Something You've Read Before

Chapter Twenty six

Lost in Time

Natsume's first memory of Mikan was the almost accident in front of this house which reminded of her home in Akita. They had several altercations since then with their perspective always differing in a way they could not explain. He had judged her for being absent as Yuu's friend on the time he needed the most since his mother just died and what better way to make him feel loved but by being on his side. Back then, Natsume did not know Mikan hated funerals because of the death of her own mother. Their relationship took a turn after a confrontation in the school hallway and witnessing her emotional giving of comfort to Yuu. He had no plans of being close to her but fate always let them meet in times of trouble and fun. Mikan even liked Ruka originally and simply imagining if that relationship progressed put a frown in Natsume's face. He was glad that Mikan realized that it was Hotaru who Ruka liked and even better because she was totally fine with it. Indeed, the best kind of friend one could ask for. Eventually, they became friends and their closeness was unexpected. Natsume did not hesitate to open up to Mikan because she made him feel so secure in a way.

Mikan's words were always honest, coming from her heart. There was not a time that her actions were purposeless. She always did everything with effort so it was easy for her to win Natsume's trust. So, when she said she loved him, his heart leaped. Despite coming from a broken family, Natsume was not entirely deprived of love because he was able to attain it from various sources like his father, friends, his own self. But, those were all familial and platonic and it hugely felt special when it came to a person he felt strongly for. Mikan made him speechless, taking him by surprise with that revelation. When she said it, all his exhaustion in travelling from Nagoya to Tokyo vanished in an instant. He watched her as she said it. Mikan stated it in a whim, looking in his eyes with much assurance as if there was anything she was confident in her life, it was certainly her feelings. She was leaning on the playhouse made of strong plastic and Natsume knew that was sturdy enough to hold her back in case they needed it for support.

In reality, Mikan's words boomed in Natsume's ears causing a deafening silence in his mind. He released a breath he did not know he was holding and finally, when he had enough air in his lungs, he claimed her lips. He kissed her several times in Akita and each time felt like the first time and this was no different. Natsume gripped one of her arms while his other hand claimed her waist, pulling her closer to his body. She smelled like perfume fading away but still her shampoo was strong. Her thick clothes buried in his body but that did not hinder in feeling her warmth. Mikan's hands automatically played with Natsume's hair the moment she felt the contact of their lips, noting how good he was in making her breathless. A full kiss on the lips before nibbling her lower lip then Mikan thought he was done but Natsume only stopped for a millisecond to catch his breath and kissed her again.

This time, Mikan smiled at his action, thinking he was never satisfied with just one. She longed for his warm kiss, chasing his lips and matching his passion. His hands tucked her hair behind both ears before cupping her jaw while his now free hand traced for her nape to eradicate the remaining distance between them. They stayed that way for minutes until they realized they were too engrossed in the moment. Natsume broke the kiss and settled for a hug. He buried his lips on her neck, pecking the exposed skin there while Mikan was busy in encaging his body with her arms. The night sky was complete, no more hints of sunlight in the horizon and atmosphere. Streetlights were on, illuminating the roads and alleyways of the vicinity while the city lights reflected on the buildings.

"Polka," Natsume whispered.

"Hmm?"

"You always know how to make me happy."

Mikan smiled. "This feeling is not puppy love or anything superficial. It's real."

"I know," Natsume answered, smirking as he looked at her, "I know."

Mikan met his ruby eyes and for almost a minute she realized that he just continued eyeing at her, making her blush. "Stop staring at me. It's creepy."

Natsume smiled, glancing at his left before returning his gaze to Mikan. Their distance was still close as ever but no one minded. "You beat me into it."

"In what?" asked Mikan in confusion.

"I love you, too, Polka," Natsume declared without hesitation. He saw how Mikan's eyes widened before she looked down which worried him a little because she stayed quiet for a while. "Say something?" inquired Natsume.

Despite her hair covering her face, Mikan's smile was evident in the dim lights and dark sky. She rested her forehead in Natsume's chest, earning raised eyebrows from him. It took more time when she said in a trembling voice, "Stop making my heart flutter so much, Natsume."

Natsume did not verbalize it but she made his heart flutter also. They walked hand in hand to reach Mikan's home after their reunion. Two days of not seeing each other felt like forever and they both yet to assess if that was a good or bad thing. Genuine curiosity rose from Mikan, asking questions about the conference and the beauty of Nagoya to which Natsume answered in delight. Since the night was young, they passed by several food shops which became a topic of discussion of their short walk and bought some snacks for future purposes. Mikan sent a text to Narumi indicating that she already talked to Natsume and that the situation had been handled properly. She received a reply with an obvious tone of worry so Mikan called Narumi because only through hearing each other's voices would they feel a hundred percent calm.

Reaching the Sakura residence was accomplished easily. Mikan directed Natsume where to place his things as she spent attention in brightening the house by turning on the lights. Since Mikan knew that they were both hungry, she went straight to the kitchen and opened doors of the fridge to check if there were ingredients available. It was neglect on their part not to think of dinner on their way but Natsume waited patiently on one of the seats of the dining, pretending to look around. Mikan bit her lip when she closed the fridge and approached Natsume with a pleasing expression and openly asking for a suggestion.

"What do you like to eat? Should we order online or should I make something?" Mikan asked.

Natsume pinched her cheeks. "Do you even know how to cook?" he taunted.

"Don't underestimate me," Mikan retorted, nursing the red cheek caused by his touch, adding, "Although, Dad is better."

With a nod, Natsume gestured that Mikan had the liberty of taking over the kitchen. He then helped himself with some chips found on top of the fridge and the snacks they bought earlier. "What were you planning to do this weekend?" he asked, munching his Cheetos.

"I thought about doing research about business because an investor is interested in buying Daddy's failed business," informed the brunette. She donned an apron and tied her hair in a bun while Natsume satisfied himself in watching her work. Mikan took the vegetables she found earlier on the fridge, washed it, and sliced it with care. She planned to make stir friend noodles with her oyster sauce, mixed veggies, egg, and the packet of noodles that Narumi bought two weeks ago.

