Chapter 11 is up! It is right below this response!
AN: Hey guys. Fortunately, I have only one paper that is due the following day, which is pretty simple too. That means I can back to writing soon. That also means that the next chapter will be released on Sunday as usual. Thanks for all the reviews you guys have been giving me, it's been an extra mood booster to help me write.
Also, I'm writing this at the time where both Youtube and Spotify are down. So I am a bit on the edge.
Shoutout to GhostbyDaylight for the artwork. It is absolutely amazing and I can't thank him enough for it.
Anyways, on to the reviews.
Randomidiot, okay...? I have no idea what you mean with that. A few words don't necessarily count as a helpful comment or review. I would appreciate it if you wrote something more in the context of the story, however. Still, I appreciate you reading this fic.
Guardian, well how can she? Smh. I have to admit, writing the gym scene was fun since I can finally dive into to work out terms and all, but I forgot to lol.
I brought back Bisenberg because he is some good comic relief, you know? And yes, that sucker punch was a such a low blow. Thanks for stopping by.
TheForgottenRune, I'll be responding to your reviews you have put out. Alright, I'll with saying that I don't know if I wrote out the confrontation scene all that well, but hey it was worth the shot. Next, you have said that Monika has kind of no reason to behave like that. I gotta say bud, I disagree. Remember, she is speculating and needs to pull more information out of Val in order for her theory to work. Most of her actions are to test and get more information out of him like she has said multiple times. But I get what you are saying.
Now, for the broken promises, I think it's unspoken that Val broke it. Since she assumed he didn't want anything to with him anymore. Not much else to say there. I thank you for taking my story on an analytical standpoint, it allows me to give some insight into what others are thinking or doing.
And yes, Val is completely and utterly fucked.
Sbg, Good to see you reviewing again. I'll be starting on your first review. Thanks for saying that, I did explain that they were taught by their mothers... somewhat. Also, kids are cringy, but I don't mind them as they long as they don't bother me. I tried to make those sleepover scenes meaningful and get it to be referenced multiple times throughout the story as a plot point, turns out it is mildly successful. As usual, I believe that Monika has an obsessive nature like Yuri, but it is more manipulative based. Not to mention that she might have a rotten, yet gold core in the inside, like many perfectionists and idols, do. But that's just my take. Chunnibyou and Oregairu are shows I need to watch lol.
Onto the current review, cliffhangers let the readers imagine what will happen next, and it's good to let imaginations let loose. But that's what I believe, at least. Next chapter will be around 10k as usual. Again, as stated before Monika has that yandere-esque behavior that makes writing her fun. For the talk, I needed to use plot armor in order to draw out the story and plot as well. I am planning on having the talk soon. As for journal, you're going to have to wait and see... also lmao yeah for the scientist. The rivalry between Yuri and Natsuki spilling over is something that can expedite things, so I'll be sure to hurry things up.
Anyway, thanks for criticism and letting your thoughts out. I enjoy reading them a lot.
Bonomedia, good to hear about your cat!
Saggyboy, I took your suggestion into consideration. Thanks. I subconsciously was going for that, but you giving me the suggestion just reinforced my will to write that. However, I omitted the part where she lets her love for free, since I think it's a bit too early. Thanks for the review and suggestion, it is really helpful.
Sakfzr, Thank you. I appreciate that you took the time to go the extra mile on trying to read my fic, despite the language barrier. And yeah, I addressed that problem and that actually isn't his real name, in the previous fic. Hope you stay for more.
Dunksouls, I try to limit the whiplash on certain parts of the chapter, but sometimes I let it slip by honestly. Again, there is a reason why his name is like that, but Val's actual name is found during the end of the first part of chapter 10. I hope you find it! Additionally, I would like to say that this rendition of Monika is different mostly because of how I perceive her. She's that perfectionist that is caring to all, but in reality is a cruel and hurt girl in the inside. If her epiphany was taken away, I believe that's how she would behave in my eyes. Anyway, thanks for leaving a review behind.
Ghostbydaylight, cliffhangers are the way to go, lol. And I will push and push to the end, don't you worry.
Ponystories, yup. It is supposed to be like that. Heh.
Titan, I never understood all the rage behind Sans, mostly because I never played Undertale, idk. And I fell for that when I read your review lol.
Yeah, I needed to put in another self-aware easter egg for you all. I just found it fun to include lol. And that's exactly what I think for the cliffhangers. Lots of possibilities are open at that point.
I thought I was a bit off on writing Monika, but good to hear that I am writing her properly. Thanks for that. Writing her is pretty fun to do, so perspective switches are kind of constant.
Perhaps. Who knows if he is alive...
I actually laughed a little when you wrote that. And I laugh rarely, good work. It's such a great buildup with an awesome punchline to end it. Amazing.
P.S: I started to play Destiny 2 since it was free. And I gotta say it's fun. I love playing as a Warlock, Dawnblade is awesome to use cause you can recharge it quickly, Nova is powerful along with the devour tree, and Stormcaller is something I am trying to learn, I am guessing it's a pvp class.
SRGanon, Hey a little comedy here and there makes reading and writing fun. Thanks for pointing that out!
Anyway, that's all for reviews. I hope that I got everyone in here... See you in the next chapter.
Be advised! This chapter has lots of cartharsis! Reader discretion is advised!
I was working with Haru on a project that was due Friday.
We took the time to stay in a mandatory study session to work on that.
But unfortunately for me, Haru was going home early since she was feeling a bit ill.
Thus, it was up to me to finish the project for her.
Man...
At times like these, I wonder what big bro is doing...
I bet he is having a blast back home.
And here I am, forced to a project on the school trip we went on Monday.
"Sooo, your brother right... I heard that he's making moves in Dokisai." Haru stated, scribbling some notes down on a notebook.
I knitted my brows at this.
"What? My bro? No, I don't think he is doing anything like that, Haru. He's the type of bro that doesn't take credit from anything."
It was no secret that I held my older brother with high praise.
"Even if he did, I don't think he would like the attention." I proudly declared. "Hey, wait a minute... How did you know about my bro?"
Haru held her cheeks and sighed.
"My older sister, Yuri told me all about it. By the sounds of it... Ahhh~! He's like a knight! Helping those in need and making them feel safe! My older sister talked about him all the time yesterday... And I gotta say he sounds dreamy..."
I pursed my lips and rolled my eyes at what she was saying.
"He even knows Russian..."
Val always told me that helping others is something I should do, but taking credit is something else.
He told me taking credit is the last I should do...
And wait, when did he know Russian?
Oh right...
Mom's half-Russian and she said that she taught some to bro-bro.
"Okay then... let me shoot you a question." I asked.
She sighed dreamily.
"Sure..."
I merely stared at her swooning state and proceeded with my question.
"Didn't your sister come from some Academy? Like some elite school?"
She broke out of her trance and responded.
"Yep. My older sister wanted to be an author, and because of that, she went to Ainu. The Academy is one of the best schools in the world, so it also has one of the best teachers there too." Haru replied.
One of the best schools?
"That sounds pretty expensive, how did you afford all that?" I pressed.
She waved me off dismissively.
"Ah, don't worry about it. We have loads of cash. Working for the government sure does pay up!"
Don't worry about it?
"Oh, oh! Does your brother go to the gym?!" She asked excitedly.
I grew uncomfortable by her excited state and apparent drooling.
Why does she want to know so badly?
"Uh... I-I don't know? Yeah?"
He rarely ever says that he goes to the gym...
Val goes and comes back.
And when I do see him going to the gym, I always see him angry.
I never saw him get angry over anything.
When he comes back, he looks like the ordinary Val I know.
Before Haru can actually respond to me, or rather, I can respond to her, one of the teachers walked up to us.
"Haru, your older sister is here to pick you up." She just said, before walking off.
Haru gave an aggravated sigh and reluctantly got up.
"I thought she had Swimming Class! Arrrgh! Sorry, Mike, my sister came a bit early. Can you handle the rest of the work?" She asked.
Always be helpful to others, even if they are asking a lot out of you.
If Val saw what I was about to say I think he would be proud...
"Yeah, no problem. I can take care of it."
She gave me a warm smile and gave me a pat on the back.
"Thanks! I really appreciate it!" Haru cheered, her illness apparently losing its grip.
I forced a smile, despite the extra work I needed to do.
"Yup."
With that, Haru packed up all her things and walked to the exit.
Here I am...
Alone and working on this stupid project!
I looked over to the window and saw Haru and her older sister.
Her older sister looked to be an older version of Haru, the same purple hair and eyes, and the vibes that both give off.
Hmm...
Can I fake an illness so that Val can pick me up?
That way I can brag about my awesome big bro!
...
Right... No bragging.
I wonder what he is up to anyway...
The sound of the water dropping from Monika's skin showed how quiet the room was.
Each time it fell to the floor, the splash gave life to the void of a room we were in.
It was all eerie as if the world was watching us and us alone.
