Something You've Read Before
Chapter Fifteen
Who you Really Like
He did not want to admit it but Natsume noticed something different between Ruka and Mikan. Everyone else was oblivious about it but Natsume did not miss his two friends' quick exchange of glances and smiles, the way they talked with each other gave the vibe that they were hiding something. Natsume caught them together a couple times now and he happened to hear one of their conversations and it was Mikan asking about Ruka's family and his childhood. Coming from Mikan who really asked a lot of questions, it was normal but Ruka's enthusiasm while answering her intrigued Natsume. Their sudden change of interaction became noticeable after Ruka made an unknown stop after their last Student Council gathering.
"So, what did Mr. Narumi think about it?" Ruka asked, eating a forkful of his pesto carbonara.
Koko invited everyone to eat at Glassroots that lunch break. He claimed to be craving for 'something not Japanese' and since the bistro could get stuffed sometimes, they voted on coming here since the last time they visited Glassroots, they didn't really get to eat. They settled on the long table at the middle of the café that could hold ten people which was more than enough for them. Yura ordered for the group even though Ruka said that he would be more than willing to order everything on the menu for their satisfaction. The café was full house but the noise was still lesser compared to other food establishments, main reason why students loved having their group studies here.
"Thought about what?" Mikan asked, who was sitting beside Ruka.
Ruka was busy slicing the strawberry cheesecake that was just served when he said, "Come on, I texted you about that."
"Oh, that charity event you guys talked about. Well, he liked the idea but everything depends on the higher ups," Mikan replied.
Natsume seated parallel of his best friend and newest friend, eyes never left them and peeking once in a while to Hotaru just to check her reaction but as usual she was emotionless about it. Noting the fact that Ruka and Mikan were texting each other, looked closer than ever, talking like they were alone, Natsume just had to confront Ruka about this because there's no doubt something happened between them. Natsume almost spilled his drink because of staring too much. Then he asked himself, why he was so bothered.
Sumire kept the boat floating by telling lots of stories, bringing laughter to the gang. They talked about the bloopers and failure during the Arts & Media Week, how it was not perfect in every way and how it could be better next time. They rewind the memory of Koko's ultimate drama which happened at the very café they were, it erupted louder laughters which made Koko cringed in humiliation. He was not used showing his weaker side especially to his friends but Sumire was super supportive of him, telling him it was one of the best lessons in their relationship.
Only a few minutes left before lunch break was over and their stories kept on coming but Yuu reminded the group that they should return and not be late for their respective classes. Ruka reiterated it was okay for them not to pay but everyone else insisted to. After settling that quick issue, they headed out to the academy with packed stomachs and memories.
"What do you think happened?" Koko whispered as he went beside Natsume.
"Happened to whom?" Natsume asked.
Koko pointed at the person on the frontlines of their trail. "Those two. Something's different."
"I don't know," Natsume replied, now aware of the fact that he was not the only noticing the difference.
Answering with limited words was normal for Natsume but Koko easily spotted the discomfort on his friend's tone. On Koko's case, he only noticed it at Glassroots unlike Natsume who discerned it from the start. Theories ran in Koko's mind, rewinding the times that Mikan and Ruka interacted this way. He was sure it's not during the school festival maybe it was during Arts & Media Week but he was also not certain because he was busy troubleshooting every problem that came.
"They weren't that close before. Does Mikan like Ruka or is it the other way around?"
Natsume growled lowly, getting annoyed with the consecutive questions. "Why don't you ask her?" he snarled at Koko.
Koko only grinned. "Ah, you look unhappy. I know for a fact that you guys know something that we don't."
"Since when do you gossip?"
Koko crossed his arms, proudly said, "If you have a girlfriend like Sumire, you would be aware of everyone's personal lives even if you don't have the slightest interest."
When Sumire ran out of topics to discuss and Koko pulled all his jokes already, they would talk about their friends and scenarios involving their friends. That's when Sumire usually chimed her gossips. Koko had no complaints because he was learning a lot. He could already be the source of unreliable information and it was actually entertaining for him.
Upon reaching the high school building, everyone started parting ways. Natsume watched Ruka bid his goodbyes to them before resting his eyes on Mikan's animated way of saying 'See you later'. Hotaru eyed Natsume sharply in an instant as if she was saying to stop staring at her best friend too much. He was not staring because of admiration, he was just observing Mikan to extract information and he wanted to make that clear as aqua. Natsume hated being misinterpreted with his actions and Hotaru being such a keen watcher didn't help him at all.
So, he needed to spend time with his newest friend and Natsume knew it wouldn't turn out weird because they already established their friendship. Quickly thinking of a plan, Natsume learned that he would only learn more about Mikan and her current actions with Ruka by initiating a possible bonding moment.
