Something You've Read Before
Chapter Twenty eight
On Your Side
Examining his table filled with papers of requests, some were threats, Narumi lunged on his body bag to displaced the tension inside him. He then swiveled around his chair and sat comfortably, stretching his arms and legs before commencing the rest of the day. Right after school yesterday, his inbox flooded with messages from the students asking about one single question: What is going to happen with their club? As a Student Council and Literary Club adviser, Narumi was dumbfounded with this enigmatic change from the annual board meeting. Usually, changes were just about the budget or school activities but never this. Something precipitated this change and Narumi wanted to know what. The moment he stepped foot on school today, students bombarded him with the same question but he got nothing to answer them yet. He looked around the faculty room and realized that other teachers experienced the same dilemma.
The principal, Kazumi Yukihara, appeared in the faculty room which brought many stares and questions. He addressed the current problem of the school but made sure that everything was all under control. In fact, Kazumi did not fear resistance because it was a natural action for change. But, most of the teachers voiced out their disagreement with the said change, telling that it was an absurd and pointless idea. When Kazumi ended his late morning greeting to his teachers, he just walked away quietly and Narumi remembered to make eye contact with him in which he was successful. That meant they had to talk sooner or later. The teachers formed their little groups after Kazumi was gone, discussing the effect of removing these clubs especially the Student Council. Some agreed with the notion that they needed to trim down the clubs forming inside the school so full attention could be given to the high-functioning ones but they did not like the idea of removing a student government because that was a vital right for the students, for somebody to represent them. Teachers could not afford more work than they already had at the moment.
Narumi destressed with pantry coffee, making mental notes to visit the Ministry of Education's handbook of memorandum and regulations later. Getting over past this new idea from The Board was not the first time. He stared at the surface while waiting of his water to boil when his co-teacher, Nodacchi, entered the pantry with the goal of getting coffee also. They both smiled at each other in silence but the two gentlemen knew they had a common topic to talk about.
"How are you doing, Narumi?"
"I'm good!" exclaimed Narumi while stirring his cup.
"Are you not affected by this club dissolvements going on? Nothing got spared even the Student Council," Nodacchi pointed out bitterly, sighing, "Since that news broke, I've been receiving countless messages and call from my students. Honestly, it's exhausting me."
"As advisers, we are here to guide them. As for mine, I will guide us towards victory."
It was the game that they did not plan to lose and Narumi was more than confident that his officers could pull it off like The Photography Club incident. Really, the clubs were a hot topic for The Board these days that Narumi found it funny. Nodacchi sat on the empty space on the round table to further the conversation with Narumi.
"I admire your positivity. We never really got our voice through The Board but I think trying is good. At least, we get to say we did something. The list is out, by the way."
Narumi frowned on the inside but refused to show it. He remembered that Yuu's club was listed there which was terrible but he never heard anything from Mikan last night. "Yeah. It's the first thing I saw on the bulletin board this morning," replied Narumi, eyes widening upon the realization.
"I am expecting a riot, really," Nodacchi predicted and Narumi's silence agreed with it, "Where are you going?"
Dispensing his coffee, Narumi hurried cleaning his cup and wiped his hands. "I am going to eat out with my daughter," he announced.
Narumi texted and called Mikan to meet him in front of the school gate. He was hurrying but surprised to see that his daughter was already there by the gate, admiring the orange leaves falling in freedom. Mikan glanced at him with a small smile as if she expected this lunch out. It was odd that he heard no reaction from her last night when the news broke out in the whole school after classes. Usually, Mikan would have given him a fit and disapproving sentences about how nonsensical The Board was but none of that happened, not even a single question escaped her lips. They had a quiet dinner last night but no mention of dissolving clubs whatsoever. He asked his daughter if it was alright to have lunch outside school and she nodded.
Just five minutes away from school, they settled in an Italian restaurant and waited for their orders. Narumi tried his best to act naturally, smiling all throughout while Mikan listened attentively to his stories, making comments when it was only needed. When the first batch of their orders was given, Mikan sipped her drink while Narumi looked inquisitively at her. By this time, Mikan should noticed that her father was rather curious what was on her mind. She paid attention to him finally after getting her garlic bread and Narumi had no choice but to open the topic to her.
"The school is in shambles, right? I hear some club presidents protested in the form of boycotting their homeroom classes."
Tucking a hair behind her ear, Mikan both raised her eyebrows in acknowledgement and displeasure with the news. "I think that is an expected form or retaliation," replied Mikan.
Narumi cleared his throat and played with his fork as he said, "When the principal broke out the news to us, we resisted and insisted that this should not happen. I don't know what happened to that meeting."
Mikan stopped from eating and smiled bitterly. "I happened in that meeting."
Initially, Narumi judged Mikan's sentence as farfetched. He snickered while waiting for her punchline because surely there was until Mikan did not change her melancholic expression. What could possibly was Mikan's participation in the whole ordeal? Suddenly, it did not sound funny to Narumi and it started to make sense why Mikan had been quiet with the issue.
"I don't understand."
Frowning as Mikan stared at the wasted delectability of the food because of the shift in the mood, she answered Narumi frankly, "Kaoru Hyuuga chairs that board and she doesn't like my relationship with Natsume. So, she sent Luna, her daughter Aoi, and now she did this to break us apart. She is using the Student Council and other clubs to trap us into a decision."
"And this is happening without me knowing?!" Narumi yelled.
Mikan had no clear memory of seeing Narumi in a worked up state like this. To her, Narumi always looked positive and carefree as if he saw light in the darkest situation. Even when Narumi talked to Izumi's stubborn state, he never showed any sign of irritation. It came as a surprise for Mikan to see Narumi reacting this way but at the same time, she felt his extreme concern for her. Then, guilt sprung to her feelings because she indeed never told Narumi any of this. She kept him in the dark with the hope of resolving the conflicts by herself with the big help of Natsume. Mikan felt little at that moment and tried to reason out.
"We were handling it fine," said Mikan.
"Still!" Narumi yelled, hitting the table and earning the stared of the restaurant crew and customers, "I cannot allow someone to degrade you just because you happened to like somebody's son."
