Chapter 9 Field Trip
After the surprise birthday bash they had all prepared for Hitomi, Van started thinking about how he truly felt for Hitomi.
There were nights where it would be hard for him to sleep. He would keep on tossing and turning in his bed, sometimes not really thinking of anything.
One night, as he lay there in bed, his mind was worlds away. Van couldn't understand what was keeping him up.
He got up and checked the clock by his bed. It read 12:30 am. It didn't matter, he thought. He just got up and walked towards the window. He then opened it, letting the night air enter his dark room.
Van knew that Folken and the others were already asleep. How he envied them. He was tired and his body knew that but his mind, being miles away, kept him up.
Then something inside made him look up at the stars. Just as he gazed up at the display of magnificence above him, an impulse swept across his face. It made him smile and feel light inside.
Realizing what was happening Van quickly shook his head and turned back at his dark room. "What's wrong with me?" He asked himself.
He slowly closed his eyes and suddenly found himself thinking about what had happened between him and Hitomi. As he jumped into realization, he quickly opened his eyes and understood. He turned back and gazed up at the sky.
Right then and there he said, "I know now what's wrong with me. I was so foolish for not realizing this sooner. . .I love Hitomi. . ."
As he continued to gaze at the starlit sky, he smiled again and said under his breath, "Yeah. . .I love her. . ."
Suddenly Van saw a falling star. "I promise I will always protect you, Hitomi. Even if your heart belongs to someone else, I promise that I will always be here for you. Mother, I swear that I will treasure her as much as father treasured you and maybe even more."
Little did he know that in a house a few blocks away, Hitomi was also gazing at the sky.
She was also restless and had kept on tossing and turning just like him. Hitomi smiled as she saw the falling star.
"I guess I should make a wish. Hmm. . .what should I wish for?" Hitomi told herself. She then closed her eyes and started to think. Then she remembered how confused she was the past few days. She didn't know why.
Then, there, she knew what to wish for. "Star light, star bright, the first star I wish tonight, please. . .guide me to the answer I'm looking for. I would really want to set things straight. So much had happened to me the past year and I know a lot more are still to come. I just want to clear my heart so that when the challenges come, I may be able to face them head on." She said.
Hitomi then closed her eyes and took in a deep breath.
The night air was cool and sweet. As the breeze entered and filled her lungs, she could feel warmth and serenity building up inside of her. It made her smile.
Hitomi didn't expect to feel that way. She slowly opened her eyes and gazed once more at the peaceful beyond.
Her smile grew at the sight.
Yes, indeed she had experienced a lot of things during the past year. Who would have thought that even before she would have the chance to enter the seventh grade, she would experience so much heightened emotions in just a short span of time? Early on adolescence, indeed change was really fast.
Folken and Amano were right when they said that Hitomi was mature and wise beyond her years. But she still had a long way to go.
Hitomi could then feel her body yearning for sleep. She stretched and yawned. She finally caved in and headed towards her bed.
The lack of rest from the past days had finally caught up with her. Even though she still hadn't sorted out all the things she was feeling about, it didn't matter.
Soon, sleep swept over her face. Sleep had claimed her into deep slumber. Her pendant, on the other hand, which was placed at the table near her bed, glowed a faint glow at first. But for the few seconds that followed, it seemed to get brighter until it was gone. Then, everything was dark.
The next days that followed. . .
"Class, as you know, final examinations are coming up but we still have a few lessons to take up." The sixth grade teacher announced in class one afternoon.
The students grumbled as they were reminded that examinations were fast approaching.
"Thankfully, instead of having it inside the classroom, we would be having a field trip next week." He added and the class went wild with excitement.
"But be warned, after the field trip, each of you would be asked to write a paper, 1000 words about what transpired during the trip. You must take this seriously because a big bulk of your grade will be coming from this term paper." The teacher explained.
Just as the class was beginning to react, the first bell rung, signaling that there was only five minutes left until dismissal.
"Since we don't have the much time left, I had prepared a list. Before you go out, you must check it to see whom you will be partnered with. Besides your names, I have placed a topic in which you must focus on during the field trip. You may do additional research if you like. Aside from the term paper that you would be doing individually, you are to do a project by pairs. That is all what we will be doing for the rest of the semester as well as reviewing for the final examinations." Their teacher explained.
The final bell then rung. The students started fixing their bags while their teacher posted the list on the board. Students slowly started to line up to check up on the list.
"Could you believe what they are asking us to do? It's torture if you ask me." Yukari commented as she, Hitomi and Van lined up at the back.
