A/N: first of all apologies to all my readers who expected an up. Sadly this isn't one. It is just me responding to a particular guest review. If only she/he had or used the account then this would not be happening here.

To the guest reviewer "SHAME ON YOU"

I honestly don't know what to say. I'm not whining. I can take criticism and handle bad reviews too. But you accused me of something entirely different. You accused me of stealing someone else's work. The story you mentioned 'Lost in vampire knight' its actually in my reading list. I read the story and I clearly don't see from which angle it is similar to mine. First of all that's a Self Insert and mine is not. Over there the main character Nia is the daughter of Rido and Shizuka. My oc Aiyora is the daughter of Rido and a character from Hanadagi family. So that's like a partial oc.

I don't think you know but the author of Lost in Vampire Knight (perserverence-n) reads this story of mine quite often. Her reviews are there in case you don't believe me. So please tell me if my work is stolen from her, then why did she not bother to point out? Why does she keep reviewing my story like she likes my work.

If you are upset that I discontinued Maya and made this that's a different thing. But you clearly accused me of something which is not even true. That was not nice. In this case don't call yourself my biggest fan and insult the real meaning behind it. You aren't my fan. Your intention was just to harass me.

Also for next time. Please get an account or sign in. Just so that it saves the actual readers and fan of this story the unnecessary waste update like this.

Thank you and have a great day.

And to all my readers I'm sorry that this wasn't an update and I wasted your time with this nonsense.


Chapter 13


Time was middle of the day. It is when vampires are usually in deep slumber. That was the case for most members in the Shiki residence except for the pureblood who has been suffering from insomnia for the past week.

Reading articles about Senri and Rima's rumored romance did not sit well with her. Her possessive heart couldn't handle it. Personally Aiyora wasn't sure if she was jealous or furious. Maybe it was a mixture of both, she concluded. But then again she was never given the opportunity to feel jealous. Senri never provided that chance. As long he was home his attention remained 100% on his half-sister.

Now…not only is the distance from Senri killing her but such gossips about him linked up with another maiden was tearing her apart from inside.

Like every other member in the Shiki house Aiyora too retired for the day. She was inside her room. Sprawled over the bed. Reading Senri's letter. On one hand she held the letter while her other continued to play with some loose locks of her hair.

Generally Aiyora read Senri's letter with quite the enthusiasm. She not only read his words but tried to understand them, feel them. But at this point she was so mad that she could barely pay any attention to the content in the letter.

One could argue that she was over reacting… when in reality it wasn't just the magazine! Although it started from there…

Suspicion first rose within her when she realized how often Senri mentioned the other model. At first she didn't think much on the matter because Ichijo Takuma's name also came out of his mouth every now and then. But then soon she started to see the pictures differently and realized how much time the duo spent together. Be it inside the academy or outside Senri and Rima were always together!

There was a particular reason for Aiyora put so much effort into learning how to create familiar when Kaname first started her training.

Yes she did… spy on them! And not embarrassed by it at all.

Her first few attempts resulted in failure. Her cute kitten was picked up by child, who thought the animal was abandoned. Her puppy resulted the same way. Little chicks and ducklings got squashed under pedestrians' feet. And her snake was beaten to death by public after unintentionally frightening a woman with child…

But as the saying goes 'Hardwork Pay Off' in the end Aiyora was victorious.

And that was when she understood the whole situation. There was no reason to be worried with Senri. He simply saw the other as friend, a person with whom he can relate in nature wise. That led Aiyora to pay more attention to the woman that is always with him.

Voila she was right! That female was the problem here.

Kuran Aiyora could swear upon her life that what she saw in Rima's eyes is nothing but potential interest in Senri. The girl is quite the boring type thus is it clear that not many male would be interested in company so if she can catch Senri her life is sort of set. It would be like match made in heaven.

Another big problem was Senri trusted Rima and didn't hesitate to share anything with her. The girl basically knew him inside and out. She knew about his worry about his mother's worsening condition. She knew about his feelings for his half-sister and also the fact that she was engaged to Kuran Kaname.

And how did Rima usually respond to those? She questioned him if it was a good idea! She questioned him if he was strong enough to fight president Kuran? Though nothing was said directly but Aiyora could sense that she was putting doubt inside Senri's mind. She was indirectly trying to show him the picture that he was running after a mirage. Something unattainable!

And that was enough reason for Aiyora dislike the only person with whom her half-brother shared such close ties. She didn't care if the other vampire was looking out for Senri's betterment. In Aiyora's eyes Touya Rima was trying to create distance between her and her precious Ri-chan.

Aiyora sighed after finishing the letter. Then using her newfound power the young pureblood turned the white sheet to pile of ashes. This is his second letter this week that she isn't responding to. She cannot bring herself to write till her rage is subdued.

Those magazines may have been burnt to ashes but articles and pictures published in there still etched into her mind. Although she has heard before that magazine company sometimes make up baseless stories to boost their sales.

BUT STILL…!?

Why on earth would that idiot give them the chance to make a rumor about him anyway? Does he not understand how these sort of gossips are affecting her? Is he that lost in fame that her feelings no longer count? Is he starting to forget her already…?

