PART 2 - That Fateful Night
"Kaaaa! Sugoi! Did Hayato-san really say that?"
"Of course!"
"Oh I can't wait until his party!"
" Yeah! Hey, what are you going to wear?!"
"Ohhhh this is so exciting!"
Kyoko walked to her seat and put her books down. She looked warily across at her classmates who were sitting at the back of the room - chatting happily.
All she has heard in these couple of days were people gushing over Hayato Nakamura and his much-hyped "party of the year". Was Kyoko the only one here at Eitoku who hasn't gone totally bananas?
" Ne, Kyoko-chan! What are you wearing?"
Kyoko turned and saw Ai Suzuki looking directly at her, giving her a grin.
Kyoko shrugged and tried returning a smile to the group, "I don't know yet."
"What?! It's tomorrow night!" Hitomi Katase exclaimed, in total disbelief and shock.
"Well, it's not that much of a big deal is it? It's only a party. I'm sure I'll find something" She replied airily. When the words came out of Kyoko's mouth, she immediately knew she had made a mistake. The group of girls shot her an incredulous and weird look, like Kyoko had two heads or something.
"How can you say that?" Ai snapped, looking annoyed and exchanging a glance with her group, "It's Hayato-san we're talking about here."
"Sou, sou," Hitomi agreed, throwing Kyoko a condescending look "He's one of the most popular guys at school - although I personally think Ando-san is much more cuter."
"What?!" Ai protested, spinning around - frowning at Hitomi, "He is not!"
"He is-.." Hitomi stopped mid-sentence and her mouth dropped open. Something had caught her eye.
A sudden hush fell over the classroom.
Kyoko followed her gaze, to see Nanami walking in, her long gleaming hair bouncing.
There was a figure behind her and Kyoko raised an eyebrow as she got a glimpse of who it was.
"Thank you for walking me to class," Nanami said, looking up at Ando shyly - totally oblivious of the fact that her classmates were staring at them.
"Whatever," Ando replied, shrugging - his face expressionless. Kyoko watched him and her breath caught her throat. He looked absolutely gorgeous with his brown tousled hair and cream coloured jersey.
Ando glanced sidewards and his brown eyes met Kyoko's briefly, before turning around and walking out of the room.
Kyoko felt her face burn up. Why did this guy have this effect on her?
He was so arrogant and rude, definitely not the type of guy Kyoko would normally fall for.
But why does he have to look so cute? She thought exasperatingly.
BANG.
Kyoko snapped out of her own little thoughts and looked up to see Nanami placing her books on the desk next to Kyoko. She sat down and ignored the class, flipping through a novel quietly.
"Can you believe her?" Kyoko heard Ai whisper at the back.
"She is such a snob." Hitomi hissed back, sounding totally wounded.
Kyoko sighed.
Looks like this was going to be a long day.
* * * * *
"A-CHOO!" Kyoko sneezed loudly. There was a thick layer of dust on the top of the big wooden chest and Kyoko regretted not dusting it off before opening it.
What a way to spend Saturday afternoon, Kyoko thought dryly.
She thought she could whiz something up before the party tonight - but after unsuccessfully trying to find something suitable in her wardrobe, Kyoko decided to try her luck up in the attic. Maybe there were some old clothes up here that she can use.
She flinched. Rie is going to kill her if she can't come up with a costume - especially since her best friend had suggested that they should go costume shopping earlier. But being lazy as usual, Kyoko had declined the offer.
Kyoko now cursed herself for being such a procrastinator.
"Let's see....," She said slowly, biting her lip - beginning to rummage through the contents of the chest and hoping for the best.
Kyoko pulled the first item out. It was a pink silk kimono with flower patterns all over it.
"Must be Mama's," she whispered, wrinkling her nose distastefully. Sure it was pretty, but Kyoko shuddered at the thought of wearing that for the party. She wouldn't be able to walk around in it - let alone dance.
She folded it up carefully before putting it back into the chest.
