The original author of this story goes to Aileria. Everything plot-wise and anything else necessary goes to her.
Gakuen Alice owned by Higuchi Tachibana
Summer Madness
Chapter 6: Just the Beginning
Mikan's honey brown eyes were fixed on her auburn curls that were slightly damp. With her comb in her right hand and a bottle of hairspray in her left, she swiftly got herself prepared for the big night. For the first time in a few months, Mikan applied eyeliner and powdered up her face. Taking one last look at her reflection, the brunette emerged from her bathroom.
Suddenly, a soft knock came from the doorway. "Miss Sakura? The madam wants to speak with you." It was Sebastian's voice. Mikan tilted her head cutely and walked towards the door; what did Hotaru need to speak to the brunette about?
Mikan pulled down the brass handle; only to be greeted by Sebastian's charming smile. "Hotaru?" The brunette asked.
Sebastian nodded, "Miss Imai is awaiting you in her room." On that note, Sebastian started making his way down the hallway. Mikan arched a brow and closed the door behind her. She quickly glanced at her watch that was wrapped nicely around her right wrist; 5:30pm.
The brunette carefully jogged towards Hotaru's room, not wanting to accidentally ruin the dress. Occasionally, the maids and other butlers stopped to greet Mikan along the way. Once Mikan arrived, she knocked on Hotaru's door.
"Hotaru? What do you need to see me for?" Mikan raised her voice slightly.
"Come in," Hotaru responded casually.
The brunette pulled down the handle and made her way inside. Hotaru was running a white towel through her damp hair. To Mikan's surprise, Hotaru was dressed in a pair of sweat pants and a purple t-shirt.
"Hotaru! You aren't even dressed yet! The party is starting in about an hour," Mikan urged.
"Actually, that's what I wanted to talk to you about," Hotaru replied nonchalantly.
Hyuuga Natsume shifted his black bow-tie into place. He was dressed in a suit with his hair lightly spiked. Around his neck was a gold necklace with the letters: HN dangling on his chest.
"Natsume!" Aoi's cheerful voice echoed throughout his eardrums.
Natsume turned away from the mirror to face his sister, "What?" He asked in a bland tone.
"Are you ready?" Aoi stuck her tongue out playfully. She was dressed in a black strapless dress that just touched her knees. The dress hugged her figure, emphasizing her curves slightly. Natsume sighed. For some reason, he didn't feel very comfortable in seeing her sister in such a "short dress."
"I can't believe you're actually going to wear that," Natsume muttered.
Aoi narrowed her eyes, "What's wrong with it? I think it looks good!"
Natsume shrugged, "Whatever you say." Aoi rolled her eyes discreetly; she hated when Natsume drops the topic so suddenly. If he had a problem with it, he might as well explain why. The raven colored hair boy took a glance at his gold watch. "The party doesn't start until seven; it's only 5:35pm."
"Ever heard of getting there early?" Aoi replied. "Besides, it'll be nice to just talk with Ruka before the party starts. Who knows where he might disappear off too?" A small chuckle escaped her lips.
Natsume shrugged; Aoi did have a point. Ruka would be really occupied once the party starts; especially since this is his father's welcome home party.
"I'll call him then," Natsume fished out his phone from his pocket. Aoi fixed her hair briefly as Natsume lifted his phone towards his ear. After five rings, the line went through. "Ruka?"
"Ah, Natsume!" Ruka's cheerful voice came from the other end. "What's up?"
"Aoi wants to head over right now," Natsume took a small glimpse at his sister who narrowed her eyes.
"Oh, my mom and I are heading to the airport to pick up my dad. But, the maids will let you in." Ruka grinned.
Natsume lifted the phone from his ear and turned his head slightly to glance at Aoi, who had her ear pressed against Natsume's cell phone. "You heard him," Natsume said.
Aoi took the phone from Natsume's grasp. "I guess we'll come chill at your house for a bit," Aoi grinned. "If it's okay with you, that is."
Ruka laughed, "Of course. Make yourselves at home."
Natsume snatched his phone back from his sister, "We'll see you in a bit." On that note, the two cut the line.
"What do you mean you're not going?" Mikan screamed angrily.
Hotaru slipped on a pair of black socks, "I don't want to-"
"I already bought you a dress! Do you know much I spent on that?" The brunette shouted.