Hitomi couldn't help but laugh. "Don't be silly Yukari." She said. "Think about it. We only have to do one project and one term paper for the rest of the month aside from having a field trip. If you ask me, the teachers have gone soft. We have two weeks tops to do the term paper and a month, plus the school hours to do the project." Hitomi added.
"I would have to go with Hitomi on this one. Just think, if we finish the two requirements and get through the examinations, it would be summer and we wouldn't have to worry about anything anymore. . .well not for a while that is." Van commented.
Yukari just gave out a breath. She then nodded in agreement. "You guys are right. A little more patience and we'll have nothing to worry about." She said.
"That's the spirit." Hitomi said as she placed her arm around Yukari's shoulder. "We could even start planning for summer." She added.
"Hey you're right!" Yukari replied, her spirit rising. "So, what do you guys want to do? Do you want to go out of town or something?" She added.
Hitomi just laughed and said as she placed a hand on her shoulder, "We'll see, Yukari. Right now we better see whom we're paired with so that we could start with the project."
Yukari then turned and walked up to the list. She then scrolled her finger down the piece of paper and scanned to see her name. "Oh no. . ." Yukari then expressed.
Both Hitomi and Van looked at each other and asked, "What's wrong, Yukari?"
"I'm paired with. . ." Yukari started. Then a guy walked up to them. He wasn't really that bad looking. Actually he was cute. He had short black hair with intense blue eyes. He had a fair complexion and was fairly built. But he and Yukari weren't really seeing eye to eye.
"Yukari, I guess you're my partner." Kyuchi, the half American, half Japanese classmate of theirs, said.
Yukari turned to him and replied, "I guess so Kyuchi. Listen, if I'm going to be paired with you I want to get one thing straight, I don't want to get stuck with all the work."
Kyuchi just grinned and replied, "Funny. I was just about to say the same thing to you. You better do good because I'm not about to sacrifice my grades because of you."
"Believe me Kyuchi, you're the last person I'd wanted to be paired with. And don't flatter yourself, I wouldn't need to do anything because there isn't much to salvage with the kind of grades that you hve." Yukari said.
But before they could argue more, Hitomi stepped in. "Listen you guys, you both won't achieve anything if you both continue this. You two better make peace." She said.
Both Kyuchi and Yukari turned their backs against each other.
"Come on you two." Van started. "You won't lose anything if you just make peace for now. Just get the project over with and you could insult each other or stay out of each other's lives once you're done." He added.
"Van's right. You don't have to like each other but you do have to work together whether you like it or not." Hitomi said. "Just shake on it and let's get it over with." She added.
"Fine. But don't think for even one minute that I'll be enjoying working with you." Kyuchi finally said as he extended his hand when they faced each other.
"Drop dead Kyuchi. Who said I will?" Yukari said as she shook his hand.
"Quit it you guys." Hitomi said. Kyuchi then turned and left.
"Oh I can't stand him!" Yukari said in frustration.
"There, there Yukari. We can't always choose the people whom we have to work with in life. Just think of it this way, at least you're not in a situation far worse. You just have to work with him. It's not the end of the world or anything." Hitomi said.
"Easy for you to say. It would be a miracle if I would be able to survive the rest of the school year with him." Yukari commented.
"Now you're exaggerating things." Van said. Hitomi just nodded in agreement. She then turned to the list and started to scan for her partner. Soon, she smiled.
"Cool. I guess you're my partner, Van." Hitomi said and looked at him. Van just smiled.
"Great. You get to be paired with Van and I'm paired with my worst nightmare. I would be happy if I were paired with one of you guys or someone else at least. I just can't stand him." Yukari said.
"Yukari, I know that you guys are not seeing eye to eye but. . .I don't think it's that bad. He's not really such a bad guy, you know. Just give him a chance." Hitomi explained as they left the classroom.
"Yeah right..." Yukari replied.
"Yukari, Hitomi's right. Just have a little faith in him. It's not much but it might help you survive it." Van suggested. Yukari just rolled her eyes.
"Look if it would make you feel better, we could all go together but just for the first day and we'll see what happens next. Just give him a chance, Yukari. It wouldn't hurt to just give him that opportunity." Hitomi suggested.
"I guess. . .Look you guys, I appreciate everything but I'll never get along with a guy like him." Yukari replied.
"Who knows Yukari? No one knows what fate truly holds." Hitomi commented.
Just then, they met up with Allen and Folken.
"Hey what's up guys?" Folken greeted.
"Oh hi guys. Nothing much." Hitomi replied.
