Please read the NOTICE below.
Author's notes: Whoa… I am SO surprised! I didn't expect that this story about ReiXRan would have more than 30 reviews! Honestly! I wasn't expecting the reviews to rise up to a hundred! I am so pleased… It means that there are a lot more starved ReiXRan fans out there than I think there is… I bet you fans are going to kill me if I suddenly changed this fic to a ReiXAya one! Mwahaha! Hmm…maybe I could do it that way—we'll never know. I don't even know myself anymore, so I can't really say. Hmm…would this fic have a happy—or sad ending? Would a main character…DIE? Nyahahaha!! I would just love to see your surprised faces. Isn't it better that way, with the suspense and such? Haha…I'm taking this way too seriously—better get to the story!! Oh yeah, COFFEE BUNS ROCK!!!! Um, yeah, they do!!
Notice: This chapter mostly shows the relationship between Yuuya and Ran—they're not exactly a couple, but they have this sort of "more than friends" but "less than lovers" thing going on. I don't know if you readers would like it, but their relationship is important to the story and also for enhancing the ReiXRan one. I hope you'll understand if this chapter LACKS something! Also, this has a lot of drama, especially in the end. It would be much sadder if you have sad background music playing while you read the part during or after Aya's departure (I played "Koi no katachi, Ai no katachi" from Honey and Clover). With that and all, I hope you get your tissues ready!
Disclaimer: I don't own Chou GALS! Kotobuki Ran! But I'm proud to say that I own a perfume that smells of marshmallows!! All the people that can smell me say, "I want to eat you!"
(Warning: Profanity, sexual implications, suicidal attempts, light lemon, OOC-ness and others may be present in this story.)
This fanfic is written for entertainment purpose only and watching GALS! again isn't necessary.The story plot is mine and don't steal it, goofball!
Previously…
The bleached-blonde chougal sighed and landed flat on her bed. She stared at the cracks of the ceiling. "Just what will happen…after Aya's gone?" she whispered to herself. She turned her head to her right and saw the beautiful flowers in the vase. She also looked at the equally beautiful ones in a bouquet that was lying on her study table.
"I'll be there in a minute!" Ran said, sighing again after. She sat up slowly on the edge of the bed and looked at the spot where Rei and Aya stood a while ago.
"Just what will happen…" she breathed. "…with Otohata Rei…?"
Give Me A Chance, Chapter 7: Of Oolong Teas, Speculations, and Hot Tears
It was almost nighttime. The city was filled with many people—young and old alike. Shops were brightly lit, restaurants were filled, and arcades were crowded. The scene appealed to many high school teenagers and in their eyes it meant that Friday night was their nirvana.
But in the eyes of a certain Otohata Rei, the scene was not even close to being attractive. Heck, it was nowhere near paradise! The streets were filled with noisy guys and squealing girls—and if he wasn't young he would've died from high blood pressure by now.
The handsome brunet drank the last drop of the canned Oolong tea as he rested on the flight of stairs leading to the other side of the street. Many people passed by him and he noticed how many of the girls squeal and quiver when their eyes meet his. It was good enough that the people didn't attack him like the people do during daytime. He didn't need that sort of problem right now.
"Look! It's the Otohata Rei!!" some girls whispered to one another.
"Oh! Look at him! He's more handsome than before!" some squeaked.
Rei ignored them. He suddenly remembered the time when he and Ran haven't met before. He saw the bleached-blonde for the very first time in the same spot where he was right now. She was well-known in Shibuya—and so was he. While many girls and photographers surrounded him, it was only Ran who didn't give a damn about the guy (back then she only cared about his bag). So she isn't one of them, huh…? This sparked Rei's interest then.
"You never fail to amaze me again and again, huh, Rei?" Yuuya wondered as he wiped the trail of sweat from his face. He grinned when he saw the still-stoic face of his handsome friend, Otohata Rei.
"What'd I do now?" Rei asked without even looking at his equally-handsome blonde friend. "Those girls and reporters are so annoying. I wish I never studied in that school—so I can't participate in that silly contest."
Yuuya flared up instantly. "You don't know what this means to other guys! It means more girls, girls, and girls!! Don't tell me you don't like 'em!" he exclaimed.
"It's not that I don't like them. I don't have enough money for them." Rei muttered and stood up. The streets were clear now, and the few people who passed him by whispered to each other and giggled. He frowned.
"Well, you don't have to have money to have girls, weirdo." Yuuya muttered under his breath and prepared to start his motorbike.
Suddenly, many guys ran by Rei. The brunet was startled and wondered why they were frantically running for their lives. He looked at the direction where the guys had come from, and suddenly he saw a bleached-blond girl wearing really high heels walking towards him. He frowned again—certainly this girl was like the others. Soon, she'll be ogling him with curled eyelashes and trying to touch him with her well-manicured fingers.
But instead, the girl barely looked up at him and continued on walking, murmuring something like, "I'm going to get those stupid guys!" Two other girls followed the bleached-blonde, and these two girls stared at him knowingly.
"Oi, Rei! Time to go!" Yuuya shouted.
Rei looked at the bleached-blonde girl once again before riding on his motorbike and driving away, still confused.
Again. It was Ran again who filled his thoughts.