"Dad," Mikan said in an attempt to calm Narumi down.
Raising his hand, Narumi halted Mikan from making excuses. He cleared this throat and composed himself by breathing three times, ignoring the looks he gained from the restaurant. "Listen, Mikan. I know you're strong and Natsume will do anything for you but you have to tell me these things. It's important. As long as it affects you, it will affect me."
"I promise," Mikan said in somberly.
"So, instead of organizing the school, this move actually has a personal motive?" asked Narumi.
It all made sense why it felt so abrupt and illogical. Even the expression of the principal showed that he was not agreeing with the vast change but was forced to implement this resolution just so could Kaoru put Mikan and Natsume in a pinch. Narumi hated to admit it but he already saw that when the worst thing came, it was Mikan who could be on the tightest spot. He had no idea that there were still strict families who looked into a person's background these days but since Mikan just told him about the many things Kaoru Hyuuga attempted, it made it easier for him to believe. Narumi examined his drink and food only to realized that his appetite was already lost and by looking it Mikan, he reckoned she felt the same.
Mikan became conscious on Narumi's boring eyes on her, estimating if he somehow blamed Natsume for this. Her instinct told her to defend Natsume's name and state all his effort to protect her but Narumi still looked fuming and trying his best to control it so Mikan suited herself to answering all his questions. She remembered Kaoru's menacing looks and manipulative words when they met each other again. Expecting Kaoru's confrontation did nothing to lessen Mikan's shock to the situation and it also did poorly to her preparation.
"Based on my discussion with Kaoru Hyuuga, yes."
"She really got The Board under control," Narumi muttered in deep thought, "Anyways, we are given a time to protest. Teachers are not in favor of dissolving the Student Council, it is vital as it is. But, sad to say, that other clubs might really perish."
A flinch became visible in Mikan's lips while her mouth said, "I see."
Narumi traced the sadness in Mikans tone. "Don't feel guilty, Mikan. If there's someone who should be feeling so, it should be Kaoru Hyuuga and not you."
"I know."
Narumi finally smiled at Mikan in order to provide some encouragement. "This is what it means to fight for your relationship with Natsume. If you blame yourself for every single terror Kaoru Hyuuga would bring, then that might mean your resolve is weak. I do not know you as weak. If ever, you're the strongest person I know, Mikan."
"That really made me feel better," said Mikan. And it really did in more ways she imagined.
The scene was haywire at the SC Office since the dreadful letter from The Board arrived and the scene of the moment had the same tension like yesterday. One by one the officers gathered for the continuation of their meeting yesterday. Every single one of them had been less than quiet than they usually were, obviously in deep thought on how to handle and solve the situation. They felt more pressure when the list was posted first thing in the morning in the bulletin board and was spread all throughout the school through monitors and radio announcement. The situation had not improved a bit and the morale of the students were low especially that their only hope, the Student Council, faced the same big problem as theirs. Although, the clubs could stay until the end of the school year, their resolution should come sooner or else the effectivity would already take effect.
Those in their junior and freshmen years were the most emotionally affected by the situation. Some seniors and members of dying clubs found the situation light and not a cause of panic. The list earned a few nods from the students who realized that indeed some clubs had the same function as the others and thought this change was beneficial. But, the majority of the students contested the change. Ruka anchored his chin with a hand, his chair twisting from left to right as he watched his co-officers came. They were all overwhelmed yesterday and even though they tried to think rationally, they ended up doubting themselves in the end. Overnight, Ruka was sure that everybody did their homework and could present a decent opinion over the matter. By decent opinion, Ruka meant that they had to see the advantages and disadvantages of both sides and not just favor their initial bias.
Natsume stared at one place for a long time now that most of them noticed his concentration over the matter. Meanwhile, Ruka knew that his best friend had a plan already but on the process of determining if it was actual or beneficial. Sumire clapped her hands to gather their attention so they could finally start the meeting. Cookies, cake, and tea were already prepared by Yura which was a big help to boost their mood and generate their minds. Ruka nodded at Sumire as a sign of acknowledgement and took the floor.
"Alright, guys! Number one agenda for this meeting: Determine which clubs are useful and clubs that have redundant functions. Never mind the list that came out this morning," Ruka began and not a second went by when someone raised a hand already, "Yes, Koko?" he called.
"I think the Karaoke Club has a big similarity with our Music Club," said Koko with a shrug of shoulders and looked at the rest who could agree to his opinion.
Sumire blinked, surprised to hear this for the first time. "Wait, wait. We have a Karaoke Club?" she asked.
"Yup. For those who like to sing five songs in a row," answered Koko casually.
"What caused this club to be born?" Hotaru asked seriously but feeling incredulous at the same time.
"They were formed by students rejected from the audition of the Music Club. It has 14 members as we speak."
"What do we do with these clubs that could be proven to have redundant functions? Aren't we free enough to build a club out of our own passion?" asked Yura.
"Do we save everyone or do we admit that some clubs are really useless?" Ruka took back the question to them.
No one answered immediately. It seemed like they were in a situation where reality poured in on them and realized the truthfulness of what The Board wanted to happen. Some clubs were really alike. Now, it was hard to choose which way they should take to victory without causing casualties. From the conversation, it turned out that some students would not get what they want this time. Freedom was not entirely freedom after all.
Hotaru tapped a pen on the table. "That would be instigating a fight with everyone, Ruka. Most of the students here belong in one or two clubs that are deemed unnecessary."
"Why don't we focus on our goal because time is running out? We have to file a counter affidavit," Sumire said to realigned their topic once again. She thought that they had this meeting to prevent the change and not get along with it.
"This is not a court case, Sumire," snarled Hotaru.
Sumire acknowledged the fact that she was exaggerating and carried on with her statement. "What I am trying to say is that we have a deadline. If we don't reach a decision now, say goodbye to our beloved Student Council next year."
Sumire had a point but it was hard to decide for the fate of everyone when it was just yesterday that they did not have this problem. Ruka shook his head and slapped his cheeks. He needed to stop thinking about the what ifs and indeed focused his mind on the solution. Time was wasted if they spent on fretting over the fact that this should not happened in the first place. They needed something to shake The Board, something that could take their attention and forced them to talk to the council. The support of the faculty was there and the students but they had to present a plan that could work to earn their trust and cooperation.