I felt how hard my heart was pounding against my chest.
How hard it was pounding against her chest...
Am I...
Scared?
Confused?
Or maybe a little bit of both?
What's her deal anyway?
Why is she so ticked off at me?
Despite the whirlwind of emotions and my body responding to whatever is going on, I looked down to her.
Monika was looking out the window, completely stoic.
Her face contained no emotion and looked as if she was focused.
I have never seen Monika so serious before...
Despite the tense atmosphere, I quivered my lips to speak.
"M-Monika...? What's the meaning of-"
The grip on my tie tightened as she brought me closer to her.
I felt her breast cushion itself onto my chest.
Her chest...
But before I can relish on how pleasurable the feeling was, she cut me off.
"Don't speak without my permission." She demanded.
I gulped from her sharp tone and how it lashed at me.
"S-Sorry..." I muttered.
Oh gosh...
I should feel scared by her...
But I can feel her chest on mine.
And I knew it.
Her chest has gotten so much more prominent over the last four years...
In just four years...
"So you read my Journal. Isn't that right Jones?" She questioned.
I was distracted from the pleasurable feeling her chest gave off.
Something about the warmth and softness is fantastic...
Ahhh...
"Answer me."
Enough of this perverted thinking!
I need to focus!
For some reason, Monika behaving like this all because I opened her Journal.
What is so vital in that Journal that made her act like this?
"Uh... Sis, look. I am sorry if I offended you or anything, but-"
The grip on my tie shifted and brought me closer than ever to her.
I saw her angry grimace, gritting her teeth; her eyes filled with hate and disgust.
"How many times do I have to say this? Stop addressing me by that title! I hate being called your sister, damn it! So do me a favor and get that through your thick fucking skull!" She yelled, her fierce rage piercing my will.
Oh...
"Um... okay." I murmured, her steadfast determination getting to me.
Note to self, don't ever call Monika "sis" anymore.
And if I am about to, I'll make sure to remember this moment.
"Good. I am glad we have an understanding of that. Call me by my actual name. Anything besides that shitty title." She calmly requested.
I couldn't stand how Monika was dealing with me, so I needed to take a stand.
This tie pulling thing is starting to wear on me.
And I don't like it.
"Now. You haven't quite answered my question."
Here's my chance.
"Look, Monika. We need to talk to each other like adults. Just let... go of me!" I demanded.
To my error, I didn't realize that Monika had a firm grip on me and didn't want to let go of me in this uncomfortable position.
And so, I needed to use brute force to break her hold.
I pushed her as gently and forcefully as I can, causing her to move back a few inches.
But her grip on my tie remained firm and pulled me along with her.
As a result of this awkward pull and footing, I struggled to regain balance.
And because of that... my hand landed on her chest, and I squeezed it to grip it...
I squeezed one of her breasts...
Monika gave a sharp and hitched breath on my touch.
My face burned up from the groping, and I tried to pull away.
But the soft, large, and warm material made it nigh impossible to do so.
Aw shit...
I touched her.
Oh man...
I am so screwed!
Out of all the things I can grip on her body, it just had to be her boobs!
Seriously?!
But...
I have to admit...
This feels good.
...
Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait!
What the fuck am I doing?!
I am touching Monika!
Oh gosh...!
As if it was on fire, I pulled my hand out of the kill zone.
"M-M-Monika! I-I am so so sorry! I didn't mean to touch your boobs, I am sorry!"
Please don't kill me...
Please don't kill me.
Please don't.
Out of all the reactions I expected from the green-eyed vixen, she merely smiled in a way I have never seen before.
It was a mix of her fake and real smile, combined into one unholy and seemingly innocent smile.
"Could you come with me for a little bit?" She asked, her rage supposedly vanished into thin air.
Wait...
What?
Why isn't she in a whole new level of fury?
"B-But..." I mumbled, confused by her sudden change in behavior.
I forgot that she still had a good grip on my tie and pulled me towards her again.
There her smile corrupted with malice and ill-content.
Her emerald green eyes narrowed onto me, showing that she had more up her sleeve.
"I said..."
She moved closer to my face, her smile replaced by a nightmarish-frown.
"Could you. Come. With. Me?"
There was no warmth in her voice.
There were no emotions in it either.
It was...
Cold.
"Y-Yes, of course, Monika." I relented.
When I agreed, she grinned.
I knew I was in for a treat.
My eyes scanned the surrounding area, looking for anyone that can see us talking about...
Some classified material.
Fortunately, there was no one in this part of the woods, so I proceeded with my interrogation.
There wasn't a particular reason why I even brought him here.
It all felt natural...
I stopped and turned around to him.
"This should be good. There is nobody here out here in the wilderness. That way we can have a nice... long... chat."
Years of learning the art of intimidation paid off, as I was able to strike fear into Val's heart.
His eyes and frown showed that he didn't like where I was going, proving that it was effective.
I think I could have done without the Ainu classes anyway.
Doing this was as easy as breathing.
I smirked at his anxious and uncomfortable state since he was looking around to see if we were actually alone.
"I am fine with having a chat and all, but where are we? I don't think I remember this spot from anywhere." He stated.
There was something off about the place we were in.
It brought up feelings of nostalgia, but we couldn't explain why.
"I don't know... but it feels like we have been here before. But that's not important."
I pulled out my black journal.
"Now, you have read this right?" I asked.
He nodded.
"Yeah... sorry about that. I needed to find the owner's name since there weren't any marks anywhere, so I needed to take a little peek inside." He explained, tapping his forefingers together.
A peek?
There's without a doubt that he saw what I wrote inside.
"So... you read my entries about everything that has been going on, hmm?"
Val raised an eyebrow, but I didn't pay any heed to that.
"Ahaha... that's such a shame." I whispered, smirking. "Looks like I need to drastic measures to keep my reputation."
I looked up at him.
"Even if I need to end you."
He merely blinked at me.
"What? What are you talking about? That notebook had entries? What entries?" He asked, puzzled at what I was getting at.
He doesn't know about the records I put?
That doesn't make any sense...
"You know... the things I wrote." I elaborated.
That still didn't ring a bell to him.
"Well, I gotta say your handwriting is impeccable Monika." He complimented.
What is this moron going on about?
My handwriting neat?
That's another compliment ever since I came back...
I shook my head.
"Stop. Let me ask the question again. You read what was inside this journal, isn't that right?"
He squinted at me.
"Yeah... since there were no markings of ownership."
"Okay, then. So that means you read about my entries, right?"
Val shook his head.
"No. I don't get what records or notes you put into that journal. All I saw was your schedule for Ainu and Dokisai, along with some memos on stuff you need to do."
What the...
"Huh...?" I let out, confused as well.
He rubbed the back of his head.
"Is this some sort of misunderstanding?" He asked.
You have got to be kidding me.
I dragged him all the way out here over a misunderstanding...
This has nothing to do what I wrote!
My cheeks flushed with color.
"Hehe, it sure looks like it." He cheekily stated.
I turned on my heel and looked away.
"Shut your trap! It was your fault not being clear on all this!" I retorted.
Val gave me a deadpan look and smirked.
"Well... you pulled my tie and everything. All that drama and suspense! I just never got to chance to explain myself. Poor me, poor me." He mocked.
I glared at him.
"You moron! If you didn't see a thing, then the least you could've done is just say you didn't see anything! It's just that simple!"
I took a step forward looked into his eyes.
"This isn't my fault! It's all yours! If you just told me, then I wouldn't have analyzed all this too deeply!" I countered.
I then huffed and looked away, making sure my hair was in place.
He sighed.
"Is that so? You always took things an extra mile."
I turned to him slowly.
"I always admired that about you, Monika. It's something that I kind of wish I had. The willpower to keep pushing despite the odds. Or using all that power to make sure you got everything covered."
He smiled.
That smile...
That damn smile.
It always gets to me.
My lips morphed into a smile as well.
He admires me too.
Wait a minute...
Where were all these compliments four years ago?
"Anyway, what did you even write in that journal that made you act like... this? There's got to be something you have to be hiding."
And just like that, the charm he had faded.
I crossed my arms.
"That's none of your business, Jones. Whatever I write in my journal is me to see, not anyone else. It's something that can kick me out of school or worse..." I warned. "I could've lost a classmate today, but you managed to avoid it for now..."
He gulped at the consequences.
"Okay... then. But I am still curious about your journal, Mon."
I need something to make sure he doesn't tell anyone about the journal...
Maybe a pact will work.
I put up a finger to continue.
"Don't be. I don't want you going around that I have something written in my journal. So, repeat after me. 'I didn't see anything.' Alright?"
Val simply stared at me.
"I didn't see anything." He repeated, going along with my thinking.
Oh...
This is good.
I can twist my words to force him to say something he doesn't want to say...
The possibilities are endless!
"Monika is a gorgeous girl with nothing to hide. She is the sweetheart and best girl in Dokisai."
I felt my heart pound as I said those words.
