Chapter 86: Yapping

*Beep Beep*

The phone alarm goes off.

Michael: "Nhh." His eyes twitch as he struggles to turn off his alarm on his phone. He missed a couple of times before hitting the snooze button. *Yawn* "Morning already? That ain't a good start." He gets off his bed and heads to his bathroom to take his morning shower. After that, he puts on his school uniform, and he tightens his tie before looking at himself in the mirror. (Just two more days after today for our guy's night out. Just got to endure everyone's shit. You got this.) He does his hair before leaving his room.

(Hope my little plan works out. If I can get Clyde and Johnny to argue less than the rest of us could have an easier time.)

*Sniff Sniff*

"Huh, who's cooking right now?" He follows the scent coming from his kitchen. "Eh?"

Mom: "Ah, good morning kiddo!"

Michael: "Oh, you're still home, Mom?"

Mom: "Yup!"

Michael: "And here I thought you be long gone already."

Mom: "Nah, I still got some time before work. Thought I make ourselves some breakfast before I go. Your plates already on the table, so eat up."

Michael: "Thanks." He takes a seat. "You've been working earlier lately."

Mom: "Yeah, there's been some changes at work."

Michael: "Like what?"

Mom: "Some co-workers of mine left after the company merged with Metaverse. They weren't happy with the new changes."

Michael: "That so?" His mom takes her seat across from him.

Mom: "Yeah, but what are you going to do. There's a lot of shoes to fill until we hire new employees. So just bear with me."

Michael: "Sounds complicated."

Mom: "It is." They both eat their plates. "So how's your girlfriend been doing?"

Michael: "She's doing great. She's more open about her feelings and she's been seeing a doctor about her health."

Mom: "Ah, that's good to know."

Michael: (I still haven't told her the whole story. I'm hoping Yuri herself will tell her when I bring her over to meet her. Until then I'll keep things vague.) His mom smirks.

Mom: "So have you been sneaking her in while I was away?" Her son almost chokes on his drink.

Michael: "What?"

Mom: "So is that a yes?"

Michael: "I invited her to hangout, but we never done anything inappropriate. Honest."

Mom: "Whatever you say. Just make sure to wear protection."

Michael: "Oh my God, mom." He starts to get embarrassed.

After a little bit of time had passed, he walks his way to school.

(What a pain my mom can be. Although she's not wrong.) He takes out his phone to look at the wallpaper of Yuri in it. (We've already done it a couple of times since we got back together, but just thinking about it makes me flustered.) He looks both ways before crossing.

(I was so busy dealing with mom's antics I forgot to ask her about Michelle. I wonder how she's doing. Is she getting enough sleep, enough to eat, the help she needs. If she is, I hope we can repair our relationship. But then again, do I really want that? What would Sayori think? Would she be ok making amends with her too?)

Sayori: "Hey MC! Wait up!"

Michael: "Huh?"

Sayori: "Goooooooooood morning MC."

Michael: "Good morning to you too. You seem energetic this early."

Sayori: "Of course I am. That's my shtick. If I'm not, then who am I?"

Michael: "Fair enough."

Sayori: "You doing good? You seem out of it."

Michael: "I didn't sleep well again. I might take a nap during lunch if I'm able to."

Sayori: "Do you need company?"

Michael: "No I'll be fine."

Sayori: "Alright, if you say so."

Michael: "…"

Sayori: "Do you think we're be ok?"

Michael: "About?"

Sayori: "Tests, we got tests today."

Michael: "I don't know, maybe?"

Sayori: "Aw man and I didn't even study." She gets gloomy.

Michael: "Sounds like a you problem."

Sayori: "GA! Your words, they wound me." He rolls his eyes.

Later the same day during lunch.

Random Student: "Did you see last night's episode?"

Random Student 2: "I did. It was God tier." They talk as they walk out of class.

While everyone leaves. We are met with Jason just packing away his paperwork in his bag.

Jason: "Phew" He stretches his neck. (Felt like it's been a long day but it's barely lunch time. Guess I'll just head out and eat something. Where should I go to eat my lunch?) He says while putting away his glasses.

Patty: "Heading out for lunch?" She walks up to him.

Jason: "Planning to but I'm not sure where to go?"

Patty: "Would you like to join me at the Council's Office?"

Jason: "Am I allowed there?"

Patty: "It's open for everyone. Not just members."

Jason: "Sure, I'm down for that." He gets up and follows her down the halls. "How's the President's life been treating you?"

Patty: "Still a pain, but I'm managing to get the hang of it."

Jason: "That's good to hear. Are the other members doing well?"

Patty: "Kinda, I mean they can be a handful at times."

Jason: "So I've heard. Akari has already build herself a reputation."

Patty: "I understand how others feel but she's not a bad person. Though I will admit her handling can be a bit too strict."

Jason: "I see."

