Once Laito left, I gathered up my clothes and headed straight to the bathroom. Giving myself a look in the mirror, I saw that I looked very disheveled. I was a mess. I was tired and frustrated with what all transpired with both Shu and Laito. Laito especially being the cause of me not being able to have the right mindset this morning. Thank goodness we didn't have school this evening, because I wouldn't be in the mood at all to go with Laito being there and such.

Sighing, I went over towards the tub and turned on the hot water. I felt utterly overwhelmed by all that happened in such a short period of time. I needed to soak in a bath to clear my head and ease my body. Who knows, I may even go back to sleep after this. While the water ran, I stood at the sink and brushed my teeth. Once I was done with that, I opened up the medicine cabinet and pulled out some stuff to clean up my bite marks. While getting ready to clean my wounds, I noticed that the bite marks that was on my chest were pretty much healed. The only thing that was left of them, was light bruising but even then it was barely noticeable. Remembering the other bites Laito had given me, I lifted up my gown to take a peek on my inner thigh to see if the marks that Laito left there were healing as well and they were. For them to be healing that fast, was questionable to me. I mean, these are punctures, not light scratches for falling or getting a paper cut. They were actual holes on my body. These should take a while to fully heal, not to mention, I'm a bit surprised that they haven't become infected. Yes I cleaned them, but simple antiseptic wouldn't fully heal a hole on my body. A part of me wanted to be surprised, but I couldn't help but see it as something normal for me. My whole life, I've been able to heal quite quickly. Just minor stuff like abrasions, cuts, bruises, and so on. I rarely ever questioned it but once Dad noticed the odd occurrence, he took me to the doctor to see if anything was wrong. The doctors merely said that I must have a strong system and that my body is just quick to repair such light damage to it. Dad wasn't too sure on it but never brought it up again and I never mentioned it. Dad actually seemed concerned about the whole ordeal, so in order not to upset him or have him worried over me, I left the whole thing alone and just looked at it as an anatomy perk.

My thoughts were interrupted, when I heard water splashing on the floor. I turned around quickly and ran over to the tub to turn off the water. I slipped but caught myself on the edge of the tub while reaching over to turn off the water. The whole bathroom was like a sauna now and the tub was full of hot water almost like a mini jacuzzi. Minus the bubbles and massaging jets of course.

I shrugged then sighed.

"Well, at least I can take this opportunity to relax."

I was planning on having a short bath but a good soak and a lounge doesn't sound too bad at all. Slipping off my clothes, I slowly made my way into the water, letting my body get use to the high temperature. As I made it in the tub, more water overflowed and spilled over on the floor. Fully settled in, I leaned my head back on the wall behind me and closed my eyes.

Fully dressed in some comfortable clothing and more relaxed than before, I went on to the kitchen to make myself something to eat. All while I was fixing myself something, I couldn't help but think about how I acted with Laito last night when he was sleeping. I wonder if he knew that I was inspecting him and he simply wasn't asleep. No I'm sure he was asleep, because had he known, he would've teased me about it this morning. Like how he teased me about how he had to undress me or how he claim I was all over him when he brought me home. I shook my head trying to erase what he told me from my memory. There's no way I did that, he's obviously just messing with me since I have no recollection of what happened after he brought me home. The only thing I remember after Shu bit me, was falling over on the floor. At least that's what I think I remembered. I couldn't help but feel like there was something else to remember but I brushed it off.

With Dad at work, and no school this evening, I was stuck at home not doing much of anything. I wish I could call and talk to Yui but I don't have my phone nor do I have a memory of her number.

I flopped down on the couch and groaned into the cushions. I couldn't help but think about my Dad wanting to meet Yui. I knew it was gonna happen eventually but I wish the circumstances were different. Not to mention, the forced sleepover. Something I'm just horrified to do, especially with Laito. I'm sure Yui would like us to do something like that one day but she understands that it wouldn't be so easy for me. I mean she lives with them, so she knows how they can be and from what I've seen at school with how they behave, I can't even imagine how they'd be at home behind closed doors. Just thinking about it gave me goosebumps.

I groaned.

"I really want to talk to Yui right now. I should've memorized her number or had it on a piece of paper or something. Wait a second, paper..."

Sudden realization struck me hard and I jumped up from the couch then hurried to my room to look for the piece of paper that had Yui's number on it. She left it to me on the ground when Subaru took her away.

