Something You've Read Before

Chapter Twenty four

Streetlights on Mars

Ruka displayed a serious expression as he pressed in sequence the buttons of his laptop with much force. He already spent a total of four days summarizing all the events he organized with the council this year, hoping to pass the information on the next president. He pushed his swivel chair slightly and made one turn while stretching his arms and legs out. Although it was just the middle of the day, the exhaustion of toiling the report from the previous days came to him in a bulk this morning. There had been no deadline posted but knowing that he had another school event coming up on December, he better wrap this one up and just add that event to the report later. Good thing that Hotaru energized his morning by making him breakfast, which was indeed delectable especially the French toast, or else Ruka would found no energy to continue the day.

Upon closing the tab for the document Ruka tried to finish, he suddenly remembered the argument he had yesterday with the principal regarding the delegates of the leadership conference for the weekend. Apparently, Natsume's unexcused absences went noticeable to the principal and questioned his qualities of being qualified for the conference. Of course, Ruka pushed for the inclusion of his vice president because no one could take over his position as president other than Natsume in his opinion. Ruka knew that elections determined that and not his choice but once Natsume decide to run, it was almost a sure win. So, adding to his stress in academics and extra-curriculars were altercations with the principal. Luckily, Ruka ended up being victorious and convinced the superior that Natsume must be in the conference no matter what.

Like magic, Natsume entered the door with his backpack on his one shoulder, wearing his common stoic expression but this time there was a distinct glint in his ruby eyes. Ruka spotted it so easily thanks to his eighteen years' worth of friendship with the guy. Natsume laid the bag on the table and took a seat on the side, looking at Ruka with expectant eyes. Like a crumpled paper, Ruka frowned his mouth, hating the fact that Natsume went there knowing that he would probably receive a long scolding. The little adventure Natsume had with Mikan in Akita was not a secret and they even encouraged him to go with the brunette because it seemed like a very important matter. They even agreed not to contact any of them unless they received an update from either of the two. They granted that agreement but what they were not prepared to was how long the couple was going to be away. Day one passed and so did day two, still no update from them. Ruka went as far to thinking that they met their ends by getting thrown at a cliff which was exaggerated but a total possibility.

Finally, day three came, the only time when Natsume finally remembered that they had friends waiting for them in Tokyo. The text message Ruka received had hazy details, only telling that he was going back with Mikan and everything else would be explained when they meet again. No exact time of their arrival or even a brief conclusion of their trip was incorporated in the message which made Ruka take deep breaths for a whole minute. There were a lot of things running into Ruka's mind in the present but he wanted to start strong and that he did.

"You should have told us when you will be back!" Ruka yelled to his best friend. In that moment, he felt like he was Natsume's father, reprimanding his child for scooting away from home.

Natsume stared at him for a quick moment before he rolled his eyes and looked away. "Why? So you could wiggle your welcome placards in the station?"

"No. Why would we do that?" Ruka retorted back with an incredulous look but he realized Natsume was just being sarcastic, "It's because of the Annual Leadership Congress that will be held this weekend."

Maybe this was the third time Natsume heard about the said conference this schoolyear. It was a yearly meeting of student leaders to discuss what they had to do in order to become more effective and affective when it came to creating and implementing policies, forming and maintaining clubs, and looking out for the school in general. Joining in one felt like you were being groomed as a young politician to which Natsume had no interest in. What Natsume was interested about was what he could do for the school and its students. Anyways, it somehow surprised Natsume that it was happening on the coming days. He remembered how Ruka narrated his experience with the conference with such passion just last year.

"What about it?"

Ruka raised an eyebrow. "You, Hotaru, and Anna are the chosen delegates. The principal almost wanted you out because you've been absent for three days."

Natsume nodded in response. "Did you not explain to him where I was?"

"Tell him you're with your Mikan? No way he would accept that when you clearly have no relationship." Ruka felt that he delivered that line too quick because Natsume kept looking at him with a sinister smile. Ruka wondered what was in his sentence to gain such reaction from Natsume. First, it was the sparkle in his eyes and second, this mystifying reaction.

"Says who?" Natsume rigged from his lips then stood up, declaring, "Anyways, I'm going."

"Where?" asked Ruka because he did not know if Natsume meant to the conference or somewhere else.

Natsume was rapid in getting back his bag, his steps brought him to the door in a whim whilst Ruka only stared at him, still finding answers until he got one. "Lunch. The most important meal of the day."

With her two hands crumpling her pleated skirt, Mikan stayed in her seat with much composure as she struggled in gluing her stare to the person before her. At times, she could not help her eyes in wandering on the walls and ceiling of the principal's office. It was safe to say that she liked the overall architecture and design of the room. The typical office was what Mikan had in mind the first time she visited this sanctuary because of the cliché wooden door used as an entrance and exit point but when she stepped inside, the room was actually painted in pearly white, similar to the color of the Student Council office. The floors were carpeted and maintained clean as evident by its deep color of red. There was a three-seater couch just after the door, a glass table in the middle of the room equipped with three chairs, one for the principal and two for the visitors verbalizing their concern. A good three separate bookshelves were spread all over the room, filled with books from the classics to the most modern award-winning fiction. To add more drama to the room was the daylight placed just above the principal's table. Mikan found it soothing to work in such an environment.

"I just want you to know Miss Sakura that if this happens again in the future, you will be facing more serious consequences."

The sentence brought Mikan's attention back to the speaker. The principal was not a bad person, he was quite the opposite. However, there were many times that he only followed the orders of The Board instead of following his own conviction. Mikan still preferred his relaxed way of talking to another person like he meant no harm or intimidation despite the gravity of his words. Mikan discerned that the three days she spent away from school would not be left unpunished. No one got the best of both worlds. Even if there was no regrets to her going in Akita, it was only when she came back to school and was called by the principal did she realize the severity of neglecting her studies for a while. To no avail, Mikan could not squeak her real purpose of traversing thousands of miles to get back to her hometown because it was still a personal reason, not meant to be shared publicly.

