Hey everyone, it's me again. Sorry for the lack of uploads. A lot has happened and so many distractions and difficulties. I've been having difficulties moving the story, and when I do make progress, it turns out bad, so I spent time making changes and it just kept going. Not only that, but a bunch of new games came out that I want to play and work has been busy. Just a lot, so sorry that each chapter takes forever to come out despite how I used to upload. Well aside from that thanks for always taking time out of your day to read this story and I hope you're all doing great.

Chapter 75: Step Up

Johnny: "So I heard from your friend that you and Yuri are dating now."

Michael: "We are."

Johnny: "That's cool, but try not to be like a certain someone that I could name."

Sebastian: "I'm right here. I can hear you!"

Michael: "Is he always like this?"

Ronald: "Pretty much."

Michael: "I feel sorry for you."

Ronald: "Someone has to."

Johnny: "Hey! Talking shit about me why don't you?" He headlocks his red headed friend.

On a whole new week of school. The four boys of the Literature Club decided to hangout for lunch after hearing the news about Michael and Yuri's relationship yesterday on Sunday. Not wanting to waste time Johnny gathered the boys to eat lunch on the roof of the school to ask about their relationship amongst other topics.

Sebastian: "We're an odd bunch aren't we?"

Michael: "I know. Have you seen the looks on everyone else's faces. They find it odd that the four of us are hanging out like we're close friends. Despite our history."

Sebastian: "I know what you mean. Four boys from different cliques eating lunch together and talking about relationships. Who wouldn't find it odd?"

Michael: *Sigh* "This is going to be a long day." (It only seemed like yesterday that me and Yuri started dating. When we first kissed on Valentines we swore to never let the others know about us until we were ready to share them the good news, but that plan was soon thrown out the window when the girls founds out. Despite us trying to hide it by doing what we normally do or just hanging out with the others. They found out, all because we gave each other odd looks.

When I told Yuri about it, she seemed fine with it knowing we couldn't keep it a secret forever. It made sense since we've known Sayori, Natsuki, and Monika for a long time, so we trusted them to keep their mouths shut from the others. Only saying anything when we're ready, but like always I was caught off guard. Honestly I never thought Yuri would be the one to announce our relationship over in the group chat.

Thought Sayori would let it slip out, but no. The one I thought that would say it, turned out the shy one did. When I saw the message I was shocked that Yuri would be the one to say it. I honestly thought that we would wait for a month or two, not now or in this case yesterday.)

Johnny: "So … who confessed first?" He says with his hands to his face with a serious expression.

Michael: "What?" His sudden question snapped him back from his deep thoughts.

Johnny: "Who confessed first?"

Michael: "Uh?"

Ronald: "Is that really appropriate?"

Johnny: "Oh come on, you want to know too, right?"

Ronald: "N-no, Sebastian help me out?"

Sebastian: "Actually I'm curious myself."

Ronald: "You too?" He nods and now all eyes were on Michael.

Michael: "I'm in danger." The boys wait for his answer as he begins to sweat nervously. "She did."

Ronald: "Wait for real!?" Michael nods.

Michael: "Though it was complicated at the time."

Sebastian: "How so?"

Michael: "It's a long story. To sum it up Ex came back, Yuri confessed, but I wasn't sure, now I am boom."

Johnny: "Like to hear the full story on that. Pretty sure you can make a story out of that?"

Michael: "Maybe some other time, unless it already exists?"

Ronald: "I take you and her are doing well?"

Michael: "We are. Though it can get awkward at times. No questions." He glares at Johnny.

Johnny: "Fine, fine, so Sebastian …"

Sebastian & Ronald: "Oh God."

Johnny: "Who confessed first when you and Hina started going out?"

Sebastian: "… Hina did."

Johnny: "Really? How?"

Sebastian: "It was back when I was still part of the Swimming Team. We've known each other from last year and hung out a few times."

Michael: "Was that when you met her friends?"

Sebastian: "Yeah, soon after I finished practice I saw her waiting out by the lockers. Turned out she was waiting for me as she wanted to take me out to town and after I agreed, she just straight up told me she likes me. I was so shocked that I couldn't respond until she kissed me on the cheek and that's how we started going out."

Michael: (Odd, I think I overheard something like that before?)

Johnny: "Damn, true story bro. So?"

Ronald: "Johnny don't even start with that sentence."

Johnny: "What I want to know what happened next."

Ronald: "I already know what you're going to ask and you need to be stopped."

Johnny: "You can't stop my curiosity. My mind is an enigma."

Ronald: "Yeah?"

Johnny: "Yeah!"

The two start to argue with each other with Michael and Sebastian face palming until someone showed up from the corner where they were talking.

?: "Jesus Christ can a guy get some rest here?"

Johnny: "And who the hell are you?"

Clyde: *Yawn* "Names Clyde and I WAS taking a nap until you assholes won't shut up."

Sebastian: "Oh sorry about that. We thought we were the only ones up here."

Clyde: "Well you aren't and by the looks of it. I can see why no one's around."

Sebastian: "What do you mean by that?"

Clyde: "Johnny the Ex-Captain of the Wrestling Team who got his ass kicked by the son of the bastard."

Johnny: "Tsk!"

Clyde: "A red head that no one knows about."

Ronald: "…"

Clyde: "The legendary Shark that drowned his career when he got his ass kicked by a nobody."