"What's up with you, Yukari? You seem way out of yourself today." Allen commented.
Yukari just scowled a little. She really disliked Kyuchi and she really disliked the idea that she would be spending a lot of time with him because of a class requirement.
"She just had an encounter during lunch with one of our classmates and now she was paired with him for the rest of the year, which means she would have to work with him most of the time." Hitomi explained.
"Oh. I get it." Folken commented.
"Man that's tough. But don't fret, Yukari. It could be worse you know." Allen said.
"That's what we've been trying to tell her." Van commented.
"You just don't get it guys." Yukari said as she left.
Hitomi was about to follow her but Van held her arm. Hitomi turned to him. He faced her and said, "Let her be, Hitomi. She needs time alone. It seems this is really disturbing her. Give her time."
"Van's right. Just let her cool down a bit." Folken added.
Hitomi gave a nod. "I hope she feels better. But I just can't help but wonder why she never really told me what's wrong. Things couldn't be that bad, could it?"
No one answered. "It makes me feel guilty that I didn't see this coming. I mean, you don't need to have, you know, to guess if there's something wrong with your best friend." Hitomi commented.
"Don't blame yourself Hitomi. This sort of thing happens. Just give her time. I'm sure she'll come to you. You are her best friend and all. Just be prepared for that." Allen said.
"Yup. He's right you know. She'll come around sooner or later. Now shall we? I don't think our bus driver's in a good mood today either." Folken replied. He then led the way outside. The others just followed him.
Out of the corner of her eye, Hitomi spotted Kyuchi fixing his shoes, readying to leave. She then stopped walking with the group and walked over to Kyuchi. She was at the back of the group so no one really noticed that she was gone.
Kyuchi then dropped some of his books. As he bent over to pick them, Hitomi bent over and picked some. He quickly looked up to see who it was.
"Hey Hitomi. What's up?" Kyuchi then said. Hitomi then handed back his books. "Thanks." He said.
"Kyuchi, if I asked you something, would you answer me truthfully?" Hitomi said. "Sure." He replied.
"Kyuchi, what's up with you and Yukari? I mean, do you hate her or something?" She said. Kyuchi couldn't answer. He then turned and said, "Nothing's up you know." He then started to leave.
Hitomi then dashed in front of him. "You said you would answer me truthfully. What was that all about?"
Kyuchi just looked into her eyes, unable to answer. "I just don't know what happened between the two of you for you guys to act this way. Yukari's really troubled and she's not talking. I just can't stand seeing her like that. What did you do to make her so hostile with you?" Hitomi said.
"I don't know." Kyuchi replied. "Kyuchi." "What? If you don't believe me that's fine but I really don't know. I'm just playing along."
"Playing along? Do you think this is just some game?"
"That's not what I mean."
"Then what do you mean?"
Kyuchi hesitated in answering. Hitomi just stood there waiting for him to answer. "I. . .I have a crush on her ok? There I said it. Are you satisfied?" He finally said.
Hitomi was taken aback a little. "Kyuchi. . ." "I know that you think I'm a loser too. I know that I don't stand a chance with her, not with Folken Fanel around." He said.
"What makes you say that?" Hitomi replied.
"I am not blind Hitomi. I've seen how she looks at Folken. It doesn't take a genius to say that she's in love with him." He said.
"You don't know that Kyuchi. You just assumed. Is that the reason why you've been treating her the way you did?" Hitomi replied.
He just nodded. "I figured that that is the only way that she'll notice me. I know that I'm annoying her but that's the only way I see it that she'll notice me."
"You know what? I think you're being such a fool. Love knows no master. I know that personally. If you think that is the only way that she'll notice you, you're wrong. She has changed a lot and you've been blind as not to see. Just wait and see what time holds. You'll be surprised." Hitomi said.
"Do you think I have a chance with her?" Kyuchi asked.
"It is not for me to say Kyuchi. I am not Yukari. Why don't you try and find out for yourself? I know it's hard but you have to try. It is better to let her know or show her how you really feel and be rejected rather than not tell her and wonder for the rest of your life wondering. I'm not saying that she's going to reject you but no one really knows what's going to happen." Hitomi replied.
"I guess you're right." He replied. "Don't hurt her anymore Kyuchi or I'm afraid you'll have to face me." Hitomi said.
Kyuchi grinned. "Don't worry Hitomi. I'll keep that in mind. It's cool that she has a best friend so caring like you. You won't tell her about this will you?" He said.
