When Worlds Collide

by Nelly-kun

YES, I AM ALIVE! Important Notice to all fans of this fic! PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE ONEGAI READ IT!

6. Welcome To Hell, Haruka! Flashbacks of t...

When Worlds Collide Part 4: Welcome To Hell, Haruka! Flashbacks of the Past

A/N: I must say, this is probably gonna end up as long as my Dreams series (that was my first fic back when I was 10) Just so everyone knows, I started working on this chapter July 11th, exactly ONE MONTH TILL MY BIRTHDAY!!! ^_^ I'll be 15 in August, and I can't wait. Hopefully I'll have a good amount of this story finished by then, since I'll only be home on my birthday for those first two weeks. (So much to do, so little time B4 School!) Anywhoo, Yuri Boxing is still in the works, and hopefully I'll have a few Battle Athletes songfics out soon. If you guys haven't seen that series, go to your nearest Suncoast and pick it up! I love it! Okay, enough of my rambling, disclaimer time!

Motoko: *storms into the room, sword drawn* All right, where is Urashima!? How DARE he touch my Kiko-chan!

Me: Calm down Motoko! Before I tell you where Keitaro is, you gotta do the disclaimer.

Motoko: Fine. *Turns toward readers* Nelly does not own any of us, unless otherwise mentioned. Please do not sue her; she has no money. Also, she wishes that you all review, or else she shall discontinue this story.

Me: I need comments!

Motoko: Was that satisfactory?

Me: Yup! ^_^ And Keitaro's hiding in my bro's room.

Motoko: Arigato. *Rushes off, sword drawn once again*

Me: Well, with that out, lets-

(Nelly is abruptly interrupted by the agonized screaming of Keitaro from the next room)

Me: *shakes head* He'll never learn. anyway, on with the fic! ^_^

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Last we left off: Drawing closer to the other, Michiru and Haruka's eyes simultaneously closed as their lips met in a passionate, earth-shattering kiss.

"Sir?" a soft voice asked into the darkness.

"Yes, what is it?" A deep voice replied, glasses shining in the distance.

"Sir, the two have made contact. What should we do?"

Silence.

"Sir?"

"Tell Agent 9 to take care of the intruder. I CANNOT let them ruin my plans." the voice replied.

"Yes sir." The young soldier bowed, and walked out of the room.

"Haruka. Michiru. Kaori. Kei. Sakura." the voice whispered, "Soon. very soon you'll know."

A picture of two smiling, laughing 5-year-old blondes fell to the ground.

"Haruka. soon you WILL know the truth."

A deep, maniacal laughter resounded throughout the room.

"Oh yes, my dear Haruka. soon you will know."

~* Present Time *~

'I. I can't believe this is happening.'

'I never thought I'd see the day. that I'd be kissing a girl.'

Gentle hands lovingly stroked through short blonde hair.

Strong fingers caressed a slim waist.

'Kami. this is like heaven on earth.' Haruka thought, hands slowly making tracks across the young violinist's back. '. It feels like I belong here, with her.' She groaned softly as she felt Michiru's hands tracing patters upon her clothed back.

'Haruka. gods. you're so.' Michiru's train of thought abruptly stopped as she felt Haruka pull her closer felt her tongue press against her lips, begging for entrance.



Michiru happily agreed, her own tongue playing with Haruka's in an erotic dance.

'Demo. why does this feel so familiar.?' they both thought, never breaking their kiss.

Slowly. memories of the past started to flood their minds.

~*~ Flashback; Fall: 1991 ~*~ (A/N: This is gonna be a VERY long flashback)

"Haruka-kun!" A young girl with shoulder-length brown hair ran up to a young man with short blonde hair.

"Hmm? What is it, Kaori-chan?" The low voice asked, making Kaori weak in the knees.

"Haruka-kun, the principal asked me to ask you if you would be kind enough to come to school tomorrow to show around the new students."

"Nani? Why would I want to do that? Tomorrow's my last day of vacation."

"We really need the help, and it would make a better impression on the new students to see their Student Council President there" she smiled, "Besides, there'll be more girls there for you to meet, considering this is your last year in middle school."

Sighing, Haruka closed her emerald green eyes for a moment. "Alright, but just because you asked so nicely Sunshine" she smiled her famous smile, making Kaori blush.

"Arigato!" Kaori smiled, glomping Haruka. "You're sooo nice Haruka-kun!"

Chuckling, Haruka freed herself from the energetic girl. Smiling again, Haruka waved and walked off to her home. She didn't notice how Kaori sighed and looked dreamily upon her retreating form, hearts and stars in the love- struck girl's eyes.

~*~ Next Morning ~*~

"Michiru-chan! Time to get up!" Michiru's mother, Sakura called from downstairs. Slowly, deep ocean blue eyes opened as the young girl yawned. She smiled as she felt the sun's morning rays against her face, her eyes sparkling as she realized what day it was.

'I start middle school today! I hope my teachers and my sempais are nice.' Quickly, Michiru changed into her new uniform, smiling as she looked at herself in the mirror.

'Kawaii. I love this uniform!' Michiru giggled when she realized how silly she was being. She giggled again, adjusted her uniform, grabbed her book bag, and headed downstairs.

"Ohayo gozaimasu, Mama!" Michiru called, stepping into the kitchen. Her mother smiled, setting down Michiru's breakfast.

"My, you seem excited today. Is it because you met a nice boy?" Sakura giggled as her daughter made a face.

"Iie Mama!"

"No? Well, is it because you start middle school today?"

"Hai!" Michiru smiled as she finished her food.

Taking her plate, Sakura smiled at her daughter again. "Well, make sure you be nice at school. I don't want you coming home sad, and I want to hear all about it when you come home. Promise?"

"Hai mama. I promise." Sakura smiled and kissed her daughter on the top of her head.

"You'd better get going or you'll be late, Michi-chan!"

Michiru nodded happily, nearly skipping to the door, but kept her composure. She slipped on her shoes, picked up her bag, and walked out the door, shouting a goodbye to her mother.

Sakura smiled, placing the dishes in the sink. 'She's growing up. my lovely daughter.'

~*~ Haruka's home, that same morning ~*~

"Haruka! Get up or you'll be late!" The young mother shouted from the stairs.

"*Grumble* Alright, alright. I'm up already!" Haruka shouted back, readjusting her tie. 'Kuso. I hate having to go to school before I have to.' Haruka grumbled again, running her hands through her short hair. She sighed, closing her dark green eyes, head bowed.

Straightening up a few moments later, Haruka exited her room and walked downstairs.

"Good! For once in your life you decided to get up when I called you," the young woman giggled and Haruka grumbled again.

"Come on Mom. its not like I WANTED to get up this morning." she sighed.

"I know, but you couldn't let that cute girl down could you?" her mother giggled again. "Don't worry, Ruka-chan, Tenoh Kei was just as popular as you were with the ladies in her day too!"

"Yeah like THAT makes me feel any better." Haruka grumbled under her breath. Her mother, Kei, could be so silly at times. Sometimes Haruka wondered if this really WAS her mother or some sister that pretends to be her mom.

"You'd better eat something before you go, or are you gonna get something on your way?" Kei asked her tomboy daughter.

"I'll get something on my way. So I'd better be going now!"

In a blink of an eye, Haruka was in her shoes and out the door.

"Ja ne, okka-san!" she called as she walked out the door.

~*~ Haruka's POV ~*~

I sighed as I walked down the street towards the all too familiar school. 'Why couldn't my mother stop teasing me?' I thought to myself as I headed toward the familiar shop on my way. 'Sometimes she can be such a pain.' and I grumbled about the fact that I had to go to school on my last day off before the start of my final year. 'I shoulda known something like this would happen. considering they elected ME of all people Student Council President.' Shrugging my shoulders, I was greeted with the familiar chime of the bell above the door, along with a smile from the old man behind the counter.

"Ohayo Haruka-chan! What brings you here on your day off?" The old man named Isamu smiled again.

"Nothing much, Isamu-san. My presence was requested by the principal, so I'm required to go to school today to greet the new students" I shrug, sitting down on the stool in front of the counter.

"Well, that makes sense, considering you're the Student Council President and all!" Isamu laughed, his gray eyes twinkling as he looked at me. He sometimes called me another granddaughter of sorts.

"I still don't know why they elected ME of all people." I grumbled, but smiled as he gave me a cinnamon bun.

"I know why they elected you," he said as I chewed on the sticky treat.

"And why's that?" I ask, since everyone except for me knew why I was elected.

"There are two reasons actually. One: The students at that school admire you for your spirit. And two: There are more girls at that school than guys, meaning you won because of your admirers." He laughed again when he saw my look.

"Yeah right. Why would anybody admire me?" I asked him. Again he smiled that grandfatherly smile of his, his gray eyes again twinkling in delight.

"Because Haruka-chan." he started, "you're a very special person. Without knowing it, you touch the hearts of those around you, and bring out the best in them."

Again I looked at him, and again he laughed.

"You remind me so much of my granddaughter. You two would get along so well if you met" he seemed to be lost in thought for a moment, and then he smiled again, his eyes twinkling in delightful mischievousness. "In fact, if you come by this afternoon, I'll introduce her to you! She'll probably want to tell me all about her first day in middle school, and it would be nice if she could make friends with an upperclassman."

I sighed. "Okay, then I'll meet your granddaughter today after school then? Fine with me" I said standing up and handing him some money. He shook his head, smiling.

"You keep it. Save up for that dream car of yours Haru-chan" he chuckled as he saw me almost unnoticeably blush from the nickname. "Get going now, or you'll be late!"

Smiling, I left the store. Isamu-san is a really great. for an old guy. 'He's the grandpa I never had.' I thought. In a better mood, I jogged the rest of the way to school.

~*~ Michiru's POV ~*~

'Wow.' I thought, looking at the large building. 'This is my new school.' Looking down another street that headed up to the school, I noticed my grandfather's shop. 'And Grandpa's shop is right down the street too! I'll go and say hi to him after school today' I smiled, and turned towards the school. I walked in when I heard the bell ring, along with the other students.