"Hey, Polka."
"What?" Mikan asked, turning around immediately upon hearing Natsume's voice.
"I'd like to have a return of favor sometime," Natsume said casually. He was talking about the Neko search.
Mikan pouted in disbelief. She did not expect Natsume saw that Neko search something she needed to repay. "Geez. Now, I'm indebted? Okay, fine."
When everyone dispersed, Mikan walked toward their classroom together with Hotaru and Yuu. Glances were exchanged between Hotaru and Yuu like they were fighting who would ask Mikan the question first. The better choice was Yuu so things would start smoothly because Hotaru could easily get to the point and might anger Mikan.
"Mikan, is there something we should know?" Yuu asked in a calm manner.
Furrowing her eyebrows, Mikan replied, "Huh? What are you talking about, Yuu?"
Yuu sighed, eyeing Hotaru as if asking her to interfere already, "Have you been doing things that we have no idea of lately?"
Mikan giggled before shaking her head. It was like she was doing drugs and thieving supermarkets, "Nothing that I'm aware of," she replied confidently.
In reality, Mikan was just denying it because she did not want to make a big deal out of being friends with Ruka. She knew exactly what was Yuu trying to ask, noticed the exchange of looks between Hotaru, Yuu, Koko and even Natsume during lunch, and she just disregarded the mini attention paid to her and Ruka because, really, they were just closer as friends. But, Mikan knew it was hard to explain that to people who had always been misinterpreting things.
Hotaru rolled her eyes with Mikan's vague replies, frowning at Yuu's poor way of interrogation. She stepped on the scene, burned gaze at Mikan's innocent-like auburn eyes. Hotaru was the longest friend of Mikan Sakura so no lie, truth, embarrassing moment, victorious day, or even the tiniest irrelevant happening in Mikan's life passed Hotaru. She knew everything needed to know about her best friend and she knew that Mikan liked to act stupid when she was far from one.
"Stop lying to us," Hotaru snapped.
"Why are you acting like that? Trust me, Hotaru, nothing changed with my relationship with Ruka."
Very rarely that Hotaru would confront Mikan on such personal matters but she hated when her best friend was not telling her the truth about everything. Mikan made her feel being left in the dark multiple times just not to burden her and it was downright upsetting especially to her who only wanted to help to the best of her ability but this time, what Hoatru wanted was just for Mikan to be honest.
"We can all notice it. You have private conversations, you frequently text each other? I mean, what is that?" Yuu inquired, stating all the obvious ones so far.
Mikan put a hand in the air, feeling awkward how much her friends took their time to observe her. "Yuu, relax. I text you all the time, also. That's what friends do," she explained but none of them was convinced, "Besides, if I happened to have a boyfriend, you guys would be the first to know."
"I just hope you know what you're doing," Hotaru warned.
"I am very well aware," Mikan said with a smile.
"Did you confess to him?" Hotaru finally asked.
Mikan gave a quick reply, "Not exactly."
Sometimes, Hotaru hated it when evasiveness conquered Mikan's personality. The brunette could easily manipulate conversations, she could make it easier or harder but Hotaru never wanted to accept defeat when it came to controlling situations. Besides, Hotaru saw Mikan in countless situations wherein she was caught off-guard, this is not new for the Ice Queen but nevertheless it still annoyed her to the extreme.
"Why don't you just answer me straightly?" Hotaru said out of irritation.
Mikan wondered if Hotaru understood why she was trying to avoid this subject. She had a very good reason for being subtle in telling stories about that afternoon and what happened after it. Talking with Ruka was not the same with confessing to him. Although, she said things that somehow implied that she liked him very much but directly admitting it was not how she described it. As Mikan looked at Hotaru and Yuu's expectant eyes, she could not help but tell the reason why she did not exactly confess.
"Geez! He likes somebody already, okay? And I kinda felt that he was not interested not too long ago. We're just friends, nothing more and nothing less. Why, are you jealous?" The last part was meant as a joke directed to Hotaru.
Hotaru clenched her fists."You did not just say that to me."
Mikan turned her back, regretting for letting that one out. "Well, sorry! You're acting strange."
"Because you're acting strange," Hotaru cleared.
Mikan grunted and took a deep breath. She hated being stressed out for such a shallow topic. Facing Hotaru with much seriousness, she said, "Can we just not talk about this again in this manner? I don't want us to get into an argument."
Thinking about it, Hotaru considered their little banter as stupid and pointless. She was just not used not knowing what Mikan was up to especially now that her brunette best friend rarely consulted for when it came to decision-making. Hotaru knew that Mikan wanted to practice independency but the process was not gradual and feeling like you had less role in your best friend's life was not the very best feeling in the world.
