Disclaimer: I do not own Gundam Wing, Amagami SS or any of its characters. I wrote this fanfic for my own pleasure and purely entertainment.

"I am no longer content being his sempai. I wanted more. And I won't give up my affections for him to anyone." - Haruka Morishima.

"Anyone knowing where I stand right now may question my sanity. But I would not back down from the feelings I have for him, even if it means going against her." - Kaoru Tanamachi.

Let the curtains rise as we give way to our cast of characters swept amidst a storm of frustrations, tensions and emotions all caused by that crazy stupid thing we fondly call Love...

Chapter 7 - Triangle

While waiting for Kaoru and his order, Heero's eyes wandered around the interior of Cafe Totosu. The tables and seats were slowly getting filled as more customers arrive to take their dinner at the restaurant. Within the borders of his peripheral, the Gundam Pilot noticed that the other waitresses were somewhat looking at his direction. Shrugging it out of his thoughts, the Prussian eyed boy made a mental note to ask the obsidian eyed young woman about the behavior of her co-workers later. As Heero resumed his observation inside the restaurant, he finally saw Kaoru come out from a room reserved only for employees before proceeding to the counter and receiving what seems to be his order. The dark wavy haired girl was now carrying a tray of food and currently on her way to his table.

Heero noticed something different from the tomboyish young lady as she smiled and placed his meal in front of him. She had a certain glow and sudden change in aura that Heero was unable to discern. Whatever it was, the brown haired boy decided that she looked much better compared earlier before assuming that her worries might have been resolved. His eyes traveled from her face down to her uniform, the Gundam Pilot noticed that her attire fit her figure very well, perfectly matching the obsidian eyed beauty's athletic shape. He continued looking down past her skirt causing Kaoru to blush and fidget slightly as his eyes focused on the exposed gap between the edge of her skirt and the tips of her thigh high stockings, which showed a precious few inches of her creamy white thighs.

"Thank you for waiting, here's your Northern Crab Gratin. I'll get you another glass of water." Kaoru said, blushing deeply before picking up his glass.

"Kaoru, you look good in that uniform." Heero answered, his piercing eyes looking intently at the tomboyish young woman causing her to flush even more.

"Really... Thanks, Heero. I'll just get your water." Kaoru shyly replied before leaving the Prussian eyed boy to get his drink, her face once again beet red from embarrassment.

Heero nodded at the wavy haired girl before he started eating his meal. However, a highly trained, professional soldier like him possessed an exceedingly sensitive natural instinct attuned with his surroundings. Feeling that he was being watched by a pair of eyes, Heero immediately made a quick look above his shoulder towards the street where his back was facing. Seeing it empty with no pedestrian in plain sight, he returned his attention to the food on the table. Despite a lingering sense of uneasiness, he decided to ignore it and instead began eating his meal. The mobile suit pilot wasn't that much hungry as he had already taken a snack during his allocated break while in the construction site. He was satisfied with the food though, in his opinion the Northern Crab Gratin was prepared just right. The brown haired boy was able to taste the distinct flavor of the crustacean mixed with various spices making the soup all the more sumptuous.

'What was that...? It feels like something's wrong.' Heero mulled to himself after remembering the eerie sensation of being watched by someone unknown as he continued sipping his food silently while deep in thoughts.

The Gundam Pilot was shaken off from his musings when Kaoru gently placed his glass of iced water near his right hand. The tomboyish young woman smiled warmly at him before opening the conversation.

"Heero, thanks for dropping by. I know I've been bothering you a lot, even before, just to visit me here. I really appreciate you coming over."

"It's the least I can do. Considering the problem I've caused you when I missed classes last Tuesday." Heero replied, referring to the afternoon he cut classes with Haruka.

"Thank you for lending me your notes, Kaoru." The Gundam Pilot added, a look of appreciation is reflected on his cobalt blue eyes.

"Ohh... Don't mention it. How's Morishima sempai doing by the way?" Kaoru inquired, remembering the reason why Heero was absent after lunch break that day.

The Perfect Soldier had told their homeroom teacher that he assisted Haruka on her way home because the pretty campus idol was feeling sick that time. Kaoru insisted on lending her notes despite the reluctance of Heero.

"I think she's doing well. I haven't seen Morishima sempai since that day." Heero answered, blaming himself for having to lie at Kaoru. Though there was also truth in his response as he had not seen the raven haired beauty after their trip to the view deck park.

"I... see. Heero, if it's ok with you, I'd like to ask another favor." Kaoru said, diverting the topic as she felt suspicious remembering the scene when Haruka suddenly appeared out of nowhere before dragging Heero away from them while they were in a discussion with Ms. Takahashi and Keiko at the stairway.

"I don't mind eating here again, Kaoru." The brown haired boy replied, looking intently at Kaoru before taking a sip from his glass of iced water.

"Well, actually, it's not that. See, I was wondering if you can come and lend Junichi a helping hand with Rihoko." Kaoru hopefully requested after throwing a glance at the cobalt eyed boy timidly.

"Sure. Anything, Kaoru." Heero responded, without batting an eye at the rapidly blushing tomboyish young woman.

"But I could only spare a few hours before reporting for work." The Gundam Pilot added, to which Kaoru nodded eagerly.

"And one more thing Kaoru... Why are your co-workers always stealing glances at our direction?" Heero curiously inquired, discreetly referring to two waitresses that the wavy dark haired girl caught looking at them with longing eyes.

Smacking her forehead with one palm, Kaoru felt the heat beginning to rise once again from her face.

'Chisato... Miyabi... Couldn't you girls be less obvious?'

"Err... well... uh... You see Heero, they..." The obsidian eyed girl trailed as she searched for something to say at the Perfect Soldier.

The first day of November is always an indication that the changing of season from Autumn to Winter was just around the corner. This also marks a transition in school uniform that automatically comes along with the impending cool atmosphere. Male and female students from Kibitou Senior High wear thicker coats that are issued by the school to ensure that each student's body temperature is maintained at a comfortable level. Thus avoiding any excuses for being absent due to weather conditions. Right now, it was ironic to see the amount of sweat pouring from both Kaoru and Junichi's foreheads despite the cold breeze brought about by the wind. However, anyone seeing their current situation would surely understand, as both were carrying carton boxes containing various utensils and tea making ingredients while wearing winter uniforms. They felt all the more dejected upon noticing Heero walking calmly ahead, holding a much heavier kotatsu table with ease by his lonesome.

"Tanamachi-san, how does it feel being hugged by those slender arms with firm muscles that boyfriend of yours has?" A voice echoed somewhere in her mind.