~*~ Haruka's POV ~*~

I sighed as I watched all the students file inside, talking excitedly about finally being in middle school. 'It's not that it's cracked up to be.' I thought, watching the kids filing into the auditorium from my seat behind the curtains. 'I personally think elementary school was the greatest. since all the cool teachers and all the fun stuff is there.' Chuckling, I turned around in my chair to face the girl sitting across from me.

"Kaori-chan, do I really have to be here to represent the Student Council?" I asked, inwardly sighing as I saw her blush.

"H-hai Haruka-kun. It's the responsibility of all club presidents to be present on the first day of new student orientation."

"Well, why don't I see ALL of the club presidents here? I only see the art club president, the computer club president, and myself. Where are the others?" I ask, annoyed that I am stuck here, instead of at home in a nice warm bed enjoying my last day free of school.

"Because." Kaori started, ". you also represent the track team, football team, classics club, band, and just about every other club in the school! Besides, all the other clubs are waiting in their respective rooms, and the track team is outside on the track."

....

Kuso! Why do I have to be so involved? And why did I have to be picked as captain of the track and football team?

Just as soon as the thought crossed my mind, all the students got quiet and the principal, Oozuma-sensei, started to speak.

~*~ Michiru's POV ~*~

"Welcome new students, to the beginning of the greatest steps in your life!" I heard the principal speak. He was a tall man, with kind brown eyes and a nice smile. "My name is Kendo Oozuma, and it is a pleasure to my heart to know that each and every one of you are here at Tenoh* Gaukken! I am hoping that we all will get along, and that you won't be too scared of your rowdy upperclassmen! Also please call me Oozuma-sensei" His laugh had a nice, rich sound to it.

Tenoh Gaukken. Sky King School. has a nice ring to it.

"Now then, now that I have introduced myself, I would like to introduce to you some of the upperclassmen that will be around to help you get used to the school today. Izumi Koushiro-kun is in the 8th grade, and is the computer club president here at our school."

A somewhat medium height, redhead came onto the stage, smiling at all of us. He stepped up to the podium that Oozuma-sensei recently vacated.

"It is a pleasure to be able to be here to greet all of my younger classmen, considering this is my last year here. As Oozuma-sensei has already told you, my name is Izumi Koushiro, and I am the computer club president. I hope to see many of you there at least once this year, because I have many events planned for this year." He smiled at us all once more. "Ja ne for now, minna! I look forward to spending my last year here with you all!" he waved at us as he left the stage and stood alongside the walls with the other teachers. I heard other students clap, and some other girls cheer and yell out to Koushiro-san if they could have his phone number, and I giggled at the blush covering his cheeks.

"Thank you for that wonderful speech Koushiro-kun. Now, for all you artists out there" automatically I began to listen intently to what Oozuma-sensei was saying, "I would like to introduce Nishidake Kaori-chan, the art club president." Again clapping was heard, and I clapped along with my new classmates. A young, smiling girl entered, and from what I could tell, she seemed to be full of genki. She had a bright smile, almost as bright as the sun on a nice day.

"Ohayo gozaimasu, minna! Watashi wa Nishidake Kaori, and it's nice to be able to greet you all today. I expect to see each and every last one of you over the course of this year in the art room during a meeting at least once, because in the art club, everyone is welcome!" Again, a large smile formed on her face in the most kawaii way. "If you need any help with anything, don't be afraid to come to me! I'll be able to help you out, and if I can't, I'll probably know somebody who can! We upperclassmen are here to help you all, so don't be afraid to ask us anything! Ja ne minna!"

Kaori-san skipped down the stairs and over to Koushiro-san to strike up a conversation with the, I suppose computer genius. I clapped with my classmates when she left the stage, and looked back to the stage as the principal came back onstage.

"Haha! Genki Kaori-chan seems to be really excited, ne? Well, there's one more person I would like you all to meet this morning, and this person is a very special person to the school."

~*~ Haruka's POV ~*~

Oh, boy! Now they're saying that I'm a special person to this school just because my great-grandmother founded it when she was alive. I feel like crawling up into a hole and hiding for the rest of my life, since everybody seems to know my family name no matter where I go.

I smiled as I turned towards the people behind me, nodding to them as they took up their instruments.

If I was gonna be stuck here on my day off, I may as well have some fun!

I picked up my guitar.

~*~ Michiru's POV ~*~

I listened to Oozuma-sensei talk about a student who was related to the founder of the school. I sighed as I thought about how soon we were going to get out, meet our homeroom teachers, and go on tour to get used to the school.

"This person is also the star runner of the track team, as well as the team's captain. They are also the captain of the football team, and star striker. Founder and president of the classics club, guitarist, pianist, and percussionist for band, I proudly introduce your Student Council President, Tenoh Haruka!"

The other students cheered and clapped as suddenly the stage curtains opened, which also seemed to shock the teachers and principal. The upperclassmen started to cheer wildly as a tall blonde stepped out of the shadows (eyes closed), and the auditorium lights dimmed. The lights on stage shown upon what seemed to be a band styled after American rock bands, and the blonde smiled at us while he stood before a microphone.

"I must say that you all seem to be the largest class of the three classes here in this school" the low, husky voice of the blonde said, opening his eyes. I gasped when I saw the depth of the emerald pools. Kami. he's so handsome.

"After all the praise that I have received from Oozuma-sensei, I decided that a normal quick speech wasn't going to be enough, so I decided to give you guys a little mini-concert as well."

He nodded to the drummer, who set the beat to the song, and almost every girl started cheering.

"Now, a friend of mine wrote this song, and I hope you all like it as much as I like playing it." Haruka-san said, stepping back from the mike and the lights went out all around us. I heard the sound of something seemingly flying up above us, but as soon as I thought it stopped, the sound of the electric guitar was heard and the lights came back on, onstage, streaming in different colors.

~*~ Normal POV ~*~

The girls and guys cheered as the song began, and the lights above strobe and pulsate to the music Haruka and the band made. The girls mostly swooned when they heard the low voice of Haruka singing.

gokigen ikaga? ROMIO-sama. anata ha OORUDO TAIPU to iwareteru... KUROON ningyou-tachi no koi ha SUMAATO ni shori saretemasu. "kimi no motteru DNA sagashi motometeta saikou no mono sa" ato ha futari ga SHIMYUREESHON sureba HAI REBURU na nisei no tanjou

sore ba BAACHARU de yaru yori mo uchi nuku no ga hyakuman bai ii desho?

rikutsu ja wakaranai y'know kokoro ga hoshi garu mono ha dare nimo wakaranai y'know DEMONSUTOREESHON ha iranai anata to JURIETTO no youna ichizuna kimochi ga taisetsu desu ne.

The teachers and principal even had to smile as they saw Haruka playing away onstage, making the students feel welcome as she made the mini- concert.

tsuishin... sou ieba kyonen, kamisama ga kiete shimaimashita. ningyou to no KOMYUNIKEESHON itsumo retsu ga akanai... chinami ni koko no ID KAADO BAAKOODO no gobanme no suuji de tamashii no shurui ga wakaru no desu. sou nan desu. HAITEKU mansai

sore ha hada o fureai nagara jirasu you ni kanjiru no ga ii

rikutsu ja wakaranai y'know kokoro ga takanaru mono ha dare nimo wakaranai y'know kimerareta yume ha iranai KIRE mono kagakusha to kodomo ga onaji me o shiteru... okashii desu ne.

The students cheered, dancing around the auditorium as Haruka played her solo onstage. Michiru watched in awe how Haruka gracefully moved around the stage the light highlighting her features and playing all over her face.

"Come on and sing along!" Haruka shouted out.

Students and even some teachers began to sing the chorus of the song as Haruka sang and played.

rikutsu ja wakaranai y'know kokoro ga hoshi garu mono ha dare nimo wakaranai y'know DEMONSUTOREESHON ha iranai anata to JURIETTO no youna ichizuna kimochi ga taisetsu desu ne.

"Heh. y'know." Haruka spoke at the end of the song, and the students cheered and clapped.

~*~ Haruka's POV ~*~

Man, that was fun.

As the lights came back, I smiled over the excited students. Setting down my guitar, I walked over to the microphone again. I smiled at the students who seem to eagerly await my words.

"Welcome to Tenoh Gaukken, minna. Watashi wa Tenoh Haruka, Student Council President, track team captain, and anything else that I seem to be." Some of them giggled, and I continued, "As you can see, the students behind me are a part of the band, along with another band called 'Sekiria.' My friend Asagiri Priss is the lead singer of this band, but today I sang along with them since Priss-chan could not make it. She told me to tell you all that she shall see all of you tomorrow, and hopefully she'll be able to hold a concert for all of you later on this year. I hope that I can be of some service to you all, since this IS my last year at this school." I SWEAR I thought I heard some groans and complaints from the female population as I said this, but I continued on anyway, "Also, I would like to take this opportunity to let you all know about a club that was started when I was a new student here. It's called the classics club, and I know more than half of you are wondering what it is. The classics club is a music club that specifically focuses on classical music, and everyone's welcome to join. However, we ask that you know how to play an instrument at least. We are also a performance group, and go wherever we are asked. I am the president of that club, as you have probably heard, and we are looking for new members. But enough about that, I can see that you all are more than ready to get out of the auditorium, and into your homerooms. Over the course of today, I will be around the school, so if you need any help, or have any questions, just come and ask me." I bowed to the crowd and exited the stage, cheers following me.

~*~ Normal POV ~*~

"Arigato Haruka-kun, for the surprise concert and wonderful speech. Now, minna, it's time for all of you to report to your homerooms. The teachers and your upperclassmen will direct you on where to go, so don't worry. We will all meet once more as a group before you are all dismissed to go home this afternoon. For now, you are dismissed!"

The students cheered and moved from their seats. Haruka smiled as she watched the students file out of the auditorium to their different homerooms.

"A-ano. Haruka-sempai." a meek voice said behind her.

"Hai?" Haruka turned around, smiling at the redhead girl in front of her. The girl blushed and looked down.

"A-ano. I was wondering I-if. you had a girlfriend.?" the young girl whispered, and Haruka grinned.

'I shoulda known I'd be asked that question sooner or later today.' Haruka chuckled lightly, smiling her trademark smile at the girl.

