Disclaimer: Prison School belongs to its original creator Akira Hiramoto and the anime series J.C Staff. Shadowdream30 claims no ownership of anything save for any OCs, original scenes.
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The tension between Matsuri and Megumi is still pretty high. But for how long, Matsuri wishes to make things right between the two so that they can move forward. But what is his plan and what will he learn about the relationship between her and Yoshimiya? We find out in this next chapter…
-Chairman's Office-
"And that's what happened."
Kate finished her story with the chairman as he sat behind the desk with his hands folded in front of him. He held a firm expression on his face with his eyes closed. Standing in front of the chairman were both Mari and Kate.
Mari held a serious stare, but her grip on her arm shows that she was a little scared of what was to come. She couldn't tell what it was, but she just felt something was not right. Kate was on the opposite of her feelings, she held a small grin on her lips as she looked between the chairman and Mari.
Usano held a firm expression for a while before he spoke. "I see, is this true….Mari!"
Mari sighed. "I'm afraid so, yes. He was acting…irrational."
"Irrational is such a small word for that, I would say he was acting like a wild animal." Kate said. "But fear not, I and the student council handled the situation. He's currently in prison and we'll personally watch him over until he calms down."
Mari narrowed her eyes at the orange-haired girl. She knew too well that the girl was covering her real plan for the boy. But she did not want to start something with her, at least not right now. Especially in front of her father.
Usano nodded. "That is acceptable. I will allow you and the council members to handle Andre. It is a shame what has happened here…recently! But it is what it is."
Kate sleek her way towards Mari as she throws her arm around her neck. "If you don't mind, I would also like to give credit to the USC as well. They managed to handle the situation before it got any worse. I especially like to thank Matsuri and Yukina."
"I saw from the window. I was surprised by Matsuri's violent response against Andre. But I applaud him for his actions. And thanks to Yukina skills, she was able to throw the net on Andre before the situation could get any higher. I applaud them for taming the…threat."
Mari glared at Kate for trying to sugarcoat the scenario. But again, she chose not to interfere. "Yes, the situation is handled."
"Kate. I will leave you and the council to handle Andre. Try to recreate him back into his healthy…form."
Kate lip curled into a smile. "Will do, Chairman."
"Before you guys go," Usano stopped them before they could go and turn in for the day. "I would like to inform you two about something. This concerns with…Hayakki."
Their expressions changed. They all looked at the chairman with a curious glance. But held a firm serious glare.
"You all are aware that Hayakki is the council president of the school, correct," He asked them as they nodded. "And you girls know about Hayakki's father, the chairman of the…school."
"Yes, we are aware of both." Mari said.
"I have discussed this with Takamoto-sensei and I have come to discover something about Hayakki's father…and if I were to be honest, I wish I didn't know about it." Mari and Kate blinked curiously at the man. "His name is Tatsuya Nekumi, he is the owner of a rather popular film studio known as Sakura Production."
"Sakura Production? What's that?" Kate asked.
Usano closed his eyes for a moment. "It's a small film studio that does…as in your words, B-Rated movies. But let me tell you girls that the man has created the next to near top tier…movie! These stories that this man have put his heart and soul into have resonated within me and has forever-"
Mari cleared her throat to stop the man from rambling on. "As interesting as that sounds, I would like it if you go back on topic."
Usano coughed into his hand with a faint blush. "A-Ah! I lost my cool there for a moment. A-Anyways, Tatsuya is a dangerous individual. His real identity is known as The Immortal Wolf."
Both Mari and Kate expressions frozen in place. Their blood is running cold.
"Yes…it is that grave. He is the leader of the infamous yakuza group based here in our quiet hometown of Japan. The Sleeping Wolves."
"The Sleeping Wolves…" Mari whispered to herself. Those words she uttered in her mouth.
"Hold on! You're telling me that Hayakki is the daughter of the infamous yakuza group!? How in the world did this get past the school faculty!?"
"I'm not sure, but he brought the school and I believe that's how Hayakki got into the position of the…council!"
Mari nodded to herself before she spoke. "So why is it that you are explaining this to us, father?"
"I'm explaining this to you both because I fear something dangerous from that man. And seeing how you two do care for the boy, I would've assumed that you two would try and send some spies over to Atsuhiko. Gathering evidence of Yoshimiya. I highly recommend you two to not engage in any conflicts with Atsuhiko at all…times!"
Mari narrowed her eyes. "What if we were to send someone who knows how to defend themselves?"
"NO!" He bellowed, which surprised both girls. "The man is a dangerous individual. And I can't imagine what type of character Hayakki is, from what Matsuri described her, she is something not to be trifled with. And that goes especially for this case. Given that Tatsuya is a well known…yakuza!"
Both Mari and Kate looked at each other before looking back at the chairman.
"Very well then we shall hold off on endangering Matsuri's life." Kate said.
"It's not just Matsuri life I'm afraid of, it's the safety of all of…Hachimitsu!"
Mari narrowed her eyes. "Is it that bad?"
"I can't say for sure, but please, heed my warning, I wish for your two safety. Please, do not do anything…rash!"
Mari and Kate nodded, with Mari being the spokesperson. "We won't, Chairman."
On that note, they were dismissed and exited the room, leaving the man to himself and his thoughts.
Mari rested her back against the door with a sigh. "Just one problem after another."
"Well now," Mari turned to see Kate with a pondering thought. "I wasn't expecting this development."
"Care to elaborate?"
"About Hayakki's father being a yakuza…does it not concern you?"
"Of course it does. Which makes things more difficult, because I was…well, I was going to possibly send Meiko and Hana over to Atsuhiko and gather evidence on Yoshimiya's death. But given the information we got…I'm unsure of what to do."
Kate could only grin at her rival. "What's this, the ever so perfect Mari admitting that she doesn't know what to do! Hahaha! That's rich, coming from you. So you admit that you're not so perfect anymore."
Mari only closed her eyes for a moment, pondering at her thoughts. "You're right, I'm not perfect."
Kate blinked at that.
"You make it sound like I'm perfect all around. But let's be honest here, I only got here because of my class. We are both in different classes, also my school is just more advanced than the one you enrolled in back then. So saying that I'm 'perfect' is complete utter nonsense."
Kate just blinked at the girl with a bewildered expression. She held a gaze at the girl, confused about the girl's sudden statement.
She shook her head, trying to hold a strong expression. "Hmph. I guess you're right, but still seeing you like this does bring in a whole new light. Guess that puts you on the same boat with me."
Mari opened her eyes. "And what does that supposed to mean?"
"What I'm saying is that you're not all high and mighty as you paint yourself as."
"Do I paint myself as such?"
Kate rolled her eyes. "Oh please, of course you do. You just sit on your throne you just never notice."
Mari blinked at that, once again pondering at her own thoughts. "I see…I never knew. I guess it does give me a new perspective from your eyes."
Kate narrowed her eyes on the girl. "Are you making fun of me?"
"No…I'm saying it's a new experience for me that I never set my foot in." Mari said as she smiled at the girl. "So I guess I need to work hard to get back my position. And Kate, that's something you will always triumph over me…you are the hardest worker I know. To be able to overthrow me and obtain attempts to obtain Andre. Sneaky, but I must applaud for that."