"Come on," Kyoko muttered, trying to stay positive as she rummaged deeper into the chest. Suddenly her fingers made contact with a soft mesh-type material. Kyoko slowly pulled it up and saw that it was a delicate white gown.
She held it up in front of her - the sunlight illuminating the dress. It shimmered beautifully, its light crepe-like layers draping down gracefully.
CLUNK. Kyoko looked down to see that something had fallen out of the dress.
It was a necklace and dangling at the bottom, was a ball in shape of the planet Saturn. The necklace was far too nice to be lying around hidden in some old chest. It was so pretty and Kyoko wondered why her mother never wore it.
"Kirei...." Kyoko gushed, still not believing her luck. She had found a dress and a beautiful necklace to match. She couldn't help but smile, "Perfect."
* * * * * *
DING DONG
Kyoko rushed to the front door.
She looked at the hall-way mirror - double checking her appearance. Kyoko had decided to dress up as one of those ancient Roman mythical goddesses. Her white gown had certainly made her look the part. She bit her lip nervously as she looked down at her costume- everything seemed to be fine. A smile lit her lips as her eyes rested on the Saturn necklace. It rested perfectly against her collar bone.
DING DONG - the door bell rang again. She quickly shook out of her daydream and answered the door.
"Took your time," Rie said dryly, giving Kyoko a crooked smile as her best friend opened the front door. Kyoko looked up and her eyes nearly popped out.
"I know, I know," Rie snapped, self-consciously adjusting her big red hat with bells, "I should have known the local costume shop will be out of decent costumes. This Card Captor Sakura one was the only one left."
Kyoko couldn't help but smile at her friend. Rie looked adorable in the puffy pink Sakura costume.
"You look cute." She replied.
Rie winced, "I guess it'll have to do," she answered, pressing down her dress, "By the way you look great! Going for the Venus look?"
Kyoko gave her friend a wink, "More like Aphrodite, Goddess of Loveeeeee...."
Rie laughed, "Maybe you'll meet your 'love' tonight."
Kyoko made a face, "Somehow I don't think that's going to happen, besides something doesn't feel right."
Finally a smile lit up on her best friends lips as she held up two silver masks, "Forget something?"
Kyoko slapped her forehead with her hand, "Kya! I knew it! It is a masked ball after all - what was I thinking?" She gave her friend an appreciatively grin, "Arigatou."
Rie shook her head and grabbed her friends arm, "No problem! But let's get a move on - dear friend, we don't have much time!"
* * * * *
"Yokatta! What a big house!" Rie gushed as the two girls got out of the car.
"When shall I pick you up, Miss?" The chauffeur asked, poking his head out the window.
Rie waved her hand dismissively, "I'll call for you."
The chauffeur nodded, "As you wish, Miss."
As the car drove away, Kyoko noticed that so many people were going into the house already. In front of them were a couple of girls dressed as mermaids. They were laughing and talking - in full masked costumes.
Kyoko looked ahead - the big Spanish-style mansion stood in front of them, adorned with a huge marble fountain in the front and beautiful diamond-like lights.
"Come on, put on your mask," Rie said excitingly, tugging on Kyoko's sleeve, "I've got the invitation - let's go in."
Kyoko slipped the mask over her face, feeling somewhat mysterious and unashamedly giddy. It was going to be an exciting night.
* * * * * * *
Ando Doumyouji looked around the grand ballroom. Most of the guests have already arrived and the party was well underway.
"See any girls you fancy?" Tatsuya asked his friend, eyeing the girl walking past wearing a red-riding hood costume.
Ando shrugged, trying too look indifferent, "Where's Hayato?" He replied, his eyes roaming the area.
Tatsuya laughed adjusting the sword he was holding on the side, "Don't you mean, where's Nanami?"
Ando rolled his eyes, "Give me a break."
His friend continued to chuckle, "Just admit it, man - you're interested in the girl. Nothing wrong with that."
Ando turned away from his friend - annoyed. There was no point arguing with Tatsuya. It was bad enough that the three were them were dressed as the three musketeers but they had to wear those idiotic masks as well.
