Sachiko found her thoughts wandering as she looked over the menu provided by the Italian restaurant. Yumi was seated on her left with Rei and then Yoshino on her right. The three ex roses were on the other side of the table. Youko was in her usual position as mediator between Sei on her right and Eriko on her left.
Sachiko didn't know if she was too happy with Sei sitting opposite Yumi. Despite their earlier conversation, she still didn't completely trust the girl not to make a move on her girlfriend. She knew Sei was merely teasing in order to get a reaction out of her, but it didn't change the fact that her gestures were highly inappropriate. Although, Yumi had definitely made it quite clear that she, Sachiko, was the only one she needed.
Sachiko smiled at the thought and looked over at Yumi. She couldn't seem to take her eyes off her girlfriend. Since they'd entered the restaurant she'd lost count of how many times she'd glanced over at her. She just couldn't get enough of her. Yumi was simply adorable.
Had it only been a week since they'd become girlfriends? It seemed like they had always been together. She now couldn't imagine a time when she didn't have the right to hold her, kiss her and do naughty things with her. Sachiko blushed as she recalled exactly how naughty they'd been earlier on that evening. They'd definitely come a long way in the past week.
With that thought, she forced herself to return her attention back to her menu and caught sight of her Onee-sama. Youko was looking at her thoughtfully and she gave her elder sister a brief smile before looking away. She could tell Youko was still wondering about the change in her personality.
Had she really changed that much? She hadn't thought about it before, but Youko's reaction to her earlier behaviour had been a bit of an eye-opener for her. Sachiko thought about it for a moment. If Yumi hadn't been with her this evening, how would she have reacted to Sei's behaviour? Above all else she hated losing. She probably would have refused to honour the wager. In fact, she was pretty sure she would've still been outside arguing with her. She wouldn't have let the girl's deception slide.
So why had she let it go this time? Why didn't she feel like it was important? It wasn't merely Yumi's suggestion that she get her revenge at a later date. It was more than that. It was Yumi herself. Or more precisely, Yumi's very presence. The girl was her touchstone. So long as Yumi was by her side, she was invulnerable. No matter what the situation, all she had to do was glance over at Yumi and her perspective would return. She was certain of it.
With that thought, she snuck another glance at her girlfriend. Yumi looked up then as if she'd felt her eyes on her and she gave her a warm smile. It took all of Sachiko's willpower not to reach out for her. She wanted to kiss those sweet lips more than anything. But she had to behave. They were in a public place after all. She had to maintain some semblance of propriety.
"Have you decided what you're going to order?" Yumi lowered her menu and reached for her hand.
Sachiko laced her fingers with Yumi's and put down her own menu. "I'm not sure," she replied with a smile. "Have you?"
She moved their hands down from the table and placed them against Yumi's thigh as she awaited a response. She couldn't resist running her thumb against the soft skin of Yumi's hand and her smile widened as Yumi responded with a slight shiver. She loved watching Yumi's reactions to her touch.
With her right hand, Sachiko reached back for her menu and placed it between them. She moved closer towards Yumi so that their shoulders were touching and they were practically cheek to cheek.
She looked over at Yumi and felt her breath catch. Yumi's face was so close to her own that she could almost kiss her.
"What do you think looks good?" Sachiko asked huskily, doing her best to ignore the fact that Yumi's lips were only millimetres away from her own.
She saw Yumi's eyes drop to her own lips and Sachiko squeezed her hand to stop herself from moving. Yumi was obviously thinking the same thing she was. It would be so easy to bridge the gap between them.
"I don't know," Yumi whispered as her gaze shifted back to her eyes. "I'm partial to spaghetti...although the lasagne looks good as well..."
Sachiko began to circle her thumb against Yumi's hand as she replied. "I agree. They both look good."
"Yeah..." Yumi replied huskily and Sachiko saw her eyes close as her breathing became shallow. She didn't let up though and continued to caress her hand. She was enjoying the softness of the girl's skin too much. And her reaction was breathtaking.
"Why don't we share then?" Sachiko suggested after a moment, her thumb still moving in a slow circle against Yumi's skin.
"Share?" Yumi opened her eyes and met her gaze with a smile.
"You can order the spaghetti, I'll order the lasagne and we can split the meals between us," Sachiko explained.
"Oh, I see," Yumi's smile widened. "I'd like that."
"You're sharing?" Sei put her menu down and flashed a mischievous grin Yumi's way.
"Um, uh, yeah," Yumi blushed as everyone turned their attention towards them.
Sachiko frowned. How had the girl heard them? They'd been talking in soft tones. Sei must have ears like an elephant. At least when it came to Yumi. That thought didn't sit too well with her.
"You have a problem with that Sei-sama?" Sachiko met her gaze defiantly.
