Chapter 10
"Roses are red, and yes you're dead"
The very first thing that greeted Shizuru Fujino one early morning, after a three day sick leave and taken a single step was the very loud and angry voice of the her vice president Haruka (a defender of justice and order). The occupants in the class covered their ears for protection, it has already become a tradition. An angry Haruka was a loud Haruka.
Shizuru smiled as she was heading towards Haruka since she was, well lucky to have been placed beside a natural born speaker (Batteries and electricity are too mainstream).
"Fujino!" Haruka called in a loud thunderous tone.
"Ara Good morning Haruka" Shizuru said with her smile then she gracefully took her seat. Haruka scowled. How can Shizuru make a simple every day move transform into a graceful and majestic kind?. It has always bother the lion."What can I be of service to my dear vice president?" Haruka's scowl darken.
What a!?
"Morning" Haruka managed to reply with a gritted teeth. It wasn't her attitude to scold someone without replying first to a greeting. It would be rude of her.
Shizuru giggled softly, she was thankful that Haruka was there with her today since it stopped or rather scared her flock of sheep. Shizuru thought that Haruka has a similar kind of aura with Natsuki, only that the latter one was more aggressive and monstrous (her hands are tainted with the deepest sin). Nao might tell her about Natsuki's, inner secret attitude.
Shizuru is still skeptic in that subject.Natsuki's are harsher and sharper like the edge of a blade.
"Why where you suddenly absent?" Haruka said as she eyed Shizuru. She wasn't sure if Shizuru really did get sick or was just trying to run from her responsibility yet again or that she had something troubling her that Haruka could not decipher since Shizuru would not give out clues.
Haruka might not actually look like a caring friend that she solely focused her whole attention to being a vice president and taking up such a responsibility that she won't just care about the lives of her friends but well they're all wrong. Haruka has a keen sense of knowing that her friend is in trouble or felt like in need of help. A mighty lion like herself cares deeply for her subjects (her friends).
"As you have heard, I was having a very high and persistent fever and could not possibly go to school" Shizuru said still smiling at Haruka. The fever she got was really like a persistent bug, it kept coming back. The moment she felt like the fever has gone and she felt like getting up, the fever bug would strike again and she could do nothing but brace herself. Thankfully Natsuki was always there to ease away the unwavering high fever. Changing the towel on her forehead every now and then, giving her medicine and feeding her some nourishment. The only thing Natsuki did not do was changing her sweaty clothes, and wiping off the sweat all over her body, which was an odd thing for Natsuki. Saying " I don't need to do such trivial thing" then Natsuki would ask one of the maids to do that part and she would leave the room with a slight pink hue on her usual cold pale skin. Shizuru was not sure if she was seeing things that the fever was making her see things but nonetheless she was glad that Natsuki wasn't the one who changes her, the one who got to see her naked.
Shizuru was still uncomfortable with Natsuki; she was feeling shy around the mafia boss. Letting her body be seen by Natsuki is one of those things that she is not yet confident about. Sure she could let the maids see her exposed or Nao (though she looked somewhat like dog in heat, Shizuru was still comfortable with Nao's stare) but with Natsuki's eyes, Shizuru felt like she could melt with embarrassment. And she did not why she was feeling that way.
"Thankfully, I survived such an ordeal and everything is good." Shizuru said" It was caused due to, too much anxiety and fatigue" Haruka growled disapprovingly. =
"What do you mean by fatigue?, you barely did some student council work" Haruka pounded on her poor table. "I did all the work while you were gone somewhere drinking your usual tea drugs"
Shizuru arched an eyebrow and purse her pink lips "I suppose you are right and I thank you for that Haruka-chan, I really do." Haruka had this smug look on her, thinking that she had finally trampled Shizuru at her game when suddenly Shizuru grin "But I did the final touch. I checked, re read and did most of the paper works, which I remembered, Haruka was too busy to do since she was actively punishing each and every 'delinquents' in school. Or rather Haruka chan was busy chasing everyone" Haruka's smug smile faltered and turned into a frown.
"I..but I still did all the running" Haruka was not able to make a good retort and just "Using physical labor is a tiresome thing to do" she helplessly defended herself. That Shizuru could only giggle with joy.
Haruka doesn't know when to give up
"Ara you are correct that's why I am very thankful to have you as my vice president and as my friend" Shizuru said sincerely. Her eyes were dazzling making Haruka to blush and averted her gaze from Shizuru.
"Idiot tea addict president. You should be thankful that I am capable of such task" Haruka said trying sound normal without stuttering in embarrassment. " I'm just glad you're ok and already teasing me. Next time watch yourself. I..I mean we were worried about you" No matter what people might see or say about Haruka, she might be a nosy, noisy, forceful, strict and bashful. Haruka is always a good friend to Shizuru and will always be there for her. No matter how many times Shizuru had teased and annoyed her, she would still be loyal to her.
The thought made Shizuru smile. She was blessed with true friends even if she, herself, has not yet really shown the real side of her. Somehow that made her lips twitched in annoyance. She felt pathetic. She had been chasing the dreams of her society and let her real dreams be eaten up by time. She hated herself for that. Suddenly she remembered Natsuki and can't really think of any good reason as to why she remembered the mutt. It must be because Natsuki tends to call her pathetic when she tried to smile and laugh to someone in a conversation (they would bump at each other in the hallway and Natsuki would secretly whisper in her ear),
I guess she had found my smile uncanny. She mentally and deliberately slapped herself. She was again self-inflicting herself with pain.