However, deep down, Ando was hoping he would run into Nanami. But of course, Tatsuya didn't have to know that.
Ando's thoughts were suddenly shaken by the gentle stir among the crowd.
What's going on? He wondered, his eyes slowly looking up to see what was causing the commotion.
And that's when he saw her……….
She was standing at the entrance of the doorway - the lights of grand chandelier illuminating her dark, chestnut brown hair and shimmering white gown.
Next to her, was this girl dressed in a bright pink costume and a huge awkward hat that matched.
Ando looked across and focused his attention back on the girl who was now slowly descending the staircase, looking a bit uncomfortable, but nevertheless so breathtakingly beautiful.
Who is she? Ando asked himself, squinting his eyes in an attempt to recognize who the girl was behind the mask.
Ando heard a small noise and turned to see Tatsuya stepping up next to him, his friend's eyes also transfixed on the girl in front of them, "Whoaaa, who is she?"
* * * * * *
Kyoko couldn't believe how many people were at the party. As she descended the staircase, she felt all the eyes on her.
"Is there anything wrong with my costume? Do I have lipstick all over my face? Why is everyone staring?!" Kyoko whispered self-consciously to Rie who was next to her.
Her best friend gave her a smile, "No! It's because you look great!"
Kyoko's eyes widened and shook her head in disbelief. There must be something wrong. Maybe her dress was too weird, maybe she was……
"Hey, hey pretty ladies, glad you can make it."
Kyoko and Rie turned to see a guy in a yellow Musketeer costume. He took off his mask with one swift motion.
"Hayato-san!" Rie gasped, her eyes all starry.
Oh please God, not this guy! Kyoko begged, a dreaded feeling washing over her.
" Hi ya girls. Want to dance?" He turned and gave her a wink, "So how about it?"
Kyoko shuddered at the thought, "No thanks," she replied, forcing a smile for the benefit of Rie.
Hayato edged his way closer Kyoko, "Are you sure? It's such a waste to see such a pretty girl like you not dancing."
Kyoko choked up a dry laugh, "Uh…. thanks…. but I'll pass."
Hayato shrugged, "Okay fine babe." He then turned to Rie and put an arm lazily across her shoulders, "You know, Card Captor, are cards the only thing you capture? Cos you've capture my heart…Guess it's just you and me Sakura-babe."
Oh please! Kyoko thought to herself disbelievingly, feeling more nauseous by the minute, How pathetic and corny was that line!
"I'll be back, Kyoko-chan!" Rie smiled apologetically to her friend as Hayato pulled her onto the dance floor.
Great, Kyoko thought looking around. Well at least she had gotten away from the flirty Hayato guy. But now she was all alone, unable to recognize anyone from school with all the different costumes and masks they had on.
Suddenly the music stopped and the lights dimmed a little. The crowd became quiet.
A slow ballad began to play.
Kyoko glanced up to see silver confetti pouring down from a large container on the ceiling. The crowd gasped in delight as the confetti gently fell like snowflakes.
Most of the people were on the dance floor now - couples dancing slowly, close together.
Kyoko scanned the crowd and finally saw Rie dancing in the middle of the dance floor with Hayato - her face beaming with happiness.
Kyoko smiled, despite the fact she couldn't stand the guy, but nevertheless it was good to see that Rie was really enjoying herself.
Her gaze moved across the dance floor until suddenly, Kyoko's eyes met with someone from the opposite side of the room.
The guy was leaning against the pillar, his face emotionless, his gaze holding hers. He was wearing what seemed like yet another Musketeer costume, but unlike "Casanova Hayato" - it was blue.
Who is that guy? Kyoko thought to herself.
There was something about this guy - that was so familiar…and somewhat so appealing…
And why does my heart beat so fast? A little voice inside her head added.
The two stood there, on opposite sides of the room. Kyoko knew it was rude to stare - but for some reason she couldn't tear herself away.
What's wrong with me? She berated herself.
So what if the guy was drop dead gorgeous - you don't even know him! And he probably thinks you're nuts for staring!