"Mr. Narumi will call for a meeting on all the club advisers once we finalized a plan," Yura reminded.
Hotaru eyed Ruka but spoke in a way that she was addressing everybody. "In a way, I realized we cannot unfollow The Board's decision completely."
Koko snapped his fingers, glad that someone was finally able to get his point. "What do you mean, Hotaru?" he asked.
"Because they are going to ignore us," Hotaru explained, standing up and started walking around the office. "If we come up with a solution that would disregard their decision, there's a big chance that they will not allow it."
"If they do, that's gonna be saying that they reached to another rushed decision," Sumire supplemented.
Another silent break followed when their minds changed from keeping the status quo to suddenly considering the resolution of The Board. It was no joke to implement such a drastic modification, not to mention the enemies they could earn by putting everything to action. It was evident that each one had a decision made in mind but no one had the courage to utter it. Ruka already made up his mind but caught Natsume's glance because if there was someone in this room whose opinion could fix their minds, it was his.
"What do you propose, Natsume?" asked Ruka.
This was a familiar scene to Natsume but it always felt new every time. He locked gaze to nothingness as he tried to manage the words to say. Natsume already formed a decision last night but he was afraid if everyone would agree. First of all, the students had every right to blame him for the circumstances since this was all his mother's doing so expressing an opinion might put him in a position where the cards were not in favor of him. Natsume was more scared for Mikan because she had the biggest potential of absorbing every anger and opposition of the students. That reaction was expected and something that could lead them to their downfall but thankfully, nothing of that sort happened. They had such understanding and supportive friends and Natsume could not express more his appreciation for them.
Kaoru knew well how much Natsume valued the Student Council. In his darkest times, this was where he found the truest people that he now called friends. Whatever issue they faced, they accomplished everything together and in the happy times, they faced it together, too. If Natsume found a gem within the Student Council, he hoped someone like him in the future would find it too in a group like this. That was why maintaining the blood line of the student government was of utmost importance. All the officers had a point with their suggestions but Natsume realized what Mikan said yesterday. One could not fight fire with fire. They had to offer something that would stop The Board to look at their proposal. In that way, they could enter their lair and slowly change their minds. At the same time, they had to appear aggressive. Adults taking teenagers seriously was rare so they had to make a statement and show some action with it.
"Compromise," Natsume announced, "Remove all clubs that are useless, combine them with the club they can identify mostly with, and retain the functional ones. Have the Student Council remain its stature as the one who will identify that and govern these students. We will make enemies but we can save more."
"Is that a win-win situation?" Sumire chirped.
Natsume nodded. "I think that's the best we can do."
Everyone nodded along with him while Yura recorded everything in the minutes. The change in the situation was scary but they could pull it off. No one else but them. Everything depended on how well they could take responsibility for their plans and actions. Ruka asked everyone who agreed to raise their hands and gathered the votes they needed. The legacy of this batch of the Student Council might be always bickering with The Board much to Ruka's dismay but it also sounded adventurous and different. He was glad that they were not the kind to be swayed by threats and orders and instead had a mind of their own. Their independency made them one of the best.
Ruka tapped his fingers on the table, saying, "We must share our plan with the rest of the school."
"As Student Council, we should do that," Yura agreed.
"Where can we do that?" Koko asked with crossed arms, "I'm sure the higher ups will not allow a gathering this large."
The faculty might burn their hair before that happened especially in this delicare time. Hotaru snapped her fingers with the idea that formed in her mind.
"We'll do it outside school. Surely, they have no jurisdiction over us once we are outside the school perimeter."
Ruka supported the notion. "Fine. Let's go to Glassroots."
"I thought you wouldn't say that," said Hotaru.
"Let's get this over and done with," Ruka said with the most vicious tone he came up in years.
Mikan skipped some steps of the stairs to quicken her pace. Natsume texted her about half an hour ago for a quick meetup at the school's rooftop. She was running late because of the lunch with Narumi which was a few kilometers away from school. Mikan even had to go ahead first because Natsume wanted to see her for reasons not yet divulged which Narumi allowed through a nod and a smile. The scattered rays of sun escaped the spaces on the metal door, the only thing which bounded her from meeting Natsume. Opening the door required an amount of force and the moment she stepped on the platform, the gush of wind welcomed her and the blinding light of the noon sun. Mikan sought for the comforts her scarf and jacket as she walked towards Natsume. The last time she was up here was when she confessed to Ruka and that felt a long time ago. She never expected to be back to soon.
A simple setup of picnic blanket which looked like something borrowed from the arts and crafts supplies of the school, two small plates laid out, two mason jars filled with juice, and the food stored in the picnic basket. Mikan smirked as she raised an eyebrow on the figure of Natsume who was busy admiring the city landscape. She covered his eyes using her hands, hoping to surprise Natsume, but he only held her hands and turned around. He looked beautiful from the nose down. The laugh was delivered by Mikan and that was the signal that Natsume had to take off her hands. They both smiled at each other for a while and savored that light moment in the rooftop of Alice Academy.
"What's with the idea?" Mikan asked.
Natsume masterfully transferred his hold from her wrist to her fingers, making their hands intertwined. He assisted her on walking to the picnic area. "Figured that we haven't really tried hanging out in this rooftop. It's a must according to the cliché handout."
"Ha ha," Mikan jested and peeked at the basket Natsume was opening, "So, what's for snack?"
Natsume's eyes narrowed, closing the basket. "This is lunch."
Mikan giggled nervously, tucking her hair behind her ears, avoiding Natsume's gaze. "You see, I had lunch with Dad," she said truthfully.
"I see. Without telling me?" Natsume mocked.
At most times, Mikan did not want to say it aloud but Natsume's kind of humor bewildered her. She deemed him a stern person who only took notice of heavy problems until they became friends and now that they were in a relationship, he still surprised her whenever he acted funny. Whenever they shared light moment like this, like there was no turmoil in the school grounds, like the problem with Izumi did not exist, like the conflict with Yuka never happened, or even the sour relationship she had with Serina was out of the scene, Mikan felt the happiest and she hoped Natsume felt the same. Stealing an hour of this made Mikan feel like a rebel. Her insides almost crushed in excitement.
