Disclaimer: I don't own PoT, I own Kasumi and other OCs!

It's Shishido-Kasumi pairing! This is for Xmas' all of ya!

My Xmas gift to you all, yeah!

If it's not too much to ask… For those of you who have the fanfiction account, can you please log in before reviewing? It makes my life easier this way and I can reply your review more efficiently! But I understand and it's ok if you don't have one! XD

Hmm… I've got a few bad news, though… I need to tell you all that starting from January onwards I may not be able to update as frequent as I am at the moment any more because my University's semester starts in 24th January and I need to prepare!

Deepest apology to all!

Please also check out 'Koi no Gekidasa Ecstasy!', it's going to be Niou x OC x Kenya's fiction by going to my profile and you'll see the story there… Hehehe… I'll leave it to you to find out the gist of it!

Now, I'm getting to Shishido and Kasumi before they beat me up…(Shiver)

How long has it been?

It has been three years since I've ran into him and his 'girlfriend' of that time under that Christmas tree… Talking about the ungodly timing I was there in time to see her walking away from him, leaving a hurt and broken man standing alone when every body around him seemed to be enjoying their activities with their loved ones beside them…

I saw how happy he was when she was around. I watched them from afar and some times silently wished that it would be me in her place…

…Making him laugh…

…Being the person who received his smiles…

…Being the person who he shared his thoughts with…

…The first one he comes to when he's troubled or wanted somebody to talk to… But the one who makes me happiest is the one already taken...

I remembered seeing him standing there all alone, staring at the spot where she stood a few minutes ago with blank eyes… It hurt to see him like that.

It hurt me so much to see someone so proud and strong with 'I-don't-give-a-damn' attitude so lost… He looked so confused, so sad, so empty…

…And seeing him like that hurt me a lot because simply, I love him.

Love... Why does it hurt? Why does it ache? Maybe because we love too much and too deep some times we forgot to keep some for ourselves... Make sense, doesn't it?

I stood there watching him drowned in his emotions despite the cold winds biting into my skin or the fact that I'm supposed to meet my friends in a few minutes… They can wait, he's more important now…

I finally made up my mind and slowly approached him. "Hey," I called out softly.

I cringed as those sienna orbs turned to look at me lifelessly. "…What do you want, Kisaki?" His voice came out empty and somehow I wished that he would use his usual harsh, biting or sarcastic tone with me like usual… This wasn't the man I loved or admired…

I was thankful that my cheeks were already red from the cold or else he would've known that I was blushing. "I'm sorry," I said softly and looked at him sincerely. "I didn't mean to be nosy, but I happened to walk past…"

"Che, this sucks…" Well, at least his usual quote wasn't lost… "Are you going to mock me about it? If you are then do it and get lost, Kisaki."

I looked at him sadly. "It wasn't fair to you… You loved her." I reined back the sorrows for him that threatened to burst out from inside me despite his harsh words. "I may be a sarcastic person, but rest assured I don't walk over those who've fallen." I nodded slightly. "I'll see you around, then… Bye," I quickly turned to walk off to my destination.

A hand grabbed my wrist, "Wait, Kisaki…" His voice reached me in a croaked whisper. "…Stay with me for a while… Please…" His sienna eyes openly displayed the pain he felt, and I could cry for him right there. He looked so vulnerable. "I don't want to be alone… Not now…"

I looked at him fondly, "I'm not that coldhearted to walk away from a person in this condition, silly." I patted his shoulder. "I'll stay with you for a while. You're cursed with me for now because you've asked for it."

He forced out a smile, "Seriously, Kisaki, you suck." I chuckled.

…Anything to make you feel better, mi amor, any thing to make you feel better…That was what I've left unsaid that day…

Three years after High School… Hyoutei University…

I look outside the window along the hall and smile at the white, fluffy powder descending from the sky.

It's snowing! YEAH! It's going to be white Christmas this year!

Today is the last day of this term before the winter break takes place too! So I'm thinking about going out and get some decorations for Tarou-ji-sama's house. I'm living with him since I'm attending to Hyoutei University, you see…

It's a miracle I haven't gone berserk yet by my own uncle's strictness, really.

I moved up from Kanagawa after High School and I'm living with my uncle because my father was pestered by my hysteric Nii-san about letting me be alone in the big city, no thanks to my older brother for that!

