Unexpected Marriage

by Shroheim

Hikigaya Hachiman and Miura Yumiko now in their third year of high-school are caught in an arranged marriage orchestrated by their parents. How will they deal with this predicament, each other and those around them?

1. Chapter 1

Both of us were staring into each other, eyes wide. My green emerald focused on his dark coal orbs. By the looks of it, the teen in front of me appeared to be in a similar state of mind as me. I think it was the first time in a very long time I have seen such a surprised expression on his face. It was rather refreshing to see, it reminded me of my second year of high school when my best friend had liked this person who was currently sitting across the table from me flanked by both his parents, meanwhile my own father had positioned himself to my right.

The adults as they were programmed to do so exchanged pleasantries with each other all the while skillfully complimenting their child to the other party trying their best to impress.

I for one didn't hear a single word being said since the news broke to me and my counterpart. My brain was in such utter shock that it was a miracle that I was even sitting in one place with a straight face. I had no choice but to look straight ahead, my gaze locked onto the raven haired teen.

"Are you two out of your damn minds?" Surprisingly the one to break the silence between us was him, marking the end of our staring contest. He had stood to his full height, which was impressive to say the least. Last year in our second year, I knew he was a little taller than me, just a little but since I had cut off my ties with this particular man because of the events of the school year, I had not paid any attention to him since then, until today.

I stared into his eyes, his eyes were the reason he was famous for after all, his dead fish eyes, which he clearly inherited from his father. His eyes were creepy and disgusting before, but now they had morphed into something darker and soulless, it was almost like staring into the abyss, just the thought of getting lost in them sent shivers down my spine. I didn't get rattled easily, I never did.

"Calm down, Hachi. You are being rude to Yato Miura-san and to Yumiko-chan." The boy's mother scolded her son, her ahoge on top of her shoulder length black hair clearly betraying her calm smoothing voice and facial expressions as it was dancing wildly out of control. In contrast, the son's ahoge was straight and unmoving, as if signaling the owner of approaching threats nearby. Ms. Hikigaya's round face reminded me their daughter who clearly inherited most of her traits from her mother.

"Hachiman sit down, you are disrespecting our guest." The teen's father ordered in a deep threatening voice, even when positioned in a seiza, his stature was large and imposing, it wouldn't take a genius to notice he was sporting a well-toned body under his black suit, his short hair combed back.

The boy in question, glared at his father. Both men giving each other the best horrific glare they could muster. It looked like both would go for each other's throats any given moment. "Boys." One word from Mrs. Hikigaya caused the husband to retreat almost immediately. As for the son, he was still standing, his body language increasingly hostile. "Hachi, sit down." Although her voice was sweet, laced with honey, it had contained a darker message.

The raven haired teen clicked his tongue and sat back down not before straightening his black suit and tie, the same as his father.

My father let out a small chuckle defusing the tension. "I am sure the boy is overwhelmed by the sudden news. I am surprised my little Yumi didn't make a ruckus sooner, she can be a handful sometimes. I am proud that she is well behaved right now." He patted my golden hair, a trait I got from him.

This little Yumi of yours my dear father is more than overwhelmed by the sudden news. It may as well be the biggest understatement of the century. If my body wasn't frozen stiff I would be screaming on top of my lungs, making a commotion so loud that the entire hotel establishment would be turned upside down.

I now realized why my father had insisted on me wearing this beautiful pink silk yukata. The weight of these clothing had increased ten-folds after hearing the announcement by both parents.

"I am against this." My voice finally broke out of my throat after being held captive for so long. I was surprised it came out calm and collected given the situation at hand.

All eyes immediately darted towards me, making me the center of attention. My heart steadily started drumming faster. I tried my best to steel my nerves and confront their gaze head on.

"Mr. and Mrs. Hikigaya, I am sorry but I cannot marry your son." My father's eyes widen, not because I had rejected the host's son but that I was civil in doing so. Even I was surprised with my tone of voice which I did not expect I had it within me. Maybe because I was placed in this kind of setting with no idea what to do or how to behave, this was a first for me.

When I looked over to Hikigaya Hachiman who I used to refer to as Hikio, I was surprisingly taken aback, for the first time since he came here, he wore a knowing smug smile on his face. He slowly got up from his seiza position once again towering over the others in the room. He may not have been as bulky as his father but my guess was that he was not to be underestimated. The Hikio I knew from last year in my second year of high school, was more down to earth. Sure he would say rude things to others, but it was to save them. He was witty and clever using his vast intellect to solve everyone's problems without fail even if it meant getting himself hurt in the process.

That was the Hikio she knew, but right now, right in front of her. This Hikigaya Hachiman was a completely different person. He was rude and aggressive. He had the nerves to insult both of his parents. I admit that I was not a nice person myself but being rude to one's parent was unforgiveable.

Before I could give this man a piece of my mind, he bowed first, not to me but to my father. "I am sorry for wasting your precious evening that could have been spent elsewhere due to my parent's selfishness. I had no idea this is what they had planned for and if I knew I would have stopped them from the beginning. I apologize for the trouble I have caused you and your daughter. After all, your daughter won't accept any man other than Hayama Hayato." He straighten his posture and now his eyes were locked on me, "isn't that right, Miura Yumiko." There was venom in his face, but that was not all. That smug smile on his face was still there. As if he knew something I did not.

He was really getting on my nerves. I was barely holding off the desire to walk over to him and start smacking him across the face, just like last time…my mind recalled the scene, Yui, my best friend was balling her eyes out, because of him. He had hurt Yui, and Yukinoshita. I wasn't fond of Yukinoshita Yukino, but she did not deserve that kind of treatment. None of them did.

"Then I will be talking my leave, sorry about how all of this turned out. I am sure you can find a much better partner for your daughter." Hikio, no, Hikigaya Hachiman spoke with a smile on his face as he turned around to leave the room.

I clenched my teeth, my annoyance was shooting through the roof because of this jerk. Without warning I stood up almost falling over because the yukata restricted my movements, I couldn't maintain balance and started to fall over. My eyes closed on instinct and my body awaited the crash on top of the wooden table containing all sort of food and glassware. I waited and waited but no sound of broken glass resonated across the room, no pain spread over my body. I slowly attempted to open my eyes thinking this whole affair was just one bad dream. When I open my eyes I will be wake in my room, my body on my soft and fluffy bed. Yes it was all a dream.

But when I opened my eyes, my lively green eyes met cold charcoal ones. I almost forgot to breathe as he studied my face, both of his hands around my back to support me from falling over again. "Ah Hik…"

My voice had betrayed me again, proper words refused to be formed as I looked up at Hikio, a small smile spread across his face, not a smug one nor was it a sinister one for that matter. But a truly genuine one, the one he used to have, before he destroyed everything. "You are riskless as ever Miura." He slowly released me from his arms, his strong presence leaving a powerful impact.

When he was satisfied that I won't fall over again he backed off completely, walking back to where his parents stood. My father suddenly appeared by my side, worry dominating his face. "Are you alright Yumi?" He examined my body for any sign of injury.

"I am fine dad." I told him to ease his conscious but being the caring and dotting father that he was, it took him some time to recover.

And when he did, he immediately focused his attention at the boy who had caused the scene with his behavior in the first place. Panic spread over my body, my father has always been overprotective of me as long as I remembered. It especially got worse ever since mother passed away when I was little.

This is going to become a bloodbath if I don't do anything to stop it. But before I could any move, my father acted first, and what he did left me in a state of shock. He had bowed his head to the young Hikigaya who stood before my father with an equally surprised face as me.

"Thank you for saving my daughter from harm." My father spoke, his head still bowed.

"Please raise your head Miura-san. My son only did what was right, anyone would have done the same." Mrs. Hikigaya spoke as she walked over forcing my father to correct his posture. "You had asked my son's hand for your beloved daughter, for that I am terribly grateful for." Mrs. Hikigaya stepped back and this time it was her turn to bow. "It was rather unfortunate that the evening had turned out as it did. I cannot apologize enough for my son's behavior."

As Mrs. Hikigaya raised her head to face my father, I was watching her with my mouth wide up. What did Hikio's mother just say to my father? He was the one who had asked her son's hand, for me. My father?

But I thought the Hikigaya's were the one who were proposing for the sake of their son, not the other way around. I turned around to face my father who was still standing before the Hikigaya household.

I wanted to say something, but again words couldn't be formed. I was rendered speechless over the new piece of information. Why would dad do that? He knew who I loved? Yet he did this sort of thing, why?

The young Hikigaya stepped forward, his mother stepped aside making way for her son. Hikio now stood directly in front of my father a head taller than the blonde man, both men gazed at each other for a short while before Hikio finally spoke. "I already knew that you and my mother had a good relationship in the past." Did they? I looked between my father and Mrs. Hikigaya trying to figure out the depth of their relationship. Then again, I was unaware of my father's affairs other than the fact that he was a famous doctor. When he was not busy taking care of me, he was busy working, and that was pretty much it. He was not particularly close to anyone I knew.

"I already suspected my mother was scheming something for some time now but this." Hikio rubbed his face with his right hand. "I have no idea how long you two were planning on this but right after my birthday when I turned eighteen years old, the legal age to get married in japan. It's just ridiculous."

I looked at Hikigaya and then my father. What was going on, was I the only one who was left out of the loop. I looked over to where Hikio's parents stood, both of them had arms cross over their chest listening to what their son was saying. The father was uninterested in the whole affair as he watched over his son with sharp eyes, the mother who was partly responsible for this mess stood there helplessly praying for a good outcome of the current situation.

I was so confused and lost right now. Hikio glanced over to my side, watching me. Had he noticed mental state, his eyes narrowed. Then a sigh escaped his mouth.

"All of this is very tiring." Hikio spoke, "so before it becomes even more bothersome, tell me why I should marry your daughter whose heart already belongs to another." The young Hikigaya demanded.

My father was silent at first but when he started to speak his voice had surprised me, I wasn't aware that my father of all people had possess such a cold dry voice. "Hikigaya Hachiman, you are exactly like your mother had described you to be, maybe even more. You are indeed clever and insightful. Strong and healthy. More than befitting to wed my daughter. Your cruel and rough manner is all but an act." This caused Hikio's eyes to bury deep into her father. But my father didn't back down and stood firm on his feet. "But this is not the real reason why I had proposed this arrangement."

"Then what is!" Hikio voice was low and deadly.

I instantly looked over to my father waiting for his response. He had a smile on his face as he answered. "Why ask such a question to which you already know the answer to young Hikigaya. I for one, only have one wish, and that is to protect my daughter at all cost."

Hikigaya calmly shook his dad, "I am sorry, but I am not interesting in whatever you are scheming. If you want to protect your daughter, you can do it without me." Hikio declared, his voice loud and clear. He turned around to leave only to be stopped by his mother.

Her face was sad and pleading, tears were threating to rain down any moment. "Please Hachi, listen to Miura-san. This is for you too. Please." A tear finally slide down her smooth cheeks, Hikio stood there helpless as he had watched his mother cry, he was clenching his fist tightly, his body was trembling, his rage unimaginable. Hikio pained expression had shown it all, this wasn't the first time he was responsible for making his mother cry like that.

"Hachiman." My father stepped closer towards Hikio, I watched as he slowly knelt down on the ground until his forehead was touching the wooden floor of the hotel room. "Please marry my daughter."

"Dad?" This was the only word I could manage. I was so utterly confused and lost that nothing made sense anymore. What was going on? Why is this happening? Why was my father to desperate on getting me married off, when I haven't even graduated high school yet? Can someone please explain to me what the hell was doing on?

A heavy sigh escaped Hikio's mouth, he turned his head away from both his mother and my father avoiding eye contact with them.

He looked at me for a short while before breaking eye contact, sighing deeply.

"Fine have it your way. I will do it." His words rang out throughout the room. He looked over to my father who was still in a dogeza position. The raven haired boy clicked his tongue in annoyance and proceeded to kneel down himself until his head also touched the polished wooden floor. "I may not be the best son in law you would have hoped for but I will try my best to meet your expectations as well as your daughter's."

Both men then slowly started to raise their heads respectfully gazing at each other as they sat in a seiza position.

"Thank you for accepting my daughter in spite of her shortcomings." I watched over my father who was bowing his head again and in response Hikio mirrored his movements.

The chaos from earlier had dissipated as if nothing had happened in the first place. Both of Hikio's parents sat behind him. Their expressions complete opposite from one another, the mother was smiling like there was no tomorrow with tears gathering around her eyes while the father's held his blank stare since the beginning.

Meanwhile, as for me, I was still left standing in the same place unmoving as if I had lost the ability to maneuver around freely.

"Yumiko, please sit down and greet your soon to be husband properly." My father spoke out breaking me from my trance.

I clenched my teeth so tightly that I was afraid my teeth would break if I continued to press them against each other any longer. I opened my mouth to speak but closed it shut again. My brain riddled with confusion while my body refusing to obey orders.

"Yumiko, please sit down." It was my father voice again, hearing his voice again brought me back to the gravity of the situation. It was so heavy, it felt like my body would be crashed by it any moment. It was painful, my heart was tearing apart from the inside. Tears had amassed themselves around my eyes just waiting for their superiors to give the order to charge head long.

Everyone present in the room was looking at me, waiting for me. Their gaze penetrating my soul, I felt violated.

"Why?" The first of many water droplet raced down my soft pinkish cheeks. "Why do I have to marry dad?" My heart was breaking into a million pieces and I didn't know how to fix it.

My father looked at me, his pained expression was the same as Mrs. Hikigaya when she was trying to convince her son to marry me. The way he looked at me, it tore me apart.

My father who had given me unconditional love and support, for the first time in my life he was the one asking me to give something in return for once but I couldn't bring myself to obey him.

"Why do I have to marry Hachiman of all people? What about my feelings? What about my feelings for Hayato? I love him, Hikigaya knows that. Father knows that. The entire damn school knows that." My voice raising with every single word, my cheeks were flooded by endlessly amount of tears. "And yet, everyone acting like I don't even exist and keeps doing whatever they want."

I grabbed my head, the pain had built up to the point that it had become unbearable. My vision had become blurry, no longer could I see the people in the room. Everything had become a hazy fog. My knees buckled under me. My body was free-falling towards the cold ground.

But the coldness never came, instead warmth had enveloped me, a feeling of being held up by something strong and firm, as if protecting me from any danger. I felt calm and secure within the embrace, my head was no longer hurting, my heart finally finding ease. Why is that, why is that when I am around him I have no worries in the world?

"Hikio?" I called out to the person holding me in his arms. My consciousness slowly drafting away, diving into a peaceful sleep.

I could hear faint voices in the darkness. Voices I could recognize and knew. My body was heavy, like extra weight had been put on it stopping me from moving. My eyes refuse to open, my brain urging me to sleep a little more. Something warm had been brushing against my forehead and hair, slowing sliding down to my cheeks lightly stroking it. Deep inside my heart, it knew what the source of this warmth was, it had found bless and confront from it. I am sorry, I am sorry Dad.

Once my body knew that it was safe and secure, sleep once again rushed over me as I slowly drafted off to a dreamless slumber.

My eyes slowly opened to a similar pink ceiling. The surface I was lying upon was soft and comfy, a warm blanket had been spread over me. It seems like I was back in my room, I dreamingly thought. So everything was really a dream.

I pushed myself up on my bed, looking around my room, everything was in order, no abnormalities. That was until my eyes led me to a certain raven haired boy who was sitting on a chair right besides my bed, he had his crossed over his chest while his head was hung low, eyes shut from the outside world.

He was here, in her room? I looked down at my dress and I was still wearing the yukata from earlier. No matter how much I try to deny reality, it would just come right back to my face.

A tired sigh had escaped my mouth as I looked over to Hikio. Has he been sitting here all this time looking after me? I find it hard to believe but there he was.

I had no idea why my gaze was locked onto Hikigaya, I didn't even notice that my arm was reaching for his face. With all my will, I had halted its advance, pulling back my arm to the safety of its owner body.

Mouuu, what is wrong with me? Why is my body moving on its own? It's like it knows something that I don't. I pulled a pillow located to my side hugging it with all my might. It's not fair.

I have been acting weird ever since both our parents had announced the marriage thing, making me extremely conscious of Hikigaya. It's like my body was at war with itself. A part of me was delighted that I was getting married, I looked over to Hikio's sleeping form but was quick to look away. But the other part was in conflict because my partner wasn't Hayato.

Hugging my pillow tighter, my mind had drifted to another individual, particularly my father. I had offended him greatly in front of Hikigaya's parents. He had bowed in front of Hikigaya begging him to marry me.

My father was a proud intelligent man, I may not have gotten the intelligent part from him but I held just as much pride as him. If something bothered me, I would kick, scream, I will fight with everything I got. But when I saw my father kneeling down to Hikigaya. It had broken me. I couldn't even begin to imagine why he would even do such a thing.

Does he really want me to marry Hikigaya, just because he was good friends with the loner's mother? My eyes once again couldn't help but travel sideways until the raven haired teen's sleeping form came into view.

How long have you been sitting there anyways. I searched for my phone, it was sitting on my bed side drawer. I lightly tapped the screen revealing the time displayed on it. My eyes widen as I stared at the phone.

Immediately my body shifted towards Hikio, my feet planted on the soft carpeted floor. The time was seven in the morning so that means Hikio had been with me the entire night. I couldn't help but stare at Hikio. Even when he was sitting down, it was still amazing how tall he looked. Genetics was indeed scary. If I remember correctly he used to be shorter than Hayama, but now Hikio will probably dwarf him.

I looked down, he wasn't wearing his black coat so the white shirt was completely visible with his sleeves rolled up revealing his muscular forearms. I could only imagine what he is like under his cloths. Instantly I shook my head violently removing such thought from my head. I had to cup my face, my cheeks burning up.

Mouuu, what is my brain thinking. I need a distraction. My eyes traveled back upwards towards his hair. His hair used to be a messy war-zone back in second year, but now it was an even bigger messy warzone, his eyes partly covered by his hair. His current hairstyle made his furious eyes even more prominent.

I let out a giggle as my arm expanded towards Hikio's face wanting to fiddle with his untidy hair. Just like how I played with my own side locks whenever I got nervous or scared.

But halfway through my arm froze in mid-air, this time my arm didn't want to move backwards. I had to force it by using my other arm, bringing both of them to my chest.

A frown had appeared on my face while my heart was in a similar state. What am I doing? And how many times am I going to ask myself that question? What will Hayato think of me after I have been so unfaithful towards him?

