Author's notes: Hooray! It's a new year for us all and I started the celebration by writing this early (um…sort of—nyahahaha!). Thanks to all those reviewers who greeted me (I'll give you a bowl of fruit muesli or two—made by me!)!! But don't start thinking that "updating early and always" is my New Year's Resolution because I don't have one! I don't make a resolution because I'm afraid that I can't do them. They become a bunch of promises rotting in one corner throughout the year (poor promises…) for me. So…please understand me. But I bet you're thinking, "Then why did you update early (for you), you butthead?" Well, I like how the story is going so far. The point where I left the last chapter hanging was very intense and I was itching to write about the scenes that will take place! So…can we proceed now to the story? Hehe! This way, please. This way. No pushing, please.
Notice: I'm into comedy lately and it's evident in this chapter, because there are so many humorous scenes here especially with Rei and Ran. Also, let's face it guys. They're teenagers—with raging hormones. In other words, keep children away from the computer (or you can always glance over your shoulder to see who's approaching and bitch at them if they come near you). Oh, if you notice the numbers "018", see what letter it is in the alphabet.I'll give you a blueberry cheesecake if you're correct!
A Chuck Norris Fact: Boogeyman checks his closet every night for Chuck Norris.
Disclaimer: I don't own Chou GALS! Kotobuki Ran! But I'm swollen with pride to say that I saw my DADDY kissing Santa Claus! Honestly! Nyahahaha!
(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, butthead!!
Previously…
"Oh. We're here." Rei proclaimed, the vehicle coming to a halt in front of a tall building.
Ran looked at the building where Rei's apartment was. She gulped and coughed nervously. This was it. She was really going inside his apartment. Her trail of thoughts earlier came back to her again. Expect the unexpected, they say.
As the bleached-blonde girl looked at Rei again, she realized that that was hard to believe in.
Give Me A Chance, Chapter 9: Of Libraries, Smoothies, and Trains
"Hey, is the building really that cool and handsome for you to stare at?" a certain brunet sneered at the bleached-blonde, obviously irritated.
Ran placed her eyes at Rei, her eyes narrowing for a split second. "Heck, it's worth looking at than you. Besides, I'm not staring at the building—I'm looking in the building. There's a handsome guy at the upper floor worth staring at." She scoffed, crossing her arms. Why is he so irritated? After a minute of silence, she was pulled by a silently fuming Rei inside an elevator. When they were inside, Ran struggled to let go of her arm from Rei's grip. "What's with you?" she asked, displeased with the brunet's sudden change of behavior. A while ago he was silent and in a good mood and now—now what?
Rei sighed and looked at his reflection at the mirror inside the elevator. "It's nothing."
Was it because of what I said earlier? Ran pondered. Feeling that she had done something wrong, she rubbed her other forearm and coughed meaningfully. "Sorry."
"For what?" The brunet asked, his head snapping up to look at Ran.
Ran suppressed a giggle. He was adorable. "I'm sorry for saying indirectly that you're not worthy to look at." She whispered, hoping that Rei could understand what she was trying to say. If possible, I'd like to look at you forever, to wake up beside you everyday—what am I saying?!
Rei blinked then smirked. "I'm not upset because of that."
"What is then that you're upset at?" Ran asked, her eyes twitching a little when she saw the infamous 'Otohata smirk'.
Rei looked up to see what floor they were in and then stared straight at Ran's eyes. "I'm upset that you're still looking at other guys." He whispered truthfully.
It was Ran's turn to blink. She felt the heat creeping to her cheeks and tried to suppress the blush on her face, but she couldn't hold it. "A-Are you jealous?" she stuttered.
"No." The youth said quickly, cursing himself after. You really are pathetic, Otohata. "You have a really handsome guy beside you and you still look for another. That hurt my ego." He almost laughed out loud when he saw Ran's new reaction.
"You—handsome?" Ran mocked, laughing loudly then patting Rei's shoulders, assuring him of something. "It's okay to dream, Otohata. It's free."
"But it's true. I was jealous." Rei murmured quickly and so softly that Ran almost didn't catch what he just said.
"Wha—" Ran's incoming words were cut off when the elevator door suddenly opened. "Hey wait!" She immediately stepped out of the elevator and ran towards the brunet who was already in front of the door that had the numbers "018" engraved. She began feeling nervous when she heard the noise of the keys while Rei was fishing them out from his pocket. She watched with dread as he inserted one golden key in the keyhole. A soft click was heard throughout the quiet hallway after Rei turned the doorknob.
This is it. This is the moment of truth. This is where—
"You'll have to excuse the place. I didn't clean up before I went out." Rei said as he flipped the light switch and stepped inside. "But it's okay. In that way, when you make a mess as you always do in other houses, I can clean up altogether. So…hey, are you listening to me?"
Ran ignored the insult because she was too busy looking around in awe. The other apartments (of various friends) she visited before were always cluttered and run-down. But Rei's wasn't. Rei's living room was cozy, but not cramped, with a black leather couch, flanked on either side by small black end tables. A modest entertainment center contained a television, computer, and stereo. Ran couldn't help but feel impressed. It's so nice, and so… welcoming. "It's great." she said, after a moment.
