Seira You're Beautiful

Mr. Mita looked at the clock on the wall of the boardroom. It was nearly two, and the Parent's Association was reconvening. It was decided after the emotional events of this morning's meeting, that they would take a break and meet again in the afternoon. The agenda for this meeting was the two girls that had gotten into the fight. Mrs. Ayanakoji was unusually quiet, but looking as sour as normal. He was not looking forward to this. Ms. Himuro entered, and as Chairperson, took her place at the head of the table. He stood up and after clearing his throat said. "My friends, we are here at this time to discuss the two students who had a physical altercation in class yesterday. They have both been suspended for the week, as well as being assigned other tasks in hope of avoiding another such occurrence."

"That's all well and good, Mita." Mr. Kusunoki said frowning. "But the fact remains, only one girl resorted to physical violence. We feel strongly that such a girl doesn't belong in this school."

"Seira Morimura is not a bad girl, but she does have some emotional issues she needs to sort out. With that in mind, I sent her to see a therapist. He is well regarded in the field of aggression and anger management. I believe if left alone, she would cause no problems whatsoever. It was in direct response to the slanderous badgering of Miss Ayanakoji, that she lashed out."

"That's no reason for her to attack my baby!" Mrs. Ayanakoji spat. "She broke her nose!"

"Your daughter has made a habit of degrading Miss Morimura. She is the instigator of this incident, and will be held accountable. Being a student in this school requires behavior not found in ordinary schools. That includes a higher level of propriety, which your daughter seems to be lacking. During my interview after the incident, she was flippant, visually showing joy at the other girls suffering. She even went as far as to accuse my daughter of lying about the events because she and Miss Morimura are teammates.

"You never would have had this problem if you hadn't let those delinquents in here." Mr. Kusunoki continued.

"You are bound and determined to destroy the baseball team, aren't you Kusunoki?" Ms Himuro interjected. "Even after they performed so well in last year's tournament, you'd still throw them to the street."

"What about that incident on the news last night?" Mrs. Ayanakoji argued. "You can't deny that was Morimura punching that boy. She is a loose cannon, and should be expelled!"

"The news also showed her helping to move that man's car." Mr. Mita replied. "Ms. Himuro, I also believe your daughter was involved in that incident. The video clearly shows her saying something, that started Miss Morimura arguing."

"Unfortunately, I was in my car at that time, and didn't hear about it until this morning. I will talk to Izumi about this tonight.

Mr. Mita continued, "These girls from the baseball team have tried to be model students despite their lack of social skills and education, and yet their classmates gossip and whisper about them behind their backs. I was doubtful of their place here at first, but they have proven me wrong. All the girls are carrying a better than average grade point, and have brought this school great prestige with the baseball team. I promise you this. I will protect these girls' dreams and the dreams of those who come after, as long as I am principal of this school."

There was a knock on the door, and Mr. Kodanuke entered. "I'm sorry to interrupt everyone, but Mr. Mita just received a fax which pertains to this meeting, so I brought it right down. Here you are sir." He said handing the paper to Mr. Mita.

Looking it over, a smile touched his lips as he addressed the group. "My friends, I have here the evaluation of Seira Morimura from Dr Kenji Suzuki, and it confirms my suspicions about her. I quote. 'Miss Morimura is at heart a warm and generous person. She is suffering from an inadequacy complex, brought about by the lack of affection shown to her by her parents in her developmental years. She feels the need for approval from others, and reacts violently to even mild criticism. In a supportive atmosphere, I am confidant Miss Morimura would thrive if not lead among a group of her peers. She shows remorse for her actions, and desires a change in her behavior. I recommend she join a support group, or find a mentor to help her deal with these feelings more thoroughly. I am leaving a line of communication open with her in the event further counseling is necessary.' Turning his gaze on the group, he said. "I think maybe it's time we stop looking so hard down our noses, and took a good look at our own behavior. Just because your family has money, does not make you superior. That is a lesson I think too many of us ignore. We need to stop focusing on our image, and start focusing on being more human." He sat down, and leaned back in his chair sighing.

The room was silent for a moment, and then a spattering of applause began. Soon the entire room was clapping, except for two. Kusunoki stood, saying, "You're a fool Mita. My father helped found this school. Mrs. Ayanakoji and I are not about to let you turn this elite campus into a halfway house for every delinquent that can throw a ball. The world is a cruel place; hugs and warm feelings won't cut it out there. Our daughters will help shape the future of Japan; they need to be mentally tough to make it. If your baseball waif is too delicate to take some heat, then she should pack it up and leave. We vote to expel Seira Morimura, and urge all of you to do the same, or next time one of your daughters says something wrong, they'll end up with a broken nose." Closing his briefcase, he and Mrs. Ayanakoji walked out of the room.