But her eyes betrayed her - they remained locked with the strangers' from across the room.
What am I doing? Kyoko shook out of her transfixed state and felt her face burning up. Why was she getting so caught up in the moment? She was glad she was wearing a mask so that no one can see how red her face was.
She looked back up again but noticed that the crowd on the dance floor had covered her view of the guy. He seemed to be nowhere in sight.
"Arghh…" She screamed shaking her head hard, "You're going insane! Pull yourself together!"
She had to get out of there.
It's too hot in here, that's it! And also the music, the lights! That explains why I'm not thinking straight! Kyoko thought to herself assuringly, as she made her way outside into the courtyard.
* * * * *
"Dammit," Ando cursed as a big crowd moved in front of him, blocking his view. He moved across and realized that the girl had gone.
A pang, of what seemed like disappointment, washed over Ando Doumyouji.
Man, what's up with you? Ando asked himself exasperatingly, you don't even know the girl for heaven's sake! Get a grip!
"Ando-san, kon ban wa." A familiar, soft, melodic voice spoke up from behind him.
He turned and saw Nanami standing there - dressed in a red gown, looking very pretty as usual.
"Hey," He greeted her, unable to stop his eyes from scanning the ballroom for the mysterious girl.
"Nanami, looking good! Who are you supposed to be anyway?" Tatsuya asked, sauntering up to them with Ai Suzuki clutching to his side.
"Rosaline." Nanami answered, looking down and blushing.
"Rosa-who?" Tatsuya exclaimed.
"Rosaline, from Romeo and Juliet," Ai responded knowingly, giving Nanami a condescending look, "Wouldn't know why someone would choose that character though - Romeo ends up going for Juliet anyway."
"But he likes Rosaline first," Nanami retorted back, glancing up at the girl.
"Whatever." Ai shrugged, ignoring Nanami.
"Hey mind if I have a dance?" Tatsuya interrupted, obviously feeling the tense moment.
Nanami looked across at Ando but his attention seemed to be elsewhere.
"Don't worry - Romeo here won't mind…." Tatsuya gave Ando a playful punch before pulling Nanami away onto the dance floor.
Ai stood there, practically flinching - but recovered quickly.
"Ando-san, shall we go down to dance?" She asked, battering her eyelashes flirtatiously.
Ando shook out of his daydream. He just wanted to be alone. Is that too much to ask?
"Don't bother. I'm going to go outside." Was all he said before walking away.
* * * * * *
Kyoko leaned against the balcony and looked up at the night sky. It was a clear night with lots of stars.
She took in a deep breath and closed her eyes - taking in the smell of the grass that was freshly cut earlier in the day.
It was a beautiful house, she had to admit. In front of her was a big garden with rows and rows of roses and a giant-size swimming pool.
She stretched out and gave a big yawn. It was so peaceful outside and it was such a beautiful night. She much preferred to be out here than being inside with that big crowd of people.
Kyoko took off her mask and put it beside her and looked dreamily up at the sky.
It was so romantic out here - if only there was someone to share this beauty with me, Kyoko thought to herself quietly.
* * * *
Ando walked outside into the courtyard. He leaned against the wall - facing out onto the swimming pool.
It was so nice out here, definitely better than being inside with all those people, he thought to himself.
But as much as Ando liked it outside, he couldn't seem to get his mind off that mysterious girl.
Who is she? What's her name? And why did she have such an effect on him?
"…Ahhh…"
Ando snapped out of his thoughts. What was that?
[yawn]
He looked up. It was coming from the balcony directly above him.
Ando slowly stepped out to see who it was. He couldn't believe his eyes.
It was that girl. The girl from before. She had his back to him - but Ando could tell it was her from the white gown that she was wearing.
"Kirei…." The girl gushed, looking up at the night sky. She suddenly turned around, facing Ando's direction - revealing her identity.
Ando nearly choked.
"What the… - it's her?!?!?!" He gasped. How can that be? How can such a beautiful, graceful girl turn out to be that ditzy klutz from the first day of school?