Why couldn't he think of anything or anyone else? He smiled bitterly. Ran was poisoning his mind—or he was just crazy.
Then what will you do after Aya's gone?
Even he had been surprised when he asked that question. It seemed to him that he was going to do something after Aya's departure. It must've been frightening for Ran to hear that from him. But if it was meant to be, what could he do? What if something was destined to happen between them? The two of them couldn't do anything about it.
"This is so troublesome…" Rei whispered to himself. He stood up and dusted off imaginary dust from his pants. He grabbed the empty can and threw it to the garbage bin. He started the engine of his motorbike and just before putting on his helmet, he saw at the corner of his eye a whiff of blonde hair. He turned around swiftly and saw Tatsuki walking by the shops. His eyes narrowed and he turned off the engine of the motorbike.
"Oi, Tatsuki!"
"Ah…ah!"
It was supposed to be like a dreamlike situation wherein gratification is present. It wasn't supposed to be mixed with any other feelings other than physical pain and pleasure. It was, unfortunately, becoming unpleasant every minute.
"Ah… Yamato… Nnnn…!" Miyu cried, her whole body shivering.
After a while when they were finished, Miyu and Yamato rested on the bed, panting heavily. They looked at each other for a minute before a small smile appeared on the face of Miyu while Yamato didn't know whether he should smile back or frown.
"You seem…distracted, Miyu." He whispered.
Miyu looked up at the sweaty face of Yamato, a little surprised at what her boyfriend said. She gave him a wider grin and touched her boyfriend's cheek. "I'm not…distracted." she whispered back.
Yamato looked disappointed, but didn't push further. He lay beside her and looked at her. They just looked at each other for sometime until Yamato noticed Miyu looking so dazed at him.
"Yamato darling…" Miyu whispered softly, curling up comfortably on the bed.
"Hmm…"
Miyu stopped the urge to roll her eyes. Although he had sounded uninterested, she knew that he was listening. She could read his actions perfectly, which thrilled the young blonde. To be close to him, to know how he felt, to know how he thinks… It was a pleasure that she could not even begin to describe.
"Ran's acting weird…" Miyu murmured, her arms tightening around the brunet boy as she felt him flinch. When it came to his little sister, Yamato was always concerned. Although he didn't show it, it was evident in his body's actions.
"She's always weird…" came the forced reply.
Miyu pulled him to another fierce lip-lock before starting to speak. He was too wonderful. "Well…she looks sadder than usual…" she said and placed her arm around her boyfriend.
"…maybe she's just dealing with her low grades or something…"
"No! That's not usually her problem…" Miyu whispered as she sat up. Now there was a mystery. What made her usually sunny, bouncy, and bubbly friend sad? A certain thought came in her mind, but she hesitated to voice it out.
Yamato noticed a slight fear displayed in Miyu's face. He pulled her down to him to give her a hug and he kissed her forehead gently. She was everything to him—and he couldn't stand seeing the looking on Miyu's face…like she was about to cry so hard… What was happening to Ran—that was making his Miyu like this?
"I…I know I shouldn't be gossiping, but…" Miyu hesitated as she rested her head upon Yamato's tanned chest. "Remember the night before when I tried to go to the police station…and you told me not to come…?" she paused for a moment. Should she really tell Ran's brother what happened then? She gazed guiltily at her hands… Should she even be gossiping? But…she really needed to get this off her mind. Anyway, it's not like she could ever resist telling Yamato anything and everything about everything…
"I remember. What happened?"
"I passed by a neighborhood near yours…and ran into Rei and Ran…" Miyu continued, her voice betraying a twinge of worry. Should I really tell him about this…? She remembered suddenly the face of Ran. She looked so scared…so confused…
Yamato shifted a bit. So Ran was with the guy named Rei—the guy that Ran seemed to be talking about always other than fashion or food. He remembered the last time when he talked to Ran a few days ago and the way her eyes softened when she uttered the words, 'helpless, idiotic boy'. His eyes met Miyu's worried ones.
"Rei was with her…?"
Miyu nodded gravely.
Yamato sighed. He recalled the time when he and Miyu were talking about something until the topic shifted between Ran and Rei.
Flashback…
"I wonder why Rei and Ran always seem to hate each other…" Yamato whispered.
Miyu giggled. "If only Aya wasn't Rei's girlfriend, I think he'd go for your sister!"
Yamato frowned. "Well, if he liked Ran so much, he wouldn't stay with Aya for long!" he said, uncomfortable about the topic.
Miyu tilted her head to one side. "Well, what if Rei really likes Ran—but is just too scared to hurt Aya…? That would be a problem…"
"He doesn't like my sister! Do you have any evidences?"
Miyu laughed. "Evidences? You're really a policeman, Yamato! Who needs evidences? Just look at them! Look at the way they stare at each other—the way one always needs to get the attention of the other! It's really quite amusing. I'm just sorry for Aya if my 'theory' about the two is correct." She said.
"Well then why did Rei ask Aya out in the first place?"
"Maybe he just wants to give it a try?"
"Not good enough."
"I don't need your opinion. I just know that the two of them, Rei and Ran, likes each other even if they don't want to admit it. If they come to their senses, I'm sure there would a lot of surprising changes, good or bad." Miyu murmured.
