Standard Disclaimers Apply. Hana Yori Dango belongs to its respectful
owners, and sadly to say, I am not one of them.
Ramblings: Woohoo!! Another chapter up ^_^ I have finals this week, so I'm a bit overstressed. Remember that patience is a virtue and I'll write more soon. Once again, reviews are greatly appreciated. Thanks for reading!! Enjoy!
Beautiful
"Actually, Reona-chan, I was wondering if you'd be my date for the party."
I stared at him blankly, trying to register what this fool just said to me. He just asked me to be his date for the party. Is Tsukasa sick or something?
"Run that by me one more time" I said, unsure of how to respond to the offer.
"Are you deaf? I asked you to be my date for the party!" Tsukasa scowled. I guess he was annoyed that I remained awfully quiet.
"Uh…" I looked up at him, and really, who could resist those intense brown eyes, "Okay. I'll accompany you to your party." Tsukasa, then, nodded his head and turned back to stare out the window.
"So why me?" I asked, breaking the silence. I watched his reactions. It's actually not so bad that he asked me. If I ever need to get him alone, I could easily do so without anyone being suspicious. At least he wasn't taking Umi to this thing. I wonder how Kaede's going to pull this off tomorrow night.
"Because.." Tsukasa began "Soujiro asked that annoying girl and JR asked Umi-chan, so you're the only decent girl left." Could he be any more blunt?
"So I am your last resort." Tsukasa nodded.
"You better dress nice. If you need help picking something, ask my sister. She'll be more than happy to take you shopping for decent clothing. Don't make me look bad tomorrow." Tsukasa said neutrally, still staring out the window.
"Don't worry Doumyoji, I've got it all under control." I said smiling sweetly at him. Little does he know how much I've actually got under control. Besides this little change in plans, everything is going just great.
I decided to take Tsukasa's advice and asked Tsubaki to help me find something to wear. We ended up shopping for hours, and bought other things that I could have lived without, but Tsubaki insisted on buying everything. I did find the perfect dress though. Hopefully JR likes it. JR? Oh lordy, what am I thinking now?
That night, my phone rang, and it was Tsukushi.
"Reona-chan? It's Tsukushi."
"Hi Tsukushi-chan! How are you?"
"I'm doing good, but I need your help. I don't want to Nishikado-san to look bad tomorrow, because I'm his date. So tomorrow, after school, could you help me find something to wear?" Tsukushi asked hesitantly. She actually wants to make an impression tomorrow night. That's not like her. What's going on here?
"Sure Tsukushi-chan. We can go right after school. You can even get ready with me at Doumyoji's place. Nishikado-san could just meet you here instead." I said.
"Ah…Reona-chan, I don't think I should get ready there. I can do it at home. It's okay."
"NO! Just come over. Who cares what Doumyoji says anyway?" I thought it would be better for Tsukushi to be at the house. Maybe she can jar up more of Tsukasa's memories.
Sighing, Tsukushi finally gave in to my offer. We talked about a few others things before saying good night.
My phone rang again and this time it was JR.
"Why are you calling me past midnight? I need my beauty sleep too ya know!" I complained, but I just heard him laugh on the other end.
"Just called to say hi. Can't a guy call his friend and see how she's doing?" JR said teasingly.
"Can't you call and say hi tomorrow morning around 8 am?" More laughter. JR was truly enjoying this late night torture.
"So are you going to look all hot and sexy tomorrow Reona?" I felt my face heat up at the question. Thought of perversion always filled JR's head.
"Of course I am, but I can't look too hot and sexy now. As Tsukasa's date, I have to look respectful." I answered.
"WHAT?!" Oops. I forgot to tell JR about that.
"Yeah, Tsukasa asked me to be his date, as a last resort." I answered.
"But Reona, isn't that going to interfere with our plans?"
"I don't see how it would. We were expecting Tsukasa to be dateless and now he's not. At least its me and not Umi, right? It's not like I hold any strong feelings for him like the other two girls do. Besides, it'll be easier for us to watch over him tomorrow night." I explained all my reasons. I didn't see why JR was objecting to the date, but that's just JR I guess. I heard him sigh deeply.
