A/N: Thank you for reading, everybody. Though, I would appreciate it if more of you reviewed. Heh. Please, give me any feedback you might have. Or, even a "nice job, Ryuu", or a "Hey, keep it up," or something. Reviews are a writer's blood, y'know. A lot of people don't realize what it means to open your mail box and see, "hey, I loved your story!" I mean, leaving a review means that you're actually someone, and not just means that you look like a statistic on the hits sheet. Oh, and by the way, there is no cat-girl maid Kaorin that the Butterfly promised. Sorry to disappoint.

---

The gates to Chiyo-chan's house slid open almost soundlessly. It marveled Kaorin the first time she saw it, gates so large slinking perfectly and stealthily into their receptacles. However, that mild surprise was nothing compared to her reaction at the size of Chiyo-chan's house, when she visited there in her first year of high school to make the costume for their culture fest.

Kaorin started up the large driveway. She had walked the length between Chiyo-chan's house and her own earlier than what she was supposed to, but for a very simple reason: Sakaki-san was always there early. When Kaorin found out about this last summer, she had been disappointed to find out that Sakaki had always arrived early. If she had only known a year sooner, Kaorin used to think, she could've spent that extra time with Sakaki-san. But, now that the chance had presented itself once again, Kaorin made sure to jump at the opportunity.

Chiyo-chan was already waiting outside the front door, waving her arms enthusiastically. Kaorin waved and ran the rest of the way to her youngest friend.

"Welcome!" Chiyo called as Kaorin approached, holding the front door open for her.

"Thank you." Kaorin said as she entered Chiyo-chan's cool house. It had been rather hot out, and the chilled air against her skin felt wonderful.

"Sakaki-san is already here," Chiyo-chan said, completely oblivious to the redness brewing on Kaorin's face. "She's upstairs, in my room." Chiyo led Kaorin up the stairs. Kaorin felt a bit apprehensive about seeing Sakaki. She had been so excited to see Sakaki-san after the events of the other night, but now that she was here, getting nearer with every step…

Kaorin's heart rang out with every movement, a shill cry echoing through her being. Her footsteps chimed against the hardwood floor sounding out like a gong, growing louder with each step. She watched Chiyo-chan's hand reach out for the doorknob to her room, as sweat formed on Kaorin's brow. The door swung open, and she had to resist the urge to run away. Swallowing a large lump that had suddenly made its way into Kaorin's throat, she stepped through the door with shaking legs.

All of the blood in Kaorin's body rushed to her head. Sakaki-san was lying on the ground, holding a small, brown cat to her chest, with a look of pure bliss on her face. Kaorin could only stare with her mouth agape at the sight. She knew about Sakaki-san's love for cute things, but to see her like this… Sakaki-san looked very cute herself. Mustering all of her willpower to stop staring—her eyes didn't seem to want to listen to this particular order—Kaorin entered the room.

"Kaorin-san is here!" Chiyo called. Sakaki suddenly snapped back into the real world, and, in a flash, was in a sitting position.

"Hello." She said stoically, as if nothing had happened.

"H-Hello, Sakaki-san!" Kaorin said a little louder than intended. Her heart was beating faster than it ever had before, and it felt like a colony of butterflies had made their den in her stomach. Something mewed at her feet. Kaorin set her bag down and looked at the small kitten. "C-Chiyo-chan, I didn't know you had a kitten."

"It's not mine," Chiyo said. "It's Sakaki-san's."

"S-Sakaki-san's…" Kaorin muttered, bending down to get a better look at it. It mewed at her again. Kaorin looked at Sakaki, and felt a warm flush cross her face. "May I pet it?"

"Mm." Sakaki nodded. Kaorin cautiously lowered her hand towards the kitten's head, as it looked up at her expectantly. Her hand connected with its soft fur, and she gently petted it. The kitten closed its eyes in contentment.

"D-Does it have a name?" Kaorin asked

"Mm. His name is Maya." Sakaki replied. Kaorin looked towards Sakaki. The tall girl was staring at her, but her eyes betrayed nothing negative. Actually, as Kaorin took in the full sight of Sakaki-san's face, she realized that she was smiling. At her. Kaorin's heart soared, and she felt like she was surrounded by a field of golden flowers, with a bell chiming behind her, ringing for her happiness.

Chiyo's doorbell rang again, and Kaorin was shocked back into reality. Realizing that she was probably staring at Sakaki-san the entire time, she returned her gaze to Maya, blushing heavily. Chiyo had left the room saying she was going to answer the door.

Sakaki watched Kaorin gently playing with Maya, petting him affectionately, and watching him so intently. They looked… cute. It was reassuring to Sakaki, seeing Kaorin in such a relaxed state. Sakaki had taken notice to how tense she always was around her, and it had always made her feel slightly uneasy to see her so. Kaorin had become more comfortable as the years went on, but she was always stuttering when she spoke to Sakaki.

Sakaki had wondered why before, but whenever she asked her friends, they simply made up an excuse and changed the topic. Maybe she could find out the reason at Chiyo-chan's summer home?

Chiyo returned with Osaka, Tomo, and Yomi. They all said their hellos—Kaorin's had been more of a nervous mutter—and took their seats around the room.

"Now all we have to do is wait for Kagura-san, Yukari-sensei, and Kurosawa-sensei!" Chiyo piped cheerily.

"I think Kagura said that she was getting a ride with Kurosawa-sensei." Yomi indicated.

"In Nyamo-chan's car?" Tomo inquired.

"Yeah, I think so."

"Then, that means…" Tomo said, leaving a long pause for dramatics, "Yukari-chan is brining her car, too! Alright!"

Chiyo-chan turned a delicate shade of white. Kaorin knew she was reliving her experiences in Yukari-sensei's car, and Kaorin could sympathize. She would ride in Kurosawa-sensei's car this time, no matter whose car Sakaki-san sat in. It would simply be better for her health. Maya nuzzled himself against Kaorin's hand, purring gently. A horn sounded outside.

"They're here!" Chiyo exclaimed excitedly. The girls stood up and collected their bags.

"Maya." Sakaki cooed softly, holding out her arms, her bag strung over her shoulder. The kitten leaped into Sakaki's arms. Kaorin blushed. If Sakaki-san had spoken to her in that voice… A shiver ran down her spine just thinking about it. Her idol gracefully strode out of the room, and Kaorin shuffled after her. Kaorin's eyes followed Sakaki's every move. Idol… the word just didn't fit anymore. No, not an idol, but… something more. Something closer…

The two stepped out into the sunlight, and a wave of heat passed over Kaorin, but somehow, she could not help but think that some of it had nothing to do with the sun. Kurosawa-sensei had gotten out of her car, along with Kagura, who was brightly smiling at everyone.

"Yukari is still not here?" Nyamo sighed. "She should be here by now."

"Ahh, Yukari-chan is always late," Tomo said, waving her hand dismissively. "Besides, knowing her, she'll be here in a matter of seconds, like always!" She continued, pointing at the gates at the end of the driveway.

Minutes passed. The gates made no movement, and neither had Tomo. Many of the girls could feel large beads of sweat at their temples. Yomi simply felt embarrassed looking at her.

"Okay, okay," Tomo groaned, letting her arm fall limp, "I guess not."

The gates churned open. Yukari's abused white car trudged up the lane. The car stopped, and the door opened. Yukari stepped out.

"Yukar—" Nyamo was cut off.

"Yukari-chan! You're late! You're late!" Tomo chanted.

"Yeah, yeah, so what?" Yukari chided. "Who's in whose care this year?"

Chiyo had already snuck into Nyamo's car. Yomi had edged near the passenger side seat. Tomo hopped right into Yukari's car.

"Kaorin." A gentle voice sounded. Kaorin jumped and turned around to face Sakaki, turning red in the face.

"Y-Yes, Sakaki-san?"

Sakaki held out Maya. "Could you watch him, please?"