Sei chuckled as her grin widened. "Not at all. I'm actually impressed. I would've suggested the same thing if I were in your position. You're more devious than I gave you credit for," she winked slyly.
"I'm sure I have no idea what you mean," Sachiko feigned a look of innocence.
"Hahahaha," Sei threw her head back as she laughed. "I'm sure you don't. I bet your intentions are nothing but pure," she mocked.
Sachiko didn't want to play into Sei's hand, but she couldn't stop the blush from entering her cheeks.
"You're sharing a meal?" Yoshino leaned over her Onee-sama to catch Yumi's eye. "That is so romantic," she leaned back and grasped Rei's arm. "Don't you think so Onee-sama? Why don't we share too? What do you say?"
Sachiko looked over at her friend and held back a chuckle. Poor Rei, she looked a little stunned.
"Uh, Yoshino-chan, I..." Rei blushed as she struggled for a response.
"Share a meal? Whatever for?" Eriko interjected with a look of reprimand. "If you're having problems deciding what to order, I highly recommend the--"
"I don't care what you recommend," Yoshino interjected with a glare. "Was I talking to you? No!. I was talking with my Onee-sama."
"Really Yoshino," Eriko frowned haughtily. "Isn't it about time you started acting your age?"
"I am acting my age," Yoshino protested. "It's none of your business if I want to share a meal with my Onee-sama."
"What are you playing at Yoshino-chan?" Eriko shook her head in wonderment. "Rei obviously isn't comfortable with the idea."
Yoshino blushed and glared daggers at Eriko.
Sachiko couldn't help but chuckle and lifted a hand to her mouth to cover her reaction. Yumi had been right. Yoshino was definitely harbouring non-sisterly feelings for her Onee-sama.
"Uh, look, it's okay Onee-sama," Rei interjected in an attempt to make peace between her elder and younger sister. "I don't mind, really. We can share two meals if you like Yoshino-chan," she placed a hand on her cousin's arm and gave her a reassuring smile. "It's okay..."
Sachiko noted a look of surprise on Rei's face as Yoshino responded with an air of indignation.
"Oh, we can, can we?" Yoshino folded her arms angrily. "Well, that's too bad. I've changed my mind now. If you're going to be that way about it, I'd rather eat by myself. Hmph!"
Rei lifted a hand to Yoshino's shoulder only to have it shrugged off. "Yoshino-chan?" She questioned her cousin with confusion. "What is it? Did I say something wrong?"
"Oh, just leave her be," Eriko instructed irritably. "If she wants to behave like a child, you might as well treat her like one and ignore her."
"But--"
"Don't let her bother you," Eriko interjected. "Here," she picked up Rei's menu and returned it to her hands. "Hurry up and decide on your order. The waitress will be back soon and I'd rather not keep her waiting. I'm starting to get hungry and the sooner we order the sooner we eat."
"Uh..." Rei looked over at her sulking cousin for a moment before sighing in resignation. "Okay," she accepted the menu from Eriko and began to look it over. "I guess you're right Onee-sama."
Yumi chuckled softly and leaned over to whisper into Sachiko's ear. "Poor Yoshino..."
Sachiko turned her head and placed her lips against Yumi's ear. "I'd say poor Rei," she whispered. "She's got no clue about Yoshino's intentions."
"Should we say something?" Yumi whispered back in a hushed tone, cupping a hand over Sachiko's ear as she spoke.
"Definitely not," Sachiko turned back and whispered firmly. "You promised you'd stay out of this, remember."
Sachiko pulled back and smiled at the pout in Yumi's lips. She looked so adorable when she sulked.
Sachiko returned her lips to Yumi's ear and cupped it with her hand.
"Don't pout Yumi," she whispered huskily, allowing herself the liberty of running her tongue along the girl's earlobe. "You look too cute when you pout. I might just be forced to bite that lip of yours..."
Yumi pulled back in surprise and her cheeks turned an adorable shade of crimson.
Sachiko chuckled at her reaction and purposefully lowered her gaze to Yumi's lips. She regretted her action immediately. The sight of Yumi's half open lips were suddenly a little too tempting.
"What are you two whispering about?" Sei's voice interrupted the moment. "It's rude to whisper when you're in the company of others. Didn't your Onee-sama teach you anything?" Sei flashed a teasing grin at Youko and chuckled.
Sachiko broke out of her reverie and looked up at Sei with a blush in her cheeks.
"I'd have to agree with Sei on this one," Youko looked at Sachiko with a smirk. "I thought you had better manners than that Sachiko," she teased. "Now tell me, what were you discussing with your little sister that would cause you both to blush like this?"
Sachiko met Yumi's gaze as her blush deepened. Did her Onee-sama suspect the true nature of their relationship? Her Onee-sama had always had an uncanny knack of seeing right through her.
She smiled ruefully at Yumi and received a nod of approval from her. There was no point keeping the truth from her Onee-sama. Youko knew her all too well.