I had no idea where it was but I know for sure that I didn't toss it in the bin. I checked my drawers, I emptied out my school bag and looked under my bed. Nothing. I was thinking hard on where else it could be, then I went rummage through my clothes checking pockets. After looking through clothes trying to locate my uniform, I managed to find my skirt and reached into the pockets. Feeling some paper rustle, I pulled it out with haste. "Yes, I got it!"

I raised the paper in the air in success and then giddily made my to the house phone. It'd be good if Yui could hang out today, I honestly would prefer her to be here while I talked to her about everything. Maybe Yui can even manage to get my phone back from Laito.

I dialed her number and waited for an answer. After a few rings, the phone picked up.

"Hello?"

"Yui hey, it's Hiyori."

"Oh Hiyori! Its good that you called, I was thinking about texting you to see if you wanted to hang out this weekend. I called you earlier but I assume you were sleeping?"

"Yeah about that...there's something I need to talk to you about."

"Is something the matter?"

"Its a pretty long story, so I'm gonna just be fast. Laito spent the night at my house. I woke up with him in my bed and I freaked out. I was so concerned with my Dad coming into my room to find him there, because I was talking to Laito but didn't realize how loud I was being. So Dad came to the door and was like, 'who are you talking to in there', then I was all like, 'Oh no one. Just Yui'. Then Dad was wondering why were you calling me so early in the morning, which was a lie, then I told him that its because you wanted to invite me over for a sleepover. And then..."

At my erratic explanation, Yui stopped me mid way.

"Hiyori! Just...just slow down. My goodness, so much in one sitting. Catch your breath. So you lied to your Dad about there being a sleepover to cover for the fact that Laito was in your room?"

"Yes. But not only that, my Dad wants to meet you. Not that that's a bad thing, I just wish it was under a different situation."

Yui's happy reply eased the sorry off my shoulders.

"Oh I wouldn't mind meeting him. Of course this isn't how I imagined meeting him either."

Yui and I both laughed.

"So Hiyori? Why did Laito take your phone?"

I sighed.

"Well Laito thought it'd be funny, to not give me my phone when he saw you calling this morning. He then teased me, saying that if I wanted it back, then I'd have to go to his home for a sleepover."

"Ahh, so he's using that lie you told your Dad against you?"

"Yeah...Yui, I don't want to..." I whined in disappointment.

"I could try to get you your phone back, that way you don't have to come here. I know it would be stressful for you."

I couldn't help but let out a grateful tone at her offer.

"Oh Yui would you? Wouldn't that be difficult though? I mean, Laito isn't really a simple guy."

"That's true, but it wouldn't hurt to try."

Yui is seriously a great friend and she is just too good of a person to be around those kind of monsters those brothers are. Her presence is wasted on them.

"I really appreciate it Yui, like really. And if you can't get it, then its alright, I'll just...have to figure something else out in the meantime."

Yui could hear my lack of confidence in my voice and sighed.

"Hiyori I really hate that you're going through this because of me. I'll really try my hardest to return your phone."

"As long as you try its appreciated. So anyway, enough about my terrible morning, what were you planning on doing today because I'm low on ideas."

Yui and I spent a little over an hour talking about what we should do for the day. Our choices went from a cafe to going shopping, to hanging out here at my house or going for a walk around town. Either way, we both were intent on doing something for the day. She even brought Yusuke into the conversation. You wouldn't think Yui was the teasing type, but she clearly fooled me. She called it a 'girl's instinct' that she could sense when someone liked someone else. I couldn't contain myself from overly denying such things, but the more I denied he had such feelings for me, the more insistent she was. Despite her friendly teasing, it was nice talking to Yui and I felt much better after chatting with her about my not so good morning. We ended up settling on hanging out at the park and going for a walk but Yui would meet at my house first then we'd be on our way.

I spent quite a while on trying to figure out what I should wear for our day out. I settled on the outfit that I bought that day Yui and I went shopping. I was a bit hesitant on wearing it considering that it wasn't my kind of thing to wear but I suppose trying something new wouldn't hurt me.

Once I was all dressed up, I started cleaning up my room which was a bit messy. I tossed my room practically upside down looking for Yui's number plus my bed spreading was a mess after Laito and I were in it. Just thinking that made me shiver because it didn't sound right. Now I don't want to seem like I'm overreacting, but I'm tempted to put my blanket and sheets in the washing machine. Not saying he's filthy or anything, its just a feeling that he's left some kind of bad juju behind. I let out a little giggle at how ridiculously petty I was being.

