Hush Temperance

by Chance Green G King

A short story focusing on student Hikaru Taoka who has odd and unusual circumstances that make other people raise their eyebrows, either finding it hard to believe or something. He doesn't care, besides what they don't know is that he is in a relationship with his own teacher Sadayo Kawakami. If interested in reading, then please, by all means. (Rated M for a very good reason)

5. Chapter 4

Alright everyone here's the fourth chapter of Hush Temperance, big shout out to Pyrojack on helping me cowrite this story. We very much did enjoy doing.

(But for the record, the lemon was my thing,)

A little hint for this one is that, family, can at times, be such a bitch. LITTERALLY

Chapter 4

---

5/23/Monday

Time: After School.

The last few days had actually been pretty nice. But that was mainly because of the intimacy Hikaru had with his lover in secret. He was glad they were both at least able to least have some moments of privacy. But starting right now and today, the very thing that he wasn't looking forward to had come.

Today, his older sister Aria will come back to Japan with her wife in tow. It took everything his aunt had to drag him along to the airport and now the two of them were waiting with Shirone holding up a sign.

Hikaru was very much not pleased by this at all having to welcome back 'the princess'. "This is bullshit." He grumbled.

"Hikaru don't be like that." Shirone said to her nephew. "You haven't seen one another in a couple of years. You should be happy."

"I would if she was nicer to me, but she's not."

"Oh come on, you don't know that."

"I beg to differ." Hikaru countered back. "That witch haunts my dreams."

"Look, just try to at least be considerate ok?" Shirone was really trying to reach through him. "Try to be the bigger man."

"The bigger man?" He looked over to her. "How the heck am I supposed to be bigger like a kaiju? Because even they got their limits. I wager Gojira had an ex wife at one point in ancient history."

"Hikaru, please."

"Ok-ok-ok!" He threw up his hands. "But she better be nice to me. And I'm not giving back her old room. That's my workplace, she doesn't live there anymore, so no take backs."

"Don't worry I'll make sure she doesn't do anything with it." The older woman reassured him as she started looking around. "They should be here by now."

"Maybe we had a stroke of luck." Hikaru smirked in amusement. Oh he knew all the amusing things that could happen on airplanes. However, that smirk disappeared when his aunt gave him that disapproving look of hers. "What? I need some humor before it gets drained."

"Aunty!" Hikaru's ears heard that dreaded voice. Both of them looked over to see a twenty-six-year-old woman with short cut black hair and the same-colored dark green eyes Hikaru had, wearing a very fancy red shirt with blue jeans and black high heels with an expensive black leather purse strapped to her right side. Bottom line she had the very very body of a supermodel, that some woman would die for. This was Hikaru's older sister Aria Toaka.

Standing next to her was an African American woman with a series of long dreadlocks that reached down to the center of her back. Her eyes were colored brown and on her left nostril was a small nose ring piercing. She was wearing a light green shirt with yellow edges, and a pair of black pants, her choice of footwear were blue and black sneakers. This was Aria's wife which would make her Hikaru's sister-in-law, Beverly.

Upon seeing her Shirone was ecstatic opening up her arms for a hug from her niece while Hikaru rolled his eyes at their interaction. Yeah she might be cute and nice now but give a little while and that'll change. "Oh my gosh I haven't seen you in forever!"

"I know, and you look like you're doing well." Shirone commented with a chuckle as her niece's wife came up to her. "Hello Beverly, nice to see you again."

"Likewise miss." She smiled back in response.

Hikaru cleared his throat wanting to get this over with getting his relatives attention. Doing his best to try and at least smile but it wasn't working nor wanting to come out.

"Oh, hi Hikaru." Aria greeted.

"Hello Aria..." The younger brother greeted back distastefully. He turned over to the wife. "Beverly."

"Hey Hikaru, how have you been?" Unlike with his sister, Hikaru did get along well with Beverly. Especially since she was a fan of his work, much to Aria's displeasure.

"Oh, you know, up and going, still alive." Hikaru replied, making a bit of small talk. "Still got the phantom pains too, but other than that I'm ok."

"That's good to know." She nodded reassuringly.

"Have you been close to getting some new started?"

"I'll fill you in on the details later." Hikaru gave her a thumbs up. "Wouldn't want other people to find out."

"Okay~." Beverly whined playfully.

Aria rolled her eyes at their interaction. "You're still making that stuff?"

"Good money is good money, sister." The manga artist pointed out. "Something you would know all too well.

"Yeah, but there's a difference in that..." Aria retorted back and before it could escalate Shirone cleared her throat clapping both hands together.

"Ok, what's say we go find your luggage and head back to the house so we can get you both settled in?"

"So that I don't step on any of your bullshit." He muttered to himself.

"Yeah, sure absolutely." Beverly nodded at that suggestion overhearing what he said but rolled with it.

"Fine." Aria agreed as they went to go grab their belongings.

Take your time...

Back at the house we see Hikaru finished setting up the guest bedroom and while he was doing that, he heard his sister conversing with their aunt.

"Why can't I have my old room back? I used to live here."

"Aria you know that you don't live her anymore when you chose to move away. He's made a lot of good use with it." Shrione pointed out.

"What with all that shitty porno stuff he makes?"

Hikaru scoffed at what she said, yeah like he'd intentionally do that? Why do that when had the real thing?

"C'mon Aria, you know he doesn't do that." Beverly chimed in. "Besides, we got the guest bedroom. It's big enough for both of us."

She scoffed. "I know that, but couldn't he have done it in the actual guest room?"

"Aria, c'mon." The American pleaded with her wife. "Knock it off, what's done is done."

"Ok, ok!" Aria gave up groaning in defeat. "I'll bring my stuff down there." Hikaru heard her stomping through the halls. He chuckled in amusement. The princess didn't get what she wanted.

Oh, how times really haven't changed, she was still the same priss from way back when. "Serves you right." The student muttered in amusement.

Right then his sister entered the guest room, he turned around and motioned to it. "Well, welcome home." Hikaru managed to say. "And yes, I've been keeping the place tidy." Even though Sadayo was the one doing it, he had to at least not try to give it away.

"Out of the way." Aria huffed, moving past him.

"You're welcome." Hikaru scoffed as he exited out the room. "Nice you see you too..." The young mangaka sighed. "Still has the stick up her ass..."

"What did you say?" Evidently, she overheard him. Good her hearing was still intact and not warped up by her personality.

"I said, I missed you!" He lied with a big toothy grin.

"No that's not what you said...I heard you..." She marched up to him. "You have something to say to me?"

"Yeah...don't let the door hit your ass, if it gets any bigger." Hikaru replied as he started to walk off before getting yanked behind the collar of his shirt.

"Oh, so you heard me, huh?" He smiled mischievously.

"You're damn right I heard you...You know if I were still living here, you'd be out in the street."

"But you're not, and this is my home thank you very much." Hikaru grabbed her hand and made her let go of him.

"This is our family's home."

"Something they never really gave two hoots about. Kinda like someone else I know."

"Are you kidding me? Our dad did care."

"Uh-huh, yeah right." Hikaru wasn't buying it. "Did he tell you that this is gonna be under my name once I graduate?"

"I'm sorry, what?!" Aria glared at her little brother.

"You heard me. After graduation, this place will be mine, by right and deed." He smirked at her reaction. "Don't believe me? Ask them yourself."

"What's going on here?" Shirone questioned as she and Beverly came down the stairs.

"Somebody didn't get the message." Hikaru answered matter of factly.

"Aunty is it true Hikaru's getting the house after he graduates?"

"Yes, he is." Shirone answered.

Aria was frustrated by this. "Are you fucking kidding me?!"

"What's the matter princess you're not getting what you wanted?" Hikaru questioned with a pleased look on his face. He was so glad that got to witness this.

You know what? Get the fuck out this room! I'm really not in the mood for your tentacle bullshit."

"Oh, like I'm into that!" Hikaru retorted back. "Plus, how would you even know?"

"Alright that's enough!" Shirone stepped in being the responsible adult she was. "Aria act your age, you're staying here so you're going to show respect." She turned over to Hikaru. "And you, don't even try to provoke her."

"So long as she doesn't do that, we'll be fine." Hikaru replied as he started to walk off. "Yeah, good idea on whoever agreed to this behind my back."

"Oh, and you think I wanted this drama from you? Huh!?" Beverly was holding her wife back. "Bev, let go of me."

"No, not till you calm down." She looked over to Shirone and motioned her to go, because she had this one.

The aunt went into the kitchen where Hikaru poured himself a cup of his favorite beverage. "Really Hikaru? Not only a few seconds and there's already trouble starting?"

"Tch, around her, there's always trouble." He scoffed in response.

"That's not the point."

"Oh yeah? Well, you insisted on me trying to welcome her with 'open arms'. But that's not working so well, is it?"

"And you think antagonizing her helps?"

"Well, it's doing me a few favors."

"Are you sure she can't stay at your place? That'd save us a lot of trouble, you know."