I shut my eyes, tears again ready to burst out without notice. Why am I crying so much because of this stupid engagement?

Then I felt a warm hand brushing against my cheek, rubbing it tenderly wiping the tears away. I attempted to open my eyes only to find Hikio sitting upright, a small smile on his face.

"You act like all tough but you really are a cry baby Miura." He said as his thump continued to clean the tears. Seeing him smile like this made my heart light and fuzzy, my face leaned into Hikio's hand finding them protective.

"Who said you can touch me without permission." I lightly spoke, and yet it was I who was leaning into him more.

"Oh, your father actually. 'You have my permission to seduce my daughter by any means necessary' is what he said", Hikio responded not moving his hand away. "Besides, if you really wanted me to stop, you would have pushed me away by now."

"Do it before I do just that." This time I was able to muster some strength in my voice.

A bright smile spread across his face, "I would like to see you try." His hand did move but not the way I hoped for. He merely teleported it from my cheek to my hair, playing with my golden curls. "I always wondered how it would feel like to play with your beautiful hair, now I know."

My cheeks became red when he mentioned my hair, what's with him teasing me like this. "Hikigaya remove your hands at once." Hikio was surprised by my tone of voice, stern and threatening. I think it was the first time I had used his name in a formal manner too.

But he quickly recovered, a smile reappearing on his face, mouuu why are you smiling today so much. "Make me."

Fine have it your way, forcefully grabbing his hand which was playing with my hair I tried to push it back. Now I knew for a fact that I wasn't a weak girl but this was ridiculous. After failing to push Hikio's hand which was much bigger than my own backwards, I was forced to use my free hand to assist in the effort. But even then I failed. What's with this ridiculous strength, it's so stupid.

I had closed my eyes, throwing my entire body weight behind my hands to push Hikio's arm away. I could hear the sound of light laughter in the air shortly followed by a gentle push on my shoulder making me fall backwards onto the surface of my bed.

I opened my eyes only to find Hikio leaning over me grabbing both my wrist preventing me from moving. My cheeks were flashed, while my heart was dancing all over the place, trying to break free from its bounds. "Hikio, what gives? Let go." I tried to escape but my body was held in place not allowing me to move even a little.

No other choice left I looked up at Hikio's face, he wasn't smiling anymore as he held a blank expression on his face so I had no idea what he was thinking. He can't be thinking about doing that, was he? I am scared. I wanted to scream but my voice won't come out no matter how much I tried. I shut my eyes praying this nightmare would stop.

"Cute."

Ah? I slowly managed to open my eyes, Hikio had a gentle caring smile on his face.

"What did you say?" I asked not sure what I heard.

"I said you look cute." He repeated his statement again. Now I have been called cute by a lot of people most notably by my father. But none of them made me want to go hide in a corner somewhere. My face was burning, my heart felt like it might explode any second. "You know, ever since I saw you crying back in the club room, it was the first time I thought you looked cute." Why did you have to remind me of something so embarrassing, I had to avoid Hikio for a long time after that, even now I wanted to hide my face by using both my hands but the fact remains that my hands with currently entrapped by Hikio's own. No other option left, I had decided on closing my eyes but damn them, they didn't want to close. They patiently waited for Hikio's next move.

Which I regretted instantly, Hikio had started to close the distance between us causing my heart to completely stop functioning. "You are joking right?" I finally spoke out. Hikio didn't respond and kept leaning nearer to me. "No, I am not prepared, we aren't even married." Immediately closing my eyes shut, my body at the complete mercy of Hikio. Then I sharp pain echoed throughout my forehead making me open my eyes only to see Hikio grinning like an idiot trying to hold in his laugh as he was now standing back away from me.

I held the spot on my forehead which was crying out in pain. But it was the least of my worries. All the embarrassment I had felt a few seconds ago had been drained away from my body replaced by sheer anger. Hikio had sensed this, taking a step back. I grabbed the nearest pillow and threw it against Hikigaya with all my might. He had caught it instinctively but many more pillows were thrown his way.

"STUPID, IDIOT, DUMMY." I kept cursing him all the while throwing anything I could get my hands on. Hikio had skillfully caught the various items thrown at him or dodged them straight out. When all the ammunition ran out, I was left panting for air. My cheeks were red and my hair sweaty.

"You done?" Hikio asked.

"IDIOT." I screamed with the loudest voice I could muster, this time he didn't stay to find out what would happen and bolted right out the door.

Now that I was alone in my room, I could clearly hear the sound of my own heart beat resonating throughout the room. Placing both hands where my poor heart was located, I tried my best to calm it down.

MOUUU, why did he even tease me like that, that idiot dead eyed Hachiman. My heart picked up speed again at the mention of the raven haired delinquent. Mouuu, can you calm down already. I scolded my heart who took all the blame for my current predicament.

I swear Hikio, I will have my revenge. But first I need a shower, this yukata is making me stuffy. I walked over to the door locking it. Don't want that pervert sneaking into room again while I change. I proceeded to walk over to my closet opening it, revealing a multitude of clothing line up. Hmmm, since I will be home for the day I think a more comfy choice will be better.

My hand reaching for my home pajamas before stopping midway. Wait, Hikio might be still around the house, I can't let him see me like that. My hand changed directions making its way to a more casual choice. Wait, why do I give a damn about Hikio, this is my house and I will wear whatever I want.

In the end, I picked the casual cloths, a pink blouse and a long white skirt that went to my ankles. This way it was more comfortable and didn't look to lazy. I also tied my hair in a ponytail too using the sunflower band Yui had gifted to me last year on my birthday. It was a simply gift but filled my heart with joy. She really was a good friend to me, meanwhile I on the other hand was the opposite. After all, my father is planning on marrying me to the guy she loved for two years now.

After Hikigaya had cut off his relationship with both Yui and Yukinoshita, I was so furious that my first instinct was to slap the living day lights out of him. No matter how good of a reason he had to justify his actions, the two heartbroken girls didn't deserve it. Yui had loved the man since the first day of high school when he had selflessly saved her dog without any regard for his own life. My face changed into one of sadness as the memories of that faithful night came into view. It was prom night, both Yukinoshita and Yui had confessed their feels for Hikigaya. But he had in return rejected both of them without mercy, he had insulted them, degraded them. He had crashed both of their hearts into piece. I remembered how Hayato had intervened as Hikigaya was belittling his club mates. Hayato had punched the raven haired boy so hard he was sent flying across the room. Hikigaya was told to leave the school building never to show his face in front of them again.

But that wasn't enough, as everyone was trying to confront the two maidens, I had stumbled upon Hikio near the water fountain outside the school building his head submerged in water. When I called out to him, he had just stared at me, eyes full of hurt and broken. "So you come to finish me off too?" He asked. At that time, I was thinking exactly that but I had refrained my hand and asked him why had done such an awful thing to my best friend.

"That's none of your business." He replied back, even though I was angry, I tried my best to suppress my emotions. When I tried to push him for answers further he said something hurtful directed towards me calling me Hayato's girl repellent. His words like a sharp knife cut deep into my heart. It had shaken my entire being. Before I knew it, I had raised my hand bringing it down across Hikigaya's face in a swift motion. He had fallen down on the ground because of the force while I ran away leaving him behind in his angst.

A tired sigh escaped my mouth, when third year rolled around I was grateful that I didn't have to deal with that jerk anymore since we were assigned to different classes, because every time I was reminded of him, his words would come back to haunt me. Somewhere in my heart I knew his words to be true, but I refuse to believe in them. Even now.

Taking a deep breathe, I removed these dark memories from my mind pushing them back as far as possible. Nothing can be done about the past, I just have to move forward. Now then, I looked around the room and it was a complete utter mess because of the tantrum I showcased a few minutes ago. I will do it later, first I need to take a bath. I walked over to the door before freezing there for a good amount of time.

Why was I feeling nervous when this was my house and not Hikigaya's? And what the hell was wrong with my father, giving permission to seduce his own daughter? What parent does that?

Opening the door, I slightly peeked outside. No sign of Hikio. He might be downstairs. After opening the door without making a sound, I tip toed around the first floor of the house until I was in front of the bathroom. Safe.

Before my hand moved to open the door, the door flung open on its own and outside came Hikigaya Hachiman. I completely froze when I saw him. He looked down at me as if I was a little kid. "Oh." He spoke making me step back. "This is the first time I have seen you in your house cloths. You look cute in them especially the pony tail." He smiled warmly at me and all I could do was stand there and feel my face burn up.

"I figured you would need a bath so I warmed the water for you." He gestured to bath behind the sliding door.

"Ah, thanks." That was all I thought manage.

"No problem, take your time. I will be down stairs waiting for you." Hikigaya said as he walked past me running down the flight of stairs. After he was out of sight, I let out a deep breathe which I was holding in for so long. Geez, I was expecting him to play a trick on me like he was doing earlier.

As soon as I walked inside, I immediately locked the door as I was still expecting Hikio to do something perverted. But nothing happened. My brain was so focused on Hikio that instead of destressing in the warm bath that Hikio had prepared for, it had managed to stress me out more. What's with him calling me cute over and over again? Hayato never called me cute, well not genuinely that is, he always had a stiff face whenever he called me cute because he was forced to or expected to say it in front of people.

The words girl repellent had decided to pop up inside my head like those annoying ads you see on the internet whenever you are surfing.

I really hate you Hikio.

I sunk lower inside the tub until my entire body was submerged completely in the water. I stayed like this until I was no longer able to hold in my breath making me take a deep breath after resurfacing. My eyes idly stared at the ceiling, my mind in turmoil.

"What will do?" I asked myself.

After I was done with my bath, I grabbed the towel and proceeded to dry myself and finally getting dressed again. I looked at myself in the mirror, with my hair down. I turned my attention to the sunflower hair band, Hikio did say I liked cute with the ponytail. Picking up the hairband, I tied up my hair the same way I did earlier with my curly bangs hung loose on the side.

Ok, I can do this.

I exited the bathroom and made my way down stairs. I looked around for Hikio, he did say he will be waiting for me. I heard some noise coming from the kitchen so I walked over and found Hikio already had made breakfast and was looking through the cabinets for something. When he noticed me he smiled in my direction.

"Miura, where are the plates, I forgot to ask your father." Hikigaya asked.

I sighed walking over opening one of the cabinets Hikio had missed taking out some plates. "Where is Dad?" I didn't see him in the house.

"He said he has some stuff to deal with and he won't be back until later. So it's just the two of us in the house." I almost dropped the plates in my hands when I heard that my father had left two teenagers all alone in an empty house. Mouuu, what kind of father would leave his only daughter alone with a delinquent of all people anyways.

"Come on, I am hungry from babysitting you all night." Hikio let out a yawn signaling he didn't get much sleep.

"Well no one asked you too." I made a sore face as I picked out plates enough for two people walking over to the dinner table sitting them down, while making sure Hikio sat as far as away from me as possible. Don't want him getting anywhere near me, who know what he might try to do.

I let Hikio sit down first and only then I sat down myself on the opposite side of the table of course. I need to keep my guard up against him at all time.

"By the way Miura, you father said to give you this when you were done with your bath. Hikio slipped a piece of paper across the table, the paper was folded many times over so I am guessing it wasn't a note. If my father wanted to say something to me he would have left a text or called me later. I eyed the folded people before picking it up and opened it. I almost choked on the food I was still in the process of swallowing. It was the marriage registration form and half of it was already filled up by Hikigaya, while the other side was still waiting on me to write down my personal information.

Everything forgotten, I just focused on the piece of paper in front of me. No matter how much I try to escape from my fate, it always come back to me. "Miura." Hikigaya's voice had brought me back to reality. He was standing right beside me crouched down to my level. He took my hand in his as he spoke.

"Miura, I know this is too much for you. It was for me too, but both our parents wants what's best for both of us. Your father loves you deeply and he wouldn't let anything bad happen to you. This is hard for him more than you can even imagine. He is literally breaking from the inside. This is the toughest decision he has ever made in his life so please think it over."

"What about you?" My voice finally leaked out, "Why are you marrying me anyways, you were totally against it yesterday. Why the change of heart? You think changing your attitude will change anything wrong you have done?"

Hikio didn't look away, staring into me with intensify in his gaze. "I know I have hurt people around me countless time and I won't ask for forgiveness from them including you. Yesterday after seeing my own mother cry and your father kneeling down. It really hit me harder than any punch or kick I had ever received in my life, and I have received a lot. I had to give up my delinquent act for the sake of my parents, for myself and for you. I am undeserving of you, never have never will."

Hikigaya Hachiman stood up to his full height, his hand expanding down towards me offering me to take. "I won't force you nor will your father ever touch upon this matter again. The choice is yours alone, no one will force you to do anything. Either take my hand and become a part of my family, I will always treasure and keep you safe from any who might pose you any danger, or you can tear up the marriage form right here and I will leave immediately and you won't have to see my face again, excluding school of course."

Taking a deep breathe, I stood up from my chair standing in front of Hikigaya Hachiman. I stared down at his hand then shifted my gaze towards the marriage papers then back to his offered hand. Taking one final deep breath, I stared up at Hikigaya's eye meeting them with determination and resolve. "Just to make it clear, I am not doing this because I like you. I am only doing this according to the wishes of my father." I took his hand, holding onto them firmly. "You better treat me properly, otherwise I will make hell for you."

Hikigaya, my soon to be husband lightly chuckled as he unexpectedly spread his arms around me bring me into a tight hug against his body. "Please take care of me, Yumiko." This was the first time, Hikigaya, no, Hachiman has said my given name. His voice cared warmth and love. I grabbed his white shirt tightly afraid of letting go. Have I made the right decision? Will I be able to respond to Hachiman's feelings? Only time will tell me the answer. But for now, I buried myself deep into Hachiman's chest sucking up all the warmth he had to offer all the while hiding my tomato colored face away from the raven haired teen.

After both of us were done eating breakfast, Hikigaya said he will step outside for a bit. He had told me to finish filling up my part of the marriage sheet and to meet him outside when I was done.

When Hikigaya was gone, I was left alone inside the vast house, silence dominating. Only the sound of my heart beat could have heard, I touched it asking it to calm down as my eyes focused on the single piece of paper in front of me.

"Do you really want to do this Yumiko?" I asked myself expecting some sort of an answer but received nothing. "You can't go back after this." I told myself again, my finger slowly griping the pen in hand looming over the form. I attempted to write but my hand was stuck midair refusing to obey again.

Come on you damn hand, I already made my choice. I can't go back on my word now, can I? Of course I can, it was easy. I just have to act like my usual bratty self and everything will fix itself. Right?

A sigh escaped my mouth as I dropped the pen besides the marriage form. Come on Yumiko, it is just a stupid paper. Nothing to be afraid of right. Right? So why am I in so much pain?

My eyes closed themselves shut as tears started pour downstream on my cheeks. Both my hands holding close to my chest. My entire being felt like it was suffocating, it was getting hard to breath by the second.

Please save me.

Without warning warmth had spread across me. Enveloping me, holding me tightly. Instantly I had grabbed the source holding it tightly refusing to let good. Even without opening my eyes my body knew whose arms was holding me from behind, "Have you calmed down Yumiko?" The voice called out.

"Didn't you say you were going to step outside?" My shaking voice broke out, small and frail. He let out a chuckle, his breathe tickling my neck.

"I did but, I was worried so I came back inside to check on you. And fair enough, the little lioness was being a cry baby again."

My eyes opened up a little attempting to form a glare. My grip on his arms tightening. "Who do you think you are calling a lioness and a crybaby? Do you want to get slapped that badly again?" I spoke annoyed.

"Ah, that's the Miura Yumiko I know." The voice brightly spoke.

Both of us didn't say anything and just stay like that for a while.

"Yumiko?" The silence was naturally broken as things had to move forward. "Having second thought?"

"No." Was all I could managed to say, too embarrass to say anything because he had guessed correctly. I was a coward who couldn't even keep my word. I was betraying the declaration I had made to him not too long ago.

A smoothing hand had washed over me, brushing the top of my blonde hair. "It's fine if you are. You don't have to force yourself for the sake of others, just do whatever you want to do. My offer still stands, whatever your decision is, I will wholehearted accept it."

Why are you being so nice to me? Why is that every time I am weak, you are always there. I don't get it?

"You do know I love Hayato right?"

"I am aware." He replied back, his arms slowly sliding backwards, retreating off my body leaving a trail of bitterness.

"I may never love you."

"I am aware." Again he replied without hesitation.

"Do you still want to marry someone like me?" My eyes were closed again, greedily waiting for the answer.

"That depends, do you want to marry someone like me." My eyes popped up immediately with my body turning side way to face the raven haired body standing before me, a pitiful smile across his face.

"What do you mean?" I stood up from the chair making a screeching against the wooden floor board.

Hachiman stretched the back of his head, a weary smile masking the sorrow hiding behind it. "I had already talked to your father about this but no matter how much I tried, I just couldn't get through to him. He was just so dead set on making me marry you. He was even more stubborn than you are."

"Talked to him about what exactly?" I patiently waiting for him to answer.

Hikio sighed, his face returning to his former self, lifeless and barren. "I can hurt you Yumiko, like everyone around me."

"Hurt me?" I repeated the words again to understand what Hikio was trying to say but it just didn't make any sense to me. Except for that one time during prom night Hikio has been kind and caring. He was the one supporting me right now as I was helplessly, lost and scared. How can such a man be capable of hurting others?

"Yumiko, I have hurt many people, not with just my words." Hikio paused before continuing. "But with my fist." He lifted his right hand, it was clenched tightly revealing the hideous deformed knuckles. They looked like they had endured many harsh trials during the time since we last interacted with each other.

"These fist of mine have hurt so many people. Including my own father." Hachiman swallowed hard. "He had tried to stop me from my reckless actions. But without knowing, I had turned against him and beat him to a pulp like all the others in my blind rage."

"Hikio?" I was left speechless as my brain recalled the scene when Hikio's father had been aggressive towards his son and via versa. It was clear that the two didn't get along but I didn't know that their relationship was this bad.

"Despite your father knowing this about me, what kind of person I am and what I can do to other, he was still convinced that I was the one to marry you. The man had spent all night nonstop pleading me. In the end, I gave up. His stubbornness was far worse than anything I have encountered before. I was afraid if I still refused him, his soul might haunt me for the waste of my life."

"Now." Hikio spoke. "Now that you know what kind of person I am and what I can do to you. Will you still marry someone like me?"

