I did not own Gakuen Alice

Warning: characters may be slightly OOC

Superstars

Chapter 4

This chapter was dedicated to Relatively Abstract & Lanel.
Your reviews made my day!!!

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Mikan had a feeling that she would hate to leave this man's cuddle. The warmth, the smell, the closeness to his chest… everything was just so good. She felt exceptionally secure and relaxed in this pair of arms. She could not understand why she had these sentiments. She met this man just now, didn't she? But then she was comfortable enough to trust him? It did not make any sense.

Suddenly, a loud door-opening sound was heard from behind. Few reporters rushed out of the building. They darted a glance at a hugging couple, and then continued their pursuit to the main street. The man did not let go of Mikan until he did not see a trace of reporters anymore.

"They've gone," said the man leisurely as he released Mikan.

So the man was helping her. No doubt she felt that she was well-protected in his arms. Without knowing why, she began to miss the feeling of safety provided by his warm chest.

"Thank you." The words came out from Mikan's mouth softly. She was too shy to look at her savior.

"Sakura-san, are you on your own?" A deep charming voice rang above her head.

"You recognize me?" She was very shocked.

She quickly lifted up her head, but she was dazed again. It was beyond her expectation that the man was incredibly handsome. Every facial feature was very good-looking, and their combination formed a perfect appearance. She felt strangely familiar with that pair of heavy-lidded crimson eyes, which one would get lost in them. She was pretty sure that she did not know this man, but why did she have some blurred reminiscences?

"Who will not know the hottest girl next door?" The man asked calmly, trying not to sound too sarcastic.

There was no way would Mikan fail to realize that the man was not truthful with his words. She replied mirthlessly, "That's too flattering." The good first impression of the man vanished completely.

"Let me give you a ride home." The man offered politely, his eyes glinting with passion.

"No thanks! We don't know each other. I don't want to bother you," Mikan shook her head. She had got the common sense not to follow strangers.

"Have you heard of the Hyuuga Entertainment Limited?" asked the man suddenly.

Mikan nodded. Of course she did. She might be signing a contract with that company.

"I was a staff working for the Hyuugas," said the man casually. "I can't leave 'Princess Mikan' alone at this hour. You may come across the reporters again."

"Princess Mikan" was one of the nicknames her fans used. The way this man emphasized the name gave Mikan an uneasy feeling. Though the man sounded frivolous, it was true that Mikan did not want to encounter journalists again.

"My car is right there." The man pointed at a place near by. Then, he started walking towards the car, being confident that she would follow him soon. Indeed, Mikan did so after hesitating for half a second.

Mercedes-Benz, outfits of luxury brands, striking appearance and extraordinary poise were the things Mikan saw under the bright lights of the main street. She was not dense enough to believe that he was just an unimportant staff.

She stealthily sized him up throughout the ride. Maybe she should at least know his name.

"Who are you?"

"Hyuuga Natsume." Natsume was absorbed in his driving. He did not even look at Mikan.

"What?! You…" Mikan exclaimed.

Her slim hand pointed bluntly at the driver, the man who was famous for his look, affluence, aptitude and charm. Mikan agreed that he did look very attractive. His wealth and capability should be beyond a shadow of a doubt too. Regarding his charisma, to be honest, no one could take their eyes off him. People would even be tempted to seek his attention. However, his attitudes were not meant to receive compliments. Well, he was not rude, but he was not friendly either. His self-assured way of talking, his cool civility and manner, as well as the underlying irony in his words all made him unapproachable.

After knowing his identity, all her instincts told her to be careful with her words. This man was someone no one could afford to offend. She should try her very best to stay away from dangers. Mikan lowered her hand, put a smile on her face deliberately, and exchanged pleasantries, "How lucky I am to meet you."

Though speaking out words was straightforward, talking against conscience was not easy, especially for Mikan who was only in kindergarten level in hypocrisy. She was terribly unsuccessful in hiding her insincerity. Her tone and her stiff smile betrayed her.

Natsume chuckled in his heart, and appeared as if he could not realize her pretense. He was wrapped up in his mind.

It was never a sheer coincidence for him to meet her like this.

After meeting Nobara, his mind was preoccupied with Mikan's appearance and voice. When he was heading home after work, he unwittingly found his way to the district where Mikan lived. He could not believe he did such things. He could never let his siblings know about this, or else they would make fun of him, and keep raking up this event years and years later.

He was about to leave the area when he saw an amber-hair girl with thick black glasses, walking cautiously on the street. He realized she was Mikan at first sight. The girl kept looking around suspiciously before she finally caught a cab and left. Curiosity and anxiety caused Natsume to follow her. Maybe she was attending her friends' gathering? Maybe she was meeting her hypothetical boyfriend? Maybe she was really dating that Nendo Ryoga?

These thoughts pissed him off. Was he annoyed by the possibility that the rumor was real? Or was he upset by the mere fact that she might have a boyfriend? Whatever reason it was, he ended up waiting outside the private club. His location allowed a good view of the front and back door. What was the point of waiting? He did not know himself. He just wanted to see her safe and sound, and "alone" again. His worries heightened when he saw some reporters waiting outside the front door. He got out of his car, praying that nothing would go wrong.

