Its been a awhile finally I got to update!
Thank you to everyone who has read and appreciated this work.
To those who reviewed, I am so full of gratitude.
I will continue to do my best and see it that I get this done till the end. ^_~
"Chapter 10: Coldest Summer"
Mori high school has been bombarded by mysteries the past school year. As the academic year ends many anticipate if the pleasant progress will continue the next year. The greatest of them all, Sunako Nakahara had stopped being scary. It was a subtle occurrence but phenomenal nonetheless. Initially the girl stopped wearing a beanie and combed her hair. She didn't have make-up on except for lip gloss to keep lips moisturized. But seeing more of her face, people began to notice how healthy her skin is. Her facial features are also commendable. She had unique violet eyes, an aristocratic nose, small lips and defined chin. After the appearance change, her academic status improved too. Who would have thought the day would come she is in second spot next to Takenaga Oda? Her appearance improved accompanied by study habits. It gave her a more sociable attitude. She started to smile, cater to inquiries and join conversations. Due to her friendlier persona, Sunako's popularity rocketed to rival Noi's. It reached to a point they were compared. Some say Sunako is well-rounded person than Noi. The former scary girl is smart, athletic, a culinary genius, brave, beautiful and independent. Truly a fine lady has graced Mori High.
Another resident of the Nakahara mansion also showed great progress this year. Kyouhei Takano remained as handsome as he is with better grades. He was not at top ten level but from bottom to the middle of the pack it was an achievement. The man also displayed a calmer demeanor now. His anger issues have been effectively controlled. This new Zen of him made everyone want to protect his peace. In effect people started giving him space. Instead of trying to get close to him, crowds began to get contented observing from afar. This new found freedom further gave the boy a thankful heart. In effect it encouraged him to pursue what is intended to be done. Aside from that, he got to keep his job for more than six months. A feat never accomplished in all his seventeen years on earth. Because of this job, he can also proudly say that being broke is foreign to him now.
"It's the last day of the school year, we should have a party!" Noi suggested enthusiastically inside the cafeteria.
"Sunako and Kyouhei will be leaving for Hokkaido tomorrow. Will that be okay?" Ranmaru inquired.
"I really don't want a fuss guys." The blonde boy confessed. "But if we are just going to eat and not stay up late we can make it work." At the back of Kyouhei's mind he might as well get through with it. After Hokkaido he won't be seeing his friends often.
"That means you have no work this afternoon? What good timing. But what time will you be heading for Hokkaido tomorrow? " Yuki inquired.
"Aunty said she pick up time is six o' clock am. It's very early." The blonde boy confirmed.
"We must not tire Sunako-chan of cooking. Might as well grab some take outs to maximize time." Takenaga suggested.
The group agreed to get chicken and pizza for takeout. They accompanied it with some soda and ice cream too. Ranmaru called up Tamao to join and she happily obliged. In the mansion while eating the conversation revolved on Sunako's upcoming debut party. Kyouhei's training trip information was not mentioned just as he requested. As for the party, Aunty has given him her blessing. She was up the roof upon knowing Kyouhei will be escorting Sunako.
"It's so sad we cannot go Sunako-chan." Tamao regrettably stated. "It would be great to see you in complete elegance."
The party had a strict guest list. Only immediate family and chosen clans of prestige were invited. As Sunako predicted the guest list contains possible marriage partners for her. Most of the elite families invited have sons whose ages range from her age to ten years older. It's going to be stressful to keep up the lovely lady facade.
"What are you going wear Sunako-chan?" Noi excitedly asked. " Send me a selfie immediately once you're dolled up."
Sunako is expecting a Kimono. Aunt Mine would take care of that, along with the hair stylist and make-up artist. She was thinking if there are contact lenses available that can protect her eyes from flash photography. Definitely after her debut paparazzi will have an interest in her. Modeling agencies will ask her to sign up or charities will ask her to attend events. The thought of so much socialization is beginning to drain her. Can she really pull it off?