Kate cheeks flushed faint red as she looks at the girl. She felt her heart flutter for a moment from just looking at the girl's expression. Her icy blue eyes looked into her green eyes.
She shook her head before turning the other way. "I-It doesn't matter. I'm still going to defeat the USC entirely and take back what was stolen from me. So don't let your guard down too easily."
Mari only smiled. "I never had the intention."
Kate only groaned at the girl before turning the other way. "G-Good night!"
Mari only blinked as she giggled. "Kate."
"What!?" Kate said as she turned her head around.
"We both live in the girls dorm."
"...yeah, what about it?"
"Our dorm is the other way." Mari pointed out.
"..." Kate only looked in the direction with a faint blush. "I-I KNEW THAT!"
Mari could only chuckle to herself as she walked alongside her.
-Matsuri's Room-
Matsuri was laying on his bed with the laptop open and he was on the video call with Miyuki.
"So then, did you have a look at Meiko's custom made bra and underwear?"
Matsuri blushed madly when she mentioned it. He remembered the undergarments that he saw Meiko in. He recalled seeing Meiko massive breasts, which were too big to fill in any bra. Being snuggled into the custom made bra. The frillies on the top rim of the bra.
"I-It's…I did see it and…"
Miyuki held a huge grin on her face. "And~? How was it? Did she look pretty~?"
Matsuri groaned as he scratched the back of his head. "Y-Yeah…she looked very beautiful."
Miyuki giggled at his response. "I thought so. I had that especially custom made for the poor dear. It must be pretty difficult for someone her size to find something that fits her. Especially for someone her age."
"Yeah, I do worry about her…sometimes. Mainly because she can handle herself. And…sometimes she tries to find something that is comfortable for her. So as long as she's comfortable, then it shouldn't be any trouble."
Miyuki smiled as she rested her chin on the back of her folded hands. "Looks like you know her pretty well."
"I wouldn't say I know her all well. But…I'm trying my best to understand her so that I wouldn't end up making a mistake."
"I think it's a good thing you do that." She said with a smile. "It's always best to know more about your love interest than to assume."
Matsuri yelped a little when she mentioned 'lover'. "I-I wouldn't say we're lovers or anything. But I would say we are…close in some way."
"That's a rather roundabout way of saying 'lover'." Miyuki said with a grin. "Bet you go to sleep and have dreams about her."
"HOW'D YOU KNOW ABOUT THAT!?"
"Because you told me just now."
Matsuri's face became completely red at that point. His heart begins to race and pound against his chest. "I-I…I may have."
Miyuki had a knowing smile on her face as she continued looking at the boy.
"U-Um…anyways, I wanted to make a request…if you could make some bigger clothing size for Meiko."
"You mean her uniform…maybe I should've gone and made her a uniform that would fit her size as well. Does she need one now?"
"I wouldn't say now, but if you have the time, could please make one for her. S-Sorry if it's too much."
"Nonsense, I wouldn't mind helping out your girlfriend."
Matsuri squirmed a little. "I…t-thank you."
"So then…did anything happen between you two?"
Matsuri yelped once more. His cheeks flaring up, blazing crimson red. His mind flashes back to the kiss that he and Meiko shared. "N-Nothing happened between us! We just talked!"
"Oh~? And what's with your cheeks being red?"
"N-Nothing! It's not related!"
"I'm sure it isn't~. Your face says otherwise."
Matsuri's mind started to become filled with nothing but images of Meiko posing herself in many different poses. Her body leaning forward and squeezing her massive bosom together while in her purple lingerine bra. Another image of her pushing her butt forwards towards his face. And another image of her pursing her lips together all while unbuttoning her uniform that held against her bosom.
"Matsuri…Matsuri!"
"Huh!? Y-Yeah!?"
"Your nose is bleeding."
Matsuri blinked curiously at the mention of his nose. He then touched his nose and felt blood against his skin. "Ah crap! S-Sorry! It's possibly the heat!" He said as he tried to wipe his nose by using some nearby kleenex.
"I bet it is the weather…or is it the image of Meiko in your head~?"
Matsuri felt his face heating up once more. "I-I gotta go!"
"Oh wait! Matsuri! One more question." She managed to catch him before he could leave. "Did you by any chance talk to Megumi?"
Matsuri blinked. His face color returned to normal. He looked the other way with a sad expression. "I did…and I let her have it."
"...it didn't work out, did it?"
"It's fine though. I'm not looking for her to accept my apology or anything. I just…" Matsuri stopped talking for a moment, his eyes just gave away what he was feeling at the moment. Something that Miyuki didn't miss.
"You still want things between you two to be good?"
"...I know it's selfish of me but…I just…don't like how things are between us. I want her to know that I'm trying my best to change. But…she's making it a little harder than I anticipated."
"...Matsuri…how about you try talking to her again."
The boy blinked.
"Try giving her another go and don't give up."
"But I…I don't know what else to do. I know she and Yoshimiya were friends. She's a really good friend, I can tell. But…I don't know what else to do."
"...there's a deeper relationship between her and Yoshimiya."
"Huh? What do you mean?" Matsuri asked, leaning in, listening to her statement.
"There's more to their relationship than you think, Matsuri. Her and Yoshimiya aren't just friends, they are childhood friends."
Matsuri's eyes widened in surprise. "C-Childhood friends…I-I never knew about that!"
"I'm not surprised neither Yoshimiya nor Megumi told you. Granted, Megumi didn't want to tell you either way. Or anyone. But yes, they used to go back a long way."
Matsuri was just listening to what she was saying. Unsure of what to say. He never knew that both Megumi and Yoshimiya were childhood friends.
"Matsuri…just give it another go, please. Yoshimiya means alot to Megumi and you. Perhaps if she sees that you have changed, then I believe she will have an open mind if she sees it."
"But how do I do that?" Matsuri asked, hoping for an answer.
Miyuki just gave the boy a sympathetic smile. "I'm sure you'll be able to figure it out. Just do what you do best."
"Um…and that is…"
"Being you, sweetie."
Matsuri just blinked in confusion with a faint blush on his cheeks.
"I have to go now. And remember, make friends with Megumi, you hear me?"
"U-Um…y-yes."
"That's good to hear. Now then, goodnight."
"G-Goodnight."
Miyuki closed off as Matsuri was left alone to his thoughts. He shut off the laptop and set it aside off his bed. His body laid out on the bed as he looked ahead, not looking at anything in specific. But he was pondering in his thoughts.
"I never knew they were childhood friends…but how is this gonna help me to make amends with her?" He asked himself.
Unsure of what to do, he just let his eyes drift him off into slumber.
-Cafeteria-
June 17th Friday (15 Days Until Sport Festival)
12:30pm
Megumi was eating her lunch at the table with other girls talking to themselves. Her mind was completely somewhere else for a moment as she was nonchalantly looking at her phone. Her eyes briefly looking up, noticing all the girls in the cafeteria were looking at their phones, watching something.
She could hear muffling from the phone on some ends, but it was clear what they were watching. If it wasn't for them talking, revealing their thoughts.
"Wow, can't believe that happened yesterday."
