Disclaimer: I do not own Gundam Wing, Photo Kano or any of its characters. I wrote this fanfic for my own pleasure and purely entertainment.

Chapter 4 - The Wife of the Academy

Duo Maxwell whistled casually as he walked leisurely towards the school entrance. Despite summer being in its last legs, the warm sunlight and smooth breeze brought by the early morning sun left a soothing and refreshing feel on his skin. His school bag tucked closely under his arms, the braided haired former Gundam pilot had deliberately lagged behind Heero and Haruka to allow the two new friends some special getting-to-know-you-even-further time. He smirked knowingly while trailing the two as there was still a good quarter of an hour before the campus bell rings – a grim announcement that every student should make haste lest they wanted to risk facing stiff punishment from the student council.

'Those two definitely look good for each other… I wonder if I need to play cupid for them to realize that'. He thought while staring at Heero and Haruka.

'No matter how I see it… the girl already admires our ever fearless Mr. Perfect Soldier. But damn… he's just too dense to notice it. Well… he's been more relaxed now compared to the time we were fighting with mobile suits… still, it surely is a big improvement for that ultra thick skull of his…'

The self-proclaimed god of death was purged off his musings when he saw a figure standing watch behind the school gates. He could not help but grin widely upon recognizing the person. It was Aki Muroto, student council president. The tall, lithe bodied, senior was standing guard near the entrance, keenly inspecting each student coming inside the school premises.

'Ahh… now's my chance… I need to make her notice me.'

The lavender eyed young man deliberately passed directly in front of Aki while beaming at her using his ever famous Cheshire smile. The older girl noticed him but decided to shrug him off with the traditional 'hmphf!' before turning her head sideways from him.

'Playing hard to get, eh?'

Never to be ignored, Duo Maxwell purposely unbuttoned his school uniform revealing his fine toned chest covered only by a white tank top. He saw Aki raise an eyebrow and folded both arms as she approached him from where he was standing.

"What do you think you're doing? That is against school policy!" Aki berated him.

"Muroto-sempai, I don't mean to be impolite or vulgar but I'm not showing off my chest for everyone's delight. I just want to get your attention." He explained while flashing a knowing grin.

"M-my a-attention?! Do you want to get in detention for this?! Button up at once!"

'Ahh… just like a drill sergeant! That's what I like about you!'

"If it means getting some time to know you better… you may detain me, Muroto-sempai."

He saw her smile back at him roguishly before speaking.

"Just so you know, it's Mr. Kurosawa, the gym teacher, is in charge of detention time."

'Oh… you don't know who you're messing with. You're talking to the best damn intel and resource operative the Preventers ever had.'

"Come on now, don't be shy, Muroto-sempai. I'm fully aware that the faculty does not take part on any student related incidents sanctioned by the council. They only intervene on serious offenses like… physical assault within campus grounds."

The braided haired boy easily caught her façade as Aki's jaw dropped open upon realizing he was now fully aware of the school regulations.

"So… is it a date?" He urged, moving his face closer to hers.

The former diving team champion was all flustered with her cheeks deep red due to the close proximity of their faces.

'Damn… despite the glasses… she's actually very pretty… and utterly cute behind that front.' Duo mused upon seeing her reaction.

They were both startled when the school bell suddenly rang along with it was the rushing of students trying to get inside the campus before getting tagged as tardy.

"I'll… l-let you go this once, Maxwell… but mark my words, I've got my eyes on you."

The playful former Gundam pilot only smiled kindly at her as he buttoned his shirt before replying.

"I've got my eyes on you too, sempai... actually, on you alone, Aki-chan."

He noticed her blush even more.

"D-don't call me, Aki-chan! I'm your senior and we're not even close!"

Emboldened, Duo brought his face next to hers.

"Is… this… close enough, Muroto-sempai?"

He didn't know how long it lasted.

Was it just a couple of seconds?

Or it carried on for a few minutes?

Whatever the case was, he was able to accomplish one thing. Duo Maxwell has established a beach head on the shores of Aki Muroto's territory. He gave her what should be his most… striking gaze as he captured Aki's own pair of purple orbs in one dazzling moment. They stood close to each other amidst the storm of students while time seemingly slowed down. Their thoughts only focused to the person in front of them. Duo detected the increase in temperature from the Student Council President as heat rose up through her usually stern face. However, those ostensibly prolonged moments were but a miniscule or fraction of the actual time that heeded no concern in passing them.

"I… I won't f-forget this…" Aki distressingly uttered before retreating away from him.

"Of course you can't… Muroto-sempai… of course you can't." Duo whispered to no one while gazing at the former diving ace's slowly dissipating form.

'The stakes… just got higher, Duo… why the hell did you do that to her…'

Haruka gracefully returned the serve with a powerful forehand swing that landed just within the court's boundaries. She smiled contentedly as the game came to a close while her opponent a fellow junior raised a "thumbs up" sign at her.

Game point… she has won another match.

"Niimi-sempai! You're truly amazing! No wonder you're the ace of our tennis club!" One of the freshmen greeted while another team member approached her to hand over her face towel.

