Maria Sama Ga Miteru
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The Highs of University
By Miracles79
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Chapter 6: Part 3
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Disclaimer: I do not own any of these characters they belong to the amazing Oyuki Konno who brought Maria Sama Ga Miteru into our lives.
I would like to thank my wonderful Beta-Reader for continuing to look through and improve my work. She is, undoubtedly, the Miracle that makes Miracles79 and I thank her for that.
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Honulicious: Not a problem I have recently re-found my love for writing once more and will most likely be writing between 3,000 and 8,000 words per chapter. As for Sei she has her reasons not to interfere in this situation which will be explained in the next chapter.
Shimako and Noriko's kiss scene was something I had intended to write in that chapter so I'm happy you liked it. I also thought I needed to explain their new relationship since it was so sudden which was why I added more dialogue etc
Thanks so much for reviewing; your continued support is why this Fan Fic writer still has the will to write this story. I cannot thank you enough :D
Veamgee: haha good to see a review from my favourite writer. You are making your beta reader very happy :D
Claine24: Oh I am glad to admit that you will be getting a Sachiko and Yumi moment very soon. I hope you like it because it's been something I have wanted to write for a while now. :)
Apologizes for the late chapter although I have a valid reason :P and you may be right about Rin but not so much about Sachiko you will have to think about her other half :D
Thanks to the reviewers of my previous chapter who made this new chapter possible for me.
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"This way Yumi-chan!" Sora shouted in between fits of giggles as she hurriedly sprinted down the hallway with her hand clasping Yumi's, who was incidentally trailing slightly behind the excitable senior. As they ran, amused onlookers watched their progress with keen interest, often Yumi could overhear muttered conversations between the University students as she whizzed past them.
"There so adorable…"
"Isn't that Sora-sama…?"
"…"
"Yeah in… I've never heard her speak before let alone run alongside a friend."
"She's so weird, don't you think…?"
"But you can't deny that it works for her…She is so adorable."
Pieces of broken conversation ran through Yumi's mind, she was only able to catch and process some of them as her little feet carried her far away at an alarming speed. While fragmented and unclear words continued to pass the pair as they gradually picked up speed, primarily due to Sora's questionable eagerness.
The distance between the pair began to lengthen as they promptly left the main dormitories and headed towards another building far off in the distance. Meanwhile, Yumi's breathing was becoming far more rapid and tiring due, in no small part, to the exhaustive run.
However, despite Yumi's exhaustion and confusion, which was mostly due to the unexpected physical exercise she was currently undertaking, she didn't voice a single complaint to Sora. This wasn't due to kindness or understanding on her part, in fact, Yumi was far too preoccupied with her thoughts, her legs moving autonomously stride for stride, as she remembered the awkward exchange between both herself and her own Onee-sama.
She remembered her unfortunate yet surprised exclamation and the questioning looks from the university students in attendance, but while that was humiliating it was nothing compared to her worry after seeing Sachiko's reaction. The thing which pained her most of all was Sachiko's, no doubt, exasperated words "Quiet Yumi, please, don't make such an unreasonable sound." Yumi couldn't help but feel like she messed up again, not only messed up but at an important time were Sachiko needed Yumi to remain composed.
But she didn't. Yumi had acted like a confused, uneducated child and she was a firm believer in the idea that if her actions reflected badly on herself then they would therefore reflect badly on her Onee-sama. They were connected after all by a bond of trust, learning and, in most cases, admiration.
So, while Onee-samas were supposed to educate their soeurs on the ways of becoming proper and respected maidens, Petite Soeurs, in turn, were supposed to support and care for their Onee-samas especially in their time of need. Often, this would be by giving people the impression that they had matured under their Onee-samas influence. But most importantly of all, petite soeurs were to be their strength when their Onee-samas were at their weakest.
But in Yumi's mind she displayed none of these qualities, at least when they were actually needed. To put it lightly she was worried. No. Make that very worried. She didn't know what to do but she knew one thing. She had to apologize to her Onee-sama or otherwise risk another misunderstanding that had plagued their relationship for so long.
At this precise moment of time, Yumi desperately wanted to apologize to Sachiko fearing that her Onee-sama had been left humiliated by her unexpected behaviour, not to mention being embarrassed in front of prominent members of her future University.
In fact, mere minutes ago, Yumi had been preparing to apologize to her Onee-sama before the latter left for the dormitories with Rin. The two had been conversing together with each other while Yumi patiently waited on the side-lines, hoping to have a quick word with her Onee-sama who seemed to be looking for someone at the time as well.