"I know right. And he attacked the Vice President of the USC as well. What got into him?"
"Sure glad that the Student Council threw him in prison. Otherwise he would've done something worse."
Megumi raised an eyebrow at the mention of the word, 'prison'. Prison? As in detention or an actual prison? Just what the hell kind of school did she enroll in anyways. Granted she was looking at the same video as they were.
What really did attract her attention was that the boy who was defending the gray-haired female busty student was the same boy whom she had a beef with. Matsuri stood there yelling how Meiko is her own person and is free to dress or whatever she likes.
Megumi couldn't help but to keep quiet and listen to how stern and furious he was. She hears these words like and clear…
"THEN YOU DON'T DESERVE HER!"
These words were carried through such emotion she had never seen from the boy before. It was truly something new for her.
"Excuse me." Megumi hears a stern voice in front, she peels away from her phone and spots Mari looking at her with a firm expression. "By any chance, are you Megumi Kawakami."
"...yeah. And…your...the girl from the video?" Megumi asked, rather curiously.
Mari nodded. "Forgive for not introducing myself. I am Mari Kurihara. I'm the president of the USC. Underground Student Council."
Megumi blinked at that with a confused tone. "The underground…student council…"
Mari took her seat at the table before she continued. "Yes, I would give you a handbook regarding us, but currently at the moment we are facing some rather…difficulty of control over the council."
Megumi just couldn't help but to blink at that. "I-I'm sorry, but what the hell does this all mean?"
"In due time I promise to fill you in, but that's not the reason I'm here," Mari said as she folded her arms and rested her chin underneath them. "If I recall, you assaulted my member, Matsuri Hitoyoshi."
Just from the mentioning of the name. Megumi returned the fierce glare back. "If you're here to interrogate me, I'll have you know that your member is the reason why my friend is not here anymore." Megumi said with a low voice, trying not to attract the others' attention.
Mari looked around them. "If you don't mind, can we take this somewhere in private."
Megumi nodded in response before following her.
The two walked outside of the building, away from the crowded area that would've served them no way of interacting without gathering attention. Megumi was rather curious about what the madam president wanted to talk with her about. But if she had to take a guess from their earlier brief discussion, it has to deal with Matsuri.
Mari led them to a good spot outside. "This will do."
Megumi crossed her arms across her chest. "Okay, what do you want?"
"As I was saying, you assaulted Matsuri because of what happened to your friend."
"Yeah and I'm still pissed off at him for betraying her."
Mari's expression formed a scowl. "Your friend was never abandoned."
"Excuse me," Megumi raised a brow. "You're saying it wrong for me to be pissed off at him for a crime he did!"
"No. Your anger is justifiable. It's clear that you and Yoshimiya were good friends, from Matsuri injuries no doubt. However, I still cannot comprehend or agree to the degree that you went and the punishment you gave him. It's too extreme."
Megumi wanted to say something back, but she couldn't find the exact words she could find. She was just furious over Matsuri for betraying Yoshimiya and leaving her to die.
"He was a coward…and a fricken rat. He left Yoshimiya to herself after he took those damn pictures!"
Mari narrowed her eyes on the girl. "Yes, Matsuri had other options and could've done anything in return to save Yoshimiya. But do you really believe that Matsuri enjoyed any of that? Do you truly see him as such."
Megumi blinked, being caught off guard by Mari's question. She shook her head. "What are you trying to say?"
Mari sighed to herself. Her expression was replaced with a sympathetic frown. "Listen, I'm not saying you're in the wrong, nor your anger is unjustified. But what I'm trying to say is…that Matsuri is suffering just as much as you."
"Bullshit." She said with a venomous tone.
"Yoshimiya is his friend as well, is she not?" Mari asked. "Matsuri has been suffering under Hayakki far too long. Yoshimiya was his only true comfort place, the only few times where he feels safe. He doesn't have to constantly look over his shoulders, expecting some horrific torture from Hayakki or her friends. But the fact that he was forced into this cruel prank on Yoshimiya…is something I can't let go of." She said with a bitter venom in her mouth.
Megumi continued to listen to her.
"Matsuri came to this school in hopes of changing for the better, he wanted to be stronger so that he doesn't repeat the same mistake as he did when he attended Atsuhiko. Despite a few minor hiccups…he managed to obtain good results."
"Good results as in…" Megumi asked.
"I'm not going to go into full details, but I'll start with myself…he managed to change my belief in boys." Megumi blinked curiously. "I never had such a high opinion of boys. I always viewed them as 'trash' or just 'beasts' who view girls as nothing but sexual objects to their desire. I grew worried when six of the boys transferred here. I thought they were going to cause trouble and only five of them did."
"I'm guessing Matsuri didn't."
Mari shook her head. "At first my goal was to throw him in prison along with the boys, but he has proven so far of how noble he was. He wasn't like any other boys I encountered, his willingness to keep the boys out of trouble and even going as far to fight for their free time when I didn't offer them any. If it wasn't for Matsuri or with the help of my sister, the boys would have suffered worse consequences. Of course, he didn't just save the boys…but also me as well."
Megumi stayed silent.
"He became more than just a trusted and valuable member, but also a trusted friend…a male friend in that case. Someone who I can trust and share my thoughts with. Someone who is willing to listen and offer some advice if he has any. And someone…who treats my friends with respect and care."
Mari almost got a little emotional during her speech. She shook her head before looking at the intrigued Megumi. "Matsuri's goal was to change himself so that he doesn't have to stay back and watch those he cares for suffer. He was a bit of a coward at first, but he never gave up. He stuck through and through. I can comfortably say that he has grown as a person as he changed my view on men. And have become a friend I can rely on."
"..." Megumi was unsure what to say anymore. She didn't want to believe it, but at the sametime, the way Mari explained it, it almost felt genuine.
"I should state this, but you don't have to force yourself to like Matsuri, the only reason why I am telling you this is because I want you to have an open mind on Matsuri. He is changing for the better. I still find his actions unreasonable in the past…but what I want to see from him, is how he will learn from his past mistakes and mend them into something more positive."
Megumi kept a soft frown on her lips. She remembered her encounter with the boy. Those last words from him after their outburst…
"When you asked if I ever didn't treasure those memories she gave me. Those moments we spent with each other. Those times we hung out…I adored them…I loved every single of those moments we spent together. It was one of the few times where I was truly happy. I was at ease, I felt like I made my one true friend….I never took them for granted…I really…..I really did love them."
Mari walked up to her as she set her hands on her shoulder. "If you wish to see how strong he became, then how about testing that resolve. You may have an open mindset towards him."
Mari said before she parted ways. Leaving the red-haired girl to her thoughts. She looks down before looking up at the sky. Pondering in her thoughts. Has the boy truly changed or is that just wishful thinking?
She took a deep breath before walking away from the scene.
-Courtyard- [Near the Forest Area]
12:30pm
"Eh!? You want to try and make amends with Hot Cherry!" Etsuko asked with a shocked and bewildered expression.
Matsuri was currently sitting together with Tsubaki, Etsuko and Yukina amongst the grass field near the forest part of the school. Etsuko was lying on her stomach with her foot planted on the ground. Tsubaki was sitting next to Etsuko with her hands over her knee and her other leg spreaded to the side. Yukina was sitting with both her legs tucked underneath her. She was quietly eating while giving Matsuri a side eye glance.