"Cut the act. Again, what did you prepare?" Mikan asked with a pout.
"My favorites."
Mikan opened her mouth but did not say anything until she nodded and realized what Natsume tried to do. "I think that's acceptable. Of course, girls should also consider the wants of the boys."
"That's what equality means," Natsume said with a smirk.
Natsume finally opened the basket which contained pastries from the bakery they usually stopped by from school. An automatic smile lifted in Mikan's mouth as she was handed over the bread. She briefly thanked Natsume, sipped her drink, and bit the bread. As always, sweet food made her mood ecstatic and the atmosphere in the rooftop brightened, flourishing in glitters and sunrays. It was all metaphor but Mikan's heart did not feel differently from her imagination.
"This is good. Did you make it?" teased Mikan.
Natsume put the bread to her mouth. "Just eat, don't ask questions."
"Roger that," Mikan managed to say as she chewed her delicacy. She watched Natsume who was watching her. "You know dates on rooftops usually happen on summer not in the middle of autumn."
Natsume glared deeply at her. "Shut up, Polka."
"Just kidding. I am glad you had this random idea. It's like a breath of fresh air," Mikan admitted after a laugh, "You are trying your best to make me feel better but you know what?"
"What?"
With a shrug on her shoulders, Mikan tried to come up with the most appropriate wordings to her idea while Natsume anticipated her next words. "I think this is affecting you in a different way also. Kaoru is your mother and even if you don't have the best relationship, I know that there's a portion in your heart that wants to protect her. And now you think you have to make a choice where everyone's interest will be served."
Natsume kept on staring at her with no words forming in his mouth until he stated, "I just did."
His eyes stayed at Mikan's. She was the choice he made. He bowed never to do something that would aggravate Mikan's position even more. Natsume made sure that she was able to get it. If Mikan was able to stand up against Kaoru multiple times, he could do the same even if it gave him the dilemma of a lifetime. Natsume noticed the apparent change in Mikan's expression, from the teasing one to the taken aback face she made whenever he said something out of this world. In the future, Natsume already saw himself choosing the choices that would make Mikan happy. He did not know if it would always align with his feelings but nothing came before her. At this point of his life, he would willingly do anything for her.
Mikan gulped and sniffed. She knew that Natsume would fight as he always implied, the direction he always seemed to head to. "Whatever you decide, I will support you. When I say whatever, I really mean whatever it is. Not just in this particular problem, but also in every decision you will make in your life."
Her words were honest and Mikan felt her heart bounding as she released the words to the universe. Her promise calmed Natsume and assured him of her presence for the coming years just like he wanted to. Natsume shifted his sitting position by extending his leg and flexing the other one to lean his elbow. He covered his mouth in the hope to hide his smile and astonishment with Mikan's declaration but he was unsuccessful with it. Mikan immediately detected the she rendered him speechless and tapped his forehead with her index finger, brushing the stray hair hiding his eyes. The food was completely ignored by this time and the couple made worthy of their time by holding hands.
"I hate that Kaoru had to act like a villain just to feed her ego. I wanted to hate her but Dad is right. I still love her as my mother but as long as this keeps up, I will never follow her. I hope one day she wakes up and realizes that this is not the way to keep a family," Natsume said, "How about you? Are you okay?"
During this time, Mikan leaned on Natsume's body as he encaged her with his arms. They just relished the cold wind and the warmth of each other. "It's easy to be attracted on the downside, Natsume. At first, I really thought our friends are going to blame me, us. Imagine if that happened, I might be crying in a corner right now. But, that never happened. I also told Dad about the whole ordeal. He was mad at first."
"I'm sorry."
Mikan shook her head. "Don't be. He was mad at the situation and me for not telling him but we're fine. I realized that no one really blames us for something we do not directly did or we're just lucky that the people around us are understanding."
"We're both lucky and not to be blamed, I guess."
"Yeah. What did we do? We just love each other, right?" Mikan said casually and then giggled.
Natsume hugged her tighter and buried his head to her neck, whispering, "I do. Love you."
"You follow this cliché handout well," Mikan praised.
Their brief encounter ended as the break neared its finale. Together, they folded and arranged the blanket. Mikan consumed the remaining food as if her stomach could store more even if she had lunch with Narumi. Natsume took another moment to view the city landscape like he did earlier and then peeked at Mikan who made him feel that anything was possible. He stood straight, fidgeting a little, far from his usual accurate movements then slowly walked to Mikan's spot. He had yet to divulge the Student Council's decision regarding the removal of clubs because he was adamant that Mikan would not take it well. Knowing her, she had the tendency to save everyone. After hearing her words though, Natsume felt more comfortable in telling her.
"We are going to have a meeting with the student body on Glassroots. We will announce them the plan and I hope they will agree although I don't think this will favor everyone. Most clubs will stay but some will have to sacrifice."
From yesterday's emergency meeting, Mikan had the impression that everything would remain the same but minds changed overnight. She was not entirely in favor of this decision but whenever Mikan saw Natsume's determined eyes and heard his tone of voice which sounded so sure, she also wanted to agree with him. If the council settled in this decision, then they also saw something beneficial in this path. Mikan held Natsume's arm, catching his glimpse then looked down to her feet. She did not know what to say because the first thought that came to her mind was what if her friends would get all the hate while she remained unscathed.
"Do you think this is the way to go?" Mikan asked, her voice slightly trembling.
Nodding, Natsume replied, "I really think this is the best for everyone."
Mikan finally looked up with a smile of assurance. "Then, I will be there to support you even if they disagree."
"Thanks, Polka. You know you are more than enough."
Like magic, Natsume's fears vanished at that very moment. He was in the rooftop, before the overwhelming skyline and landscape of Tokyo, standing beside the person who made him feel like he could do anything he wanted to. In a few hours, he needed to address the current and major problem of the students of Alice Academy, one of the prominent schools in Japan. He chose to disagree and agree with Kaoru, his sister left no support to him but promised not to pry anymore, his father was ready to help anytime but not yet. His friends had all the reason to blame him for this unnecessary change in the system. Natsume looked carefully at how imperfect his and Mikan's situation but she still made his life feel perfect. The world could turn his back on Natsume but as long as Mikan believed in him, he was already at his best place.
