Shugo Chara
Hot or Not
ShellyCullen: !!! Read chapter 43 and, ah, I thought it was on the lips at first.., but then I saw him at her cheek and she put her hand there, blushing. Oh well, at least they've had some contact by mouth. And that line. "I'll definitely make you fall in love with me." EEK!!!!!
Ikuto: Of course Amu will fall in love with me. But in the manga she's too young to kiss. When I return, I'll give her a big one.
Amu: EH?! And what do you mean, TOO YOUNG?! I'm only a year older in this fanfiction!
Ikuto: Oh, come on Amu, you know you like me.
Amu: *Blushes. WHAT?! W-What are you saying?!?!?!?!
Ikuto: Didn't you basically admit it in chapter 43.
Amu: ………
Ikuto: Aw, you're so cute. So we're a couple now, right? *Hugs.
Amu: I CAN NOT believe this is happening.
Ikuto: You keep playing hard to get, which makes you even more interesting, Amu.
ShellyCullen: Like a cat playing chase with a mouse.
Amu: S-Start the chapter already!!!
Ages:
Ikuto = 17
Amu = 13
Nadeshiko = 14
Yaya = 12
Rima = 13
Tadase = 14
Nagihiko = 14
Day 5, Friday Recap:
"Good night." She said and left. I stood there, still thinking.
Had I ever really known what love was?
Chapter Fourteen:
Why Does Love Always Feel Like A Battlefield?
Ikuto POV
I stood in the kitchen, leaning back on the counters as I kept playing the scene in my head. Amu said she loved me…was it true? I sighed and tried to think clearly as my mind went into a haze. What would it be like…to have Amu as mine?
Footsteps creaked down the stairs as I anticipated on a flushed Amu. Instead, Utau came bounding down. I relaxed.
"Spill." Utau ordered and I crossed my arms.
"I thought you were too depressed to listen to anything." I replied as she rolled her eyes.
"I'm over it now. So tell me…what happened?" She demanded, growing impatient. I looked down at the ground, bored.
"You want to know, just ask Amu. I'm sure she's better with these girl talks with you." I said and she glared up at me, her hands on her hips.
"I would, but…Amu seemed a little confused up there. I don't think she even understands what happened." Utau said as her head hung. She looked back up at me.
"Well, it doesn't matter. I'll figure it out soon enough. By the way, do you plan to tell Amu you're in love with her?" She asked, raising an eyebrow and smirking. I turned my head to the side, ignoring the comment. It was scary how a like we were sometimes.
"I'll take that as a yes. Goodbye and good luck." She added, waving and walking out the door. I stared down at the tiled floor. Now what?
Amu's POV
I laid back on my bed, staring at the ceiling for an endless amount of time. What was I going to do? How would I face Ikuto when I had…confessed with Diamond that I loved him? Would he understand that it was an accident?
It was silent in the room with only my lamp shining light. Diamond was now asleep in her egg, which had been hidden under a towel in a basket. I sighed and rolled onto my side, trying to think of things to do.
I loved Tadase-kun. Ever since the beginning of school. He truly was a great prince who could charm any girl and take care of her. He loved with all his heart and always tried hard on helping others.
My thoughts swayed back to Ikuto and I tried not to get flustered. He was the complete opposite. Quiet, not much of a talker and a BIG pervert, that's for sure. He can be pretty forward at times, and yet everything about him is a big mystery. He's so complicated and confusing.
But Ikuto wasn't bad. He never was. Even when working for the Easter company. He was just lost and broken, trapped by his own duty to work in achieving his goal. He just needed a little help down the right path.
I imagined Tadase-kun. Smiling at me and telling me he loved me. My heart ached to tell him the same, that our feelings were equal and never to be separated. But at the same time, Ikuto was there, lying alone, broken in my lap as I cared for him.
He wouldn't let people into his life, let them help him in his goal. I strive to protect him and heal his unseen wounds, another part of my heart aching for his very presence.
I was confused with the two. Almost like my heart was trying to tell me something my mind couldn't understand. It was sending me a message that had been deleted in the process, and all I was left with is the data.
So what was the answer to my problem? And if I picked one, would it be right?
I closed my eyes and listened to my own heartbeat, seeing both Ikuto and Tadase in my closed eyelids. My heart beat twice as fast for Tadase…and twice as fast for Ikuto. I re-opened my eyes.
Was I…really falling for Ikuto? Without even realizing it?