Inside, Hotaru did feel a tad guilty for bursting the brunette's happy bubble. However, the young inventor knew that if she were to go, it would not end well.
"Mikan-" Hotaru started.
"No! I'm sick of hearing your excuses. Do you just not want to go because it's Ruka? Don't you think you're being immature?" Mikan huffed as she clenched her fists.
Imai Hotaru? Being called immature? That was definitely a first. However, Hotaru didn't want to argue back. She knew that the brunette was right to a certain extent. If only she knew; it would make the situation a lot easier for both parties. But, Hotaru had no intention of spilling the beans.
"You're horrible," Mikan spat.
On that note, the brunette stomped out of the room and slammed the door behind her. Mikan sighed heavily; so much for attending a high class party. Sebastian watched sadly as the brunette walked slowly towards her bedroom. Without hesitation, the butler knocked on the Hotaru's door.
"Come in," Hotaru replied calmly.
Sebastian escorted himself in and found Hotaru lying on her large queen sized bed. "Madam, I know I shouldn't be butting into your personal affairs but-"
"You want me to go, right?" Hotaru interrupted.
"W-Well-"Sebastian hesitated, not knowing if this was the right approach.
Hotaru sat upright on her bed; the damp towel was wrapped around her neck. "I guess I do feel a bit bad for letting her down like that."
Sebastian closed the door behind her, "For this one night, you should forget your differences with Mr. Nogi."
Hotaru's lips twitched slightly, "Easier said than done, don't you think so?"
"Mr. Nogi did invite you to this party. That means that he will be expecting and will be delighted to see you there," Sebastian informed politely. "Personally, I think you're acting slightly stubborn."
At first, Sebastian thought that he would be getting an earful from Hotaru. To his surprise, Hotaru stayed silent for a solid twenty seconds.
"I guess," Hotaru muttered. "It's not like I'll see him much anyway."
Sebastian smiled and nodded, "Miss Sakura is ecstatic about this party as Mr. Nogi is also a new friend to her. As a host, I suggest you be more considerate of your guests."
Hotaru shot Sebastian a small glare, "Are you lecturing me now, Sebastian?"
The butler's palms suddenly felt sweaty. Maybe that was not the best way to phrase it. "I-I'm sorry, madam. I-"
"No, don't worry about it. You do have a point," Hotaru muttered.
Sebastian smiled, "Of course, the final decision is completely up to you." On that note, Sebastian escorted himself out and closed the door behind him, leaving Hotaru to her thoughts.
"Welcome Mr. and Miss Hyuuga," Two maids with long jet-black hair greeted the Hyuuga siblings simultaneously.
"Good evening," Aoi greeted with a charming smile.
Natsume merely welcomed himself inside the Nogi household. Two white spiral staircases were located on both sides of the living room. The marble floor was nicely polished and the gleaming chandeliers made it even shine even more. A person with ADD would certainly not be able to take their eyes off of it.
Aoi and Natsume walked towards two beige couches and plopped themselves down while the maids served them Jasmine tea. Aoi noticed that there were individuals rushing around the house and entering in and out.
"Do you need any help?" Aoi offered.
The maids shook their heads, "No, no. Please relax and enjoy the tea!"
"Are you sure?" Natsume responded. "She's quite good when it comes to cleaning," The older Hyuuga pointed at his sister. Aoi frowning upon hearing and seeing this.
"Gee, thanks," Aoi muttered.
One of the maid's chuckled, "If we are in need of assistance, we will surely let you know." On that note, the two rushed off towards the courtyard, where the party will be taking place.
Natsume sipped his tea, "See, this is why you don't come early."
Aoi rolled her eyes, "Whatever."
Suddenly, the harmonious ring of the bell echoed throughout the mansion. Aoi and Natsume glanced at each other; Natsume glanced at his watch. It was only 6:00; who would be arriving so early?
The two maids rushed towards the door before the Hyuuga siblings could get a chance to stand up. The maid standing on the right opened the door and the two bowed in unison at the individuals that escorted themselves in. There were two females and five males; all of them were in the process of taking off their shoes.
"Who are they?" Aoi whispered.
"Probably family friends or co-workers," Natsume responded. "And, don't stare directly at them. It'll appear rude."
Aoi puffed out her cheeks lightly, "Well, excuse me."