"Okay fine, but forget about looking all hot and sexy. Everything better be covered up tomorrow." It was my turn to laugh. "I'm not joking either Reona!"
"Good night JR. See you tomorrow." Laughing still as I hung up.
I got dressed for school and headed down for breakfast. I entered the room to find Kaede sitting at the head of the table. That certainly was my shocker for the day. I stood there frozen. I didn't know what to do. I mean, of course, this is her house, but she's been in town all this time and this is her first time in the house.
"Good morning, Reona-san." Kaede said as I stood still.
"G-go-good morning, Doumyoji-san." I managed to say.
I sat down a few seats away from her. Just her stare was giving me the creeps. Breakfast was served, with no signs of Tsukasa. I decided it was best to avoid all conversation with Kaede. It certainly didn't prevent my heart rate from increasing drastically.
"I understand you will be accompanying my son to his party this evening." I choked on my pancakes. Now I see where Tsukasa gets his bluntness from. 'Be brave' I told myself.
"Yes, I will be accompanying Doumyoji to the party, at his request." I said steadily, with my head up and keeping eye contact with Kaede. I refuse to fear this woman. She's just evil and has done nothing but cause her son pain.
"What is your relationship with my son? I know you have been staying with us, and my sources say you two have become close." Her voice nor her face faltered as she passed judgement on mine and Tsukasa's friendship.
"Doumyoji and I are nothing but friends. We talk like friends talk and that is all." I answered calmly, continuing to finish my breakfast.
"If you and Tsukasa are just friends, as you say, then why has he asked someone like you to be his date tonight?" The nerve of this woman.
"Maybe you should ask your son that question." I snapped back. How dare she refer to me as *someone like you* Who does she think she is?!? I felt like screaming, but I remained calm. I wasn't about to show this woman my true colors.
"I would suggest you brush up on your lessons in Japanese etiquette before tonight." Kaede said, going back to her paperwork.
It took all my self control not to lash out at this woman. I quietly continued breakfast, still wondering where Tsukasa was, when the devil himself entered. I looked up to see the look on his face. I guess I'm not the only one shocked to see Kaede.
"Good morning, Tsukasa." Kaede spoke upon seeing Tsukasa.
"What are you doing here?" He asked, rather rudely if you asked me. I couldn't help but smile inwardly.
"Mind your manners in front of guests Tsukasa."
"She's not a guest" Tsukasa said pointing at me "She lives here."
"Sit down Tsukasa and eat your breakfast." Tsukasa scowled, clearly stating that he would rather eat with pigs instead of being in Kaede's presence.
"Let's go Reona-chan." Tsukasa ordered, grabbing my arm.
"You can let go now!" I screamed jerking my arm from Tsukasa's grasp.
"You know, Doumyoji, you didn't have to be so rude to her. She is your mom after all."
He ignored me and continued walking. I had no idea the impact Kaede had on Tsukasa. He was so angry that he saw her this morning. Tsukasa's face was beet red, but by the time we got to school, I managed to calm his nerves.
"Tsukushi-chan!" I yelled seeing the girl at her locker. Tsukushi turned her head to see me and she smiled, waving.
Class went by quickly, so I hurriedly went over to Tsukushi so we could go shopping. We managed to find her the perfect dress for tonight. Later, we headed back to the Doumyoji mansion and started to get ready. Upon entering the grounds, there were many people preparing for tonight. They were setting up tables and decorations in the ballroom. The wonderful aroma of the dishes being served tonight filled the house. It smelled delicious. Luckily, Tsukushi and I didn't run into either Kaede or Tsukasa.
Tsubaki came into my room, with the hair stylist, to fix up Tsukushi and myself. I could do my own make-up so I chose not to get any help with that.
"So Tsukushi-chan, did you tell Nishikado-san to meet you here?" I asked over the sound of the hair dryer.