Mita watched them leave out of the corner of his eye. "Well, that wasn't totally unexpected. Ms. Himuro, do you have anything more to add? I've run out of arguments."

"I think you've done admirably." She said smiling. "This time last year, you would have walked out the door with them. I think Kanako is the reason. That girl has one of the biggest hearts in this school. She never saw those girls as anything but friends and teammates."

"I think they've been good for her as well." Mita replied. "She used to be so timid, but those girls have awakened a lion in her. She's much more confident now." Looking to the remaining members, he said. "All in favor of expelling Seira Morimura raise their hand."

The Deputy Director looked around at the others, and nodded. He said. "The remaining members, of the Kisuragi Girls' Parent's Association, vote in opposition to the expulsion of Seira Morimura. We believe she responded only after great duress from the aggressive actions of Miss Ayanakoji. We do request that this incident be retained in her permanent record, and if such an instance occurs again, she then be immediately expelled."

"The vote stands two in favor, five opposed. The motion to expel Seira Morimura is defeated. This meeting is adjourned. Thank you all for your vote" Ms. Himuro said rising from her chair. Leaving the boardroom, she breathed a sigh of relief. Another crisis avoided for her baseball team.

-

Izumi quietly entered the classroom, and made her way to her desk. The other girls watched silently as she took her seat. The instructor was writing on the board, and didn't see her enter. Turning to address the class, however, he noticed her immediately. "Miss Himuro, I'm glad you decided to join us, even if there are only ten minutes left. I also hear you weren't in your last class. I suppose you have an excuse for your uncharacteristic behavior?"

Izumi stood, and bowing said, "I'm sorry sir, I have no excuse. I didn't feel like coming, so I didn't. I accept any discipline due me." She bowed again, and sat down.

"Uh, sure." The instructor said, taken back by Izumi's frankness. "I'll have to inform the principal, and your mother. They can decide on any discipline." Saying that, he continued his lesson.

The chimes rang signaling the end of the period. As Izumi leaned back in her seat, rubbing her gritty eyes, Yuki, the only member of the baseball team that shared classes with her, walked up to her. "Are you alright Izumi? You disappeared during fist period, and I was worried."

"Does everyone on the baseball team always need to know what I'm doing?" She said angrily. "I just needed some time alone, ok?"

"I'm sorry." Yuki said visibly shrinking back. "I didn't mean to pry." Then with eyes misting, added. "I'll leave you alone."

"Yuki, wait." Izumi said reaching her hand out. "I'm sorry. You didn't deserve that. My emotions are all mixed up right now and I lashed out. Thanks for being concerned about me. You're a good friend."

"That's alright. Is there anything I can do?" She asked, looking at Izumi, then at the floor.

"Can you let me borrow your notes later? I'll treat you to ice cream for your trouble."

"Sure!" Yuki said happily. "I'll have them ready."

"Yuki, how do you feel about Amy?"

"I like her. She's really kind, and friendly. I don't feel self conscious around her like I normally do when I meet new people. She must have been tired last night, but she took the time to talk to each of us, to get to know us a little. Don't you like her Izumi?"

"I'm not sure yet. You're right about her being friendly, but I just find her too perfect. I guess she irritates me some."

"Maybe you just need some time to get to know her better."

The chimes rang signaling the start of the next period, so Yuki quickly returned to her seat.

'Get to know her better? Perhaps.' Izumi thought as she opened her textbook. 'But

I just don't trust her yet.'

Seira was getting depressed. She'd tried on twenty outfits, and couldn't find one that she liked. They either made her look like an overly serious businesswoman, or a girl about to go out clubbing. "This is ridiculous. All these dresses and none of them are right."

Emma, leaning on the changing room doorway with her arms crossed in front of her, said. "I never knew you were so picky Seira. When you buy your jeans, you're in and out of here in five minutes."

"I know, but I want just the right look for when she sees me. I want to look grown up, but not so grown up I don't need her."

"That's not going to be easy." Amy said shuffling through a rack. "How about slacks?"

"I wouldn't be caught dead in polyester pants." Seira said dangerously, scowling.

"Ok, ok, it was just a suggestion. Boy! What a grouch!"

"I tell you what." Emma said walking towards the back of the store. "Let me go through that shipment I told you about. There are some other things in there besides jeans. Would you girls mind helping?"