"I understand."

The principal looked stern as he said his words. "And Narumi will not be able to do anything about it."

Mikan nodded even more, acknowledging her accountability on the situation. "I don't expect him to. This is solely my responsibility as a grown-up."

Removing his eyeglasses which were hurting his head, the principal felt glad that Mikan was able to grasp the point he liked to make. "Very good then. You can start your school service by playing volleyball with Miss Otonashi's group later this afternoon."

The deal was to replace the absented days into sixteen hours of school service wherein Mikan offered her services to various causes of the school like the volleyball team not having enough members, Mikan was there to fill the blank. If the cafeteria needed extra help in sorting the nearly expired breads from the new one, Mikan was there to give them a helping hand. Or, if the teachers needed help in photocopying the handouts for the Parents-Teachers Association meeting, Mikan was there in an instant to not only do the photocopying but also arrange the documents in folders and placed them in the respective tables.

"Are they in dire need of a member?" Mikan asked, a little worried about her skill in volleyball.

"It's actually a competition between two senior sections but one of the key members of Miss Otonashi's group slipped in the staircase just yesterday, rendering them short with one member."

Since volleyball was the kind of sport that could only work with an intensive amount of teamwork, Mikan found her confidence in a different world but the moment she reminisced Yura's astonishing performance in Shirahama, it felt like a torn had been taken out from her trachea. "I am not that keen in volleyball but I know Yura does it excellently so count me on it."

"Very well then. You may go."

Mikan made one last bow before exiting the office with stretching before doing some serious volleyball in her mind. She closed the door with gentleness and when she turned around, she found two figures on the hallway who seemed to be waiting for her presence. Giving them a contagious smile, Mikan waved at Ruka and Natsume and made her way in careful steps. She actually did not wonder why they were there because she too had been waiting for lunch break to come. All day she looked forward on sharing this whole hour with Natsume and also with her friends if they happened to select cafeteria food for the day.

"Hi, Ruka! Hey, Natsume."

For a long time, Ruka questioned the essence of their loitering in front of the principal's office and then his query was answered indirectly again when Mikan emerged from the room who looked like she was expecting them. He watched Natsume and Mikan's interaction, hoping to find the cause of Natsume's cheerful expression. There was nothing peculiar in the way they were acting and mingled like they did before. With Mikan automatically going to Natsume's side to start her stories and Natsume responding the way he usually did with Mikan, Ruka found their actions so mundane.

"How was it?" Natsume asked. By this time, Ruka was just eavesdropping in their conversation or it looked like he was doing so.

Mikan placed a finger on her chin, saying, "Basically, he told me what he told you."

"At least you did not get Ruka's lecture," Natsume mocked as he eyed Ruka.

Mikan smiled at the joke. "Lucky me."

Ruka stopped in his tracks while the two went on. "Hey! Don't talk as if I'm not here." He was ignored though.

"I'm going to render sixteen hours of school service and it will start with me participating in a volleyball game with Yura this afternoon. That would lessen my service by two hours."

From the looks of it, Mikan also received a detention of sorts from the principal like Natsume had. The surprising fact was that there was no display of irritation or resistance against the reprimand. Ruka concluded that his two friends did not regret taking their time off to some far away city. Then, he heard Natsume making fun of Mikan who might get her body sore due to lack of physical workout to which Mikan replied that she would start running again to piss him off. More students started passing by on Ruka's left and right, signaling that they were nearing the cafeteria but his attention was successfully brought by the duo before him. There was this moment when Natsume tucked Mikan's hair behind her ears then pinched her cheeks much to the lady's dismay. He could not missed Mikan's action of snatching Natsume's phone away from him and randomly scanned his calendar. Ruka, of all people, was well-aware how private of a person Natsume was. The guy never let anyone borrow his phone.

"What time?" Natsume asked, bringing out his phone.

"Around four, I guess," Mikan replied to which Natsume made an alarm for the said time, "How about you? What punishment?"

"I have to go to a conference this weekend. Well, it actually starts on Friday. Then, render eight hours of school service next week."

"Oh, where?" Mikan asked, returning Natsume's phone back to him.

"Nagoya."

"Hmm, quite far. Make sure you bring clothes thick enough. I don't want to hear you complaining about getting a flu."

Natsume smirked, chuckling lightly. "Who says anything about getting a flu?"

They successfully entered the vicinity of the busy cafeteria without bothering on reserving a table since they went straight to the line. Ruka felt epiphany hitting him in the nape, smiling after a few seconds when he finally attained a hazy answer to his subdued inquiry. It was not him being malicious and all but the closer body contact between Natsume and Mikan suggested a change in their relationship. Not to mention the loving actions Natsume was able to put from the principal's office to the cafeteria and the obvious happiness in their faces just because their getting lunch. Ruka finally understood what Natsume meant when he stated that lunch was the best meal of the day. It was the meal of the day that he always shared with Mikan.

"Hey, guys?" Ruka called out and as a pair, the two heads turned back to him.

"What?" Natsume asked.

Ruka scratched the back of his head and innocently asked, "What happened in Akita?"

No straight answer was given though and instead Mikan and Natsume only looked at each other in confusion before Mikan told him, "I'll tell you on the table, Ruka. Oh, wait, there's Hotaru."

True to her word, Hotaru made her way toward them wearing a small smile. Ruka was more than ecstatic to see his girlfriend but he returned his stare to the duo he walked with earlier. Hotaru followed Ruka's gaze, immediately catching up what was on his mind. She let out a wider smile as she watched Natsume and Mikan choosing what to eat.

"What are you staring at?" asked Hotaru.