But before she could converse with Sachiko or offer her apologizes, she had been halted when she felt Sora's trembling hand tentatively reach out for hers. Every time Yumi looked at Sora, she couldn't help but smile, her nervous yet adorable blush was surprisingly endearing to Yumi, not to mention her gorgeous western features and luscious blonde hair which completed the picture.
Yumi had been preparing to question Sora about her actions but that was moments before she felt Sora's hand clasp around her own rather tightly and hurriedly lead her towards the door without a single word.
However, that had all happened a while ago and had in fact escalated to what felt like the 1500m sprint, in Yumi's mind that is. Feeling her muscles ache under the prolonged strain, Yumi spoke "Slow down, Sora-sama. You're running too fast." Yumi's ability to form coherent words while running full pelt was being thoroughly put to the test as she struggled to catch her breath, once more.
However, much to her relief, Sora came to a stop. In fact, Sora stopped immediately after Yumi's words which almost led to the latter running into the older girl. Nervously, Sora turned towards Yumi, their hands still intertwined, as her eyes began to well up very slightly. Sora was refusing to look Yumi in the eye as she began to stutter slightly, perhaps realising her questionable behaviour earlier.
"I-I…I'm sorry…I was just so excited, you see. Having Y-Yumi-chan staying with me…I mean, I've never had a live in partner before and I just got swept up in the emotion. I'm really sorry, Yumi-chan," Sora looked shamefully towards her feet, the sincerity of her words making Yumi's heart beat ever so quickly as she continued to look at Sora's shaking form.
Before Yumi could interject, she was frozen in place by Sora's pained yet saddened laughter as she continued ", I must seem like such a loser…" She admitted as she stepped slightly back from Yumi. Yumi instinctively moved closer to Sora whose figure continued to shake and retreat further away, her eyes drawn to anything that wasn't near Yumi's vicinity.
On impulse Yumi tenderly comforted Sora, the latter freezing on impact. She didn't know why she did it but seeing someone as adorable as Sora looking ashamed and upset didn't sit right with Yumi. As she tightened her embrace around the frozen senior, Yumi felt almost comfortable, at peace, and when Sora anxiously wrapped her arms around Yumi's waist, before resting her head against the crook of Yumi's neck, the latter was lulled into contentment.
The tender moment was cut off, however, when Yumi noticed the numerous glances and accompanied warm hearted giggles coming from passing, often stationary, university students. Yumi quickly detached herself from Sora who flushed a bright red, realising that Yumi's kind and loving nature had been solely directed towards her.
"Um, m-my apartment is…just down the hall…Follow me, please…Y-Yumi-chan" Sora stuttered nervously at the equally nervous junior. Yumi, however, completely missed the way Sora whispered her name, it was full of admiration and perhaps even longing. There could be no doubt that Sora was very fond of Sachiko's petite soeur.
Sora continued to anxiously avert her eyes from Yumi's who merely smiled at her undeniably cute live in partner. With renewed confidence, Sora calmly walked towards a nearby door with Yumi following closely behind. Fumbling in the contents of her purse Sora successfully managed to withdrew a golden key with some sort of wording sketched into its design.
Curiously, Yumi moved closer to Sora so as to read the wording more clearly. Unbeknown to Yumi, Sora flinched slightly as she felt Yumi's sweet breath tickle her neck in a continuous cycle. Her eyes focusing once more, Yumi was finally able to make out the faint writing which had been imprinted on the key's edge.
'Home'
Yumi instantly brightened as she saw this cute act. Her eyes dancing with delight as her mind processed this new information rapidly.
'She's so adorable…'
'I think I really like her…'
'She's so gentle and precious but I can tell she has a strong heart…'
'She may not surpass my Onee-sama but that doesn't mean we can't form a friendship which is just as strong…'
'I think I'm going to enjoy this University experience."
Meanwhile, Sora who was clumsily fumbling with the key was finally able to place it within the lock and slowly opened the door. She walked into the room and held the door open for Yumi who graced her with a gentle smile as she entered the apartment.
"Sorry for intruding" Yumi muttered into the silent room as she placed her bags on the spare sofa before hearing the unmistakeable sounds of the door shutting and the lock engaging.