Now he has to say that...
...
"Wait, why do I have to say all this?" He asked.
Seriously?
Time for a little blackmail.
"Vally-poo... you touched my boobs remember?" I sorrowly stated, hoping to strike some guilt into him.
He grew uncomfortable with the name and mention of that cursed moment.
"It's 'boob,' I only touched one not both! And yeah, that is true but, you kind of made me. All that pulling around on my tie; there's bound to something like that happening, right? So technically-"
Ugh.
This guy is not fun at all.
I put my hands onto my face and started to "weep."
"Waaah! You're a horrible person, Val! Such a cruel man! You defiled my innocence and everything I had stood for! Now I have to talk to your parents, teachers, and friends about all this! They are going to shame you and shun you for the rest of your life! Waaah!" I "cried."
Behind my hands, I could tell he was defeated as he let out a sigh.
"Jeez... if you're going for the low blow then fine. I didn't see anything, and uh... hmm, how did it go again?"
Come on!
That's the fun part about the blackmail!
"Monika is a gorgeous girl with nothing to hide. She is the sweetheart and best girl in Dokisai, with no one being able to compete against her." I reminded, albeit muffled.
Val paused for a moment, to which I had no idea why.
I peeked through my hands to see how he reacted.
Why is he so quiet all of a sudden?
He then recovered and bowed.
"Right that. You are a beautiful girl with nothing to hide. You are a sweetheart and the star girl of Dokisai, with no one coming close to the same standards as you."
I felt my face tingle from the burning sensation as I moved my hands away from my face.
It sounds so much different coming from him...
Oh wow...
When was he able to say all that with such...
Passion?
"T-That's very good, Val." I applauded, trying my utmost hardest to cover my swoon.
Wait...
Why am I getting so flustered over this guy?!
I could honestly care less if he says all that!
He merely rolled his eyes, crushing the warm feeling in my heart.
Way to kill the moment dork.
But I got a plan to reignite it...
"You are the exact definition of not fun. Let's spice things up shall we?"
Wait, what am I saying?!
That was the perfect cue to stop!
How am I going to spice things up?
Let him touch me again?
No, no, no!
"Spice things up...? What do you mean?" He asked.
Abort!
Abort!
Abort!
"As a reward..."
I pressed my breasts together and held them over to him.
His eyes widened at sight I presented to him.
He couldn't stand it; he staggered back to get away from me.
Against my better will, I advanced to his retreat.
His breathing became audible, his face was growing red as a tomato, and he looked anxious.
"How about touching these again, hmm?" I offered.
No!
Gosh, damn it!
"I... uh, um..." He mumbled.
My body started to heat up again as he darted his eyes from my breasts and to me.
I felt my heart doing leaps all over me, nearly bursting out of my chest.
This feeling...
It was the same feeling when he touched me...
Do I want him to touch me...?
I winked at him, to deliver the cherry on top.
There, I saw his eyes become enveloped into something I have never seen before.
The misty, hollow sensation coated his eyes.
It was as if it taking over his vision and body, and directing it into one goal.
Touching me...
No!
I can't let him!
I will never let him touch me!
What's wrong with me?!
He leaned into to touch, only for me cover them up.
No!
"I was kidding, you moron! Why would I want you to touch me? Pervert!"
And just like that, his eyes went back to normal.
To play it off he put his hand on his hips.
"Hahaha! I knew that!"
Sure you did...
I rolled my eyes.
"If we were a couple, then I wouldn't mind you touching me, especially since we are alone. But geez, don't ever take that kind of thing seriously." I reprimanded.
If...
Val and I were a couple...?
Oh jeez, I really can't trust my mouth to say anything...
Why would I even say that?!
Eugh! This makes me look like the pervert!
Something along the lines of me granting his every sexual wish...
Or maybe my sexual wishes.
Stop it, stop it, stop it!
This is a rerun of four years ago!
Augh!
I continued, now choosing my words carefully.
"Look, in any case... you saw nothing in my journal, and you will not say a word. Got it?"
He nodded in a daze.
"C-Copy that."
It made me smirk knowing that I managed to rattle him instead.
It's a rare sight for him to be embarrassed over things like these.
So, I guess that's an accomplishment.
"Good. Now let's go home." I merely said, now walking off to civilization.
He stopped me by putting a hand on my shoulder.
I felt my breathing come to an abrupt halt.
Val's touching me...
Arrrgh!
I need to get this... "weird" stuff out of my head!
I hate him, and he can't have his redemption!
"What?" I turned.
He looked conflicted like he was thinking about that particular topic for a while.
"I noticed that you have been giving me the cold shoulder whenever we are alone. Not to mention that you seem too cheery and kind to everyone else. Was this always you Monika? Is this the real you?"
...
I didn't know how to respond to that.
It's his fault for making me bitter and the way that I am right now...
But at the same time, I can say without a doubt that he had no idea what happened four years ago.
Is my behavior justified?
Should I stay cold towards him? Even if he doesn't deserve it?
...
It's hopeless anyway...
Val will never fall for me and never could.
He treats me as the sister he never had, hence why he keeps calling me that.
It's so unfair...
The way he talks to Yuri and Natsuki is entirely different than the way he speaks to me...
And because of that, I have no reason to fall for him.
Besides, I would be saving myself the heartbreak when he does reject me.
I don't want another heartbreak.
I'll just leave him be.
"I'm sorry." He suddenly said.
What?
I looked up to him, confused by his apology.
"I shouldn't have brought that up, especially since you are thinking about it a lot. From the looks of it, you didn't enjoy thinking about it. So I won't press you for that anymore. That's why I am sorry." He frowned.
He's giving so many reminders that do care about me.
Val does care for me...
The compliments, the way he gets flustered whenever I push his buttons...
There has to be more to his feelings towards me.
...
That's what my 14-year-old-self thought right?
Maybe it was going in the right place.
Maybe there is hope.
But...
I still don't know if I want to pursue him.
He broke my heart once, and I can't bear the pains of another.
Just like I told myself before...
I need to keep him at an arm's reach.
And that means to crush any feelings I have for him...
By any means necessary.
"Don't be."
He looked at me.
"What?"
"I said, don't be. This is how I always was, Val. That image of me in your head is a fake and nothing more."
Val put his hand on my shoulder.
"No! No, you weren't like this! Remember when you were always happy to be around me? Remember how you would always find the best of things and... I don't remember being anything like..."
...
"Say it."
He sighed.
"You were never this cold to me, Monika. Something changed in you while you were away, I just know it. And it's all because of that day."
My eyes widened at what he was getting at.
The talk...
No...
We can't talk about it now!
We can't!
I am not ready yet!
"It's not because of that day. It has nothing to do with it, well not anymore I guess. The important thing is that I was always like this. I believed in being the best for everything the school had to offer. Do you honestly think I like being this "cheery" and "kind" girl of the school? I don't. I hate it with every ounce of my soul!"
He shook his head.
"If you hate being the perfectionist of school, then why don't you stop? Why don't you let the real you out?"
He doesn't understand my pain...
Not just yet.
"There's too much to lose if I do. My reputation, my friends, and possibly my grades too. There's too much at stake if I do let the real me out."
Val sighed, giving up on convincing me to stop.
"If that's the case, then don't let it out. You are right; you could lose your friends with your "real" side. But sooner or later, you are gonna have to let it out, whether you like it or not."
He walked off his hands in his pockets.
"I'll make sure that I won't let anyone see who I am," I assured.
Val reared his head to me.
His steely, onyx black eyes had a layer of seriousness that I rarely saw on him.
"No matter how many times you say it, I know that isn't the complete you, and I know that something happened in that day. I remember another Monika before that day even happened. And I will keep that Monika in my heart if needed."
I looked down to my shoes as he walked away.
...
I have never seen Val so upset before.
Does he hate who I am...?
"I know that isn't the complete you."
The complete me?
What is he even talking about?
This is me!
...
Right?
Was there more to me before that day happened?
Did something die me?
Lots of things died on that day.
That includes my love for him.
Why does he remember me like her?
The girl that I never was...
Or was I actually the girl that he thought I was?
How much did I change in these four years?
Did it change how I behaved and forced me to forget...?
There's only so much speculation I can do.
The next we are alone, I am confronting him about everything.
I'll make sure of it.
"So remind me Haru, why did you want me to pick you up again?" My older sister asked.
I shrugged.
"I was feeling a bit under the weather, Yuri. Nothing more than that." I replied.
She sighed at my excuse.
"If you are going to enroll in Ainu, then missing out on classes like this is a bad idea. Even if you are feeling sick, you should least make an effort to stay, Haru."
I don't want to go to Ainu.
"Whatever. It's only one day, and I really wasn't feeling well, so this shouldn't hurt that much."
We continued to walk home in silence.
That is until my older sister's phone beeped.
"Ah! Valkyrie messaged me!" She cheerily said while scrambling to get her phone.