"Oh, do you know who?"

"After several delays, Subaru is coming next week so maybe I'll know then."

No reply was made from Natsume after that which Mikan found off but her cooking occupied her thoughts so no chance of asking his opinion. She served Natsume water while waiting for the oil to simmer and asked if he wanted tea to which he agreed so Mikan had another task of boiling tea on her favorite pot. She was not sure what Natsume liked so she brewed her favorite simple lemon tea with honey and a bit of sugar. She suggested to Natsume that he should rest on the living room and watch some television to relax a bit but he insisted to stay there. Actually, Mikan expected him to make fun of her actions in the kitchen but nothing of that sort came out from his mouth so maybe he was too tired to make snide remarks.

As for Natsume, he was just so absorbed on Mikan's movements and he wished she did not find him creepy just watching her. Really, only good thoughts ran in his mind, admiring how self-sufficient Mikan appeared. If they happened to be on an out of town trip, they could survive with Mikan's grocery and cooking skills and Natsume's practicality. Natsume always wanted rice in his meals so he asked Mikan for that, earning a 'pig' remark from her to which he giggled because he was the one who said it every time. Mikan rested a bit and took some Cheetos as well and carried on a conversation. She said his hair was getting longer while trying to fix the strands which covered his face. As this was happening, he got a good view of her eyes and lashes which held his favorite color, as he admitted on the train to Akita.

Feeling a little heavy on his bladder and the need to freshen up, Natsume suddenly attained the need of using the bathroom. "Can I use the toilet?" he asked.

"The one on my room. Stairs, second door to the left."

Navigating the Sakura residence posed no hardship on him since the size of the home was just perfect for its tenants. No unnecessary rooms or halls like in his house. Although, it surprised him a bit that there was no toilet on the ground floor, Natsume took the opportunity to examine the house more. He reached her room in a quick second, opening the door slowly. Mikan's room had no girly decorations. Just a twin-sized bed, a study table, a vanity mirror, built-in cabinet for clothes, and the windows which let natural light in. The bathroom was on his left and it still remained the simplicity of the room. Entering Mikan's private space had been an experience for him, proving that Mikan was not the girl who would be fascinated by grand gestures but more on the small things.

When Natsume was done washing his face, he struggled to find something to dried it with until he settled with Mikan's towel and decided to inform her later about using it. Her towel smelled the same as her presence. Natsume laughed at himself for being so keen in noting Mikan's fragrance, actions, her physical features. No wonder he was so attracted to her because he never failed to took notice on her beautiful qualities. He exited the bathroom, scolding himself for being such a boy but he decided to use it to tease the brunette.

"You took your time. I thought you drowned in there." She was already preparing the table.

Natsume sighed then smirked. "Well, seeing your room seems bad for me."

"What do you mean?"

His smirk grew while Mikan looked so innocent in front of him. "Oh, you know."

Mikan blushed, yelling, "Natsume!"

"Let's eat?" Natsume suggested, still laughing from her reaction.

"I had ramen with Yuu and Sumire yesterday and it was delicious. We should go there sometime. We thought about karaoke but we figured out it would be happier if we're all complete."

"I had ramen with Dad the other day, too. Let's go eat together sometimes," Natsume said, helping himself to the aromatic finished product on the table, "What can you say about Aoi's story?"

Mikan thought about it for a while, pondering what was her real reaction upon knowing it. "I must admit that it's a sad one. When you put your faith in one person and decided to succeed whatever it takes, it will really pull you to the bottom if that person leaves you in the middle. I wonder why that caused you to be wary of her."

"Because she was too enchanted with Kaoru. It didn't matter anymore that Kaoru did horrible things to the guy," Natsume drawled, shaking his head. He sipped tea before swirling his noodles with the metal chopsticks. "Just because she had a success story with the boy Kaoru forced him to be with doesn't mean it's the same for me. I want to make my own decision," he stated and began his meal. After taking the noodles and the rice, he buried his head which alarmed Mikan.

"What happened? Why are you looking down? Does it taste bad?" The tone of worry was evident in Mikan's voice and she started doubting her way of preparing the food. Maybe Natsume's delicate stomach could not handle such simple dish.

Natsume raised a hand, shaking his head, grinning wholeheartedly. "No. It's just that you and my Dad are the only people who cooked for me. This is good."

Mikan released a breath, giggling at Natsume's reaction. "Eat a lot then," she said, adding more rice to his plate. Natsume had no complaint.

"You know, Natsume, when I really think about it. Aoi and Kaoru are not so bad. It's just that they have a different perspective compared to ours. Although, I don't entirely agree with them, I think it's better for you to save what you have."

"I'm really surprised on this change of heart."

"I don't want to be the cause of your further conflict with them and you can't forever avoid them. They are still your family."

Natsume weakly tried to follow Mikan's idea and since he really did not exert effort and allowed his pride to takeover still, he decided to try one more time. "Fine."

Rush of victory crept on Mikan's face and rubbed Natsume's forehead with her thumb. "Look at you… so hungry," she teased.

"Well, I rushed my way here."

"I'm sorry. I didn't want you to worry so I thought that was the better way to treat the situation."

Natsume snorted at her remark because he disliked it when she felt like she was a burden. "The dinner made up for it. Also, Polka, you can tell me anything. You know that, right?"

Mikan's eyes travelled from her food to Natsume. His statement reminded her of yesterday's memory of the accident. "I dreamt of the accident the other night. It was so clear and felt like it happened yesterday. Of course, it felt terrible but I figured out that not all the time, a person is beside me to face those kind of memories. I just want to tell you that I cried a bit but I became fine after that."

One thing about Mikan was that she did not look like a person suffering from these tragic memories. Her smile was constant and her words positive, no whatsoever indication that her father abandoned her, her own brother did not know her, and her family was torn to pieces. Mikan never concealed anything and the relentless presence of people to confide to helped a lot in her healing process. It was good that she was open to people like that because it became easier to understand her.