"Fine," Hotaru muttered in agreement.
Yuu let out a deep sigh, thankful that his two friends found a temporary haven in Maturity City. He really thought they were gonna fight on who was telling the truth and the reason behind the sudden change in status quo. Yuu understood where Hotaru was coming from because he had the same questions but he was not that worried. He always saw Mikan as a woman of reason. Mikan had a different view from the others, not just looking straight but looking at every direction and right now Yuu was curious what Mikan was planning.
Very seldom that Natsume started the conversation. Whenever he did, it was because he really needed that favor or the answer but he did it with such intricacy that people like Koko wouldn't even noticed that Natsume Hyuuga just asked them a favor. As for a longtime friend like Ruka, he instantly noticed when Natsume wanted answered questions. The Vice President maintained his stoic face but his travelling eyes could be interpreted as discomfort and impatience to start the talk.
Ruka watched the road, smiling inwardly to be with a distracted Natsume who still managed to drive smoothly. A normal day had passed and being not busy enough was such a foreign feeling for Ruka who, if not doing his presidential duties, was also busy acing his academics. Unlike Natsume, he needed to work hard to keep up with everyone but he managed to be relaxed about it, not making people notice that he was procrastinating.
"What's up with you and Polka?" Natsume asked, finally.
"We're friends, why?" Ruka replied, his voice hinted nothing.
Natsume almost scoffed. "Oh, really?"
Even if it was the truth, Natsume still made Ruka feel like a liar.
Ruka closed his eyes for a moment, trying to remember what changed his behavior towards Mikan. "We actually talked last week. You know, Mikan is the kind of person who does unexpected things. You should know since you're close to her," Ruka said in his most casual tone.
Natsume frowned. "I'm not close to her."
Ruka chuckled, not accepting the denial. "Yeah, tell that to your Polka Dots."
"It's meant to annoy her," Natsume elaborated.
Now, it was Ruka who refused to believe his best friend. "The last time you had an endearment with someone was…"
"Don't even say it," Natsume replied, irritation showed up in his tone.
It was a long time ago and Ruka felt that Natsume was still influenced by that turning point. Regretting what he just reminded Natsume earlier, he said, "Sorry. I just remembered. You guys can stop talking about us. Really, we're just closer than ever."
Seeing the red Subaru at the driveway, Natsume immediately knew that her mother was home. Maybe she was from another business trip, just stopped by to have dinner or grab new set of clothes, Natsume did not wonder what was the reason of his mother this time. Upon entering the house, he was greeted by one of the house helpers before noticing that Kaoru having her sweet time at the balcony, drinking a glass of wine.
Kaoru turned to alcohol when her day started or ended wrong. It was a normal stress reliever but Natsume never felt comfortable with it.
"Hi, Natsume. Long time no see," Kaoru greeted, her way of talking was slow, "I saw your father today and he mentioned that you wanted to see him since his birthday is near."
There was always a tint of jealousy whenever Kaoru talked Natsume about her estranged husband because she knew deep inside that if Natsume had a choice, he would be more than willing to live with his father than her. But, she won the case in court. Every time she remembered that supposed victory, it only made her heart flinch in pain. People congratulated her but the prize that she won only moped in sorrow and confusion even now. She knew very well that Natsume communicated with Ioran more compared to her, she made efforts to get closer with her son but it seemed like Ioran always did better than her.
Natsume sat at the chair beside her, thinking that this was the first time in a long time that she had the chance to talk to him privately. Sometimes, the independency and genius inside Natsume scared her, thinking that it was so easy for her son to walk away from her because he was more than capable of taking care of himself. Kaoru saw it like that. That was why as long as she could manipulate Natsume's future, she would. It was a sign that she was still useful as a mother. It was the only thing she could brag about to her own son.
"For a divorced couple, you sure are updated with him."
Kaoru laughed bitterly. "Bumped into him in this golf club. God, just remembering that makes my head ache."
"You have another place to avoid. Congratulations," Natsume replied in sarcasm, "Anyway, why are you here?"
Just as they were staring a good conversation, he immediately questioned her purpose of coming home tonight. Deep inside Natsume, he really wanted to know why his mother went home. Kaoru stared at her now empty glass, repeating in her head why indeed she came over. She then took her time to examine Natsume to appreciate his presence in the time remaining. Kaoru wondered if he would be disappointed if she told him the petty reason. She claimed to hate superficial people and yet she could not avoid being one in times like this. She could easily buy new clothes at any store and yet she preferred to be home for this, for her to be able to steal a moment with her son.