I sat up and stared at my closed door, hugging my knees to my chest. Even if Ikuto was the true one I loved, that confession was an accident. Only because I still wasn't sure who I love. But I WAS sure I was going to tell Ikuto it was mistake.
And this would all blow over.
Ikuto's POV
I laid on my bed with my eyes closed as I thought, restlessly tossing and turning. Amu said she loved me…and I couldn't get the confession out of my mind.
Every time I closed my eyes I pictured her, smiling up at me with the warmth of her unbelievable kindness. She was effortlessly beautiful…and I loved her.
The very thought of this struck a nerve in my very core. A newfound feeling bubbling inside me. I couldn't quite place it though…could it be true love?
I stared at the wall to right, trying to keep my breathing steady and even, but only Amu was filled in me now. Her own presence seemed as natural to me as breathing.
I closed my eyes again and buried my head into the blanket. I wanted to tell her I loved her. I wanted her to believe me this time. And I wanted her at my side forever.
The warmth filling inside me was strong and I no longer felt the uneasiness of discomfort or sorrow. Everything felt right. Everything WAS right. And it always would be with Amu.
A quiet knock sounded at my door and I sat up anxious. I walked up to the door and opened it, leaning my left arm against the doorframe.
Amu looked up at me, her golden eyes shimmering in the darkness of the hallway. She had changed into some pajamas, black pants that ended to her knees and a dark pink tank top. Her hair was disheveled and sloppy, yet she looked too perfect to exist.
I stared at her, more insightful than before, taking in each detail. The way her head was creased slightly in confusion and her lip were parted, showing a hint of her pearl white teeth. She looked at me and I wondered what she was going to say.
"Can I come in?" She asked softly as I nodded, opening the door. She entered and took a seat on the bed, the whole room lit in absolute darkness. I could barely make out her figure, only her face was clear with the bright moonlight falling from the balcony doors.
I sat next to her, watching as she looked down, avoiding my eyes. Amu was nervous, as always. A trait I would never get tired of.
"What did you want, Amu? It's already four in the morning." I stated, glancing at the clock.
She glanced back up at me, her eyes seeming like intense orbs. She sighed.
"You remember that, uh, confession I had back there. In the kitchen…" She began, staring down at the floor again. I nodded, waiting for her to continue. Her usual pink appeared and I smiled.
"Well, I know you know about Diamond, my new guardian character." She said and my lips became a thin line. What was she getting to? Was she afraid I'd tell Nadeshiko?
"Well, you see-." She began and I interrupted her.
"I promise I won't tell your friend." I stated as she looked up at me, bewildered. Maybe that's not what she meant.
"Uh, thank you. For not telling, but…the truth is…" She began, her hands gripping onto the sheets of the bed. What was wrong?
"Diamond…made the confession. Not me. I was just caught up in the moment. I really didn't mean it, and I'm sorry to have lied to you, Ikuto." She stated, finally meeting my gaze, but I dropped my eyes.
The warmth no longer lingered.
Amu's POV
I stared at Ikuto, awaiting his answer. He was silent and I felt the need to explain myself.
"I-I didn't do it to be mean! Honest! And…I know you may be mad, since I lied to you to your face. I understand if you hate me now." I replied, looking out the balcony doors.
I peered back at Ikuto, who had an unreadable expression on his face.
"I'll just go." I said, getting up and walking out the door. I came into my room and got under the covers, feeling tears prick at my eyes. Why was I crying? My heart is aching. I can't…can't understand…what's going on.
I woke up to a strange feeling. It wasn't a bad feeling…but it wasn't a good feeling either. I wasn't even sure it was a feeling. Almost a numbing sensation.
I sat up, my eyes half closed as I looked around. The sun was up, high as clouds covered over. It seemed cooler in the room, the weather getting colder.
I walked downstairs, not even bothering to change and walked into the kitchen. It was empty, and I was relieved Ikuto wasn't here…but at the same time, I felt disappointed.
I began to fill in the passion points, even this didn't feel quite right. It never occurred to me that playing around like this could end with us both hurting in the end. Simply because of a misunderstanding.
Digging into the fridge, I found bottles of water and a new milk jug. I grabbed it and opened up cabinets, seeing that there was an endless supply of cereal stored inside. I grabbed a box and poured it into the bowl.
It was quiet and lonely in the house as I ate. Ikuto wasn't here and I began to wonder where he was. Was he really that upset about the fake confession? Because I told such a lie?