----------------TO BE CONTINUED-------------------
"Kaaaa! Sugoi! Did Hayato-san really say that?"
"Of course!"
"Oh I can't wait until his party!"
" Yeah! Hey, what are you going to wear?!"
"Ohhhh this is so exciting!"
Kyoko walked to her seat and put her books down. She looked warily across at her classmates who were sitting at the back of the room - chatting happily.
All she has heard in these couple of days were people gushing over Hayato Nakamura and his much-hyped "party of the year". Was Kyoko the only one here at Eitoku who hasn't gone totally bananas?
" Ne, Kyoko-chan! What are you wearing?"
Kyoko turned and saw Ai Suzuki looking directly at her, giving her a grin.
Kyoko shrugged and tried returning a smile to the group, "I don't know yet."
"What?! It's tomorrow night!" Hitomi Katase exclaimed, in total disbelief and shock.
"Well, it's not that much of a big deal is it? It's only a party. I'm sure I'll find something" She replied airily. When the words came out of Kyoko's mouth, she immediately knew she had made a mistake. The group of girls shot her an incredulous and weird look, like Kyoko had two heads or something.
"How can you say that?" Ai snapped, looking annoyed and exchanging a glance with her group, "It's Hayato-san we're talking about here."
"Sou, sou," Hitomi agreed, throwing Kyoko a condescending look "He's one of the most popular guys at school - although I personally think Ando-san is much more cuter."
"What?!" Ai protested, spinning around - frowning at Hitomi, "He is not!"
"He is-.." Hitomi stopped mid-sentence and her mouth dropped open. Something had caught her eye.
A sudden hush fell over the classroom.
Kyoko followed her gaze, to see Nanami walking in, her long gleaming hair bouncing.
There was a figure behind her and Kyoko raised an eyebrow as she got a glimpse of who it was.
"Thank you for walking me to class," Nanami said, looking up at Ando shyly - totally oblivious of the fact that her classmates were staring at them.
"Whatever," Ando replied, shrugging - his face expressionless. Kyoko watched him and her breath caught her throat. He looked absolutely gorgeous with his brown tousled hair and cream coloured jersey.
Ando glanced sidewards and his brown eyes met Kyoko's briefly, before turning around and walking out of the room.
Kyoko felt her face burn up. Why did this guy have this effect on her?
He was so arrogant and rude, definitely not the type of guy Kyoko would normally fall for.
But why does he have to look so cute? She thought exasperatingly.
BANG.
Kyoko snapped out of her own little thoughts and looked up to see Nanami placing her books on the desk next to Kyoko. She sat down and ignored the class, flipping through a novel quietly.
"Can you believe her?" Kyoko heard Ai whisper at the back.
"She is such a snob." Hitomi hissed back, sounding totally wounded.
Kyoko sighed.
Looks like this was going to be a long day.
* * * * *
"A-CHOO!" Kyoko sneezed loudly. There was a thick layer of dust on the top of the big wooden chest and Kyoko regretted not dusting it off before opening it.
What a way to spend Saturday afternoon, Kyoko thought dryly.
She thought she could whiz something up before the party tonight - but after unsuccessfully trying to find something suitable in her wardrobe, Kyoko decided to try her luck up in the attic. Maybe there were some old clothes up here that she can use.
She flinched. Rie is going to kill her if she can't come up with a costume - especially since her best friend had suggested that they should go costume shopping earlier. But being lazy as usual, Kyoko had declined the offer.
Kyoko now cursed herself for being such a procrastinator.
"Let's see....," She said slowly, biting her lip - beginning to rummage through the contents of the chest and hoping for the best.
Kyoko pulled the first item out. It was a pink silk kimono with flower patterns all over it.
"Must be Mama's," she whispered, wrinkling her nose distastefully. Sure it was pretty, but Kyoko shuddered at the thought of wearing that for the party. She wouldn't be able to walk around in it - let alone dance.
She folded it up carefully before putting it back into the chest.