"O-Of course!" Kaorin exclaimed, taking the small life into her arms. "I'll do my best!"

"Thanks." Sakaki smiled, and headed towards Yukari's car. A wind picked up, and Sakaki's long hair waltzed in it.

"So cool…" Kaorin muttered under her breath.

"Yeah, she is…" Osaka said, walking towards Kaorin. "But, she can be really cute, too, y'know? Like the way she plays with that kitten…"

"Yeah…" Kaorin agreed, before climbing into Kurosawa-sensei's car. She held Maya close, and the kitten nuzzled against her chest. Kurosawa-sensei started the car, and headed down Chiyo's driveway. Kaorin gave one last look at Yukari-sensei's car before Kurosawa turned onto the road. She dearly hoped that Yukari wouldn't do anything too stupid.

Wistfully, Kaorin turned her sights to the cat lazing on her chest. She began petting him with one hand, while supporting him with the other. Kaorin couldn't help but be a little jealous. Sakaki cared for Maya so much, and Kaorin wished she could mean that much to Sakaki. She remembered the poem that had come to her after that night they were attacked.

This new emotion
Singing for you, sweet raptures
My love, my savior

Love… Kaorin wasn't sure if that was truly what she felt. But, it was so strong, dominating her entire being. It was everything she expected, yet entirely different. Just like described in poems and romance stories, but even still, not just so. Prominent and perfectly contradictory.

Kaorin was worried what the others would think if they ever found out. Would they reject her? What would Sakaki-san think? Would Kaorin be ousted from their lives? Would she no longer be their friend? These thoughts scared her.

She had been exited when she had discovered this feeling. She had lost hope of ever truly experiencing it, as she had graduated high school already, and had yet to find anyone she had any interest in. Except for Sakaki-san. She recalled how fervently she embroidered Sakaki's name underneath the poem.

The only person who knew how Kaorin really felt was Chihiro. She had called Kaorin just the day prior…

---

"Hello?"

"Hi, Kaorin!"

"Oh, Chihiro. How are you?"

"I'm doing fine. Listen, I wanted to tell you that I'm going on vacation tomorrow. And guess where to? Hokkaido! It's going to be so much fun!"

"That's great! I'm going to Chiyo-chan's summer house with Sa… ka… ki…-san…" Kaorin looked down at the two lines in front of her. She had been trying to figure out the third, and suddenly it hit her. With a shaking hand, she wrote it down.

"Kaorin? What's wrong?"

"Chihiro… I… I think that…"

"What is it?"

"I think that… I'm in love with… Sakaki-san."

"What?!"

Kaorin's eyes began to tear up. "You think I'm weird, don't you?"

"No, no, not at all!" Chihiro assured her. "You just caught me off guard, that's all!"

"Chihiro… thank you."

"Anytime, Kaorin."

---

Love… such a simple word. Such an indefinable word. Such a powerful word, with the power to do anything. But, would Sakaki-san ever feel the same way? Or would Kaorin find herself loving… yet receiving none in return?

Kaorin sighed. Maya had fallen asleep. Osaka was staring out the window with her mouth open in a wide smile. Yomi was talking with Kurosawa-sensei. Chiyo was the only one unoccupied. No… Chiyo-chan was not who she wanted to talk to, right now. She highly doubted that the newly teenage girl could completely understand how she felt.

But, Chiyo did understand one thing. She could tell it rather simply when she turned to Kaorin, and saw her staring at Maya's sleeping frame with nothing but sorrow in her eyes. The youngest girl wondered what was bothering Kaorin, and if there was anything she could do to help. She would have to confront her sometime at the summer home.

Kaorin let her mind wander into her daydreams… but instead of being rescued, she dreamed of admitting her newfound feelings to Sakaki. However, even in her own mind, they all ended in the same way: rejection. Sakaki was not… like Kaorin was. And, even if she was, she wouldn't go for someone like Kaorin, would she? No… of course not. Kaorin wasn't cute enough for Sakaki. She looked rather plain, in her own opinion. Not cute, or sexy, or cool, or anything. Just… plain.

Kaorin began to wonder if it was even a good idea to come on this trip. No, she assured herself, it is good. This will be the last time I'll be able to see Sakaki-san.

A streak of pain shot through her heart. The last time… She would have to be able to see her again, right? They would end up at the same college or something, right? A dark thought flowing through her mind reminded her that she was going to college for Astrology, where as Sakaki was going to a medical college.

Hopelessness consumed her. Her last chance would be to tell her within the next two days. Would she be able to do it? She would have to try her best. Or else… or else she might lose Sakaki-san… forever.

---

The car slowly came to a halt in front of the wooden beach house. The sudden silencing of the churning motor brought Kaorin back to awareness of the people around her. The doors were opened by the people next to her. Kaorin clambered out, which she found surprisingly difficult without the use of her hands. When she had finally managed to get out of the car—luckily not waking Maya—Kaorin found her legs very stiff from the ride.

Stretching them as she walked, she gathered with the girls. Sakaki had emerged from Yukari's vehicle looking a little disheveled, but still calm and stoic, like always. She smiled at Kaorin… or was it at Maya? Distress clouded Kaorin's thoughts. Could she really enjoy herself, now that she had these feelings? No, she told herself firmly, I am going to enjoy this vacation to its fullest.

The girls collected their bags from the trunks of the cars, and began towards the front door. The thought had crossed Kaorin's mind why Sakaki-san hadn't asked for Maya back, as Kaorin supported the dozing kitten in one arm, while holding her bag with the other. A quick glace at Sakaki revealed that she was following Tomo rather closely. A story Yomi had relayed to her during their second year of high school floated back into her memory. The bespectacled girl had told her about how Tomo had stolen the key to the door, and threw it into the nearby woods. They started taking precautions after that.

Though, despite the sly smile firmly rooted on Tomo's face, they made it into the house with no disturbance. The house was very plainly air-conditioned, much to Kaorin's relief. She had been looking forward to the coolness of the house's air since she had first stepped outside. The scent of wood was heavy in the air, and Kaorin breathed it in deeply. She always found such a scent to be nostalgic for her. Tomo had dropped her bag as soon as she entered, and charged in. "Let's go swimming!" she yelled, pulling of her shirt revealing the bikini top underneath.

Yomi sighed. "That's something grade schoolers do…" Kaorin stifled a sigh herself. If she had 100 yen for every time she heard Yomi say that, she'd be the richest woman in all of Japan. Tomo never seemed to learn, though. Or maybe she just did it to hear Yomi chide her? Kaorin had always thought that there was something more to the hyperactive girl, but she had never had the time or the mind to get close enough to find out.

"Not so fast…" Kurosawa-sensei said. "We need to figure out who is sleeping where."

"Me an' Nyamo get our own rooms," Yukari said forcefully.

"How will we decide this year?" Chiyo asked.

"Let's draw straws!" Tomo exclaimed.

"Straws?" Kaorin inquired. This could be her chance to room with Sakaki-san. She wasn't able to last year, because they had already planned out the rooms. She had expected this to be the case this year as well, but it seemed different.

"There's some spaghetti in the kitchen," Chiyo suggested.

"Sounds good! I'll be right back!" Yukari charged off through a nearby door. Kaorin waited anxiously.

"Kaorin." A smooth voice to her left said. Kaorin jumped, and blushed heavily, turning.

"Y-Yes, Sakaki-san?" Nervously the words stumbled out.

"May I see Maya?" Sakaki asked quietly. Kaorin suddenly remembered that she had a sleeping kitten in her hands.

"Yes, o-of course!" Kaorin timidly handed the kitten over. Sakaki took him gently from Kaorin's hands, brushing them softly. Kaorin's blush deepened. Sakaki lovingly hugged the animal to her chest.

Yukari burst through the door again, holding a line of seemingly equally sized noodles.

"Okay, there are seven of you, and two other bedrooms," she explained. "So, the four long ones get the bigger room, and the three smaller ones get the smaller room, see?"

