Disclaimer: I do not own anything but this chapter is mine.

A/N: So, I would like to apologize for the very, very late update. Life has been happening so much lately and well, I couldn't find the time to write the next chapter and, you know, I don't have any ideas yet on how to start chapter 18th. I hope everybody is safe from the pandemic, always make right decisions and please, please always wear a mask and a face shield! I truly hope you like the previous update of TGR so, here's the next one.

Read on!

-A

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No one was able to know how much pain Ayuzawa Misaki has seen, how much torture she had undergone and how many deaths she had witnessed.

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Eighteen:

I sat ramrod straight on the cream upholstered sofa inside the huge living room. I couldn't consider it a living room though because the size was just enormous. It looked like an entire house in itself. The methodically spotless cream cushions felt luxurious to sit on. The marble tiled floor was covered with an elegant red carpet. In fact, when I first stepped on it, it felt as though I was sinking. Different luxurious desks and side tables covered some of the space and the walls were lined with different paintings—probably expensive as well.

But what caught my attention was the huge family portrait that was in the center of the living room. In fact, if one enters the living room, it would be the first painting that would caught their attention. I recognized the patriarch of the Walker family, the Duke of Rachester, seated on a single sofa. There was another older man and another woman whom I've considered as a couple seated on a red loveseat. And then, Gerard Walker was seated beside them on a different seat. Then, I recognized Takumi who was standing beside Gerard.

He was the only one standing in the portrait.

I couldn't see the point in that. They couldn't get him another seat? But it was the look on his face that really caught my attention. The couple in the middle were smiling. The Duke had the same grumpy expression while Gerard looked condescending. But Takumi's expression looked as though someone had just died. In fact, it looked as though he didn't want to be there at all; like he was forced to be there.

Abandoning my seat, I approached the painting and stared at his face. He wasn't one to smile. I had known that fact ever since I first met him. But the expression on his face in this portrait was very much different from the frown he'd usually sport at school.

Why are you so sad, my dearest?

"He hated that portrait."

I nearly jumped when a voice appeared next to me. I stared at Gerard Walker—wide-eyed—who chuckled at my expression. I was quick to compose herself. "I apologized, Mr. Walker. I didn't notice your presence."

He smiled at me, a sign that he didn't mind, and stares at the family painting again before pointing out the woman in the middle. "My mother, Patricia Walker."

I knew it was the mother of Takumi. The blonde hair, green eyes and the very unsettling similarity was a dead giveaway. But I was still confused. "I thought she died during childbirth?"

Gerard stared at me. But if ever he was surprised that I knew, he didn't show. He simply smiled and stares at the painting again. "We took an old photo of her and the painter added it here. Hence, she was present."

"I see." I've regarded the painting again. "Why did he hate this painting?"

"My grandfather didn't want him included during the photoshoot. He's an illegitimate after all. But it was my father who insisted. He didn't want Takumi to feel left out. That's why he and grandfather were sporting those expressions."

"I would too if my grandfather hated me." When Gerard chuckled, I mentally cursed. I wasn't planning to say that out loud but it seems like her mouth and brain aren't cooperating with each other today. "I apologize for my behavior—"

"No need to be so formal, Misaki-san. I don't want you to feel pressured about anything. I'm glad you accepted my invitation." He led me to the sofa and ushered me to sit. And since I was left with no choice, I followed his commands. "I know it's short notice but I appreciate your discretion. Seems like my half-brother and Shizuko still aren't aware of this."

"I would need to be honest with you, Mr. Walker. I have my doubts accepting the invitation." I sighed when he smiled. "I have absolutely zero idea why you have invited me here. If you're going to ask about my relationship with you brother, as I have mentioned before, we're just friends—"

"I wouldn't invite you here, Misaki-san, if I know that you are just a friend to him. I hope you're not underestimating my information network. I do background checks on everyone who would associate themselves with my Takumi, Aoi and Shizuko—and that includes Hanazono-san, Yukimura-kun, Kanou-kun and the rest of the people in his group. You know about my brother's birth circumstances—that one's a dead giveaway. I'm sure you know who you're talking to as well."

I didn't appreciate that. But I know that I wasn't in the position to disagree with him. It felt like I would be obliterated if I did so. "Why am I here then?"

"I would like to get to know you better, if you don't mind."

"Don't you have your information network for that?" I didn't mean to be rude. But what I hated most is being put in such an uncomfortable situation. I don't mind meeting Takumi's family. But that was before the time that I thought he has a normal family—not a family that came from nobility.

Gerard smiled. "Without the watchful and worried eyes of my brother, Aoi and Shizuko, of course. These things, you see, I like doing personally. I would have to admit that those three actually looked like they're ready to murder me if I do something as lay a finger on your hair."

I wasn't sure if I should thank those three for being overprotective. Maybe, if they've left me to my own devices, Gerard would pay me less attention. But then again, ever since I was born, I have failed miserably on that department. But it didn't lessen the fact that I was unnerved by the invitation. In fact, the purpose of coming here is still a big question. "Are you going to ask me to stay away from your brother?"

To my surprised, Gerard actually laughed. "You're watching too much drama." The response instantly reminded me of Takumi and I had to stop myself from dashing out a comment that the two actually have more similarity than they've imagined. In fact, despite the difference in hair and eye color, they looked very much alike.

"We're not that old fashioned, Misaki-san." Gerard continued, still laughing although not as hard as he did a few minutes ago. "I told you. I want to get to know you better. Why don't we start with you telling me about yourself?"

I wasn't sure if that was a bait question. For all I know, he might probably be aware of my current… condition, for the lack of a better word. I wasn't sure if I should go for pure honesty or if I should hide some things that are better left unsaid.

In the end, I have decided to respond like any normal teenager would. "U-Uh, I'm an only child. I'm seventeen years old. I like writing and reading." God this feels like the Spanish Inquisition! "My mother is a painter and my Dad's an English Professor. He teaches at the local college back at my hometown. My Mom's a freelancer." Talking about my parents suddenly made me sad. I know that I should really pay them a visit but I couldn't do so—not yet. Not when I was this close to confirming who cursed me; something that no one in the family has achieved.