"Come on," Kyoko muttered, trying to stay positive as she rummaged deeper into the chest. Suddenly her fingers made contact with a soft mesh-type material. Kyoko slowly pulled it up and saw that it was a delicate white gown.
She held it up in front of her - the sunlight illuminating the dress. It shimmered beautifully, its light crepe-like layers draping down gracefully.
CLUNK. Kyoko looked down to see that something had fallen out of the dress.
It was a necklace and dangling at the bottom, was a ball in shape of the planet Saturn. The necklace was far too nice to be lying around hidden in some old chest. It was so pretty and Kyoko wondered why her mother never wore it.
"Kirei...." Kyoko gushed, still not believing her luck. She had found a dress and a beautiful necklace to match. She couldn't help but smile, "Perfect."
* * * * * *
DING DONG
Kyoko rushed to the front door.
She looked at the hall-way mirror - double checking her appearance. Kyoko had decided to dress up as one of those ancient Roman mythical goddesses. Her white gown had certainly made her look the part. She bit her lip nervously as she looked down at her costume- everything seemed to be fine. A smile lit her lips as her eyes rested on the Saturn necklace. It rested perfectly against her collar bone.
DING DONG - the door bell rang again. She quickly shook out of her daydream and answered the door.
"Took your time," Rie said dryly, giving Kyoko a crooked smile as her best friend opened the front door. Kyoko looked up and her eyes nearly popped out.
"I know, I know," Rie snapped, self-consciously adjusting her big red hat with bells, "I should have known the local costume shop will be out of decent costumes. This Card Captor Sakura one was the only one left."
Kyoko couldn't help but smile at her friend. Rie looked adorable in the puffy pink Sakura costume.
"You look cute." She replied.
Rie winced, "I guess it'll have to do," she answered, pressing down her dress, "By the way you look great! Going for the Venus look?"
Kyoko gave her friend a wink, "More like Aphrodite, Goddess of Loveeeeee...."
Rie laughed, "Maybe you'll meet your 'love' tonight."
Kyoko made a face, "Somehow I don't think that's going to happen, besides something doesn't feel right."
Finally a smile lit up on her best friends lips as she held up two silver masks, "Forget something?"
Kyoko slapped her forehead with her hand, "Kya! I knew it! It is a masked ball after all - what was I thinking?" She gave her friend an appreciatively grin, "Arigatou."
Rie shook her head and grabbed her friends arm, "No problem! But let's get a move on - dear friend, we don't have much time!"
* * * * *
"Yokatta! What a big house!" Rie gushed as the two girls got out of the car.
"When shall I pick you up, Miss?" The chauffeur asked, poking his head out the window.
Rie waved her hand dismissively, "I'll call for you."
The chauffeur nodded, "As you wish, Miss."
As the car drove away, Kyoko noticed that so many people were going into the house already. In front of them were a couple of girls dressed as mermaids. They were laughing and talking - in full masked costumes.
Kyoko looked ahead - the big Spanish-style mansion stood in front of them, adorned with a huge marble fountain in the front and beautiful diamond-like lights.
"Come on, put on your mask," Rie said excitingly, tugging on Kyoko's sleeve, "I've got the invitation - let's go in."
Kyoko slipped the mask over her face, feeling somewhat mysterious and unashamedly giddy. It was going to be an exciting night.
* * * * * * *
Ando Doumyouji looked around the grand ballroom. Most of the guests have already arrived and the party was well underway.
"See any girls you fancy?" Tatsuya asked his friend, eyeing the girl walking past wearing a red-riding hood costume.
Ando shrugged, trying too look indifferent, "Where's Hayato?" He replied, his eyes roaming the area.
Tatsuya laughed adjusting the sword he was holding on the side, "Don't you mean, where's Nanami?"
Ando rolled his eyes, "Give me a break."
His friend continued to chuckle, "Just admit it, man - you're interested in the girl. Nothing wrong with that."
Ando turned away from his friend - annoyed. There was no point arguing with Tatsuya. It was bad enough that the three were them were dressed as the three musketeers but they had to wear those idiotic masks as well.