Kaoru sheepishly took a quick glance at Heero's arms while he continued carrying the kotatsu table with ease ahead of them.

'I wonder... How it would feel if he hugs me with those strong arms of his.'

"Kaoru, are you sure you could still manage? You're all red right now." Junichi worriedly asked the obsidian eyed girl.

'Arrghhh... Caught once again... Well, good thing Junichi is dense.'

"I-I'm fine! We're almost there right? I'll probably take a break once we reach Rihoko's club room."

The mobile suit pilot was able to reach the Tea Club room way ahead of Kaoru and Junichi. Heero immediately returned to where he left them and relieved the tomboyish girl from the weight of the box she had been carrying. The brown haired boy eventually convinced Kaoru to help Rihoko instead, while he and Junichi brought all of the items inside the container truck parked outside by the school gate. It took both boys an hour going back and forth from the truck to the clubroom ferrying different articles ranging from cushions, tables, utensils and various ingredients. Once they were finished in placing all the items inside the clubroom, Rihoko and Kaoru served cake and iced tea as a token of gratitude for their help. As the obsidian eyed girl called at both Heero and Junichi, she could not help but smile while looking at Rihoko who was busy preparing their food.

'You're one lucky girl, Rihoko. You have the full attention of that idiot, Junichi.'

Rihoko Sakurai was a very kind and cheerful young woman yet had the misfortune of being extremely clumsy. A childhood friend of Junichi, she was the type of person who would trip by herself without even the need for a single debris or object to impede her way. At the numerous occasions Rihoko had slipped and landed flat on her back, Junichi was always there to help her. The girl had long side bangs on her boy length golden brown hair. She had lively brown eyes and a curious innocent smile on her lips. Rihoko is very self conscious of her figure as she is the constant subject of Junichi's endless teasing when it comes to her body weight. However, the cute and simple young lady could not resist but succumb to the taste of sweets ending all of her attempts on diet in failure. Recently, Junichi had shown a certain interest and liking to Rihoko that prompted him to ask Kaoru for support on his intentions at the bubbly childhood friend.

'While me... I have to compete for the affection of this boy against the most popular and prettiest girl inside the campus.' Kaoru sighed as she took the seat beside Heero.

With all of them at the table, the group began eating. Kaoru made sure all of Heero's needs were taken care of, which made her look more like a dutiful housewife overshadowing her natural skill of being an experienced waitress. The wavy dark haired young woman poured iced tea into his glass keeping it full while making sure to keep an eye on Heero's plate to offer him a slice of cake if he requested. The Gundam Pilot however, remained silent but would occasionally respond with his usual grunt or nod if ever a question was directed to him. Meanwhile, Junichi was busy at teasing Rihoko for not helping them while they were transporting the items. Rihoko on her part was obviously happy at the attention being received from Junichi on top of being thankful to them for helping her with the tea club's items.

'I know it's a long shot, but I'll try my best to make you notice me... In a different way, Heero.'

"Kaoru, Heero-san won't be going anywhere so please eat your cake. I know you're quite tired as well after helping me place all those articles inside the clubroom." Rihoko said while smiling innocently at Kaoru.

The obsidian eyed girl turned beet red after being caught staring at the mobile suit pilot, that she had even neglected the food in front of her. 'I can't stop looking at him...'

"Heero-san, thank you for coming along with Kaoru and helping us today. You even carried most of the things inside the container truck." Rihoko stated, before bowing her head in appreciation for the Gundam Pilot's assistance.

"It's a pleasure, Rihoko."

"You're really something, Heero. I'm also thankful, Kaoru convinced you to help us out." Junichi noted, while smiling at the brown haired boy.

"Think nothing of it, Junichi. I'll have to go to the construction site in a couple of minutes though."

No sooner had Heero finished his sentence when two third years entered the club room, each bringing a box full of decoration materials. The first one to greet them was the Tea Club President, Ruriko Yuzuki, a senior from Class 3-A. She had short dark purple hair with her most prominent feature would be the pair of big round reading glasses nestled above the bridge of her nose covering her sharp yet friendly eyes. The other person who came in was Manaka Hiba, Club Vice President, and also a senior from Class 3-A. Her long jet black hair had a few wayward strands that fell above her face. Manaka's grayish black eyes were curved downwards giving her a sad lonely impression. The stoic Senior was well known for using laconic responses ranging from one to three words at most that leaned towards being cryptic but somehow insightful, earning her eccentric personality a source of urban legends. Both of them with the addition of Rihoko completed the entire roster of Kibitou Senior High's Tea Club.

"Everyone, we are deeply thankful for your help today. We are fortunate that Rihocchi has a good man who is willing to lend a hand for his woman." Ruriko stated, calling Rihoko with her pet name while at the same time teasing Junichi.

"Appreciated." Manaka simply said, bowing slightly to their group.

"Rukko-san! Manaka-san! I'd like to introduce you to Junichi's classmates." Rihoko exclaimed, with both Ruriko and Manaka nodding at her as she motioned to Kaoru and Heero.

"Sempais, this is Kaoru Tanamachi from class 2-A. She works as a part-time waitress at Cafe Restaurant Totosu. Her familiarity with organizing utensils and ingredients were very helpful while we were placing them inside the cupboards and shelves."

Kaoru smiled and bowed to the two Third Years who also nodded in return after conveying their gratitude to the dark wavy haired girl's help.

"While this is..." Rihoko trailed as she gestured her hand at Heero but was abruptly cut in mid-sentence by Manaka.

"Morishima Haruka's property."

"Yes, Manaka's right. This young man is Morishima Haruka's boyfriend." Ruriko warmly noted before continuing.

"We are honored to finally meet the boy who has tamed our greatest nemesis." The upperclassman wearing glasses along with Manaka bowed deeply at the Gundam Pilot.

The Second Years with the exception of Heero were obviously surprised at Ruriko's statement. He looked at both seniors seriously before bowing respectfully as well.

"We are very good friends. Nothing more than that." The mobile suit pilot calmly said, however, he felt a part of him doubt the last few words of his response.

"Inconceivable." Manaka responded, as her dark grayish eyes fixed on Heero's cobalt blue orbs.

"I'd have to agree with Manaka, no Third Year would be convinced. Especially with the way Morishima Haruka cheered for you instead of supporting her own class, while you beat down the best basketball team this school had to offer."

"Hnn." Heero grunted, but nevertheless nodded in acknowledgment to Ruriko's observation.

"Rukko-san, Manaka-san, his name is Heero Yuy. He's from class 2-A and works part-time in a construction site near the business district. Heero-san was very helpful as he carried most of the heavy stuff without difficulty."