Patty: "Though in all honesty. I kinda wish the big three was here instead of me." Jason looks to her concern. "Sorry, I didn't mean to sound so negative. I'm just surprised at how well those three can handle any situation so easily."

Jason: "Those three? You mean Zackary, Todd, and Monika?"

Patty: "Yeah, to be honest with you. I still have doubts about myself. Like do I have what it takes to live up to their expectations? Can I really make them proud? Can I really protect them, to protect her?" She starts looking gloomy.

Jason: "… I'm sure you can."

Patty: "Eh?" The blonde with pink tips looks up to him.

Jason: "I mean. Sure it was rough in the beginning, but not everyone can get it right the first time. It just takes time and practice. I know the big trio made it look easy but I'm sure they had some difficulties in the past, so don't worry about it. They left you in charge because they trusted you and I know you'll be fine."

Patty: "I-I see." She starts playing with her hair embarrassed.

Jason: (Ah, did I say something wrong?)

Patty: "Hey Jason."

Jason: "Yeah?"

Patty: "You're planning to go to a university after graduation, right?"

Jason: "I am. I got accepted after all."

Patty: "Good, so if by the off chance … we might be classmates again."

Jason: "That is a possibility."

Patty: "A-are you against it?"

Jason: "No, not really. Actually, I would be glad to have a familiar face in class. It would help relieve some anxiety."

Patty: "That's good to know." She smiles while still playing with her hair. Twirling the pink tips.

Jason: (Wait is she implying something?)

Patty: "Well, we're here so let's chow down." She opens the door.

Jason: "Yeah, sure."

After some more time had passed. The final bell of the day finally rang. Allowing everyone to pack up and leave. Just as they did. The Literature Club members met up and began their club activities.

Monika: "Ok everyone, listen up. I have a brand-new idea for our next activity." Her clubmates looked to her. "As you may know, it's been a while since we last shared our poems, so I thought we start that up again this time with a twist."

Natsuki: "In what way?" She squints her eyes.

Monika: "Normally we just write our poems at home and share them the next day, but I think we can spice things up by writing a poem right now in five minutes."

Natsuki: "Five minutes!?"

Hina: "Ooooohh, I get it. You want us to write on the spot and see what we can come up with in that short amount of time."

Monika: "Exactly, I want all of us to write whatever comes to mind before sharing them as usual. To see who can come up with the best on the spot. It'll be good practice when we write our regular poems."

Natsuki: "But still, five minutes?"

Monika: "Come on gang. Let's give it a shot."

Her clubmates at first seemed less enthusiastic but soon gave in as they already knew arguing with Monika would be a waste of effort. After setting up the rules and timer. Everyone began writing within those five minutes. After five minutes were up. Everyone stopped and began sharing what they wrote as normal. Despite the small-time limit. Monika, Yuri, Sakura, Sky, Sayori, Michael, and Senna's poems were all well written causing the others to feel intimidated by what they wrote. However, despite a few hiccups. Sebastain, Lily, Ronald, Jane, and Natsuki's were still well made. Not bad for five minutes but not all were so lucky as the last two were …

Johnny: "Ha, yours was by far the worst!" He laughs at Clyde.

Clyde: "Whatever." He says with a pink tint on his cheeks while Johnny continues to laugh.

Sebastain: "Johnny, I wouldn't talk if I were you since yours was bad as well."

Clyde: "HA!" Now he starts laughing at Johnny as he gets embarrassed.

Johnny: "Grrrr, why you!"

Lily: "Oh my God. Boys."

Sakura: "Have to agree with you there."

Hina: "Teehee, boys will be boys."

After spending another ten minutes having to break them up again. It was now time for everyone to have free time. During this time, just outside the hallways.

Yuri: "I wish I could stay longer but my session will start soon."

Michael: "It's fine. We'll spend time together another day. Just get all the help you need."

Yuri: "Thank you for understanding. I'll call you later tonight to tell you how it went."

Michael: "Sounds like a plan. See you soon."

Yuri: "Indeed." The two share a kiss. "Love you." She walks away.

Michael: "Love you too." He heads back into the classroom and sees everyone doing their own thing. (Hmm, wonder what I should or who I should talk to? Johnny, Jane, and Sky are having a conversation. Sebastain, Lily, Ronald, and Sayori are in their own group, and Monika, Senna, Natsuki, Sakura, and Hina in another. Wait, where's Clyde?)

He looks around and sees him looking at his phone alone in the back. (Wonder what he's up to?) He walks up to him. "Clyde." He looks away from his phone.

Clyde: "Michael, what do you want? I mean … what can I do for you?"

Michael: "You don't have to try too hard with me. I kinda got used to your way of speaking."

Clyde: "Clearly, but I promised Senna that I would try to sound nicer. Aside from that, do you need something from me cause I ain't lending any money."