"Yes I did. He said he'd be here a little early to help Doumyoji." She replied.
We talked and talked while our hair was being styled and our nails getting done. I told Tsukushi that Tsukasa asked me to be his date. I noticed the hurt on her face, but I reassured her it was because I was his last resort and there was nobody else. Hopefully she believes me. I felt like a princess getting pampered. This was a great feeling. I wish I could have this back home. Time passed quickly and the party would begin soon.
Tsukushi stood in front of the mirror. Honestly, Tsukushi looked amazing. The azure colored chiffon dress fell on her perfectly. It was sleeveless with a v-neck line, fitted down to her waist, and then flaring with the bottom half of the dress falling mid-calf. Her hair was done up in a french twist with curls on top of her head. The make up was simple, with a natural colored lip-gloss and bit of blush, making Tsukushi glow. This would surely knock Tsukasa out.
I simply loved my dress. It was a deep-red satin material, with spaghetti straps and a straight-line top. The rest of the dress fit me nicely, showing off my curvy figure. I'd have to thank my mom for this figure one day. The dress fell to my ankles with thigh-high slits on each side of the dress. Tsubaki found some beautiful diamond stud earrings and a necklace with three diamonds dropping down the center for me to wear. Tsubaki told me I had to look like I had money, so the fancy jewelry was necessary.
"You two look so beautiful!" Tsubaki exclaimed, seeing Tsukushi and I fully dressed for tonight.
"Thanks Tsubaki-san." I said blushing.
"Are you ready Tsukushi-chan?" Tsukushi nodded and we headed down to meet the guys.
Male voices could be heard as we walked out of the room. Not that I really cared what the rest of the guys thought, but I was really nervous. I could tell Tsukushi's nervousness too.
"What's wrong?" I asked Tsukushi, noticing she stopped walking.
"I'm not comfortable in this. It's not me." Tsukushi said nervously.
"Relax Tsukushi-chan. You look great. Don't worry." I said smiling, pushing her to walk forward. I wouldn't let her get out of this one.
To make it a more dramatic entrance, I decided to descend the stairs first. The four men standing at the bottom of the stairs stared gaping. They all looked very handsome in their tuxedos. I was impressed at how well they cleaned up. Smiling, I tried my best to make it down the stairs without tripping all over myself.
"Wow! Reona-chan you look beautiful!" Akira exclaimed, being the first to speak. I blushed profusely as Akira was extremely close.
"Really, you look great." Soujiro said to me. I looked over to Rui who smiled my way, and told me I looked amazing.
I walked over to Tsukasa. "You look nice tonight Doumyoji." I said casually. He looked so cute.
"So, where's my date?" Soujiro asked impatiently.
I looked up to the top of the stairs, which caused the men with me to look up as well. There stood Tsukushi in all her glory. If I looked great, she looked stunning. The men were left speechless with the vision before them. I looked over at Tsukasa, only to see his mouth open partially and his eyes intently on her as she made her descent. Soujiro walked over to her once she reached the bottom step and held his hand out to her, smiling proudly at his date.
"Wow Makino…." Soujiro managed to say. "Beautiful…." He whispered, placing a sweet kiss on the top of Tsukushi's hand.
I felt Tsukasa cringe next to me. He looked like he was going to burst. I looked at him, trying to catch his attention. Tsukasa glanced at me and I placed a hand on his arm, trying to calm his nerves.
Soujiro continued with his charming words, "I've got the most beautiful date tonight."
"I'm not too sure about that, Soujiro." I turned at the sound of JR's voice. He had arrived with Umi, who was dressed in an elegant white silk dress. My eyes were on JR though. No matter how many times I've seen him dolled up, he still catches my breathe. He looked handsome beyond words.
"Close your mouth" Rui whispered to me. I turned to him and couldn't hide the blush in my cheeks.
"Hello Doumyoji-kun! You look so cute tonight." Umi managed to stroll over to Tsukasa and compliment him instantly. She smiled pleasantly.