"Hikaru, we've talked about this." The actress scolded her nephew.

"Oh come, you know she's always like this. So why the hell does this got to be dropped onto me for?"

"Because, apparently, I have to be the one to drag the both of you by the ear when either of you try to measure up."

"So, I gotta put up with this for a number of days? While also worrying about the possibility that she might ruin my work room? Its almost a miracle that dad isn't here to back her up..."

She sighs, shaking her head. "Look, Hikaru, as hard as it sounds, your sister really needs a break from the US."

"Oh yeah? Why's that?"

"I was gonna tell you this sooner, and when we were alone. But now you should listen..." She sat down on a chair. "Not too long ago, Beverly was tested positive for breast cancer."

"What?" He paused. "Seriously? Bev?"

"Unfortunately..." Shirone nodded. "She's here to receive a surgical treatment. Your father arranged that for her. That's why there both staying here..."

"Wow..." This was a lot to take in. "So, she knows the states she's in and she continues to act like that?"

"Hikaru we all process things and act differently than others, you know that."

"Alright, fine. But I'm only gonna suck it up because of Beverly and that's it." The scared young man said. "I know she might be in her own way, but she doesn't get to use that card on me for her advantage. Ok?"

"All I'm asking is for you to go easy on Aria."

"No promises."

"That's all I'm asking that you at least try to."

---

5/24/Tuesday

Location: School, Lunchtime

"So, wait, a minute your sister-in-law has breast cancer and that's why they're here?"

Both Hikaru and Sadayo were eating in the home classroom. By lucky chance they had the place to themselves while everyone else was doing their own thing.

"To receive treatment through my dad's connections, yeah." Hikaru confirmed as he was eating. "I just thought they were here for vacation or something."

He sighed. "Look, Sada I know that I might need what I need to do, but you at least got to agree this is like a big drop isn't it? I mean, what are your honest thoughts?"

His home teacher/secret lover thought for a moment. "Well, one hand Hikaru you do need to be more considerate now. But you can only do it to an extent as for the bomb drop. No, I agree with you that's an awful lot."

"But even in spite of that Aria still continues to be like how she always was..." She reached over to gently placing a hand onto his shoulder. "Right now, it just feels like a lot more is added onto my plate."

"I understand." She told her lover.

"Sada, are you gonna be ok for a while?" He questioned her, referring to the other side job that she does often after school. "I mean, the other thing asks a lot."

"I will." The brunette nodded. "The next paycheck shouldn't be as bad as last time."

"Yeah, but please do me a favor and don't overdo it..."

"I won't." Sadayo promised.

"Well good, because I'm gonna feel a bit worried if some sicko is eyeballing you when I'm not around." He lightly smiled.

She meanwhile smirked in amusement. "What you think that someone might bust moves on me or something?"

"Hard not to."

"If things aren't as hectic, I'd probably take you out to dinner sometime." Sadayo suggested, smiling at her boyfriend's compliment. "Plus, I don't think they'd get the chance. Because well, you've done a pretty good job giving me enough reason not to go behind your back. If you know what I mean?" She blinked and he of course blushed knowing what she was insinuating.

"Maybe when I come up with a plan. Yeah." Hikaru cleared his throat.

"Well, I'm always open to suggestions. Just let me know, ok?" She glanced over to the bell. "Also, you should probably put your act back on Mr. Taoka."

"I know Mrs. Kawakami." Hikaru replied back before forcefully giving her a quick peck on the lips running back to his desk grabbing whatever he needed to make himself look busy while scarfing down the rest of his lunch.

And so, class is back in session. Sadayo gave out her lecture with a couple of quizzes here and there. Hikaru listening in, occasionally sneaking a wink at the homeroom teacher.

When her back was to her students Sadayo snuck in a small smile while doing her work.

---

Time: After School.

Right now we see Hikaru at the diner which was called Bikkuri Boy which was located down Central Street of Shibuya. The reason why he was there was because Aria had texted him to grab something on the way back home. Normally he'd be annoyed since he just got finished with school for the day but considering that he doesn't want to be around her too much, he jumped right to it.

Approaching the counter he passed the clerk behind it a small list. "Everything on here, to go please." The scarred individual said.

"On my way." She nodded.

"This'll take a bit, you can sit down if you'd like to sir."

"Thank you." Hikaru started to look around for a place to sit and while doing so he caught a brief glance of familiar black frizzy hair. He was sitting down eating with Anne, and Ryuji.

"Hey, didn't expect to run into you guys here." He greeted walking up over to them. "What's up?"

"Hikaru-senpai." Ann greeted. "Hi."

"Yo." Ryuji greeted back giving him a high five that Hikaru returned back.

"Hello Hikaru."

"Ren." The scared student nodded back to his acquaintance.

"What are you doing here?"

"Eh, just grabbing myself something to go and bringing it home. How about you three?"

"About the same." Anne answered. "But we just went out here just to hang out."

"What she said, c'mon man pop a seat." Ryuji motioned him to the empty seat right next to Ren.

"Ryuji, you do know that someone else is with you right now too, right?" The blonde girl he was sitting right next to reminded him.

"Eh, whatevs, he's still in the restroom. Plus, there's plenty of room." The former track star pointed out.

"Someone else is with you?" The manga artist asked curiously.

"Yeah, but like I said, he's still occupied. C'mon sit down." Ryuji said, motioning to the empty spot right next to Ren. "He went to it only a while ago."

"Okay..." The green-eyed man shrugged sitting down next to the ex-juvie.

"So, I know it's a dumb and late question but how'd you guys do on your mid term exams?"

"Please don't make me regret letting you sit down with us..." The fake blonde begged.

"Oof, that bad huh?" Hikaru winched.

"Yep, he scored right on the top bottom." Anne smiled, patting his back. "I did ok, a lot better than him though."

"As did I." Ren smirked much to Ryuji's dismay.

"You damn traitors! Thanks a lot!" He then glanced over to Hikaru. "Why the heck are you even asking that question? You got the top scores out of everyone!"

"It doesn't hurt to ask, besides I told you I could help." The older student pointed out to the bleach blonde.

"Yeah, if you wanted to help, you could've slipped a ticket to help me out."

"Then I could kiss my education goodbye."

"Oh, come on, man what's wrong with taking a little risk?" Ryuji questioned.

"Getting more opportunities in my line of work for starters." Hikaru raised one finger up.

"And that being?" Anne questioned.

"I could tell you, but nah, I don't feel like it." Hikaru shrugged.

"Oh c'mon, man!" Ryuji whined.

"What you too cool to tell us?"

"Nope, I'm taking your advice." The scarred man joked. "Only with a bit more adventure."

"Pardon me?"

Hikaru looked over to see another male. He had dark blue hair with parted bangs slightly covering his left eye and gray eyes. His in-game character model is noticeably taller and thinner than him and the others with him. He could also make out that he was wearing a Kosei High's regulation uniform, A winter-variant uniform consisting of a white gakuran-style shirt embroidered with a fleur-de-lis, fitted black pants and black loafers. A silver ring that holds multiple keys is attached to his belt loop.

"But who is this person sitting with you all?"

"I'm gonna take a lucky guess that this is the one you're all with, right?" Hikaru questioned glancing over to Ren.

"Yes, he is...Yusuke, this is Hikaru. The one we told you about."

Hearing this surprised this young man. "So, this is your older senpai with the series of unfortunate events?"

"Uh yeah, I guess so." Hikaru extended out his hand for a shake. "Hikaru Taoka, nice to meet you."

"Likewise, Yusuke Kitagawa." He accepted the shake and looked over to Ryuji who rolled his eyes before scooching over allowing himself to sit down. "I didn't think that we'd be having you with us."

"No, I'm just here to grab myself some dinner is all." Hikaru replied.

"So, Yusuke, you attend Kosei High right?"

"That's correct." The pretty boy confirmed. "I'm an honor student in the art course."

Hikaru hummed hearing that. "Not bad." He glanced over to Ren. "You definitely got yourself an interesting bunch, you know that right?"

"It's part of my charm." The gray eyed boy shrugged.

"Must be." Hikaru chuckled before returning back over to Yusuke. "So, since you're in the art course, I take it you must see quite a bit of interesting things do you not?"

"I do. I've seen my share of fascinating pieces. I even have my work showcased every now and then. What are your hobbies Taoka-san?"

"I just...like manga." The older student shrugged in response. "But that's about it."

"Manga?"

"Yeah, comics in black and white."

"Ah, I know what you're referring to, but I never really get around to reading such things."

"That's kind of surprising...Some of the design and artworks in those manga's have a lot of detail. Depending on the manga artist, each one develops their signature style."

"And such examples include?"

Hikaru started to give off some names. "Eiichiro Oda, Akira Toriyama, Hiromu Arakawa and my personal favorite Hirohiko Araki."

"Dude, I know those guys!" Ryuji instantly spoke up. "Not to mention that last guy is the author for Jojo's Bizarre Adventures, right?"