Michael: "Not that, unless you're offering."

Clyde: "I'm not."

Michael: "I just came to talk to you. If that's cool with you?"

Clyde: "I guess that's ok with me. Better than Johnny that is."

Michael: "You two really can't get along with each other, can you?"

Clyde: "If he keeps trying to pick a fight with me then no."

Michael: "…"

Clyde: "…" Awkward silence ensues.

Michael: "I've been meaning to ask you this for a while now, but I never had the chance since you joined the club. But what do you like to do on your off days?"

Clyde: "Like my hobbies?"

Michael: "Yeah, like what do you like to do when your home?"

Clyde: "…"

Michael: "Is it too personal?"

Clyde: "No, it's just … no one ever asks me except Senna."

Michael: "Ah"

Clyde: "If you must know. I like to spend my hours playing video games."

Michael: "You like to game as well?"

Clyde: "I do, who doesn't? Well, maybe the normies." When he said that. Michael couldn't help but chuckle. Which only caused Clyde to blush a bit. "I see you're a man of culture I presume?"

Michael: "I do. What kinda games do you like to play?"

Clyde: "I enjoy anything related to RPG's or JRPGS."

Michael: "Really now?"

Clyde: "I like to strategize or find ways to break the game if I can. I also like a good story to go with it."

Michael: "Interesting. So, what's the latest game you've been playing?"

Clyde: "I'm currently going through the Trails Series."

Michael: "Trails?"

Clyde: "The titles are slightly different from one another. I've already played through Trails in the Sky along with Trails to Zero and From Azure. Right now I'm going through Trails of Cold Steel."

Michael: "That's a lot of games."

Clyde: "Yeah, but I enjoy them."

Michael: "Now that I think about it, I think I have heard of them."

The two would continue having this conversation. As they did, Senna looked to them having a conversation. When she saw them talking, she smiled before looking away to have her own conversation. The rest of the day went by as normal until it was time to end today's club meeting. After everyone packed up and left. Just before him and Sayori could leave the front entrance of the school.

Sayori: "Could you wait here for a bit? I need to use the restroom."

Michael: "Yeah, I'll wait right here."

Sayori: "Thanks MC. Be back in a jiffy." She runs to the nearest restroom while Michael waits.

Michael: *Sigh* He leans against the door frame waiting as the sun settles. (Time flies when you're having fun. Who knew our conversation would take up our whole free time. I never knew Clyde was into those types of games. Guess you can never judge a book by its cover. It may just surprise you. It was nice getting to know more about him despite us getting on the wrong foot.) He shuts his eyes and tilts his head up taking a nice deep breath.

Monika: "Oh, you're still here?" He opens his eyes up and looks at his club president.

Michael: "Yeah, Sayori needed to use the restroom, and you?"

Monika: "Just last-minute errands. I came across Patty and she needed some help."

Michael: "I see." He looks away and stares at the orange sky.

Monika: "I heard what you and boys are planning this weekend."

Michael: "You have?" He turns to her surprised.

Monika: "Yeah, Sayori told me."

Michael: "Ah, that makes sense."

Monika: "Was it none of my business?"

Michael: "Not really. You're the club President. You have the right to know what your clubmates are doing."

Monika: "True enough." She walks up to him so they can be side by side. "Can I ask you a favor."

Michael: "Shoot."

Monika: "Could you be the one to take care of the boys in our club?"

Michael: "Huh?"

Monika: "Could you be the one to keep them in line?"

Michael: "You mean like be a leader to them?" She nods. "Why me?"

Monika: "As you know there's more of us now. Me and Sayori have our hands tied with the girls and we need an extra pair of hands. That's where you come in."

Michael: "I see where you're coming from but that still doesn't answer my question. Why me?"

Monika: "Because they respect you."

Michael: "Huh!?"

Monika: "The boys respect you. They'll listen to whatever you say and if not then they'll know what's to come. I want you to be the one in charge of keeping them in line while me and Sayori handle the girls."

Michael: "I'm still not sure I can pull it off." He touches his knuckles.

Monika: "Whether it's out of fear or not. I believe it's out of respect." She walks forward before turning to him. "I overheard your geeky talk."

Michael: "You did?"

Monika: "I have but it's nice to know he's opening up to others at the very least and I'm glad it's with you."

Michael: "…"

Monika: "I'll see you tomorrow. Bye Michael." She waves before leaving.

He doesn't say a word, only waving as she left the area. Just as she left.

Sayori: "K MC. I'm back. Did you wait long?"

Michael: "No not at all. Ready to head home?"

Sayori: "Yup" She nods happily.

After a long trip back home and enjoying dinner at night. Michael can be seen laying on his bed still thinking about what Monika told him.

