Shade's POV

I hate to admit it but the reason why I didn't go to Amy yesterday was because, I really couldn't think of anything to say to her. I would've wasted her time so I

thought, why not put it off for another day? But it looks like she caught onto me again.

"Hey Shade! What's up?"

"It's not 'what's up' now isn't it? You did call for me didn't you?"

"Nice reaction!" She gave me the thumbs up and a wink. What exactly is she conspiring? I'm sure that at this moment of time, I was in a very absurd pose but that really doesn't matter right now.

"If that's it, I'd like to leave-"

"Of course that's not it… Sit." As I sat down, she put a cup in front of me.

"Am I supposed to drink this?"

"What do you think?" She gave me a smirk. She seems to be quite calm with me, surprisingly. I took a sip and was dumbfounded. It tasted... different.

"This is pretty good!" I actually looked jolly in front of her.

"Can you guess the ingredients?"

"Let's see black tea, honey, milk…"

"Mint and dark chocolate."

"Mint? And you put chocolate in tea?"

"Do you feel more awake?"

"Now that you mention it, I do."

"That's good. From now on I'll be using all my guests as guinea pigs for my latest creations." She looked evil. Well that's typical Amy…

"You make your own food?"

"Yes. Putting that aside, were you worried about how I'd react if you came to me with no answers yesterday?"

"Yes. I tried to sort everything out but it was all so jumbled up and I just couldn't understand anything so I didn't want to come here and waste your time."

"You're really inane, Shade. Is this your first time falling in love?" I nodded.

"What does this have to do with-"

"It's the answer to why you couldn't figure anything out and besides why would you think you would waste my time? I already kill enough time helping you people." As usual, she had that grin on her face.

"I was wondering, was there a reason why I couldn't sort out my emotions when I thought of Fine and love?"

"Yes. It happens to everyone no matter how smart they are usually, you for example. You may be a genius in class but when you come here for advice you sound like

you lost all your brain cells. And you just happen to be experiencing love for the first time in the 15 years of your life. You see, love is not based on logic."

"Then-" She put her hand in front of my face.

"Hear me out. Love is based off someone's feelings. That's why there is no sense in trying to use reason to explain your feelings toward Fine. Your heart knows the

feeling but your mind can't process it for your body to react leaving you baffled yet warm and happy inside. What have you been feeling like recently?"

"Confused and my heart beating faster when Fine's near me. And my mind went blank on that beach trip with all the things that happened in only 5 days."

"I know where you're getting and it seems... Shade…" She put her hand on my shoulder and put on a straight face.

"You're lovesick." I needed a moment to fully understand those 2 words. And my response was:

"Hah?!"

"Need me to repeat it?"

"No!"

"Shade… try to calm down a little… Try this." She put a platter of chocolates in front of me. I tasted one. It made me smile instinctively.

"You really can cook…"

"Yes Shade. I heard from Fine that you called me dangerous with my weapons. Don't worry I won't kill you for it. Have you thought of anything? That chocolate you just ate was sweet."

"Well I got an image on Fine in my head."

"Then try this one." This chocolate was a bit sour yet it tasted really sweet. Just like how I feel for Fine.

"I saw an image of Fine smiling…" She sighed. Did I say something funny?

"Shade… Admit it already. You're really in love with Princess Fine." I felt my face redden.

"Why do I-"

"That chocolate was the one I made specially for people, like you, who are in love but can't say or express it. As usual you fall for all my practical jokes." She was really

cracking up. Did she need to make a reference to me so much?

"Headmistress!-"

"So? Any ideas? Yesterday when Fine saw Rein and Bright making up and officially together, I could see it, she was envious and tried to hide the urge to cry. I don't

mind that you are unsure of what to do since it's your first love but are you going to keep loitering around waiting for an answer to pop up?" She sure changes personalities quickly.

"I don't want to do that but Fine… She may be frustrated that-"

"Trust me. The girl will be ecstatic once you guys start talking."

"It isn't too late?"

"Not at all. And I've been thinking for a while but did you come in contact with Fine today?"

"No. Why?"

"Thank goodness. You see Bright had actually told Rein to stay away before he came to my office yesterday night. Really, since you didn't screw up I have less work to

do!" Did she hate doing tedious work that much?

"I'm thinking of meeting Fine later in the park around 3:30 and saying everything there. What do you think?"

"Go ahead. Do what your heart wants. And remember you don't lose anything from loving someone but holding back your feelings."