"I just hope those changes don't affect us." Yamato whispered back.
Miyu smiled. "I hope so too…"
End of Flashback…
Miyu seemed to know what Yamato was thinking. She snuggled as close to Yamato as possible. She was already shaking. "I… I…"
Yamato suddenly felt wetness upon his chest. He looked down and saw Miyu crying. He tried to sit up, but Miyu wouldn't let him. "Miyu… What's—"
"I… I saw them kissing then…"
Yamato's eyes widened out of surprised.
What the…fuck?
"It's…really weird. It really feels weird! You're planning something, huh?" a certain energetic, food-sniffing blonde guy exclaimed as he shifted uncomfortably on his seat in a well-known diner. He pointed out at Rei whose eyebrows twitched. "It's very rare for you to approach me first—let alone treat me to a diner!! But to tell you the truth, I don't care if these foods have poison! I'm hungry!" he again exclaimed before devouring the food in front of him with weird noises.
Rei sighed when he saw many people looking at them. How did Ran stand this kind of guy? "I only did this because I want some information from you." He muttered. Why would I waste my time poisoning you—when I can just kill you directly?
Tatsuki was in the middle of slurping the noodles when he stopped to look at the handsome brunet. "Information?" he asked, slurping some more. When he drank water, he pounded his fist over his chest, as if he was choking. "Information about what?" he asked, breathing deeply.
The brunet tilted his head to one side. "I'd like to know why you and Kotobuki broke up." He whispered. "I'm not butting into other people's business. It's just that Aya is really troubled about all these stuff and it bothers me." He continued, looking away. He always used Aya for his lies—he was really cruel. "Trust me; I'm not going to tell anybody."
Tatsuki's left eyebrow rose up. "Well… First of all, I want to say that you're really acting weird." He sighed. "Secondly, didn't Ran tell you why we decided to split up?"
We agreed on everything…we were the same. We didn't have the chance to get to know more about each other.
"I think that what she told me isn't all there is. There's something…wrong going on." Rei whispered. He looked at Tatsuki directly in the eyes. "Many guys want to possess Kotobuki Ran of Shibuya—and it's unlikely that you would want to break your relationship off because of something as silly as not having to 'get to know more about each other'."
Tatsuki lowered his head, his eyes avoiding Rei's. "What she said to you was partly true…but I didn't tell her the whole truth." He murmured.
"Whole truth?" Rei repeated.
The energetic blonde became stiff suddenly. He closed his eyes as he clenched his fists tightly. "Yes. I figured that she doesn't know it yet too."
"What is it?" Rei asked, curiosity burning in his veins. "Tell me!"
Tatsuki looked at the brunet. "You promise not to tell anybody?" he asked, unsure if he should tell Rei the information about Ran.
Rei gritted his teeth. What's with the childish behavior? He breathed deeply. "I promise." he said impatiently.
Tatsuki smiled a little before frowning again. "She…she's in love with somebody else!!" he exclaimed.
Rei's eyes widened. "…what?" he asked, as if not believing Tatsuki.
"She's in love with somebody else…I can tell." Tatsuki's voice became soft. He looked at Rei suddenly. "I'm still not sure who it is, but…I can tell that it's a guy who's very close to us." He muttered as he stared at Rei grudgingly.
The brunet youth stared back at Tatsuki. Why is he staring at me like that…?
"I still love her…but the thought that she loves somebody else is killing me!" Tatsuki said as he wiped the corner of mouth with a tissue paper. "I deserve a mutual relationship—not a one-sided love! Besides, I'm happy if she's happy." He stood up and straightened out his jacket. "It's getting late. I have to go back to the studio."
"Wait." Rei said as he stood up too. "In case you didn't know, Ran's sick. You can visit her, if you want."
"Oh, I already visited her—yesterday, actually. I brought her brownies and she didn't leave any for me." He recalled as he laughed. "She's still adorable. I kind of miss her. But it's over now." He again looked at Rei. "We're just friends now."
Rei kept quiet. He didn't know what to say to him.
"Oh yeah! I heard that you'll hold a surprise birthday party for Aya-chan! Count me in, 'cause I'm really broke and I want food!" Tatsuki exclaimed.
"Idiot." Rei muttered.
Tatsuki looked at Rei seriously and then a sly smile formed upon his lips. "Hmm… It's too bad that I can't see her in her departure because I'm going to be in Hokkaido… I wonder what you would look like when you miss Aya-chan… She's such a great baker!!! I'll miss her too!!" he cried.
"You'll just miss her cookies." The brunet mumbled.
"Probably!" Tatsuki took Rei's hand and shook it vigorously. "Thanks for the food, pal. When I get my salary I'll be the one who will treat you to a fancy restaurant. Thanks a lot." He said sincerely and walked away out of the diner after he showed Rei his famous smile.
Rei looked at his hand and clenched it. "The way Tatsuki looked at me as he told me Ran loves somebody else…it's bothering me…" he whispered to himself. Suddenly, a thought entered in his mind.
Could it be…?
The handsome youth looked out of the window from the diner and then at the clock that hung on the wall.