Michael: (Me being the leader of the guys? Them respecting me? Can't get what she said to me out of my head. I don't know how to feel about all this. I'm not a leader. I can't lead people or keep them in line. Clyde and Johnny have way too much animosity towards each other. How am I supposed to keep those two in line?)

*Bzzt*

"Huh?" He looked towards his phone as it rung. "Who's calling me now?" He looks at Caller ID. "Oh, that's right. Hello?"

Yuri: "Good evening. Is this a bad time?"

Michael: "Hey Yuri. No it's not. What's up?"

Yuri: "I just wanted to talk to you. I'm glad to know you're available. I was worried this might be a bad time."

Michael: "It's not. How did your doctor's appointment go?"

Yuri: "It went well. My psychologist is surprised at how fast I'm recovering."

Michael: "That's good to hear and your wounds?"

Yuri: "Scars are healing nicely well. Though some may need more time before I could wear shorter sleeves."

Michael: "I see, good to know."

Dead silence.

Yuri: "Is something on your mind?"

Michael: "No not really."

Yuri: "I see."

Michael: "… Hey Yuri."

Yuri: "Yes?"

Michael: "Never mind. I forgot what I was about to ask you."

Yuri: "It's quite alright. I'll let you go so you could get some rest."

Michael: "Sure, I'll see you tomorrow?"

Yuri: "Indeed, sleep well. I love you."

Michael: "I love you too. Goodnight."

Yuri: "Goodnight." They both hung up.

Michael: *Sigh* (It's good to know she's doing great. Maybe I should've told her about my sister. I wonder if talking about it with someone would help?) He closes his eyes and drifts asleep.

The following day during lunch hours.

?: "Captain Leo, Captain Leo! Can I have a word with you?" He runs after Leo with the blonde turning towards his teammate.

Leo: "Yo, what's up Tom? You need something?"

Tom: "Yeah, it's about what coach told me."

Leo: "And that being?"

Tom: "Why the hell did you nominate me to be the next head captain of the Soccer Team?"

Leo: "Oh that."

Tom: "Stop playing dumb! Tell me why you chose me?"

Leo: "Listen man. There's a perfect explanation to why I had coach pick you to be the next captain."

Tom: "And that would be?"

Leo: "I just like you."

Tom: "Huh!?"

Leo: "I like the cut of your jib. I've seen how much effort you put into your training. Hell you were the one who scored the final goal leading to us to victory."

Tom: "Well I mean yeah, but …"

Leo: "Listen, I'm grateful that you wanted to win so badly as a tribute for us Seniors. Really, I am."

Tom: "But why me?"

Leo: "You'll be fine. Have some confidence in yourself just like how I have confidence in you. I've seen you in action. I saw how determined you are. With those skills you'll be a great captain."

Tom: "You really thinks so?"

Leo: "Hell yeah! I expect to hear great things from you while I'm away. Now lift up your chin and make this school and your teammates proud!"

Tom: "Yes sir!"

Leo: "Now get out of here and get some lunch."

Tom: "Will do!" He runs off.

Leo: (Sure am going to miss him. I'm going to miss all of them, but I can't let that hold me back. I have a dream and it's to make it big as a star athlete.) He hears footsteps and turns his head to the source.

Todd: "Wise words coming from the Captain of the Soccer Team." Appeared the brown-haired boy.

Leo: "Spying on us? That's new coming from the former King." He walks closer to him.

Todd: "Must you always invade my personal space? There's a term for it. Boundaries."

Leo: "Whatevs man." He takes a step back. "So how much did you hear?"

Todd: "The whole thing. I was on my way to meet with Bastion for lunch."

Leo: "The President of the Chess Club? I hear he's pretty good. I don't know much about chess but that's what I heard."

Todd: "He is. As a matter of fact, he's set to compete in a tournament coming soon."

Leo: "Sounds fun. I wish him good luck then"

Todd: "Indeed, I hope he'll do his best. He's going up against tough competition this year and if he wins. Well … the school will need to make room for another trophy next to last years."

Leo: "He won last years too, right?"

Todd: "Correct and if this keeps up, we'll have a better reputation for our school."

Leo: "Heh, well even if he doesn't. We could always kick out Connor and his girlfriend out of school."

Todd: "I suggest you hold your tongue. Unless you want to lose it."

Leo: "I'm only joking man, come down."

Todd: "Hmph, such a waste of my time. If you got time to dilly dally, then you have time to eat and rest well."

Leo: "Tch, ass."

Todd: "Hmph, I miss you too." He walked past him but before he could. "Give it your all and never surrender. Fight hard and bring honor to yourself and our school. I'm counting on you."

Leo: "Todd?" Surprised by his sudden support only for that face to turn into a grin. "As if I need your words of encouragement. I don't need your support but you're more than welcome to come by and cheer me on when I make it big. My treat." Just as he said that. Todd smirks.

Todd: "As if I want to see you break more windows." Leo chuckles.