Is Rima really worth forging her?

Aiyora panicked!

While her heart assured that she was definitely overthinking. Her brain suggested a different phrase: 'There cannot be smoke without fire.'

Aiyora left the bed.

The look of vexation remained on her face as she went around the bed and exited out of her room.

Pushing aside her emotion the pureblood decided to work with logic for the first time. But first she must bring peace into her unsettling mind and in order to achieve that she must first find out how reliable rumors are to begin with.

"How true are the rumors that get published on magazines?"

The young pureblood's sudden demand startled the former actress.

Shiki Midori was inside the library, playing the piano. Like Aiyora she too was unable to find sleep that morning. Her face scowled as she looked up to find the pureblood standing at the entrance. Her presence irritated the former actress. However Aiyora could care less about that now.

Midori continued to ignore the pureblood child. Pretending like the latter wasn't even there.

Aiyora understood the woman wanted to be left alone. Under normal circumstances she would have complied. But with all the tension in her head she just couldn't bring herself to play the nice person. She would simply lose her mind if things keep up like this.

She has to know!

Well there is always the option to call up the person in question and interrogate him. But Aiyora didn't have the heart put Senri under more stress when he has got so much going on from the agency and the academy.

"What are the chances," Aiyora finally mastered the courage but paused mid-way, hesitating to finish what she started. "...of Ri-chan and that vampire girl being more than just friends?"

Aiyora, stepped inside. Midori still did not open her mouth. She went on ignoring.

"Please tell me…" Aiyora repeated. "Is there anything going between Senri-chan and that vampire girl?"

Vampire girl! The former actress gave the young pureblood a dirty glance. Clearly portraying that she took offence in her tone. Aiyora ignored that look, she could care less how she sounded, nor did it matter how harsh or how cruel her tone came out. At this point letting out those bile thought out of her system was her only priority. Besides she has to know what goes on in the glamour industry.

"Her name is Rima…" those were the first words to leave Midori's mouth.

"She is a good person and a hardworking child who comes from a well reputed family. So please do not address her name like in that tone and make her sound like some plain showgirl."

Aiyora's heart rate slowed down. This was her first conversation with lady Shiki in months and the woman was already speaking for Rima. And it anger her further.

Midori watched the desperation in the pureblood's eye as she came around the piano and crouched down before her.

"Her parents dropped by for dinner a while back. They expressed their desire to unite the two families. I'm sure they were hinting on marriage between the two of them."

"So…?" that came out cold. If her uncle was here Midori would definitely be punished.

But Aiyora took no offense in her tone. To her Shiki Midori is like a mother. Senri-chan's mother was her mother after all. Therefore the only sort of emotion the pureblood felt was surprise and hurt. After all it was becoming quite clear whom Midori preferred...and it was definitely not her!

"Why does it sound like you're giving your consent on the matter? You barely know them! You barely know Rima! And if I speak frankly, I didn't get a good first impression on her parents. Her mother especially. That woman seemed greedy, plus chatters unnecessarily. Senri-chan will not be able to just among those people."

It was Aiyora's first attempt on practicing the art of manipulation…only to fail miserably!

"Pardon me Aiyora-sama but I don't think I can bring myself to agree with you. To purebloods, we nobles always appear power hungry and greedy. That is not always the case."

"I didn't mean it that way." Aiyora tried to take her words back.

"Beside I've heard Rima-chan is nothing her mother. And guess who told me that…yes Senri."

She ended her statement with a victorious smirk.

Aiyora was out of words. She couldn't believe her ears. Senri actually said that. So does that mean Rima is that important to him now?

"What's with the frown on the pretty face?" Midori taunted Aiyora.

"Did I upset you? Or is it the fact that my son is getting out of your grip!? Oh wait…I know what it is, you're jealous! Your pureblood ego must be having hard time handling defeat from a simple noble."

The young pureblood by now was having hard time holding back on her feelings. The way her jaws tightened and hands balled to fist told the other vampire everything.

Midori smiled a cunning smile. Finally, this is her chance to give this little bitch a piece of her mind. Something that she most definitely wanted to give her father.

"What do you really think Aiyora. Sama…" her name was uttered with punctuation. "…that you purebloods will keep toying with us and we will simply keep our mouth shut and take everything in. Get played in your game. Serve as entrainment for that long boring ass life."

"I don't understand!"Aiyora exclaimed. "I came here to talk about something else but you are dragging the topic elsewhere." Her emotions set out loose which resulted in the window cracking behind Midori.

"…Why? Why is it so hard for you to see? Don't you see it? Can't you feel it? What kind of a mother are you that you can't see through a daughter!? Why don't you yet realize that…that…" she gathered the final pieces of her courage and screamed her heart out while tears gathered at the corner of her eyes clouding her vision.

"…I'M IN LOVE WITH SENRI-CHAN!"

It was the first time Aiyora admitted her feelings for the Shiki heir out loud. And it felt so good. She felt light, as if a heavy weight have been lifted off her heart.

"What did you just say?" Aiyora's words simply fueled Midori's maddening temper.

"I love him…I love him so much…" Aiyora's cheeks reddened as she admitted. "Do you know you are the first person with whom I'm sharin-"

SMACK!