"Not if you won't." She replied. "You've got yourself a deal." He said. "Well, I'll be seeing you guys around." He added and left.
Hitomi watched him leave and a smile swept her face. 'I know you'll do fine Kyuchi. I can see that you really feel something for her.' She said.
"Where's Hitomi?" Folken commented when they finally realized that she wasn't with them. Van turned around and noticed that she really wasn't with them.
"I don't know. She was just here a minute ago." Van replied. "Don't worry here she comes." Allen said as he glanced at their back and saw Hitomi walking over to them.
They turned to her as she approached them. "Where did you suddenly disappear to?" Folken asked. Hitomi just smiled and replied, "Let's just say I was able to discover what's wrong with Yukari and Kyuchi's picture."
"I'm assuming that you're not planning to tell any of us what it is." Folken replied. "I myself shouldn't have known. It's between the two of them. Let's just have faith that everything is going to be fine between the two." Hitomi replied.
"If you say so." Folken said. "Just tell us if something goes wrong ok. It's our job to look out for one another." He added.
"I know you have good intentions Folken but we shouldn't interfere with this one no matter what happens. We should only be the pillars of support, the ones who listen. If anything goes wrong, they should be the ones to fix it themselves." Hitomi replied.
"Hitomi's right. We can't force our help on other people. But let's not think of that because there's nothing that has happened yet." Allen said.
"So Hitomi. . .what are you planning to do now?" Folken asked. "To tell you the truth, nothing really. I think that's the best way to go. Besides, I might do more harm if you know. . .I might say something that I might regret. All I'm worried about now is the project. I think it's going to be something big because I don't think our teacher's going to do something like this if it was something ordinary." She replied.
"Why? What did he say?" Allen asked.
"Nothing much. He just told us that we'll be having a major project, an essay and a field trip for the rest of the year." Van replied.
"That's deep. You're right. Your teacher's planning something." Allen said.
"Who're you paired with anyway? You don't seem disappointed, troubled or something about it." Folken said.
Hitomi and Van looked at each other. "We're paired with one another." They replied.
Folken grinned and said, "Good luck, Hitomi. You're going to need it." Van decided to ignore him. "Don't worry Folken. I'm not. Oh yeah! I forgot! I have to run back inside. I have to get something from coach. See you at the bus!" Hitomi replied.
"Just leave your bag here. We'll be the one to bring it to the bus." Van suggested. "Thanks. I owe you guys." Hitomi said as she quickly dashed back inside.
"Starting to make your move little brother?" Folken replied. "What do you mean?" Van said as he gathered Hitomi's things and they started to walk towards their bus.
"'Just leave your bag here. We'll be the one to bring it to the bus.' Come on Van. I can smell it a mile away." Folken commented. "Whatever Folken. I'm just doing her a favor." Van replied.
After setting down their things, Folken and Allen said, "Van, let's talk." Van just followed them out of the bus. "What's on your minds?" Van asked.
"You love Hitomi don't you?" Folken got straight to the point. Van didn't answer. "Come on brother. We would want to help you as much as the next person but we can't do anything unless we have confirmed it." Folken commented.
"Van, we can see that Hitomi was able to change you a lot and well, it's not that we are invading your love life but you know. . ." Allen said. Van was becoming a little suspicious. Folken could see that so he quickly explained, "Allen knows who we really are. I told him."
"You told him?" Van said, surprised of what Folken did. "I had to. When we were doing a project at my computer, we were connected to the internet. A message from home came. It was filled with formalities and it was him who was using the computer. He accidentally read it so I had to explain everything. Don't worry. . .if he was planning to destroy our cover, he would have done it by now." Folken said.
Van remained silent. "I like Hitomi as much as the next person and of course I want her to be happy. You are my brother and I naturally want the best for you. I know that we can't dictate love because it knows no master but are you really sure you want to go through with this? I would hate to see you both hurt by this." Folken commented.
"I know that Folken. I love her and I don't think there's going to be anything that's going to change that. The reason why I don't plan to tell her is because of our secret. That's why I wasn't really that grateful for what you guys been doing but I know that you thought that it was for the best. I don't know how long I could keep this up because we all know that sooner or later she'll find out. She would have to." Van replied.
"Just be careful Van. Now we know the truth, we'll help you. So what do you plan to do?" Allen said. "Nothing. Just to be her friend is enough. That's all I could be for now not just because I don't want to force her into something we have no control of but because of our secret." Van replied.
"Very well. Now that's settled, we better get on the bus before Hitomi comes or she might suspect that something is up." Folken suggested as he boarded their school bus while the two followed suit.