I quickly finished and went upstairs, coming to Ikuto's door. Hopefully he wasn't too upset.
Rima's POV
I sat in a lawn chair by the outdoor pool. My big, white sunglasses were protecting the glare against the sun along with the wavy black hat on my head.
I carelessly flipped through my magazine, nothing too interesting going on in life. My cell phone began to ring and I picked it up, flipping it open and placing it on ear.
"Hello?" I asked, curious and bored at the same time.
"Rima. Its Nagihiko." My eyes suddenly widened as I sat up with red cheeks. He was calling me?!
"Do you like surprises?" He asked as I narrowed my eyes.
"Depends." I stated and I could hear him laugh on the other line.
"I think you'll like this one."
A tap came to my shoulder and I turned, gasping. Nagihiko stood there, in jeans and a dark blue vest with a white T-shirt under. I had to keep myself in character as I closed my mouth and raised an eyebrow.
"Why are you here?" I asked, trying to seem angry, but inside I was happy. He smiled and walked towards me.
"I don't know. I couldn't wait to see you." He said shrugging and I felt a wave of uneasiness wash over me. Did he just say…?
"You know, I really like you Rima." He added, taking a step closer and I tried to stand my ground, but I felt myself grow small.
"I'm sorry." He stated and before I could say a word, his lips pressed onto mine. My eyes widened and I could feel tears swell in my eyes from how scared I was feeling. I broke away, my face bright with red and lifted my hand, coming in contact with his cheek.
His head turned to the right, the smack making a loud echo and his cheek started to discolor. I gasped and covered my mouth by my own action. I just hit Nagihiko.
I started running the other way as the tears rolled down my cheeks. I couldn't take it…I didn't want this…I can't deal with a heart brake, not again!
Amu's POV
"Ikuto?" I called, turning the doorknob to his room. Ikuto stood outside on the balcony, watching the cloudy sky. I sighed and opened it up, coming to his left.
He didn't move or say anything as I came beside him. He continued to look on at the horizon and I waited, nervously pulling at the ends of my hair.
"Are…you okay Ikuto?" I asked and looked up at him. His face was no longer neutral and he began to glare.
"Am I okay?!" He asked harshly and I flinched at his tone. He was still so mad…but I didn't want to end on a sour note.
"Ikuto, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to. Please understand-."
"Understand?!" Ikuto hissed and looked at me, a cold glare built into his face. I looked at the ground. I couldn't stand the look he was giving me. It was hurting my chest.
"What is there to understand?! It doesn't matter. Its not like I care about you or anything!" He finished and my eyes went wide. It felt like the whole world was swaying from side to side. Ikuto doesn't mean that…does he…?
"So why don't you just go to your kiddy king! He's the one you love, right?! The one you only love!" He yelled and I glared. I felt like I had just been slapped and my throat was choking, holding back the water in my eyes.
"I HATE YOU!" I screamed and ran out, slamming the door of my room. I collapsed to the floor in tears, hugging myself in an attempt to keep from breaking.
My world was slowly dying. When I thought there was a chance we could all be friends and be happy, it didn't happen. Because no one would ever be satisfied in the end. There was always someone who would end up hurt and alone, the one who was broken on the floor.
That person was me.
Saturday
We haven't spoken in two days despite the rules. Time was running out for the bet, being as it was Monday of the second week, but I no longer cared. I was too mad to.
I went to the bathroom, only to find a note on the sink. I picked it up, seeing Nadeshiko's elegant writing. I was expecting something like this.
Since you two need to reawaken the passion, today you will be taking a private dance class. An out fit is prepared on the shelf. A car will be waiting outside for you at around 3:40 p.m. Be ready.
I sighed and got into the shower, trying to relax my aching muscles. This day would end up a mess, that's for sure. And why was Ikuto so mad over a little lie?
I changed into the outfit, which was a plain black dress. It had on strap on the right side and the sides slipped open, revealing my legs and the ballet flats. I decided on putting my hair to a half up, side ponytail. It was time.
I walked downstairs and searched out the window, seeing a black limo outside. My eyes narrowed at the vehicle and I wondered if Nadeshiko had really gotten THAT as the ride. I walked out side and approached it.
The driver was standing in front and motioned for me to come forward. "Are you Hinamori Amu?" He asked as I nodded. Then he opened the door.