"Where do you get your stock from Emma?" Amy asked as the entered the storeroom.

"I have brokers in LA, New York, and Hong Kong. I buy mostly last year's styles that are left over and the stores are going to discard. I get stuff from most of the big name retailers, as well as some consignment pieces."

"You can afford people like that with this tiny store?" Seira asked in disbelief.

"Oh, I'm not the only ones using them. Other shops like mine do the same thing. It's actually pretty lucrative. Ah! Here they are. Let's see what we have." Pulling the invoice out of one of the boxes, she scanned the list. "This might have promise. 'Cocktail dress, blue, knee length, size four.' It should be in box three."

Sorting through the boxes, they quickly found the right one. Emma ran a blade down the tape, and opened it. There, on the top of the stack, was the dress. Pulling it out of the box, she held it up. It was a deep royal blue, gathered at the waist, with short loose sleeves, and a front that was two pieces of fabric crossing, leaving a low neckline. Seira drew in her breath, and said, "It's gorgeous. Let me try it on!" Snatching the dress from Emma, she raced for the dressing room.

"I think she likes it." Amy said watching her weave through the racks at a record pace.

Seira stepped nervously from the dressing room, watching Amy and Emma's reaction. Emma smiled knowingly, and Amy put her hand over her mouth in awe. "You are stunning Seira!" Amy said walking around her. "It's like this dress was made for you. It doesn't need altering at all."

"It really looks ok? I don't look odd in it? Seira said, her eyes darting between her critics.

Emma, taking her by the shoulders and holding her at arms length, looked her up and down. "Yes, this is very nice. Now to accessorize." She brought a strand of small pearls, and placed them around Seira's neck. Next, she added low heels and a clutch purse in white. "Better, but it still needs something. Ah! I got it!" She brought a headband in the same color as the dress, and placed it on Seira's head, pushing her hair back, and revealing her full face. "Wonderful, simply wonderful. My dear, you should be a model. Take a look."

Seira slowly made her way to the mirror, still not believing what they were saying. Looking in the glass, she was amazed. She had been transformed from a street-smart tough girl into an elegant young woman ready to go to a dinner party. Staring at herself, she said, "Can that be me? I guess the clothes really do make the woman."

"The dress can only enhance what's already there, my dear." Emma said softly as she put an arm around Seira.

"Excuse me, Ms. Emma, can I bother you for another cup of tea?" Corey called from the front of the store.

"Sure thing, Corey. It'll be just a minute". She moved to a table holding a kettle. Then when she finished pouring the cup of tea, she walked up to Seira, and said secretively, "Here's the real test, Seira! Take this tea to Corey and judge by his reaction."

"Are you nuts? He'll laugh at me; the red headed she devil trying to be a lady." Seira said with a panicked look in her eyes.

"Seira, do you really think my brother would be that insensitive?" Amy reassured her. "Go on, I want to see this too."

Taking the cup, and then taking a deep breath, she walked out with the tea. Corey had his back to her, looking through the magazines on the rack. Hearing her approach, he said, "I hope you don't mind if I look at another magazine Ms. Emma. I finished the other, and this seems to be taking a long time." Seira felt her temper rising, and was about to tell him off, when Corey turned to face her. The expression on his face made her forget all about getting angry. He stood transfixed, his mouth hanging open. He stayed like that for a few moments before finally saying, "Wow, Seira, I don't know what to say. I knew you were pretty, but my god, in that dress…wow."

Seira blushed, and a warm feeling radiated through her body. 'Why am I getting so worked up over what he said?' She thought, 'I've had guys flatter me before, so why is this happening?' Looking back she saw Amy and Emma had followed her.

"See Seira, if a man notices what a woman's wearing, it has to be dynamite." Emma said smiling.

"Way to go, bro. That was exactly the right thing to say. I never knew you were so smooth." Amy teased.

Corey's face became serious, "I meant it. Seira you're beautiful. I don't know why you were hiding your face like that; it's your best feature."

Corey's intense look made Seira want to disappear. Fidgeting, she finally said, "Um, I better get out of this before it gets wrecked. Emma thanks for letting me try it on." Then handing the tea to Corey, she turned, and quickly retreated to the dressing room. Closing the door, she leaned against the wall, breathing hard, with her heart pounding. 'Can I really be falling for the big guy?' she thought, feeling dizzy. 'God, I just don't know.'

Corey had watched her flee. Feeling confused, he looked at the other two and said, "What just happened? I told her she was pretty, and she ran away? I don't get it."

"This is getting interesting." Emma said before walking away.