But I still see Masaharu, Seiichi and other guys every month or so. Make it every weekend for Masaharu and Akaya! I hang around with them as often as I can and some times we all go out for something fun together!

But speaking of Christmas… That means presents, and presents mean I'm going to be broke again from buying presents and sending them! Not to mention I've got about twenty or so people to send my gifts to…

…I'm going to be so broke! WAH!!!

I sigh and put a blue cashmere scarf around my neck. Walking down the corridors, I wave goodbye to Tachibana An, my junior, who is Hiyoshi's girlfriend and one of the few 'sane' females in Hyoutei. I like An, she's funny and not afraid to speak out her mind, and not to mention she must have a lot of patience with Hiyoshi as a boyfriend.

…Just listening to him saying 'Gekokujyou' every minute makes me wants to gag him already!

"Hey An, going for a date with Hiyoshi later?" I give the junior a teasing smile as she falls into steps beside me. "My, you two are so cute together."

She grins shyly with a small blush. "No, he asked but I want to go alone and get a present for him first. It's going to be Christmas' Eve in tomorrow after all." She looks up at me (I'm taller than An, Thank Kami for that!!!). "What about you, senpai? Are you going out with Shishido-san later?" She grins as my face flush. "I'll take that as a yes, then." She giggles.

I shake my head furiously. "No, I'm meeting Ryoh tomorrow for a date. Today I'm off on my own with the boys." I smile fondly as I mention that. "Also I need to get some last minute presents for a few people."

An looks at me admiringly. "I envy you; senpai, you and the Rikkai boys are so close." She puts on one of her gloves. "They're protective of you, and I'm sure many girls would kill to be in your shoes." She blinks bemusedly as she hears me sighing. "Did I say something wrong?"

I'd love to trade place with you, An. You have no idea how protective those boys are. In fact you missed the word 'over' in front of 'protective'! That's how I'd put it! Two-third of my time in Secondary school was spent running away from them!

Not to mention that they've all teamed up with the boys in Shitenhouji since my third year in High School! NOO! This is a nightmare!

Somebody tugs my scarf from behind and I yelp. Turning around with a glare, I find myself staring into dark sienna eyes. "Oi, why are you in such a hurry, huh?" Shishido Ryoh, my boyfriend of a year and a half, frowns at me. "I thought I said I'm going to walk you to the gates." He flicks his gaze over to the junior besides me. "Tachibana, Hiyoshi's waiting for you downstairs."

An smiles happily and nods. "Thank you, Shishido-san. Well, I'll see you later then, Kasumi-senpai!" She waves and runs off.

URGH! She's seeing the mushroom Hiyoshi and I'm sure I'll hear about another fight and make-up soon… They're the weirdest couple I've ever seen but I've to say they're perfect for each other in some ways… Oh well!

…I better deal with Ryoh for now, hehehe… CHA! FIGHT!

I give him my sweetest smile. "I thought you're busy today, Ryoh." I shove my bare hands into my coat's pockets. I shiver slightly as we step outside the heated building. "You told me yesterday you are going to do something alone today, don't you?" I raise an eyebrow at him.

He pulls out his good ol' baseball cap from his coat's pocket and wears it backward. "Yeah, but can't I walk my girlfriend to the gate, Kasumi?" He pokes my head gently, his eyes soft. "I just wanna see you off, huh?" He pats my head.

Aww… He's so sweet! Jump him! Jump him NOW!

…Shut up, stupid conscience!

I hug his arm and snuggle against the side of his body. "Wow, for someone so proud, you are sweet." I snicker as he flushes slightly, grumbling under his breath. "Oh come on, Ryoh, you know I'm kidding." I nudge him gently. I sigh tiredly and let go of his arm as he refuses to look at me. "I'm off then, see you." I mutter dejectedly and increase my speed, intending to leave him behind.

I thought that after all these times we've been together; he'd at least open up a bit more to me… Open up to me like he did with her. Sometimes I doubt where I stand with him but I'm too scared to voice it out, knowing he would get either annoy or angry.

"Wait," Ryoh's strong hand grabs my arm, but I refuse to turn back and look at him. Che! I'm pissed with you, Shishido! You better do the make-up part! "Oi, Kasumi, turn around." He keeps tugging my arm gently. "C'mon, just turn around."

ARGH! I'm bloody annoyed by his denseness!

I turn around with a scowl and glare at him. "What!?" I snap in annoyance. "You better make it fast and good, Shishido!" I huff moodily.