Leo: "You ass." He walks away to the opposite side. (You'll see. I'll make it big. I'll leave my mark here. This will be the start of my legacy and my ultimate fuck you to dad.)

Later that same day.

Monika: "Okay everyone. Here's the plan for today. We're start the day off with free time so go around and have some fun. Later we're start our club activity before ending today's club meeting."

Natsuki: "And what would that activity be?"

Monika: "Another day of speed poetry."

Natsuki: "Oh God."

Clyde: "Tch"

Johnny: "Mhm"

Monika: "I hope you're all ready for another fantastic day of games and fun." She says with a bright smile. "And one more thing. No fighting today." She stares at a certain someone.

Clyde: "Mmm" He avoids eye contact which causes Senna to smirk. "Oh stop that."

Senna: "I don't know what you're talking?" She says while keeping that smirk intact.

Clyde: "Tch, whatever."

Hina: "Like speaking off which. Has anyone seen Johnny today?"

Sebastian: "You're right. I don't see him anywhere."

Monika: "Odd, he's usually here by now."

Ronald: "Y-yeah about th-that." They all turn their eyes towards him.

Monika: "What's wrong Ronald? Did something bad happened?"

Ronald: "I-in a way you c-could say that."

Clyde: "Then speak up."

Senna: "Clyde, don't be rude!"

Clyde: "Hmph" He folds his arms and turns his head away.

Sayori: "Wow, he's like the male version of Natsuki."

Natsuki: "In what way?" She glares at her.

Sayori: "N-nothing" She says nervously.

Monika: "Don't mind them. Speak when you're ready."

Ronald: "R-right, y-you see. J-Johnny got … he g-got in trouble in c-class earlier today."

Monika: "With what?" She squints her eyes.

Ronald: "He … um …" He struggles with his words causing him to be nervous even more. As he did both Yuri and Michael started to notice something was wrong with him. "H-he …"

Sakura: "He fell asleep in class."

Ronald: "!"

Monika: "What?"

Sakura: "He fell asleep in class."

Ronald: "B-but how did you?"

Sakura: "We have history class together."

Monika: "That's the first I'm hearing this."

Sakura: "I doubt the big guy ever noticed I'm there with him. Plus no one asked."

Monika: "Yeah but … never mind."

Hina: "Yeah Sakura is like the quiet type. Sometimes we even forget she's here."

Monika: "I see, good to know." She clears her throat. "So anyways Ronald, you were saying?"

Ronald: "I-it's true what she s-said. He fell as-sleep in class and g-got in trouble for i-it, so he w-won't be here t-today."

Monika: "Okay, so that explains why he's not here but why was he sleeping?"

Ronald: "H-he had to h-help Daisy tend to the y-young o-orphans. I g-guess he was kept up late for a while. I-I was already asleep when it o-occurred."

Monika: "Okay and who's Daisy?"

Ronald: "Sh-she's our caretaker. She's the one w-who owns the orphanage."

Monika: "I see. I hope the teachers aren't too harsh on him"

Ronald: "Y-yeah"

Monika: "Okay everyone. Since that's all settled, we all know today's plan, correct?"

Everyone Else: "Yes Mam!"

Monika: "Then have fun then." After saying that, everyone spread throughout the classroom forming groups.

While everyone forms groups. Michael is seen yawning and stretching himself in his seat.

Michael: (Looks like everyone is gathering up in groups. Wonder who I should join today?) He looks around the room to see who's in who's group. He sees Monika working on homework along with Yuri, Sky, Lily, and Sakura at the front of the classroom. Meanwhile near the entrance, he sees Natsuki and Jane having a conversation of their own. On the other side near the window, he sees Senna, Hina, and Sayori chatting while Clyde can be seen taking a nap.

(Seems like everyone is busy. Wonder who I should join with? Wait a minute. Something is out of the ordinary.) He looks at the three groups once again. (Johnny is not here due to getting detention but where's Ronald?) He looks around one more time and sees he's at the back of the classroom all alone. (Wonder what's up? I should go check up on him, see how he's doing.)

He gets off his seat and makes his way to the back.

"Yo Ronald." He waves surprising the red head.

Ronald: "Huh? Y-yo Michael."

Michael: "You alright?"

Ronald: "I-I am. Why'd you ask?"

Michael: "You seemed off today. Is everything alright?"

Ronald: "Uh, well …"

Michael: "…" Awkward silence ensues. Something he has gotten used to at this point. "Is there a reason you're not hanging out with the others today?"

Ronald: "Um?" Michael looks to him concerned. "W-why aren't you?"

Michael: "Eh?" Ronald face palms.

Ronald: "Sorry, wrong choice of words. What I meant to say is. How come you're not hanging with them too?"

Michael: "I was planning to join but noticed you were here all alone. You ok? You seem way more quiet and nervous than usual."

