KeyQuis: I don't write cliffhangers do I?...I just leave a lot to think about. I'm kind of happy that no one has complained about lengthy chapters. I started to wonder, but then realized that I couldn't stop writing because it was so so very fun to write. Heck, I wanted to rush everything just so I could write the Christmas chapt.( I've been talking about that for a long time now) because it's so sweetly fluffy and focused on #cough#cough#. But there's still TWO more chapters to write before KeyQuis goes all out on that ONE chappie (in other words, it will be lovingly long). Well then, let's get going to one of the two, shall we? Onwards to the battlefield of love! A freakishly long chapter for some queer reason :p
Rating: PG13 (perhaps higher...)
Forewarning: Sasame does 'something' to Himeno. May not be suitable for younger audiences (semi-lime material, nothing close to R-as usual: YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!). Hayate does 'something' to Sasame. May be suitable for all readers (heehee). Almost a 360o turn from the previous chapter.
Only You: Autumn Night Festival
Hayate watched the season change. The summer that passed engraved itself into his mind. It had been a fun summer with Himeno. Hayate thoroughly enjoyed it, not letting any precious time go to waste. He cherished every little time he had left in his hometown. Early morning kendo classes were up and running again. Hayate waited underneath the giant sakura blossom tree in front on the school. His eyes followed the drifting petals before him. He never noticed how beautiful it was until now. Shades of red and pink danced around him, engulfing him with the thought of her. Himeno.
Himeno managed to drag her sleepy self out of bed for the first kendo practice of the new semester. Himeno's walking pace was unusually slow this morning due to her lack of sleep from excitement. She couldn't wait to do kendo with Hayate again. He was extremely busy with his advanced studies that he couldn't make time to train with her. Himeno practiced by herself against a wooden dummy she bought and worked hard to improve her accuracy. She couldn't wait to show him how much stronger she got. Hayate had walked ahead of her, carrying both of their equipment. When she reached the entrance of the schoolyard, her cheeks flourished with life at the sight of something she could only describe as beautiful.
Hayate stood there and let the blossoms flutter onto him and away from him. Why is there this sad feeling in my heart? He closed his eyes and felt a gentle breeze brush through his hair and touch his face. I'm going to miss this place, whether I want to or not.
Himeno stood there watching him, taking in the moment of serenity. Hayate. He looks so beautiful like that. The poker face was not on. A sweet soft smile paired with closed eyes and a pretty shower of flower petals made her heart skip a few beats. The whole thing captured his beauty and grace. There was something irresistible about her best friend. Himeno was content gazing at his honest smile. He wasn't hiding anything from her.
Reality crashed back into him when he heard his watch beep. The 6a.m. kendo alarm broke the solitude. Hayate snapped his eyes wide open and found Himeno standing right in front of him. He was lost in his thoughts that he didn't hear her coming. Hayate wanted to scold himself for being careless, but Himeno's smile took priority in his mind. God, she's so beautiful. It made his heart ache with mixed emotions.
"Oh, let's get to practice now," Hayate said clumsily, walking towards the building.
"It was beautiful, wasn't it?"
He stopped and turned around. "What?"
"The cherry blossoms."
"Oh. Yeah, they were." Hayate started to walk again.
"You were too," Himeno said cheerfully. "Smiling like that."
There was silence. Hayate didn't know how to respond to a remark like that. Beautiful was not a common word to describe a guy. Made him almost feel like blushing inside and out.
"Let's get to practice before we're more late."
"Fine, fine."
The new semester started and the only class Hayate and Himeno shared was the condemning Political Literature class taught by none other than the infamous sleep-inducing Professor Iori. The both of them sat in the very back corner, in the same seats from the previous semester. It held the fateful meeting between the two of them.
"I think I'm going to fall asleep. I have no idea which leader he's talking about," whispered Himeno.
"Fine. I'll take the notes for both of us," replied Hayate in a sigh, without his pokerface.
"Thank you."
"You owe me."
Himeno giggled a little. She found it amusing and funny every time Hayate sounded and acted human. She wanted to slumber off, but kept her head leaning on her textbook, with her eyes focused on her best friend.
Hmm, I'm so happy I get to spend another school year with you, Hayate.
Sasame shouted orders to the festival committee and its volunteers. It had already been a months since autumn arrived and it was time for a celebration of the new season as well as a full moon. He was president of the whole event and he wanted to sure the decorations were perfect. The event was to be held at the local temple and the neighbouring garden.
"Make sure those gold letterings are painted over with a luminescent coating. And you over there. Promotional posters should be placed up all over town. Don't clam it up in one area of the festival board. I need the booth setters to register themselves over at that end. Where are the games and prizes? They should have arrived an hour ago." Sasame continued his commands in a mellifluous manner. Everyone was scrambling to set the whole place up for the weekend. Sasame looked at his watch. Everything was more or less on schedule, except for a few minor things. The catering service would arrive during the festival morning. Sasame checked another item on his list when the prizes were delivered. "Can I get a team of people to set up the lights and lanterns?" He was about to shout more orders until someone grabbed him from behind and hugged him tightly.