The sound of hard slap echoed into the room.

"ENOUGH!" Midori roared.

"Enough is enough!"

Aiyora remained unmoving from her position. Her face was still facing right. Her head still processing the slap. Various mixture of emotion now running through her system. She'd been slapped! The woman had some nerve to strike a pureblood. Aiyora was enraged. The blood in her vessel started to boil. Should she personally strike back or let Sayatohi punish her. No! Why involved a third party? The woman hit her so she should return the favor.

But before her anger could escalate any further her heart presented a different logic.

How can you hurt the woman whom you have given the pedestal of your mother?

Her rage slowly started to diminish but the same couldn't be said for the other.

"LISTEN HERE YOU LITTLE PIECE OF SHIT! LISTEN TO MY WORDS VERY CAREFUYLLY."

Midori grasped Aiyora by her arms and pulled her closer. Making the pureblood yelp with surprise.

All Aiyora could do was watch the woman in misery. She tried her best to look for love in those eyes but all she found was resent. Pure hatred!

"I will not let the history repeat itself. My whole life was destroyed by a pureblood. My love for him only brought me misfortune. I will not let that same fate befall on my son! So get this into your head and take your dirty paws off him pureblood!" she tried to utter the word 'pureblood' like it was some form of a slang.

"I truly love him!" Aiyora decided to reason one last time. "…I love Senri-chan!"

"You truly have no shame do you? Nor do you have a character? Now it makes me wonder if this is a born trait among the Kurans. You all like to commit to one but play with another!"

Aiyora's lips parted in confusion. She had no clue what that mad woman was blabbering about.

"What?" Midori barked. "Need I remind you of the man to whom you have been pledged?"

Color drained from Aiyora's face. She couldn't believe that Midori would sink that low and rub salt of her engagement to Kaname on her face.

"Now please leave. I cannot tolerate your existence any longer." At first Midori tried to keep it polite but then only seconds later pointed towards the door and screamed

"OUT!"

During every dramatic event that unfolds there exist one unfortunate person who ends up getting lashed out on for nothing! In this situation too it was no different…

Aiyora returned to her room feeling numb. Her senses could barely detect anything from the surrounding. She walked in a pace slower than her norm; where each step was slower than the previous one.

In vision she appeared picture perfect. After all no physical harm came to her. However the same couldn't be said for her soul...that was brutally bruised. The pain was excruciating. It felt like someone just stabbed her heart with a sharp knife. And it reached a point where Aiyora actually feared the possibility of her heart exploding.

Her shaky hands managed to grab the door handle and successfully twist it the other way. Pushing the door open she stepped in. Once inside, she closed the door behind her, and realized-She wasn't alone!

Finding this intruder didn't require much hard work. In fact it didn't require any effort. He was just there occupying the couch by the window. Just waiting to be discovered…

"What are you doing here?" Aiyora's demanded in voice harsher than what she would normally do. But then she also had her reasons, after all that unfolded with lady Shiki his face was the last thing she needed to see now.

Kaname smiled reclining back on the couch. "Your thoughts seem to have stolen my sleep."

His words were romantic and so was his smile, "Whether it is broad daylight or darkest of night… I can't stop thinking about you."

Sadly Aiyora was in no mood for romance. She stared back at him tediously, silently observing. His words weren't making her feel flatter as they were rightfully intended. They simply made her more angry and irritated. A lot had happened in a very short span of time making her already exhausted. Thus leaving her no strength to deal with him.

Therefore the scowl on her face was the proof of her current state of mind.

"Forgive me this time I couldn't bring anything extravagant." He spoke picking up the small flower bouquet and the tiny wrapped rectangular shaped box.

He then stood up from his previous position and slowly marched towards her. Only to stop when there was just a hand gap between them.

"Never thought staying away from would be such a difficult task." He added that line while his hand daringly proceeded to touch her. His long fingers moved the hair that was covering her face only to tuck them behind her ear.

Aiyora noticed the attempt his fingers made to play with her earlobe. She tried to glance at the action from the corner of her eyes. Which simply resulted in him removing his hand from there and caressing her face.

"So how have you been…?" It was Kaname that started the conversation. "...my precious little fiancée!"

Curling his fingers around her chin he tried to lift up her face. But when Aiyora refused to co-operate his suspicion changed to confirmation. Something was not right he figured.

"I'm not!" her voice sounded like a hiss. Almost like she was spitting venom.

"Excuse me!"

"I said I'm not your fiancée, nor do I wish to be!"

She almost punctuated every single word. How she still managed to keep her cool was a mystery yet to be solved.

Shocked! That was the only expression that Kaname's usually impassive face held at the given moment. Her sudden cruel remarks took him by surprise. A surprise that shined within those dark wine colored orbs.

"Aiyora?" he tried to reach out for her, but she back away slapping his hand aside in the process.

"DON'T!" She snapped. "Please don't try to touch me."

This time her voice was softer and more pleading. The emotions such as hurt, agony ringing through it clearly.

Kaname remained unmoving from his spot like a statue. His expression may have returned to their usual but inside there was slight panic that he managed to successfully conceal from her. His hands however gave away as his grip on the flowers tightened.