"Don't worry about it Corey." Amy said, putting an arm around his waist. "You were honest with her, and it scared her a little. The question is what are you going to do now?"

"What do you mean?" He asked even more confused. "How did I scare her?"

"That look you gave her made me uncomfortable. I can imagine what she's feeling right now." She said, giving him a smile. "You didn't mean to, it was just your reaction."

"I should apologize to her." He said looking at the dressing room door.

"Give her a little time." Emma said from the rack she was straightening.

"Ms. Emma, what should I do? I never meant to make her uncomfortable."

"She'll get over it. She just needs to sort out her feelings. The best thing you can do is keep being her friend."

Her heartbeat had finally gone back to normal, and the blush was gone from her face, so Seira felt it was safe to move again. Taking off the dress, she put it on a hanger, and hung it on the hook in the dressing room. She had felt like a different person wearing it. The reaction she got from Corey told her she had looked like a different person. All the time she had spent in the bars and clubs, with guys hitting on her, she had never had a guy look at her like Corey did. It wasn't lust, but something deeper. She had panicked, and run. "He must think I'm a total spaz, running away like that." Tucking her T-shirt into her jeans, she realized she still had the headband on. Whipping it off, she shook her hair, until it fell back into its normal style. "Try and tell me how to wear my hair? Not today, not ever!" Feeling more like her old self, she emerged from her sanctuary. Walking up to the others, she handed the dress to Emma. "Sorry, but I guess I'm not going to buy it after all. Thanks again for your help Emma. You're a pal. See you guys around." Then, without looking back, she headed out the door.

"Seira, wait!" Corey called, chasing after her. "What's the big idea?" Grabbing her arm, he continued. "They spend two hours waiting on you, while I cooled my heels on that bench, and you just blow out of here? That's not how you treat your friends. Did I scare you that badly?"

Seira wouldn't look at him. She stared at the sidewalk as she said in a clipped voice, "Let go of my arm. You don't know me well enough to lecture me." Then softly she added, "It hasn't even been two days since we met. So please, just let go of me."

Corey released his grip, saying, "It doesn't matter if we only met you two days ago. Amy and I really enjoy being with you Seira. We were on good terms before I saw you in that dress. If I made you feel uncomfortable, I'm sorry."

Amy walked up and stood next to her brother, listening.

Seira turned, her hands in her pockets, and with a sad smile said, "I never had a guy look at me like that. It was a little scary, but only because it made me feel things that I'm not ready for. You're a hell of a nice guy Corey, but I just met you. I don't want to think I could fall for you that easily. I'm still your friend, but right now I need some space."

"You going to be ok? Do you want Amy to keep you company, or to talk with you?" He said looking at her.

"No, I'm going to go home, and just soak in a hot bath. I don't need company for that. Amy, I'm sorry I was rude to you in there. You're too good a person to be treated like that."

"I understand," Amy said warmly. "If some guy had given me that look, I probably would have run out the door." Walking up to Seira, she gave her a quick hug as she said quietly. "Corey would never do anything to hurt you, so don't be afraid, ok?"

"Thanks, I'll remember that. I'll see you guys later." Turning, she walked quickly down the street, staring at the ground.

"That's too bad Corey." Amy said putting her arm in his. "But don't be discouraged, she didn't tell you to get lost, so there's still hope."

"It's weird, when I first met her, her attitude totally turned me off. But then she got emotional about maybe losing her friends, and I started thinking of her being someone that needed a big brother to take care of her. That all changed today. When I saw her in that dress, looking so elegant, I couldn't just think of her like a sister anymore. I think I've fallen for her Amy, and I not sure what to do next."

"Just be yourself, bro. She'll see what a great catch you are eventually."

"How do you know so much about relationships? You've never had a boyfriend."

"Romance novels dummy, why else would I read them?" She said punching him lightly on the arm. "Let's go home. It's almost time for dinner, and I need to tell Grandpa I got in."

"He's going to be surprised. Especially since he doesn't know you'd applied."

"I know, but now there'll be two generations of Kisuragi graduates in the family."

Putting his arm around his sister, Corey hugged her gently and said, "You did good sis. Now, let's go home."

-

The chimes rang, sounding the end of classes for another day. Ryo closed her textbook, and put it in her bag. 'Finally, I can leave this day behind' she thought. Walking quickly, she hoped to leave before any of her teammates caught her. She had made it to the front gate when she heard someone call her name. Taking a deep breath, she put on a smile and turned around. It was Hikaru, followed by Nene and Yoko.