Now it was my turn to answer. Hikigaya Hachiman patiently stood in his place waiting for my response. I had to make a decision, a decision that will affect both of our lives. He was asking me to choose, to choose between him and my first love.

I knew if I tried to speak, words would not be formed. I glanced back at the marriage registration form sitting there on the table. Turning around I firmly grabbed the pen and started to fill out the sheet. Every line, every word was more difficult than the next, but I already have made my decision and didn't want to back down a second time. So I wrote without stop until I had filled all the spaces that I was required too.

I picked up the sheet, holding it up in front of Hachiman showing him my answer. A small gentle smile appeared on his face. "If you hurt me, I will just have to slap you harder." I proclaimed, my voice sharp.

Hikio moved forward, wiping his arms around me and the next time I know is that my feet weren't even touching the ground anymore. Hikio had lifted me up effortlessly, my body glued to his. "Hi, what gives, I told you to not touch me without my permission you idiot. Put me down." Mouuu just how many times are you going to hug me? Don't tell me, is Hikio a hugger? My face lit up like a street light on a dark night just by thinking about it.

"PUT ME DOWN NOW." Before I die of embarrassment.

Hachiman and I were walking down the street, both of us were heading towards the local ward office to submit our marriage form. My head was mostly down, lost in thought. My foot steps were slower than I had expected them to be, the mental weight placed on my body getting the better of me. Hikio had been in front of me, shielding me from the outside world.

Marriage huh….I always thought my marriage would have been a grand event, the best moment of my life with the special person I loved and held dear to me. But there was no grand ceremony nor was my beloved partner next to me, instead in front of me was the last person who I would have thought of getting married with. Fate does work in different ways, doesn't it?

But still, the fact that I was a couple of minutes away from formally getting marriage off was hard to digest. It was like medicine everyone expected you to take when you didn't want it. It tasted bitter and crude. Marriages are supposed to be sweet and blissful.

But nothing I could do about that now. At the end of the day, I was the one who made the choice.

Soon my life will completely change, my family name stripped away from me. My whole identity about to change, it was freighting.

I was knockout out of my trail of thought when my body collided with something almost knocking me backwards. Rubbing my head I looked up front only for my view to be blocked by Hikio's body. "Mouuu why did you stop in the middle of the street." I continued to pat my head, it felt like hitting a wall.

Hikio swiftly turned around and grabbed my hand, forcibly dragging me along with him. Once I had recovered from my bewilderment state I started to protest but my complaints fell on deaf ears. Annoyed, I slammed my feet onto the cemented road forcing Hikio to stop. But it had back fired on me badly causing me to lose my balance completely, my body falling face first on the concrete pathway. I closed my eyes on instinct waiting for the landing. But nothing happened, again. I opened my eyes expecting Hikio to be there, holding me up. And to be surprise, there he was, holding me in his arms. I gave him a half pout and half annoyed look.

Hikio on the other hand was worried, looking up and down to see if I was injured or not when I clearly wasn't. "Are you ok?"

"I am fine." I looked away from him as I stood up. My little stunt had bought a lot of attention to the place around us. I clicked my tongue and this time I was the one who grabbed Hikio's hand pulling him away from praying eyes.

When we were far away I stopped letting go of Hikio's hand. "What the hell Hikio?" I shouted, luckily there were not many people around.

"What do you mean?" He asked innocently.

My glared deepened considerably, "we were almost at the ward office before you pulled me away, what's the deal?" My arms folded across my chest waiting for his answer. It better be a good one because I was seriously pissed off.

"Well, I just thought that another route would be faster than the one we were walking on." He said in his defense.

My eye brows raised up at his statement. "Faster route? The ward office was literally on the other side of the street you moron." I yelled again making Hikio cover his ears.

"Oh, was it? I didn't notice, my bad Yumiko." He gave me a lazy grin making me turn sideways arms still crossed. Geez, this guy. He has no sense of directions at all.

"Doesn't matter, let's go." I started walking without him, expecting him to follow but I was stopped abruptly, being pulled back by my arm.

"What is hell wrong with you?" I shouted, my nerves at their breaking point. The whole marriage thing was already driving me crazy and now Hikio was dragging me around like a rag doll, I am seriously fed up at the point.

"Yumiko?" My heart beat stopped when I heard my name being called out from behind me. I didn't need to turn around to know who the owner of the voice was. Because I was all too familiar with it. My body had frozen in place, refusing to turn around and face him.

My face turned to Hikio, fear and despair had taken over me. In turn Hikio had clicked his tongue in annoyance and walked ahead of me, stopping right in front, shielding me from the new arrival.

"Hikigaya?" The voice had now turned his attention to Hikio, a mixer of surprise and disgust held within it.

"Hikigaya-kun?" My eyes widen at the new sound, it was soft and feminine. I had easily recognized that voice, my blood boiled when I heard that voice. What were both of them doing here, together?

Taking a deep breathe, summoning all the courage I could muster. I turned around stepping next to Hikio who wore a deeply rooted glare as if he wanted to tear the newcomers apart right there and then.

I looked over at the two individuals, a boy and a girl, both of them my age. The boy had shinning blonde hair with light navy blue eyes while the girls had long dark black hair expanding all the way to her hips. Her big blue eyes were sharp as ever, able to pierce through steel itself if she so desired. The boy was Hayama Hayato while the girl was called Yukinoshita Yukino.

"Yumiko, I thought it was you. You were getting dragged around by someone so I came over to check on you." Hayama voiced his concern, his expression kind and caring. "Are you alright, did Hikigaya hurt you?"

Before I could say anything, Hikio opened his mouth first, his voice was deep and threatening. "That's none of your business Hayama."

Hayato changing his focus from me to raven haired teen, a glare appearing on the blonde boy's face. "She is a friend you are trying to harass. Unless you want to get reported to the police, I suggest you back off right now." Hayama warned.

"Oh, big talk from the heir of the Hayama household. Report me to the police?" Hikio laughed, "Go ahead, and please call them over by all means and let them clean up the mess for you since you don't want your pretty little hands to get dirty now do you."

Hayama clenching his fist, continuing to glare at Hachiman. "Yumiko," Hayama turned his attention to me as he walked over in my direction. "Come on, let's get you far away from him as possible." Hayato expanded his arm to reach out to me but his arm was grabbed by Hikio.

"Hikigaya, I am warning you for your own good. Let go of my arm or I won't hold back on you."

A sinister smile spread across Hikio's face. "Oh, are you going to punch me again to impress Yukinoshita. Come on then, I dare ya." Hikio strengthened the grip on Hayato's arm, Hayato on the other hand was trying to peel away the delinquent hand with little to no success.

Without warning Hayama used his free hand to punch his opponent who was much taller than him and managed to land a blow on his cheek. Even though Hayato had landed a clean hit, the delinquent stood his ground, firm on his feet. He forced his face sideways, Hayato's fist still in contact with Hikio's cheek. "Is that all you go Hayama. Kind of disappointed, you be honest. Let me show you how a real punch feel like."

Now Hachiman was on the offensive, his lips curled up in a twisted smile while his eyes were filled with blood lust.

"Stop it Hikigaya-kun."

Stop it Hachiman."

Both Yukinoshita and I protested at the same time, Hikio had halted his right fist a mere centimetre away from Hayato's face.

"Hachiman, are you out of your damn mind." I screamed at my engaged partner, my emotions getting the better of me.

"Hikigaya-kun, release Hayama right this instant otherwise I will have you arrested for assault and harassment." Yukinoshita was already holding her phone in hand ready to dial away.

Hikio had scoffed but he did as he was told. With Hikio's arm still clutched onto Hayato's arm, with a violent movement he had pushed Hayato away as his body fell down on his back grunting in pain. The blonde arm was visibly red leaving a mark.

"As you wish Yukinoshita-sama." Hachiman taunted making Yukinoshita form a glare of her own. Her glare was so cold that it felt like the entire area around us would freeze over any second. But Hikio did not back down and met her gaze head on.

"I guess somethings never change, once a brute, always a brute. Your actions here prove that. You are capable of nothing but violence." Yukinoshita threw one hateful remark after the other while Hikio just stood there taking it all with a blank face.

This idiot, "Yukinoshita if you know what's good for you, you better stop insulting Hachiman." My voice came out much more aggressive than I hoped for.

Everyone turned their attention towards me, Hayato and Yukinoshita with surprise clouding their faces while Hikio was just look at me with a dumb look on his face. Geez, am I really marrying this man.

"Miura-san, I thought I misheard you when you called Hikigaya by his given name but it looks like I wasn't mistaken after all, I didn't know you two were in a close relation with each other. Otherwise it would have been weird for you to defend Hikigaya-kun while completely ignoring the hurt Hayama-san, right?"

I looked over to Hayato who was standing right besides Yukinoshita still wincing from pain. Hikio really must have thrown him hard. Ignoring him for now, I turned my face towards Yukinoshita, her eyes were on me, studying me carefully.

"Of course I would defend him, he is my husband after all." Well soon to be husband anyways, we have yet to submit our marriage form. Which we would have done if these two didn't show up. I guess the reason Hikio suddenly started to act so strangely was because he had seen both of them together and thought it was best to avoid them. Especially Hayato, since he was my first love and still is. But for some reason, I was more compiled to take Hachiman's side than Hayato.

"Husband?"

"Husband?"

Both Hayato and Yukinoshita repeated the word in unison, confusion fogging their minds. Meanwhile Hikio had his mouth covered with his hand, trying to contain his laughter.

"Correct me if I am wrong but did you just say that Hikigaya-kun is your husband." Yukinoshita asked verifying the new information again.

"Are you deaf or something, that's what I just said. Do you honestly think I will sit by and let you talk trash to him?" Both the heirs to their respected families were thrown deeper into confusion.

Yukinoshita was quick to recover however. "I see", so you had decided to marry Hikigaya. Didn't Hikigaya-kun's birthday pass by recently? Hikigaya turning eighteen means he is allegeable for marriage. I see." The way Yukinoshita was talking to herself was creeping me out. "So after you heard that Hayama and I were engaged to each other, you lost your mind and decided to throw yourself to the first person you saw. It's funny because you two really suit each other, both being uncivilized that is."

What?

"Yukinoshita." A loud angry growl was let out from right beside me. I turned my head sideways, Hikio had his hands tightly clenched, his forearms muscles bursting from the immense pressure being forced into them. It looked like he was going to jump for the heiress's throat. Abandoning my own inner turmoil I closed the gap between me and Hikio, placing both of my hands on his arm trying to calm him down.

"Ara, did I say something I shouldn't have. Judging from Miura-san facial expression I guess I said too much. Your attack dog looks like he will chew me out any second. My apologies Miura-san I thought Hayama had already informed you of our engagement. How very clumsy of him."

"I am sorry Yumiko, I should have said something sooner but I didn't get the right time to tell you. I didn't want to ruin the mood of the group. You understand that right." Hayato apologized. I bit my lips hard trying to keep the tears away to the point that I tasted blood in my mouth.

I had my face turned against the both of them, refusing to meet their eyes, my body had lost all strength, and my knees became weak and ready to give out any second. Hikio had moved his arm which I was grabbing onto for support behind me, pulling me closer to himself sheltering me from the gazes of the two high born teens. Tears had finally started to come out, I didn't want to cry in front of them, not after what I had heard. Within Hachiman's embrace I was able to wordlessly sob away without worry.

"Yukinoshita, belittle me all you want, I deserve it. But why did you intentionally hurt Yumiko fully knowing she doesn't know anything about your affairs." Hikio growled again, increasingly becoming hostile towards the two.

"Ara, I just thought it was about time for Hayama to wrap up his toys he was done playing with. Can you blame me for marking my territory so no other intruder trespasses on it?" I could sense that she was enjoying the situation.

"And did you have to do it in this kind of manner." Hikio countered.

"Ara but Hikigaya-kun, didn't you humiliate me in front of the entire student body, both my parents and my sister on that night. I assure you, this is nothing compared to that." She paused for a few seconds before continuing. "But I really must thank you for your actions at that time Hikigaya-kun. You helped me in more ways than I could have possibly hoped for."

"What?" Hikio voice had slipped out, confused by Yukinoshita's statement.

"On that night, you had managed to open my eyes when they were shut for as long as I could remember, the shackles placed on me were broken and I was set free. You made me realize that I was but a child in this adult world. What I sought in the service club was attained on that special night, so for that Hikigaya-kun I am forever in your debt." Her words may have been sincere but they held great resentment.

I gently pulled myself away from Hikio. The tears had been dried up now causing my eyes to become red and puffy. "Yumi." Hikio looked down on me with worry. He had used the same nickname my father used to call me when I was little. It was comforting.

"Its fine, I am fine now. Thank you." I smiled to Hachiman for the first time taking him totally be surprise. I wish I had a camera because the face he was making was priceless.

I had turned around, facing down Hayama who was nervously staring back at me waiting for my overdue outburst. Fortunately for him that did not happen but instead I had bowed my head to the blonde teen respectfully catching him off-guard.

"Thank you for spending three years of highschool with me Hayama-san, I am truly grateful for all the time we have spent together with the rest of our friends. Because of you I have so many memories of my highschool days but I am afraid that I must leave your group from now on as your personal relationship with my husband are shaky." Again I bowed for a second time and stood up straight again.

Hearing a giggle, I turned to the source. Yukinoshita was smiling, as if she had watched a comedic scene unfold. Most people would have found her laughter to be cute and adorable, charmed by her innocent beauty, but I knew better.

Nevertheless, I swallowed my pride and acted upon my intentions, I bowed again for a few seconds but this time directed towards the Yukinoshita heiress. "I am truly sorry on behalf of my husband on how he had mistreated you in the past, I hope you can find in yourself to forgive him." I stood up straight meeting her amused gaze.

"My, my Hikigaya-kun how you even managed to capture Miura-san's heart is beyond me. I may have misguided you Miura-san, it seems your parents really did teach you some etiquettes, didn't they."

I clenched my teeth tightly trying my best to suppress my anger slowly raising up.

"I had thought," Yukinoshita continued. "That you were some kind of wild animal trying to assert your dominance over the lesser beings, like a gorilla." She giggled again.

I just smiled at the comment throw my way all the while both of my hands were behind my back, both of them itching to unleash their rage upon Yukinoshita beautiful face. Even Hikio was surprised by my level of patience. The face he was making was far more amusing. I really wish I had a camera right now.

"Yukinoshita-san I am also truly sorry for myself. I was unaware of your engagement with Hayama-san until right now. Had I known about this beforehand I would have refrained myself from getting close to him."

"Oh." That was all Yukinoshita said, a dull expression on her face, no longer finding my act entertaining.

"To be honest," I paused before continuing further. "To be honest, I am glad Yukinoshita-san you had formed me about your engagement with Hayama-san. I was really frustrated about this the entire time. At one end everyone was forcing me to be with Hachiman, and on the other end my feelings for Hayama-san. But thanks to you, I don't have any doubt left. I can fully devote myself to Hachiman from now on."

I bowed my head, this time, it was a genuine one. When I brought my eyes up again to meet Yukinoshita I spoke, "I am glad that things turned out the way they did, it could have been better, and much worse but everything happens for a reason. And because of it, I am standing here today with my husband who I am glad to be married too. Yukinoshita-san please cherish Hayama because he is not bad at heart. He may have his ways of doing things but that's how he is. I know because I had loved that man with all my heart for a long time."

A sigh had escaped Yukinoshita's mouth. "Miura-san, can I talk to you for a moment, alone." Her voice was polite, friendly unlike before when it was inhospitable.

"Sure." I responded in kind and followed along the black haired beauty leaving both boys behind to their own devices. I sure hope Hikio doesn't murder Hayama while I am not looking. Not that I would mind.

When we were both far enough for a private conversation Yukinoshita spoke, "Miura-san I would like to apologize to you because my behavior towards you had been less than tactful." Yukinoshita bowed her head a little returning to her original position shortly after. "I bear no ill will towards you, but when you mentioned Hikigaya-kun was your husband, it had planted evil thoughts inside me. I believe I was jealous of you."

Yukinoshita's sudden change in attitude had surprised me so much that I couldn't speak at first. I was expecting her to discredit me further at which point I would have smacked her across the face. It's a good thing I didn't, otherwise things would have gone south really, really fast. It wouldn't have been a pretty sight to see.

"It's quite alright. No harm down." Except for calling me a gorilla, I will pay you back some day. Oh right, she is flat chested, never mind, my revenge is over. I laughed internally.

"I know why Hikigaya did what he had done that night in prom." Yukinoshita spoke.

My ears immediately jumped up after hearing what Yukinoshita said. I waited for her to say something but she didn't.

"Curious?" She teased. Seeing me pout was all the answer she needed and so she started to speak, revealing the truth behind Hachiman's action that fateful night.

"Just a day before the prom night, my father had been informed about my relationship with Hikigaya-kun through my mother. We were nothing but club mates during that time but my father had suspected that might change in the near future. He wasn't wrong, Hikigaya's had planned on confessing to me on prom night. My father had met with Hikigaya-kun and convinced him to break all ties with me. That he had planned for me a series of stages that I myself had planned for a long time centered on a political career, the same as my father. Hikigaya was well aware of this fact, he had stopped me once before when I was trying to run for student council in our second year just to maintain our own little status quo, just like what Hayama does with his own group, you are the prime example of that, how he had used you. Men really are self-centered creatures aren't they."

A tired breath escaped my mouth, "I can't argue with that. They really do whatever they want and we have to bear with the leftover on the side lines. They don't even take our feelings into consideration. Men really are horrible."

Yukinoshita laughed lightly, "Quite right. You really are a lucky girl Miura-san, if it hadn't been for my father meddling with my life and Hikigaya's foolish actions, our roles might have been reversed."

"Honestly, just thinking about it is now is a little scary you know." I hugged myself to protect myself from such thought. "Just yesterday when Hikio's parents and my father was taking about marriage, I was scared, as if my life had ended right there and then. But who would have thought that it was something really special, my interactions with Hikio were limited compared to yours as both of you saw, met, and talked to each other on a daily back in second year. I had no idea that he was truly a special person. You say you are jealous, I am jealous because if only I knew then I would have spent more time with Hikio."

Yukinoshita smiled, a true genuine smile had graced her beauty face, "really Miura-san, how could you even say that, you are married to that man, you have a lifetime to spend with him."

"When you say it like that, it's embarrassing." I held my cheeks with both hands trying to stop the blush.