Sachiko squeezed Yumi's hand gently before turning her gaze back to Youko.
"Onee-sama..."
"Excuse me, are you ready to place your orders now?"
Sachiko's confession was interrupted by the arrival of their young waitress. She flashed her Onee-sama an apologetic smile. She'd have to tell her later.
Once everyone had placed their orders, Sei called the waitress back to her side.
"Hey Sweetie, come back here a minute," she requested with a flirtatious grin. "Can we get a bottle of champagne as well? Our friend here just got engaged," she gestured in Eriko's direction. "We need something to celebrate with."
"Certainly Miss," the waitress bowed in acknowledgement, a little flustered by Sei's forwardness. "I take it everyone here is over eighteen?" She arched an eyebrow haughtily as she regained her composure and looked pointedly at both Yumi and Yoshino.
"Of course Sweetie," Sei chuckled casually and made a flirtatious point of slowly dragging her eyes down the entire length of the girl's form. "Would you like to see our IDs?" she reached for her wallet and pulled out her driver's licence before the waitress could reply.
The waitress blushed as she bent down and scrutinised it for a moment. Her blush deepened as she noticed Sei's eyes on her chest and she straightened up instantly. She avoided her gaze and looked expectantly towards Yumi instead, her cheeks still flushed with embarrassment.
Sachiko couldn't help but feel a little sorry for the poor girl.
"You want theirs as well?" Sei questioned with a grin as she pocketed her licence. "Hey Sachiko, do you have your driver's licence yet?"
"I do," Sachiko replied with a frown, not bothering to hide her displeasure at the girl's behaviour. "Not that I plan on drinking though," she reached into her purse and pulled out the card. She smiled politely at the waitress as she presented her licence.
"Miss Ogasawara Sachiko-sama?" The waitress pulled away in surprise. "As in Ogasawara Industries?"
Sachiko sighed at the girl's reaction. She was all too familiar with that tone. "Yes, that's right," she acknowledged politely.
"I'm so sorry Miss," the waitress bowed with clasped hands. "Please forgive me." she bowed again. "I didn't realise--"
"You still want everyone to show ID's Cutie?" Sei interrupted with a mischievous grin. "Yumi-chan, did you bring yours?"
"Mine?" Yumi's eyes widened. "But uh, I--"
"Oh no, please don't bother with that," the waitress insisted. "I didn't realise you were with Miss Ogasawara-sama. Please, no ID's are necessary. I'll be back with our best bottle of champagne. Please forgive me," she bowed one last time in Sachiko's direction before leaving the table.
"Hahahahaha," Sei laughed once the waitress had left. "Nice one Sachiko. I knew your family name would come in handy."
Sachiko frowned at Sei with displeasure. "You set this up didn't you?" She accused. "That poor waitress...what were you thinking?"
"I was just having a bit of fun," Sei explained with a grin. "And now that we've been cleared, I'm free to get Yumi-chan drunk," she teased.
Sachiko frowned and glared angrily at Sei. "That's not going to happen. Yumi will not be consuming any alcohol tonight. Neither will I for that matter. And I don't think Rei would appreciate Yoshino having some either."
"Oh, lighten up Sachiko," Sei chuckled. "One drink's not going to get anyone drunk. I just thought it would be nice to celebrate a little, that's all. How long has it been since we've all gotten together like this? One glass of champagne won't do any harm. Besides, it's not like it'd be your first drink Sachiko. Isn't that right Youko?"
"Hehehe, don't pull me into this Sei," she chuckled "If Sachiko doesn't want to drink tonight, that's her decision. Although, I am a bit surprised. You normally wouldn't make an issue over one drink Sachiko...?"
Yumi's eyes widened as she processed the information. "Is that true?" She looked over at Sachiko searchingly. "You're used to drinking alcohol?"
Sachiko smiled ruefully at Yumi. "I have had the occasional drink," she admitted. "Generally with dinner or when entertaining my father's business associates. It's expected as part of playing hostess. But all that is irrelevant. I don't want you having any alcohol tonight Yumi," she demanded firmly. "Your body's not used to it. You won't be able to handle its effects."
"She's not a little kid, you know," Sei pointed out. "Yumi's almost seventeen. I'm sure she can make her own decision. Isn't that right Yumi-chan?"
Yumi looked away uncomfortably, avoiding everyone's gaze. "I, uh...um..."
Sachiko looked down at her girlfriend curiously, sensing a sudden change in her mood. Was Yumi okay? She actually looked a bit upset. She squeezed her hand gently in question and was surprised when Yumi pulled away from her grip and placed her hand on the table.
Sachiko sighed and placed her own hand back on the table. What was wrong? Why wouldn't she look her in the eye? What had upset her?
"Sei-sama's right," Yoshino agreed enthusiastically, interrupting Sachiko's thoughts. "One drink isn't going to harm anyone."