I slipped into the dark leather seats and twinkling light on the ceiling. There was a fridge and a screen covering the driver so I was completely alone. I sighed and the door opened again.
In came Ikuto, who had yet to speak to me. He wore a black tux, making him look the best I had ever seen. I had to restrain myself from staring. And at the same time, I had to keep myself from crying.
The car started driving and we sat there, no speaking as always. We were as far apart as possible, the gap between us not nearly enough. I bit my lip, and looked at the lights above again.
Time passed slowly and the car came to a halt. The door swung open again as Ikuto came out. And so did I.
We were at a dance studio. It was two floors and gave off a professional look. I followed Ikuto as he entered the building. This was going to be a long night.
XP
"Hug her waist, hug her waist. Yes, and point the toe, Hinamori." I sighed and rolled my eyes, pointing my right toe again. We had a crazy, over reacting dance instructor.
The dancing wasn't helping us, the way Nadeshiko hoped. Or maybe this was her idea as a punishment for neglecting each other for two days.
Ikuto was basically ignoring me, barely touching my sides and glaring at everything around the room. I was quiet, trying to make an effort not to "accidentally" step on his shoe with the high heels I had conveniently slipped on.
"Now two steps to the left. Yes, that's it. Amu keep pointing. Ikuto, stare at your partner." The woman instructed. I hadn't made up with Ikuto, but I could tell we wanted the same thing. To get the hell out of here.
"Dancing is an art! It has to hurt to look good! Now, break!" We immediately dropped our hands from each other, taking a few steps back. Ikuto walked away somewhere and I stood in the dance room.
"Amu, you need to work on your appearance when dancing. Maybe a change from heels to flats would help. Can you get another pair from the closet?" She asked and I nodded, walking out of the room. Anything to get out of there.
I pushed the door forward and found darkness. I couldn't quite make out anything in the room as I squinted and took a step in. I ended up tripping over something.
The ground came in a quick motion as I fell forward, onto something warm and oddly comfortable. I looked up into blue orbs.
"Ikuto!" I called, surprised and confused. What is he doing on the closet floor? My chest began to hurt again as memories flooded back, but I ignored them.
"What are you doing here?" I asked, getting off the boy. He got up as well.
"I don't feel like doing the dance steps. I was just sleeping before you came." I raised an eyebrow.
"What kind of boy sleeps in dark closets?"
"What kind of girl is clumsy enough to fall onto a sleeping boy?"
I glared into the darkness still mad at him, but smiled a bit. Somehow, talking like this was making it better. A little.
"Well, let's just forget about it. We have to get back to the class." I said and made my way to the door. It suddenly closed with a slam and I looked back to see Ikuto's hand pressing against it.
"We don't have to, you know." He said, leaning down over me and even in the darkness I could see he was trying to be nice to me, despite the pain ringing in his low voice. The offer was tempting though, especially the way Ikuto said it. Like a secret get away he mentioned a while back. I shook my head and turned back to him.
"Yes, we do. Nadeshiko will kill us! I may not like this class, but it's better than her wrath." I stated and Ikuto sighed.
"Alright." He gave in and I smiled at what I had accomplished, turning and twisting the doorknob. When it didn't open I tried the other way. Nothing. I twisted and pulled and pushed without any luck. My eyes widened as fear crept up on me.
I was locked in a dark closet…with the one and only Ikuto Tsukiyomi.
ShellyCullen: Man, I wish I was Amu right now! I would totally want to be locked up in a closet with Ikuto! Amu: And do what exactly? ShellyCullen: Jeez, Amu. Really? Of course I would make his cat ears pop up somehow. Then I would make him play guitar hero with me. Amu: But you suck at guitar hero. ShellyCullen: What does it matter anyway?! I would be playing with Ikuto! That's what counts! Amu: Hmm, I think he's not here in this chat because he's afraid of you. ShellyCullen: No, that's not it. He's in your room now. Looking at your bras or something. Amu: WHAT?! *Runs to kill Ikuto. ShellyCullen: Amu, I was kidding! Oh well, please review! This is the last chapter I'm writing before my vacation so I hope you enjoyed it! Yes, I'm talking to YOU!!! Person staring blankly at the screen. Quit staring with that goofy grin on your face! Are you mad I left you with a cliffy? Hehe. Long reviews are always encouraged and I'd really enjoy reading them all before I go for some inspiration! See you all in a week! ;3 ^-^ ;3 Story Will Be Continued On August 14th