"Thank you Haruka" she manages to say without stuttering.
"Enough with the gratitude, I'm drowning already" Haruka waved her off, already recovered from her blushing moments with Shizuru/" You still need to face Mai, Yuukino and your idiot of a boyfriend" Haruka hissed the last five words. Haruka didn't really favored Reito.
Instantly Shizuru tensely giggled, she had forgotten about her other friends and her boyfriend, whom she now rarely talks since Natsuki had been occupying her every thoughts and time. Reito on the other hand was busy that he didn't bother to do something about her or to their relationship. She grimly thought for a moment. She and Reito were a couple, where they not? Since they have known since the moment he entered high school. Apparently Reito had been home schooled and he decided that he wanted to see the world of being a teenager. The first moment their eyes met, they just suddenly clicked and become instant friends and eventually girlfriend and boyfriend.
She didn't know who actually initiated the courting but Reito just suddenly called her love or baby (at times she thought it was cliché and secretly cheesy for her) one sunny day as they were casually talking with their admirers, of course those admirers were squealing in delight and surprise. Shizuru couldn't possible say no to an indirect proposal now could she? She was expected to accept it by the people (even if she feels for him is vaguely just a confidant). Possible, there wasn't love. Love at first sight is a myth to Shizuru. Life wasn't that easy and love doesn't grow that way.
Maybe it was the people that brought them together, labeled them as a 'perfect' couple that she herself thought that they were indeed perfect for each other and without her knowledge.
I forgot that I have a boyfriend. She said to herself but at the back of her mind she was thinking for a certain mafia boss with piercing mossy green eyes who is perhaps is with her other class acting up like a good teacher that she is. And how that certain someone is acting up all nice to her friend, Mai Tokiha. Her eyes narrowed with fear and she scowl within.
Mai..
"Yoh " Haruka's voice pulled Shizuru out from her inner conflicts of thoughts that she didn't know if Haruka had said anything after the word boyfriend.
"Ara?" She said with her signature word and voice. And don't forget her smile.
"Is something bothering you? Cause I've been calling your name for two minutes and you just sat there looking like a stoic mannequin with the occasion twitching of your lips" Haruka said with concern while making a snapping sound with her finger. "Don't fucking tell me you're sick again?"
Shizuru took her notes under the compartment in her table, and she didn't know why, maybe it was an excuse for her to move " I was just thinking of my duties as a student council president" Shizuru lied.
Haruka eyed her for a moment and sighed " Is that how sickness makes people say some crazy shit?" Shizuru only giggled at Haruka."I pray that I might not get your fucking disease Shizuru" Haraku had already lightened up which was good.
"Haruka-chan. please refrain from saying bad words. It's too early for that. What would Yukino-chan say to her chief?" Shizuru teasingly said and Haruka grumbled with annoyance again.
"Shut the fu-" Haruka glanced at a smirking Shizuru, before she could say the F word," fudge bar" Haruka muttered. Already defeated by the Fujino woman. Shizuru just silently snigger to herself as she saw their teacher coming in and thanked the heavens Natsuki was transferred to a different class for today. This mean she could relax for an hour without the green eyed teacher making her feel uncomfortable, now that that specific teacher is now acting different towards her and vice versa. Things are getting more complicated for her, although she had no reason why in the world was she even bothered by Mai liking Natsuki.
I'm just concern for her, that maybe so. As a friend I don't wish to see her in pain. There was something within Shizuru's heart trembled with rejection.
The first period was peaceful for Shizuru, with the exception of her constant followers and Haruka being a normal nag to her (she was used to it, Haruka would not be Haruka if she let Shizuru to roam freely).
Shizuru manage to escape from them, she had mastered the art of escaping from pests (she had to keep it a secret that at times Shizuru find Haruka a pest when she's not in a mood to do her usual work as a president). Haruka is capable. Shizuru cheerfully thought.
Now she was walking, alone this time, along Fuuka's wide corridors when she happened to pass by the music department and she heard a faint sound, yet she heard it and recognized as Mozart's Rondo Alla Turca. She looked at her sides to see if there was someone else beside her that could have heard the music but thankfully there was not a soul in sight, curious, Shizuru decided to look for the sound and off she went to the music department. There was no one in the music room, except for the farthest one.
Strange.
There was light coming from the room and the door was slightly cracked open, as if inviting her to take a quick look. She thought for a moment, unsure of her actions. Why would she care? I think I should just leave. She thought but the sound was making her stay, tugging her heart down, She bit her lips and sighed, she just had to know who was it that was playing the piano. Inch by inch, the music was getting louder and clearer. It was beautiful, that leaves Shizuru's skin tingling and she shudder from unknown source of excitement.
It was warm, it was sweet, and it was filled with power. Each note made Shizuru's heart to spin around in a rhythm. It was unsettling in a strange, new way.
Ara, ara, calm down for a minute please. She took a deep breath, to help settle down her raging heart. It didn't really help her but it gave her strength to move.