"Niimi-san seems to be always in high spirits lately! She hasn't dropped any match recently… probably due to the inspiration brought by that transfer student in her class." Makoto, a junior from class 2-C noted while smiling teasingly at the chestnut brown haired young lady.

The afternoon sun shone brightly upon them, classes were already concluded for the day. After school clubs both athletic and non-athletic were doing their respective activities. The lovely tennis ace was definitely in a good mood, especially after beginning the day earlier by coming to the campus together with Heero Yuy. Haruka was inexplicably contented for reasons still unknown to her whenever she spent time with the mysterious ex-Preventer agent that had become her classmate and now her friend.

She thanked her co-members in the tennis team before taking a seat at the bleachers. She planned to take a breather first and a few moments to cool down prior to hitting the showers later on. The hair-clipped wearing girl was in such a moment when she heard one of her teammates threw a seemingly innocent yet truly sly remark.

"Speaking… of the devil…"

Haruka raised her head only to see Heero approaching her with a tetra pack fruit juice in his hand.

'Yuy-kun…'

"Niimi-san, please drink this to recover some of the energy you expanded earlier." The brown haired boy kindly offered, handing her the fruit juice.

"Thank you, Yuy-kun." She replied yet the instant she reached out to him… their hands accidentally touched each other.

A warm, stinging sensation pierced through her wholeness the moment she felt her skin brushed with his.

'Ohh… what's this… I'm getting flustered all of a sudden…'

Shyly, Haruka accepted the drink while feeling her cheeks burn bright pink.

"Good job, out there." Heero commented before sitting beside her.

She only smiled and nodded subtly at him… discreetly attempting to hide her flushed face.

"Must be too hot, Niimi-san." The former Gundam Pilot noted as he innocently scanned the skies.

'I think you're hot, Ice cream vendor-san... what a way to compare things… Haruka... you place hot and ice in one sentence.' She mused before realizing the content of her thoughts.

'Aww… what am I thinking at a time like this!'

"Don't you have any after school club you'd like to join? Knowing your capabilities, you'd have no problem signing up with a sports or non-athletic club."

"Actually, I'm supposed to meet with Duo in a short while, we're joining the Cooking Research Society later. I heard they're in need of members." The cobalt eyed young man informed her.

'C-cooking Research Society? Yunoki-san is the only member of that organization…' She pondered before hearing the normally taciturn boy continue.

"Living alone opened my eyes on the need to be self-supporting. We've been eating nothing but limited recipes we're familiar with and convenience store food or at ramen stores… depending on the mood." Heero disclosed.

"I think that's a good idea, Yuy-kun. Whoever said that it should only be girls doing the cooking are truly close-minded."

"I agree, Niimi-san."

"Well, you should let me taste your cooking sometime then, Yuy-kun." She innocuously stated before comprehending the meaning behind her statement.

'There you go again… Haruka… very assuming… very careless…'

"Of course, Niimi-san. I'll prepare a bento for you once I learn to do something edible." Heero simply said.

'Really?! Err… why am I getting so elated…'

"T-that… w-would… b-be… d-definitely most welcome, Yuy-kun." Haruka answered, stuttering badly in an attempt to conceal her excitement.

'My goodness… it is getting hotter here….'

He nodded slightly and smiled subtly at her in response.

'Ohh… this is becoming too much… I'm getting… embarrassed once… again…'

"Are you ok, Niimi-san? You're all red right now. I could take you to the infirmary." The brown haired young man offered.

She scanned their surroundings only to notice that her fellow club mates were all smiling knowingly at their direction.

'Hkkkt….'

"I-I'm o-ok… Yuy-kun… must be the heat… but I'm fine… really, I'm fine."

"Ok." He shortly said before they saw Duo approaching them.

"Niimi-san, I'm going to borrow your guardian angel for a while… we're enlisting… I mean joining the Cooking Research Society." The braided haired boy informed her before flashing his signature wide grin.

'G-guardian angel?!'

"Please don't mind him. We'll be going then… unless you're not feeling well… I'll assist you to the clinic." Heero volunteered but she only smiled and shook her head sideways.

"I'm alright, please go ahead, Yuy-kun. I'll see you both tomorrow then, Maxwell-kun." Haruka replied.

Both young men bowed slightly at her as they made their way to the tennis court's exits.

'Seriously… what's wrong with you… Haruka?' Her thoughts wondered while looking at Heero's back.

The Cooking Research Society was instituted with the goal of encouraging its members on creating new dishes or innovating existing ones for the development of their culinary skills. Prior to the graduation of its senior members the club enjoyed good affiliation and never lacked the needed support from both the school administration and student council. However, currently, the club is only attended by its remaining member, Rina Yunoki. Its clubroom is located at the second floor of the laboratory building overlooking the tennis courts. This made the Cooking Research Society an ideal platform for Heero and Duo to watch over Haruka Niimi while improving their culinary capabilities at the same time. It gave them the perfect excuse to discreetly monitor their charge and join an extracurricular activity that would benefit their current living conditions.