Rei's face reddened at the compliment and he thanked the gods that Ran didn't notice him at all. "It's not that much." He mumbled and proceeded towards the kitchen where he flipped another light switch. He went straight towards the refrigerator to open it and observe its contents.
The chougal followed him and was amazed when she saw the very neat kitchen. The countertop was empty and the sink was dishes-free. She assumed that some of the food items were inside the little cabinets. She was beginning to love his apartment. "You're a neat freak, aren't you?"
The brunet couldn't help but let out a chuckle. "I guess I am. My head aches when I see something messy." He replied, leaning on the counter.
Ran smiled as she realized the similarity between her and Rei. My head also aches when I see something not in order.
"So, what will it be?" Rei suddenly asked.
"Huh?" Ran asked, startled. "I get to choose what you'll cook?"
"You're my guest." Rei replied. "Your wish is my command. At least for today, so don't let it go in your head." he smirked.
Ran stuck out her tongue at him. "Quiet." She rested her head on her palm and considered for a moment. "Wait, let me think…"
"Don't hurt yourself." he teased.
"Oh, shut up!" Ran exclaimed automatically and resumed in thinking about the food after. "Well…do you at least have any meat and eggs?" she asked.
Rei nodded, bringing out the eggs and meat from the fridge and placing it on the countertop. "What else?" he asked.
"Um…bread crumbs and flour."
The brunet opened one cabinet and brought out a pack of bread crumbs and flour. "Is that all…?" he trailed off.
"Those are the primary ingredients I want. You decide on the garnishes and such." Her eyes followed Rei's quick movements as he washed his hands. She walked towards the countertop and poked the pack of bread crumbs with her finger. "So…what are you going to cook?"
"The easiest," After wiping his hands clean, Rei walked towards the place where Ran was standing at and began breaking the eggs with a fork, pouring them in a wide dish. "…and probably you're favorite—pork tonkatsu." he said and smiled when he saw Ran jump out of joy.
"Ooh, thank God you knew what I was getting at!" the bleached-blonde girl exclaimed, leaning towards Rei. "Make many for this very lovely and hungry girl, okay?"
Rei rolled his eyes. "You're pathetic." He said, his heart making treacherous thumps because of the close distance between them. He could already feel the warmth of her body.
Just for the food, Ran ignored his insult again and instead grinned brightly. "What's pathetic about sharing and having lunch with an exceptional friend?" she cooed.
"Alright. That's too cheesy for me too handle." Rei proclaimed and placed his hand on top of Ran's head to ruffle her hair. She was very cute. I could grow to like this.
Ran, though, stiffened at the contact.
Rei noticed and pulled his hand back quickly. What the hell am I doing? "Sorry. I didn't mean to mess up your hair."
It's not that. Ran gave a small smile. "Lucky you apologized quickly. If not, then something bad will happen to you!" she said lamely, settling herself on a stool. "Is there something I can help you with?" she asked quickly to change the topic.
Rei shook his head. "Thanks, but you're my guest. It'll be rude to make you work around here." He whispered, busy coating the meat with the beaten eggs. "Besides, I can manage."
"If that's what you want." Ran said after a moment. She realized that almost all the guys want to be independent and want to take charge of everything. She also noticed that Rei was like her brother Yamato—the independence, the coldness (when Yamato's at work), and the shyness to express feelings like love or such for their loved ones. She sighed inwardly. Why do guys have to be shy of their feelings? The independence. Did it mean that, if ever she had a boyfriend again like Rei or Yamato, the guy wouldn't depend on her in some way? If that was the case, then…
You get the feeling that you're not needed.
She stared at him. Did Aya feel 'that' whenever she's with him? Graaah! Ran kicked herself, chanting in her mind to change the topic. "I don't have to take this!" she said to herself, not noticing that she was watching the brunet's every move in the kitchen. The quickest way to my heart is food—and I can't believe he's cooking something delicious for me! She sighed inwardly and rested her face on her open palms. If only…he's really trying to please me. That would be very nice. But this is no more than a sign of friendship.
The brunet cringed when he touched the cold meat that was next to being covered with eggs, flour, and bread crumbs. He looked over to where Ran was sitting at. He saw the dazed look on her face as she stared at the countertop. I wonder what she's thinking about…
"Do you cook for Aya too?" Ran asked suddenly, her guilt coming back in an instant. Anything that had to do with Aya and Rei made her feel really guilty.
The youth looked at her skeptically. She practically wants to hear something that will give importance to her. "Why are you asking?" he asked. Heck, it wouldn't hurt to give her one.
"Oh, nothing. Just curious." The bleached-blonde shrugged.
Rei looked away and focused his eyes on his task. "No."
Ran's eyes widened. "Huh?" she asked, feeling that she had not heard right.
"I don't cook for her. You're the first one—besides my family."
Out of surprise, she fell off the stool with an "Oof!" sound. Before Rei can even rush over to help her, she was already climbing back to her seat. Ran's face was so red that Rei couldn't even decide if he should tease or compliment her about it. Instead, he just watched her movements in amusement.