Ruka took one last look at the SC office, realizing how it would be a shame to lose this if this fight was not won. Even though he was bound to leave Alice Academy this year, it would never take away the fact that this office and the people he met through being an officer made his high school life complete. He closed the door gently, locked it, and caressed the old paint that needed change, probably next school year. He observed his trembling hands, clenched it and placed near his heart. Every time the council faced a major setback, everyone had the right to act hysterical except Ruka. He was the pillar of the council and if he showed any weakness or signs of indecisiveness, no one would follow him anymore. It was hard to act tough all the time because as humans, we all had our limits no matter how we deny it. Ruka wondered when he would reach his limit.
Maybe not this time. He had to save the school first before that happened. There was no time because after tonight's grand meeting, they had work lining up already. Being in the council did not always feel heavenly but he wanted to stay and he vouched for others to find themselves in an active group like the Student Council. Not all would agree with their proposition tonight but he needed only enough support to see this through. Slowly, Ruka's confidence built up. He closed his eyes, engaged in imagery to see their pending success, then peeked again at the door for the last time. He glanced sideway when someone called out his name.
"Ruka! What are you staring at?" asked Mikan. She looked like she just got there, carrying her bag on her back and Natsume's bag on her shoulders.
With a miniscule laugh, Ruka replied to Mikan's question, "I realized I'll be graduating this year and how much I will miss this door."
Mikan snickered shortly, crossing her arms, walking to get near Ruka and stared at the said door. "You love the council," she concluded.
It was Mikan's talent to read the situation no matter how deficit the clues were. Ruka thought that she was just a well-observed girl, enabling her to help a lot of their friends in terms of personal problems since the year began but Ruka realized that Mikan obtained that different way of looking at a situation. Ruka agreed with her statement using a nod and a shrug of shoulders.
"I found myself here. I think it's the same for everyone."
Mikan smiled at him, her face became an outsource of certainty to Ruka. "How you guys work here is remarkable. When I said to Kaoru that she can't beat you, I meant it."
Ruka gave a meek smile, shyly scratched his forehead. "Thanks for the vote of confidence."
"Yeah, well, you all deserve it."
They stood quietly before the door, gathering all the moments that came up this year and how it made their high school lives remarkable. These two were not able to have a heart to heart talk after the confession at Alice Academy's rooftop. They cemented their different kind of friendship that day with Mikan even helping Ruka to finally pursue a relationship with Hotaru. Students began to wonder what they were doing standing still before that door but they enjoyed the trip to memory lane and the relaxed minutes. Suddenly, Ruka remembered Hotaru's words back at Natsume's house about giving Mikan a hint on this willing investor in Izumi Sakura's talent and products.
Ruka had the faintest idea on how he would divulge the subject until he realized later how he should treat the situation. "You know, Mikan? There are lots of things that Natsume doesn't usually do."
"Oh, yeah?" asked Mikan, wondering where the conversation would lead.
"For starters, he doesn't walk a girl home. He doesn't skip classes just so he can chase a cat. He told me about Neko," Ruka narrated with wide eyes, "He hates talking to Luna and his mother but he did both for your sake. To bring back the Photography Club. Natsume doesn't let anyone borrow his phone, not even me, but he is totally fine to share it with you. He changed. He's become open-minded and the thing with the Sports Club is a big proof of that. He talked to Aoi because you suggested it to him. I mean, it was all you!" exclaimed Ruka.
When all of Natsume's efforts had been enumerated, Mikan felt an overwhelming need of wanting to hug him and express her gratefulness. She fell silent for a quick second until her expression converted into a curious one. "Don't sing such high praises of me," Mikan said modestly.
Ruka shook his head, knowing that Mikan missed the point he was trying to make or he simply was awful with it. "So, when he asked me to help you, I couldn't say no. Because Natsume is my best friend, I will do anything for him," Ruka paused and his eyes wandered in one direction before looking straightly at Mikan who did not follow his blabbering, "Hotaru said not to conceal anything from you but I don't want to give the full details. Let's see each other this weekend."
It took a while but Mikan realized it with a dropped jaw. She almost wracked her brains out of it, thinking who was this risky businessman and it turned out to be Ruka. "The investor. Is it you?" she asked for clarification.
Ruka winced in the misinformation but he did give that impression. "I wish. Though, I haven't had the enough means yet but I told you who owns Glassroots, right?"
"Hinami Nogi."
Patting Mikan on the shoulders, Ruka gave her an advice. "Just tell your father to be himself. Hinami knows when someone is just trying to impress her."
Mikan finally took an emotional turn, teary eyed at that spot. She was blessed with the greatest friends and the best boyfriend. "God, thank you, Ruka."
"That's just the surface. We'll discuss everything when weekend comes. Don't tell this to Natsume, please. He'll glare at me to death but I also must listen to Hotaru and realized that as long as I am not going to give everything, it's gonna be fine."
"Reminds me why I came to admire you," Mikan croaked in her light sobs.
"Uh, thanks?" Ruka replied awkwardly, blushing at the compliment.
They laughed in unison just as Mikan wiped the forming tears of happiness in her eyes. This meant a lot to her family and might be the best way for Izumi to finally talk decently to her. She needed to clue Subaru about this and hoped the message would be cleared to Izumi.
"Natsume!" Mikan yelled as she waved happily.
Ruka turned his back and saw his best friend with a poker face. "Hey, Nat. You ready?" he asked and only received a nod. Ruka winked at Mikan before storming off, giving them the privacy they needed.
"Why are you giggling like a fan girl in front of Ruka?" asked Natsume as he retrieved his bag from Mikan.
"Are you being jealous again?" Mikan mocked.
They started walking hand in hand. Natsume gripped Mikan's hand harder but not too tight. "Before, I am not the jealous type but you bringing up names of men doesn't sit well on me."