Sebastian: "!"

Clyde: "And you. The man no one wants around and yet you keep breathing. The son of the bastard Michael Connor."

Michael: "…" He says nothing, but stares him down fiercely almost ready for a fight.

Clyde: "The reason no one wants to be around you guys is just that. A bunch of rejects. Why do you guys even show up when no one likes you."

Johnny: "That's it. It's about time someone kicks your ass."

Clyde: "Bring it. If a guy like Connor can take you down, then so can I."

Johnny: "Oh I can't wait to see you down on your ass." He cracks his knuckles before taking one step forward.

Ronald: "No don't!" He steps in front of him along with Sebastian. "You can't fight him here."

Johnny: "Yeah, just watch me." He takes another step.

?: "What's going on here!" A girl with blonde hair with the tips in pink appears out of nowhere.

Clyde: "Oh great. The Student Council President is now here."

Sebastian: "Patricia?"

Patty: "I still prefer to be called Patty, but that's beside the point. What's going on here?"

Clyde: "Hmph! Nothing, just some guys chatting." He walks away from them.

Patty: "That didn't sound like one to me."

Clyde: "What do you know? Tch, I'm out of here."

Patty: "And where do you plan on going?"

Clyde: "None of your business."

Patty: "Listen here. You've been getting into a lot of trouble lately and as Council President it is my responsibility to help guide you."

Clyde: "Ha! You think you can guide me? Listen here, you only won cause the King and Queen left. Don't be going around thinking you can tell me what to do. Cause you ain't no leader."

Patty: "!"

Clyde: "I'm ditching. Later." He leaves the roof of the building.

Johnny: "God, what's up his ass today?" The big guy cracks his neck.

Ronald: "Don't know, but that was uncalled for."

Sebastian: "Are you ok President?"

Patty: *Sigh* "I am. I knew this was going to be difficult the moment I took over. I got large shoes to fill if I want anyone to respect me."

Sebastian: "Try not to beat yourself up."

Patty: "Thanks for the pep talk. I hope you four are alright?"

Sebastian: "We are. Thanks." The bell rings.

Patty: "Well that's the end of lunch. You boys better get going now. Don't want to get in trouble with the teachers now do we?"

The Four Boys: "Yes mam!" They all left for class.

Michael: "Do you guys know him by any chance or heard about him?"

Johnny: "Not me."

Ronald: "Same here, this is the first time we met."

Sebastian: "I haven't heard anything about him."

Michael: "Hmm?"

Sebastian: "It's best not to think about it. We bets get going now."

Michael: "You're right. See you guys at the club today." They all wave goodbye as they walk their own separate paths. (What was up with him? Clyde was his name right? I don't know why, but he seemed way more hostile towards me? Then again that shouldn't be new. My dad must've fucked over his life as well? For now I better just let it go. I got classes to worry about and after that the club. Oh man is that going to be a pain in the ass. I can just feel it.)

Clyde: "Tsk! So lame of that bitch." He kicks a can as he left school grounds. (Whatever, ain't my problem.) He continues walking down the streets while classes were in session.

Later that very same day.

Hina: "And that's why you should always tell her why you love her. Play your cards right and the both of you will be a happy couple for a long time."

Sakura: "Try to be funny or try a clever trick. I hear that works?"

Lily: "Why not feed her poetry?"

Jane: "Or some chocolate?" The four kept going.

Michael: (Why is this still dragging on?)

Sebastian: (Sorry, just hold out for a bit longer. Eventually they'll get tired and move to the next subject.)

The four girls would continue to give him advice eventually changing the subject for him to slip away. Wanting to forget everything he just went through. He decided to go talk with Sayori who was having a conversation with Ronald and Natsuki. In the meantime, Yuri was dragged into a conversation with Monika, Hina, and Sebastian. The day went by as normal as it can be as it finally came to an end. However, right after everyone left. Monika asked each of the original five members to stay behind. When everyone else left. The original five gathered in a circle.

Monika: "Sounds to me, all of you had a fun day today?"

Sayori: "Sure have."

Natsuki: "It's alright. A bit rowdy though, but I guess more livelier."

Monika: "That's great to hear. What about you two?"

Yuri & Michael: "…" The two seemed drained while Monika giggles at their expressions.

Monika: "Well either way, I'm glad to know you're all having fun and making great progress with your stories. Who knows I might make the deadline earlier."

Everyone Else: "Yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!"

Monika: "Alright, alright, I won't do that. We're keep it the way I intended it. Speaking of which. Michael."

Michael: "Yeah?"

Monika: "Are you and Yuri doing?"

Michael: "We're doing great."

Yuri: "Indeed, just Saturday we went out to a carnival."

Monika: "Ah, sounds romantic. I'm glad to know you two are doing great."

Michael: "Monika?"

Monika: "There has been one thing that's been bothering me though." She gives him a serious look of concern.

Michael: "W-what's wrong?"

Monika: "Are the two of you getting along?"

Michael: "!"

Sayori: "Huh? What do you mean by that? Didn't we just ask how MC and Yuri are doing?"

Yuri: "I don't think that's what she meant?"

Sayori: "Uh, then who?"

Michael: "You're referring to me and Johnny right?" The others look with concern.

Monika: "Have the two of you, you know?"

Michael: "Fought, no. We haven't had any issues that would lead into one. We've already buried the past."