Ronald: "I-it's cause I am nervous."

Michael: "Huh?"

Ronald: "I don't want to bother you with the d-details."

Michael: "It's nothing. You can tell me."

Roanld: "R-really?"

Michael: "It ain't my first rodeo. Got anything you want to get off your chest?"

Ronald: "… It's just … I'm not used t-to being so far away from J-Johnny."

Michael: "Have you two always been together?"

Ronald: "Yeah, ever since we f-first met at the orphanage. We've been close. He was my f-f-first friend. The one who got me to open up after what Raphael did to our families."

Michael: "I see." He shows a hurt expression hearing that name.

Ronald: "Oh shit, sorry. I didn't mean to bring up your dad."

Michael: "It's fine. I know he hurt a lot of people. I don't blame anyone for how they feel about him or me. I just learned to deal with it." Ronald starts to feel guilty about all this. "So about you and Johnny?"

Ronald: "S-sorry, I'm j-just not comfortable without Johnny around."

Michael: "Why is that?"

Ronald: "I-if you haven't n-notice yet. I'm s-stuttering a l-lot more than usual."

Michael: "I have which is why I'm confused by this sudden change. I've seen you talk to the others just fine, so what's going on now?"

Ronald: "It's b-because he was here."

Michael: "What?"

Ronald: "It's b-because J-Johnny was here."

Michael: "What do you mean by that?"

Ronald: "The only r-reason why I'm able to t-talk to you guys so easily is because Johnny w-was here with me. He gives me c-confidence and he always has my back. I-if I f-fumble, I know he's got my back t-to help me out and to pick up where I messed up, but since he's not here t-today … I just feel … I feel … I don't know."

Michael: "It's alright. You don't have to tell me everything if you don't want to. We'll leave it at that."

Ronald: "Th-thanks, I n-need to r-recuperate myself."

Michael: "Take your time. Don't force yourself too hard. If you need to leave the club early, you're more than welcome to."

Ronald: "N-no I shouldn't. I p-promise myself I-I wait for Johnny after a-all this is over."

Michael: "Well alright then. For now just take it easy. We still have our speed poetry to do later."

Ronald: "R-right. Take care for n-now."

Michael nods before leaving him alone at the back. As he did, he saw that Yuri was now alone at the front reading a book.

Michael: (Guess they finished their homework early today.) He walks towards her. As he did, she heard his footsteps and set the book down to face him.

Yuri: "Good afternoon."

Michael: "Did I interrupt you?"

Yuri: "Not at all. I always look forward to seeing you."

Michael: "You're going to make me blush in front of our friends." He touches his chin.

Yuri: "Forgive me, that was not my intention." He sits next to her.

Michael: "Just messing with you."

Yuri: "Did you finish your conversation with Ronald?"

Michael: "You saw?"

Yuri: "Indeed, I saw while I was working on my assignments."

Michael: "I see, yeah we finished our talk."

Yuri: "Was something the matter with him? He seemed off today."

Michael: "Just a rough day for him. That's all."

Yuri: "I see. I hope he gets well soon. A goodnight sleep should help after we're done today."

Michael: "Tell me about it."

Yuri: "Oh, I almost forgot. My father would like to know if you would like to come over for dinner tonight?"

Michael: "Your dad wants me to visit?"

Yuri: "Indeed, he felt you shouldn't eat alone every day, so he asked me to tell you if you would like to join us tonight?"

Michael: "Hmm, I might have to let my mom know but sure."

Yuri: "Wonderful, you're going to enjoy my mother's cooking. We're having meatloaf tonight."

Michael: "Sounds good." Yuri smiles to him. (It's been a while since I last saw her dad Alvis. Last time I saw him was when he helped me find where Yuri went. When he gave me his approval to date his daughter. I wonder how things are going to go?)

Later after sharing what they wrote in five minutes.

"Yeah, I'll be fine. She said her dad will drop me off."

Mom: "Alright then have fun and remember to show manners."

Michael: "I will. Later mom."

Mom: "By son." Both hung up the phone.

Yuri: "Has everything been settled?"

Michael: "Yeah, I'm all set to go."

Yuri: "Excellent"

Sayori: "Whatcha two talking about?"

Michael: "Yuri's family invited me over for dinner tonight. I just had to let my mom know where I'll be tonight."

Sayori: "Aw, that sounds awesome."

Yuri: "May I ask what you have plan tonight?"

Sayori: "Ehhh, nothing much. My parents aren't home today."

Yuri: "Where have they gone to?"

Sayori: "It's their anniversary so they decided to take a trip out of town. They're be back tomorrow in the afternoon."

Yuri: "How lovely. Please let them know I congratulate them on their successful marriage."

Sayori: "Suuurrrre"

Yuri: "Hmm" Both childhood friends looked to her confused by her sudden action.