"HAHAHA! Rei, you Casanova, you almost got me there. You smooth talker, you!" She exclaimed and clasped her hands together tightly. She didn't notice that she had called the brunet his first name, but he heard it loud and clear. "So, Omnipotent one, I better check out the scenery outside while I can—and also not to bother you with your high-class cooking." She said as she kissed her fingertips like how a chef would and then ran out of the kitchen quickly after.
When Ran was gone, the fine-looking brunet's features softened. That felt good to say. He started heating the pan, feeling lucky that no one was able to see him smiling so widely.
A pebble was cruelly kicked on the asphalt ground by a rubber-shoe. "I hate myself." Yuuya whispered as he trudged along the path walk. "I found Ran then left her just because of my emotions. Stupid feelings!" he exclaimed to himself, wanting to bash someone's face. "I want to go back to her, but I know she wouldn't be there anymore. Stupid, stupid, stupid!"
"Whoa. Get a grip of yourself, man." Tatsuki said nervously, running towards Yuuya. He was on his way home when he saw his blond friend pulling his yellow locks. "What's wrong?"
Yuuya let go of his hair and sighed. "I'm stupid, Tatsuki, really stupid. I guess that's the reason why Ran picked you instead of me." he whispered, sulking.
Tatsuki waved his hands wildly at him. "That's not the reason!" He answered.
"Then what?"
"I'm just more attractive than you."
Yuuya stared at him. "…"
Tatsuki scratched his head and cleared his throat. "Uh…that was in the past, Yuuya. You're not stupid." he said, patting his hand on the blond's right shoulder. When he heard him let out a really deep sigh, he knew something was really wrong. "Is it her?"
Yuuya's head snapped up. "Huh?"
"It's Ran, isn't it?"
Yuuya let his head drop again. "Yeah."
The monkey-look-alike kept quiet. Did Rei found Ran first? No, that didn't seem to be the case. "Why?"
Feeling helpless, the blond starting walking ahead with Tatsuki following suit. "I found Ran."
"Oh?"
"Yeah. I told her that everyone was worried about her. She called Miyu up to apologize." Yuuya told his friend. He didn't want to let Tatsuki know what he told her after. Yet.
Tatsuki was getting impatient. "That's not the reason you're acting like that. Tell me the truth." he demanded. Seeing that Rei wasn't involved, what could've happened?
"That's the—" Yuuya's words were cut off when the two heard someone shouting their names.
"Tatsukichi!! Yuuya!!" It was Miyu who was shouting and she was running towards them. When she came to a stop in front of the two boys, she panted heavily. "Whew. I haven't ran like that for so long." she whispered and then smiled at them. "Hi!"
"Hi Miyu!" Tatsuki greeted.
Yuuya was confused. "What are you doing here, Miyu?" he asked. "I thought you were going shopping."
Miyu rolled her eyes. "Ugh. It wouldn't be fun shopping by yourself. I've tried that and it's really deadly—deadly boring."
"What about Yamato-san?" The monkey asked.
The blonde giggled at the mentioned name of her lover. "Oh, you know policemen. They don't have time for fashion and stuff." she said and smiled again. "I just came from the police station then I saw the two of you." She then turned to look at Yuuya sternly. "You."
"W-what?" Yuuya stuttered.
"Where is Ran? I thought she was with you." Miyu wondered. I know she's supposed to be with him, but what happened?
Yuuya scratched his head as he looked at Miyu then Tatsuki, then Miyu again. "Ah…I kind of left her where I found her." He strangled out. Damn…
"What?!" the two exclaimed unbelievingly.
Yuuya just laughed nervously. I knew I shouldn't have left her. Damn, damn.
Soft footsteps came to a stop when a voice called out a Japanese name. "Miss Hoshino? Have you had your dinner already?" a masculine voice asked a certain dark-haired girl who was walking through the quiet, narrow, and intricate hallway.
Hoshino Aya turned around to give a bright smile at her publisher. "No, sir. How about you?" she asked, gripping her books tight with her arms.
Her publisher, although half-Japanese (and half-European), was very fluent in speaking the Japanese language. Aya assumed that he was middle-aged. "I already had and I'm deeply sorry for not asking you to eat with me." He then bowed to her as a sign of apologizing.
Aya waved her hand nervously. She wasn't accustomed people bowing to her—and a foreigner, nonetheless! "Um…it's really okay. Y-you don't have to bow, sir." She stuttered.
A laugh came out of the man's lips as he stood straight. "If that's what you say then, miss." He said and he looked at the books being cradled by her arms. "That's a lot. You really love reading books, huh?" he asked.
"Yes!" Aya quickly answered. If the topic was about books, she would gladly join in the conversation. "I borrowed these from the library and I was very surprised that there are still so many books I haven't read." She said in amazement, her mind playing back the images of the library sections she visited earlier.
"Well, you just have to visit the library often so you can finish ready all the good books, if you can." The man said as he laughed again. The Japanese girl was really something. She's very compatible with my son. "I'd really like to treat you to dinner, but I still have something to do. I'm really sorry."
Aya shook her head with a smile. "Oh, no, it's not necessary." She said politely.
"Just feel free to order anything in the hotel's restaurant under my name, okay? I'll see you tomorrow." He said and waved at her before he started walking away.