"That's right." Hikaru confirmed giving him a thumbs up. "But Hiromu's a she, not to mention the creator of Full Metal Alchemist."

"Really?" Ren inquired.

"Yeah, those are all big names in the anime industry. Not to mention the newcomer Koyoharu Gotouge he wrote Demon Slayer."

sting things do you not?"

"I do. I've seen my share of fascinating pieces. I even have my work showcased every now and then. What are your hobbies Taoka-san?"

"I just...like manga." The older student shrugged in response. "But that's about it."

"Manga?"

"Yeah, comics in black and white."

"Ah, I know what you're referring to, but I never really get around to reading such things."

"That's kind of surprising...Some of the design and artworks in those manga's have a lot of detail. Depending on the manga artist, each one develops their signature style."

"And such examples include?"

Hikaru started to give off some names. "Eiichiro Oda, Akira Toriyama, Hiromu Arakawa and my personal favorite Hirohiko Araki."

"Dude, I know those guys!" Ryuji instantly spoke up. "Not to mention that last guy is the author for Jojo's Bizarre Adventures, right?"

"That's right." Hikaru confirmed giving him a thumbs up. "But Hiromu is a she, not to mention the creator of Full Metal Alchemist."

"Really?" Ren inquired.

"Yeah, those are all big names in the anime industry. Not to mention the newcomer Koyoharu Gotouge, he wrote Demon Slayer."

"Oh, I know which one you're talking about, I watch that anime from time to time myself." Anne admitted that she got a look from Ryuji.

"Wait, you're into that show too?"

"Not really, I just like the adorable little demon girl in it is all."

Hikaru chuckled at her response. "Yeah, that's pretty much a majority of fans right there."

"For me I'm all about the pink head." Ryuji commented with a smirk.

"Then makes you a part of the fan service base."

"What's wrong with that?"

"Nothing..." Hikaru shrugged in response. "Because I'm both."

Ryuji frowned. "And just what the hell is the difference then?"

"All depends on what's floats your boat." Hikaru snickered. "That and being totally obvious. In this case you."

The students collectively laugh at the delinquent. Whose face was blushing in embarrassment and glaring down directly at the older student.

Yusuke on the other hand started to put both hands together almost like a camera aiming it at Hikaru which confused him. "Uh...what is he doing?"

"Hold still." Yusuke told him.

"Why exactly?" Hikaru was still confused.

"The way those scars are in place on your face, it's actually quite interesting...Not to mention at a good angle." The artist complimented.

"Uh... Okay...?" The manga artist awkwardly looks at the eccentric teen oddly.

"Does he do this most of the time?"

"Sometimes." Ren shrugged.

"You'd get used to it the more you hang out with him..." Anne added.

"Oh yeah, heck he even asked Anne to model for him." Ryuji snickered much to her annoyance slapping him behind the head. "OW!"

"Really? What for?" Hikaru inquired, curiously.

"See!? Now look what you did!" Anne said to the former track star. "Thanks a lot, you idiot!"

"Me? What did I do?" Ryuji argued.

"I simply requested her be a nude model for a possible art piece." Yusuke answered much to Anne's annoyance.

"Uh... Huh." The young man looked between the calm outsider and the young model curiously. "Something tells me that foresight was thrown out the window."

"That it was..." Ren agreed and a faint meow was heard much to Hikaru's confusion.

"Is there a cat in here somewhere?" The older student inquired.

"A cat?" The transfer student questioned.

"Nope, no there's not." He held the bag pressing onto it. Hikaru was confused but shrugged it off right then a bell was heard.

Hikaru knew what that was about. "Ah, good food ready. Well, that's my que, gotta go guys."

"See you around, man."

"Bye, Hikaru."

"See ya."

"I hope we may meet again soon."

"Like wise." He waved them farewell and left the dinner.

TAKE YOUR TIME...

As of the moment we see Hikaru eating at the table with Aria and Becky and to say that it was rather quiet was an understatement. Since they started to eat, neither one of them said a word.

Then again it was most likely because of the tension between the sister and brother. Inspite of this, Becky tried to clear the air a bit. "This is really good, thank you for bringing this home, Hikaru."

"You're welcome, sorry about the delay with the train. Good thing we got microwaves."

"Oh yeah totally."

"How's yours Ari?"

"Eh, it's ok." Aria replied, cutting into her meal. "Still tastes about the same."

"Well, what do you expect, that place has been there since we were born." Hikaru noted. "Plus, if a restaurant is there for that long and people keep going to it. Then that means something."

"I totally agree with that." Beverly commented, getting a smile of agreement from her brother-in-law.

"So, Hikaru, how have things been at school?"

"Ok, I guess...Excluding the crap that went down with Kamosida, the gym teacher."

"That's right I heard about that..." Bev paused eating. "I can't believe that the school and teachers knew all about that stuff, I don't understand why they did that...At the expense of those kids? That's just terrible."

"Tell me about it." Aria commented. "I always felt that he was looking at me in a funny way when I went to school there..."

"Wait you?" Beverly turned to her wife. "He had his eyes on you?"

"I just thought I was imagining things." Aria shrugged in response. "Never really paid much mind to it."

"Did you and him ever have any interactions at all?"

Hikaru scoffed at that question. "Oh yeah we did. That dude did not like me one bit."

"Did he try to do anything to you?"

"He almost spiked me with volleyball once. Couldn't leave well enough alone after I gave it back to him."

"You did not..." Aria wasn't buying it.

"No, I did give it back to him. But in my defense, he could've killed me." Hikaru defends himself.

"Plus, you did you forget I played soccer for a few years? I literally haven't lost my touch in a bit. Other people saw it too."

"And you didn't get in trouble for that?"

"Nope, but he almost did when he touched me."

"Well Hikaru I'm totally relieved to know you're ok and that scumbag is in jail." Beverly commented.

"Good riddance, too, a freakin girl tried to kill herself because of he did to her." Hikaru said shaking his head in anger at what had happened that day. "I hope he rots in hell."

"Damn right." She agreed. "Nobody should ever get away with that shit, especially after so long."

"That's something we can agree with." Aria nodded as well. "Hearing all that, I'm glad I declined his invitation to the volleyball team."

"Ok, enough of the sour mood." Beverly changed the topic. "So, aside from all that anything else interesting in school?"

"Nah, but I did manage to get the top score for the mid-term exams."

"Really?" His older sister asked, surprised.

"Hey, I can have a brain too, you know." He smirked. "Can't say the same for a couple of my friends."

Beverly chuckled at that. "Well good for you Hikaru, so anything else notable~? Hmm?"

Hikaru paused briefly, as he looked to the American. Composing himself he finally answered her. "No, nothing really. Just went to school and did some sketches. Nothing really notable.

"Whaaaat? You telling me that you don't got your eye on someone and someone ain't got their eye on you?"

"Yeah, pretty much." Hikaru replied as he finished up his dinner, going over to the sink to clean his plate.

"Oh please, like that'll happen..." Aria rolled her eyes.

"Says you..." Hikaru retorted. "It could happen. "Oh, how he wanted to prove her wrong. Because he was in a relationship, a very loving and very physical one at that. Nearly every single space of the house they were in, was used for his and Sada's activity. Not to mention their last adventure was right on the table, the very same one they were eating on.

There might've been a mess, but it was worth it, they cleaned and got rid of the evidence. But he knew if he did, and exposed it, then there'd only be trouble. "Prove it then." Aria challenged.

"Ari stop it." Beverly told his wife.

"What come on, I'm serious." The older sister said. "Who'd even be into him?"

"Why would you want to prove anything?" He questioned. "All I'm saying is that someone may be interested. I don't know who or what they are. I'm just saying it could happen."

"No offense little brother, but I don't think they'd be into a little kid."

The young adult didn't take too kindly to that. "Last I checked I haven't been a kid since I got out of the hospital. You on the other hand..." He implied.

"Are still the same spoiled brat that left home and was pampered her whole life."

"Hey, I'll have you know I make more revenue each week than you do in a month." Aria glared at her little brother.

"By kissing some guy's ass and not your wife?"

"At least I know what I have to do while making a living. Last time I checked in your world, you haven't had much work yourself. No major spotlights, gee, I wonder why. Maybe you're starting to get old like in dog years. So that'd make you a really old dog."

He also held up his hand. "Not to mention how much money do you make from those clothes? Hmm? Give me a number."

"More than enough than that elf fetish bullshit you so vehemently write about." Aria points to the young man.

"Answer the question sis how much." He knew he was onto something especially with how she was dodging it.

"None of your damn business, you little pest."

"Name calling, your last defense against." Hikaru kept his composure. "I rest my case. Especially with a little girl who can't answer a simple question."

"Ok, guys calm down..." Beverly spoke up seeing that there were more tensions growing.

"I've been providing more for me and my wife than could out of your stupid books and daddy's piggy bank."