"Sasame!" Himeno cheered aloud. "You look so cool being in charge of everything. The festival is going to be great!"
Sasame smiled at her lovingly and placed a quick kiss on her mouth when she released him. Her blush filled her cheeks with life. He loved it when he made her look so cute.
"People are staring at us," she said, trying to hide the giddy feeling.
"Sorry." Sasame put his loudspeaker aside and wrapped his arms around her waist. "Didn't mean to love you so much."
"You say the worst things to a girl's heart. It's not good to make it beat so fast." Himeno felt that he was teasing her and loving her a bit too much with every poetic word. She didn't know if one could be loved like she was.
"Sorry. Can't help it." Sasame placed a chaste kiss on her forehead and released her. "Gotta get back to work now. You want to help out or something?"
"Of course! Leave all the hard labour work to me. I'm as strong as a bull," Himeno replied, flexing her arms to prove her case.
"If you insist. You're even stronger than me, Himeno," Sasame complimented. He didn't feel insecure about being physically weaker. After all, he spent most of his life feeling inferior to Hayate. Sasame accustomed himself to his weakness and made the most of his strength. He honestly believed that the pen was mightier than the sword.
"So what can I do?"
"You can help build the booths. I think they're having trouble moving the wooden beams around," Sasame said as he pointed to the east direction. "That would help us out greatly."
"No problem." Himeno ran off, waving a quick good bye.
"You sure she'll be alright? She'll be working with guys," a cold voice said from behind.
Sasame turned around to find the expected Hayate.
"There's no need to be so overprotective of her. I'm not the possessive type," Sasame answered nonchalantly. "Himeno can take care of herself."
"Whatever, Mr. President," Hayate replied sarcastically. "Being protective and possessive are two different things."
Sasame hated it when his brother was right. "Then you would have liked me to deny her strength and insult her pride? I'm not as insensitive as you are, ."
Hayate twitched a bit. Insensitive. Is that what I am? "I'm going to help Himeno out. I don't trust guys in general." I don't even know if I can trust myself half the time.
Sasame shot him a dirty glare. "Implying me? I've treated Himeno extremely well so far, what have you got against me?"
"Your song," Hayate replied coldly. "Your words irritate me."
"I don't like your sword very much either. Himeno spends a lot of her time with you because of it."
"Jealous?"
"Irritated."
No one noticed the standoff between the two. Both of them knew what was happening between the three of them. Controlled emotions were revealed. Sasame noticed how frequently Himeno talked about his brother and it annoyed him to no end. Hayate would always grit his teeth ever so slightly every time Himeno mentioned Sasame's sweet talk. The brothers had become sick of each other's existence towards the one girl they loved. The only reason they didn't say it out loud was because of her feelings towards the both of them. It was the boyfriend versus the best friend situation with the best friend being less than honest with his true feelings.
"Himeno's mine."
"She belongs to no one."
Sasame wanted to throw a punch at Hayate's piercing remark. Hayate wanted to use the Wind Sword attack on Sasame's possessiveness. Both wanted the other out of her life and it wasn't going to happen.
Like hell I'm going to leave now. I definitely don't trust you now that I've seen your true colours, Sasame. I will protect Himeno from you.
I will make Himeno mine. You won't be able to have her at all. I refuse to give her up after having her for such a long time. I love Himeno and I will fight for her heart, Hayate.
"Sasame, where should I string up these ribbons?" a fellow asked, interrupting their thoughts.
"By the river stage," Sasame responded with a fake smile on his face. "Thanks."
Hayate didn't waste a moment's time and walked away, heading in the direction of the booth construction. Himeno belongs to no one.
Himeno was glad Hayate helped out. He flawlessly tacked and hammered every piece into place. The booths stood firm and everyone was glad they were complete. Hayate untied his hair which he held back during the work. He brushed through it quickly, pushing it neatly back into place.
Himeno couldn't take her eyes off Hayate when he removed that simple white ribbon. It was so different than with kendo. Hayate looked so natural, unlike in kendo where he was so robotic in an orderly fashion. She also realized that he barely broke a sweat doing the labourous setup. Hayate really was something.
Hayate's changed. He's changed so much after the summer. I wonder why?...Me? Was it because of me? Himeno brushed aside the egoistic thought. No, I think Hayate's always been like this. He's finally opening up his true self. Why was he hiding in the first place?
Both of them sat and leaned back against a completed booth and rested silently. Himeno felt at ease with Hayate by her side. His very presence warded off guys trying to make a pass at her. Seniors were scary, but Hayate was more than intimidating for them. Hayate smiled unconsciously, feeling thoroughly confident that his change of mind was worth it. He had protected Himeno, even if she could defend herself without his help. She seemed to like his protectiveness.
"Thank you, Hayate," Himeno said quietly, only for his ears.
"For what?"
"For being here with me."
"Same to you then."
Then turned to face each other and without warning, bursted out in sudden laughter. Sasame was not happy watching the two of them as he approached.
"Want me to take you out for dinner, Himeno? You've been great help," Sasame said as he extended his hand to help her up.
"What about Hayate? He was more help than I was," Himeno asked as she let herself get pulled up.