Matsuri scratched the back of his head with a nervous expression. "I mean, that's what I intend on doing?"
"Are you stupid or something?" Tsubaki asked bluntly. "You do remember the beat down she gave you a while back, right?"
"I know, but she had her reasons why she gave me the beatdown in the first place. And like I mentioned before, I just let her have it." Matsuri stated.
Yukina swallowed her food before speaking. "If I may interject, do you have any plans or some sort of how you intend on making amends with this ruffian." She asked.
Matsuri blinked for a moment. He begins to ponder on how he is going to achieve this, I…I'm not sure to be honest."
Tsubaki just gave a blank stare before responding. "So you're pretty much going into this blind with no real concrete plan."
"I mean…well…I may have something to work around with, but the more I think about it the more I think it's not gonna work." He sighed to himself before continuing. "As far as I'm aware, Megumi hates me for abandoning Yoshimiya when she was being picked on and amongst other things."
"But it's not like you had much of a choice!" Etsuko quickly came to defend him.
"As much as I wish to agree with Etsuko, but I'm afraid Young Matsuri makes a point," Yukina said with a stern expression. "From my understanding, Yoshimiya took the bullet for Matsuri and she was made the class clown of the school. Matsuri, while she did let you have a normal life, you did have other options of saving her, did you not?"
Matsuri lips formed into a frown, Yukina was pretty much right on that. There were many options for him to take or could've taken if he was a little more assertive. Or in that case back then, a back bone.
"I…I could've done more…Yoshimiya sacrificed herself for me to have a peaceful life…all while she had to suffer because of me."
Etsuko was about to say something but was immediately stopped when Yukina raised her hand in front of her face. Stopping her from speaking and letting Matsuri continue his speech.
"I can't call myself Yoshimiya friend if I didn't do anything for her in return. If what Megumi said about Yoshimiya making me happy was true…then…I can't truly call myself her friend. Nor do I deserve any kindness from her."
"Matsuri…" Etsuko builded tears behind her eyelids. Threatening to burst through the wall.
"But did you not visit her on her deathbed," Yukina stated, stealing the spotlight. "From what I recall, you visited her at the hospital and spent your last moment with her. Not only that, you tried to stop Yoshimiya from continuing that ridiculous torture. Those alone speak louder than words."
"She's right," Tsubaki joined in. Giving Matsuri a sympathetic smile. "You spent your last moment with her before she died. And I bet she appreciated you for coming to see her one last time."
"That's true!" Etsuko said as she pushed her teary face up against Matsuri's bewildered face. "No matter what you say or any doubts you have left, you must always remember that Yoshimiya loved you and you loved her just as much! And that same compassion that you have carried here to Hachimitsu! To us and all the friends you made here!"
Matsuri just blinked, unsure of what to say at first to respond from Etsuko's speech. He looked amongst the small group, both of the girls gave the boy a sympathetic smile. He couldn't help but to give a smile back.
"Thank you…for sticking by me…all of you."
"You would do the same for us!" Etsuko said with a bright confident smile. "Even if you think you're a coward, you'll still find a way."
"You sure have high hopes for Matsuri."
The group looked to the side, away from the circle, standing next to them was Megumi who was looking at them with her usual unreadable stare, with her hands in pockets. Tsubaki, Etsuko and Yukina became alerted to her presence.
"Megumi?" Matsuri questioned.
Megumi looked from Matsuri to Etsuko. "If I were you, I would be careful who you place your trust in. Because this rat could betray you at any given-"
She was stopped when Etsuko pushed her face up against Megumi's. Her eyes raging with fire, burning straight into the cherry haired student eyes. "YOU SHUT YOUR MOUTH YOU BITCH!"
The group looked onward with shock expressions.
"Matsuri isn't a coward nor is he a rat! He's a good person with a golden heart! He cares for his friends deeply and even would go out of his way to put himself in danger or risk getting into trouble! Yes, Matsuri can be cowardly, but that doesn't shake him of the inner fire he has lit within him!"
Megumi only blinked. "The hell are you going on about?"
"I'M SAYING MATSURI IS A TRUE FRIEND AND IS A KIND BOY! IF YOU DON'T ANYTHING NICE TO SAY TO HIM THEN GET OUT OF HERE!"
Yukina settled both her hands on Etsuko's shoulder, slowly retreating her away from Megumi's face. "Now, now, Kamishoya, settle down. I think she gets the message. However, what brought you here? Certainly it doesn't have to do with you having to give Matsuri more beatdowns…cause if it is. Then I have no choice but to intervene between you two."
Tsubaki got up and stood next to the two, shielding Matsuri as she stared angrily at the red head. "You better watch how you swing your fist there FireHead. Unless you want to answer my fist." She said in a very threatening tone.
Matsuri quickly got up. "Guys stop!"
The group turns to Matsuri with a mixture of expressions.
"Please…let her speak."
"Are you certain?" Yukina asked him to make sure if this is what he wanted. Matsuri nodded, making her sigh to herself. "Very well then."
Tsubaki looks from Matsuri to Yukina. "You're kidding right?"
Yukina looked at Tsubaki with a firm expression. Tsubaki groaned in annoyance before going back to her seat. Followed by Yukina and Etsuko, the small girl reluctantly follows her silent commands. But wanted to protect Matsuri.
The boy looks back at Megumi. "Is there something you need?"
Megumi blinked, unsure what to say at the moment before coming to her senses. "I…um…" She begins to stumble a bit at her words.
"M-Megumi…"
She shook her head trying to regain her posture. "...I ran into your council president of the…underground student council or something…she was telling me how you were trying to change yourself. So that way you wouldn't repeat the same mistake back at Atsuhiko. And she told me that you told Miyuki the truth behind her death."
Matsuri blinked, surprised that Mari of all people would vouch for him. "U-Um…yeah…a-and what's your response to that."
Megumi took a breath before speaking. "To be honest…I am a little skeptical...like someone like you is able to change."
Matsuri didn't respond or react, but just listened to her words. Etsuko's eyes narrowed with her hand curling against the grass. She only calmed down a little when she felt Yukina hand softly touching hers. Tsubaki kept her ground but was close to almost going up to Megumi.
"I don't know if I completely believe her words…you're telling me that the same wimp who couldn't even say a word to anyone or even stick up for himself now all of sudden got a backbone. Like hell I believe that. It's only been a half a month since Yoshimiya's death and you're telling me that you were able to learn from your mistakes. You honestly expect me to believe that crap."
"...no one is forcing you to believe it." Matsuri said with a sympathetic frown. "And I'm forcing you either. But the things that Mari said about me trying to change is true."
Megumi looked at the boy with an unreadable expression. "...what do you think?"
"What do you mean?"
"I'm asking what you think of yourself? Do you believe that you've changed?"
Matsuri messed with his hair strand, trying to find the right word. "To be honest, I'm not sure myself. It feels like I barely did anything aside from a few things here and there. But…I'm trying. I at least am trying hard to change."