"Yukari," Nyamo said silkily, "you seem to be having fun."

"I've always wanted to do this."

The girls formed a group around Yukari, studying the noodles carefully. Kaorin tried to find some difference between them, but could not find one. But, still, the chances of her rooming with Sakaki-san seemed pretty good, though she didn't know the exact numbers. Tomo drew first.

Short.

Yomi followed.

Short.

That's two gone already! Kaorin thought. She was afraid to reach out for the next one. Rooming with Yomi and Tomo did not seem like a pleasant experience to her. Chiyo took a chance…

Long.

Then, Sakaki. Kaorin watched tensely, as time seemed to slow down as Sakaki's delicate fingers closed around the single piece of spaghetti and draw it upwards.

Long.

Osaka came next, dreamily grasping a noodle.

Long.

Only two remained. One short, one long. Kaorin looked at Kagura, shaking slightly, and the athlete returned her gaze. Suddenly, Kagura nodded encouragingly, and grabbed at her choice powerfully, drawing it upward in what seemed to Kaorin a very epic moment. The deciding moment of whether or not she'd be staying with Sakaki-san…!

Short.

Kaorin almost squealed in delight as she took the last noodle from a grinning Yukari. It was long. So beautifully long. So slender, so perfectly slight. Excitement and happiness spread through her body like a tidal wave.

"Is anyone gonna wake her up?" A voice drifted past.

"No, let's just leave her as she is," came another.

Kaorin felt like she was once again in her world of bright yellow flowers, with a bell ringing out, declaring her happiness with each strike. Jets leaving a trail of wonderful rainbow smoke flew by magnificently.
"Yukari…" a lowered voice murmured, "did you fix that?"

"Wha—?" How'd you figure it out?!"

"Well, you seemed rather pleased with yourself."

The bell was ringing, and birds were singing, the flowers began to bob and dance, the rainbow smoke in the sky had collapsed into a kaleidoscope of wonderful colors, making beautiful shapes and designs. She felt like she could take off and fly to anywhere she desired.

"Woah… is this what I look like?"

"No, you usually don't look so ecstatic."

She was flying, through the smoke that smelled of flowers and candy, over the fields, all while the bell tolled her rapturous joy to the world.

"Kaorin-san!"

Flying, flying, it was such a wonderful feeling. She would be with Sakaki-san. She would be with Sakaki-san. Oh, how glorious!

"Kaorin-san!" Chiyo exclaimed.

"Oh, wh-what?" Kaorin stuttered. How long had she been standing there?

"Are you alright?"

"Yes, yes, I'm fine." Kaorin felt embarrassed beyond words. They all must have noticed.

"Well… if you say so." Chiyo said worriedly.

Kaorin looked over her friends… Osaka was smiling dazedly; Kagura was still giving an encouraging smile. Tomo was smiling slyly, and Kaorin could tell she was actually attempting not to laugh. She wasn't sure if this was an insult or a kind gesture, considering it was, indeed, Tomo. Yomi was expressionless, and a glare on her glasses prevented Kaorin from seeing them properly. It gave her a rather threatening look, really. Yukari was giving her a thumbs-up, and a broad smile, while Kurosawa had the same worried look as Chiyo. No… wait, not the same look, Kaorin noticed. Something different… but still worried looking. Sakaki looked confused, and a little concerned. Kaorin's heart sank a bit. Had she caused trouble to Sakaki-san? She hoped not, but felt too embarrassed to ask.

"Well," Yomi said, breaking the silence. "I'm taking my stuff to my room, then."

"Me, too!" Tomo cried excitedly. She stuck the dried noodle in her mouth and began chewing on it, before charging up the stairs past an annoyed Yomi. Kaorin gathered her own bag, and started towards her own room as well… the room she'd be sharing with Sakaki-san. Ohh, it made her giddy just thinking about it.

Smiling broadly, she opened the door to the second guest room. This was the same one she had been in before, and knew that the bed could support two people, and the futon in the closet could as well. There were four people in the room, so that left a fifty-fifty chance of being in the same bed as Sakaki-san. She had envied Tomo ever since she saw that picture of them sleeping in the same bed in their first year. But, now, it would mean so much more.

Kaorin placed her bag on the floor, opened it, and began searching for her swimsuit. It was pretty easy to find, considering the difference between color and fabric between her normal clothes and the swimsuit itself. She pulled it out, and headed towards the bathroom. The door was open, luckily, and she was able to enter with no problems. She closed and locked the door behind her, and began to change into her suit.

She disrobed calmly, and then looked in the mirror. Yes, she reminded herself. Perfectly plain. No way could someone like her ever catch Sakaki-san's eye… No, I must be optimistic, she told herself determinedly, and I will have a good time here! A resolute grin crossing her face, she donned the pink one-piece and left the bathroom. She was about to head down the stairs when it crossed her mind that she had forgotten her towel in her bag.

She turned, and found the door to the room that she'd be sharing with Sakaki-san. She opened the door, and found herself staring straight into Sakaki's torso. Kaorin's heart suddenly made a very noticeable appearance in her throat, and she almost fainted from how light-headed she became. She took a step backward, and looked up at Sakaki.

"O-Oh, I-I'm so sorry!" She stammered, moving out of the way of the doorway.

"No, it's alright." Sakaki said, as she walked past, holding her swimsuit and a towel, heading off towards the bathroom. Kaorin watched her for a moment before remembering she had her own towel to retrieve, and turned back into the room. Osaka and Chiyo-chan had also made their home in there. Chiyo looked up at her, still worried.

"Kaorin-san… you're okay, right?"

"Y-Yes, I'm fine!" Kaorin responded exasperatedly.

"But, your face is really red! Are you sure?"

Kaorin was sure the hue of her face deepened. "Ye-yes, I am fine! Please, don't worry about me."

"Ahh, don't worry, Chiyo-chan," Osaka said. "You'll understand in a few years."

Kaorin's mouth fell open as she stared at Osaka, who had just so absentmindedly hinted at her knowledge of Kaorin's feelings. The Kansai girl just smiled her wide, dazed smile. Kaorin wondered at all if she really understood, but a sick feeling in the pit of her stomach told her that the daydreaming girl did. Was she really that obvious? Then, surely, Sakaki-san must've found out, as well! No, no, just pretend like nothing is wrong.

"What?" Chiyo cried, "Why can't I know now?"

"I-It's alright, Chiyo-chan, you'll figure it out eventually," Kaorin assured her, as she grabbed the forgotten towel from her bag. Honestly, however, she hoped that Chiyo-chan would not figure it out.

"But I wanna know now!" Chiyo whined, followed by a sigh, "I guess I'll have to wait. Oh, yes, we have decided the sleeping arrangement. Osaka-san and I will be on the bed, and Sakaki-san and you will be sleeping on the futon. Is this okay?"

Kaorin turned her head slowly towards the small girl. Flowers… yellow flowers… and a bell, no! I must keep composure!

"I-It is fine." Kaorin said quietly. Flying, flying, through the sweetly scented smoke. Oh, no amount of words could describe how she felt. No longer would she have to envy Tomo for anything.

Trying her hardest so stifle her blush, and not to let her emotions overcome her, she exited the room, and headed down to the entrance hall to wait for everybody. Yukari and Kurosawa were already waiting in their own bikinis. Yukari had her famous shark floatie with her as well. They didn't seem to notice that Kaorin was there.

"Honestly, Yukari, why would you do that?"

"Aww, I have my own reasons… eh? Oh, hey, Kaorin."

Kurosawa let out a small gasp. "Ah, K-Kaorin, how are you doing?"

What an odd question, Kaorin thought, considering how she had just spent an hour or two in her car. "I'm fine, Kurosawa-sensei."

"C'mon," Yukari droned, "You don't have to be so formal, anymore. You're not high school, right? Just call her Nyamo like everyone else."

"Nyamo?" Kaorin questioned.

"It's her nickname."

"Yukari!" Kurosawa protested.