"It's okay. I'm just his brother. I'm not important." Hayate's tone was crisp with iciness. "I'll go home and eat."
Himeno looked at Hayate, then Sasame. "I think I will go home for dinner as well." She didn't want Hayate to be left out. Hayate's feelings were important to her.
They went home for dinner. The walk home loomed an air of uneasiness between them all, especially on Himeno.
Dear Diary,
I think there's something going on between Sasame and Hayate. I don't know what it is, but I know the tension's there. I'm not sure what to say to find out. I really want to know, but I'm scared at the same time. I think it's best if I talk with Sasame first about it, then Hayate. But shouldn't I turn to my best friend first? I don't know. I'm confused and worried. My feelings for Sasame haven't changed. I love him a lot. I love Hayate differently. Sasame is special, but Hayate...I don't know how to describe him. He's special alright, but important is what he is to me. Hayate is important to me. Hayate means a lot to me. I don't know what to think or feel if he wasn't by my side most of the time. I don't want to experience life if I never met him. Hayate is very important to me.
Himeno stopped writing. My god, what have I written? Is this what's in my heart? It can't be...but it is. Hayate...
Déja vu seem to hit Himeno at that moment. The words seemed familiar and lost at the same time. Himeno felt her eyes water and tears trickle down her cheek and dropped her pen onto her bed sheets.
Why does it feel like my heart's going to break if Hayate disappears from my life? It hurts. It just hurts. I don't know why. Hayate...
Himeno fell asleep after crying softly for a lost answer.
"I hate you."
"I'd figure as much. You're easy to read, Sasame." Hayate replied plainly after finishing his shower.
"Himeno won't fall in love with you," said Sasame bitterly. He was lying in his bed, ready to sleep after talking with his brother a bit more.
"I'm not expecting her to." Hayate continued drying his hair with a towel. "I'm not selfish like you are."
"You're extremely selfish. You couldn't be the boyfriend so you picked the best friend just to be near her. But you're lying to her and yourself. Me, selfish? Look at yourself," Sasame retorted.
Hayate decided to end the argument. Mom was downstairs and he didn't want to stir a commotion. "We'll see. Good night." He turned off the lights and climbed into his bed.
"She will be mine."
Hayate would have beaten the other body in the room if not for the fact mom was downstairs. The wrath of a mother was not to be taken lightly.
Himeno twirled in front of the mirror a bit. It had been a very long time since she wore a kimono. This one had a lovely display of tulips and wind patterns on soft pink fabric. The dress was hand made by her mother before she past away. Her father had explained how eager her mom had been to make the special present in advance since the day of her birth. It was her sweet 16 birthday present from mom and Himeno loved it. Himeno had gotten Mrs. Leafe to help her dress up and tie properly.
"You look beautiful. It looks absolutely stunning on you, Himeno." Mrs. Awayuki rechecked the kimono. "They'll love it."
"Thank you very much." Himeno bowed.
"Even Hayate will admire it fully. He better compliment or else I'll teach him a lesson in complimenting young girls."
Himeno blushed at Mrs. Leafe's comment. The mention of his name made her cheeks rosy.
"Um, I hope so..." Himeno sat on the couch and waited for them to come down. They were going to the festival together.
Sasame came down first. His wide eyes and opened mouth was a definite approval of Himeno's attire.
"You look absolutely stunning. It's gorgeous." Sasame really liked the floral pattern. He thought that a trail of music notes should have replaced the wind pattern though.
"You look pretty good yourself, Sasame." Himeno noticed how well the dark lavender coloured yukata matched and accented Sasame's bishounen features. It was patterned with vertical silver lines that made him appear more taller and mature.
"Where's Hayate?" Mrs. Leafe asked. "Don't tell me he's making a fuss about wearing one."
"What fuss?" Hayate called out from the top of the stairs. "I'm fine perfectly dressed like this." He showed them his best casual outfit.
"YOU CAN'T GO OUT LOOKING LIKE THAT WITH A GIRL BY YOUR SIDE. IT'S EMBARRASSING! CHANGE INTO YOUR YUKATA RIGHT NOW, HAYATE!" Mrs. Leafe bellowed, shaking the walls of the house.
Hayate sighed and headed back into his room. His mom was right. He couldn't walk beside Himeno looking like the way he was now. He'd look like an ugly toad in her light. He sighed and looked at the thing lying on his bed. Might as well change and get going.
Himeno's breath was taken away. She never imagined he could ever look more manly and insanely heart-melting than he did now. He bangs were still messy and his long hair tied back. The yukata was dark blue and white at the hems. It perfectly shaped his broad shoulders and undoubtedly firm chest. If Sasame was Cupid, Hayate was Hercules. When Hayate reached the bottom of the stairs, Himeno ran towards him and gave him an excited hug.
"You look sooooo good in that! Why didn't you wear it in the first place?" Himeno laughed. "You're so weird."
"THIS is embarrassing mom. I feel like a 10 year old in this thing!" Hayate complained, not minding Himeno's proximity.
"Oh stop whining, you look damn fine and you know it," she hassled back at him. "Now THAT's much better. You can go now. Remember not to stay out too late."