"No I don't" Haruka stated, "But I have the feeling that by telling you this, almost every girl will be vying for my attention, ne?" Again the girl blushed. "Don't worry, I'm not mad, I'm just a little surprised I was asked this question so soon. Is there anything else you need?" Haruka asked, watching the girl in front of her with mischievously glowing eyes.

"I-Iie. Arigato gozaimasu Haruka-sempai!" the girl smiled and ran off to class. Haruka laughed, and headed toward the gym area of the school.

'May as well do something, I'm bored and those kids will be in class for a good half hour before they let them out.' Haruka walked down the familiar halls, smiling, as she smelt the smell of chlorine from the pool. 'Since nobody's around I may as well take a quick swim in the pool!' Haruka chuckled as she entered the pool hall, glancing around to see if any students had wondered here when they were supposed to be in their homerooms. Seeing no one, Haruka walked into the girls' locker room, and pulled out her swimsuit (consisting of a regular female bathing suit and a pair of shorts and a tank top). She quickly changed, grabbed a towel, and took a deep breath as she breathed in the familiar smells around her.

'I dunno why, but the water can calm me down, almost like the wind.' Shrugging, Haruka deposited the towel into a nearby chair and put her hand in the water to test its temperature. 'Alright! It's not really cold!' Grinning, Haruka walked over to the diving board. Climbing the ladder, Haruka grinned again, took a running start, and dove right into the water after doing a mid-air flip.

'A nice quiet swim while nobody's around. how much I enjoy these few moments by myself.'

Haruka swam a few laps around the pool, sighing as she got out, her taut muscles glistening in the sunlight. Grabbing her towel, Haruka dried her face and hair, then wrapping it around her shoulders and relaxing in a poolside chair.

"Grandma, you thought of everything when you had this school built." she sighed, relishing in the sun's warmth.

"Ahh, so THERE you are, Tenoh-san." a voice called from the doorway to the pool. "I should've known you were either here or on the track."

"Yumika-sensei!" Haruka sat up, smiling at the older woman who sat down beside her, "What brings you here?"

"Oh, the same as you. just relishing in those few moments of freedom that I have from the health room. until your class comes back tomorrow, of course. I swear half of those boys purposely hurt themselves just to come see me." she sighed.

"Well, it's only because you are very beautiful, Yumika-sensei" Haruka admitted, looking at her watch.

Yumika laughed softly, grabbing Haruka's hand. "You are such a flatterer Tenoh-san. No wonder some of the younger teachers have crushes on you."

Haruka coughed into her fist, shaking her head. "Oh sure! You know that's not true, and I meant what I said about you being beautiful." Yumika smiled again at Haruka, letting go of her hand. "I have to go change since I know those students will be released soon, ne?" Yumika nodded, getting up.

"I'd better get back, who knows what those kids will end up doing while I'm gone." She sighed, patting Haruka on the shoulder, "Be careful of the girls Tenoh-san, they seem to be ruthless this year." Kissing Haruka on the cheek, Yumika waved and left, heading back to the health room.

"Teachers having crushes on me. sheesh." Haruka grumbled, retreating to the girls' locker room and changing back into her uniform. Exiting the locker room, Haruka strolled down the halls without a care in the world. 'Why is it that no matter what I do, the female population of this school always wants my attention?' she thought, sighing as she heard the bell ring. Automatically, her pace quickened as she proceeded to head to the band rooms.

"Haruka-kun!" a voice called behind her. Sighing Haruka turned around to face Kaori.

"Hai, Kaori-chan?" she asked.

"Yamazaki-sensei would like to speak with you on the track" Kaori said, smiling up at Haruka. "And I was wondering if you would like to join me for lunch today?" she asked, blushing.

"I'll join you for lunch today, Kaori-chan, but I have to go see what Yamazaki-sensei wants so I'll see you later" Haruka said smiling and walking off.

~*~ Lunch, Michiru's POV ~*~ So far the day has gone very well. I made a lot of new friends, and like all my teachers.

"Michiru-san!" a girl with long red hair ran up to me, her green eyes sparkling.

"Reika-san, how has your day been so far?" I asked her, walking back towards our homeroom. Unlike all the other schools, Tenoh Gaukken was run like an American middle school, so instead of the teachers moving, we went to our different classes. And today was a longer school day than usual, since they gave us an hour and a half after school ended to check out the multiple clubs.

"Oh it's been great! I ran into Haruka-sempai today, and he is sooo dreamy!" she sighed, and I really thought that I saw stars in her eyes. "I still wonder why my sister said that he's a girl though. I mean somebody that handsome has GOT to be a guy right?" she asked, and I just shrugged.

"Maybe we should ask Yamazaki-sensei. She might know." I suggested.

"Hmm, maybe you're right." As we neared our homeroom, we noticed a sign on the door.

"Yamazaki's homeroom: Please meet outside on the track." I read, looking over to Reika. "Well, I guess we should go out to the track, ne?" I asked, walking off with Reika.

When we got outside, we saw the rest of our class standing in front of Yamazaki-sensei.

"Oh good! You're all here now!" she said as she saw us approach. Yamazaki- sensei was a happy woman with kind blue eyes and chocolate brown hair. "Gather 'round minna!" she said as everyone crowded around her. "Now, I know I'll probably have you all for gym at least once, and since it's a nice day out, I decided to bring you all out here for lunch." My fellow classmates cheered and I smiled. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw two people sitting under the shade of a tree, talking with each other.

"Also, as a special treat, I have asked some of the track team members to come out here and show you some of the things they do in track." Suddenly, one of the students stood up, walking over to us, ". and they kindly agreed."

The student who walked over was none other than Haruka-sempai. He smiled at us.

"Well, how could I refuse? We need more energetic people on the team, so we may as well show you all what you'd have to do." he laughed. It was a rich, deep, throaty laugh that made most of the other girls swoon.

We all sat down as we watched Haruka-sempai jog over to the track, shouting out different things to his fellow runners. A whistle was blown, and some of the runners took off, jumping hurdles, and one pole vaulting. The whistle was blown a second time, and some of the students long jumped, shot putted, and high jumped. Jogging back over to us, Haruka-sempai grinned.

"Those are all the other events that the track does, besides for the meter dashes and long distance running." Grinning again, Haruka-sempai looked over to Yamazaki-sensei. "Yamazaki-sensei, would you do me the honor of running against me in the 100-meter dash?" he asked, and two other track students came over. Yamazaki-sensei nodded, taking off her track jacket. "Elza-san, Kaori-chan, would you like to run?" she asked the other two.

"Definitely Haruka-kun! I'm gonna beat you this time!" the one named Elza said, grinning. She had red eyes and red hair, along with tan skin. Haruka chuckled, and smiled. He loosened his tie and took it off, giving it to Kaori-sempai.

"Okay, Elza-san. If you say so." he laughed, stripping off his jacket. Some of the girls in our class gasped in surprised, but I just looked on as Haruka-sempai revealed that he was indeed a she.

"Haruka-kun, I believe you have stunned my class." Yamazaki-sensei giggled, glancing at the looks on our faces.

"Ahh, but that's half the fun Yamazaki-sensei!" she smiled at us, winking at the girls, "Because I never said I was a man." she chuckled.

"But why are you wearing the boys' uniform?" somebody spoke up, and Haruka- sempai laughed again.

"Because with as many activities as I do, wearing a skirt would only cause problems. Besides, I'm too tall to wear the girls' uniform" she replied, laughing again. "Come on, let's get this race started. The four women walked over to the starting line, Haruka-sempai, Elza-sempai, and Yamazaki- sensei taking their places on the starting line.

"On your mark!" Kaori-sempai called, as they got ready. "Get set!" she shouted over the excited whispers. The track gun went off, and as soon as it did, all three runners were off like a rocket. The other track members as well as us shouted and cheered as they ran.

They're fast. I thought, but as soon as I thought that, cheers erupted as Haruka crossed the finish line ahead of both Elza-sempai and Yamazaki- sensei. But she's faster. almost as fast as the wind.

As they walked back over to us, I could tell that Haruka-sempai was laughing at something Elza-sempai said.

"Wow, Haruka-sempai! You're fast!" Reika said to her as she came back over.

"People have told me that, so I guess I am, ne?" she chuckled, her jacket thrown over her shoulder. Her tie hung around her neck, and I could feel my cheeks getting hot as I looked upon her. She's so. handsome. I thought, knowing that handsome fit her as much as it did guys.

The bell rang, and we all got up.

"Okay, now when the last bell for today rings, meet me right here so I can give you all maps for the locations of the clubs today! Ja ne minna!" Yamazaki-sensei called, sending us all on our way.

~*~ After School, Normal POV ~*~

As the last bell rang for the end of the school day, students all returned to their homerooms one final time before they were allowed to go around and check out the different clubs situated within the school.

Michiru quickly walked back to her homeroom, dodging other students in the hall.

'I can't wait to see what other clubs are here.' she thought. Without even noticing, she slammed right into a hard object. Looking up, she noticed it was none other than Haruka.

"G-gomen nasai Haruka-sempai!" she quickly apologized.

"It's okay. Daijobu?" she asked the smaller girl.

"I'm fine Haruka-sempai. I'm sorry about bumping into you, I wasn't looking where I was going."

"I said it's alright. What's your name?" she asked again.

"Michiru desu" Michiru answered, blushing as Haruka took her hand and kissed it.

"Well it's nice to meet you Michiru-san." Haruka winked, handing her a map, "Yamazaki-sensei told me to give this to any of her students that I catch in the hall, just so you all could have more time to check out the many clubs we've established here." Smiling again, Haruka walked off in the direction of the gym.

Looking at the map, Michiru noticed that the classics club would be meeting near the swimming pool, along with the football, track, and swim team. Student Council would also be there, along with the art club.

Smiling, Michiru headed off in the direction of the pool, since all she wanted to see was right near her favorite place.

When she entered the pool hall, she saw many students and a few teachers all around the pool. Most of the teachers were conversing, while some of the students were chatting excitedly amongst themselves. A splash into the water startled all of them, while the students in the water splashed around, swimming about the pool. All of the students in the pool stopped and looked to the high dive diving board, noticing the blonde standing on it. They began to cheer as Haruka took a running start, jumped, performed a flip and 360 spin, and cannon balled into the pool. As the blonde resurfaced everyone clapped about her.