The two former Gundam pilots were about to enter the home economics room when they heard a stifled noise coming from within followed by a disappointed cry. Heero alertly slid the door open and entered the room without any delay. The Perfect Soldier was caught in complete surprise to see a bunch of oranges rolling on the floor towards him. The fruits were closely followed by a young woman desperately chasing after them. Her futile attempt to recollect them ended with the girl banging her head on Heero's groin as he was unable to step back since Duo was closely following him.

The young woman fell flat on her butt and was on a prostrate position with Heero instinctively moving his hand to cover his injured lower mid-region.

'That… certainly… hurt…'

"Whoa… they're white…" Duo commented, with his lavender orbs landing on the area located between the young woman's sprawled legs.

"D-Duo… you moron… help her!" Heero ordered, still reeling from the effects of his accidental collision with the girl.

It was only then that the braided haired young man realized their situation and hastily moved to assist the blonde haired girl in standing up.

The young lady still looked dazed as she scratched the top of her head while intuitively running one hand at her hurt backside.

"Are you, ok?" Duo worriedly asked.

"I-I'm… ok… sorry… it seems… I've hurt your friend as well…" The girl replied while looking nervously at him.

"No… I'm alright now." He answered, with his arm holding the door frame for support.

All three of them proceeded to gather the scattered oranges before neatly placing on a tray. The young woman then dusted herself before bowing respectfully at them.

"Rina Yunoki, Class 2-A, President and sole member of the Cooking Research Society. Thank you for the help earlier and my apologies for that incident as well. How may I be of assistance?" The blonde haired girl introduced herself.

"We'd like to apply for membership... if you'll have us." Heero straightly told her.

The young woman was silent for a moment, looking at each of them… as if sizing up their intentions.

'Hnn… looks like she's uncomfortable with having male members.'

No sooner had the thought escape from him when he noticed that Rina Yunoki was already staring at them with doe-like and hopeful eyes.

"R-really?" She excitedly inquired.

"Yes, if it's fine with you, Yunoki-san." Heero replied.

"Of course! The Cooking Research Society is badly in need of members… we're in danger of being closed down by the student council, but with your arrival, I believe we can encourage other students in joining our club." Rina explained before bowing slightly at them.

"Then we're just in time! Reason me and Heero wanted to join is to expand our military… err, I mean… limited cooking skills by learning from an expert!" Duo eagerly stated.

"Ohh… I'm… I'm far from being an expert but with exposure and some tips we could readily develop your knowledge of the culinary arts." The kind young lady answered.

"Does this mean we're accepted?" He tentatively inquired.

"Yes, I would never turn away anyone from the club. Both of you just need to fill out the application forms and I'll submit them to the Student Council President on the next organizational meeting." Rina informed them before extending her hand at Heero.

"Heero Yuy, class 2-B, I'll be under your guidance, Yunoki-san." He introduced himself before bowing respectfully at Rina then gently shaking her hand.

"Duo Maxwell, class 2-B, please take care of me as well, Yunoki-san." The playful lavender eyed young man said while accepting Rina Yunoki's handshake.

"Comm bug and tracker unit are working perfectly, Red One. Proceed with discreet caution in meeting up with Cinderella." Duo transmitted to the concealed earpiece while he tactfully checked his mobile phone for the target's coordinates.

"The hell with the Cinderella codename Grey Two." He growled underneath his breath.

"Isn't it appropriate on your situation with her, Prince Charming? You know, why not engage a relationship with her. If I may, team leader… you two look good together. It's obvious she's attracted to you oh ever fearless Yuy-kun…" The braided haired former Gundam pilot insinuated.

"Damn you, Duo. Unlike you I'm not the type of person who involves myself on matters that I am admittedly unfamiliar with. Plus I would never implicate myself on something that would cause severe repercussions to another person's emotions." Heero dangerously uttered with the seeming intent of strangling Duo from the end of the other line.

"Well now, Red One… call it a hunch but just like I've told you before… I sense there's this connection between you and…"

"Shut up, Grey Two. Mission objective is now visible from my position, proceeding to intercept." The brown haired boy interjected before cutting off their transmission.

It was a Sunday. For the past two weekends they have contented themselves in utilizing concealed monitoring tactics of Haruka Niimi's weekly shopping routine. The cobalt blue eyed young man had agreed with Duo to limit themselves to short range and wide area surveillance whenever they were following the lovely idol of Kouga High. However, today they decided to do some 'exercises' if in case Haruka encounters certain incidents that fall under her designated protection protocols.

Of course for that to be accomplished they need to provide a viable excuse on why Heero happened to be within the vicinity. Haruka's Protection Protocols were a list of occurrences that the Perfect Soldier had determined as possible threats to his charge's safety and wellbeing. The list includes, encounters with suspicious individuals, medical emergencies, fast reaction to calamities and contingency measures on unwarranted events.

"I'd like to take advantage of the buy one take one promo on the milkfish please." Haruka stated, prompting the fish vendor to get two packs of frozen milkfish then handing them over to her.