"Wearing this is embarrassing," Hayate pleaded one last time. "Can't I just change out of this?"
"No. Now leave before I think of something else for you to do instead of going to the festival."
Hayate let out a long sigh. "Let's get this over with." He glanced over to Sasame, who was obviously irritated and jealous.
Himeno dragged him by the arm to the front door. Sasame already opened it. "Good night, auntie." She pulled Hayate out of the house. He was still grumbling about dressing up and being non-efficient.
"That's it? That's the only reason why you don't like wearing it?" Himeno asked in disbelief.
"Yeah, nothing wrong," answered Hayate.
Sasame continued to stay silent, holding her hand.
"I can't believe it. Just because you don't like people see you all fancied up, you don't want to wear it. Don't you know that you look so handsome in it?"
"That's why I don't like wearing it. I know I look good...I just don't want anyone to see it..." Hayate trailed off. "It's embarrassing."
Eh? I didn't think he was that self-aware. Himeno gave him a puzzled look. "No sense in hiding your true self or it's just a waste. Besides, I think you're great eye-candy, Hayate." Himeno added, "So are you Sasame."
Hayate was too embarrassed to reply. Sasame kissed Himeno on the cheek. Eventually, the three of them arrived to the festival. They wandered around for a few hours before one of them had to leave.
"I'm sorry, I have to perform my song soon. Last show on tonight. Have to go and set the stage up. Do you mind waiting for me until then, Himeno?" Sasame asked sincerely.
"No problem. You are the reason why there's a festival in the first place." She smiled at him. "Good luck on stage." She let him kiss her on the lips before leaving.
It was the first time Hayate watched the both of them kiss. He never expected that they do it in front of him. After all, weren't they the very least self-conscious about PDAs? Still, he felt his heart hurt a little. He didn't know he was tightly biting his lower lip in anguish. It wasn't irritation, it was plain jealously. Himeno was smiling happily at Sasame before he left.
"Let's go have some fun, Hayate." Himeno took his hand and started to walk in the game's direction. Hayate didn't move from his spot. "Eh? What's the matter?"
"Kiss." Hayate asked the question. "Is Sasame good at it?"
Himeno's eyes flew wide opened. HOW DO I ANSWER THAT? It was then she became embarrassed with the kiss Sasame gave her before he left, in front of Hayate. She tried avoiding the subject by proceeding to walk again, but it was no use. Hayate wanted an answer.
"I just want to know."
Himeno looked at him pleadingly, not wanting to give him a straight answer. She didn't want him to know. Hayate looked a little hurt for some reason. Why? Why do you want to know?
Knowing she wasn't going to tell him the truth he already knew, Hayate freed his hand from her own and walked forwards, passing her. Ah damn it. #$&. Why am I feeling so pissed off? The other day I didn't want to leave, but now I just don't want to be near either of them. I'm so confused. I hate this feeling. I hate not knowing what I want. I hate it. I damning hell hate it. I hate this. Hayate decided to put the poker face back on. He felt better with it on. It hid everything he didn't want to know going inside of him. It helped him ignore his human heart.
"Are we going to play games or not?" Hayate asked, thumbing in the direction. "I want to go home after Sasame comes back for you." His voice sounded empty.
Himeno nodded slightly. Why? Why is this happening? You were just laughing the other day too. Why can't you stay that way? The pokerface dampened her festival spirit. Hayate's clenched fists told her that he didn't want to hold her hand. Himeno sadly walked forward. He's important to me...I should tell him. I should tell my best friend everything.
"He's very good at it," Himeno whispered out when she reached his side. "Sasame's a good kisser." There! I answered your stupid question. She held back some tears of anger.
"Thought so." Hayate smiled sadly at her. "Let's have some fun now." He took her hand into his own and they walked into the crowd. Might as well enjoy it while it lasts.
It's not fair. He looked so sad. Hayate, it's not fair at all. I hate it when you're sad. And it's my fault.
It wasn't the same experience they both shared at the amusement park. It wasn't so happily memorable this time around.
Himeno heard the song from a distance. She planned to watch the performance, but the Hayate's mood ruined her evening. Every time she smiled at him, he responded blankly with his pokerface. She was too afraid to apologize. That and she wasn't sure how to ask Hayate what was the real problem. He probably wouldn't tell her if she asked.
What's happening between all of us? Hayate's distancing himself. And Sasame... Why won't they tell me what's wrong? Why won't they tell me such an important thing? I thought friends are suppose to share burdens and problems. Why am I the only one who doesn't know? Why? Why? Himeno mustered up her courage and started.
"Why?" Her voice was low and tone was angry.
Hayate stopped to listen. They were in a remote part of the festival, the rendezvous point for Sasame.
"Why won't you tell me why you're feeling upset, Hayate?" Himeno blared out, tears coming out her eyes. She wiped them away.
"Huh?"
"Don't give me that! I thought we were best friends! So why don't you stop hiding behind your poker face and tell me what the hell is going on?" Himeno let her anger reign. "You're pissing me off with your half-heartedness! Anyone can tell you're pissed off about something with a mood like that! Don't give me that poker face...I HATE IT!" Himeno grit her teeth and wanted to shout at him some more.