Scanning her surroundings, Yumi was surprised by what she saw. Despite the two night black sofas, the full to the brim bookshelf and the table in the kitchen the apartment was rather barren. Not only that, but a curtain was drawn up against the window meaning only a faint slimmer of light managed to pass into the room. It was dark, lifeless and cold within Sora's room but for the moment Yumi ignored this. After all, she was a guest in Sora's 'home' and didn't want to seem rude or uncaring.
Especially, after Sora had regretfully admitted to Yumi that she was to be her only ever roommate and for these reasons Yumi decided to forget about such childish worries and instead continue her personal task of forming some kind of friendship with her senior.
"So," Yumi asked cutely while swaying on the balls of her feet, in equal part nerves and happiness for this occasion. She gazed around the room, once more, and decided to ask a simple question ", Where will I be sleeping?" Yumi asked as she returned her attention to Sora who was busily laying some items across the table. Turning towards Yumi, Sora couldn't help herself from sighing tiredly as she prepared herself to respond to Yumi's question.
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"I don't know. Why should I care?" Sora responded exasperatedly as she sighed once more, only this time her sigh was heavier and sounded far more tired than the last. Silence passed between the two as Sora lifted her gaze from Yumi's features and instead moved to the bookcase where she spied her recently purchased book.
Sora almost missed Yumi's response; the former was far more interested in the book as she wandered closer to her target, barely hearing Yumi's nervous voice. "Huh?" Yumi muttered in surprise her eyes large as she continued to question what had just happened moments ago. Did Sora just brush her off?
Yumi was almost left frozen when Sora turned her gaze towards her; the once caring and watery gaze now seemed uninterested as did the tone of her voice. "It's always 'eh' and 'huh' with you, isn't it? Can't you string more than two words together for god's sake" Sora remarked as she pulled out a single book from the bookcase and ungraciously jumped backwards onto the sofa.
Sora momentarily looked up to see Yumi's confused expression and couldn't help the sinister laugh that escaped her pursued lips "You fell for it too, the cute, innocent and adorable girl who needs the support of someone to operate functionally. Please, that was nothing more than an act. People will believe anything they see with their own two eyes and I wouldn't blame them. Who would want to delve in any deeper?" after finishing her question, Sora returned her attention to the contents of her book as she continued to read paying no mind to Yumi's presence what so ever.
Meanwhile, Yumi couldn't take her eyes off Sora. Not because she was captivated by her beauty but rather due to the fact that she was utterly confused. Question after question flooded her mind as she gave voice to her inner voices "So it was all a show. But…why, why would you do that?" Yumi was not only confused by the response from the previously adorable Sora but also because she hadn't seen through Sora's blatant façade.
Why didn't she realize that Sora was just another Tomiko or Touko (Pre soeur bond) living behind numerous masks in an attempt to protect herself from the hardships of the world.
Noticing the tense anxiety coming from Yumi, Sora glanced towards the person in question with a raised eyebrow before gingerly sitting up off the sofa. Yumi watched Sora as the latter deposited her book on the nearby coffee table and walked towards her, Sora's eyes blank and deeply troubling to the frightened Fukuzawa Yumi.
Before Yumi could register Sora's actions, Sora aggressively held Yumi's wrists in a vice like grip and manoeuvred her away from the door that she had been silently retreating to. "Ow! That hurts." Yumi gasped as her legs hit the arm rest of the sofa. Suddenly Yumi felt her body tilting before it made a painful contact with the sofa. Yumi would have attempted to remove herself from the sofa had she not been pinned down by the surprisingly strong Sora who smirked tauntingly at Yumi.
"Are you wondering whether I'm like Tomiko-chan perhaps? If you are then I hate to disappoint you. Tomiko-chan has a more pleasant side to her I have no doubt but I'm afraid that with me, what you see is what you get. Are you surprised?" Sora asked as she pinned Yumi's struggling arms behind her own head. Had anybody walked in on them at this moment then they would have thought they had been interrupting an intimate moment between lovers considering their position but they couldn't have been further from the truth.
"I would be lying if I said I wasn't surprised. I never expected that you could be this cruel… Why are lying to everyone, to me? And why do you continue this farce. I may not know you well but I can tell… This is not you, Sora-sama." Yumi stated in absolute confidence as she continued to gaze into the eyes and features of the beautiful Sora-sama who merely smirked wider in response.