Aiyora finally took notice of the objects occupying his hands.

This time he brought her red roses. Red rose, the flower that single handedly represents love. He brought her the ultimate symbol of love when in reality who knows what he actually felt for her. The hypocritical behavior didn't sit well with her especially when she was this angry.

Kaname's mouth slightly parted and his eyes went unusually wide the moment Aiyora snatched the flowers and the present from his grasp and threw them out of the window like how trash is thrown out of every household.

"WHY? WHY DO YOU KEEP BRINGING THESE?" she snarled. "WHERE IS ALL THESE AFFECTION COMING FROM OUT OF NOWHERE? WHY NOW? WHEN I DON'T HAVE ANY NEED FOR THEM!"

"…"

It was one of those rare occasions when the Kuran prince was absolutely baffled.

"I see what this is all about…" she smiled bitterly as the realization finally set within her. "You want to buy me out, don't you? You want to buy my forgiveness with all these objects and phony affection."

"…"

Although he initially opened his mouth but closed it off after not finding the proper words to defend himself against serious accusations. In that moment all he could do was blink. Just blink his eyes.

Crying bitterly before him Aiyora was a complete mess. Tears were pouring not only out of her eyes but also her nose. He wanted to close the gap between them... he wanted to hold her in his arms… he wanted to comfort.

But alas those thoughts remained only as thoughts. In reality he did not have the courage to take a single step towards her.

"I was deserted here. You chose not to be a part of my life. It broke my heart when I first realized that. But then…after years of struggle I was able to move past it. These strangers became my family. I became one of them. I no longer needed you. Your chapter was closed off. My life was once again perfect…but then you had to come back and take away the last ray of hope that I had left with me!"

She tightly clenched the fabric over her heart in hopes that it would lessen the pain in her heart.

A long uncomfortable silence followed through which neither of the pureblood's dared to break. Especially Kaname! For him it was the dead end. Like he was being held at a gun point. Off course he could have opened his mouth and manipulated his way through. But he did not… because the way she was looking at him said it all.

Words were no longer uttered by her mouth. It was her eyes that took upon the job of speaking. And they glaring daggers at him. Challenging him to utter one more lie…

Outside the bright day suddenly turned gloomy. The depressing grey clouds cover blue sky and the sunshine. The branches of the trees started to move in a maddening rhythm as the speed of the wind picked up. This sudden change in weather was the result of immense energy released by both the purebloods.

The wind invaded inside through the open window and delivered a unique mixed of scents. Amongst them Kaname could detect Aiyora's feminine scent mixed with his masculine one. A really weird thought crossed his mind. Their scents combined together created a wonderful aroma.

Is something like this even possible…? Or am I simply going crazy…? Kaname thought.

It was the sound of her soft footsteps that pulled him out of thoughts. He watched as she made her way towards him. Her blue orbs were now devoid of any emotions. They looked just as blank and expressionless as his.

His heart gave out an unsettling beat as it felt her warm aura getting nearer and nearer.

She appeared to be approaching him…

Something inside him stirred…

But in the end she just walked past him.

He turned in anticipation, wondering what she was going to do. Only to see that she open the door and held it open. No words were needed to be said out loud. The gesture spoke on her behalf. She was asking him to leave. In other words, she was kicking him out.

His eyes searched for her but she refused to meet them. Keeping her gaze locked on her feet.

His mouth parted. He wanted to ask her for the reason but closed it off seeing no point in there.

His feet took the first step. With a heavy heart he made his exit. Only to spare one last glance before passing by her.

Bidding her a silent goodbye he stepped out and the next thing he heard was the loud slamming of the door right behind him.

The pureblood and his petite brunette companion were seated at one of the fanciest diners in town. It is after a long time that Kaname actually took his dearest Yuuki outside the Academy. Where it was just the two of them. The chairman insisted on tagging along and bringing Zero as well. But thankfully due to Kiryu's bitter rejection it resulted in only him and Yuuki coming here.

Actually Kaname wouldn't have preferred it any other way.

Yuuki graduated from middle school (although with pretty poor grades, but that doesn't matter to him) and will be going to high school soon. So to celebrate this joyous occasion the two ended up in this five star restaurant for dinner.

Kaname bought her a present earlier, a fancy fountain pen. But the expression on Yuuki's face hinted that she would have preferred food.

This is where Yuuki is so different from Aiyora. The latter shares pretty biter relationship with anything edible. It can be safely said even though she loves to experiment with her cooking and baking skills occasionally but when comes to the part of eating she absolutely resents it. Getting Aiyora to finish a meal is real struggle. All she needs is a small distraction and her appetite can fly away for days. Or she will take a big bite of something and believe that she finished a full meal. Actually how she has survived this long by eating what she eats is a wonder to Kaname.

And when it comes to presents…Aiyora has expensive tastes. Living under the same roof with a once famous actress changed Aiyora's view. Therefore is she isn't the everyday girl next door type. With high sense of fashion and getting trained by the best professional in the beauty and her un-matching pureblood beauty that she was born with has made Aiyora more the glamourous. She has become the type that draws attention. Yes every time that they went out there were people staring at her from almost every corner! But none really dared to approach her for two reason one was him being her company and that other was she was more the out of reach type for majority.