"Himeno, I-" Hayate began.
"You what? One minute you're opened and the next you're closed! I can't take it anymore. You're hurting me, Hayate! Don't you care about my feelings at all? Best friends share everything with each other!" By now, Himeno's face streaked with tears of angry bitterness. "I thought you changed, but you haven't at all." She sniffled harshly. "You're nothing but a selfish, insensitive bastard. You're not a friend at all!" Himeno was shocked at the words that came out of her mouth. I didn't mean for that to happen...Hayate... She started uncontrollably crying.
"I understand. Sorry." Hayate didn't know if he should go over and give her a hug. She hates me. I'm such an idiot. He made up his mind. "It's just that you won't understand, Himeno. I can't tell you."
"WHAT wouldn't I understand? You never even tried telling me. How would you know if I didn't understand? You're the worst!" Himeno yelled in response. Hayate...stop making me hurt so much. It hurts so much. Because of you, I'm in pain.
Hayate turned his back towards her. "You just won't understand. It's best if you don't know anything about it." There's no point in telling you how much I love you now. No point at all. Is there even a point in being in love? I should give up and leave for Hiroshima. He heard her sobbing die down a bit. I'm sorry I can't tell you that I love you. It would hurt us all. You're in love with Sasame. I don't need to make matters worse. I'm going to stop loving you the way I do now.
"Please leave, Hayate. I don't need you anymore." I'm lying to myself. "I really enjoyed being with you while it lasted...but now I realize that it was all a lie. You never cared for me at all." I'm lying, I'm lying. You wouldn't be so protective if you didn't care. "Please leave, Sasame will be here soon."
"Understood." He left her and hid himself behind a cherry blossom tree nearby. He could still hear her cry. He felt like crying himself. He finally knew what it meant to be a total loser and an absolute jerk. Damn it. I ruined everything. He stayed behind the tree until Sasame arrived. After all, he wanted to make sure she was safe until the one she loved came for her. Consider it a final act of love towards her. I cared too much...nothing was a lie. My love wasn't a lie, it was a mistake. Hayate knew the latter part of his thought was a lie.
"Sasame!" By now, Himeno dried her teary face and put on a smile. She didn't notice someone nearby leaving the area after watching her for 15 minutes. She ran towards Sasame.
"Sorry I'm late, Himeno...I ah," Sasame spoke out while wobbling towards her. "Something happened after the show..." He collapsed in her arms.
Himeno caught her boyfriend, who was obviously in a state of drunkenness. His face was bright red and his forehead was covered in sweat. Himeno braced him and helped him lie down on the bench she was sitting on.
"What happened? You're drunk, Sasame!" Himeno exclaimed, worried at his ill condition.
"My drink was spiked by somebody. I think it was a dare of some sort." He groaned at his growing headache. "I'll be fine in a bit."
"No you won't! You have to rest until the alcohol goes away. You have to sleep it off!" Himeno commanded.
"But the festival...there's still an hour left...," Sasame said weakly. "I want to spend some more time with you."
"You can't even walk straight." Himeno brushed his bangs aside and wiped his forehead with her handkerchief. "Just rest."
"There's a medical trailer somewhere with a bed inside," he mumbled. "I can rest in there."
"Here. I'll carry you." Himeno hoisted him up and supported him. She was glad she was physically strong. "Which way?"
Hayate continued wandering the festival aimlessly. He didn't want to go home just yet. His mind was filled with what Himeno had said to him. Words hurt. Losing the kendo tournament would have been nothing compared to the grief inside his heart.
I have to apologize to her. I have to set things straight between us. I have to tell her the truth. Hayate looked up in the night sky. Then can I leave with a free heart. A couple of drunk students ran into him, almost knocking him over.
"Oh look, it's the other guy," one male student jeered.
"Hey, I bet he wouldn't be able to hold it down either," another proclaimed in a slurred voice.
What the hell are they talking about? Hayate fixed his slightly jarred yukata.
"I bet he'll get wasted after one cup. Just like music boy back there." The guy snickered at Hayate. "I feel sorry for his girlfriend."
Sasame? Oh dear god no... Don't tell me Sasame is...
"Hayate?" A girl with a worried face approached him. She was a fellow choir member. "Sasame is drunk. It's not his fault. He was really sick when he left to meet up with his girlfriend, Himeno right?"
Hayate's eyes widened with fear. Himeno...please don't tell me...
"He could barely walk straight. I don't know if she can take care of him. It was over 50 red wine inside his drink. They said it was just a joke." She pleaded, "Please go find him. He seemed really upset before he left. I don't know what he'll do to her."
Hayate didn't waste a moment's time to head back to the meeting place. Please be alright, Himeno. I don't know what to do if you're not. He ran like the wind to find them, to find her.
Himeno placed another cold towel on Sasame's forehead. He drank a large cup of water and ate a Tylenol for his headache. She nursed him to the best of her knowledge. Please be alright, Sasame. I don't want to lose you too. I lost Hayate. She stopped the tears from coming out.