"You must love your parents very much."

That comment confused me. "How do you know?"

"You have this solemn expression while talking about them." He smiled again.

And dammit, when he does that, it feels as though he wasn't as bad as everybody says. Regardless, I was still hesitant about trusting him.

Gerard must have noticed my discomfort because he was quick to change the subject. But his choice of topic completely caught her off guard. "What are your views about marriage?"

And just in time he asked that, an attendant came over and served them tea. Had she been drinking that tea, she was certain that she would end up spluttering it all over his face and his expensive suit. Holy shit, he didn't just ask me about marriage! Despite the initial shock, I still managed to respond like a normal human being. "I-I'm still in school right now but I'm quite sure this is something that can be discussed in the future."

I don't want to say a straight no. But I felt like I couldn't say a straight yes as well, hence, I've decided to go with safe answers. That way, he will not be able to hold me to anything.

Gerard smile knowingly at me and offers to pour tea on my cup. "You seem like a smart woman, Misaki-san. Takumi and I may not be on the best terms but I would always want what's best for him."

"I-I'm sure you do." I smiled hesitantly. This is the first time she was having a hard time reading someone. They are, truly and in all aspects, brothers. "I'm sure you're looking out for him."

"Correct. And that means making sure he graduates through high school and college without any problems. You know what I'm talking about, right?"

Crap, he lost me there. "Does that mean you want me to keep him out of trouble?" I wanted to laugh at that. The trouble he was talking about is very much seated in front of him right now. I reached out for the teacup and starts sipping on the hot tea; trying to hide my confused and anxious expression from him.

"I'm saying that you guys should use protection."

This time, I couldn't stop it. I nearly choked. It was a good thing that I had excellent reflexes. Or else. "I beg your pardon?!"

Gerard shrugged. From the looks of it, it looked as though he was as uncomfortable as me discussing topics like this but was left with no choice. "I apologize for making you feel uncomfortable with this topic, Misaki-san. But as you can see, this is not a topic I can easily discuss with my brother. And you are very much the first woman that he's ever introduced to our family. And there's something about you…"

When he started with that line, I couldn't help but froze. My heart felt as though it was about to jump out of my chest. I stared at Gerard in plain shock and anxiety, waiting for him to say the lines that I was dreading and planning about my next course of action.

Am I really going to do this to Takumi's brother? Even if it was only to save myself just in case I get exposed?

Not noticing my concentrated tension, Gerard went on. "No, not you. There's something about the way he looks at you—as if he would jump between you and a coming bullet."

Once again, I was frozen on spot. "Excuse me?"

"Yes. That's how he looks at you. He was so overprotective of you. I've noticed that in just that time during the dinner. He never lets you off his sight. As if he was worried that if his eyes stray away from you, you'd disappear."

What the hell. No way. He wasn't looking at me like that! "I'm sure it's just your imagination, Mr. Walker."

"I'm pretty sure it's not."

Ayuzawa!

I was stunned upon hearing Takumi's mental voice echoing in my head. I was quick to jumped off my seat and stares at the entrance, anxious for him to appear. Sensing my sudden alarm, Gerard stands too and stares at the entrance to the living room. "What is it?"

"He's here."

He seemed confused for a minute. "Who?"

And just in time, Takumi barges into the living room looking as though he was ready to kill someone. I was quick to read his mind. I knew he was about to start a fight and punch the living daylights out of his brother. Before he could even reach Gerard, I quickly jump in between them and pushes him with all of my might—even if it felt like slamming myself against concrete wall.

"What the hell is this all about, Gerard?!"

"Usui, calm down!" I hissed at him; startled when a number of men clad in suits of black entered the room and rushed to the three of us. The last thing she wanted to do is for Takumi to pick a fight with Gerard. God knows what his older brother is capable of doing if he starts thinking that Takumi is misbehaving.

With a roll of his eyes and a wave of his hand as if to shoo away his bodyguards, Gerard says, "I was just having tea with her, Takumi. Calm down and mind your behavior."

"You mind your behavior, Gerard. I told you to stay away from her."

"You are a Walker and that is something that you shouldn't forget. Anybody you associate yourself with is a potential member of the family—granted that they will get Father and Grandfather's approval. I'm just here to get to know her better."

Takumi had no response to that. He was just glaring at Gerard as though he was ready to incinerate the man. I've never seen him this angry although she could understand him. But she knew there was no way to calm him down. Carefully now, I tried reaching out to him mentally.

Please calm down and let's go home.

As if he remembered my presence, I watched as Takumi snapped out quickly of his reverie and stares down at me. His green eyes still reflected fire and it bothered me to know that he was capable of this type of reaction. Are you okay?

I nodded. I am. He was telling the truth. I was unnerved by the invitation for tea but I was left with no choice. But he didn't do or told me anything.

You're not lying to save his ass, aren't you?

No. You know that if he does something stupid, I won't hesitate to charm his ass out.

She heaved out a sigh of relief when she heard his mental laugh. It felt like bells in her ears and she was relieved when she realized that he had finally calmed down. Right. I forgot about that part.

You know that that is the most important part. I told you not to forget.

I watched as Takumi simply stared at me as though he was searching something in my face. And as if he has finally located it, he quietly nodded at me. Let's go home.

I didn't know why I felt like school was home. But definitely, I have grown to consider that place now as my home. I've nodded in agreement and darts a quick glance at Gerard who was watching the two of us in amusement; as if he had witnessed something that he doesn't see every day. I nodded at him, letting him know of our departure and when he nodded in agreement, I've noticed Takumi roll his eyes and drags me out of the estate.

I was stunned to see Hideki standing by the car—with Shizuko behind the wheels. I wasn't aware that Shizuko knows how to drive. But then again, it was Shizuko Kaga they were talking about. The woman practically knows everything!

I turned to Usui. "I hope you didn't invite the entire gang."

"No. They don't want to be here as much as I do." When they reached Hideki's car, he opened the passenger door for me and pushes my head down so I can get inside. "Get in."