"It is getting late…"
Yamato was left speechless—Ran and Rei—kissing? But why would they…? Didn't Rei have Aya as his girlfriend? Yamato was really confused. But he didn't mind himself—he minded about his girlfriend. His hands rubbed small comforting circles on Miyu's bare back. He didn't know what to say to her to make her stop crying. Some boyfriend he is…
"Am…" Miyu started as she lifted her face off Yamato's chest a bit to look at him straight in the eyes. She remembered her other best friend, Aya. She didn't want her best friend to get hurt. Aya's too vulnerable and fragile…if she learns about this—
"M-Miyu…"
"Am I meant to tell Aya…?" she asked as she faced her lover. Images of Aya flashed in her mind. Aya shocked, angry, upset… Aya crying—tears running down her face—unable to stop…
The last image was the most heartbreaking one of all.
Yamato's heart almost broke when he saw the dreadful expression on her face. "Let's not be so hasty…" he whispered as he pulled Miyu up for him to kiss her. "We still don't know the reason behind this…and telling this Aya will make her lose the opportunity of becoming a famous novelist."
"I know, but…" she sobbed. "She has to know! But then…I don't want to see Ran get hurt, too…" More tears streamed down Miyu's gorgeous face, the blonde hiccupping.
Yamato instinctively held her closer, planting a soft, feathery kiss upon her forehead. She looked so vulnerable—she must really love her two friends, to be worrying so much about them and even crying for them…
The brunet suddenly felt a pang of jealously. I wonder if she'd ever cry for me like this… Realizing he was being distracted by his emotions, he shook his head and cleared his mind as the blonde girl's head rested limply against his chest.
The couple lay in this position for what seemed like an eternity, the blonde seeking comfort within the warm embrace her lover more than willingly provided. Neither spoke – it wasn't required. She sought comfort in the fact that he was there for her, and he sought comfort in her presence, and the knowledge that she came to him for consolation.
"Yamato…" Miyu whispered when she calmed down, eyes half closed. Yamato didn't say anything—he just brushed away a stray hair from the blonde's pale face.
"I… I'm so glad we don't have problems like that…" she continued, hearing Yamato's heartbeat from his chest.
Miyu listened to the peaceful soft breathing from him and this resulted to a peaceful sigh from her. But then, she suddenly felt the urgency to let her boyfriend know just how much she cared for him. Seeing everyone else's problems made her realize how lucky she was, how blessed she was to have met him, to be sharing her life with him this way…
"I…" she hesitated, finding the right words to say.
He was so perfect.
"I love you…"
Miyu felt so relieved. Yes, she had said those words to him a billion of times—but saying the words this time…it felt so perfect, so natural, and so real. She didn't care if Yamato didn't love her back. After all, she didn't love to be loved back. She was just happy that she finally had the courage to tell him how she really felt inside. It was like a burden that was eased from her shoulders.
She sighed and hugged him tighter.
…at least she won't regret anything.
"I love you too..." came the quiet response, five minutes later. His reply was soft and gentle, sending a flood of warmth through the blonde haired girl. His voice had wavered a little, which brought out the sincerity of his words—and the way he had said it…
She smiled.
She knew he meant it.
"Hey!!!! Ran-chan's here!!" All of the girls in the class squealed excitedly, some jumping for joy. They looked out of the window, watching the chougal run for the gate that was about to close. After a few days of absence of the Shibuya queen, the girls couldn't help but get really excited for her return.
Aya looked out too. "Oh! She's finally well!" she whispered happily. She looked around and saw Miyu sitting on her desk, looking at the blackboard. "Miyu-chan? Is something wrong?" she asked.
Miyu looked at her beautiful brunette friend slowly and suddenly she recalled her conversation with Yamato. She felt tears in her eyes threatening to spill. "Um… I just…"
Aya blinked. "M-Miyu-chan! Are you crying…?" she wondered in concern. She instantly massaged her friend's back, worried.
The girls in the class noticed what was going on with Miyu. They crowded up around Aya and Miyu and asked for Miyu to tell them what the problem is. Even the boys in the class couldn't help listening to the girls' conversations.
Abruptly, the classroom door opened with a loud noise, earning all stares of her classmates. Ran was panting for breath and she couldn't wait to get to her seat—but then she saw the crowd of girls. "What's going on?" she asked happily as she walked inside the classroom, thinking that the girls have some juicy rumors to discuss about. She put her bag on her desk and walked towards the circle of girls eagerly. "Do you have something good for me to hear while I was away?"
"Miyu's crying, Ran-chan!" Satsuki exclaimed quite frantically.
Ran blinked. "Miyu?" she whispered and instantly went through the girls. She then saw her blonde friend hiccup in the arms of Aya. "What happened? Did someone hurt her?" she asked. If it was Yamato, I'll—
Aya shook her head and shrugged. "Miyu… Why are you crying? Please tell us…" she pleaded.
Miyu whimpered more. All the coaxing Aya and Ran gave her was too much. She remembered her talk with Yamato and the dilemma between her two friends. Would she help Aya or support Ran? Would she just stand by and watch as her two friends get hurt miserably?
"Miyu! Tell us what happened!" Ran whispered firmly.