Ruka pointed at the two. "Something happened in Akita and you know what it is. And you won't tell me!"

Hotaru only narrowed her eyes and messed Ruka's hair. "Maybe I do, maybe I don't."

Ruka knew very well that Hotaru did know the real score between Natsume and Mikan but could do no more but to wait for them to reveal it themselves. There line moved a little quicker than estimated and while Hotaru suggested what was good on the menu, his eyes stuck on the sweet couple before them. A hard look was revealed on Mikan's face as she chose what to get from the dishes, confused between curry and karaage, but Natsume only laughed at her and ordered the two meals which Mikan complained about but the former said they would rather share the food. With a tug in his ear, Hotaru regained the attention of his boyfriend and urged him to order the food. Hotaru wore a knowing smile all the while even as they tried to find seats.

"Over here, guys! We're waiting for you!" Sumire screamed from the middle column.

Mikan felt relieved that they found a spot in an instant, waving back at Sumire and approached the table in a sprint. Each table could seat at least six people and eight as the maximum so in terms of their quantity, the space they had was big enough. Mikan and Hotaru settled in Sumire's side while the boys were on the parallel chair. Judging from Koko and Sumire's plates, they were just starting their lunch so they really found a perfect timing to be together.

Koko helped his friends in settling the plates and putting the tray back to the designated area. "Sumire became a fan of cafeteria food, apparently. Looks like everyone's here, I'm going to text Yuu."

Mikan eyed Sumire with a sneer, saying, "Well, it's not so bad. It is actually delicious!"

"You eat everything, Polka."

This time Mikan turned her head to Natsume, narrowing her eyes. "Well, too bad, I love eating."

Natsume only gave a snicker before offering his own soup. "Miso?"

"So, Mikan. How was your trip?" Sumire began.

Ruka found that question a great one because he had been talking with the Akita buddies since morning but had yet to ask how the trip went. "Yeah, you never told us," said Ruka.

Hotaru faked a cough as a response while Natsume found a way to grip Mikan's hand under the table. The brunette gave glances at the two concerned individuals, calming their wits with her smile as if saying that it was fine for her to tell the story. Mikan voluntarily delved into her friends' personal problems since the schoolyear happened so it was unfair for her to keep something that they were worried about. She knew how clean their intentions were and how supportive they could be when they really wanted to. In all honesty, it was not that hard to talk about her past anymore unlike before when just the mention of it put her into a crying fit. This did not mean that the meaning of the tragedy lessened but rather Mikan just reached a stage where not everything could make her depress.

"I know you guys have many questions. For starters, I went there to see my father. My real father. You see, I actually have issues with him that I need to straighten out. We have a bitter relationship for nine years now. Ever since, I am trying best to mend the rift we have but I was not successful, even during this time. But, I have my hopes up. I am looking forward to seeing him again."

That was how the long story made short. Nevertheless, Mikan welcomed the questions of her friends. She detected Koko's puzzlement with his jaw slightly hanging. Topics like this were usually discussed after meals or during sleepovers but those were just rare occurrences within their busy squad. Besides, Mikan did not mind the timing. She was bound to explain the Akita trip anyways. Meanwhile, Natsume could not be more proud on how bravely Mikan said her piece. He remembered her trembling and agitation when she was on the verge of telling her life story in the attic but he did not see that this time.

"Then, who is Mr. Narumi?" asked Sumire.

"He's originally my uncle but turned adoptive father."

"Well, having a father is a blessing enough even though they're cranky at most times so getting two dads is cool," Koko said.

Mikan recognized that Koko had a certain fondness over his father. "Thanks, Koko."

"Wow! You are all here." To put ease to the atmosphere, Yuu appeared with Yura on his side. It appeared that Yuu read Koko's text just in time and bumped into Yura on his way here. Yura asked if he saw Mikan to which Yuu had a wild guess on her whereabouts so he suggested that Yura should come with him to his destination.

"Just waiting for you, Yuu, my man!" Koko cheerfully welcomed and pulled Yuu to the seat.

Yura quickly approached Mikan from the side. "Mikan, thank goodness you're here! The principal said you are our fifth core member?"

Even though Mikan was a junior joining in the fight of the seniors, she still could say no to Yura's enthusiasm. "That's right, I am."

"Thank God. I thought we will be given someone who we never met before. Let's do our best later."

"Who's the opposing team, by the way?" Ruka asked.

Yura answered almost immediately. "Class 3-C. They're quite good especially their teamwork so we are giving it our all."

Soon, each of the available seats on the table were occupied and they had the most interactive lunch break ever. Food was shared and so were stories. As usual, Sumire did not come without ammunition as she maintained the conversation in the group. There was an occasional teasing on Ruka regarding his last date with Hotaru or who was more whipped, Ruka or Koko. In an outsider's view, the gang looked so ordinary at the moment. They certainly embodied those teenagers having fun during break time. Mikan laughed at what Yura said regarding the last Winter Dance wherein she slipped on the floor because of the wires of the microphones and speakers, making everyone turned on her. With this revelation from Yura, Sumire confessed to being one of those who looked shock when Yura slid to the floor.

Natsume only made remarks once in a while, talking when he had to, since majority of his attention was paid to Mikan's reactions. He enjoyed watching her laugh then found her beautiful even while struggling to eat the fried chicken. Mikan probably noticed his stared because she raised eyebrows at him twice in the span of three minutes. When Mikan consumed her drink, she went as far to taking a gulp in Natsume's iced tea and pouted after committing the act.

"Lunch is the best, right?" Mikan mumbled with a chuckle to Natsume.

The laughter in the table echoed in Natsume's ears, their smiles were so genuine, and everyone was interested to the story of one another. Natsume realized what Mikan meant when she said that and could not help but agree that it was the best indeed.