Noticing her troubled face, Ranmaru said in a sing song voice. "Whatever Sunako-chan wears it will be fabulous. So don't fret about it. Are you excited Kyouhei?"
The blonde was surprised to where the conversation was redirected. He refused to comment. His feelings about the upcoming trip are jumbled. There is nervousness to meet her family. The pressure of making a good impression is making him nauseous. The family might not be a snob, but still they will be judging him right? Can he be dignified enough to stand by her side and appear as a gentleman? There is so much running in his mind, he might not be able to sleep tonight.
"This party is going to be draining for me. I don't want to socialize too much or I will get dizzy. I am considering dancing with people I am familiar with to avoid conversations." The brunette with a tired voice explained.
"So you are planning to avoid socialization? Just in case nobody familiar comes then Kyouhei has to dance with you?" Takenaga inquisitively responded.
The people of the room were all ears on this inquiry. Is Sunako planning to dance the night away with Kyouhei? Does it mean she has finally admitted his presence make her comfortable? And since Kyouhei accepted, knowing him having a hate for consort duties, means he considers Sunako an exception?
Sunako sighed. There is no sense in evading this question. Kyouhei deserves to know too. In a week he will going to Israel for who knows how long. A fact her female friends have yet to know. Then they will be both too busy to meet up. And in the future at official events if he comes as Sakura's butler, they cannot readily talk.
"I may have changed the past months, but I am still me. I need someone by my side to calm me down. The only option given was to choose an escort. So I chose the person I know who can understand me best."
There was silence in the room after Sunako finished. She was able to say it without blushing but her heart was palpitating. Her eyes glanced at the blonde boy who was equally in a trance. Would he say something in return? Is she going to like what he will say?
"Kyouhei can understand you best." Noi stated in a gentle tone. Soon a smile spread across her face with glistening eyes she lunged at Sunako for a hug. "Congratulations on finally recognizing your feelings." They happily looked over Kyouhei. "Kyouhei say something."
Kyouhei fidgeted. He wants to desperately say the correct words now. He only has definitely a week to be with her. After this they will be under the mercy of time. So might as well build good memories. "I am honored to accompany and support you. Let's do our best." It was the safest answer he could muster.
Sunako nodded and smiled. Kyouhei felt his face warming up. The knowing smiles of their friends were also not helping. However, thank goodness they did not tease them. Maybe it's their way of being considerate of knowing it will be a big week for them tomorrow. To break the heavy atmosphere Ranmaru said in jest. "Guys after this debut we are having free rent."
"Yes free rent!" Takenaga and Yuki both said in celebrated unison.
"While Sunako-chan and Kyouhei will be away for a week let's go to the new Onsen our company has opened." Ranmaru invited the remaining teens. "From there we can celebrate with them in spirit."
"That is a great idea Ranmaru." Yuki stated excitedly. "Everyone can come right?"
The entire non-Hokkaido bound agreed in unison. After the party, Kyouhei and Sunako were urged not to help cleaning up. Both were encouraged to recheck the things to be packed and sleep early. As the two walk towards their room, Sunako gave Kyouhei pointers about Hokkaido weather. It may be summer there but it's still chillier than Tokyo. Cardigans or light sweaters will come in handy especially for evenings. The main house of the Nakahara's is located within a forest. Practically the matriarch owns the mountain and valley.
Sunako observed Kyouhei if he is unfazed of what she shared. He is practically aware how affluent the Nakashima's are so witnessing riches don't bother him. Being the no nonsense type of person he is it just indicates how less significant it it to him. She decided not to pry about his opinions on wealth, as long as he is confortable it is okay.
As they reached the front of the girl's room, Kyouhei broke his silence. "Are they bothered you chose a plain guy for an escort?"
Sunako swayed her head to indicate no. Sighing at her gesture Kyohei continued. "I guess it's just an escort duty so no biggie. What would matter is a marriage prospect right?"