"Hey, where you heading to in such a hurry?" She said as they walked up.

"Sorry, It's been a rough day, and I was anxious to get home." Ryo said looking down.

"It sounds like you could use some cheering up Ryo." Nene said clasping her hands in front of her. "Just leave it to your manager. I'll chase those blues away."

Visions of last years training camp when Nene had tried to cheer up Yuki appeared before Ryo. Nene in a swimsuit, crying about her doll being thrown across the room, didn't sound like what she needed right now. "That's alright, Nene, I'll be ok. Thanks anyway, I'm sure you would have really tried. What did you want me for, anyway?"

"We wanted to tell you that Amy made it. She got the approval of the Parent's Association. We were going to go out for pizza to celebrate." Hikaru said grinning hugely. "You'll come, right?"

"That's great. Of course we should celebrate." She said, forcing herself to sound cheerful. Inside, however, she felt a tinge of panic. Part of her had hoped Amy wouldn't make it. Then her potential rival for Hiroki's affection would be gone. "Have you invited everyone?"

Yoko jumped in, saying excitedly. "We told Mao, Kanako, Koharu, and Yuki. Izumi was talking with her mother, so we left a message with Mr. Yamagida. I'm going to call Seira when I get back to the dorm, and we felt, as captain, you should be the one to invite Amy."

"I don't have her number, how do I get hold of her?" Ryo asked, hoping they would forget the whole thing.

Nene handed her a slip of paper, saying. "Your manager thinks of everything; here you go. We're having it at six o'clock at the shop by the train station. See you then, and Ryo, please cheer up."

"Sure, I'll see you all there." Ryo said halfheartedly as she turned, waving.

Walking down the road to the train station, she saw Hiroki sitting on his bike, waiting for her. All the girls called out to him as they went past, but he would just smile and wave. He kept looking for her, and that made her feel a little better. His eyes lit up when he saw her, so she began running to him.

"Hey Ryo." He said when she reached him. "Did you miss me?"

"I just saw you at lunch, it's not like it's been a week, but yeah, I did." she said smiling. Then her eyebrows rose as she said, "Hey, you didn't call me Tofu."

"You keep telling me not to." He said getting off his bike to walk along side her. "Should I start again? I do like calling you that."

"No, please don't!" she said quickly. "I was just surprised, that's all. Is there a reason you were waiting for me?"

"I was just in the mood to walk my girl to the train station." He said nonchalantly. "Is that a problem?"

"It's not a problem. I'm glad, actually. I wanted to talk to you about something."

"Uh-oh, I don't like the sound of that. Did I do something wrong?"

"No, it's not that. It's about something that's been bugging me since last night. I guess I'm feeling a little insecure in our relationship."

"What?" Hiroki stopped walking, and looked at her stunned. "Ryo, I love you. I told you that in front of five thousand people. I've told you that hundreds of times since then. I spend nearly every free minute I have with you. How can you doubt how I feel? Or have your feelings towards me changed?" Dropping his bike, he turned to face her.

"NO! No, I am totally in love with you Hiroki. It's just you told me you fell in love with me because my pitching beat you. Now Amy has come here, and not just beat you, but also struck you out. Then she spent most of last night at the party hanging on to you. I'm worried that you'll develop feelings for her." Feeling awkward, she said the last few words so quietly, Hiroki strained to hear them.

"Ryo" He said warmly as he embraced her. "I fell in love with you. I told you there would never be another girl for me, and I meant it. Amy is a beautiful girl, and a talented pitcher, but my heart belongs to you. You're still the person I treasure most in the world. You can calm me down when I'm angry, and cheer me up when I'm depressed. You always make me laugh when you get mad at me calling you Tofu. I wouldn't trade you for any girl. I stick with my commitments Ryo, so please, don't doubt my feelings"

"Hiroki, I love you. Don't ever abandon me." She said, looking at him with tear filled eyes.

He gently brushed the tears from her cheeks, and kissed her tenderly. "Never, Tofu." He said softly. Then they walked together to the station, Ryo hugging his arm.

-

Izumi sat on the couch in her mother's office; suffering looks from both her mother and Mr. Mita. She was expecting to be called here after cutting classes, but she wasn't expecting the silence. Ms. Himuro sat with her chin resting on her clasped hands, while Mr. Mita stood to her right, with his hands behind his back. She began to feel uncomfortable, when her mother spoke.

"Izumi, I don't suppose you can explain what's going on. I was prepared to talk with you about that incident on the news last night, and now I hear of this truancy."