"You and Hitomi would be spending a lot of time together starting next week." Allen said silently so that only Van and Folken would hear as they sat down. Folken just grinned. "Yeah. We're partners so obviously that's inevitable." Van replied. "Yeah that's really inevitable." Folken said. "It's too bad with the secret thing. You two would have made a great couple." Allen commented. "Yeah but it's something that couldn't be avoided. Come to think about it, I don't think that the secret should be the hindrance for two people who love each other to be together." Folken answered. Van just remained silent as Hitomi entered the bus.
"Hey guys. Anything happen while I was gone?" She said as she sat at the seat Van reserved for her. "Happen? Why would you say that?" Folken said. "Well, nothing really. I was hoping that you guys saw Yukari at least." She answered. "By the way, thanks again Van." She added. "No problem. Yukari hasn't left the campus yet?" Van replied. "No. She just did. That's what they told me." Hitomi said as she glanced back at a group of girls.
"They asked me what's been bothering Yukari because they noticed that she wasn't herself." Hitomi explained. "What did you say?" Allen asked. "I just said that I didn't know myself. They then told me that she just left, deep in thought. Do you guys think I should call or should I wait for her to call me?" Hitomi said. "I think you should wait until she calls you. That way you know that she's ready to talk." Van answered. Hitomi just nodded.
"Don't worry too much about Yukari. She'll come around. She always does." Folken commented. Hitomi smiled. She then replied, "Yeah. . .she does. I just hope she stops sulking soon. There's something in store for her and I can vow that it's something special."
The next week. . .
Just before they were to leave school on their field trip to the mountains, Kyuchi pulled Hitomi to the side and said, "Hitomi I really have a bad feeling about this. Are you sure this is going to work?"
Van wondered why all of a sudden Hitomi went missing so he looked for her. He found her with Kyuchi. He approached them and asked, "Anything wrong guys?" Hitomi couldn't help but giggle. "Kyuchi here is having second thoughts about this fieldtrip." She said.
"Second thoughts? Sorry but I can't follow." Van said. "He likes Yuki a lot and well. . .he's just afraid that he's going to do something that's going to make her hostile against him. Getting me so far?" Hitomi said. "Yuki?" Van asked in confusion. Hitomi bent over to him and whispered, "Yukari. I just didn't want other people to know just in case we are overheard."
"Oh. Is that what you're worried about? Well, Kyuchi just be yourself and I'm sure you and Yuki will be ok. Just be nice to her that's all." Van said. Hitomi just nodded in agreement. "I guess there's no turning back now. Wish me luck you guys." Kyuchi said. "Good luck!" They said as they boarded the bus.
"What are you two planning?" Van suddenly said when they sat down at the bus. "What makes you say that we're planning something?" Hitomi replied, quite taken aback. "Well, nothing really. I just assumed that's all." Van answered. "I convinced Kyuchi to start making his move. But before he does that, he must have Yuki's trust and what better time to start building that than now?" Hitomi replied. "I guess you're right. But are you sure? I mean, considering how Yuki's feelings-" "Don't worry about it. He's got more chances than he believes." "What do you mean?" "Chemistry, Van, chemistry. Opposites attract and well, right now they believe that the other is their complete opposite but pretty soon they'll find out that they're wrong." Hitomi answered.
"Chemistry huh? Which reminds me, how would like to approach our topic?" Van said. "Minerals, how their molecular composition and volume affects the environment. . .talk about hard. . .I don't know. No wonder why a great bulk of our grade comes from this. . .I guess let's identify the most prevalent mineral in the mountains and let's take it from there." Hitomi replied. "Our topic couldn't get any harder than this." Van commented. "Yeah but you know what. . .at least this is all we got. At least we didn't get the topic about how to determine the history of the world with the use of only the clues found in the mountains. And what causes the differences between the DNA of each plant." Hitomi commented. "Yeah. . .I still can't believe that they're asking us to do a project about this I mean, come on, we're in the sixth grade for crying out loud. Isn't this suppose to be a topic in high school or college?" Van said. "I know what you mean. But at least when the time comes, it won't be that hard because we can learn from our mistakes now." Hitomi replied.
The trip proved long. They started out early and some of the students had already fallen asleep. Hitomi, like may others, couldn't help but doze off as well. Van noticed that her head had almost hit the glass so he leaned her head over his shoulder. Hitomi woke by this gesture. She looked at him.