Soon as the hair-clipped wearing young woman had paid, Heero purposely bumped her from the shoulder.

"Ooopps, I'm sorry…" She apologized before meeting the eyes of the person.

"My apologies as well." Heero simply said soon as he turned to face her.

"Oh! Yuy-kun! Funny meeting you here!" Haruka greeted.

"I'm surprised as well, Niimi-san. I didn't know you were doing your groceries at this time of the day." He lied while seemingly checking her bags.

"Oh… I always do my shopping and errands every Sunday. It's just a small way of helping my parents. You seem to be doing your groceries too."

"Yes, I was supposed to buy some fish here in the market."

"Wow, you already know some recipes from the Cooking Research Society?"

"Not yet… I'm just planning to deep fry them. Basic cooking. Any suggestions?" Heero replied.

"I could give you a few options." Haruka thoughtfully offered.

"Thanks Niimi-san… however, is it fine with you to accompany a guy like me on things like this?"

"O-of c-course! A friend in need is a friend indeed… so they say. We're friends right?" She alluded with him noticing her cheeks painting a bright shade of pink.

"Without any doubt, Niimi-san." He concurred.

"Alright, then the stall in front of us has a lot of promos right now. Would you like to take a look?"

"I just buy what I need, Niimi-san. I'm really not too keen with that one plus one stuff." He replied while gazing at the store's various advertisements.

"Yuy-kun's going on a date with Niimi-chan~" Duo chanted over their private channel.

'Damn it, you moron…'

"Well, let's go over there. That fish stand offers reasonable prices if you're just going to buy a few."

"Heero and Haruka… on a relaxing Sunday, walking together, no different to a pair of lovers having some quality time~" The braided haired young man continued.

'You're beginning to get under my nerves…' Heero mused, frustrated at the fact that he could not retaliate from his fellow Gundam pilot's incessant ribbing.

"Yuy-kun? What do you say…"

"Ahh… it's good to be young, the heat of summer shining down on these two love birds. Hey now, be a gentleman and carry your woman's shop bags~"

'This is hopeless. I can't remove the ear piece from its concealment giving you all the opportunity to throw your fantasies, imaginations and nonsense.'

"Uhmm, Yuy-kun?"

"Hey Romeo, your lovely Juliet is already calling out to you, just don't forget to treat her for something… like a small meal at a burger joint or a stop at the local cake house… the best way to cap your first date!"

'I'm really going to kill you, Duo!'

"Y-yes, Niimi-san?"

"About the stall over there, we could check out the fish they're selling since you're only getting a few." Haruka repeated while looking curiously at him.

He subtly nodded at her before quickly composing himself.

"Let's go check it out then, Niimi-san." Heero answered motioning for Haruka to lead the way.

She smiled back at him and nodded kindly in return.

Heero Yuy ended up taking Haruka Niimi to a pizzeria later that day to conclude their first ever date. Much to Duo Maxwell's own enjoyment and the lovely tennis ace's delight.

"Another weekend finished… another week to endure." Haruka softly mumbled before resting her back on her bed.

The amber eyed young woman smiled tenderly, the day ended nicely, or rather perfectly… at least for her. She just had what she could refer to as her first unofficial date with her friend, Heero Yuy. The tennis ace considered it a lucky coincidence running into her protector while doing her shopping in the afternoon. She wasn't entirely sure if she could refer to the incident as something dictated by fate yet the young lady was sure she would readily grab the opportunity once again if the chance presents itself ever again.

She feels… surreally at ease and safe whenever he was with her. Haruka had somehow attributed this feeling to that unforgettable experience she shared with the brooding young man that one summer day inside the park. She had unknowingly gotten herself entangled on a botched Preventer operation that almost cost her fragile life. There were still times her thoughts would stray to those nerve-wracking moments within the southeastern park. But before her heart becomes filled with anxiety she found comfort at the memories brought by Heero Yuy in his valiant effort to protect her… keep her safe.

Haruka sighed as she rested her forearm on top of her temple. Two weeks had swiftly gone by since Heero and Duo arrived from their class. Those two weeks have simply been dreamlike at least for her. The boy whom she owed a second chance or rather an extension of her life had placed a serious amount of effort in keeping his promise. There were times she surmised that his sudden appearance from out of nowhere may have been deliberate in his determination to watch over her. A part of her understands that he may be doing this out of guilt or responsibility due to the incidents both of them got involved in during that one unforgettable summer day. Yet she was quick enough to dismiss it as something that should never affect the friendship they have forged since his enrollment to her school.

He was man enough to approach and tell her of his intent to keep his promise. She was not the type of person who would turn back someone with sincere intentions to become her friend. The amber eyed young woman knew in her heart that Heero Yuy was a boy worthy of being trusted. He was sincere with his intentions and if the brown haired young man would go as far as leaving the Preventers to honor that tense-filled, life-and-death situation driven promise, then by all means… she'll do her own part and bequeath him her acceptance.