Megumi looked at the boy with a pondering thought. Her expression held a intrigued look, nothing malicious or mocking, but calm. "I'll accept that. I figured you were going to act all cocky and give a response, otherwise I would have to give you a proper punch to the face."
Matsuri flinched with a nervous yelp.
"However, I don't believe your words." She said as she looked at Matsuri with a stern expression. "Why don't we put those words to action?"
"W-What do you mean?"
She reached her hand inside her skirt pocket and took out a familiar charm that had a shooting star print on it. Matsuri blinked with a confused expression, he recognized the charm that he handed to her.
"Do you really view yourself as Yoshimiya's friend?" She asked as she swung the charm around on her finger.
"I mean…I don't even know myself either to be entirely honest. What I did to her, so I don't think I can view myself as a true companion or something like that."
"But you still consider yourself as a friend?"
Matsuri nodded.
"Then how about we prove it. We settle this with a simple match. Tomorrow in the early morning. If you win, then I'll give you back your charm and I'll forgive you for what happened with Yoshimiya. But if you lose…" Megumi grabbed a hold on the charm and walked up to the boy with a stern expression. She was pushing up against him. "You can already guess what's going to happen." She said acting is intimidating.
Matsuri stood his ground as he looked right into her eyes. "I accept. If anything, prove to you that I have changed."
Megumi didn't say anything as she just stared into his eyes, with him staring back at her with a similar expression. A good few seconds passed before she closed her eyes and moved back. "Then it settled. Tomorrow is Saturday, right? Could you call Miyuki to give us a ride? Oh, and bring some physical activity wear. Cause you're gonna need them."
Matsuri blinked. "Wait. A ride…we're not gonna settle it here?"
"No. We're settling it somewhere else."
"But where?"
Megumi didn't say anything before she turned around, her back facing him. "Yoshimiya's favorite getaway spot." She said before leaving.
Leaving Matsuri with a surprised expression.
"Geez! What's with her!?" Etsuko broke the silence. "Acting all tough and all that!"
"I must say, what she was saying to you was rather unnecessary. I mean, I can understand her anger, but don't you think she's being too hard on you, Young Matsuri."
Matsuri didn't say anything as he was just left standing there, thinking about the spot that Megumi was talking about.
"Matsuri?" Etsuko asked.
"Hey, you okay?" Tsubaki asked.
Matsuri shook his head. "I'm fine…I was just thinking of the spot that she was talking about…getaway spot…"
"That's what she did say." Yukina responded. "But where in the world does she even mean that?"
Matsuri didn't respond once more as he just continued looking in the direction where Megumi was walking off too.
-Matsuri's Room-
9:00pm
Matsuri was lying on his bed with his back against the soft mattress and his face looking up at the ceiling. His face carried a very soft expression. Trying to think of what Megumi meant by those words…
"Yoshimiya's favorite getaway spot."
"Her favorite getaway spot, huh?" He said as he got up and went straight to his phone. Swiping away, he pushed on the screen, letting it ring.
It ranged at least two times before someone picked up the phone.
"Hello Matsuri, what is it?" Miyuki responded with a brightened tone.
"Hey Ms. Miyuki, sorry for disturbing you."
"It's fine sweetie. Is there something you need?"
"Yeah…I spoke with Megumi," He said, not hearing an answer from Miyuki. "She wanted to know if you can give us both a ride to…Yoshimiya's getaway spot."
He didn't hear anything on the other end, he already knew the expression that Miyuki was wearing.
"That girl. Of course she would pick that spot. I'm guessing you two are going to settle it there."
"Yeah…not like I don't have an option to refuse…even though I wasn't going to anyways."
"...Matsuri…please don't take Megumi's words too hard. She just cares for Yoshimiya deeply. You could say that they act like sisters."
"Right," Matsuri said as he pulled his legs up on the bed and sat crisscrossed. "You said that they were childhood friends."
"...I won't go into too much detail of what Megumi's childhood was like, but she…didn't exactly have the kindest one. Yoshimiya and I were the only ones who showed any kindness towards her, she treats us as an extended family. So if she says anything to you that feels harsh or cold. It's just her caring for Yoshimiya's safety."
Matsuri didn't say anything, his face carried a sympathetic frown. He knew that it was her way of keeping Yoshimiya safe and all, but still, the way she treats him. It felt like getting stabbed by someone of the opposite family and not receiving their blessings. It pained him.
"I know…but I really wish for us to see each other on common ground. I don't want to force her, nor she doesn't have to believe me. But I…I want us to move forward. For Yoshimiya's sake at least."
"...when do you want to be picked up…"
"..." Matsuri just blinked to himself. Not saying a word nor looking at anything in particular.
"Matsuri? Sweetie, are you there?"
"...she just said early in the morning…she wasn't specific." He hears Miyuki giggling in the background.
"Of course she didn't. Megumi may act all strong and brave. But even she can be a bit of a scatterbrain. I'll just meet you guys at the front gate."
"Okay, thank you Ms. Miyuki."
"Oh, and Matsuri." She grabbed his attention. "Please drop the 'Ms'. Just call me Miyuki."
"U-Um…r-right. Thank you M-I mean, Miyuki."
Miyuki giggled at the end. "Matsuri…I know you don't think too highly of yourself, but to me…I've always looked at you as part of my extended family. My daughter is very lucky to have such two great friends by her side."
Matsuri bit his lips. Trying his best not to cry. "Y-Yeah…"
"Goodnight, sweetie."
"Goodnight."
With that they ended their conversation. Matsuri let his body fall backward and landed on the mattress. His hair spreaded out, his eyes looking upward at the ceiling. Letting his eyes closed drifting off into slumber land.
-Underground Student Council-
June 18th Saturday (14 Days Until Sports Festival)
8:00am
"He left early in the morning?" Meiko asked.
Sitting on the couch, Mari was posed in her seat while sipping her tea that Hana provided. "Yes, he mentioned that he was going to settle things between him and Megumi."
Meiko blinked before her eyes drifted to her tea. Her face carried a frown. "H-He never told me…"
Both Mari and Hana shared a glance before looking back at Meiko. "I'm sure he didn't tell you because he knew that you were going to try to involve yourself with him. Plus, this is something that he feels that he should handle as his own problem."
"That's right, Meiko. So don't worry about him. He'll be fine."
"I know but…" Meiko still felt some doubt. "I just wish he had some trust placed in us…in me. It still feels like he's trying to manage on his own."
"You're worried."
"Of course I am." Mari and Hana carried a surprised small gasp. "I fear for his safety. Whenever something concerns Yoshimiya, I can't help but to feel that he's still feeling guilt. He has yet to move on from this. Or if there is anything else he is hiding from me…"
Mari blinked at this. Surprised how she was conveying her feelings for the boy. Even Hana was looking at her with a shocked expression.
Both Mari and Hana shared a glance. "Something definitely happened between the two!"
Mari shook her head as she grabbed Meiko's attention. "Meiko, let's put our trust in him."
"M-Madam President…"
"Matsuri is determined to move past this. In hopes of ensuring a possible future ahead of him. I'm saying that we should place our trust in him and see where he goes from here."
Meiko blinked at her before looking towards Hana who gave her a nod. Meiko gave a nervous chuckle. "You're right…I should have more faith in him."
