Chapter 21: Look Troubled

Disclaimer: Brothers Conflict is definitely not mine, never...

Reminder: English isn't really my first language so you have to consider for now the grammatical errors, spelling, etc.

Enjoy~

I thought sharing my past would ease the pain I've been through, I thought telling the truth would lift some weight in my heart. Somehow, the pain and hurt still linger and for some odd reason it was more painful than before, maybe because I was looking for something that would take these away and give warmth that I've been looking for so long. The world remains gray, the clock still ticking slower in my opinion and the mask I've been showing since I made a decision not to live a life like I did at Itada High is making me sick. I'm tired of wearing it, it's suffocating...

The wretchedness I'm feeling is slowly cracking the said thing.

"The moment I saw you in that street I thought you were just an ordinary lost girl but you came to ask for my help and smiled at me after that... Your smile without hesitation triggered something in my heart. That something when you just suddenly keep popping in my mind everyday and just watching you was enough from afar. I realized one day... This feeling is getting stronger each moment I see and think of you and honestly I got scared because I never felt such strong emotion before. It scares me... yet elates me in happiness. It was really confusing, the weird combination of two different emotions. It's overwhelming sometimes especially when you're close to me like this. I wanted to see you everyday, hold you in my arms and kiss you with all my heart because Inagami Rina I've been in love with you all along."

I pressed the bridge of my nose when Subaru's confession suddenly popped in my mind and sighed heavily afterwards.

It was early in the morning, too early to sit alone in the park while waiting for the sun to rise, the cold air didn't bother me even though I forgot to wear my jacket and just in my shirt and loose pants. It wasn't new to me since the nightmare kept waking me up but recently it stopped, not until new year's eve when it appeared again. Somehow I remembered that their death anniversary will be two weeks from now so maybe that's why... To remind me.

"Rina?"

My body literally gone stiff hearing that familiar voice, I almost forgot that this time he usually shows up. I hesitated at first but since he was already here there's no point of avoiding him especially if he was standing behind me. I let out a soft sigh this time before slowly glances at him through my shoulder.

"Subaru-san."

He didn't move, his eyes pinning my gaze and it surprise me for not showing any discomfort or shyness. His stares was careful, as if waiting for a reaction but when I didn't say anything he breaks his gaze as he slowly approaches and sit down beside me.

"..you're early."

He started, my feature softened at his obvious way to break the awkward air between us.

"Well, same goes with you."

I said, trying to help him by my teasing tone and a faint smile seen on my mouth. I looked at his direction again and noticed his tinted cheeks, maybe embarrass, looking away I let out a heavy breathe again ignoring his eyes on me.

"..I just got a dream that's why I was up earlier than usual."

I muttered playing some strands of my hair since I let my hair loosened that time, I didn't get a chance to put it in ponytail since I was too deep in my thought and just decided to walk outside without changing or fixing my hair.

"I see..."

The silence fell between us was oddly comforting in a way. It was strange how most of my encounter with Subaru was like this.

Calming.

"I can't sleep properly that's why..."

I just gave him a long stare before understanding set in my face. He can't sleep because he was thinking what happened three nights ago.

I jerked my head away from him and chose to close my eyes freeing my mind in these clouding thoughts, focusing instead at my sorroundings. The soft gushing sound of wind hitting our forms, the chirping of birds in the background and the sound of opening of stores nearby the area it was very relaxing even the heat striking my face, I gradually open my eyes as the sun is slowly rising from my point of view hitting the world with its warmness, a sign for us to start our day.

Yep another long day...again, well, too bad I have to move considering I have class today.

"..Louis-nii was right." His sudden statement snapped my head towards him again with a questioning expression this time. "You look prettier when you loosen your hair."

Oh.

His hand softly reach it and touching some strands of my hair with so much tenderness as if pouring his true emotion in that simple action, passing a quiet message from the bottom his heart. I blinked my eyes but never utter a word at his action...

Subaru was more opened now when showing his feelings.

Instantly, he must have realized what he did when his eyes widened and stopped from touching my hair retreating his hand immediately and apologized afterwards.

"It's fine Subaru-san I don't mind and thank you." I mumbled wearing a genuine smile.

Another moment of stillness between us and the sun was fully rise this time, I made a decision to go back since I have to prepare for school. I slowly got up in my position before landing my gaze to Subaru.

"I have to go, I'll see you around." He silently bobbed his head. "..and Subaru-san, don't distract yourself too much about that night. No matter what win this championship game. Got it?"

His surprised countenance made my smile broadened before he returned it with a faint one. "..got it."

The grin on my mouth didn't falter as I waved my hand lastly and walked away.