Yuuki on the other hand is complete opposite. Kaname actually had the hardest time shopping for her. He actually didn't know what to get her. First he thought of high-heels but backed away upon realizing she probably didn't know how to walk in on them. Of course he didn't want to have her fall down and embarrass herself or worse get injured. Then he thought of buying her cosmetics but backed away fearing it might lower her confidence. Growing up in a house with two men Yuuki didn't have much idea about to how make herself more appealing. Plus the fact that she has been turned human has made her features bit more plain. So he opted for the safest choice and bought her a pen.

When Yuuki was placing her order he was actually a bit shocked. But at the same time he was also glad and relieved that Yuuki was eating healthy, unlike the younger one. Aiyora might be able to get away starving herself but Yuuki is a human, thus more vulnerable and more prone to sickness and diseases.

Wait…eating so less is also not good for Aiyora. She maybe a pureblood but she is still a growing child. Starving like this is depriving her off all the necessary nutrition. The last time he saw she was nothing but skin and bones. There was no ounce flesh in her body. Just plain skin stretched over the bones. He should have another round of talk with that Shiki Sayatohi soon-

"Kaname-senpai…?"

His name was uttered by a timid voice. And the said person looked up right away, without wasting a single breath.

"Yes Yuuki?" his response also came instantly.

The girl blushed at the deep intensity of his voice. It sent shivers down her spine.

"Is-is everything alright?" she stuttered at first. The nervousness inside her remained. "You look worried. Managing the night class must be hectic."

Kaname chuckled.

She thought about him, she worried for him. He found this caring trait of her so adorable. His heart warmed knowing he was not the only one in this, Yuuki too worried for him. His precious little Yuuki…!

"It matters not Yuuki, the night class can give me as much trouble as they want. All I need is just to see you and everything is automatically lifted off my shoulders."

His hand slid forward and touched her hand.

"As long as I can be close to you Yuuki...I will be at peace."

He then gave her hand a gentle squeeze while his eyes delighted themselves to the sight of her cheeks reddening.

They are so close yet there is a gap between. Every time she looks at him, it is clear that she is looking at a superior. She cannot bring herself to think as his equal. Whereas Aiyora does not even hesitate to look down on him. Well Aiyora at this point has grown a bit too bold. During his last visit she not only put some serious accusation on him but also went as far as to kick him out. The moment she slammed the door…oh how hard it was for him to just silently swallow the insult.

In order to win her over, he has gave Aiyora way too much privilege. But what was the ultimate result? His dignity getting crushed to ground was what he got in return- wait a second!? He is here on a date with Yuuki so why even think about her and ruin the mood?

But she did apologize. A voice inside him argued taking his youngest sister's side.

While it was the truth that Aiyora had badly insulted him during his last visit but then she also personally phoned him days later apologized for her irrational behavior the other day. The conversation was short and precise. Aiyora didn't want to give much details. All she said was that, she was sorry for taking someone else's anger out on him and he was just there at the wrong time. Her honesty softened Kaname heart he wanted to know if she was alright or if he should come over but she simply declined and politely requested to be left alone for some time.

"Um…Kaname-senpai,"

"My apologies Yuuki," he extended his hand and cupped her face. "for letting distractions take over."

"Oh no it's fine."

Kaname never hated Aiyora so much as he was doing now. Despite being with Yuuki his thoughts kept drifting back to her. He and Yuuki are quite different, there was barely anything in common except for their love for each other. So how is this even Aiyora's fault that he could barely find a good topic to discuss with his dearest Yuuki?

.

.

.

"Here is your bill sir." The server placed the folder beside the pureblood.

Kaname took out his wallet to pay the bill while Yuuki excused herself to go to the comfort room.

The server was stunned by the amount of tip that he paid and thanked him and again and again urging him to come back soon. While the young human female kept on blabbering the brunette suddenly recalled, Aiyora once mentioned during a passing conversation that she enjoyed lemon flavored dessert during her stressful times. The zesty taste of lemon always somehow calmed her down, made her feel at ease.

"Do by any chance happen to have anything lemon flavored?" he cut off the waitress midway.

"Yes…of course what do you have in mind sir?"

"Preferably within the range of dessert."

"Our lemon tart is the bestselling in town!" she encouraged. "Shall I bring you a sample for taste?"

"I'm back." Yuuki returned that moment.

Kaname flashed her a smile and returned his attention to the waitress.

"Thank you. There is no need for that. However I would like to place a delivery order for them for next week. My secretary will call and give you the details."

"Understood sir." The waitress bowed as he stood up.

"Shall we go home?" He offered his hand to Yuuki.

"Um…yes of course."

That is how his date night with Yuuki came to an end.

"Yes everything is quite fine back home…so am I. There is no need for you to worry."

"I'm glad to know that." Senri spoke during a phone conversation with his beloved Ai-chan. "Also…I think of coming home soon. Have not seen you in so long."

"Um…Senri-chan, I have to go I have been summoned."