"Oh, Luna called me the other day. She said Alice Academy has some studies done that are related with their investigatory project so she's coming to town. Entertain her well, Natsume."
Kaoru very well knew that their talk ended at that moment.
"What makes you think I'll do that? Why don't you entertain her yourself?" Natsume snapped.
Kaoru did not want to match Natsume's darkening mood. She made a sinister smile and gazed at her son longingly. "Aww, are you still angry with her? I told you to stop having ill feelings with her. If it's not Luna, then forget everything."
Natsume stood up quickly, making his way upstairs, "Don't count me on it. Goodnight."
"Where are you going? We will be having dinner."
Natsume simply ignored the question. "Lost my appetite already."
Kaoru considered herself the best when it came to who could piss Natsume just like that. Always dropping the bomb at the wrong time and pushing herself to be relevant in her own son's life. She always wanted to bring up Luna in the conversation because it was something Natsume had to be ready for. When Kaoru went back to being alone, she checked the date on her phone and let out a bitter smile.
Mikan usually spent her weekends cleaning her room, watering the plants, eating while watching movies, and put on delaying tactic to prevent her from working on projects and homework. Sometimes, Narumi would invite her on volunteer works but she didn't like it very much because Mikan preferred to sleep and rest. Wasting her two days was not an issue until Narumi urged her to be more active in school. Her father claimed that sometimes clubs would require working even on weekends and that would help a lot to make her forget life's ultimate problems. She didn't listen to him until this school year. So, Mikan was just a lazy bum.
When Natsume wanted a return of favor, she already expected it to happen on weekends. No wonder she had a hard time accepting that Natsume only wanted a comeback. But going back on how she just dragged and forced him to find Neko, Mikan already understood why Natsume asked for help. They agreed to meet in front of Alice Academy. Mikan wore a plain white shirt and skinny jeans. She played with her hair tied in high ponytail as she waited for Natsume who came minutes after.
Seeing Natsume in such a casual wear was an unusual sight for Mikan. The uniform they wore in school didn't hide his handsome face but it certainly hid his toned body. His simple gray shirt and black, skinny pants also made him look taller. Mikan was also simple herself with her also black pants and white V-neck shirt. Natsume reminded her to wear comfortable clothes and there and then she knew she would be doing some tough work.
"Okay. Where's our destination?" Mikan immediately asked.
"Follow me."
Mikan silently did what Natsume told her while feeling a bit disregarded because her question was left unanswered. When she realized they were headed towards a familiar car, Mikan tapped Natsume's shoulder. The vice president automatically turned his head to discover what was wrong.
"Wait. I'm not going to ride that."
Natsume heaved a deep, annoyed sigh. This scene was so familiar to him that he didn't need a second to remember the first time Mikan rejected the idea of riding in his car. "What's with you and riding cars? Do you have a phobia or something?"
Mikan only grunted, clearly not answering his question.
He only ignored her previous whining and went inside the car. "Hop in. You're wasting my time."
Mikan snapped her fingers and suggested, "Why don't you just tell me where we are going and I'm gonna follow you there?"
Natsume didn't even look at her, saying, "You're being pointless, Polka Dots. Stop wasting time."
Mikan was not in the mood to fight with Natsume. Their relationship passed that stage wherein everything they do together, they would argue over it first. No one said it out loud but these two had a budding friendship already, a path which Mikan really liked. So, even though she was uncomfortable and fearing for her life, even if there was an alternative and excuse not to get in the car, she did it. Because she did not want to get on Natsume's bad side today.
"Please drive carefully," Mikan said in defeat.
Mikan was stealing glances through the whole trip, her hands wrapped around the hand rail carefully. Indie pop music filled the unexpectedly bigger space of the car. No one dared to talk first as if it would just be a waste of time. It rained a little and the drops that were spread all over the windows gave a chilly vibe. Mikan took a photo of it. Sometimes, the rain could be beautiful. That was the moment when she wanted to randomly talk about the weather but when she glanced at a very concentrated Natsume, she doubted if he would appreciate the boring topic.
The normal feeling should be weirdness. Mikan should be feeling that because this scene inside the car, alone with Natsume, was not something that crossed her mind even for a second, not even in her dream but here they were, going to god-knows-where. Far from their bickering, clashing personalities, today they she was returning a favor, an act she didn't complain on. Natsume entered on of Tokyo's most visited mall. Mikan kinda expected this but she couldn't still fathom their real purpose. Natsume didn't utter a word which also left her assumptions in limbo.
Natsume parked the car with ease and good thing was that they were near the entrance. Still not a word from him, Mikan continued following her guide. They were not talking with each other but they knew nothing was wrong and this was only normal. They were just in the mood for quietness.