She feels… contented and strangely… at peace whenever she spends those simple passing moments with him. Fairly speaking, she never pushed herself on every occasion they spent with each other. The times they had together ensued in a very natural way, like she was with a long-time friend. As much as Haruka wanted to deny it, there were moments she would compare him with her childhood friend Kazuya Maeda. The two young men were polar opposites. Kazuya was a kind boy who stood by her side and still played with her despite the other children in the neighborhood avoided her due to her weak institution. Her childhood friend may have changed his enthusiasms or hobbies throughout years but their relationship has never changed. Though they had somewhat drifted apart in terms of closeness, he was still someone she could talk to on serious matters.

Heero Yuy meanwhile was a different monster. The secret agent was silent and brooding. A lot of the girls in their class had been very vocal of their attraction to him. Yet the brown haired boy barely said a word or would act as if it was already a given unlike his best friend Duo Maxwell. He was content to just be at the background or shadows even while giving her something occasionally like a fruit juice, soda or an energy drink after watching her tennis practice. He had earned another level of respect from her after learning of their resolve to learn culinary skills by joining the Cooking Research Society. He was very practical and logical… calculating even. She deduced that Heero's stern outlook was the end result of his training as a secret agent. But all in all… and even as much as she wanted to deny it, there's a special part of her that deeply relishes the fact that he was looking after her.

However, Haruka had not yet realized that she was looking at Heero more than what should be normally accorded.

-oxo-

"Are you sure, you're already fine with only pizza and soda? I could get you pasta or some salad." Heero offered.

"Oh… I'm fine, Yuy-kun. You ordered a family sized pizza when it's only the two of us." She answered while helping herself to the slice on her plate.

"It's the least I can do for getting you help me with my own groceries."

"Hmmm… you make it sound like I'm asking for something in return. We're friends right? It's my pleasure to help you on things I'm good at." Haruka replied before taking a bite on her pizza.

"My apologies, Niimi-san. But I am truly grateful." The brown haired boy kindly told her.

"Now that you've mentioned it though… there's only two of us here versus an 18-inch pizza." He added while eyeing the food in discussion.

"Ho ho… you make it sound like we're having a date, Yuy-kun." The amber-eyed young lady carelessly commented before realizing the meaning of her words.

'Ohh… what have I just said! Haruka… what on Earth where you thinking! Now he'll think I'm…'

"I haven't been to one, Niimi-san. Please excuse me if I fail to act appropriately on any matter." He truthfully told her.

'That's good! Eh… why are you thinking about that, Haruka! Why am I glad?! Arrgghhh… why am I being like this?!'

"I-it's fine… I-I h-haven't been to one either…" She softly said before feeling the hotness emanating from her cheeks.

"B-But… t-this… I-is not l-like a d-date… we… we're friends right, only those with romantic intentions do such things…" She stuttered while attempting to cut her slice of pizza.

"Of course, Niimi-san." Heero simply said.

'That's right… but why… am I somehow… disappointed… there's really something wrong with me…' She mused before chewing her food.

The moment she fixed her gaze back at Heero, she noticed the thin thread of mozzarella cheese near the border of his cheek and lips.

"Oh, Yuy-kun… you have… there…" Haruka called out then subtly pointing at the stray morsel of cheese she found on his face.

The cobalt blue eyed young man didn't seem to understand as he only curiously stared back at her.

She smiled lightly before innocently using her left thumb to wipe off the bit of cheese from his lips.

However… she was fully unconscious of the next thing she did.

Because, Haruka Niimi… simply placed her thumb into her lips and proceeded to chew that very same thin thread of mozzarella cheese.

"N-Niimi-san… a-are you fine with that... the morsel was on my cheek…" Heero uneasily uttered.

'Eh?'

'EH?!'

'The… morsel on his cheek… I… unconsciously… ate… it…' She realized while feeling the hot stinging sensation prick through the entireness of her face.

It was something… like an indirect kiss.

'I want to die from embarrassment…' Her thoughts cried out in shame.

"W-well… t-that's… o-ok… i-it's n-normal! Because we're friends, Yuy-kun." She struggled but managed to finish convincingly in what would be her best attempt to get out from that situation.

"I see… well, of course, Niimi-san." Heero softly stated before resuming his meal.

'Aarrgghhh… something is definitely wrong with me! He'll think I'm so shameless… wait a sec… why am I… too conscious with what he's thinking of me?' She quickly pondered while turning her face slightly away from him to conceal the redness of her cheeks.

-oxo-

'Really, Haruka… why have you been like this since Ice Cream vendor-kun came into your life?' The chestnut brown haired young woman contemplated soon as the memory dissipated.

The lovely campus idol of Kouga High did not get any sleep that night while searching for her answer in vain.

'The nerve of that guy… always mocking me… do you really think I'm that easy, Duo Maxwell?' Aki Muroto exhaled while in deep thoughts as she walked past the school gardens just outside the cafeteria. The warm summer sun stood dominant across the skies with only a few cirrus clouds draping the horizon. She sighed once again, covering her eyes partly from the blinding sunlight while gazing at the atmosphere. The stern student council president resumed her stroll, it was lunch time and there were still thirty minutes left before classes resume in the afternoon. She was in such musings when her foot got stubbed into something hard causing Aki to trip forward.