"You're not seriously thinking of having any?" Rei turned towards her cousin in surprise, a slight look of panic in her eyes.
"Of course I am," Yoshino replied defiantly. "You're not my mother. I'm free to have a drink if I wish to."
"But--"
"Oh, let her have her way," Eriko interjected haughtily. "If she wants a drink to prove she's not a child, then let the baby have its bottle."
"Eriko-samaaa!" Yoshino protested with a glare. "I don't need to prove anything! Hmph!"
"Look at what you've started Sei," Youko chuckled and lightly punched her friend on the shoulder in reprimand.
"And what might that be?" Sei grinned. "We are celebrating Eriko's engagement after all. One generally has a glass of champagne during such an event. Am I right?"
Youko chuckled again and Sachiko did her best to avoid her gaze. She didn't feel like explaining the real reason behind her reluctance to drink.
Under normal circumstances she wouldn't have thought twice about having a drink. However, even though she was used to it, alcohol was still known for reducing one's inhibitions. And right now, she was having a hard enough time keeping her hands off Yumi without it. She didn't need something that would make it even easier to succumb to her girlfriend's charms.
Although, with Yumi's sudden mood shift, that was probably not going to be an issue. What had caused her to pull back like that?
"You're really too much Sei," Youko reprimanded as her chuckles died down.
Sachiko allowed herself a brief glance at a pensive Yumi. She still looked a little upset. However, she could tell her girlfriend wasn't in the mood to talk just yet. With that, she sighed and turned her attention over towards her Onee-sama. She'd leave Yumi alone with her thoughts for the moment. But not for too long. She'd definitely confront her soon.
"And that poor girl," Youko continued humorously. "What were you trying to do to her? I'm surprised you didn't slap her on the backside as she left."
"Hahahahahaha," Sei laughed heartily. "Now that's an idea. Did you see how sweet she looked in that little waitress outfit? Makes you want to just eat her up. She's too cute for words. Don't tell me you're jealous?" Sei narrowed her eyes and flashed Youko a teasing grin.
"Keep dreaming Sei," Youko rolled her eyes dramatically.
"So that's what it is," Sei grinned and placed her left arm around Youko's shoulders. "You've had a small taste of Satou Sei and now you want some more. Is that it?" She pulled Youko towards her as she spoke and surprised her with a playful kiss against her cheek.
Sachiko looked on with a frown as her Onee-sama blushed and pushed Sei away from her. What was Sei up to?
"What are you doing Sei?" Youko demanded furiously, her cheeks flushed a deep crimson.
Sachiko watched curiously as she saw an answering blush appear on Sei's cheeks. A second later Sei began to laugh and she wondered if she'd imagined it.
"Hahaha, I'm just playing with you," Sei tapped Youko lightly on the shoulder as she continued to laugh. "What's up with you? You're the one getting all riled up over a friendly kiss. Am I having that much of an effect on you?" Sei teased with a grin and moved her face to within millimetres of Youko's.
Youko's blush deepened and she lifted her hands to Sei's shoulders with the intent of pushing her away.
"Stop it Sei..." she spoke huskily, but made no further attempt to pull back.
Sachiko looked on thoughtfully as Sei lowered her eyes to Youko's lips and she once again saw a warm blush appear on her cheeks. Sachiko was certain she wasn't mistaken this time. It was as if Sei herself was surprised by her own reaction. But why wasn't Youko moving?
Was it possible that something was developing between Sei and her Onee-sama? It looked as if the pair were about to share an intimate kiss.
Sei broke the moment with another playful kiss against Youko's cheek instead.
"Hahahahaha," Sei laughed as she pulled away from Youko. "Had you there didn't I?" She teased. "You thought I was gonna give you a real kiss, huh? Disappointed?" She flashed Youko a mischievous grin as she spoke. "I'm happy to oblige if you are," Sei moved her face closer towards Youko's in emphasis, a teasing glint in her eye.
Sachiko's eyes widened as she watched her Onee-sama stop Sei dead in her tracks with a hard slap against her cheek.
For the second time that night, Sei lifted a hand to her freshly-slapped face. Her expression turned pensive, but she remained silent, neither apologising nor making an attempt at humour. Instead, she met Youko's gaze thoughtfully and Sachiko couldn't help but wonder what was going on in that head of hers.
Youko sighed and Sachiko noted a look of regret in her eye.
"I'm sorry," Youko reached up and tentatively covered Sei's hand where it lay against her cheek. "Are you okay?"
Sachiko observed a mixture of emotion run over Sei's face. She couldn't quite make out what was being portrayed. But it definitely made her wonder about Sei's intentions towards her Onee-sama. The last thing she wanted to see was Youko getting hurt.
She continued to watch pensively as Sei's expression became controlled and the girl regained her composure.