"Grateful." Manaka worded to the Gundam Pilot, before smiling slightly alongside Ruriko in appreciation for his assistance.

"Kaoru, Heero-san, these are the officers of Kibitou High's Tea Club. Our president is Ruriko Yuzuki sempai while Manaka Hiba sempai is our vice president. Both of them are from class 3-A."

Kaoru and Heero bowed in return after the seniors were introduced to them by Rihoko.

"Everyone, since you've finished with the cakes, we've brought bags of chips and Manaka will brew some Earl Grey while you rest at the clubhouse."

"I'd have to take my leave, Yuzuki sempai. I need to be at the construction site in less than an hour."

"We understand, Yuy-san. Again you have our sincerest gratitude for your help and know that the club's doors are always open for you." Ruriko answered, to which the brown haired boy once again grunted in confirmation.

"Thank you, Yuzuki and Manaka sempai." The Gundam Pilot said as he excused himself from the tea club's upperclassmen.

Kaoru had been silent ever since the introductions were exchanged between them and Rihoko's club officers. She was slightly bothered and felt a little bit of despair upon learning that the whole Third Year class had already acknowledged Heero as Haruka's boyfriend. However, the obsidian eyed girl asserted her new found confidence, thanks in part to principle imparted by the mobile suit pilot.

'...Live a good life. Act on your emotions.'

The tomboyish young woman with dark wavy hair took the initiative of accompanying Heero to the clubhouse gates. She had no work that day and also promised to help Rihoko and Junichi close the clubhouse once they finished with the chips Ruriko bought and tea Manaka brewed.

"Heero, thank you for coming with me to help out Rihoko and Junichi."

"Don't mention it Kaoru." The Gundam Pilot answered before looking at her with his intense Prussian blue eyes.

"I promised to help you, remember?" He continued, still gazing back at Kaoru's obsidian orbs.

'Oh God... I've really fallen for him.' Kaoru admitted to herself, with her eyes twitching as she stared back at Heero.

The part-time waitress only managed to shyly smile back at the brown haired boy before he nodded and started on his way out of the campus. As Kaoru fixed a longing stare on the Gundam Pilot's slowly diminishing form, she almost jumped from surprise after hearing Manaka's usual one-worded comments.

"Repressed." The upperclassman quizzically noted after sparing Kaoru a glance before looking at Heero's direction.

"Manaka, be gentle with Kaoru-chan's feelings. You know very well who she plans to go against with." Ruriko softly reminded her friend as she stood beside Kaoru.

"Sempai... I..."

"Kaoru, we understand. You don't have to tell us. We have already noticed the way you look at that boy since we came inside the clubroom." Ruriko replied giving the tomboyish girl a knowing look.

"Doomed." Manaka cryptically added, before giving the obsidian eyed girl a sad smile.

The dark wavy haired girl dropped her head in defeat, she knew the odds of going against Haruka and triumph was slim but Kaoru never thought that she'd feel frustrated when the truth was honestly said to her.

"Manaka." Ruriko warned at the fellow tea club senior who nodded in understanding before turning back her attention at Kaoru.

"I know it would be a daunting task to challenge and win that boy especially if you're up against Morishima Haruka. Believe me, I understand you. We..." Ruriko started, looking at Kaoru with a serious expression.

"We know the feeling because, me and Manaka, have challenged and already lost to her in a different activity. However, what you hold dear for Heero would never come into a realization unless you seriously stake your claim and stand your ground before Morishima Haruka."

Kaoru lifted her head and focused her eyes on Ruriko as she felt a glimmer of hope was lighted within her.

"Never look back. Fight with everything you have. In the end, it won't be Morishima Haruka who'll decide. Only the heart of that boy will respond to the feelings both you and her have." Ruriko continued.

"Remember, you have nothing to lose but have everything to gain. Leave no regrets. Come what may, the decision would be left on Heero's hands."

"Underdog." Manaka supplied, patting Kaoru's shoulder.

Kaoru felt her eyes began to moist at the encouragement she had received from Ruriko, the obsidian eyed young woman bowed at both Third Years.

"Sempais... I am thankful."

"You have our support, and if you need help don't hesitate to approach us. Now, first thing to remember, the quickest way to a man's heart, is through his..." Ruriko started but Manaka interjected while in mid-sentence.

"Pants."

"No! Manaka... I'd really have to talk to you later."

Kaoru blushed after hearing Manaka's comment, but turned to look at Ruriko as she waited the next words of the thoughtful sempai.

"Through his stomach, Kaoru. This is one of the oldest tricks in the book. I know you understand what I'm referring to."

'Of course. Good thing I know how to do that since it's only me and my mom.'

"I'll follow your advice Ruriko sempai. And thank you, I appreciate your support."

Heero took a moment to examine the dark grey clouds overlying above the sky from the window where his seat was located. From all indications, it would surely rain. It was only a matter of time when it would actually fall. The Gundam Pilot blamed himself for not believing the news he heard from the transistor radio he bought while preparing to go to school from his hideout at the closed down hangar 03 in Sakura-Yamato Private Airstrip.

The mobile suit pilot was still pondering his options when he was alerted to the noise coming from the hallways. It seems someone had arrived enough to incite the attention of the students already outside of their classrooms. Turning his concentration back to the teacher in front, it was also then he noticed that Kaoru was once again looking at his direction. Seeing him looking back at her, the obsidian eyed young woman smiled awkwardly before returning her gaze at the front of the classroom.

'She's behaving like that for the past two days since I've help them with the Tea Club.'

The brown haired boy was shaken off his thoughts when the school bells rang, announcing the end of another day of classes. Miss Takahashi, their homeroom teacher and instructor for the last subject only reminded them to review some pages before storming out of the classroom along with most of his classmates. As the Prussian eyed boy started packing notes and textbooks inside his bag, he was called out by a voice he knew could only belong to the woman who was starting to grow more inside his thoughts.

"Yuy-kun!" Haruka smiled as she waved her hand at Heero who had already finished with his stuff and was on the way towards her.

Heero smiled subtly at the pretty campus idol, her presence was obviously the reason for the noise earlier. Right now Second Year students from both genders were fawning all around as some stayed to stare at her while most could not help but steal glances at the beautiful raven haired woman before leaving the hallway. The brown haired boy could sense the attention of everyone focused at Haruka, he was left wondering about the possible reason that brought the kind upperclassman to stay and wait for him outside his classroom.

"Morishima sempai, what brings you here?" Heero inquired after greeting the cornflower eyed girl with a soft nod.