"I see." Kaorin muttered. Every one else did seem to call her that, after all.

"Yukari-chan, are you pestering sensei, again?" Kagura approached in her bikini, followed by a stoic Sakaki.

"Pestering? Who, me?" Yukari retorted with a sly grin.

"Swimming!" Tomo's cheery voice sounded across the entire building as she ran down the stairs, followed by Yomi, Osaka, and Chiyo.

"That's everyone, right? Let's go!" Yukari flung the door open and charged out, closely followed by Tomo. The rest chose to walk.

---

"One, two, three, four!"

The sun shone brightly upon them, and the sand crunched beneath their feet. The waves lapped against the shore, sending out its repetitive, yet relaxing call. Kaorin fell asleep here last year, when everyone else had gone swimming. Yukari's beyond abysmal driving had sent her stomach to the worst, and she decided she'd just sleep it off instead of watching everyone else have fun.

"Five, six, seven, eight!"

Kagura was leading the group's stretches. Kurosa—Nyamo wouldn't let them swim without doing them first, even though Tomo was splashing about already. Kaorin couldn't wait to jump in, herself, and was glad that they were on their last set of stretches.

"One, two, three, four!" Kagura chanted.

"Five, six, seven, eight!" The rest followed.

"Okay, that's enough." Nyamo called, heading towards the water. Everyone followed, and Kaorin admired how beautiful the coastline looked. The cold water lapped at her feet. She stepped further into the water, leaning forward and extending her arms. Her feet left the sand and rocks, and she began to glide through the water. Kaorin really enjoyed swimming. The feeling of being light, and being able to move in any direction she pleased. She had debated on joining the swim team, once, but ultimately decided it was not for her. She enjoyed swimming because it was relaxing, not because she could compete doing it.

She allowed her body to float listlessly, letting the waves lightly move her about. Kaorin closed her eyes… this is so relaxing. She let her mind wander, until it hit the inevitable topic of admitting herself to Sakaki-san. Of course, this would be a perilous task, but if she could perhaps somehow impress Sakaki-san beforehand… but how? She wasn't good at athletics, and Kaorin thought that Sakaki-san wasn't into Astronomy, so… how?

There was a sudden shout above her, and Kaorin felt another body collide into hers, and she plummeted downwards, water filling her mouth and nostrils. Moving out from underneath the offending force, she quickly swam to the surface. Her head breached the water, and she began coughing out water. Another person surfaced, laughing.

It was Tomo.

"Tomo," Nyamo chided, swimming over to the pair, "Don't screw around like that! It's dangerous."

"I couldn't resist." Tomo replied. "She was just too op—waugh!" Tomo let out a small cry before being sent under herself. Kaorin had barely seen the attacker. Kagura surfaced, laughing. Tomo came up sputtering.

"Kagura," Nyamo turned on the former star-swimmer, "you know that you shouldn't do things like that!"

"Ease up, Nyamo," Yukari muttered, floating by on her shark, "They won't be able to play like this too often anymore."

Another painful reminder of Kaorin's future. She had to tell Sakaki-san how she felt. Then, maybe, just maybe, if Sakaki-san accepted her, they could live together. Not only would it be cheaper, but it would be most definitely the happiest time of Kaorin's life. If only such a dream could come true…

Kaorin sighed. It would be impossible. They probably weren't even going to be living in the same city anymore. Perhaps she should just give up? A blunt pain in her heart told her this was impossible. She couldn't give up. Not now, not ever.

A distant, faint rumbling reached Kaorin's ears. She looked around curiously, but was unable to find the source of the noise. Tomo and Kagura had engaged in a furious splash fight. Kaorin floated back a bit to avoid getting caught up in it. Another rumbling, this one much louder, groaned out across the land. Everyone looked up into the dark clouds that had so suddenly washed over the ocean. A heavy rain descended upon them. Another crack of thunder rang out, and lightning shone in the distance.

"Everyone, out of the water!" Nyamo shouted.

"Why?" Tomo yelled over the sound of the rain, "we're wet anyway!"

"The lightning, you idiot!" Yomi called from the shore. "Water conducts electricity, remember?"

Kaorin paddled her own way to the shore, followed closely by Kagura, and Nyamo pulling a rather displeased Tomo. The rain was coming down really hard, and the sand was soaked through before Kaorin even set foot on it. Those who were still on the beach were scrambling to collect the blankets and towels before they got too wet. Kaorin grabbed her towel, and dashed up the stairs to the house after everyone else.

---

Kaorin sighed. She was the last to be able to change, and she was as disappointed as the others that their swimming was ruined. Well, probably not as disappointed as Tomo, who was currently sulking in the corner cradling an unsmashed watermelon. Kaorin sighed again.

More importantly than the swimming, how would she get Sakaki-san to notice her?

"I… I'll start dinner, everybody!" Chiyo piped up, in a forceful attempt to cheer everybody up.

That's it! Kaorin thought. She was at least a decent cook. Maybe if she made something that Sakaki really enjoyed…

"I'll help you, Chiyo-chan!" Kaorin said cheerfully. The pair walked into the kitchen.

The kitchen was furnished differently than the rest of the house, of course, sporting a tiled floor instead of a hardwood one, and marble-like countertops. Kaorin had sometimes wondered whether or not Chiyo knew how well off she was. Sure, her own parents had money, too, but they were often stingy, because they cared so much about their appearance in the eye of the public.

Chiyo opened the silvery fridge, and pulled out a bag of carrots from the crisper.

"Can you slice some of this, please?"

"Sure thing," Kaorin said, taking the carrots. She broke open the bag, and pulled out the first carrot her fingers met. "Uh… where do you keep the knives?"

"In this drawer right here," Chiyo pointed out. Kaorin thanked her, and retrieved the tool she needed. She expertly sliced off the ends of the carrot, while Chiyo put a pot of water on the stove, and set out a bag of rice. "Say, Kaorin-san?"

"Yes, Chiyo-chan?"

"Osaka-san told me that you liked somebody, but she wouldn't tell me who. Will you tell me?" The little girl asked curiously.

Kaorin had almost sliced off her finger. So, Osaka did know! But how? Oh, Kaorin must've been so obvious… but… what if she led Chiyo-chan astray? She would in turn tell Osaka, and it could fool her, too! But, who? Did she know any guys…? She only really talked to Chihiro in high school, when she wasn't trying to get closer to Sakaki.

"Uhh, well… umm," a name hit her. "I-I like Kazuki-san!"

As soon as the words left her lips, Kaorin regretted her choice. Surely there had to have been someone better. The kitchen door flew open with reckless abandon.

"Kazuki?!" Yukari shouted.

"Yukari-sensei, were you listening in?!" Chiyo asked.

"I wanted to see if you guys were saying what you were cooking, but this is so much better!" Yukari seemed as giddy as a school girl, yet something seemed a tad off. "So, is he around… a few centimeters taller than me, short messy hair, works at a restaurant?"

Did Yukari actually know that guy? Ohh, this just got really complicated. Kaorin tried to swallow a lump in her throat and speak, but Chiyo beat her to the question.

"Do you know him, Yukari-sensei?"

"Sure do! Went to high school with him. So, you like him, right, Kaorin?" Kaorin didn't like how Yukari said her name. "It's alright, I understand where you're coming from completely." Yukari winked with a wry grin. Something about her voice said that she really did understand why Kaorin said that name.

Oh, God, did Yukari know, too? This was spiraling out of control. She'd just have to lead Yukari-sensei in the wrong direction, too. "U-Uh… yeah… well, I met him at… the restaurant… I just sort of… really liked him."

Stupid Kaorin, that was horrible! She smacked herself mentally. That wouldn't fool Yukari at all.

"Oh-ho-ho? Well, you should've seen Nyamo in high school. He's the one she wrote the lo—"

"Pool accident!" Nyamo's voice came coolly from the other room. Yukari stopped dead, and her face turned blue.