"What are we looking for here?" Mikan finally asked when she noticed that they entered a bookstore.
"Actually, I already ordered everything we need," Natsume informed before approaching the information desk, "Hi. The stocks ordered under Hyuuga please."
The man assigned at the desk searched for the name in his laptop and confirmed the order. "Right away, Sir."
They were offered to take a seat first because releasing the orders may take a while. Mikan crossed her legs and pretended to be busy with her phone while Natsume grabbed the nearest book beside him. hIn reality, Natsume was just pretending to be occupied as Mikan fidgeted on the side. Minutes later, large boxes were out one by one and Mikan could not take it anymore and finally mumbled the ultimate question.
"What are these?" Mikan asked while pointing at the boxes.
"School supplies," Natsume replied.
"For whom?"
A smirk before a reply. "We will be delivering this to my father."
"Ugh! That stupid Natsume, only carrying a box while I carried the rest."
Sweating thickly like she just finished a 10K run, Mikan closed the trunk harder than it should. Natsume just watched her transfer the heavy boxes from the transporter into the car. She sensed that he laughed at her while she had trouble on how to position the boxes on the limited space. If this was the return of favor he asked for then Mikan did not find this comical at all. He thought he found a slave for a day in her! How annoying it was for Mikan. This should be the man's work not hers.
"Are you done?" Natsume asked with the intention of irking her.
Mikan rolled her eyes before turning around to face him with a sweet smile. "Yeah, thank you for the help," she said in gritted teeth. She hated him seeing just leaning on the car beside his.
Natsume could see how much it exhausted Mikan and he was just having the time of his day. He knew the brunette was complaining like hell on the inside but decided to keep it because she needed to return the favor. He acted as if doing nothing while watching her lift and drop those boxes were just a normal occurrence. When Mikan violently closed the trunk, he wanted to aggravate her more.
"Quick. We don't have time to lose anymore."
"What's with you and wasting time?" Mikan asked in displeasure and when she remembered something, a bitter taste in her mouth appeared as she asked, "Is you mother currently in your house?"
Just the thought of that made Mikan's heartbeat erratic. She didn't want to face Kaoru today or in any other day but if she was there, then Mikan just needed to do her best to avoid her. Quickly, she thought of the best excuse she could come up.
"Told you we will be giving this to my father," Natsume repeated what he had said earlier.
Mikan wanted to burst. "Exactly! Well, duh, he lives there, right?"
Natsume blankly looked at Mikan's convoluted face. "They're separated, actually."
Feeling like an immature child, Mikan hit herself lightly in the head. Her mind was slow in comprehension at times, something that her mouth did not lack of. This combination led her to many troubles in the past. She placed an apologetic expression. "Oh. I didn't know! Sorry. I won't ask anymore."
Natsume giggled shortly without saying anything and went on driving.
She tried her best to avoid looking at Natsume. It's just that the revelation caught Mikan off-guard. Although it maybe was not a secret that his parents were separated, Mikan was sure that Natsume didn't talk about it publicly either so that fact about him surprised her. She already met his mother and it was a disaster, Mikan's mind advanced at the possibilities of meeting another parent of his. She certainly prayed that it would go smoothly and not another disaster. Because another bad meeting with a Hyuuga could say a lot about her personality.
They stopped at a bungalow house painted in green and white inside an exclusive subdivision. The house was pale compared to its neighbors but Mikan liked how it was unique in this subdivision and completely average outside. It was also far from Mikan's expectation which happened to be another mansion surrounded by maple trees and roses. In front of her now was just a simple home with two yellow street lamps at the door. When the engine went off, Natsume went straight to get the boxes himself. Mikan wanted to ask more questions but she was afraid that her duty ended there. She was no longer needed. The favor had been returned.
But Natsume handed her the lightest box. Her face asking why but Natsume only stared at her.
"Natsume!" a jolly voice interrupted their staring contest.
He must be the father, Mikan suspected and immediately bowed to greet, "Good evening."
Ioran Hyuuga had the personality of that typical sidekick of the protagonist. He was charming, funny, knowledgeable, and had that sense of volunteerism. He met Kaoru on a charity event, such a cliché boy meets girl thing but he felt the spark instantly and as the time went on, Ioran was more than sure that Kaoru was for him. He loved listening to her stories and always felt the proudest whenever his estranged wife achieved another of her goal. He was that husband. And he was still that person minus the glitz and glamour of the elite. He abandoned that side of him.