Sasame's breathing leveled out. He knew that sleep was the best thing for him, but Himeno was there by his side. She was there with him.
"Sorry, I ruined your night," Sasame said, trying to sit up. "Festival's over already. Clean up next morning."
"You have to rest." Himeno tried to push him back down onto the bed. One hand was against his chest and she felt his heart beat heavily underneath the fabric. The other hand held a fresh cold towel. Sasame looked very different without his glasses on this time.
"Rest with me." Sasame managed to snake an arm around her waist and pull her roughly against him. "I love you, Himeno."
He can't be serious! "Sasame, you're drunk. You need to rest." She felt his lips on her neck. Both his arms held her firmly and her arms were trapped.
Sasame continued his affection on her neck, then moved to her exposed shoulder. He gently pulled her kimono down from behind, fully knowing that there was more soft skin to kiss.
Himeno didn't know how to react to the situation. Her mind was filled with fear and panic. She couldn't think clearly. She obviously enjoyed Sasame's touch, but she knew it was wrong. Most of her back was open and the kimono bunched up against her chest.
"Please stop, Sasame," Himeno whimpered softly. "Please stop."
Sasame forcefully closed her mouth with a strong kiss. Her plea went unheard.
Hayate became extremely frantic. He ran twice around the entire festival grounds and his search went longer than he wanted it too. He couldn't find them anywhere. He asked a number of students regarding the whereabouts of his brother. He called home and found that neither of them returned. He had no idea where they were. He just hoped they were somewhere on festival grounds and that he just needed to look harder.
None of this would've happened if I wasn't being such a stuck-up jerk. I would have stayed by Himeno's side until Sasame came. No. I should have made sure everything was okay instead of running off when I heard her shout out his name. I'm such an idiot. I won't forgive myself if anything happens to you, Himeno.
His heart constricted with fear and anxiety. He was worried so much that every part of his body shook with pain. Hayate hated his yukata and the wooden geta sandals. They lowered his movement efficiency. If not for kendo, his feet would have been blistered to blood from running around. Hayate continued his search.
Himeno...please be alright. As long as you're okay, nothing else matters.
Sasame crushed Himeno's lips in a brutal kiss. It might have been the alcohol, but it was more of suppressed desire. Sasame let his feelings show.
"I love you so very much, Himeno," Sasame said hungrily after breaking the kiss. He didn't notice the fear in her eyes.
"Please stop, Sasame." Himeno tried to push him off of her, but the strength in her arms left her. The smell of intoxication was disgusting and frightening. She was too scared to fight him off. Her mind was in a state of confusion. Sasame was on top of her, half-naked from the waist top. Please stop. The stench of alcohol was too much too handle.
Sasame kissed her again gently this time. He didn't want to scare her. His hands worked their way through the front of her kimono.
"Please stop," Himeno muffled underneath the kiss.
"I want you, Himeno," Sasame whispered to her ear.
Hayate's chest heaved up and down. He was thoroughly exhausted. Did I miss something? God DAMN IT! How come I haven't found her yet? I have to find her. Hayate thought he was going to cry from frustration.
"Hayate?"
He looked up. "Professor Iori?"
"Festival's over. Why haven't you gone home yet?"
"I'm looking for my brother and Himeno. I heard he was drunk and he hasn't gone home yet. Have you seen them?"
The professor pondered for a moment. "I wonder if they're still there though."
"Where?" Hayate felt a light of hope shine on him.
"The medical trailer. I remember the two of them going in some while ago."
"Which way?" Hayate asked desperately.
"On the other side. It should be near a fountain, off side to one of the smaller temples."
"Thanks!" Hayate rushed off, after bowing to his teacher.
"I should thank you for staying awake in my class!" Professor Iori shouted out.
I'll never think of sleeping in his class ever again.
"I want you, Himeno." She tried to shut the words out of her mind. She never wanted Sasame like this. She never even thought of it. Sasame continued ignoring her small cries. Her body betrayed her mind.
"You are so beautiful, Himeno." Sasame smiled. You will be mine. Hayate will not have you. You belong to me. He continued placing delicious kisses on her neck, while unraveling the ties on her kimono. "I've always wanted you like this."
Himeno bit her lip. This isn't Sasame! Sasame would never do this...this can't be Sasame. A sudden surge of awareness and strength came back. Himeno shoved Sasame off of her in one quick push. "Stop!" Himeno wrapped her arms around herself, embarrassed at her state of near-complete undress.
Sasame felt a rush of anger in his body. "Why! Don't you think you've made me wait long enough?"
Wait? You never even told me you wanted it. "Just stop it." He must be still drunk. I have to get out of this mess. "Sasame, you're drunk. We can talk it over when we're ready. Please, you have to get some rest or-"
"No. I don't want that. I want you." Sasame's breathing grew heavy. "I only want you." Without notice, he crashed himself into her and pinned her hands down. He used the full weight of his body to suppress her struggling and kissed her fiercely.
Himeno squirmed to free herself from the kiss. If only Hayate had stayed by my side. Himeno tried to calm herself down and think of a way to escape. Then none of this would've happened. Sasame's mouth left hers and he started sucking on the soft flesh on her neck. He moved downwards, violating her female body.