"I will, Takumi. Stop pressing on my head."

He ignored my comment and continues pushing—shoving!— me inside the car. I quickly got in while Hideki occupied the seat in front of Shizuko. When they are safely strapped inside, she brought the engine to life and sped off without preamble.

It was a quiet ride but I could sense the tension in the air.

I sighed. "I'm fine, guys."

Glancing at me through the rearview mirror, Shizuko said, "Why didn't you tell me that Gerard came for you?"

"I don't have much choice. I was on the way to the library and this black sedan appears out of nowhere. I can't call you for obvious reasons. I don't want him to think that I'm being rude."

"You shouldn't trust that jerk." It was Takumi. "God knows what he's brewing now. I don't know why he likes butting his head in my business."

"He didn't do anything to me back there, guys. We just… talked. That's it. He asked me stuff about myself. I would have charmed my way out had I sensed that he's danger. He wasn't."

"You're not a very good judge in that area, Ayuzawa." Shizuko says; her eyes firm on the road. "But I understand the situation you've been put through. Usui, cut her some slack."

"Whatever, Kaga."

I turned to him again. I don't like how he was behaving but then again, I wasn't certain where this reaction is coming from. "I'm fine, really. Stop worrying. It's just a waste of time."

"Next time he comes for you, just run, okay? Or if you don't have much choice, the least you can do is excuse yourself and phone me. I'm sure it wouldn't hurt you to do that."

"No, it won't."

"Good. Glad you understand." But he was still pissed. I could see that in his eyes. And I was aware that there's no way to calm him down—especially in front of their friends.

I darted a quick glance over at Shizuko. The woman simply rolled her eyes and focused on driving. I sighed as I averted my eyes outside; watching the scenery before them covered in white, oppressing snow. It was so calm outside but I know that there was turmoil building up from somewhere.

And then, I heard it… the loud and deafening ringing of bells. It was so loud it felt as though it was just right beside me. And it startled me to the point that it I jumped out of my seat. But what stunned me even more was the fact that Shizuko stepped on her brakes quickly—she and Usui sporting the same reaction I've had.

All three of them stared at each other; stunned. I was the first to speak out loud. "Did you hear that?"

Hideki looked confused. Obviously, he didn't hear what we've heard. "What's happening guys?"

"It sounded like bells ringing." Takumi says while looking at me.

"No." Shizuko countered. "Roaring. It sounded like bells roaring. As if it was in pain."

I was stunned. I couldn't believe all three of us heard that. But why? It shouldn't have been like that. Different thoughts started spiraling inside my head. I didn't want this to happen—I didn't want to involve them. Not them. I didn't want to feel this way but they now meant the world to me.

I stared at Takumi, Shizuko and Hideki. In just a short amount of time, my feelings for these people had changed drastically.

With a loud groan, I sank back on the upholstered seats of Hideki's car and covers my face with my hands. This is the moment I was definitely avoiding.

Alarmed by my sudden reaction, Takumi was quick to hover over me. "Ayuzawa, what's wrong?"

"This is so wrong." I groaned; my hands still over my face. "I've brought this upon all of you. I'm cursed and I'm endangering you guys by allowing you to be with me."

"Cut it out, Ayuzawa." It was Shizuko and I could sense the anger coloring her voice. "It was our choice to stay. So, cut it out."

"Can't you see?!" this time, I couldn't hide the anger and anxiety from coloring my face. "Look at me! Just look at me! What part of me is normal?! Nothing! I am cursed—and it came from my ancestors. No one in the family was able to locate who cursed them—not even close. They couldn't find a way around it—not a single one of them. But look at me. I did! I've located Kaon who might as well very much be the reincarnation of the person who cursed my family!"

Once again, it was Shizuko who responded to me. "And? That has to mean something. If none of your predecessors managed to get this close to the person who cursed you, then this must mean something."

"You don't understand. With my current situation, it usually means bad things." The reminder of the people I've lost scared me even more. Removing my hands over my face, I looked at each and every one of them—wondering what I would have done if I can do all of this ever again. "I've lost so many people over the years—people I truly cared about. If getting this close to Kaon meant a huge possibility to lose all of you," I darted a glance at Takumi, questioning myself if avoiding him in our next life is the best thing to do. "—I wouldn't know how to cope with that."

"You wouldn't." he says; his eyes and mouth firm as he stared back at me. "I told you, this time, it would be different."

"And if it's not?" I challenged. "If it ends all the same? If I wake up after this realizing that it ended just how it usually does? Worst, what if we ended up approaching Kaon and she curses me again with the memories of all of you? I cannot handle that, Usui. You can't put me in that situation by myself. I won't be able to handle it."

"You won't be alone." He assures me; grabbing me by the shoulders so he could crush me against his chest. "I told you. If this ends the same way, if there really is no other way around this, I would come and find you right away."

I wanted to be comforted with that. But I know that I couldn't. Harsh as it may sound, I know very well that it was all talk. Not even Takumi can determine and decide what's going to be the end for us—not even Shizuko. But still, I felt stupid for being comforted by his embrace; knowing that I get to spend this lifetime with him even if it meant I have to face the next lifetime searching for him again.

Pushing myself away from him, I said, "You're so stupid—all of you."

He chuckled at that. He still looked tense but dammit, he looks damned different laughing despite the anxiety. And when he does that, I couldn't help but just stare at him—simply stare at him. He was so… he was just something. And I can't believe that this man is mine—connected to me in every possible way to the point that we would cross paths in all of our lifetimes. And before pride could even take over passion, I ended up blurting out the words I have never imagined I would ever say in this lifetime.

"I love you, Takumi."

He seemed stunned by that. In front of us, a stumped Hideki looked like he wanted to get out of the car in order to give us some privacy while Shizuko merely rolled her eyes.

Before he could even respond, I spoke again. I was not about to let myself hear something that would make me feel like I can hold onto it forever. "Something is happening that has never happened before. And I don't have any explanation to that. But what I want you guys to do is to always, always be careful—whether all of us are together or not. And please, do not engaged Kaon. I'm not yet sure if it's really her predecessor who cursed me. But if she can do things that her predecessor can, it would be… foolish to be confrontational."