Now, Ioran was more into helping the less fortunate people in and outside Japan. He liked to change lives bit by bit. It was why there was no question on how much Natsume admired his father. Ioran might have failed to present his capability of raising Natsume on his own at the court but he never left her son. In fact, he was always there for Natsume. In every school event, every election, every math problem that could not be solved, he was there.
"Oh, who do we have here? Girlfriend?" Ioran teased.
Mikan blushed at the statement. "No, Sir."
Natsume only shook his head and went inside the humble home. Mikan made an attempt to follow until Ioran talked to her again.
"Sorry to make you feel uncomfortable. I know you're not his girlfriend."
Mikan felt something was off with that statement but decided to shrug it off to help Natsume on the boxes. They placed it in the living room. Just a small room with two queen chairs and a couch facing the fireplace. The floor was carpeted and the air smelled vanilla which must be coming from the opened candles at the dining room, a few steps away from where they stood. A mini chandelier illuminated the entrance and Mikan could not help but compare the house to her home. About the same size and style except they were not in an exclusive subdivision and they lack chandeliers.
"What can you say with my gift?" Natsume bragged.
Ioran went in to hug Natsume and messed up his hair. "Pretty impressed you thought about this, my idiot son," Ioran commented proudly then paid attention to the brunette, "Do you know it's my birthday today, Miss?"
Mikan was in dazed while watching them until she heard her name and then she rattled, "Mikan Sakura, Sir! And no, I don't know. I'm sorry. Natsume didn't tell me a thing about today."
No wonder Natsume refused to tell where they were going. He actually invited her on a birthday celebration and she could not help but feel going way beyond. They had just been friends and it felt like she had not earned that privilege of dining with Natsume's father yet. She stood firm there, immobilized for a second while thinking how to excuse herself. She tried to catch Natsume's stare but he was busy arranging the boxes.
Finally, Ioran noticed that his visitor began to feel like a party-crasher. He then approached Mikan and said, "I am Ioran Hyuuga, by the way, the father of this mutt. Let's go in the dining room. I have prepared food. Luckily, I prepared for more than two persons."
Mikan didn't know if she should be thankful or not. "I'm sorry for intruding," she replied.
Ioran let out a smile then it was never gone. "No worries, Mikan."
When she saw that Ioran Hyuuga was out of sight, Mikan stomped her way to Natsume and grabbed the hem of his shirt. "You didn't even tell me it's his birthday," she hissed in his ear.
Natsume was still not feeling sorry. "Do you even need to know?" he let out, noticing the tiny gap between them.
Mikan sighed. "Well, duh. I need to know to be prepared."
"So, are you two classmates?" Ioran yelled from the dining as he prepared the plates and utensils. He caught a glimpse of the two and decided in his mind that they could go a long way. Actually, he debated if this was a good sign or not.
Mikan let go of her hold on Natsume then proceeded to the dining area. "No, we just belong to the same committee but we're on the same year," she explained in the nicest tone possible.
Natsume was amazed at the change of attitude of Mikan. He was feeling amused as he followed her in the dining. Honestly, one reason why he chose Mikan to help him today because it would be less drama. Ioran would not dare to talk about the past and future with a new person around. Ioran liked to be a father so much at times that Natsume felt like he was just being commanded at.
"When was the last time you introduced a friend, Natsume? I can't even remember."
Natsume signaled Mikan to sit beside him. "Your memory's just dull. Remember my friends at the Student Council?" he reiterated.
Ioran suddenly felt old when he forgot about that. It was actually a surprising thing that Natsume really did get serious on being a student leader. All the while, he thought that Natsume would be more into being a lazy bum who aced every exams and oral recitation without moving a finger but his son actually put efforts. Nobody could question Natsume's great capability of making everything he does a success and that was one thing Ioran was so proud of. Good thing that Natsume found good friends that fitted his personality and needs. Well, Ruka being there alone brought peace of mind to him as a father.
"Oh, right. I met them when I sponsored this reading program to unprivileged children of Tokyo."
Mikan had a knack of idolizing to people who went out of their way to help. In her eyes, Ioran Hyuuga was not your typical rich volunteer. Mikan had no idea that Natsume had such an amazing dad and what was so alien for her that this kind-hearted man married Kaoru Hyuuga. The brunette did not want to judge but she had a small guess why they divorced.
"Are those school supplies for another outreach program of yours?" Mikan asked, feeling a bit satisfied that she helped deliver those.
Ioran nodded. "I already have the school supplies I need but I didn't expect Natsume to donate. Thank you for the best birthday gift in a long time."
"I knew you'd like it," Natsume replied.
Mikan was in awe the whole time he watched the father and son had their conversation. Natsume was so affectionate to his father, far from the guarded behavior he showed with his mother.