Sunako gripped the knob on the door. "Why are you all so keen on marriage?" She felt anxiety, there are so many things to do, why is her being a lady limited to this? "I have dreams, this is why I rejected being a lady before. So many expectations that is unnecessary." She vehemently uttered. Her brows furrowed leading to a frown. And she could not help but tears of frustration were released from her eyes.
Kyouhei touched her softly on the head with his right hand. Eyes hidden by his bangs, the boy tried to comfort the distressed lady. "I am sorry. I did not mean to make you feel bad." He moved his body closer. "At least you will be seeing your family. They will be so glad to witness how much you have progressed. I am proud of it too."
Kyouhei pushed the door open and ushered Sunako to go in. As her foot stepped in the room, the boy withdrew his distance. Looking back, the girl saw the lad walk towards his room. She went in and closed the door gently. Her heart was beating so fast recalling their distance earlier. He said he was proud of her. She could feel her cheeks grow warm with the sincerity of those words.
Kyouhei lay face down on his bed. He will be leaving his friends soon. Picking up his phone, he decided to make an email message for each. He will send it once he boards the plane for Israel. He might as well send one to his parents. They might be in an estranged position, but they are his only family. Maybe one day, they can actually make it happen. His eyes soon felt drowsy after finishing the fourth email draft. He allowed sleep to take over and welcomed the much needed rest.
The Sunday sky was still dark when Aunt Mine's jet came over the house. The older lady practically dragged the two teens and told them just to carry undergarments, the other things were taken cared of. Settled in their seats Sebastian served breakfast while Aunty filled them in the details.
They will be heading straight to the main mansion. Sunako is expected to join the family for lunch and private time with her parents at night. Kyouhei will be staying in a guest cabin outside the main house. Kyouhei can do whatever he wants until Wednesday night the time of the ball. Sunako on the other hand has to go to a family portrait photo session on Monday. A private family dinner follows. Tuesday she will be attending a family business meeting in the morning and at the afternoon a corporate one via video call. Wednesday she will be briefed about the party program, then get ready after lunch. Kyouhei will meet up with her at five in the afternoon and the official debut time will be at six o'clock in the evening.
Sunako inquired of what is left to do on Thursday till Sunday. Aunty looked over her phone and revealed Sunako is expected to go hiking with Shigure and Kyouya Nakashima. Sakura will not be coming along. The official Nakashima representative to the party are the two brothers. On Friday her grandmother wants to spend with together. Sunako is requested to play the Chopin pieces specially Ballad 1 after they have lunch. On Saturday Aunty wants her to get a new wardrobe from the summer collection they will be releasing soon. She was encouraged to have dinner every day with her parents since they will be leaving Saturday night. Sunako's Mom will be joining them on choosing her clothes. Her Dad will follow to have supper with them. On Sunday, she is expected to have breakfast with her grandmther to talk about future plans. They will be leaving Hokkaido after lunch so Kyouhei can catch his evening flight to Israel.
Sunako's eyes widened. Kyouhei is leaving on Sunday night? With her packed schedule, they won't be having time to do something meaningful like watching the latest horror dvd she bought along. "Aunty, that is quite a handful for me. But for him, there is nothing to do?" Mine smirked at Sunako's question.
"Well if it's any consolation your Dad wants to train him while you're busy. Kyouhei, make yourself available always and easy to contact, Sunako's Mom wants a word with you too." The blonde boy only nodded. So much for spending his final week with her. Somethings really can't be helped.
"Can he come along? Like in the hiking or clothes shopping? I can't take him to grandma but he can come at those other schedules?" The girl inquired.
"You have to ask Shigure and Kyouya for the hiking. You know how possesive they are with you. Plus it might be awkward for Kyouhei going on a casual trip with his bosses. As for Saturday I have no issues of him tagging along." the elder replied
Kyouhei straightened up and spoke. "I guess my meals will be served in my cabin, I cannot go to the main house unless the actual party starts right?" Aunty nodded. "Well that is how outsiders are treated I guess. I am still thankful I get to stay inside the compound."