"I'm glad you told me about this."

Dinner was fabulous and once could say that despite the absence of candles, flower petals, and musicians performing in piano and violin, it still gave a romantic vibe, like an unexpected date. They washed the dishes together because Natsume volunteered to do so and Mikan let him. They clung their teacups to the last gulp of their soothing tea and hung out on living room couch, eyes fixed on the random movie they picked of Netflix. Mikan processed the movie intently on her will while Natsume checked his phone for any update, answering some texts and e-mails. He was lying on her lap, her hands playing with his hair which made him sleepy. Natsume yawned and checked for the time on his phone. It was almost eleven in the evening and tomorrow was a Sunday.

"Are you going home tonight?" Mikan asked.

"Do you want me to? Won't you be bored alone here?" Natsume tried to reason out, turning to a sitting position.

Mikan listened to his explanation with a stiff smile, trying to act innocent on what was Natsume trying to accomplish. "Well, I guess, since you ditched that conference, you still have extra clothes."

"Right about that," said Natsume, relieved that she understood him.

Mikan stood up, throwing a pillow on Natsume's face. "So, uhmm, where do you want to sleep? In Dad's room or in this couch?"

Natsume's eyes went to the stairs and then back to the couch. He looked skeptical when he asked, "Are you for real?"

Nodding a smirk, Mikan firmly replied, "I am for real."

Natsume also stood up, towering over Mikan as she stepped back with arms both on her waist. He refrained himself from laughing, eyed Mikan suspiciously to confirm what was on her mind. "Why? Do you think I'm planning something here?" he asked as he trod to her slowly while she kept on backing down. Mikan displayed an unwavering emotion of being unaffected by his teasing but she lost her touch when Natsume made it seem like he was going to kiss her. She yelped, closed her eyes, and winced from another pinch in the cheeks. "Don't blush. I'm not going to anything to you," Natsume said.

"That's not the problem here!" Mikan resisted.

"Oh, really? Then, why are you blushing?"

"No, I am not."

Natsume was amused on her outright renunciation. "Don't deny it, Polka."

"Ugh! Maybe it's you who's blushing," Mikan accused.

Simply, Natsume shook his head, arms crossed. "Not this time, not me."

Mikan halted Natsume by placing her hands on his chest to somehow push him a little. "Will you take a bath already?" she asked in defeat and Natsume pecked her on the lips and ran to her room, leaving her in astonishment.

It took a few arguments on who would take the bed and the futon. Mikan even groaned that they looked like some couple in a movie fighting because of their pride. Their discussion almost ended with both of them sleeping on the floor until Natsume made a final say that there was no way he would let her do such thing. They both ceased from quarreling and settled silently with one on the bed and one on the floor. The sound ticking clock echoed in the quiet room which source of light was the streetlamp outside and the moon covered in clouds. Because of the stillness, Natsume suddenly felt the awkwardness looming in his head. He changed positions in a matter of minute so Mikan asked if he turned out to be uncomfortable sleeping on the floor after all. Natsume insisted that was not the case. Meanwhile, Mikan clutched on her blanket, conscious on her breathing and movement. She strolled nearer to the edge of the bed to take a glimpse of the heir of the Hyuuga empire and checked if he was still awake.

Natsume leaned on his left side, hiding his facial features from Mikan but she could tell easily that he was wide awake because his legs moved and his breathing was unsteady. Extending her hand, Mikan acted like she wanted to reach him but took it back in just a few seconds. The fact that he never left her only made impact just now so by realizing this point, her heart swelled, leapt, flickered. Mikan became satisfied watching his back, hoping he was not too sleepy to hear what she had to say. They both established that they loved each other which was the best thing that could happen in a relationship and all there was left was tomorrow.

"Natsume?" called out Mikan.

"Hmm?"

By this time, Mikan also settled in leaning to her left side, both hands under her face. "Are you feeling sleepy?" she asked quietly.

"Slightly," Natsume murmured.

Still, Mikan had more to say and she would not let this night end without expressing how much she appreciated Natsume's efforts. "Natsume?" she called out once again.

"Hmm?" Natsume replied, turning to his right to finally face Mikan. He found her already looking at him with loving eyes.

"Thank you for coming. That's really sweet of you. You are always like that, Natsume. You know best how to make me feel better."

"Don't give me too much credit," Natsume said, blushing but the darkness hid that tint of red in his face, "I said I'd do anything for you. Goodnight, Polka. Sweet dreams."

"I also love how you say that to me every night," Mikan remarked, "Goodnight, Natsume."

The next day, Natsume woke up feeling refreshed and with a breakfast courtesy of Mikan. They ate the hearty meal, helped her in cleaning the house in preparation of Narumi's comeback, and assisted her in doing laundry. Mikan laughed several times at his face for being such a noob in household chores. He defended himself that he knew exactly what he was doing and asked her to stop teasing him about being a rich kid. Mikan only stuck her tongue out like a child. It was nice to see how Mikan worked in an ordinary day but every minute he spent with her felt extraordinary. Natsume knew very well that they were just cooking and watering Narumi's well-maintained garden but they had extracted so much fun with it, bickering under the sunlight and arguing who did the task better. It was like living in their own home.

"You're so bad at this, Natsume," taunted Mikan when he was trying to operating the washing machine. Natsume only grunted at her because she was correct but she taught him eventually on how to operate the machine.

After catering to the house's needs, they finally went to the city library to inform themselves about business. This was Natsume's opportunity to fill Mikan with knowledge and gained her full admiration. He explained the complicated details in the book using simple words, making Mikan nod numerous times and sometimes her jaw dropping. Natsume even dictated and told her to write everything down what was wrong in Izumi Sakura's business. He remembered vividly the downfall of the pottery shop from the location to the marketing but he praised the designs and seemingly quality of the products. Since pottery was not dead and its products were being sold in different establishments, Mikan wondered if they could find someone who would be starting a business and would need some crafts for his place.