"Oh yeah? That's rich because you needed dads piggy bang to start your crap." Hikaru pointed at her. "No, I didn't need his help, I worked for every single yen I make over here. Because just like those rags you make, I put every bit of my heart and soul into those books. And right now, I got three big possible publishers who are looking into aiding in bringing out another one of my works. Not to mention my first manga, just recently got an anime. And as the creator, I get a big percentage of the profits made from it. So you may think I'm full of pipe dreams but guess what I got multiple sources of income because of those dreams. So don't feed me that bullshit of yours."

"At least I know I'm still better than you." She glared at her irritating little brother. "I've got plans, I've got things figured out. You don't even think about that. So keep staring at the clouds, Hikaru. I'm still one step above you."

"Then why are you here? If it's not just to save Beverly and give her emotional support, then it's to rub more of your self-righteous bullshit down my face."

"Don't you dare cross that line!" Aria snarled.

"How about you actually act your damn age stupid! And you know what I do have things planned out, not all of it. But it's better than zero. So how about you do yourself a favor and quit acting like such a bitch. I don't even know what Bev even see's in you at all."

"Enough!" Both of them turned to Beverly who sighed. "I don't need this at all...Aria, what you said is completely out of line..."

"But, baby, he-"

"I really don't wanna hear it." She made it a point telling her wife that in English. "I saw what happened, and you need to stop and apologize."

"Why do I have to apologize?"

"You know damn well why."

"Whatever..." Hikaru rolled his eyes leaving the room. "She's never been sorry about anything..."

"Hikaru!" Aria called out.

"Save it. I never was interested in talking to someone who acts like a child in front of their own spouse anyway."

He went up the stairs and closed the door behind him and in the process he took some of his subscription popping a few in feeling a bit of phantom pain creeping in. Sitting down on the bed, Hikaru sighed as he stared up at the ceiling.

Hikaru felt a bit of guilt for having to put stress on Beverly, but she was right Aria was in the wrong.

She took personal jabs at him and naturally he defended himself. He really wished it didn't go that way, but it did. But what hurt him was the fact that Aria deliberately said that no one would be interested in him. That was a low blow.

Hikaru is hanging out with friends after so long. And for well within a year, he's in a relationship with his girlfriend. As far as he was concerned, the manga artist had just about everything figured out. The real problem was executing them. The black-haired man swore that no matter how many times he defended his case, Aria always comes up with another excuse. She just can't leave well enough alone!

Hearing what she said made him think back on something, a year ago when things started to change between Sadayo and Hikaru.

---

XXXX

"You know in spite of knowing that she was doing something else for her own reasons. I never really paid much mind to it. I really did enjoy Sadayo's company. I mean sure, it was weird, and the circumstances were odd, a teacher and her student mingling with one another. Especially because that said student knew something that'd ruin her career if others found out. But, despite how many times my gut told me otherwise, I just kept ignoring it. There was one night that things started to gradually change for the both of us."

XXXX

---

(One Year ago)

2/20/Friday

Time. Evening: After School.

As of the moment we see Hikaru looking through a few letters that he'd received in the mail earlier that day. He was meant to open them, but he forgot. So he figured that maybe it'd be good time to do it. He was hoping for a reply back from a publisher, but instead he didn't.

The older student sighed putting one hand underneath his chin and looked over to Sadayo who just exited out of the bathroom wearing an oversized white t-shirt and pair of gray shorts. She was also drying off hair with a towel.

"Thanks for letting me use your shower, I'm sorry. But I really needed it."

"Nah, don't worry about it." Hikaru replied as he kept focus on sorting through the mail. "If you want, help yourself to something from the fridge."

"Thanks." She appreciated the students' generosity, walking to the kitchen for the refrigerator.

While searching Hikaru took a peek through the corner of his eye and noticed that the shorts fit on her quite well. He even faintly swore he caught a brief glimpse at her chest. He had to admit, while she was cute in the maid uniform, outside and what she was wearing now was different, but in a good way.

It was almost like a scenario where someone would be watching their girlfriend. However soon he snapped out it as Sadayo held out a small, canned beverage moving it a little. "You want something?"

"Y-Yeah, I'll take something." Hikaru returned his attention back to the mail. He was lucky he didn't get caught peeking at her.

Sadayo brought him a can of soda while she brought herself an alcoholic beverage. "I didn't know you drink."

"I didn't even know that I had that in there either." Hikaru commented not remembering there being a beer can in there. "Probably one of my aunts, that she forgot about. She does occasionally leave something in there."

"Do you drink?" The brunette asked her student curiously.

"Not really." He shrugged. "Has a weird bubbly taste."

"Plus, you sure you should be drinking on the job?"

"I have at least five more hours here." Sadayo retorted back before she opened the can. "Plus, I haven't really had any in a while."

"Suit yourself."

Sadayo without hesitation took a quick swig. Not a small one either, but a rather big one that took Hikaru by surprise. "Geez slow down on that thing..." Hikaru said but she sighed making a face in content. "I never understand why people like that crap..."

"It really helps calm my nerves once in a while." Sadayo smiled.

"Not to the point of dependency, I hope?" The black-haired man frowned in worry.

"Oh shush." She then gained a smirk slowly pushing it towards him. "You want to try?"

"You do know that I'm only 19, right?" He was sure she'd never suggest or dared him to that especially since she was still his teacher and all. But then again, there both not on campus, so it's very likely that button switches to a different setting. "The age where you can that is 20."

"It's not like we're going anywhere anytime soon." She pointed out. "Besides, I could use the company."

"Not very mature, and responsible teacher material, example right now." Hikaru retorted back.

"Neither is paying me so much money in one night." Sadayo bounced off him.

"That's true." He chuckled.

"Alright, bottoms up." He took the can and chugged it down. At first Sadayo was gonna stop him but it was too late he took down the rest of the other half of the can slamming it down and got into a coughing fit.

She patted him on the back quickly. "You, ok?"

"Oh god!" Hikaru groaned, sticking out his tongue trying to wrap his head around the taste. "Why did I even take that dare!?"

"Probably a good idea to take a few sips." She laughs at his reaction. "You didn't have too technically do it..."

"It felt like I was drinking pencil erasers!"

"Okay, now you're just being overdramatic." While he was still getting the taste out of his tongue, Sadayo noticed something in the mail: it was flier. Taking it, she read the cover and blinked in surprise. "Oh, it says here there's a festival being held out in the countryside."

"There is?" Hikaru looked over the secret maid's shoulder to see the flier.

"Yeah, it says here it's tomorrow night. There's gonna be fireworks and everything." She sighed in irritation. "I am free tomorrow night, but it's be weird if I just decided to go by myself. Then again, I could ask the other teachers if they're interested."

For some odd reason and Hikaru didn't know why, he spoke up. "Do...you want to go there together?"

"What?" Sadayo thought she misheard the older student.

"I don't have any plans myself and you're interested in going. I don't see why I shouldn't fix up my yukata."

Now she didn't expect to hear a request like this. "I don't think that's...a good idea..."

"Do you have any suggestions?"

"N-No..." The maid in disguise was now starting to get nervous herself. Wait, why was she getting nervous? Someone was asking her if she was interested in going to a small festival together, it shouldn't be no big deal to answer that question, is it?"

"But you just literally said just a second ago you were interested in going..." Hikaru pointed out.

"I am! It's just that I-..." The brunette stammered before recomposing herself. "I'm your teacher and you're my student. Wouldn't it be weird going out together like this?"

"Oh, ok why didn't you just say so?" Hikaru was now understanding where she was coming from. "But then again, wouldn't it'd be no different than what we're doing right now. I mean, you literally dared me to drink a beer."

"But this is different."

"Is it though?"

Hikaru pointed out and he did make a solid argument. "Plus, I doubt that anyone that we know is even gonna go to that thing anyways. If they do spot us, then well just simply tell them that, you offered me to join you. You know play the good role model, or something, I don't know." He shrugged.

Everything he said was true. She'd remember going out with friends from her family, and sometimes she went with her friends back in the day. Now normally she'd be grading papers and such. However, she wasn't going to be doing anything else special and this was one of her days off. It was one of the rare days she wouldn't need to do her late night 'after job'.

When was the last time she actually did something fun? One single day when she had at least a moment to herself without the other's breathing down her neck. Not to mention Hikaru had been calling her frequently was being very helpful unlike the others she's worked under they always wanted a 'favor in return' if they showed kindness. A quid pro quo.

But Hikaru did none of that at all. She thought by now he'd use the information he had on him to blackmail her, however he did not. Also surprisingly, Sadayo finds his company oddly refreshing. After a bit of clear thinking, she finally made up her mind.

She sighed in defeat. "Ok, fine you can come."

"Really?"

"But just for the record, this isn't a date or anything." The woman said giving him a firm look that startled him. "Got it?"

"Yeah, no problem geez. I got the message."

"Good..." She took the answer and nodded. "It's settled then."

"Yep." Hikaru checked his watch. "Also, Becky, you might want to get back into your uniform and reapply yourself."