Aya let out a sigh of relief. Good thing he didn't see the titles of the books. Tightening her grip of the books, she continued walking towards the exit. "Books about love against time, long-distance relationships, and such…I can't believe I'm going to read all of these." She whispered to herself, thinking about her relationship with Rei. Instantly, Rei's stunning face, although with a frown, flashed in her mind.
Oh God…how I miss him.
"Ah, Miss Hoshino."
Aya almost jumped out of surprise. She swiftly turned around to see that her publisher was already at the entrance of the library. "Y-Yes, sir. What is it?" she asked.
The man scratched his head and let out a chuckle before speaking. "Are you free tomorrow afternoon?" he asked.
A blink. What? She couldn't believe what she heard—she only heard that line when a guy was asking her out for a date. Oh, dear Lord. Please don't let it be what I think it is. "Um…yes, I think." She whispered.
"That's great!" the man exclaimed, feeling somewhat very pleased. He caught himself acting like a child and quickly he coughed meaningfully and stood up straight. "Tomorrow will be a perfect day for a date!"
Aya let out a nervous laugh. "F-for a what?" she asked. Oh God. He's about in his late thirties and he's…it's just wrong!
"A date—with my son. I'd like you to meet him."
The black-haired girl let out a sigh of relief again. At least it was his son who she was going on a date with. "Oh. Okay. I'm sure he's as nice as you are, sir." She said, giving him an assuring smile.
"Nicer." The publisher bowed his head again. "Thank you again, Miss Hoshino. He'll be waiting at the hotel café on one o' clock." He said and waved his hand at her. He then went inside the library and disappeared from Aya's vision.
"It wouldn't hurt." She said to herself.She figured that if she went to the date, she wouldn't think about home for even just a few hours. Besides, even if I went to numerous dates, Rei will still be my love and… She suddenly felt her knees weakening, resting her hands on the wall for support.
…he wouldn't care at all.
That realization brought a wave of sadness over her. After a moment, she stood up straight and walked slowly towards the hotel that was just a few blocks away. I shouldn't be sad. Didn't he kiss me back when I was about to leave? He normally doesn't kiss back.
"You're right." She realized, speaking with herself. "I almost forgot about that." She earned a few weird looks from the passersby who heard her talking to herself. She didn't mind them. She was too busy thinking about her boyfriend.
Soon, I know he'll smile at me—a big, wide smile that no one has ever been able to see and make him do. I know that someday he wouldn't be cold to me anymore. Just a little more time…
Pleased with her thoughts, she happily walked towards the path to the hotel, oblivious to the fact that someone had already made the brunet smile so immensely.
"I am the Dancing Queen, young and sweet, only seventeen…" Ran sang loudly at the terrace of Rei's apartment. She heard the song playing loudly in a radio from the apartment below Rei's and she couldn't help but sing along. When the song got into its chorus, the chougal started dancing with the beat. She felt that the song suited her perfectly—the Dancing Queen of Shibuya.
Back in the kitchen, Rei flipped the last meat and waited for the other side to brown. As he waited, his attention shifted to the voice coming from the terrace. He knew it was Ran. Singing. I've got to see this. Feeling excited (he didn't know why), he quickly put the food on a plate, turned off the stove and cleaned the frying pan. Grabbing the plate of food, he proceeded towards the living room where the terrace was. Before Rei can even step completely out of the kitchen, he saw the most amusing scene ever in his life.
Before him was Ran dancing and singing around, making wild gestures as if to imitate some diva. She was holding her comb as her microphone and she had her eyes closed. She was unaware of the scrutiny from Rei who was already laughing to himself.
Unable to stop himself, Rei cleared his throat loudly for Ran to hear, a smile still on his face.
Ran instantly froze when she heard the sound, her mouth still open. She watched Rei in horror as he deposited the plate of food he was holding to the table in the living room. That was…humiliating. She slowly made her way inside the living room and tried to sit at the end of the couch, but she slipped.
How embarrassing!!
She quickly stood up and sat on the middle of the couch, appearing to be busy studying the comb in her hands. After three seconds, she glanced up and saw that Rei was smiling and was deliberately avoiding looking at her. Because of that, she blushed madly and just held the comb tightly.
Rei walked towards the kitchen to grab some more plates and bowls. If he didn't have enough willpower, he would've laughed loudly by then. She's really one of a kind. When he got back to the living room, he saw that Ran was studying the small fishbowl on a small table. It seemed that the fishbowl distracted her from feeling utterly humiliated.
"What's with you and my fish?" Rei asked while he sat down on the couch.
Ran turned around. "I was just watching—is it so wrong?" she replied and sat down beside the brunet. Determined not to talk about what happened earlier, she cleared her throat and shouted, "Itadakimasu!"
"Geez…you don't have to shout." Rei muttered in irritation. Before he could even pick up his chopsticks from the table, Ran had already eaten half of the bowl of rice. He shook his head and proceeded eating, occasionally stealing glances from the chougal. "I'm just wondering… Where do you put it all?" he suddenly asked.
She looked at him, her eyes questioning. "Huh? What's it?"