Michael: "Is everything alright?"

Yuri: "Oh sorry. I was just thinking."

Michael: "About what?"

Yuri: "Sayori, how would you like to join us for dinner?"

Sayori: "Eh, really?"

Yuri: "Yes, you have been so nice to me ever since we first met despite the bumpy roads. It's the least I could do for you as my friend and the one who stood by Michael's side for years." Sayori cracks a smile.

Sayori: "Sure! I would love to eat your family's cooking."

Michael: "You might want to wipe the drool off your mouth."

Yuri: "Excellent, then shall we go?"

Michael & Sayori: "Yeah!" The two said in unison. After this they said their goodbyes to everyone and headed out to Yuri's place. After a long trip, they arrived as she unlocked the door.

Yuri: "Mother, I'm home!"

Yuri's Mother: "Welcome home sweetie." She walks out of the kitchen to see their guests. "Oh my, I see you brought over Michael and a friend."

Michael: "Hello again."

Sayori: "Hi"

Yuri: "Mother this is Sayori. She's my clubmate and friend."

Yuri's Mother: "Its' an honor to meet you. Thank you for taking care of daughter." She bows to Sayori.

Sayori: "Aw shucks it's nothing."

Yuri: "Mother, is father not home yet?"

Yuri's Mother: "Unfortanitly no. There was an emergency he had to take care of at work, but he'll be here as soon as dinner is ready. Twenty minutes to be exact."

Yuri: "That's wonderful news."

Yuri's Mother: "Until then, would any of you like any refreshments?"

Michael: "I'm good for now. Thank you."

Sayori: "I could go for something"

Yuri's Mother: "Then come along with me to the kitchen. You can pick whatever you desire."

Sayori: "Cool." She walks away from her friends to the kitchen.

Michael: "No hesitation whatsoever." He scratches the back of his head.

Yuri: "Indeed, come. We can have a conversation in my room until dinner is ready."

Michael: "Sure"

Yuri: "Mother, me and Michael will be at my bedroom!"

Yuri's Mother: "Sure thing!"

Yuri: "Sayori, you're more than welcome to join when you're ready."

Sayori: "K!"

Yuri: "Shall we?"

Michael: "Lead the way."

The two headed up to Yuri's bedroom and chatted for a bit until Sayori decided to join in on the conversation. Soon enough, they heard the front door opening and closing signaling that Yuri's father is home. They decided to head down immediately to greet him home. When they saw him, they decided to move the conversation to the family dining room with Yuri and her mother serving the food.

Yuri's Father: "Welcome Michael, I'm glad you could make it. I take it you're doing well?"

Michael: "I am. Thanks for having me over. I wasn't expecting to be here honestly."

Yuri's Father: "None sense. It's a pleasure to have you over. I'm happy to know my baby daughter found someone who could remind her she is loved."

Yuri: "F-father!"

Yuri's Father: "Oh, I apologize. I didn't mean to embarrass you in front of him and new guest."

Yuri: "P-please stop."

Yuri's Father: "Noted, as for our other guest." He looks over to Sayori.

Yuri: "Father, this is Sayori. She is a clubmate and a friend of mine at school. She is also Michael's childhood friend."

Sayori: "Hello" She waves to Alvis happily.

Yuri's Father: "Sayori, it's a pleasure to meet you. Thank you for taking care of my daughter. I'm grateful."

Sayori: "It's no problem. I like Yuri, she's fun to be around with."

Yuri: "S-Sayori" Her face gets flustered.

Yuri's Father: "That's good to hear. Please dig in. My wife makes the best meatloaf."

Yuri's Mother: "You know it honey."

Sayori: "Well don't mind if I do." She starts eating.

Yuri: "Oh my."

Michael: "Yeah, that's normal."

Sayori: "So good." She keeps stuffing her mouth.

Yuri's Father: "Michael, how have you been these past couple of weeks?"

Michael: "Oh I'm doing well. Doing this and that at school."

Yuri's Father: "I see and have you thought about your future?"

Michael: "To be honest with you sir. I haven't really decided on that. I don't know what I want to do after graduation."

Yuri's Father: "Understandable, I was like you back at my younger years. So don't worry about it too much. You still have time left before graduation."

Michael: "Yeah, you're right."

Yuri's Father: "On another matter. I'm curious to know how you and Sayori met?"

Michael: "Eh?"

Yuri's Father: "I'm asking how you met. Yuri mentioned you two are childhood friends. I'm just curious to know how that happened. If that's okay with you?"

Michael: "Hmm, well you see uh …"

Yuri: "I'm curious about that as well. You never told anyone about how you two met."

Michael: "I didn't?" His girlfriend shook her head. "Sayori?"

Sayori: "You know what, now that you mention it. I don't think we ever told them our history. I've told them things here and there but never how we met."