I felt the same vibe of excitement as she did.
Oooh...
That's what she calls him?
When Yuri pulled out her phone, she let out a dreamy sigh.
I tried to peek over, only for her to keep it away from my view.
Because of that, I pouted.
"Awww! Onee-chan let me see, let me see!" I begged, maneuvering myself to see the screen.
But whatever I did, she made sure to outmaneuver me.
The world was shut off to her as it was just her and her phone.
After a bit stomping, Yuri locked her phone and placed it back into her pocket.
"So, what did he say?" I asked.
My older sister smiled earnestly, something I rarely see her do.
"He said something about 'hitting the gym' with me, but he immediately replied with a sorry."
So it is true...
He does go to the gym.
"Tell me Onee-chan, why did you get so happy when he texted you?" I asked.
Her smile faded into an insecure frown and started to play with her hair.
"Valkyrie is a very nice and caring man, Haru. He likes my Jasmine tea, speaks to me in my native tongue, and um..."
She looked away and hid her red, burning face in her hair.
"I find him attractive."
My older sister has a crush on him?
...
"Onee-chan, can you show me a picture of him?"
She squinted at me with something I have never seen before.
Her eyes were hollowed out and focused on me, for a split second before returning to normal.
"Of course, Haru."
Yuri showed me a picture of his social media profile picture.
I can see why he likes him...
Val is pretty hot.
"He's the first man that I have talked to ever since I came home..."
I smirked from the new information.
"Onee-chan, did you know that I am going to Dokisai tomorrow as part of a field trip?"
My sister was pleasantly surprised.
"Really? How long are you going to stay around for?"
I tapped my chin in thought.
Hmm...
How long am I actually going to stay there?
"I don't know really, but it should give me enough time to see Val..." I dreamily stated.
Yuri took a deep breath and then exhaled.
She usually does that to calm herself down...
What did I say?
Oh.
She's jealous that I might take him away from her, huh?
That's very interesting...
"Aren't you supposed to stay within your touring group and not wander the school halls?"
I smirked.
"Yeah, maybe. But that isn't going to stop me."
I finished all the homework I had for my classes and worked on the poem for tomorrow.
But I haven't even started the first few words for it.
And so, I laid on my bed and looked at the ceiling for any hopes of inspiration.
Nothing.
Nothing is coming to me.
I am just too distracted about Monika...
"I said, don't be. This is how I always was, Val. That image of me in your head is a fake and nothing more."
"Do you honestly think I like being this "cheery" and "kind" girl of the school? I don't. I hate it with every ounce of my soul!"
"There's too much at stake if I do let the real me out."
No... no... no...
That isn't the Monika that I remember!
She was never this cold or hateful of anything!
Sure she was forceful about some things, but she didn't mean it...
But now?
She does mean it.
...
I should write something about all this.
Maybe that will help me.
I arose from my bed and went over to the blank piece of paper.
With my pen in hand, I started to write my troubles away.
Remember
Do you remember the first time we met?
I saw you on the swings alone and afraid of anyone who got close to you.
Do you remember how you looked up to me?
It was as if you couldn't believe what was happening.
Do you remember how I pushed you on the swings?
You were laughing on how much fun we were having, the wind, the speed, and company, all of which made you happy.
Do you remember the first sleepover we had?
We looked up at the stars and promised each other that we would watch it together.
Do you remember how we spent our holidays together?
We would always stay up late playing video games, read books, or talk about anything.
Do you remember our promise together?
I would never leave your side, and I made sure that it wouldn't happen.
Do you remember when you left?
It broke me knowing that you were gone forever.
And there was nothing I could have done to get you back to me.
When you did come back, I couldn't recognize you.
I couldn't remember how you looked like.
I couldn't remember how you smiled.
I couldn't remember how you much cared for everyone.
Do you remember how much you changed?
I released my pen and let roll on the table.
There was nothing more to be written.
It's all because of that one day.
In just one day, everything can change.
With my poem finished, I collapsed over my bed.
I looked to my side and towards my balcony.
The familiar brown-haired heiress was on her balcony and was looking up at the stars.
She had a bittersweet smile, as she star-gazed.
"Let's watch the stars together!"
With a grunt, I pushed myself off the bed and walked over to my balcony.
I heard the sliding door open to reveal Val walking out to his balcony.
There weren't any stars out since it was going to pour today.
And so, I gazed to the next best thing: the city lights.
"There aren't stars out, Monika. Shouldn't you be at bed?"
I rolled my eyes.
"Yeah, I know there aren't any stars out, dad. But there are lights on the surface too, right?"
He snickered at my little retort.
"Skyscrapers? Yeah, I know. Anyway, you have your poem written?"
In my hand is a pen that will write a poem of me and you.
I couldn't stop thinking about what you said...
"I finished a long time ago." I lied.
He didn't really quite respond to that.
All he did was merely nod and stare the streets lights ahead.
"I wrote my poem about you." He suddenly said.
My palms started to get sweaty at what he said.
A poem about me...?
Why me?
What did he write about me in his poem?
Calm down!
It's just a poem, not a love letter.
A poem that has a few sentences about me that describes all my traits...
Which is very similar to a love letter...
Uuuu!
Why did he decide to write about me?
"To be exact, I wrote about us. Everything I wrote was from the first day we met, to the last time I saw you."
...
I couldn't help but blush at what he was saying.
"S-Stop saying these weird things, moron! You're making me feel uncomfortable!"
He turned his attention to me and leaned against the railings on the balcony.
"Why? I needed to add on to the conversation."
I turned to him with an embarrassed frown.
"You could have literally said anything else! Agh! You are such an idiot sometimes!"
He shrugged, my insults unable to penetrate his will.
"Maybe, maybe. But what's more important is why I wrote it about us."
Oh gosh...
Is he going to "talk" to me?
No!
No more playing around!
I need to confront him!
"Monika..."
My heart pounded uncontrollably as he called my name.
"Y-Yes?"
I know I am nervous but...
I can do better than this!
But the way he said it...
It just melts my darkness away...
"Can you tell me why you left?"
...
He asked the question.
It's time for me to reply.
I gripped the balcony tightly and tried my best not to feel lightheaded.
"I... I left because you never came." I truthfully answered. "I sent you texts and even left about three voicemails. But you never came."
He let out a deep breath.
"Monika, I was thinking about the same thing. I never got any texts or any calls on my cell, let me show you."
Val reached for his pocket and scrolled to the date on when I left.
Once he arrived at the date, he showed me the text.
"Okay, I guess. Text me when he is around. See you then."
As soon as he showed me the text, I grew suspicious.
Wait, maybe deleted the messages to make it seem that he never got it.
"I haven't deleted any messages. It doesn't work while on SMS. Did you send the messages properly? He asked.
I quickly pulled out my phone and tapped on his bubble.
My messages were there, but there was a small circle that indicated it was loading.
Once it finished, I heard a vibration coming from Val's phone.
What the...
"Did you just send me a message now? No, wait... I just got thirty messages from you! And three voicemails..."
He squinted at me, as he was now suspicious of me.
How did he get the messages now?
Did I have bad reception?
No, that can't be the case since my phone beeped when calling him.
There's no way my service was bad then...
"What's going on...?" We muttered at the same time.
"Ah! Wait! You go first! No! You go! Arggh!"
We stopped for a brief second, and I seized the chance to speak.
"You got the voicemails now; there's no way that I made those up right now. Not to mention, my phone beeped when I called you."
Val rubbed his chin in thought.
"Yeah, that's weird. You can't leave a voicemail without calling first..."
So my theory was correct.
Val never got the messages in the first place.
All of my anger towards him...
It was all over a misunderstanding or something he didn't get.
In my four years, all my hate towards him wasn't even justified.
I am a monster...
"I'm sorry."
He raised an eyebrow at me.
"What? What for?"
I wrung my fingers in an attempt to answer him.
The rain droplets splashed against the floors of our balcony, the soft sounds of the drizzle now audible for the both of us.
"I spent the four years hating you... I thought you left me behind when you found those three other friends. I thought our friendship was over. Ever since we came back, I kept putting you down, and it was completely unjustified! You had no reason to be under my wrath! And because of that, I am sorry!"
The thunder crashed down, a loud boom resonated from its strike.
I shrieked as the blast reached us.
"Monika! Are you alright?!" He yelled, getting my attention.
I was still shaken from blare and opened my eyes slowly to see him on the verge of jumping over.
No... I am not a little girl anymore!
Why am I scared of thunder?
I am all grown up now so I can't be scared of stuff like that!
"Y-Yeah, I am okay. Only caught off guard by that thunder, so don't worry." I answered with faux courage.
From the look from his face, he knew something was off about me, but decided not to press me on it.
He rested his chin on his arms and looked off at the distance.
"So... you hated me all along?" He asked.
I didn't respond to him.