"I was waiting for you of course! Let's go home together." Haruka simply stated while smiling widely at the Gundam Pilot.

"I even brought an umbrella just in case." The raven haired beauty added, pulling out a black umbrella out from her bag.

He felt all eyes watching them turn to him, waiting for his response. The mobile suit pilot had always been sensitive when it comes to the issue of privacy, he grunted only in acknowledgment to Haruka before taking her hand and leading the way. The pretty campus idol smiled back at him without regard for the onlookers as they immediately left the Second Year classrooms vicinity.

Unknown to them, they were noticed by a pair of obsidian eyes who could only sigh in frustration before stashing a red umbrella inside her bag.

'No matter how difficult it is, I won't give up.' Kaoru drilled in her thoughts, as she remembered the advice from the seniors at Rihoko's Tea Club.

"No holding back, time to act upon them." She mumbled to herself as she left the classroom.

They haven't gone far from the campus before the first drop of drizzle fell. Slowly the rain started from light droplets to manageable trickles and finally to a heavy downpour. Haruka had readied her umbrella for the occasion, she opened it as soon as the clouds had completely blotted the sun and skies. Heero took the umbrella from her and held it out more towards her side in order to cover the pretty campus idol better. The sky blue eyed young woman smiled softly at his gesture before entwining her arm to his, inching closer to the Perfect Soldier. Haruka once again felt him briefly stiffen due to the proximity of their bodies as the rain continued to get stronger while the air around them became colder. However, he relaxed immediately for reasons still vague to the Gundam Pilot. Again he was a bit astounded from the familiarity and ease they share naturally with each other. The raven haired beauty only smiled back at him, leaning closely as the strong shower of rain fell around them.

'I don't mind if it's raining all the time if I'm with you.' Haruka sighed as she looked discreetly at the brown haired boy.

The rain only got worst, along with the wind and air pressure which proved too much for their umbrella to handle. Its stalks were broken after the fabric covering them was blown off from the strength of the wind. Lucky for them, a waiting shed was within view, Heero pointed at it to Haruka, who also nodded before making a beeline towards the structure. Both of them were soaking wet with their clothes getting drenched as they ran before finally reaching the cover of the waiting shed. The raven haired beauty laughed after seeing she was sopping wet from the rain. She then noticed the Gundam Pilot had already taken off his coat as it was folded beside him. Haruka couldn't help but fix her stare at Heero's shirt, as the outlines of his well toned muscles were noticeable from his wet upper garment. She held her breathe at seeing the chiseled pectoral muscles of the mobile suit pilot move as he inhaled and exhaled while surveying the rain which was now falling in torrents. Apparently she had also been noticed by the cobalt blue eyed boy, who gave him a small smirk after seeing the pretty campus idol was flushed red from staring at him.

"Are you alright?" Heero asked, a hint of worry could be noted from his inquiry.

"Wha- I-I'm fine, Yuy-kun!" Haruka answered, a bit ashamed for being caught at stealing glances from him.

The blue cornflower eyed young woman was even more surprised as the brown haired boy came closer and gently placed his palm on top of her forehead.

'She might get sick after getting wet and from this cold climate.' Heero noted as he removed his hand and quickly draped his coat on Haruka's back.

"You could go down with a fever if you don't change into a new set of dry clothes."

"T-thanks, Yuy-kun..." Haruka replied, blushing furiously as she felt herself covered by Heero's coat.

"I've already removed that coat when the umbrella was blown off. It should be enough to keep you warm for the time being."

'I... always want your attention. That's why I will not give you up to anyone. I can't... You've already held my heart hostage even without meaning to. It can only answer to you alone.'

She smiled tenderly at the Gundam Pilot, feeling her cheeks heating up slightly. The pretty campus idol had slowly accepted her feelings for the boy in front of her since that night when she came into the brutal realization of jealousy and longing after seeing him being served by Kaoru inside Cafe Totosu.

'I don't want to be just your sempai anymore, Heero.' Haruka silently pondered to herself, while looking at the Perfect Soldier with her sky blue eyes stirring from the emotions she was holding dearly.

"Sempai, we have to stay here and wait till the end of this downpour." The Perfect Soldier noted, as he continued eyeing their surroundings before looking back up the skies.

'No one ever made me feel this way except you. Please... accept me... despite being a jealous woman- greedy for your whole attention. I never knew my affections for you already run that deeply.' She confessed solely to her mind, becoming aware of the moistness forming at the corner of her eyelids.

Exhaling long enough to loosen the increasing pressure from her chest, the cornflower blue eyed girl sighed in relief after successfully preventing the tears that previously threatened from escaping down her eyes.

'But this is me... And I could only hope my admittance and realization wasn't too late...'

"Morishima sempai? The rain's gotten weaker with only a few drops falling lightly every now and then, but at this rate, you'll get home late if we wait for it to stop."

"I- I see, its best we get going then He-... Yuy-kun." Haruka decided, not before stopping herself from almost unconsciously blurting out his given name.

"It's already dark, Morishima sempai." Heero told her before pausing to look deeply at her eyes.

"If you don't mind, I'll accompany you on your way home."

"You will? What I mean to say is... Is it really ok? I- I don't want to impose, Yuy-kun."

"It's alright Morishima sempai. I don't have work today and... I... want to be sure you get home safe."

"Oh... So you're worried about me." Haruka voiced out, looking at Heero with a mischievous smile.

The Gundam Pilot only grunted in acknowledgment before Haruka eagerly entwined her arms to his once more, nudging Heero closely enough for him to feel the softness of the pretty campus idol's ample breasts. Again, the raven haired beauty felt the brown haired boy tensed for a brief moment before relaxing and turning to her with the usual piercing look from his cobalt blue orbs.

"Ready to go?"

Haruka grinned impishly at Heero before nodding eagerly. Picking up their bags they started the journey towards her village. The skies was still a picture of angry dark grey clouds, a few drops of rain still fell while the blowing wind continued to chill the air all around them. It did not bother Haruka as she clung tightly to Heero while they made their way across the rain drenched streets.

'This is one walk, I'll cherish till the moment we reach my house. Heero, I'll do my best, to be the woman who deserves you most.'

Kaoru led Heero to the rooftop once lunch break started the following day. The Gundam Pilot was still wondering with the obsidian eyed girl's actions when she motioned for him to sit beside her before handing a black square bento box. As the brown haired boy opened the lunch box, he was pleasantly surprised at the aroma that immediately escaped from the container's grasp. The smell was mouthwatering to say the least, looking through the contents Heero was treated to an array of egg rolls, octopus sausages, asparagus reeds encircled with bacon strips and a few pieces of shrimp tempura along with cooked rice where a large pink colored heart was adorned.