The rest of my time was uneventful, we get back to school and everyone was so busy studying including the red hair Asahina who suddenly asked my help in a certain subject he said wasn't good which was English, I thought he was sick since he was so red when he asked me. I checked his temperature by putting my hand on his forehead which startled the said guy and became even redder, good thing he wasn't sick and just got embarrass at asking my help he said lamely. I ignored his weird behavior and shrugged off my shoulder proceeding on helping him nonetheless.

"..okay, I'm not that good but let say I'm average in this subject I can teach some rules in grammar and help you with tenses...and maybe we'll go first at spelling out some hard words. Is that okay?"

He shook his head eagerly and smiled. Both of us are in the library that time and it's our last last subject when Nakiya Sensei announced to study instead of having his class today. Some went to the library including us but most of our classmates stay inside our room. Ema on the other hand remained also since Yumi asked her help in Math.

"Uhh... I guess we should start from easy?"

"Okay spelling then."

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"Here I told you to remember the plural forms of these nouns since it will depend the proper verb you'll gonna use. If you will get and memorize the rule you won't have any problems in this area."

"..y-yeah I know that, sorry I just got a little distracted."

He mumbled shyly while scratching the nape of his neck. I cocked my brow before staring at him intently in the eyes. Since he was sitting beside me I can visibly see his expression.

"I don't find anything that will distract you considering we are in the library and we are sitting at the corner and technically we are the only people here so tell me Yusuke what has been distracting you the whole time I'm speaking."

It wasn't a question but a demand while wearing the blank look expression and his face contorted in alarm and tried to avoid my eyes. As if I would let that happen so before he could hide his face from my view I placed each of my hands on his cheeks and firmly held his face locking our gazes, my blue-violet eyes met his dark red one.

"Remember you are doing this to pass the entrance exam of Meiji University with Ema right? So get a grip and focus Yusuke this will be your only chance so don't loose it."

His mouth hanging partly opened cheeks so puffy and red because of my hand squeezing it hard, though I found it funny he was rather cute also. I did my best not to snicker at his look now but stopped when his eyes turned neutral and slowly put my hands away from his face and mumbled something...

"..and with you."

"huh?"

"I want to pass the entrance exam of Meiji University with Ema and...you."

Oh.

My feature turned gentle. "Of course. We will do this together so let's get back to work and no distraction this time strawberry."

I teased, ignoring his protest and chuckled at his red face again.

Yep he really looks like a strawberry.

A cute one.

"Maybe I should call you strawberry from now on."

"Hey!"

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Yusuke

"I got it! Hey Rina check my work I think I finally understand now."

The satisfied grin plastered on my face when I finished the few questions she gave to me.

"Rina?"

She was already sleeping when I look at her direction, her form slouching and her head resting on her both hands while on the table. I didn't notice it maybe because I got fired up at her encouraging words that I took it seriously forgetting my sorrounding. I put my note back down and watch her sleeping face. I noticed she kept yawning the moment she entered the school as if she didn't get any sleep at all...

"..mom...Jiro...miss you."

She muttered in her sleep before she stopped, her lips halfway opened at the action. My face softened hearing that, I don't know how she managed to keep that bright face when deep inside she was breaking...

"Ah Yusuke, can you give this to Ema. She forgot her phone at the couch."

Ukyo-nii stopped me from going upstairs and saw on his hand the device. I nodded my head and took it after bidding my older brother a goodnight. I walked through the hallway where the direction of Ema's room, I stopped in front of her room's door and about to knock when I noticed that it was slightly opened before I heard Rina's voice first and then Ema. Then I didn't realize I've been listening to them while leaning on the wall. I felt bad about it since I'm intruding their privacy but I can't help it especially if it's about the certain raven hair. The whole time I'm listening I didn't realize I've been clutching my hands tighter, she has been through a lot and yet she managed to keep that bright smile on her face... It was rather painful to realize what she's been doing to herself just to show to everyone she was doing okay.

I wonder if she read the letter maybe that's why she looked so troubled, my face frowned at that thought. For some strange reason I kinda don't that guy the moment I saw him, now I know why...because he had a past relationship with Rina.

My thoughts about that night started to cloud my mind again and I didn't realize I was touching her face and tucking some strands of her hair.

She was so peaceful and...beautiful.

I would never forget this little moment when she didn't know how much I wanted to touch her. Feel her warmth and maybe steal a kiss, because no matter how much I wanted to do that, I can't...

Not unless she feels the same way.

Instead I rested my head the same way like she did and just watched her sleep memorizing every detail of her face. My lips casted a sincere smile realizing she has a small mole on her right side of her nose and another at the upper left side of her lip. Her eyelashes are longer emphasizing it even more when she closes her eyes... A small scar on her chin and some freckles on her cheeks when you look up closely. Her imperfections are the beautiful things I will always see from her.

Damn it, here I go again.

I let out a quiet sigh when I realized I've been thinking some cheesy stuff again, it's really ironic to feel such strong affection to someone who can't return it and honestly it was becoming painful each day.