"You eat so much but you still look pretty good to me."
Ran blinked. Eh?
Rei flushed and almost choked on his food when he realized that Ran had misinterpreted his words. He cleared his throat and continued eating, looking away. "I mean…you're so slim to eat so much. That's all." he whispered. That's not all. She always looked good to me—even if she's always binging. He rubbed his eyes and stood up, taking the dishes with him. "I'll clean these up." I better get out of here.
"I'll help." Ran offered, standing up too.
"No." Rei said sharply. When he saw the bleached-blonde's hurt expression, he sighed and shook his head. "I mean, you're still my guest. Just relax. I've got it under control." Do I really? He then went inside the kitchen and started washing the dishes. Suddenly, he remembered the stories his male classmates shared with him every break time—that they get to "score" when they were alone with their girlfriends in their apartments. So what? Ran's not my girlfriend—and she trusted me with this. I'm not going to do anything to her. He mentally reassured himself as he cleaned, restoring order to both the dishes and his thoughts. He took longer than usual to dry the dishes and replace them in the cabinets. Now, I'm going back out there and act normal until she decides she has to go home. He walked into the living room.
Ran was smiling in front of the fishbowl again when the brunet showed up. She was too busy following the lonely fish's movements that she didn't notice Rei's stare at her.
Just like the fish, Rei also followed Ran's every move—the way she swept her hair away from her face and the way her eyes seemed to give so much intensity as they stare. So much like the eyes that looked at me that night. Suddenly remembering their kiss, Rei cleared his throat so loudly that it made Ran turn around to look at him in wonder.
"Do you have a cough? It's really getting irritating." Ran teased, a smile on her face.
Rei shook his head and put his hand on his hips. "…since you came, I've been clearing my throat nonstop." The brunet just answered. "That means you're irritating me."
Ran laughed. "Congratulations! You made me laugh despite of your corny joke." she said as she waved him off, walking past by him. "I have to go now—Yamato will worry even if he doesn't look like it. He's a worry-wart, you know."
"Of course he'll worry." Rei whispered, not wanting to continue his sentence. "I'll drive you home." he offered.
The chougal shook her head. "It's okay. I troubled you enough as it is. I can take the train." she said. "And don't bother on insisting that you drive me home. I already made up my mind."
"Then I'll walk with you until we get to the station."
"You're really stubborn, huh?" she asked.
When it comes to you. Rei shrugged.
Ran raised one eyebrow at him. "Uh….whatever." She stood in front of him and smiled sincerely. "Anyways, thank you for the food. It was not really that scrumptious as I thought it would be, but it was good."
The brunet knew she wasn't saying the truth by the way she smiled at him. "Thank you for the compliments. I needed one to boost my self-esteem in cooking." He said, his tone dripping with sarcasm. Ignoring Ran's usual reaction, he looked outside the window that was kind of blurred. It looks like it's cold out there. He turned his attention to the chougal who was still blabbering some insults. If I lend or give her anything that'll keep her warm, what would she think? He was a little surprised when he saw that Ran was also staring at the window.
"You should keep yourself warm. Get some jacket and scarf for yourself." Ran whispered.
It was amazing that they shared the same thoughts. "What about you?" he asked.
Ran shook her head. "Nah, I'm okay. The Queen of Shibuya doesn't get cold! She isthe cold!" she proclaimed, pumping a fist on the air.
Feeling obedient and wanting to spare himself from the sight, Rei went to his bedroom to get the said scarf and jacket. The Queen doesn't get cold—my ass. I don't want her to get sick. He looked inside his cabinets to find an extra jacket and scarf, but he suddenly remembered that the extras were in the laundry. No shit…
The three were seated on the flight of stairs of an overpass in Shibuya where Rei usually stayed at and no one even noticed for they were too busy drinking their free smoothies—courtesy of Yuuya who was crying over his empty wallet.
"Hey, Yuuya. If you think you can avoid talking about the topic by buying us smoothies, you've completely miscalculated." Miyu said as she drank her berry smoothie, raising a finely-shaved eyebrow.
"That's right." Tatsuki agreed, nodding as he enjoyed his banana smoothie.
Yuuya held his wallet tightly. "Right…" he repeated. "I don't know what's right anymore."
Miyu stopped slurping the smoothie when she heard Yuuya speaking. "Are you alright?" she asked. "Oh, I noticed I said something with a 'right' word…"
The blond didn't heed her error. "I'm really sorry if I left her where I found her." Yuuya began. "I just…I can't stick around her for too long—I don't mean it negatively, I just… I'm a coward." He sighed, his wallet getting smaller and smaller because of his tight grip.
Tatsuki looked at him then continued to slurp his smoothie. Even Miyu didn't say anything. It was as if they were going to say something wrong if they speak up at that very moment.
"You guys know I like her very much…from the beginning, you all already knew. I'm just frustrated at myself that I didn't tell her so earlier—much earlier than when Tatsuki proclaimed his love for her." The blond whispered.
"Me?" Tatsuki instantly interjected at the mere sound of his name, drops of his smoothie making a splat on the side of Yuuya's face.