'M-mom... I didn't think you'd place some coloring and make a heart shape out of it on the rice!' Kaoru gasped as she thought of her mother's way of teasing.

Earlier, she had asked her mother to place the contents of the extra food she prepared to another bento while changing to her school uniform after taking a bath. Her mother immediately understood that she was giving it to someone, since Kaoru never prepared food for anyone before. The bento boxes were already tied into one big scarf when Kaoru found them before taking off for school. As she finished recollecting the events, the tomboyish young woman felt the heat rushing through her face, unable to look at the Gundam Pilot, she was still able to hand him a pair of chopsticks even while avoiding to see his face.

"H-hope y-you like it Heero."

"Thank you, Kaoru. Is there any occasion?" Heero inquired after bowing his head subtly in appreciation for the food she gave him.

"Uhmm... T-there's some extra. I w-wanted to give you some as a way of thanks for the help last time with the Tea Club."

"I already told you. I wanted to help you on that. Don't be obligated to return the favor."

"N-no... It's well, really... I... because... I've noticed you always eat food at the cafeteria. And considering your situation I thought, it would be good for you to eat some home cook food sometimes." Kaoru shyly explained, blushing deeply after almost getting cornered by Heero's reasoning.

"Then I'm truly grateful for your concern and most especially for the food, Kaoru." Heero replied in understanding, staring at her with his intense Prussian eyes.

Kaoru could not help but feel the heat continue rushing from her face up to her ears. They started eating and continued to do so in silence when Heero suddenly called her attention.

"Kaoru, don't move." Heero said to her in his deep voice.

Following as she was told, the dark wavy haired young woman was startled when the Gundam Pilot moved his chopsticks in a swift instant and pinched at something found near the corner of her lips.

Seeing the look on her face, Heero explained his action in the usual nonchalant way he was comfortable with.

"You had rice at the edge of your lips." Before placing the chopsticks with the grain he caught from the tomboyish young woman's face into his mouth.

If Kaoru had an option to disappear or fade in front of Heero right there at that exact time, she was 100% sure she would have taken it. The obsidian eyed young lady felt all the blood leaving her face before rushing back in at full force. She was extremely embarrassed that her mouth was left hanging open as she saw Heero took in the grain of rice that was previously hanging on the borders of her lips and cheek.

'I have to divert my thoughts into something... This is just...'

Without thinking, Kaoru struck the tips of her chopsticks into an octopus designed sausage in the bento box before offering it to Heero.

"Here please try this too Heero."

The Gundam Pilot gave Kaoru a quizzical look before moving his Prussian blue orbs to the sausage held out for him. His eyes wandered back and forth between Kaoru's obsidian irises and the octopus-like sausage pierced through her chopsticks. As if contemplating, he stopped for a brief instant before leaning his head forward to bite off a portion of the food Kaoru had offered to him.

'Oh... my... I've just fed him through my chopsticks...' Kaoru marveled at disbelief, once again feeling the rampaging emotions within her as a new wave euphoria swept her off her feet.

"It was delicious, Kaoru." Heero casually said as he turned to continue eating the bento she had given him earlier.

As the tomboyish young woman was about to reply, they heard the soft latching of the rooftop door back to its panel. Heero's cobalt blue eyes darted instinctively to the door's direction, he had a serious and unreadable expression on his face which caught the attention of Kaoru.

"Is anything wrong?"

The Perfect Soldier seemingly gave it some thought before shaking his head sideways and giving his reply.

"It just felt that someone was watching us a while ago."

"I'm sorry if I worried you." Heero added after throwing another glance at the door before shifting his gaze back to Kaoru.

"It's alright Heero. The only thing that matters is you're here with me just in case anything happens."

The Prussian eyed boy nodded to her and continued eating his bento. Kaoru smiled at him before finishing her own food.

Haruka had been restless and out of focus ever since lunch period ended. Right now all the female students from Third Year class 3-B were at the track and field oval for their P.E. class. The raven haired beauty did not pay much attention to their teacher's instruction as her mind was still preoccupied from the sight she saw earlier. It had been commendable on her part for being able to contain the tears that threatened from flowing out almost an hour ago. It was already a challenge to maintain what little composure she had been holding as her thoughts continued to taunt and remind Haruka of the scene between Heero and Kaoru at the rooftop during lunch break. The pretty campus idol was currently deaf to all the noise around her, oblivious to the ongoing activities of their Physical Education class. She had been unable to neither stop nor at the very least even control the singe of piercing pain coming from her own wounded heart. In a last ditch move to steel her resolve, Haruka attempted to quell down the anxiousness and sorrow within her chest. No matter how much she wanted to ignore and move on, her feelings for him won't allow her. Causing all her efforts to go down the drain as memoirs of that scene rushed out full force, slamming back at her right on the spot.

Flooding her mind.

Drowning her hopes.

Leaving her frustrated.

Bleeding.

"Did you see Yuy-kun?" Haruka cheerfully asked, smiling at the spiky haired boy standing by the door of Heero's classrom.

"H-Heero? I'm not sure... He disappeared when lunch break started. Normally though, you can find him at the rooftop eating his meal during this time."

Haruka bowed slightly to the boy that she noted was looking at her with a weird smile hanging on his lips. The pretty campus idol proceeded to the stairway and ascended the steps till she reached the rooftop entrance. Haruka had wanted to thank Heero for taking her home the other day while it was raining and also ask him to eat lunch with her. She was excited. Her heart was pounding in anticipation of seeing the young man that had already carved a niche within Haruka's thoughts and emotions.

As Haruka turned the knob to open the door...

"Morishima-san! It's your turn now!" Ms. Hiko called out to Haruka, snapping the raven haired beauty out of her memories and sentiments.

Somewhat glad to have her attention diverted for the time being, she breath a sigh of relief as she approached the P.E. Teacher to receive instructions for the day's activity.

"OK. Morishima-san, today's activity is the high jump, you need to clear the bar ahead and land safely on the cushions at the other side. You have 2 attempts to cleanly cross over, which will be the basis for your score in this exercise. Understood?"

"Yes, sensei." The girl with cornflower blue eyes said while taking her position on the starting line.

The P.E. teacher was about to give the signal to start when Hibiki made her way to Haruka.

"Sensei! Hold on for a moment, Haruka needs to tie her shoes!" The swim team captain informed Ms. Hiko before crouching beside Haruka while pretending to tie her shoe laces.

"Haruka, are you ok? You seem out of yourself today. Maybe..."