"You have the audacity to think you understand me when we have only just met. Don't be ridiculous Yumi-chan. You don't know me and even if you did, I wouldn't care one bit. I know who I am… And I know what I like," Sora whispered seductively as she continued to gaze into Yumi's large mocha brown eyes. In a patient motion, Sora lifted her hands from the back of Yumi's head and preceded to stroke Yumi's reddened cheek, gently pressing her index finger against Yumi's parted lips in a curious motion.
Yumi froze in horror as Sora's alluring figure and keen eyes evaluated her flushed features. The tenderness of Sora's actions stopped all cognitive function as she continued to stare at Sora both in horror and confusion. Her eyes grew even wider when Sora lowered her body to lay on top of hers in a seductive manner, Sora's head gradually leaning closer towards her own as the former continued to look at every feature on Yumi's beautiful face and luscious neck.
She didn't want this. Yumi didn't want to be handled in this sort of way. Her memories of that terrifying night at the water resort park floating to her mind. That day when she had found Sachiko being held by that vile man, his lips edging closer and closer to her Onee-sama's. Back then, Yumi had been able to stop him and save her Sachiko before things could escalate. So, why couldn't she call on that strength now? Why did she feel so weak, so helpless, as Sora's gorgeous features hovered above her?
Sora purposely, sensing Yumi's unease, pressed her body firmly into Yumi's as the latter let out a surprised and scared squeal. Scared because of the unexpectedly intimate act, which should only ever be instigated by lovers in Yumi's opinion. And surprised because of how good it felt as a familiar image of a raven haired beauty forced its way into her mind momentarily.
Knowing that now was the time, Sora leant closer to Yumi's face until her lips were mere centimetres away from the latter's who could only gaze helplessly into Sora's shining blue orbs which retained their previous gentle nature.
"…and it's not you." And with that Sora withdrew her hands which had been caressing Yumi's burning cheek and moved off of Yumi instead moving back towards her discarded book and lying on the now unoccupied sofa. The moment Sora had left Yumi's side, Yumi hurriedly retreated as she continued to stare at Sora in confusion and shock. Her shock was so great in fact that she nearly missed Sora's calm voice.
"Oh, take whatever you want from the fridge or freezer. There isn't much but I can probably get more later. You can sleep wherever you want, whether your preference is the sofa or even my bed, it doesn't concern me. Now, do you have any other pointless questions?" Sora asked as she continued to read the lengthy book which rested between her fingers, occasionally glancing towards the still shaken Yumi.
"What was that? Just now…" Yumi asked in confusion as she continued to carefully watch Sora, fearing a repeat of moments ago. "What, that? I was bored and I wanted to see how you would react to my advances. I have no interest in you believe me, so you don't have to worry. Why, are you disappointed?" Sora asked with a playful tone which did not match the exasperated expression that had been plastered onto her face ever since she returned to her book.
"D-Disappointed, w-why would I be?" Yumi stuttered in confusion as she attempted to fully process what had just happened to her. In response, Sora continued to stare at Yumi only this time in mock desire as she licked her lips in anticipation, her eyes feasting on Yumi's pleasing figure, which even Sora couldn't deny to herself.
Then a sudden, exhilarating, idea came to Sora's mind as she gazed at Yumi once more. Smiling, Sora twirled her body so she was sitting on the edge of the sofa looking directly at Yumi. "Would you prefer it if I dyed my hair, perhaps to a more familiar, raven, colour?" Yumi's mouth gaped as Sora continued to tease the young innocent girl, placing a finger against her chin imitating deep thought "I could even call you my petite soeur? And punish you in far more… delicious ways."
Yumi was smart enough to know what Sora was implying and even though she wanted to, she couldn't deny her claim, as they held some truth. Yumi knew her feelings for Sachiko were bordering on infatuation but she honestly thought she had kept it in check so that nobody knew. But she was wrong. Sora had seen right through her equally well built façade.
How many other people had seen through it? Obviously not Sachiko, at least not yet because if she had Yumi was sure she would have been distanced by her Onee-sama for such a disgusting infatuation. But, she couldn't dwell on it. She had to stand her ground and protect her Onee-sama's image not for herself but for the woman she had come to love. So with this new found strength she spoke.
"What? No, I wouldn't want such a thing and neither would my Onee-sama." Yumi practically shouted as she attempted to deny the accusations which had been correctly presented to her. Laughing, Sora sat up from the edge of the sofa, the conversation becoming far more interesting than her book now that Yumi was fighting back, interesting yet equally surprising. Yumi never came across as a fighter, to Sora she seemed a relative pushover compared to many others she had encountered.