"Yes."

"Don't be late for the date ok?"

"Headmistress!" I yelled back as I ran back to class. I looked at my watch. 3 minutes till the bell. As I waited at the door, I saw Fine and rushed toward her.

"Fine! Can we talk at the park around 3:30 today?" She only nodded. Well at least she didn't reject it. I eagerly waited for school to be over and was going to head

to the park but my "fan club" surrounded my on all sides questioning my bond with Fine. It looks like after Rein and Bright got together, they were afraid I would

taken as well. I understand but why today of all days? I checked the time. It was 3:15. I still have 15 minutes. But as I looked at the window, I saw it was raining. Bad

weather on the day I want to make up with Fine… In the end, I had to push through the crowd of girls and it was already 4. Why did this happen?

Fine's POV

I can't tell if I was happy or just naïve to think that Shade would come. I was so excited afterschool because there was finally a chance to reconcile with him. Instead of

bringing an umbrella I ended up wearing a thin raincoat. I waited for half an hour at the swings but he never came. I peered up at the gloomy gray sky. It really suits

my mood perfectly. Then I felt water forming in my eyes. I couldn't hold in my emotions. Even though I started crying I wonder why? I'm still waiting for Shade. It's

already past 4 so why do I even bother? I covered my face. I lost sight of time and my feelings as I just sat there. A figure came. It was obviously Shade but I… couldn't look him the face.

"Fine? Are u ok?"

"Yes. Why are you here?" I asked. Really, it was a foolish question.

"I came to meet you of course. I'm sorry for being so late."

"Why did you come Shade?"

"Huh?"

"You don't need to meet me here. What's the point? It's already 30 minutes passed the meeting time."

"I'm sorry Fine. I was being surrounded by fan girls."

"It's ok. You can head back. There's not much you want to tell me right?" What am I saying?

"Fine? You're acting strange. What happened?"

"Nothing." I looked up with my eyes closed.

"Fine…"

"Yes?"

"I came here to tell you that I-" From that face I could tell that it wasn't good news so I thought, why don't I voice it out for him? It's easier on him and I might be able to slip in my feelings before I run away.

"That you already have someone you like? I know. She's short, cute, incredibly caring and above all makes you feel like you belong."

"Fine? You-"

"I already knew from a while ago, at the end of April. Rein is a great girl isn't she? Such a great reporter, makes everyone feel warm and smarter than me. As a sister

I'm really proud of-" Tears flowed out and I started hiccupping.

"Fine, listen. The person I like is-"

"Please don't say it. I know you like Rein but I don't want to hear it. I'm sorry that I'm like this. For her sake you can stop feeling guilty. What happened to us wasn't

Bright or your fault. And it's all in the past so there's no point in worrying about it now." He approached me and wrapped his hands around my wrists. I am causing too much trouble, I know it.

"Fine."

"You like Rein right? Even if she has Bright, feelings can change."

"Yes and my feelings did change."

"You have someone else you like now?"

"Yes."

"I wish you guys-" I looked into his face as my eyes went red from crying too much.

"You are really difficult you know."

"I-I know. But I don't want to hear the name of the person you like." I felt my voice getting louder.

"Why-"

"No reason and besides if the person I like can't like me back, there's no point in trying when he's already guaranteed a girlfriend."

"Who is this guy?"

"Someone you don't know! So stop being nice to me!"

"Hmm…Why?"

"Let go! I don't want to talk about this!" I tried my hardest but I still couldn't get out of his grip. Why? When was I this weak?

"But I want to know." He looked into my eyes. At this rate I'll really end up confessing.

"He's really honest to the point where I call him rude but at the same time he makes me feel warm. He's really mysterious at times and even turns red for no reason.

Even if I don't get his train of thought, I still love being around him."

"And? Who is it?"

"Why are you asking me this? Shouldn't you focus on your own love?"

"Fine! Answer me!" I struggled again but it didn't work.

"It's a boy I know very well!"

"Why don't you want me to be nice to you anymore?" He got closer maybe a little too close…

"Because if you keep being kind to me it'll make me fall in love-" I was cut off when he hugged me.

"S-shade? Let go! I'm not the girl you like right?!"

"You still don't get it?!"

"What do you mean?"

"You really are a slow monkey. I wouldn't be asking you all of this if I didn't have any feelings for you now would I?"