I was confrontational.

In fact, I was on the warpath.

It was probably a bad idea. I know it was. But I know myself much better than anyone. It didn't help that I now have an idea on who cursed me. Hence, there was nothing else to do but to confront that very person.

I was quick to spot Kaon with her friends by the pavilion. They were laughing implicitly and I know that they were probably talking mean things about something—or someone—again; like what they always do. When one of Kaon's friends spotted my arrival, she was quick to elbow Kaon who glanced at my direction. The smile on her face disappeared the instant she saw me.

"I need to talk to you." I said; my words coming out harshly than necessary. I wanted to go for kindness. But it seems like that's not going to happen anytime soon.

She rolled her eyes but nodded at her friends anyway. For me, it was a sure sign that she knows what I came here for. When we're finally out of hearing range, she leaned back on the backrest of her seat and glared at me from head to toe as though she wanted to do nothing but incinerate me.

"I can see that you're aware now—finally."

That, in itself, was a confirmation. "Memories of blood."

"Funny way to describe it. But you're right. Memories of blood, indeed."

I've decided to just go straight for it. There's no use discussing it with her anyway. "Take it back."

"Excuse me?"

"The curse. Take it back."

She stared at me for a complete minute as if what I told her caught her off guard. And then, she laughed—no, more like cackled. "You're really dumb, aren't you, Ayuzawa?"

"What does that mean?"

"You think I can take it back?" she laughed once again. "And even if I can, you honestly think I would take it back? You're dumb."

This time, I was the one who was caught off guard. "What do you mean by you can't take it back? That's impossible."

"It is, my dear." She rolls her eyes again. "How could I take it back if I wasn't the one who cursed you in the first place? It was my mother, stupid."

"Then where's your Mom?"

Kaon shrugged; completely uninterested in our conversation. "She died a very long time ago—after placing the curse on Himemiya. Only the three of us gets reincarnated. But my mother, nope. The mother I have right now is pretty normal—no memories of what happened whatsoever."

"Then how did you get to know all of this?"

"Simple, Ayuzawa. Unlike you, I have the advantage of retaining the memories of my predecessors." I was quick to back away from her when she abandons her seat to stand in front of me. "That's right. Be scared of me."

I managed to recover on time. "I'm not scared of you, Umekoji."

"Whatever floats your boat. But here's the thing, Ayuzawa: no matter how much or how hard you try, you will never get out of this curse. This will haunt you for the rest of your life—you and the future you. Maybe, that will teach you how to not steal things that don't belong to you."

That tick me off. I am so done with people telling me that I shouldn't steal something that doesn't belong to me. "Takumi is not an object."

"He's not. But he's mine anyway—and you stole him from me."

I stepped forward her; almost looming over her since she's a few inches short of me. "I didn't. And you know that. I wasn't interested in him in any way. And you know that whether I want him or not, he will always come to me—because that's how it will always happen."

"Y-You… You—" and she looked so angry that she was quick to grab her stuff and started walking out on me.

I was certain that it hit her right where it hurts. But I'm far from being done yet. "You told me that I cannot get out of this curse, right? Well, the same thing goes for you as well."

Kaon paused on her tracks and whirls around to glare at me again. "What does that mean?"

"Maybe this is your curse, Kaon. Maybe, while my curse is to get everybody's attention no matter how unwanted on my part, your curse is to always yearn for the attention of that person you wanted the most."

I know that it hit a nerve as her eyes spit fire. "Take it back!"

"I won't. And you know what? Maybe, the reason why your mother couldn't be reborn is because of the fact that she did this curse to all three of us. Maybe that's her curse—her consequence."

"You bitch—" before I could even retaliate, I was stunned when she charged towards me and pushed me as hard as she can that I stumbled on my heels and fell butt first on the ground. She stood hovering in front of me; eyes flashing with anger. "I hate you!"

"As I hate you!" I screamed back. "No wonder he couldn't like you! You're so desperate!"

"I am not desperate!" and then she charges again to pull me by the hair. But I wasn't about to allow her to do that. And since I was bigger than her, I was able to pushed her away. She let out a startled gasp before rocking on her heels clumsily and falling flat on her butt. "Damn you, Himemiya!"

"Right back at you!" I screamed back at her. This time, both our hatred for each other are on par. I wasn't about to hide it anyway. This woman is the reason why my family suffered. Shizuko was right. There must be a reason why we've crossed each other's path. "Your mother cursed Himemiya for reasons she couldn't understand—for reasons she wouldn't understand. And so are you. He's yours? Did you even ask if he feels the same way towards you?"

"We love each other and you know that!"

"Or maybe, it was just you who knows that." I wanted so badly to rub it on her face. That she probably needed time to revisit her memories but I've decided not to. Despite the anger… the extreme hatred… I know that she loves Takumi as much as I do—and that she was probably and truly in it for love. And it made me sad knowing that I am stepping on some people in order for me to be happy.

"It was all your fault." She says in a low voice; but I know that I made her mad—that everything that I did today only triggered her anger. "I was happy until you came—I would have been happy just staying by his side. I only want one lifetime to be with him—just one lifetime. But you couldn't even give me that."

"I'm not doing this on purpose, Umekoji."

She chuckled darkly at that. She gets up from the floor and starts dusting her skirt from invisible dirt. "You're always not doing it on purpose. You always don't have an idea about things. You're always the victim, aren't you, Ayuzawa?"

"I never said anything like that."

"Of course." Once she was done dusting her skirt from dirt, she stares at me again and freezes me on the spot; holding me to the ground against my will. "But here's the thing, Ayuzawa. This time, it will be different. Just enjoy your time now with Takumi. Because in this lifetime, he will belong only to me. And this time, you will be the one who would end up alone."

"What are you—"

"And break the curse, you say?" she says, cutting me off effectively. "I'd be stupid to do that if I know how to. But I know how to and you won't be able to find out anything about it. You'll live with that curse for the rest of your life while I enjoy this lifetime being with Takumi."