"Hey, you do you and I'll do me." Sadayo said in annoyance. "By the way you have any more beer?"

"I hope not." Hikaru replied back.

---

Take your time...

2/21/Saturday

Time: Evening.

After school was done for the day, Hikaru hitched a ride thanks to Sadayo, now normally they would've driven to that place. However, the only way to reach the location. It was a rather small village that was a few miles away from the city, that was right next to a large lake.

Hikaru was going to wear a yukata, but it turned out the thing was old and covered in rips and tears. So, he had no choice but to wear and pack after school clothing. The older student was now wearing a large, long sleeved blue black buttoned jacket, underneath a plain dark red shirt topped off with black pants and his usual shoes.

"Geez, I really hope I don't stand out too much..." The reason he said this was because a bunch of other people including males were all wearing Yukata's. That a vast majority of people were older gave him disapproving looks. "Then again, given my appearance, some of them might think I look like a hitman."

"I was thinking more around the line of a thug instead of that actually." Sadayo said, coming up from behind him.

Sadayo was now wearing a red and pink kimono decorated with white, pink cherry blossom leaves, with red ones covering the pink part of her robe. The obi belt keeping it secured was vibrantly covered with flowers. Finally, Sadayo had her hair in a bun with a red rose pinned to the back.

"Wow..." Hikaru was generally surprised by how stunning she looked right now.

She noticed this and raised an eyebrow. "What?"

He averted his eyes away blushing a bit. "Nothing, you just look...different..."

"You think so?"

"Yeah...you look...well...beautiful..."

"Oh!" Sadayo looks away from the young man, a very bright pink color glows from her cheeks.

Hikaru noticed this and panicked. "Crap I'm sorry!"

"No, no, it's fine!" She waves her hands rationally, despite her blushing. "It's just that, I've hadn't had that kind of compliment in a while."

Hearing this made Hikaru blink in surprise. "Seriously? I kind of thought you had a boyfriend or were in some kind of relationship."

"Actually, I'm not...I mean, you know what. Never mind." She looked at Hikaru in confusion. "Also how come you're wearing that instead of that Yukata you talked about?"

"Turns out, that thing expired." Hikaru answered plainly. "So I'm wearing what you see now. But I think I'm regretting it, because well..." He paused, frowning in annoyance.

"What?"

"I look like a hitman..." The older student answered. "Also..." He grunted in annoyance motioning to his face with one hand, particularly the scars he got from the accident that almost killed him and put him into a coma.

Sadayo knew what he was talking about. Hikaru was getting the same type of treatment he gets when at school and whenever he was out in public. People always stared at his scars. Naturally with how it appeared, it gave him the look of a thug that often always got into fights. Which was something Hikaru wasn't.

Walking up to him, she put a hand on his shoulder giving him a smile. "Don't worry about it, ok? We're supposed to be having fun. So don't let them ruin it ok?"

Looking between her and the lines on his body. The black haired man sighs, knowing that the brunette was right. "Yeah. C'mon, let's have a look around."

The two of them began to walk around glancing at the various stands that were present. "There's a lot of people here..." Hikaru noted as he noticed all the games that the festival had not to mention some of the food some of the vendors were serving.

"Well, that's how it normally is." Sadayo pointed out before glancing over to him.

"Don't you and your family go to these?"

"Actually, no, this is my first time."

Now it was her turn to be surprised. "Really? That's a shocker."

"They just never really saw the point of it..." Hikaru answered as they paused looking around.

"Not to mention, my folks were always busy, my sister always hung out with her friends...Me on the other hand. I just didn't want to go a festival because I'd be by myself."

The young woman frowned at this. Was he always alone for this long? But shaking her head, she looked on the bright side. "Until now you mean?"

"Yeah, it is." Hikaru started to sniff the air. "I smell grilled squid."

"You want some?"

"Maybe later..." Hikaru glanced around and noticed a stand that was selling traditional masks. Seeing these caught his interest.

"I swear some of these masks just keep getting weirder and weirder."

Ignoring Sada's words, Hikaru looked at what they had. "I've always seen these through the internet..." He glanced around before smirking. "Hey, there's you." He pointed to one mask that resembled a smiling Geisha woman. It had red lips and black lines where the eyes would be. Something that looks decent enough.

Sadayo hummed with interest. "Not too bad..." She glanced through the selection before smirking. "I think I found you." She pointed to an Oni mask. It was solid red, with black horns, and four long fangs.

"Nah... My teeth aren't that ugly." Hikaru playfully joked.

He looked around before pointing at another mask. "I think that's me, right there."

It was a traditional red tengu mask, with golden eyes and the usual long nose.

"Mmm..." She looks at the mask carefully and compared it to him, giggling at the idea of a big nose. "Nah."

"Well, what do you suggest otherwise then?" Hikaru questioned.

"Hmm..." Sadayo pondered for a moment before spotting a peculiar set of masks beside them.

"What are those?" She wondered.

"Oh, those are Featheman masks. You know the stuff kids watch? The hero's wearing colors and use giant robots that combine into a bigger robot?"

He looked over to one mask that resembled that of a lion. It was black with gold trimmings that resembled a mane. "Oh, Komainu, I think I found mine."

"Well, do you want it?"

"Yeah..." Hikaru looked over to the vendor owner. "Excuse me, I'd like to get the Komainu mask right there and that one as well." He was pointing to the Geisha mask.

"Certainly." The vendor nodded before grabbing the two masks which Hikaru paid for. "Thank you very much sir. Have a good rest of your night." He bowed.

"Why'd you buy that one?" Sadayo questioned in confusion before Hikaru presented it to her. "Huh? Wait, did you buy that for me?"

"Yeah, why not?" Hikaru shrugged in response.

"Hikaru, you didn't have to do that?"

"I know." He shrugged as he slips on his mask, concealing the artist's face. "But I didn't want you to feel left out."

Sadayo smiled at his response, taking the mask and placed it sideways on the right side of her head. "Thank you." Even if it was a small gesture, she really appreciated the thought.

"You're welcome." The masked student nodded.

TAKE YOUR TIME...

The two of them walked around some more taking in the sights that were presented and optional. Along the way, both of them played a few games. Of course, the two did get some looks from people nearby, but the two of them didn't care and now Hikaru was eating grilled squid while Sadayo was eating a cup of ramen.

"This squid actually isn't bad." Hikaru admitted. "You sure you don't want any?"

"No thanks, I'm good." She replied back. "I never did like squid..."

"Suit yourself." Hikaru shrugged in response, continuing to eat. Speaking with a mouthful. "Hey how long till those fireworks come along?"

Sadayo checked her watch. "About an hour."

"Good to know."

"Why do you got something in mind?"

"Actually...yes." Hikaru finished off the rest of his squid.

TAKE YOUR TIME...

We see the two standing in front of a vendor, inside were at least dozens of different prizes. All of which were tied to strings. This was the one thousand strings lottery. A game where you choose a line and pulled it, whatever you pull you win that said prize.

"Are you serious?"

"I'm dead serious." Hikaru replied back to the maid in disguise as they glanced at the many types of prizes that were on display and they could possibly win.

"Mind if I give it a try, Ma'am?" He asked the vendor.

"Go ahead by all means." The old woman replied. "Not like you can win anything anyways..." She muttered very faintly underneath her breath.

The scarred young man grabbed a hold of the strings. Feeling around carefully, until he lets go of nearly all of them. Except for five strings. Pondering Hikaru decided upon a little game of his own.

"Tell me mam, what are the chances of a winning string would you say?"

"Slim to none." She answered bluntly. "Even with just five strings, you'll find anything worthwhile."

"Is that so?"

"If you intend on cheating, then leave."

"It's not cheating if I'm weeding them out."

Hikaru carefully examined the five strings he had. "I mean any one of these strings could give me a handkerchief, tissues, something small and disposable. Correct?"

"Or something far more expensive than you." The vendor huffed.

"Someone's in a mood." He smirked.

"That's because you're wasting time. I've got other players coming around soon."

"But, as many would know, this is a game about precise thinking, rushing into it, would beat the purpose of it." He lets go of one of the five strings.

"So is stalling for no apparent reason."

"No, not stalling, I'm just striking a conversation is all..."

"That's not what I'm here for!"

"Then what are you here for?"

He looks at the four remaining strings. "I mean, you are making profits after all. So what's the harm in it?" He lets go of a second leaving three in his hand.

"Because I'd like to go home and drink my tea than put up with kids like you. But seeing that I'm here, I'll be more than happy to be a pain in the ass just for you."

"Do tell." Hikaru said with a small smile while Sadayo watched this transpire. "I am close to making my decision anyways." He released the third, now only two strings remained in his grasp.

"Well don't leave me in suspense. Make your choice."

"I already did." Hikaru let go of one of the strings pulling the remaining one and what he ended up winning was a video game console. A new XBox Series X. "And I win." He exclaimed with a smirk much to the old woman's misfortune.