"I did not want you to feel unwelcomed." Aunt Mine replied "It's the best arrangement I can do for you."
"Believe me Aunty I am thankful. I know how wealthy family rules for commoners are. I am a butler in training."
"But you did not come as a servant, you are invited as my friend." Sunako interrupted.
Kyouhei took the final bite of his breakfast. He stood up and patted Sunako's head. " I m happy you think of it like that." He moved is gazed to Aunty. "Aunty, where can I take a snooze?"
Sebastian ushered Kyouhei where he can take a nap. As he walked out the door, Sunako was still looking down on her unfinished meal. "Sunako-chan its the best I could do. At least he is with you, wouldn't it be harder if you came back not seeing him again?"
"Aunty he is leaving in a week's time. Most likely we won't be seeing each other until I graduate from the university. It's just strange. I am used to seeing him everyday. I am accustomed to doing things for him. Now things are going to change."
"It's party of maturity Sunako. When Darling left me, I had difficulty moving on. I drowned myself in parties and work. But when you and the boys resided in the house, even if I am not always there I felt whole again. In time you will find your balance."
After an hour they have arrived at the airport. It took another hour drive to get to the Nakahara ancestral home. It was double the Nakashima house, and given that the mountain and valley is part of the property its twenty times larger. Servants greeted them as they went out the limo. Kyouhei was ushered by Sebastian to his cabin. Sunako was assisted by a maid to her room.
Kyouhei decided to get some fresh air after placing his bags in his room. He could see the Main house, it was so near yet so far. He glanced at one of the windows of the house was open. To his surprise and relief, Sunako leaned on the window. Her room is just across his cabin. At least he could see her if she looks out. He continued to stare at her direction hoping she would see him. And as if his internal voice called out her name, she looked towards his direction. He smiled as their eyes met. He doesn't know if she can clearly see him, but he can see her perfectly. He raised his hand to wave at her.
Sunako was caught off guard to see the cabin across is where Kyouhei was staying in. He was smiling when she met his gaze. Soon he raised one hand to greet her. He was radiant standing amidst the nature around him. She would keep this memory of him always. She lightly smiled, a gesture which is seldom done by her and waved back. She saw him took out his phone and began typing something. After a few seconds her phone buzzed it was an incoming message from him. If you need company I don't mind climbing the wall to get to you. So don't jump out to see me okay? Sunako looked back at him, he raised his pinky at her. For some odd reason she followed suit. It was going to be rough week, but with him here she can endure it.
Lunch was pleasant, all her relatives came. Sunako is the eldest among the cousins, so most of then are either in elementary or middle school. Nobody is in the running to take the matriarch title. But she can expect a lot of help in the future. Her grandmother is just as pleasant as she remembers. They talked about school,business and what to expect of the party.
"Sunako-chan" her grandmother called out. "You have grown up to be a beautiful lady. It's going to be difficult for me to shoo away admirers when they start asking permission to see you." Sunako kept silent. "But I want you to remember this, we you're family will accept whoever you choose." The young lady blushed at her grandmother's comment. "I heard a friend came along with you this morning. Why don't you ask him to come over for dinner?"
Sunako nodded. She will see Kyouhei after lunch and extend the invitation. "Sunako neechan, can we meet your friend too? I heard the servants gushing over how handsome he is." Her middle school cousin Rika commented. Soon all her female cousins a total of four wanted to tag along.
"Kyouhei is pretty strong too." Her father commented. "I am going to train him on my free time." The declaration raised the interest of her six male cousins. They also wanted to meet him and maybe they can spar.
"Tell us something about him Sunako-chan." her mother encouraged.
Taking a deep breath she decided to speak. "It is true that his radiance is unparalleled. It is sort of curse for him, so please later respect his space. He is also very strong. He is actually training under the Nakashima's to be a combat butler. He also has an huge appetite for fried shrimp and desserts specially with strawberries. He used to be short tempered but has matured after he got to work as a butler in training. He is actually very kind and considerate despite the tough guy image he puts up. He is one of the few persons outside the family I am most comfortable with." She stopped at her last statement. It was surprise she said it out loud, had she revealed too much?