The snow covered the roofs of the houses, sidewalks, and now gradually blurring the vision Izumi had through the window. In low volume, the television was open for them to be updated on the latest weather report. He glanced at the stairs to the second floor once in a while, hoping Mikan snapped out from her tantrum from earlier. With regards to Mikan's desire to see the beach, Izumi opposed to it aggressively because of the dangerous paths but his promise to her made him feel guilty. He knew how much Mikan was looking forward in seeing the beach. Living in Akita had rendered Mikan unfortunate when it came to seeing what made Japan an archipelago. It did not matter if it was Mikan's birthday, Izumi was troubled about their safety much to Mikan's dismay.

Like rain, the snow stopped falling but the clouds remained gloomy. The fireplace was not even enough to keep them warm so the boiler had to be increased in temperature. Although, Izumi was firm in saying that they would not go to the beach, he still went to the garage to check the tires of his car, up to the water, oil, and gas. Yuka entered in the vicinity in a while, holding a mug of hot chocolate. She caressed her tummy, just the right size according to her weeks of pregnancy. Izumi smiled at his wife before placing a guilty expression. Without words, Yuka understood what he meant by those nonverbal cues so she hugged him as a sign of comfort and warmth. Her presence laid out his whole life for him.

"Let's not disappoint our daughter, Izumi."

"I just hope she will be more understanding."

Yuka giggled from his statement. An eight year old would not have such profound understanding. "You cannot really demand that from kids. In the future, you'll have more who will give you a headache." She was referring to their unborn child.

"The best thing about that is you're there to help me out."

Izumi valued his family the most. Yuka taught him how precious life was and how love could change your entire opinion about life. Despite the difficulties in forming a family and the financial struggles they experienced for years, there they were, standing strong on their own two feet. Nothing could take away this moment from them. He decided to talk to Mikan after making sure that everything needed for their trip was working fine and ready for winter.

"Surely, you'll be lost without me," Yuka teased.

Izumi did not know how much truth rang to that statement.

A strong tug on his shoulders awaken Izumi from his dreamlike statement. He heard something loud just as he was about to open his eyes but the words were incomprehensible not until he snapped in his reverie and fully woke up. He realized that Youichi was the one screaming on his ears earlier when he took a glimpse of the familiar features of his son.

"Dad, wake up! Wake up. You're crying!" Youichi screamed, he also looked close to crying.

"Youichi," Izumi acknowledged then observed his environment, "Is it morning already?"

Youichi stood up and kicked his father lightly on the shin as if to scold him. "It's almost noon!" Youichi wailed, "Seriously, what's up with you? You've been like that since that girl came here."

"Girl?" Izumi asked, baffled to whom Youichi was insinuating to.

Youichi frowned as he slumped on the floor. "The brunette who looks like Mom. Actually, I've seen her before."

Izumi gritted his teeth, looking down. "She's no one."

The statement made Youichi pouted more because of how big of a lie that was. Growing up, he occasionally saw the brunette on several milestones of his life. Once during his birthday, there was also her presence on his first day of elementary school, and saw her again on a random day with Subaru and another girl with black hair, taking a peek of their home. Even at such a young age, Youichi had excellent observation skills and since he had no mother to look up to, he formed an ideal version of himself. Izumi was not exactly a bad father but most of the times, Youichi felt his dad had been overcompensating that it almost felt unnatural. There were also many important things that Izumi refused to discuss with him, maybe thinking he was too young for such delicate subjects. But, if you got older only knowing you mother got into an accident and had no more clarifications after that, you could also form as many questions as you could.

A number of times when Izumi just stared into space, obviously in deep thoughts containing his past which always ended up with him looking like a dejected human. Youichi only knew his mother through photographs, stories from their relatives but only to a limited extent. He asked about Yuka to Subaru but the doctor always had a vague and deep connotation in his answer. Deep inside, Youichi knew that his mother was one of the best things that happened to Izumi, basing on how he looked at this one instance when he was narrating how they met. Youichi never dared to forget that emotion in his father. Although, times like this, when Izumi seemed so out of this world, was a more frequent occurrence rather than the approachable one.

"Whatever. Uncle Subaru is downstairs, waiting for you."

Izumi groaned with that news but figured out that Subaru would not leave the house until he was ordered to. Getting off from his messy bed, Izumi went to the bathroom to take a quick wash on the face and a toothbrush. When he felt refreshed, he dried his face with a soft towel before descending the stairs. Instead of going straight to Subaru, the grumbling of Izumi's stomach led him to the kitchen to where Subaru followed him.

"What do you want?" Izumi asked while choosing which leftover to reheat.

Subaru leaned on the wall with arms crossed. It was actually better to see a sleeping Izumi rather than a drunk one who only knew how to scribble his debt on a notebook. "I have a proposition for you," said Subaru.

"I don't want to hear it."

The irritation became evident on Subaru's face due to Izumi's stubbornness but he knew how to regain his composure in an instant. "But, please do. This will help you regain what you lost. Please, Izumi, just listen to what I have to say."

In Subaru's opinion, it was the proposal of a lifetime because no company would take interest in the pottery business of the Sakura other than a risk taker, originating from the busy streets of Tokyo. When Izumi finally paid a look at him, Subaru knew that things had the potential of progressing. Finally.

Mikan judged the weather outside from the girl's locker room through the window. She already changed into her PE attire which was convenient stored in her locker and thankful that the sun was still out. Her teammates were already out in the court, doing their intense stretches and warm up. Mikan planned to jog around for five minutes before she perform her usual routine of warming up her muscles. Placing her neatly folded school uniform inside her bag, she checked if there were other items that needed to be put in her locker. When nothing else was left, she closed it and proceeded to tying her hair in a bun then placed a red ribbon to represent her team. She sent a text to Natsume that the game was about to start but he replied that he was already on the bleachers. Mikan smiled and felt excited about exiting the locker room but her tracks were stopped when Luna Koizumi entered.