"I cooked my all-time favorite chicken marinated in rosemary sauce with sweet gravy partnered with java rice. Coleslaw for the side dish, also made by yours truly and honey blend iced tea mixed with peaches."
"All of these look so good!" Mikan exclaimed, her mouth watering.
"Let's eat, shall we?" Ioran invited.
Mikan went straight for the chicken and put more than enough rice on her plate. Natsume found it really neat that Mikan was not a picky eater. She also did not hide her excitement for the food and Natsume already suspected that the shyness Mikan was feeling a while ago was now gone. He offered her a drink to which she nodded.
"Have you met my estranged wife, Mikan?" Ioran asked out of the blue.
Mikan almost choked at her food. She didn't know if she should just tell the truth or sugarcoat the meeting she had with Kaoru Hyuuga. Even if they were divorced, surely Mr. Hyuuga could be biased. "Accidentally," was her short reply.
"How was she like?" Ioran continued.
Natsume glared at his father but was left unnoticed.
Mikan decided to be honest about it because she doubted if another meeting with Ioran was possible. She thought that this was just a one-time thing."She offered me to eat dinner, too. But she told me lots of mean things. I'm sorry to say this but I don't like her much."
For a person who seemed like hiding many things, Mikan sure was an honest one. Natsume was surprised that she actually told her that in front of them like she was not scared to be judged or get kicked out of the house. The good thing was Natsume knew that his father liked honest people more than anything and if Mikan said that her meeting with Kaoru Hyuuga absolutely went fine, Ioran would know that Mikan just lied.
Ioran laughed his heart out. "Your mother doesn't change, Natsume."
Natsume tried to change the topic. "She remembers your birthday. Has she sent you anything?"
"Other than hate mails? Nope."
Natsume drawled out a flat laughter. "Good to know your communication is still intact," he said in sarcasm.
"Is Natsume doing good in school?" Ioran asked.
Mikan stopped from eating when she realized that the elder Hyuuga was asking her. "Yeah, he's an achiever."
Ioran eyed his son with a teasing glance and replied smugly, "Something he inherited from me,"
"Not really," Natsume commented from the sides as he sliced his chicken.
Mikan only laughed at Natsume's reaction. She was enjoying the food but this conversation more. She was kinda glad that Ioran didn't say anything bad to her when she admitted she didn't like Kaoru. His cool personality should be stuck in Natsume somewhere.
"Well, from his mother and I. I hate to admit it but Kaoru is one the smartest persons I know," Ioran explained, being so casual about it. "How close are you and my son?"
What a way to make the conversation awkward. Natsume knew that his father was trying to confirm something but Ioran would just be disappointed to know the truth.
"We just became friends. Your son used to hate me," Mikan answered straightly.
"I told you I didn't hate you," Natsume reminded as he poured another drink for Mikan.
Mikan ignored him and went on explaining. "His actions before told me otherwise."
No reaction from Natsume as he was admitting that there was a burning resistance the first time she saw Mikan. It was suddenly she popped from nowhere trying to infiltrate their lives by solving their problem from them as if she had been there from the start. He saw her on a different light now. Maybe he had a good effect on Mikan as well.
Ioran could not agree more. "He always had problems communicating what he feels. Remember when you and Ruka punched each other's faces?" he pointed out with a laugh.
Mikan was interested all of a sudden. "That happened? When?"
"Middle school, if I remember correctly. Do you remember that, huh, Natsume? They were fighting because of a girl."
"For real?" Mikan laughed as she gave an accusing and teasing look to Natsume.
"Dad, stop."
"It was so funny that every time I remember it, I would burst out laughing!" Ioran went on.
But, Natsume did not find it funny at all. Even if it was such a stupid and childish thing to do, he could not laugh about it and instead he only felt sorry for himself. Given that they were young when that happened, he still could not believe that he chose this girl over his friendship with Ruka who, until now, was his best buddy.
"Is this a story of two best friends liking the same girl?"
It was like Mikan hit the nail perfectly.
"I said stop! What part of it don't you understand?" Natsume yelled out of irritation.
"Sorry," Ioran said in regret. He saw that Natsume remained feeling resentful about that incident. "On a lighter note, do you like the food?"
Mikan planned to apologize to Natsume later and replied, "Very much!"
The night ended with their stomachs full and their hearts' filled with stories. Mikan had no problem mingling with the Hyuugas. There was a bit of tension earlier but that was a forgettable circumstance. They did not touch the subject again. After eating, they went to arrange the school supplies and made list of the package per bag. Mikan was very energetic about it. This was a side of Natsume that she just discovered and she felt like she knew about it at the perfect time.
"Thank you for coming today, Natsume. I can always have the happiest birthday celebration with my son here."