The blonde wiped her tears quickly when she heard the command of Ran. She knew that Ran hated seeing her friends crying and she knew it was her fault giving Ran a problem. "I… I just figured how I'm going to miss Aya a lot… One month's a long time…!" Miyu whispered weakly, her body shivering. She hated lying, but she couldn't tell them the real reason why she was crying.
Ran blinked for some seconds before smiling warmly as she patted Miyu's head.
All the girls who heard what Miyu said began crying too. "We're also going to miss Aya!!!" they exclaimed, hugging each other.
Aya smiled at the girls with tears on her eyes. "Relax, girls… It's just a month or two!" she murmured, pleased with the concern the girls were giving her. She looked up at Ran and smiled more widely. "But I'm going to miss you all more than you miss me."
"Silly." Ran whispered and smiled back. She sat on the desk of her classmate that was near Aya's. "You said that your departure would be after your birthday, right?"
Aya nodded, unsure why Ran was asking her that all of a sudden.
"We should celebrate and not grieve!! Let's go to my place and we'll watch some old movies while eating popcorn and other foods, like we all used to do before going someplace else for summer." Ran proclaimed proudly but carefully not revealing to Aya that there was a big party waiting for her in her place.
"That…would be really nice." Aya beamed delightfully before looking at Miyu again. "Come on, Miyu-chan, don't weep so! I promise to write you letters and email you, if that's what you want." She assured.
Miyu smiled back at her then at Ran who was smiling at her too. If only you knew… She went back to her seat when she heard the bell ringing. She watched as her classmates did the same.
The teacher went inside the classroom and the classroom president led the class in the greeting. "Bow!" All the students bowed simultaneously. "Sit!"
"Sit down, please." A female teacher said. When all the students were on their seats, she looked around the classroom and saw the famous Kotobuki Ran munching on a cookie. "Ah, it's good to see you again, Kotobuki-san." She whispered with a drip of sarcasm.
"Yeah, I know, you missed me." Ran replied, still munching on the cookie that looked to be oatmeal—and Aya's. This earned laughs from the students, but the raising of the eyebrows of the teacher kept them quiet.
The female teacher coughed meaningfully before looking at Aya with a pleased smile. "Ah, Hoshino-san. I heard that you were going to London to meet up with your publisher. Is it true?" she asked.
Aya stood up and nodded. "Hai!"
"I am so proud to have a student like you in my class. I hope your novel becomes successful and you have a safe trip, okay? Please sit down."
The dark-haired beauty blushed and bowed politely. "Thank you very much for your concern." She whispered sincerely and sat back down on her seat.
The female teacher smiled admiringly at her bright student. She looked at Ran and said, "You ought to be like your good friend, Kotobuki-san!"
Ran stretched her legs on her desk. "I know I'm not as good Aya in such things, but I know I'm better in others." She said in boredom.
The female teacher was red in irritation when she saw the slender legs of the chougal on the desk. "Why, what's with the manners—" she paused. There was a sudden knock on the door. "Come in."
The classroom door opened and all the girls couldn't help but stare at the handsome visitor. Aya blinked and smiled meaningfully at Ran who was looking at the visitor as well while putting down her legs. She turned to Miyu and the blonde looked back at her, like she was saying something.
"I'm sorry for the interruption—but my teacher needs to talk with Kotobuki-san." the visitor said, who appeared to be Yuuya. Next in line with Rei, he was voted as the 1st runner up in the contest in their old school. Many girls favored the blond over Rei because he has girlish features that make him really cute—also because he was friendlier than the brunet one.
Ran blinked and pointed at herself. "Me?" she asked.
The female teacher rolled her eyes. "Well, who else has a last name of "Kotobuki", hmm?" she muttered. That was followed by laughter from the class.
Ran stood up while mumbling, "It's a good excuse to skip this class anyway." She went towards Yuuya and the blond smiled at her after he closed the classroom door. She recalled the other day when Yuuya kissed her—and with this memory she couldn't help but redden a little.
"You're red." Yuuya noted, looking anywhere but Ran. They started to walk towards his classroom.
Ran clenched her fists as her face became hot. "What does your teacher need me for?" she asked smoothly, changing the topic. It would become disastrous if Yuuya finds out the reason why she's blushing! It really is no big deal, isn't it? Why am I concerned over such little thing?
Yuuya shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know." He said. "Probably about school work—or about the school festival." He continued.
"Oh…"
Only footsteps were heard in the quiet hallways. The two blonds (one was bleached-blonde) went upstairs with awkwardness.
"Aya's leaving soon, huh?" Yuuya asked suddenly, surprising the chougal.
Ran saw Yuuya's classroom that was stone's throw. "Yes, she is, sadly." She whispered and sighed after. "Oh yes!" she exclaimed suddenly, this time surprising Yuuya. "You know that we're having a big surprise party for Aya in my place, right? I think I'll need your help for setting up the place." She beamed, forgetting the awkwardness between them.
"No problem!" Yuuya exclaimed, his cheerfulness coming back to him. "I'll invite my friends to help too, if you want! We'll bring all kinds of fun stuff and foods!" He was a fan of surprises, and certainly he won't miss this one!
"Uwaaaah! Bring over some 'booze', then—then some more booze!! Then there would be endless sweet treats for everyone! That would really make Aya happy!" Ran said excitedly with a really big smile.