"And why would that be, Yumi-chan? Is it because I would look far more alluring dressed up as your dear Onee-sama? Well, what is it? If you tell me I might just make your little dream a steamy reality…Yumi." Sora thus imitated Sachiko's voice as she spoke Yumi's name without honorifics hoping to anger the stupid girl, to make her snap under pressure like so many before her had.
However to Sora's surprise Yumi did not take the bait, in fact, she had been almost floored by Yumi's unexpected response.
Yumi calmly walked towards Sora, stood directly in front of her in a slightly intimidated fashion and spoke "No, it's because you would demean yourself further than you already have. Only one person can ever be my Onee-sama, only one person has the right to call me her petite soeur. And it isn't you Sora-sama; it's my rightful Onee-sama, Ogasawara Sachiko." Yumi admitted adamantly as a slight blush crept across her soft cheeks.
Sora was startled by this unexpected response, her eyes wide and her mouth slightly agape as she took in Yumi's confident, almost proud expression. She quickly hid her initial reaction though and responded in a forced yet even voice "Hm…you may be right. I wouldn't want to lose my blonde hair anyway." Sora tentatively stepped back from Yumi and instead edged closer to her bedroom door which was slightly open.
"I'm going to catch some sleep. Don't mess with anything or I'll make you pay for it, with your body if I have to. You'd make an acceptable whore after all." With that snide comment, Sora left Yumi within the confines of the darkened room, completely alone and not a friend in sight for the next 12 hours.
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As Rin walked down the halls of the main dormitories, she couldn't help but notice Sachiko's troubled expression. It had been practically affixed to her face ever since she left Sei's apartment and it was not a look she liked to see on such a beautiful and strong face. Silently, Rin hoped that it was due to the various students they passed who gazed at her (Rin) with affection and admiration but even she didn't go that far.
Sachiko, however, didn't even notice the people they passed or the stares she was acquiring from curious students who knew of her by name rather than appearance. Truthfully, Sachiko was angry. No, perhaps it was better to say she was depressed. Depressed by the thought of Yumi, willingly, sleeping alongside another woman who she, Sachiko, had no knowledge of.
'By what right does Sora have to take my Yumi away from me…?'
'I never wanted this. I wanted Yumi to be by my side throughout all of this…'
'That girl is my strength but at the same time she is my greatest weakness…'
'But I would bear it just to see her smile, to have her by my side under my protection…'
'I want to sleep next to Yumi…'
'…God, I sound like such a foolish child.'
As Sachiko pondered this thought, she failed to acknowledge the obvious fact that they had arrived at Rin's apartment. This fact remained obvious because she had in fact stopped directly beside Rin at the foot of the door. However, this had been done on instinct rather than observation because Sachiko was still deep in thought thinking about the one person she had come to truly care about in this unfair and barren world.
Unfortunately, Sachiko had also failed to notice the approaching presence of a smiling Rin who made her way towards Sachiko, concern etched within her eyes. Putting a hand on Sachiko's shoulder to refocus her attention, Sachiko was momentarily surprised by the appearance of a hand on her shoulder but never allowed that particular emotion to emerge upon her face.
"Are you okay, Sachiko-san?" Rin asked politely as she let her bag drop to the floor so that she could check Sachiko's temperature. A surprising thrill shooting through Rin's body as her hand made contact with Sachiko's soft, flawless skin. Captivated by the sensation as her hand remained fixed in place, the act hidden as a kind attempt to check Sachiko's temperature.
However, much to Rin's surprise, Sachiko dismissed her seniors worry as she purposely stepped away from the obviously concerned Rin who looked both hurt and saddened by the unexpected action. All Sachiko could think about, however, was how her touch wasn't right; it wasn't like Yumi's. Yumi always used to carefully apply pressure to Sachiko's forehead whenever she felt unwell, and carefully massage the area with quiet and comforting words. No. Rin wasn't Yumi, only Yumi was permitted to touch her in such a familiar way.
Regaining her composure Sachiko calmly spoke "I'm fine, now if you would, please" Sachiko motioned towards the front door before crossing her arms over her chest waiting for Rin to do what was so obviously necessary. Rin, however, ignored Sachiko's comment and moved closer to the latter with concern clearly etched upon her features. "Sachiko-san? Are you sure, I've never seen you looking so concerned before." Rin stated as she attempted to reach out, to once again feel Sachiko's temperature but was left horrified by what she heard from Sachiko.