Natsume expressed that needed to get home already as it was already late. Ioran felt like that time was short and still not enough for them to bond fully but he didn't want to be selfish.
"You know I'll always come."
Mikan was already inside the car when she waved at Ioran. The latter waved back. "So, why'd you bring Mikan here with you?" he asked, wanting to know the real reason.
"I did something for her so I want the return of favor. I can't carry all those boxes so I thought she could help me back this way," Natsuem replied.
Ioran smiled, kinda disappointed at the real reason. "She's nice," he said.
"Yeah?" Natsume asked as he stared at her, "Well, yeah, she is nice."
He could not believe that he was pushing his son to a different girl. Ioran ran a hand through his hair. By this time, Natsume knew why his father was acting like that.
"How is Kaoru doing?"
Natsume waited for that question all night. "The same. You saw her just recently so you could probably tell."
"Tell her even if we're divorced, we can still celebrate occasions like this together. Like how she still uses my surname."
There was sadness and longing in Ioran's voice and he knew that the request was impossible to happen but maybe Kaoru knowing that he was still open to see her would lessen the antagonistic tendencies she had with him.
Natsume patted his father's shoulder. "Why don't you tell her yourself?" he suggested even knowing that will never happen.
The ride home was far from the ride they experience while departing. Mikan still had her hands tight on the seatbelt but she was back to her talkative state now. So much carbohydrates from dinner could really get you pumped up.
"I didn't expect you father to be like that. He's awesome! And his cooking skill is more awesome and he helps less fortunate kids which makes him the most awesome!"
Natsume smirked. It's like he was the one being complimented at. He was proud of his father that way. "Careful. Don't let him hear you. It's not good to inflate his ego."
"That's the truth, though," Mikan said with naivety and when she went silent for a second, she came back with a realization. "You are actually fond of your dad," she stated.
Natsume lived his mother his entire life and yet he did not have the same feeling when he was with his father. Was that something sad? Natsume thought so but still he could not help but feel this way especially when his father was being such a father. Mikan noticed that, too. Don't get him wrong, though because Kaoru was still someone dear to him, he just had a few misunderstandings with her. He was willing to understand her mother more but Kaoru always let the chance slipped. Every single time.
"You got a problem with that?"
"You're more human than I thought," Mikan admitted.
Natsume frowned at the statement. So, what was he then? A monster? "What's that supposed to mean?"
Mikan pretended that she did not offend him. "It means you're not so out of reach, Natsume."
He was never out of reach. Natsume wondered what made Mikan see it like that.
Natsume remembered her address well. He was glad that she didn't make a comment about his driving although he noticed the tension all throughout. Mikan got off the car while Natsume shut the engine in a second. He followed her to the entrance.
"Thank you for bringing me today," Mikan said in sincerity.
"Don't get the wrong idea. I brought you to help me with those boxes."
The brunette nodded, aware that it was the only reason. "Even so, I had lots of fun. It's great that you didn't bear grudge to your father when they separated."
"What can I do? It is what you said, he may talk loud but he's my father."
Mikan pinched his cheeks hard, much to his protest and utter dismay. "Such a lucky child," Mikan teased. When she let go, she pointed at the door to say that today ended there.
"It's late. Do I have to explain to Mr. Narumi?"
"No, it's alright," Mikan already informed Narumi ahead of time, "Uhmm, Natsume? Did Ruka tell you anything?"
Right. Another reason why be brought Mikan today was for them to talk about that and yet he totally forgot about it. He was so focused at the moment that he disregarded the purpose. Good thing she brought it up herself.
"He just said you're closer than ever."
"Which is true."
That was the only thing she said. No more additional statements like 'I'm gonna continue making Ruka notice me' or 'You can't stop me from liking him'.
"I still want you to stay away from him. You will only get disappointed. Goodnight."
After Natsume said that, he went on in speed. Already out of her sight in just second. Now, Mikan knew why Natsume despised her plan to be with Ruka. It was because he knew who Ruka really liked. Mikan clenched her fist, finding it amusing that they were all just hiding the truth when in fact everybody knew about it. Natsume was being honest when he said he didn't hate her. And Mikan started feeling scared because she never hated him also, in fact, she doubted if she could ever hate him. Because she was starting to feel the exact opposite.
She slumped at the ground, still refusing to enter the house until she got a text.
Forgot to say it but thank you for today, Polka.
Then she knew, right there and then, that things would get more complicated this time.
End of Chapter
Hola, guys! I am back and I am sorry it took so long. You see, I started my work last March and that's the reason why I can't update as much. But I will try my best to update more often. I hope you like this one. Thank you for your reviews and for waiting.