"Quiet, you." Miyu scolded the monkey-look-alike as she watched Yuuya wipe away the liquid from his cheek. She coughed meaningfully before she started to talk. "What do you mean, Yuuya? You still have a chance on her."
Yuuya looked up at her. "Chance?"
The blonde nodded. "She still doesn't have a boyfriend." She assured him. But then, I know she's in love with a guy who's not only taken, but also Yuuya's best friend. She continued sipping her berry smoothie. It's only common sense that she still doesn't have one.
Yuuya stooped his head low again, as if the energy given to him was suddenly taken away. "It's still impossible." Because she's still not over him.
Tatsuki, who refused to be left out of the conversation, patted Yuuya's back quickly. He didn't like the melancholic atmosphere around the three of them so he decided he just had to lighten up the mood. It'll be a miracle if Ran gives Yuuya or chance. Or not. Lifting his fist in the air, he circled his arm around the blond and started making wild gestures that earned looks from passers-by. "Maybe all you need is seduction—you obviously are not seductive!"
"What?" The two blond/es exclaimed. The hell?
"Oh no, no, no. Girls don't like guys who are cowards—that's a big no-no!" Tatsuki said and stood up. "Build up your self-confidence and transform it to an aura of manliness and…" Tatsuki put his hand under his face. "…it will make you look oh-so-handsome to the eyes of the girl you love—like me!" he exclaimed.
Miyu started laughing hard that she had tears in her eyes.
"What the hell are you talking about, you monkey?" Yuuya asked and shook his head. He's nuts, but he's right. I've got to have more self-confidence. "I have to admit that you're right about what you said, except the part where you said you were handsome." he remarked with a smirk.
"Pause. Corny. Delete." Tatsuki muttered and rolled his eyes. "So, are you okay now?"
"Kind of."
Miyu smiled at the two boys. "So…should we go to where Ran is?" she asked.
"No!" Tatsuki said so quickly that made the two look at him in confusion.
Yuuya blinked. "What do you mean 'no'? You were also looking for her, right?"
The monkey scratched the back of his head slowly. "Uh…I have to make a confession." he whispered. He didn't really want to tell them that, but since he couldn't keep his mouth shut, he just had to.
"Well?" Miyu asked as she raised an eyebrow at him.
Tatsuki sat down again and sighed. "After Yuuya called me up a while ago at the dance studio, I was instantly worried about Ran. So…" he trailed off.
"So?"
"So I called Rei up to go look for her." Tatsuki whispered and shook his head.
"What?!"
Yuuya stared at him in shock. What if Rei found her? He knew that Rei was not like some of the perverted guys and he knew Ran would be safe with him. But…
"If Rei finds Ran, then what do you think they'll do?" Miyu asked in a whisper, continuing Yuuya's trail of thoughts. "It's not that I don't trust Rei, but…" they're in love with each other—what if something surprising happens?
"I'm really sorry, guys! I just—" Tatsuki stopped speaking for Yuuya suddenly stood up and ran away.
Miyu watched her friend run. "It's hard for him, huh? He really loves Ran."
Tatsuki nodded. "I can't help but feel sorry for him, Miyu."
The blonde turned around to look at him. "Why?"
"Ran would never get over him." Tatsuki whispered. They both knew who he was talking about. If only it wasn't Rei whom she loved, if only he wasn't Yuuya's best friend, and if only Rei was not Aya's boyfriend. Then life would be much easier for the four of them. He knew that if ever Rei and Ran acknowledge the feelings they felt for each other, many would be hurt.
Miyu stared at the tiny droplets from the berry smoothies she was drinking. "Why him, of all people…?" she murmured, wanting and dreading for Aya to return at the same time.
"Oi, Otohata Rei! What's taking you so long?" Ran shouted from the other room.
Rei gritted his teeth as he wore the jacket and scarf. There's no choice. He went back to the living room and saw that Ran was already at the doorway waiting for him. He put his shoes back on and locked the door of his apartment after they went out.
The chougal glanced at him briefly before they entered the elevator. "Why are you so quiet?" she asked suddenly.
"No reason." The brunet just whispered.
"Oh." Ran thanked that the elevator ride was quick for she knew that 'awkward time' would come soon. As she looked around the building one more time, she spotted a couple walking hand-in-hand. Her eyes traveled down to where Rei's free hand was. A sudden urge to hold his hand came to her. What if I hold his hand…would he get angry? Hesitating, she looked up and saw that Rei was looking at her. Her eyes widened.
"What? Why are you so surprised?" Rei asked, feeling a little confused.
"Surprised? Ha! You're dreaming, Otohata." Ran exclaimed, walking ahead of the brunet youth. She didn't stop walking to reply to the guard who said 'goodbye' to her. When she stepped outside of the building, a cold breeze enveloped her that caused her to shiver. "Whoa…it's cold!" she whispered to herself. Gah…I want nothing more than to go home, curl up into a ball and sleep!
Rei stood beside her and noticed that she was shivering. I don't want her…to get sick. Feeling a bit of a masochist, he took off his jacket and placed it around Ran gingerly. He ignored the eyes that questioned him as he wrapped the scarf next around the chougal's neck.