I was about to retort to that when I've noticed her eyes went past my face and over my shoulders. And instantly, I felt Takumi's presence. I was quick to spun around but instantly regretted it as well.

Boy, he is mad.

I could feel the anger emanating off him; wearing it like second skin. In fact, I can pretty much guess where his anger is being directed at: me, Umekoji and obviously, my stupidity. I've warned them about being confrontational but here I am confronting the very person we should be avoiding at all cost.

Behind me, Umekoji spluttered inelegantly as if she wanted to take back everything she said and how she acted. She cleared her throat and lifted her chin, trying to recover from the obvious embarrassment before quickly snatching her bag on the table and quickly scurrying away as if being under Takumi's gaze was the last thing she wanted to be at.

I wanted to follow her. I didn't want to be in front of him as well knowing that his anger would focused solely on me—and my breaking of our rules.

"I'm sorry." I was quick to say before he could even say anything. "I know I told you guys about being confrontational but I can't help it. Cornering her—meeting her here—it must mean something! You have got to understand that!"

"Oh, I understand you, Ayuzawa." He says. But obviously, he was still seething. "But we've talked about this. You warned us about confronting Umekoji-san and now, you're butting heads with her? Now, who's being stupid?"

I wanted to scream at him for calling me stupid—for not understanding my current situation. I was so close to finding out how to get out of this frickin' nightmare. Umekoji knows how to remove my curse and I will extract that information out of her even if it kills us both. But in the end, I've decided to calm down. The last thing I want to happen is for us to fight over things we shouldn't fight about.

One thing he taught me during our short time together is that we are teammates.

Heaving out a heavy sigh, I decided to surrender—like what I always do. "I apologize… for being stupid."

"Stop getting in trouble, please. I understand that you're determined to find out how to get out of this… situation. But if you're planning to do something, at least let us in on it."

"I was planning to. But I'm at my wits' end here. I want to be normal—to live a normal life!"

"And you will. But do so with utmost patience and caution. We are here to help you, Ayuzawa. Are you still doubting that?"

I wasn't doubting any of them. But dammit, I felt like I've stayed here for half a year but still wasn't able to accomplished anything… until this. And I've always done all of these by myself that having people like them to help me makes me uncomfortable. But I know that I wasn't about to say that to him knowing that I would only hurt him further.

In the end, I settled with a nod. "Yes. I'm sorry. It won't happen again."

Takumi sighed. "Good. A lot of things happened today and I don't want to end this heavy day like this. Let's go back and reconvene with the others."

"Alright."

I accepted his waiting hand when he reached for mine and together, we walked side by side to the parking lot where I quickly noticed Sakura, Shizuko, Aoi and Hideki… and they looked like they were arguing.

"…calm down, Hanazono, or I will knock the living daylights out of you." Was Shizuko's stern warning when she noticed us approaching them.

I was momentarily confused. What now? "Is everything okay?" I asked as soon as I reached them. And when I remembered that I just broke my rule about not being confrontational, I was quick to backpedal. "If this is about me confronting Umekoji-san, I would like to apologize—"

"Oh, shut up, Misaki!" Sakura says irritably as she focused her attention on me and Usui. And boy, she's really mad. "This is not about that freak!"

Once again, I was confused. I turned to Shizuko and Aoi. "What did you guys do now?" Certainly, only these two—and Yukimura and Kuga-kun—can annoy her like this.

Shizuko sighed but I can sense the irritation coloring her voice, too. "Dammit. This is not the right time for this, Sakura."

"Then when? When are you going to tell her?!"

"Tell me what?"

Right next to me, Usui let out a heavy and annoyed sigh. "Not now, Hanazono. Ayuzawa, let's go."

Obviously, these people know something I don't and I wasn't about to let them leave me out of it. I snatch my arm back when he tried to pull me to a different direction; maintaining my gaze on Sakura. "Tell me what?"

"His engagement!" she screamed.

"What engagement?" I felt my throat turn dry as I look up at Takumi. "Who's getting engaged?" he let out another sigh and looks at Sakura—who didn't seem deterred—and Aoi sharply. Obviously, he knew that whatever explosive news may be have come from his cousin.

"Sakura." Shizuko warned; her eyes as cold as ice.

I glowered at her. "Don't make me do something I'd regret, Shizuko. If you don't want to tell me, then let her tell me. Stay out of this if you don't want to be a part of it."

"This is none of our business." She says, still obviously annoyed.

Sakura sneered at her. "Misaki and my friend and that very much makes it her business. I mean, I wouldn't want her philandering around with an engaged man!"

"What are you talking about, Sakura?" My ice is turning icy bit by bit and I'm in the verge of exploding. If they don't tell me this thing that they are fighting about, I'm certainly going to blow a frickin' fuse.

She stares back at me and Usui again; still undeterred by the discouraging expressions on everybody's faces. "Well, I wouldn't want to be the bringer of bad news but I'd rather you hear it right here, right now. They don't want to tell you because they think it's not important but for me, it sure it!"

"Spit it out then."

"Seems like Takumi-sama's fiancée has been chosen and, apparently, it was the same freak who put a frickin' curse on your family."

I felt the hairs on my nape and arms stood on its ends. Aoi sighed loudly and turns his back on us to face the car. Shizuko glared irritably at Sakura while Hideki simply washed his hand over his face; looking as though he wanted to leave us here in the parking lot—with his girlfriend in tow.

I turned to Takumi and I could see my reflection in his eyes; my eyes glowing an unnatural shade of amber. "When are you going to tell me?"

"It wasn't important—"

"For you." I cut him off; still angry. "It wasn't important for you. You told me that it was just discussed in passing and then I'd find out two days later that Umekoji becomes your fiancée? Which is which, Usui?"

He washes his hand over his face; obviously frustrated by the very sudden turn of events. "Look, we have other important things to worry about and I don't want you worrying about unnecessary things—"

"Might I add that a wedding date has already been set as well?" It was Sakura again as she glared at Usui. "Now, I guess that makes it important, huh?"