Natsume only grinned on her idea and did not say anymore which Mikan found off once again but forgot about it immediately when they moved to another topic. After strolling around in the central and Natsume explaining all the basic of business, as he learned from his mother and father, they went back to Mikan's house. He started arranging his things in preparation of going home. It was past lunch time and they just ate in this café restaurant but it did not feel so many hours already passed by. Natsume took a full view of the house, realizing how much enjoyment he had since last night. It almost felt like home and now that he had to go, it gave him separation anxiety. Mikan asked him to double check everything if he had not left any and so he did, confirming there was none.

"Goodbye, Natsume."

Watching her wave her hands like she was in an airport waiting for the person to arrive brought enjoyment to Natsume. The cab was waiting for him and the meter was already running but Natsume did not rush. He sideway glanced at the white taxi on his side and thought of an idea. "Next time I'll teach you how to drive. Goodbye, Polka."

The cab took off in less than a minute , disabling Mikan to display her fear and resistance of the idea. Natsume did not see any more how much Mikan's face creased but he knew she was strongly against with the suggestion while he only laughed in the inside. Not paying attention to the road anymore, Natsume busied himself in reading his e-mails for the day and much to his delight, he saw a new message from Dr. Subaru Imai. His request last time in Akita seemed to be reacted in a positive manner. Natsume had no idea what means Subaru Imai used to persuade the more stubborn Sakura but Natsume would never back down to take this opportunity. Any help he could spare to Mikan, he was willing to give it with no questions asked.

Entering the street where the Hyuugas house located produced tingles and excitement to the cab driver. According to the driver, he was used to driving in this area of the city but always amazed him how huge and aesthetic the houses were and if these rich people would ever lose money. Natsume only smiled to acknowledge the opinion of the driver and paid him handsomely when the destination was reached. The driver bowed in thanks, saving him a few hours with the extra cash Natsume gave and allowed him to go home earlier. The maids were quick in their job in taking his bags and answering his question if Kaoru was out. One of the maids said that she left last Friday but his sister was waiting for him diligently in the garden. The news stopped him from his tracks, wondering what more could Aoi want.

The garden was Aoi's favorite spot in the house and it was there where they used to play a lot as children. Upon waking up in the morning and after eating breakfast, it was automatic for these siblings to spend their playtime in the garden where they threw balls at each other, played water guns, jumped in the trampoline that was now caved in the storehouse, and just ran under the heat of the sun. Natsume remembered that they even played camping there for the reason that Kaoru never allowed them go in such school trips because of the inconvenience and danger it displayed. But, they were happy. Just the two of them, they understood each other well because as children of Kaoru and Ioran Hyuuga, they both experienced similar things in their formative years. They related to each other strongly but that belonged to the past now. At the present, Natsume knew that Aoi went to the path of being a filial Hyuuga while he chose to be the carefree son.

Natsume's steps reached Aoi's location. The elder Hyuuga was drinking wine with an extra glass unused on the other side of the table. When Aoi noticed his presence, she smiled at him and poured out the drink. It was laughable to think that Aoi got this habit of jollying herself with little alcohol from their father when she harbored small hatred to him. Unfortunately, Natsume was not in the mood to get ecstatic with wine in the middle of afternoon no matter how the weather screamed 'take the glass and relax'. Aoi accepted his rejection with a thin smile, already expecting that Natsume barely shared anything with her in the past years, not even one meal.

"Let me guess," Aoi began, smirking at her brother, "You spent the night with her. If Kaoru knows about this…"

Natsume frowned at what Aoi tried to imply. "You're so childish, Aoi. Most times, I think I'm the mature one between the two of us."

Aoi clicked her tongue, saying, "Hardly."

Finally, Natsume took the free seat parallel to his sister, wanting to try to have some decent conversation with her. Judging on the way Aoi arranged her posture in her seat, she was surprised that her brother stayed for more talk. "What do you want? Why aren't you going back to Hokkaido?" asked Natsume.

"Can't leave Tokyo without seeing my little brother."

Natsume pretended he believed her statement. "Now you did, you can go now."

The testimony came out like a challenge, bearing the seriousness in Natsume's expression. Aoi shook her head, smiling at this resentment between them. But, she did not want to cut their conversation yet and thought of a great idea on how to make her brother listen to her more. "Natsume, I'm not like Kaoru in a strict sense. I can see why you came to like her. She's pretty, smart, fierce, and likes you very much. But, I just want to remind you that Kaoru won't let your happy days last long. She'll always find something to break the two of you. Mikan Sakura says she will fight for you but that's because she has not experienced her wrath yet. You are Kaoru's son and the Hyuugas' future so you are safe but her? I don't think so."

It displeased Natsume how honest the statement was and for days it was the very message that people in this household pierced to him. Did he feel complacent because he knew Kaoru would never do something to hurt him in an enigmatic sense? Aoi looked concerned for him and for a rare moment acted like his older sister. This open secret fear of what Kaoru might do was honestly tiring him but he knew it was far from vanishing so he treated the problem in a logical manner, getting to the main action to be done. "I just have to change Kaoru's mind, right?" Natsume said in arrogance.

Raising an eyebrow at him, Aoi scoffed, "You think it's that easy, my little brother?"

"It would be boring if it is," Natsume said, shrugging his shoulders.

Natsume's confidence caused Aoi to forget about her glass of wine, wondering when did Natsume get to act like an adult. "You really like her, don't you?" she teased.

"No. I love her."

There was no helping it and Aoi just laughed out loud, almost choking from being out of breath. "You kids. What do you know about love? You make me laugh."

Natsume groaned at her unfitting reaction, feeling insulted with her snorts and giggles. "I know what I feel," Natsume insisted.

Aoi was not laughing anymore because she remembered what Mikan said about being the one who only knew your own feelings. Her merriment gradually died, eyes focused on a proximal object as if being swallowed by a memory. Aoi turned silent for a rapid time before she spared Natsume a challenging stare. "Okay, I believe you just because I know you, Natsume. And you're not stupid and clouded by the idea of love."