Climbing out of the pool, Haruka shouted over the applause for all the students who were interested in joining the swim team to join her. Michiru walked over, as well as Reika and a few other students.

"Well, I must say this is a pretty good turnout for the swim team" Haruka chuckled. "If you all are really interested in joining, I need you all to take these papers home and get your parents to fill them out and make sure you review everything with them" she said handing everyone a packet. "The swim team meets every Saturday at 10 in the morning, and we have meets every month. I'm hoping you all know how to swim, because we really don't have that much time to be teaching you how to swim, only to enhance your abilities." Everyone nodded, and Haruka smiled. "I would like for you all to hop into a brand new bathing suit that we just got in, and show me what you got in the pool, after I'm finished checking explaining the other clubs. Be ready to swim in a half hour!" she said.

"Okay! Anybody who's here for the track team, come over here!" Haruka shouted, and more people came around her. She handed them all some forms, explained to them about the meets that they would have, and that they were to be on the track to be timed by Yamazaki-sensei in 20 minutes. Those students dispersed, and she continued on.

"Football team! Boys and girls! Come over here so I can talk to you!" Haruka shouted once again. She gave them all forms, told them the practice schedule, and told them to meet with Yamazaki-sensei and Elza to be timed on their runs with the track team.

"Anyone interested in joining the Student Council, classics club, or art club, please follow me and Kaori-chan!" Haruka shouted over the crowd. Michiru and about 20 other students followed them out into the hall, and towards the music rooms.

"Okay minna!" Kaori said, turning to face the other students, "Could I see everyone that is interested in joining the art club over here?" Michiru and about 10 of the students walked over, Kaori smiling at them. "Sugoi! The art club is gonna be big this year!" she clasped her hands together, her smile brightening up the area. "Now, the art club will be meeting every other Wednesday, and we will basically be making art to display around the school. This year is also beautification year, meaning we will be painting new murals on the walls inside and outside the school. Even though this isn't a sport, I need you all to take these two papers home and show them to your parents and have them sign the form" she smiled again, nodding to Haruka, "Now, those of you who wish to join the classics club please go over and speak with Haruka, and those of you who are only here for Student Council please stay."

Michiru walked over to Haruka, who had finished explaining the Student Council and how it works to those students who needed to get going so they would be able to make it to the track on time. Haruka smiled as Michiru approached.

"Well now! I guess it's only you and me for the classics club, ne?" she chuckled. Michiru nodded, and Haruka motioned for her to follow her. "Come on Michiru-san, since I know that we both don't have that much time before we're due back at the poolside." she chuckled again, entering one of the music rooms.

"May I ask you a question, Haruka-sempai?" Michiru asked. Haruka laughed, smiling at the smaller girl.

"Only if you stop calling me Haruka-sempai. I'm starting to feel old."

"Okay, Haruka-san. Why did you start the classics club if you knew not many people would join?"

"Because Michiru-san." Haruka smiled again at her, "We already have a jazz ensemble, and almost every other genre of music, so why not classic too?"

Walking over to the instrument lockers, Haruka looked back at Michiru. "What instrument do you play?"

"I play the violin" Michiru replied, watching as Haruka looked her over, and then stepped back from the lockers.

"The violin? That's great! We've been in need of a violinist for a while, since I quit playing it myself."

"You play the violin?" Michiru asked.

"Hai, but probably not half as well as you probably can."

"And how can you tell from just looking at me?"

"I've watched how you move, Michiru-san. Someone as graceful as you are just screams out from your movements 'violinist'! That, and I saw a couple of your drawings. I must say superb, especially the most recent one you drew of Elza-san, Yamazaki-sensei, and myself racing." Haruka chuckled as Michiru blushed. "And. because of that, I wish to give you a little gift."

Haruka walked over to another door, opening it and stepping inside. Opening one of the lockers inside, Haruka brought out a medium-sized black case. Motioning Michiru to come over, Haruka opened the case, revealing a brand new, cherry colored violin. Michiru gasped when she saw it.

"You like it? It's yours if you want it." Haruka whispered to the speechless young girl.

"It's beautiful." Michiru breathed, ". demo. why are you giving this to ME?" Michiru asked, looking into Haruka's emerald depths.

"Because." Haruka whispered, "you seem like someone who will take care of it. and because I knew you'd like it." smiling, Haruka stared into Michiru deep blue eyes. A smile lit up those eyes, and the next thing Haruka knew, she was being hugged.

"Arigato, Haruka-san! Thank you so much!" Michiru hugged (more like glomped) Haruka, and Haruka laughed.

"Hey, no problem! Now, let's see what you got, ne?" Prying herself free from Michiru's death trap hug, Haruka walked over to the grand piano standing in the main room. Seating herself, Haruka cracked her knuckles, resting her hands on the keys.

"How about we make up a song today? I don't feel up to playing famous classic pieces today." Haruka said, watching as Michiru tuned up the violin and got ready.

"Hai, Haruka-san" she replied, lifting up the bow.

"You start it Michiru-san, and I'll follow okay?" Haruka said, smiling at the younger girl. "Don't worry, I'm confident that you'll do just fine"

"Okay." Michiru took a deep breath, and slowly began to play a soft melody. She closed her eyes as she was caught up in the music, not noticing when the piano began to play along.

Both of the musicians closed their eyes, lost within their world created by their music. The tranquil, entrancing music echoed into the hall and down to the pool hall. Most people stopped what they were doing and listened to happy, joyful melody.

"Where's that coming from?" Reika asked one of the teachers.

"I believe the music room. I wonder who's playing that is though." the teacher mumbled.

Some people exited the pool and walked towards the music room. Others that were wandering the halls all went towards the music room. The two musicians were oblivious to their audience gathering in the room and hall, they were only aware of the other, and the world they created through their music.

Their song told a tale of acceptance of the other, and the blossoming of a new friendship and something more. It told of trust, and the hope of a happy future for both, with the companionship of the other. When the violin died down near the end, the piano played on a few moments more on its own. As the last chords ended, both green and blue eyes opened simultaneously, looking at the other.

Cheering and clapping erupted from the still silent crowd, shocking both Haruka and Michiru. Glancing around, they smiled sheepishly. Haruka stood up, walked over to Michiru's side and took her hand. Smiling again, Haruka nodded to the crowd and they both took a bow.

~*~ After School, Michiru's POV ~*~ I sighed as I left the school. Today had been very exciting, and I couldn't wait to go back tomorrow. Hopefully mom will let me join those three clubs I'm interested in. I thought, heading towards my Grandfather's store. I can't wait to tell Grandpa about my day! And one of his cinnamon buns would be good too! I giggled and entered the store.

"Konnichiwa, Grandpa!" I called and was rewarded with a bright smile from my grandfather.

"Ahh, Michi-chan! My favorite granddaughter!" he laughed.

"Grandpa, I'm your only granddaughter!" I giggled, "At least, living nearby."

"True!" he laughed again, and motioned for me to sit down, "So, how was your first day in middle school? Make any friends?" he asked as he handed me a cinnamon bun.

"Hai, I did. My sempais are really nice too" I replied.

"That's good. Anything interesting you wanna tell me about?" he asked. I heard the bell above the doors jingle, and my grandfather smiled at the other visitor. "Haru-chan! How nice to see you again."

"Hey, Isamu-san" the low voice I had grown to love today said behind me.

"Well, as I expected, my granddaughter stopped by. Michiru, meet my good friend Haruka. Haruka, this is Michiru, my granddaughter."

"Haruka-san?" I looked back to see her in a pair of shorts and a wife beater, sandals on her feet.

"Well, isn't that surprising" she said, smiling again. "We've already met Isamu-san. She's gonna be on the swim team and in the classics club." Haruka came over and sat down beside me. "Right?"

"Yeah, that's what I was going to tell you about, Grandpa" I replied, picking up the violin case. "I just got a new violin today too."

"You did?" he asked as I showed it to him, "Now this is a nice violin! Did your mom buy it?" he scratched his chin, his eyes scrutinizing the violin.

"Iie, grandpa. Haruka-san gave it to me" I smiled at her as she coughed into her fist from my grandpa's look.

"No wonder I thought that I had seen this before. Haru-chan, my granddaughter must mean a lot to you, ne?" he laughed as she coughed even harder into her fist.

"What do you mean by that, grandpa?" I asked, looking over at a severely blushing Haruka.

"Oh, maybe I should tell you a little more about dear Haru-chan, ne?" he laughed, "You don't mind do you Haru-chan?" he asked her and she just looked at him.

"No matter what I say, you'll tell her anyway, so I don't really care, Isamu-san." she grumbled, and my grandfather handed her another cinnamon bun.

"Right, so now, where should I start.?" my grandfather mulled. "Well, when Haruka was younger, about your age, she came into my shop and told me about a violin that her mother had given her. Of course, her mother said that because Haruka meant so much to her, she decided to give it to her. Haruka was so happy when she received it, and showed it to me. I must say that it was a very nice violin back then, but it looks even better now. Haruka told me that when she meets somebody that means a lot to her, she'll give them the violin, like her mother told her to." Grandpa told me, and I looked at a still blushing Haruka. "I asked her how she'd know who to give it to, and she told me she'd just know. and to think that my lovely granddaughter received that same violin brings a smile to my face, because that means that Haru-chan here has matured from the rowdy little tomboy she once was!" he laughed again as he looked at Haruka's face.

I on the other hand, was blushing profusely.

"Well, it's nice to know that I received such an important violin, Haruka- san." I began, but stopped when Haruka looked at me.

"Michiru." she started, and I believe she purposely left off the suffix, "would you like to go to the movies Friday with me?" she asked, and I looked at her in surprise.

"Umm. sure Haruka-san. I'd love to." I whispered, smiling. She grinned, and stood up.

"Would you like an escort home, m'lady?" she asked dramatically, and I giggled while taking her arm.

"Why of course kind sir." We both waved to my grandfather and left, Haruka carrying my books.

I never saw the all-knowing smile on Grandpa's face.

~*~ February, that same year, Haruka's POV ~*~ I can't believe that in only a few months, I'd be asking a girl to be my girlfriend. I mean, sure I knew that I liked girls, but ME, Tenoh Haruka, asking one of them to be my girlfriend that was just absurd!