But his prayer was not answered. He vaguely saw Mikan and a man standing behind the front door, and then the man opened it. The reporters' eyes shone once they saw their prey. Luckily, Mikan made a correct decision to escape. Few reporters ran into the building to chase after her. Natsume guessed that Mikan would leave via the back door, so he waited for her at the end of the alley. There she was, bumped into his arms, and eventually sat in his car.

"Why were you in the building?" Natsume asked despite knowing part of the answers.

"I… I have a gathering with… my friends." Mikan replied evasively with diffidence.

Natsume held back his threatening tone and stated slowly, word by word, "You aren't dating Nendo Ryoga, are you?" He stole a glance at her at the end of his question.

Feelings of uneasiness flooded over Mikan. "This is my own business. I don't think I need to answer you." She intentionally turned her head to look at the scenery outside the car.

Her answer meant a yes to Natsume. In fact, though not very clear, he did see that man kissing her before he came out of the building. He had a wild wish that he could hear her denial, but now his fancy had gone.

"During such a panic-stricken and sensitive time, you still took the risk to meet him? You don't want to stay in the industry, do you?" Natsume mocked.

Mikan turned around at once to glare at Natsume. She was very agitated and held her fists tightly, "I... I am a singer. My fans like me for my singing. No matter who I am dating, they... they will support me." Recent stresses had really tightened Mikan's nerves.

Natsume pointed out nonchalantly, "It's because they like you, they won't accept your love affair easily. Fans are possessive with their idols." He added derisively, "You think they like you as a singer, not an idol, don't you?"

Mikan was reduced to silence. She did not want to admit these, so she insisted, "I am a singer. I believe it just takes some time for fans to accept…" She found her words lacked cogency as she talked.

"Don't you know love affairs are dreads for artistes? Lots of people disappeared from sight in this industry because of those." Natsume hoped that he could awaken her. "If you want to tread their paths, go ahead to admit your relationship publicly."

Mikan certainly knew about the seriousness of this matter. She understood the game rules in the industry. Yet, she was still not too willing to reconcile herself to these inhumane expectations, "I am just an artiste. I am not a saint. Why can't I date someone I like?"

Without sympathy, Natsume commented coolly, "You should be conscious of what you have to forgo when you began your career."

"I... I simply love singing. I've never thought to become an idol." Mikan protested pitifully.

"The more you get, the more you give." Natsume stated the fact indifferently.

Mikan fixed her eyes on Natsume. His grave and stern face showed persistence and sturdiness. Was he a pragmatic and ruthless person who cared for nothing but success?

"Is that the reason why the Hyuugas' company succeeded?" Mikan blurted out scornfully. "Are you so down-to-earth and unfeeling to your company's artistes?"

Natsume did not expect a meek "Princess Mikan" would venture such opinions. Her criticism amazed him.

"The harsh reality makes one heartless." Natsume did not admit nor deny. His low-pitched voice leaked out slight helplessness.

Mikan was startled that she had made an indiscreet remark. She apologized with composure, "I am sorry. I don't mean to be offensive."

How could she engage in a verbal battle with a man whom she met for the first time? She even disapproved the dignified Hyuuga. What if they had to work together in the future? Mikan had no idea why she would lose her temper in front of this man.

Natsume never cared about how others think of him. Yet, he took Mikan's despise and misunderstanding to his heart. The relations between the manager and the artiste should be harmonious. The difference in their perspectives and thoughts would lead to more conflicts someday.

Furthermore, her hostility to him was hurting. She would not behave like this in front of Ryoga, would she?

He saw them kissing.

He felt an urge to hit the steering wheel with all his might. He had to restrain himself because he was not alone in the car.

None of them made a sound for the rest of the trip.

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– – – – – –

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Early in the morning, Hotaru was eating breakfast in the Hyuuga's mansion. She looked refreshed. She was looking forward to night time again, as she expected to see something new this time. Koko entered the dining room, his weary look was scary.

"Did you sleep yesterday?" Hotaru asked curiously.

"Well, yeah." Koko gave a wry smile. He did fall asleep, but the quality of sleep was terrible.

How could he sleep well after Sumire declared war?

"I came back to Japan to take back what I deserve"

He literally fell onto the floor from his seat when he heard that line. He recognized that her challenge aimed at him. He was traumatized by her speech. He thought she might have forgotten him after these years. It turned out she still bore in mind the words she told him before she left. Well, he should know her better than any one else. How would she, the courageous resolute girl whom he had known for years, fail to remember her vow and hatred towards him?

"Okay! I'll go, as you wish!"

"But take my words, I'll definitely come back! I'll take back what I deserve!"

"I'll make you regret doing this! You'll find it too late to repent!"

He was meeting her today, after three years of separation. How should he behave when he faced her? He heaved a sigh of vulnerability. Hotaru knew what Koko was troubling with, she believed that keeping quiet would be good for him. It was Koko who broke the peace.