"Yeah! It would! We'll really surprise her this time and she'll cry in happiness!" Yuuya replied with a grin.
Ran excitedly took Yuuya's hands and shook them vigorously. "Thanks! This means a lot to me!" she cried.
"Like I said, no problem!" he said. "Oh! I can't wait for the big day!!" Yuuya exclaimed, his fist on the air. Ran laughed at him and he laughed with her. When the cheers were finished, they both smiled at each other.
"Thank you really, Yuuya…" Ran whispered, followed by a warm smile. She was sincere—she didn't only thank him for the help he was going to provide her, but to all the things he's done for her like making her happy…and his affection towards her. She didn't exactly know where all his affection for her came from, but it was certainly a big honor for her to have it.
Yuuya seemed to have a shock for he didn't say anything. He blinked a few times, as if not believing that Ran was thanking him sincerely. Finally, he sighed in glee. "Thank you too…for giving me a chance." He murmured, smiling back.
The two stared at each other for a while, appreciating the calming and pleasant ambiance surrounding them. But then, the atmosphere was ruined when the door of the classroom of Yuuya opened suddenly with a noise.
"Go find that Yuuya and I'll punish him for loitering around and not calling Kotobuki!" the teacher inside yelled to a student. His voice was clearly heard in the wide hallway where Ran and Yuuya were.
"I guess you're in trouble." Ran said, trying her best not to laugh at him.
Yuuya scratched the back of his head. "Well…it's the second time I didn't report in his class right away." He explained, laughing at himself. He stopped laughing when he heard footsteps coming out from the classroom.
The student that was yelled at by the teacher came out of the classroom. Coincidentally, it was no other than Rei. He frowned because of the loud voice of the teacher. When he saw the two blonds together looking at him, he frowned more. "Oh, here you are." He was expressionless, as if talking to himself. "What took you so long?"
"Oh…Ran and I just had a nice chat." Yuuya said and winked at Ran. He ran over to Rei suddenly. "Sorry if you got yelled at by sensei! I'll tell him that Ran's already here." He said and he opened the classroom door.
"Nice chat?" Rei repeated, looking at Ran.
Ran looked back at the brunet. "It's about the surprise party…for Aya." She said softly and walked towards the classroom. When she was already side to side with Rei, she stopped to look at him straight in the way. "You better spend most of your time with her now." She whispered.
"I will." Rei replied and smirked knowingly. He still cared for Aya and he wasn't as heartless as to giving her real grief before she goes away. He was at least sensitive to other's feelings—just for now.
Ran blinked in confusion and decided to not say anything. She then proceeded to go inside the classroom, ignoring the brunet. Cat calls and whistles were suddenly heard from the male students as she entered to talk to the teacher.
Rei watched Ran and smirked to himself. "You still haven't changed." He muttered before closing the door shut.
"Departure for London is 30 minutes away. All passengers should gather their things and proceed inside the airplane. I repeat, the departure…"
Tears formed in Aya's eyes as she hugged her friends one by one. They were in the airport where big groups of people appeared. "Guys, I'm really thankful and happy for giving me the best birthday party ever! I really…I really…would miss you!" she exclaimed and hugged both Ran and Miyu.
Ran couldn't help but get teary when Aya hugged her. She was going to miss her best friend and her cookies for sure! "Be sure to email us—or I won't forgive you!" she said and wiped her eyes with her arm.
"Yes, and be sure to tell us about the people you meet there, especially if it's a really hot guy!" Miyu exclaimed and all laughed when Aya blushed as Yamato coughed meaningfully.
"Miyu, you shouldn't say that! Aya-chan still has Otohata-kun, remember? He'll mind it for sure!" Satsuki whispered and smiled happily.
Aya giggled. She looked at Rei who just stared at her. Oh, my… Is he jealous already? She smiled wider and walked towards him. She suddenly wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him tightly. By now, tears streamed down freely on her cheeks. "I…I certainly am going to miss you, Rei…!" she whimpered.
Rei closed his eyes. She was crying like before when he found her by the fountain. He lifted his arms and wrapped them around her, earning surprised gasps from everyone—including Ran. "Be sure to take care of yourself." He whispered and sighed. "Meet and be friends with many people so you would avoid thinking about us all the time. Be sure to befriend nice guys too, I won't mind."
Aya gasped and blushed more. She couldn't believe Rei was talking to her like this! It was the first time! She hugged him tighter and planted a chaste kiss on his lips, murmuring, "I love you…so much." Rei didn't seem to mind that Aya was kissing him in public. She was going away soon, anyway. He wrapped his arms around her.
Ran looked away immediately. You better spend most of your time with her now. She made her own grave—she had to endure the pangs of pain. Tears threatened to spill in her eyes again. She was lucky that no one was watching her or seeing her like this. She made a quick swipe on her face with the back of hand. A chougal doesn't cry in public!
But the bleached-blonde girl was wrong. Both Yuuya and Miyu were watching her secretly and they both looked away when the chougal wiped her tears away. It was a heartbreaking scene—and it hurt them as well.