Monika: "That's good to hear. That puts my mind at ease, but there is another thing about you that still bugs me."

Michael: "And that would be?"

Monika: "How do you know how to fight?"

Sayori/Natsuki/Yuri: "What!?"

Monika: "When you first ran away from us after our club trip to the indoor pool. I saw how you defended yourself against Johnny and his crew."

Natsuki: "Wait is she for real?"

Monika: "I am. I saw with my own eyes. So Michael. Will you tell us about that?"

Yuri: "M-Monika, that seems way too personal?"

Monika: "I know it is, but aren't you curious as well?"

Yuri: "I …"

Michael: "I would rather not talk about it now. It's a long story, but to summarize it. An old friend of mine and Sara got me into training for … reasons. That's how I learned."

Monika: "I see?"

Sayori: (Old friend? Was it Jason? No that can't be it. That doesn't sound like him from the one time I talked to him? Maybe another friend he met?)

Yuri: (That friend of his. It must've been Evan?)

Natsuki: "What the hell have you been up to before you met us?"

Yuri: "Natsuki!"

Natsuki: "What?"

Michael: "It's ok. I know there's still a lot about me you don't know about, but I hope you girls can bear with me for the time being. Right now it doesn't seem like the right time to talk about it. It is a long story after all."

Natsuki: "Fffiiiiine! I'll let it go for now, but you better tell us about yourself someday."

Michael: "I will. I promise."

Monika: "Well with that settled. You're all free to head home. I hope to see you all tomorrow. Take care of yourselves."

Everyone Else: "Yes mam!"

Later on after everyone went home. Droplets of water can be heard echoing.

Yuri: (What has he been up to before he met us? I know about his home life and a little bit about his friend Evan, but there are still a lot I don't know about him. I don't want to pry it out of him, but I want to know more about him. Hopefully he opens up to tell us, but then again I shouldn't be forcing him to speak when I'm no better.) She lifts up her arm from the water she is soaking in.

(I need to stop. I need to tell him the truth. He deserves to know. He has told me so much about himself and I have yet to tell him about myself. The real me, but then again if I was to tell him. He would leave me. Once he sees it. It'll all be over. I'll be alone again. That little Devil within me. It still lingers. I … I need it right now. I need to relive this stress, just a bit.)

The following day as the final bell rang. Walking through the hallways with book in hand. (I wonder if we should read together again or maybe interact with our club members? I would like it if we spent time together whether it be reading or not.) "Kya!" She accidently bumps into someone. "Oh I'm terribly sorry. I wasn't looking where I was going."

Clyde: "You bet you weren't. Oh you're that Yuri girl right?"

Yuri: "I-I am?"

Clyde: "Saw you perform during the Festival."

Yuri: "D-did you?"

Clyde: "Pft! Can't believe you're the same girl that couldn't even read a poem last year." He starts laughing.

Yuri: "Eh?"

Clyde: "I heard about a girl who couldn't read a single sentence. When I heard that I thought that was so lame. Who can't read a simple poem?"

Yuri: "P-poetry …" She starts to lose herself.

Clyde: "What's wrong? You look tired? Is it due to the loss of blood?"

Yuri: "W-what?"

Clyde: "What a weirdo. I hear you like to cut yourself and that you enjoy it? The hell is wrong with you? A girl like you doing something like that?" He says with a big'ol smile on his face as he fights off the laughter.

Yuri: "N-no that isn't …"

Clyde: "Maybe you should just leave?" He says in a serious tone and expression.

Yuri: "Eh?"

Clyde: "Can't stand the sight of you."

Yuri: "B-but I …"

Clyde: "Who in the right mind would like a freak like you?"

Yuri: "…"

Clyde: "I'm out. Feels like I might get in the habit if I stay here any longer. I need something like a beer or something." He walks away while Yuri stands still with a blank expression.

Yuri: "…"

?: "Yuri, Yuri."

Michael: "Yuri"

Yuri: "Huh?"

Michael: "You alright? You've been spacing out?"

Yuri: "Have I now?" He nods. "Ah I see. I must be feeling ill then? I best be getting home."

Michael: "Do you want me to walk you home?"

Yuri: "No, no, I'll be fine on my own. Thank you for offering. I'll see you tomorrow."

Michael: "Well … ok?" He watches as she leaves the classroom.

Natsuki: "What's up with her?"

Michael: "I don't know. She said she was feeling sick and decided to head home."

Natsuki: "And you didn't offer to walk her home?"

Michael: "You think I wouldn't?"

Natsuki: "Fair enough? Guess I'll let Monika know when she gets back."

Michael: "Right?" (Hope everything is going alright with her. She's been acting weird when she got here.)

Breathing heavily, feeling dizzy as her heart beats rapidly. The negative thoughts echoing in her mind.

"Who in the right mind would like a freak like you?"

Yuri: (I … I need to … head … home. I … I need it.)

"Trash"

Yuri: (No I …)

"He's right. Who could love a monster like you? Just leave and never come back."

Yuri: (I …)

Monika: "Oh Yuri?"

Yuri: "Huh!?" The thoughts shuts themselves.

Monika: "Are you ok? Why are you out here in the halls?"

Yuri: "Oh Monika. I wasn't feeling too well."

Monika: "Ah, so you're heading home?"

Yuri: "Indeed. I'm sorry."