"Rei… What are you doing?" Ran asked after a minute of silence. She was so speechless a while ago that she couldn't even make a sound.
"What do you think?" Rei asked in a shaky voice, now feeling the coldness. Damn…I'll freeze out here if I stay out for too long. When he noticed that the bleached-blonde was still staring at him, he put his hands in his pockets and looked back at her. "What?"
"But you'll get cold and—"
"It doesn't matter if I get cold. Just leave me alone." The brunet interrupted.
Ran felt a bit hurt at Rei's words. "I'm sorry." she whispered and looked down on her shoes.
Rei saw her hurt expression and sighed, mentally kicking himself. "I'm all right. You don't have to worry." He whispered, noticing that Ran was still not looking up at him. He shifted his weight in his left foot as he continued speaking. "You're more important than myself." He murmured.
With that, Ran's head snapped up. "Eh?" was all she could say.
The brunet smiled slightly. "Whatever. Let's get going if you don't want me to be frozen on the spot." he said. Just as he was going to make the first step, a hand held him back. He turned around and almost laughed when he saw Ran blushing—all the while trying to hide it from him.
Ran let go of his sleeve. "Let me make you warm even just a little." she mumbled, holding his hand. She smiled as she looked up at him. "Is it okay?"
Of course it is. Rei felt a blush creeping to his cheeks. "Do what you want." He whispered, holding the chougal's hand tightly as they walked towards the train station. What is this feeling? It feels so… He glanced secretly at their clasped hands.
"So natural." Ran suddenly said that made the brunet blink in surprise. "This feels so natural, don't you think?" she asked. "Maybe because it's so cold and we tend to keep ourselves warm."
Rei almost thought that the chougal could read other's thoughts—they just shared the same view. "Nn." he just muttered.
"I still don't know what 'Nn' means! It's really annoying to hear and it sounds stupid!" Ran exclaimed jokingly, laughing to herself.
"It's an indication that the one you're talking to is utterly bored." The handsome youth replied promptly.
The bleached-blonde raised an eyebrow at him. "Bored?" she repeated. "Are you saying that you get bored when you're with me?"
This nut-head doesn't seem to realize that I'm just playing around. With that in mind, Rei smirked as he closed his eyes, preparing himself for a full 20 minutes of ranting. "Something like that."
"Otohata, you—"
Rei opened his eyes and saw that Ran was looking intently at the train station.
"We better get going! I'm going to miss the last ride!!" Ran exclaimed, pulling Rei's hand as she dashed towards the station. When they were at the counter to get a ticket, she let go of the youth's hand quickly to fish out her wallet from her bag.
Rei looked at his hand then at the chougal in front of him. I feel so cold. He shook his head (for acting all cheesy) and sat on a bench near the counter. As he observed the growing crowd in the station, he noticed that Ran really stood out among them. It was not only because of her bright hair with a streak of red, but maybe because he knew she was totally different from the rest of the people, being so lively even though she doesn't know anyone in the area and many other unique traits. He felt a sense of pride that he could be so close to her (even held her hand), when many of the boys who know her would do anything—even commit crimes—just to let the famous "Queen of Shibuya" focus her attention at them. They treated her as a trophy worthy to be won.
He wondered if he was like them. He had always admired Ran.
Am I no different from the rest of them?
He knew that Ran was aware of the fact that most of the boys who asked her out just wanted her to be their 'trophy girlfriend' and make themselves be at the top of the heap in terms of social standing. It was also the reason why she agreed to go out with Tatsuki—he never wanted to become popular and she knew that he loved her at the bottom of his heart.
I do, too. So why am I doubting my feelings?
After successfully getting a ticket (even if there was so much shoving in the line), Ran turned around and was surprised when she couldn't find her companion due to the large crowd wanting to catch up in the last ride. Where did he go? She pushed herself out of the crowd and looked around the station to find him. After a moment, her eyes caught a head of dark hair sitting on a lone bench, obviously spaced out. She waved at him, but he didn't notice. What is he thinking so deeply about? She walked towards him and cleared her throat.
"Oi, I already got a ticket. Why are you spaced out?" she said in a loud voice, breaking Rei's trail of thoughts. His head snapped up to look at her and she felt suddenly uneasy under his scrutiny. "H-hey, you okay?"
Rei looked away and stood up. "I'll see you off." he whispered and then walked ahead of her.
Ran stared at him. What was wrong with him? She ran towards the brunet until she finally caught up with him. "Why do you look like something's really bothering you?" she asked.
"It's nothing." Rei answered. He stopped walking on the platform as soon as he heard the train's noise.
The bleached-blonde bit her lip. "Do you miss her?" she asked quietly, staring at the railroad tracks in front of them. She bit her lip harder when Rei didn't answer her. It's true then. "You can e-mail her if you truly miss her. I'm sure she'll be happy to know how you feel." She whispered and felt her heart beat faster when she noticed that he shifted his attention at her. She thanked God when she saw that the train was already approaching them.
Rei watched as the train stopped in front of them and opened its doors for the passengers to enter. Ran went inside but still stood at the entrance.
"Well…I'll see you soon." Ran managed to say.
The brunet sighed and shook his head. "It's not about Aya." he confessed, looking down at his shoes.