Van just smiled at her and said, "Lean against me. You might hit your head on the glass." Hitomi just smiled back. Van then took off his jacket and placed it over Hitomi. "Oh Van I can't take this. You'll freeze." She said. "Don't worry about me. I'm used to it. It's colder from where I come from. I think we're still a few hours away. Why don't you rest?" He said. "Thanks Van. Thanks a lot." "Don't worry about it." Hitomi just leaned against him and moved the jacket a little to Van. Together they shared the warmth of the jacket. Van just let her sleep against his shoulder.
Van never really wanted it to end. But he knew that for as long as he kept the secret, they could never be together. Even if they could, keeping it from her would hurt her and that is the one thing that he could never bear happen to her. He had seen her hurt before. He knew personally that Hitomi was a strong person but she deserved the best in life and that is what he wanted to give her the most.
"You two look good together, did you know that?" Came Yukari's voice. Van glanced up and saw Yukari looking down at them. Van kept silent. "When are you planning to make your move?" Yukari asked. "Do you think I should?" Van replied. "Yeah I really think you should but it's up to you. I can't force you two in anything. I'm just saying that you two look good together." Yukari replied. "I don't want to rush things besides, I don't think we're both ready." Van answered. "Oh well. I guess time will tell." Yukari commented as she sat back down again. 'Yeah. . .time will tell.' Van said to himself.
After about an hour, they had arrived at their destination. Hitomi returned Van's jacket and they gathered their backpacks. First they were oriented at a cozy lodge. After, they were introduced to three different tour guides whom would be with them throughout the trip. Then they were off. Tour guides divided the group into three. Each went their separate ways even though they were all going to see the same thing. It was more organized that way. A teacher went with each group.
It was the start of the two-day fieldtrip. It was the first in their school. No one really knew what to expect. It was something new to everybody.
That evening, the group convened at the lodge for supper. After, they were showed to their rooms. But nobody really felt like turning in early that night so they went to the common room.
The fire was blazing strongly and steadily at the fireplace and there weren't that many people when Hitomi and Yukari came. They decided to seat at the corner where it was cozy and warm. "Today was a long day." Yukari commented once they were settled down. "Why? What happened?" Hitomi asked. "Only the worst day of my life." Yukari replied. "Now you're exaggerating things." Hitomi answered. "Oh yeah. . .at least you're partnered with Van. Me, I'm partnered with the worst guy in class." "Kyuchi is a great guy. You just have to give him a chance." "Great guy? Trust me Hitomi. . .you don't know what you're talking about."
"What did he do to make you hate him so much?" "He just so annoying." "That's all? Come on Yukari. . .it's me you're talking to." "I don't know Hitomi. I just can't stand him. He's so. . .so. . ." "You know what I think? I think that you're being judgmental. Just give him a chance for once and who knows, maybe you'll get along." "I guess. . ."
"You know what. . .now that I think about it. . .he's kinda different today." Yukari commented. "Different?" "He's just nicer to me that's all." "Is that a bad thing?" Hitomi asked. "No. It's not a bad thing it's just. . .well, I'm really not used to him being like that." "Aren't you glad that he's being nicer to you?" "Yeah I am but now I'm all confused."
"Do you want to continue with this conversation?" Hitomi asked. "Yeah. You're my best friend and I know that you'll understand. I just need to sort this out and I know that you could help me with it." Yukari answered. "Ok. Spill." "Well. . .for these past few months I've been thinking whether or not I really feel for Folken and after sometime. . .I've realized that I only think of him as a friend and nothing more. And. . .after everything that's been happening between me and Kyuchi. . .I feel that. . .I'm falling for him." She explained.
"Are you sure about this? I mean, love is really an overused word." Hitomi said. "That's what I'm trying to find out." Yukari replied. Hitomi just smiled and said, "Don't worry Yukari. He's a great guy and I can assure you with that. I'm not an expert in love but I know that you're the best judge over your emotions so if that's what it's telling you, there's no need for confusion. Just remember that I'm always here to back you up. You know that we'll always be here to support you in anything."
Yukari smiled. "I guess it's better this way. Ok then. . .I'll give this a try." She said. "Good for you Yukari. But just take it slow." "Yeah. I'm not in a hurry just like you." Yukari replied.
Hitomi just smiled. After awhile of silence between the two, Yukari said, "I think I'll get some hot chocolate. You want some?" "No thanks. Hey look! It's Kyuchi. I think you two should talk to each other." Hitomi replied. "I don't know." "Come on Yukari. He feels as awkward as you. Why don't you call it a truce?" Yukari smiled. "Sure. Thanks Hitomi." "Hey what are best friend's for?" Hitomi said as she stood as well. Yukari embraced her. "I'll just be at the balcony if you need anything." Hitomi said. Yukari just nodded.