Unrequited love is such a cruel thing...

"..I love you." I whispered to her and hoping that maybe...maybe she'll hear me in her dream.

ᴥ ᴥ ᴥ

"Thought you're not going to make it Rina."

Kenjie stated, resting his cheek on his hand and giving me a side glance. I sigh loudly before doing the same thing since both of us are in the counter.

"..well, instead of having a short nap I got carried away. Thankfully Ema went to the library when she noticed the time."

I grumbled. I never thought Yusuke would fell asleep also and seeing his face so close to mine jerked me suddenly and made me fall on my chair. Good thing Ema showed up late before she saw that scene. Remembering my friend I suddenly gave Kenjie a dirty look and smirked knowingly.

"You almost got late Ken, why? Did you perhaps walk Ema home today?" His stiff back made my grin widens corfirming my guess and slaps his back while wiggling my brows. "You sure work fast."

"S-Shaddup. I accidentally bump into her that's why..."

When he look at me I just gave him a blank face meaning I don't believe his lame excuse. "I read your messaged for her. Saying you will walk her home if that's okay." the mock tone didn't miss as his face heated.

"I'll be in the kitchen, just call me if you need any help."

I chuckled at his embarrass expression and let him go for the mean time, I feel relieved, knowing Kenjie was serious about my friend. The happy thoughts suddenly interrupted when I heard the ding sound of the door, sign that someone entered the cafe. The plastered smile on my face somehow faded slowly recognizing them.

"Yo!"

Tsubaki greeted me first wearing his ever known grin and winked at me. Azusa was beside him and also smiled at me.

"Rin-nee!" I snapped my attention at Wataru who was looking at me eagerly through the counter and waving at the same time. As usual Masaomi was also with them and surprisingly even Kaname in his casual clothes.

"...whoa, what a surprise to see you here." I finally said as a sincere smile gracing my lips.

"Well, we just wanted to tag along with the twins because we heard their plan on visiting you here." Masaomi gently started before looking at his twin brothers.

"Yup! It's been a while since I came here I really miss my favorite dessert!"

"I thought you'll gonna say you miss me." The fake hurt in my voice made Wataru panic.

"I miss you too Rin-nee! Please don't be sad..." He quietly mumbled making me smile in delight seeing he was a little embarrased saying that statement. His adorable expression was indeed irresistible.

"Now that you said that I'm happy now." I answered patting his head with tenderness and beam widely.

"I miss you also Rina don't you want to pat my head?"

I rolled my eyes when Tsubaki's query caught my attention and saw his puppy eyes. "C'mon Tsubaki-san that's not your cutest look try harder." Smirking after.

"Mean."

He pouted, Azusa chuckled lightly and gazed at me. "I hope we are not bothering you."

"Oh nonsense it's actually the opposite. Though next time you should at least inform me because I can't serve you right now my duty is on the counter."

"Seeing you was already enough Rina."

Kaname's statement made me look at him and rolled my eyes again giving him a meaningful stares after.

"Aww... I would be so touch Kaname-san if those words really directed to me~" I said and grinning when I saw his side lips tilted upward. "Anyways, I'll find you a nice spot please follow me." My tone suddenly changed and politely smiled to them considering I'm in the middle of work. "Since I'm duty on the counter I'll let Shio to take care of you guys."

"Meh that's too bad, it was really great if you serve as and it would be a plus if you wear a maid outfit that wou-"

Tsubaki was interrupted by Azusa's clearing throat and gave him a warning look saying don't-you-dare-finish-that-sentence. I chuckled inwardly at them before giving Tsubaki a nudge and instantly flicked his forehead making him groan at my surprise action. "Hope you'll have a nice time." I beamed before bowing and walked away but I gave a side glance look at the certain blond hair who was smiling at my direction when he noticed my stares and I returned it with a smirk before finally leaving them.

If I didn't know much that was a please smile I seen on his lips...

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I finished my shift early that day I was kind of tired really since I didn't get enough sleep and I was really excited to indulge the rest of my time sleeping. I bid my goodbyes to everyone before exiting the cafe, to my utter surprise Kaname was still here as if waiting for someone. When he noticed my presence, immediately a charming smile casted on his mouth and slowly strolled towards me.

"Shioka will be out soon if you are waiting for her."

I didn't batted my eyes when I said those words.

"..nah, I was here for you." He gently started before placing his hand on the top of my head and softly patted it. "Though I really appreciate what you're doing."

"Really? You are a two-timer dude Kaname -san, that's not very nice." The teasing made the blond smirk.

"She'll hear you."

I rolled my eyes at his playful tone. "Seriously, why are you still here?"

"Hm, to walk you home. Everyone has something to do except for me and Wata-chan but since he's way too young to walk this late I decided to stay doing their favor but don't misundertood that because even without them asking I would love to walk you home."