"You really are cute Miura-san, Hikigaya is lucky to have you." Yukinoshita complimented.

"Ah thanks, sorry my happiness is at the expense of yours."

"Nonsense", Yukinoshita was quick to denounce me. "Your happiness is yours alone and no one can take it away from you. Same with mine, it's just a matter of how one views life."

"Really? You really aren't mad." I had to ask her.

"Well, I may be a little upset that things didn't turn out in my favor more but that's just how life goes. It has its ups and down. We just have to accept what is given to us and not take it for granted."

"Were you always this wise?" I asked surprised that I was taking life advice from Yukinoshita of all people.

"Well of course. What did you think I was before?" She asked curious.

"Well." I hesitated. Might as well get it out of my system while we are at it. "To be honest, I thought you were one of those know it all, while a rich know it all, you came off all arrogant sometimes too."

"Funny, because I always thought you were a bossy spoiled brat who can't do anything on her own." She countered.

"Hey." I protested causing Yukinoshita to start laughing lightly and in return I also joined her. We laughed our hearts out together, it was fun and enjoyable experience.

"Wait till Yui hears about this." I jokingly said.

Yukinoshita stop laughing immediately. "Does Yui-san know about all this, Hikigaya-kun and you being married?" She inquired.

"Ah no, not really. There is nothing to say because the whole thing happened yesterday and today. We were in fact heading towards the ward office to submit our marriage form." I instantly closed my mouth with both of my hands.

"Miura-san." Yukinoshita voice was dark and scary. She leaned into me, her frozen cold eyes freezing every corner of my body. "Did you lie to me about being married to Hikigaya-san?"

"Ah no, what gave you that idea." My voice had betrayed me revealing the truth. Yukinoshita inched closer to me until she was a mere inches away.

"Bad girls need to be punished, don't you think." Yukinoshita proclaimed she has started her assault of endless tickling. My bodily defenses were rendered all but useless under Yukinoshita skillful onslaught. Even when I had raised the white flag of surrender she did not relent once.

It was not until she had exhausted her own strength that she was forced to stop, both of us breathing heavily. Myself, because of being helplessly tickled and Yukinoshita because she was tired.

"Have you learned your lesson Miura-san, or do you want me to continue." She teased but completely serious.

"Please forgive me, I am sorry I lied. It just sounded so cool when I said that, I did not expect you to be so good at tickling, you caught me completely off guard." I admitted the truth.

"Apology accepted, being a friend of Yui-san has its benefits and yes I admitted, you did sound pretty cool, very manly of you." She giggled, her white teeth showing in spite of being covered by her hands. "Since you two aren't married yet. I might still have a chance of stealing Hikigaya-kun away from you Miura-san." She had a mischievous smile on her face.

"Like hell I would let you do that." My outburst had made Yukinoshita to laugh again, and I couldn't help it but laugh along with her too.

But sadly all good things have to come to an end and it was time for Yukinoshita to depart.

"It was truly fun talking with you Miura-chan, please take care of yourself and Hikigaya-kun also."

"Ah likewise, please take care of yourself and Hayama-san."

Both of us bowed respectfully at each other. Yukinoshita was about to turned around and leave to the boys were standing waiting for us but I stopped her.

"What's wrong?" She asked.

"Yukinoshita-san, when you are free, can you come to me to visit Yui. It's just that, she also liked Hachiman and I don't know how she will take the news. So I was hoping you can act as a support. It will be a great help, if you would."

Yukinoshita face lit up, "I would be delighted, and please feel free to consult any matter that might bother you in the near future, especially if you want to straighten out Hikigaya-kun for you, the poor thing is going through his delinquent phase."

"Ah yes, of course. Feel free to depend on me as well." I replied back smiling, that was a huge load off my chest. I was a little scared on how I would have face Yui alone, but now I am relieved that Yukinoshita will be accompanying me. As for Hikio, I think I will straighten him out just fine on my own.

"Otherwise Miura-san I also have a selfish request of my own if you like to hear me out." Yukinoshita asked nervously averting her gaze away from me.

"Sure, please don't hold back." I was kind of nervous, what kind of request she was going to ask because she was acting weird all of a sudden.

"Can I call you Yumiko?" Yukinoshita asked, patiently waiting for my answer eagerly.

I wanted to laugh and cry at the same time and yet my face held the calmest expression imaginable because I had no idea what to do. "Only if I call you Yukino."

A bright smile expanded on Yukino's face and without warning, she has jumped into me, our bodies colliding with one another. Her arms were around me, hugging me tightly. Geez, don't hug me so suddenly like that, it was like being hugged by Yui 2.0. But who am I to complain and so I hugged Yukino back with the best of my abilities.

When we were done with our hug, both of us calmly walked back to where the boys were stationed. Honestly, I don't know how long we were gone but by the look on Hikio's face, it was a long time and he was clearly not in a good mood.

Before Yukino and Hayama left, I had asked Yukino for her contact information. This act made Hikio to raise his eyebrows, I wouldn't blame him of course. I can't tell him what had happened between me and Yukino, it was not my place to tell him. The both of them had to do something about it themselves. I could only watch them from the sidelines as a support.

I looked over to Hayama, as for me and Hayama. I needed some time to forgive him. He had used me as his shield against other girls at school, the fact that he had done something like this all the while leading me on was unforgivable. But I also knew that a time will come that I will have to eventually forgive him, but not right, not anytime soon.

When both Yukino and Hayama were gone, only Hikio and I remained in place.

"So the witch and the playboy are finally gone, ah finally I can breathe in peace." Hikio commented stretching his long limbs.

I punched him on his side expecting to do some sort of damage but it was my hand that suffered instead, it was like punching a brick wall.

"Why you do that for, you hurting my feelings." Hikio looked down amused at my attempt of hitting him.

"Don't call Yukino a witch Hikio, she is my friend now." I declared.

Hikio raised his eyebrow again, "since when did you become so buddy, buddy with her. I thought you hated her gut." He questioned.

"Things change." I commented back.

"Whatever, what did you two talk about?" Hikigaya asked as both of us started walking about towards the ward office once more.

"Girls stuff, what happened with Hayama? We were gone for so long, you two couldn't have possibly stayed silent forever, even if you two didn't like each other." I asked curious of his response.

"Guys stuff." I pouted, fine don't tell me. It's not like I wanted to know about it or anything.

As if sensing my mood Hikio had shyly moved closer to me, our body almost linked together as he skillfully locked his hands with mine. A sense of warmth and comfort has begun to wash over me.

A smile appeared on my face but was quick to disappear. "Hikio."

The raven haired sneaked a peek at me before returning his eyes on the pavement. "What is it?" He inquired.

"Did you and dad know about Hayama and Yukino's engagement?" I looked up at him, trying to study his facial expression but it was a completely impossible task as his face revealed nothing.

"No idea what you talking about?" He simply denied it, opting not to say anything further. However upon seeing me dissatisfied with his answer he was forced to continue. "I had no means of knowing both of them were engaged because I had no contact with either of them or the people they associate with. Even you who was close to Hayama was unknown of the situation."

I frowned at his explanation. "Oh, I doubt Hayama would have told me either way because his group stability was more important." That statement held a lot more resentment than I expected. Honestly I felt like throwing up, it made me sick. I don't think I will be able to look Hayama in the eyes again.

Hachiman's grip on my hand tightened making me forget any unpleasant thought. I looked at him, still a frown masking my face but deep inside I was glad he was here besides me.

"Well in that case Yuigahama could have informed you as well, seeing how close she is to Yukinoshita." Hikio looked away dodging my glare.

Yui knowing about the engagement, I highly doubt that. She never was capable of hiding her emotions and always managed to showcase them whether it be happiness or sadness. She was an open book, a kind hearted open book who cared for everyone.

A kind warm smile spread across my face just by thinking about my best friend. So I don't think she knew about the engagement, and if she did, I don't think she would have left Hayama in one piece for playing around with her friend's feelings. Yuigahama was the only one in the group who was special like that, I doubt anyone else would have done the same.

Except for Tobe, he was even more of an airhead than Yui. He really was a clueless idiot. But an honest useless idiot.

As for Hina, I don't know what to think of her, she was a friend in the same group but that was about it. I tried getting close to her but she would just block me off. I was almost scared of getting close to her more than necessary. Even if she knew about the engagement, she would have sealed her lips shut and carried on like she always did.

"Aren't you close to Yukino's sister, Haruno was it?" I fired back. I examined Hikio, not really expecting him to take damage but surprisingly his face visibly flinched at the mention of the name.

After that prom night, Yui was left in a terrible state, it took her sometime to recover from the whole affair and naturally as a friend I was beside her to help her cope. She had mentioned all kind of different things that I wasn't aware of, like the time Tobe wanted to confess to Hina and how Hikio had sacrificed himself for the sake of saving her group.

Yui also mentioned something about Yukino's sister. How assertive she was towards Hikio. I glared at my partner, a twisted smile forming itself. "Hachiman! You are not dating Haruno-san are you?"

Hikio clicked his tongue, swallowing hard. He was finding it difficult to escape my gaze. His hand increasingly becoming sweaty. It was painfully obvious that he was trying to hide something.

A heavy sigh escaped his mouth, "Fine, I will tell you. So please stop staring at me like that." A smile graced my face. Joyful of my victory which only added to Hikio' annoyance.

"Not long ago Haruno forced me to attend this party as her date, her parents were the one who organize the event."

"Her date!" I practically yelled causing Hikio to facepalm himself as many onlookers began staring at us from the corner of their eyes. Completely ignoring them, I focused solely on the dead-eyed teen.

"I didn't like it either but she was forceful and I couldn't do anything." Hikio spoke in his defense. Without noticing, my free hand was busy strangling my golden locks. This Haruno was more dangerous than I originally thought. She managed to pressure Hachiman into do whatever she want. The Hikio right now wasn't a pushover that I was sure of, so if she was able to strong-arm him then Haruno was a force to be reckon with.

I won't let her get anywhere near Hachiman again.

"Are you jealous?" Hikio keenly pointed out, trying to change the subject.

"No." I abruptly denied. "Why would I be?" I puffed my red cheeks and looked away. It's not like we were dating back then and the fact remains we aren't married yet either. Hachiman's past relations have nothing to do with me, who he liked or loved for that matter. How and who he choice to spend his days with is none of my business. And yet, my heart stung, it's an unpleasant feeling I don't want to experience.

Hikio hummed as he drew his face closer to my ear. "A jealous Yumiko is cute too." When he said he piece he moved away to his original position leaving me in a disordered state.

Never of us said anything else, Hachiman remained silent as he didn't want to say anything stupid again and incur my wrath and meanwhile I couldn't ask further of his story because I was still suffering from embarrassment because of what he said earlier.

Soon we both found ourselves in front of the ward office to submit our marriage registration form. I glanced over to Hikio free hand which held the envelope containing the required documents. Even though he was holding a weightless object effortlessly but to me it exerted more pressure than I could handle.

Hikio squeezed my hand tightly, reminding me of his presence. He didn't say or did anything, he patiently waited for me to collect my thought. It wasn't fair, why was I the only one hesitating here.

Squeezing his hand I took a step forward, "let's go." I instructed as I confidently entered the building with Hikigaya Hachiman right beside me, our hand linked together.

The whole process didn't take too much of our time, not many people were present so he got our turn fairly quickly, the clerk at the desk wordlessly examined the documents while sneaking questioning glances at me and Hikio, which caused the latter to glare at the young woman scaring her almost off her chair. All the while I gave her an awkward smile in return.

"Congratulations on getting married, since you are a young couple here is a complementary gift." The clerk gave me a small flower pot which I grabbed after thanking her. She probably didn't hand it over to Hikio because she was terrified of him.

"Since we are done, let's leave." Hachiman's words almost a growl indicated how annoyed he was by the constant stares of other couples and employees around us.

"How did that delinquent even manage to land a beauty like that?"

"Probably blackmailed her."

I heard two clerks gossiping not far from us, I could go up to them and teach them a piece of my mind but I held back, didn't want to cause a scene after being married for a mere few seconds. So I will let it slide for now. I turned my head towards the two clerks giving them the best glare I could muster. Both of them jumped and immediately looked away.

Hikio grabbed my hand upon seeing my actions and escorted me out of the building before I did anything else.

When both of us were outside away from prying eyes, the current situation had come back full circle and crashed right into my face. We were standing beside the wall of a building, looking at one another silently bearing no mind to the faceless pedestrian moving about their daily lives.

"So?" I spoke

"So?" Hikio repeated.

"We are married?" I asked unsure whether it was true or not.

"I guess we are." Hikio concluded rubbing the back of his head. I guess he was also overwhelmed by the current situation.

"Now what?" I looked up to him for answers because my mind was completely blank right now.

"Honestly," Hikio attempted to speak but he was having a hard time to forming any words. "I don't know." A tired sigh escaped his mouth. He rubbed his sharp eyes, bags formed under his eyes from his sleepless night. "I guess we should inform our parents."

"I guess that's a start." I nodded, quickly taking out my phone and calling my dad. I stopped halfway through dialing his number erasing it. I was a little nervous calling him straight out and telling him that I am married now, even though he was the one who had forced me into this situation in the first place.

Guess I will just text him. It feels weird but nothing I can do about it. When I sent him the text, the reply came almost immediately. His text read, 'Congratulations Yumiko'. That was it? Was he waiting for my call or text all this time? Mouuu, don't you feel anything giving your daughter away just like that and all you say congratulations. What was wrong with my father?

I looked over to Hikio, expecting him to be in a similar state but he was only staring at me with his soulless eyes with arms folded.

I gave him a questioning look, "didn't you tell your parents?" I asked.

"They will find out eventually." That was all he said not saying anything more.

My mouth carved downwards as I matched Hikio's gaze. In the short interaction with Hikio's parents back at the traditional Japanese hotel, I learned that his family were not on good terms with him. At least not the father anyways, the mother was the only one who was putting the effort for the sake of her son. I vaguely remembered the mothers word, 'this is for you too Hachi.'

Just like how my father pushed me for this marriage for my own good, Hikio's mother had done the same for her son. It was by no means easy for both parents but they had to go through with it.

"Let's go sit down somewhere." I said offering my hand to my husband. The word husband felt weird yet surprisingly comforting. I still couldn't believe I was married, to this dead-eyed raven haired delinquent of all things. I smiled at the thought.

Hikio nodded and wordlessly took my hand with great care as if it was a piece of glass. His face was devoid of emotions but his body was a different story altogether, his movements were stiff and rough. No longer held any grace he showed before.

I let out a small giggle, he was more nervous than he appeared. Hikio grumbled having been found out which caused me to laugh more. I was genuinely surprised how happy I was feeling right now. I don't know why but it was without a doubt this was the happiest I have felt in a long time. My time with Hayama was nothing compared to my current emotions.

I really was a fool wasn't I, for chasing after the most popular boy in school? In the end how did it end up, being used by him to shield him against other girls, to maintain the status of other group of friends, I had ruined my precious time at school.

I mentally sighed, I may blame him for everything he has done to me, but it was I who was really to blame for all this mess in the first place. In spite of everything being in front of me, I had chosen to make a fool of myself this entire time. I denied being a tool for Hayama because I chose to ignore the nagging feeling in my heart. I always thought if I were to spend more time with him, he would look at me, and only me. I guess I deserved to get hurt in the end.

But here I was, walking besides another man. A man who I had tied the knot with. I felt blessed.

Taking a deep breathe I forced myself to forget about my past and only focus on the future that awaited us.

Hachiman led me to the local park making his way to an empty bench located under a tree, shielded from the sunlight. Although it was august with cold air looming around us, it was not enough to deter the heat of the sun. Besides, it was a nice quiet place where both of us of us can talk privately.

He let me sit down first before doing it himself, his arms crossed over his chest in a defensive manner. His face slightly turned away from me avoiding my gaze. Was he embarrassed by any chance, I tried suppressing a giggle. He has been like this since we submitted the marriage form, he kind of looks cute. Maybe I should tease him a little like he was teasing me before.

"Hachi." I sang his new nickname as I grabbed his arm hugging with both my arms. I positioned myself next to him, comfortably leaning against his body. I was surprised by myself how bold my actions were, I could practically die from embarrassment.

"Miura?" I sneaked a peak at Hikio. He was completely fluttered, his eyes riddled with confusion and his cheeks crimson. I laughed internally, how the mighty has fallen. Serves you right for playing with my poor heart before.

"Hachi", I teasingly spoke, "my surname isn't Miura anymore you know. It's Hikigaya Yumiko now. Geez, you are such a hopeless husband." Even though I told him with a straight face, my head felt like it might explode any second, this was harder than I thought. I am taking more damage than my opponent.

Or so I thought, it seems like my husband in a worse state than me.

"Ah, sorry." He paused thinking, "Yumiko then." He spoke to nobody in particular as if testing my name for the first time, even though he already called me by my given name before. He wasn't that shy about it before.

"Yumi." I softly spoke making Hachiman to turn his face towards me, his face completely flushed. He looked away from me trying to understand what I just said. This is what you get for teasing me and for being cute. "You can call me Yumi, if you want. You are my husband, you can call me whatever you want from now on." I smiled at him causing him to instantly look the other way nodding his head.

Ah, this is too much fun. I want to tease him more. But that can be done late.

"Hachi." I called out to him, he didn't turn to face me instead just sneaked a peek my way trying to find out what trick I was going to play next. But there was no trick, not this time. "What really happened between you and your family?"

That grabbed his attention. The raven haired shifted his body towards me. I released his arm and positioned myself properly facing him. This was my original goal for coming here. Hachiman's relationship with his family was strained and it was difficult to sit on the side lines and pretend nothing was wrong.

"What about my family?" His eyes became cold and ruthless, his face hardened at the mention of his family.

"Exactly what I mean." I grabbed his hands, he was reluctant by my touch but I held firm. If I let him escape now, this will only get worse. "Isn't it about time you mended things between you and your parents?"

"There is nothing to mend." Hachi strongly denied, dodging my gaze, a pained expression covering his face.

This is gonna be harder than I thought but I won't back down either. "Yes there is, you mentioned you hurt your father. Did it cause all of this?"

I waited for him to reply but he didn't say anything, opting for silence.

"Please talk to me." I pleaded. Hachiman looked at me, his eyes wide with fear as he watched my distressed face, my heart aching.

"Please don't look at me like that." His grip on my hands tightened afraid of letting go. He was hurting me, but I ignored it because my husband was under much more pain than me.