The way their conversation turning out rather decent astonished both siblings and no one wanted to break the momentum. Mikan suggesting that Natsume made up with his own family might not be hard than expected as long as everyone reacted maturely with every stimulant. A non-awkward silence arose in the garden; Aoi resumed sipping her wine while Natsume gathered his ideas to come up what to say next. When he was almost sure that Aoi only waited for him to say anything, he sighed, mumbling the most cliché greeting he formulated in his mind.

"How are you, Aoi?"

Aoi felt glad with the simple question. "I'm happy. My husband and I decided to work on a baby. We were supposed to be on a honeymoon when Kaoru called me in, asking for help. Saying no to her will just lengthen the discussion so I agreed, no ifs and buts."

"So, you wined yourself feeling frustrated?" Natsume mocked, realizing that her sister really found her niche in this husband Kaoru chose for her, "Maybe you'll understand me more when you have a child."

Aoi snorted at what Natsume said. "Dad supports you but he's always been like that to you because you're his favorite."

"I was never his favorite," Natsume immediately denied.

Multiple discussions about this developed in the past, on favoring the favorite child and if there was really a favorite child. This was what made their relationship more bitter than it already was since Aoi grew old thinking that she had to compete to win the favor of her parents versus Natsume's natural talents. Or maybe it also had something to do that she was a girl and Natsume was a boy so he was blessed with more freedom. No matter how many times Natsume said that he was not the favorite child, Aoi's views were opposite due to the many circumstances where their parents obviously had a softer heart when making decisions concerning him. The wine suddenly tasted nasty when it was so sweet earlier.

"Oh, really? He is so good on being present now in your situation when he was almost non-existent in mine."

Natsume made a retort in an impulse, wanting to defend Ioran. "That's what you should not do: compare."

Aoi continued her tirade, feeling the features of her face stiffened with every word so she stood up to calm her nerves. "And no matter how you defiled Kaoru, you never received any real punishment and instead she gave you freedom which I never got. So, it's not only Ioran but also Kaoru."

Natsume also stood up and followed his sister's steps. She started encircling the tiny perimeter they wherein. "Stop thinking like that, Aoi."

In that moment, Natsume convinced himself that he was really the more grownup when it came to the two of them. Aoi fanned herself with her fingers while Natsume watched in frustration. She raised a hand to tell him not to get near her and that she had the situation controlled. Reaching for the glass of wine, she drank the remaining in one gulp and let out a deep breath. It was all in the past but without a doubt, Aoi's heart had not healed fully yet and maybe years needed to be counted for her to achieve that. She looked carefully at her brother, acknowledging the fact that he was taller than her, his features were the best mixture of their parents, his posture showed that of an adult and that was when Aoi realized that Natsume was no longer her little brother who used to cry in his bedroom and asked for assurance because their parents decided to separate or the boy five years younger than her looking brokenhearted because his girlfriend and best friend were both not present in time he needed someone to talked to.

"They dictated everything I should do with my life and I rebelled against it but looked where that got me. While you? You were able to have fun with your friends, join this council, go anywhere you want, take Kaoru for granted and now that she's trying to choose a better girl for you, you rant about being controlled?" Aoi fumed.

Natsume simply rolled his eyes, saying sarcastically, "So, would surrendering to them make you feel better? Instead of supporting me so I won't experience the same things like you, you also want me to be miserable? I really adore you, Aoi."

Her memory took her to the past wherein she sat on her bed, trying to be strong to the fact that Ioran took all his things and moved to another place without explanation. Natsume ran to her with contained emotions, inquiring what should happen to them now. Aoi pushed him away, slightly irritated that he was adding to the stress cumulating in her being. Since then, Natsume became wary of her, always having second thoughts on whether he should sought her advice or just go to the next best person. It became worse when she left home to be with this someone who turned out to be worthless and when she came back, Natsume was already inconsolable, far from her reach. When Aoi discovered her new love for Kaoru, Natsume seemed to despise her for that and she equaled that emotion with coldness. Now, Natsume just told her that he wanted her support which sounded surreal and something she did not expect he would ask for.

"Do you really want my help?" Aoi asked in a deep voice.

Relief crawled in Natsume when he saw Aoi returning to her senses. Her question filled with numerous implications once answered but Natsume, sure of his calculation, nodded.

Ruka entered the passcode for their door in the Student Council Office. It was an early morning and he had to finish the report he was working on since last week because the principal demanded for it. The meeting with the Board and other important people making the school alive was just around the corner and that meant they had to ready all their reports in time, without delays since it needed to be reviewed and revised. The lights were on and coffee was brewing in the pantry based on the strong aroma that filled the air. Wondering who got in here before him, Ruka surveyed the scene and found no bag. His slow footsteps were quiet until he dropped his bag on the table and went to their small pantry. He peeked in the food area but found no one which made the situation scarier. The leaves hustled from the trees outside and Ruka felt cold on his nape. Suddenly, the walls of the room felt looming on him and kind of suffocating.

"Hey," a voice whispered from behind Ruka.

Yelping, Ruka turned in utter annoyance while Natsume mocked his reaction. "Geez! Natsume, what's gotten you here so early?" Ruka yelled, clutching in his chest. "I almost had a heart attack, you fool!" Ruka cried.

"The answer is between I can't sleep and I woke up early," Natsume answered, still snickering.

Ruka watched Natsume took a bread from his bag. "Well, prepare yourself for the principal's wrath today because the news about you not finishing the conference will surely make him explode," Ruka warned with the intent of terrifying his best friend but to no avail.

Natsume offered him a cup of coffee and the other half of his bread. He gestured Ruka to take a seat. "For the consequences, I will take it."

"No regrets?"

"None."

Wittiness in Natsume's answers never amazed Ruka anymore but it did once again this time. "Hotaru told me you went home because of Mikan," said Ruka, taking a bite from the bread.

"She needed me."