But then again, completely understandable once I think about whom I want to be my girlfriend.

I sighed as I opened my locker and multiple hearts and cards of all different shapes sizes and colors fell out. This was one of the reasons I hated Black Day, also known as Valentine's Day. I kneeled down, picking up all the love notes and shoving them back into my locker. I'll go home today, pick up a trash bag, and come back to take these all home. I thought, quickly grabbing my books and slamming shut the door, leaning against it. I heard a giggle to my right, and smiled at the smaller girl.

"Who knew that you had so many admirers, Ruka-chan" the melodic voice giggled again, and I grinned.

"Everybody in this school knows Michi-chan, and I bet about half of them is from the teachers in training and the younger teachers." I sighed as I stood up straight. "I wonder what's going to happen when I graduate in a few months. I mean I'm sure they'll all be heartbroken once they realize I won't be here next year."

Michiru laughed, her blue eyes gleaming mischievously. "Be careful Ruka- chan." she started, looking straight at me, "One moment you could be stuck after school with one of the female teachers, and before you can say 'hai' she'll jump you, and you'll be helpless when the amazons take you prisoner."

I stared at her for a moment, eyes unblinking.

"I cannot believe you just said that." I grumbled as I felt my cheeks getting hot, "First off, I can run, and secondly, what makes you so sure that I wouldn't mind the predicament?" I asked, stunning her. I laughed as she slapped me on my arm. "Hey, YOU'RE the one that brought it up." I whispered in her ear, wrapping my arm around her shoulders, "Sorry about what I said though."

Michi-chan smiled at me, poking me in my side. "I know" she said simply, spinning out from under my arm and grabbing my other hand, "Come on, let's eat near the pool!" I laughed as she pulled me along.

~*~ Later that same day, Michiru's POV ~*~ I shifted nervously as I pulled the box out of my locker. I couldn't help but be nervous, since today IS Black Day. I had made chocolates for my secret love, but I couldn't bring myself to giving them and the note I had written to her. And yes, it's a she that I'm in love with, even though she can be easily be mistaken for a boy.

Ruka-chan. I sighed, walking towards her locker. She had asked me to wait for her there while she ran home to grab a bag for all the stuff she had gotten today.

'I shoulda known it was going to be worse this year.' she had told me, 'But silly me, I forgot to bring a bag for all of this.'

I sighed again, setting my plain white box on top of her locker. I had to admit that so far this was the greatest school year in my life, considering all that has happened so far. I met Ruka-chan and became the best of friends with her, I am the star on the swimming team, beating Ruka-chan's times, I'm in the classics club, and play duets with Ruka-chan in every concert we are asked to go to, and my art has been displayed in small art galleries in town.

'As soon as you're famous, make sure to give me a call Michi-chan, that way I can take you for a ride on my new bike!' Haruka had told me, and I made her promise me that she would. 'I'll be a famous racer one of these days, so don't be surprised to see me on magazines!' she had laughed about it once, telling me that we'll be famous and best friends.

"Oi, Michi-chan!" I heard her voice call as she came down the hall. I smiled at her and she grinned back. "Well, I'd better get to work on cleaning this thing out. I'm wondering just how many I got THIS year." she chuckled.

"How many did you get last year?" I asked.

"Hmm. 225 I think." she mulled, opening her locker and holding the bag up.

"Two-hundred twenty-five?" I repeated, helping her shovel all the notes and candy and stuffed animals into the bag.

"Yeah, a majority of them were from the 8th grade girls last year." she grumbled as she looked on top of the lockers. "Man, no matter what I do, they ALWAYS find out my locker combination." she snorted as I laughed.

"Did you check your gym locker for anything else?" I asked.

"Yeah, and I'm surprised at how many cards can fit in there. did you know that in all of my classes, the teachers had me put all the stuff I received in the back? I mean I ended up with balloons and candy all over my desk!" she sighed as she cleaned out about half, and then took out another bag. "I think this year I got something from ALL of the girls and from all of the female teachers that are under the age of 30."

"You probably did" I grinned as I thought of an American song I had heard on the radio, "Because you're a Chick Magnet, Ruka-chan!" she slammed her head against her locker and I laughed.

"Onegai. don't call me that." she whined, picking up a large bear and the two bags. "Anything I forgot?" she asked, and I shook my head. "Well, can you help me with this stuff?" she said again, handing me the bear.

"Aww, how kawaii!" I said as I looked at the brown fuzzy bear.

"Yeah. and I'm running out of space in my basement to store them all." she grumbled again as we left.

'If only I could tell you how much you mean to me, Ruka-chan.' I thought. 'If only.'

~*~ That night, Haruka's POV ~*~

I sighed as I saw how my room was suddenly filled up with flowers, candy, bears, balloons and chocolate.

"I really HATE Valentine's Day." I grumbled as my mother laughed.

"Oh, come on Haru-chan." she said, "its not all that bad!"

"And WHERE am I supposed to put all this stuff?" I asked her.

"In the attic" she replied simply, walking off to answer the phone.

"Well, I may as well get started." I said, sitting down at my desk and beginning to read all the love notes and whatnot that I had.

About 3 hours later, I had successfully read almost every note, and had stored them all in boxes up in the attic, along with the flowers and bears. The chocolate I put in the freezer in the basement, set for next summer when it got hot. As I searched through all the bags once more, I came upon a plain white box with a plain white envelope with my name written in perfect, beautiful kanji. Opening the box, I found a large chocolate heart that said "Aishiteru" on it. Smiling, I opened the envelope, and read the note.

Dear Haruka, It has been six months since we met the first time, and I must say that these have been the greatest six months of my life. Ever since I first saw you playing onstage at our orientation, I knew that I wanted to get to know you a lot better. After hearing that story from my grandfather about the violin you had given me, I knew that my life would never be the same.

Do you believe in soul mates? I do. I believe, no, I KNOW that you are my soul mate Haruka, because there's not another soul in this universe that makes my heart beat as fast as you. I know that I can't possibly match up to all those other girls in gifts, but I hope you accept this token of my love for you. I made it just for you Ruka-chan, and gomen nasai for surprising you with this. I couldn't think of a better chance to tell you my feelings. Aishiteru, Ruka-chan, and Happy Valentines Day.

Yours Forever, Kaioh Michiru

I re-read the letter to make sure I wasn't hallucinating. I pinched myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming. The girl that I had fallen in love with had just admitted that she loves me back! I couldn't contain my whoop of happiness.

"SUGOI!!!" I yelled, jumping up, "Michi-chan, you have just made me the happiest girl in the universe!"

"And what are you so happy about?" I dunno why, but moms just seem to have the best and worst timing in the world.

"Read it" I handed her Michi's note and waited. She hugged me when she finished.

"I'm so happy for you Haru-chan. Congratulations on finding the love of your life" she whispered, hugging me even tighter. "So, when are you gonna tell her you love her back?" she asked, and I grinned.

"On White Day, mom!" I grinned again.

I guess things were just looking up for me that year.

~*~ White Day, Michiru's POV ~*~ Ruka-chan hasn't said a thing about what I had given her for Valentine's Day. I wonder if she even found it in all of her stuff. Sighing slightly, I head towards my locker. I smiled when I saw Ruka-chan standing next to my locker.

"Hey, Michi-chan" she said, smiling.

"Hi there Ruka-chan" I replied opening my locker, only to gasp as a bunch of cards fell out. Of course, my companion, as soon as she saw this, broke down laughing, holding her sides as I stood there with my hands on my hips glaring at her.

"And what's so funny about this?" I asked.

"Nothing, except the look on your face when you saw all those cards!" again she laughed, even harder than before. Sighing, I knelt down and began picking up all the love notes from my admirers. Ruka-chan decided then to stop laughing and knelt down to help me.

"Now you know how I feel on Black Day." she stated simply, gathering up all the notes in her arms. "Now, what do you want to do with these?" she asked.

"Do you have a bag, Ruka-chan?" I asked in retort. She nodded, and motioned to her pocket.

"I thought that you might need one, so I brought one, but it's in my pants pocket." she grinned when she saw me blush. Slapping her on the arm, I reached into her pocket and pulled out a bag. Unfolding it, an envelope fell out. Curiously, I picked it up. "Open it up AFTER you put these in the bag Michi-chan, they're getting heavy!" Ruka-chan complained, "I think you got a lot of jewelry in these envelopes." she grumbled. Slipping the envelope into my pocket, I opened the bag.

"Okay Ruka-chan" I said, watching her sigh in relief as she dumped all the cards and whatnot into the bag. "Aww. there, there my daring hero." I giggled, "You rescued me from trying to shove all of these back in my locker!" I hugged her, and she smiled down at me.

"Well, I'd do anything for m'lady." she whispered dramatically into my ear, hugging me back before pulling away. "I need to get to class now, so I'll see you later!" she called back at me, walking down the hall to her class. I almost slapped myself in the head when I remembered that she has study hall instead of class right now, and I do too. Turning back to my locker, I picked up the envelope and the books I needed after my free period, and walked off towards the pool hall.

When I entered, I noticed no one was there as usual. Shrugging, I sat down in one of the poolside beach chairs; I put my books down and looked at the envelope. The front said "To Kaioh Michiru" in the neatest kanji that my Ruka-chan could manage. Opening the envelope carefully, I pulled out and unfolded a piece of paper, a ring falling out and landing in my lap. Picking up the ring, I noticed it was a beautiful gold band with an aquamarine gem in the middle, surrounded by two dolphins.

Smiling softly, I put the ring on my finger, and began to read the note.

Dear Michiru, I got your letter on Valentine's Day, but I didn't want to say anything about it until today, since this IS the best day to say anything about it.

I must say you really surprised me when you admitted your feelings for me in the letter. I mean, who would think that someone as beautiful as you are, with almost all the guys after her, would fall in love the king of tomboys? I surely didn't, but then again, you've never ceased to amaze me. I assure you that the chocolate that you made me was superb, and I enjoyed the first part of it. I'm afraid that if you keep cooking up chocolate and anything else, I'll end up a lazy fat bum! (I was laughing when I wrote that sentence) Now, in response to all the love you poured into the letter and chocolate, I must respond, now don't I? If you found the ring, then read the inscription for my answer.