However, deep down, Ando was hoping he would run into Nanami. But of course, Tatsuya didn't have to know that.
Ando's thoughts were suddenly shaken by the gentle stir among the crowd.
What's going on? He wondered, his eyes slowly looking up to see what was causing the commotion.
And that's when he saw her……….
She was standing at the entrance of the doorway - the lights of grand chandelier illuminating her dark, chestnut brown hair and shimmering white gown.
Next to her, was this girl dressed in a bright pink costume and a huge awkward hat that matched.
Ando looked across and focused his attention back on the girl who was now slowly descending the staircase, looking a bit uncomfortable, but nevertheless so breathtakingly beautiful.
Who is she? Ando asked himself, squinting his eyes in an attempt to recognize who the girl was behind the mask.
Ando heard a small noise and turned to see Tatsuya stepping up next to him, his friend's eyes also transfixed on the girl in front of them, "Whoaaa, who is she?"
* * * * * *
Kyoko couldn't believe how many people were at the party. As she descended the staircase, she felt all the eyes on her.
"Is there anything wrong with my costume? Do I have lipstick all over my face? Why is everyone staring?!" Kyoko whispered self-consciously to Rie who was next to her.
Her best friend gave her a smile, "No! It's because you look great!"
Kyoko's eyes widened and shook her head in disbelief. There must be something wrong. Maybe her dress was too weird, maybe she was……
"Hey, hey pretty ladies, glad you can make it."
Kyoko and Rie turned to see a guy in a yellow Musketeer costume. He took off his mask with one swift motion.
"Hayato-san!" Rie gasped, her eyes all starry.
Oh please God, not this guy! Kyoko begged, a dreaded feeling washing over her.
" Hi ya girls. Want to dance?" He turned and gave her a wink, "So how about it?"
Kyoko shuddered at the thought, "No thanks," she replied, forcing a smile for the benefit of Rie.
Hayato edged his way closer Kyoko, "Are you sure? It's such a waste to see such a pretty girl like you not dancing."
Kyoko choked up a dry laugh, "Uh…. thanks…. but I'll pass."
Hayato shrugged, "Okay fine babe." He then turned to Rie and put an arm lazily across her shoulders, "You know, Card Captor, are cards the only thing you capture? Cos you've capture my heart…Guess it's just you and me Sakura-babe."
Oh please! Kyoko thought to herself disbelievingly, feeling more nauseous by the minute, How pathetic and corny was that line!
"I'll be back, Kyoko-chan!" Rie smiled apologetically to her friend as Hayato pulled her onto the dance floor.
Great, Kyoko thought looking around. Well at least she had gotten away from the flirty Hayato guy. But now she was all alone, unable to recognize anyone from school with all the different costumes and masks they had on.
Suddenly the music stopped and the lights dimmed a little. The crowd became quiet.
A slow ballad began to play.
Kyoko glanced up to see silver confetti pouring down from a large container on the ceiling. The crowd gasped in delight as the confetti gently fell like snowflakes.
Most of the people were on the dance floor now - couples dancing slowly, close together.
Kyoko scanned the crowd and finally saw Rie dancing in the middle of the dance floor with Hayato - her face beaming with happiness.
Kyoko smiled, despite the fact she couldn't stand the guy, but nevertheless it was good to see that Rie was really enjoying herself.
Her gaze moved across the dance floor until suddenly, Kyoko's eyes met with someone from the opposite side of the room.
The guy was leaning against the pillar, his face emotionless, his gaze holding hers. He was wearing what seemed like yet another Musketeer costume, but unlike "Casanova Hayato" - it was blue.
Who is that guy? Kyoko thought to herself.
There was something about this guy - that was so familiar…and somewhat so appealing…
And why does my heart beat so fast? A little voice inside her head added.
The two stood there, on opposite sides of the room. Kyoko knew it was rude to stare - but for some reason she couldn't tear herself away.
What's wrong with me? She berated herself.
So what if the guy was drop dead gorgeous - you don't even know him! And he probably thinks you're nuts for staring!