Quickly after I put all my clothes back and straightened up my bed, the doorbell rang. I frowned thinking that it was quite early for Yui to be showing up, nevertheless, I went to answer the door. Only to open it and find Yusuke on the other side.

"Oh Yusuke, hi. What are you doing here?"

Yusuke offered a lopsided smile and a chuckle.

"What I can't just visit you? Were you expecting someone else?"

Cocking my head to the side while smiling, I moved to the side and to invite him inside. As Yusuke made his way inside to take a seat, I closed the door and made my way into the living room where he had made himself comfortable.

"Actually I was. Yui and I are gonna hang out today, so she's gonna come over to my house and then we'll be on our way."

Yusuke folded his arms and frowned curiously.

"You seem to really like her."

I couldn't help but smile widely at his statement.

"I do. I feel really happy with her. I never thought that I could, 'be a girl', but with Yui, she's brought out that part in me. I'm glad."

I sat down next to Yusuke on the couch and flipped on the television just to add some background noise. Yusuke and I ended up having typical small talk. I asked him about his mother and he told me that she was well and wanted to meet me to know more about the person whose caught her son's eye. I couldn't help but blush at that.

"Does your mother think that there's...you know, something going on?"

Yusuke chuckled while rubbing the back of his neck.

"Well she's got her hopes up that's for sure. I keep telling her that we're friends but she insists that she'd like to meet my "girlfriend". Sorry, I know that this is embarrassing for you."

I shook my head quite vigorously.

"No no its alright. That's just a parent for you."

Yusuke was a kind and nice boy, he seemed like what any girl would want in a boyfriend. He was nurturing, kind, helpful and I'm assuming pretty smart. Not to mention he was quite handsome. I wasn't attracted to him but then again, I don't think that I've ever been attracted to any boy. I can't even recall a time in my young life that I ever had a crush. I'm not even sure that I have a type. Perhaps I'm just gonna be one of those people that'll either end up alone or find 'The one' when I'm older.

I hadn't even realized that I was spacing out and felt Yusuke tap my shoulder.

"Oh! Sorry, were you saying something?"

Yusuke pointed at the TV screen.

"I was asking if it'd be okay if I turned the channel?"

I looked at the TV and saw what was on. More like who was on. It was that man I saw on TV before. Tougo Sakamaki. I noticed that Yusuke had an almost sour expression on his face as he looked at the TV. In the short while I've known him, I had never seen Yusuke look so visibly upset.

"Sure I don't mind, go ahead. Um Yusuke, you're not very fond of him are you? That Tougo fella I mean."

Yusuke began flipping through the channels and his eyes turned to me. He laughed a bit embarrassingly.

"Is it that obvious?"

I couldn't help but laugh and placed my finger on my chin.

"Well my first guess was perhaps he was your idol and you just couldn't contain yourself from looking at him."

Yusuke gave me a playful side glare.

"Well aren't you a comedian."

I shrugged.

"I try."

Yusuke couldn't find anything on tv, so he asked me if it was alright if he could turn it off. After I gave him the okay, I went into the kitchen to get us something to snack on. I made some tea and got out some little tea cakes. I should have done this earlier but I was not expecting Yusuke to drop by at all. I'm glad he did though, its always nice to see him.

As we sat at the table, I couldn't help but wonder why Yusuke disliked Mr.Sakamaki so much. Maybe he wasn't too fond of his views or something. I was unsure if I should even ask, because Yusuke seemed quite visibly upset when he popped up on screen, but my curiosity got the better of me.

"So Yusuke, hope you don't mind me asking, but is there a reason why you have a disliking for Tougo Sakamaki?"

My question made Yusuke pause for a brief moment. He then lifted his cup to his mouth and sipped at his tea. Sighing, Yusuke put his cup down and began lightly tapping his finger on the table.

"Not trying to sound petty, but its just something about him. His air, the way he carries himself and how supposedly charming he is. Like its an act."

As he was talking, he had his eyes set on his fingers tapping at the table as he spoke. Yusuke's face was now down turned and his eyes became almost emotionless. Did he really despise him that much, despite not knowing him. Yusuke then looked up at me and put on a light smile.

"You ever wonder how people like him behave behind closed doors? Like should people really see him as someone they should idolize?"

His questions caught me off guard and I just sat there with my mouth slightly agape. Why was he asking something like that? I wasn't sure if I should even answer that question but its not like I had an actual answer to it.