Monika: "Nah, don't be. Can't do much when you're feeling under the weather. Though if you like I could ask someone to help you home."

Yuri: "That's very considerate of you, but I can manage getting home."

Monika: "You sure? I'm sure Michael or Natsuki wouldn't mind taking you."

Yuri: "No, no, really. I'm fine walking home by myself. Please return to the others. I'll be fine."

Monika: "Well if you say so, but don't hesitate in calling us okay?"

Yuri: "Yes, thank you. I'll see you tomorrow, possibly?"

Monika: "Yeah sure. Take care of yourself and get plenty of rest."

Yuri: "I will." She walks up ahead while Monika watches over concerned. After a long walk home. Yuri unlocks her front door only to realize it's already unlocked. (Ah, my parents must be home already. I should've known they would be.) She enters her house and her mother hears her daughter's footsteps.

Yuri's Mother: "Sweety is that you?"

Yuri: "Yes"

Yuri's Mother: "You're home early? Did something go wrong at your club?"

Yuri: "No … We just, decided to end it early today."

Yuri's Mother: "Ah I see. Well dinner won't be ready for a while now, so why not go take a nice relaxing bath?"

Yuri: "That does sound nice."

Yuri's Mother: "Then I'll let you know when dinner's ready."

Yuri: "Okay, thank you mother." She leaves to her room to grab her towel and does what her mother suggested. The warm steam. The warm atmosphere and yet a cold expression. (Where have I gone wrong? Why was I born like this? If I hadn't messed up, I wouldn't have made our club look bad. Because of that, people now look at me as a mess.

Making fun of me, saying such awful things. Michael … I don't deserve him. He doesn't deserve to be with someone like me. I'm only holding him back. If this keeps up then they'll just mock him even more. I can't allow him to go through that. This stress I'm feeling. That urge is coming again. I need to relive myself. I promised myself not to do it anymore, but I need to relive this stress.)

Yuri's Mother: "Is everything ok sweety!? Dinners ready!"

Yuri: "Ah, yes I'm doing well! I'll be out soon!"

Yuri's Mother: "Alright then, but hurry or your food will get cold!"

Yuri: "Yes thank you!" (Time for me to leave. I hope things go well tomorrow.)

Yuri's Father: "Is she coming for dinner?"

Yuri's Mother: "Yeah, she just need to dry herself up and put on some clothes."

Yuri's Father: "I see."

Yuri's Mother: "Well until she gets down here, we best eat ourselves. So put that phone away and eat up."

Yuri's Father: "Sorry, I was just reading the news."

Yuri's Mother: "I thought I told you not to read them? You know how they mess with you right?"

Yuri's Father: "I know, but this girl on the news just makes me worry about our daughters safety."

Yuri's Mother: "Why, what's going on?"

Yuri's Father: "Apparently there's a high school looking girl who escape prison."

Yuri's Mother: "High school girl? What did she do?"

Yuri's Father: "Apparently, she showed signs of being a danger to everyone around her. Says here she caused a couple to kill each other and that she loves to kill animals."

Yuri's Mother: "Oh my God and her parents?"

Yuri's Father: "They were the ones who sent her away. Thought it would be for the best to lock her away, but now she's let loose. I don't know how she got out, but the entire country needs to be on the lookout."

Yuri's Mother: "That's terrifying. I hope the police catch her before she causes more trouble."

Yuri's Father: "I hope so. I know some cops. I'm sure they'll be the first to notify me as soon as she's apprehended."

Yuri's Mother: "Hope so."

A new day came by as lunch period is in session. Walking down the hallways, making her way to the library. The people talking behind her back as she walks by.

Random Student: "Heard she did great with the performance, but she still acts stuck up."

Random Student 2: "I know and it sucks. She's hot, but weird.

Random Student 3: "There's been a rumor going around how she likes to cut herself. Have you heard of it?"

Random Student 4: "I have."

Random Student 5: "She's the only one that could stand up to Monika when it comes to grades, but damn is she stuck up. Never talking to anyone, spending all her time alone at the library."

Yuri: (Another day of them speaking about me. Ever since the first School Festival it's been none stop. I never told anyone about it because I didn't want them to worry. Especially Monika. I didn't want her to feel guilty about what happened, but it's for the best I take the blame. It was my fault for never completing my performance.)

Bully: "Did you hear about Connor?" Yuri stops in place when she heard his name.

Bully 2: "About what exactly?"

Bully: "Oh man you got to hear this, so you know how that big rack girl fucked up her performance?"

Bully 2: "Yeah? It was the talk of the town." Yuri lips quiver.

Bully: "Ok, so you know how Connor is a part of the Literature Club right?"

Bully 2: "Yeah?"

Bully: "Ok so when she ran away crying Connor actually try to defend her in front of everyone."

Bully 2: "Woah for real?"

Bully: "Yeah, you know the story right man. You were there." He looks to his other friend.

Bully 3: "Yeah I saw it all. Someone was telling her off cause she refused to read her poem or whatever and she ran away crying. Then Connor tried to defend her until Johnny walked in."

Bully 2: Wait the same Johnny from the Wrestling Team?"

Bully 3: "The very same."

Bully 2: "Then what happened?"

Bully 3: "They were about to fight until The Queen put the brakes on them."

Bully 2: "Damn I was hoping he would be the one to take him down."