With that the line got disconnected from the other side. She did not properly say bye nor did she give him the chance to say goodbye. Just hung up with sudden notice. The frown on Senri's face deepened as he disconnected the line from his side and placed the device on the table in front.

He and Rima were both seated in the makeup room. Getting ready for their next shoot. His make-up is done while Rima's hair is half way through. There are still big rollers placed on the left side of her head.

"You look down Senri…Is everything alright at home?" She inquired looking at him through the mirror.

"Don't think so." He answered honestly. "She sounded very distant and disinterested in speaking to me."

"Hasn't she been like this for a while now?"

"Yes."

"Do those gossips in the magazines has anything to do with it?" Rima asked facing him.

"I'm not so sure."

There was a silence which was eventually broken when Rima offered him her pocky biscuit.

"Here…" she extended her box to him. "Take this."

"Thank you." He took only one of the chocolate cover stick biscuit and put it in his mouth.

From the corner of her eyes the ginger haired girl continued to observe the boy. It was easy to tell he was going through stress. Usually the Shiki heir is quite good at hiding his emotions. So for stress to show up on his face means the matter is quite serious.

"It's all done." Rima's stylist (a petite lady with short black bob hair) said with a satisfied grin while setting her hair with final tousles. "I will be back with your costume soon." She informed the model before exiting out of the vanity room.

Finally when they were all alone Rima asked. After discussing personal matters in the presence of others is a risky prospect. In this business nobody is trust worthy. For a good sum of money anyone will sale made up random stories to tabloid magazines. For example the rumors that some magazines published about the two of them last week, Rima is sure it was done by someone in the agency for the sake of cheap publicity. And as a result of this now Senri is suffering.

"Hey Senri…do you think your sister will have objections with us working together?"

"She is not like that." He admitted, unsure. "But if she has problem, then I guess..." he left the sentence incomplete because he had no idea what to actually say to that. He really loves working with Rima. But if that hurts Aiyora then he will have no option but to find a new partner.

"I understand." she quietly muttered. Facing the other way.

It would be difficult for her to work with someone other than the Shiki heir. But it is what it is…

A part of her understands how the pureblood must be feelings. She may not have met Aiyora in person but from the tales she have heard it is easy to tell how possessive the girl is of her half-brother. Therefore baseless rumors like the ones published are bound to anger her. She probably would have felt the same way if she were in her shoes.

So whatever decision Senri makes in the end she will gladly accept them.

Lately watching the rain had been one of her favorite way to pass time. On days when it rained Aiyora glued herself before her window and stood there like that for hours without moving. Her mood hasn't gotten any better since then. Most of her time was spent cooped up in her room. She barely ate, didn't even study nor trained. Kaname tried to take her out for training but Aiyora declined his offers. How can she focus on training when she can barely concentrate on anything?

Her child like eyes watched the rain fall with wonder. Leaning forward Aiyora extended her face out of the window, allowing the breeze to caress her supple skin. Her eyes close down in bliss as she loses herself to the soft kisses of drizzle.

The touch of rain soothed her. It felt as if the solo source of peace for her now was the rain…

Quite honestly Aiyora herself didn't know how she was doing it when all her life she hated the rain. She wasn't big fan of bright sun either, her preference being the moon at all times. But surely she appreciated the beauty of a bright day. So did Senri. Often when the day was bright and sunny the half siblings spent the day in their room cuddling on the bed with the breathtakingly beautiful day as their view.

Aiyora passed a deep sigh.

The mere thought her half-brother weighted down her heart. Not just that, many other sort of reactions followed through as well for instance anxiety, suffocation etc etc. Amongst which the most detectable one was burning sensation inside her throat. Which most probably was the result of her increasing thirst for blood.

Strange why am I thirsting for blood? Aiyora was surprised by that fact. How is this even possible when I'm fed on regular basis?

This wasn't the first time the young pureblood felt such intense desire for blood. The agonizing burning sensation has been residing in her throat for quite some time now. Shiki residence is a vampire household therefore consuming blood is considered a norm. They have a set of young maids who are appointed to feed the masters. Last time she drank was two nights ago. But it barely satisfied.

Seeing her deteriorating condition Shiki Sayatohi offered his own blood to her. But Aiyora declined politely. She may still be young but no idiot for sure. She figured the greedy aristocrat's game right away. Plus his blood wouldn't have made much difference any way.

Even if Aiyora is yet to realize but this is not ordinary thirst. This craving is not just for blood but for love. And can only be quenched once a loved one is devoured.

Sometimes Aiyora actually wondered what could be the possible root of her sudden polydipsia?

…is it fear? Or perhaps her newfound insecurity? Wait…aren't they supposed to be the same thing? The words may sound different along with its meaning but in the end the summation is:

does Senri-chan no longer belong to me?

"Ai-chan."

Her heart stops momentarily before it starts to pick up massively. The tightly closed eyelids snap open as that familiar scent invades her nostril. There was an intense urge to turn and pounce into the intruder's awaiting arm. Every fiber of her muscles were aching just to get a feel of the other, to see if he was really there or was her mind playing some cruel games.

It took almost all her will power to remain unmoving from her spot.