"Sakura."

From the looks of it, Luna was invited as a member of Team 3-C with her duffel bag and towel on her hand. The beauty gave a casual smile to Mikan, looking surprised like the brunette. It was not hard to notice that Mikan would be playing against her because of the different color of the hairband. When they first met, a hint of awkwardness was already hinted in the air surrounding them and everything became clear that one lunch break when Luna barged into their lovely meal and Mikan put her into her place. After that, Luna did not find an opportunity to talk to Mikan, even when she also barged into Mikan and Natsume's seeming intimate conversation after school. If they ever talked, they would certainly discussed about Natsume and Luna would not pass the opportunity to call Mikan an unworthy adversary.

Mikan did not expect to bump into her of all people. "Hi. Long time no see."

Luna put her belongings into her locker, crossing her arms when she addressed Mikan. "Yeah, me too. You're gone, what, three days? Natsume also did not come home for three days. It actually irked his mother."

In actuality, Kaoru was away for a business trip in China but Luna made it a point to inform her of Natsume's activity. Luna visited the Hyuuga household two days after her talk with Natsume only to found out from the maids that Natsume hurriedly packed his things for an abrupt trip the day before. Of course, Luna found this suspicious unless Natsume was called out by the Hyuuga family in one of their domains in Osaka but none of that happened. Instead, when she went to school the next day, she heard from the pink-haired Anna that Natsume went into a trip with Mikan so their papers could not get the approval yet. Imagine the grim and raging look Luna had when she heard that and to confirm the hearsay, she asked the teachers of both students on their class attendance and found out similar days of absences.

"Are you here to ruin my day?" Mikan spat.

Luna only laughed at the reaction. "I am here to help them beat you."

"Beat me? Way to turn this volleyball game into something personal."

"Not really. I think I will just feel really better if I see you on the losing end."

Mikan failed to believe what she just heard because it sounded childish and she hated it when a person is filled with vengeance without any basis at all. "What do you want with me, Luna? If this is about Natsume, he does not want to be with you anymore."

That put a pang on Luna's heart but she remained her uncompromising expression to mock Mikan. She really wanted to laugh at the brunette but figured that was disrespectful and not becoming a classy lady. "On that part, he cannot decided on it alone. Remember who he is, Sakura. Natsume is not just some random guy. His background will make any person in this world fade to black." Because Luna was well-versed on how everything worked in Natsume's family and they always wanted to be on the side wherein they could gain more.

It was like Mikan's ears burned upon hearing that. She hated it to the core when others saw Natsume in that way. Although, she was not fully knowledgeable on how powerful Kaoru could be or how important the Hyuugas were in the society, still, it revolted her when they only took that part of a person instead of seeing him as a whole. "His background, you say? Well, I pity those people who only see him as someone who will inherit such a large corporation. Natsume is so much more than that."

"I never saw him that way and you're right, he is so much more. If anything, my feelings for him are stronger than yours and I am actually favored by his family," Luna declared with an equal intensity. She noticed the waver in Mikan's eyes and when she finally felt accomplished in their altercation, Luna drew out a sweet grin, "Now, good luck on our game, Sakura."

To say that the conversation did not affect her was a lie but Mikan avoided thinking in a far-fetched manner. When she stepped outside, the went straight to running and doing it for ten minutes instead of the planned five. When she jogged in place, her heart finally raised its rate and that was when she started extending her legs, testing on how flexible her body could be. Not being familiar with your teammates was considered a hindrance in cooperation but Yura was the kind of leader who gave specific instructions and had the game planned out in detail. They knew their roles and who to pass the ball when a point was crucial. They shouted their team cheer before going to the field.

The friendly game was divided into three sets so to say they would spent over an hour for the whole game was safe. Classmates of each respective teams and their supporters dispersed on the sides of the court, yelling in excitement when all the players went to the teacher for the call. Mikan spotted her Captain Daichi in the crowd with Tsubasa Andou. On the far right she saw Rui Amane and just near their bench were Ken and the rest of his group. When they scattered in the court, everyone was already feeling the tension between two teams. Even if it was just a friendly competition, it was obvious to everyone that the best players were recruited for this mini event. The Student Council officers were in complete attendance also, adding the hype for the game. Mikan only knew about the game this morning but she did not know that it was an anticipated one. She high-fived Yura before going to her place, as the first to serve. All eyes on her and the pressure was high but Mikan thought that dwelling more on the looks of the people would put her in a compromise.

Mikan assessed the players of the opposing team, admittedly had little knowledge on their strengths and weaknesses especially with Luna who had a confident smile which actually raged Mikan to do better. Heaving a deep breath, Mikan served the ball in a good form. She was not the best in this particular game but her serves were strong enough for the ball, once received by the other team always went to a different angle, gaining them a point. A really good start with her teammates praising her accuracy. After the two service aces, the third one went a little off to the right and was received by the captain, handing it to Luna for the spike. Cheers erupted in the hall but Mikan and her teammates remained positive.

If Mikan would be conscious throughout the game, she would not enjoy the opportunity. Making Luna eat her words was not a priority now and relaxingly did her best. The first set was quick paced with their team scoring 25 to 23 which was a good indication. After a quick break and change of tactics, Mikan went back to the court with renewed senses. She was far from exhaustion and motivated the other girls to give it their all. That was the nice thing about volleyball, you always motivated others despite the errors. No room for negativity but always for improvement. If they changed their strategy, the other team also changes theirs, dominating the second set as a consequence. It was a hard set to win though with them tying for three times which really gave the atmosphere that air of rivalry. For a moment there, this friendly game was no more and turned into a serious competition. Mikan realized that in everything you do in your life, you had to give it your all. So, it did not matter if her right foot almost slipped earlier and started hurting because she had to see this game until the end.