He takes my hands into one of his own, another hand digging into his coat's pocket. "Here, wear this." He drops a pair of brown gloves that I saw him wearing in the morning into my hands. "You forgot to bring yours, didn't you?" He smiles slightly when I give him a slightly confused look. "You can use mine for now, just give it back to me tomorrow, huh? No buts!" He pokes my forehead gently with a grin when I try to protest. "I'll start bringing spares next time in case you forget, okay?"

Now do you know the reason why I love this guy so much? He appears all un-caring and insensitive to others, but I know I can depend on him any time. And he is proud and so sure of what he's doing I'd never have to be concern about him all the time.

…Well, mostly it's the other way round, him going all drama-queen on me because I always forget something important, hehe!

Not that I mind, a dramatic Ryoh is a cute Ryoh nevertheless!

I give him a bright smile. "Thanks, Ryoh." I peck his cheek. "I'm off, then. See you tomorrow, ne? Same place and same time?" I ask happily.

He nods and gives me a soft look reserved only for me. "You bet on it. I'll call you tonight, huh?" He bends down slightly so he levels my face with his. "See ya, Kasumi." He gives me a soft kiss before walking off with a wave.

Damn, that Shishido Ryoh's kiss can always make me feel special!

Not to mention that he tastes like that mint gum he always chews after meals or classes!

I watch his retreating back with a small smile. It has really been three year since that day… It was also the day that our relationship changed its course. Some times I still wonder what would happen if she didn't broke up with him or I didn't walk into him coincidentally that day.

How would it be, indeed? Would we be what we are today? Would we still be fighting if I didn't console his pride and feelings that day?

I don't care about that now, though. And it's not like I'm going to tell him I was in love with him long before he asked me out!

Yeah, I got a crush on him the first time we met. I like his outspoken, tough attitude and that quick wit of his in retorting insults that probably can put Yuushi up for a debate any day. He is also handsome in his own ways, even he's not dark and burning hot like Yuushi or bad-boy with predatory vibe like Masaharu.

…But some times I still get pissed thinking of what he said to me the first time we've met!

You wanna know what he said?! I'll tell you!

"Che! For a girl so small and frail like you, your attitude is troublesome." That is what he said to me! RAWR!!! And he still has the nerve to tease me about it until these days!

I'm snapped out of my thoughts and yelp in surprise as I'm pulled into a tight hug. I pout and try to claw my way out of the deadly embrace as the very familiar scent of my best friend wafts through my nose.

He's so dead for trying to scare me like that! CHA!!!

"Darling, I missed you!" Masaharu drawls with a grin as I turn to scowl at him. "Ooh, what, no kiss for me? Are you still mad at me for dragging you out, babe?" He gives me a mock-dejected look, I scowl deeper, and the girls around us squeal and faint.

…I hate the trickster in his mischievous mode!

"Haru," I give him a sweet smile and grin wider when I see him shivers. YES! It works! "Please don't make me slip some of my boost-up drink into your drink, ne?" I say sweetly with a tug on his arm. "Let's go! I want to shop!" I chirp happily.

My trickster friend gawks at me. "Shopping!? You called me out for shopping!?" He exclaims with a hand smacking his forehead. "God have mercy on me," he clasps his hands together in a pleading way. "Darling, I love you; please don't do this to me." Silver-blue eyes look at me pleadingly and I ignore him and continue to drag him towards the shopping district. "Kasumi!" His desperate cry is lost to the crowd.

I LOVE playing 'TORTURE MASAHARU' game! Mwahaha!

The next day…

I sigh for the hundredth time since this morning. I can't believe I'm out with my two best friends instead of my own boyfriend! And it's Christmas' Eve today!

He called me just this morning to tell me "Sorry, I can't make it today, I'll see you later at Atobe's party, ok? Take care of yourself."! And he didn't even explain WHY!

Kenya, who is sitting across me, offers me a comforting smile. "I'm sure he'll make up to you later, Kasumi." His dark blue eyes are soft, and I smile a little. "That's my girl," he pats my head.

…Thank Kami for Kenya; he keeps me sane when the others drive me insane, amen.

Masaharu, who sits beside me, leans back into his chair. "Hmm… That Shishido is something, ditching you on a day like this." His intense silver-blues darken. I roll my eyes; he's probably thinking about how to torture Ryoh again. "He didn't even tell you why, no?"