Mari's smile brightened. "Yes…"
"Hey, not to ruin the mood and all but…what are we going to do about the sports festival?"
"Ah yes…I actually wanted to talk about that…I'm well aware that Kate will be using Andre power over us. So to prepare for the worst…I would like for us to do some training for the upcoming event."
Both Meiko and Hana blinked. "Train?"
"Yes, as soon as Matsuri comes back, I want us to start training…for the decisive battle that is to come in the next few days."
-Downtown Area of Nerima-
Matsuri sat in the backseat with his head leaning out the window, feeling the air breeze through his hair. Dawned in his casual wear that consisted of a white and blue zipper jacket that looked big on his form. Wearing gray gym sweatpants and some black and white shoes.
Apparently he and Megumi were not the only ones in the car for the ride, Tsubaki, Etsuko and Yukina were all shoved in the backseat alongside Matsuri. Tsubaki sitting next to Matsuri, Etsuko being shoved in the middle between the delinquent and Yukina.
Tsubaki was dressed herself in her casual wear. Wearing a blue jean jacket that was opened and revealing her white t-shirt underneath. The sleeves on her jean jacket were torn off, leaving a couple of fluffs sticking out on the end. She wore blue jeans with some sandals.
Etsuko for her casual wear, wore a big hoodie jacket that was worn over her body, completely covering her torso. For trousers she wore a long pink skirt that covered her legs.
Yukina wore a small white fleece jacket that only stopped part way above her waist. Underneath her jacket was a black shirt with a necklace around her neck and rested upon her breast. She wore a long blue skirt.
Yukina groaned as she was being shoved to the side. "U-Um…not to be rude or anything, but do you not have a bigger car?"
Miyuki nervously laughed. "Sorry, I was just expecting only Matsuri and Megumi…but I wasn't aware you three were coming along."
Tsubaki only groaned. "Gee, I wonder whose fault is that."
Both Yukina and Tsubaki looked at Etsuko who was cramped in the middle.
"I had to come! To cheer Matsuri on!"
"Yes, but why include us?" Yukina asked with an annoyed expression.
"Then why didn't you refuse when I asked if you guys wanted to help!"
Tsubaki flinched, a faint blush flushed on her cheeks. "Because you were doing those damn puppy eyes! You know I can't say no to that!"
Yukina refused to say anything, attempting to hide the faint blush on her cheeks, she looked out the window.
"You still had an option!"
"Like hell I did! Look at you trying to play innocent!"
Matsuri sighed to himself as he looked out the window, watching the many cars that they drove past. His eyes then drifted to the front seat, looking through the small crack, he noticed that Megumi was doing the same. Looking at the many cars and enjoying the breeze until they get to their destination.
"Yoshimiya's favorite getaway spot."
Matsuri allowed those words to float free in his head. He yawned to himself quietly. "Wasn't able to get much sleep last night because I was too nervous about today…but I must do this. I got this far, right? So my mind as well needs to see this through."
He allowed himself to lay on the car window, the wind splashing through his face.
"Ugh! Kakeguri-san! How much longer till we reach our destination! If I have to be shoved over here by this little twerp, I'm gonna scream!"
"Not too long, just hang in there for a moment." Miyuki said as she glanced at the mirror and on the road.
Yukina tried to make herself comfortable with a huff.
"Don't give me that 'huff', Ojou-san! Your ass isn't here being shoved between two people!"
"Oh please, that's barely a problem then being shoved between two walls."
Etsuko twitched. She glared at Yukina. "Is that supposed to be a breast joke?"
Yukina only looked at Etsuko with a smug smile. "Oh good, you caught on."
Etsuko steamed like a kettle. "The only use those balloons are good for is carrying you on water! Not like it's much use for you anyways, considering that you can't swim." She said with a smug.
Yukina's eyes gave a threatening glare. "There's also another use for them."
"Like wh-!?"
Etsuko stopped when she felt Yukina's hand wrapped around her neck and shoved her face between her boobs. Completely locking the small girl in place, preventing her from talking. She only let out a muffled scream as she tried to break free, but Yukina's grip was strong.
"Ah, perfect, bliss at last." She said, ignoring Etsuko's cries for help.
Miyuki giggled at their interaction. "They're a lively bunch, aren't they?" She said to Megumi.
Megumi looked at the rear view mirror. She does have to admit, they are a lively bunch. Etsuko's eccentric behavior, Yukina 'delicate and refined' tone with a bit of a tongue in cheeks. Tsubaki for her delinquent behavior. Then there's Matsuri, she would be considered the only normal one amongst them.
"I guess so."
Miyuki smiled softly. "Hey…why don't you become friends with them."
"Not gonna happen."
"Megumi~."
Megumi didn't respond as she just looked the other way with an annoyed expression.
"I know you still have your doubts with Matsuri, but please give it a thought. Both you and Matsuri lost someone precious to you in both your lives. And he's suffering just as much. He came to my house and revealed to me what happened to her. It's clear that he's suffering from what happened…"
Megumi listened to her.
"Just please, give him a chance. Or if not, then keep an open mind towards him…okay?"
Megumi didn't respond but slowly looked towards the coast line that they were driving by. The sun rises over the horizon and creating a reflection over the sea.
-Nerima Japan- [Coastline]
The gang arrived at the large beach that stretched for miles, the sea water splashes onto the sand and recedes back into the sea.
Etsuko, acting like a child, had stars in her eyes as she ran out into the sand barefooted. "This is amazing!"
Yukina gave a sigh. "There she goes, acting like a child, per usual."
Tsubaki went out onto the sandy beach and immediately wasted no time and plopped onto the sand.
"Well, you seem to be enjoying yourself." Yukina said with a blank look.
"Hey, with all the shit that happened at that crazy ass school, this is something that's more of a reward." Tsubaki said with her eyes closed and her hands behind her head.
"Honestly, both you girls are so laid back."
"Hey! Hey! Yukina! Come look at this!" Etsuko waved at Yukina.
The girl gave a blank stare before sighing to herself. Taking off her shoes, she walked onto the sand and made her way towards Etsuko. Once she was within distance, she looked at the girl before she pointed a stick towards the sand below them. Yukina looked…and wished she didn't.
She looked at the terrible drawing that the first year had drawn. The stick figure had big puffy hair that looked like drills coming out of its ends. But what truly distracted her was the two massive circles on her chest, representing her breast.
Yukina developed a twitch as she looked up at the first year who held in a snicker.
"It's you!"
"YOU FUCKING GOOD FOR NOTHING LITTLE SHIT!" Yukina yells.
Etsuko immediately ran away from the girl with a bright smile on her face. An enraged Yukina chases after her with steam coming out of her nostril. Etsuko was laughing loudly while running away without a care in the world. Even when her life is in danger.
Miyuki watches them as if they were just doing their own things. Completely forgetting the real reason why they are here.
"Oh dear…"
"It's fine." Matsuri said with a soft smile. "Hachimitsu is kind of a crazy school at the moment, so being here where they can relax and enjoy themselves, is pretty refreshing."
He looked back at the group on the sand. Tsubaki was resting with her back against the sand, her legs crossed and her hands behind her head. Humming a tune to herself with a smile on her face. Yukina managed to catch up to Etsuko and was currently pinching her cheeks while stretching them far and wide enough so that it would hurt the girl.
