is about to be finished...Waiting for your reviews...