"I told you for the gazillion time already, Haru, NO." I settle down the empty mug onto the table. "Hey, get the bill, would you? I think the waitress is rather fond of you." Kenya and I snicker as Masaharu rolls his eyes in annoyance.

'Fond' would be a little understated; I'd say she's all over him just now!

And to think that Masaharu only glances at her! I've been surrounded by too many good-looking males, Mwahaha! Envy me, girls!

(A/N: (Picks up a knife and start chasing her) DIE! Give me my princes back!(Chase Kasumi around))

The trickster turns his eyes at me. "Why should I? Let Oshitari get the bill," he points at Kenya. "I'm still tired from yesterday," he pouts.

I snicker at Kenya's confused look. "He went shopping with me yesterday," I explain cheerfully. "It was quite fun, really!"

Kenya gives Masaharu a sympathetic smile, "Dude, don't worry, we've all got our shares of her. Think of it as the punishment of being over protective about her, huh?" He pats the trickster's shoulder. "I'll get the bill, my treat." He gets up and grins.

HEY! WHAT IS THAT SUPPOSED TO MEAN, OSHITARI KENYA!?

I shoot a glare after Kenya's back until Masaharu speaks up. "How's Shishido treating you these days, any way?" Silver-blue eyes regard me with deep intensity. "Still a lot of drama as usual, huh?" He smirks as I frown.

"Don't diss Ryoh like that, Haru. You're the one to talk, you rile him up purposefully every bloody damn time you see each other!" I poke him. "I don't know what it is with you two, really. Your fights are enough to last you the rest of your life!"

Trust me, I'm not exaggerating! Try being me when I'm caught in the middle of two guys insulting each other over my head about absolutely every bloody damn thing!

He gives me an innocent look (which isn't so innocent when it comes from a trickster like him!). "I didn't know that, did I?" He shrugs nonchalantly. I discreetly twitch.

ARGH! JUST GIMME A GUN! I'M GOING TO SHOOT HIM AND RID MYSELF FROM THE INSANITY!!!

"I'm done with the bill," Kenya returns to our table. "Let's go catch a movie or something, I don't feel like going back just yet." He suggests and turns to give me a questioning look. "Your uncle lets you out late today, right?"

I smile brightly at my friend. "You bet! I'm going to be celebrating with you guys and major of Rikkai Dai people at Atobe's party tonight and I'm celebrating with my family and Shitenhouji in Osaka tomorrow!" I squeal in delight. "I can't wait to see the others!"

My fellow Kansai friend chuckles and holds the door open for me. "I'm sure they can't wait to see you, too, Mi-chan." He exits after me.

I smile fondly at both boys and blink bemusedly as Masaharu's silver-blue eyes flash dangerously. "Haru?" I call out, but he only frowns deeper and steps in front of me. I've only seen him like this twice before… Something is really wrong, but what did he see?

Usually my trickster friend appears nonchalant, laid-back and his pranks are done in good-humor style for the fun of himself and others. However, once a guy in Rikkai went too far and brought the tennis Regulars into insulting Masaharu and another time when those guys from Murigaoka insulted Seiichi… I remember those silver-blue eyes flashed in this fashion…

…Before all hell break loose…

"Masaharu, what's wrong?" I peer pass Masaharu's tall form curiously. "Why are you-?" I stop mid-sentence and feel my blood goes cold at the sight before my very eyes…

…My boyfriend who said he is busy today… He's right across the very street…

And 'she' is right beside him… She's hugging his arm… And he let her… He doesn't even attempt to nudge her away or reject her at least the slightest bit like he did to me…

…Oh Kami-sama… It hurts. It hurts so much I can't even put it in to words about how I feel at the moment… It just hurts…

…Somebody please wake me up and tell me that I'm having a nightmare… PLEASE!

I feel as if there are thousands of needles piercing through my heart… No… Even thousands needles piercing through my heart would be even less painful than what I feel right now…

Dark sienna eyes look up and stare right into mine. I see shock in those dark eyes before it is replaced with panic and alarm. "Kasumi!" He calls out and dashes across the street.

I step backward in panic and shuffle backwards until my back hits the wall. I don't want to talk to you now, Ryoh! Go away, please go away! Silent screams fill my head.

"I'll deal with things here, you two go." Masaharu's drawl is fainted, but it is sharp, so are his eyes. "I'll see you two later. Go." He steps forward to face the approaching Ryoh.