"What?!" The old lady stood from her seat in shock.

"I believe the prize is mine now." Hikaru said, looking over to the old woman. "Also, I'll be paying to let my accomplice go next. Have to keep business flowing right?"

Inside he was very much pleased with how it went down and he wanted to say more, but he kept his mouth shut. Hikaru just simply chooses to savor the victory.

The old lady grumbled as she complied with the rules, giving it over to Hikaru while Sadayo went up next winning a small cute animal plushie. It was a pink salamander.

As the two walked off, Sadayo glanced over to Hikaru who was most pleased. "How'd you do that back there?"

"Oh that? I was just fibbing the whole time." The scarred male revealed much to Sadayo's surprise.

"What?"

"Yeah, I was just messing around." Hikaru admitted in a plain tone.

"Seriously?"

"Yeah." Hikaru snorted. "I still can't believe she fell for that."

"And if she didn't and you didn't win anything good?"

"Oh well then..." He shrugged in response. "I'm already having a fun time, why would I care and let that ruin it?"

"I suppose." Sadayo hesitantly hugged her plushie. She then noticed up ahead that there was a shrine up ahead and right next to it was a wooden box with glass showing paper inside. "Hey, Hikaru, look over there. They have Omikuji, would you be interested?"

"I don't see why not." The black haired man shrugged, being mindful with the box he was carrying in his hand.

The two paid for the fee by getting on their knees and prayed at the shrine giving they're respects. When they were done each one of them drew their fortunes.

Hikaru checked his fortune and was pleased to know that he got a great blessing reading silently at what he'd got. "Wishes: Continue the path you are on. Special Person. Sooner than you think. Lost Item. Closer than you think. Travel: Wonderful Experiences are ahead of you. Business: Very promising. Study: Study calmly. Speculations: Make smart purchases. Disputes: Many to come, but you'll pull through. Romance: One will come soon. Moving: Don't rush into a new situation. Childbirth: Safe. Sickness: Nothing major."

Hikaru hummed at what he got. "Not too bad. How about yours Sada?"

"Ok I guess?" Sadayo replied relieved but also a bit confused as well at what her fortune read:

"Wishes: Soon you'll be fine. Special Person: When you least expect it. Lost Item: You need not to worry. Trave: Much to look forward too. Business: Ok. Study: Ok. Speculations: Major changes to come. Disputes: Hardships, but you'll endure. Romance: Eternity has found you. Moving: Don't make a rash decision. Childbirth: Promising. Sickness: Little concern."

"Kind of odd..." The maid in disguise admitted raising an eyebrow. Mainly at three certain parts of the fortune itself.

"What do you mean?"

Hikaru tried to lean over for a peak, Sada saw this much to her dismay and pushed his face away. She didn't want him to see. "Hey don't go looking at my fortune!"

"Why not?" He wondered.

She blushed in embarrassment, putting the fortune away. "I-It's nothing. Mind your business."

"Ok." Hikaru shrugged in response, confused by her sudden mood change. "Hey, speaking of which it's almost time for fireworks. Want to find a good spot?"

"Umm... Sure." Sadayo answered, hesitantly.

TAKE YOUR TIME...

Everyone was gathered in one spot but the problem is there were to many people and the two couldn't find any other place. "It's a lot more crowded than I expected..." Sada groaned in annoyance.

"Your tell me, these people came out of nowhere. It's like they were hiding in the forest." Hikaru noted before noticing an old man making his way through. "Excuse me sir? Do you possibly know a good spot to see the fireworks?"

"Yeah, there's a spot up on the hill through an old path. Just go take a right past the shrine." He pointed to the said direction.

"Ok, thank you." He picked up his prize and motioned Sadayo to follow. "Come on."

"Are you sure that's a good idea?" She questioned following him. "We've never been here before...And neither one of us is familiar with the area."

"Worse case scenario, we'll circle back and enjoy what's left of the festival." Hikaru shrugged.

She on the other hand sighed in defeat. "Alright, lead the way..." Hikaru did so and after a little bit of walking they found the old path, only problem was that there was a lot of vegetation on both sides of the steps. It was clear no one has trimmed through her quite a while.

"Not what I was expecting." The artist thought as he saw the state of the shrine.

"That's the least of our worries..." Sadayo said as she grunted trying to pull onto what she was wearing. "My yukata keeps getting caught on these bushes..."

"You want a hand?"

"No I got it..." She continued her struggle. "Ok, where's that spot the old guy was talking about?"

Hikaru glanced around and spotted an old wooden fence line that showed a clearing. "My guess is right there." He pointed.

"Watch your step." He warned the woman. Being careful where he's walking.

Sadayo grunted in annoyance, feeling a tug on her yukata. "Ok, I might need a little help after all..."

Turning around he looks to see where the tugging is coming from. "Where?"

"On my right side...Just get me unstuck please..."

"Alright, just stay still. I'll help you out."

He leaned down and made careful work of undoing what was causing the trouble. "Ok, there we go. Try moving now..."

She proceeded to step forward, moving away from the spot. "Ok, that's better." But unknowingly, there was a single lone branch sticking out of the ground catching the bottom of her yukata dragging it down. Hikaru's eyes would've bulged out of his sockets, while Sadayo stood there frozen realizing what had just happened. Her Yukata just fell off exposing herself to the elements.

He couldn't even see a thing on her and quite frankly he didn't know what to do. Sadayo screamed in surprise and embarrassment. She bends down crouch low enough to hide somethings the older student wasn't supposed to see.

"Whoa!" Hikaru turned his head away. "Ok! Damn! T-That's gonna really un hard to see!"

"J-just please stay like that!" The poor teacher begged as she went to pick up her clothes.

"Y-Your yukata should be right there!"

"Dammit! This is all your fault!"

"My fault!? You're the one who's clothes dropped to the ground!"

"You forgot to get the last branch!"

"How the fuck was I supposed to know there'd be a random branch sticking out of the ground!?"

"Oh... This is so embarrassing." Sadayo moaned.

"I'm in the same boat as you...I didn't think I'd get a flash from the moon itself..."

"Just stop talking, please! And for God sake no peeking!"

"Do I look like one of those idiotic pervert protagonists obsessed with boobs? No!"

"I said shut up!"

"Ok! Ok!" Hikaru replied back as Sadayo struggled to get her yukata back on and for a brief moment Hikaru peaked over his shoulder before swirling his head away. He saw a bit more than he bargained for.

'They really don't wear anything underneath?' The mangaka couldn't help but think.

He peaked around one more time very slowly and carefully out of curiosity.

However, as Sada got most of her Yukata on halfway she caught his gaze giving him a death threatening glare. "Hey!"

"Sorry! I thought you got it on already!" Hikaru apologized, turning away. "I swear to god it wasn't on purpose!"

"Geez, I can't seem to go a day without something happening to me." The brunette groaned.

"Well, if it helps, you actually have a good body!" Hikaru called out. "I mean, not in 'that way' but you...Ok shutting up now."

"You did freakin look!" Sada exclaimed in anger.

"Not intentionally!" Hikaru replied back. "Please tell me you got it back on."

"Yes, now please stop talking for a minute." The homeroom teacher insisted.

With a sigh she got her yukata back on. "Ok, you can look now..."

"You sure?"

"Yes, come on let's just get the rest of this over with..." Sadayo said very much aggravated by what had happened.

She walks past him and surprisingly, Hikaru really feels guilty for what happened. Regardless if it was an accident. The two walk over to the fence. "I'm sorry that happened..."

Sadayo sighs, but doesn't say anything. The two gaze out to the clearing carefully and before long the fireworks started to blast up into the sky.

From the lights of the works, the pitch black night sky was filled with bright colored lights. Many such examples ranging from red, green, yellow, blue all kinds were going brightly dazzling any onlookers who watched the show unfold.

Hikaru and Sadayo were one of those onlookers.

"This how you imagined seeing this?" Sadayo inquired, looking at the older student.

He nodded. "Yeah...It's nice isn't it?"

"Yes..." She returned her attention back to the light show.

"I really wish I could see these things with my family though..." Hikaru admitted. "But, I'm glad I get to see them much less doing stuff like this."

"Well, I'm glad that you're enjoying this." Sada admitted. "I know what you mean though, I did stuff all the time with my family and friends growing up." The older woman sighed. "Things like that don't last forever though..."

Hikaru hummed in agreement. "Those memories live on with you though. Don't forget about that."

"Yeah." Sadayo sighs sadly.

Hikaru noticed that she started to shake a bit and was rubbing her hands together. Seeing this, he sighed before taking off his jacket and placed it over her shoulders taking the woman by surprise.

"What are you doing?"

"You just looked cold..." Hikaru replied as they continued watching the fireworks.

Naturally Sadayo was a bit taken back by the kind gesture and wrapped the jacket around herself. "Y-You didn't have to."

"I know, I just wanted to, that's all."

She smiled hearing those words and appreciated the kind gesture. "Thank you..." The two of them spent continued watching the fireworks show till the very end before they headed back home.