"I'm not sure I can explain why. I just had to get away for a while, so I climbed the fence." Izumi said simply.

"This is most unusual behavior for you, Miss Himuro." Mr. Mita added. "I don't understand why the members of the baseball team are suddenly behaving so rebelliously. I'm almost expecting to hear of Miss Hayakawa throwing rocks through the windows."

"I don't believe we'll have to worry about that." Ms. Himuro said, glancing at him. "But this action does require discipline. Mr. Mita, what do you suggest for punishment?"

"I would like her to stay after school, an hour each day next week. I will have her instructors assign extra work for her to accomplish in this time. Miss Himuro, I don't like to discipline students. Please refrain from such behavior in the future. Ms Himuro, I believe I'm done here. I leave any further measures to you."

"Very good Mr. Mita, thank you for your time. Have a pleasant evening." She said as he headed out the door. When he left, she turned to Izumi, and said. "Now that Mita's gone, tell me the real reason for your poor behavior. Does this have anything to do with Amy?" she asked pointedly. "You were jealous of Ryo when you two first met. Are you feeling the same way about her?"

"I don't trust her, mother. I think she has a hidden agenda. Why else would she leave everything behind, just to come and play baseball? She denies it, but the way she was acting last night, I think she's set her sights on Hiroki. I think she's manipulating everyone, and I feel threatened by her. We should just send her back home."

"I believe you're being paranoid Izumi. Amy Watson wants to play baseball, period. The letter from her coach attests to her character. She has been nothing but gracious to everyone who's dealt with her. Give her a chance. She's only been here two days. Spend some time with her, and try to make her feel welcome. Why don't you invite her to spend the night? Do whatever it takes for you to alleviate these irrational suspicions.

"Mother, may I ask you something?" Izumi said, looking down.

"Of course dear. What is it?"

Taking a deep breath, she said looking straight into her mother's eyes, "Do you love me?"

"What? Izumi, do I really make you feel that way? I know we've had our differences, and I've said and done things that have hurt you in the past, but please believe I do love you. Coach Kido thinks we keep banging heads because we're so much alike. Was this leaving school a cry for attention? I wish you had approached me sooner about this. Now there's a blemish on an otherwise perfect school record."

"That's exactly why I question your feelings for me!" Izumi exploded, leaping up, and slamming her hands on the desk. "You're more worried about my school records than how I'm feeling. You can never open the bars of my cage long enough to show me any real affection. When was the last time you hugged me? I saw you holding Amy in the bathroom, and couldn't stand it. I ran to get away from the pain of seeing you give some stranger the affection you couldn't seem to give to me. I've said it before, and I still feel the same way. I'm nothing more than your prize canary to be displayed before the world." She paused, catching her breath, and then added quietly, "Sometimes I wish I'd never been born." Collapsing back on the couch, she began weeping softly.

Stung by the weight of Izumi's words, and the ferocity with which she'd said them, Keiko Himuro sat motionless. Looking at her daughter, grieving from the pain she had caused, her heart broke. Rising from her chair, and moving over to the couch, she sat down next to Izumi, and took her into a fierce embrace. Tears forming in her eyes, she stroked the girl's dark hair, saying, "I'm so sorry I neglected you Izumi. I always thought you were so strong, and didn't need my affection. My position requires me to be distant and aloof. I never should have treated you the same way. You're my precious girl, my only daughter. Please forgive your mother for being so stubborn and foolish. From now on, even if it's ten years from now, whenever you need some encouragement, please come to me. I promise we'll tear down these bars I put up together."

They sat like that, just holding each other, emotions swirling. Izumi, content at last, said softly. "Well Seira, I guess I won't need to write that letter after all." Then she hugged her mother again.

-

As Amy and Corey turned the corner to the street that led to their grandfather's house, they noticed a taxi pulling away from the curb in front. They watched the taxi pass by them, empty. Looking at each other, they ran the rest of the way. Opening the door, they saw their mother, removing her jacket, as their grandmother stood beaming. "Mom!" Amy said excitedly. "You came after all!" She grinned as her mother turned and smiling, held out her arms. Stepping forward, she was wrapped in a familiar embrace.

"I couldn't miss this, dear. The dean heard about this, and granted me a leave of absence. As soon as I finished laying out my lesson plan for the substitute, I came as quick as I could. Corey, thank you for looking after your sister." She said reaching out her hand.

"It was no big deal, mom. I'm glad you could come." He said as he stepped forward and let her wrap and arm around his waist.

"I wish I was taller, so I could give you a proper hug." She said craning her neck to look at his face.