"When have you ever seen me? We just met?" Sachiko asked plainly with a notable look of exasperation placed upon her usually serene features. The tension within the hallway became palpable as the two merely looked at one another, Sachiko's gaze patient while Rin's was confused and pained.
'She doesn't remember…?'
'Has she already forgotten about me…?'
'About our promise…?'
'The one we made so many years ago?'
As these troubling thoughts began to take shape in Rin's mind, she began to shake slightly as she leant down to pick up her fallen bag while refusing to acknowledge Sachiko's presence beside her. Retrieving the key from her bag, Rin opened the door with a sharp thrust from the lock and promptly entered the room not waiting for Sachiko as she approached the table.
Sachiko followed Rin into the apartment, her eyebrow rising in question as Rin moved further within the room without a mind to closing the front door. Taking the initiative Sachiko closed the door behind her and made her way towards the centre of the room so she could get a good look at her new home for the next 3 days. Unfortunately, Sachiko was being her usual oblivious self and was completely unaware of Rin's hurt appearance which was clear for all to see.
Instead, Sachiko inspected the room and at one look she could tell that Rin was born from a wealthy family. The room was overly grand in its design, a real princess's home if ever she saw one (which she did, every single day). Rin had even gone as far as to place a small chandelier at the room's epicentre, as well as other golden ornaments which showered the room in blinding light.
The room, in Sachiko's opinion, seemed to fit Rin's personality perfectly. The young princess who saw her affluence as a way to express her superiority over others, even though she did not personally earn the right to do so. She did not earn the money she so carelessly flaunted. No, she merely inherited it from greater men and women. Perfectly content to dwell in her families clutches rather than express her own intellect in more challenging and exhausting ways. Sachiko had seen that kind all too often and it was clear to Sachiko that the room was as artificial as Rin appeared.
Sachiko musings, however, were cut off as Rin sat gracefully into the sofa and motioned for her to do likewise. Following Rin's instructions, Sachiko moved towards the only other unoccupied sofa but was halted by Rin's voice "Not there, Sachiko-san. Here," Rin motioned to her side indicating that Sachiko was to sit by her side for what reason Sachiko could not surmise.
"We need to discuss some things. Such as rules and the like, and I would like your input, of course, this apartment is your home as much as mine for the next 3 days." Rin clarified as Sachiko nodded her head in understanding.
When both were comfortably seated Rin began "So to begin with I have arranged for you to sleep in my spare room. Most rooms in this University don't have a spare room but my family believed it was a necessity, you understand, so please, use…" to Sachiko Rin's voice became nothing more than white noise as she returned her attention to her previous thoughts, thoughts that concerned her dear petite soeur.
'I wonder how Yumi is, right now…'
'Is she thinking about me…?'
'Of course not but even so I hope she's okay…'
'Maybe I should go and see her before I go to sleep; I am her Onee-sama after all…'
'And I want to make sure she's alright…'
'She looked so hurt when I scolded her, I was far too strict and should have comforted her rather than hurt her again…'
'But where would I even find Yumi, she's with that Sora-sama isn't she…?'
'Wait wouldn't Rin know where Sora-sama lives?'
"… And that's all I have to say. I hope you enjoy your time and if you have any questions, please, don't hesitate to ask me, I would be happy to help." Rin said kindly as she patted Sachiko's thigh in what was meant to be a kind gesture although her hand did remain on Sachiko's leg far too long at times.
Moving slightly away from Rin, Sachiko prepared to ask Rin a question which had been on her mind since the start of their conversation as she remembered Rin's promise that she would help Sachiko with any questions or problems she would have during the trip. With renewed confidence, which seemed to settle her inner turmoil, Sachiko cleared her throat and faced Rin.
"Thank you Rin-sama," but before Sachiko could continue Rin eagerly interrupted and asked that Sachiko call her by her name without the needed honorifics. Sachiko, however, silently refused this as she felt that a use of a name without an honorific was far too personal and not something she would ever do, of course, Yumi didn't count for some unexplained reason.
However, despite the initial interruption, Sachiko continued ", Okay then. I was wondering if you would perhaps know where Sora-sama's apartment is…" Sachiko asked with keen interest which stunned Rin at the use of her colleague's name which she had not expected, for the moment forgetting that Sora was rooming with Yumi for the next 3 days.