"You make me sound like I'm such a catch," Mikan teased as she leaned onto Natsume a little.
With a glared, Natsume deadpanned, "Not answering the question, Polka."
Mikan giggled at Natsume's childish reaction. "We're just catching up. Good old times, you know?"
"It better be before I tell this to Imai," he threatened.
"Oh, no, you wouldn't!" Mikan yelped.
Clearly, the message was received by every known student leader in Alice Academy. Ten minutes before the stated time of meetup, Glassroots was already filled more than its capacity. Food was ordered from left to right and complimentary drinks were given. Some rumored about the intention of tonight's assembly while most just waited for someone from the Student Council to start the gathering. Sumire was in charge of crowd control and she was best at it, arranging the seats of the students accordingly. She knew who to put with whom and who could mingle the best. Right now they needed the cooperation of everyone and Sumire would not dare to go wrong with the seat plan which could affect the mood of the night.
Yura drowned herself with the setup of the laptop and projector, reviewing the sequence of the slides. She came with Ken but parted ways immediately. He kept on asking what was on the Student Council's mind but Yura's settled with giving him one-worded replies to avoid giving away the purpose of it all. Assigned with overseeing the whole operation was Hotaru Imai. She coordinated everything with Mr. Narumi who was presently at the office area of the café together with Ruka, Natsume, and Mikan. They allowed one teacher so far because it would depend on the students' reaction tonight on what they would propose to the faculty tomorrow. Narumi animatedly discussed with Ruka the decision the council came up on the corner of the office and Hotaru saw the frown on their adviser's face at first and then the dubious expression. Everything was easier if the choice was all or nothing but that was not the case this time. Then, Hotaru's gaze travelled to Mikan who was wrapped in Natsume's arms as they sat comfortably on the sofa. Their lips were moving but Hotaru could not fathom the root of their conversation.
Narumi ended the talk with Ruka and nodded at Mikan and Natsume before joining the crowd. Ruka stayed glued at the chair, obviously in deep thought. He looked practicing his line when Hotaru sat beside him and that was the only time Ruka smiled the entire time he was in Glassroots. In a little while, they were joined by Koko's company who rubbed his palms together, not to generate heat but to let his anxiety out.
"Ruka, you look petrified!" called out Koko.
The same could be told to him, in Ruka's mind, but he opted to say, "Well, I am presiding one of the biggest student gatherings, aren't I? I'm afraid that one word I get wrong, they'll throw tomatoes at me."
"That only happens in movies," Hotaru grunted.
Koko lifted a finger and shook it, also shaking his head and displayed a horrified expression. "Not in this documentary I saw the other day. It also amused me that people really used tomatoes to express their disappointment and sometimes carrots, too!"
Sumire entered the scene and grabbed her boyfriend, lecturing him about being such a pessimist. "Not helping, Koko. Not helping," grumble Sumire as she stole Koko and asked him to help her outside instead of spreading terror backstage.
"I wonder why you always get nervous when you are about to address the public," Hotaru said when the quietness returned.
"I'm only nervous in front of a lot of people and in front of you," admitted Ruka.
"Relax," Hotaru said, rolling her eyes, then she placed her hands on Ruka's shoulders, looking intently at him, "You're the best convincer, I know."
Ruka looked like a child when he heard the compliment. "Do you really think so?" he asked.
"Yeah. I mean, you were able to convince me, right?"
Hotaru was talking about their relationship and how it began so unconventionally. She watched him made speeches in front of a large crowd several times: Opening Ceremony, School Festival, Arts & Media Week, and later on tonight. She also had the chance of witnessing Ruka making speeches in their intimate crowd. Even if Ruka looked soft outside, his tough interior should never be underestimated. He shifted his position so he would be parallel to Hotaru and held her hands.
"I really like you."
The way Ruka's face hardened and reddened when he said that broke a smile to Hotaru. They said they would try dating and so far, so good. Their relationship had been smooth sailing and neutral most of the time and if they were fighting about something, it would be just about little details like being late or not planning where to eat beforehand. Ruka never saw giddiness in Hotaru's action but if he did, he might suspect it was not the real Hotaru because her personality was far from that. Still, he felt she was sincere in her every word and action. They barely vocalized their feelings and this was one of the rare times that Ruka did so because the moment met all the requirements.
"I know, doofus."
"And?"
"Likewise. I feel the same."
The waiting time was over and all of the officers lined up before the students. They bowed once as a signal that they appreciated their effort of coming. Ruka addressed their uncertainties and questions and clarified that answers would come later. Daichi was easily spotted in the crowd together with a good number of Sports Club captains. Ken was with Akihito Mori, Yui, and the rest. Anna was seated together with Nonoko and Yuu whose full attention were on Ruka. Rui seated with the rest of the growing members of the Photography Club. Ruka had prepared a speech, an introduction but he only managed to blurt half of it and the other half was just an improvisation of his current feelings and analysis of the situation.
Everyone was quiet at first. They watched Natsume presented on how the decision from The Board reached and did not even spare them. Of course he left the part where Mikan was involved and the confrontation with his mother. Natsume searched Mikan in the crowd and there she was beside Narumi with eyes only for him. Just like what cliché protagonists said in movies or books, looking at the person you love made you feel safe. Natsume let the crowd sunk in their feelings, knowing that hey already an idea what he was to say next basing from the train of thought which started with Ruka earlier. He volunteered to break the news to everyone because this was his responsibility, his fight on a personal level.
"We are going to have a big change for the approval and application of clubs starting next schoolyear," Natsume declared.
Chattering voices and mixed reactions lingered in questions erupted in the crowd. The rest of the Student Council officers made eye contact with each other except for Natsume whose attention stayed on the students before him. The Vice President raised his hands, well-aware of the raised eyebrows and pouted lips he caused. Daichi looked like standing up from his seat but Tsubasa pulled him back and whispered something in his ear.
Somebody raised a hand from the back part of the crowd and it was Yuu who looked worried. "Are you agreeing with what The Board wants?" he asked then everybody simultaneously threw their opinions, too.