Seeing as how I didn't have an answer to his questions, Yusuke closed his eyes and sighed deeply.

"I'm sorry Hiyori. I'm sure I've made you uncomfortable just now."

I gave him an uneven smile and shook my head.

"Oh not at all, its just your questions really threw me just now."

Not just by what he suddenly asked me, but everything about him just now. He seemed very unlike his usual self, but do I even know his actual self. I mean I don't even fully know Yusuke, other than what I first got from him through first impressions. My silence apparently went on too long, and Yusuke snapped me out of it by offering to clean up. I didn't want him to but he insisted to do so. All while Yusuke took care of what little dishes we used, I got up to go to the bathroom, but the ring of the door bell stopped me in my tracks. Knowing who it was, I went to open the door without asking who was there.

"Hey Hiyori, oh I love your outfit. That's the one from when we went shopping right?"

I shyly looked at my clothes and patted myself down to swipe away at invisible crumbs or lint.

"Oh Thank you Yui and yeah it is, I figured to try dressing up a bit."

I invited Yui in and we went to the table where Yusuke and I were just at. Yusuke looked up from the kitchen sink as he was washing our dishes and gave Yui a cheery smile in which she happily returned in kind. Giving him a small nod, Yui greeted him kindly.

"Nice to see you again Yusuke san, are things well with you?"

Yusuke wiped his wet hands on a towel that was hanging up on a rod above on of the cabinets and made his way towards Yui and I.

"Good to see you again as well Yui san, and yes, things are pretty good. Hiyori told me that you two are heading out today."

Yui nodded.

"Yeah, there's no school today so we're just gonna go for a walk and maybe get something to eat, you're welcome to join us."

I perked up at Yui's offer and nodded my head in agreement.

"Yeah Yusuke, you should come along. It would be fun to get to know each other more."

Yusuke had an hesitant look on his face and right then and there I knew his answer before he could say it.

"Sorry to turn you down but I have to get back home to help my mom around the house. I came over to see Hiyori while my mom was folding up the laundry."

I frowned.

"Why aren't you helping her fold the clothes?"

Yusuke scratched his chin with the tip of his finger.

"Well, she thinks I do a sloppy job, so she takes care of it. I figure while she's doing that, I'd come over and see you."

I couldn't help but feel my face flush a tiny bit. I knew I had a light tint of pink on my cheeks, so I turned my head to the side and let out a shy chuckle.

"O-oh Yusuke, you don't have to waste your break time with boring ol' me."

I could feel Yui's stare on me and that made me feel even more embarrassed. I mean I don't dislike Yusuke but his actions were always so sweet, I couldn't help but feel flattered.

"Well, perhaps next time I'll hang out with the two of you but I got to head back, I'm sure my mom is almost done. It was nice seeing you again Yui."

Yusuke slightly nodded his head in her direction and she soon mimicked his action and bid him a farewell.

"And the very same Yusuke san. See you again soon I hope."

I walked Yusuke to the door and as I was about to shut the door behind him, Yusuke stopped and turned around.

"Oh and Hiyori thanks for the drink and snack. Also, you look really cute today. See ya."

With one last wave from Yusuke, I felt my face burn. Not knowing what to do or say, I simply closed the door.

Why did he have to say that, I bet I look very feverish now.

Giving myself a small fan with my hand, I composed myself and made my way back to where Yui was. Once I made my back to Yui, she was looking at me with a small knowing smile on her face. I wondered why she was looking at me like that.

"W-why are you looking at me like that?"

Yui giggled.

"Yusuke really likes you Hiyori. Its just cute is all."

At Yui's blunt statement, I couldn't help but trip over my words as I tried to let out a response to what she had just claimed.

"L-l-like M-me?! N-no way! Besides, he hasn't known me long enough to gain any feelings like that for me."

Yui simply hummed and took a seat at the table. I wasn't making it any better by stuttering like I was and denying it so quickly. Yusuke liking me? That's just ridiculous. I'm sure he sees me nothing more than just a friend.

Yui was still looking at me with an innocent smile plastered on her face, as if she was waiting for me to admit something.

"Yui stop looking at me like that. Anyways shouldn't we get going?"

Yui hopped up out of her seat as if she just remembered why she was here in the first place.

"Yup, lets go."

Before I headed for the door, I just remembered that I had to use the bathroom.

"Wait, I need to use the bathroom real quick."