"Shut up, Hanazono." Shizuko says; stepping closer to Sakura although Hideki was quick to step in between them. "One more word and I swear to God—"

"You guys are unbelievable." I couldn't help but say as I grabbed my bag from Takumi and pulls Sakura with me as I walked out on them. I don't want to be talking with anybody right now but I wouldn't want to leave her there knowing that they'd gang up on her—as they did on me.

But Takumi wasn't about to let me off easily. He was quick to reciprocate my actions by quickly grabbing me by the arm to keep me from walking out on them. "Let me explain—"

"Explain what? That you're marrying that woman? She cursed me!"

"You think I want that to happen?" he shots back. "You think I want to marry her?"

"Then why didn't you tell me?"

"Because it wasn't important. And I know that it wasn't going to happen anyway—"

I scoffed at that. "Not going to happen, my ass! Well, newsflash, Takumi. Your family has control over you the same way Umekoji has control over my life. And whether you like it or not, whether you consider it important or not, the frickin' wedding is going to happen! And you didn't tell me about it."

"If I told you, would it change anything? Would it change my grandfather's mind?"

Unbelievable! "No. He wouldn't change his mind. But at least, I wouldn't think that you lied to me about it. I wouldn't think that you've known it all along instead of what you were telling me that it was just discussed in passing."

"Dammit, Ayuzawa."

I couldn't help but shake my head in obvious frustration and disbelief. I wanted so badly to kick him where the sun doesn't shine. But I don't want to hurt us anymore than necessary. So, instead of kicking him, I've decided to just turn my back on him and continue walking away. I didn't drag Sakura with me but she followed anyway. I can sense worry and regret on her face.

I wanted to tell her that it wasn't her fault. But dammit, that bastard Usui Takumi really wasn't planning to let me be. "I will drive you guys back to the dorm."

And I couldn't take it anymore. If I stay confined in that car with him, I swear to all the gods that I know that I would end up killing him. Angrily, I whirled around to face him. "No! Stay away from me!"

"Ayuzawa, don't be such a stubborn ass—"

"I'm a stubborn—" I didn't even bother to finish my sentence. Trying to clear my thoughts, I said, "Stay away from me, Takumi, or else."

"Or else what?" he challenges me; clearly pushing me to my limit. "What can you do? You know that I'm immune to you."

These are the times that I wish he wasn't so I could charm his ass off and order him to stay the hell away from me. "You're right. You are immune to me. But Sakura isn't. Hideki, Shizuko and Aoi aren't immune to me either. And I'm very pissed right now, Usui. You wouldn't want me to lose control here." He was about to respond to that but dammit, I didn't let him. If he speaks one more word, I will kick his ass. "Stay the hell away from me. I mean it. Or else."

I started walking backwards, watching him if he would follow. He looked like he wanted to but he probably thought that leaving me alone is a good idea. He knew that I meant what I've said. I'm pissed enough to commit homicide and if he knew better than to push me to my frickin' limits. When I was certain that he wouldn't follow me, I turned my back on him and quickly went to the bus stop and hops on the coming bus bound for the dormitory with Sakura behind me.

We occupied the seats by the last row and sat there quietly. But I was nowhere near quiet inside. In fact, I was fuming.

Right next to me, Sakura said, "I can feel you, you idiot. You better control your mood now, Ayuzawa, before things get bloody in this damned bus. You don't want me to. Kick you out and walk your way back to the dormitory."

I had to hand it to Sakura. She was very, very good when it comes to getting my attention. I glared at her, still annoyed, but thought better of the situation. We may have a lot of disagreements but dammit, it was only Sakura that I was certain would stand by me no matter what—even if it meant being hated by everybody. I whispered a low apology and focuses my attention on the white scenery outside; the words Umekoji, Takumi and marriage swirling inside my messy head.

I cursed once again at my third realization for the day with the first and second finding out that Kaon was the person who cursed me and Takumi and the others lying to me respectively.

Dammit, I am jealous.

I was jealous. No, I am jealous.

The thought of Usui Takumi marrying Umekoji—my sworn enemy—I felt like I was going to die out of extreme jealousy. I kept on tossing and turning on my bed as Sakura's words swirled inside my head. I was restless.

Takumi hadn't tried to contact me ever since we parted ways at school. I wasn't sure if that was a good thing or not but I know that if he tried to do so, I would only end up lashing out at him. Shizuko arrived back in our dorm late in the afternoon and hadn't uttered a single word. In fact, she didn't even bother to greet me when she caught me sneaking food into my room exactly around the time she arrived.

In fact, she looked very pissed. I wondered if that was because of how I reacted but dammit, I wasn't about to let them affect me like that. Should I be happy that he's getting married and that he didn't even bother to tell me about it? That they didn't bother to tell me about it?

Were they expecting me to be jumping in joy?

I wanted so badly to scream but thought better of it. I wouldn't want to bother the neighbors and worst, I wouldn't want them to know that the news affected me more than the usual. Glancing at the digital clock by my nightstand, I realized that it was already quarter to two in the morning. This time, I wasn't able to stop the low groan from escaping my throat. I checked my phone again—no messages. But it wasn't like I would welcome it either. I'm probably going to end up pissed if he tries to make contact.

Abandoning my bed, I went to the window and gently pushed it open; allowing the cold and biting December wind to enter my bedroom. But I didn't have it open for long. I simply stood there for a few minutes and watched as darkness stretched out to the horizon like a dark blanket. The darkness bothered me. In fact, it felt like it was trying to cover me as well. More bothered than I should have been, I sealed the shutters shut and walked back to my bed; nearly slamming myself against the mattress as I stared at the ceiling.

I wasn't sure how to approach the subject. This is going to be the first time that I've ever felt this way—not even during that time—when I thought that I have found the one but turns out he wasn't. Even then, I was never truly the jealous type. But damn it, now I am. Snatching my phone again from where I threw it, I opened my gallery and stared at a photo of me and Takumi which Shizuko took recently. I stared at his handsome face and wondered what I would have done if he were really and truly to marry Umekoji.

Jealousy and anger reared its ugly head again and before I could even do something stupid, I threw my phone somewhere on the bed and stared at the ceiling again. For the first time in my life, I felt exhaustion washed over me.