"I am not pitying you, I am sad how much you are hurting inside. Don't be afraid. Let it all out, I am here for you." I tried to assure him.

Hachiman looked over to me, his gaze locked with mine, tears had started gathering around his eyes, he was trying his best to suppress them but it was out of his control. Hachi lost and defeated completely surrendered himself to me.

"Everyone hates me." Words finally escaped his mouth. "I hurt them so much." The first tear ran down his cheek. I rushed to hug him, wrapping my arms around his large body trying my best to ease his growing pain.

Hachi in return also grabbed onto me almost engulfing me whole. "They are better off without me as their son."

Those words held great agony, "that is not true, I am sure they love you. More than you know." I gently whispered to him rubbing his back hoping it would calm him down. Thankfully it worked to some extent.

We stayed like this for some time, Hachi trying his best to recollect his thought while I patiently waited for him. No need to force him, he was already having a hard. If I push even a little, I fear he meant even distance himself with me and I don't want that. Ever. Just the thought of it scared me.

When Hachiman was ready, he released me from the embrace. A lazy expression on his face, even though he was facing me his eyes were looking away not daring to meet mine. "Sorry." He apologized, "Even though I am strong, I am still my weak old self inside." He wiped away the remaining tears.

"No you are not, it takes real strength to bring those emotions out. Feeling better now?" I asked nervously examining Hachiman.

"Yeah, a little." He snatched his cheeks still looking away. "Thanks."

"If you are troubled just relay in your wife from now on." I smiled even though I knew he was completely ignoring me.

"Maybe marrying you was a mistake." I heard him speak.

"WHAT?" I yelled not caring about anyone witnessing my outburst. I focused on Hachiman burning my glare onto his turned back.

He finally looked back me watching me as I was glaring daggers at him. He only lightly laughed at my attempts, some light returning to his eyes. "I really don't deserve to marry you, you are too good for me."

I scrawled deeply, genuinely angry at his comment. "Never say that again. Geez I can't believe you are such a kid, such a handful." My face immediately lit up after forming an idea. "What you deserve is a punishment for saying that." I slide across the bench to the edge. I can't believe what I am about to do but this is Hachi's punishment. Yes, he needs to be punished. There is no other way.

Even if I say that I am still too embarrassed. I can't believe what I am about to do.

Swallowing hard I finally spoke. "Come here, put your head down." I lightly tapped both my thighs. This Hachiman, I swear I will kill him. Here I was offering to let my thighs be used as a pillow and while he was looking at me like a moron. Do you even realize how hard it is for me to even suggest this? My heart is about to explode.

"Ah, you want me to put my head on your lap?" After hearing that from him I had to pout to stop myself from blowing up like a volcano. Can you shut up and do it already. Your lovely wife is offering a lap pillow and you are questioning it. You really are stupid, no, I am more stupid for marrying such a stupid person. STUPID HACHIMAN.

"Don't get the wrong idea, this is your punishment." He gave me a questioning look. "Just do it." I growled deeply.

Hachiman threw up his hands in surrender and slides over to my side making me almost jump.

"Is this really punishment?" The raven haired teen voice his concern with a shy smirk on his face.

He was back to teasing me again, I seriously hate him right now. "Your dead eyes are more annoying to look at since you didn't get much sleep last night. This is a limited time offer so do you want it or not." Now it was my turn to look away from Hachi's prying eyes.

Hachiman quietly hummed, "alright."

The delinquent in a swift motion maneuvering his body along the bench. In an instant he had his head on my lap while his long legs were positioned on the reeling of the bench, his feet dangling in the air.

"This feels nice." He sleepily grinned.

Yes, at the expense of my jumpy heart. "Don't get used to it, this is not free."

"Oh," he smiled softly. "What's the payment then?"

Letting out a deep breathe I spoke, "you have to get along with your parents from now on."

His grin turned into a frown in a blink of an eye. He rubbed his tired face sighing. "I will try alright, just don't expect much. My parents and my sister are not on good terms with me.

I raised an eyebrow at his statement. "As long as you try, that is all that matters and don't worry, I will be with you for help if you need it." I smiled down at him.

Hachiman returned the smile, his eyes half closed now. "This isn't half bad." He spoke. The view from here is great." He gave a cheeky smirk causing my cheeks to turn a shade of pink.

"Just go to sleep you pervert." I scolded my husband. He effortlessly brushed it off but obeyed my orders. His eyes finally closed as his body went into a deep slumber. He was probably tired from the entire affair plus staying wake all night long. No wonder he managed to fall asleep that easily. I too was tired and wish I could take a quick nap myself but Hachi deserved it more than me.

So I just decided to busy myself until Hachi woke up. My mind trailed off to what Hachiman just told me a few seconds ago. He was on bad terms with his sister too huh. According to what Yui told me, both siblings were exceptionally close to one another. Yui even used to call Hachi a bro-con of all things. So to hear that the brother and sister had a bad relationship, it was sad.

It was like breaking of my friendship with Yui, I would be heartbroken if that happened. I couldn't even imagine how both siblings who used to be so close together suddenly abandoned each other overnight could have felt.

A heavy sighed escaped my mouth, I was getting a headache just by thinking about it. I looked down surprised by what I was doing. I didn't notice I was unconsciously stroking his messy hair. My habit of playing with my hair has been with me since childhood, and ironically I was playing with my husband's hair this time while he was asleep.

I giggled.

Husband, what a strange word. Even if I say it an million times, I don't think I will ever get used to it. I was really lucky, even the slightest change could have altered my fate. What if my father and Hachi's mother weren't friends in the past? What if my father didn't approach Mrs. Hikigaya for this marriage agreement? What if I had bluntly disrespected them back at the hotel? Anything could have happened.

One wrong misstep and it would have been ruined. I violently shook my head to remove such thought from my mind. What happened or didn't happen in the past doesn't matter anymore so I just have to focus what might. I am sure I will be able to overcome anything if Hachiman is with me.

To think I was hesitating before back at my house and the hotel. To think I thought my life was about to be over because of this marriage affair. How stupid was I?

Hachiman did promise he will protect me. I hid my face with my hands to cover up my red face, has he been so cool all this time? I never noticed, then again, I only had eyes on Hayama until recently. I never got the chance to notice anyone else around me. Removing his long hair around his closed eyes I stared down at him. His sharp dark eyes were the best part about him. They held a certain wildness in them. It was overwhelming.

I wonder why I thought they were disgusting before. Oh right, I was a fool for Hayama back then. I sighed at the thought.

Though it's amazing how Hachi is sleeping so soundly under these conditions. I don't think I would be able to sleep unless I was on my bed.

Speaking of bed, my brain trails off as I cup my red face. Since we are married...both of us sharing the same room, the same bed. My mind about to blow a fuse just be thinking about it.

Nope, not doing that. I am not prepared. Nope, never.

I wonder if Hachi will be disappointed if I rejected the idea of sharing the same bed. Well he will just have to deal with it, he should be grateful that I even allowed him to use my thighs as a lap pillow for him.

Does he even realize how much I had to force myself to do this in the first time? Anything more than that is just plain impossible. Yes, anything more is definitely impossible right now.

I really might explode if anything else happened. Though didn't we progress too quickly, with the hand holding, the hugging, and now the lap pillow? What next kissing?

I immediately mentally slapped myself. Are you out of your damn mind Yumiko? Aren't you going to fast? Isn't kissing supposed to be on the third date?

Well we did skip the whole date thing and pretty much got married. I pouted.

Hachiman pretty much has a free license of doing anything he wants with me.

Like hell I will let him do that.

Hand holding was fine for now, it made me a little nervous but that was my limit. Hugging will have to wait for now, definitely not gonna do that anytime soon. Future lap pillows were off the table, I was doing this purely because Hikio looked tired and stressed from staying awake all night and the family talk. This was a onetime offer.

I looked down at Hachi, his dead eyes in full view staring up at me. I almost jumped in surprise. We he staring at me all this time. Did he pretend to fall asleep?

This jerk!

"The view from here is really nice isn't it?" He let out a dull voice. "I can get used to this."

Clenching my teeth, letting anger freely flow through my body. "Die." I grabbed his shoulder trying to push him away but it was like pushing a bloody boulder from its place.

With the physical assault out of the picture, I was only able to curse inwardly instead. This is the last time I gave him a lap pillow. Ungrateful bastard.

Hachi gave me a grin in return and wordlessly removed his head from my lap standing up straight stretching his long body.

He took out an old flip phone out of pocket to check the time narrowing his eyes.

"What wrong?" I asked concerned.

"I have to go to my part-time job in an hour. I need to drop you back to the house."

Part-time job? Well it wasn't strange for high-schooler to have a part-time job but considering we were in our third year with graduation a few months away plus preparation for university entrance exams. One hardly had the time to do a side job, even Kawasaki Saki was forced to quit her part-time job to prepare for the entrance test.

Though I don't think that will apply for Hachi in this case, since the beginning of the new school year Hachiman had overtaken both Hayama and Yukinoshita scores ranking first in the entire grade, and it has been like that since then. Which was impressive since both the high-born heirs were extremely smart.

Maybe I will ask Hachiman to teach me since my grades haven't been faring so well lately. Even Yui has improved more than me, no doubt because she spends more of her time with Yukino.

"So, which house?" I asked getting up from the bench.

Hachi scratched his chin, "good question?" He thought it over. "You choice." He opted on letting me decide.

Taking a deep breath I spoke with resolve in my house, "well since we are married, it's only natural that your house is my house now. Since we will be living together." The last statement was said in a low voice looking away from Hachiman's dark gaze.

Hachi also looked away from his partner, scratching his chin. "I guess."

"Let's go then, don't want to be late for your work, do you?" I offered my hand while looking away.

"Yeah." He gently took my hand and we began to walk through Chiba Park making other way to the local train station.

Even though it was a Sunday, the train was jam packed. There was barely any room to lift a finger. Luckily I didn't have to deal with the human mass flooding the train. I had positioned myself against the wall with Hachiman standing in front of me, his hands against the wall shielding me from the pushing and shoving from the crowd.

Hachiman was fairly annoyed by being constantly pushed around while I couldn't help but laugh lightly.

"Do you find my suffer amusing my dear wife."

It was the first time he had called me his wife. It made me super happy but extremely embarrassed.

"Aren't you supposed to protect me?" I shot back his question with my own trying to be cheeky.

He only smirked in reply and didn't say anything.

It wasn't long until we got off the train and Hachi began escorting me since I wasn't similar with the area all that well.

"So what part-time job do you have?" I asked curious, all the while examining the area around me trying to get similar with it since I will be living here from today forward, at least that's what I think I will be doing. Since neither Hachi nor I were completely sure about this whole affair.

We don't know how far our parents had planned this marriage. Are they gonna supervise us or leave us to our own devices has yet to be seen.

Honestly, I wish my mother was here with me right now, I really would have used her help and guidance. I was completely clueless about what I should be doing right now.

Asking my father of all people was out of the question. Maybe I can ask Mrs. Hikigaya instead?

I don't know, I was a little nervous to ask her anything. I will just have to see.

"It's nothing special, just some grunt work in one of the warehouses near Chiba port. The hours are long but the pay is good. Helps me get by monthly and I even manage to save some money in case there is an emergency." He paused before continuing, "After my family ties went down the gutter. I pretty much separated from my family after that, I bear my own expenses, cloths, food and all."

He looked at me, a small smile on his face. "I guess I will need to work harder from now on."

But I only returned a frown, "You promised me you will fix your relations with your family."

Hachi sighed, "I said I will try. But I have no intentions of relaying on my family anymore. I was planning on moving out when I graduated from high-school."

"Oh, you were?" I whispered, eyes down.

Hachi took a peek at me studying me carefully, and but I could only dodge his gaze.

"Disappointed?" Hachiman raised his eye brows.

"No." I mumbled.

"Well that was the plan ways, I even picked a cheap apartment, the neighborhood wasn't great but I didn't care about that since I would be alone and I can handle myself."

"Yes, I am sure you can scare away even the biggest delinquent in the area." I grumbled, my head down.

"But since I am married now I will have to change my plans. I will still move out of the house but I will need to scout for an apartment in a good neighborhood, after all my wife will be living with me." He was looking at me watching my reaction.

"You mean both of us living together?" I was finally able to meet his gaze.

"Isn't it what married couples do?" He looked like if I asked a dumb question, his eyebrows raised. "Or are we already filing for divorce?"

I punched his ribs fully knowing that it wouldn't even tickle him. But I did it anyways because he was seriously pissing me off.

"Domestic Abuse already, I really should file for divorce." This bastard of a husband was grinning like an idiot. I would have buried him in the ground if I had the strength.

But because of his actions, the worry in my heart had disappeared. He didn't reject me after all, I was glad. But a new fear had gripped my heart, Hachi might push himself harder now, finding a good apartment wasn't easy and it would require a lot of money, plus food and what not for two people will pile up.

Hachiman's tighten his grip on my hand. "Are you doubting me?" He softly spoke waiting for my answer.

I calmly shook my head, "No, I am just worried about you." I honestly told him my feels.

The raven haired gave a sheepish smile, "that makes me happy, and if you are worried about me, don't be. I had already resolved myself of taking care of you if you decided to marry me. Whatever may come my way, I will beat it down in an instant. Hachiman raised his free arm flexing his muscular arm all the while smiling like an idiot.

"You do know not everything can be fixed by your fist, do you." I scolded him

"Oh." He made a surprised face at my statement. "But so far they have been rather effective." He shyly looked away. "Worked on Hayama." He said in a low voice.

I eyes turned wide as I heard what he said. "Did you beat Hayama?" You idiot, are you insane. Why would you even do that? Not that the rich boy didn't deserve a beating, it's just that the aftermath of Hachi's action could cause a lot of trouble.

Hayama's family was very rich and influential rivaling the Yukinoshita own family. Now that the two families were tied together because their children were engaged together, they were a force to be reckoned with. Now this stupid husband of mine went ahead and beat one of the heirs. Does he have a death wish?

Don't worry he says? He will take care of everything he say? Shit like this makes me worried in the first place you big muscle for brains dummy.

"Don't worry, I didn't touch Hayama. Just some scare tactics." An evil grin formed on his face no doubt recalling the event in detail.

I frowned deeply at him, "What? I didn't hit or anything like that." Hachi defended himself.

"Hachiman, from now on you are forbidden from fighting. And if I see you fighting, things won't end well for you." I growled at him threatening.

Hachi just grumbled, "First day of marriage and you are already bossing me around."

"Get used to it." I ordered, my voice loud making Hachi tilt his head away from me.

"Fine, fine. I get it. Stop glared at me already. Anyways we are here." Hachiman successfully managed to change the subject when he stopped in front of a house. I looked at the house slowing taking in every detail of it. So this was Hachi's house huh? It looked like any other two storeys house on the street. It was nothing special and pretty ordinary. But it looked homely and that was all that matter.

Putting my free hand on my chest, I breathed in deeply mentally preparing myself. I squeezed my husband's hand on instinct.

Sensing my nervousness he turned to me, "don't worry, and just act like you always do." He assured me.

"And what is that?" I asked testing him, wanting to know how he viewed me.

The reply came instantly without delay, "a spoiled gorilla."

I elbowed his stomach, only for it to bounce off the skin harmlessly. "At least I am not an edgy teenager." I retorted.

"Ouch, that hurts more than your elbow." He gave me a soft smile taking the first step forward leading me to the door. After checking whether the door was locked or not which it wasn't, he opened the door effortless allowing both of us to enter inside the building. Once inside Hachi took his shoes off and I did the same placing them on the shoe rack by the entrance.

Hachi began wordlessly walking inside the house but I stopped him by grabbing his arm. He looked at me with a raised eyebrow. "Aren't you gonna greet them."

Hachiman lazily narrowed his eyes before sighing in surrender. "I am home." He called out in a loud voice. He looked at me again mentally asking if I was happy.

Satisfied I released his arm. His forearm really was huge, I barely got my hands around it. Refocusing my brain I turned my attention forward. "Sorry for the intrusion." I called out.

In a flash Hachiman's mother appeared in front of us with a huge smile on her face. I almost jumped back in surprise.

"Welcome home Hachi." The mother cheerfully greeted her son before locking her gaze onto me.

I stepped back feeling overwhelmed, Ms. Hikigaya clasped her hands around mine, her glittering black eyes bearing into me, and her ahoge on top of her head was completely out of control.

"Welcome home Yumiko-chan. Congratulations on your marriage. I was so happy when your father told me the news." She encircled me with her arms bring me into a tight bear hug.

Can't breathe. At least now I know where Hachi got his hugging trait from.

Thankfully she released me before I passed out from the lack of oxygen. Readjusting her glasses she stood up straight.

"Welcome to the family Yumiko-chan." She greeted again but this time her smile was even brighter than before.

Hachi coughed clearing his throat making his mother turn towards him.

"I have to go to work, so." He paused half looking away. "Can you take care of Yumiko while I am gone?" Even though he said it in a low voice his mother heard him loud and clear.

Mrs. Hikigaya gave him a beaming smile making Hachi turn away awkwardly. "Of course, she is my cute daughter-in-law after all."

"Thanks." He gave his gratitude scratching his messy uncombed hair. At least he was being nice. It was a start. The mother was probably the easiest to approach.

"But be home by eight alright. Miura-san is coming over for a family dinner." The bubbly mother informed us.

"My father?" I asked reconfirming.

"Ah yes, we wanted to celebrate your marriage. I was in the middle of preparing the food."

Hachi let out a sigh, "I will try. I am gonna go to my room and change for work." He turned over to me with concern.

"I will be fine." I reassured him, he simply nodded walking away from me and his mother making his way through the living room and upstairs out of sight.

Now I was alone in with Hachi's mother. I felt rather awkward standing next to her, I barely maintained eye contact with her.

"You were preparing dinner Mrs. Hikigaya?" I asked a bit shy, my gaze traveling from one corner of the house to the other.

She cheerfully nodded, "I am, it's an important day so I don't want to leave anything left out." She replied back watching me waiting for my next move.

"Ah, can I help out? I am not confident in my cooking but I am practicing hard. My dad says I am getting better at making food." I felt bad that Mrs. Hikigaya was slaving away because of me, the least I could do was lend her a hand.

I was worried she would refuse my request but she didn't, instead she bought me back in for another hug. "Ah I am so happy I have a cute daughter-in-law like you. Of course you can help me, I would be so happy if you did." She released me from another tight hug. This hugging thing is going overboard. What do the son and the mother think I was, a plushy?