"Yukari-sensei?" Kaorin questioned. It seemed that Nyamo had her share of blackmail on Yukari, as well. The teacher slinked out of the room, and left the two girls to their cooking.

Now, Kaorin thought, putting Yukari's interjection aside—she would worry about that later—what was she good at cooking? Hm… she could fry up some fish? Yes, that would work perfectly!

"Chiyo-chan, you take care of the rice, and I'll do the fish, alright?"

"Okay!"

Excitedly, Kaorin began pulling spices and seasonings from the shelf over the stove…

---

Kaorin nervously looked down at her plate. Her fish lay on top of Chiyo-chan's vegetable rice. She poured her heart and soul into the fish, making sure each seasoning would go well with what Chiyo put in her rice, and taking the utmost care in not burning a single bit of meat.

She picked up a piece with her chopsticks, and placed in delicately in her mouth. It was alright, she guessed. Tender, seasoned adequately, but would it be good enough for Sakaki-san? She looked to her idol, who was eating as stoically as ever. Well, Kaorin thought, at least she doesn't think it's bad.

"Who made the fish?" Tomo suddenly burst out. Kaorin jumped slightly.

"I-I did." She admitted. Did Tomo not like it…?

"It's great, Kaorin! Where'd you learn to cook?!" Tomo said energetically.

"U-Uh… it's something my mother taught me… is it really that good?"

"Yes, it is!" Chiyo agreed.

"I think so, too." Sakaki's quiet voice drifted beautifully through Kaorin's ears, filling her face with a familiar redness.

"Th-Thank you very much, Sakaki-san!"

"Yeah, Kaorin," Yomi started. "It goes really well with the rice, too."

Kaorin smiled, and thanked Yomi, as well. She continued to eat, but with more vigor, seeing all of her fears put to rest. However, something had arisen in her mind… how would her parents react to her feelings? She hadn't really thought about it before, but it sprouted a fear in the bottom of her heart.

They would undoubtedly be angry. Her parents cared about their view in the eye of society, and Kaorin knew that having a relationship with Sakaki would be looked down upon. She was willing to give up the social eye for Sakaki, but would her parents accept it? Most likely not. But, it would be impossible for Kaorin to act before college… so what should she do?

A chill ran down Kaorin's spine, and the rain outside redoubled in strength, pounding against the windows. She hoped that they wouldn't find out… or if they did, they weren't too angry about it.

---

"I'm going to bed," Tomo yawned.

"I think I will, too," Yomi added.

Kaorin felt pretty tired, herself. After dinner the group chatted, and they played around a bit, and now Kaorin felt that the cot upstairs would be pretty welcoming right about now.

With a jolt, she suddenly remembered who else the cot would be welcoming. The stoic girl had just bade everyone a good night, and was currently halfway up the stairs. Kaorin said her own goodnights, and shuffled up the stairs as well. She gave a knock at the bedroom door. It swung open.

Sakaki stood before her in pajamas with small kitten faces all about them. Kaorin turned red again, and she dimly noted that she had officially lost count of how many times this had happened. Kaorin bowed slightly, walked into the room, and pulled her own pajamas out of her bag. Maybe she'd sneak a poem in her book, too… she felt around for the small object.

It wasn't there. Had she forgotten it? She felt around a bit more… no, it was definitely not there.

"Oh, no… I forgot it…" She muttered aloud.

"Forgot what?" Sakaki's voice came from directly behind her. She was crouched down, looking at Kaorin curiously.

"U-Uh… m-my poem book…" she choked out.

"Do you write poems?" Kaorin could hear the curiosity in Sakaki-san's voice, and she could scantly believe that Sakaki was showing any sort of interest in her.

"Y-Yes, I do…"

Sakaki simply nodded, but didn't take her eyes off of Kaorin, who wasn't sure whether or not to run away or not.

"U-Uh, I-I'm gonnagochangenow," Kaorin said in a rush, standing up and heading out the door.

Sakaki reached out feebly, but Kaorin was gone before she could say anything.

---

The door clicked shut behind her. Kaorin sat staring at her own red-faced self in the bathroom mirror, clutching at the rapidly beating heart in her chest. Why had she run? Sakaki-san was interested in her… Kaorin sighed. Why was she such a coward?

Slowly, she changed, berating herself for the mistake she just made. If she could only find courage… to be able to stand next to Sakaki as Kaorin, and not some sputtering, excessively nervous moron. With another deep sigh, she left the bathroom.

The door towered over her. Sakaki was beyond it, as was her night sharing a cot with the raven-haired angel. Kaorin swallowed hard, wiped a bit of sweat from her brow, and bravely opened the door.

Sakaki was already under the blankets of the cot, and Maya was calmly sleeping at her feet. Kaorin scantly noticed that Osaka and Chiyo were already getting ready to sleep, as well. Slowly, she started her march towards the cot, her face growing hotter with every step, wavering more and more with each step.

She was standing on the cot, now. Kaorin could not remember ever shaking this much. Slowly, she clambered under the same blankets that Sakaki-san was using, and she lay there… stiff as a board.

"Gee, Kaorin," Osaka said, "you look about as stiff as I get sometimes."

"Are you alright?" Sakaki asked lightly. Kaorin just grew stiffer, and turned a deeper shade of red.

"I-I'm f-f-fine…" She muttered. She bade everyone goodnight, and closed her eyes, hoping to avoid further conversation. She could barely keep her head as it was. Chiyo turned out the light, and Kaorin spent the rest of her consciousness being very, very aware of Sakaki's closeness.

---

Warm. That was the first sensation she felt. Then, tiredness. Something must've disturbed her sleep. Shrugging it off, Kaorin snuggled deeper into the body embracing her. She then attained a state of complete awareness and her face turned a shade of red not yet known to most men. She struggled to comprehend the situation, she wanted to move, yet at the same time, this was exactly what she wanted.

Acceptance from Sakaki. Even if it was just in her sleep. Kaorin closed her eyes, yet she knew that sleep would not come to her for a while. She savored the feeling of her closeness to Sakaki, breathing in her scent, feeling the soft textures of her hand… the second sudden realization in a span of a minute's time came to Kaorin. Somehow, in their sleep, their hands had intertwined.

Kaorin instinctively attempted to pull her hand away, and Sakaki's hand gave a sleepy squeeze. Kaorin felt herself being pulled closer to Sakaki, and her chin nuzzle the top of her head.

There was no way out of this, Kaorin realized. It was best to just accept it, and enjoy it for what it was.

Closeness.

---

Kaorin awoke the next morning alone. She couldn't help the feeling of coldness and abandonment that washed over her. She looked around blearily… it looked like Osaka and Chiyo-chan were still asleep. That was good, Kaorin supposed. It would have been very awkward if they had awoken and seen how she was with Sakaki…

The memory of the night prior washed over Kaorin, and bliss engulfed her soul. She didn't even notice the door swing open.

"G-Good morning." A voice, usually cool and collect, came strangely to Kaorin. She awoke from her remembrance to see the real Sakaki, standing red-faced at the door…

---

Sakaki awoke, yet she did not know why. Maybe she had another nightmare, and couldn't remember it? She hugged her stuffed animal closer to her chest, and nuzzled the top of its head.

It then came to Sakaki that she was not at home, but at Chiyo-chan's summer home, and that the stuffed animal was indeed not a stuffed animal at all, but rather, a human. A human named Kaorin.

Sakaki flared up. She had never had someone else this… close to her before. She wanted to move, yet at the same time, she did not want to wake the shy girl, and, truth be told, Sakaki liked the feeling of closeness from another human being. The feeling of the soft hair, the smoothness of the hand…

It dawned to Sakaki that she was holding hands with Kaorin. How that happened, she wouldn't ever know. She became nervous and rigid, desiring to pull away from Kaorin's hand and wanting to stay with it, just the same.