What am I supposed to do?

I laughed at the very obvious response. Of course, I have to do what I'm usually good at doing: endure. And I felt so bitter about today's events I hadn't realized when I've fallen asleep.

I was woken up by the loud ringing of my alarm.

Stunned, I was quick to reached out for it by my nightstand and slammed it shut. I crashed back on my bed again, contemplating if I should go back to sleep and skip school today so I could avoid everybody but thought better of it. Skipping school isn't really in my best interest right now because I need to distract myself more than ever.

I'd probably end up regretting that decision anyway.

Lazily getting up, I grabbed my bathroom essentials on my way to the bathroom and turned on the hot shower; allowing the steam and warmth to fill the small space. When the water was hot enough, I stood underneath the hot jet spray and allowed it to consume me; relaxing my tense nerves as tight as violin strings until I have calmed down. The warm bath had helped and when I stepped out of the shower room, I felt somewhat okay.

I put on my uniform along with my thick jacket to protect me from the biting coldness of the winter season. When I was ready to go, I stared at the door and wondered how I would react if Sakura and Shizuko were outside. Would they wait for me like they always do? Are we going to take Hideki's car together to the school? I sighed. There's no use worrying about it. I've no plans to go to school with them anyway.

When I've mustered enough courage, I stepped out of my room and paused when I realized that there wasn't a single sign of their presence anywhere. Had we been under normal situation, I know I would be surprised. But I wasn't. I know Shizuko was still pissed about last night's events. And I could understand Sakura for leaving me as well. After all, she was the type to give everyone the space and privacy they deserved.

Closing the door of my bedroom behind me, I went out of our dorm room and towards the elevator. I was a bit unnerved by the silence on my way down to the lobby. I mean, sure there were other students during the early morning rush but this was the first time I actually felt alone and lonely in this massive place. I made my way to the spot where the school bus was parked and was about to get in when I spotted Takumi waiting for me by his big bike right next to the school bus.

I fought the urge to roll my eyes. The nerve of this guy! I ignored him anyway. I wasn't about to let him ruin my day before it could even begin. When he spotted me, he abandons his lazy position by his bike and falls into steps beside me.

I was quickly on the defense. "Don't start with me, Usui. I won't hesitate to kick your ass in front of everybody."

"I figured that you'd take the bus. I will take you to school." He says, ignoring my initial warning.

"I don't want to go anywhere with you."

"Kaga will have my ass if she finds out that I allowed you to take the bus to school—not that I would allow you, of course."

I smiled sardonically but continued walking anyway. "That's very nice of you, really. But no thanks. I'd rather walk than be anywhere near you."

I knew I somehow hit a nerve because he suddenly grabbed me by the elbow and started dragging me towards his bike. I wasn't able to kick his ass like I promised not because I was caught off guard but because of obvious reasons. I don't want to look like a fool in front of everybody. And I know he wasn't going to let that happen anyway. When we finally reached his bike—that frickin' death contraption—I quickly snatched my arm away.

Despite my anger, dammit, I still couldn't help the rush of tingle all over my body by his mere touch.

"Just stop, okay?" he says, completely annoyed. "I thought you would be more understanding than this."

"You lied to me."

"And you didn't?" he shots back which had silenced me. "You did that on a lot of occasions. Not lying, of course, but not sharing all the important details when I asked you to."

"You're unbelievable." Because he is! How dare he compare our situations?! I was about to turn my back on him again but he was quick to intercept my action and grabs my arm again. I glared at him. "If I got late on my class, I swear to God—"

He looked—and seemed—obviously frustrated by the ensuing fight. And by the looks of it, I was quite certain that he wasn't about to let me off easily. In fact, he looked like he was ready to punch someone to release his intense frustration. "Just let me drive you to school, Ayuzawa."

I couldn't help glaring at him; quickly darting a glance on his bike before returning my gaze on him again. "You're doing this on purpose, aren't you? You know I hate riding your bike."

He sighed. His patience was really being tested and I'm making sure he gets a good taste of it. "And you know I'm a good driver—never got into any minor or major accident. I've never been issued a ticket, either."

"Usui, please." I was annoyed again. "I don't want to start my day annoyed and you're really doing a great job annoying me."

He was about to retort to that when his eyes suddenly went from my face past my shoulders. I knew suddenly that someone had approached. I was expecting Aoi and the others but when I turn, I was surprised to see Igarashi Tora. He smiled when I paid him attention before eyeing Takumi again.

"Is he bothering you?" he asks; a genuine mix of concern and irritation on his face. "Because to me, it seems like he is."

Ugh. I don't want to be in the middle of this. "He's not, Igarashi-kun. Thank you for your concern."

"If someone here is bothering someone, it's you, Igarashi." Takumi says; visibly showing his irritation now as he stepped in between me and Igarashi. "Now mind your own business and leave us alone."

I wasn't surprised anymore when Igarashi ignored him and focuses his attention on me again. "You okay, Ayuzawa? If not, I'm more than happy to drive you to school. Seems to me like you want to take the bus but someone is keeping you from it."

"You don't have to because I will."

"Obviously, I wasn't talking to you, Usui."

I couldn't take it anymore. And worst, I hate it the most when people are talking about me as if I wasn't there. "Oh, for goodness sake, you two! Stop talking as if I wasn't here." My annoyance towards Usui got the very best of me and even I know that he would hate it, I'd really rather not be around him for a while. "Igarashi-kun, do you mind taking me to school?"

For the first time ever since I've met him, he looked stupefied. "Really?"

"Yes." I nodded; ignoring Takumi's expression as though I've kicked his favorite bike. I stepped past him and stared at Igarashi. "Whenever you're ready."

"Oh, okay." He shrugged—trying to look nonchalant—and ushers me to his car. "Ready when you are."

Behind me, I could feel Takumi seething though still maintained a calm exterior. "Don't do this, Ayuzawa."

I glowered at him. He really did it this time. "Stay away from me. I mean it. Go marry Umekoji or something."