Yuri: "If it's okay with you two. Could you tell us how you met when you were kids? I'm very curious to know how it all started."

Michael: "…" He looks over to Sayori as she nods happily. "If that what you want to know then I'm fine talking about it."

Yuri's Father: "Splendid"

Michael: "You see it all started back when we were … seven?"

Sayori: "Seven yeah."

Michael: "I was out one day playing with a yellow bouncy ball in front of my house. I didn't know anyone around cause at the time the other neighbors didn't have kids, so I was all alone."

Sayori: "That was when I showed up to brighten his day. I just moved into the neighborhood and after getting everything out of the moving truck. My mommy told me to go out and see the neighborhood, but to not go too far and to stay out of the streets. That's when I saw MC playing with his ball."

Michael: "I was just minding my own business until she showed up and offered to play with me."

Sayori: "Yup and ever since then we've been friends."

Yuri: "Aw, how sweet."

Yuri's Mother: "How lovely."

Michael: "We were so close in fact that our parents saw us as one of their own to the point where we just showed up to each other's houses as if we already lived there."

Yuri's Mother: "Oh my, so the two of you were like family."

Sayori: "Yup, MC is like the brother I never had. I didn't have any siblings, so I was extremely happy when MC became my first friend in the neighborhood. He helped filled the void I was feeling." Michael smiles to himself when she said that.

Yuri's Mother: "How lovely you two are."

Yuri's Father: "Tell us Michael. Do you have any sibling?"

Michael: "!"

Yuri's Father: "Since Sayori mentioned not having siblings may I assume you were the same? It must have been lonely before you met Sayori?"

Michael: "I uh …" He struggles to form words. Something Sayori noticed and got worried about him.

Sayori: "… He does."

Michael: "!" He looks to her wide eyed.

Yuri's Father: "Oh?"

Yuri's Mother: "Oh my."

Sayori: "It's true. He has a younger sister name Michelle."

Yuri: "A younger sister? Wait I could have sworn his mother mentioned her before."

Yuri's Father: "Could you tell us more about her?"

Sayori: "Well?" The two childhood friends looked to each other in the eyes as if they didn't want to talk about her but. "She was … a very open person."

Yuri's Father: "How so?"

Sayori: "She said whatever was in her mind not carrying about the anyone's feelings. Sometimes she can be a horrible bully." She mumbles the last part to herself.

Yuri's Father: "I see, but where is she now?"

Sayori: "…" She looks over to Michael.

Michael: "She's no longer with us."

Yuri's Father: "Oh, I'm sorry to hear that."

Yuri: "Michael"

Michael: "N-no, not the way you think. She's still alive, but … she's no longer living with us."

Yuri's Father: "Why is that? Did something happened to her?"

Michael: "I don't know how to describe it, but right now she's living in a hospital for her mental outbreaks." Yuri gasped along with her mother.

Yuri's Father: "That's awful to hear."

Michael: "It is and I don't know where she is now."

Yuri's Father: "What do you mean?"

Michael: "She had to change from one hospital to another. After a while I lost track of her. The only one who knows is my mom, but she hasn't told me anything."

Yuri's Mother: "Why is that?"

Michael: "Don't know. I'm guessing so I could focus on my schoolwork's without having to worry about her."

Yuri's Mother: "But what about you? Do you still worry about her?"

Michael looks over to Sayori.

Michael: "… I do. Even though we had our differences, she's still my baby sister and I worry about her."

Yuri's Mother: "That's so sweet. I'm sure things will go well in due time."

Michael: "I sure hope so." They continue to eat while Sayori looks over to him.

Meanwhile, on the other side of town.

Johnny: "Man what a long day that was." He says while plopping on his bed. "It was already bad enough teachers were on my ass now Daisy is kicking my ass."

Ronald: "Did you tell her that you were tired from helping her yesterday?" He says while sitting on his bed hunched over.

Johnny: "As if that crazy old hag would ever listen to me. It's always, Johnny, do this, do that, be better, blah, blah, blah." He turns to his side.

Ronald: "Come on man. You know she does this cause she cares about you."

Johnny: "Yeah? Well sometimes I wish she could cut it out." Ronald takes a deep sigh. "So how did things go at the club? Did Clyde bother you?"

Ronald: "No, not really. He spent most of club time napping."

Johnny: "Hmph, good. He's less annoying asleep than awake."

Ronald: "Why do you hate him so much?"

Johnny: "Cause he's so God damn annoying. It's his attitude I fucking hate. He always has a comment to make at everything I do. Hell, just sitting he has something to say. It pisses me off." He grips his pillow hard.

Ronald: "…" He rubs his left arm while still sitting on his bed.

Johnny: "I'm tired. Good night." He shuts his eyes and goes to sleep.

Ronald: "Yeah, good night." He says before turning off the lights.

End of Chapter 86