"How comfortable are you with him?" another aunt of her inquired.
Noticing the awkwardness of the situation Aunt Mine came to the rescue. "Sunako-chan lives with them in my mansion. Don't worry, elder brother came and saw that there is no hanky-panky going on. They are both in the same high school were they often compete in sports activities. They also team up for a ballroom dancing contest. But their dance wasn't all ballroom but it was nice just the same. I even ask Kyouhei to escort Sunako in other parties we go to so I can protect her from prying wolves."
"If he has my son and daughter's approval. I believe he is a good man." Her grandmother declared. "I will be expecting to see him later at dinner Sunako-chan."
Lunch ended well. After brushing her teeth Sunako decided to head towards Kyouhei's cabin. She did it as discreetly as possible so her cousins won't tag along. He might have controlled his temper now, but crowds still suffocate him. She was planning to ask his permission if her cousins can some along. She didn't have to knock at his door. He was already outside by the porch reading manga, enjoying the breeze. Seeing her approach he place down what he was reading.
"What brings you here?" he asked bemusedly.
"Grandmother wanted you to join us for dinner." She said slowly. "You will come right?"
"How can I decline the matriarch of this family?" He eyed her again "The place you gave me is neat want to come in and check it out?"
Sunako walked towards the cabin. Kyouhei openned the door which revealed a quaint room with a small living space, a fridge full of refreshments and a large comfy bed. "You know after lunch someone sent strawberry fruits, ice cream and cake. They stock piled the fridge I am so happy. Did you tell them I like these things?" Sunako only nodded. The boy continued to speak as they sat on the two seater sofa. "So what do I wear to meet your family? I bought leather shoes and slacks. Will that do?"
"As long as you are presentable it is fine." she commented.
"Okay whatever you say. So how are you holding up?"
"So far bearable, my family is happy for me. My cousins want to see you. The boys actually want to spar." the girl answered
"Are they old enough? I don't mind if they can handle it." the boy reassured.
"The eldest is in middle school, he is tall for his age. However you are taller by one and half feet."
"If the schedule permits and their parents are okay with it, sure. I promise not to hurt them."
"Are you fine being alone here?" she could not help but blurt out
"The peace and quiet is a good break for me. I have been too busy the past days, its actually relaxing."
Hearing this Sunako felt she was invading his quiet time. "I am sorry to disturb you. I might as well go." She said hurriedly and stood up.
"I am not kicking you out." the boy called out and held her hand to stop her from leaving. "The mansion grounds are so wide, can we take a walk around it?"
Sunako eyed Kyouhei in surprise. Embarrassed by his suggestion Kyouhei retorted. "Look this place might have high surveillance stuff. I have no plans of ticking it on unexpectedly. So can you guide me around?"
Sunako with every strength she had in her held Kyouhei's hand back. Taking in a deep breath she pulled him off the sofa and headed out for a walk in the gardens. She showed him her childhood favorite spots. From the streams where she would dip her feet to the trees she climbed. Sunako even shared the names of the plants that is within her knowledge.
Kyouhei listened intently to all the information the girl was sharing. It was nice just being with her doing normal things. He found delight in the way her eyes sparkled as she gave details about the things they came across. His heart flutters whenever she displays faint smile or low toned giggle. But the best experience of all was they held hands all through out the walk. Neither noticed it until the warmth faded once they got back at the cabin to get ready for dinner.
"Thanks for today. I'll see you later." The boy acknowledged.
Sunako nodded, turned her back and walked away. Raising her hand which was used to hold Kyouhei she examined it. It looked normal but there is a sense of warmth. His light has always been warm and comforting. It was never damaged opposite to what she had always believed in the past. If only these feelings can be bottled, so whenever there is a yearning, she can touch the container and relive it.