And the end result was success. She managed to not move, even by an inch. It was her pride, her ego that held her back and forbade her to go to him. Instead her hands reached out to hug her own form tightly. It was probably the only logical way to prevent herself to giving into this…temptation.

.

.

.

"Close the window." The long silence finally came to an end as one of them spoke, "You'll catch cold Ai-chan."

Aiyora did not obey. Didn't feel the need to. Why should she? She is the pureblood here, the one who is of higher rank. If anything it's him who must obey her.

In rage Aiyora wasn't the nicest person to be around. Recently she has mastered her skills on being mean.

"Why are you here Senri?" Her voice was cold and unwelcoming, devoid of all emotions. It sounded the exact same when Kaname was here.

"I felt home sick. I was missing you."

To that Aiyora gave out a bitter chuckle, "Oh! Is that so…?"

She didn't believe a word he just uttered. It was quite evident from her mocking voice. That back handed comment hurt him. He wasn't quite used to this side of the young innocent pureblood. But he chose to not dwell on those feelings for now, he understood where she was coming from.

In all honesty Senri wasn't actually surprised.

Seeds of doubts have been planted on his mind from the moment he stopped receiving her letters. Then shortening of their phone conversation from her side further assured him that something was indeed wrong. Now standing at such close proximity he can see how mad she is and had every reason to be. He has made her upset, caused her pain. Despite all efforts to be different, in the end he turned up just like his manipulative cousin Kuran Kaname and his father when in regards to Aiyora.

Therefore he deserves it and will gladly accept every sort of punishment that she has in store for him.

"How long do you intend to stand there?...I'm tired. I want to sleep."

"You're mad about the magazines." He decided to get straight to the point.

Aiyora looked over her shoulder and shot him a glare and then moment later turned to lean against the window.

This time the blank expression on Senri's face was replaced by surprise. She surely has grown a lot since the last time he saw her but that wasn't his main reason for shock. She has been under immense stress and had drastic weight loss. One can easily tell how much she has starved herself. That also wasn't the main reason behind his surprise.

It was her appearance, the way she looked that got him baffled. Took him off guard.

…because right there, in that moment leaning in that style against the window Aiyora looked every bit like their father. The fact that she was Kuran Rido's daughter was literally stamped on her forehead.

The sight took Senri back ages ago. It brought back memories of the first ever (and only) interaction he had with his father. If he can clearly remember it was a dark night of winter and if he recalls correctly his father was also standing the exact same way Aiyora is standing now.

"If you don't want to make your mother worry, then live quietly, like a doll."

Those were his exact words. Till to this day the young vampire shivers every time those words ring in his ears. Pushing back the thought of that horrifying night he focused his full attention on his sister.

"You believed everything that was published on the magazines?"

"I don't want to…" She mumbled casting her eyes down at her feet.

"I don't want to believe in anything like that. Perhaps I don't even, however at this point from my side there isn't much of a choice.

If it was anyone else, any other girl, I wouldn't have let those cheap articles have its effect on me. But it just had to be her! The one who is glued to you at all times. Rima."

The way Rima's name was pronounced it sounded like Aiyora was spitting venom.

Senri took a deep breath finally understanding the situation. "I see…my friendship with Rima has not sat very well with you."

"Yes…I'm not comfortable with the closeness the two of you share." Crossing her hands before her chest Aiyora admitted with absolutely no hesitation in her.

"Plus give me one reason why I shouldn't?"

She presented her argument.

"…Rima is always with you. She is with you at work, she is with you at the academy. Together, the two of you are seen here and there every now and then. The public likes your chemistry, thus the agencies demand to have you both work together. With love the fans call your pair "SHIMA".

And now there is involvement from the family too. Her parents believe you both are a perfect match for each. They even hinted on possible marriage for the future. Your grand uncle seemed to like that idea and as for your mother…from her heart she has given you both her blessing.

There you go…all the reason why I have been acting so irrationally."

It was Senri's turn to cast his eyes down at this point. He could not look at her anymore. Never has he ever felt so low about himself until now…

Perhaps I am no different than those who intend to hurt her.

"I will speak to the agency tomorrow," he declared.

Aiyora narrowed her eyes not understanding in which direction this talk was heading.

"I will ask them to take Rima off as my partner."

"If they don't agree?"

"In that case I will quit."

"Quit?" Aiyora exclaimed, astonished by his response. She didn't think he would be ready to go so far this easily. She didn't mean to push him that aggressively.

Following his mother's footsteps and making a name in the showbiz was his lifelong dream. He worked hard all these years, to stand where he is today. Now he will quit? Let go of everything just because of her silly insecurity.

Her heart softened. It thumped heavily. What has she done? How could she be so selfish and put such heavy burden on his shoulder? How could she make such cruel demands? Guilt surfed inside her. She felt like a spoiled brat. This was his freaking career that she was messing with. Career! Something which usually takes a whole lifetime to discover. Heck, she is yet to find her own. So what right has she got to mess with the others who has got everything figured out!?

"You can't quit!" she exclaimed once more. "It will ruin your career silly. I've heard these agencies are powerful messing with them, would bring heavy cost. They will make sure you cannot work anywhere. They will destroy you!"