This person really brings out life to the music. She admirable thought, even if she was not that into music, she could fall in love if the one playing such music is the one who is currently making her heart sway with rigor. If her heart had legs, it would already be out of her chest, dancing without a care. Gathering herself up, she wanted to know who this talented pianist was. Shizuru took a peak from the crack and she felt her whole being was frozen. Her eyes widen in shock. The pianist was none other than Natsuki. She gasped but not loud enough to interrupt Natsuki from playing the piano (Which was making her breathing harder).
Natsuki was like ravishing the piano with her skilled fingers. To Shizuru, the Natsuki before her was not the Natsuki she knew. That Natsuki was filled with a friendly impression with her. It was like a different likable Natsuki. Shizuru just stood with wide eyes and a slightly parted lip. She can see that Natsuki was in a different dimension, like she was bringing out flowers and sweet smell of spring.
Is she dreaming? She pinched herself and flinched from the sting.
Undoubtedly, she was not dreaming.
After the last keys, Natsuki stopped with her eyes closed. Like she had already finished making out with the piano, much to Shizuru's distress. For a moment her mind was making her think of improper things. (Things that involved Natsuki's fingers expertly playing her like a piano). She instantly shook her head, trying in vain to forget and remove an outrageous idea. Such an idea was never before had risen until she saw Natsuki seductively playing the piano. She had no idea why she thought it was seductive
"Wow! Kuga-sensie, that…..that was beautiful" oddly Shizuru did not realize that there was another occupant in the room, which was Mai. Natsuki's talent mesmerized her too much that her other senses were gone.
Shizuru instantly hid herself away, not that Mai and Natsuki could see her.
"Really?" Natsuki's husky voice sound different, it was pleasing. A person doesn't change in one day there must be something in her ears Shizuru thought. " I never knew I could play that piece." She shrugged as she touched the keys to the piano.
"I don't really remember the last time.. I touched a piano" Natsuki really had no formal lesson with a piano. She had only watched from a far when her father's family would make an annual gathering and out of curiosity she asked one of the pianist (who was playing the piece and Natsuki was bored and she took a liking with the playful sound) It gave her a funny feeling, it made her forget things for a while. Although that moment was her first and last time touching a piano since she was busy playing the guns that her father insisted that she should learn. It was just now that Mai asked a silly question if she could play any instrument and her first thought was the piano. Shizuru remembered Natsuki saying that she was talented in many ways. She was doubtful at that part but not anymore. Clearly Natsuki is not just good for killing. And being a jerk..
Mai was a constant visitor in the faculty and she could not reject the girl since she did make a promise to Shizuru that she would be nice to Mai and Mai was well being a sweet girl bringing her food and such. That eventually made her somewhat close to the girl.
Her food is good and I can't just let the opportunity go Natsuki stood and went to side beside Mai, who had already prepared a cake and tea.
"As a token of my appreciation sensei, here is a Hazel chocolate cake that you requested" Mai cheerfully offered with a flushing face that did not go unnoticed by Shizuru, who was still sneaking.
Natsuki accepted the offer with a sly smile on her face" Thank you Mai-san" taking a bite from the cake and feeling a little bit in heaven. In truth Natsuki loves sweet, but of course she would not let it go in public. What would her underlings say when they see their boss acting like a normal girl. Natsuki would not let that happen especially if Nao would see her like this. Being nice and soft (of course with the exception with Shizuru, she had to act nice around the woman or else Nao's idea would perish).
I wonder what Shizuru is doing Natsuki took another bite without knowing that the person in question was peaking at them. Looking at them with unreadable set of eyes. Shizuru, herself, didn't know what was making her feel this way that she just walked away and went somewhere else less suffocating for her chest. Trying to ignore the burning sensation in her chest, she clearly knows that she felt jealous and mad with Mai and Natsuki, but particularly with Natsuki. And she doesn't have a damn good reason least Mai is happy She chanted in her head for her to let her anger subside, anger that has no particular reason.
And she doesn't want to name this emotion.
Shizuru had a bitter and scornful smile on her delicate soft skin.
Shizuru had been circling around the campus until finally Haruka had caught her. They were like cat and mouse or more like a lion and a snake playing hide and seek in a huge maze. This eventually ends up Shizuru's escaping.
"Ok, miss president, you forget that we have our meeting today" Haruka sarcastically said to Shizuru who was currently sitting at her usual seat (Being a president, you must be at the center of all attention not on the side line).
Shizuru nodded "Ara, you are correct, it did slip my mind"
Haruka made a tched and glare at Shizuru "Uhuh" Haruka pursed her lips with annoyance" Anyway, let's start with the official business" Haruka went on and on to her lecture. They started with the school's budget, to clubs fund, and to even upcoming events that everyone is eager about. Particularly sport festival. But Shizuru was not interested in such, she was far more interested in other subjects like the things not involve with the student council work. She opted to look at the window, looking at the trees being swayed by the strong wind. Much like how her heart felt when she heard Natsuki playing the piano. It was still ringing in her ear, like a sweet whisper of a lover.
She frowned but only for a moment, she did not want her fellow colleague to see and relentlessly question her and let Haruka to tease her. She was the tease master after all, except when Natsuki is around.