Dinner time came, Kyouhei was a pleasant surprise to all. As usual he was gorgeous. His butler training made him very gentlemanly and charming. Her male cousins could not wait for the sparring session they will be having the next day. The females are excited to watch him in action. Her Dad is excited to evaluate how much improvement the radiant being has progressed. Grandmother just observed him silently, Sunako did not trace any type of disapproval. So far he was doing well. Since he was doing his best, she was inspired to do the same.
"Kyouhei-kun, its lonely alone in that cabin right? Starting tomorrow you will be taking your meals here. Sebastian, make sure he is aware of the time." the Nakahara matriach declared.
The days came by so fast and it was time for Sunako's debut party. Surprisingly her outfit prepared was not a kimono. It was a modern violet dress that compliments her eyes. The piece has a v neck line which is not too revealing but has a greek goddess cut. Her hair was pulled up into an intricate braid rolled into a bun. The stylist said the look is inspired by greek mythology. Make up was minimal, so that her natural beauty would stand out. She have been practicing to smile like crazy the past months. Hopefully she can display a good one tonight.
As on que Kyouhei arrived five o' clock sharp. It is always a given no matter what he wears his radiance shines. However wearing a violet tux to match hers, hair pulled back clean, another side of his beauty was exposed. His eyes sparkled paired with a smirk when he saw her. "Hey you look great." To be honest, it is true she was satified on how she looked today. Coming from him made her feel prettier. Part of her anticipated walking in while holding his arm, if they are beside each other, she can smile.
Kyouhei offered his arm with a faint smile. "Ready?" Holding on to him made her feel secure. With a nod they walked carefully out to be welcomed by a crowd. She glanced at her side to see how the boy is fairing. He had a calm look and looked back at her with a gentle smile. He led her to the table where she is to sit. Her Father made a speech about how wonderful she is as a daughter. Her kindness not only to people but to all living beings. He also praised her skills as a homemaker, achievements as a student and strenght as a warrior. "I am sure Sunako will be a great pathologist one day. Again I want to say me and Mom are very proud of you."
After the speech dinner was served but due to nervousness her appetite was not good. "You should eat, its going to be a long night" Kyouhei urged. She forced herself for a few bites. Once the meal time was concluded Sunako had the first dance with her Father. As the song ended, Shigure Nakashima quickly followed suit. "Master Nakahara, if I may?" He asked for permission with a respectful bow. Nodding her father stepped aside and Shigure held out his hand. Sunako knew accepting it is inevitable. Taking a deep breath she took it. Swiftly Shigure held on to her, place another hand by her waist and waltzed her away. "You are beautiful as always Sunako." The girl muttered a shy thank you. "I missed you a lot, I am looking forward for our hike tomorrow. It will be like just old times." The elder boy calmly stated. "Your eyes match your dress well, tell the stylist my thanks okay?" He jested trying to lighten the atmosphere. Sensing Sunako is still spaced out Shigure decided to be more forward. "Is something wrong? Don't you want to dance with me?" Sunako swayed her head. "I am sorry Shigure Jinii , this experience is new to me I am actually overwhelmed. You do know what I have gone through right?" The elder boy nodded. "I actually know who the trash is, but knowing you it would be best to leave him alone right?" Sunako nodded but tried to look away. "You have always been the forgiving one." Shigure raise a hand to usher Sunako's to face him. "Tell me, after highschool where do you plan to study?"
"I have not yet planned that out Shigure Jinii, my GPA still need improvement." The girl stated in a low voice. "I promise not to meddle with your entrance qualifications. I know you can do it on your own. So please tell me your plans." Sunako breathed in and decided to share details as vague as possible. "I want to take my pre-clinical courses in Japan then for the clinical practice overseas. I have yet to see my options by then." Shigure smiled. "Sounds good to me. So it means you will be staying in the Nakahara mansion for quite a awhile given you study in Tokyo?" SunaKo replied with a curt "Yes." Making a turn during their dance Shigure boldly asked "Can I visit you at home whenever I am around the area?"