Hitomi smiled and watched Yukari walk over to Kyuchi before heading to the balcony herself. It had been a long day and it was a day filled with experiences. Hitomi started to feel cold. She shivered a little at the cold wind outside. Suddenly she felt a jacket was placed on her shoulders. She quickly turned and saw Van. "Yukari told me that you would be here so I decided to keep you company." He said.
"Don't you need your jacket?" Hitomi said. It was the second time in one day that Van had offered her his jacket to protect her from the cold. "No don't worry about me. I'm used to this kind of cold. So, penny for your thoughts?" Van said.
Hitomi just smiled. "Nothing really. I'm just glad that everything is starting to light up with Yukari." Van grinned and took a quick glance back inside. "Yeah it sure looks like it." Van replied. He then looked at her.
"How about you? What are you doing out here all alone?" He asked. "Well, I just came out here to savor nature. It's been awhile since I last saw a scenery like this." Hitomi answered.
"Come to think of it, I haven't seen something like this in a long time. It sort of reminds me a lot about home. . .how it looked like. . .how it smelled. . .and how dad and mom would walk at the garden just to spend time together." Van commented. Hitomi looked at him and he looked back. "That's so sweet." Hitomi said. Van just gave her a small smile. "You miss your home don't you?" She said. "A little sometimes but you know, this was my decision to make and I don't regret making that. Because of that decision, my entire life and how I view things have been forever changed." Van answered.
"You're brave Van Fanel. I know you and Folken had to sacrifice a lot because of your decision to come here. But something tells me that the day will come when all those sacrifices will be worthwhile. It might even prove to be more precious than what you left behind." Hitomi said. "It already has." Van answered. Hitomi just smiled.
"It's getting colder. I think we should be heading back inside." Van suggested. "Good idea. It looks like it's going to rain." Hitomi said. Van offered his hand as the wind grew stronger. Hitomi gladly took it. She allowed herself to be led inside.
They joined Kyuchi and Yukari. Just then rain fell down hard.
"It's really pouring out there huh?" Yukari commented. "Yeah. We got in just in time." Hitomi answered as she handed back the jacket to Van. "Are you sure you don't want it anymore?" Van asked.
"Thanks Van. I'm fine now. You should wear it 'coz you might be the one who could catch a cold." Hitomi replied. Van just gave her a nod when he took the jacket from her. "It looks like you two are really getting along. It's a wonder why you two still don't have a romantic relationship." Kyuchi commented.
Both couldn't help but blush a little. "You should talk." Hitomi answered back. Kyuchi himself couldn't help but blush. He just turned away in an attempt to not be noticed. But Hitomi couldn't help but laugh at the sight.
Just then the lights went out. Only the light from the fireplace gave the room light. "I guess we should stay here until the lights are back on." Yukari said. "Yeah. I wonder what happened." Hitomi replied.
They started to walk closer to the fireplace. But Hitomi couldn't exactly see clearly. She stumbled on a stool. Van was then standing next to her. He caught her just a she was about to fall. "Are you ok?" He asked. "Yeah. Thanks." Hitomi said. "Better be careful. Here take my hand in case you fall again." Van replied as he extended a hand. Hitomi silently took it and followed them towards the fireplace.
The flame was no longer blazing strongly. The firewood was nearly burned to ashes. They all knew that they had to stay where they were because they might fall into a lot more trouble if they wondered off in the dark. No one knew where they could get more firewood and they weren't equipped with flashlights to look for some so they had no choice but to wait until someone comes.
They just sat together at the sofa that was situated by the fire. It kept them warm but no one was really in a mood to talk. Minutes passed and soon a full hour had elapsed. "I guess we're the only ones up." Hitomi said, finally breaking the silence. "Yeah. The others would have come by now if they were awake." Van replied. Yukari then stood and said, "I can't stand this anymore. We have another long day tomorrow. I think we should get back in our rooms and call it a night."
Hitomi stood too. "You're right. The firewood is not going to last long anyway. We should get going now while there's still a little light left." She said. The others followed suit. Together they made their way to their rooms. The two guys accompanied the girls. They then said their goodnights.
The next day wasn't as bright as they had hoped. It was still raining hard outside. It was cold and there were still no electricity in the lodge. Their teachers asked them to convene at the common room for briefing.