Natsume twitched his lips a little but acknowledged Yuu's question. "The Board wants reform. At first, we really want to maintain the school as it is. We discussed what hole they saw in our system to put up something like this. We denied it to ourselves that there isn't a hole not until we carefully looked at every club registered in this school. We have every right to express our talents and hobbies by forming a club but the school also has the right to regulate us. We want to offer compromise instead of resistance without losing what we have now. This is where all of your cooperation comes vital."
"What if we don't want to?" Ken spat out.
With hard eyes, Natsume played in his head the scenario of they would not get the favor of the school. "Then, we will dissolve with you," he declared. "You might think that the Student Council is untouchable because what school doesn't have it and it is the council who approves and supports these clubs but we're not that strong. Not without you who makes this school work and gives us something to work for. The Board can maintain their decision. They wouldn't back down especially after what happened to the Photography Club. They studied this carefully. We will compromise. Some will be dissolved, I am afraid to say, in order to join them to the closest similar club. We will determine this with all the students leaders and the faculty. You will not lose your formed groups instead you will just make your family larger without letting go of what made you stay in the first place."
A mode of panic ensued in the crowd with some cursing of the stupidity of the decision and how the Student Council easily gave in. Koko tried to calm the students on his side while Sumire did the same on hers. Mikan's eyes did not leave Natsume even for a second even with her clenched fists. She was close to running to tell Kaoru to stop all this nonsense but that was also giving up too easily and not how she wanted to end this story. All the while, Narumi noticed Mikan's twiddling and sense of guilt, he patted her head which made Mikan to look up to him. Narumi then crossed his arms, sighing at the mess in front of him and how it was a normal reaction all the same.
"I like the decision they came up with, Mikan."
"Really?" Mikan smiled weakly, "Is that not a biased feeling because I'm your daughter?"
Narumi had a hardened look in his face. "I am a teacher and a professional one. I am saying this in the point of view of my many years of service in Alice Academy. Some clubs are really unnecessary. You decided to support Natsume, right?" Mikan nodded while biting her lip. "Then, you shouldn't be brooding here and instead support him in every way you can. I have a great feeling that he is doing this to fight for you."
In the midst of the turmoil and nonstop talking, Daichi stood up and walked near Natsume. He eyed the officers lined up at the side while Ruka immediately went beside Natsume for support. The expression in Daichi's face was unreadable. While his height towered over Ruka and Natsume, the latter did not give in to his superior aura because Natsume looked superior just as the same. The crowd finally shut their mouths and paid their attentiveness to the impending confrontation. Everyone knew that the Sports Club and Student Council had a rough history and the day might finally came when they let their buried animosity spilled in the ground. The rest of the members of the Sports Club also stood and brought out arrogant looks. Daichi turned to them and signaled to relax.
"This is the better option, Daichi," said Natsume which astounded the crowd on how civil that sounded.
"I trust your judgement," Daichi stated, "Just promise to be fair."
"We will not make any more decisions without consulting the representative of each club," Ruka promised.
"We have to show them that we have a say in this," Daichi added.
Natsume smirked and nodded. "That's the plan," he said. And at that moment, Natsume knew that if he got Daichi to agree then the school would automatically share his opinion.
"Give me your word," Daichi offered his hand as he said this. The most influential person who did not belong to the Student Council extended his hand to Natsume to which he accepted wholeheartedly. "I'm sick of them always messing with the clubs. Maybe this time we will finally shut them up," he added.
This was the last time that The Board would interfere with the clubs in Alice Academy. Natsume figured out that he had to do more than this to keep the glory of his both worlds: the school and Mikan. It sounded greedy but he was willing to try every possible route to achieve this. He hoped that the time to choose would not come. Later on, the thought disappeared in his mind and went on to explaining further the details of the reform. The hour passed and the night was not getting any younger. The younger students appreciated their seniors' efforts to save the school even if they only had months left before they leave for university or do something more amazing in their lives. Not everyone agreed but the majority verbalized their participation with one of the biggest changes in the school system of Alice Academy.
The general details of the reform was discussed and they came up with a draft which should be polished and be approved by the advisers and the principal. Hotaru spearheaded how to state the draft and encouraged everyone to spill their opinion because they would not have the chance to do so in the next days. It certainly was not the best feeling knowing the club you formed would be demolished and be joined to others but they had to abide and they had to sacrifice a part of them to gain more. Questions were raised which cleared out the bubbles in their head rather then add to it and that was a good indication in Anna's opinion. All of them tried their best to share their suggestions.
Yura stayed with Ken and the others. Even if it felt like the decision was forced to her at first, Yura finally realized that it would be more agonizing if they would protest straightly in front of the school. That night, everyone they helped throughout the whole year expressed their support. Rui even approached Natsume and laid out what he had on mind. Experiencing dissolvement once had earned him the right to be paid attention with on how to stay in line. It was the biggest student gathering and also the biggest display of collaboration. No one imagined that this day could even happen. Narumi wanted to cry in the corner and hug everyone but he stayed firm on his seat, glad that these kids knew how to give and take.
Daichi said his goodbye to the remaining students when Mikan stopped him from his tracks. "I guess you have to put on hold you re-application to the team, Sakura. At least, not until we determine which will stay and which will go."
"Thank you," Mikan said.
"It was nothing."
Mikan shook her head. "It was everything, Captain. I wonder how we can repay you."
"Oh, Mikan, you don't have to!" Tsubasa butted in and draped his arm to Daichi's shoulders. "Daichi here wanted to get rid of the Tango Club he was tricked into joining," he stated with a snicker.
Daichi pushed Tsubasa's face away while rolling his eyes. "Let's go, Tsubasa. It's already late." Daichi nodded at Mikan then resumed his walking.
Tsubasa followed afterwards but stopped then turned to Mikan. "Natsume and I are cousins, you know that?"
Mikan's jaw dropped, eyes widened in plump circles. "What? How? And you're only telling me this now?" she asked, unable to believe the revelation.
"On his mother's side, actually cousins by third or fourth degree, I'm not exactly sure. It's not a secret what Aunt Kaoru is trying to do with you two," Tsubasa admitted, looking serious all of a sudden.
The surprise was erased in Mikan's face and it turned to annoyance. "Does the whole clan know?"
