A/N: Whoa, took me long enough to post the second chapter. Anyways, thanks very much to Chiby Angel-chan, Rin-Ainochan and prilly55 for the reviews, hana aya and milkylane18 for acknowledging my story, and Rin-Ainochan again for adding me on her favorites list. It greatly encouraged me a lot! So here's the next chapter, once again, please review people! I look forward to getting more responses!

Disclaimer: Super Gals is not my property…

Chapter 2: "I thought that you and I…"

3 weeks ago…

The perfect date.

Aya Hoshino will make sure this will be one perfect date, for her and her beloved boyfriend, Rei Otohata. Because this time is different, she no longer felt nervous and tense unlike before, when her date with Rei was just another of Ran and company's set up of hooking her with the cold and distant Ice Prince. Yes, cold and distant. That was what Rei had been to her before, whenever they would go out together which Rei only deemed as an obligation and not as for pleasure. But now, everything will change.

Yes, including her. Because this time, not only did she see Rei as her crush. She not only like him, nor infatuated by him, but in love with him, deeply in love, that is, though she still hadn't verbalized her feelings for him.

As she patiently sat on the bench alone in the park waiting for her date to arrive, she can't help but glow, not only from the anticipation of what good things is to transpire for later, but also, from being overly excited that she could almost feel herself floating.

'Oh Rei, please don't keep me waiting anymore. I can hardly wait for my dreams to actually happen right here right now.'

She didn't notice herself blushing madly like a fool, ignoring the stares she was unconsciously receiving from the curious passersby who couldn't help but notice the peculiar scene of one pretty lady smiling and at the same time blushing madly to no one but herself, that it occurred to them she might be having one hell of a daydream to have a face that red.

With this, Aya was oblivious of her most-awaited person's arrival. She even jumped upon hearing her boyfriend's voice with its typical tone of sarcasm.

"You've become quite a spectacle here Aya. Do you mind sharing with me what it is you're drooling for in there?"

Aya practically shrank in embarrassment as she realized how obviously dazed she appeared in front of Rei. To cover up for her mortifying moment, she greeted the Ice Prince instead.

"R-Rei, you're here. What took you so—"

'Trying to change the subject, you won't get away that easily...'

With a mischievous smile on his face, Rei continued to tease her further.

"Don't tell me you've been daydreaming about me?"

Yes, he was rather persistent in teasing his shy, timid girlfriend which he suddenly found amusing, for whatever reason it is. Oh how she just looked so adorable whenever being embarrassed like that that he just can't help but to tease her even more. Indeed, Rei has discovered a new hobby.

On the other hand, Aya seemed to have misinterpreted his intention.

'Oh what a total egoistic jerk. Yes I am so head over heels in love with you, there's no need to rub it off my face even more.'

But instead of showing her irritation, she just smiled as always, wanting to please her boyfriend.

"So I was. You caught me."

She raised her hands in a gesture of a playful surrender while Rei took the liberty to sit close beside her, very close that is, his arm even wrapped itself around Aya's slender shoulders.

"I apologize for making you wait. You know how it is with that blond baka."

(He meant Yuuya but the "baka", instead of taking the meaning of literally stupid, it is somehow his form of endearment towards his best friend and not exactly intended as an insult.)

But Aya only shook her head gently, a smile forming on her lips with the image of how Rei just can't say no to Yuuya's request, or more like, plea of not leaving him alone in the music store to deal with hundreds of eager and persistent female admirers dying to get not only an autograph from their famous and gorgeous male models, but also, a kiss if possible, formed in her mind. Yes, that was how aggressive some female fans are nowadays. They just can't get any worst.

"I don't mind waiting at all Rei. I understand your situation completely."

Aya continued to display her brightest smile ever, but oh how she looked so happy and contented on the outside, but on the inside, it's a completely different story.

'I also understand how well-loved you are by almost three-fourth of the female population in the whole of Shibuya. I just hope I stay on top of your list, Mr. Popular.'

But then, as she was made aware of what she was thinking, she mentally slapped herself for doubting her boyfriend. No, she wouldn't want to create even the tiniest crack in their relationship, not if she can help it.

'Get a grip Aya! What the hell are you thinking? This is no time for a negativity fest! You're supposed to be living your dream of a perfect date with the perfect guy! This is it! So don't you dare screw it up!'

"So, what do you want to do today Aya?"

Rei's question was left hanging since obviously, Aya was too busy arguing with herself to even hear her companion's question.

"Aya, are you still with me?"

"Oh, y-yes Rei I am! I mean—I'm fine—We could—uh—"

Aya stammered, her face a heavy shade of red, her hands suddenly tightening its grip on her handbag, she was staring down at her feet, afraid to lift her head and be met straight on with the Ice Prince's cold and piercing stare. It would definitely send her spirit straight to heaven, or if she's lucky enough, she would be spared and would probably just pass out. Either way sounds uncomfortable to her so avoiding his eyes would be the best choice. His close proximity wasn't helping either, it only made her even more nervous, rendering her mind completely blank and out of ideas.

Luckily, Rei seemed to have sensed her difficulty and discomfort that he decided to make her feel at ease, by discussing the matter with her.

"Aya, don't be like that around me."

Sadness.

Aya finally stopped fidgeting and with Rei's tone full of concern and understanding, which is quite rare for the Ice Prince to use on her even if they had been together for a while, she was forced to meet his gaze. For a moment there, she thought she saw something close to sadness flash in those cold orbs of his, but it vanished as quickly as it came.

And then she felt guilty. Was she the cause of it?

"W-What do you mean by that Rei?"

"Don't you feel comfortable whenever you're with me Aya?"