"This is fine, mom." Corey said smiling. "Dad didn't come with you did he?"

"No, he needed to stay and coordinate the plowing. He wanted to come, but just couldn't get away."

"I understand. He's never been comfortable leaving his responsibilities to others."

"He would feel horrible, if something happened, and he wasn't there. Sometimes I think he's too conscientious. His father is more than capable of running the farm, but he feels he needs to be there."

"Enough standing around, come in and sit down." Their grandma said. "Kimiko dear, it's good you've come to visit, but you should have let me known sooner. Now I need to go shopping for dinner tonight."

"Let's order out, mom." She replied, taking a seat on the couch. "My treat."

"Are you sure? You don't have that much, and you just bought airfare from America."

"It'll be fine. Now, let's get to business. Amy, how'd your tryout go?" She asked leaning towards her with a gleam in her eye.

"I did it mom. I got in." Amy said grinning. "I pitched against Hiroki Takasugi, and beat him."

"The boy from the videos? The one the press called 'the genius batter'? Oh, honey, that's wonderful. Did you have any problems?"

"The Parent's Association was the biggest obstacle, but I was able to convince them I was Japanese enough to attend."

Grandma looked at them, confused. "What in the world are you two talking about? Attend where, and why did you have to beat up a boy?"

"No grandma, I played baseball with him, and won. I earned a spot on the Kisuragi Girls' baseball team for next year.

"What?" She said, her eyes going wide. "You're going to Kisuragi Girls'? Kimiko, you can't afford the tuition for that school. We could barely afford it when you went. Your father isn't earning near what he did then."

"It's a scholarship position, mom. The Chairperson understands our situation, and agreed before Amy left the States. Oh, I'm so proud of you honey." Saying that, she took Amy into another hug.

"Corey's had an interesting trip too." Amy said looking at him. "He's in love."

"What?" Mother and grandmother said in unison looking at Corey.

"It's not for sure." Corey said. "Besides, she's not talking to me right now."

"Oh?" His mother asked scowling, "and what did you do to make this girl upset?"

"He saw her in a knockout dress, and told her she was beautiful." Amy said helpfully. "I've never seen him look so intense."

Corey looked down at his lap; annoyed his sister was so eager to embarrass him.

"What kind of girl gets upset at being called beautiful?" Grandma said looking at all of them. "Kids these days."

"She's on the baseball team grandma, and I don't think she's had too many good experiences with boys. She talked about hanging out in clubs and bars, and when we first met, she punched me. I don't know why, but there's something about her that makes me feel goofy."

"The fact she's gorgeous doesn't hurt either." Amy said, elbowing him in the ribs.

Corey glared at her, but said nothing. Amy leaned over and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. "Don't sulk, big brother." She said in a squeaky voice. "She'll come around."

The phone rang, interrupting their banter. Grandma got up and answered. "Hello, Suzuki residence. Amy? Who should I say is calling? Just a moment please." Walking back into the room, she said. "Amy, a Miss Hayakawa for you."

"A call? From Ryo?" She scrambled up from the couch, and raced to the phone. "Hey Ryo, what's up?

"Hi Amy, if you're not doing anything tonight, the team wants to throw a party in honor of your making it in."

" Really, you guys want to have a party for me? Sure I'll come."

"Great, bring Corey along too."

"Corey too? Um, is Seira going to be there?"

"She is part of the team. Is there a problem? Corey isn't still mad about her punching him, is he?"

"No, no, it's just that we ran into her today and things happened."

"She'll be fine. Seira never stays mad for more than an hour or so. Tell Corey, if she gets out of line, we'll hold her down and Yoko will put makeup on her."

"Ok, Ryo. What time do you want us there?"

"Everyone is meeting at the pizza shop near the train station by school at six o'clock."

"We'll be there. Oh Ryo, do you mind if we bring one other person? There's someone I'd like you all to meet."

"Sure, can you tell me who it is?"

"No, it's a surprise."

"Well, ok, we'll just plan on another person."

"Alright, we'll see you there." Hanging up the phone, she walked back into the room. "Grandma, you won't have to worry about dinner, the baseball team wants to throw me a 'congratulations on making it' party. Corey, you're invited too, and mom, I'd like it if you came along as well, to meet my teammates."

"That sound's like fun dear. I love to. Well, I'd better get freshened up. It was a long flight, and I don't smell too good." She stood and walked out of the room.

Looking at her grandmother, Amy added. "I hope you don't mind a long term tenant grandma."

"Don't be silly dear. It'll be just like having your mother back home. You know, this is going to floor your grandfather. We had no idea you wanted to come to high school here."