"Um, I'm afraid I don't know where Sora-san lives. But, why would you want to know in any case?" Rin asked slightly perplexed by Sachiko's question. However, Rin's expression suddenly darkened as Sachiko replied with a name she had grown to hate ever since she had been named Sachiko's petite soeur.
"I was hoping to see my petite soeur, Yumi, before I went to sleep tonight. Would you perhaps know which apartment complex Sora-san lives in?" Sachiko asked more adamantly, she was desperate to see Yumi one more time. Tomorrow was far too late and she needed to make sure Yumi was alright and that she wasn't hurt by their previous incident earlier on in the day.
However, to Sachiko's surprise Rin stood up from her seated position and walked away from Sachiko towards the kitchen area. As she walked, however, she remarked something that made Sachiko's blood curl and her image of Rin to decay rapidly due to that one uttered sentence.
"I don't see why you would care about such an inbred beggar"
Sachiko forgetting herself for the moment stood up and shouted towards Rin "What did you just call Yumi? Would you care to repeat yourself?" Sachiko asked aggressively as her eyes regained their well-known icy glare. Rin froze for a second out of fear, fearing that she had crossed a line which could not be easily overcome.
But Rin knew what she had to do. Yumi was the villain in this tale. She had poisoned Sachiko's mind meaning that Sachiko was no more than a shadow of her true self. After all, Sachiko was the daughter of the most powerful company in Japan and the woman who required no one else to function. In Rin's mind, Sachiko had always been the female ideal. A woman of character, the epitome of strength in a world which had been governed by vile ill-bred men, just like the peasant born wench known as Fukuzawa Yumi.
And it was up to Rin to remind Sachiko of this. That she didn't need Yumi and that Yumi was nothing more than a vile peasant who only remained because of the promise of affluence and recognition which were granted when in Sachiko's presence. "I called her inbred Sachiko… Because, that's what she is. I don't know why you came to trust her or why you made her your petite soeur but I know you would never stoop so low as to bond with an ill-educated peasant."
Sachiko's vision blurred as she processed Rin's vile yet confident words. How dare she? How dare this spoilt brat question the bond they share? The bond they had formed over 2 wonderful years. A bond which housed precious and painful memories each as important as the other because it was through their experiences and struggle that their bond had gotten stronger, and in Sachiko's opinion unbreakable.
"Don't you dare call Yumi an in-bred peasant. Who are you to question our bond? You, who have never experienced the connection we have, have never cared for anything other than your father's pocket. We have something, and I'm not ashamed to say that I am unworthy of the bond we share. She is better than us…" Sachiko was suddenly halted when Rin angrily kicked the lower cabinet out of sheer frustration.
How could Sachiko see herself as unworthy? She was more worthy than any other woman in this entire world. What has Yumi done to her Sachiko, yes that's right her Sachiko. She didn't want to admit it but she knew that they would work well together. Sachiko's reputation, wealth and intellect would match perfectly with her own.
"Better? Better? She is an unremarkable and average peasant. I've seen her academic scores and I know what people think of her. People always say that she is kind and sweet and gentle but that is all a lie. She's a fake, Sachiko. How could you be so blind not to see…?" it was now Sachiko's turn to interrupt Rin's pointless raging. She had heard it all before.
At her summer house, she remembered how her supposed friends attempted to embarrass Yumi into leaving her and she never crumbled then, and Sachiko would not crumble now.
"Shut up! Who are you to call Yumi fake? Yumi is the most honest, kindest person I have ever met. In fact, it's that exact quality that makes me so terrified of her," Sachiko stopped briefly remembering the many times Yumi had supported and cared for her when others would have simply spread rumours or referred to her as a poor little rich girl.
", How could you ever understand… Looking at Yumi is like looking into a mirror. Every time you look at her, she reveals all your weakness, your limitations and the most negative aspects of your personality. But that's why I love her. Despite this very fact, I still long to be by her side, to see my weaknesses in full view. Because, while she is my greatest weakness she is also the only strength that I can rely on because I know she will never fail me or hurt me in any way."
Sachiko never meant to reveal this much to Rin but these revelations that she was currently making were actually new to her as well. Sachiko had never thought about the reasons why she chose Yumi or why she continued to stay by Yumi's side. She had always brushed off the thought as simple, it was obvious but, at the same time, it wasn't. It was far more complex than Sachiko liked to admit but she was finally starting to unravel this mystery little by little.