"I'm fine Hibiki. Thanks for your concern." The raven haired beauty coldly answered, before returning her attention to the task ahead - clear today's activity.

"Haruka..." Hibiki started, looking worriedly at her friend.

"We'll talk after this, let me just finish the exercise." Haruka said, smiling bitterly at Hibiki.

The swim team captain nodded in understanding, stepping back and notifying their teacher that Haruka was all good and ready.

"GO!"

Hearing the mark, the pretty campus idol leapt from her feet and ran furiously towards the bar.

Haruka Morishima was famous for joining most if not all of the female athletic school clubs in Kibitou Senior High. In truth, these clubs go after her, for two reasons, first, was due to her sheer beauty accompanied by an inherent charisma that could draw many potential recruits and long term members. Lastly, for being physically capable of meeting the club's requirements. Though the raven haired beauty may not look like it, her natural athletic skills were competitive enough to be considered as above average, providing her a good advantage to almost any given challenge. It was only because of her spontaneous and carefree attitude that Haruka would never commit long-term to all clubs she had joined. Right now, that little known fact about her athleticism was the only driving force Haruka wanted to capitalize on just to finish the activity for Physical Education class.

'I can do this.' Haruka mused, as she increased the pace of her sprint.

Her movements were similar to a gazelle, flexing its muscles with a combination of strength, speed and grace. The cornflower blue eyed young woman was truly a sight to behold, not just to the onlookers but even to her classmates and teacher. Every stride from her long, smooth and shapely legs brought her a step closer to the goal. Her vision was only focused at the task at hand. However, both her mind and heart were wandering elsewhere.

Straying back to that particular moment...

'What will I say to him...? I forgot to bring his coat after we got caught in the rain the other day.'

Haruka was still mulling over her thoughts as she opened the door slightly and took a peek first before entering the rooftop decks.

"You had rice at the edge of your lips."

The raven haired beauty heard Heero say after she saw him tweak a pair of chopsticks on Kaoru's face.

Haruka was all the more surprised as the brown haired boy stuffed the chopsticks into his mouth.

The sight that greeted her as she opened the door was already enough to set off Haruka's emotions. But the succeeding scene trumped all expectations, as again, the pretty campus idol was forced to see someone else sharing a tender moment with the boy she has fallen for. Haruka saw Kaoru offering Heero a piece of sausage sticking through her chopsticks, the Gundam Pilot seemed to hesitate for a while before leaning in and biting off a portion. The sky blue eyed girl felt her heart being spliced thoroughly as she painfully tore her gaze from the unknowing pair. Carefully, Haruka gently closed the door into its latch as she leaned her back on the adjacent wall beside the door. Lifting her head while closing her eyes, willing herself...

That no tears shall fall.

Her vision cleared just in time when she was only three steps away from the jump off point. Within a second, the glint in her eyes changed, her cornflower blue irises emanated a fiery determination prior to being glazed and unfocused orbs a few moments ago. Haruka leaned her body forward as picked up speed while her upper body prepared for the incoming twist need to overcome the hurdle ahead of her.

'Concentrate Haruka, concentrate.'

Using her right foot to spring herself upwards, Haruka flexed and twisted her upper body above the bar. The speed and momentum was just enough for the pretty campus idol as she was able to successfully launch her way on top of the measuring bar. Her body soared and glided over the bar with finesse normally seen from athletes.

However, her timing was off. The young woman was again tormented by those memories at such a wrong time.

"Here please try this too Heero." Haruka heard Kaoru say to the Gundam Pilot as she offered him a sausage stuck through her chopsticks.

'What the..!'

"It was delicious, Kaoru." The sky blue eyed young woman heard Heero replied after biting some of the sausage.

'No!'

As the scene wore off and her consciousness on the real time events resumed, Haruka's left foot tipped the vertical bar from its placement. She was almost past the obstacle when the accident happened. Haruka felt the bar hit her right foot as it landed alongside her on the gigantic cushion. Fortunately only her foot was struck by the bar, sparing her from any other injuries. An excruciating pain surged from her foot as Haruka instinctively clutched it with both hands. Closing her eyes, the raven haired beauty no longer knew where she was hurting more.

Was it the physical pain coming from her foot?

Or the emotional pain coming through her heart?

Haruka did not have much time to think as she felt herself being lifted from the cushions and cradled by two lean yet strong arms the raven haired beauty was familiar with. Her teary, sky blue and doe-like eyes widened in surprise as she became sure it was none other than him.

'Heero...'

"Are you ok, Morishima sempai?" Heero asked the pretty campus idol as she opened her eyes.

Haruka blinked a couple of times before she managed to fix her eyes at him, obviously looking at the Gundam Pilot with disbelief. Heero had ran all the way from where he was watching earlier. The Perfect Soldier was passing by the track and field oval on the way to his next class when he saw Haruka about to do her P.E. activity. The mobile suit pilot could not help but look in awe as the prettiest girl in the campus sprinted towards the vertical bar. Haruka took his breath away the moment she flung herself with grace on top of the bar. However, he was keen to observe that her timing was off, enough for him to rush towards the platform as the bar also fell with Haruka.

Heero was able to reach Haruka before anyone else could have reacted. Her teacher and classmates including Hibiki were still in shock as the brown haired boy carried Haruka and began walking off the track and field oval. The Perfect Soldier took a moment to check if there were other injuries to the raven haired beauty when he finally noticed that her eyes were staring back at him.

"I got... worried when I saw your foot tip that metal bar."

The Gundam Pilot thought that Haruka was still in shock as she did not respond to both of his statements. Heero's intense Prussian blue irises showed a hint of worry and concern for the raven haired young woman who was cradled safely in his arms.

"Don't worry, I won't let any harm come to you."

"Just please... say something, Morishima sempai." Heero pleaded, with his eyes gazing softly at the pretty campus idol.

Haruka's lips quivered, while her sky blue eyes stared softly at his cobalt orbs. A small smile became visible as the raven haired beauty used the back of her palm to wipe a few tears from the corners of her eyes.

"What took you so long?" She sniffled while her blue cornflower orbs held Heero's own deep cobalt ones in a longing and passionate embrace.

"I..." Heero trailed before being interrupted with the arrival of Ms. Hiko and Hibiki.

"Where are you taking her, young man?" The P.E. teacher inquired, as Heero and Haruka both look at her breaking the mood between them.

"To the infirmary, sensei." Heero coldly answered.

"Morishima-san? Are you alright?"

"I'm fine Hiko-sensei. My foot hurts a lot though." Haruka replied to which her teacher nodded in understanding.