Ruka-chan

Taking off the ring, I turned it over in my hands to read what was inscribed in it. Tears were in my eyes as I read what was inscribed.

"I Love U 4Eva, Michi. ~Ruka" I whispered, tears falling down my face.

"Hey, I didn't mean to make you cry, Michi-chan." the all too familiar voice of my love whispered. Slipping the ring back on, I turned around and smiled up to my Ruka-chan.

"Ruka." I whispered, "Oh Ruka!" I jumped up into her open arms, crying onto her shoulder. "Aishiteru, my dear Haruka." I whispered into her ear. She grinned back at me, wiping away my tears.

"Aishiteru, my lovely Michiru." she whispered, hugging me close. I leaned against her, closing my eyes as her face neared mine. I hugged her closer as our lips met, and I received my first kiss from my first and only love.

When we pulled away a few minutes later, I smiled at Haruka with all the love I felt in my heart. Her eyes shone in the sunlight from the overhead windows above the pool. We kissed again, before she picked up my books and took my hand.

"Come on, I'll walk you to class." she smiled down to me, and I beamed back at her.

"Well, let's get going so you won't be late for your own classes!" I giggled, twining my fingers with hers and squeezing her hand. She chuckled and pulled me close again, and I snuggled into her body, my head resting upon her shoulder, my arms wrapped around her waist.

"You've made me the happiest person in the world Michi. I love you so much." Haruka whispered, making me smile and kiss her cheek.

"You've made me even happier Haruka. who knew a girl could be so lucky to catch the wind?" I giggled as she squeezed me and nipped at my neck, making me laugh, "Ruka!" I laughed again, trying to escape, even though I really didn't want to.

"The girl who caught me is the same person I've been chasing all this time." she whispered against my neck, making me shiver. "You may have caught the wind, but I have conquered the sea." she kissed my neck, which sent shocks of pleasure throughout my body.

"H-Haruka." I whispered, gasping as she nibbled on my ear. "Quit it."

"Gomen, Michi" she said, pulling away, "I didn't mean to." I cut her off.

"I didn't mean I didn't LIKE it, Ruka" I said, resting my hand against her cheek, "It's just that, let's wait a little while longer before we do something like that. That, and we really do have to get to class, the bell's going to ring soon for the end of this class." she nodded, taking my hand and my books. When the bell rang, we walked through the crowd towards my class, Haruka greeting some people she knew, me greeting my classmates and some of the teachers.

As we neared the science wing of the school, I felt Haruka slow her steps a little, making me look up at her in question. She smiled softly, squeezing my hand, and I couldn't help but smile back. Stopping in front of the advanced science room, Haruka again pulled me close, hugging me. I hugged her back.

"I'll see you later, ne Michi?" she whispered into my ear, my body shivering slightly.

"Hai, Ruka. Ja ne." I whispered back, hugging her tighter. She kissed my cheek releasing me. She waved as she walked down the hall to her own class, grumbling about the fact that she'd rather stay with me than go to government. I giggled again, entering the classroom.

"Konnichiwa Chibi-Washu sensei!" I smiled at the person who I thought was my teacher.

"Gomen, Michiru-chan, but Chibi-Washu sensei isn't here today" Asagiri- sempai said, chuckling. "I'm filling in for her today, since I've finally graduated." Asagiri-sempai was a friend of Haruka's, and the lead singer of Sekiria. It was also rumored that she was dating Yamazaki-sensei, but nobody was sure except for them and Haruka.

"Really?" I asked, inwardly sighing with relief, "That's good."

"Why?" she asked, grinning mischievously, "You're the top student in this class" she grinned even more, "or were you too busy to study for a test last night?"

I blushed, averting my eyes from her all knowing brown ones. "Well." I began, "I just really didn't feel up to taking a test today." and Asagiri- sempai laughed. "What's so funny, Asagiri-sempai?" I asked her, a little irked from the whole ordeal.

"Oh nothing, just thinking about how much Chibi-Washu-san would laugh at all your little doodles of Haruka-chan all over your paper if she was here today." she laughed again and I blushed.

Luckily for me, the bell rang, and everyone rushed in before it finished. Taking my seat, I listened along with everyone to what Asagiri-sempai had to say. somewhat. My thoughts strayed to a certain blonde, emerald-eyed tomboy that had captured my heart and returned my feelings.

"Okay minna! Chibi-Washu sensei left this packet for you all to do so you can review for the test you'll have tomorrow. She said that you have all of class and tonight to do it, so don't slack off and not do it! She's collecting it tomorrow right before the test!"

Once I had finished the packet, I let my thoughts wander yet again, sighing as I saw the breeze play with the trees.

~* June, Graduation: Haruka's POV *~

I sat along with my fellow graduates as we waited the moment we would receive our diplomas. We had all dressed up, but not in caps and gowns (that was only for high school). Oozuma-sensei was nearing my name, since there were only two more people before me that hadn't received their diplomas yet. My great-grandmother had made sure that this school did something special for graduating students, so she instituted a mock-senior high graduation. Of course, it was half American, half Japanese in origin, making the school even more original. The curriculum and everything else followed what was to be taught by law, but everything else was done in an original fashion.

...

. Which was why I would miss attending this school. High School would be completely different for me, and I don't know what I'd do not being able to see Michi-chan everyday.

"Tenoh Haruka!" Oozuma-sensei announced as I stood. Wild cheers and applause erupted from around me.

I had graduated in the top ten percent of my class, and with high honors. I shook hands with Oozuma-sensei, who smiled in return and winked at me. I grinned as he gave me my diploma, and I turned toward the crowd raising my diploma up in the air, and the cheers increased.

...



It was the happiest. and saddest. day of my life.

After everyone had received their diplomas, we were allowed to disperse and mingle with the underclassmen, family, and friends. I made my way through the crowd, congratulating my fellow graduates, and saying thanks to everyone who congratulated me.

"Haru-chan!" an elderly voice I had grown to love like a grandfather called. Turning my head to face Isamu-san, I also saw Michi and okaa-san with him. I grinned, making my way over to them. As soon as I was over there, I was swept into a grandfatherly bear hug by Isamu-san. He laughed, "My little Haru-chan has graduated middle school! Four more years and she'll be off to college!"

"Isamu-san." my mother groaned, "Onegai. don't remind me of how much Haru- chan has grown so far." Isamu-san let go of me, and I was swept into another hug by my mother. "My little Haru-chan. you're so close to becoming free. I'm afraid of the day you graduate from High school." she whispered, tears threatening to fall from her eyes. "You've grown up from a rowdy tomboy into a mature one! I don't know what I'll do with you." she smiled, hugging me again.

"Okaa-san." I said, hugging her back. As annoying as she could be sometimes, I still loved my mom.

"Oi. am I gonna be able to give the graduate a hug sometime?" a voice that I loved to hear said to our left. My mother released me, and I grabbed Michi up, swinging her around in a circle.

"Michi! I graduated!" I laughed.

"I know, Ruka! I know!" she laughed, her voice music in my ears. Setting her down on the ground again, I pulled her into a hug. Her arms wrapped around my neck as she brought my head down. I rested my forehead against hers, staring into her eyes, deeply inhaling her scent. "I'm so proud of you, Ruka-chan." she whispered, pecking me lightly on the lips. "So very proud."

"It's nice to hear you're proud of me. Michi-koi." I whispered back, pulling her closer.

"Ruka." she whispered, ". not here. my mother's here." she whispered again, her lips barely moving. At the mention of her mother, I resisted the urge to kiss her, and instead gave her a big bear hug. She giggled as I let go of her, my lips grazing her cheek.

"So, how about we all go out to celebrate?" my mom asked, grinning.

"Michiru-chan! There you are!" a young woman (I guess about two years younger than my own mom) came up, her dark blue (almost black) hair swishing with every step she took. She smiled at me. "Congratulations Haruka-chan" she said.

"Arigato gozaimasu, Kaioh-san" I bowed politely.

"Oh come now, Haruka-chan!" she laughed a melodic laughter. "There's no need for my daughter's best friend, as well as a good friend of otto-san's, to be using formalities with me. Just call me Sakura," she said. I thought that I had seen my mother jump slightly in surprise when she heard the name, but I just mentally shrugged it off.

"Okay then, Sakura-san," I said, smiling at the older woman. She smiled back, her eyes twinkling.

"Haru-chan" Isamu started, smiling at his daughter, Michi, and me, "How's about we all go out and celebrate, ne? It's beginning to get a little stuffy in here" he motioned towards the door.

My mother nodded, and headed towards the door. The rest of us followed.

I knew there was something wrong with okka-san, but at the moment, it wasn't best to ask her what was bothering her.

~* July, Normal POV *~

It was a very hot day. The birds all stayed in the shadows or near birdbaths, most animals stayed indoors, and very few people were out and about.

"Jeez! If it gets any hotter I might have to wear shorts instead of pants!" a low voice complained, and the only reply it got was a higher pitched giggle.

"Next time you'll wear shorts when I tell you to, ne?" the higher voice said to its companion.

A grumbled "Hai Michi-chan" was her only response.

Michiru smiled at her grumpy Ruka-chan, and giggled again. "Aww, poor baby. How about we go to my house and cool off for a little while? My mother's not going to be home for another three days." the voice trailed off, leaving any suggestions out for the tall blonde to grasp.

"Well, that sounds good!" Haruka brightened up, grinning down at the younger girl.

Hand-in-hand, Haruka and Michiru walked towards Michiru's home, chatting about everything and nothing.

~*~

Haruka sighed when she entered the air-conditioned house of her girlfriend.

"Man, sometimes I wonder if I should just move in with you Michi-koi. That way I could enjoy two things I love at the same time!"

"Oh? And what would those be?" she asked.

"Air conditioning and you, of course" Haruka grinned again. Michiru shook her head, giggling softly.

"Do you want something to drink Ruka?" Michiru asked, heading towards the kitchen. Haruka caught her wrist, gently pulling her back into a hug.

"Iie. but I know something I DO want. or rather. someone." she whispered huskily into the smaller girl's ear. Michiru smiled softly, wrapping her arms around the taller girl's neck.

"Oh? And who would that be?" she replied coyly, her eyes closing seductively.