Ruka watched his best friend opened his computer and resuming his council work which went stale because of the conference last week. The scene Natsume made back in the gym crossed Ruka's mind and how it was so Natsume and not him at the same time. When Ruka heard from Hotaru that Natsume abandoned the conference, his presidential instinct caused him to redden with frustration but his best friend tingle ignited and tried to understood the situation. It was difficult to be responsible and understanding all at once. Natsume worked on his laptop with a relaxed face and even if Ruka wanted to ask about Aoi, he did not anymore because that seemed to be settled already or else Natsume would be talking about it.

"You look happy. That is what's important."

Natsume's face was on the screen but then his eyes travelled to his best friend. He faked a cough and leaned on his seat. "Have you felt this about Imai? How do you handle it?"

"Handle what?" Ruka asked in confusion.

Natsume hated it when he had to explain further because he expected Ruka would get it. "Such strong emotions that you feel like it's making you feel invincible?" he clarified.

It took Ruka a moment before he nodded and smirked. He giggled in his seat, confusing Natsume this time on what was so funny in his question. "You're so whipped," Ruka accused.

Natsume was not charmed though, his face turned stoic and devilish. He watched in impatience Ruka's loudening enjoyment. "You became whipped first," Natsume replied which silenced Ruka.

They both looked at each other, first with grave faces then they laughed at what they were doing. Rest of their stay in the office was occupied by their paper works and catching up with each other. It did not miss Ruka's sharp memory that Mikan already met Aoi which meant that Kaoru already made her move and it would not be surprising if one day she walked the academy's halls just to see the girl who captured her son's heart. Ruka wanted to show his worries and express it to Natsume but the guy kept on talking about that he, together with Mikan, decided to face Kaoru and the consequences. A running joke which Ruka always told Natsume that the girl he would like would be so lucky and Natsume always answered with a grim emotion but now, Ruka undeniably saw Mikan as one of the luckiest girls in the world because Natsume turned out to be so determined to be with her. Natsume Hyuuga who disliked Mikan Sakura they first time they met. The world was so ironic.

"Hello, good morning, my buddies!" Koko greeted upon his entrance.

Natsume stopped his work temporarily and eyed Ruka. "Among the three of us, he's the most whipped."

The joked Natsume kept on throwing showed his humorous side and Ruka snickered in response while Koko felt left out, insulted even. Koko stumbled between them with an agitated expression but the two best friends ignored him.

"What are you two snickering there, huh? Is it about me?" Koko said.

"Koko, have you finished the report I assigned you last week?" Ruka asked, just seconds away from his last set of giggles.

Koko felt the blood drained from his face and nervously laughed. He did not expect Ruka would counterattack with that so instead, he brought out all the papers and thick reports from his bag and laid it out on the table, staring intently both at Ruka and Natsume while the two stared back, waiting for his response. "Oh, the very reason why I went to school early. I really love this job!" Koko sung in the room. He sighed the moment Ruka and Natsume buried themselves back in their respective works.

Alice Academy's library was one place in the whole school where you could find peace and immersed yourself in the moment without anyone bothering you but it was never popular with the students until this day. Apparently, the Student Council Officers decided to take their work outside their conducive office and chose the advantages of the quiet library. Yura told Mikan that they had to look the previous council reports which were found in the very accommodation. Mikan pretended to accept the reason but when she glanced at Natsume and saw his smirking face, she was no longer convinced. As a result, students who were fans of the council especially Ruka and Natsume, spent their time on the supposed to be quiet place. Since a large gathering was formed, it was harder for Hi Memiya, the school librarian, to silence the students who were giddying over the fact that the officers were just lengths away from them. Natsume's popularity skyrocketed after his stint back in the gym and now majority of the girl's population of the school saw him like a prince charming, causing giggles from every direction.

Hotaru rolled her eyes because Natsume acted unaffected by all this commotion and instead followed Mikan in stacking the books back in the shelves. She was the first one to reject the idea of working in the library because Hotaru knew for sure that their group was never quiet and they would be under the scrutiny of the strict librarian but when Sumire learned that Mikan was there to render school service and Natsume insisted the advantages of being in the place, Sumire strongly contended that the library was the best dwelling to be. Good thing that they worked professionally and Mikan intentionally ignored them, they managed to went ahead for the real purpose of their coming. Reading the previous reports sort of depleted their brains but Natsume was specific in his instructions and when they followed it, they found themselves almost done with their work. Hotaru sent Mikan a knowing look to which the brunette just shrugged her shoulders and went farther away from their table.

Frowning at the way other girls swooned at Natsume, Mikan occupied herself with her real work. She did not know what was Natsume's motives on bringing everyone here. It was not that she was not happy, of course she was ecstatic but also bringing almost every girl in the school inside caused her to have a mild headache. Shaking her head, she looked at her surrounding and felt frustration when she realized she was acting jealous and like a child. More of acting like a child. Mikan had a basket in her left arm, tracing the code of each book she was putting back meticulously. Miss Memiya observed her rigorously through her thick glasses and tendency to walk around the vicinity while holding the remote which enabled her to ring the alarm on a noisy table no matter where it was located.

Natsume was already waiting for Mikan in Aisle C of the Literary Fiction Section with crossed arms, back leaning on the shelves when the brunette found him. "For the rest of the week, you're gonna be helping the librarian?" he asked.

Mikan became astounded on how he was just sitting on the table together with the council and now he was there in front of her. "Yes, that is included in my school service because there seems to be a lot of work to be done here. How about you?"

"I'm on my way to know that," Natsume said, carrying the basket from her arm and helped her in returning the books.

Halting her steps, Mikan crossed her arms one more time. "Don't you have to hurry up? The principal is a busy person."

"Busy with what? Patrolling the hallways then resting on his seat for the rest of the day?" Natsume replied.

Mikan stole the basket again and tapped Natsume's cheeks. "Don't talk to him like that."

Natsume wondered why she was annoyed at his presence but he realized it was not him who was bothering Mikan. He looked behind him and found a group of girls waving a hi to him. He looked back and saw Mikan with a teasing sentiment. He suddenly had an idea and began to it by closing the distance between them but Mikan did not budge even if their clothing met. He lowered his stance to meet her unamused eyes. "Okay, I'll go once we're done here. See you later," Natsume bid and kissed her on the cheeks then on the corner of her lips. Mikan tried to stop him but she was too slow and he was done with his wicked idea.