Matsuri felt a tap on his shoulders, he turned to see Megumi who was looking at him with an unreadable expression. She simply nudged her head in the direction to the beach. Matsuri knew what she wanted and nodded.
The two walked onto the sand near where the water splashes onto the sand. Stopping at the make believe line. Megumi turns to Matsuri with a firm expression.
Matsuri held a hardened expression, he nodded.
Megumi reached for the zipper on her jacket and unzipped herself. Revealing underneath her jacket was a white t-shirt that went well with her red shorts that fitted for physical activities.
Matsuri unzipped his jacket and setted it on the sand. Wearing somewhat the same white t-shirt as her.
Megumi pointed down the beach coastline. "We race towards the end of the beach and back here. If you win, then I'll forgive you and give this charm back to you. But if I win…well you already know."
"Right."
"...you sure you don't want to back out."
"No. I'm backing away from this."
Megumi only blinked as she stared at him. Giving a nod.
Miyuki came over and placed a stick on the sand. "This will serve as the finish line."
Both of them nodded before facing forward. Bending down as they got ready to run. Tsubaki, Etsuko and Yukina came over just in time to watch the small race.
Miyuki extended her hand out. "Ready. Set…GO!" She said as she raised her hand in the air.
Both Matsuri and Megumi got a dash start. Running at constant speed, neck and neck. Matsuri could hear Etsuko and the others cheering for him as he ran as fast as he could.
Megumi however, was a lot faster. She begins speeding ahead of him, waving back and forth, her breathing pacing pretty evenly. Matsuri didn't give up as he ran faster, trying his best to keep up with her. They ran pretty far away from the group, he could faintly hear their cheering behind them.
Megumi's eyes looked over her shoulders and noticed Matsuri was pushing it. Keeping up with the girl, his eyes looking forward. She slowed down her pacing and ran next to him.
"You sure like to push yourself."
"H-Huh!?" Matsuri said breathlessly.
Megumi glanced at him on her side. "Back then, I recall you being a total wimp back then when it came to track. You always come in last or just fall flat on your face. Everyone laughs at you and you go sulk somewhere."
Matsuri faintly blushed. "I…*huff*...I'll admit, I was pathetic back then."
"You sure the hell was." She bluntly said between breaths. "Yoshimiya was always your comfort zone. To be honest *huff* I always found you to be a waste of time to deal with. But Yoshimiya intended on making you happy by trying to make memories that would last forever or something *huff* you will always remember."
Matsuri didn't speak for a moment, but kept his pace. He could still hear the cheering behind them. But they ran so far alongside the coastline, the sun rising over them both.
"M-Megumi…" He asked her. "Is it true…that Yoshimiya's goal was trying to make happy memories for me to remember. To make me smile."
Megumi didn't answer straight away as she looked at him once more. His eyes looking back into hers. Whenever she looked into his eyes, there was something that sparked in him. Something she had never seen before.
"Yeah."
They both reached the end of the beach. Megumi did a quick slide, using her one foot as it extended out. Using it as breaks. She used her hands to propel herself in the opposite direction. Matsuri twisted his legs, lightly spraining his ankle, but continued onward. Catching up to Megumi. Despite being tired, he still kept his posture.
Megumi looked at him once more, she could not help but to look into his eyes. There it was, that spark in him that she never saw before.
"Yeah…her goal was to make lasting memories with you. Moments to make you smile at least once. Again, I thought it was a waste of time, but…" Megumi was unsure of what to say at the moment. Her eyes still looked forwards, those of the small group. Etsuko and the other two were still cheering for Matsuri.
Matsuri looked at the girl he ran beside before looking ahead. "I'll admit, I was a coward. I was a loser back then. I could've done something to save Yoshimiya. I could've shared the pain with her so she wouldn't be alone. But I ended up taking those pictures. I played along with Hayakki's sick game."
Megumi didn't say anything as she glanced at the boys she was running beside.
"But that's the past…she's gone because of what I did. And I can't take back what I did. But what I did in the past, doesn't mean it defines my future. It doesn't define who I am. But it gives me some room to improve. I'll take that step forward and make my own path. I don't know what lies ahead…but…"
He looked ahead. He sees Miyuki, Etsuko, Tsubaki and Yukina. All of them are cheering on.
"With the friends I made…I still want to push forward." He said as he caught up to Megumi, running neck to neck speed with her. "I was thinking back on Yoshimiya's wish, that I should live a peaceful life that she wanted me to live. I was weak *huff* and a coward. But I don't want that to be me. I want to be that one person who someone can rely on. To be dependable. I won't let…I won't let Yoshimiya's wish…go in vain!"
Both of them crossed the finish line. Miyuki and the others looked onward with bewildered expressions. Matsuri and Megumi slowed down, both of them running low on breath. The boy allowed himself to fall onto the sand. Megumi bent down with her hands on her knees. Trying to catch her breath.
Miyuki and the others were unsure of who exactly won the race.
"Um…i-it's a tie." Miyuki said with a surprised expression.
Megumi looked back at the finish line and looked at Matsuri who was lying with his back against the sand. Trying to catch his breath.
"No one is able to catch up with me aside from Yoshimiya…" Megumi thought to herself before looking at the boy.
Miyuki broke the silence. "Well now…that's something new."
Yukina looked towards her. "What do you mean?"
"Megumi has always been the fastest girl on track, no one aside from my daughter is able to catch up to her. But to see Matsuri…to see him actually catching up with Megumi…is something you have to see to believe."
Matsuri lifted his torso upward, resting his elbow on his knees. He looks up at Megumi who was standing in front of him.
"Um…s-so…how was that…"
Megumi didn't say anything before reaching into her pockets and bringing out the charm. She tossed in the air in front of the boy, Matsuri catching it in his hand with a bit of a fumble.
"I'm sorry."
"Huh?"
Megumi's cheeks flushed red before looking the other way. "You win. And I'm sorry for beating you up and snapping at you."
Matsuri didn't say anything as he looked up at her.
The red-haired girl moved slightly to his side and sat next to him. She brought her knees closer to her face as she began to hug them. Her eyes looked out at the sea. "I was just…furious at what happened to Yoshimiya. She was my best friend…she was the only one who showed me kindness in this world."
Matsuri and the others listened to her story.
"My parents….weren't exactly the best parents out there. Both my mom and dad always were alcoholics. Always drawing themselves in drinks, buying lottery tickets. So on and so forth. Then there was me, their one and only daughter they brought into this world by complete accident."
"Megumi…"
"They would always try their best to ignore that I even exist. Like…seriously you brought this child into this world and yet you can't even take responsibility for your own child. What's the point of having me if you're just gonna ignore me. They would usually find a way to get me out of the house…like go to the store to buy shit and all. Stuff they don't even need. Sometimes when they do…those days would get longer…and longer…until they had the most brilliant idea ever….they wanted to abandon me."
Matsuri's eyes widened.
"One day…they said that we were going on a road trip," Megumi looked down at the sand, her hand smoothly sliding against it. "This is the beach where they left me…"
By this point, Miyuki and the others came to sit beside them. Miyuki sat on Megumi's side, while the other three sat on Matsuri's side.