I pouted, while Mrs. Hikigaya gave me a warm motherly smile. "Come this way," she grabbed my hand leading me deeper into the house making our way to the kitchen. "Let me tell you all about what Hachi likes to eat." She teased knowingly making me blush.

About five minutes passed when I was assisting Mrs. Hikigaya preparing for tonight's dinner. I heard loud footsteps coming from the stairs so my eyes darted towards the source of the sound. It was Hachiman wearing his causals cloths. A brown cargo pant and a plain red t-shirt. His messy jet black hair still soggy from the bath he had, making his sharp eyes even more prominent.

He stopped when he saw me, his eyes wide. I swallowed hard as he stared down at me while I was wearing a pink apron with my golden hair resting peacefully on my right shoulder. His gaze made me want to go hide somewhere. Which I did, behind Mrs. Hikigaya to be more exact, who was busying chuckling watching both of us. "Yumiko-chan looks cute in an apron doesn't she Hachi?" She teased both of us. This woman is evil.

I peeked at Hachi while still shielded by the cheeky mother. The teen had averted his eyes, his cheeks clearly red. Was he embarrassed? Hmmm, I was really tempted to tease him as well but I was afraid he might retaliate, so I did not take any chance. Some other time.

"I am going to work now." He spoke, although he was facing his mother, I had a feeling his words were directed to me instead. For going my shaky heart I slipped away from my defensive cover and properly faced my husband.

"I will be gone for a while so," he paused before continuing, "call me if you need me alright. I will come back right away."

"I don't have your number."

Hachiman rubbed his tired eyes, "yeah, sorry." He fished out his phone from one of his many pockets and gave it to me. Wordlessly I accepted his phone and dialed in my number saving it not before calling it so my phone can receive his number as well. Satisfied I handed his cellphone back to him, when he saw the new contact, he narrowed his eyes onto me while I cheekily looked away. I named my contact as Wife.

Hachi let out a tired breath before focusing his attention to his mother. "Please take care of her mother, I fear she might turn the house inside out if no one is looking after her."

I pouted my cheeks at his statement. What does he take me for, a five year old brat?

"Of course." She gave her son a heartwarming smile. "Please be careful at work. Try not to push yourself too much alright." She gave him a sad worried look.

Hachiman again looked away from his mother's gaze. "I will try." He said turning his back against us. "I am off then."

"I will escort you to the door." I rushed over to Hachiman's side as he was walking over to the door letting himself out while I followed him away from his mother's prying eyes.

"You didn't have to come with me to the door you know." He rebuked my efforts.

Giving him a bright smile I spoke, "consider this as a reward for getting along with your mother." He clicked his tongue looking away but I swiftly followed his gaze getting in front of him. "Hurry back home Hachi, I will be waiting." He widen his eyes, his face dyed crimson.

Without saying anything, he ran. In a blink of an eye he had completely disappeared from my line of sight as if he never existed in the first place.

"That's what you getting for teasing me in the morning." I puffed my cheeks returning back to the house closing the door behind me. Though, I am rather surprised how Hachi's personality did a complete three-sixty after we became a couple. He gets embarrassed so easily to the point he ran away so fast that even professional runners would envy him.

I wonder what came over him.

I walked over to where Mrs. Hikigaya stood, positioning myself besides her. I grabbed the knife and started to cut the vegetables I was previously chopping before Hachi came down.

"Did you send him off well?" A small smile could be seen on her face as she was focused on her part of the work.

"I don't know." I honestly had no clue what I was supposed to doing or what not. I was pretty much forcing myself to act to do what I felt was right. Though, one thing was certain. I was fairly enjoying myself, I felt happy. I knew for a fact that Hachi won't betray me, that he would fill my life with joy and happiness. "I think I did." I spoke again unsure of myself.

Hachiman's mother lightly hummed at my response. "To think you two are the same kids from yesterday. Both of you refusing to marry each other even though the parents were pushing you two together. Its remarkable how both of you became so close under a single day."

The knife I was holding almost slipping from my hand at her statement. "Well stuff kind of happened." I awkwardly replied back. "I was a little scared at first, only going through with the marriage for the sake of my father but even though it was only a short time I spent with Hachi, I felt like I could trust him, that he will be always be by my side, protecting me."

My mind recalled the scene from early in the morning how Hachiman had shielded me from both Hayama and Yukino.

Hachiman had already decided on marrying me but I was the one who legged behind, I told him that I might actually never love him but he still wholeheartedly accepted me regardless. He was there for me when both times I was hesitating to fill the marriage form.

I had no idea how Hachiman truly felt about me, whether he was forcing himself to act for my sake or was he genuinely accepting me for who I was?

But I was sure of one thing that he would protect me and take care of me as he promised to do so.

"You really are a nice girl, and on top of that beautiful. My little Hachi is completely wasted on you."

"Funny, he said the same thing." Both of us giggled.

I lightly placed my hand on my chest trying to calm down my heart. It was actually quite the opposite really. It wasn't Hachiman who was lucky, but it was me. I had no idea what I would have done if I found out about Hayama's engagement with Yukino. I would have been devastated, all my hopes and dreams crushed. I had placed everything on Hayama, hoping for him to accept me. If I was alone when the news of the engagement was told to me, I had no idea what I would have done then.

But I was saved, my husband had acted as a cushion as depression took over me. Because of him I was able to stand on my two feet when my body became void and lifeless. He had saved me from myself and my delusion.

I glanced at Mrs. Hikigaya who was quietly preparing for tonight's dinner. It was amazing how both parents had predicted this, as if they knew this would happen. If not sooner than later.

"Mrs. Hikigaya, can I ask you something?"

Without looking my way she spoke in a soft voice. "We are family now, please feel free to relay on me if you are troubled."

"Then I won't hold back." I took a deep breath and spoke without restraint. "How did you and my father know about Hayama's engagement?"

The mother dropped what she was doing and looked straight at me. I matched her and stood before her waiting for her answer.

She sighed in surrender before turned back to continue what she was doing. "Your father wanted to keep it a secret from you but I guess you already know about it now. Did Hachiman informed you?"

She countered my question with her own. "He didn't. We met with both Hayama and Yukinoshita while going to the ward office. "I told her the truth, no use in lying about it.

"That so." There was a slow pause as she digested the information. "Well no use in hiding it from you now. As you know your father is a rather influential person and he is very close with Hayama's father so he was invited to this party hosted by the Yukinoshita household. As for me, my company works under the Yukinoshita Corporation and since I rank pretty high in the company, the invitation also expanded to me."

Mrs. Hikigaya stopped talking before glancing my way before continuing. "It's been a while since both your father and I got together for a chat so we accompanied each other during the party. To my surprise Hachiman was also attending the party, I still couldn't believe it when I saw Hachiman linking arms with Yukinoshita Haruno of all people."

Yukinoshita Haruno, that woman again. She is a dangerous existence, I need to watch out for her so she doesn't bewitch Hachiman.

"Did Hachiman knew you were at the party?" I asked.

The mother shock her head, "No, I don't think he saw us. But by the looks of it, Hachi was very irritated how Haruno-san kept gluing her body with my son, she has a pretty nice figure too. It was a shock."

Hachiman, I will kill you when you get home. I peeked at the mother and she had a teasing smile on her lips.

"Anyways," she looked away from my gaze. "Shortly after both Yukinoshita-san and Hayama-san got together to make an announcement." She swallowed hard. "It was then that they announced a political marriage between their two children."

She took a deep breath, "my daughter had informed me about the past relationship between Hachiman and Yukinoshita Yukino. I still can't forget the face Hachi made that day. It was mixer of regret, anger and pain. He stormed off the party making quite the commotion."

"Your father was also pretty tense, I asked him and he told me the situation surrounding you Yumiko-chan. Later in the following days he contacted me again and we talked about you and my son. Both suffering from different problems. We thought of a solution and then your father proposed that the two of you should get married."

Mrs. Hikigaya dropped what she was doing and turned towards me. "It wasn't easy for him, giving away his only daughter who he loved with all his being to someone with an aggressive behavior no less. But he still took the chance. I also hope you could heal my Hachi's heart."

She looked away awkwardly, her hands rubbing against each other, tears threatened to flow down. "Hachi has always been a good and kind child, but because he has been suffering so much, he became twisted inside."

A tear finally ran down her round cheek. She removed her glasses to clean her eyes. "The final nail in the coffin happened during spring break after the end of his second year."

I held my breath, was she referring to what Hachiman did on prom night?

"Hachiman came back home, bloody and beaten. Not a single spot on his body was left without a bruise. He was barely conscious when he came back."

My heart stopped when I heard the words of Mrs. Hikigaya. My wide eyes stared back at her as she was still trying to wipe the tears away.

Something like that happened?

"After that he completely changed. He became aggressive and violent. He isolated himself from everyone, lashing out if any got close."

I stood there helpless as I saw the mother balling her eyes out. "It's all my fault. I failed him as a mother. I wasn't there when he needed me. We dotted on our daughter and we treated Hachiman like he didn't exist. When I finally took notice of him, it was too late."

The mother was wiping. Her hands hiding her crying face. I stepped forward and spread my arms around her delicate frame tightly. The mother welcomed my embrace and hugged back, squeezing me.

"After a long time, Hachiman called me mother again, he looked happy again." She cried out louder "Thank you for marrying him, thank you, thank you." She thanked me all the while hanging onto me for her dear life.

Hachiman, you idiot. You made your mother worry sick because of your behavior, when you come back I will give you a piece of my mind. Do you realize what's it's like to not have a mother and you treat yours like this.

Just wait till you get home.

I declared while hugging the mother tightly waiting patiently for her to settle down.

After a while Mrs. Hikigaya moved her body back from the embrace, visibly calm now. Her cheeks were puffy red but other than that she looked fine.

She took my hands in hers, "Yumiko-chan thank you again for becoming part of the family. Please continue to take care of my Hachi. He looked quite fond of you."

It was my turn to look away, "that's not true."

The bubbly mother hummed, "did something special happen between you two?"

"Nothing happened" Nothing noticeable anyways. I frowned almost disappointed. This was the first day of our marriage, and Hachiman went off to work of all things. Seriously what's up with him? Couldn't he take a day off? My frown deepened.

I wanted to spend more time with him.

"So something did happen." She probed further.

I got fluttered and answer back. "Nothing happened seriously."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes I am sure." Now please stop leaning your face into mine.

"What about when you two share the same bed?"

"SAME BED." My brain blew a fuse at the two words, my face was hot and my heart was jumping all over the place.

Please stop teasing me. I don't know how much more I can take.

The sound of the door opening shortly followed by the words 'I'm a home' saved me from the mother's teasing wrath.

Both of us directed our eyes towards the entrance, my eyes grew wide as I saw a miniature version of Mrs. Hikigaya. Hikigaya Komachi walked into the living room. Her black shoulder length hair swung as she turned her attention towards me and her mother. Her dark round eyes observing me.

"Komachi come and greet Yumiko-chan. She is Hachiman's wife and part of our family now." This statement caused the younger sibling to raise her eyebrows. Surprise could be seen clouding her face. I guess this was the first time she was hearing about this.

Komachi adapted quickly fixed her facial expression as she walked over to us, I felt tense and stiff meeting my sister-in-law for the first time properly. I have seen her around school but this would be the first that we were coming face to face.

"Please take care of me from on now." I greeted her properly, bowing my head low.

Komachi on the other hand had a dull face plastered on her and she wordlessly bowed before turning her attention towards her mother. "If you need anything I will be in my room."

The daughter proclaimed as she turned around and started walking away.

"Komachi." The mother's voice rang out causing the daughter to stop midair turning around. "Can you go to the grocery store and get me these ingredients." Mrs. Hikigaya held a piece of paper along with some money.

The younger sibling sighed as she walked up to her mother moving pass me and grabbing the note and along with the money.

She again turned around to leave but again she was stopped by her mother. "And take Yumiko-chan with you."

"Huh." Komachi exclaimed as she stared at her mother. I was also looking at her with wide eyes trying to figure out what she was scheming this time.

"She is still new to the area so it would help her if she knew her way around. Plus she can help you carry the grocery bags." Mrs. Hikigaya explained.

The daughter could only frown in response not protesting. She nodded and started to walk without stop this time. She didn't even wait for me to catch up.

Quickly taking of the apron I handed it over to the evil mother‐in-law, "I will be leaving then." I bowed before quickly following the raven haired girl.

"Take care." The mother called out as I left the house.

Both Komachi and I silently walk besides each other. I felt like the raven haired teen pace was needlessly faster and so I had to match her speed. She must have felt that the faster she gets this errand over with, the faster she can distance herself away from me.

Though she obediently obeyed her mother's orders, she clearly didn't hide her displeasure when her mother said to bring me along.

I don't recall having done anything that might have affected her in any way. So I don't understand why she doesn't like me.

"So how are your summer vacations going along?" I tried to make small talk to lighten the mood.

"So and so." She replied back her voice emotionless.

"Have you adjusted to school yet?"

She hummed back, not even answering me properly. I don't even know whether she said yes or no.

"Ah, were you out with your friends before you came back?"

"I don't have any friends." I raised my eyebrows at the statement.

How is that possible? A cute girl like Komachi not having any friends? Those kids in the first year were idiots. Then again, having a delinquent brother like Hachiman would scare anyone away.

"In that case, I will be your friend. We are practically like sisters now. I always wanted to have a little sister." I excitedly spoke.

"Not interested." Her monotone voice shot me down.

This brat needs a good spanking, can't she take a hint that I was trying to improve the mood. Teenagers, honestly why are they so hard to deal with. I sound like an old lady now. Dammit.

Before I knew it we had reached the supermarket. So this is the nearest supermarket. I made sure to memorize the route carefully in case I had to come again by myself. Maybe I will ask Hachiman to accompany me next time, just the two of us.

Komachi didn't wait for me and entered inside alone, I frown as I followed behind her. Mouuu, the little sister is even more troublesome to deal with than the older brother. At least you get a response from him. This girl acting like I don't even exist.

Puffing my cheeks, I entered the supermarket. I followed Komachi along as she picked out the different ingredients her mother had noted down on the piece of paper.

Though this was pretty boring, it wasn't like I was doing the shopping myself and since the little sister of my husband was giving me the silent treatment, I felt lonely.

Maybe I should text Hachi, a small smile spread across my face when I thought of him. No, he might be busy working, even though he was tired and sleep deprived.

What can I even text him? Nope, I pass. Anything I send him might be too embarrassing for both him and me. Maybe I should give it a try anyways.

I fished out my cellphone from my shirt pocket and opened Hachiman's text box. Now what do I say?

My finger automatically typed in the message, 'you are not sleeping on the job are you?' And send.

I wasn't expecting for him to reply to me right away which disappointed me a little. I just hoped he would respond quickly.

I looked forward and found Komachi staring at me with raised eyebrows. She was also holding her phone in hand, after sighing she pocketed her phone back.

"What's wrong?" I asked her, did I send the text to Komachi phone instead? No, that's not possible. I clearly used Hachi's phone to call my own before he left for work. It was just a coincidence.

"Mom said to eat lunch outside with you." She blandly replied back.

The mother again, I knew she was scheming something. She is like an evil mastermind. I guess Hachi gets his smarts from her.

"Let's finish the item list first." We still had some items left to pick out.

Komachi nodded and started walking again.

"Komachi." I called out to her but she didn't turn around instead sneaked a glare my way. "What's Hachi like at home." I asked genuinely curious.

"Don't know. He isn't home often." Her cold voice sent shivers down my spine. Did she hate her older brother?

"Ah, then what does he normal do?" I asked again probing.

"Ask him yourself." Her voice contained clear hostility.

Any other person who have stopped at this time. Opting to keep their self-respect preserved. But I wasn't the one to back down.

"Komachi." I called out to her again only to stop when the person in question turned around, her glare as vicious as her brother's. To think a cute girl like Komachi was capable of such a stare.

Cold sweat ran down my forehead as she continued to bear her eyes on me. "Miura-san can you stop meddling in my business. I don't care what your relationship with my brother is so can you do me a favor and keep it to yourself."

I frowned at the teen before me, "I am not Miura Yumiko, and my name is Hikigaya Yumiko now. I am married to your brother and your sister-in-law." I strongly declared.

Komachi however was unfazed by my words. "So everyone says." She turned around not acknowledging me in the least.

I looked around and people had begun the stare at us. But I ignored them promptly and continued to follow Komachi.

"Did your family not tell you about the marriage arrangement?" I asked her not expecting her to reply back.

"What my family does and not is none of my concern" She bitterly spoke. Her grip on the cart tightened.

Pain took firm hold of my heart as I looked at the small back of Komachi. She was suffering, just like Hachiman.

I sighed deeply, I wasn't getting through to her no matter what I did. Ah, why is this so hard?

My phone buzzed to life, notifying me that I received a text, I quickly took it out to check the content. It was a message from Hachi. He sent a sticker of a grey wolf sleeping on grassy ground.

I couldn't help but lightly laugh at his simple reply.

I also sent him an angry looking lion sticker when in reality I had a gentle smile on my face. Then I texted him that I was in the supermarket with Komachi.

There was a short delay in his next message, 'is that so.' Then another text popped up, 'I will try to come earlier.'

Hmmm, he didn't say anything about Komachi. I guess there relationship is really bad right now. 'You want anything from the supermarket?'

The reply came almost immediately, 'nothing in particular, take care on your way back home.' He then again sent the same sleeping wolf sticker signaling the end of our little chat.

Satisfied, I returned my phone back into my pocket and looked forward. I had stopped walking a while ago when I first received Hachiman's text, standing side way as not to disturb other shoppers.

I was surprised to see Komachi was standing beside me observing carefully.

"What?" I would have thought she would have left me behind since that was what she was doing for the duration of this trip. But here she was, standing in place, watching me.

"Can you stop texting your friend while you are with me. It would be troublesome if you got lost." She scolded. She was acting like she was the older one here.

"It wasn't my friend," I frowned. "It was Hachi."

"Hachi!" The younger sister visibly cringed at the nickname. She looked away, "since when did you two become so lovely dovey with each other. With my brother of all people. What happened to your crash Hayama, huh?" Clearly resentment could be conveyed through her voice.

It was most likely she knew about the prom incident. Probably from various rumours floating around school or from Hachiman myself if he shared with his sister.

"I wouldn't call us lovely dovey." I unexpectedly blushed at her remarks as I again found myself following the younger teen's lead. "Only today we started taking notice of each other. Honestly your brother has been very supportive of me since we decided to marry even though our parents forced us into this situation."