XXXX

"That night really was the first time we ever did anything together. First time that we actually hung out. Probably the first time I started to think about her. I didn't know why I did it back then. I felt I just wanted to help Sadayo in any way I knew how. Plus, I swear Sadayo was like really glad that we went. She really rarely did any of those things. So that tells a lot that aside from her career in school and distant family, she didn't really have much else. I just sort of felt... compelled to change that. Not just with her money problems. But everything that was going on at the time. Even now. Not to mention, that night was the first time ever that we had made a connection. Can't explain it, but after that something just clicked. Maybe it was what helped us bring each other to where we are now. I honestly do not know."

XXXXXXXXXXX

5/27/Friday

Time: After School.

As of the moment we see Hikaru and Sadayo in the Student Guidance Room the two of them were talking. The reason being was because Hikaru had been filling her in on what's been going on.

He didn't talk to her the day prior; he didn't even look at her the day prior, and she knew something had happened.

"So, would you like to go first and talk or would you like me to speak first?" Sadayo questioned.

Hikaru cleared his throat for a moment before answering. "Me and Aria got into one..."

She frowned hearing this. "How bad?"

"Nothing too serious, just an argument is all..."

"That being about?" She wanted him to clarify.

"About my hobbies definitely." He noted.

"Speaking out crap about differences on who makes money. Her saying that I don't have everything figured out and..." Hikaru scoffed. "Made a bitch remark saying stuff about my love life..."

"I swear to God, it always circles back to her being 'better than me'." He air quoted.

"I don't understand why she does that..." Sadayo shook her head perplexed by what she was hearing. He was talking about his only sibling, the same one he's told her about in the past. She assumed that Hikaru was exaggerating about his older sister. But hearing everything he was saying, now she believed him one hundred percent. He wouldn't have a reason to make up things like this.

"How could she do that?"

"Whenever daddy gives her one too many things for his favorite girl, you get the bimbo who loves to talk shit. How she's married to her is beyond me. Hell I remember half the shit he said about people like that and he didn't say a damn thing to her."

"What does your mom even think about this?" Sadayo questioned reaching out, taking his hand and stroking it with her thumb.

"She makes plenty of pointers but he doesn't really pay any mind to whatever she and I say at all."

"He's as traditional as any other douchebag here in this city and just as much of a pig for saying some of the shit behind Beverly's back."

"I'm sorry about that...When does Beverly start treatment?"

"Hopefully today, if not then most likely on Sunday."

Hikaru gripped her hand. "Sada, I'm sorry for making it look like I was ignoring you, I've just had a lot of things on my mind..."

"No, no, don't apologize. Alright?"

"I just don't know what the heck to do at all to be honest...I love Bev and all but dammit Aria just keeps getting under my skin."

"Hikaru I might not be in where you're in now. But, at the end of the day, your sister in law needs the support. Not just from her wife, but from those that are close to her, like you."

"She won't make it easy for me."

"So that's why you remind her to just shut up and focus on what's more important. Because there are bigger things going on then just you and her." Sadayo pointed out.

"I know...I know...I'll try..." Hikaru shook his head bring her hand up to his cheek to feel her touch. "I really am glad that I got someone important to talk to about this stuff..."

Sadayo smiled at his kind words, and as she too was glad to have someone in her life too. Being in a meaningful and loving relationship.

She then leaned forward giving him a peck on the lips caressing his face. "Hey, how's about say that you meet me in the room in about a few minutes from now?" Sadayo suggested giving him a smirk that he knew all too well.

"I'll be sure to meet you there."

XXXXX

In the private room where we seen Hikaru and Sadayo talk before he was closing the curtains while she was locking the door. Their shoes were also off tucked into a corner.

When both were done doing what they needed to be done, the two them cut the distance walking up to one another, Sadayo wrapping her arms around Hikaru's neck and he wrapped his arms around her waist to share a very passionate kiss.

Separating both of them locked eyes with another before each of them stepped back.

Hikaru watched as she began to lose her clothing removing her shirt revealing the black laced bra that was underneath and even let her skirt drop to the floor exposing her panties that matched in the exact same color leaving just only the white leggings she was wearing today. He didn't wait and walked up to Sadayo, capturing her lips and gently began to grope her breasts.

Reaching behind he undid the back of his lover's bra letting it drop to the floor. Hikaru got his face into her cleavage and started to suck onto her chest. Sadayo moaned as she put both hands behind his head while he brought up his knee grinding it at her sacred spot.

Afterwards both began to engage in a very intense make out session forcing one another into them, even adding a bit of tongue into the mix.

Sadayo even lightly gripped on his lower lip with her jaw before giving off a startled gasp that transformed into a moan. Turned out Hikaru was rubbing her sacred spot before moving the fabric and plunged two fingers inside. "Sada, your so wet..."

"D-Don't day it like that...it's embarrassing."

Hikaru chuckled as he placed a hand on her cheek and smiled. "You know that you don't have to feel that way around me, right?"

Sada managed to speak despite getting pleased. "Smooth talker." She smashed her lips onto his rather forcefully and he absolutely loved it. Both of them were lost so much into the moment moans of bliss were muffled until they had to separate, switching the French method.

While doing so she reached down to his bottoms and started to unbuckle him and at the same time Hikaru was losing the outer layer of his uniform and the shirt underneath, both pieces of clothing fell to the floor and by now she already had his pants off.

He winched back groaning a bit, the reason being because she was stroking him the soft feeling and sensation of her hands was very much pleasing and so he kept up his work with her sacred garden.

Both of them started pleasuring one another in unison, continuing to smash their lips onto another. That was until Hikaru grabbed her by the waist and spun her around to the edge of a desk that was in the room.

When she was in place, Hikaru kneeled down from behind her grasping the edges of her soaked undergarments slipping them off down to the bottom of her legs, when he did get his eyes on the prize Hikaru blinked in surprise.

The reason was because there was a bit of hair. Now normally in most cases it'd be clean but this time it was a bit untamed. Not on a major degree but enough that it doesn't kill the mood. To Hikaru it was a reminder that she was a woman, one who was a few years older then he was. This would be the case of how many people would put it, the older the berry the more juice or the opposite like milk.

In his case however, he seemed to be a bit pleased tracing a finger around the entrance earning moan from Sadayo. "Sada, you haven't been keeping up with down her much, have you?"

"That's because...I've been busy grading papers, and you know already know the other reason. I've just been so worn out lately..." She shivered feeling his breath blowing onto it.

"Someday you have to quit doing that to yourself.

"Hikaru please...not right here..."

"Sorry." Hikaru apologized and instantly he went for it, plunging his tongue inside and now her moaning was growing louder, closing her eyes and started to lean her head back and even started to move, thrusting her end into his face all while he had his tongue still out.

He was very much enjoying the view before him; Hikaru didn't know why but the bit of small bit of hair turned him on. "Oh fuck...Hmmh! Right there~" Sadayo moaned.

"You're very sensitive right now, are you?"

She frowned looking over her shoulder at him. "That's because this is all your fault, for ignoring me for the past few days, I thought you were done with m-" Sadayo was cut off by Hikaru who stuck his fingers back in making her moan out loudly some more.

"You know that's not the truth...and I said I was sorry, but I will admit it because I feel you've been teasing me."

"What? No I wasn't..."

"Then how come you're wearing stockings?"

Right in between the moans she managed to speak as he planted himself back to her. "Wait...n-no I haven't. Hmmh...T-That's what gets you going? Stockings?"

Hikaru stopped what he was doing, giving her a smirk. "You never asked." He then gave her a smack on the ass getting a startled yelp.

"Hey don't do that!"

"I didn't hear you tell me not too..." Hikaru replied as he continued to please his lover, plunging his tongue back into her swirling it around her rectum making more moaning be produced rubbing her two firm soft ass cheeks circle motion giving his lover more pleasure.

...v...v...

Moments later by now we see the two on the floor both were on the floor entrapped with each other's lips once again only this time neither of them were wearing any clothes. All except for Sadayo who kept her stockings on because Hikaru insisted on her doing so.

Both didn't say anything as Sadayo turned around bringing the lower part of her body right in front. Hikaru was seeing everything that was hidden. Her fine ass, and even the gate to her precious wetlands, glistening with the waters that were flowing.

Suddenly Hikaru took Sadayo by surprise, lifting her up but she instantly started to get the idea of where he was going at with this. So keeping a firm yet tight grip around her waist, Hikaru continued plunging his tongue into her entrance all while she was returning the favor engulfing his member. Both didn't even say anything, only the sounds of muffled moans and other noises were heard in the room. The older student swore this was one of the moments he felt he was so close to heaven. He had something right up in front of him, he could feel the softness of her breasts up against him, and an unimaginable warmth from the other part of his body.

Sadayo was in a total state of disillusion herself, never did she imagine herself doing this. Much less with one of her own students and in her own workplace! Everything was just happening so fast, and she was enjoying it. Sure, someone could possibly catch them, but for some odd reason that risk factor excited her even more, she didn't care, she just wanted to bask in the activity she was having with her lover.