"Zuru?" Reito called out. Shizuru snapped back (these days she had been spacing out) and realized that the meeting had already finished. And they're the ones left in the room. Haruka might have already left without ever telling her since she did not like to lurk around when Reito is in the area. Haruka clearly hates Reito.
She calmed herself before she spoke "ara? Reito I'm glad to see you" Somehow those words were empty.
Reito smiled and hugged her "I miss you. Are you sure your fever is gone?" Shizuru nodded and then smiled.
"I'm good as new but I do have to apologize for not telling you" she said with a sad look on her face.
"No problem, Kuga-sensei already informed the school about your situation" He took Shizuru's hand and firmly held it. Shizuru felt the feeling but not really remembering the feeling of his touch. His hands were just like Natsuki's; rough and you can feel the traces of training (since Reito is the captain of the Kendo club) but it never did make her heart pound or made it swirl with emotions. Unlike when Natsuki would forcefully held hers she felt her heartbeat it might be out of anger but at least she felt something. With Reito she simply held hands and there was nothing to it. "I'm just glad that you're ok" He continued looking at Shizuru with his gray almost black eyes. They were totally different from Natsuki's vibrant emerald ones.
Why am I even thinking about her at a time like this? Unnecessary opinion should not come up especially when she's in front of Reito. Thinking about Natsuki makes it all wrong in different way.
"Want to eat somewhere? It's been a long time since we actually had our date" He chuckled. Now that she'd thought about it, they never had the chance to go out with each other since Natsuki invaded her once peaceful (somewhat dull) life.
"Ara, that would be nice" She said thinking that this was a way to escape Natsuki even for today. This could help her forget Natsuki.
Hopefully.
She prayed.
"So this is a date?" Shizuru muttered while she gave a slight frown on her once smiling face. It seem that their 'date' was really not a date between two people. Add another two and the date becomes a group date. Not much privacy and relaxing about that. Ok, maybe it was not really a bother to her, that did not really itched her with annoyance what really bothered her was that the add on to this date was Mai Tokiha and Natsuki Kuga. Kuga Natsuki And Tokiha Mai with them, on their date. Unexpectedly, and deliberately destroying (not really, a part of her was glad that she could monitor the both of them). I can watch Mai, if Natsuki tries to lay a paw on her. She made a reason on her. She just had to. Or else her mind would come up with weird and out of this world idea.
It just so happened that they were in the same part of town, at the same time, which surprised Shizuru since she did not expect to see Natsuki accompanying Mai (She did ask for her permission). She even thought that Natsuki was kind enough to allow her to go with this date with Reito although she has only 1 hour and by that she had to be home, no questioned ask, no delay, no excuses or else expect a massive search party to look for her (by that, she should expect the whole Mafia family of Kuga to go looking for her).
Perhaps Natsuki allowed me to go because she would be following me anyway Shizuru thought as she kept giving Natsuki a quick glance as Natsuki and Mai were busy conversing at one another (they were looking at a cake store and Mai was explaining to Natsuki). Shizuru could only roll her eyes in disgust
"Kuga-sensei seems to be enjoying" with out thinking Shizuru blurted those words out. But she manages to say it without sounding rude (or Mad). Natsuki glanced at her, grinning deviously like she always do. Mai stopped talking and Reito, who was busy looking at something else stopped and looked at Shizuru. Shizuru just averted her gaze, feeling uncomfortable and obviously embarrassed.
"Mai-san was just kind enough to tell me some interesting things today" Natsuki managed to say, patting Mai's head, who just blushed and muttered a no problem " Who's hungry? Don't worry it's my treat" Natsuki simply said, not a hint of tease or so that Shizuru would expect.
I bet she's boiling deep inside….
" I know a good restaurant" Mai cheerfully said. "Is it ok with you Reito and Shizuru if I picked a place to eat?" Reito nodded in agreement and so did Shizuru, Mai had this happy look on her that was a shame if a certain chestnut haired beauty would burst her bubble. She wasn't a bitch after all.
"Sure"
It was an ok date; they ate at a ramen shop (Reito even mention that her sister likes ramen as well). Natsuki at first was having a hard time eating since she wasn't use on using chopstick that Mai had to teach her, well feed her much to Shizuru's dismay. She was thinking that this date thing that Reito planned felt like it was a date meant for Mai and Natsuki. Of course Shizuru hid traces of her acting strange and angry by it. She didn't want Reito to be bothered after that they went to a park and Reito bought four ice cream being a gentleman that he was. He can't let Kuga-sensei do all the paying it wasn't proper. He was after raised to be a real man and a real man does not let a lady pay even if that lady is much older than him.
"Crap!" Mai gasped, " I need to go home. I forgot that I'd be in charge of cooking tonight" Mai, after all is a loving and responsible sister.
"I'll give you a ride" Natsuki offered. Again Shizuru flinched and pinch herself.
Is that Natsuki?! Shizuru wanted to slap herself just to make sure she wasn't dreaming.
So cliché. Can this get any sweeter. Shizuru rolled her eyes in disgust and let out a tired groan. This did not go unnoticed by Natsuki who was and were always looking at her.
"That won't be needed Kuga-sensei." Mai looked at wristwatch " I could still catch the train. No need to trouble yourself. I'm just glad that you helped me buy a good, sturdy and strong chef's knife and a good English dictionary. I really need those for my upcoming test " Mai softly said, She was too shy to look Natsuki straight in the eye.