"It's not just about high school grandma, it's about making dreams come true."

-

Seira sat on the edge of her bed, still wearing her robe. Her bath had soothed and relaxed her body, but her brain was still racing. She couldn't get Corey's expression out of her mind. "I need to talk to someone about this. I can't talk to the guys on the team; it would be too embarrassing. Dad won't be home until late." Looking down on her nightstand, she saw Dr. Suzuki's card. She picked it up, and said. "He did tell me to call him if I needed to talk." Picking up the phone, she nervously dialed the number. Two rings later, she heard a voice.

"Hello, Kenji Suzuki here."

"Hello, Dr. Kenji, it's Seira Morimura"

"Seira! Well, I didn't expect to hear from you so soon. How can I help?"

"I wanted some advice about falling in love."

"Oh, I see, I'm afraid you straying a little out of my area of expertise dear, but I'll give it a go. What seems to be the trouble?"

"I met a guy the other day, and I think I may be falling in love with him. He's a real nice guy, polite, well mannered, gentle, the problem is he's visiting from another country, so he'll be leaving soon, and I've only known him two days. Is it possible to fall in love in two days?"

"My, this is a predicament. Physical attraction can happen almost immediately. That's what people call love at first sight. Emotional love, can and should take time to develop. What do you feel for this boy, Seira?"

"When we first met, I thought he was kind of a loser, this big hulking lummox that catered to his sister. Then when I got upset about maybe losing my friends, he treated me so kindly, even after I'd slugged him."

"You hit him? Why?"

"He was trying to tell me what to do. I was arguing with one of my teammates, and he stepped in to break it up. I saw red, and punched him. He was so cool about it; he didn't lose his temper, or even raise his voice. He just went on with what he had been doing."

"He sounds like a fine young man. So how have your feelings changed?"

"I met him this morning in the lobby of your office building. We said good morning, talked a little and he left. I felt kind of empty when he did. Then later on, after I mailed the letter to my mom, I ran into him and his sister on the street, and we spent the afternoon shopping."

"That sounds nice if rather mundane. Did something happen to make you think you loved him?"

"I tried on this gorgeous dress. I looked like a real society gal. The expression on his face when he saw me scared me. He was so intense. I thought I'd melt the way he was looking at me. I ran away, because my emotions were going crazy. I'm confused, Kenji. I like the guy, and I have fun when I'm with him, but is this love?"

"I don't think so, not yet. You were most likely just responding to his desire. Boys feel their hormones the most in their teens. It's normal for a boy to notice a pretty girl. You are a very attractive girl Seira don't believe otherwise. Now, do you believe this boy's desire could be a threat to you?"

"No, his sister told me he's had girls throw themselves at him and he's turned them down. I don't think it was lust, Kenji. I saw lots of that in the clubs. It was more a look of adoration, like I was something precious. That's why I ran. Even when I blew him off, he still was concerned about me. I never knew anyone so unmotivated by his own needs. He really is special, but how can I give him my heart, when he's leaving soon?"

"If you trust him, and enjoy being with him, then go be with him. Don't waste time agonizing over this. Enjoy the time you have together, and hold onto those memories after he's gone. You've been shown so little affection in your life Seira, let this young man adore you awhile."

"Wouldn't I be using him? If I wasn't serious about him, how could I let him think I was? I don't want to do that to him. He doesn't deserve to be treated like that."

"If you do find a relationship blossoming, keep in touch with him after he leaves. Love can survive distance, if those involved are committed. You sound like you care for him a great deal. Be honest with him, and see what happens."

"Thanks, Kenji. That's the advice I needed. Sorry to have bothered you with this."

"Seira dear, if this boy can bring you a little happiness, it was well worth my time. Goodbye."

Seira hung up the phone, and the nearly jumped out of her skin as it rang almost immediately afterwards. "He-Hello?"

"Hi Seira, it's Yoko. I'm calling to let you know we're all meeting at the pizza shop by school to celebrate Amy getting in. Can you come?"

"Is Corey going to be there?"

"Um, I guess. Why? Don't you like him?"

"No it's not that, I was just wondering if they can make enough pizza to fill that guy up." She said quickly.

"Oh I'm sure they can handle it. See you a six. Ciao"

Seira hung up the phone again. She looked at the clock on her nightstand. "Four-thirty, I guess I'll swing by Emma's before I go. I really need to apologize to her again.

Dressing in her accustomed t-shirt and jeans, and throwing her leather jacket over her shoulder, she headed out the door.