"Yeah, I'm fine," Sei grinned as she knocked Youko's hand away gently. "It takes more than a hard slap to bring me down. I guess I went a little too far, huh?"
Youko took a moment to reply and Sachiko could see she was struggling with her thoughts. What was she thinking? How had Sei's behaviour affected her? Did she by any chance harbour romantic feelings towards Sei? Was that why she had over-reacted so fiercely to her advances?
"You could say that," Youko smiled. "It's been so long since we've seen each other, I've forgotten what a pain you could be," she teased.
"But you still love me, right?" Sei casually wrapped her left arm around Youko's shoulders and punched her lightly with the right.
Youko chuckled and punched her back playfully, but made no move to disentangle herself from Sei's hold.
"You're incorrigible Sei, you know that?" She teased. "I have half a mind to slap you again, just to remove that smug grin off your face."
"I'd like to see you try," Sei picked up Youko's hand with her right and squeezed it. "I'm ready for you this time."
"Let me go Sei," Youko chuckled and made an attempt to release her hand from Sei's grip.
"Not 'till I get your promise you won't slap me again," Sei grinned mischievously as her eyes narrowed. "And a kiss..."
"A what?" Youko arched her eyebrows incredulously.
Sei chuckled and tightened her hold on Youko's hand. "It's twice you've slapped me tonight. And on the same cheek I might add. It's beginning to feel a little sore. I want you to kiss it better," she leant forward and spoke the request softly, challenging Youko to respond.
"Sei..." Youko spoke her name quietly as her gaze moved to the handprint on her face. She lifted her free hand up to the red mark and lightly pressed her fingertips against her skin. "It does look a bit sore..."
"Uh huh," Sei's voice came out a little husky as she looked into Youko's eyes questioningly. "Kiss it better?"
Youko merely stared at Sei as she removed her hand. After a moment, Sachiko witnessed a look of surprise wash over Sei's face as Youko moved forward and lightly placed her lips against her cheek.
"There you go," Youko ventured as she moved back and Sachiko could tell she appeared a little nervous. "Satisfied?" She covered up her reaction with a teasing glint and a soft chuckle.
Sei quickly regained her own composure and released her hold on Youko. "Hahaha," she laughed as she pulled away. "Thanks Youko, I knew you couldn't resist."
"Don't take it personally," Youko replied with a playful grin. "I'd have done anything to get you to let go of me."
"Anything?" Sei raised her eyebrows mischievously.
Youko chuckled and rolled her eyes. "You're such a dirty old man Sei."
"Hahaha," Sei laughed again. "Next time I've got you pinned down I'll have to ask for something better."
"What makes you think there will be a next time?" Youko replied with a defiant glare.
"Oh, there'll be a next time," Sei leant forward flirtatiously and boldly lifted a hand to Youko's cheek. "You can count on that," she narrowed her eyes and deepened her gaze. "I'm having too much fun here..."
With that, she dropped her hand and placed a brief kiss against Youko's cheek. She pulled back before Youko could react and her eye caught sight of their cute waitress.
"Hello Sweetie," Sei flirted with a grin, ignoring Youko's look of surprise. "That was quick," she complemented the girl as she placed the champagne glasses on the table. "I barely noticed you were gone," Sei chuckled.
The waitress blushed and nodded in acknowledgement.
Sachiko frowned in Sei's direction and then looked back at her Onee-sama. Youko was now sitting back thoughtfully and Sachiko was a little surprised to see an indulgent smirk appear on her lips as she observed Sei's attempt at flirting.
Sachiko furrowed her brow as she struggled to understand her Onee-sama. One minute she was sharing an intimate moment with Sei, and then the next second she was humorously watching as the girl flirted with someone else. She would never condone that kind of behaviour, let alone find it humorous. If she were in Youko's position...
Sachiko paused as she realised what she was thinking. She smiled ruefully at her misguided intentions. She wasn't Youko. She would never be Youko. She should leave her Onee-sama to handle her love life by herself. Besides, she had her own relationship to worry about.
Sachiko glanced over at Yumi and noted that her girlfriend still seemed lost in thought. She probably hadn't even noticed a word Sei or Youko had said. Sachiko frowned and began to feel a little concerned. She couldn't leave things like this any longer. It was time for her and Yumi to have a talk. But first, she'd have to take care of their drinks. She still had no intention of allowing Sei to force alcohol upon them.
"Excuse me," Sachiko motioned for the waitress as she made a move to leave. "Can we also get some glasses of apple juice?"
"Certainly Miss," the waitress bowed in acknowledgement. "How many would you like?"
Sachiko looked over at Rei questioningly and the girl nodded in approval. "Two over here," she confirmed.
Sachiko nodded and turned back towards the waitress. "We'll have four glasses please."
"Ehhhh?" Yoshino's face turned red in protest as she realised what was going on. "Rei-chan!"