"No problem Mai-san. That way you won't keep on replacing and buying a new knife though it maybe expensive but it's worth it." Shizuru was lost of word. Here she thought that Mai and Natsuki was on a date, when it truth Natsuki was only helping Mai. Oh she wanted to punch herself." No worries, I'm glad that I could help you in your studies" Natsuki said in a matter of fact tone. Secretly taking a swift glance at the president.
"Mai, why don't you come with me? My car takes the same path home as you do that way, you can arrive home early and safe" Reito suggested with his usual smile though Mai didn't blush like the rest" I also need to go home" He then apologetically looked at Shizuru" I'd be training my sister in Kendo." With a peck and hug and they said their farewells, Reito and Mai left, leaving Natsuki and Shizuru alone together.
"You thought Mai and I were dating, didn't you" Shizuru almost coughed by the bold accusation of Natsuki.
"Ara, I don't see that I care" why did she sound so guilty and defensive. Shizuru merely scowl at herself (in the outside people could see a calm beauty).
Natsuki heaved a sigh. She touched her cheeks (messaging), they were getting numb from faking smiles and forcing laughter's when being in the teacher mode. She even removed her glasses since they were not needed (She uses them to soften up her usual tough facial features). Her long azure, which at times can be dark blue like the ocean, hair was kept neatly tied up in a ponytail. It keeps the strong wind of October from messing it up. By the way, passer by s always give them a good stare, perhaps they have never seen anyone so hot and exotic before. Or they might have realized that the chestnut haired beauty is the prime minister's daughter (only in papers and name, she still hasn't forgave her father) and the business tycoon's son, Reito. The Kanzaki family had mysteriously become wealthy and influential.
"Let's go home" Shizuru said. Not even taking a look at Natsuki, she even sounded commanding. If she was a bitch today might as well be a bitch till Kuga snaps. But instead of a mad and imposing reply, Natsuki grabbed her hands and briskly walked away from the opposite direction of home.
"Not yet." Natsuki said dragging Shizuru at her side. Not a gap in between them. Shizuru didn't know what to do, it happened so fast that she felt herself frozen (letting Natsuki to conduct her) and felt her face was heating up." I want to walk around some more" Natsuki said with smirk or was it a smile, Shizuru couldn't tell; she was far too distracted by the closeness of them and by the warm heat from Natsuki. Is as if her clothes didn't give her any protection from the cold wind of October that she unconsciously snuggled closer.
Ara, this year's winter would be colder than the previous winter. Relentlessly reasoned out, she has to or else she'd be labeling herself insane.
"You have to show me around ok" Shizuru nodded, not knowing how to respond. It sounded like she had no choice but have too. Natsuki never gave her an escape (Her escaping arts would be futile to Natsuki).
"This could be our" Natsuki thought for a moment. Carefully trying to look for a word that best describe their situation" First date. Yes that could be it. Our first date" Natsuki tighten her hold to Shizuru and gave her a devious smile. Natsuki enjoyed every moment of Shizuru being speechless and unable to put up her usual façade.
"Don't give this 'tour' any meaning" somehow Shizuru had finally, not entirely, got over from the surprise and had spoken. She was after a Fujino. She gave a quick sneer at Natsuki just to show she didn't like this idea (denial stage).
Natsuki clench her teeth. She was frowning and losing her cool.
Play it smooth Shizuru. She remembered Nao's advice. She had to change tactics.
"You have... You have to make it feel like this is a date… "Shizuru bit her tongue. She failed to stop her stuttering. "And not as a tour" Natuski arched an eyebrow. Confuse.
"How so?" Natsuki asked. Intrigued at her words. Natsuki is ignorant in the field of dating, she never need or had one. They were not taught to her. They were after useless (She can send some spy like Nao to do that kind of job).
This time Shizuru smirked " You have to treat me in anything I want" Natsuki had a tiniest bit of idea that this 'date' would cause some casualties like war or doing some scientific research only this time or to be specific, it was her credit and wallet that would be the victims (Not that money was the issue, Natsuki can print one of those, but the mere fact that a single entity can/would using them all).
"Cheeky girl"
Shizuru 's next words surprised her and Natsuki. Simply put, that these words came out of her mouth without her consent." But I'm your cheeky girl" She had no idea where such an idea sprung. Not only that but the way she said those words were like seducing someone. Seduction was not her forte; it felt sticky and so unlike her. Was this one of her persona? Clearly, it wasn't but it came out from her.
Ara..must be because of the stress? She'd like to fool herself; she knows it wasn't the stress that's making her feel bold and daring.
Not even the slightest.
Natsuki chuckled at Shizuru; it was not because she wanted Shizuru to feel humiliated, it was gentle and it felt natural. Then she pinched Shizuru in the cheek. It was strange for Natsuki much as for Shizuru, to act this way. There might be something wrong with her after. It must be her obsession to break Shizuru's mask.
Crack. Natsuki heard yet again the odd sound. Something breaking and there was this fleeting feeling of something growing from her chest.
Perplexed, she ignores it. Better not dwell much on it before it gets to your brain, filling your every thoughts of it.