Luna rested on the bench for the half of the third set due to tiredness but Mikan felt her boring look on her. To make matters worse, Luna approached Natsume on their side as if to ignite a small, harmless conversation but Natsume was voiceless throughout the interaction. What Mikan did not miss was Luna's attempts to smile evilly to her which only made Mikan giggle inside. Fights between girls always ended up being nonsensical and they opted to irritate the other party as a way of getting over ahead. Mikan only shook her head, feeling embarrassed for Luna's petty actions. When they were gaining points, Luna came back to the core team, using her intelligence and advance analysis to recover. On the other hand, Yura and the others were only eight points away from winning, agreeing to stick to their play this time and watched out for decoys and strong blocks.

Mikan was already on the front lines while Luna was on the back, just finished doing her jump serve. Although Mikan did her best in blocking Luna's effect on her, she must admit that the girl was not lying on facts about Natsume's family favoring her more and her longtime feelings for the guy. Mikan slapped her cheeks to snap out from her trail of thoughts and when she heard Yura shout from her back, she jumped to block the spike from the captain of the other team. There was a problem this time because Mikan failed to estimate her position, did not step back to acquire the perfect location for the block and instead the ball went straight to her face in full force and the referee blew his whistle and pointed at Luna's team, indicating that they advanced by one point now. All the girls swarmed around Mikan who stayed seated on the floor, nursing her heated face and nose.

The reaction of the crowd was mixed with laughter and qualms. Mikan herself wanted to hoot from that stunt she pulled. It was really a mistake and a result of miscalculation but she was used to physical pain being in the Sports Club and all. Questions on whether Mikan felt dizzy and started seeing stars after that hit on the face roared in the crowd. Hotaru stood from her seat subconsciously when the hit came to Mikan but Natsume was quicker in his reaction. Then, in a glimpse, Natsume was already out of the bench with Hotaru knowing where he was headed to. Sumire asked in repeat if that was not a foul to which Yuu explained that it was clearly an accident which happened to volleyball games especially during practice.

"Mikan! Are you okay?" Yura asked in worriedness. She kneeled to check Mikan's well-being.

Mikan looked around, appreciating the concern they showed but she was rapid in easing their fears. "I'm fine. Sorry, I got distracted."

"Your nose is bleeding. Take a rest first. We can finish this up," Yura suggested and raised her hand to say, "Medic!"

Mikan calmed the girls and tried to stand up, which she was capable of but two hands from her behind buried her back to the floor. She noticed the circle around her evaporated to make way for someone and the suppression she just received annoyed her. She found the committer by looking up and glancing in her back. The creases on her forehead went away the moment she saw Natsume.

"You're not medic," Mikan muttered.

Natsume looked serious, exuding a superior aura to the whole gymnasium. He then kneeled on the ground, wiped the blood on Mikan's face with a clean cloth, poking her in the forehead before scooping her in his arms much to her shock. "No, I'm not. But, I'll be the one who will take you to the nurse's office. Don't deny it but you twisted your ankle earlier."

"I can still walk, though. Please let me walk."

Natsume did not listen to her. "I prefer carrying you so you don't go anywhere."

Mikan covered her face with her hands, aware how much attention they garnered with this stint. "How can I do that when there are so many people looking?" she complained.

"Funny. All I see is you and your bleeding nose."

Mikan settled herself in staring at him. Blushing red, she said, "Stupid, Natsume."

The two went passed to the many audiences of the gym without looking back. Ruka gripped Hotaru's hand who only looked at her with a smile. Going back, there were many things that Natsume Hyuuga did not usually do. Ruka already had a mental list of that. He considered the whole 'I'm helping the Photography Club for Mikan to forgive me' feat as a proof that Natsume's friendship with Mikan was deeper than the surface. He mentioned it also to Natsume several times that the way he acted towards Mikan was different than the rest but he neither denied nor affirmed it. When his best friend went so far, literally, to Akita just to be with Mikan, that was when Ruka knew that Mikan meant something more for Natsume. So, all the while, Ruka waited for the confirmation from them that they were finally together but only their actions told him so. Now, the action confirmed it also. Natsume Hyuuga running to the court to save his girlfriend who complained about him carrying her.

"I think that's what happened in Akita," Ruka declared.

Majority if the audience watched the Student Council Vice President ran for the girl who was probably his girlfriend or else he would not do that in public. Everyone witnessed his stare at Mikan and they carefulness when he carried here. Everyone in their group was silent although the game resumed in the court and others. They looked knowingly at each other, feeling surprised and unsurprised at the same time. It was Sumire who broke the quietness with a loud cheer, jumping in her place.

"YES!" Sumire yelled.

Koko covered his ears with a giggle. "Says the number one fan of Mikan and Natsume."

"I knew it! I knew it! I knew it! Yes, yes , yes!" Sumire continued her fan girl moment.

"Aww, stop hitting my back, Sumire!"

Anna tugged Yuu's sleeves to confirm her theory. "Natsume doesn't usually carry his injured friends with such a bothered look, right?" she asked.

Yuu only smiled at her. "That's because Mikan is more than a friend."

"Praise the heavens above!" Sumire screamed one more time.

The visit with the school infirmary was a quick check to Mikan's fragile nose which luckily did not suffer a bruise, just little scratches which were unremarkable. Good thing the school physician, was present, ordering an x-ray of the right foot and from the reading, Mikan did not suffer any broken bones. She was advised to rest at home, elevate the foot, and put some ice on it. It was also bandaged to provide immobilization. As for the face, the doctor prescribed pain killers and iced it for 15 minutes. The school nurse discharged them in an hour with written instruction given to Mikan. So, Mikan avoided walking to her home and Natsume did not bring his car. As a remedy, Natsume rented a bicycle through an application and paid it online. They needed to breathe some fresh air also. Mikan securely laid on the back seat of the bike and held onto Natsume's clothing for support. He was disappointed though and assisted her in wrapping her arms around his torso.