"Don't make a scene Yoshino-chan," Rei insisted in a hushed tone as the waitress walked away.
"I'm not drinking apple juice!" Yoshino insisted fiercely and folded her arms in emphasis. "You've no right to force it on me."
"She's your Onee-sama," Yumi interjected pointedly. "We're only children after all. We should just do as we're told like good little sisters."
"Yumi...?" Yoshino questioned in surprise, her sense of outrage mollified by her friend's uncharacteristic outburst.
Sachiko frowned at her girlfriend's words. Was this what Yumi was so upset about? She thought she was being treated like a child? Was she angry at being told what to do? Or was there something more to it?
Sachiko stood up with determination and reached for Yumi's hand. She tightened her grip as the girl made an attempt to struggle free and pulled Yumi to her feet instead. This had gone on long enough.
"Excuse us please," she addressed the table politely. "I'd like to have a private word with my...little sister. We'll be outside if you need anything."
If Yumi was going to act like a child, then she would definitely treat her like one. With that, she ignored the look of protest on Yumi's face and dragged her forcefully out of the restaurant.
Once they were outside, Sachiko looked around for a good place to talk. She glanced over at the park across the road and spied an empty bench. Without hesitation, she briskly crossed the street and pulled a reluctant Yumi behind with her.
"Okay Yumi," Sachiko let go of the girl's hand once they were both seated. "What's going on?"
Yumi turned her head away from Sachiko and crossed her arms defensively. "Nothing..."
Sachiko sighed and looked down at her girlfriend with a frown. Yumi's behaviour was beginning to irritate her a little.
"Stop it Yumi!" Sachiko demanded firmly. "Don't ignore me. If you're angry with me, then just tell me. You're acting like a spoiled child."
"Maybe 'cause I am a child," Yumi replied with defiance, still refusing to meet her gaze. "Isn't that how you see me?" Yumi sighed then and Sachiko thought she sensed a bit of a tremble in her voice. "I'll never be on the same level as you, will I?"
"What are you talking about Yumi?"
Sachiko was genuinely confused by Yumi's reaction. When they'd been inside, she'd thought Yumi might have been angry with her, but now she sounded more upset than angry.
"You're so sophisticated," Yumi continued waveringly, still avoiding her gaze. "So grandiose...so mature...not like me. I can't even handle a drink, but when you were my age..." Yumi paused and sighed. "I'm just holding you back, aren't I? Don't worry Onee-sama, I'm not going to disobey you. I won't drink tonight, but that shouldn't stop you from having fun. I don't want to be a burden."
Sachiko struggled to comprehend Yumi's words. Something in her reaction wasn't quite adding up.
"Yumi? What do you mean by holding me back? Why would you say that? You need to explain things properly. I might be able to see that something is troubling you, but I'm not a mind reader. I don't know what's wrong unless you actually tell me."
Yumi turned around then and Sachiko expected to be bombarded with a look of outrage. Instead, she was shocked to see unshed tears in Yumi's eyes.
"I'm so sorry Onee-sama," Yumi wailed and flung herself fiercely into Sachiko's arms.
Sachiko automatically pulled her close and gently cradled Yumi's head against her chest as she began to sob. She was shocked by her tears. So Yumi wasn't angry with her after all? Was she angry with herself? Yumi's reference to her as an older sister was proof that she was somehow feeling inadequate at the moment.
"I'm so sorry Onee-sama," Yumi apologised again between tears, her sobs getting louder by the second. "You're so thoughtful and understanding and considerate. I know why you're not drinking tonight and it's not fair. You shouldn't have to bring yourself down to my level. I'm so sorry... Onee-sama..."
As she continued to cry, Sachiko slowly began to comprehend the nature of Yumi's distress and it troubled her a little. She'd thought they had moved past this. She'd thought Yumi had stopped seeing her as someone untouchable. Had they not become closer over the last few days? What was it going to take for Yumi to see them as equals?
"Shhhh," Sachiko whispered soothingly against Yumi's ear. "It's okay," she continued reassuringly and pressed a tender kiss against the top of Yumi's head as she lovingly stroked her hair. "You're not holding me back Yumi," Sachiko continued in soft tones. "It's okay. Shhh, it's okay Sweetheart..."
Sachiko felt Yumi freeze at the endearment.
"Sweetheart?" Yumi pulled back a little and shyly gazed up at Sachiko, tears frozen on her cheeks.
Sachiko smiled down at her girlfriend warmly. "Does the term surprise you?" she asked softly and was pleased by the hesitant smile Yumi responded with.
"You've never called me that before," Yumi explained.
"Do you like it?"
Yumi blushed but did not reply. Instead, she dropped her head back to Sachiko's chest and snuggled into her arms.
Sachiko kissed the top of Yumi's head and ran her fingers through her hair. She was pleased that Yumi had at least stopped crying. She held her close for a long while before pulling back and lifting a hand to her cheek.