But her eyes betrayed her - they remained locked with the strangers' from across the room.
What am I doing? Kyoko shook out of her transfixed state and felt her face burning up. Why was she getting so caught up in the moment? She was glad she was wearing a mask so that no one can see how red her face was.
She looked back up again but noticed that the crowd on the dance floor had covered her view of the guy. He seemed to be nowhere in sight.
"Arghh…" She screamed shaking her head hard, "You're going insane! Pull yourself together!"
She had to get out of there.
It's too hot in here, that's it! And also the music, the lights! That explains why I'm not thinking straight! Kyoko thought to herself assuringly, as she made her way outside into the courtyard.
* * * * *
"Dammit," Ando cursed as a big crowd moved in front of him, blocking his view. He moved across and realized that the girl had gone.
A pang, of what seemed like disappointment, washed over Ando Doumyouji.
Man, what's up with you? Ando asked himself exasperatingly, you don't even know the girl for heaven's sake! Get a grip!
"Ando-san, kon ban wa." A familiar, soft, melodic voice spoke up from behind him.
He turned and saw Nanami standing there - dressed in a red gown, looking very pretty as usual.
"Hey," He greeted her, unable to stop his eyes from scanning the ballroom for the mysterious girl.
"Nanami, looking good! Who are you supposed to be anyway?" Tatsuya asked, sauntering up to them with Ai Suzuki clutching to his side.
"Rosaline." Nanami answered, looking down and blushing.
"Rosa-who?" Tatsuya exclaimed.
"Rosaline, from Romeo and Juliet," Ai responded knowingly, giving Nanami a condescending look, "Wouldn't know why someone would choose that character though - Romeo ends up going for Juliet anyway."
"But he likes Rosaline first," Nanami retorted back, glancing up at the girl.
"Whatever." Ai shrugged, ignoring Nanami.
"Hey mind if I have a dance?" Tatsuya interrupted, obviously feeling the tense moment.
Nanami looked across at Ando but his attention seemed to be elsewhere.
"Don't worry - Romeo here won't mind…." Tatsuya gave Ando a playful punch before pulling Nanami away onto the dance floor.
Ai stood there, practically flinching - but recovered quickly.
"Ando-san, shall we go down to dance?" She asked, battering her eyelashes flirtatiously.
Ando shook out of his daydream. He just wanted to be alone. Is that too much to ask?
"Don't bother. I'm going to go outside." Was all he said before walking away.
* * * * * *
Kyoko leaned against the balcony and looked up at the night sky. It was a clear night with lots of stars.
She took in a deep breath and closed her eyes - taking in the smell of the grass that was freshly cut earlier in the day.
It was a beautiful house, she had to admit. In front of her was a big garden with rows and rows of roses and a giant-size swimming pool.
She stretched out and gave a big yawn. It was so peaceful outside and it was such a beautiful night. She much preferred to be out here than being inside with that big crowd of people.
Kyoko took off her mask and put it beside her and looked dreamily up at the sky.
It was so romantic out here - if only there was someone to share this beauty with me, Kyoko thought to herself quietly.
* * * *
Ando walked outside into the courtyard. He leaned against the wall - facing out onto the swimming pool.
It was so nice out here, definitely better than being inside with all those people, he thought to himself.
But as much as Ando liked it outside, he couldn't seem to get his mind off that mysterious girl.
Who is she? What's her name? And why did she have such an effect on him?
"…Ahhh…"
Ando snapped out of his thoughts. What was that?
[yawn]
He looked up. It was coming from the balcony directly above him.
Ando slowly stepped out to see who it was. He couldn't believe his eyes.
It was that girl. The girl from before. She had his back to him - but Ando could tell it was her from the white gown that she was wearing.
"Kirei…." The girl gushed, looking up at the night sky. She suddenly turned around, facing Ando's direction - revealing her identity.
Ando nearly choked.
"What the… - it's her?!?!?!" He gasped. How can that be? How can such a beautiful, graceful girl turn out to be that ditzy klutz from the first day of school?
----------------TO BE CONTINUED-------------------