Bringing her face closer to Michiru's, Haruka whispered, "You" before crushing her lips against the younger girl's passionately. Michiru moaned as Haruka's tongue snaked its way into her mouth. She shivered as Haruka's hands moved up and down her sides, resting on her waist and pulling her closer.

"Haruka." Michiru whispered against her girlfriend's lips. Pulling away, Michiru opened her eyes and stared into beautiful green eyes filled with love and lust.

"Michiru." Haruka whispered in reply, smiling softly at the girl in her arms, "Aishiteru. zutto Michiru-koi."

"I love you too Haruka." Michiru smiled, grabbing one of Haruka's hands. She smiled cutely at her koibito, tugging her hand to get her to follow her. Haruka smiled, letting Michiru lead. They slowly made their way to Michiru's bedroom. Pulling Haruka inside, Michiru shut the door behind them, locking it. She smiled again up to Haruka, who returned her smile.

Stepping closer, Michiru leaned against her, kissing her with all the passion she felt. She moaned again when she felt those strong hands slowly trek down her back, resting again at her waist.

"Michi." Haruka whispered, her mouth moving southward to a glorious swan neck. She smiled as she felt Michiru shudder at the new sensation. She slid her hands up Michiru's arms, resting them once again on her shoulders. Smiling she led Michiru over to the side of the bed. The two young teens stood in silence, each nervous as to what was to come next.

"Michiru. are you sure you want to do this?" Haruka asked, not wanting to hurt her Michi in any fashion. Michiru nodded in return, her own hands lifting to cover the ones on her shoulders. Together, they slid the straps of her dress off her shoulders. Michiru slipped her arms out of the straps, the dress pooling around her slim waist. She blushed, averting her gaze from Haruka's.

When Haruka found her voice again, all she could muster was a "Michi." Shyly looking up, Michiru searched Haruka's eyes for any signs of disappointment. Instead, all she found was love, lust, and admiration.

"You're beautiful Michiru." Haruka whispered, her hands clasping Michiru's. "I swear, you'll be drop dead gorgeous in a year and a half, but right now, you look like a little piece of heaven on earth." Haruka whispered into the blushing girl's ear, licking it softly.

"Honto?" she whispered.

"Yeah. Why would I lie?" Haruka whispered again, her hands sliding up the exposed flesh of Michiru's sides. Haruka kissed Michiru again, her hands pushing the dress the rest of the way down. It pooled out about Michiru's feet, and Haruka almost drooled at the sight of her girlfriend in nothing but a pair of silky panties.

Tentatively, Haruka brushed a hand against a young breast, eliciting a gasp of surprise and pleasure from Michiru. Repeating the action with a little more force, Haruka was rewarded with a moan.

"Haruka." Michiru moaned again, reaching her hands up to remove the button down t-shirt Haruka wore. She moaned a little louder as Haruka used more force in her strokes. Growling, Michiru pushed Haruka back onto her bed, tearing her shirt after getting three of the six buttons undone. The other three flew off in different directions. Haruka grunted as small hands ran over her stomach to her shoulders, then down her back as it unlatched her bra.

"Michiru." Haruka whispered, staring into her koibito's eyes. Michiru smiled, wrapping her arms around Haruka's neck. Leaning down, her hair created a veil about both of their heads as their lips met in an erotic dance that only lovers know. Haruka grunted as Michiru pulled her into a sitting position, shirt and bra slipping off only to be thrown discarded to the floor. She grunted again when Michiru shifted, her thighs straddling her own stomach and waist.

A groan escaped Haruka's lips as Michiru's hands found her breasts. Michiru moaned as Haruka's hands slipped beneath her panties to caress her ass. Panting lightly, Michiru kissed Haruka's neck, sucking on it in certain spots to leave a mark. Another groan was her response as her hands slipped from Haruka's breasts, down her muscular washboard stomach, to the waistband of her pants. Haruka's hands wandered Michiru's back, sliding around front, running over her stomach, and under and over her breasts. Haruka grasped the young girl's breasts, kneading them in her hands, making the other cry out and moan louder.

As soon as the zipper was down on Haruka's pants, she rolled over, pressing her body against Michiru's. The need to possess the girl overwhelmed Haruka, but the fact that Michiru felt the exact same thing made it even more overwhelming.



No words were spoken as the final barriers between the two girls were removed. Almost immediately, hands began to wander, fingers explored the expanse of flesh at their disposal, lips tasted, kissed, sucked, and nibbled on different parts.

... The bed began to rock in a steady rhythm as the two girls moved against one another. Groans, moans, sighs, and kisses passed between the two in their moments of passion, each one feeling the approaching storm in their bodies.

They could feel their bodies tensing, feeling the dams dangerously close to breaking. They both held out as long as they could, slowing down their movements to make the release even more intense. Michiru's hands scratched at Haruka's back as she writhed beneath the taller girl, cuts being left in their wake.

Haruka's eyes locked with Michiru's. They stared deeply into each other's eyes. Michiru's eyes widened in shock as suddenly she was drowned in ecstasy, Haruka right behind her.

"HARUUUKAAA!" she screamed, the storm coming in at full force. Gripping onto the taller girl, she bit Haruka's shoulder.

"Michiru!" Haruka gasped out, her own mind in a haze from the delirious feeling that had washed over her. She shuddered as her movements slowed, and died down. Gently, she kissed Michiru's neck, licking and nibbling on her skin. Michiru shivered at the feeling, snuggling her head into Haruka's neck.

Untangling herself from Michiru's embrace, Haruka laid down next to her koibito. Smiling, she picked up Michiru's hand, kissing it.

"Aishiteru Michi." Haruka whispered. Smiling back, albeit sleepily, Michiru snuggled into Haruka's arms, yawning.

"Aishiteru. my dear. Ruka-chan." she whispered, trailing off as she fell asleep. Haruka's arms tightened around her as she too followed her koi into dreamland.

Neither noticed the rain as it poured down outside. Mother Nature cried tears of joy with her daughters Windy and Stormy over the union of the two girls' souls.

~*~

A few hours later, Haruka groggily awoke to the sound of heavy rain splattering against the window. Looking around herself, she noticed that she wasn't in her own room. Tensing slightly, she looked around again. There was a bookshelf with various books of all different shapes, sizes, and colors; a light brown dresser, a computer desk/homework desk; a vanity, and a violin case. She relaxed as she looked upon the all to familiar case.

Haruka sighed, smiling softly as she felt the smaller body shift beside her. Michiru snuggled deeper into her body, her face nuzzled comfortably in the crook of her neck. A small arm wrapped around her waist, and a strong leg intertwined with her own.

"Mmm. Ruka." Michiru mumbled in her sleep, Haruka pulling her closer. A sudden slam from downstairs startled Haruka, and woke up Michiru. "Huh? What was that?" she asked sleepily.

"Michi-chan! I'm home!" the all too familiar voice of Michiru's mother called from downstairs.

"Oh shit." Haruka whispered, staring at Michiru. "Michi. if your mom catches us like this."

"Hurry up and get dressed Ruka!" she whispered, untangling herself from the body that she loved. Quickly, Haruka slipped on her bra and underwear, jumping into her pants while putting on her shirt. Michiru buttoned up her shirt after she had pulled on her own clothes, then quickly fixed her hair. She sprayed on a little perfume on herself as well as around the room, fixed her bed, and quickly sat down at her computer desk. Haruka pulled out a bottle of cologne and sprayed herself with it, crossed the room and unlocked the door, then took a seat on the floor next to Michiru.

"What time is it?" Haruka whispered as Michiru looked at the screen.

"Eleven o'clock!?" Michiru gasped, looking at Haruka. They stared at each other in shock, then Haruka quickly grabbed one of Michiru's many long movies and popped it into the VCR. She fast-forwarded it as quickly as possible to 10 minutes before the end, and sat back, looking as relaxed as possible. Michiru smiled, relaxing also.

The door opened, and both teens looked up at Michiru's mother. She blinked in surprise at seeing Haruka there.

"Oh! Haruka-chan! I didn't know you were here." she said, looking at Michiru. "How have you been Michi-chan?" she asked then, not noticing anything out of the ordinary.

"Just fine mom. Ruka-chan came by earlier to watch a movie, but I didn't know how late it was!" she gasped in mock surprise when she looked towards the clock on her nightstand. "Ruka-chan, you mom's gonna be so worried!" she said, looking towards her companion.

"But you know my mom." she trailed off, seeing the warning look in her Michi's eyes. ". is gonna flip if she doesn't see me home in five minutes!" Haruka laughed nervously, standing up. Michiru stood also.

"I'll walk you to the door, Ruka-chan" she said, following the taller girl downstairs. After making sure Ms. Kaioh wasn't following them, Michiru whispered harshly to Haruka, "You almost got us caught! If she found out your mom was working late, she would've suspected something!"

"I know, I know, and I'm sorry" Haruka whispered back, looking into Michiru's eyes, "Forgive me?" she asked.

"You know I can't stay mad at you." Michiru sighed after they descended the stairs. Haruka grinned.

"I know" was the simple reply as Haruka opened the door. Suddenly, after making sure Kaioh-san wasn't lurking around, Haruka pulled Michiru into a kiss of passion.

"H-Haruka." Michiru whispered as they parted, "What was that for?"

"For being you, koi." Haruka grinned. "Michiru." Haruka started again, her face turning serious. "Once we both graduate from high school." she grasped Michiru's right hand, fingering the ring on her ring finger. "Would you." she trailed off.

"Would I what Haruka?" Michiru asked, searching Haruka's eyes. Haruka swallowed the lump in her throat.

"Would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?" Haruka whispered softly. Michiru gasped, staring into Haruka's face.

"Are you serious?" Michiru whispered hesitantly.

"Even though we're young, I've never been more serious in my life." Haruka stated, "I can't imagine my life without you Michi. and nobody could ever own my heart except for you. I wanna spend the rest of my life with you. nobody else." was the heartfelt, low whisper of Michiru's koibito.

"Haruka." Michiru whispered, tears building up in her eyes. She smiled, hugging her lover tightly. "Of course I'll marry you." she whispered back.

"Honto?" was the uncertain reply. Pulling back, Michiru stared deeply into her emerald eyes, wiping the tears away. She kissed Haruka softly for a few moments, then she pulled away and looked at her again.