A female was the first one to take notice of the Hyuuga sibling's presence. "Ah, I see we're not the only ones who decided to arrive early."
Both Aoi and Natsume stood up and gave the elders a slight bow to show their respect. "My; my. If it isn't Hyuuga Natsume," a male perked up.
Natsume gave the male a small nod, "You must be Takayama Kazuya. I've heard lots about you."
The one named Takayama held out his hand; Natsume swiftly took it. "Yes and I have heard lots about you, Hyuuga Natsume." Takayama's gaze drifted towards Aoi. "Is this your wife?"
Aoi cringed slightly. "I'm his sister, Igara-" Aoi stopped for a brief second. "Aoi. It's a pleasure to meet you."
"Oh, I'm so sorry!" Takayama chuckled.
The group sat themselves down and the two maids brought in more Jasmine tea. It amused Aoi that Takayma went immediately into discussing business affairs with her brother. But then again, this wasn't surprising. Natsume was a man of business and was a responsible and diligent CEO for that matter.
One of the female's glanced at her watch, "I wonder where she might be."
"Who?" The other asked.
Before anyone could answer, the doorbell sounded again. It seems like everyone wanted to arrive early. A butler who looked in his mid-fifties answered the door and bowed as a female with long black hair made her way inside. Her skin was milky and she had large brown eyes with roseate lips.
Upon seeing the woman, Natsume's eyes widened. Unconsciously, he clutched the porcelain cup and immediately directed his attention towards the scenery outside the window. Aoi swallowed the lump that grew in her throat; she placed a hand over her brother's.
"Ah, Igarashi! Good to see you!" The female immediately grabbed the woman's hand and shook it.
"It's a pleasure to see you too. I'm sorry I arrived late," The woman's gaze was not on the female in front of her but on the Hyuuga siblings. "Aoi, I never knew you would be here so early."
"I was not expecting you to be attending the party, mother," Aoi replied, trying to keep her cool.
As soon as the woman focused her attention on Natsume, her lips curved into a malicious scowl, "I should have expecting to see you here as well."
Natsume flinched at how the woman's tone changed from ecstatic to snobby; it irritated the hell out of him. He shot a small glare at Aoi, who immediately glanced away.
The male Hyuuga stood up and dragged his sister towards the kitchen. The woman was eying them the whole time as they went.
"Why didn't you tell me that she would be here?" Natsume grabbed Aoi's shoulders, making Aoi feel frightened.
"Natsume, I didn't know she would be coming, I swear!" Aoi protested.
Natsume clamped his hand over her mouth, "This is ridiculous," Natsume hissed. Aoi could see the anger, hatred and resent that were lingering in Natsume's honey-brown eyes.
"Natsume-" Aoi started.
Natsume took a deep breath, "At all costs, keep that bitch away from me." He shot Aoi a glare that sent shivers down her spine. Aoi bit her bottom lip, almost bruising it.
"I-I will," Aoi choked out timidly.
"Hotaru! How do I look?" Mikan twirled herself in front of her gorgeous looking best friend. Hotaru's dress fitted her nicely and brought out the feminine side that Hotaru often refused to show. Even the butlers and maids in the house were awed.
"You look great," Hotaru replied with a small smile.
"Miss Sakura, Miss Imai your ride is prepared," Sebastian informed.
Mikan glanced at her watch, "Ah! It's 6:40! We should get going or we'll be late."
"Have a nice evening, Miss Sakura and Miss Imai," The maids bowed with a grin.
"Feel free to take some time off," Hotaru replied.
The maids chuckled, "Thank you, madam."
The two girls approached the garage where the Nissan GTR was awaiting them. Sebastian arrived first and slipped himself into the driver's seat while the two girls stepped into the back seats.
"Any music requests?" Sebastian asked cheerfully as he opened up the garage door.
"Anything's good," Mikan beamed.
"Classical," Hotaru replied coolly.
Sebastian slipped in a disk and started backing out of the garage. The soothing violin and clarinet calmed Hotaru's troubled spirits. Despite her agreeing to go to the party in the end, she still felt uneasy. The uneasiness came from the gut feeling that this party would definitely not go as planned.
As Hotaru glanced towards Mikan, a smile was brought to her face. The brunette's wide grin and the ecstatic vibe that was coming off of her were contagious. Hotaru's spirits brightened but more or less, she managed to shrug off that icky feeling a tad.