"Where're Misaki, Natsume and Youichi?"

"Misaki and Youichi went out to find detectives," replied Hotaru idly. Both of them looked so enthusiastic just now, they rapidly finished the breakfast and left the house before Koko showed up. They had probably found something that fascinated them.

"As for Natsume…" Hotaru sluggishly tilted her head upward. Koko turned his head, and saw his elder brother coming into the room. Oh my, he had a murderous look.

Normally, Natsume had a face that was free of emotions. Something must have gone wrong, in fact very wrong, in order to induce such an irritated look on him. He might not look different in outsider's eyes. But having lived with him for more than twenty years, Hotaru and Koko were aware of his concealed anger.

"Huh, interesting." They thought to themselves.

If one wanted to stay alive, it would be wise not to disturb a bomb. Therefore, the two of them tacitly ate their meals without saying anything.

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– – – – – –

–

Nobara and Mikan arrived at the Hyuuga Entertainment Limited.

Across the conference bench, Natsume appraised Mikan attentively. This was their first official meeting in four years. On the night before, Mikan's disguise plus the dim lights, Natsume did not have a chance to take a good look of her.

Today, Mikan obviously dressed up. A creamy floral lace blouse, a taupe silk twill full skirt and a pair of ivory high heels on her 5'5" stature created a tenuous slender image.

Her shiny amber hair was long enough to reach her waist. Unlike four years ago, the slightly curved tips on the hair were being straightened. Together with her flawless face, she looked very young and innocent. She was like a goddess exquisitely created to lure people's hearts. Such an unmatched beauty attracted attention easily. No wonder her current company chose to market her appearance.

Being a pampered princess, she unavoidably had a tendency to be willful. This could be seen by her reckless attempt to meet her lover. Natsume thought he had to deal with the matter seriously.

"Mikan, he is Hyuuga Natsume-san, your prospective manager."

While Nobara was introducing Natsume to Mikan, Mikan politely nodded her head to greet Natsume. His sharp eyes captured the shock that sparked in Mikan's eyes. Mikan had heard that she would be joining the Hyuugas and have a new manager, but she did not know that Natsume would be the one. She felt embarrassed as she remembered how they ended up in silence less than twelve hours ago.

"Not yet, we won't sign the temporary contract until next week." Natsume averted his gaze from Mikan to Nobara's doubtful eyes.

Nobara sensed some dangerous signals. "Natsume-kun, you won't break your promise, will you?" Nobara's eyes were fixed on Natsume. She had no idea what Natsume was thinking about.

Mikan looked at Nobara with a puzzled face. She did not expect Nobara to know Natsume well enough to call him by his name.

"Before signing the contract, I want to be well-informed of one thing." Natsume stared at Mikan solemnly and spoke slowly, "Sakura-san did not answer my question yesterday night. I hope you can answer me honestly now."

Mikan's heart sank, and her face fell. He was not going to let her off lightly.

"You met each other yesterday?" Nobara raised her eyebrows slightly. She was smart enough to make some plausible speculation.

Natsume further elaborated, "Not only we met. I drove Sakura-san home."

Nobara sudenly realized what could have happened. She started feeling headache, "Mikan, did you go to see Nendo Ryoga-san again?"

"I am sorry," Mikan bit her lips.

Natsume took advantage of the present situation and inquired, "Sakura-san, are you dating Nendo Ryoga?"

This time Mikan did not evade his question.

"Yes." She looked into Natsume's eyes while answering.

Watching her big amber eyes, Natsume could feel her tranquility and determination. He found it appealing, and at the same time heartbreaking.

"How much do you love him?" Natsume went deeper. It was impossible to interpret his facial expression.

Mikan was unprepared for such a straightforward question. Her face turned red, and her eyes fled to Nobara, sending out SOS signals.

"Natsume-kun," Nobara had somewhat deduced his motives. She asked directly, "What do you want?"

"That's simple. I request Sakura-san to break up with Nendo Ryoga," said Natsume flatly.

Nobara had guessed it accurately. She knew that based on his valiant practices, Natsume would eliminate any unfavorable factors at all costs.

Mikan was bewildered. Who was he to make such an unreasonable demand?

Natsume continued to sound callous, "Prior to signing the contract, Sakura-san and Nendo-san had to part company. Otherwise, I'm not confident to take up her manager's job. Please find someone better qualified."

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Please review! I appreciate feedback & suggestions!

to DappleSora: Thanks for reviewing! I was once a lazy reader too, so I actually understand, writing is not for reviews, but reviews do give writers' confidence, hahaa… the story will continue as long as I can feel the enjoyment of writing

to sapphireangel09: I've removed the confusing parts, maybe it's better now? Thanks for your opinion!

to Relatively Abstract: (I'm not going to retype my PM here =P) I'm trying to put the characters' name as early as possible in each session, hope it'll be better. Thanks again for your suggestion & support!!

to Lanel: (I'm not going to retype my PM here =P) I've corrected the summary, thanks again for your rocking review!!

Please review!