I nodded at Igarashi—who looked stupefied once again—and pulls him with me to get to his car; leaving Takumi all by himself by the bus stop. Somehow, I felt guilt eat me up for what I did but I didn't really want to be anywhere the guy because I might just end up kicking his ass. Igarashi—ever a gentleman—opened the car door for me before getting into the driver's seat. He started the car and sped off without missing a beat.

"You need to invest in a car if you and your boyfriend are going to have days like this." He said after a brief moment of silent. "Did you see his face? He's on the warpath and I share several classes with him. I'm thinking of skipping and doing extra-curricular work instead. I think they need someone to man the library."

I smiled at him apologetically. He might be an ass sometimes but he can be funny. "I'm sorry, Igarashi-kun. I didn't mean to involve you like that. And I hope you're not thinking that I just made you my scapegoat."

He chuckled. "Nah. All good, Ayuzawa-san. I'm use to Usui being annoyed at me. It was my fault anyway. We used to be good friends."

"What happened?" I couldn't help but ask. "If you don't mind, of course. I mean, I really don't understand this type of relationship."

He shrugged; his eyes focused on the road. "Maybe it was because I thought he was a lucky SOB. And I'm pretty competitive. When I was much, much younger, I thought he became second-in-line to his brother only because he was Patricia's son regardless of his illegitimacy. Don't give me that stunned expression. I saw you at the dinner so I'm quite aware that you know about the scandal involving their family. Anyway, I don't usually admit this to anyone but I do think that despite his obvious youth, he was very much capable, hence, he wa recognized by his family."

I was about to retort to that but he was quick to cut me off.

"If you quote me on that, I would deny it."

I couldn't help the laugh that escaped my throat. I lifted one hand to signify that I would keep it a secret. "I would bring it to my grave."

"Let's not be drastic now, shall we?" he says while laughing. "Anyways, I know that this isn't my business but you should really speak to him. Letting a fight brew for days is not a good thing. I may hate his guts but I do pity the guy—he seemed genuinely sorry."

I sighed. I don't really want to speak about this issue. "Do you know about him and Umekoji-san?"

This time, it was him who sighed. "You know, Ayuzawa, it wasn't him who asked to be betrothed to Umekoji-san—the girl is nuts. He probably has his reasons for not telling you. And if you really know that guy, you'd know that he'll always find a way to get out of things he didn't want to be in—even if it was a direct order from his grandfather."

Ugh. I hate it when people speak sense.

We arrived at the school in no time and he parks smoothly right next to where he can drop me off. "Here's the thing—just talk to the guy and deal with it. An irritated Usui Takumi at school is not a good thing. Cut us some slack."

I smiled at him. He can be annoying but he actually has a kind spot—if he wants to show it. "You're a good guy, Igarashi-kun… when you're not being annoying."

"I'll take that as a compliment."

I laughed at his response and thanks him for the ride to school before making my way to Miyabigaoka. I know sooner or later that Shizuko and the others would find out that I accepted a ride from Igarashi-kun but I've decided not to dwell on it for a while. I made sure that I would focused on classes for now and deal with them later—once I feel like finally dealing with them. It may not be their fault but I still hate the thought that they lied to me about Usui's engagement with Umekoji.

With another heavy sigh, I went into the building and to my first class.

And, ugh, I don't really feel like dealing with Math today.

"Igarashi Tora, really? Even for you, Ayuzawa, that's really low."

I smiled at Shizuko sardonically as I browse the shelves for whatever book that may catch my interest. However she located me is something I didn't bother to question anymore. "Hello to you too, Shizuko."

"Really, Ayuzawa?" she was still annoyed. "Usui is on the warpath. And it's all because of you."

I glared at her. I wasn't going to let them put all the blame on me for his sour mood. "I would like to remind you, Kaga, that it was his fault in the first place. He lied to me."

"And so are you. You also lied to him—"

"Are you really going to do this to me?" I cut her off; getting annoyed now. "You know why I lied for good reasons. It wasn't like I was marrying anybody. He was engaged to that woman while seeing me. What was that all about?"

"I have no time for this misplaced jealousy." She says, grabs a book from the shelf and drags me with her to an isolated area. "Don't be such an ass, Ayuzawa. Settle this with him now."

I wanted to pull on my hair out of extreme annoyance. "Why me?!"

She ignored that. "You accepted the ride with Igarashi. What was that all about? You know that they hate each other's guts and you still went on and did that."

"He pissed me off that's why I did that. I've been telling him off but he's really so good getting on my nerves. What else should I do? I'm getting late for school, he's keeping me from the bus and you know that I hate riding his bike."

"Very mature, Ayuzawa." She says with a roll of her eyes.

I had to hand it to her. The woman knows very well how to get into my nerves as well. But then again, it's actually much easier to still talk to her regardless of our earlier fight. I sighed; trying to calm myself since nothing good will come out if I matched her mood. "Where is he now?"

"Soccer practice. That's a good outlet for him because I'm pretty sure he's going to beat everyone that would annoy the daylights out of him." She glares at him again. "But he will surely come to you after that. He's been asking me to keep tabs on you so he can get to you as soon as he's done with practice. If he offers you a ride back to the dorms, accept it."

"And if I don't?" I challenged. She may be used to boss people around but that's a different case with me.

But when she glared at me again, I couldn't help but be frozen on the spot. She's much scarier than Umekoji. "I will lock you out of the dorm. Maybe, you will develop conscience overnight once you've had a taste of sleeping outside."

She didn't let me respond anymore because she was gone in an instant; leaving me all by myself by the library. I couldn't help but exhale out of extreme frustration, impatience and irritation. When my phone started vibrating, I fished it out of my bag and sighed once again when it registered Usui's name.

This day really couldn't get any better.

Hey guys!

I apologize for not being able to update this right away. I know it's been months since my last update and I promised to update as soon as possible but it seems like life is really happening a little bit TOO MUCH lately that I can't work on this story even if I want to.

Anyways, I hope you like this chapter and I would like to thank you all for the messages and reviews. I promise to work on the next chapter as soon as I can. Thank you, stay safe and have a wonderful day!

-TGR