Both of them could very well get into trouble and it'd be the end. However, the two were overcome by lust and their senses just dulled out, silencing all reason and logic.

Hikaru felt Sadayo's work intensify, taking it in deeper and this signaled she was getting close, the same going for him with his tongue. Their moaning increased as did their pace for a few more minutes until both climaxed in unison, Hikaru was getting a fountain of water from her wetlands while Sadayo was receiving a generous amount of his essence swallowing every single drop as she could, but some leaked out from the corners of her lips dripping onto the side of her cheeks.

Hikaru slowly dropped to his knee laying down sideways letting go of Sadayo in the process both of them laid down on the floor. Both were panting and out of breath, sweat was dripping off their bare nude bodies.

"Would, that be-" Hikaru winced a bit feeling the same warmth from earlier, he looked down to see she was actually cleaning him bobbing her head down onto his shaft before taking her lips off emitting an audible *pop* before swirling her tongue around it and stopped.

She looked at him with a very aweing gaze, a brief twinkle was seen in her eyes. One originating from lust itself, mixed with another emotion.

"Hikaru..." Her breathing was ragged and slow. "Please...please l need you inside of me..."

"Alright..." He leaned forward and proceeded into French kissing both tongues dangling in the air he too was entranced and captured into the midst of this lust he didn't care. His line of thinking only had one focus.

...v...v...P

At the desk nearby we now see Hikaru holding Sadayo up by her lush thighs, so this actually added some extra soft cushioning hold for him as he was pistoning her from underneath in a very calm, firm and steady pace.

Aside from her moans, there was also the sounds of slapping flesh, coming from both of them. To say this was quite the scene to behold seeing an older woman who was dating an older student who was merely a couple of years pleasuring his said lover from below with her breasts bouncing in both directions erratically. You'd be correct especially considering the risk factor of doing such acts on school grounds.

Anyone could possibly come in on them, they'd both end up getting into trouble, however with the current state of minds overcome by love, lust, pleasure all those desires fueled what was happening.

Reaching over through the sides continuing his work Hikaru tried to capture her right breast. Even despite a few times failing he eventually got it and started giving it work like it was the cherry on top of ice cream. Her moans threatened to get louder, but Sadayo made quick work to cover her mouth.

Despite her moans being muffled, it wasn't appearing to help keep her quiet especially as Hikaru continued sucking her breast. His tongue tracing her nipple before letting go looking and pleased to see that the one he loved was being pleased and enjoying herself.

"Oh god...Hikaru right there...right there! That's the spot...fuuuuck..." Sadayo howled as she felt Hikaru quicken his pace a bit, getting rougher with each thrust making the sounds of slapping flesh grow louder.

He was also lightly grinding his teeth on the said nipple being careful not to bite or chomp down onto them hard enough to hurt her. It felt damn well near to an equivalent to a cherry,

The softness of her body was invigorating, her scent, and moaning, everything about her to him was enough to drive him crazy. Without a doubt he was consumed by mostly lust however he still had love as well, to him she was his and he was hers.

"Keep it down Sada, otherwise we'll get caught..." Hikaru whispered through moaning, and slow heavy breathing showing he too was enjoying this but was managing to keep a level head.

"I... I know...but...I... I can't help I it..." Sadayo moaned as she turned around, managing to capture her lips with his own, throwing in a serious amount of tongue along the way. "I shouldn't be even doing this...w-we-oh fuck. We shouldn't even be doing this...yet here we are..."

"You didn't have to...you could've said no...Lift back your arms..." Sadayo obliged, reaching her arms behind Hikaru's head who continued his work and he began to drag his tongue onto her right pit.

"W-Wait! Thats..." In spite of her protest Sadayo's moan continued to persist before he brought his attention back to her breasts licking from the side tracing his return back to her nipple sucking on it again for a few good seconds releasing it.

Hikaru started huffing and puffing, feeling more and more on the breaking point. So, he then paused slowly exiting out of her before slamming himself back in. He began to increase the pressure going in harder and harder with each thrust.

This got her moaning some more even to the point where she cried out in ecstasy and tossed her head back along with her upper body leaning back to capture her lover's lips.

He then started to pick up speed and Sadayo started to grunt to try and hide her moans. They weren't light grunts; these grunts were getting louder and louder muffling her lust. "MMMMM! MMM! MMM!"

"Sada..." Hikaru clenched teeth as he squeezed his fingers into the softness of her thighs. He was making sure to feel every inch of the woman's sex churning tightly around his length as he continued plunging upwards upon it passionately while letting out, she let out a hearty moan.

"You're close, aren't you?" Sada asked as she was now fondling her own chest increasing the level of pleasure, she had tenfold her moans were growing more rapid and erotic. "Just go ahead, I'm still on it...go on...I want to feel you. C'mon just do it...Don't worry I'm still on the pill...Just do it...blow your load deep as you can..."

"Yes..." Hikaru's groaning started to grow.

"Yes...yes...Cum with me Hikaru...Nah...Please..." Leaning her head back Sadayo screamed or was going to if Hikaru didn't cover her mouth.

Finally, after what appeared to be an endless eternity Hikaru erupted inside of her splashing her insides with white wave. " Yes...Naah...Neh..." Hikaru's legs gave out, leaning back into the desk they were on. Both of their bodies were drenched in sweat. Also from around the edges of holy waters, the gates leaked out a bit of her lover's essence.

In spite of that, and how tired they were, the two of them embraced one another, mashing their lips together.

XXXXX

---

TAKE YOUR TIME...

After having that moment with Sadayo Hikaru headed straight home, he and her made sure to make sure to get rid of any evidence that there possibly was.

The only problem was now, he'd miss the train by accident so he had to walk all the way home. But for him it was worth it, and he didn't give a rats ass what would happen next.

He'd just gotten to his front door opening it up. When he did, the smell of cooking was heard. A pleasant scent filled his nostrils, he knew who it was. Beverly's cooking.

The older student entered the kitchen and entered to see his sister-in-law cooking. She looked over her shoulder and spotted him.

"Hikaru? There you are..."

"Hey, Beverly. Sorry I'm late." He apologized. "Missed the train when I was drawing a sketch."

Right then Aria entered the room glancing to her little brother giving him a raised eyebrow. "The hell have you been? I thought you would get home sooner."

"Like, I said. I missed the train by the last minute." He answered honestly.

"Why do you look so sweaty?"

"I've been walking for almost an hour and it's starting to get a little hot." The younger brother partially told the truth.

"I mean we've had to walk home before sometimes. Hell you remember when it rained at one point?" He was speaking the truth because he's had to do that in the past.

"I hate rain…." Aria commented bitterly.

"And rain hated you too." Hikaru rolled his eyes. "I'm gonna head in the shower."

"Be down here quick, dinner will be ready soon." Beverly told the older student, keeping her attention on the burner.

"Noted." Hikaru replied back as he went up the stairs while doing so his sister-in-law chuckled.

This of course didn't go so unnoticed by her wife. "What?"

"Nothing..." Beverly continued cooking, continuing to chuckle. "Nothing~"

"Seriously, what's so funny?" Aria wanted to know exactly, very puzzled.

"You don't see it? Huh?"

Beverly turned around. "I'm pretty sure, there's a lot more going on then we think."

"What are you talking about, baby?" The big sister didn't quite understand where her wife's logic is going.

"Oh c'mon, Aria. You should as well as I would."

"What?" She still wasn't following it. "Seriously the hell are you talking about?"

"You ever heard of afterglow?"

"Wait, you mean that?" Aria was now catching on while her wife nodded. The older sister broke into laughter. "Are you kidding me?"

"Hell no, I'm serious!" The American stated. "Your brother is in love~."

"Are you kidding me?"

"No, girl. I could see that dreamy look in his eyes. Same look you get when I'm on top." Beverly smirked playfully.

Aria continued to laugh holding her side. "I-I'm sorry baby, I love you and all, but I really don't believe that...LIke at all!"

"C'mon. I'm being serious."

"My brother has never once had any girlfriend for as long as I've known him. What makes this any different?" The green eyed woman wheezed.

Beverly shrugged her shoulders in response, now giving up. "Alright then. Believe me don't believe me." She continued cooking. "Have it your way..."

"I will." Aria walked away, continuing her laughing fit.

"Sometimes I wonder why I want a baby." The black woman sighs at her wife's attitude.

Little did Aria know, her wife was spot on and when the time came for the truth they'd definitely be in for a major surprise that they didn't expect. Because in the near future, they'd be having a sister-in-law of their own.

To be continued

Now replying back to reviewers

Toa Solaric: That's entirely the point of that, plus there's got to be some of that feeling. Glad that you liked the chapter and hope you feel the same for this chapter.

estonjames18: Well I'm super pleased to know that you enjoyed the story my friend and the many things that come with it. *wink-wink*