Yui and I walked and talked on our way to our destination. She wanted to get something to eat before we went to the park but the cafe she wanted to go to was packed with people. It was the weekend and during the middle of the day, I'd be shocked if no one was in there at all. So instead of going to get something on our stomachs, we decided to just head straight to the park.

I'd never been to the park in this area after moving into town, it seemed like a friendly little area. People were out with their children, dogs playing around with their owners and couples sat around on the grass being all lovey with one another. It was a nice atmosphere to be around that's for sure.

Yui pointed towards an unoccupied bench and that's where we headed.

After we sat down, I took a deep breath inhaling the nice smell of grass and breezy air.

"Its really nice here. The grass is so green, the air feels clean, I really feel as if I can clear my head just by being here."

Yui couldn't help but agree.

"It is a nice place. You know, in the early stages of living with Ayato and his brothers, I use to sneak off here early in the morning and just have some time to myself. It was really rejuvenating for me everytime I came here."

As Yui spoke, she closed her eyes for a short while and then turned her attention back on the active people in the park.

Yui suddenly speaking about the Sakamakis, caught me off guard. I wondered if she's attempted to run away from them a few times. From what she just said, I don't think things were always nice in the beginning for her. I still don't know how she came to live with them nor did I want to ask her. Sure I was curious but I didn't want to pry.

"Oh Hiyori, I almost forgot to tell you, I couldn't get your phone back. Laito claimed that he lost it, but of course he's not being truthful. He just doesn't want to give it back."

I rolled my eyes and leaned my head back while groaning loudly.

"Why must he do this to me?"

Yui let out an unsure hum.

"How about you ask your father to get you a new phone?"

I shrugged.

"I've thought about that but I don't know. I mean I wouldn't want to ask him to get me something like a phone. That phone actually took a while to save up for, so I wouldn't feel right telling him that I lost it. Its not like I can tell him some boy stole it from me."

Yui cocked her head to the side.

"That's true. You don't have to come over Hiyori, I'll get your phone back. If not soon, eventually."

I appreciated Yui's dedication to getting what belongs to me back. I felt bad though that she was willing to try hard to get it back. I was honestly starting to feel like I should just give up on the phone and just try to wait until the time is right to ask Dad to buy me another one. I mean it should be fine right? He's making more money than he did before, so getting a new phone wouldn't actually be an issue. But how am I going to explain to him that I no longer have my phone. He knows I rarely to never use it, so why would it come up missing if its always sitting at home put away.

"No Yui its alright. I'll just have to deal without it for a while."

"But how will you keep in touch with me? I know you have a phone at home but I like texting you."

Yui and I both laughed. She could be so adorable.

"Yeah me too but don't worry, I'll just have to deal with it until then. So anything new with you and those boys you live with?"

Yui chuckled.

"Nothing new really, same ol' thing. Oh but their father did visit them last night."

Their father? I never thought about their parents. I mean I knew that they had parents but I wonder what kind of parents they are to have sons like that.

"Oh really? How did that go? Is their father, you know, a scary guy or something?"

Nodding her head slowly, Yui's face suddenly looked nervous.

"He's surely quite the intimidating figure. He doesn't live at the house with us but he occasionally drops by to sorta, check on his sons."

It seems that their father actually loves them. A relieved smile appeared on my face.

"Sounds like he cares about them. I thought that they would have a bad relationship with their parents or something."

Yui sighed and looked down at her feet.

"Well..."

Before Yui could say anything else, there was a sudden chime like ring coming from her pocket. After excusing herself, she flipped it open and her eyebrows shot up in surprise. Curious of who was calling, I couldn't help but lean over to see what had caused her shocked appearance. But before I could see who it was, Yui pressed a button and then held the phone up to her ear.

"Hello?"

While talking on the phone, Yui stared at me as if she wanted to tell me something but didn't.

"Laito kun..."

As soon as that name left her lips, I felt myself getting chills over my body yet at the same time anger began to well up inside me.

"You know Ayato hates it when you go in my room. There's nothing in there for you, now please get out of there."

Yui seemed a little peeved that Laito had called her out of the blue. Apparently he was up to no good and doing something he shouldn't be doing.

Yui brought her free hand up to to her forehead and sighed.

"Laito kun can you please put those back and shouldn't you be asleep."

Laito loved causing trouble. Its like he lives just to be a pest to people around him or something. I had no idea what was being said on the other end, but Yui kept sighing and rolling her eyes almost every second she was on the phone with him. I was almost tempted to snatch her phone away and demand Laito to return my phone but I didn't want him to know that Yui is with me right now. For all I know, he would probably show up here once he knew of my whereabouts.