Sachiko finally realised that Yumi was far more important to her than she initially gave her credit for. She had always said that without Yumi she could not live but she was wrong, it was more than that, without Yumi Sachiko could not function. She needed Yumi. She had always needed Yumi. Strength and weakness, two sides of the same coin, a weakness that crippled her entire being and a strength which healed her of any and all pain whether physical or psychological.
"You're lying," Rin mumbled in fear as she finally realised the gravity of Sachiko's madness. "What happened to you Sachiko? How can you talk of love when it concerns that hideous monster? Has Yumi got something on you, is that it? Is that how she became your petite soeur?" Rin asked question after question hoping that Sachiko would give her the answers she so desperately wanted.
"Enough! Don't demean yourself any further…"
"No, I will not stop. This isn't right, Sachiko. Yumi isn't who you think she is. She's lying to you, why can't you see what is in plain sight? I won't let you destroy your future; I won't let her destroy our future. I will stop her before she…"
It was at this point that Sachiko had had enough. With a new found purpose Sachiko moved towards the retreating Rin until the latter was cornered in her kitchen by the looming figure of an enraged Sachiko. "You, if you go so far as to touch Yumi, I will make it my priority to destroy your family. Do I make myself clear? If anyone dares to threaten Yumi then I will crush them first, with my own bare hands if I have to. So understand what I mean when I tell you to stay away from my Yumi."
Rin blinked fearfully as two single words repeated themselves in her head. While the rest of Sachiko's speech had been terrifying it was these two precise words which had haunted Rin into a fearful silence.
"My Yumi…" Rin whispered forlornly. Sachiko's eyes suddenly widened as she realised how much she had revealed in those two words, she was not ashamed by her admission as it could be interpreted in a number of different ways but to have voiced such a hidden feeling still left Sachiko shaken slightly.
"Yes that's right my Yumi. Interpret this how you like but you can do so without me." Sachiko stated as she collected her bag and walked to the front door. "W-Where are you going?" Rin asked fearfully as she watched Sachiko open the door before replying "Away from this place and away from someone who would dare criticize my petite soeur. I apologize for my rudeness but I can't stay here. I'm going to find somewhere else to sleep but I won't be going alone. Yumi will be by my side, where she rightfully belongs."
And with that Sachiko shut the door and headed in the direction of Sei's apartment silently hoping that Sei would know where Sora's apartment was and where she could find a spare apartment where both Yumi and herself could share.
Little did Sachiko know that Rin had made a silent ultimatum with herself. As she finally realised how drastically Sachiko had changed due to Yumi's repulsive influence. It was clear to Rin that Sachiko had changed for the worse and that the present situation could only be salvaged if Yumi was separated from Sachiko's life, and she knew just how to do it. Sachiko's bright future was just a phone call away.
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Author's Notes: I am so sorry for the delay in this stories posting but life had decided to bite me in the ass at short notice. My work has left me surprisingly busy and I have been unable to return home multiple times due to exhaustion and overly long hours at my place of works. (God bless nearby friends or I think I would have slept on the streets)
I will also not deny that this chapter was difficult to write as it changed from my initial plan because I thought of something better and less fillerish because in truth this chapter was beginning to feel like a filler episode in an anime which was losing its steam.
But I promise you we are getting closer and closer to the good stuff and the things you have all been waiting for. Forgotten pleasures, which is a story I recently started, is a sort of prelude to see scenes you may possibly be seeing in the near future but don't worry LWTUA will still retain its angsty interior, its emotional moments and a huge moment which I hope will shake the very core of the Yamayurikai.
I have some big things happening but to get to the good stuff I need to lay down this stories foundation and build upon it. Remember I said this story would be a 30 chapter story (Now reduced to 27) and we are only 6 chapters in.
Enough of that though. For now, I am happy to announce that Forever Drifting's planning stage has been completed and I have another full length story to write for you. I will update you all on how I will be updating my stories on my profile page soon. So now I have 2 full length stories to write and another one which will be updated on a month by month basis.
(I.e. Forgotten Pleasures which will be under the mature audience, this story will have 0 angst and be full of blissful moments between Sachiko and Yumi, might include others if I see fit to do so.)
Thanks, once again, for reading dear reader and for making this story so much fun to write, I can't thank you enough
Reviews etc are very welcome and I will now be responding to reviews in my introduction section of each new chapter. I haven't thanked my reviewers enough for their support and I feel like I should, so I'll be writing my appreciation in the introduction.
Thanks once again.
Miracles79 signing out
:D