Bully 3: "As if. I heard from one of his crew that he got his ass kicked by Connor and that was it. Now they're just friends or something."

Bully 2: "Wait so he joined the Literature Club?"

Bully 3: "Apparently."

Bully: "Wow that's a lot to take in."

Bully: "Tell me about it. Guess that proves the other rumor I heard."

Bully 2: "About?"

Bully: "Apparently Shark and some other girls joined them too."

Bully 2: "Wait The Shark?"

Bully: "The one and only."

Bully 2: "So you're telling me that Connor is forcing them to join that stupid club?"

Bully: "Seems like it. Why else would they join a dumb club full of weirdos." Yuri grips her book tightly.

Bully 3: "Hey The Queen is Club President, remember?"

Bully: "Yeah and I bet Connor has some dirt about her. For all we know he was the one who started The Literature Club. Why else would anyone join in that waste of space."

Yuri: "Take that back!" The three boys turn to see a very upset Yuri.

Bully 3: "Oh speak of the devil."

Yuri: "You … You don't know a thing about him."

Bully 3: "Huh?"

Yuri: "You don't know anything about anyone in our club. You don't have the right to say such awful things about them, about him!"

Bully 3: "What a bitch."

Yuri: "What?"

Bully 3: "Talk about an ugly personality. First you don't speak, second you hide yourself, third you ignore us, and now you want to speak up? About that piece of shit Connor?"

Yuri: "You don't know a thing about him."

Bully 3: "And why should we? He's the son of that bastard. Whatever he's capable doing Connor can do the same. How many until he's satisfied? Who does he have to kill or rape to get what's coming to him? Want to tell me that?"

Bully: "Careful, she might stab you if you keep talking."

Bully 3: "Yeah, let her. See if Connor can defend her now?"

Yuri: "Why?" The three bullies look to her confused. "Why are you people so judgmental, so mean? How many good people suffer because of you?"

Bully 2: "Us the bad guys here? No, no, no, I think you got that backwards. We're the victims here, not him or you. You two are the most disgusting people to ever walk in this town and I wish you too would just disappear. What right do you have to say we're the bad guys when he's out there harassing people. Huh?" He suddenly felt a hand on his shoulder, gripping it tightly as he could feel the blood flow stopping.

Michael: "Are you harassing her?"

Bully 2: "Huh!?" He froze in place as his friends do the same.

Michael: "What did you say or do to her?" He gives them the death glare.

Bully: "W-w-w-well you see." Him and his friend run away.

Bully 2: "Hey don't leave me here alone!" Soon he broke out and ran with them.

Michael: "You ok Yuri?"

Yuri: "I …" She tries to fight off the tears building up, but Michael holds onto her in his arms. "They said such awful things about us and the club. I couldn't let them get away with that, but …" *Sniff* "The club is the laughingstock because of me." She cries more into is chest.

Michael: "It's ok. Come on let's go to the library. Take your mind off of things."

Yuri: *Sniff* "Okay"

Michael: "Alright let's go." He takes her hand and guides her to the library. By the time they reached there, they saw there was no one around. Not even the librarian was around. "Seems like the librarian went out for lunch?" He looks at the note left behind.

Yuri: "Well it only makes sense. A nice change of paste never hurts anyone."

Michael: "If you say so." They take their seats as Yuri reads while Michael plays with his phone.

Yuri: "Don't you ever feel embarrassed?"

Michael: "About?"

Yuri: "Th-this whole d-d-dating thing?"

Michael: "No, do you?"

Yuri: "W-well it's just … I'm really nervous about all this. That's all."

Michael: "Those bullies made uncomfortable?"

Yuri: "Yes, apparently when you defended me after I ran away last year. Rumors began to spread about us."

Michael: "I see. Just ignore them. They don't know shit about us."

Yuri: "But?"

Michael: "Let them think what they want. Right now I just want to spend time with you."

Yuri: "B-but what if they."

Michael: "You're with me now. Just do what you do best and forget those losers. Keep your eyes on me."

Yuri: "Ah?"

Michael: "Sorry. I didn't mean to sound harsh. Guess they got to me too?"

Yuri: "It's okay as a matter of fact I'm happy to hear you say that."

Michael: "Are you now?"

Yuri: "Indeed, It feels like when the knight came to save the princess from one of my stories I read."

Michael: "I see." (She does love her stories. I just hope things go well for her and she gains more confidence in herself. Until then I'll just enjoy spending time with her.) He lays his head on her shoulder.

Yuri: "M-Michael?"

Michael: "Relax, we're not doing anything inappropriate."

Yuri: "I-I-I know that, but …"

Michael: "We already kissed and held hands. I think we're already past the line."

Yuri: "What do you mean?"

Michael: "Never mind it." (She must never know about the lewdness.) Yuri looks to him confused.

Meanwhile, walking down the hallways.

Bully: "Man that was terrifying. Thought my heart was going to stop when he showed up. I mean did you see his face?"

Bully 2: "You afraid? I was the one he grabbed. God my shoulder is aching and my arm is numb."

Bully 3: "Despite his reputation the Student Council refuses to do anything about it."

Bully: "Man they suck. If Zackary or Todd were in charge I bet they would have done something about it."

Bully 2: "But no they just had to leave."

Bully 3: "Well if they won't do anything, then I guess it's up to us."

Bully 2: "What do you mean?"