"B-break it up, you two! I'm jealous!" Yuuya exclaimed in urgency and laughed. He knew that Ran acted like that because of the scene in front of them. Well…she's in love with Rei, like she told me. He secretly glared at his best friend. Damn you Otohata Rei for being so unfeeling! "Aya, you'll miss your flight." He continued.
"Oh…oh yeah! I almost forgot!" Aya exclaimed and blushed harder. She immediately walked away from her handsome boyfriend and gathered up her things. "Again, thank you for all the things you've done for me, guys! I swear I'm not going to forget writing you in email!" she said and turned back to Rei. "I love you, Rei. Goodbye…"
Rei nodded and watched as the black-haired girl proceeded to go inside the airplane.
"Goodbye Aya!!! Don't forget us! And when you return be sure to have some delicious treat for us all!!" Ran shouted, earning laughs and embarrassed looks from her friends.
Aya looked back and smiled back at Ran. "I promise! Bye guys! I'll see you soon!!" she exclaimed. After that, she disappeared from their sights. Rei also disappeared suddenly. The group was filled with sadness when they realized that Aya wouldn't be back so soon. Together, they walked out from the airport looking really depressed.
"Ah, Ran! We'll all go to the police station…are you coming?" Miyu asked as Satsuki, Yuuya, and Yamato walked towards her.
Ran shook her head. "No… I'm going home. I'm really tired." She said.
"Well then, just rest well! See you!" Miyu said with a forced smile and Satsuki followed her with a wink.
"Be sure to lock the doors before you sleep." Yamato said.
Ran nodded tiredly.
"We'll see you around, Ran. Sleep well." Yuuya whispered with a smile and ran up to the group to talk with them.
Ran watched as the group walked towards the train station. She looked back at airport and sighed. Suddenly, she heard a noise and saw an airplane in the sky that came from the airport. "That must be Aya's flight…" she whispered to herself.
"It is."
The bleached-blonde turned around and saw Rei. "Where were you?" she asked out of curiosity and she was rather surprised when she realized she sounded so casual—so off.
"I went to a place where I can see the airplane clearly. I waited until her plane took off." Rei whispered, staring at Ran.
Ran looked away and focused her eyes on the ground. When she couldn't take the deep scrutiny of Rei anymore, she covered her face with her purse. "Stop staring at my face!" she exclaimed, her eyes shut tight. She then walked away slowly.
"Ran," Rei called out.
This made Ran walk faster that eventually led to running. She ran quickly away from Rei, chanting words to calm herself. You've got to hold it back…!
Rei couldn't chase her—not yet. They both needed time. They still need to understand the situation carefully. He touched his lips once again and he closed his eyes. Ran saw them kissing…did it hurt her? Was it the reason why she avoided him? Rei clenched his fists. He was a heartless bastard—he knew that. He was an insensitive guy all along. He had hurt the one he truly loves the most…
Time passed quickly and Ran couldn't believe that she was at home at last. She unlocked the front door with her keys and opened it. She quickly landed flat on the couch and stared at the ceiling. Her knees were shaky and her heart ached. She clutched the clothes over her chest and started to hiccup. Suddenly, the phone that was beside her rang.
She stared at the phone for a moment and after 4 rings, she picked up the receiver and sat up. "Moshi-moshi?" she whispered after a long pause as her voice shook.
"Hey Ran. It's me, Yuuya. I called just to know if you're all right…"
Ran was surprised slightly. She sat on the couch and stared at the phone again. "There's nothing to worry about, Yuuya. I'm fine. In fact, to console myself, I think I'm going to have baking classes so I can bake my own cookies and so I can't miss Aya's cookies!!" she exclaimed.
"Oh."
"I also have to plan a party already for the return of Aya next month. I'll be really busy with all the shopping and plans I have to make. Also, Yamato's thinking of having a dog—so I can play with it when I'm bored. Isn't it fun? I'm already excited! You can come over too if you want to play with it!"
On the line, Yuuya kept quiet. He just listened as Ran kept on talking. He figured that it was her way to not let him know what she feels. You still have a lot of crying to do over him… You have to endure crying alone for now… But just a little more time, and you will not cry alone anymore. His eyes narrowed as his concern for Ran grew.
"That's good to hear…" he said when Ran finished talking. "I'm glad to know you're still feeling happy." Even when you really aren't.
"I'm always happy, Yuuya! Remember that well! So, I'm really tired right now… I'll just catch up to you in school. Is that okay with you?" she asked.
"It's okay. Rest well, Ran."
"Thanks. I hope you stay in good health and…" Ran paused and her voice shook again. "…try not to push yourself too much. Bye." She whispered and waited until Yuuya put down the receiver, not realizing that she sobbed when she said goodbye to him. She suddenly recalled one by one the instances when Aya showed her love for Rei and he returned it. She had been quiet then, and refused to cry because of it. But—
Aya hugged him tighter and planted a chaste kiss on his lips, murmuring, "I love you…so much." Rei didn't seem to mind that Aya was kissing him in public. He wrapped his arms around her.
As Ran clutched tightly on the phone, tears streamed down on her cheeks and she cried harder than before, all the locked-up feelings gushing out. She sobbed as she found it difficult to breathe. She had made her decision a long time ago to jump directly in the meat shredder and endure the pain she was going to feel…just to be close to him. She loved him more than anything else—but she just couldn't have him. She knew that she would forever cry over Rei.