"Figures, I had a voice in the back of my head that told me that I was right about that day. Everything changed on that day... If only I stopped myself from going with Hiro and the others. Maybe then, I could have convinced your dad to stay and we continued our friendship as usual."
I felt horrible from Val berating himself.
"Monika, did you know that I hated myself after that day?"
What...?
He smiled bittersweetly.
"The day you left broke me as proper human being. Every day I would think to myself: 'Why did I wake up?' or 'What's the point getting through this day?'. Every waking moment was dedicated to how I could have changed the past. How things would have been different if I... saved you."
My heart wrenched from his confession.
No...
I know him! He would never let things weigh him down!
He would smile at the challenge and move on!
Even if that challenge was me... leaving him.
"Time, food, color... none of that mattered to me when you weren't around, Monika. Life was bland, boring, and meaningless. I put on this mask that hid all the pain and suffering I was going through. I don't know what I could've done were it not for my friends I met on that day. They knew that I was hurt and they did whatever they can to help get through the grief. And no, I wouldn't commit suicide or anything, I know how much it would affect my friends and family if I even dabbled on that idea. I just... wouldn't care on whatever happened to me at that point."
Val was...
Depressed.
He was depressed without me.
And all I did was just think about how much I hated him from a simple misunderstanding.
Even I did fall for him again, I don't deserve him.
He went through so much and here I am thinking how much of a scumbag I thought he was.
"But that all changed when I saw you."
He knocked me out of my trance.
"Me?"
Val reared his head to me.
"Yup. When I heard that you were transferring from Ainu, I felt incredibly energetic and happy again. It was as if those emotions finally had some meaning and life to it. Not forced or fake, but real and genuine. I knew I had one more shot on keeping you here with me. And that's what drove me throughout the two days we have spent together. Instead of waking up exhausted and filled self-hatred, I woke up ready and excited for possibilities we can share together once more. And for that, thank you. Thank you for making me feel alive again."
He smiled, all traces of him being bitter was now all wiped out from genuine happiness.
"At the end of the day, I thought to myself... maybe going to Hiro as a reunion of some sort wasn't the best idea. But who knows? I still should have been more prepared for the consequences."
No more.
I had enough of this!
I don't want to hear Val talking about how useless he felt without me!
This is all my fault!
If I waited a little bit longer or had a little more patience to think things through, this all wouldn't have happened.
This all wouldn't have happened if I didn't put so much pressure on him...
"No." I finally spoke. "This is all my fault. I put too much pressure on you."
As expected, Val rejected my claim.
"You didn't Monika. I failed you, I failed our promise of staying together no matter what."
Stop it, stop it, stop it!
"STOP IT!" I screamed, the thunder cracking the tense air around us.
He was shocked by my demand.
"I don't want to hear you defending me or taking the blame! This is all my fault because I put too much faith in you! You are only human, Val! There's only so much a person can handle, and the fact that I counted on you to convince my father not to go to Ainu and take me to Prom was inhuman! It was only reasonable that you needed something to blow off the steam to hang out with your friends! And... and I am glad that you found new friends, friends that care about you no matter what. Just like how I made friends at Ainu..."
He smirked.
"Look, Monika. Whatever happened on that day, there is no taking it back. The best we can do is to let go and move on. We can't hold onto the past forever. Even with our wounds, we should find solace in each other to heal together. So what do you say? Friends?"
He's right.
I can't hold onto the past...
It is time to let go and move on.
Even though I am hurt from before, we can heal together.
But...
I don't know if I can fall in love with him again.
Who am I kidding?
What are the odds of that happening?
And even if I do, someone is going to take him away.
And that someone deserves him.
I can never forgive myself for hating him.
"Yeah... friends."
Something inside of me died when I said that.
It was a mixed feeling of both good and bad...
He yawned and stretched upwards, his tight t-shirt moving up with his motions.
My eyes looked down to his toned body.
Ooooh...
Wait, no abs?!
What does he do at the gym anyway?!
"Huh?"
Uh oh...
"Monika, were you looking down on me...?" He asked.
I blushed and turned on my heel.
"Psssh, no! Why would I look at something like that? I am not a pervert like you."
He chuckled at my little outburst.
"It's sometimes way too obvious when you lie, Mon. Working out abdominals doesn't mean I am going to get abs if I constantly work it out. Body fat hides muscles but it is needed to you know... stay alive. I try to keep my body fat at a comfortable range so I won't suffer from any side effects of not having any or little of it." He explained.
I arched an eyebrow from how he knew all this.
"Since when were you a gym rat?"
He shrugged playfully.
"Ever since... you know. Don't worry, it's just a way to let out stress and get some of my anger out. Along with boxing... Hey, you should come along some time."
I rolled my eyes.
"And be stuck in a room filled with sweat, testosterone, and gigantic guys? No thanks."
He scoffed at me.
"There are some people that wouldn't take too kindly to your comment, Monika. And there are plenty of girls that work out in the gym too."
Val yawned again and in turn, made me yawn as well.
"Yeah... anyway, I am heading to bed. Goodnight."
I smiled at him.
"Goodnight."
I then winked at him, before turning on my heel to retreat to my bed.
Or at least I thought of doing when he went to bed.
The rain started to fall heavily, as I heard the soft pitter patter on the roof of my house.
My Journal was on my bedside cabinet, but I thought it was best if I took a day off from writing on it.
The thunder boomed again, making me yelp in surprise.
But mostly fear.
I always was scared of thunder, especially when we were kids.
It was a long day, we had our usual playdate and had fun while doing so, like always.
But today, it was the whole day.
Val was grumpy that he didn't get to go outside since he wanted to play in the mud.
I too wanted to play in the mud but decided against it because of how messy it would be.
When it came time for me to leave the rain started to pour harder, making it hard for me to see at least a few meters.
But that wasn't the bad part.
The bad part was that it was a thunderstorm.
And that meant...
Thunder.
*CRACK*
"Aaah!" I shrieked, holding onto the doorframe for comfort.
Val placed his comforting hand on my shoulder to calm me down.
"Monika, are you okay? It's just a little thunder..."
I looked up to him, quivering and shaking from the loud noise.
"I-I'm scared! I-I don't want to go home! It's too scary!" I cried.
He raised an eyebrow at what I was saying.
*CRACK*
"Eeek!"
I jumped to Val and hugged him tightly from the sound.
"I'm scared, Val... make it go away! Make that loud noise go away!" I begged.
He laughed nervously.
"I don't think I can make that noise go away, but we can make it less scary."
Val closed the door and we walked over to his room.
I made sure I was secure onto his body.
Once we made it to his room, I released myself from him and rubbed my eyes.
My hand gripped his as it was the only thing that can make me stand a chance against the noise.
"I was scared of thunder too, Monika. So what I did was jump into bed and curl myself like a ball!"
He got onto his bed and grabbed all his blankets.
Once he had got all the materials needed, he brought it over himself and rolled up into a ball, just like what he said.
Val made a little opening and poked his head out.
"Come on! We can stay inside this ball together!"
*CRACK*
"Aaaah!"
The frightening noise stopped me in its tracks, reducing me into a shaking little girl.
Val understood what I was going through and offered his hand to me.
"Take my hand, Monika. It will all be okay, I promise."
He looked sincere and caring.
In his eyes, he couldn't bear to see the fear in me.
I reached out to him and took his hand.
With a strength I never thought he had, he pulled me in.
My surroundings were dark and relatively humid.
Val noticed this and made a little hole out of the ball we were in.
"Better?"
I nodded.
The rain outside was completely muffled, as I could barely hear it now.
Everything around me made it comfy and cozy for me to relax.
"I want to lie down..."
Val readjusted his ball to make more space for me to lie down.
We both laid down on the bed, the blanket covering the both of us.
With him nearby, I felt like there was nothing that can scare me.
His eyes grew heavy along with mine.
*CRACK*
The Thunder didn't bother me as much it should, but I felt the fear creep onto me.
I needed one more thing.
"Val... can you hold me? I'm still scared..."
Without question, he wrapped his arms around me, making sure that I was safe and sound with him.
And I was, I smiled as his body provided the comfort I needed to sleep.
*CRACK*
The noise had no effect on me.
And I was glad that it didn't.
It didn't take long that we fell asleep in each other's arms...
I tossed and turned in my bed, as I felt restless for some reason.
Was it because we finally spoke about what happened four years ago?
Or is it because of the thunder?
*CRACK*
...
Nope.
That doesn't really bother me.
But that would bother Monika a lot...
She is scared of Thunder.
Notably when we were just kids...
I needed to be next to her in order to make her sleep peacefully.
But if I wasn't there, she would wake up the next day with bags under her eyes...
I might have them too if I don't sleep soon.
Hmm...
Maybe listening to some calm music can help me sleep better.
I reached out to my headphones and phone to play the songs to help me sleep.
*Knock Knock*
I stopped whatever I was doing and looked towards my balcony.
Who is that?
I squinted to better identify who the mysterious figure was on the other end of the door.