Himeno screamed out the name of the person in her mind.
"Hayate!" Save me!
Hayate heard it loud and clear. There wasn't much distance left to his destination, Himeno. Please don't let Sasame hurt her. He ran hard.
Sasame loathed that name at this point in life. The one he loved shouted to the one who was truly in her heart. He lost control of his will and bit into the skin he was suckling on.
"Don't ever say his name in front of me ever again! I hate Hayate." All of Sasame's gentleness disappeared.
Himeno screamed out the name again, several times. Tears freely flowed from her eyes. Please save me, Hayate. Hayate. Hayate. Hayate. I need you more than ever.
Sasame bit into her skin harder, hurting her. He was about to strip her of her remaining garments when he heard he door of the trailer crash open.
Himeno knew who it was panting heavily. The deep blue eyes met her teary ones. Hayate.
Hayate found the door locked. It was only a trailer door and the lock couldn't have been that sophisticated and top grade. He rammed himself against the door with all his remaining might and broke the lock from the inside. His shoulder hurt like hell, but he didn't care. He finally found her.
Everything happened so fast. One moment, Sasame was on her. The very next, he was being pinned down to the trailer floor.
The tears on her face told him everything. Hayate didn't waste a single breath to apprehend his brother. He threw a hard right fist that connected with Sasame's jawbone and loosened his grip on Himeno. Himeno saw the blood fly out from Sasame's mouth. She was both in awe and fear of Hayate's strength. Hayate forcefully grabbed his brother by the hair and arm and threw him onto the floor. Sasame landed on the ground with a painful thud. Himeno watched the horror befall on her boyfriend. Hayate set his anger free and his power was frightening. There was the sound of breaking bones and the sight of blood splatter.
"Stop. You'll kill him!" Himeno started sobbing. "That's enough, Hayate."
Hayate held his fist in the air. He had given Sasame a broken and bloody nose, a loose jaw and a really swollen cheek. His brother probably fell unconscious when he hit the floor hard. Hayate wanted to cover Sasame with bruises if not for a sense of chivalry. It was bad enough hitting a man when he was down and Sasame wasn't the best punching bag in the world. He knew his mother would punish him for beating on his drunk brother. Hayate did not regret hitting Sasame into a slightly bloody mess, it could have been worse if not for Himeno's kindness; the guy deserved it for nearly raping his best friend, the only girl he loves.
Himeno began to shake uncontrollably when Hayate walked over. She knew Sasame was knocked out. Who wouldn't be after something like that. "Sasame...he was...drunk," she said chokingly, "It wasn't...his...fault..." Her sobbing worsened.
Hayate let his worry show. "Damn it. I was so worried when I heard that he was drunk from someone." He gripped her tighter. "I was thinking about what you had said earlier on and...geez damn it, I was just so scared Himeno!" His voice was shaking as badly as his body.
Himeno let Hayate hold her and pour out his emotions. His very strongly composed self broke down. Hayate...show me that you're human, just like I am.
"I was looking all over for you! I was worried to death. I ran all over the festival looking for you!" Hayate pulled her closer to his heaving chest. "Damn it! And I couldn't find you after looking for more than two hours." Hayate cried out, "I was so damn scared something happened to you." His voice began to choke. "I couldn't let anything happen to the one person I care for."
Himeno felt as if time stopped. "...one person I care for..." The words she spoke earlier on must have hurt Hayate too. Even the best of friends end up hurting each other.
"You're the most important person to me, Himeno. That isn't a lie." Hayate's voice cracked.
"most important person..." Himeno guilt rose. She started the fight between them. She was the one to speak the harsh words. "I'm sorry, Hayate. I'm so sorry. It's all my fault! If I didn't-" Her tears came spewing out.
"Ssh, everything's okay now. Don't think about anything anymore. It's all over now. We can talk some other time," soothed Hayate. He tenderly stroked her hair.
It's because of Hayate that I'm safe. If he didn't come, Sasame would have... Himeno stopped the thought. Hayate's here with me. I need him more than anyone else, more than Sasame. She fell asleep crying in Hayate's arms.
Hayate carried her to the remaining bed in the back of the trailer. He fixed up her kimono as best as he knew how and tucked her in. I can't leave her. No matter how hard I try, I can't. Hayate gently washed her face with a cold towel. I'll tell you everything...I love you, Himeno.
Hayate walked back over to the unconscious Sasame. He easily lifted him back onto the bed. He first wiped the wounds with a cold cloth and waited until most of the bleeding stopped. Hayate found some herbal oil for the bruising cheek and applied it. He found wrapping bandages in the cupboard and tried to fix Sasame up. It was painfully obvious that Sasame needed to go to the hospital for the broken nose and loose jaw. Hayate opened the freezer and took out some ice.
"I said I'd protect her, Sasame. You should have known better," Hayate said. "I'm sorry for hitting you so hard, but don't worry, mom will get revenge for you, you weakling." Hayate chuckled to himself. "I'll call and tell them we're all fine. I'll bring Himeno back home after this. I'm taking you to the hospital after I bandage you up." Hayate wrapped the white cloths around Sasame's cheeks. "I'm so sorry. But you know, you're lucky to be alive. Himeno stopped me." Hayate said one final phrase to him. "If you took full advantage of her, I might have killed you. Honestly."