"Umi-chan, you remember Reona-chan? She is my date for tonight." Tsukasa said, pulling me closer to him. I did a double take, looking sourly at Tsukasa, annoyed. I looked over at Tsukushi, hoping she would see the annoyance in my face, and she did, laughing quietly. I was glad she didn't take it the wrong way. I thought I even saw relief on her face as Tsukasa was obviously pushing Umi away.
After all the introductions were made, we all made our way into the ballroom. The set up was wondrous. There were many white linen covered tables, decorated with highly elaborate centerpieces. If I didn't know it was just a party, I would have guessed it to be a wedding. A WEDDING?! What if that's Kaede's ultimate plan for tonight? We know about the engagement, but could she possibly concoct a wedding tonight as well? My heart began to beat faster.
The plan was still going to go on, no matter what. I passed by JR while getting a drink and we spoke briefly, making sure everyone knew their role tonight. The dinner was served and it was just as delicious as it smelled. The meal started with a fresh tossed salad served with french bread. The main course consisted of a well cut sirloin steak, grilled to perfection, topped with a sweet red wine sauce, served with garlic mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables. Dessert was a luscious triple layered chocolate cake, topped with white chocolate shreds and the initial 'D' carefully crafted into the icing.
After dinner, I had to make my rounds with Tsukasa to all the 'important' people here tonight. Many complimented me and I bowed graciously thanking them. To my surprise, he introduced me as a very good friend. Kaede was very friendly to me, despite our interaction this morning. I guess it was just an act to get through the night. I looked around for Umi and JR, but couldn't find them anywhere. I managed to make eye contact with the other guys to inform them the plan is going okay.
"Can I stop smiling yet?" I asked Tsukasa in between meeting people. He chuckled and negatively shook his head.
"Welcome everyone to Doumyoji Tsukasa's recovery party. We are all glad to see that he is now doing well." The emcee said at the stage. Everyone clapped.
A song started to play and the emcee spoke again, "Doumyoji-san and his beautiful date will have the first dance tonight."
Tsukasa was full of surprises tonight as he held his arm for me to take, and we headed out to the dance floor.
Ramblings: Woohoo!! Another chapter up ^_^ I have finals this week, so I'm a bit overstressed. Remember that patience is a virtue and I'll write more soon. Once again, reviews are greatly appreciated. Thanks for reading!! Enjoy!
Beautiful
"Actually, Reona-chan, I was wondering if you'd be my date for the party."
I stared at him blankly, trying to register what this fool just said to me. He just asked me to be his date for the party. Is Tsukasa sick or something?
"Run that by me one more time" I said, unsure of how to respond to the offer.
"Are you deaf? I asked you to be my date for the party!" Tsukasa scowled. I guess he was annoyed that I remained awfully quiet.
"Uh…" I looked up at him, and really, who could resist those intense brown eyes, "Okay. I'll accompany you to your party." Tsukasa, then, nodded his head and turned back to stare out the window.
"So why me?" I asked, breaking the silence. I watched his reactions. It's actually not so bad that he asked me. If I ever need to get him alone, I could easily do so without anyone being suspicious. At least he wasn't taking Umi to this thing. I wonder how Kaede's going to pull this off tomorrow night.
"Because.." Tsukasa began "Soujiro asked that annoying girl and JR asked Umi-chan, so you're the only decent girl left." Could he be any more blunt?
"So I am your last resort." Tsukasa nodded.
"You better dress nice. If you need help picking something, ask my sister. She'll be more than happy to take you shopping for decent clothing. Don't make me look bad tomorrow." Tsukasa said neutrally, still staring out the window.
"Don't worry Doumyoji, I've got it all under control." I said smiling sweetly at him. Little does he know how much I've actually got under control. Besides this little change in plans, everything is going just great.
I decided to take Tsukasa's advice and asked Tsubaki to help me find something to wear. We ended up shopping for hours, and bought other things that I could have lived without, but Tsubaki insisted on buying everything. I did find the perfect dress though. Hopefully JR likes it. JR? Oh lordy, what am I thinking now?