It was a feminine figure, with her hair flowing down to her waist.
*CRACK*
In that brief moment of light, I saw that her hair was a chestnut brown, and her eyes were an emerald green.
The girl was frightened from the thunder and tried her best to stay calm.
Oh shit!
Monika!
I ran towards my balcony door and opened it for her.
She quickly walked in as I closed it.
"Monika? What's wrong? Why did you come over?"
The girl looked up to me with glassy eyes.
"I'm scared..."
I immediately gave her a warm hug to reassure her that she was safe.
Only for me to realize that she was soaking wet.
I pulled away from her immediately from the revelation.
"Aw, jeez! You're completely soaked! How long were you out there?"
She was still shaken from the thunder despite the hug.
Despite my better judgment and the situation at hand, my eyes wandered to her body.
The water that soaked her pajamas has glued to her skin, allowing me to stare at her body.
Her breasts were partially visible, but the fabric was able to cover most of it.
Wait...
She isn't wearing a bra?
*CRACK*
Monika let out a terrified yelp and latched onto me.
Oh my gosh...
Her boobs are so warm... and I can feel it through her pajamas!
I mentally slapped myself from my perverted thoughts.
Get a grip!
She's scared and here I am, thinking about how hot she is!
Come on, Val! Get your game face on!
But it felt so good.
I knew I couldn't trust my thoughts anymore, so I followed my instincts.
"Okay, Monika. I know you are wet and all, but you are going to need to take off your clothes."
I hope no one is going to take that out of context...
"B-But I am going to naked! I am not wearing anything underneath my pajamas!" She retorted.
I knew it...
"Don't worry, I am not going to look or anything. I have some clothes that I can spare that you can wear." I assured. "But first, you need a towel."
I went into my bathroom and quickly took any towel that in the basket.
Afterward, I took out a black boxer and green t-shirt for her.
I then tossed to her both items to which she grabbed.
Despite how frightened she was, Monika managed to glare at me.
"If you look, then I am going to kill you."
I smiled nervously.
"Okay... should I stay in the bathroom in the meantime?"
That jolted her out of the glare.
"No! No! Don't go anywhere!" She yelled.
Her green eyes wandered away from contact.
"I need you here with me... or else I get... scared."
I nodded.
"Copy that. I'll just turn around so you can wear your clothes..."
I turned around and crossed my arms.
What a strange turn of events...
First, we talk about what happened that day, only to find out it was all a misunderstanding...
Then, a huge thunderstorm forces Monika to come over, and she's soaking wet!
And here I am, waiting for her to finish wearing her clothes so we can get on with the night.
Or really... my clothes.
Childhood friendships are such a mess sometimes...
...
Hey, I wonder how Monika will look without-
I heard a large whiff from behind me and a large breath out soon after.
"Aaah... I'm done." I heard her say.
I turned around to see her clad in my clothes, nervously rubbing her arm from it.
Wow...
She looks amazing in my clothes...
And I realized that she's not wearing her bow anymore.
Her hair looks a lot better without her bow.
"Well..." She looked up to me with an insecure frown. "Tell me if I look good or not!"
I coughed to bring myself to reality.
"Uh... well," I muttered, not knowing what to say.
She does look beautiful.
Hell, Monika always looks gorgeous in anything.
Even in baggy clothing like mine.
My face burned as I look straight into her eyes.
"You look great, Monika."
She gave a small smile at my compliment.
And I knew right away that it was a forced one.
"In fact..." I drew on. "Whatever you wear, it will always look... stunning on you."
Monika looked at me at disbelief, apparently at awe from I said to her.
"W-Wow..." She muttered. "I never thought you had it in you, Val."
I chuckled nervously.
"Hehe, yeah. I guess. I didn't I could say such things."
Monika took the chance and cue to look around my room.
"Nothing has really changed, has it?"
I looked around with her.
"Yeah, I don't think I changed anything around my room. I never had the reason to do it."
*CRACK*
"Aaah!"
Monika latched onto me as soon as the thunder hit.
I felt her shaking as he held me tight.
Her chest...
I can feel it pressing against me!
No, no, no!
Stop thinking about that!
Hey, would Mom and Dad be surprised that Monika is here...?
Yeah, they would.
Especially at this time of day.
"So um... what do we do? Are you here for a sleepover?" I asked.
She still shivered.
"Y-Y-Yeah, I am! I really, really couldn't sleep because of the thunder!"
I sighed and patted her head.
She looked up in wonder.
"Don't worry, Monika. I am here for you, so I don't mind a sleepover."
Her eyes widened in hope.
"R-Really? But aren't we a bit... you know older? Don't you think it will be awkward."
I shook my head.
"Why would it be awkward? We have known each other for a long time, of course, this isn't awkward!"
Monika frowned.
"It's not because of that... it's because of-"
*CRACK*
"Aaah!"
I was nearing my limit where I could handle Monika being scared.
It was difficult not to get angry over a natural phenomenon.
I continued to pat her head.
"Whatever you are worried about, don't be. I'll sleep on the floor with the mattress while you sleep on my bed. I am sure-"
"NO!" She yelled, pulling away from the embrace and head pats.
Her eyes revealed that she was still scared and hurt from the loud boom.
"I can't sleep without you close to me..." She explained, her red face visible in the dark room.
I raised an eyebrow.
"Then what do you say I should do?"
Monika twirled her hair with her finger, nervously avoiding my gaze.
"How about you sleep with me...?"
Wait...
What?!
Sleep with Monika?!
No, no, no!
I don't see her like that...
Right?
"S-Sleep with you?"
It was there when Monika realized what she said.
Her eyes widened in shock.
"I-I... I didn't mean it in that context!"
Her lips quivered in an attempt to formulate words.
Suddenly I was greeted with a flurry of punches.
"Aaah! You pervert! You no-good for nothing nimrod! You-"
I needed to stop her from her tirade and assault, especially since everyone was asleep.
After all, the rain couldn't muffle everything we do.
So to stop her, I pounced on her and pinned her down on my bed.
My hands aimed for her wrists and brought them above her head, effectively disabling her.
She let out a surprised yelp from the abrupt motion and stopped in her tracks.
"W-W-Wh-What going on?! Why are you pinning me down on your bed?! Why are you so close to me?!"
Oh geez...
Someone out there is probably going to take whatever is happening out of context.
"Shhhhhh..."
Her eyes frantically searched my eyes for an answer and just about to scream again.
"Monika, if you scream everyone in the house will hear you! Please calm down!"
The panicking girl stopped her search and closed her eyes.
She took multiple deep breaths to calm herself down and stared at me with calmer eyes.
"Right... I forgot about that. Sorry..." She meekly apologized.
I released her from my pin and pulled myself up from her.
"It's fine. Now can you elaborate by what you meant to say?"
Monika looked away and blushed.
"Um... can we sleep in the same bed? You know, just like how we did as kids? I never really grew out of my fear for thunder..." She mumbled.
That's it?
That's why she was getting so flustered about?
I shrugged.
"Sure."
Her jaw dropped.
"What? What do you mean sure? How are you taking this so easily?!"
I replied by laying down on my bed and supporting myself with my elbow on the pillow.
"Well, we shared beds when we were growing up. So there isn't much of a difference is there?"
Monika continued to stare at me with deadpanned eyes but then sighed.
"Sometimes I wonder if you are denser than a black hole. If someone were to throw you in there, I think you would absorb it."
I only arched an eyebrow.
"But in any case, if anyone asks..."
She took a quick step forward and stopped right beside my head.
"I. Did not. Sleep. With. You. Got it?"
I rolled my eyes and turned on my side.
"Sure, whatever. I'm trying to catch up on some sleep, so whenever you are done. Let me know." I mocked, not really caring what happens now.
I could tell she wasn't happy with what I said.
"Are you mocking me, Jones?"
At this point, I already closed my eyes and wanted to do whatever it takes to finally sleep.
So a demanding comeback was an order.
"Yeah, I am, Salvato. Now get some rest, will ya?" I retorted, using a bit of force to coat my tone.
She sighed.
"You are no fun in bed... fine. Goodnight."
What's that supposed to mean exactly?
"Yeah, yeah. Goodnight."
I felt some shifts on the bed, meaning the long night would finally come to an end.
Once she was done moving, I moved the blanket over us to keep us warm.
So much has happened today.
The Journal, the misunderstanding, and the talk.
We finally had our talk.
Maybe we can get on with our lives.
Anyway, now that she is back...
I could finally pursue some girls!
Since uh... Monika's here to make sure I get the perfect girlfriend!
It's more because that I can finally ease up around everyone a bit more...
Eugh, I hate it when my head jumps through too many thoughts.
"Hey, Val... are you awake still?"
I grumbled something to verify that I was awake.
"Oh, in that case... there's something that has been in my mind for a while now."
I shifted and faced her to hear what she had to say.
"Shoot."
"Well, when I texted you on that day... I actually ran outside to search for you."
She did...?