I stand there, shivering, until Kenya's strong arms pick me up bridal-style. "I'm sorry, Mi-chan, but we'll move faster this way." He murmurs against my hair as he starts running. "Just hold on tight for a while, okay?"

I nod numbly and hold on to him, the image of Ryoh with her still gives me a raw, unadulterated pain inside my being… He doesn't want to spend his time with me… My vision blurs from tears streaming down from my eyes. But he spent it with her… Why? Why? WHY?!

Kenya lives up to his 'speed-star' nickname; within a few moments, both of us are far away from the scene and we are heading towards the apartment Kenya shares with Masaharu. I don't even realize or remember when we enter the apartment or I'm gently dropped down onto the big, comfy couch with my friend's larger figure sitting down next to me.

"Kasumi…" Kenya gently guides my head to rest on his shoulder. "I'm sure there is going to be an explanation from him…" He murmurs soothingly.

Upon hearing my friend's attempt of comfort, I cry.

…My phone rings persistently, however I switch it off and throw it to the opposite couch and cry harder seeing Ryoh's number on the display.

I cry and cry and cry, and it seems all the tears won't stop easily so I just keep on crying.

I cry because I know he doesn't feel the way I do, I cry because I think of how pathetic I am, and I cry because I think I'll be crying forever trying to get over him…

I'm too deep in crying my heart out and not realizing that Masaharu, who has just returned, is now sitting down beside me. "Kasumi…" He pulls me into his laps. "If it'll make you feel better then cry it out, my darling," he murmur softly and tucks my head under his chin to calm me down. "I'm not going to leave you alone, babe, I promise… Oshitari and I won't be going anywhere until you tell us to, love." I feel him pressing his lips softly against my forehead. "He's an ass to do that to you."

The worst thing a guy can do is let a girl fall in love when he never intends to catch her fall… My case would be just like that… I love him too much it hurts…

I spend the rest of the morning crying my heart's content out, all the while snuggling up against Masaharu and raving incoherent words I don't even understand.

I cease crying after a long while, but I'm still snuggled against Haru, who doesn't complain because like the other Shitenhouji and Rikkai's boys, he's pretty much another 'brother' to me…

…Not to mention there are another twelve 'brothers' I'll be seeing tonight at Atobe's party…

Why twelve? Well, Koharu and Yuuji count themselves as my 'sister' instead, haha.

"Thanks Haru," I mutter tiredly and slowly get off him. "You too, Kenya. Urgh, my eyes hurt…" I groan and flop down onto the couch again. "Remind me never to cry like that again."

Kenya chuckles heartily as he pats my back. "I'm glad you come around, Mi-chan." He smiles kindly. "Are you hungry? I'll order a delivery or something." He reaches for the phone.

"I'm fine with anything. Thanks Kenya," I offer him a bright grin despite my sore eyes or heartache. Kenya smiles back and gets up to make the call.

As soon as Kenya left the room I turn to look at Masaharu. My dark blue eyes stare into his silver-blue ones for a while, "I'm not going to even ask what you've done when I left," I start slowly. I smile at his surprised look. "I know you're worry about me, and I'm grateful. Thank you, Masaharu." I poke his forehead with a cheeky smile.

He grins wolfishly. "Anything for my darling 'little' sister."

ARGH! He just has to emphasize the word 'little', doesn't he!?

I grin sweetly, and he swallows. "Niou Masaharu…" I pick up a cushion nearby in threatening manner. "Just who were you calling 'little', huh!?" I pounce at him.

YOU'RE SO DEAD, NIOU! CHA! DIE!

Later that day…

I swat Masaharu's hand on my head away. "Dammit Haru, don't make me feel shorter than I already am." I exhale through my nose and shiver. Bloody cold! "Why can't you guys just buy some ear muffs and keep them around in your place?" I huddle under my thick scarf as the chilly breeze blows pass.

He shrugs at me! That guy! "We're men, and we're strong. That's why we don't need ear muffs." His nonchalant explanation makes me twitch.

He did NOT just say that I'm female who're weak so that's why I need ear muffs to protect me from the cold, didn't he!? CHA! Kill him again!!!

Kenya chuckles softly from my right. "All right, children, no wreaking havoc in Atobe's party no matter how much you two despite him, ok?" Haru and I chuck snow balls at him. "HEY!" He laughs and ducks, and females nearby swoon at the sight of smiling Kenya.