Sunako was lost for words, if she says yes will he think it as an acceptance of their supposed engagement? " I know visiting is not synonymous of me being your fiance. I just want to know you all over again." The man stated as if reading her mind. "I don't mind you coming over Shigure Jinii. But please do call in advance." That said the song ended and Kyouya Nakashima cutted in. "Shigure Jinii, I believe its my turn."
Kyouya sweep Sunako into his arms. Unlike Shigure who was chatty, Kyouya was silent and savored their dance. Sunako could feel him observing her facial features with longing in his eyes. Shigure may be bold with his word but Kyouya was foward with his actions. He pulled her closer as song the was half way through. Pulling up his courage he whispered in her ear. " I can't wait for tomorrow." Sunako blushed at their closeness. The man feeling her uneasiness pulled back a bit. "Sorry for being too forward." Sunako decided to look at him in the eye. "Kyouya Sanii, socialization is still foreign to me. I have no intention to offend. Please give me time." The girl replied as polite as possible. "No offense taken, can I visit you on your free time?" Sunako was surprised at the proposal. Does this mean the two Nakashima's will be coming over more frequently? Noticing her puzzled face Kyouya continued to speak. "Shigure Jinii said something similar too I guess?" Sunako nodded. "It's okay if you don't want me to come. I understand." The gentleman stated. "Kyouya Sanii, don't get the wrong idea. I don't mind you coming over. But tell me ahead of time. As long as my visitors are you and Shigure Jinii, its fine." That said, a satisfied smile spread across Kyouya's face. "I will be looking forward to it Sunako-chan. Thank you."
Once the song was done an unfamilar man frisked her away again. One after another guests who were strangers asked Sunako for a dance. Each guy showing great interest in her. However, truth be told how many of them are really into her as a person? Would they accept her if the found out she likes the darkness? Can they handle emotional instability when it came to crowds?
Her feet in these heels were starting to ache. She needed a break and searched around for the creature of light who could come to her rescue. She did not have to wait long, as their eyes meet the blonde approached and kindly cut in with the gentleman she was dancing with. "My apologies sir, I believe Lady Sunako is needed by her Aunt. Please excuse us." He held Sunako by her elbow and as the other man releasd his hold, Kyouhei pulled her close. Noticing how she wobbled, he held her by the waist to support her.
"Lady Nakahara this way please." He said with finality. The gesture of him holding her as simple as it is made the other guest ogle at them. As if they performed magic by just walking side by side. Sunako decided to indulge in the comfort of Kyouhei's closeness and ignore the onlookers. "Thank you for bailing me out on that one. My feet are hurting." As they are out of the door and view of the crowd, the boy lifted her up bridal style. " I am taking you to the changing room. Maybe they have some flat shoes for you."
Sunako was too tired to disagree and allowed him to carry her. Reachng the dressing room no one was there. Kyouhei placed Sunako on the sofa while he took a chair and sat across. "You were quite popular." He teased. "At this rate I am not surprised if you get your own fanclub." Sunako sighed. "I don't know how I can handle this until I finish my pathology studies. All the men who danced with me either asked for my number, home address or if they could visit."
"Did you give anyone details?" The man asked with a hinto of urgency in his voice.
"No of course, having Shigure Jinii and Kyouya Sanii is already a handful. I cannot handle more people to entertain." Sunako exaperately replied. "I hope my brain does not explode."
"So my masters are going to be aggressive towards you soon." Kyouhei blurted out. A question came into mind but it felt inappropriate to ask. However the girl across seemed to have noticed he wanted so say more. "Whatever you are thinking creature just spill it."
"Well if you insist. Who among my masters do you prefer?" The boy curiously asked.
"To answer that honestly, I don't know. Shigure Jinii was my ideal guy when I was a kid. But Kyouya Sanii was more present in my life." Kyouhei was not sure if he was going to be happy that she answered spot on or insecure knowing how deep her bond are with them.
Sunako continued to speak as the boy was about to lose himself in thought. "However, when I danced with them today I relaized something."