Bully 3: "What do you think? Let's get the rest of the guys and handle the situation ourselves."

Bully: "Oh I get it. We're play the numbers game. There's no way he can take on all of us at the same time."

Bully 3: "Exactly, so who's in?"

Bully 2: "I am. Let's do this."

Bully 3: "And you?"

Bully: "Well … might as well. If the teachers and Council won't do a thing guess we don't have much of a choice."

Bully 3: "Then let's gather the others and find where he goes. We strike today."

Bully: "Why today?"

Bully 3: "If we wait then he'll just cause more trouble. We need to stop him now."

Bully: "Ah ok, then I'll be the one to spy on him."

Bully 3: "Ok then the rest of us will meet up with you when he's alone."

Bully: "Ok"

?: "Nice plan. Mind if I join?" The three boys look to where they heard the voice.

Bully 3: "And you are?"

Clyde: "Clyde. I happened to overhear you guys and thought I might help out. So how about it? The more guys you have the more you stand a chance against him." The three boys looked to each other before looking back at him again with a smug look on his face.

Sayori: "Sure you can." Later after club hours had ended.

Michael: "Are you sure about this?"

Sayori: "I'll be fine walking on my own. You go and have fun with Yuri."

Michael: "Ok, thanks."

Sayori: "No prob, just make sure to be home before dark."

Michael: "Yeah, yeah I got it. Later."

Sayori: "See you later MC." He leaves with Yuri. (Aw I hope those two are getting along? Yuri is shy, but she's been opening up more and more to him.)

Walking downtown as the sun sets, but the clouds looking grey

Michael: "It's been like this all day. Do you think it'll rain again?"

Yuri: "I'm not sure. The reports said nothing of rain, just very cloudy."

Michael: "Hopefully it doesn't. I don't want to get sick again and have you ditch school for me."

Yuri: "It was the one time, but please take better care of yourself."

Michael: "Alright, alright. I was only joking."

Yuri: "I know."

Michael: "Something on your mind?"

Yuri: "There is. Sorry."

Michael: "What's on your mind?"

Yuri: "It might sound silly, but I'm just worried."

Michael: "Are you still bothered by what those jerks said?"

Yuri: "No it's not that."

Michael: "Then what?"

Yuri: "… I'm just worried about Sayori."

Michael: "Why? What did she do?"

Yuri: "Nothing like that. I'm just worried if I made her upset. That's all."

Michael: "Why would she?"

Yuri: "I feel bad for taking you away from her."

Michael: "What makes you think that?"

Yuri: "The two of you always walk home together. I just feel like I ruined it for her."

Michael: "Ah, so that's the reason? Don't worry about it. It takes a lot more to upset her."

Yuri: "Eh?"

Michael: "I know you're worried about her since she confessed about her depression, but she's not the same girl who hides behind a mask. She's a bright sunshine now."

Yuri: "…"

Michael: "Everything will be ok. Trust me. It takes a lot more for her to be upset."

Yuri: "I suppose you do make a good point. The both of you are childhood friends after all. I'm sure you have seen her upset before correct?"

Michael: "Yeah. It's actually quite horrifying seeing her angry."

Yuri: "It must be? She's always cheerful that I never took as the angry type." The two continue walking as they chat about Sayori until.

Clyde: "Ha found you." Both Michael and Yuri turn to see him and the three boys from earlier along with two more guys. "Connor"

Michael: "You guys again?"

Clyde: "Yeah it's us. We almost lost you if it wasn't for this idiot."

Bully: "Hey I needed to use the restroom you know!?"

Michael: "Christ, what do you want this time?"

Clyde: "For someone who's an outcast you do forget your role." Michael stands in front of Yuri.

Michael: "Stay behind me."

Yuri: "Okay" She does what he asks.

Michael: (This might be a problem. Normally I could take these guys out, but I have Yuri to worry about. If things go south, she might get hurt. No matter what. I won't let anything happen to her.) He gets his hands ready for a fight.

Bully 3: "Are you guys ready?" His crew yelled out. "Then let's take care of him once and for all." Michael takes off his jacket and tie.

Clyde: (Six to one. Doesn't seem fair, but just in case …) He checks his pocket while Michael rolls up his sleeves.

Bully 3: "Come on boys! Let's go!"

The Boys: "Yeah!"

Michael: "Yuri get out of here!"

Yuri: "Huh!?"

Michael: "Just go and don't look back."

Yuri: "But?"

Michael: "Go, you're a distraction!"

Yuri: "!"

[Enemy by Sevendust]

Before he knew it they all came rushing in as two of them came from the sides. Seeing them Michael rushes up ahead as the two boys ran into each other while he tackles one up front of him. Soon two more boys appeared behind him hoping to hold him back, but knowing what they were planning as he noticed one of them running to the back. He made a sharp turn and gave one of the guys a round house kick and a good one two punch to the other.

Clyde: (So it is true. He can fight like no other. Welp, can't just rush in like a dumbass. Got to keep an eye on them then strike when I have the perfect chance.) He takes something out of his pocket as he watches closely.

While the first two guys get up. They attempted to strike again, but Michael gave them both a hard strike, one to the face and the other to the stomach. Knocking them back to the ground. Soon all five got back up and attacked at the same time. Some of them manage to get a few good licks in, but Michael was able to push them all away.