Ignore fan girls…. Ignore fan girls… IGNORE THE FAN GIRLS! ARGH! LET ME SHOOT THEM!

I glare at those hormone-crazed ladies and they scamper away rapidly. Take THAT! "Are you always this crazy after you cry?" Masaharu rakes a hand through his hair as I turn around to glare at him instead. "No, wait, don't answer that, you're already insane." He grins impishly.

I sulk. "I resent that comment!" I poke him. "You two were the ones who drove me to this point of insanity by your antics during school, after all." I stick my tongue out at Kenya and Masaharu. I squeal and run away from both of them when I notice this 'let's-catch-her-and-make-her-beg-for-our-mercy' look on their faces.

SAVE ME FROM THE TWO DEVILS KAMI-SAMA!!!

CRASH!

I collide against a hard body. "Oh Kami, I'm so sorry!" Shite, damn you Haru, Kenya! "I wasn't looking where I was going and… Ryoh…" His name slips out of my mouth before I can stop myself. CRAP! I don't want to see him now!

…I remember the pain earlier in the morning… I can still feel it here inside my heart… He steps all over my feelings and it almost breaks my heart into pieces…

Dark sienna eyes look at me in relief. "I was trying to get to you the whole day, Kasumi." I step backwards away from him. "I need to talk to you," Ryoh speaks as he steps forward. "Kasumi…" He reaches out to touch me.

No, no, no, no… NO!

"Back off, fucker." Masaharu snarls ferociously as he steps in between Ryoh and me. I love you Haru! "She obviously doesn't want to talk to you, Shishido. I suggest you back off and go back to your, hmm, other 'girlfriend' and leave my friend alone." Silver-blue eyes flash threateningly.

I must confess I'm kinda looking forward to a nasty fight between my 'boyfriend' and my 'best friend' until Kenya steps in, surprising the three of us. "Let's be reasonable here," Kenya's thickly accented voice is low, and it means he's very serious so they better stop and listen to what he has to say. "Niou, we're going first. Mi-chan and Shishido can talk."

"But-!" Haru tries to protest.

The speed-star of Naniwa raises his hand to stop the trickster from protesting. "I know you don't want her to get hurt, and believe me when I say I don't want her to get hurt, too." Dark blue eyes look at me with tenderness and apology. "But this is getting rather tiring and it's best to have both of them settled this without a third party for now, Niou. I won't stop you from killing him later if you want. Hell, I'd even help." He clucks his tongue impatiently at his roommate. "Can we go now?"

Kenya simply rules when he's in serious mode. Even Yuushi has to surrender, amen.

Masaharu shoots his roommate a nasty look. He scowls Genichirou's style at the other two men, but finally a look of surrender appears on his handsome face. "Fine! I'm coming with you!" He grunts in annoyance. "Shishido, if Kasumi doesn't show up at Atobe's party in fifteen minutes sharp after this, I'll hunt you down and make you wish I'd kill you now instead. Mark my words on it," he drags his feet away with Kenya following him.

…Crap… It's just Ryoh and me now…

I stare at the snow-cover street, refusing to meet the dark sienna eyes I've come to love for a long time… I don't know what to say to him, the Mini Kasumi inside my head has retreated back into her damn private 'chamber' and leave me to face this kinda stuff alone! So much for some help!

After a few moment of awkward silence I speak up without looking him in the eyes. "I'm sorry I disturbed you in the morning, Shishido-san, it won't happen again." I keep my head low as I step away from him. "Have a good day," I fake a cheerful voice.

Perhaps it's time… It's time to let him go…

…How can you keep something that never belongs to you in the first place? His heart was hers since the very beginning. He loved her, and I'm sure he still does now.

A strong hand grasps my arm and turns me around. "We need to talk," dark sienna eyes stare into mine seriously. "We need to talk about what happened in the morning, Kasumi." He puts both hands on my shoulders. "I want to talk to you." He adds softly.

I close my eyes wearily, hiding the tears from him. "I'm not that dense, Shishido," I whisper shakily, my heart breaking over and over again at the feel of his hands, his voice, and the look in his eyes. "You loved her back then, and you probably still do. I'm just an outsider," I smile sadly. "I'm sorry I've wasted your time… You can let me go now, Shishido." I give him a tired look. "Maybe… Maybe if I walked away that night when I saw you… Everything would be different and my heart wouldn't be breaking so badly right now." I laugh brokenly.