"Then I'm-"

"Fine, I like you, no, I love you. I can't get used to the fact that my mind goes blank sometimes when I think of you but my feelings are real. Even if you drive me crazy,

make my head spin and act reckless, I can't help it. You have already stolen my heart." I laughed. It was such a ridiculous confession but I feel like the whole world

became a little brighter, wait, scratch that I'm exaggerating. The whole world seems to have gotten brighter in my eyes. I wrapped my arms around his arms.

"Shade… I love you too. I'm sorry for thinking you liked Rein."

"I actually did for the same reasons you stated but I wonder what I saw in you now that I think about it…?"

"What's that supposed to mean?!"

"Huh? Fine what's that bruise on your forehead?"

"Oh this? I think I ran into a pole…" He burst out laughing.

"Ran into a pole? Even idiots watch where they're going at least!"

"I was thinking of what you wanted to tell me! Sorry for being a clumsy oaf!" He grabbed my shoulders and smiled. I closed my eyes. He parted my bangs and I felt a

soft sensation on my forehead. When Shade broke off, my forehead started burning.

"Shade! I think you made it worse!"

"Eh?! Fine stop touching it! It's turning purple!" And as they were trying to sort that out Rein and Bright were already at Amy's place.

"Rein I think you should go prepare clothes for Fine to change into when she comes in with Shade. Bright go fetch clothes for Shade too."

"Hai!" And a few minutes later, we did end up coming in.

"Rein! What is this?!"

"I couldn't help it! It's been months since I did a makeover on you!"

"But what kind of clothes are these?! I just wanted comfy ones!"

"Stop yelling! Fine, wear the clothes or you'll get a cold. Besides if you aren't obedient no snacks for you!"

"Eh?!" And with just those 4 words I stopped talking and got changed. I came out with a frilly pink dress that went a little above my knees with sleeves that went to

my elbows. Why do I have to wear this?!

"Kawaii!" Rein and Ome both yelled in unison. Shade just stared and Bright was more concerned with how Rein and Ome were acting. She poured tea for all of us. It was definitely a new flavor.

"This is so sweet!" Rein commented.

"What's the flavor?" Shade asked.

"One of my favorites. Almond milk tea!" As I was eating the desserts Ome baked again, the bruise on the top of my head was revealed.

"Fine! What's that on your head?" Rein pointed to her own forehead with one of her eyebrows lifted.

"Oh this…" I was wondering where to start.

"She ran into a pole." Shade said flatly.

"What?!" Bright and Rein yelled.

"But you know, she probably ran into it because of a certain someone." Amy was leisurely drinking her tea. This made Shade gulp. It looks like Ome has seen through him again.

"Anyway we should get it treated!"

"Here's a first aid kit." Ome pulled it out like it was a natural instinct.

"Where did that come from?!" Everyone asked.

"My desk drawer obviously. Where else could it have been from?" Our headmistress is really prepared for anything. Well anyway I was being bandaged while munching.

"Fine? I've been wondering how did the bruise get this bad?"

"What do you mean?"

"I doubt it was purple when you first hit the pole right?"

"Yes. Well you see…"

"Fine!" Shade stood up and blushed.

"Good job Shade! You've officially completed the mission of kissing Fine's forehead despite leaving her in the rain for half an hour, making her cry, almost catch a cold

and turning her injury purple!" 4 arrows pierced his heart.

"That's not the point!" The 2 spent the time arguing until Ome's phone rang.

"Hello? Oh Ban Jo sensei! What's the matter? Hah? What can't be endured can't be cured?"

"No! What…"

"What can't be cured must be endured?"

"We-"

"And? Why'd you call me?"

"Tanba Rin-"

"You called me for this?!"

"What should I do? She's coming back tonight!"

"You figure something out!"

"But…"

"Fine! What do you want to do?"

"Be romantic!"

"No offense but I doubt that'll happen-"

"Headmistress… Why are you so honest?" He sounded like he was sniffing.

"Because I am! Anyway listen to me! I was going to say however! Which means you can be romantic tonight but not for the rest of your life."

"Why?"

"Because I don't think you'll be able to pull off being mushy everyday of your life." Wailing was heard on the other end.

"What should I do?"

"Impress her with roses or something?"

"That's a great idea! Where do I get the flowers?"

"I don't know! Run to the nearest florist and ask for some!"

"Yes… And do I need…"

"A bomb?!" I froze as the cake fell off my fork. Shade was about to pour some tea on his pants. Bright was just staring. Rein was going to drop her teacup.