"Relationships are a big deal to us, Mikan, so to see Natsume exerting this much effort to be with you. It's amazing. His mother is too much of a traditional so to change her mind is like asking for a miracle."
Mikan peeked at the busy Natsume and remembered her real family situation. "I ask for miracles every day, Tsubasa-senpai."
With that, Tsubasa laughed and rubbed his chin. "I guess you softening the Natsume Hyuuga is one given miracle," he said with amazement in his tone, "See you around."
Mikan watched him leave, her heart filled with gratefulness and appreciation. Yuu and Anna joined the officers in a circle. Their work was far from finish and they had to wrap this up officially but that did not take long. After 30 minutes, they stood from their seats, coffee and hot chocolate all consumed, and extended their arms and legs. Sumire left with Koko and the same thing happened to Ruka and Hotaru who looked chummier than before. Mikan wondered what happened but she smiled at the sweetness. Ken waited for Yura outside while Anna and Yuu exited the café discussing about tomorrow. Glassroots was closed for the day and what a long day it was. Their energies were all swept by the intensity of the happenings.
"What?" Natsume asked when he realized Mikan was staring at him, "Feeling more in love after seeing me earlier, Polka?" he teased.
Mikan hugged him and Natsume's arms wrapped around her automatically. Hugging really was their thing, always making them feel so loved and peaceful. In a while, Mikan shifted her head from right to left and closed their proximity as if there was any more remaining space. Natsume wondered what triggered her to become like this.
"Tsubasa is your cousin," Mikan mumbled.
Natsume doubted if that was the cause of this action from Mikan and even if that was not new information, he knew the reveal came from Tsubasa himself. "Apparently," Natsume deadpanned.
Mikan broke the hug which disappointed Natsume a little because he wanted to feel her warmth longer in this cold weather. "I admit that when I saw them arguing with you, I realized that this should not happen in the first place. Good thing that Dad was there to knock me on my senses. Thank you for always giving it your all. Every moment with you is definitely one for the books."
"You got me with the 'I cannot ties with you'," Natsume teased but it held the truth. "This is just the start, Polka. I don't plan on letting you go. Ever."
"The feeling is mutual then," Mikan announced. "And you are right, I fell for you even more after your stint earlier. I didn't know that was possible but I felt it."
Natsume blushed but hid it well and they both laughed while looking at each other in the middle of the night, in this cold temperature, under the stars but their feelings were over the moonlight.
To: Board Members of Alice Academy
Thru: Kaoru Hyuuga
Chairman of The Board
Good day!
This letter is made in response with the sudden announcement of dissolvement of several clubs in the school and the Student Council itself. We have reviewed all the clubs that you ought to find having redundant function with other clubs. In this, we concur to combining similar clubs as long as we will be included in reviewing all the registered organizations of the school together with a committee that The Board, the faculty, and the students will find fair. We take pride in representing the students in everything we do as Student Council. Remember that the history of forming a student council stems from the post-war era wherein democracy is strongly implemented and respected. We hope that you do not take the rights of the students: to choose a leader, to form a club, to join a club, and to have the best school life in Alice Academy.
In lieu with this request, we already made a formal complaint to the Ministry of Education regarding this incident. It is only a matter of days before we get their reply. This incident does not boost the image of the academy especially the people who run it so unless you do not want this to make a media sensation that will affect the appearances of the members of The Board, the door of the Student Council is always open to negotiate with you. In addition, coordination with the faculty was also accomplished. We are positive that you will get their communication letter along with ours. In case of an unfavorable response, the students are preparing for a protest that will certainly attract the attention of Japan and the rest of the world as a way of practicing our right in the sense of democracy.
Sincerely,
The Student Council and the students of Alice Academy
Ioran adjusted his glasses while examining the letter, drinking his favorite lemon tea on his favorite café in Tokyo.
"The letter is a bit dramatic, Natsume."
Natsume shrugged his shoulder and poured his own tea, his legs crossed and leaned back on the comfy seat. "Well, Shouda made that and she's known to be passionate on these things."
Ioran folded back the paper. "So, what's your next plan?" he asked.
"If she continues this, she can expect us in front of Alice Academy with dummies, effigies, and placards. You know the whole rally thing?"
"Are you serious?" Ioran asked skeptically.
Natsume galred at him. "I don't joke. A lot. But I'm serious."
"Your face says so," Ioran conceded. "This is declaring war to Kaoru, remember that."
"If this is how it's supposed to be then let it happen."
Natsume accepted the circumstances and anticipated the next events. His mother's techniques grew on him and it would not be startling that a day would come that he could read her moves even without her making it. Ever since the day Kaoru dropped the bomb in Alice Academy, Natsume already wanted to talk to her face to face but always found a way out of it. So, Natsume used his father's connections and charm to lure Kaoru today. Their relationship as a divorced couple was still weird for him but he took that as an advantage for today. Finally, Kaoru agreed. Maybe inside her, she also was curious on what Ioran had to say when in reality there was none.
"Speaking of which, here she comes," Ioran stated and pointed the teacup to north.
Natsume turned and saw that his mother always dressed up when meeting his father. "My mother always come in style. When did the last time you met her again?"
"Golf club. Almost threw that ball at me for teasing her."
"Right," Natsume drawled.
Kaoru walked comfortable in her stilettos and fur coat. Dropping her shades, she eyed the two men in her family. "I'm not late for the family reunion, am I right?" she asked with a sinister smile.
Natsume stood up and pointed her to her seat, saying, "No, you've got the perfect timing."
End of Chapter
Okay, I admit there were a lot of dialogues for this one. My brain is not keen these days on paragraphs. Anyways, I wished you enjoyed this one. Sorry it took long. I just have many things going, organizing this and that (again!). :D I don't know… I am just so distracted. I read your messages, telling me to update. I wanted to say that I make it a point to write something every day but it's just this time, I had a lot in my mind and I was not satisfied with what I initially wrote. I changed most of the scenes I have written for this chapter. Just goes to show how ambiguous I am, Hopefully, I can finish the next one in no time. Force me if you have to. Haha. Tell me to update faster if you must! :D