"What the…?!" The twin pony-tailed young lady instinctively blurted as she lost her balance.

However, instead of falling face down, someone suddenly gripped her wrist tightly before pulling her backwards.

Aki was then forcefully hauled to face the person in close proximity.

"I won't ever let you fall, Muroto sempai." He gregariously stated with his lavender orbs gazing deeply into hers.

Her savior had been no other than Duo Maxwell.

"You?! What do you think you're doing?! You're always tripping me!" Aki angrily blurted.

"I was saving you for goodness sake... and this is how you thank me." Duo answered while smiling kindly at her.

"This happened twice already when you're near me. You have been doing this deliberately!"

"See that." The braided haired young man replied, pointing at a stone tile jutting out of its section.

"That's the culprit."

"I… see." Aki softly uttered, realizing her mistaken assumption.

"Now… I believe someone here… owes me a 'thank you' at the very least."

'Hkkktt…'

"T-thank you" She whispered.

"I can't hear you, sempai." Duo stated, grinning widely at her.

"Thank you!" Aki repeated before realizing their faces were close to one another.

She quickly moved back while slightly turning away from him.

The strict young woman felt her cheeks being pricked by a thousand needles.

She was blushing furiously. He had caught it easily and was obviously enjoying her current predicament.

"Why do you always place me in such a situation? Never mind my position as the Student Council President. Don't you respect me as your senior?"

"These incidents might be happening for a reason whenever we're near each other. For what cause, I have yet to find out. But Muroto sempai, please know that I respect you both as the school's Council President and as a senior here in our campus." Duo cavalierly explained.

"If that's the case then why do you keep doing this to me?"

"Because, I don't just look at you as the Council President or a sempai, I see you as a woman, Muroto-sempai." He seriously stated while gazing at her purple orbs.

She felt something… at the very center of her chest… skip a couple of its normal beats upon hearing his response.

'Is… is he… confessing?'

Yet she was not a person to be taken lightly.

Aki Muroto had her life planned ahead of her. Her being at the top of the whole graduating class attests to her perseverance and dedication in studying. Senior High school was but a small stepping stone in preparation of University where she will follow the footsteps of her father… a highly respected doctor in the field of medicine.

She had no time… or interest even on engaging in trivial matters such as romantic relationships while still in school.

The purple eyed girl balked at Duo's response but it was normal she ascertained.

It was the first and may be the only time yet that someone has been bold enough to approach her on such manner.

"I don't understand your intentions, but with the way we are now and seeing how you… act in front of me makes me… think otherwise. Honestly, I don't have time to play these foolish games with you, Maxwell-san. It would be better if you divert your attention to the host of young girls you're always with." She nonchalantly told him, attempting to mask the emotions raging inside her chest.

"So… you've been observing me, eh? Regardless of what you say… you've been watching me as well, Muroto sempai. In simple words… you are aware of me. That would be enough… at least for now." He answered in a composed manner while smiling slyly at her.

'Hkkkttt…'

All that he said was true.

He hit her… bull's eye.

Yet she was Aki Muroto, the perfect student of Kouga Senior High… no one… not even this transfer student could ever hope to stand with in equal footing.

"I don't like you… Duo Maxwell."

It was all that she could say.

Actually it was all that was left for her to say.

"I'll make you, Muroto sempai. One way of another… I'll make you." The braided haired young man assured her.

"Then try all you want. I don't care. One thing's for sure though… I'll reject you in the end." Aki indifferently stated.

"That remains to be seen, Aki-chan." Duo gently told her, smiling kindly once again before moving past her and waving his hand goodbye.

"Uhm… uhm… p-please forgive me if I sound unsure since this is the first time I'll be working with someone else. I think… I got used to being alone as this club's sole member for most of the school term." Rina excused before bowing at them.

"Oh, don't worry about it Yunoki-san. Me and Heero are glad to be here, we're looking forward to learning from you!" Duo assuredly told her.

"He's right, Yunoki-san. Please don't hesitate to approach us if you require assistance. It would be the least we could do in return for teaching us improve our culinary skills." Heero replied.

The three of them were inside the spacious home economics room located at the second floor of the laboratory building. The room had a total of 16 counters divided into 2 columns allowing a good number of students to perform various cooking methods to enhance each individual's culinary talent. Each counter had its own gas stove and oven, cooking utensils and kitchenware. Earlier, Rina had already explained to them that they would be meeting thrice a week regularly, every Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Their first goal was to expose him and Duo on basic food preparation methods to further familiarize them before moving on to the Society's true objective – which is to research and improve existing recipes.

Rina being their club leader presided over the meeting, she had given them a list of books and items they needed to get acquainted with since they will proceed to actual cookery on their succeeding gatherings. Both of them dutifully listened to the blonde haired young woman as they had agreed to take turns on cooking their food with the knowledge she'll be imparting them. Their club president was admittedly shy and nervous given the fact that she had been the society's sole member plus considering the point that both of them were males. Yet with their encouragement and Rina's kind nature, she easily warmed up to them and was able to properly conduct their first meeting.