"Then what?" she asked, aware that the train doors would shut close in just a few seconds.
Rei looked straight at Ran's eyes as the train gave off rings to warn the passengers about the departure. He clenched and unclenched his fists. It was now or never. Despite the loud chattering of the people and the noise of the train's engine, Rei's words were heard.
"I love you."
Ran's eyes widened at the same time when the train's doors shut close. She stared at him wide-eyed through the glass window and didn't dare to blink even if the train started moving, fearing that all that happened would prove to be an illusion. She suddenly remembered her mantra earlier.
Expect the unexpected.
She let out a breath that she'd been holding when she couldn't see him anymore. She slumped down to the floor as she touched Rei's scarf around her neck, ignoring the looks the other passengers gave to her. She was oblivious to the fact that the people were staring at her not because she was sitting on the ground, but because she was so flushed and so red.
Left alone, Rei stood still on the platform, his hair fluttering in the tunnel's breeze. He turned around to leave the station, his fist still clenched as he heaved a sigh.
He wasn't sure whether it had been a sigh born of regret, or of relief.
To be continued…
Author's notes: Yow! This chapter is shorter than the previous chapter, but overall I think it satisfied the 'hunger' of ReiXRan fans (hopefully!)! Honestly, I intended to update this chapter earlier, but due to laziness and the usual writer's block, it was put off temporarily in my 'waiting list'. Again and again, I'm so sorry! Hahaha…ha.
It's our summer vacation right now and it's hard to do anything at all—for my idea of vacation is to do NOTHING at all! Gah, I was so much stressed during those grueling days in the classroom and I think I deserve to relax. Everybody needs a break once in a while, right? Right! But I must admit that it would be a bit hard for me to update this story during summer vacation, because first of all, by brothers are always on the computer and I only have limited time to use it due to the high electric bills. Second, I spend the rest of my allowance just to access the internet so even if I already finished one chapter, it takes a lot of time to post it in the net, due to the fact that I have to limit my visits to the internet shops.
Lastly, I'm just plain lazy. Hahaha! It's a joke. I want to be lazy, but…gah, it's hard (Whooo…feeling 'heroic' of some kind)!
Anyway, it took 9 chapters for Rei to accept and tell his feelings for Ran—so now what would Ran do about it? It's a strict rule not to steal the man of your best friend! Is she willing to sacrifice her friendship just for love or take the risk of losing the most important person just because she doesn't want to hurt others?
Go figure! XD
Well, I hope you all stay excited about the next chapter! I am excited as well and I hope the next chapter will be so interesting that it'll take your socks off! Uhm, that wasn't right. But anyway, I hope it would satisfy your RXR cravings!!
P.S. As a present, I'm going to answer your reviews once again! You deserve the best, avid and loyal readers! I wouldn't be writing this without your endless support and reviews!
Arigatou gozaimasu!
Koharu-chan
Answers to the Reviews:
Hikari Manganji: Hahaha…yeah. I kinda like Tatsukichi in this story too, so I'm giving so much scenes! Hahaha…anyway, yeah, ReiXRan forever!! Thanks for the review!
15transcends: Nyahahaha…how 'bout now that I updated a lot 'earlier' than expected?? Hahaha! So…how was the chapter? Did it meet your expectations? (please, oh please, yes!) Haha…thanks for leaving me such a wonderful review!! Tata with a smoochie!
Alegria: Really? Your first time? Wahaha… I'm really touched! D Thanks for the review!
bribe91: Thanks for liking the story! But…I already warned the readers that this is a ReiXRan fic and only contains very little ReiXAya moments… I'm really sorry, but I'm really glad you liked the sotry nonetheless! Thanks for leaving a review!
heavenlydreams: So…how was the chapter? Was it good? Nyahahaha… I'm getting nervous and very pressured!! Haha… I hope you enjoyed reading this chapter, because you deserve a lot of enjoyment! Haha…did I make any sense? Anyway, thanks for the review!
aGirlWithNoName: Yes, I updated already. I'll try to update faster than usual, I promise!! Thanks for the review!
Animegirlsana4eva: Hi animatrix—uhm, animegirlsana—uhm, you!! Haha! Well…I'm glad that you saw this fic being updated. I'm really sorry if this looks like it's rotting in one corner…hehe. Thanks for leaving a review!
sasukegirl4: I made YOU cry?? Whoa…no kidding? That's the greatest compliment I ever received!! Nyahahaha…thank you for such a wonderful review!
nisch: Yeah! They should've been together! It was so evident in the early episodes…it was really disappointing…but hey, we have fanfics anyway. Haha… Thanks for the review!
Eliannora: Augh…I guess this chapter has a lot of mistakes. I was really rushing this one, because if I take longer to update, I may not be able to update any longer! (okay…?) Haha! Whatever! Thanks for the review!
sam: Thanks for the compliment!! Please enjoy reading my future chapters! Thanks for the review!
Please, please, please! Press that li'l button over there. Yes, that's right. No, it's not the 'back' button! Hehehe…yes, that one. Whooo! Thanks! I promise I won't let you down in the next chapter. Thank you again!
Mwah!