That night, my phone rang, and it was Tsukushi.
"Reona-chan? It's Tsukushi."
"Hi Tsukushi-chan! How are you?"
"I'm doing good, but I need your help. I don't want to Nishikado-san to look bad tomorrow, because I'm his date. So tomorrow, after school, could you help me find something to wear?" Tsukushi asked hesitantly. She actually wants to make an impression tomorrow night. That's not like her. What's going on here?
"Sure Tsukushi-chan. We can go right after school. You can even get ready with me at Doumyoji's place. Nishikado-san could just meet you here instead." I said.
"Ah…Reona-chan, I don't think I should get ready there. I can do it at home. It's okay."
"NO! Just come over. Who cares what Doumyoji says anyway?" I thought it would be better for Tsukushi to be at the house. Maybe she can jar up more of Tsukasa's memories.
Sighing, Tsukushi finally gave in to my offer. We talked about a few others things before saying good night.
My phone rang again and this time it was JR.
"Why are you calling me past midnight? I need my beauty sleep too ya know!" I complained, but I just heard him laugh on the other end.
"Just called to say hi. Can't a guy call his friend and see how she's doing?" JR said teasingly.
"Can't you call and say hi tomorrow morning around 8 am?" More laughter. JR was truly enjoying this late night torture.
"So are you going to look all hot and sexy tomorrow Reona?" I felt my face heat up at the question. Thought of perversion always filled JR's head.
"Of course I am, but I can't look too hot and sexy now. As Tsukasa's date, I have to look respectful." I answered.
"WHAT?!" Oops. I forgot to tell JR about that.
"Yeah, Tsukasa asked me to be his date, as a last resort." I answered.
"But Reona, isn't that going to interfere with our plans?"
"I don't see how it would. We were expecting Tsukasa to be dateless and now he's not. At least its me and not Umi, right? It's not like I hold any strong feelings for him like the other two girls do. Besides, it'll be easier for us to watch over him tomorrow night." I explained all my reasons. I didn't see why JR was objecting to the date, but that's just JR I guess. I heard him sigh deeply.
"Okay fine, but forget about looking all hot and sexy. Everything better be covered up tomorrow." It was my turn to laugh. "I'm not joking either Reona!"
"Good night JR. See you tomorrow." Laughing still as I hung up.
I got dressed for school and headed down for breakfast. I entered the room to find Kaede sitting at the head of the table. That certainly was my shocker for the day. I stood there frozen. I didn't know what to do. I mean, of course, this is her house, but she's been in town all this time and this is her first time in the house.
"Good morning, Reona-san." Kaede said as I stood still.
"G-go-good morning, Doumyoji-san." I managed to say.
I sat down a few seats away from her. Just her stare was giving me the creeps. Breakfast was served, with no signs of Tsukasa. I decided it was best to avoid all conversation with Kaede. It certainly didn't prevent my heart rate from increasing drastically.
"I understand you will be accompanying my son to his party this evening." I choked on my pancakes. Now I see where Tsukasa gets his bluntness from. 'Be brave' I told myself.
"Yes, I will be accompanying Doumyoji to the party, at his request." I said steadily, with my head up and keeping eye contact with Kaede. I refuse to fear this woman. She's just evil and has done nothing but cause her son pain.
"What is your relationship with my son? I know you have been staying with us, and my sources say you two have become close." Her voice nor her face faltered as she passed judgement on mine and Tsukasa's friendship.
"Doumyoji and I are nothing but friends. We talk like friends talk and that is all." I answered calmly, continuing to finish my breakfast.
"If you and Tsukasa are just friends, as you say, then why has he asked someone like you to be his date tonight?" The nerve of this woman.
"Maybe you should ask your son that question." I snapped back. How dare she refer to me as *someone like you* Who does she think she is?!? I felt like screaming, but I remained calm. I wasn't about to show this woman my true colors.
"I would suggest you brush up on your lessons in Japanese etiquette before tonight." Kaede said, going back to her paperwork.