"Well, you all know that there's still no electricity, probably because of the storm. Apparently, we chose a bad time to come. We would have to spend a few days here and would have to conduct our lessons inside. Hopefully, it would light up tomorrow so that you would be able to see the things that we're supposed to. There's nothing to worry about class. Now you know why we asked you all to bring extra clothes and to prepare for the worst." Their teacher said. "Now, if you all would be kind enough to break into the three groups we had yesterday, we could get started with the lessons." He added.
The class did as they were asked. After half the day of lecture, they were finally given the time to take a break. They were only given an hour and a half to do what they wanted before they were to return to work on their pair projects.
The storm outside was beginning to light up. And to everyone's delight, the electricity was back on.
"I hope this continues. I don't think I'd want to stay here for another day." Yukari commented. Only she and Hitomi were together. "Why is that Yukari? Did something bad happen between you and Kyuchi again?" Hitomi asked. "Not really but I just hate the idea that we're stuck here. Do you know what I mean?"
"Yeah. I do. Actually, I don't mind at all." Hitomi answered. Yukari grinned and replied, "Yeah well that's because you're with Van." Hitomi blushed a little. "That's not it." She quickly said. "Yeah? If that's the case, why are you blushing so much?" Yukari teased. "I am not!" Hitomi replied. Yukari just teased her.
From the corner of the room, "Well at least those two are enjoying themselves." Kyuchi commented as he watched Hitomi and Yukari. Van took a quick glance at their direction and grinned. "Yeah." He said.
"So Van. . ." Kyuchi started. Van just glanced back at him. "When are you and Hitomi planning to get serious?" He asked. Van didn't answer right away. "We're not. Well, we're not planning anything. She's my friend and I'm hers. I'm not about to force her into something we're both not ready for." Van answered.
"Not ready for? Dude, I think that's an understatement. I mean, everybody knows how sweet you two are to each other. If I didn't know better I'd say that you two are going steady. People are just waiting for your confirmation that you are actually going steady." Kyuchi replied. "Kyuchi, like I said, I'm not about to force her into something that we're both not ready for." Van simply replied.
"If you say so man. It's your call. It's obvious that you love her a lot but if that's what you want then so be it." Kyuchi commented. "So how are things going with Yukari? You guys having problems?" Van asked, changing the subject. "Not really. It's just awkward for both of us right now. . .the transition is just so sudden. I should have taken it slow." Kyuchi replied. "Hey don't worry about it. Nothing's perfect and it's better this way because at least you're trying. It's better to try than not try at all." Van replied. "Yeah you're right. I know Yukari's birthday is coming up soon. What do you think I should give her?" Kyuchi said.
Van glanced back a little and saw that both Hitomi and Yukari were heading their way. "Why don't you ask her yourself Kyuchi?" Van replied. "What? Ask Yukari myself?" Kyuchi replied, somewhat troubled.
"Ask me what?" Yukari replied when they joined them. "Nothing! Nothing. Van and I were just talking about. . .about. . ." Kyuchi started. "About?" "About what you would like for you birthday." Van said before Kyuchi could say something which he might regret. Kyuchi couldn't answer. Hitomi tried to hide her delight. Yukari didn't say anything.
"Is that it Kyuchi?" Yukari finally said. "Yeah." Kyuchi answered, quite embarrassed. Yukari just smiled and replied, "You know what, it doesn't matter. Besides, I'm more interested in finding out why you're asking." Van stood and walked closer to Hitomi. "That's our cue." He said as he and Hitomi walked away to give them a little more privacy. Kyuchi then stood and offered Yukari a seat. They started talking.
"Van what do you think?" Hitomi asked. "What do I think what?" He answered. Hitomi looked at him and smiled. "What do you think about them Van? Do you think they'll finally admit their real feelings to one another?" She said.
Van just grinned a little. "Should I take that as a sign that they'll finally hit it?" Hitomi commented. Van looked at her and smiled. "I guess so. I talked with Kyuchi a while ago and it sure sounds that he's serious with Yukari." He said. "Ah so you've noticed it too huh? Well I hope that everything turns out fine between the two of them. I would hate to see both of them get hurt." She answered.
(To be continued. . .)
Well, I know that it took me a long while again and it would be useless if I would explain to you why. Anyway, what do you think about it? I think I over did the sugar-coating. But I'm more interested in finding out what you think. Please do review. I would really like and appreciate it if I could hear from you soon.
Oh and before I forget, I want to thank all those who sent in their reviews in the last chapters. I really appreciated what you've written. Thanks a lot! It was really inspirational! I mean it. I hope to hear from you soon.
Michiko