"Ai-chan…" he took her face between his palms before bring her into his arms.

Both their breath labored at such close proximity.

"The only thing that can destroy me is your sadness. This fame, career, success would have no meaning if you are not there to share with. Having you by my side is all I need to keep going ahead."

"Ri-chan,"

"Ssshhh!" he silenced her by burying her face into the warmth of his chest.

Together they stayed like that for some time. Enjoying the blissful silence.

"You're not the one that needs to explain."

With that said Senri pulled away, breaking the embrace and tugged his shirt to expose his neck to her. A gesture that indicated he is offering himself to her. Surrendering his whole being to her mercy. He is all her to have.

Aiyora's eyes went wide! She definitely did not see that coming. "What are you doing?"

Deep in her mind Aiyora has started to doubt it all. Their bond, the feelings that they shared and their irreplaceable love for each other. So what better way could there be other than to offer himself. He may not be able to express his feelings properly. Expression and talk aren't his best game. But his blood, it will never lie. In fact his blood can show her things, the depth of his feelings that himself may not have yet discovered.

"Come on ahead and drink to your hearts content."

She stared at him confused. Contemplating on what to do...

Her eyes closed down for a moment and when they re-opened next those blue orbs were now replaced by glowing red ones; that reflected her thirst and stood as the very evidence that is a nocturnal creature. A beast in human form.

"I don't want to hurt you…"

Despite the thirst she was still hesitating because deep inside she couldn't trust herself. She was afraid of hurting him. Or worse accidentally killing him.

"Don't worry I will be fine." He assured, after reading her thoughts.

He took her by the arms, "If can survive my mother's animal like bites I'm sure I can handle your little thirst with delight."

His reassuring words did not bring her much comfort. She still hesitated fearing her animalistic side. But her body gave away. Before she could comprehend the gap between them was closed off. She was already locked in his arms. Her face already buried at the crook of his neck. Her small buttoned nose tracing the skin, indulging in the enticing aroma. Her ears listening to the sound of his blood streaming underneath that soft skin. Her elongated fangs scraping along his skin.

their bodies shivered in bliss that neither could put to words.

Her hold on the maroon haired vampire tightened, on reflex, as she felt her form being lifted up.

With her feet now off the floor…

He started to move, walk towards a particular direction…

Their bodies crashed on the bed…

In a second Aiyora altered their position. Senri was now laying under her as she sat over him straddling his hips.

The prey was finally within the predators grasp!

The anomaly happened. Senri smiled. It was the detectable raw craving in his sister's eyes that brought the smile upon his face.

He moved his neck and gave her a perfect angle and Aiyora slowly leaned in, her heart thumping with anticipation and body screaming with a strange kind of excitement and that she never knew existed.

Her tongue darted out. She gave him a long lick from the crook of his neck all to the end of her ear... and back, acquiring his taste in the process.

He could not hold back on the trembling sigh from leaving his lips. It felt as if a secret was coming out. A secret that was never meant to be shared.

His baby blue eyes squeezed shut the moment Aiyora's fangs plunged in, piercing the soft flesh of his neck… the warm liquid gushed into her mouth. Aiyora was used to the taste of blood. But this was simply magic. It was beyond anything she had ever tasted. So delicious, so addictive, she didn't even know if she would be able to stop.

With each gulp her greed grew and so did his pleasures...

His arms wrapped around her figure tightly, encouraging her to go on when at the same time his blood kept on pulling her more and more into him. Signalling her body to take as much of him as she could.

.

.

.

Aiyora drank for a while before pulling her fangs out of his neck. Her eyes were now back to its usual shared a long eye contact. No words were needed. It was the silence that spoke on their behalf.

Senri extended his hand and cupped her face. He wanted to tell her how much he loved her. Despite her already seeing through his feelings. He still wanted to verbally confess. Have her hear those special words with his voice.

His lips parted but his chance to speak was snatched away, because Aiyora dived down and bit him once more.

A soft guttural groan left his lips.

This was no normal bite. Senri felt that already. This time she bit down harder, deeper, with more passion and less care. While drawing out his blood she was also deeply suckling on the surface. The mark of which will remain there for days.

He does not mind. As long as the mark is by her, he will proudly wear it.

And the best part of it all was the fact that without even proper knowledge Aiyora had just discovered his sweet spot. The area she chose this time was the more tender part of his neck.

Therefore making his experience all the more delicious…

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.

.

In one hand all was going well but on the other hand it wasn't. But the half siblings remained oblivious to it.

If only the lost in passion siblings had any idea that there was another presence, hidden in the shadows, who just witnessed the unfolding of their tryst from start to finish!

And wasn't definitely happy about it...


A. N. Thank you all for reading. Hope you guys enjoyed. I'm back with an update. So, only one more chapter till Aiyora goes to academy. Finally this arc is coming to an end. So the chapter wasn't a happy one. The main trio are going through a lot of distress. But at least Senri and Aiyora manged to find the solution to their problems.

ALSO... The half siblings have taken a bold step in their relationship. Without even realizing they committed a big tryst. And also got caught. Who do you think is the one who witnessed their scene...!?