Occasionally, Mikan thought about bringing up the topic of Ruka and if Hotaru had ever attended one of his parties. However, the brunette decided to save it for later. But, curiosity was bubbling inside her. What kind of house did Ruka live in? Did he always throw such extravagant parties? How many people will be attending? Questions were just flooding the brunette's mind.
"Miss Sakura, the ride won't be too long," Sebastion's voice broke her thoughts.
"That's okay. I don't mind long rides," Mikan grinned.
Sebastian glanced in the rear view mirror and chuckled, "You're really looking forward to the party, Miss Sakura."
"I have never been to such parties before!" Mikan laughed. "It's so exciting!"
Hotaru rolled her eyes and placed her elbow on the ledge. "That's because you're too low class."
"Excuse me?" Mikan growled as she shot her best friend a playful glare.
"Just saying," Hotaru gave Mikan a small smirk.
Sebastian turned the corner and shifted the gears, "Miss Sakura, if you look up ahead, you'll see Mr. Nogi's house."
"Really?" Mikan exclaimed as she unbuckled her seat belt.
"Don't unbuckle your seat belt," Hotaru lectured sternly.
However, the brunette was already seated in the middle and her gaze was glued to the large mansion that was only a few streets away. It was the brightest house in the neighborhood with various limos and luxurious cars parked in front.
"Wow!" Mikan gasped. "That's- That's huge!"
"That's what she said," Hotaru smirked.
The brunette frowned and shot Hotaru a glare. "Oh, be quiet."
Hotaru shrugged, "You started it."
"What? I didn't start anything," Mikan growled.
Suddenly, Sebastian slammed on the breaks, making the two girls fall forward. "W-What was that?" Hotaru gasped.
"I'm terribly sorry. The car in front of me appeared out of nowhere," Sebastian responded; his voice sounded shaky.
Mikan glanced at the car who gave them a small apologetic wave before parking a few feet away in front of the large house. "What a stupid driver," she growled.
"For once, I agree with you," Hotaru replied as she crossed her arms over her chest.
Sebastian's eyes scanned the area, looking for a place to park. "My, it's quite crowded."
"His parties are always too luxurious," Hotaru muttered.
After ten minutes of searching, Sebastian finally found a spot that was located on the other side of the Nogi mansion. By now, Mikan's stomach had been growling and Hotaru was getting impatient.
"I'm sorry for the long wait," Sebastian apologized.
Mikan laughed, "Why are you apologizing, Sebastian?"
Sebastian chuckled, "Just a habit, I suppose." He shifted the gear to P and unlocked the doors for the two girls. "Please give me a call once you finish."
Hotaru shook her head, "Come join us, Sebastian. Besides, it'll be a waste of gas going back and forth."
"But, you need an invitation to enter," Sebastian replied.
"Ruka never said you can't bring guests," Hotaru smirked.
"Come on, there's food waiting for us!" The brunette eagerly stepped out of the car. Hotaru gave Sebastian a little smile before following the energetic girl. Sebastian sighed heavily and decided to obey his "orders."
Excitement, joyous and overly ecstatic was three words to describe the atmosphere in the Nogi's courtyard that evening. It was gatherings full of prestigious individuals as well a reunion among friends. Our excited brunette could be found stuffing her face at one of the food table's that were presented nicely for the occasion. From roast beef to omelets to a stuffed turkey; Mikan was in heaven. At least, her stomach was.
Hotaru was violently tearing away for some crab meat while socializing with a few classy individuals. Sumire and Koko were seen not too far away as they were occupying themselves with some wine and small snacks. Anna and Nonoko could be found not too far away, fawning over some classy men.
Natsume was gripping his glass that was still full of red wine. However, it looked as if he had no intention of drinking it. His gaze was fixed on a woman with pale skin and roseate lips.
"Mr. Hyuuga? May I have a word with you?" A man who looked in his early forties approached the older Hyuuga sibling.
"Of course," Natsume responded with ease.
The two escorted themselves inside, discussing business affairs like usual. Hyuuga Aoi was navigating herself through Ruka's large courtyard, looking for anyone to socialize with. Once she turned herself around, she spotted Mikan digging into a plate of mouth-watering turkey and mashed potatoes.
"Mikan!' Aoi called out eagerly; she rushed towards the brunette.