"No…"

"Oh! Lip balm!" We all fell down from that. Was this a joke she was making up?

"It's up to you."

"Ok!" And he hung up. A few minutes passed in awkward silence until her phone rang again.

"Hello? Vice principal-"

"Tanba Rin sensei is being chased by Ban Jo sensei with red roses! What's going on?"

"Who knows? He wants to be different tonight so I even helped him but it looks like he didn't understand it." With an annoyed look on her face, Ome peered down at the nutty teacher outside.

"What kind of advice was this?"

"Get her roses or something. But to think he interpreted it as chase her with flowers…"

"In any event, we need to do something!"

"Calm down. You do remember the thing he hates most right?"

"Getting pricked by needles?"

"Now go to the nurse and tell her she has a patient that needs a shot."

"Me?!"

"Yes? Who else could I be talking to?"

"But that woman, it's rumored that she dissects any living thing that comes to visit her at night!"

"Oh! That's exciting!" An icy wind blew throughout the room.

"Amy sama! Take this seriously!"

"Hai! Well anyway it's just a rumor right? I mean it's not like the student population decreased ever since she was hired right?"

"Actually there was a boy that disappeared from the school the night she did that vaccination on everyone…"

"Oh are you talking about Nagato kun? He actually ran away with his luggage before the medical tests because he was going bananas about meeting the school

nurse. His parents even came. I forgot to mention it-"

"Amy sama! Tell me that sooner!"

"Eh Heh! Sorry and anyway since that issue has been cleared up shouldn't you go get our medic? Tanba Rin sensei is going to be caught in precisely 3 minutes 34

seconds and 45 mini seconds."

"How do you know?"

"I'm pretty sure I said this the first time we met. It's because I'm Amy Zhang."

"Yes Amy sama…" The other line hung up and Ome smiled like nothing happened.

"So, Fine Rein, would you like to know what happened that night and what these 2 did to you?"

"Yes!"

"Wait! Headmistress! How are you going to do that?" She snickered.

"Wouldn't you like to know?" The boys shivered.

"So Ome what exactly did you do?"

"It wasn't me. It was the vice principal and his henchmen. Here you 2. Put them on and cover your ears for extra protection ok?"

"Hai!" She handed me and Rein earplugs and put on her own pair.

"Shade, Bright you guys should know that the vice principal not only recorded the confession you guys made that night but even has an entire video on it that's 3

hours long! Nice isn't it?" She covered her ears and waited. In about 3 seconds a bomb went off. The guys were beyond furious.

"No! Delete it!" Shade looked like he was breathing out fire.

"I'm doomed…" Bright with a drooping head said. They kept ranting on and on despite looking like haniwas.

"We've been had!" They both said. And so it left Ome to do one thing so the entire school doesn't crumble down from inhuman noise. She took out her giant mallet and

pounded each of their heads enough to make them dizzy but not unconscious. The proof was how their eyes were spinning in spirals.

"Sorry boys but if you hadn't stopped, I think this school would've been closed down due to renovations. I never thought it took just that to make you boys feel like the

world was going to end…" As she was talking Rein and I ran over and helped support the boys.

"Mou Ome! You're saying that but you just wanted to hit them right?"

"Now that you mention it, I did want to. Anyway it's only 7'o clock. What do you guys plan on doing?"

"I think we'll go rest in our rooms." The 4 of us said.

"Really? I thought you were going to chat about your heart pounding experiences. After all, You're all official sweethearts now."

"Wai-"

"You 4… Stop being so dishonest and just admit it! While you're at why don't you just shout out your love to the entire campus? Rein and Bright already had a taste of that."

"Ah! Headmistress! Don't bring that up!" Bright was getting flustered.

"I can't possibly do that!" Shade shouted.

"Eh? You're both men aren't you? Show some backbone!"

"Even if you say that…"

"Ok! I was kidding. You guys should go soon or you'll run into Ban Jo sensei."

"What do you mean?"

"He's going to be chased by our nurse with a syringe in her hand and will be passing by this very hallway in about 5 minutes. I advise you guys to run."

"Why?"

"He's a handful when needles are in sight. It's even worse than when he's lovesick... Good Night Fine, Rein, Bright and Shade." All 4 of us had sweat drops on the side

of our heads as she was covering her face.

"Good Night Headmistress! See you later!"