Mikan joked Natsume if he knew how to ride a bike because he seemed unsure at first but proved her wrong on how smoothly they glided on the streets. With that, Mikan mumbled how much she hated that he was good in everything. Their bike ride was quiet but they preferred this to appreciate more the scenery before them. They had a lot of talking during their visit on the infirmary, mostly Natsume scolding Mikan and Mikan defending her side. They reached the point where the alley of the streets became a road filled with dried leaves, the coldness of the wind seeped into their coats while Mikan tightened her hold to Natsume, almost hugging him with her position. Natsume noticed that she had left unsaid words earlier when he carried her and their doctor's visit, wondering what made her contemplate.

"Spill it, Polka."

Natsume slowed the speed when he said that which made Mikan look up to him with pouting lips. Natsume read her actions again and wondered if there was really something that she could hide from the guy. When lying led her to nowhere, she finally spilled her thoughts.

"What did you tell to your Mom or Dad about your three day absence?"

Natsume fully stopped the bike ride. "They don't usually ask my whereabouts."

"Surely, you have to tell them so they won't have to worry."

"I told my father. Kaoru was not even at home when I packed my things."

That was not a good news for Mikan and no wonder why Kaoru felt displeased with Natsume's absence, well at least according to Luna. She looked Natsume in the eyes to which he met without holding back. They were always honest with each other and did not take long to reveal the doubts stirring in their minds. Mikan had a father who hated her and a loving mother who passed away a long time ago. Meanwhile, Natsume had his parents both alive and well although their relationship with one another was a bit constrained, it did not dismiss the fact that they were still a complete family. If Mikan had been doing her best to fix her relationship with Izumi, then she should encourage Natsume to do the same.

"I guess I have to fix my relationship with my father just as you need to fix your relationship with Kaoru."

"Where did that come from?" Natsume asked, confused on the root of the conversation and a bit feeling annoyed.

Mikan shrugged her shoulders. "I realized that you're lucky that she's there for you."

Natsume resumed the ride already, answering Mikan's statement. "I am always ready to hear what she has to say. The only downfall is she doesn't know what she did wrong."

"But, as a mother, from your stories, she seems okay, nice, cool."

This brought back Natsume to the time when Kaoru displayed such ways likened to ideal mothers. Sure, she was always logical and calculating when it came to her decisions and how she did things but there was always that motherly love included in every pat, every praise, every scolding, and during meals. Ioran bore opposing opinions compared to Kaoru but at the end they reached a compromise. Those were the good old days which Natsume pondered sometimes where that kind of Kaoru had gone by. He knew what Mikan was trying to point out and she had a strong argument on why wanted to push it but he still had no idea why it crossed her mind.

"I guess divorce can really change a person a lot and hearing you put your hopes to Kaoru is actually surprising."

Mikan was also astonished herself because she did not feel good about the woman due to their messy first meeting but the talk of family came during her conversation with Luna and she could not just disregard it without consulting to Natsume. One more turn and they finally reached Mikan's street, the lamps on the side illuminated their path. Natsume made a gentle stop and assisted Mikan, who was walking more comfortable thanks to the pain reliever, in taking off the bike.

"I'm here. Thank you for biking me home. I just think that not everyone can be that bad, you know?"

Natsume knew that it was not the main reason. He supported her as they walked to the door. "Say it, Mikan. What's really bothering you?"

It was unbelievable that Natsume was still unsatisfied with her answer. Well, something really did bother Mikan. She stopped from walking and stared at Natsume for a while before speaking.

"You do know that I am not after your wealth, status, or the perks that come with being your girlfriend, right? I must say that it never crossed my mind and I never will gain any intention of that sorts. But, I just want to clarify in case some people misinterpret."

Mikan said it so quickly that Natsume almost giggled. Finally, he had make Mikan reveal the truth and he had an idea on where the idea came from. "You make me laugh. Did Luna feed that to you? Is that why you're so distracted in that volleyball game earlier?"

Mikan looked dejected. "Sort of."

Natsume nodded in understanding, reaching out to her face to caress her cheek but changed his mind on the last second and poked her forehead again. "Well, to answer your question, no. I would never think that of you. And even if you never said it, I know you never had that idea until now that someone influenced you to it."

"I'm sorry. Are you angry?" asked Mikan.

If he was feeling angry, definitely not at her but at the situation and the people who insinuated this. This was already an expected move from Luna and Kaoru though but did anticipate that it came so early. "No, I just hate seeing you hurt. But, I guess being with me is not that easy."

Mikan shook her head. "You're worth everything, though."

Natsume raised an eyebrow at that statement, feeling larger than life. "Why? Because I make your heart flutter?"

"Yes, and because you make me strong."

Could he kiss her? Mikan looked so adorable in his eyes and he missed that feel of her lips to his. "You make me feel invincible, too." Mikan made him feel that he became a better person and that he could become anyone he wanted to be. God, he wanted to be with Mikan more than he realized.

"Hey, lovebirds. I got tired waiting at the door and began to think what it is that's taking you so long," Narumi interrupted from the door. He had a knowing grin, eyeing Mikan who blushed intensely.

"Good afternoon, Mr. Narumi. I am just dropping Mikan off."

Narumi raised a hand and gave a nod. "Thank you for that and thank you for telling me in advance to prepare bandages and betadine swabs."

"You told him?" Mikan wailed.

Natsume smirked at her response. "I have to know someone will take care of your wounds for you because I don't trust your judgement."

"Whatever. Go home."

Her annoyed reaction amused him so satisfyingly. Natsume bowed once to Narumi then went to kiss Mikan's cheek, saying, "Goodbye. See you tomorrow."