I voiced my opinion.

Komachi hummed, "has he now?" She was referring to her bother. "Well doesn't matter. Knowing your personality he will discard you if you try to be overbearing."

Overbearing? Was she referring to me or herself?

"You are not overbearing Komachi." I told her, testing my theory.

She abruptly stopped in her tracks, her face half turned backwards. Her dark gaze penetrating my soul making me take a step back. "Who said I was?"

I swallowed hard. Seeing my reaction, she started walking again, not caring whether I follow suit or not.

Reinforcing my resolve I chased after her.

When we had collected all the items on the grocery list, I had expected Komachi to head over to the cashier but instead she started walking towards the rows of refrigerator containing different beverages.

Komachi opened one of the many fridge and pulled out a can of chocolate milkshake. I raised my eyebrows at her selection. She acted cold and distant but in spite of that she was very much a kid.

She noticed me looking at her, a small pout on her face. As if to say I can drink whatever I want. "Pick whatever you want. My treat." She waved her hand towards the countless drinks.

"Then." I expanded my hand taking out a strawberry juice box. Now it was her turn to stare up at me while I countered with my own. I too will drink whatever I want.

"Humph." She turned away arms folded.

Ignoring her, I moved my hands again inside the open fridge taking out another drink.

This act caught the attention of Komachi as she stared down at the drink in my hand.

"You drink that?" Her voice shaking. Her calm demeanor gone.

"This is for Hachi. He likes this drink, right? I saw him many times last year drinking this in class." I stared down at the can of MAX COFFEE held in my hand. It was like he had an addiction for this drink. I didn't want to fuel his addiction further but today I will make an exception.

"He doesn't drink that." The sister promptly informed me.

I looked at her in surprise. "Is that so?" I placed the coffee can back in its original place. "Then what does he like to drink?"

I patiently waited for her answer. She didn't say anything instead she moved forward and grabbed a black can before closing the fridge door.

My eyes widen as I looked down at the drink. "Ah, just how can he drink that? It taste awful and bitter. He is a masochistic?" I once tried this drink with Yui and immediately regretted it.

"I know right, brother always had this crazy obsession with sugary coffee now he drinks the bitterest one possible."

"That's totally weird." I laughed.

Komachi laughed along with me, "I know right, he also likes to eat super spicy food. You might as well give him a red chili to chew on." The young raven haired girl energetically shared the information.

"Your mother told me about that." I paused before speaking again. "You really love your big brother don't you Komachi."

The joyful smile on her face disappeared replaced by one of sorrow and hurt. "I don't." She averted her eyes and begun to walk over to the cashier pushing the shopping cart. Sighing, I wordlessly followed behind her.

Soon both of us were outside each carrying a plastic bag in hand. The weight wasn't too much so we didn't have a problem carrying it.

"Do you want to head home first to drop the bags off or what?" I asked letting her decide.

"Well mom said to come back after eating so we should do that first. I know of a cafe that is on route to the house, we can stop there to eat."

I nodded at her suggestion. "Let's do that."

And so we started walking back with Komachi in the lead.

The walk to the cafe was uneventful, neither of us said anything along the way. Komachi still had that gloomy expression on her face making it difficult to start a conversation with her.

The cafe wasn't fancy by any means, it was more like a family restaurant. Since it was a Sunday, the place was jam packed by different families. Only two booths remained vacant.

"Table for two?" The waitress asked us.

Komachi nodded and we were escorted to the booth at the end of the hall.

We sat down placing our shopping bags under the table. The waitress came over to us with two menu. It didn't take Komachi long to make her selection which surprised me. Maybe she was a regular here. After making my own selection both of us handed the menu back and the waitress walked away leaving us to wait for the food.

Usually in a situation like this, I would have pulled my cellphone out browsing the web or texting my friends but it would be stupid to do that here with Komachi sitting in front of me. The heavy mood continuing from earlier.

I sighed unable to take the silence anymore. I can't let things drag on like this. Before I could speak however Komachi took the initiative first.

"So. You and big brother really are married huh?" She spoke as if unable to believe the news.

"Well it was so sudden but yes we are." I spoke with a joyful smile on my face. It was nice she was the one to talk first than the other way around. It was becoming disheartening to be dejected by her again and again.

Komachi took notice of my emotions hummed. "You look awful happy whenever big brother is mention. Even back at the supermarket."

I thought over what she said, "well to be honest. I am not sure myself. All of these are new emotions I am feeling. Even your brother has been feeling flustered since we officially became a couple."

This peaked the sister's interest and she looked at me more attentive. "My brother being embarrassed? No, I refused to believe it." She leaned her body closer to me. A noticeable smile on her face.

"Ah, your brother refuses to even look at me and he even ran away. His face was so red back then, I was holding back the urge to laugh."

Komachi raised an eyebrow at my statement. "Are you sure you married the right person. He sounds like an impostor to me." She declared, shaking her head.

"Well he almost got into a small fight with someone along the way, he would have punched him if I didn't stop him." Though, I wish I hadn't. My mood dropped thinking about that blonde prince of our high-school.

"Yep, sounds about right. That's my big brother right there." She nodded. "What did the poor soul even do to deserve it this time?"

It looked like she was already accustomed to her brother getting into random fights all the time. "Well," I was a little hesitant to tell her about the events with the two heirs. "We came across Yukinoshita and Hayama on our way to the ward office."

"Huh?" Her eyes became wide as she leaned back into her chair digesting the information.

"Well stuff happened, the two of them are engaged to each other now." I informed her.

She looked away, her narrowed eyes showed hint of hurt and anguish. "I see."

"Are you disappointed?" I asked her, my tone serous.

She turned her face towards me, studying. "What?"

I repeated my words again better explaining it this time. "Are you disappointed that it is me who is sitting here with you and not Yukinoshita?"

She looked away again, refusing to meet my eyes. "Nothing like that. What my brother does or doesn't has nothing to do with me. He doesn't like people to meddle in his affairs."

I reached my hand out to hers, squeezing it. "Did he say that?"

She didn't say anything remaining silent. Her face was twisting and turning showing off different emotions ever so changing.

"You don't have to hold it in anymore. I am here for you." I tried to comfort her, hoping she would open up.

She finally looked at me. Her face was twisted in sadness. She breathed out in surrender. "I had tried to match my big brother with Yukinoshita or Yuigahama, thinking that they could help my brother break out of his lonely shell. But it had back fired. I am sure you are aware what happened right?"

She was referring to the prom night. Her brother's biggest social suicide. I nodded in response.

"Right after that, my brother started to get into fights. He completely changed, not the big brother I knew and loved. I tried to reach out, but he shoved me away. Calling me overbearing and meddling. I don't think I have talked to him since then." She stopped staring down at the edge of the table.

"In that case, I will beat him up for you." I strongly declared, my cheeks puffed.

"What?"

"How dare he hurt my cute little sister. When he get back home I will make sure to pull his ears and cheeks."

The little sister pulled back from my grip bewildered. "Ah you don't have to do that. It might make him even angrier."

"Then I will make him eat sweet things or throw cold water on him." I laid down all my counter plans for my husband.

"Ah it's like you are just asking to be divorced on your first day." She chuckled.

Joy filled my heart when I saw she had finally cheered up.

"Your order is here." The waitress called out standing beside us holding a tray of food.

The waitress placed my salad in front of me with mango shake and as for Komachi she had ordered a burger and fries with a cola. I raised my eye brow at her selection.

Wasn't she afraid she might get fat? I envy these kids. I puffed my cheeks at her while the girl gave me a pitiful glance.

Luckily brat. If I wasn't married I would be eating fatty food too.

"Humph." Ignoring Komachi, I bitterly started to eat my salad. You better appreciate my efforts Hachiman.

Wordlessly Komachi slides over her fries nearer to me earning a questionable look from me. "Don't worry, I am sure brother won't be able to notice the fat around your cheeks."

"What?" Panicking I held my face, examining it. The sound of laughter could be heard coming from right in front. I frowned hard at the source only for my target to shrug it off unfazed.

This cheeky brat. Now she is also teasing me. "This calls for punishment." My eyes narrows onto her.

This caused Komachi to cease her laughter as her expression changed into one of fear and dread.

"Hmmm," I thought for a few seconds. "Alright, from now on you will call me Yumiko nee-san." This brat hasn't properly addressed me from the beginning.

The sister visibly cringed after hearing that.

Glaring at her made her flinch as she straightened her back.

"Yumiko nee-san." She awkwardly addressed me. Satisfied, I went back to eating my salad. "Tyrant."

"What did you say?" I yelled out.

Komachi simply averted her gaze away from me, "nothing, you are hearing things." She said as she was fiddling with the straw submerged in the cola. A small smile on her face. "You are too good for my brother." She whispered to herself.

I sighed and went back to finishing my food.

When we were done eating, I paid for the food plus tip. Komachi had insisted that she should have been the one to pay for the food but I refused strongly. I wasn't going to let someone younger than to pay for it even if she puffed her cheeks in the most adorable way. Grabbing the shopping bags from under the table we set off back to the house.

On our way, both of us talked a little. To my surprise Komachi did actually have a friend in school. He was the brother of Kawasaki Saki, a female delinquent of the school. We were classmates last year along with Hachiman. I never got along with that silver hair woman because of our conflicting personalities.

I think right now she is in the same class as Hachi. This made me pout angrily thinking about two of them in the same room.

From what Komachi told me, Kawasaki Saki's brother who was Kawasaki Taishi was more akin to a puppy than a friend. Guard dog is how Komachi described him as. Taishi idolized Hachiman and strived to be like him, only to fail miserably each time.

I was starting to get a headache just be listening to the young boy's misadventures.

Komachi said that sometimes his actions were cute while the majority of other times he was plain annoying.

I wonder what Hachiman thinks about his little fan boy. I wonder if he knows he has one. I asked Komachi about this and she replied back saying. "Ah, big brother looks at Taishi if he will bury the boy alive."

"But as weird as Taishi is, I am glad he is my friend. Most people at school are afraid to approach me because of my brother." She showed me a warm smile. "He is always goofing off when he is with me, trying to cheer with up. I am grateful for that."

Unable to bear it anymore, I brought the little sister in for a tight hug with my free hand. She struggled in my embrace protesting to be released. But her words fell on deaf ears as I continued to hold her. A single tear running down my cheek. "Yumiko nee-san, people are looking at us." Let them I don't care.

Eventually I had to let go of Komachi and soon we were able to reach the house. Before we could open the door however, it opened by itself. Out came a large man, height similar to Hachiman's. His hair styled backwards coupled with his dark sharp eyes made him menacing. In all honestly, people might mistake him for a Yakuza boss.

He fixed his eyes on his daughter than at me. I swallowed hard as he stared down at me. I quickly bowed in front of him to show my respect. "Hello, Mr. Hikigaya." When I raised my head, he was still staring at me with narrowed eyes.

He had a cloth in his hands which he pocketed before giving me a low bow. He then turned to his daughter Komachi giving her a tender look.

He wordlessly extended his hand offering to take the shopping bags. The daughter obliged and handed the bag to her father. The head of the household then turned towards me expanding his free hand. Awkwardly I handed him my bag and he accepted it.

The father turned around and went inside the house. A heavy breath escaped my mouth as my breathing returned to normal. Well that was nerve wracking.

"Don't pay too much mind to dad. He is harmless as a teddy bear." I don't think your dad of all people can be called harmless with the way he looks. But I get what she was trying to say. Taking a deep breathe, I walked inside the house with Komachi in toe.

Once inside, I and Komachi took off our shoes and walked deeper inside the house. Hachiman's father was sat on the couch, his attention turned towards the time watching some sports channel. While the mother was inside the kitchen. I felt bad that I left her behind to do all the work.

I immediately walked over to her. "I am back. Sorry about leaving you behind. Let me help you."

"Well thank you Yumiko-chan." She smiled at me.

"Me too." Komachi jumped besides her mother already wearing an apron.

The mother taken by surprise watched her daughter with wide eyes before giving a blissful smile. "Of course."

The three of us got to work, the mother instructing us every step of the way. Time had effortlessly flew by without notice. When we finally finished, the time was close to evening, the sun hung low in the sky, ready to set.

Guess it was true, time really flies by when you are having fun. Usually when I am with my friends I keep looking at the time, complaining that only a limited time was left for us to hang out. But this was completely different. Spending your precious hours with your family was completely different.

Komachi yawned besides me. "I am going to my room to rest." She told her mother before looking over to me awkwardly. "Ah, where is Yumiko nee-san staying?" She asked puzzled and curious.

The mother was carrying a mischievous smile on her face. "Your brother's room of course." She replied without hesitation.

My head overheated upon hearing that, my body beginning to fidget around at random. Glancing over to Komachi I found her to be in a worse state than me. Visible smoke being produced from her head. Did she blow a fuse?

"I will pretend I didn't hear that." She quickly turned around and ran upstairs out of sight leaving me with my in-laws. Komachi you brat, how can you escape after asking something like that, come down here and take me with you.

Ah, what should I do?

"Yumiko-chan, I will clean up so you can go rest in the living room." The mother suggested.

"No, it's fine. Let me help you." I tried to offer my assistance but she simply refused.

"You have done enough. You deserve a rest. Now I don't want you to lift a finger until dinner alright."

Talking back to her was not an option because she was only end up countering my argument. Surrendering to her will, I walked out of the kitchen and stepped into the living room. Mr. Hikigaya was busy watching TV paying me no attention.

What should I do?

I sat down on a single sofa and pulled out my phone to check if Hachiman or someone else sent a text or what not. But just my luck, there were none. I wonder when Hachi will come home, he did say he will come early but he didn't specify the time. Should I mail him to ask? I shook my head, no it's fine. He might be busy.

I am just feeling a little lonely right now. I am still not sure about a lot of stuff going on right now. Will I be sharing the same room with Hachi? Just the thought of it made me nervous. But what about all the stuff which belonged to me. Will they be transferred here? A lot of unanswered question. Hachiman was probably as clueless about all this as me. I haven't heard from my father since I informed him about my marriage finalization. I am afraid to ask Mrs. Hikigaya fearing that she might tease me again. I guess I just have to patiently wait.

I sighed, a little tired from the overwhelming day. Suddenly an item had come into my line of view blocking my vision. It was a pink box with strawberry patterns draw upon it. My eyes drew above watching Mr. Hikigaya's stoic face as he was holding the juice box I brought from the supermarket.

His actions surprised me making my jump a little. After calming down I expanded my hands taking the cold drink from him. "Thank you Mr. Hikigaya."

He slightly nodded before returning back to his own sofa stationed in front of the TV.

"Ah, how did you know this was mine?" I asked taking a sip from the juice box. The sweetness bringing energy back to my body.

My father in law replied without turned towards me. "Komachi often buys chocolate from the supermarket while Hachiman likes to drink coffee." He calmly explained while focused on a baseball game being aired on the sports channel.

"I see." I took another sip from my drink draining it completely. So he wasn't totally uninterested in his children. My eyes also focused on the baseball game. I wasn't really similar with any sport other than tennis which I played a lot even professionally back in middle school. But I have since then lost my touch with the sport. I doubt I will be able to pick up another racket again.

"Yumiko-chan, was it?" A heavy voice rang out grabbing my attention.

"Ah yes." I turned towards the source, my body stiff.

"If you are troubled feel free to talk to me alright. I promised your father to treat you like my own daughter."

"Ah yes." I could only awkwardly reply back. Even though Mr. Hikigaya was going out of his way to talk to me, I could barely respond to him

He nodded after hearing my answer. "If Hachiman gives you any problems, come to me and I will straighten him up for you." The father's eyes became dark at the mention of his son.

I was left speechless, how do I even answer him?

And so I didn't. Nothing I could say could make this situation any less awkward for me.

"Ah, Mr. Hikigaya, are you sure violence is the best option. Talking the issue over is the always the safer side." And I just had to mouth my big mouth, good job Yumiko.

The father finally looked at me, his sharp eyes bearing down on me. "Nonsense. The men of this family has always settled their difference with their fist."

"HUH?" was all I managed to say.

"It's a family tradition, outsiders won't really get it. And this tradition has been kept till now. I thought my son, Hachiman is such a wimp, the tradition would have died with me but I guess I was wrong. Blood really is thicker than water."

"Huh?" Tradition? Blood? What the hell is this old man talking about?

"Ah Mr. Hikigaya."

"Yes?"

"Didn't Hachiman already beat you?"

His face flinched at my remark. He cleared his throat and looked away. "He landed a surprise attack I was prepared at that time.

Sure, sore loser.

"Though I am surprised you decided to marry my useless son of all people." He spoke as he had adjusted his focus back to the baseball game.

"Why would you think that?" I asked curious. If I recall, Hachiman's father remained silent for the duration of the family meeting set by my father and Hachi's mother.

"Well such a pretty girl like you is completely wasted on my ugly son." This is a family joke or something? He was the fourth person to say Hachi wasn't good enough for me. It was seriously ticking me off.

Mrs. Hikigaya stood behind her husband and smacked him in the head with a fairly large book. "And I wonder from whom he got his ugly genes from."

The father rubbed his sore head as he turned around to face his wife who was clearly hostile. "Yes I do wonder. His eyes remind me of my old man. Unpleasant to look at." This earned him another smack on the head.

Hit him again, maybe that will fix his dead brain cells. Maybe I should use this trick on my own husband. Hmmmm.

A small yawn unexpectedly escaped my mouth. The small boosted from the strawberry juice only lasting for a short while.

"Ah, you must tired Yumiko-chan. I don't blame you. It has been a tiring day. Why don't you go upstairs to rest?" I liked that suggestion but where exactly?

Hachiman's room? I guess it's my room now too but still. Hachiman you dummy couldn't you come home sooner.

Seeing my disposition Ms. Hikigaya walked closer to me. "Let's go upstairs to see your room."

I nodded without saying anything, getting off the sofa and nervously followed behind Mrs. Hikigaya, my head a bit low. "This is Komachi's room." Mrs. Hikigaya pointed to the first door on the left then immediately pointed to the door on the exact right. "While this is Hachi's old room."

"Old room?"

"Yes." She replied with a soft smile, "It's a small room, unfit for two people after all."

"Huh." Was she doing this intentionally?

Slightly pouting we continued to walk down end of the hall, a door flanking our right. Mrs. Hikigaya opened the door revealing the room inside.