"Shall we start our date then?" Natsuki firmly held Shizuru's hand (intertwined their fingers together) keeping her close to her side. This made Shizuru's heart to pound, a strange welcoming feeling inside of her. Ignore it Shizuru, this is nothing. Shizuru distracted herself from the memory or from remembering the thought of Natsuki's hands as talented machine (it was unlike and unlady like of her to have thought of such a vulgar comparison)
And they started off; visiting places that even Shizuru has no knowledge about (she is a caged bird as well). But not before Natsuki gave a knowing glance just above her shoulder.
"Roger Mutt" Nao has been shadowing them the moment they left the school. Her lime irises were filled with unknown purpose, she licked her lower lip and gave a quick nod and she vanishes among the crowds like smoke.
It was fun watching them cuddle but I do have an order that needs to be done. Grin. I might say Mai is kinda cute...she commented.
Where is that little black haired boy? You sneaky little rat.
After the date, and they have already arrived at the Mansion, Shizuru went straight to her room carrying a bundle of things. She prepared herself to bed, since she was utterly tired from their 'date' (especially since Natsuki kept walking in from one store to the next, dragging her along kept asking petty questions).
It's as if it's her first time to have a date Shizuru fondly recalled the time when she tried to let Natsuki buy her a dress and the latter would only groaned and glare saying she could just get whatever she wants, since dresses are the same where ever you look at it. It was unromantic thing to say to your 'date', not that Shizuru consider it a real date. They were just pretending. She was just going with the flow. Now, there was also this part when Shizuru unintentionally took a quick look at an antic store and it just so happened that there was an old yet in good condition Naginata on display. She stopped for a moment to admire the weapon; it was deadly yet it was beautiful. It took her interest but that didn't really gave her the urge and thought of getting one. Not one bit of it. But given that point Natsuki bought the Naginata. She even has this grin, smirk or a senile smile on her (She looked proud), Shizuru couldn't tell. Not wanting to spark any trouble, she accepted it, laughing one would give a weapon on his or her date, unless you're a complete fool and crazy!. Shizuru glanced at the said weapon which was placed in the farthest corner since she had no idea how to or what to do with it.
Shizuru deducted on that day that Natsuki Kuga, the Mafia boss, a killer, a monsters, a teaser, a sadist, a secretly talented pianist (No idea why she inserted that title) would not be called a great date. Ever. She wondered that since Natsuki had been to places around Europe and will she's a boss, doesn't that make her an expert to that side? Surely, she must have a lot of other human slut than could please her in anyway she like. She arched an arrogant eyebrow. She must be talented in areas that I am not known for. She quickly erased the thought, afraid that she would again be thinking of something inappropriate.
"Although" Shizuru said to no one and took another glance to the stuff that they have bought and to the Naginata.
Where was I?
She snaps, "Right. Although, she was really…" she stopped, then she dived in the comforts of her pillow, muffling her words. She cannot believe she would be saying this to Natsuki. Charming. Charming in a mysterious way, Shizuru could not point her fingers but she felt that there was something in Natsuki that she finds charming. Which was odd and out of place. It must be her stupid heart that's messing with her brain, wait it was a part of her brain that's messing with her.
Ara, simple because she looked like a kid when asking various questions and had this intrigued look on her, those cold, distant eyes.
Shizuru's lips unexpectedly pursed, her eyes dancing with grief and turmoil as she stared at the ceiling of her room. Her hands grabbing the clean sheets of her bed, till her knuckles turned white.
I should stop this ridiculous behavior, She angrily thought as her main goal reached her mind. This wasn't a game and certainly this was all an act in order to achieve her goal. In order to escape from this wrenched situation, place.
Thinking or even feeling something aside from hatred should mean nothing She bit her lips, thinking that this would perhaps awaken her from her delusional self. She groaned and she scowled with disgust. She placed a hand over her aching chest, as if a fire just broke within. Starting to engulf her. Shizuru was torn between anger and acceptance (angry to have let herself nearly forgotten what she really wanted). Freedom from Natsuki's family. Freedom to do the things she really wanted.
Freedom to…
But what do I really want to do after? She rolled to her sides. She was more confused than ever before. I don't know what I want, but I do know what I hate. That is to fall pray to Natsuki, she was suppose to be the one who will seduce and make Natsuki one of her pawn in the chess but somehow she felt like her heart had started to grow weary and felt like a string is attached, just one though. She was afraid and wanted to cut it off before it manifest into something she won't like.
Cracked. Even if Shizuru cuts the string in her heart she had slowly and quietly started to break apart.
Her mask that is.
"I think a good long hot bath will calm this throbbing pain" she said dryly to herself, to make her feel a tiniest bit happy. Of course baths don't make your heart feel any better, they just let you temporarily forget the feeling but of course she doesn't want to burst her little own bubble.
After, I could work on my assignments. Shizuru is still a student and a president after all.
"So, how was your date?" Natsuki arched an arrogant eyebrow. "You had fun?" The voice teased in the dark corner of Natsuki's library. " I bet you had. Look at your smile" eyes flickered with the outmost interest to Natsuki who seem to be holding a collar.Was I that transparent?...