"Tsukahara-san, would you like to accompany this young man and Morishima-san to the clinic?"

Unknown to their teacher, Hibiki was already observing Heero and Haruka while they were approaching them. The swim team captain also remembered that her best friend looked bothered and troubled earlier since coming back from lunch break. Whatever the issue was between them, Hibiki understood that Haruka would appreciate if an opportunity was given to be alone with the boy she harbors a deep set of emotions.

"It's ok Hiko-sensei, I have good faith on this boy, and he'll be able to bring Haruka to the infirmary."

"Besides... I'm not yet finished with the exercise myself." Hibiki added while smiling slyly at Haruka.

"Of course. I forgot about that Tsukahara-san." Ms. Hiko noted before turning to Heero, "You have our deepest gratitude, young man. I'll make sure to inform your homeroom teacher about this..."

"Heero Yuy, class 2-A, under Ms. Maya Takahashi." Heero collectedly stated.

"Thanks again, Yuy-san. I'll explain to Ms. Maya the reason you were late on your supposedly next class because of this incident." The 3rd Year P.E. teacher said before bowing in appreciation to the mobile suit pilot.

Heero nodded slightly in return to Ms. Hiko and Hibiki before going on his way to the campus infirmary while carrying Haruka.

The trip towards the clinic was relatively silent. Heero wore the usual cold, unfeeling and stoic mask on his face as he gently carried Haruka amidst the open stares and indiscreet hushing thrown at them by everyone they passed. Haruka was blushing a soft shade of pink as her eyes remained fixed on the Gundam Pilot's face. She was unaware and uncaring to the attention they drew from the other students they came across with on the way towards the infirmary. The pretty campus idol wanted to cherish the moment with Heero, she was reveling at the feeling of being carried by his strong lean arms. Her thoughts were focused solely on the mobile suit pilot, as she could not help but smile softly after seeing the serious look on his face. The raven haired beauty had already seen a variety of emotions that Heero allowed on the times they were together. She knew and felt his genuine concern regarding her safety and well being, it made her very happy upon realizing that it was no other than Heero who was the first to reach her side during the earlier accident.

'Yuy-kun...'

Haruka felt him stop in front of a door, the brown haired boy took a moment to look at her before calling out, "Ms. Kanae? Need your assistance here."

It didn't take long for the door to open, revealing Ms. Kanae in her uniform. The kind nurse smiled as she saw Heero, her eyes widened in concern when she noticed him cradling Haruka in his arms.

"Haruka? What's wrong? Heero, please take her in."

The Perfect Soldier nodded before entering the infirmary, he went directly to one of the cubicles and laid Haruka gently on top of a bed. The pretty campus idol smiled tenderly at the Gundam Pilot but secretly wished she was still being held by his arms. Heero curled his lips ever so subtly before giving her a small nod as he left the cubicle to talk with Ms. Kanae. The raven haired beauty immediately missed the warmth and comfort she felt while being encased in the protective yet soothing touch of his hands. It gave her a sense that she was his.

The thought made her smile, as Haruka wanted more since coming into terms with her emotions for the brown haired boy. And the sky blue eyed young woman knew that she was not alone anymore, one of his classmates had recently been bold enough to express her own claim on him. Haruka was still thinking about the recent events when Ms. Kanae entered the cubicle to examine her injury.

"Haruka, Heero has already explained what happened. It seems you've twisted or pulled a muscle from your right foot."

"How long will it take to heal?"

"Probably, two weeks at most if you only apply ointment and cold compress. It's pretty swollen right now."

True enough, her right foot was inflamed as the school nurse gently removed her socks and gym shoe. Haruka was contemplating on the matter when Heero entered the cubicle after asking Ms. Kanae's permission. The Gundam Pilot looked at her kindly as he laid down bandages, an injury spray and a tube of ointment beside Haruka.

"Can't it heal faster than that? Like within a few days or a week?" Haruka asked the school nurse, who she noticed had nodded and exchanged a knowing look at Heero before replying to her question.

"It is possible. But only if you'll allow Heero to rearrange the strained muscle."

"I have to warn you though, that it will be really painful, Morishima sempai." Heero said, after Ms. Kanae's own response.

"How long will it heal if you do that?" Haruka queried, looking at Heero with hopeful eyes.

"Three days to a week at most."

"Then do it, Yuy-kun."

"Are you sure? It would really hurt a lot." The Perfect Soldier asked once more, his cobalt blue irises staring with concern at Haruka's own cornflower orbs.

The pretty campus idol nodded as she gazed in return at Heero before saying her answer, "It's ok. I have full trust in you."

'It's true... You're the only one that I trust.'

Heero seemed to have been frozen from where he stood after hearing her words before positioning himself near Haruka's barefoot and holding it softly with his hands. The raven haired beauty was looking at him with glowing and sparkling eyes, a sign of complete trust and utmost faith bestowed only to the Gundam Pilot.

"Morishima sempai, bite the towel being handed by Kanae sensei and give me the signal if you're ready."

'Bite the towel?'

Haruka finally noticed the small towel being given to her by Ms. Kanae, she took it from the school nurse and placed the fabric between her teeth before nervously nodding at Heero.

A snap was initially heard inside the infirmary.

Followed by a loud shrieking cry that rang across the whole floor. Ending with the sound of a slap coming from within the cubicle. Eyes filled with tears, Haruka continued to sniff and choke a few sobs while the shock of Heero's 'treatment' slowly wore off from the beautiful raven haired girl. She was warned that it was painful, but she never thought it would really be THAT much painful. As the pretty campus idol slowly regained her bearing and composure, she finally remembered the reflex action of her right palm.

'Oh my...'

Slowly, like a criminal caught red-handed, her eyes crept guiltily towards Heero. Haruka was all the more flustered after realizing that she had unceremoniously slapped the boy at her side after he fixed the pulled muscle from her foot. The Perfect Soldier had a small smirk on his lips while he touched the area where Haruka's palm landed. Ms. Kanae was shaking her head sideways before leaving the clinic to inform and explain to the laboratory classes beside them that the situation was under control. Leaving the two of them alone inside the infirmary.

"Yuy-kun..."

"Don't worry Morishima sempai. I understand. It was reflex action." Heero replied, causing Haruka to blush even more.

"I'm really sorry, Yuy-kun. Did it hurt?" Haruka inquired, as she moved closer to take a look on Heero's reddened cheek.

"It's ok. Please don't worry anymore, Morishima sempai." The mobile suit pilot assured her, as Haruka's palm gently touched his face.

The raven haired beauty smiled as Heero tensed a bit while she traced and threaded her fingers around his cheek.