Mikan swallowed her food and grinned at the younger Hyuuga. "Aoi!" The two hugged each other and sat down at a small table that wasn't too far from Hotaru.
"So, how are you enjoying the party?" Aoi giggled. "Fun, isn't it?"
Mikan beamed, "Very! I hope I'll get the opportunity to go to these kinds of parties more often."
"I'm sure you will," Aoi reassured.
The brunette glanced around while stuffing a spoonful of mashed potatoes inside her mouth, "I don't see Natsume around anywhere."
Aoi scratched her head, "A lot of business people have been occupying his time. He doesn't even have time to himself before being dragged away by someone."
Mikan rolled her eyes; it seems like that was the only attractive factor about Natsume. His work ethic and respect people had for him. "Ah, poor him," Mikan replied sarcastically.
Aoi laughed, "So, care to enlighten me why you two lied to me the other day?"
The brunette slowly chewed her food. "W-What are you talking about?"
Aoi placed her elbows on the intricately designed tables. "You know perfectly well what I'm talking about. That day when we met up with my brother, you two said that you never met. But, it's clearly shown on both of your faces that you had."
"Ah, well," Mikan bit her lip. What should she say?
"Don't think of it like I'm confronting you with anything," Aoi laughed. "I'm just wondering why."
"To be honest-"the brunette started, "I wish I didn't know him."
Aoi's eyes widened slightly, "Did he do something to you?" The two girls recalled the event that happened at the dress shop not too long ago. Mikan blushed heavily while Aoi hid her snicker behind her hand.
"Ahem, may I have everyone's attention please?" a young male's voice echoed loudly throughout the courtyard. His hair was sleek and neatly combed back; he stood upon a platform that had been occupied by performances. Everyone directed their attention towards the young man with the microphone; all wondering what kind of announcement was to be made. "May I introduce to you, Mr. Nogi Matsuo."
People cheered and whistled while others clapped loudly as a man in his late forties approached the platform. His hair was a dark brown while his eyes were a mix of green and blue. He was quite tall and dressed in a black and white suit. Mikan was quite shocked to see the facial resemblance that Ruka and his father had.
"I thank you all for attending my party that my lovely wife and son had prepared for me. And, I thank you all for all your love and support that you showed me while I was away in Europe." The man's voice was soothing to the ear.
"Do you plan on staying in Japan for long?" a female perked up.
Matsuo nodded, "Yes. I plan to stay with my wife and son for at least a year. As well as continue building my company here in Japan."
"He looks so much like Ruka," Mikan whispered.
Aoi chuckled, "I know right? Natsume and I had the same reaction."
"Please enjoy yourselves for the rest of the night," Matsuo smiled warmly while the audience applauded loudly.
"Quite a popular person," Hotaru spoke out of nowhere.
Aoi and Mikan nearly jumped from Hotaru's sudden intrusion, "Geez, don't scare us like that," Aoi replied, trying to calm her racing heart.
"Sorry," Hotaru replied sarcastically.
"Well, well. Look who decided to show up after all!" a high pitched voice joined in on the conversation. The three girls turned slightly to see Sumire with her hands on her hips and Koko sipping on a glass of wine beside her.
"Sumire! Koko!" Mikan grinned.
"You three look lovely!" Koko grinned.
"Thanks," Aoi and Mikan replied in unison. Hotaru merely gave him a blank stare.
"So, how are you finding the party?" Sumire asked.
The brunette beamed, "Great! The food is fantastic! The music is lively and everyone is so friendly."
"Well, of course," Sumire rolled her eyes.
"By the way, I haven't seen Ruka once ever since I arrived," Koko informed.
Aoi stole a cookie from a butler who was carrying a plate of goodies. "I'm not surprised; he's probably really busy right now."
"Yeah, probably," Koko scratched his chin.
"Well, let's go look for him then!" Sumire suggested. "He can't be busy all the time, right?"
Aoi and Mikan stood up; Hotaru merely gave them a small shrug. She had no interest in finding Ruka and for once, Hotaru didn't want to be left alone. As the group of girls and Koko navigated themselves through the sea of individuals, they stole various foods from butlers who were carrying food trays nearby and stopped along the way to admire some of the beautiful ice sculptures that were placed here and there.