He still loves her…despite his advances on me…
Ran continued to cry, the tears being illuminated by the full moon above her. She didn't know what would happen next…but she knew it would certainly hurt her for sure. She covered her face with a pillow and slowly slipped in oblivion, the hot tears still trickling down, unable to stop.
To Be Continued…
Author's notes: Whoa… I think this is my longest chapter ever…and probably the last one (I guess) I'll do this year—because it's school time again (aww…another long wait!). So, did you guys like the story? I certainly had lots of fun writing this one, especially the part about Rei treating Tatsuki to a diner. I lazed off a bit at Aya's departure because I HAD to include slight ReiXAya scenes there (I bet their fans are cheering right now). Oooh, Aya's finally gone!! What will happen now?
I felt really drained after I wrote about Ran in the end. I had to imagine I was Ran crying for the man she loved that she cannot have—and it really was hard for me to put those feelings into words. I even tried to recall the memory of my ex-crush who just didn't like me because I was too young for him, and then I gave my best to squeeze out tears from my dry eyes. So forgive me if you haven't been satisfied. Criticisms are welcome, if they are reasonable!! To all the students, enjoy your summer vacation, and my birthday is in June (GIFTS please!! Hehehe). Hooray!! Thanks for having the time to read my fic, and I'm going to answer your reviews in return!
P.S. I uploaded this chapter in a computer rental—and I deleted it from the "My Documents" after. But I forgot to erase it in the recycle bin (stupid me!)! So if anyone sees a story REALLY similar to this one, please tell me!! I'll gladly appreciate it!
Arigatou gozaimasu!
Koharu-chan
Answers to the Reviews:
Chaomi: Hello! Thanks for loving this fic! Well, this fanfiction is truly for you solid ReiXRan fans! Haha, yes, the fans of ReiXAya are quite…bloodcurdling! Hehehe… Well, maybe because they know, unconsciously, that the really intended match in the anime were Rei and Ran! A lot of people think that Yuuya is quite good for Aya, so maybe I'll consider the pairing. Also, I guess I won't include Mami just yet—or I won't include her at all. It really depends on the flow of the story. Thanks for leaving a review!
Icy-natsu85: Yes, yes! I already updated and it's thanks to your review! You aren't the only one who grieves about the not-ending-up-together of Rei and Ran in the manga and anime—hundreds of fans do too, including me! Don't you worry! I'll make this story seem real and interesting that you'll think it's the sequel to the original GALS! Hahaha…but you'll need lots of concentration…hehehe. Thanks for the review!
Heavenlydreams: Hmm…We can't say if Ran would resist Rei for long (wink, wink). But now Aya's out of the picture, lots of things could happen between them, both happy and painful changes. Whew! But as a loyal ReiXRan fan, I'll make this story interesting enough to satisfy your cravings!! Thanks for always leaving a review, and sorry if I haven't updated for so long!
Ranni: I bet you used up all your patience in waiting for this one to come out! I'm sorry if I haven't updated lately, and I'm glad you are eager to see what will happen next. Thank you very much for leaving a review!!
Hikari Manganji: OMG! YES! I updated!! Hahaha… Gawrsh… (Think of Goofy saying that one) I really am pleased that you think my story is wonderful I don't deserve such praise (cries in happiness in a corner)! Yes, I'll try to update faster and I hope you'll love the next chapter as well! Thanks for the "wonderful" review!!!
XkanomieX: Haha…I really feel terrible for having you wait for too long! I promise to update faster (although it's really hard with the entire author's block and all)! Yes, it's true about the season 2 of GALS! I haven't seen it yet, but I'm really hopeful to find some EMPHASIS on the ReiXRan pairing! I'm excited too! Thanks for leaving a review!
Mangadreams: Thanks for thinking that it was a great chappie! Hmm…maybe the people are still working on the TV version of GALS! Season 2…but yes, the manga goes further. Now I really am filled with excitement! Thanks for the review!
15transcends: Ohmigod…thanks for loving my story and the pairing itself! Yes, I'll try to update as soon as possible! Thanks for supporting me and for the review!
Sailor aidos: You loved the ReiXRan hugging moment? Me too! Well…Ran fainted because of shock (and she has a fever, so probably because she felt hot), I guess… Nyahahaha! Some author I am, not knowing the reason behind that…hehehe! Aya won't be back for at least 2 to 3 chapters, so I guess that will have lots of time for the two (Rei and Ran) to have chances to be together and that will result from 2 to 3 chapters of happiness from ReiXRan fans! Har, har! Thanks for thinking it's a great fic, and a domo for the review!
Miya-kaichu: Omfreakingosh! Oh…please do not stop reading this fanfic until the end!!! Hahaha…just kidding. Thank you for your patronage and thanks for the review!!
Catherine07: Naw…my story isn't that beautiful…hehehe... But thanks for the praise and the review!!
Thanks to all the people who left me a review, and sorry if I haven't answered some of your reviews…hehehe… Yes! Click that li'l button down there, so I can bounce off the walls and scream "SQUEEE!" because of happiness! Um…p-please…? Think of it as a present for my birthday! Thank you so much!!