"Ok… so, I'll be forwarding our new membership list to the student council then after that I'll complete the necessary articles we'll need on the days ahead." The light brown eyed girl completed.

"Yunoki-san, there's no need for you to do all of these matters alone. We could help you in completing these tasks. We are your members after all." Heero offered to which Duo nodded in agreement.

"Heero's right, Yunoki-san, I'm pretty useful when it comes to certain errands. I could also create our own recruitment posters and leaflets to entice more members. I'm quite useful with stuff like that." Duo added.

"R-really?" Rina inquired, her lovely orbs beaming hopefully at them.

"Just give me the list of items we need to procure and I'll take care of it. There might be objects or instruments that could be heavy for you to carry." He volunteered.

"Thank you so much, both of you. I'm still getting used to all of this, but please know that I am really grateful for your help." She happily said before bowing respectfully at them.

"Ahhh, think nothing of it, Yunoki-san! Now I understand why they refer to you as the 'wife of the academy', I honestly believe you'll make a fine one, someday!" Duo chimed causing Rina to blush furiously.

""Ohh… that's embarrassing… you've already heard of those rumors…" She told them while fidgeting uneasily.

"Those rumors have its merits, Yunoki-san. We're thankful as well for you taking us in." Heero kindly replied.

"Ok, I won't turn down your help, especially now that all of us are in the club. But Yuy-san, I still need to come with you… some of the things on that list require… familiarity and knowledge from someone already exposed to them." Rina carefully explained.

"Roger that, Yunoki-san. I won't have it any other way as you recommended. Duo will stay here and accomplish all the errands limited in-campus while you and I complete all the items on this list."

"Yes." Rina answered, smiling thankfully at them.

Soon as the club president left the home economics room, Heero swiftly approached Duo and whispered his next order.

"Look after Haruka while I assist Rina with the off-campus errands."

The braided haired former Gundam Pilot smirked at him knowingly before replying, "You devil… you already went on a date with Haruka now you're planning to get Rina too. Man… I envy you…"

Duo wasn't able to finish his sentence as he took the air out from the mischievous young man with a powerful blow on his stomach before leaving the room.

Author's Notes:

Lots of happenings for LaM04, with this update I have now established the foundations for the pairings and interpersonal relationships the story will revolve in. Even though it's already chapter 4, still, welcome to all readers of "Look at Me"! After the successful completion of "Haruka's Wings" I'll be placing full focus on this light series till I decide on the next full length story to work on. Rest assured that we'll only be looking at an average of 6k-7k words per release.

Rina Yunoki – she'll be playing a vital role on this story so expect scenes from her POV on the next installments. Chapter 4 is dedicated to her joining the cast of this fanfic.

Photo Kano Category – Yes, finally, my request has been answered! This story is the first under the said category and it also happens to be a crossover! Now, "Look at Me" is rightfully placed and identified!

Thank you so much for reading this series and please don't forget to review!

'Where is he? Why isn't he… here…?' Haruka's thoughts raced as she returned her opponent's serve.

Ever since practice session has started, the pretty tennis ace had always spared an expectant glance at the bleacher seats on the far right of the stands. The pew was directly behind her and for the past two weeks had been the constant spot where Heero Yuy would be found sitting while watching her in tennis practice. Yet now… the seat was empty… vacant of his silent yet assuring presence.

She didn't know if it was the heat or the mood… but the amber eyed young woman was off from her game. Her shots lack its usual power, probably mirroring her own motivation. Her movements have been stolid and sluggish the usual grace and finesse she normally displays was just not there… no matter how hard she tried. The hair-clipped wearing chestnut haired girl sighed disappointedly before deciding to call it quits for the day.

Haruka was on the way towards the seat where her gym bag was situated when she saw Duo Maxwell approaching her. The lovely campus idol still managed to beam at the braided young man despite her displeasure from what should be a lackluster performance.

"Had it tough out there, Haruka. Are you ok?" The transfer student kindly asked her.

"It's probably one of those bad days… I honestly don't know. I just don't have it today." She calmly replied while fixing the thread alignment of her racket.

"What brings you here, Duo?"

"Oh, I thought I would watch some practice matches and improve my own understanding of the game." The lavender eyed boy reasoned.

"Is that your true motive or are you just checking out my teammates?" Haruka lightly joked.

"Ahh come on… is that how you treat a new friend? But, hey… I'd say you're partly right. You have some good-looking club members out there. They're absolutely worthy of attention." He answered before flashing his Cheshire smile at her.

Haruka could not help but laugh upon hearing his comment. She became friends with the playful young man after getting introduced formally by Heero during one occasion they were watching her tennis match. Duo Maxwell lived up to his reputation as a smooth-talking, humorous yet cunning, ladies' man. Many girls inside the campus had taken a serious liking to the suave, sweet talking yet witty playboy, but he has managed to keep everyone at a certain distance - giving each of his pursuers an equal hope on winning his sole attention. Haruka was aware of this as many of her teammates had already asked her for his number.