Confusion swept over Sakaki. She lied there for what seemed to be an eternity of frustration before she decided to just stay as she was. Another human… it felt so nice. She felt a bit like she was protecting Kaorin. It comforted Sakaki. And, she knew, as she closed her eyes in an attempt to return to sleep, that she would not have any nightmares tonight…

---

"G-Good morning, Sakaki-san." Kaorin replied, turning an equal shade of red. They both remembered the night prior perfectly, as an awkward silence passed. Sakaki muttered something about breakfast, and headed towards the stairs.

Kaorin wasn't sure if she should feel dejected or relieved. Regardless, she gathered her clothes and toothbrush, and headed towards the bathroom. She strode into the wooden hallway—her blush hadn't diminished a bit—and as she made to enter the bathroom, she heard voices coming from Yukari-sensei's bedroom.

"Honestly, Yukari, why did you fix the room arrangements?"

This caught Kaorin's interest.

"I had my reasonsh… can I go back to bed, now?"

"Yukari, you shouldn't coddle that sort of thing!"

Kaorin couldn't make out what was said next, but it sounded like Yukari said that she would do whatever she damn well pleased to.

"Yukari…" Nyamo started angrily, but she just ended in an angry huff, and the door suddenly swung open. Kaorin stumbled back a few steps. She paid little attention to the short-haired girl, simply bidding her a short good morning before storming off to the lower floor.

The door was still open. Kaorin took a tentative step inside.

"Y-Yukari-sensei…?"

A groan from under a grotesquely shaped blanket on the bed answered her.

"Umm, what did Kur—Nyamo-sensei mean about you fixing the arrangement?" Yukari's face emerged from the covers, smiling a sly, yet sleepy smile.

"You know exactly why I did it, Kaori-chaaaan," she said tauntingly. Kaorin turned a heavy shade of red. Yukari laughed a bit, and then muttered something about sleep before withdrawing under the blankets.

Kaorin couldn't think of anything to say. Yukari knew, flat out. But, she apparently didn't think negative of it… maybe Sakaki-san wouldn't either? Kaorin's thoughts floated back to the night prior, and she felt her entire body grow hot. Unable to think of anything to say—much less speak—Kaorin drifted out of the room in a ghostlike manner.

---

Rain continued to clatter at the windows. Kaorin sighed, staring outside bleakly. Breakfast had been plain, and rather uncomfortable. Yukari kept grinning at Kaorin over the table, while Nyamo silently fumed to herself. Tomo and Kagura kept snickering about something, and Kaorin couldn't help but have a feeling that it had something to do with who she spent the night with. Worst of all, Sakaki-san hadn't said a word. She ate slowly, with a huge red line over her face that Kaorin felt put her own blushing to shame. It would have been plausible that Sakaki-san would have been viewable from space.

And, of course, Kaorin had a similar blush, as well. This was probably the fuel for everything. Because she was blushing, it gave everything away. Why couldn't she hide her emotions better? Why did Sakaki-san fluster her so?! Now, she was stuck in this house, and there was no way to escape it. Nyamo was alone somewhere, probably still working out a building rage against Yukari.

Kaorin felt a pang of guilt. If she hadn't had these feelings, Yukari would be looking so dejected—in her own seemingly careless way, of course—on the chair across the room. She still sent Kaorin a grin every now and then, but Kaorin could tell it didn't have the same smugness it had before. Yukari was hurting, and it was Kaorin's fault.

Kaorin sighed again. Sakaki-san had disappeared, too, and Kaorin was sure that was also her fault. Her heart gave a painful throb. The silence about the house didn't seem to be helping. It felt like making any sort of sound would be like shattering a large glass plate over everyone's head. Kaorin sighed once again, and closed her eyes. Why did her feelings have to cause so much trouble?

---

I think Nyamo-sensei is angry, Sakaki mused, petting Maya gently. She had seemed pretty angry, didn't she? She hasn't said a thing all morning. I wonder what she's so upset about?

Maya purred softly, and curled up to go to sleep. Sakaki envied the feline's ability to sleep at any time anywhere. The rain clattering and the uncomfortable, stuffy air in the house made her wish that she could go outside, or sleep until everything alright again.

Yukari had probably said something to Nyamo. That was the usual cause. It would probably blow over before the rest of the day passed. Sakaki watched the window lazily. The rain wasn't letting up.

Sakaki gave a soft sigh. What were they going to do if the rain didn't stop? Maybe they could find something to do inside… Sakaki searched her mind for suitable ideas. Very little came to mind that would suit all of her friends. She would need something involving energy, and competitiveness, so Tomo and Kagura would be inclined to be involved. Maybe something out-of-the-ordinary, too? That would attract Osaka, right? Sakaki furrowed her brow slightly. Osaka was one person she had a lot of trouble figuring out. Whatever Sakaki thought of, she hoped it would accompany Osaka's tastes.

Yukari-sensei and Nyamo-sensei would be easy. Anything involving a bet. Yukari seemed to have a magic touch when it involved getting her best friend involved in a bet. Sakaki had wondered previously how her sporadic English teacher had always gotten the cool-headed, reasonable Phys. Ed teacher into such acts. It really didn't seem like her…

Chiyo-chan would probably be up for anything, Sakaki thought. It's her last trip with us, too, Sakaki added sadly, hopelessly watching the rain outside. Why did it have to rain on their vacation here? It wasn't really fair… Sakaki thought about what the youngest friend might like to do.

An old game entered Sakaki's mind. It was perfect, so perfect that she couldn't believe that she hadn't thought of it, sooner. Tomo and Kagura would be able to exercise their competitive spirits, Yomi would take the chance to lose a little weight, Osaka would probably like it, and Yukari and Nyamo could bet on it. Chiyo-chan would love it, too.

Sakaki was very pleased with this idea, though it soon struck her that she had almost forgotten Kaorin. The thought of the girl made Sakaki blush very hard as memories of the prior night flooded her mind. Sakaki could recall the heat, the closeness, all of it so clearly. She recalled how she had never been that close to anyone before.

It also occurred to her that she didn't know Kaorin as well as she'd like to. The shy girl had never been able to carry a conversation well, but Sakaki imagined that would all fade away as she got to know her better. However, before Sakaki could make any effort to get to know Kaorin better, she was already in Kimura's class, and Sakaki didn't see her often after that.

Maybe, this game would be a chance to get to know her better…?

---

Dinner came and passed with the same uncomfortable air that Sakaki had felt seeping through the bedroom door when she played with Maya. Night had fallen, but the storm had yet to let up. Rain danced upon the windows.

Everyone was sitting in the living room. No one was saying anything. Even Tomo and Yomi were staring listlessly out the window. Kaorin looked rather depressed. Seeing this made Sakaki feel obligated to suggest something…

"Why don't we play a game?"

Kaorin looked up suddenly. A melodic voice had caught her attention. She fixed her eyes upon its owner, feeling the lightest color tint her cheeks. Kaorin wasn't the only one, however. Everyone in the room was looking on the one who had broken the silence.

Sakaki turned red, flustered. She didn't think that she'd attract this much attention. She swallowed, remembered Kaorin looking depressed and how Chiyo must feel the same way, and continued. "M-Maybe we could… play Hide and Seek?"

Nothing. Sakaki looked to the ground slowly… so it was a bad idea, after all…

"That sounds fun." Kaorin said.

"Yes, I agree!" Chiyo rang out.

"I'm game," Yomi added.

"Yomi, you have too many jellyrolls to hide!"

"Why, you…!"

"So, whaddya say, Nyamo?" Yukari's sly voice had finally returned, "5,000 yen says you can't find me.

Sakaki smiled. It had worked out after all. With Kagura and Osaka adding their agreements, and Nyamo's reluctant entering into 'another one of Yukari's crazy bets', everyone would be playing.

"So, where's base?" Kagura asked.

"How about the entrance hall?" Chiyo suggested, "It has plenty of room."

"Sounds good."

"What are the rules?" Tomo asked.

"Um…" Chiyo pondered. "First one tagged is it next, and if you make it into the entrance hall, you're safe."