"How can they possibly afford all of this?" Mikan muttered in disbelief.
"They are a pretty successful family," Koko laughed. "What did you expect?"
"Something less extravagant," Mikan chuckled.
Sumire opened the door that led into the house. To their surprise, they spotted Ruka and Natsume in a thoughtful conversation with Ruka's father. On the other side, the woman with fair jet-black hair was sipping on a glass of wine.
"Ruka! Natsume!" Sumire shouted loudly, disturbing some other guests' conversations.
Ruka turned around and smiled, "Hey! How are you enjoying the party?"
The group of friends made their way over; Hotaru being the last person to arrive. She also stood a good distance away.
"Great," Koko grinned. He gave Ruka's father a respectful bow. "Welcome home. Mr. Nogi."
"It's a pleasure to see you back in Japan," Sumire added.
"My, they're all so polite," Ruka's father gave Ruka a satisfied smile.
Ruka wrapped his arm around Mikan's shoulder and brought her forward, "This is Sakura Mikan, the one I told you about on the way home."
The brunette blushed heavily at Ruka's actions. "N-Nice to meet you," Mikan grinned.
"Ah, she's a cute one! Is she going to be your future girlfriend?" Matsuo laughed loudly.
Ruka leaned over, "Don't mind his pointless jokes." He whispered into Mikan's ear.
Natsume rolled his eyes discreetly; this was so awkward. "Ruka, if you're going to act all lovey-dovey with her, there's a room right over there."
"That wasn't my intention," Ruka laughed hesitantly while releasing his grip on the brunette.
"YOU!" Matsuo's voice boomed throughout the area. Everyone jumped at how loud it manage to echo. Even Natsume took a step back from the sudden outburst. Mikan's gaze followed Ruka's father and she was shocked to see that it landed on Hotaru.
"Long time no-" Hotaru started.
"You, I thought I told you to never show your face around here anymore!" Matsuo shouted; his face turning a beet red.
There was eerie silence that followed afterwards. Hotaru's blank expression; Matsuo's dangerous glare and Ruka's horrified face terrified Mikan. What the heck was going on?
"Ruka, what is the meaning of this?" Matuso muttered. His threatening tone was completely different from his bright, cheerful voice from before.
"Father, if you'll let me-"Ruka persisted.
"I thought I told you that I will not tolerate her any longer," Matuso clenched his fist. His voice was low. The man approached the young inventor, giving her a stern look in the eye. "I'm sure you are still aware-"
"Yes, yes I am," Hotaru replied nonchalantly. "May I also inform you that your son was the one who invited me to this party? I had no inten-"
Mikan gasped; Natsume's eyes widened; Sumire placed her hand over her mouth to hide her gasp; Koko's smile faded; Aoi bit her bottom lip; Ruka was devastated. A large hand-print could be seen on Hotaru's right cheek. The echoing of the slap was still ringing in Mikan's eardrums. Did Ruka's father just-
"I wish you will not drag my son into this," Matsuo hissed.
Whispers and murmurs emerged from the eerie silence. People who witnessed this horrific scene desperately wanted to know the cause. Judging by the situation, it did not look like it will be revealed. Sebastian who was not too far away, rushed to Hotaru's side.
"Madam!" Sebastian examined the wound on Hotaru's cheek.
"I am fine," Hotaru mumbled. "I'll be leaving now."
Mikan watched as Hotaru walked past her without uttering a word; her bangs were covering her eyes. The brunette was still in shock of the event she had just witnessed. However, once she came to her senses, she grabbed Hotaru's wrist.
"Hotaru!"
"Let go," Hotaru spat, without even glancing at the brunette.
"But-"
Suddenly, Mikan felt a grip on her wrist. She turned herself around and found Natsume's fingers wrapped around her. "Let her go," Natsume muttered.
"N-No," Mikan choked out.
Without giving it a second thought, Natsume pulled Mikan to his side. The brunette's grip released from her best friend and she watched with tears in her eyes, the young inventor along with Sebastian making their way towards the large door.
Mikan didn't even realize Natsume's arms around her; the woman on the far end of the room sipped her wine and never did her gaze leave the saddened brunette.
XD I bet many of you guys are thinking 'WTF! So many updates in one day?" Well, I didn't update for a while and I decided to make it up. Hopefully many of you guys enjoyed this as much as I did when I first read it X3