"Early morning…my parents drove to this beach. My mom walked me to the sand, and we watched the sun rise early in the morning. She said that she was gonna go help out dad to bring more of the stuff out. I obeyed like a good little girl and waited on the sand, watching the sea. Thinking to myself that my parents are finally going to spend time with me." Megumi hugged her knees tighter. "But they never came back…I waited…and I waited…and just never came back."
Megumi took a deep breath before continuing.
"I thought that…this spot here…was going to be the place where I die. Until…I met Yoshimiya and Miyuki here."
Miyuki gently stroked Megumi's hair. Calming her down.
"They brought me into their home. Took care of me and treated me as part of their family…it was…it was the first ever kindness I felt in days. It felt like I finally found a small slither of light in this crap sake world…a place where I can be at ease."
Matsuri didn't say anything. He just thought to himself as he looked forward to the sun. The others on his side were unsure what to say either. After hearing her backstory, it was clear why she felt so furious at Matsuri. She was protecting Yoshimiya in case something happened to her.
"I…I understand now…" Matsuri broke the silence. He glanced over at Megumi. "I understand now…why you were furious at me…Yoshimiya to you was more than just a friend…she was like a sister to you. A family you always wanted. But…I never knew about it until now."
Miyuki spoke up next. "I told him that you two were childhood friends, but I didn't go any further from there."
Megumi held a bit of a surprise expression. "Did you now…well…thank you for not sharing my whole story…but there you go."
Matsuri heard some sniffling on his side. He sees Etsuko rubbing her teary eyes, tears dripping against her cheeks. The boy settled his hand on top of her head, stroking her hair. Tsubaki leaned in and hugged her against her side. Yukina stayed silent, trying to not let the tears flow through.
The boy looked back at the charm in his hand, before gripping it. "That race we had…it doesn't count."
"Huh?" Megumi looked at the boy. So did the others with similar expressions.
Matsuri looked at the girl. "Megumi…that race ended in a draw…there's no way of knowing who exactly won that race. So I'm sorry but…I don't know if I can-"
Whatever it was he was going to was interrupted when Megumi flicked him on the forehead. She carried an annoyed expression.
"Just keep the charm will ya."
"But…"
Megumi looked into the boy's eyes once more before shifting her head towards the sea. "If you still feel some doubt of wearing it, then keep it somewhere in your room for safe keeping."
"..."
"While true the race ended in a draw…but…that doesn't mean I hate you fully…I chose to race you today because I thought I was gonna race the same wimp back from Atsuhiko," She said as she looked at him. "But today…I don't see that boy…not anymore."
Matsuri's eyes widened. A small gasp escaped his lips. His cheeks heated up with a faint blush flushing his cheeks.
Megumi raised her fist in the sand and extended near Matsuri. The boy looked at the fist before looking at her.
"Granted, I still have my doubts about you, but…from what I saw today…I say it's a nice start for you. The next time we race, we race for real and see who will come out on top." She said with a rare grin.
Matsuri blinked with a confused expression. It didn't take long before his eyes sparkled and gave a nod with a confident smile. He raised his fist and bumped her's.
Miyuki held a soft smile as she watched the scene unfold in front of her. While Megumi still holds some distrustfulness with him. She is willing to keep an open mind with the boy. And that's a good step forward with her.
It didn't take long before Etsuko shoved her face between Matsuri and Megumi. Her eyes sparkled like crazy, which caught Megumi off guard.
"You wanna be friends with us!" Etsuko asked enthusiastically.
"H-Huh?"
"Come on, it will be fun!"
"U-Um…didn't you hate my guts when we met…"
"That was before when I thought you were just a big bully! But now I see you as just someone who just cared for her friend. You really do love Yoshimiya do you?" She said with a head tilt.
Megumi's cheeks flustered, she gave a nervous stare before facing the other way. "U-Um…don't say it like that." She said, trying to hide her face.
"Come on, admit it! You loved and cared for your friend's safety! You may look all tough, but you're just soft underneath, like Tsubaki."
Tsubaki flinched at that. "DON'T JUST GO AROUND SAYING THOSE THINGS OUT LOUD!"
Etsuko tilted her head in Tsubaki direction, giving her a smug expression. "But it's true though."
Yukina sighs to herself. "Oh dear, she's back to normal again."
Etsuko switches back to Megumi. Her hand holding on to her's. "So how about it! Huh? Pretty please!"
Megumi felt her cheeks going hot. She looked towards Miyuki who offered a smile and a nod. She then looked at Matsuri who just gave her a soft smile. His eyes nudged Etsuko, giving her the okay.
The red haired girl gave a sigh. "Fine…we can be friends…"
Megumi was suddenly met with a hug. Etsuko gives her a big hug as she wraps her arms around her shoulders and rubs her cheeks against her's. Megumi gave a sigh, feeling a little nervous about the girl, but she chose this. Deep down she felt a little lifted, but she wouldn't admit to them.
Matsuri went back to watching the sun rising over the sea. He held onto the charm in his hand.
"I did a terrible deed back then…and I can never change the past. But that doesn't mean I can't stop moving. I need to keep moving forward. Forge a path for myself…and I promise...I will make my future. Your wish…will not go in vain."
He rested with the others, watching the sun rise over the sea.
…..
And that's a wrap! The tension between Matsuri and Megumi has been resolved and the both of them are ready to move forward in their lives. However, they cannot rest just yet as they must prepare for their battle against the ASC in the upcoming sports festival. They now embark on a training journey, the heat is still cranking up in the Road to the Sports Festival arc….
This chapter is somewhat of a different change of pace. Instead of focusing on any of the Prison School characters, we now focus on just Matsuri and his friends. I know there are some of you people who were hoping for more moments between Matsuri and Meiko or even Kiyoshi and Hana. But this time, this chapter is focusing on Matsuri and Megumi. I could've had any of the characters from Prison School join in, but I feel that Matsuri should resolve this on his own.
Originally this chapter was going to be a little heavier on the drama side. Megumi was going to lose something and Matsuri offered to help. They have a fallout and the next chapter is going to be a continuation from the last one. In a sense it was going to be a two parter, but I felt I wanted it to be a little more softer and make Megumi less antagonistic and more sympathetic.
I like to give a shoutout to DlyanMason210 for suggesting the conversation between Mari and Megumi. It helps bridge the scene between Megumi looking at the video recorded of Matsuri saving Meiko and her challenging Matsuri resolve. And as for where we are length story arc wise, we are at the halfway point of the story arc, after this we will finally be on the sports festival arc. But I'm not trying to overwork myself, I'll still get through these chapters as fast as I can, but I'm not trying to burn myself out. Just be patient.
Also, I did mention that this was going to be a double header with both MHC (Maiden Heart Crusader) and Hitoyoshi and the Prison School getting updates. But doing both are taking a toll on me. So I'll be doing them one at a time. I mean, at least I got some of Chapter 3 for MHC done, so I'll be updating that story next time. This is what I get for trying to be an overachiever. XD
As always, leave reviews and feedback for improvement. Stay safe and I will see you guys in the next chapter!