She didn't know why Duo's charm doesn't work for her. The young lady surmised that it was probably because he never flirts with her and treats her respectfully even without Heero around. She found him funny and easy to talk with, a reason Haruka had no qualms on exchanging numbers with him. The amber eyed girl however noticed something similar between Heero and Duo that she could not place a word on. Even though both guys were polar opposites of the other, they share a bond and cohesion uncommon between friends. She could only deduce that he was also a Preventer agent like him.

Both guys had a certain flair and stance that easily separates them from the regular civilian. Of course, this is only discernible from someone possessing a keen, observant eye or someone who has shared a close encounter with such an individual… like her. But aside from all his humor and antics, Haruka knew that Duo Maxwell was indeed a kind and sincere person.

"Hey, Haruka~ yoo hoo~" Duo playfully called out.

She was snapped out from her reminiscences after hearing his lively plea.

"Oh, sorry, Duo… I think you're right, I'm really out of it, today."

"Probably because you're missing someone." He candidly told her.

"Missing someone?" She replied, feigning ignorance of the topic.

"Well… that guy always sitting silently at the corner by his lonesome while waiting for his friend to finish her practice." Duo mischievously insinuated while smiling knowingly at her.

"Ohh… uhhmm… are you referring to Heero? W-where is he, by the way?" She innocently asked.

"You forgot that we've signed up for the Cooking Research Society. He's with Rina right now." Duo explained while observing her.

"Oh… right… I forgot. But why are you here Maxwell-kun? Don't tell me you're playing hooky on your club already." She replied in an attempt to slightly alter the topic.

"Actually we accomplished a few errands today. I was tasked on completing in-campus stuff like preparing our club recruitment poster, submission of the membership list to the student council… things like that." The lavender eyed boy elaborated.

"Oh… I see." She softly mumbled.

"Well… Heero and Rina went off-campus and bought some things for our club. They should be heading back anytime time soon since we had to present the receipts and procurement list to the student council for proper accounting."

'Heero's with Rina… those two are alone together…'

Duo might have noticed the change in her expression as the playful young man proceeded to shift their discussion.

"So don't you worry Niimi-san. Your guardian angel might not be here today, but he'll be sure to watch your next practice match next time we don't have club session." The braided haired young man finished before winking at her.

"Maxwell-kun, I'm not worrying or anything… It's really just an off day for me… even when the skill is there but the mood is nowhere… the output leaves a lot to be desired. You can't go into the court with only one of those."

"Well said, Niimi-san. Though I think the mood is triggered by an external factor like… an inspiration. For example, how would you react when you see Heero walking all alone with another girl?" Duo lightheartedly asked.

"Ohhh! You're teasing us again, Maxwell-kun. Me and Yuy-kun are friends. Same as we are. Nothing of course!" Haruka confidently answered while giggling at Duo.

The braided haired young man softly chuckled and smiled after hearing her response. They were in such a state when she suddenly noticed his lavender irises widen in surprise. Turning her head to where he's facing, the pretty tennis ace of Kouga High felt her lips parted slightly and her own eyes expand in shock at the sight unraveled to her.

"Damn… it's the example… coming into life…" She heard Duo muttered under his breath.

A good distance away from them, she saw two individuals walking casually with each other. The girl looked shy but was smiling happily at the person treading beside her. She giggled timidly after telling something to the other individual. Meanwhile, the other person was a boy… someone Haruka was all too familiar with. He was carrying a big box in front, causing him to turn his face away from her direction while he engaged in a rather pleasant conversation with the young woman beside him.

"D-Doshte…" Haruka unintentionally uttered in her native tongue.

She felt something gently pinch her heart while her amber hued orbs desperately trailed the two.

'Why…'

The lovely idol of Kouga High answered 'nothing' earlier. Yet it was far from how she was feeling right now. She was not sure what it is or why it was or how it could be. There were a lot of questions spinning inside her mind at the moment. But one thing was definitely sure… it was something.

It was a far cry from feeling nothing.

'Why…'

Haruka could only gaze unhappily at Heero and Rina till the pair eventually went inside the building.

'Really… Haruka… nothing…'

Heero and Duo are now full pledged members of Kouga High's Cooking Research Society. Their successful enlistment allows them the needed diversity in continuing their mission objective of protecting Haruka Niimi at all times. Meanwhile, Duo Maxwell's undaunted and carefree nature has clashed Aki Muroto's carefully planned and controlled life. Thus officially marks the war of wills between the two with their feelings for each other at stake.

Haruka and Heero had just concluded their first unofficial date. The Perfect Soldier has been nothing but dead set to accomplish his mission at all costs while Haruka is slowly questioning her outlook on the newly established friendship she has with Heero. When will she realize that there is something far deeper behind the calm surface of their friendly relationship?

In a battle driven by raging emotions, opposing motivations and deeply held beliefs, the victors left standing once the ashes of war have receded are those with… Feelings Unveiled.

Don't forget to leave a review! – EZ23