"No flirting inside my library!" Memiya in all her grumpiness said.

"I'm sorry about that Miss Memiya," Mikan apologized with a bow and directed to Natsume to walk away with a venomous look, "Go."

Natsume contained his pleasure from having the last laugh and returned to his table with questioning glances from his co-officers who wondered what was so funny. After 30 minutes, they were done with their productive work and exited the library graciously. The crowd also degenerated together with their departure. Natsume asked Koko if he could bring his things to the office while he made a stop to the principal's office to which Koko agreed. He walked with the officers until he reached the principal and bade goodbye to them. Natsume knocked on the familiar wooden door and entered the office in a quiet fashion. A number of expectations formed in Nastume's mind on how the principal would scold him this time. He caught the principal in his reverie in front of a book and snapped when he noticed a new presence in the room. Files also mounted in the table which meant that it was not only the Student Council who was busy preparing reports but also the high school division principal.

The gesture to take the seat was followed by Natsume with a thanks. The principal cleared his throat, thinking of what to say to one of academy's best students who seemed to like being in his office than expected which was not a good thing.

"It's not so nice seeing you so frequent here, Mr. Hyuuga. Imagine what would your mother say!"

Natsume winced at the mention of Kaoru but he carried on with his explanation. "About the conference, I'm sorry that it seemed like I didn't consider it important but the truth it, during that time, a more important thing came up and that became my priority. Any punishment you have in mind, I am accepting it."

"I am extending your school service to 40 hours for that matter. You have to help in the –"

"Library?" Natsume ended the sentence with high hopes.

The principal felt his jaw tightened and revoked the idea. "No! We have Miss Sakura for that. You have to help the Sports Club. Captain Himura has been consistently requesting me of any student available to oversee their practice games."

Natsume frowned, feeling defeated. "Great. My most favorite club."

"Is your mother doing okay?" asked the principal out of the blue.

"Well, she's far from dying," Natsume answered casually.

Another dubious look escaped the principal's face, shaking his head to form his words. "That's good to hear. I think she's coming to the meeting this Wednesday, no? We have a lot to do so this is making my head ache. Would you do me a favor and start your acquaintance with the Sports Club?"

Today felt like an adventure for Natsume being all round the school, from the academic side to the sporty side of Alice Academy. After bidding farewell to the principal, he immediately made his way to the unfamiliar side of the school. He asked a random student who passed by the Sports Club room on where he could find the respected captain and the student pointed him to the gym. Natsume's hands were on his pocket while members of the gigantic club threw probing looks on him as he made his way to his person of interest. The stares made Natsume feel so welcomed, much to his sarcastic delight. He did not need to announce his arrival because the underlings of Himura already quacked his presence there. The ongoing practice was whistled to stop and Daichi walked to meet Natsume, behind Daichi was the smiling Tsubasa Andou.

"Hyuuga? Why are you blessing us with your presence?" Daichi asked in his deep voice.

Each one of the students in the gym was either clad in a jersey or the PE uniform so Nastume felt a little out of place being in his well-ironed school uniform. Judging how sweaty and panting the students in the gym looked, their practice must ran for an hour already. They encircled him as if he was asking for a fight but Natsume ignored their stares and childishness which meant to be intimidating and just focused on answering Daichi's question.

"I am here to render my school service. The principal said you need help? I am help."

"Seriously?" Tsubasa Andou quipped from behind, obviously ecstatic.

Natsume drawled, "Nice to see you, Andou."

"Ah! How I missed you, kiddo! When was the last time you talked to me? Middle school?" Enjoyment and excitement were all visible in Tsubasa's tone, resting one arm in Natsume's shoulders. The action instigated murmurs from the rest of the members, curious on the relationship between the Vice-Captain of the Sports Club and the Vice President of the Student Council. No one saw them interacted before so to see them communicating like they had history was surely newsworthy.

"More like never," Natsume groaned, removing Tsubasa's arms around him, glaring at him in the process.

"You know him that well, Tsubasa?" Daichi asked.

Tsubasa walked back beside his captain. "Natsume and I have a connection that only the two of us know. Ain't sweet?"

"Shut up."

Daichi raised a hand and signaled the others to resume their work which left him, Tsubasa, and Natsume. He knew that Natsume Hyuuga came with clean intentions and not to quarrel with them. Daichi would never dare to forget how he helped in restoring the Photography Club so as far as they were both concerned, they were in a good state. "Enough of the greetings. Hyuuga, help us. The finals for the Basketball Division of the Sports Club is next week so we need a scorer and someone who will record their fouls and minutes of play. Here is the list of the players in Team A while Tsubasa will be in-charge of the opposing team. The names and numbers correspond their jerseys so you will not find it difficult to identify them."

"I never thought I'd see the day when you will come here willingly in our side of the school."

Natsume smirked, scanning the papers held in a clipboard given to him. "Nothing is impossible, Andou."

Daichi whistled and clapped loudly, earning the attention of the individuals in the gym. "Okay! Let's continue!" he yelled, booming in the entirety of the gym and earning the obedience of everyone.

The practice games were done and all was left was to clean the gym. It was intense and Natsume felt like he watched an actual game. Daichi was good in his observations and coaching and even worked well with their real coach. Natsume formed an opinion himself but felt not in the place to express it to the captain yet since he was just supposed to be help and not part of the coaching team. Tsubasa annoyed him a little but all in all, his presence was tolerable. Actually, Tsubasa Andou was a classmate of his in middle school. Their relationship resembled those of frenemy types in the television, like someone always needed to be the better one in everything between them. When Tsubasa moved in another year and Natsume needed to repeat a grade, their paths rarely crossed but their friendly competition always stemmed when they meet… like today. Tsubasa was so motivated in giving Daichi a detailed report after the games while Natsume, who knew he was good in this kind of task, applied extra effort to give Tsubasa a taste of his own medicine.