"That works." Yomi said. "Who's it first?"

"Nyamo!"

"What?" Nyamo yelled. "Why me?"

"Because, Nyamo…" Yukari purred, a mischievous grin gracing her features, "if you're not it, then you can't carry out our bet."

"Oh, alright, fine."

The girls scurried about the house, cleaning things up, and shutting off the lights. Yukari ran off into the kitchen for a quick drink, and then returned, wearing her usual pre-game smug grin. After the last light had been clicked off, they all returned to the entrance hall.

"Alright, Nyamo!" Yukari said excitedly as she shut off the entrance hall's lights as well. "Count to fifty!"

The dark haired gym teacher sighed, and turned to face the front door, "One… two…"

There was a rumble all around Kaorin. Everyone had bolted off for hiding places, and she scrambled after.
"Hey, watch where you're goin', Tomo!" Kaorin heard Kagura mutter.
"Sorry, I couldn't help it," Tomo replied snidely, "your big stupid chest was in the way."

"At least I have a chest!" Kagura hissed.

Kaorin stifled a sigh, and continued on. She could barely see in the blackness that perpetuated throughout the house. She thought of possible hiding places. Where could she stay the longest? The closet under the stairs should be good…

Kaorin inched her way through the house. She could make out the stairs a few feet in front of her, but only just barely. She shuffled along to their side, and groped around for the doorknob. She found it, and swung it open…

Kaorin was staring directly into Sakaki. Her heart jumped, fluttered around a bit, and her mind ceased all coherent function. She could only stand there and stutter, but no actual words came out. Kaorin shook her head a bit, coagulated a sentence in her mind, and said it as slow as possible as to not mess it up.

"U-Uh… S-Sakaki-san! S-Sorry, I-I'll go find somewhere else." Kaorin turned to leave, but a hand on her arm stopped her.

"Please don't." Sakaki said. "There's enough room in here for one more person."

Kaorin's face flushed, and she was thankful for the darkness to cover it. She swallowed, and turned around. Her legs shaking, she entered the closet, despite the complaints offered by her mind. Sakaki moved to allow Kaorin room.

"I'll keep watch." Sakaki offered. Kaorin could only nod shakily. Sakaki closed the closet door almost fully, allowing a small gap to watch through. Kaorin sat with bated breath. Her heart had found a more suitable home in her esophagus, making its presence known with every beat. Her face burned more furiously than it ever had done before, and she kept accidentally brushing Sakaki's bare arms with her hands, and she had trouble standing without leaning on Sakaki in some way. There was, indeed, enough room for two people, though just barely. Memories of the previous night returned to Kaorin's mind, and she almost fainted from the stir of emotions within her.

Nyamo called out the final warning to all hiders. Immediately, Sakaki shifted a bit, and pushed against Kaorin, almost causing her to yelp a bit. Kaorin stifled the noise in her throat, however, trying not to reveal where they were.

But Kaorin's efforts were unneeded, as an ear-piercing shriek rang out through the house, and the light filtering through the entrance hall door suddenly blinked out. Kaorin could hear Nyamo shuffle across the house…

"The powers out!" the voice came. Sakaki moved and pulled on the chain for the closet's light. Nothing. Sakaki pushed the door open and stepped out, Kaorin stumbling after her. She could hear the familiar clicks of light switches, but no light filled any room in the house.

"Who screamed?" Tomo's voice shot out of the darkness.

"It sounded like Yukari!" Nyamo's breathless voice came.

"I-I found a flashlight!" Kaorin turned to the source of that voice, and saw Chiyo-chan's face became illuminated.

"Hand it to me!" Nyamo ordered. "I'll go find Yukari."

Chiyo-chan obediently handed the only source of light to Nyamo.

"It sounded like it came from the basement." Yomi noted from somewhere to Kaorin's right.

"Okay, thanks." Nyamo shifted the light over the door to the basement, and descended down the steps.

Kaorin could feel Sakaki walk past her, and she followed, frightened. When Sakaki stopped, Kaorin realized that they were at where Chiyo-chan's voice came from. Could Sakaki-san see in the dark? Kaorin knew that was one of her own weak points, so maybe she was the only one who couldn't see.

They waited, staring at the door. Kaorin could feel the silence move thickly about her, her every movement felt as if she was swimming through thick molasses. She resolved to simply not move at all. However, the silence was incomparable to the tension. Kaorin could swear that she could see bits of material tension floating about the blackness in the house.

There was a clatter, another scream, and something pounding up the steps. Kaorin felt Sakaki tense up next to her. The door swung open, and light danced over Nyamo's pallid face. She was panting and raving to herself.

"Blood," Kaorin made out, "there was blood."

"What?" Yomi's voice came.

"Th-There was b-blood on the floor," Nyamo stuttered.

"Are you sure?"

"Y-Yes."

"Did you see Yukari?" Yomi asked, a definite note of panic discernable in her voice.

"N-No, I-I didn't."

Kaorin could see how much Nyamo was shaking, as the beam from the flashlight in her hands was darting across the room. Yomi had walked over to Nyamo to try and settle her, but it was to little avail. Kaorin could feel the image of Nyamo's wide, fearful eyes imbedding itself into her memory.

There was a creak from the basement stairs, and the flashlight fell from Nyamo's hand to the floor.. Nyamo and Yomi turned to the sound and began to step back fearfully. Sakaki pushed Kaorin and Chiyo behind her. Kaorin almost didn't realize that it was Sakaki-san touching her, but as the creaking stairs grew louder, she decided that she should worry about that later.

A figure breached the threshold. It let out a large groan, and stomped its feet around. Yomi crouched down and grabbed the flashlight, and turned the light upon the figures face…

A sheet-covered Yukari was grinning, looking quite like she was trying her hardest not to laugh.

"Y-Yukari!" Nyamo gasped, as she ran forward and embraced her friend. There was enough light to illuminate Yukari's flabbergasted face.

"N-Nyamo! It was just a joke!"

"…a joke, huh?" Nyamo's voice, suddenly darker than the blackness of the deepest nooks in the house, arose. She released Yukari, then reached her balled hand back and struck her with the force of a freight train. "Don't you ever scare me like that again, Yukari!" Nyamo pounded off up the stairs, and into her room, taking the only flashlight with her.

"Well..." Yukari muttered, rubbing her cheek, stunned.

"That was great, Yukari-chan!" Tomo laughed rambunctiously, moving forward and patting Yukari on the shoulder. "You gave everyone a good scare! Not me, though!"

"Coming from the one who was clinging to my arm, shaking." Yomi said coldly.

"Yeah," Kagura agreed, "it was kinda pathetic."

A large bead of sweat formed on Tomo's brow.

---

There it was again. The cot, with Sakaki-san laying on it. How could she brave this again? Shaking, Kaorin approached the cot, staring at it like it was her greatest challenge to overcome in life. Each step felt like a thousand year trek, and the cot only seemed to grow more distant. Kaorin could hear her teeth chattering in her head. Suddenly, the cot was underneath her, and the previous night played over in her mind over and over again. Kaorin was sure that if she could see herself, she'd put Rudolph to shame.

She somehow accomplished the neigh impossible feat of getting under the covers again, and lied there stiff as a board, stiffer even than the night prior.

"Gee, Kaorin," Osaka whizzed, "you sure you're alright? You look worse than last night…"

"I-It's n-nothing, Osaka," Kaorin fruitlessly assured, waving her hand about airily, "really."

"Well, if you say so…" she replied, but the worried look on her face didn't diminish in the slightest.

"Well… good night everybody!" Chiyo turned out the lights.

There she was again, in the dark. She could faintly hear Chiyo and Osaka rustling in their blankets before the sound ceased and she was left with the continuous clatter of Mother Nature. After Yukari's scare, Kaorin did not feel tired, and knew that no sleep would come to her.