"I'll make it up to you." Haruka softly said as her sky blue irises gave Heero's own Prussian orbs a meaningful look.

The pretty campus idol knew that the brown haired boy felt her warm breath landing at the surface of his ear. With such proximity between them, Haruka closed both eyes and leaned her face towards Heero. Her warm, moist lips landed on the side of his face she had previously slapped due to the impulse brought by reflex action. Haruka kissed Heero tenderly at his left cheek, staying and lingering for a few seconds after her lips came into contact with his skin. She slowly pulled herself away before opening her eyes and shyly glancing at the Gundam Pilot. Heero was completely surprised, obviously caught off guard and at the very least awestruck from Haruka's actions. Realizing that the raven haired beauty was now looking and smiling at him, he curled his lips ever so subtly at her in return.

'I'm pretty sure, that I'll act on my emotions for you, Heero.'

Ultracompact Fusion Reactor charge level: 64%

More than a week had passed since Haruka's accident, it was already the thirteenth day of the month of November. Heero's schedule had been quite hectic for the past few days, during lunch time he could be found at the rooftop with Kaoru eating a delectable bento box she prepared for him. The obsidian eyed young lady was able to convince the mobile suit pilot that she's practicing her culinary skills and at the same time wanted to help him since Kaoru was aware of the fact that he was living all by himself. After giving it some thought and noting that he was also in a way actually helping Kaoru, Heero relented to the tomboyish girl's request and thus started the 'lunch dates' which Masayoshi fondly refers to their moments on the rooftop decks.

On the other hand, when classes were over for the day, he made sure to accompany Haruka on her way home as the pretty campus idol was still hobbling and required support which she explicitly requested to come only from Heero. The brown haired boy could only shake his head and allow a small barely noticeable smile on his lips as he remembered how he was coerced by the blue cornflower eyed young woman. Using her charm, wits and playful humor, Haruka dramatically told Hibiki who visited her along with some of their classmates inside the infirmary on the same day of the accident that Heero volunteered to take her home everyday after being bothered by his conscience for the painful treatment he did to the raven haired beauty's right foot. Haruka announced this acting all hurt and wracked in pain while also throwing an impish tantrum that finally pressured Heero to acquiesce from her relentlessness much to the shock of Ms. Kanae who was also witness to the pretty campus idol's prank. After Hibiki and her classmates left, Haruka grinned mischievously at Heero as the Gundam Pilot assured the exasperated school nurse that it was all fine with him while she demanded the raven haired girl to explain and apologize for her actions.

As Heero was torn off from his memories, the Gundam Pilot looked solemnly at the Wing Gundam which was laid on its back at the center of the hangar. It was a Sunday and the brown haired boy also had no work scheduled at the construction site. The Perfect Soldier spends such days resting and researching all the materials he had gathered in preparation of his planned return to his own time. Heero remembered that on the early days since his arrival, all he could think of was to find a way and get back to his own era. But right now, he was beginning to dread each passing day as the date when the ultracompact reactor reaches its full charge draws near.

'More than a month left and… I'll be back to where I belong.'

But where does he truly belong, the brown haired boy mused. Back in his own timeline, in A.C. 197, he was a nameless hero, a forgotten soldier from the last war. His fellow pilots were the only ones he could consider as friends, but admittedly was treated more as comrades in arms. He was the Perfect Soldier. The Ultimate Weapon. The unfeeling and cold hearted killing machine. However, the Gundam Pilot knew that someone would object to his way of describing himself.

Relena Peacecraft, the one woman he created a close bond during the Eve Wars and Mariemaia's Rebellion would definitely oppose his regard on himself. She was the person who always believed that he could make the impossible possible. She always had faith in him. And their mutual respect for each other could possibly resulted into something more, had their paths not deviated from the other. And he had also made the decision to stand back and watch her from afar.

And move on with his life.

However, life had many surprises planned ahead for him. Heero never imagined that he'll be thrown back in time. And he never expected that his plan on 'blending with the civilian population' would result to him being more accustomed to where he was right now. He never planned on having friends in the form of Junichi, Masayoshi and his other classmates. He never considered becoming very close to a young woman whom he has an inkling that possibly likes him more than a friend. And he never thought he would feel something more for another young lady who was settling deeper inside him.

'Wait a…'

His brows furrowed as he stared at the mobile suit's cockpit with defiance and bitterness. He recalled the Fold Generator run that resulted in him being thrown back in time. Heero felt a rush of anger and frustration wanting to burst out from his chest. Glaring at the cockpit disdainfully the Gundam Pilot knew that however he sought to destroy and vent out his fury at the ZERO System was meaningless, as the damage had already been done.

He was beginning… no, to be precise, he had already started to care.

With it comes the inevitable truth from one of the images permanently ingrained inside his memoirs.

With his imminent departure, he knows that he will be the cause of her pain.

The picture of that young woman, crying her heart out with tears flowing freely down her eyes.

ZERO showed him that image. And he knew he will be haunted by it for the rest of his existence.

He was destined to hurt her.

"Forgive me… But aside from the possible implications if something is to happen between us. I would never allow you to be stained… By someone like me whose hands reek with blood of the corrupt and even that of the innocent."

A murderer…

A killer…

A slayer…

'I don't deserve such kindness or happiness… I still have my own crosses to bear.'

The steady beeping from the console of his mobile suit was the only sound that could be heard within the hangar. And the young man inside clenched his jaw as he looked grimly on the days that lay ahead.

Author's notes:

Whoa... Now I've really broken it... 11k+ words!

Ok, first things first.

Acknowledgments - To operation meteor for the in-depth reviews, encouragement and suggestions. To drake202 for the support and being there since this story started. To RyuujinHaou and p17oyDONju9n - fellow Amagami fans and very insightful reviews and reactions. Ofcourse to azayaka93 and sh8ad8ow along with Jackofalltrades32456 for the comments and kind words.

I've mentioned all you here as a way of saying my gratitude. I deeply appreciate your responses. Especially since Chapter 7 was a monster, it was really difficult to complete. The reviews were a very good source of inspiration.

To all the readers, I am grateful, seeing that everyday someone is browsing the story leaves me fulfilled (in a writer's perspective). Though I'm still wondering at Chapter 4's magic why it's still the most viewed update I have.

Love Triangle - Like I've mentioned sides will be taken, lines will be drawn and on this update Team Kaoru has already been introduced, don't worry I'll show Team Haruka on the next one.

Oh and please don't forget to review! I never knew the power of it could really be inspiring and motivating.

Thanks so much and see you in 8!