"I…I do…"

"Do you feel nervous around me?"

"I…I don't"

'What is he doing asking me with such things? What's he trying to get at?'

"Then why can't you look me in the eye? Are you perhaps hiding something from me?"

"No! I-I'm not hiding anything from you at all. I just…"

'Am I really that obvious? Yes I'm dying to tell you that Rei, but somehow, I feel now is not yet the right time…'

"You just?"

"I just feel scared a little…"

"Scared?"

Now that caught Rei's full attention that he decided to press her further now that he's getting some real answers.

"Yes…scared…I'm scared Rei…"

'Scared that you don't feel strongly as I do to you…'

"Scared of what? Of me?"

"N-No. Not you. I'm scared of…scared of myself…"

"Yourself? Why's that?"

"Rei…I'm scared I might do something wrong to ruin this—us. And then I'm afraid you might leave me again and I—"

"Aya? What are you saying? That won't happen. And if ever that will happen, I'm sure we'll eventually be able to fix that, right? Besides, it's too early for us to be discussing such matters. So long as we remain loyal and committed to each other, there won't be a problem, don't you agree?"

"Rei…"

"Aya, tell me what's wrong. You seemed so troubled. Did something bad or unusual happen? You know you can always tell me everything."

"Rei…no…there is nothing wrong. I just thought…oh never mind. Let's go watch a movie or something."

'Anything to get my mind off that topic.' Aya thought silently, suddenly feeling a little guilty, as she stood up and dragged Rei by the arm.

"Wait, we're not done yet. Where do you think you're taking me?"

"Hey, you asked me where I would want to go today, so don't complain, alright?"

With one last tug, Rei finally allowed himself to be dragged, not minding if their discussion didn't reach its proper conclusion. Oh well, they can simply talk about it some other time. What's important now is their date.

Yes, their perfect date.

--

"What's the matter with him Miyu? He looked gravely ill! Did he had another fight with Otohata?"

Ran carefully whispered on her friend as they continued to observe Yuuya Asuo from across the street, the two gals remained rooted on their spot, still trying to decide whether to approach the gloomy Yuuya or not. He was currently standing by the counter of the music store, obviously lost in thought as his once twinkling bright eyes now appeared blank and hollow. Yes, he was the perfect picture of defeat.

"Let's ask him, or maybe, much better if we can cheer him up! I know! Why don't we ask him to go with us Ran? I'm sure he'll gladly accompany a couple of bored gals for karaoke to lighten up the weather."

"Yes! Nice idea and I'm sure he wouldn't mind it either if he buys us lunch as well. Now Miyu, into the music store!"

Eyes glinting malignantly, her nose practically picking up the scent of her most favorite delicacies at the sight of Yuuya and his wallet full of yen, Ran wasted no time in walking towards her target, or prey, most likely.

Miyu, on the other hand, can only sigh hopelessly as she had no choice but to follow her determined friend.

'Oh Ran, I only hope you wouldn't create another trouble now.'

--

'Life sure is boring and dull without Rei around.'

The blond second placer thought with a sigh as he continued to stare blankly. Another boring hot Saturday afternoon spent in the music store and displaying his handsome features to his female fans who happen to pass by. However, it wasn't a surprise that the numbers of drooling girls were reduced to almost a zilch since apparently, the number 1 hottest guy is missing today. Well, except for two familiar figures currently standing outside and were now attempting to set foot onto Yuuya's quiet dimension. He then gave another weary sigh as he saw Ran, the embodiment of trouble and mischief, quickly heading towards him that he almost wanted to flee and hide. And with that look of pure glee and excitement on her face, she's sure to drag Yuuya again into another dangerous escapade, and there's no escaping her.

'Oh I wonder what does she want with me this time?'

"Ohayou Yuuya-kun! You seemed depressed! Why don't you join us? I'm sure our company can bring you instant happiness! You won't regret it!"

"Why don't you just go drag someone else with you Ran? Someone like Tatsuki." Yuuya muttered under his breath.

'I'm sure that Machida idiot will be more than happy to accompany you and would even gladly drain his money supply for you.'

"What did you just say?"

'Uh-oh, please tell me she didn't catch that. I didn't happen to blurt it aloud, did I?'

Yuuya immediately coughed, his forehead suddenly glistening of perspiration as he struggled to think of an explanation.

"I—I only mean to say, when one already has a boyfriend, one shouldn't just randomly ask guys to take you out because it's not a pretty sight. People might—"

"You got it all wrong Yuuya! We only thought you could use a little cheering up since you looked so down and all."

Miyu finally spoke up as she felt they had wasted enough time already. She, for one, definitely doesn't want to spend her Saturday afternoon listening to people arguing and bickering. The fact that she can't be with Yamato at this time due to his police duties which definitely made her feel kind of down already, shouldn't hinder her from having fun with her other friends.

"Miyu's right! Besides, you're going with the two of us so there won't be any problem with that, right?"

Yuuya gulped, all the more problem actually, that will only double his expenses which is sure to empty his wallet once and for all. So much for all the hard work in the music store.

'For crying out loud, where are your boyfriends at a critical time like this? Oh I'm just so tired of playing the role of a sugar daddy, maybe it's time I get a girlfriend. Anything to get away from Ran. '

He practically shouted, fortunately, his self-control prevailed. Oh well, anything for Ran, the love of his life.

"Well, what are we standing here for? You leave me no choice anyway."

Without even allowing him to sigh for the umpteenth time, Ran abruptly grabbed Yuuya's arm and dragged him out of the music store.

"I sure don't!"

Ran said cheerfully as the cogwheels of her overactive and hyper- energetic mind began running, as another idea of a fun escapade was formed.