Dark eyes blaze with emotions I don't recognize as he leans in and touches my forehead with his own. "I'm not going to let a half of my heart walk away from me again, Kisaki Kasumi." He looks at me seriously. "Look, I'm not giving excuses for what I've done to you; I was a jerk to cancel our time together and not telling you the reasons, ok?" He inhales deeply. "I'm telling you now I won't ever see her again, and what you've seen in the morning was the last time we'll see her. She's not coming back to our lives again," He tucks a loose strand of hair behind my ear. "And I'm sorry; you'll never know how much, Kasumi. I'm sorry to do that to you without telling you anything you deserve to know." He looks at me; his eyes full of hope. "Give me another chance, hm?"

"Not good enough, Shishido," I shake my head tiredly. "Why should I give you another chance when I've tried so badly all these times to get closer to you and you always pushed me away? I'm a human, a girl with feelings and emotions. I can get hurt, and even though I never let you know you've hurt me, it doesn't mean that I'm not hurt by your actions or words." I put my hands on his chest and push slightly. "Please let me go, Shishido-san."

He takes my hands into his own. He looks down at my gloved hands tenderly. Bloody hell, I'm using his gloves! I curse myself inwardly as I realize. "It's good you didn't forget your gloves this time." He says softly.

I blush embarrassingly. "I was going to give them back to you today," I move to take off the gloves. "Um, thanks for lending them to me, I won't need this… Shishido!" I struggle to get free as he pulls me against him. "What are you doing!?"

He gestures for me to look up with his eyes. "I'm living up to the tradition."

I look up. ARGH! WHO THE HELL PUT THE BLOODY MISTLETOE THERE!?

Ok… Time to freak out!

"Shi-! Hmm!" He kisses me!

Ooh… I gotta admit that he can kiss to save his life! Nice, sweet kiss… I'm melting!!!

He pulls back and looks me in the eyes. "I'm sorry, Kasumi. I'm sorry to cause you all the distress. You're right, I loved her, but she broke my heart. I thought I was torn, but you came in and you were sincere. I found myself opening up to you. Now you've placed my heart back together, I'm scared that you'd get up and leave me like she did. Stupid and selfish, I know, that's why I act all tough in front of you. I want to keep you impressed." He presses his cheek against mine. "So please… please don't walk away from me."

Oh Kami… I've wanted to hear those words forever… Ryoh really knows what to say, I gotta give him that. I feel a bright smile appearing on my face along with the tears. "If I wanted to walk away from you, I wouldn't have stayed with you that day," I grin teasingly, "idiot."

Take THAT, Shishido Ryoh! That's for making me cry!

He raises an eyebrow at me. "That's coming from a person who falls in love with this idiot?" OUCH! He holds my hand and our fingers entwine. "I also want to tell you why I was out with her, you know." He says as we walk along the street. "I-."

I hug his arm. "I don't need to know, Ryoh." I smile sincerely at him. "I don't care what you did, as long as you love me, everything is all right." I snuggle against him.

"Hey," I look up to see his blushing face. "I need my arm if I want to hold your waist, you know?" I feel my eyes widen in surprise.

Shishido Ryoh is trying to be romantic!? SERIOUSLY!?

"Ryoh, you don't have to." I protest as he puts his arm around my waist. "I know you-."

"Kasumi," He cuts me off! DAMMIT! "As much as I love you, I love you better when you don't protest some times, huh?" He wriggles his eyebrow at me with a smirk.

WAIT! Did he say the 'L' word!? … HE DID!!!

I smile brightly. "Me vuelves loco, Shishido Ryoh," I laugh at the scoff on Ryoh's face at my Spanish (he told me he hates it because he doesn't understand, but I use it to tease him all the time with Yuushi and Atobe) "Eres espectacular, te adoro, te amo, mi principe." I laugh as he bends down to kiss my cheek.

(A/N: She said 'you drive me crazy' and 'you're spectacular, I adore you, I love you, my prince'!)

He smirks good-humoredly. "I know, thank you."

…Whoa, he understands what I'm saying? I thought he doesn't!

I look at him in surprise. "I thought you don't understand Spanish?"

All I get for answer is a shrug, "I don't need to, it's in your eyes what you're saying." He bends down and kisses my forehead. "You know this means you're stuck with me for eternity, right?"