It took all my self control not to lash out at this woman. I quietly continued breakfast, still wondering where Tsukasa was, when the devil himself entered. I looked up to see the look on his face. I guess I'm not the only one shocked to see Kaede.
"Good morning, Tsukasa." Kaede spoke upon seeing Tsukasa.
"What are you doing here?" He asked, rather rudely if you asked me. I couldn't help but smile inwardly.
"Mind your manners in front of guests Tsukasa."
"She's not a guest" Tsukasa said pointing at me "She lives here."
"Sit down Tsukasa and eat your breakfast." Tsukasa scowled, clearly stating that he would rather eat with pigs instead of being in Kaede's presence.
"Let's go Reona-chan." Tsukasa ordered, grabbing my arm.
"You can let go now!" I screamed jerking my arm from Tsukasa's grasp.
"You know, Doumyoji, you didn't have to be so rude to her. She is your mom after all."
He ignored me and continued walking. I had no idea the impact Kaede had on Tsukasa. He was so angry that he saw her this morning. Tsukasa's face was beet red, but by the time we got to school, I managed to calm his nerves.
"Tsukushi-chan!" I yelled seeing the girl at her locker. Tsukushi turned her head to see me and she smiled, waving.
Class went by quickly, so I hurriedly went over to Tsukushi so we could go shopping. We managed to find her the perfect dress for tonight. Later, we headed back to the Doumyoji mansion and started to get ready. Upon entering the grounds, there were many people preparing for tonight. They were setting up tables and decorations in the ballroom. The wonderful aroma of the dishes being served tonight filled the house. It smelled delicious. Luckily, Tsukushi and I didn't run into either Kaede or Tsukasa.
Tsubaki came into my room, with the hair stylist, to fix up Tsukushi and myself. I could do my own make-up so I chose not to get any help with that.
"So Tsukushi-chan, did you tell Nishikado-san to meet you here?" I asked over the sound of the hair dryer.
"Yes I did. He said he'd be here a little early to help Doumyoji." She replied.
We talked and talked while our hair was being styled and our nails getting done. I told Tsukushi that Tsukasa asked me to be his date. I noticed the hurt on her face, but I reassured her it was because I was his last resort and there was nobody else. Hopefully she believes me. I felt like a princess getting pampered. This was a great feeling. I wish I could have this back home. Time passed quickly and the party would begin soon.
Tsukushi stood in front of the mirror. Honestly, Tsukushi looked amazing. The azure colored chiffon dress fell on her perfectly. It was sleeveless with a v-neck line, fitted down to her waist, and then flaring with the bottom half of the dress falling mid-calf. Her hair was done up in a french twist with curls on top of her head. The make up was simple, with a natural colored lip-gloss and bit of blush, making Tsukushi glow. This would surely knock Tsukasa out.
I simply loved my dress. It was a deep-red satin material, with spaghetti straps and a straight-line top. The rest of the dress fit me nicely, showing off my curvy figure. I'd have to thank my mom for this figure one day. The dress fell to my ankles with thigh-high slits on each side of the dress. Tsubaki found some beautiful diamond stud earrings and a necklace with three diamonds dropping down the center for me to wear. Tsubaki told me I had to look like I had money, so the fancy jewelry was necessary.
"You two look so beautiful!" Tsubaki exclaimed, seeing Tsukushi and I fully dressed for tonight.
"Thanks Tsubaki-san." I said blushing.
"Are you ready Tsukushi-chan?" Tsukushi nodded and we headed down to meet the guys.
Male voices could be heard as we walked out of the room. Not that I really cared what the rest of the guys thought, but I was really nervous. I could tell Tsukushi's nervousness too.
"What's wrong?" I asked Tsukushi, noticing she stopped walking.
"I'm not comfortable in this. It's not me." Tsukushi said nervously.
"Relax Tsukushi-chan. You look great. Don't worry." I said smiling, pushing her to walk forward. I wouldn't let her get out of this one.