So there's more to what happened.
"You did?"
Monika nodded slowly.
"I did and I found you."
There was an uneasy feeling in my gut, knowing that it didn't end well.
"If you did, why didn't you call out to me?" I asked, now genuinely curious as what happened.
She gritted her teeth and closed her eyes.
"I did. W-When I found you, I ran to you but I tripped and fell. I scraped my knees badly on that day. A-And then... I called out to you."
She did...?
But I didn't even hear her!
"I screamed at the top of my lungs for you to come back, but you never turned back to me. And that's why I hated you. That's when I realized that you 'betrayed' me. I know now that wasn't the case, but..."
She sniffed.
"It hurt. Everything hurt when I saw you getting farther and farther away from me."
For the first time in a while, I noticed Monika crying.
"I-I thought you abandoned me on that day! I thought you used me to get more friends and then forget me soon after! My heart hurt from how you betrayed me on that day! And I thought you would never talk to me ever again!"
Seeing Monika cry hurt my soul, so I hugged her tight.
"It's okay. I am here now. I am here right beside you. And... I'm sorry for not hearing you. I don't know if it was because of the wind or something, but I should have made the effort to listen... so, please. Don't cry."
I pulled her from my hug and wiped her tears.
"If there is anything I can do, tell me."
...
"Hold me tight and never let go. Keep me safe from whatever gets in our way. And remember the promise we made."
...
"I remember. I will always hold onto you. And this time, I will make sure that it stays that way."
With that, Monika giggled.
It was the first time in a while that I heard her giggle out of pure happiness.
This giggle... it wasn't forced or out of pain.
It was real.
"We'll see. Now hold me. Hold me like there's no tomorrow!"
*CRACK*
"Eeeep! Please!"
I couldn't help chuckling as well, bringing in her into a warm embrace.
My arms went behind her back and brought her close to my chest.
She curled her legs on mine to share our body heat.
I felt her soft hair rest below my chin and her ear on my chest.
*CRACK*
There was no adverse effect when the thunder hit, and stayed still in my arms.
"Goodnight, Val."
"Goodnight, Mon."
We drifted off to a deep sleep not so long after.
I knew that she didn't change.
She's still the sweetheart I remember from four years ago...
It's good to have her back.
I felt comfy.
I also felt pretty warm too.
Not to mention that I felt very rested.
It's just that the sun was bothering me, and I needed to do something about it.
And so, I forced my way out of whatever that kept me warm and got off from my bed.
I didn't take into consideration that the room looked off and familiar, but I ignored it.
Once I got to the balcony, I closed the curtains to block the sunlight.
I yawned and walked over to my bed, only to collapse over it.
My head was on the pillow and my body under the blanket, but I couldn't find the same comfort I had before.
That was until something grabbed ahold of my back and pulled me closer to whatever the source was.
I was too groggy to actually care what happened, and put my legs on the person keeping in his arms.
My hands felt the soft fabric of a t-shirt, only to be under a hard toned pillow.
I didn't mind since the pillow was warm.
And so, I stayed in that position for a while, not realizing what exactly was going on.
I need to sleep like this more often...
This pillow is amazing!
It's almost like my body pillow...
Wait, this feels a lot like my bodypillow but not quite.
The sides have this tough and toned texture that I can't put my hand on...
...
I opened one eye to see what I was sleeping on.
No way...
It was Val, and he was sleeping peacefully without a care in the world of what's going on.
Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!
Did we actually sleep together?!
I thought that was some sort of fever dream, but it's real!
Oh no...
Oh nooo!
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!"
Val immediately woke up from his sleep and jumped out of the bed with a combat-ready pose.
"(Come on! I'll take you all on!)." He yelled in English. "(Get some!)."
He then calmed down and shook his head.
"(What...? What's going on?!)"
I stared at him as he continued to examine his surroundings.
The man turned to me and brightened.
"Oh, hey Monika!" He greeted, apparently forgetting what happened.
Before I can get to reply to him, the door swung open.
"Bro-bro! I heard a really loud girl scream! What happened! What-"
It was Micheal, Val's younger brother armed with a toy Buff gun.
"Auntie Monika?"
He keeps forgetting that I am not his aunt, but I don't mind at all.
The little boy always makes me smile because of how innocent he was.
I arose from my bed and gave the younger brother a warm hug.
"Hey, Mike. It's so good to see you again."
I then petted his head.
"Are you doing well at school?" I asked.
Mike looked somewhat confused from the situation but decided not to ask anything.
"Um yeah, I am. I thought Val brought a girl over without Mom and Dad's permission, but it's just you Auntie. So it's okay, I guess."
I am not a girl...?
"Mike, can you do me a little favor and not tell Ma and Pa about Monika coming over? I don't think they will take it as easily as you did, bro." Val requested.
The boy raised an eyebrow and tried to comprehend us, but didn't.
"Sure thing, bro-bro. I am going to school early since I have another trip today! You two can keep making out if you want! Hahaha!"
Before I could retort, the rascal dashed off and escaped our grasp.
We both sighed and started to relax.
Wait.
I'm in Val's room...
With his clothes...
And slept in his bed.
With him...
All because of some stupid thunder!
What's wrong with me?!
How could I do this to myself and to him?!
"Hey Monika, are you okay? You have been standing there for a while now."
How am I going to get myself out of this?!
Being aggressive to him and behave like a tsundere?
Yeah, that'll work.
I turned around with a forced glare.
"Yeah, of course, I am!"
I stomped up to him.
"Do not tell a soul of what happened between us, or else you are gonna get a huge punishment. Understand?" I warned.
He blinked, obviously confused by my sudden hostility.
"I won't tell anyone. You have my word on that, Monika."
I smirked.
"Good. Now if you don't mind, I am keeping your clothes for the moment. I need to get ready for school and as do you too."
I walked over to the door and was about to jump over.
"Hey wait! What about your clothes?! And not to mention, those are my favorite pajamas!"
Before he could complain further, I made the jump and opened the balcony door to my home.
"Pack them in your bag and I'll be sure to pick them up soon."
And with that, I shut the door.
I let out a huge sigh once I walked a few feet.
I am so screwed today.
Did Mom and Dad find out that I wasn't in my room?
I hope not...
Since I had school, I decided to get ready early and eat breakfast.
Maybe I should eat breakfast with Val.
No!
No, I shouldn't!
I had enough of him for only one day!
As I wore my uniform from Ainu I continued to think about what happened last night.
The storm...
First I got soaking wet from the storm from last night.
Then I had to change in front of Val!
I looked down to the clothes I was wearing and grabbed it.
With a smile, I took a whiff on the smell of his clothes.
It smells just like him...
...
What the fuck is wrong with me?!
Smelling his clothes and enjoying it just rings a bunch of alarms in my head!
Gah!
Anyway, after I changed my clothes I just had to sleep with him, didn't I?
I am such an idiot...
He took it the wrong way and I got embarrassed.
Usually, Val would try to stop me by saying something but this time...
He...
He pinned me.
For some reason when he pinned me, my body started to heat up.
My breathing started to get heavy for some reason.
I was able to hear how hard my heart was pounding.
His black eyes... they were serious and focused when they stared back at me.
Val also held my wrists together, so I couldn't do a thing but struggle...
Did I...
Did I get turned on by that?
I stopped whatever I was doing and let the article of clothing drop to the floor.
Psssh! Haha!
Oh jeez, my thoughts can be hilarious.
Of course, I didn't!
He only did that because he didn't want to wake anyone up.
It's simple as that.
I was just scared!
Scared from looking into his eyes and lips...
Um...
I continued to wear my uniform from there.
So I told him how I felt on that day.
I was right, he didn't even hear me scream.
But I still feel a little hurt.
And I don't think that pain will go away anytime soon.
Maybe it will go away the more time I get acquainted with him again.
What else is there to think about?
Oh right, we cuddled.
...
...
...
We cuddled...
This isn't the same cuddling we did as kids.
It was more intimate.
And not to mention how aloof he sounded when he accepted my offer to sleep beside him...
Is Val really that dense?
Cuddling as adults are completely different than cuddling as kids!
Kids can get away with it because they don't know any better.
But adults?!
If anyone didn't take our relationship into account, they would have thought we were committed to each other!
Hah!
Why would I would I want to be in a relationship with him?
...
I feel cruddy for thinking about for some reason.
Anyway, the worst thing is... I enjoyed it!
He kept me warm and safe in his arms.
That damn thunder didn't scare at all this time!
Just like how it was when we were younger.
When I got to class today, I felt focused.
There was nothing that made me yawn or get bored.
Is this what they call as a good night's sleep?
I have never been so rested in a long time.
As usual, Hiro slung his arm on my back.
"Sup boss! You are looking refreshed today, what's up?!"
I turned to him with a small smile.
"Feeling a little better ever since Monika came back. Not much else." I answered.
He gave an amused grunt.
"Oh wow, that's actually some great news to hear, boss. I am happy for you."