"Well we couldn't have the dinner last night because you were missing. He wanted to see all of you. I know, I know."

Okay, now I was really curious. I motioned at Yui basically asking her was everything okay. Yui gave me an unsure smile and shrugged. I'm sure she'll tell me once she gets off the phone.

"Okay fine but only for today."

With one last sigh, Yui snapped her phone shut.

"Not trying to pry, but is everything okay?"

Yui turned towards me.

"Yeah everything is fine. Laito caused a little bit of a stir last night. Like I just mentioned, their father came to see them but not just to see them, to have a family dinner. Something they have occasionally. I think you know about that right?"

I nodded my head. Laito had told me about it. That's the dinner he wanted me to join him for, for him to borrow my company. It was part of the deal we made and in exchange he'd go easy on his blood intake. I'm still not even sure if he'd hold up his end of the bargain if I do join him for his family dinner.

"Well their father decided to postpone it until he knows for sure all of his sons will be present."

Well that explains why he was at my house last night. Not to make sure that I was okay, but to hideout until his father was no longer around. He doesn't seem like the type to run away, but I guess family issues don't discriminate.

"Oh Yui, if I had known that he had been ditching a family gathering, I would've called you."

Yui shook her head and sighed.

"Its alright, but he knows he can't avoid his father forever. Besides, once the dinner is done and over with, their father will be going away for a while."

"He must be a very busy man. What does he do?"

Yui looked as if she was unsure how she should answer. Perhaps she didn't know exactly what their Dad does for a living.

"Well he's a really important figure in the political world but I'm not sure 100% exactly what he does. All I know is that he's on television a lot."

He's on TV a lot? I frowned trying to figure out if I've seen him before.

"What's his name?"

"Tougo Sakamaki."

My mouth dropped and my eyes went wide in surprise.

"Tougo Sakamaki is their father?! Just...wow."

My loud and apparent shock startled Yui a bit and she jumped in her seat.

"I thought I mentioned it to you before."

I knew it. I suspected it and yet I didn't put it together even though it was right in my face. Wow, so Tougo was their Dad. He seems like such a well put together man and yet his sons are the complete opposite of him. Rude, fowl mouth and such appalling personalities.

"Well I sorta considered the thought when I heard the name, 'Sakamaki' on tv one day and then you mentioned the boys surnames to me at school. But I passed it off as just them having the same last name but no relations."

Yui nodded.

"Yup they're related indeed but they don't get along very well."

"Not that its any of my business, but why don't they? Is it because he isn't home a lot or something?"

Letting out a sigh Yui shook her head and looked down at her feet.

"Its not that I don't want to tell you but it's just that it's...complicated."

I nodded my head understandingly.

"No no its okay. Well whatever the reason, its just too bad that they don't get along. I mean they're family and despite the odds they should be able to at least come together and be cordial for a night. You think that's what Mr.Sakamaki wants from his sons?"

Yui shrugged.

"You know I'm not even sure what he wants. All I know is that when he's not around, Ayato and the rest act so full of life, but as soon as their father comes through the threshold, they become very uneasy to the point where they won't utter a single word."

Uneasy? You wouldn't even think that either of them knew what that word meant considering how they have behaved with me. To be honest, it sounds like a very somber situation. I mean I'm not too fond of them, but it sounds to me like their relationship with their father seems more than just strained. Perhaps their Dad did something that none of them can easily forgive or forget. I almost can't help but feel sorry for them.

"Hiyori do you want to head back? I mean we came here to hang out but the mood just isn't there anymore is it?"

She was right, things took a turn ever since Laito called her. Even when he's not around, he turns a good day upside down. Its a bit childish to blame him when it wasn't even intentional, but I also couldn't help but feel it was deliberate.

Letting out a light chuckle, I got up from my seat.

"That's true. I would suggest going somewhere to eat but I don't feel like waiting in line or dealing with crowds. Do you want to head back to my house and I can cook something."

Yui perked up at my offer.

"That doesn't sound like a bad idea. I'll even help you. Besides, I've always wanted to try your cooking."

We arrived at my house which seemed to have taken forever. There were a lot of people outside today, and the streets were packed with cars and hordes of people as well. Even on our way back, we stumbled upon an accident that had happened. Good thing we decided to head back, because things were getting a bit too hectic out here.