"Honto. Aishiteru Tenoh Haruka." she whispered against Haruka's luscious lips. A grin spread across Haruka's face, and she kissed Michiru quickly on the lips.

"Aishiteru Kaioh Michiru." she whispered, grinning again as Michiru moved the ring that she had given her onto her left ring finger.

"Get going Ruka-koi, before your mom has a fit when she does come home" Michiru smiled, releasing Haruka. Haruka smiled, then looked down at her own ring finger as she felt a slight pressure on it. She smiled as she stared at the ring that had been placed there by Michiru, a special ring that Michiru had showed her on one of her earlier visits to the Kaioh household.

"Remember what I said now" Michiru laughed, shoving Haruka playfully out the door. Haruka grinned again, waving to Michiru as she jogged away.

"Ja ne Michi-chan!" she called back.

"Ja ne Ruka-chan!" Michiru replied, watching the retreating form of her love. She sighed happily, shutting the door softly. Turning around she sighed softly as she looked at the ring Haruka had given her on White Day. A cough interrupted her reverie, and she stared at her mother.

"O-okaa-san!" Michiru gasped in surprise, staring fearfully at her enraged mother.

"Don't try and deny anything Michiru!" her mother hissed, her blue eyes flashing red for a moment, "I saw everything!"

"Okaa-san, Onegai, don't be mad at us!" Michiru exclaimed fearfully.

"It's a good thing I came home today. I've been promoted Michiru, and we're moving tonight!" her mother hissed again. Turning away from her daughter, Sakura walked upstairs. "Start packing, because either way, you're coming with me."

"We're moving.?" Michiru whispered tearfully, slowly walking up the stairs, "Iie. Iie!" she sobbed, running to her mother. "Okka-san! Why are we moving? Where are we going?" she sobbed again.

"I've been promoted, and we're moving to America" was the simple reply as Michiru gasped in horror.

"America!?" she repeated, tears falling heavily down her cheeks.

"Yes, far away from your dear Ruka-chan!" she growled, "Now go pack!" she barked.

Turning away from her mother, Michiru walked into her room and began packing, tears falling down her face.

"Ruka-chan." she whimpered, turning towards the phone hanging on her wall. Quickly she packed her belongings, and then reached for the phone. Taking it off the wall, she wailed when she heard no dial tone. "Ruka-chan." she whispered to herself, "Gomen nasai. gomen nasai." she whispered, staring out the window.

"Come on Michiru! It's almost time to go!" her mother called again. Michiru quickly grabbed a pen and some paper, scribbling frantically. She sighed as she finished, then quickly shoved it into an envelope. Carefully she wrote out a name she loved as much as her own. Sniffling, Michiru kissed the envelope, a few tears falling onto it. Slipping it into her pocket, Michiru grabbed her bag and violin case.

"It's out of my hands Ruka-chan. Onegai. forgive me." she whispered, walking out of her room.

"Are you ready to go?" Sakura asked her daughter.

"Can we at least say goodbye to Grandpa?" Michiru asked softly.

"Fine" Sakura sighed, "Then we really have to get to the airport."

~*~

"Michiru-chan!" Isamu exclaimed at the late-night visitor. "What brings you here?"

"I've come to say goodbye Grandpa." she whispered. "Okaa-san got a promotion, so we'll be moving to America." she whimpered.

"America, eh?" Isamu said, scratching his chin. "Well, I guess you want me to give something to Haru-chan right?" he asked. Michiru nodded, handing him an envelope. He took it from his granddaughter's hands, and smiled assuring the young girl that he would give it to her girlfriend. "Don't worry Michiru." he whispered, hugging one of his pride and joys, "Haru-chan won't be mad at you."

"Grandpa." she wailed, gripping him for dear life, "I don't wanna leave!"

"I wish there was something I could do, but I guess Destiny has a reason for separating you two." he smiled his trademark grandfather smile to the young girl, "You two will meet each other again, I'm sure of it. Just you wait." he whispered, hugging the girl, "Now get going, your mom's waiting for you."

"Okay Grandpa." Michiru sniffled, wiping her tears away. "Arigato. for everything."

"No problem" the old man replied, hugging the young girl again.

~*~

Haruka whistled happily the following morning, smiling as she somewhat danced around her house.

"My, isn't someone in a good mood today?" Kei teased her daughter. Haruka grinned back at her.

"Why can't I be happy?" she playfully defended herself.

"Alright, spill. What happened yesterday between you and Michiru while I was at work?"

"Oh nothing." Haruka trailed off, yesterday's events making her blush.

"Oh my! Don't tell me you." Haruka's blush confirmed her suspicions, and Kei laughed. "Haruka! You little devil!" she giggled again, smiling again. "You remind me so much of myself when I was younger. I lost my virginity after my 8th grade year also."

"Mom!" Haruka blushed even more, making Kei laughed. "That's not it!"

"Oh, but I know that's part of it. I can tell by your blush Haru-chan." she smiled. "What else happened?"

Haruka just grinned and held up her left hand. Kei gasped when she saw the gold ring on her ring finger. "You. you're already engaged?" she asked, looking at her daughter.

"Hai." Haruka whispered, smiling. "I asked her to marry me before I left yesterday."

"Well, that's good! I'd love to have her as a daughter-in-law!" Kei hugged her daughter, "And you'd better treat her well Haru-chan. Isamu-san can be mean when somebody hurts someone important to him."

"I'm gonna go now okay okaa-san?" Haruka pulled away from the embrace, walking towards the door. "I'll see you later!" she called as she left. Kei waved back, smiling at her happy daughter.

"Michiru-chan. you're the best thing to happen to Haruka. arigato for everything you've done." Kei whispered.

~*~

"Ohayo Isamu-san!" Haruka greeted happily, smiling at the older man. She was startled when she didn't get a smile in return. "What's wrong Isamu- san?" she asked, wondering why the usually happy man looked so sad.

"Here Haru-chan. This is for you." Isamu said, handing the envelope to the teen. Sitting down, Haruka opened it. She pulled out the paper inside, and began to read.

Ruka-chan. Iie Haruka. Gomen nasai, but my mother found out about us. I'm writing this to you right now, because I have just found out that I am moving. My mother has gotten a promotion in her job, and she dropped the bomb on me after you had left.

Teardrops almost blurred the words on the paper, Haruka noticed, her own tears threatening to fall.

Aishiteru Ruka-chan! Always! Don't ever forget that. I'm sorry, so sorry.

I won't be able to see you anymore.....

We've moved to America. We moved tonight, right after you left. I tried calling you, but the phone line had already been disconnected. As soon as everything has settled, I'll try to contact you koi. I hate what has happened, especially after what happened between us. Please don't forget about me koibito. I love you more than life itself, and I'll wait for the day that we meet again. We'll get married in the future; remember that. I love you! I'll always love you, and I won't ever forget you! I just wish that everything didn't turn out this way.

Aishiteru, zutto Your Michi-chan (Kaioh Michiru)

Tears streamed unabashed down Haruka's face as she read and re-read the letter.

"This is some kind of joke right?" she shakily laughed, looking up into Isamu's eyes. "Right?"

"Iie, Haru-chan. Even though I wish it was as much as you do" he whispered.

"She-she's. in. America.?" Haruka whispered, a sob wracking her body as she let out an anguished cry. Isamu walked around the counter, taking the young girl into his arms.

"She said she'll wait for you Haru-chan. don't worry. she'll be back." he whispered, soothingly rubbing the distraught teen's back. Haruka cried, hugging the older man tightly.

"It's not fair. it's not fair!" she cried, sobbing.

"I know Haru-chan." he sighed. She pulled away, staring into his eyes desperately.

"You don't understand! We. we're engaged Grandpa!" she cried. Isamu blinked, then blinked again.

"Oh, Haru-chan." he pulled the poor girl closer to him, hugging her like a grandfather. "I'm sorry Haru-chan." he whispered.

His only response was more sobs from the unfortunate sobs, and somewhere in the back of his mind, he knew that Michiru felt the same way.

~*~ A couple of months after Haruka received the news, about a month into the school year; everyone noticed the drastic change that had taken place in her. She refused to talk to anyone, and began to get into fights at school. Haruka had become cold-hearted towards everyone, unemotional to everything around her, and began to live up to her namesake. Haruka had become distant from everyone, and no one could find out why. That year, Haruka had become much taller and stronger than most of the boys her age, and had even beat up a few senior boys on the football team.

The girls on the other hand, still seemed to be unfazed by the coldness around Haruka's heart, and were determined to melt the ice. Kaori seemed to be the only person besides for Elza to bring her out of her shell, even though it was only for a short time.

Kaori and Elza were desperate, and turned to help from some of Haruka's other friends. They were able to get help from Kino Makoto, a fellow "Bash sister" of Haruka's, and Aino Minako, Haruka's surrogate younger sister.

They both tried their best, but to no avail. It seemed as if the only person who could bring Haruka out of this funk was Michiru, but when they asked the blonde where the young violinist is, she just walks off coldly.

All four friends turned to Kei for answers, and she sadly told them what had happened.

"This must be Hell for Haru-chan" she told the other girls after explaining what had happened, "To be engaged to someone you love so dearly, only to have them taken away from you that same night."

That day, the friends had made a pact. Each one of them promised to be there for their distressed friend, and to support her through everything.

~*~

"Haruka's personal Hell." Kaori sighed, gazing at a picture of the tomboy in the high school yearbook. She looked as if she was ready to attack anyone, no matter who it was. Kaori sighed again, tracing the face with her finger, remembering what Elza had told her.

"She's unbeatable on the track!" she told the young girl, "Nobody can catch her. it's like she's the wind. wild and out of reach."

"Haruka-kun." Kaori whispered, ". even though I know that I can't replace her. Onegai. let me be a part of your heart."

That day Kaori made a promise to herself. She would do her best to make Haruka happy, no matter what.

TO BE CONTINUED!!!

What's gonna happen now? We're almost near the end of the WAY too long flashback, don't worry!

Kris: Stay Tuned for When Worlds Collide Part 5- Reunions! Haruka and Michiru's Past Remembered.

Ichino: It's gonna be a surprising turn of events!