I turned my head and rested it on my table.
"Yeah, yeah. Thanks. I just look forward to whatever happens today."
Dan walked in not soon after.
"I haven't seen you smile like that in the morning. If I didn't know any better, you had a smooching session with your girlfriend." He teased.
I didn't quite get his teasing, so I raised an eyebrow.
"Dan, I don't have a girlfriend."
He shook his head at me.
"Seriously? Ever since you and Monika saw each other on Monday, you have been getting pretty... chummy."
I shrugged.
"Yeah, I missed her man. We were pretty close when we were younger. It's good to have her back."
Hiro and Dan exchanged looks.
"Hiro, do you think that it's gonna be more than that?"
He crossed his arms and nodded.
"Yep, yep. He is definitely going it to the next level. Ooh, ooh wait! Gimme ten if they take it there!"
Dan scoffed at him.
"Why would I bet against something is guaranteed to happen. How about twenty if they make it first base right after Christmas!" He offered.
"You know how to drive a hard bargain, that's a deal."
What are they even talking about?
Everyone suddenly shifted to the door.
It was the one and only Monika.
"Hi, Monika!"
"Hey, you're looking great today!"
"I like your hair!"
"I'll do anything for one way ticket to thighland..."
And as usual, there was a slight twitch on her right eyebrow.
What the Hell is wrong with that creep...
Instead of sitting down in her seat, she walked up to me.
In her hands was a bento box which looked remarkably similar to the one she usually brings.
Wait...
Is that lunch for me?
Oh man... her lunches are the best!
She then handed it to me.
"Here you go, Val. It's your favorite lunch from middle school!"
I smiled at her.
"Thanks, Mon. I appreciate it!"
"Middle School?!"
Monika gave a small giggle, something that I couldn't quite comprehend, and walked back to her seat.
There was a sudden tense atmosphere, aided by the silence of the classroom.
What's going on...?
I looked around to see a majority of the guys giving me glares with an unknown tone to it.
The girls, on the other hand, glared at Monika with the same effect.
However, Dan and Hiro were the only ones unaffected by the phenomenon and merely looked around with me.
The door opened to reveal the teacher walking into class, unaffected by the silence in the room.
It soon faded after that when she looked around the classroom.
I felt the heat from the scowls start to wear off when she took attendance.
The class was relatively quick for me, as we were out of there in a blink of an eye.
I waved Monika goodbye as I headed for the next class.
The hallways were more rambunctious than usual, their yells and chattering flooded the path to class.
There were middle schoolers, indicating that there were on a school trip, and making up most of the cacophony.
Hmm...
They are wearing green blazers, so that means they are from Lotus.
So that must mean Mike's somewhere around here.
"Hey, Val!" A familiar voice called. "Heads up!"
*PWAP*
The back of my head was hit from a disk-like shape and recoiled me forward.
I turned around with a glare.
"What was that for?!" I shouted, rubbing the afflicted area.
In front of me was a short pink haired girl, laughing hysterically as she held her stomach in.
Natsuki...
"Hahaha! That was gold! Seeing you get hit with a giant cookie is hilarious! Haha!"
Seriously?
A giant cookie?
I looked down to see a cookie wrapped in plastic, still intact from the impact.
Huh.
Didn't I see that cookie before?
I could've sworn that I did.
Picking up the cookie that the girl tossed, I handed it to her, whilst rubbing my head.
"Could you explain to me why you thought to toss a cookie at the back of my head while saying heads up, was a good idea?"
She still couldn't stop laughing.
"It's because... it was for you! I found it funny that you got your cookie with a dose of pain! Especially since you didn't see it coming!" She laughed.
Wait...
This cookie is for me?
I smiled at her while she started to die down with the laughter.
"Oh... wow. Uh, thanks Natsuki. I really appreciate it that you brought me a cookie. How much was it?" I asked.
She looked flustered when I asked her, as her cheeks turned a pale pink.
The girl crossed her arms and looked up to me.
"I didn't buy the cookie, baka. I made it!" She haughtily declared.
Wait she made it?
"Oh, you did?"
I examined the giant cookie further.
It had a generous amount of chocolate chips while being a light warm brown color.
The cookie was wrapped in plastic, with a pink clip to hold it in.
"I actually thought you brought this from a bakery, Natsuki. This looks amazingly well-done! Thanks!"
I was about to unwrap it before I squinted at her.
"Wait... do I owe you anything if I take even a single bite?"
She looked away.
"No..." She muttered uncharacteristically. "I made this just for you. It's because I thought a lot about what Yuri said yesterday and I needed to make it up to you. In the end, she was right. I was being mean to you even though you made the effort to come to the club. So yeah... this is just an apology."
The girl glared at me.
"Don't be getting any funny ideas, ya hear?" She warned.
I nodded.
"Of course. I won't get any. Thanks again, Natsuki. You didn't need to give me cookies, actually, but knowing you... It's definitely going to be delicious!"
Natsuki smiled brightly, showing her pearly white teeth proudly.
"I know it will!"
As a show of good faith, I went to unwrap the cookie and taste it.
That is until I got tackled.
"I found you! I finally found you!" A girl chanted.
What?!
Who is this girl?
The girl wrapped her arms around my waist and rested her head on my back.
I tried to outmaneuver whoever was clinging on to me, but she made sure to readjust her footing to prevent herself from latching off.
"You're even hotter up close! I knew Yuri was telling the truth!" She stated.
Hotter?!
"Wait, Yuri?!" Natsuki yelled.
The girl buried her nose against my blazer and inhaled.
"Aaah~! Smells like America!"
What does that even mean?!
I saw Yuri running up to me her eyes aimed towards the girl on my waist.
Get off me, get off me, get off me!
"Ah! Sorry, Valkyrie! I'll help you!"
She then pulled the girl from my waist, despite her immense protests.
"No! No! Stop it! I want to snuggle against Onii-chan more!"
Onii-chan?
Who even is she?!
I rested my back against the wall and tried to relax.
The girl that Yuri was restraining was a Lotus student.
She looks like...
Not only was she a Lotus student, but she also had identical features to Yuri.
The girl was shorter, younger, and had the same galaxy purple eyes and hair as-
Yuri...
"Um, Yuri? Is this your younger sister?" I asked.
They both looked up to me, with the girl beaming and looking at me with star-struck eyes.
"You guessed, Onii-chan! I am Yuri's younger sister, Haru! It's a pleasure to meet you, my future husband!"
This girl is ridiculously creepy...!
"Enough Haru! You are scaring Valkyrie!" Yuri stepped in.
She simply rolled her eyes and escaped her restraints.
"No, I am not, Onee-chan. He's perfectly comfortable around me, maybe a little too much, right Onii-chan?"
Haru then winked at me, sending shivers down my spine.
"Hey! What's wrong with you? You're disobeying your sister! Not to mention, that you are totally wrong on him being comfortable!" Natsuki pointed out, glaring at the loud girl.
She smirked and then hugged me.
"Why should I be listening to a shortie like you, huh? You look young enough to be my little sister!"
...
"WHAT DID YOU SAY?!"
Haru tightened her hold on me and resting her head on my stomach.
"Onii-chan, don't let her touch me! She's scary!"
Natsuki kept her death glare at Haru.
I felt her slightly shift and move her head to Natsuki.
Whatever she did, it made Natsuki's temper worse.
"Uuuu! IF YOU WEREN'T A MIDDLE SCHOOLER I WOULD'VE-"
Yuri took the chance to pull the young girl off me, only for her to cling back to me.
"Haru, Valkyrie barely even knows you and you are painting a bad image in his head. You shouldn't have said to Natsuki. I want you to apologize to her."
She looked up to me and stared at me with puppy-eyes.
"Please do it." I mouthed, mostly because I was very uneasy.
Haru then released me and sighed.
"Sorry for pointing out your size and age. You are probably older than me despite your height, and I apologized because Onii-chan told me so."
The school rang a few seconds after that.
I am going to be late!
"Hey um, Haru... It's been nice meeting you and all, but I need to head out." I said, pulling the girl off.
"Awww! Can I at least walk with you to class?"
I looked up to both Natsuki and Yuri.
"Thanks for cookie, Natsuki. I'll save for later. And it's nice seeing you, Yuri."
I then broke into a dead sprint.
"Catch you guys at the club!"
Oh jeez...
That was incredibly creepy.
What else does this day have to offer me?
AN: This chapter is a bit longer than usual, I know. I am doing this because I have about 5 or 6 chapters left for this fic, so I am trying to fit all of the plot elements I can into these chapters. I have a lot planned but very little time. But I will make sure that it all flows well and nothing is rushed or anything.
Also, I got around 10+ reviews on my last chapter! Thank you all so much for reviewing! It gave me the motivation boost I needed to make this flow as best I can!
Next chapter will be out on Saturday, because of Thanksgiving and extra time to write. No review response for now.
Have a good one!