"Wow...how gentleman."

Curling my lips and the mock tone still obvious while I said those words. He faintly laugh but didn't comment anyway, our long walk was not boring since I kept asking him about himself.

"..ne Kaname-san, I didn't mean to intrude but I can't help but notice that your eyes spark an interest whenever you saw Shio. Do you...like her perhaps?"

"Hmm... That's too early to say such thing Rina don't you think? But yes she peaks my interest."

I cocked my eyebrow and tilted my head trying to decipher his true expression, he was hard to read aside from Hikaru. "What peaks your interest if you don't mind sharing?"

"Hmm..." A contemplative look casts on his handsome face before landing his gaze on me. "She reminds me of you."

"Me?"

"Yes, but you two are so different. I guess that idea popped in my mind when I first met her because she didn't hesitate to say what's in her mind that moment. It was really fascinating if you ask me." He chuckled.

"Well maybe that's the reason why we get along so well...and I'll take that as a compliment."

"Of course..."

I gave him a warning look this time. "Don't you try to make a move if you're not serious got it?"

He lifted his both arms in front of him and smirked at me. "No need to be so uptight. You do know my reputation and I wouldn't deny the fact that Manabe-san was really something just like you, but since you have warned me I'll let myself low...for now."

I scoffed and crossed my arms. "Good cause you won't like me to be your enemy."

He chuckled again before placing his both hands inside his pants pocket. "I'll keep that in mind. Besides, I don't want to have a bad record in your eyes."

"Oh how considerate of you Kaname-kun~"

His eyes twinkled in amusement before hearing his laugh a little loud this time. I rolled my eyes instead before smirking after that. We reached the Yugihama Building without us realizing, I thank Kaname for walking me home that night and for the wonderful time, he was fun to be with really and our chat somehow was so refreshing... it was actually nice to talk with one of them without any romantic feelings involved, just a plain friendly chat.

"Oh by the way Rina I heard from Ema that you'll going to watch Suba-chan's final game right?"

"Yeah, he invited us to watch."

He was silent suddenly which surprised me a little since his blank facade was making me anxious inside, his completely changed demeanor caught me off guard before clearing my throat to snap his stares.

"Has something troubling you Rina?"

Okay that didn't came in my mind...

"W-What made you think that I was look troubled? I mean I don't look that way..."

I quirked my lips in amusement trying to cover the true emotion on my face, he sometimes amazed me at his good perception, I should be the one saying that he reminds me of Shioka because of this.

He gave me a long look as if studying me like a book, he seemed to consider what he's going to say but in the end he let out a quiet sigh and sounding so defeat in my opinion. He softly grabbed my arm which startled me and even more when his warm body encirled my small one and gently touched my back, comforting me.

"K-Kaname-san?"

"If something troubling you let it out Rina, imouto-chan has always been there for you. Even I can always help you in times of need as a friend and a brother. You have been through a lot and I can sense it, so when that time comes you have to let it go... Let it all out until your heart contents... Is that clear?"

I almost gave in, his words almost wracked my composure and my face distorted in utterly sadness. Good thing he can't see my face because I don't want him to know my true feelings...

Because I can still keep this up.

"...crystal clear."

I managed to say with neutral tone. Relieved that I didn't croak out the words. I felt him move and slowly let me go staring at my face again, he was looking at it for a couple of seconds and gently touched my cheek. His eyes flickered with emotions I couldn't recognize.

"Have a goodnight then."

His sincere smile casted on his lips this time before he patted my head and bid his goodbye. Not even waiting for my reply and just walked away like that...

There you have it. Betcha you didn't see that coming... Onto this chapter, I honestly like YuRin(Yusuke and Rina) moment, I mean calling him a strawberry! Ha! That was so cuteee~ hehe... I decided to exclude Kaname's character as one of potential candidates for Rina's heart because he has this personality that would love to support whatever is the best for his family and he was willing to help any of them even if it means sacrificing his own happiness and based from this chapter he considered Rina as a family now. Okay at first he kinda has a thing for her but for him after the occurence happened in the Ski Resort turns out he can't win her heart that easily and besides he met Shioka before their vacation so his attention caught by her also and rather strong for his opinion. So yeah! Kaname's fans out there sorryyy... It's the best thing I could put for him. I like him really but as one of Rina's friend.

Onto Reviews this time:

Guest:

Awww...that is so sweet if you. Tenchu!

Dark Rose Charm:

That's okay, I personally like Subaru's character since I like guys with few words but more on showing their feelings through action. I see him with that kind of personality but don't loose hope ne *wink*

Chi-chan:

You are so welcome and thank you for saying that it really made my heart flutter hehe..hope you enjoy this chapter!

Reviews without flames will be much appreciated and reviews with criticism but not so harsh will be also appreciated!

See you soon bunnies!

-Aza

Edited: 05-21-18