As I pulled out my key to unlock the door, I could hear a faint noise coming from inside. Its sounded like people talking. Listening a bit closely, I guessed that it was the tv. That couldn't be it, I shut it off before I left.

"Hiyori is that the tv? You didn't leave it on did you?"

I shook my head.

"No I made sure it was turned it off before we headed out."

A terrifying thought coursed through my mind. What if Laito was inside relaxing on the couch waiting for me or something. With that thought in mind, I was very hesitant on entering my own home. Last night was a nightmare and this morning was a disaster. His face is not a face I'd want to see right now or ever for a long while.

Deciding to suck it up, I inserted the key and twisted the lock. Once the door was open, Yui and I slowly made our way inside. I headed in first and Yui was right on my heels. Once we made our way all the way in, I heard the faucet going in the kitchen. Okay now I know darn well that I didn't leave that running.

Then it crossed my mind that maybe...

"Hiyori there you are!"

It was Dad and my goodness did he give me a fright. I felt Yui jump behind me when he called out to me like that.

"I was wondering where you were. Did you head out? Oh..."

Dad paused taking notice of Yui right behind me. I felt Yui move from behind me and stand on the side of me. She lifted her hand and gave a light wave with a welcoming smile. As she did that, I spoke up.

"Hey Dad. You're home early."

"Yeah, something came up with my boss and he sent me home. Seems I don't have to work tonight. So is this the famous Yui you've been telling me about?"

Yui's face turned a light pink and I felt my face burn a bit. Why did he have to say that.

"Daaaad..."

Yui laughed at my obvious embarrassment and then introduced herself.

"Hello sir. Its nice to meet you. My name is Yui Komori, I'm sure Hiyori has told you about me."

Wiping his hands on a towel, Dad walked towards us with his hand out.

"Mr. Yamaguchi, a pleasure to meet you Yui, Hiyori really treasures you as a friend. The day she met you, all she could do was explain to me how kind and sweet you were."

I folded my arms and rolled my eyes.

"Dad come on, you make it sound like I'm crazy. He's exaggerating Yui."

Yui giggled and nodded.

"Whatever you say Hiyori."

After introductions were over, we sat at the table and began chatting. I told Dad about Yui and I going shopping and his jaw pretty much dropped on the table. I couldn't help but place my hand over my face at Dad's reaction, and yet all the while, Yui was cracking up as if it was the most hilarious thing she's seen.

His surprise is granted though, I was a hermit, so me going out for once was something of a shocker for the both of us. Yet with Yui, I could go out everyday if it was to hang out with her. Her company was definitely nice as I've said before.

Once we got all the niceties off the table, I decided now was the time to discuss the sleepover with Dad.

"So uh Dad, about that sleepover. You said that you wouldn't mind it if you met Yui, so what's your answer now?"

To be honest with you, I was mostly expecting Dad to just up and say, 'Sure of course!', but he actually showed a bit of hesitancy on his answer. He sat there for a few seconds with an unsure frown on his face and his arms folded.

"Hiyori, you know that I'm happy that you've found a friend, especially one so well mannered and has quite the character to her, but I'm not sure. I mean I know I've had no reason to play the whole overprotective Dad role, but Yui, do you have brothers?"

The surprise on my face was pretty unmistakable.

"Dad!"

At my outburst, Dad ended up dying with laughter.

"Oh I'm just kidding Hiyori, of course you can."

So it was just a feint. Well he sure did have me fooled for a short time there. Goodness, I never realized how embarrassing he could be. Yet if Dad only knew how, kinda, right he almost was, I could bet you, I wouldn't be heading to Yui's home.

"Just make sure to call me if anything arises okay Hiyori?"

I nodded excitedly and Yui showed obvious signs of happiness on her face. Even though I was hesitant on spending the night at her home with those guys around, I couldn't help but feel a bit happy as well. This was gonna be first sleepover with a friend and I couldn't wait.

But all that excitement was slightly drained once dad spoke up.

"To be honest with you, with me not having to work tonight, I was hoping we keep spend some time together."

And just like that, I felt bad.

"Oh Dad, I'm sorry. I didn't even think about it..."

Dad's right, we haven't been spending time together and that's something he wanted to change since we moved here. I wanted that as well, but ever since I met Yui, it hasn't been bothering me as much that I haven't been seeing Dad as much. I immediately felt bad. Almost as if I forgotten him or something and that's something that I never wanted to happen. Ever.