"Nao, please stop being a creep" Nao let out a defeated sigh as she slowly appeared beside Natsuki with a Cheshire smile that was mixed with joy, excitement, deviousness and mockery." It was fun" Natsuki muttered the last part that earned Nao to chuckle. Little mutt being shy! what a fucking surprise!
The spider
Natsuki glared and smirked" but not as fun if I'd see you dating with death" Nao waved in submission. She knows her boundaries and as such she doesn't want to temp to try and kill her. If she, the great Nao Yuuki, would disappear.
Who could spice the young boss's life? It won't definitely be Chie, who's busy dealing with keeping the other unit running and going. Covering up for Natsuki.
"Ok, that just killed my fun mood" Nao muttered with a pout on her face.
Natsuki suddenly smirked and then frowned. This earned Nao to straightened up and her face suddenly changed. It was like looking at two demons.
"I heard you've found some interesting facts" Natsuki's eyes sparkled with malice and mirth. She had reverted back to being a monster that she was. Like a wolf in a sheep's clothing.
"Indeed I have boss, and you'll be surprise as to who our little rat is. It was vexing to find him really but I mange to piece out clues...We can finally take control of their group. Once we tame them" Nao is skillful in gathering information but this really took Nao a long time to gather up. They were good but not good enough to deceive Nao. Little insects will always fall prey to a spider's web.
"Eliminate them you mean? since they are stubborn and crude herd of mice. Giving my father a hard time to cease such area and because of that they will all die "Natsuki's smirk widen revealing sharp canine. Her hands would get dirty again.
Why am I not excited?The beast squeezed the collar even tighter.
Nao licked her lips, this would make things difficult for the both of them. Why must it be that a student of Fuuka is affiliated with Japan's biggest Yakuza family, the Minagi clan. Like black rats in the sewers,
"hmm" Nao narrowed her eyes. i wonder what the snake would feel about this. She silently snickered to herself then she glance at Natsuki. I wonder as well what the mighty mutt would do? I wonder, I wonder
The pages are running low but the story grows.
"Shizuru!" Shizuru was silently reading in the student council room, this is one of the area, aside from the tree, where she can read books without someone or eyes that gawk at her (Thankfully Haruka was not there as well). Only student council members were allowed well except for a certain orange haired cook.
"Ara, good day Mai"
"It is really a good day! guess what, Natsuki invited me to come to your place"
"Ara? I was not inform about that" said Shizuru" What will you do?" She tried not to sound like she wasn't please with Mai's news. Did I just hear her say Natsuki?
" Natsuki asked if I could teach her how to cook" Mai was practically glowing with happiness and joy and sweetness all over her. She was flailing like crazy. Her voice filled with love and other sweet stuff that Shizuru find herself vomiting."I am not sure if I'm a good teacher. I'm still . I'm nervous...I'm just glad that you two live under the same roof or else I don't know what to do if if me and Natsuki were the only one in the area. I might say something or do something stupid." Mai blabbered
I am being mean to Mai... I should stop this feeling...It was making her think bad things about Mai.
"Kuga-sensei"
"What?"
"I think we should address her as sensei. It would be rude if we would casually call her by her first name" said Shizuru with an aura of authority. Along with her trade mark smile "She is our teacher, ne?" She even smiled brighter just to cover up the hidden shock and anger. Mai was getting too casual to Natsuki, too much that Shizuru can't help but get mad. She would like to keep a distance between them. Mai should not get involve with them. Natsuki is after Shizuru's problem.
Mai nodded " Right. ahahaha. I'm just happy that's all" Mai was too oblivious to notice the sudden change within Shizuru after she said the news." Anyway, see you later." Mai waived happily and she was gone.
think positive dear Shizuru... You need not to be a mean person, again. Shizuru sighed, placing the book down. She rubbed her temple and blankly stared.
"Princess" whispered by a deep voice that Shizuru flinched and quickly look at the source.
"Natsuki" said she with a slight gasp"Ara, what does kuga-sensei want from me?" Natsuki casually went towards the window. Shizuru was expecting that the teacher would walk towards her.
"Nothing much" said the teacher with a bored tone as she was looking down to the students who where having their lunch and spotted Haruka scolding a student. Natsuki looked at Haruka fondly. She could be a good soldier.
"Well if you got nothing to say then please tell me what on earth made you decide to invite Mai to your hellish place?"
"I just wanted to learn" get you jealous "cook" Natsuki said with a wink."it's not hellish Shizuru. It's much more normal compared to my father's place in Germany." she turned around and leaned herself on the window, facing Shizuru with eyes that sparkled with excitement. It was different" Aren't you glad that Mai's gonna visit you?... You'll be the judge later" She grin and went behind Shizuru. Shizuru merely followed her with her eyes. "Here" Natsuki took a necklace and placed it around Shizuru's smooth skin (Natsuki made sure that she didn't let herself touch Shizuru's skin)." You won't need to feel embarrass when you wear it" Shizuru felt shiver ran down through her spine as Natsuki whispered those words with diction. She tried her best not to move as she felt cold chains on her skin.
"...thank you...I guess" Shizuru muttered.
"Oh you're welcome" said Natsuki with a light pat on Shizuru's head. Then she went beside Shizuru, sitting on the desk. Natsuki leisurely reached her hand towards Shizuru's left cheek, tracing her finger lightly. Shizuru didn't move (she have already muttered every prayer as not to flinch or move a single muscle on her face).