Hayate called Mr. Awayuki and told him everything that had happened. Mr. Awayuki agreed to send Sasame to the hospital and answer questions in place of Hayate. He thanked Hayate for finding and taking care of Himeno. After this incident, he couldn't trust Sasame with his beloved daughter anymore.
"Here are the keys to the house. Stay until I return." Mr. Awayuki said as he dropped them off in front of his house.
Hayate carried Himeno in his arms. "I will. Thanks for taking Sasame to the hospital."
"Just take care of Himeno for me. Thanks, Hayate." Mr. Awayuki drove off.
Hayate helped Himeno into her bed. Even though she was asleep, there was a painful expression on her face. Hayate tucked Soyokaze under her arm and pulled the blankets over her. Hayate pulled her desk chair over to her bedside and watched over her. Someone so strong was also so vulnerable.
Just what happened? You could have beaten him up just as badly. Why didn't you? There was a painful expression on his face. When I saw you crying...I was scared to death. I really was. I don't think I've ever been more afraid in my whole life than tonight. He grazed his hands through her hair.
"Don't leave," Himeno muffled quietly in her sleep. "Stay Hayate...with me...for..." She trailed back to sleep.
"I will. I won't leave you," Hayate replied. He brushed her bangs upwards and placed an affectionate kiss on her forehead. "I love you," he stated wispily. He knew she didn't hear it.
Hayate reclined the chair to a more comfortable sleepy position and watched her. It was already more than halfway through the semester. November was coming up, then December and finally January, when he planning to be in Hiroshima. Hayate decided to call off his trip when the mess was over. He wanted to stay home. He knew he had a chance with Himeno. All he had to do was say the three magical words. There was only one obstacle.
Will Himeno respond to my feelings? Will she accept it? Maybe I should wait a bit more. Hayate eventually dozed off into a peaceful slumber, knowing she was safely sleeping next to him.
PDA (public display of affection)
rendezvous (french, 'meeting you')
Author's Notes: The chapter of bad times. Life isn't perfect and this story shouldn't be as well. If I didn't know better, it was almost a 'lime level' chapter (and would have been if I didn't painstakingly pick out the right words to describe the scene). Ah, I'm sorry for making Himeno suffer such torture and even more sorry to Hayate for making him go through such hell. -Sigh, Sasame-I really don't give too much of fig tree about you because you're obviously the loser of the story (as I plotted from the very beginning). Chapter dedicated to fans who wanted Hayate to beat the life outta Sasame .
I modified Sasame's injury during my third revision. The actual scene first sounded like this and it was very brutal to read. Right before and after Himeno told Hayate to stop before he killed Sasame.
Sasame landed on the ground with a painful thud. Himeno watched the horror befall on her boyfriend. Hayate's punches sounded just as painful as the bruises that quickly developed. She didn't know how many times Sasame was hit before she yelled at Hayate to stop.
Hayate held his next punch in the air and withdrew from the beating. Sasame was quite a bruised mess all over. His face was swollen almost to the point beyond recognition. His arms had patches of yellow and blue and his chest was in shades of purple and black. Hayate redressed his brother to hide the horrible markings. The sight of it scared him to death. He had never unleashed his anger to full power before. For once, he was scared of himself. My god, what have I done?... His mother was definitely not going to forgive him.
From the bruises alone, I would have thought Sasame was dead. I was planning on going into more gruesome details...but no, I'm sure readers would have been disgusted. Hayate might as well just have smashed him to a bloody pulp while he's at it. Geez, I opted to a few strong punches in the face. I didn't want to 'kill' Sasame.
There you have it. Probably the chapter most have been waiting for. Bwahahaha, what will happen next? And it's almost Christmas. 'Til next chapter. Got questions? Answers will be provided if asked.
The Cast Talking To Me
Himeno: Ewww! You made me kiss a drunk!
Sasame: Hey! It wasn't that bad. You liked it, didn't you?
Hayate: Like hell she did! Make me beat him up some more, KeyQuis. The little #$& deserves more than a bloody nose.
KeyQuis: I am under no obligation to follow that order.
Sasame: Thanks. Much appreciated.
Himeno: Um, you're not going to make Sasame do that again, are you?
KeyQuis: Not in this story. Nope.
Hayate: WHAT THE $(&! do you mean by that?
KeyQuis: (smacks Hayate in the head with a shinai) DON'T talk to your fanficter like that! You wanna die or something!
Sasame: (LOL) Yeah, KeyQuis has us all under her command.
Hayate: Stupid fangirls.
Himeno: (smacks Hayate in the head with a shinai) Hayate! She's writing this for us! Show some more respect and gratitude for all she's done. You're so insensitive.
KeyQuis: (LOL) It's okay. Hayate's already got what's coming to him... (evil smile)
Hayate: What?
Sasame: Are you going to update 'Four Months For Eternity' yet?
KeyQuis: (big happy smile)
Hayate: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!