Yui noticed that what my Dad said, pretty much put a small damper on my mood and she spoke up.

"The sleepover doesn't have to be tonight, it can be any other night. I wouldn't want it to interfere with your time with one another."

I couldn't agree more with Yui.

"Yeah, it doesn't have to be tonight. Sorry I didn't consider you Dad."

Dad put his hands up and shook his head while laughing.

"Hey you two, I didn't say that to make you feel bad. Hiyori go ahead and have your fun, that's what I wanted for you remember?"

"But Dad its your night off, its not right of me to leave you here by yourself."

I then noticed that Yui looked at a nearby clock and then a thought seemed to have crossed her mind.

"I got an idea. We still have a few hours until we head over to my house, and Hiyori and I were gonna cook something together when we got here, how about all three of us do that."

I couldn't help but let out a laugh.

"Wow Yui, that sounds so cheesy but not a bad idea."

Yui puffed her pink cheeks and then gave me a light shove.

"At least I came up with a solution, something your Dad seems to actually be considering."

She was right. Dad sat there with his arms crossed and his eyes staring off into space.

Nodding his head, Dad agreed.

"Alright. Sounds like a plan, so what were you girls gonna cook?"

Yui and I looked at each other completely unsure and then laughed.

Dad, Yui and I had fun for the remainder hours until it was time for me to head over to her house.

Dad was off for the night because his boss was attending to some personal affairs he said. I honestly wish I could've kept him company at home, but he insisted that he would be fine and that I should go and have fun. I did promise him that his next day off, it'll just be him and me for the whole day.

Yui followed me into my bedroom to help me pack for the night. It was only one night, so I didn't need much, but she insisted that I could never have too much when spending the night at someone else's house. As right as she was, I still wanted to pack light. As I was packing, I almost forgot how uneasy I was feeling. I'm going to spend the night at the Sakamaki household. Just thinking about how they behave at school, I can't even begin to imagine at the thought of how they behave in their domain away from many curious eyes from the public.

Yui saw how uneasy I appeared and she laid her hand on my shoulder, then showed me a reassuring smile. As worried as I am, perhaps it won't be as bad as I'm thinking it to be.

Having everything in tow, Yui and I made our way to the living room, only to see Dad laid out asleep on the couch. I turned to look at Yui and she quietly giggled. I shook my head and walked over to him.

"See you tomorrow Dad."

After giving him a kiss on the forehead, I made sure I had everything and then Yui and I headed for the door. With everything in tow, we made our way outside.

I then saw that the Limo was already out front ready and waiting for us.

Without a second passed, we approached the car and went inside.

The ride didn't feel that long because I actually didn't want to leave the Limo. I've been in it before of course, but this is different. The boys weren't in the car with us at all, so it felt like a nice smooth and fun ride. Yui and I were chatting it up the whole way laughing at our own ridiculous antics.

As we pulled up to the house, my mouth dropped at the site before me. I wouldn't even dare to call that a house. Its like calling that a house would be an insult. The mansion was huge and very intimidating just by appearance alone. I was kinda scared to go inside, let alone approach the large gate. As we exited the car, my mouth was still open in amazement.

"Yui, this place is insane."

Yui and I approached the front gates and then entered.

"Yeah, I had the same reaction myself when I first arrived. Its very spacious, but you actually get use to it."

I looked at Yui as if she was crazy.

"How long did it take you to get use to it?"

Placing a finger on her chin and looking up into the sky, Yui pretended to ponder the thought.

"About 2 weeks."

We both laughed out loudly as we made our way to the huge impressive looking doors. Everything about this place screamed, 'Stay away'. The front gardens were beautiful though, and so was the mansion, but the air it carried was thick and full of something that I couldn't pin point. Almost as if this place was cursed.

Yui noticed that I was beginning to fall behind her and turned around.

"Hiyori, are you okay?"

At Yui's question, I picked up the pace and was along side her again.

"Yeah I'm alright."

Of course I wasn't alright, but I didn't want Yui to worry.

We finally made our way to the front door. Which was huge, it even had those huge door knockers placed in the middle of the door. Before Yui could knock on the door, it opened up for us with a loud creak and then there to greet us with such a cheerful, almost innocent smile, was none other than Laito Sakamaki.

I could feel my stomach do many flips and my knees shake. Of course its no surprise that he's here, but I was not expecting him to be greeting us at the door like this.

"Seems that I've rendered you speechless. Are you that happy to see me my love~."