To make it a more dramatic entrance, I decided to descend the stairs first. The four men standing at the bottom of the stairs stared gaping. They all looked very handsome in their tuxedos. I was impressed at how well they cleaned up. Smiling, I tried my best to make it down the stairs without tripping all over myself.
"Wow! Reona-chan you look beautiful!" Akira exclaimed, being the first to speak. I blushed profusely as Akira was extremely close.
"Really, you look great." Soujiro said to me. I looked over to Rui who smiled my way, and told me I looked amazing.
I walked over to Tsukasa. "You look nice tonight Doumyoji." I said casually. He looked so cute.
"So, where's my date?" Soujiro asked impatiently.
I looked up to the top of the stairs, which caused the men with me to look up as well. There stood Tsukushi in all her glory. If I looked great, she looked stunning. The men were left speechless with the vision before them. I looked over at Tsukasa, only to see his mouth open partially and his eyes intently on her as she made her descent. Soujiro walked over to her once she reached the bottom step and held his hand out to her, smiling proudly at his date.
"Wow Makino…." Soujiro managed to say. "Beautiful…." He whispered, placing a sweet kiss on the top of Tsukushi's hand.
I felt Tsukasa cringe next to me. He looked like he was going to burst. I looked at him, trying to catch his attention. Tsukasa glanced at me and I placed a hand on his arm, trying to calm his nerves.
Soujiro continued with his charming words, "I've got the most beautiful date tonight."
"I'm not too sure about that, Soujiro." I turned at the sound of JR's voice. He had arrived with Umi, who was dressed in an elegant white silk dress. My eyes were on JR though. No matter how many times I've seen him dolled up, he still catches my breathe. He looked handsome beyond words.
"Close your mouth" Rui whispered to me. I turned to him and couldn't hide the blush in my cheeks.
"Hello Doumyoji-kun! You look so cute tonight." Umi managed to stroll over to Tsukasa and compliment him instantly. She smiled pleasantly.
"Umi-chan, you remember Reona-chan? She is my date for tonight." Tsukasa said, pulling me closer to him. I did a double take, looking sourly at Tsukasa, annoyed. I looked over at Tsukushi, hoping she would see the annoyance in my face, and she did, laughing quietly. I was glad she didn't take it the wrong way. I thought I even saw relief on her face as Tsukasa was obviously pushing Umi away.
After all the introductions were made, we all made our way into the ballroom. The set up was wondrous. There were many white linen covered tables, decorated with highly elaborate centerpieces. If I didn't know it was just a party, I would have guessed it to be a wedding. A WEDDING?! What if that's Kaede's ultimate plan for tonight? We know about the engagement, but could she possibly concoct a wedding tonight as well? My heart began to beat faster.
The plan was still going to go on, no matter what. I passed by JR while getting a drink and we spoke briefly, making sure everyone knew their role tonight. The dinner was served and it was just as delicious as it smelled. The meal started with a fresh tossed salad served with french bread. The main course consisted of a well cut sirloin steak, grilled to perfection, topped with a sweet red wine sauce, served with garlic mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables. Dessert was a luscious triple layered chocolate cake, topped with white chocolate shreds and the initial 'D' carefully crafted into the icing.
After dinner, I had to make my rounds with Tsukasa to all the 'important' people here tonight. Many complimented me and I bowed graciously thanking them. To my surprise, he introduced me as a very good friend. Kaede was very friendly to me, despite our interaction this morning. I guess it was just an act to get through the night. I looked around for Umi and JR, but couldn't find them anywhere. I managed to make eye contact with the other guys to inform them the plan is going okay.
"Can I stop smiling yet?" I asked Tsukasa in between meeting people. He chuckled and negatively shook his head.
"Welcome everyone to Doumyoji Tsukasa's recovery party. We are all glad to see that he is now doing well." The emcee said at the stage. Everyone clapped.
A song started to play and the emcee spoke again, "Doumyoji-san and his beautiful date will have the first dance tonight."
Tsukasa was full of surprises tonight as he held his arm for me to take, and we headed out to the dance floor.