Natsume planned to go home after giving the report to Daichi but he was stopped, asking if aftercare was not included in his school service. With this, Natsume realized that walking away would do him no good and participated in wiping and bringing back the balls to the storage room, erasing the data on the electronic board, and mopping the floors. He texted Mikan to go home first because there were pending things he had to finished. Things that he never done in his life and suddenly he had to perform it proved to be a humbling experience for Natsume. He personally witnessed the hard work and discipline each members displayed and even though this was a club with different divisions, they helped each other out no matter what sports they hailed from. Daichi thanked everyone of them and planned to meet again tomorrow, same time and place. Tsubasa threw the gym keys to Natsume and asked him to return it to the auxiliary personnel.

From the other side of the school, Natsume walked to the office located behind the main building of the academy and returned the key to the designated personnel. He glanced at his watch and heard Mikan's voice message of taunting him if he was eaten by her Captain Himura. Natsume wanted to annoy her and recorded a message on when will she be available for some driving lessons because he could not wait for her to display her skills. He made his way to his car after making a quick stop in the SC Office to gather his things. He dumped his bag on the passenger seat and checked the wheels before making his way to the driver's seat. Natsume did not know that he had one more stop before he completely drove home. A figure stood on the side of his car who looked like she waited for hours just to catch his presence.

"What are you doing here?" Natsume asked Luna.

Luna spread her arms with a timid smile. "Can't I see you anymore?" she asked in innocence.

"Can you hear my suggestion?" Natsume said, just staring blankly at her.

"Sure."

"Stop being manipulated by my mother."

Luna winced and raised a finger. "Actually, I have this theory that even if I stop annoying you, your mother will do her best to bring you back to me."

The way things were presented, that seemed to be the most plausible track Kaoru would take. Nastume wanted to question her because for sure, somehow, Kaoru shared her plans with Luna and since she was not acting like a crude, he better ask and find the answer himself.

"What is actually behind this? A merger? Are you going to give her all the rights in your family's shares? Or is she going to give your family a portion of her wealth?" Natsume reckoned.

Luna looked down, morosely smiling because some of Natsume's words were true. Although, the main reason was personal and concerned their statures as old family friends. "Mom was close to her and the same goes for me. If she finds me fitting for you and no one else, of course she would push through it. In this way, she will be able to take care of me more."

Ah, right. Kaoru barely had friends because she chose to be isolated and protected herself from opportunistic parasites but not with Luna's mother whom she got along with even until her death. To say that Luna found a second mother on Kaoru was a simplification of their relationship. Natsume found it ironic though because Kaoru stopped acting like his mother a few years ago. As for Luna, she idolized Kaoru's ways of getting what she wanted and thought she could apply it herself but turned out it was not effective in wooing back the person you liked the most. Truthfully, Luna lost confidence in winning Natsume again and it hurt her to see him enjoying the company of others instead of hers. Luna also failed in bringing back her friendly relationship with Ruka. But, her stay in the academy soon will come to an end and she did not want to leave with bitterness.

Being doubtful on where her cooperation with Kaoru led her, Luna made a decision for herself but she wanted to make sure first that she was leaving Natsume to someone who deserved him. Luna learned from Aoi what happened when she met Mikan Sakura the first time and even if the Hyuuga heiress did not want to admit it, it was clear that the brunette managed to win a portion of her favor. As for Mikan, she did not do anything bad to Luna so it was unfair for her to feel strongly against to the brunette just because they happened to like the same boy. All of a sudden, Luna perceived things differently and the talk with Natsume really helped her realized her disposition. The fiasco in the gym showed her a Natsume willing to be with Mikan Sakura and there was no place left for her in his heart. The scene where Natsume carried Mikan with a worried look left Luna brokenhearted but also showered her with enlightenment.

"Listen, Luna, I really mean what I said last time."

"I know," Luna agreed with sad eyes and a solemn voice, "And I don't want to act like a villain when I am not. It's just that, I hoped you will change your mind and that means trying to be with me again."

Natsume seemed to see his childhood friend again with the way she stood there and looked at him. "We're still young and you're beautiful, smart. You will find someone."

"When you say that, I want to be with you more," Luna said as she shut her eyes but she felt helpless.

"Why do you like me so much?" Natsume groaned.

"First love never dies and for many reasons I cannot express in words."

It was enough that Natsume acknowledged her reason by being quiet. "I'll see you around, Luna. Hopefully, this will be the last time we're going to talk about it."

"Friends?" Luna offered.

Natsume stared at her extended hand. "We'll see," he said.

Luna pulled back her arm, feeling glad with his response. No goodbyes for them because they knew they would meet in one way or another. "Okay. At least, it's not an outright no."

To: Narumi Sakura

Adviser, Student Council

Thru: Ruka Nogi

President, Student Council

Dear Student Council,

Greetings!

This letter is written with the intent of informing you about the latest Board meeting which concerns your organization. Annually, The Board conducts assessment on clubs and organizations that are deemed essential in running Alice Academy. For years, the Student Council proved to be an indispensable body in implementing school regulations and organizing school functions. Alice Academy takes notes of the great effort and efficiency this batch of council shown this year. However, after a thorough review and the birth of different organizations within the school, we are having thoughts of removing the council before the school year ends because of its redundant functions which can be accomplished through clubs. The Board wants to disperse the responsibility to the students and make good use of the current clubs that the school has blessed with. Be informed that not only the Student Council went under this review but also other organizations within the school, faculty and student, were included in this proposed change. Any reaction and recommendation upon this matter can be directed to The Board's office.

Sincerely,

Kazumi Yukihara

Principal, High School Division

End of Chapter

What can you say about Natsume's little adventure? Thank you for your support to this story and the responses you gave from last chapter. They enabled me to understand your views more. The after kiss was meant to be written in Mikan's perspective but since all of you wanted to know more about Natsume's thoughts, here it is. I hope it is to your liking. : )