"Of course I know, and trust me, when we die and we reach Hell's gates they'd probably kick us out and send us straight to heavens because they're scared you'll terrorize the satans down there and steal their jobs." I grin at his scowl. "I'm kidding, Ryoh. Yes, I know I'm stuck with you for eternity. But that's what I've wanted since I've seen you." I blink at my words and groan. "Oh Kami, I blabbed again…" I mutter in annoyance.

Damn Mini Kasumi! She's affecting me!

"What do you mean?" He frowns, but starts to smile as realization dawns him. "You like me since the first time we've met?" He chuckles. "That's a good one, Kasumi." He teases me and laughs as I blush. "C'mon, we've a party to go." He pulls me along with him.

I smile and let him lead the way. "You understand that Masaharu would probably have told the other guys from Rikkai, right?" I ask with an innocent smile as he scowls so deep his eyebrows almost touch each other. "They'd probably pounce at the sight of you."

I'll bet one million on that! Seiichi would definitely lead the army and attack my poor Ryoh… NOO!!

"Not that I care… But do you have a driving license?" He asks casually out of the blue.

I blink. "Yeah, I do. Why?"

"…Coz you're driving me crazy." He winks and holds the door to the restaurant open for me. "And I'm sure you're tired too because you've been running around in my mind for the whole time."

…Okay…NOW IT'S TIME TO FREAK FULL-ON! SHISHIDO RYOH IS USING PICK-UP LINES

I gape at him; my feet root to the spot and splutter until he gently ushers me in. "W-Wait, Ryoh! Why are you saying pick-up lines!?" I start freaking out. "Kami, don't scared me like that!"

I have all rights to be freaking out, dammit! The Ryoh I knew never say pick-up lines!

Dark sienna eyes sparkle with mirth. "Well, what can I say? I'm trying to please my girl."

…Hell, I don't mind those lines!!!

…Shut up, you ditched me, traitor. Now go away!

I shove mini Kasumi inside the back of my mind and gift Ryoh with my brightest smile. "Well, what are we waiting for?" I smirk at him, he smirks back. "We've Atobe's party to crash!"

"Then let's give Atobe a taste of what real party should be, shall we?" He laughs and kisses me again. "I'm ready when you are."

I'm always ready with you by my side, Shishido Ryoh, the first and last love of my life…

Somewhere in the corner of the restaurant…

"Kirihara, sit down. Nee-san won't like you knocking her boyfriend's face off, you know."

"Shut up, Zaizen! He hurt her!"

Sigh. "Kirihara, sit down. Zaizen's right, unless you want all hell breaks loose again you better sit down and behave."

"But Niou-senpai-!"

"No buts. I'm letting him off the hook this time," Smirk. "But if he hurts her again intentionally or not, we'll have the pieces of him deliver to his family after we're through with him."Cackle. "I'm going to rip his head off and you two can share the rest, brats."

Evil smirks. "Ditto, senpai."

…I feel sorry for Ryoh… Masaharu is plotting his demise…

DONE! Shishido and Kasumi one-shot! I'm not sure whether it's as good as the other ones or not but I've tried my best! Please tell me what you think about it!

For all unsigned reviews from last chapter:

Hinataluv: Thank you, I'll do Genichirou and Kasumi pairing as soon as I'm done with a few things. I'm glad you're enjoying the one shots! XD

blackxbride: Definitely Fuji after Sanada! Thank you! XD

kp-sama: Bun-chan could be hard to write... I'll do it after the others! I'll do Bun-chan after Kenya, ne? XD

Thea: Thank you! Definitely Fuji and Kasumi after Sanada and Kasumi!

Asuka: Gen-chan would have to wait for a while (ducks the flying kendo sword) because I'm doing the chapters for the other story first. Thank you!

Kage Tsume: Gakuto and Kasumi IS hard to write because I'm totally blank... But Fuji or Sanada would definitely be up in here! Thank you! XD

Kumi: Thank you! I love Shiraishi and Yuushi, too. Of course I can do Kenya, but he'd have to wait until I'm done with Gen-chan and Fuji, is that ok? ;)

I'll put Sanada-Kasumi one-shot on hold for a while because I'm trying to finish 'Of Blacks and Blues' first!

My deepest apologies to all readers and reviewers!

I love the alerts added, however I love the reviews more… Hehehe…

Please review!

Till next time then, ne? XD

Cers