Think of happy things… think of happy things. She said like a chant.
"Why are you nervous?" asked her sensei with a smirk." Your skin is soft, so warm and fragile" Natsuki took her by the chin and gaze directly upon her. She merely gasp at the sudden touch but muffled it by clenching her mouth. Hard. Shizuru can clearly see the bright green eyes of Natsuki (since the distance between them is merely an inch, they were in a position close to touching lips)."A single touch of a blade can slice through that beautiful face of yours" Shizuru felt Natsuki's thumb touching her lower lip, sending shock down her body (her heart was beating rapidly). Her jade eyes began to grow dim dangerously. I bet she's freaking out. Thought Natsuki with tease as she stared straight in Shizuru's dark auburn, almost red, eyes. It was easy for her to see that Shizuru's getting tensed and stiff. feisty girl. Trying so hard to act cool and unaffected. Natsuki felt her free hand slightly shaking. Neither do I... I can't barely keep myself from shaking. "So you better be careful... especially to individuals you're acquainted with " said she with a warning tone, as she suddenly let's go of Shizuru and abruptly left the president with confusion as to the sudden shift of mood. Shizuru could only give out a-what-the-fuck-happened but if she could have seen the face that Natsuki have, she could have seen a blushing and almost out of breathe Natsuki Kuga (monster). I'd be addicted to jasmine if I keep myself near her.
What is with her?
Shizuru touched her burning face and groaned. She can already feel a change in her, that only time can reveal what it really is. She clenched at her chest and prayed to whatever god that their is to save and bring clarity to her life. Because she surely and without a doubt needs some good explanation why her main goal is suddenly shifting to an unknown destination. She'd have to accept some facts.
Some talk I had with myself the other night She sarcastically chuckle to herself. Then groaned again. I need to talk to Nao. thinking while touching the necklace that Natsuki gave her (her collar)
Two cracks
"Brother?"
"Yes, dear sister?"
"Have you met that green eyed beast? "
"... Oh yes I did..Please focus on your training"
"...haha... You're the one who needs the focusing brother..." said she with trust of her wooden sword, trying to hit a point on her brother's shoulder but was easily evaded. "How's hime-sama?"
"Hime?"
"Fujino-san"she clarified as she barely miss the incoming blow.
"That girl... after I'm through with the dog, I'll marry her and use her father's influence to spread out our territory" he remembered
"Marry her?" questioned the younger one. She almost made it sound like she was going to laugh at a silly joke. She could not picture his brother to win the heart of the Fujino lady. It's not like the woman agreed to it in the first place. Her brother practically just went ahead and call her something sweet and of course the lady would not want to feel embarass in front of so many people that she gradually accepted the calls until they were branded a couple by the environment.
Silly big brother
"Yes, dear sister , after that, you will dispose of her. I'd feel guilty if I'd be the one bashing her beautiful face." his voice was not filled with remorse. It was rather filled with mockery and disgust.
"But-"
" Remember Mikoto, she is just a pawn for us" His voice grew vicious"And I've been itching to get rid of her... She's too perfect... Too clever... Too much of a bitch.. but enough about her... Let's finish up your training and then we can talk more about our beloved guests. It seems they were a bunch of picky guests that they almost ...completely destroyed our brothers " his dark eyes glowed dangerously like a volcano ready to explode. His gripped tighten that the latter can feel the sudden increase of power that she almost stumble but thankfully she was used to her brother's sudden rage. Her brother's greediness that she tries to understand as his only sister. As a good and obedient sister that she was, although at times she felt like she's just a tool to her brother's dream (also known as the Lord Kokiyu). To the lord's selfish dream.
Her yellowish but at times golden eyes flickered with anger and sadness. She should be the one in control of the Minagi clan since she is the legitimate heir of their father. The first born in the name of Minagi clan but only second due to her father's shameful affair with his first love. It's something that she does not understand. Emotions that could build and destroy. Although she agreed to let her older half brother to take up the lead since she was happy that she'd have to have an older sibling aside from her sword and her feline friends (most of them are black cats) and since she had respect to him as the older one. And instead she resign herself as her brother's guard and second in command in the Minagi power. She would do all the dirty and awful part in the clan. She's the dancer of death that brings nothing but bad fortune to their enemies, the black cat in the circle. She maybe young but she is old enough to kill but she was not yet able to meet the Mafia boss that has started to provoke them. The Wolves were trying to control them, well take them as a part of their own but her brother won't not agree to such term. He was too prideful and full of ambitions that it burns the clan but especially it burns her. If it was her, she would take the offer in order to prevent blood to spill and her comrades death. Their clan is the largest in whole Japan but they are still no match to the Mafia family from Germany (since they have accumulated a lot of manpower and resources). Merging with them would be of great advantage of them. too much could kill.
I will let you do as you please my dear brother but once I see fit to interfere. I will not hesitate to stop you and your selfishness in the name of the Minagi clan.
"When you love someone, you'd learn to hate them so much you'd end up killing them"- Beauty
This is where I stop. I hope you have enjoyed this fiction and thank you very much for the support! Have a wonderful day my dear readers. :)
ineedtolookforajobbleh.