"Yumi..." Sachiko ventured, gently running her thumb against Yumi's cheek as she spoke. "You think I'm being held back?"
Yumi nodded, but did not speak. She met her gaze though and looked up at Sachiko with a sad expression.
"Oh Yumi," Sachiko sighed and lowered her hand to her side. "I thought we were past this. After all we've been through, do you still see me as someone who is untouchable?"
"You're just so much grander than I am," Yumi looked away mournfully. "You're so mature and sophisticated. I'll never be like you..."
"And I don't want you to be," Sachiko interjected firmly. "I love you exactly as you are. It's your innocence and naiveté that drew me to you in the first place. You also bring out that side of me which I've long since hidden. The smooth, sophisticated persona I portray is just an image. One I've had to maintain my entire life. I thought you of all people would have seen through that."
"But--"
"No Yumi!" Sachiko insisted forcefully. "I'm not the person you seem to think I am. And honestly, I'm a little hurt that you still see me that way. You're the only one I've ever dropped my mask with. You've seen a side of me that I've not shown to anyone else. Does that not mean anything to you?"
"Of course it does," Yumi's bottom lip trembled and tears began to form in her eyes again. "I know you're more than that. I'm not putting you up on a pedestal like I once did. But I still can't help feeling a little inferior. I don't think I'm good enough for you Onee-sama. I just realised it tonight. You're used to a different lifestyle. If I weren't here this evening, you'd have no problems having a drink with dinner like you always do. But because I'm here, and you're worried about me, you're holding back so that--"
"Baka! Baka! Baka!"
Sachiko interrupted Yumi furiously. She couldn't believe how wrong she was.
"Why must you always jump to such unfounded conclusions? Do you realise how silly you're being?"
Sachiko lifted both hands to Yumi's cheeks and held her face firmly.
"You want to know the real reason I'm not drinking tonight?"
Sachiko didn't wait for Yumi to respond, instead she pulled Yumi's face towards hers and roughly captured her lips. She didn't care that they were in public. She didn't care that anyone could see them. All she cared about right now was making her point.
However, as her lips began to move against Yumi's and she pushed her tongue into her mouth, Sachiko quickly lost focus on the point she was making. Instead, she refocused her attention on the way Yumi's lips, mouth and tongue felt against hers.
As she began to lose herself in the kiss, Sachiko moaned against Yumi's lips. She wanted more. She wanted to push Yumi down onto the ground and cover her with kisses. She wanted to taste every part of her body. Most importantly, she wanted to make love to her.
"Oh Yumi," Sachiko sighed breathlessly as she pulled away. "Can you not see what you're doing to me?" Sachiko kept her arm around Yumi's shoulders as she struggled for breath.
"Sachiko...?" Yumi looked at her through heavy lids, her chest heaving.
Sachiko closed her eyes and lowered her forehead to Yumi's. "I've been holding that in all night," she whispered huskily. "I'm having a hard time keeping my hands off you," Sachiko continued. "Do you remember what we were doing before we got here?"
Sachiko opened her eyes at the question and looked down at Yumi expectantly. She smiled when their eyes met and she took in the adorable blush on her girlfriend's cheeks.
Yumi nodded in answer, her blush deepening.
"I've been thinking about that all night," Sachiko explained. "I've lost count of how many times I've looked over at you this evening. It's taken every last bit of my willpower to keep myself from dragging you off somewhere."
"Sachiko...?"
"I'm a little overwhelmed Yumi," Sachiko continued. "I've never been in a situation where my self control has been tested. You're the only one who's ever had this effect on me. And I have to admit, it does scare me a little. Which is why I cannot allow myself to have anything to drink. I might be used to the effects of alcohol, but even the slightest influence on my inhibitions at this stage could be a little too much. I'm scared of what'll happen."
"Ohhh..." Yumi's eyes widened as she began to comprehend the true reason behind her girlfriend's actions.
"Besides which..." Sachiko took a deep breath before continuing. "I can't help thinking about later this evening..."
"What do you mean?"
"We'll be sleeping together," Sachiko explained. "I'm going to have you all to myself...lying next to me...alone...in the dark...nowhere to go...nowhere to be...no interruptions..."
"Ohhh..." Yumi's blush deepened and Sachiko could see her pupils dilating.
"Yumi..." Sachiko lifted her free hand to Yumi's cheek and lightly caressed her skin. "I'm not going to push you. And we don't have to do anything if you're not ready. But honestly, can you deny the fact that there's a very real possibility that we could end up making love tonight?"
Yumi's blush deepened, but she didn't look away. "N-no," she confirmed with a stammer. "It's possible..."
Sachiko smiled and felt her own cheeks turning a warm shade of crimson.
"Oh Yumi..."