Michael: (Shit, I should've known this would happen. My fists feel a bit numb and I'm breathing heavily. My senses are a bit dull as well and I've taken way too much hits to the body. Hate to admit it, but I have gotten soft. Not only that, but that old feeling I'm having. The nostalgia is coming back.) He clenches his hands while the five guys try to get up. (Yeah, just like old times. The adrenaline is coming out and I'm actually enjoying the pain.) He smiles.

(Guess me and my sister aren't so different after all. No I can't enjoy this. I need to focus. I need to keep fighting. I need to fight for her.) "Huh?" Feeling an odd stare, he looks behind himself and sees Yuri staring at him with a horrified look in her eyes. (Why hasn't she left already? No don't look at me like that.) "Yuri!"

*Gasp* Before he knew it Clyde finally strikes as a trail of blood can be seen on his chest. (A pocket knife?)

Clyde: "Shit" He steps away. "Almost got him."

Bully 4: "What the?"

Clyde: "What? Never seen a pocket knife before?" The boys just stare off. "Whatever" (He wasn't even focusing on us. He was too busy looking at that girl. God I hate people like that.) He grips the knife tightly.

"It's over between us."

Michael: (That was close. He managed to get me, but if I hadn't reacted in time he could've stabbed me right there.) He touches his cut as blood remained on his hand.

[Song Ends]

Clyde: "What are you waiting for? Get him."

The boys managed to get up and attacked again, but Michael held his own as he took one of them by the arm and threw him to the others.

Bully 2: "Guh! Why the same arm?"

Before he could shout again his friends managed to get him off of them and continue to strike. However just as one of them was about to attack Michael from behind. He soon turned and gave that guy a strong right hook to the face sending him flying as he smacks into a wall.

Bully 5: "Ga!" *Knock out*

The others gasps at what they just witnessed.

Bully: "Holy shit. Is he dead?" His friend twitches. "Oh?"

Yuri: "My God, Michael."

Michael: "Get out of here!"

Yuri: "N-No I can't."

Michael: "Do you want to be used as bait!"

Yuri: "!"

Before he could respond Clyde strikes again this time cutting his leg and arm, and was able to cut his cheek before Michael pushed him away.

[After Me by Saliva]

Clyde: "Ga!" He slid on the floor a bit. (Shit! That was a strong one. My heart almost stopped for a second.)

Bully 3: "Bastard. Why are you left alive? Why was my aunt arrested and your dad wasn't?" He cracks his neck and strikes again, but Michael dodges it. Only to be caught by two of his friends, each holding his arms.

Yuri: "Michael!"

Bully 3: "It's because of you she got killed in prison for a crime she never committed and it's all because of your dad!" He strikes at him and he falls to his knees.

Yuri: "Please stop!"

They ignored her plead as he strikes again, but this time Michael hops back up to his feet and kicks him right on the face. Shocked that he could still keep going, the two bullies holding him loosen their grip, giving Michael the opportunity to break free and round house kick them away. Not too long Clyde comes out again and cuts him again on his chest making the wound a cross shape. However just before he could strike again, Michael managed to grab him and knock the knife out his hand as it now flies through the air away from them.

Landing on the ground near her. Yuri picked it up hoping that it wouldn't be used again. However, after being knocked down, Clyde notices her picking it up while Michael gives the next bully a strong right hook, knocking him out. With his attention towards them he failed to noticed Clyde moving away from the action.

Michael: (Damn) He breathes heavily. (They just keep coming. The only way I can end this is if I just knock them out. That's the only way we can make it out of this alive. Two out of six of them are down for the count, but I'm already reaching my limit. The cuts are making it worst as my blood keeps spilling. Not sure how long I can keep this up. I wasn't expecting a pocket knife. A fuck up on my part for not expecting weapons.) "Eh?" He looks behind himself to he see Clyde walking towards Yuri.

Yuri: "S-stay back." She walks away slowly with the knife in her hand.

Clyde: "Give me the fucking knife back."

Yuri: "N-no I refuse." He won't listen. "I said stay back!" She points the pocket knife at him.

Clyde: "What are you going to do, stab me?"

Yuri: "I"

Clyde: "Or are you going to cut me like how you cut yourself?"

Yuri: "!"

Clyde: "Then give me the fucking knife!"

Michael: "Clyde!"

Clyde: "Huh?" Before he knows it, Michael gives him a few punches before grabbing him and throwing him towards the other guys. "Stay away from my Yuri!"

Yuri: "Michael!" (I've never seen him like this before.) She looks down on the floor and sees blood dripping from his cuts. (His fast heart beats are making the blood flow faster. If this keeps up he might die due to blood lose. I need to do something, but what?) Her hand twitches as they continue.

Clyde: "Fucking Connor, I hate you, I hate you, I fucking hate people like you!" He gets right back up as the three boys still conscience struggle to get up.

Bully: "I don't understand. We have six guys here and we're still getting our asses kicked by one guy."

Bully 4: "Not even Johnny could take him out, then again it was just him."

Michael: "What are you talking about?"

Bully 4: "Huh? Didn't you fight Johnny? It was all over the school?"

[End of Song]

Michael: "I have fought him, but he wasn't alone."

All Bullies: "What!?"

Michael: "He had his crew with him and they all ganged up on me. You could ask The Queen herself, she saw it happen."

Bully: "N-no way."