Mikan waved her goodbyes to him and watched him disappear in her field of vision, feeling fortunate that she was able to talk about it to Natsume before she started overthinking the matter. To say that words easily affected her was somehow true but Mikan learned that clarifications before judgement was the better way to overcome it. When Mikan turned her heels, she saw her father wearing the face of the biggest teaser in all of Japan. She knew that look and had an idea what his next sentences insinuated.

"What now, Miss Injury?" Narumi asked in mockery.

Mikan gave a meek smile. "I promise I'll be careful the next time."

"Go inside. The wind is already so cold."

The house was warm when Mikan entered. She removed her jacket and placed it on the hanger, removed her shoes and tucked in the house slippers. A fragrant smell came from the kitchen which Mikan suspected to be chicken ginger soup which was one of Narumi's specialties. The excitement led her to run to her bedroom to change into more comfortable clothes and wash her face filled with sweat this afternoon. When she exited the bathroom and while wiping her face of water, her phone rang, vibrating from the study table.

"Calling so early?" Mikan teased.

"Because the moment you entered the house, I suddenly missed you."

Mikan was silent for a minute, digesting the sweetness of Natsume. "Silly, Natsume, we will see each other tomorrow."

No one said any word for a little while but they knew they were smiling from the end of each line. Mikan heard his breathing which was calm and steady while she refrained herself from squealing. She asked if he returned the bike safely to which he replied positively. Natsume leaned on his car at the moment which arrived a few minute ago courtesy of their family driver, debating whether to go home or to see her again but Mikan told him to rest already as the night was cold. A few sentences were exchanged as Mikan went down to the dining area to prepare for dinner. Narumi ogled his daughter marching back and forth in the kitchen while talking to Natsume who just left not less than an hour ago.

"Sweet dreams, Polka."

"Goodnight," Mikan said one last time then furrowed her eyebrows when she realized Narumi's look, asking, "What, Dad?"

"I am not used to seeing you act so corny."

Mikan scoffed. "Oh, well, excuse me then. I see you do it all the time with Serina."

Narumi wanted to deny that but he knew Mikan told the truth so he diverted the topic. "Remember when you almost broke my eardrums when I was trying to set you up with Natsume instead of Ruka? Oh, good old times."

The memory flashbacked to Mikan and it was unbelievable that it was just the start of the schoolyear. How time flew! She then opened the pot to smell the soup, turning off the fire then proceeded first to preparing the rice while she let the pot cool down. Narumi continued his tirade on how much of a denial Mikan became when he teased her with Natsume and now they were a couple.

"Yeah, yeah, I ate what I said. Are you happy now?"

Narumi nodded then in all seriousness, said, "I am happy for you."

Mikan blushed. "Thank you, Dad."

"Subaru said he e-mailed you something. Check it before you sleep."

"I will!"

Kaoru Hyuuga was back in Japan bringing new company deals with her. As they said, business was thriving but sooner or later, she had to find a successor and having one in mind was an easy feat. It was the training and acceptance of the said person which posed difficulty on her part. Natsume entering a good university was no problem and even if he had not said anything what he wanted his future to be, Kaoru had it all planned for him. His opinion still mattered and any protest was welcome as long as they compromised. But, her son made her head ache and Luna wanting to meet her today proved that Natsume planned to continue his rebellion. It also did not help that Ioran involved himself in Natsume's life that his influence was out of the question.

"He is so persistent on making that relationship happen. If before, he only avoids me, now he totally ignores me."

Teenager stories about love always sounded trivial for Kaoru. They thought once a thing was lost, it could not be retrieved. Kaoru believed in hard work and presenting all the advantages, though. She was not severely worried that Natsume pushed Luna out of his life for good because they were just 18 and had yet to experience what real life was. But, Kaoru did not want to let her guard down also because not only her family but the Koizumis were anticipating this relationship to happen. If all else failed, Kaoru had almost nothing to lose because the Hyuugas remained their stature in society.

"I understand you sentiments, Luna. You know how firm Natsume can be once he put his mind into it."

"What should we do if we cannot change his mind?" Luna asked worriedly.

Kaoru sneered. "Then, we'll try to change the other mind."

"How?"

Luna doubted that would work also but maybe targeting Mikan was easier than convincing Natsume. Although, there was confidence in Kaoru's actions and she was not known to fail that was why Luna believed her until the end. But, if her feelings for Natsume were to be scrutinized, she wanted to be with him more than anything else but her love for him told her to let him go. Let him go and be happy for him. So, it was safe to say that Luna had started to gain mix feelings about this.

"By showing her a living example of how sound my decisions are."

"You do know that Natsume won't give up without a fight, right?" Luna reminded.

Kaoru sensed the lack of confidence in the youngster's voice. "You sound hopeless, Luna."

"Because I saw how determined he is to be with Mikan Sakura."

Kaoru squinted her eyed, hating the sound of the girl's name. "Let's just say that I am pretty determined, too."

Luna did not know where to place herself anymore.

End of Chapter

Heya, guys! Did you miss seeing this in your feed? Well, I missed it as much as you do. I did my best to refrain myself in writing anything for this chapter because otherwise my studying would be compromised. My exams are over. Please wish me luck as the results will be released less than two weeks from now. I really wanted to insert a mundane school event in the story hence the volleyball scene. I was wrecking my brain to think of a way on how Mikan and Natsume will announce their relationship in public without admittance and that's what I came up with. Also, I know what Luna and Kaoru are trying to do is really cliché but you do know about that before you read this story, right? The title says it all. :D I hope you enjoyed this one even if I find it a bit sappy but I can't help it. Oh, before I forget, thank you so much for your heartfelt responses from the previous chapter. I really appreciate it to the bones. Thank you, thank you!