Sachiko closed her eyes for a moment to steady her emotions. Once again she was having a hard time controlling her reaction.
"When we make love," Sachiko ventured as her eyes once again met Yumi's. "I don't want it to be under a haze of alcohol. I want our first time together to occur naturally. I want us to take that next step because we're both ready to share such intimacy. Not because our inhibitions have been loosened by the effects of alcohol. Do you understand what I mean?"
"I do," Yumi admitted shyly.
Sachiko lightened her expression and smirked. "Then you know that if we were to have a drink tonight, I'd have to insist on separate bedrooms?"
Yumi couldn't help but chuckle. "I don't want that..."
"Me neither," Sachiko replied, her expression once again turning serious. "Although...I don't want to push things Yumi. Please don't feel like I'm expecting anything to happen tonight. That's not what I'm saying. I'm just trying to be realistic..."
"I know Sachiko," Yumi interjected reassuringly. "I understand what you mean. It's only natural to think that way after..." Yumi trailed off and blushed as she recalled their earlier behaviour.
Sachiko felt her breath catch at Yumi's reaction. Without thinking, she lowered her head and gently pressed her lips to Yumi's. She was determined to keep the kiss brief though and pulled back when she felt Yumi's tongue sliding against hers.
"Oh Yumi..." Sachiko shivered as she opened her eyes. "I've got half a mind to drag you home right now..."
Yumi giggled nervously and blushed. "I wouldn't mind..."
Sachiko chuckled. "Do you think they'd miss us?"
"Probably not," Yumi replied lightly. "Too bad we left our handbags inside."
"Now that's a shame," Sachiko responded humorously. She allowed herself a soft chuckle before once again turning serious.
"Yumi...are we okay here? You're not still upset are you?"
Yumi furrowed her brow for a moment and then flashed Sachiko a genuine smile.
"I'm sorry Sachiko," she apologised. "I really was acting like a child wasn't I?"
"Yes you were," Sachiko confirmed. "But you do realise your fears were unfounded? Right?"
Yumi nodded ruefully. "I'm sorry," she repeated. "It's just...I couldn't help it. I love you so much Sachiko. But sometimes, like tonight, I'm reminded of our differences and I can't help but feel as if I'll never measure up. Am I really good enough for you...?"
"How can you even think such a thing?" Sachiko questioned irritably. She couldn't help feeling frustrated with Yumi's insecurity.
"Do you not realise that you bring out the best in me?" Sachiko raised her voice a little as her frustration increased. What was it going to take to make Yumi see the truth?
"It's our differences that make us work so well together," Sachiko continued loudly, determined to get her point across. "Don't you see that? Don't you see that I want you by my side as my partner? You're my touchstone Yumi. Why must you keep--?"
Sachiko's eyes widened as Yumi silenced her diatribe with a kiss. She fluttered her eyes closed and allowed herself to succumb to Yumi's advances.
"I'm so sorry," Yumi apologised as she pulled away. "I really am sorry," she repeated. "I never realised... Oh Sachiko, you really think of me that way?"
"Of course Yumi," Sachiko replied firmly, blinking away a stray tear. "It upsets me that you can't see it."
"But I do see it," Yumi insisted. "I just..."
"You just don't want to believe it?" Sachiko interjected with a frown. "Is that it?"
"No...not anymore..." Yumi replied with a smile. "I really hurt you, didn't I?" Yumi furrowed her brows seriously. "I didn't mean to. I never realised how much my insecurity was upsetting you. I'm sorry to put you through that. I think I understand a bit better now. I really am sorry Sachiko..."
With that, Yumi launched herself into her arms and Sachiko closed her eyes as she pulled her into an embrace.
She pressed a soft kiss against Yumi's hair and smiled. There was a definite shift in her girlfriend's mood.
"It's okay Yumi," Sachiko whispered as she gently stroked her hair.
"It's not okay," Yumi mumbled against her chest. "I never want to hurt you."
"I'm not hurt anymore," Sachiko reassured. "I'm just happy you understand me. I never want you to think of us as anything but equal partners. Okay?"
Yumi lifted her head and met Sachiko's gaze with a smile. "Okay," she agreed. "Equal partners!"
Sachiko grinned and pulled Yumi back in for another hug.
Once she'd let go, she couldn't resist leaning in for another brief kiss.
"Let's go Yumi," Sachiko smiled as she pulled away. There was nothing left to discuss and she suddenly realised they'd been gone from the table for quite some time.
"Okay," Yumi smiled and reached for Sachiko's hand.
Sachiko laced their fingers together as they stood up. She was more than satisfied with their talk. As they crossed the road to get back to the restaurant, she couldn't help but feel as if she was walking on air. Another barrier had been overcome in her relationship with Yumi and she now felt as if they were closer than they'd ever been.
She couldn't wait for the evening to be over so she could finally be alone with her girlfriend.
xxx