A/N: Hello. I managed to update twice in one month thus far. I will do my best to update as soon as I can :)

Whenever we need a break from the world, Miki and I would meet up in her room and stare at the ceiling together. Sometimes we would drink juice and eat cookies on her bed as we dozed off into nothingness. We would talk about anything.

It used to bother me when Miki would speak of her love life. At the time, I was infatuated with her. That's just what it was. I call her my first love because she taught me about love and how it can be deceiving. I did love Miki but now that I've experienced someone like Luka Megurine, I think I have a better understanding of love.

See, love is selfless. Love is unconditional and love does not have to be romantic. I love Miki as a person. I appreciate her and I enjoy her presence. Then I start to think about Luka. Luka adores me, I know that but...it's not right…is it?

"Do you really believe it though?"

"You said it makes sense."

"I did but it doesn't mean it's the truth."

The truth.

What the fuck does it even mean to know the truth?

"All I know," Miki says, "Is that the truth sets you free."

I sigh and look over my phone. Not a single message from Luka today.

"I should call her."

"NO."

Miki shoots up from her bed.

"She should be calling YOU."

She's right but I can't help these thoughts.

"Yeah, but, maybe it's my fault."

"Nothing is your fault!" Miki scoffs, "It's not like you fucked someone else."

I purse my lips and turn over to my side.

"I know," I mumble into a pillow, "I don't deserve this."

Suddenly, as if god answered my prayers, my phone rings and the ID belongs to the one gnawing at my mind.

I answer fast. I don't let it ring for a second time. Luka notices.

"Wow, so you are not busy, I'm assuming."

"Luka!"

I sigh in relief, hoping for the best, hoping that this fear is all in my head. She is not with Lily. This is not about Lily. Luka wants me. She loves me. ME.

"Where are you? Are you home?"

I glance at my best friend. She rolls her eyes before heading to the bathroom. I smile apologetically but I can't help it. I really wanted this. For her to call, it gives me some peace.

Although, I do wonder why it took so long.

"I'm at Miki's. Luka, what happened?"

Luka hums and my breath hitches.

"I should be asking you that," she says, "Why did you run off like that?"

"Why did you run off like that?"

'Why did you run off like that?'

'Why did you run off like that?'

My eyes open.

A dream. A really fucked up dream. It wasn't monsters or running in pitch black, screaming with nowhere to go.

This was worse because it felt too real.

I thought she was here.

I could have sworn that I heard her. I look out my window. Miki is up. I hear the faint sound of music through her window. The curtain moves. Miki peers out and looks. She waves and smiles meekly.

ring*

ring*

"Hello?"

Miki and I have not spoken for weeks until now. I haven't spoken to anyone really. Rin and Cul say hi. I say hi back. Ritsu invites me to the mall but I decline. Kaito is still waiting on me. I said I'd go but I still have yet to commit.

'I tell you, I know the best places to eat around here. When's the last time you've been to the beach?'

He tries. He really does.

"How are you?"

"Better now that you are talking to me."

A smile creeps up on me. I look out the window. Miki is smiling and she notices my blush.

"Is Miku getting flustered over there?"

"Shut up," I mumble.

"I'm glad to see you up so early," she adds, "Been awhile since you opened the window. I was beginning to get worried. Must smell in there."

I gasp.

"I'll have you know that I always clean my room."

"Sure, sure."

It's Saturday. The sun is out and it is a perfect day to go out.

My dad has been okay these days. It doesn't bother him that I am what I am. He just won't trust me with girls in my bedroom anymore.

"Except Miki," he says.

"I know, I know!" I holler back before leaving the house.

I feel the warmth of the sun on my face. It feels different today. I glance at my phone. Miki messages me that she'll be out soon. Today we are having smash burgers.

"Got my dad's keys," she calls out.

She jingles the keys with a smirk.

"Wow, you finally have permission?"

"Of course, the deal was if I pass my driver's test, I get to drive my dad's 1989 Toyota Camry. It may not be a Supra but damn, it is a machine like no other, OW!"

We speed off the driveway like it's 'Fast and the Furious'.

Light'n Up by Minako Yoshida plays on the cassette player. I feel like I've gone back in time. Miki sings along, her fluent Japanese in sync with the lyrics. I bob my head to the tempo, losing myself in the jazzy part of the song*.