"Realized what?" He pressed on.
"Compared to them, I still feel most comfortable with you." She stated. "Maybe because we lived with each other for a while? Or is it we are the same age? I really don't know. But I am most relaxed when I am with you."
Kyouhei was pleasantly surprised of what she said. It made him feel important and needed. Something he has always wanted to experience. She was being keen, might as well follow suit.
"You know, before aunty and you there was no female in my life that is not annoying. Sure you two can be annoying too but at least its not obessed annoying if you get what I say."
The lady had no idea if she was going to be flattered or not. Tracing the confusion in her face Kyouhei pressed on. "I didn't mean it in a bad way. Despite our differences we do duke it out. Honestly I feel myself when I am with you. To a point I am glad to be alive. So my training trip by the end of this week is making me anxious." The boy suddenly stopped, had he just exposed his vunerability?
"What is there to worry? Sunako questioned
Kyouhei intently gazed at the lady before him. She was sitting on the couch both feet and legs positioned side ways. It was not a seducing pose, but it cannot be denied even in her tiredness she looks awesome in that dress. She shuffled and placed her feet down and straightened her back up. "What are you worried about Kyouhei?" she again softly asked.
The sound of his name from her lips caused his feelings to stir. Damn it all, why is it that when they are doing progress something gets in the way? However it is also thanks to this oppurtunity they did grow up a little. He cannot put into words what he felt. The anxiety of not being able to eat her homecooked meals. How he will miss the sound of her voice or be graced by her touch no matter how faint. She has no idea that the mere sight of her makes him feel contented. To be separated feels like suffocation that can lead him to death.
He cannot believe all the drama swimming in his thoughts. All because of this girl who has now turned int a lady ready to meet the world head on. She will be challenging everything without him. Not being there for her worries him. When she attains her goals will there still be a place for him? The thing he fears the most was, what if he comes back and she is accustomed to his absence? To a point he may no longer be welcomed? Would a time come she will reject him?
His silence frustrated Sunako. Why can't he answer? She even called him by name. "Why won't you answer?" She asked once more with an irritated tone.
Hearing the frustration in her voice, Kyouhei internally slapped himself into reality. They only have a few days, he was not going ruin it by a misunderstaning. So he urged himself to do something embarassing. Blushing he inquired "When you accomplished your dreams and I finish building my future, we will find each other again right? "
The look in his eyes were pleading. Sunako felt something so deep beyond friendship in that gaze. But she was afraid to acknoweledge it yet. She knows both of them are not ready. He was figthing it just the same. The right thing at a wrong time will not yield the best results. It is always best to wait, but they can always give hints to inspire so they can keep going. And with the distance threathening to burn their bridges, she is willing to be more revealing and welcoming.
Sunako lifted both her arms and held it up in a stance welcoming an embrace. "Come." A single word that held so much assurance that Kyouhei came diving in into her arms. Holding her within his long and lean arms, his left hand ushered her head to rest at the crook of his neck. Leaning down his cheek touched hers. His hold was so tight and warm but gave a feeling as if she was going to drown.
"We don't need to find each other." She moved her arms higher to wrap around his neck. Her foread touched his. "Because we will never lose touch." She lifted her head and looked deeply into his blue eyes. It was full of need that desperately wants to be sated. "What we have is beyond phyiscal, you agree and know that right?"
Kyouhei inhaled and with all his stored self control, he buried his head on Sunako's right shoulder. Her scent was crazily intoxicating, but he knew it is not the time. They have yet to prove a lot of things, but he knew one thing for sure. "No matter what, I will find you. No one is going to take your place. So please keep mine just the same."
His hot breath on her skin is making her loose control. They were both shivering but gathering her strenght she answered back. " There is only one room for a radiant being in my life. It's just for you."
They held each other more with passion but held off their desires. When they are ready, it would follow. But for now in each other's warmth they will indulge. Because on Sunday, the coldest summer of their lives is to about to start.