Already, she could feel the warmth from Sakaki growing nearer. Maybe she should get a little closer… no! Kaorin couldn't do that! Not after last night. She immediately tried to find something to busy herself with… she began counting the dots in the ceiling.

This activity soon proved to be useless, as she could only see the dots when lightning flashed. She sighed inwardly. She closed her eyes. Maybe could occupy herself with some sort of daydream… dreaming of Sakaki's warm arms encompassing her body, making her feel safe and loved… no! She couldn't dream like this! It was impossible! With something so warm and beautiful mere inches away from her…

Well, she thought, I suppose that it's alright if I get… just a little closer, right? Slowly, Kaorin edged over. Millimeter by millimeter. Moving like a slug tied to a rock, it was still only moments before she felt that she should stop. It felt like another hour passed before Kaorin moved again. The rain continued its clatter. A couple of centimeters this time…

The blood flushed endlessly to Kaorin's face. If it continued like this, she would be able to illuminate the room… even still, she slighted over a bit. Some more time passed. She could feel the body heat radiating from the glorious panther next to her. Maybe she could just inch over a bit mo—Sakaki suddenly stirred and rolled over. Sakaki's arm was gently placed over Kaorin, pulling her closer. Kaorin was surprised that her nose did not start bleeding. She simply allowed the arm to slide her closer to Sakaki's body.

Kaorin was definitely glad that she was unable to sleep. The chance to be in Sakaki's arms again… it was a blessing from God, to be sure. She lay there for a time, her blush making no effort to vanish, and no tiredness coming upon her. She simply lay there with her eyes closed, basking in Sakaki's warmth, feeling happier than she had in ages.

Sakaki's breath suddenly picked up in pace. Kaorin could even hear Sakaki's heartbeat pick up pace. Kaorin opened her eyes and looked at Sakaki. Her brow was furrowed, and a frown was screwed unpleasantly on her face. Was she having a nightmare…? Sakaki grit her teeth, and began shaking her head slightly.

Suddenly, Sakaki shot up with a large gasp, using her arms to hold herself up. Kaorin quickly shut her eyes. For a while, Kaorin could only hear Sakaki's deep, panting breaths. She waited, attempting to seem as asleep as possible. She, once again, was thankful for the darkness to hide her face.

Sakaki's breath slowed. Kaorin had to fight the urge to open her eyes, or to move. She felt the hair being brushed from her eyes. Her entire body froze in shock, and she felt unable to think. Her face felt as if a gasoline fire had been ignited on it. She heard the rustling of blankets, and felt them drag off of her body before being gently replaced. The door then creaked open, and closed with a click.

It was then Kaorin realized that the rain had stopped. Now that the thought occurred to her, there had been no rain for at least an hour now. Her forehead still burned where Sakaki's fingertips had brushed it. No way she was going to sleep, now. But, where had Sakaki gone? Minutes passed, and Kaorin began to wonder where Sakaki had gone.

Kaorin's curiosity began to get the better of her. She stood up shakily—her legs still seemed to be in a sort of shock—and staggered over to the door, opening it silently. She slinked into the dark hallway and looked from left to right. A cold draft blew across her feet and through her pajama bottoms. Shivering slightly, Kaorin followed the wind to its source.

The door to the balcony was open partially. Outside, Kaorin could see Sakaki leaning at the banister, staring at the stars. The storm had either moved on, or dispersed. It didn't really matter. Even through the glass sliding door, the stars were beautiful. Kaorin couldn't resist joining Sakaki.

She slid the door open as quietly as possible, but Sakaki still turned.

"Did I wake you up?" She asked.

Kaorin nervously shook her head. "N-No," she lied, knowing that saying yes would probably make Sakaki feel guilty is some way, "I w-woke up just a second ago and w-wondered where you had gone."

Sakaki smiled softly and turned back to the stars. Kaorin tentatively approached the spot next to Sakaki, and rested her hand on the railing when she finally arrived there. The wet wood was still icy cold. The stars sparkled brightly, as if excited to finally be shown again after days of rain.

Sakaki gave a sidelong glance at Kaorin. She had another nightmare… she shivered even remembering the contents of it. What she would give to forget it… the screams, the moans, the noises, the sight of it all… Sakaki had to stop herself from retching. She should really say something… but, what? She looked back up at the stars…

The stars. They were twinkling so beautifully in the sky. Oh, that's it! Kaorin was going to be an astrologer, right? That'd be a perfect thing to talk about!

"Kaorin, you know a lot about the stars… right?" Sakaki asked cautiously. Kaorin nodded, her blush increasing. Sakaki was showing interest in her…?

"Y-Yes, I do," she answered shyly.

"Can you explain some of it to me?"

Kaorin nodded again, flustered, and began searching the star ocean for something interesting. After a life of astronomical study, it should be easy to find something, right…? "U-Um… that's Venus up there…" She said, pointing at the familiar planet.

Sakaki followed Kaorin's pointing finger, and squinted her eyes a bit at the sky. "…that one?" She asked.

"Y-Yes, that one."

It didn't take much more for Sakaki to get Kaorin talking on her own. Soon enough, the bashful girl was pointing out orders of the stars, orbits, more planets, elaborating on theories, and Sakaki made sure to pay attention to every word. While it was very informative, it was also a chance to learn a lot about Kaorin. At this rate, Sakaki thought hopefully, it wouldn't be long before she was no longer shy.

It was obvious that the girl had a deep love for the stars. Her eyes were sparkling with more than the starlight as she explained the finer details about the major stars. Maybe she really had a career in astrology going for her. She could become a teacher, like Yukari-sensei or Nyamo-sensei, Sakaki realized with a smile.

"…b-but, I must be boring you, S-Sakaki-san! I-I'm sorry."

"Oh, no," Sakaki assured her, "it was very interesting."

The bleak look that Sakaki had suddenly seen on Kaorin's face brightened considerably. "R-Really?"

Sakaki nodded, smiling. Kaorin beamed back at her. They both looked up at the stars again in silence, before their teeth alerted them to how cold they were.

"I think I will go back to bed." Sakaki stated.
"Y-Yeah," Kaorin agreed, with a small yawn, "me t-too."

---

Kaorin didn't sleep at all that night. Being next to Sakaki in the cot had woken her up again, and it wasn't long before she found herself inching over to Sakaki and finding herself being used as a stuffed animal again. It was then she thought about the look in Sakaki's eyes when they spoke. She was truly interested in the stars, just like Kaorin was. Her heart swelled. And that smile… with the starlight reflecting in her eyes… the memory and the feeling of Sakaki's warmth was almost enough to cause her to melt on the spot—though it still felt like she was, indeed, melting.

Dawn broke, and birds began singing their wonderful songs to the world. Kaorin spent the morning listening to them, still unable to sleep. It wasn't so bad, really… she was in heaven. If only it could be like this every night…

---

After a quick breakfast, the girls were off for home. Yukari had taken Kagura, Tomo, and Yomi while Nyamo took Osaka, Kaorin, Sakaki, Maya, and Chiyo-chan. It was only a matter of moments before the group saw dark clouds over their city, and it was apparent where the storm from the previous night had gone. It also was not long before Kaorin had finally fallen asleep.

"Uh… hey, Kaorin!" Nyamo called. Kaorin awoke with a start. Nyamo and Sakaki were looking at her with concerned looks on their faces. "We're at your house…"
"Huh…?" Kaorin looked around groggily, "Oh! I-I'm sorry, I didn't get much sleep last night!" She quickly opened the door and stepped out of the car. "Thank you very much for the ride," she said, bowing.

"No problem. See you later." Nyamo said. Sakaki waved goodbye.

The car trudged away, and Kaorin turned and started down her walkway. She felt so elated, and so happy. Nothing could ever go wrong, now. She had finally become something to Sakaki. She reached out for her doorknob… but the door opened for her.

She looked up to see the gruff, livid face of her father, holding open a small book. On the opened page, there was a haiku that was very familiar to Kaorin, with the name "Sakaki-san" written underneath it in large, crisp letters.