The room was fairly big with a large bed, a drawer and closet. A two seat sofa positioned against the wall below a large window. Other than that, the room was pretty much burden.

"We never bother to decorate the guest home since we never had guest in the first place. But you two can change it to your liking. Your father wanted to shift all your things here but I told him it's better if you did it yourself."

"Did Hachiman know about all this?"

"Yes, I called him when you and Komachi were out buying groceries." She gave me a soft smile. She looked happy having to reconnect with her son again after a long time. "Hachi said he will take time off for a week till you can get settled."

I guess he isn't insensitive after all. I was a little upset that he took off to work on his first marriage day. That jerk.

"You can rest here if you are tired. Or if you want we can break into Komachi's room." The mother gave a devilish smile probably already planned out something.

The words, 'break in' caused my eyebrows to raise. "Ah, I am good." I kindly declined the offer, wanting to spare Komachi from her mother's scheming wrath.

It's nice to have a mother, isn't it?

"You sure?" She teased.

"She is probably tired so best not to disturb her." I explained causing the mother to frown, disappointed.

"There is sometime before the dinner, so I will rest here for a while." I told her to which she quietly nodded.

"It's been a long day for you, better if you rest till your father comes. Rest well Yumiko-chan." She said that as she closed the door behind her.

Now that I was alone in the room, my body seemingly collapsed onto the cold but soft bed. Being tired wasn't a lie. Even though it was only half a day, my body was exhausted and out of energy.

I guess a little nap won't hurt.

As soon as my heavy eyes closed, my body fell into a light sleep.

The sound of the door opening caused my eyes to open as my body shifted to gaze at the figure standing at the door.

Hachiman entered the room, closing the door behind him. He looked tired and exhausted. His dead eyes looked almost ghostly.

"Welcome back." I smiled at him, catching him off guard.

"Oh, sorry. Did I wake you?" He asked worried.

"No, just took a nap. No biggie." I got off the bed and moved closer to him, grabbing his hand trying to pull him towards the bed. "More importantly you should rest, you look like you might fall over any second."

"Its fine, I will manage. Your father just arrived, Mother and Komachi already done setting up everything so I will rest later."

I pouted and Hikigaya shrugged it off.

"Let's go downstairs then. Everyone is waiting."

I noticed my ponytail got undone while I was asleep so I moved to grab the sunflower band lying on the bed. "Let me tie my hair first."

"Its fine, you don't need to."

I looked over to him, my fingers fiddling with the hairband. "But you said I looked good with my hair tied up."

"I did say that, but you look good in everything you do, I like your hair just the way they are. You don't need to change them on my account."

Geez, how can you say all that with a straight face.

He pulled me along with him but when we reached the staircase, he released my hand. I guess he didn't want his family seeing him holding hands with me. I didn't mind and we climbed down the stairs.

Everyone attention immediately shifted towards me, I swallowed hard, calming my nerves. My father who was sitting on the sofa with Mr. Hikigaya got up as I approached him. We shared a brief hug before separating.

"Congratulations Yumiko." My father words were filled with warmth, his gentle smile calmly washed over me.

My father then turned to Hachiman. "Hachiman-san," my father gave a low bow while holding a small box gift wrapped, presenting it to the raven haired youth. "Please accept this."

Hachiman too lowered his head, giving a small bow. He wordlessly accepted the gift and both parties returned to their original state. "Thank you." My husband returned the gratitude.

"Let us start dinner then." Mrs. Hikigaya intervened, she probably noticed her son's exhausted state and wanted to hurry up with the formalities.

No one protested and everyone started picking up the plates centered on the lower table stationed before the TV. The Hikigaya's didn't have a proper dinner table and the residents after picking the food they sat down on one of the many sofas scattered around.

I was a little confused as to where to sit at first. Do I sit with Hachiman or with my father? But my doubts were dispelled when Hachiman looked over to me with a raised eyebrow and patted the seat next to him.

I let out a heavy breath once I was seated. But my peace was again disturbed when I saw everyone's eyes were looking my way.

"You two are unexpectedly close." My father remarked, surprise dawning his face, but he showed a small smile.

Mrs. Hikigaya and Komachi attention was also directed towards me. While Mr. Hikigaya remained indifferent, focusing solely on his food.

I sneaked a peek at my husband hoping he would pick up the plea for help and relieve me from this pressure. But unfortunately for me, he was too busy following in his father's footsteps and calmly ate his food without a care in the world.

I narrowed my eyes in annoyance, my husband was useless.

"Well, not really." I denied, cold sweat running down my back. Komachi narrowed her own eyes are my statement seeing though my lie while her mother looked at me with a scheming smile.

"Oh, did something special happen today?" He asked, trying to look for any mistakes on my end.

I smiled awkwardly, what didn't happen. "Nothing much really." The most noticeable event that took place was the encounter with Yukino and Hayama.

But I did not want to mention that in front of my father.

"Then why are you playing with your hair." My father promptly pointed it out.

I let go of my curly long bangs almost immediately, cursing them internally. I might dodge around the Hikigaya family but I can't fool my father of all people.

Everyone, even Mr. Hikigaya was waiting for my next response but I had no idea what to say.

"I proposed to your daughter. She eventually agreed to marry me, nothing else happened besides that." Hachiman casually stated while eating his rice bowl.

"So big brother was the one who proposed?" Komachi loudly yelled, her high pitched voice ringing in everyone ear. Mr. Hikigaya father seemed to have passed out while his wife covered her mouth, showing a surprised face.

Hikigaya scowled deeply upon his family's reaction. Why are they so surprised by this? I frowned too, it wasn't like the proposal they were thinking off. Geez, we just did it because of our parents.

I looked over to my father and he was gently smiling away. Mouuu, dad just how you can even carelessly smile like that is beyond me. This is all your fault in the first place.

"Big brother, did you like Yumiko nee-san before?" Komachi what are you doing. Defusing one bomb wasn't enough and now you throwing in more. Is this pay back for before? You were unhappy when I told you to call me Yumiko nee-san.

My head turned unexpectedly towards my husband, my heart rate had slightly increased as my eyes locked onto Hachiman's.

All the individuals in the living room had now turned their attention away from me to my husband who had stopped the spoon half way through his mouth.

Hachiman deepened his brows, making his sharp eyes more prominent.

I too, wanted to hear his response. I was feeling nervous and anxious. Hachiman who was studying me, grabbed my hand unexpectedly in a tender way.

This act did not go unnoticed by everyone in the room and this only managed to cause more unrest. Even Hikigaya's father who was disinterested in his son's affairs inched closer, leaning his body forward.

"I did find her attractive before." That was all Hachiman said before going silent.

Both Komachi and her mother tried to attack Hachiman with more questions but he had brushed them off skillfully making it clear that no one was going to get anything out of him.

Komachi pouted furiously stating, she doesn't like her bother and turns away eating her meal. However, she later showed a small smile on her face.

Mrs. Hikigaya seeing the sibling's interaction started to heartedly laugh, a tear running down her face. Her husband quietly patted her back, nodding.

My father silently watched from the sidelines as the scene before him unfolded.

The atmosphere had become warmer and lighter, both the fathers were talking with each other, their topics changing any given moment, from work life, politics to baseball. Although my father never played baseball before, he had knowledge about the sport to some degree. Even Hachiman who was listening to them, would pitch in every now and then.

Meanwhile both Komachi and her mother had free reign over me and continued to tease me as they wished. But I didn't dislike it, not in the least.

When did life become this blissful?

Soon all good things had to end and it was time for my father to leave.

"Thank you for everything." Mrs. Hikigaya bowed her head humbly.

"I should be the one saying that. Thank you for the dinner." My father bowed his head respectfully.

He then turned to face me. We hugged, "sorry." He whispered in my ear.

I separated away from my father, shaking my head while smiling. "Thank you dad, for everything."

My father showed a pained smile, but he nodded.

"Hachiman, please escort Mr. Miura to the door." Mr. Hikigaya instructed his son with his loud voice.

Hachiman didn't resist the command and walked alongside my father, both men disappearing when they crossed the threshold and Hachiman shut the door behind him.

I breathed out a heavy breath, and walked over to Mrs. Hikigaya and Komachi who were in the middle of cleanup.

"Let me help." I said already picking up a stack of plates heading towards the kitchen area. Mrs. Hikigaya protested saying I should relax and let her handle it. But I remained stubborn and continued to assist the two.

My eyes would drift to the doorway from time to time. Hachiman sure was taking his sweet time. Was my father talking to him?

The door opened and in came Hachiman, he had a deep frown on his face and looked completely exhausted. I guess the long talk with my father really drained him. His eyes looked like they might close any second.

"Hachi." I walked over to him, worried. "You alright."

He nodded, "Just need to sleep."

He walked pass me, heading upstairs and out of sight.

"You can go to your room if you want." Mrs. Hikigaya advised me.

But I shook my head, "no, I will only disturb him." So I went back to washing the dishes along with Komachi and her mother.

"Is something wrong dear?" Mrs. Hikigaya voiced her concern while washing a bowl. Komachi looked our way but opted not to say anything.

"No, it's nothing." I quietly denied her worries.

"I told you before, if you have something wrong, feel free to consult me, we are family after all. Alright?" She was looking at me with the corner of her eyes.

"I will." I replied and continued to wash the plates.

The rest of the cleanup didn't take long as the three of us worked together. When nothing else was left to do, Mrs. Hikigaya told me and Komachi to go and rest. I swallowed hard, I couldn't make an excuse to dodge my situation.

"I am going to watch TV for a while. My favorite drama is airing." Komachi informed her mother.

"I will watch it too." I took full advantage of this and declared.

The mother let out a sigh, "don't stay up to late now." Saying her piece, she walked away heading towards what I presumed was her room.

Komachi dimmed the lights first then turned on the TV, she switched a few channels before stopping at her intended show.

"Ah, so you watching this?" I voiced out in surprised.

"Oh, have you seen this drama before." Komachi asked, excitement in her voice.

I nodded, "this aired, a year ago. It was pretty popular too so I wouldn't be surprised if they would air it again."

"This is my first time watching so please, don't spoil it." She pleaded.

"What? I am not that evil, I mean what kind of person even enjoys spoiling for others."

"Onii-chan does." Komachi grumbled.

"He does?" He spoke in surprise.

"He takes sadistic pleasure in it. Well used to anyways. We haven't watched a movie together in a long time now."

"Let's go watch a movie together, the three of us." I suggested.

"Really?"

"Yeah, Hikigaya took a week off from his work so he will have time. And if he doesn't, I will drag him along." I declared, making a fist.

"Yumiko nee-san is so manly and dependable." The little sister let out a giggle.

We watched the drama while commenting on every scene and the cast members. Even though I already watching this particular drama, it was more enjoyable the second time because I was watching it with Komachi. It made me sad that the episode ended, signaling Komachi to return to her room.

I swallowed hard as I made my way upstairs. My steps were slow and heavy making their way towards my room, our room. I held the door handle, my palms sweaty. Taking a long deep breath, I turned the handle and opened the door.

The lights were still on. Hachi who was lying on the bed, opened his eyes and sat up straight on the bed, legs folded.

"Ah, sorry. Did I wake you up?" I apologized quickly, shutting the door. "You can go back to sleep. I will shut off the lights and sleep on the sofa."

I turned to switch off the lights but Hachiman's voice stopped me.

"It's fine, leave them on. Come here, I am have been waiting for you." He patted on the spot in front of him.

"Ah." Even though he said that. I remained in place, frozen. It was like invisible chains surrounded my body, preventing me from moving.

"Yumiko." He gently called out. "If you don't come here in five seconds, I will have to carry you here myself." He threatened.

The invisible chained seemed to have disappeared without a trace and I found myself sitting on the bed in a seiza position on the bed, directly in front of my husband.

My face was dyed completely red and my heart had a mind of its own. Hachiman grabbed my hands in a protective manner.

"What's wrong? You have been depressed ever since dinner." Whose fault do you think it is?

I could do nothing except to avert my gaze.

"Did I do something wrong?" He asked.

My hands gripped his, holding them firmly.

"Did I say something wrong, was it because of what Komachi said?"

My gaze still casted sideways refused to meet his. "You said, I was attractive."

"I did."

"So that's all I am. Pretty." There was a bitterness in my tune.

"Yes, you are cute, pretty and very huggable."

That doesn't make me happy at all. In the end, he just likes my looks. "I bet Yukinoshita is more cute, pretty and huggable than me, she will probably make a better plushy. You loved her after all didn't you?

"Yukinoshita huh. Now why would I compare Yukinoshita with my sweet, caring yet angry, moody wife who isn't afraid of punching someone in the face if the situation demands it?" Now he is just insulting me. What does he think of me as, a brute?

He let go off my hands and cupped my face, gently turning my face towards his. My eyes widen when I saw that big bright smile spread across his face. A smile only I had access to, no one else. Not even Yukino.

He without warning moved closer and planted a soft kiss on my forehead. My heart along with the rest of my body had stopped functioning immediately. Even when Hachiman moved back, I was frozen stiff.

"Sorry, this is the best I can do for now." Hachi said as he looked at me, his eye brows raised.

"Yumiko, you alright?" Only when he shook me that my senses returned back to normal.

"Whaaaaaaaat did you do idiot. Dummy. I hate you." I yelled, turning around burying my face in the pillow. I could die from embarrassment right now. It was already hard to look at him but now I don't want to be in the same room as him.

"What? Was that your first kiss?" Hachi questioned in surprise.

It was, but I am not going to tell him that. He might tease me more.

"Guess Hayama really didn't make a move you after all."

I sat up and threw the pillow as much force I could muster and threw it at Hachi's face. I really hate him, stupid, dead eyed Hachiman.

But as expected the pillow attack was completely ineffective and Hachiman retaliated by grabbing my arms, restraining me. He didn't use force against me. His hold was light and gentle, just like the warm smile he was showering me with. His family told me that Hachiman did not deserve a girl like me. But it was the reverse, I did not deserve to be around Hachiman.

Now that I had calmed down and was staring at my husband, Hachiman let go of my hands and began to pull something out of his pocket. My eyes widen as I stared at the object being held in Hachi's palm.

"What?" I asked bewildered.

"Whether Yukinoshita is prettier than you or smarter, all of that does not matter one bit. In the end, you are the one I am married to, not her." He grabbed my left hand and slid the ring across my finger. I was left speechless, not being able to utter a single word. I helplessly stared back and forth between Hachi and the ring in my hand.

"The ring is nothing special, they were the cheapest one I could buy with my funds. At first I was going to buy a necklace but I changed my mind at the last second, I just thought you might like this more. Do you?" He have an honest question, hoping for a reply from me.

I felt a tears running down my cheeks and I had to move my hands to rub them away. Hachi brought me in for a tight embrace, completely enveloped me in his arms. I desperately grabbed on his shirt, making it wet with my tears. Hachiman patted my back, comforting me.

"I forgot to mention my wife is a cry baby too." He cheekily spoke. I lightly punched him causing him to chuckle.

When we separated, Hachiman was holding another ring in his fingers. "Your turn." He playfully said.

I took the ring from Hachiman and nervously grabbed his left hand, clumsily sliding the oversized ring across his finger.

"The people at school will probably freak out when they hear about this. But of course, if you want to keep it a secret we…"

He was cut off when I leaned forward and planted my own lips on his cheeks. When I withdrew, Hachiman was completely red, he was taken by utter surprise as embarrassment took firm hold of him. He actually rolled back and fell flat on the floor.

Even though in any other situation I would have been overjoyed by this, praising myself for a flawless victory but my own state of mind was in a similar predicament as I realized what I had just done and again I found my head buried in the soft pillow.

"Yumiko." Hachi looked out, his voice was shaky. Hesitating I pulled my head away from the pillow and sneaked a peek at my husband. He was standing, his head completely turned away from me.

"This is probably going to go on for the whole night and I am pretty sleepy so I propose a true."

I retreated from the safety of the pillow and sat in front of my husband eyeing him suspiciously. "You won't play any trick on me will you?"

He raised his hands in surrender causing me to sigh. "Lie down, I will turn of the lights." Hachi did as he was told and he lie back down onto the bed as I got off, walking towards the switch to turn off the lights. Though, I preferred if they stayed on.

Now that the lights were off, I felt more nervous than before. Calm down Yumiko, you can do it. I braved myself and walked over to the bed, lying down on it. "Hachi, you awake?" I called out but there was no response. Did he fall asleep?

I moved closer until my head was a breath away from his chest. "Hachi, you awake?" I asked again, softer, making sure he was asleep. "Hachi?" my voice, barely a whisper came out not for my husband but for myself. Inching closer, I buried my head against his chest, fully utilizing the warmth it carried.

"I love you." I whispered before closing my eyes.

An arm wrapped around me, followed by, "I love you too."

My eyes shot open instantly, head-butting my husband.

"What the hell woman?" He yelled out but didn't remove his arm from around me.

"I shouuuuld be asking you the same thing. I thought we had a truce."

"Which you broke a few seconds ago." He explained

"So now, it's my fault?" My rage grew and so did my embarrassment.

"Woman, can I get some sleep for five minutes without us fighting?"

I puffed my cheeks, turning my body around away from Hachiman. "Do whatever you want?"

"A domestic quarrel on the first night, now that's progress." He jokingly said.

This time, he was the one who moved closer to me, wrapping his arm over my body.

"I don't know what you did, but my family seems happier now. It's been a long time since I saw my little sister smile at me like that, thank you." He whispered in my ear.

This jerk of a husband, honestly I hate him so much. He says that and just dozes off to sleep leaving me in a state of chaos, my heart feels like it might explode any second now. Hachiman, you big over-sized dense idiot of a husband. I turned around and again buried myself in his chest, latching onto his shirt.

I closed my eyes preparing to sleep.

Before getting married, I had wanted this nightmare to end as quickly as possible. But now I don't want to be separated from my husband ever. Please let this dream never end.

I let out a silent prayer and dozed off to sleep in the arms of my beloved.

Thank you to those who read till the end. This was actually a side project of a side project of a side project of a side project and I never intended to upload it online in the first place as I am not confident in my writing abilities. This story was original half its current size but a friend of mine told me to upload it, so i wrote more, intending to give it a good ending it deserved. I don't know whether I gave it one or not, that's not up for me to decide.

If you liked this fanfic, I have others centered around Hachiman and Yumiko but they are not finished as I most write as a hobby and they all share some similarities. If anyone is interested, I can work on them too.

Thank you again for reading this :D