Bully 4: "Johnny and his crew had the same idea and it didn't work?"

Michael: "Seems like his old crew told some lies, but it's the truth. Even when they were strong, they weren't enough for me to handle."

Bully: "Ah shit man and they were part of the Wresting Team and they couldn't even beat him?"

Bully 2: "I got hurt for no reason then? Ah man." He says laying on the ground holding his arm after waking up from his knockout.

Bully 5: "Uhhh" He moves a bit, but shows no signs of getting back up.

Bully 3: "Shit and here I thought we could take him on together."

Clyde: "Ah bitch please." The crew looks to him. "If you guys want to run then go, but I'm staying.

Bully 4: "You're insane dude. Did you not see what he just did? He knocked out one of us while the other struggles keeping conscience. What makes you think we stand a chance?"

Clyde: "Yeah and look. He's bleeding he's moving around. If we keep this up he'll die due to blood loss."

Bully 4: "Yeah but?"

Clyde: "And who cares what anyone thinks. The school hates him, the police doesn't do shit, and the ambulance can't do anything about it."

Bully 3: "He has a point. Everyone get back up and keep going." His friends look to him surprised. Michael looks to them intensely as he readies himself.

Clyde: "Connor! Looks like we're still capable of going, so how about it?" He smirks again.

Michael: "Smug ass bastard, fine!"

Yuri: "Michael!" They all get ready to attack again, until.

?: "Stop it right now Clyde!" Both boys look to where they heard a girls voice. "What the hell is wrong with you!" A white hair girl with blue eyes appeared with a very angry look and two police officers right behind her.

Clyde: "Oh great, it's Senna."

Bully: "Wait how the police know?" He looks over and sees Yuri putting away her phone. "Oh"

Senna: "The hell is going on here!? Look at you!" She grabs him by the arm and drags him a bit. While the police officers began questioning everyone. "The hell is going on!?"

Clyde: "It's none of your business."

Senna: "It is my business! Look how beaten up all of you are."

Clyde: "So what? I'm doing everyone a favor and doing the one thing the Council and the teachers never had the balls to do."

Bully: "Uh?" Senna gives him a glare and after feeling his spine shiver, he zipped his mouth.

Senna: "So help me God! And you, we're not done here. What's really going on?"

Clyde: "You blind or stupid? Can't you see I'm here fighting against Connor?" She looks to him and sees Michael all beaten up as one of the police officers helps him stop the bleeding while the other makes a call. When she saw that she then notices Yuri right behind him crying while helping the police officer.

Senna: "Why?"

Clyde: "Huh?"

Senna: "Why are you fighting him?"

Clyde: "Cause he's Connor, duh."

Senna: "I'm not buying it. There's more you're not telling me."

Clyde: "!" Senna walks to Michael and Yuri.

Senna: "You ok?"

Michael: "Fading a bit, but still kicking."

Senna: "Forgive me."

Michael: "Huh?"

Yuri: "Why are you?"

Senna: "That stupid fool is my childhood friend."

Michael: "He is?"

Senna: "Sorry. I didn't want our first meeting being like this. I should've kept a better eye on him and now look where we are." He doesn't say a word until, but had to ask.

Michael: "Why?"

Senna: "Huh?"

Michael: "Why are you apologizing to me?"

Senna: "Why wouldn't I?"

Michael: "You're wearing our school uniform, you must've heard about my reputation? So why are you apologizing to me?"

Senna: "Ah that's what you meant? I … I don't know, but I guess I can trust you since you …" She looks up to Yuri.

Yuri: "Michael, relax. Rest up. The ambulance will be here." She gently holds his shoulder.

Michael: "Ok" Soon after the ambulance arrived along with another police car as they took Michael to get aid. During which one of the police officers takes Yuri home to let her parents know what happened while the other police car took Senna and Clyde to their station.

Senna: "Possession of a pocket knife. Where did you get it from?"

Clyde: "Lay off. It was my grandmother's …"

Senna: "Don't you fucking start with that."

Clyde: "Fine, but how did you know where I was?"

Senna: "I overheard some students."

Clyde: "What?"

Senna: "Apparently one of you guys just couldn't keep your mouth shut, so when I heard you were involved I had to see for myself.

Clyde: "Oh for fuck sake." (Can't keep anything a secret in that God damn school.)

Senna: "Unfortunately I lost where you guys went, so it took me longer to find you."

Clyde: "And I take it you were the one who told the police?"

Senna: "No they just arrived at the same time as me."

Clyde: "Wait if you didn't call them then?" (Oh that stupid purple haired bitch!)

Senna: "You better have an explanation to you dad."

Clyde: "Whatever, I bet he would approve of me …"

Senna: "Cut the crap, no he wouldn't even if it's Connor." She rubs her eyes as it starts to water. "Why'd you do it? Why did you have to fight him?"

Clyde: "Because it was Connor."

Senna: "You and your family have nothing to do with them and he wasn't the cause of your …"

Clyde: "Don't even start with that."

Senna: "What?"

Clyde: "Don't make me look like the bad guy. After all, last I heard you were judgmental against him too, so don't act like you're in the right. Hypocrite!"

Senna: "…" Clyde looks out of the police car window as they drive by all the buildings.

Clyde: (This ain't over yet. Not by a long shot.) The white head looks towards her friend.

Senna: (God help me and him. What a pain.)

End of Chapter 75