*1:50 Light'n Up by Minako Yoshida

The car is in mint condition. If Miki's dad wanted to, he could sell it to a collector. While my dad favors American sports cars, Miki's dad prefers classic Japanese imports, preferably four-door station wagons.

"I think he has other cassettes in the glove department!"

Miki makes a sudden right turn.

"Miki! Watch it! You're supposed to stop at a stop sign, idiot!"

"Oops, sorry."

"Seriously, you don't want to ruin YOUR DAD'S CAR!"

Miki laughs. I hope she thinks about what I just said.

"I missed us," she says.

The burgers are good. Miki thinks they are the best. She orders four in total and insists that we have a coffee afterwards. I swear, she has the metabolism of a Greek God.

"I swear it must be genetics that you can eat so much and not gain weight," I laugh.

"I'm telling you, I'm like Shaggy," she adds, "I guess that makes you Scooby."

"Shut up."

We spend the afternoon together. We don't speak of drama. No Lily, no Luka, none of that. I then remember the conversation I had with mom. About a month ago, I told her that I would think about moving with her. Maybe I should tell Miki and hear what she thinks but I don't want to ruin the mood. The day is going great so far.

"So, how are things with your dad?"

Miki orders a caramel cappuccino, as for me, a drip coffee will do.

"Okay."

Oh, that's right. Miki doesn't know.

"Um, he knows."

At first, she assumes the worst, mentioning what we promised to never speak of again.

see chapter 14*

"The car?!"

"No, that I'm…"

I look around. I'm not used to it just yet. It is still very early for me to be so open. I sigh and whisper into Miki's ear.

"He knows about me...about Luka...about us, what we were anyway."

Miki's coffee spills through her mouth and nose. I glance at my shirt. Thankfully, none of it got onto me.

"How? Huh? When?"

The explanation is long overdue. I do my best to be discreet in such a public space. Miki understands but she would like to hear the whole story one of these days. I don't know if I can bring myself to even think about it.

I hear birds chirp, a sudden breeze passes through us. I look up at the sky. How odd is it that some relationships just happen only for them to end so abruptly and might I say, terribly as well.

"She told me something, nobody knows her even when they think they do."

Miki scoffs.

"How edgy of her."

I don't respond to the joke. It's only natural for Miki to dislike Luka Megurine.

"She gets bored easily. What does she even mean by that? Sounds fake."

I notice a bird perch nearby. It appears curious, probably waiting for us to leave to get to the crumbs. A sudden thought comes into mind. Like this bird, maybe what Luka revealed is her way of surviving.

I think about it as Miki rambles.

Luka.

Do I know you?

I do my best to not think so hard about what she said but the words stain my mind, like a puzzle that I am desperately trying to solve. I do so in silence.

"Miku, are you even listening?"

I snap back to reality and lock eyes with Miki Furukawa. She looks annoyed but her expression softens as I struggle to answer.

"Sorry, I just…"

I sigh deeply.

"This has been such a good day so far. I don't want to spoil it. Sorry."

"You were thinking about her, huh?"

I shamelessly look away. Miki chuckles.

"You really like her, even if she is an asshole."

She pokes at the foam in her hot drink, slurping the last of its content.

"You know, I think about Lily sometimes," she says, "But it was not that deep. So, it isn't difficult to get over her."

Miki rests her head on her hand and glances at the bird still perching nearby.

"Luka told you things. I don't know anything about Lily. Nothing."

Miki chuckles and releases a long sigh.

"What an idiot I was," she adds, "You live and you learn, on to the next!"

I glance at my coffee. Thankfully, it is still warm. The little things right now are helping so much. The sun, time with Miki, this bird that won't go away.

"Did you notice that bird has been staring at us?" I laugh.

Miki glances.

"Probably spying on us. Maybe for Luka. Luka?!"

We laugh and spend the rest of the day driving around town, passing houses and mountains on the way. Miki enjoys driving down the curves. I look out the window and feel the air against my face. Strands of my hair tickle my nose as Miki speeds up. The cassette player plays Gypsy by Fleetwood Mac. This moment cannot be anymore perfect.

Vokal Lloyd's mascot is a bullfrog named Ryuto. After every touchdown, Kaito Shion would dance with the green mascot. The jock is prideful of his moves and suggests that we go dancing one day. Ritsu Namine suggests that we go shopping one of these days. SeeU wants to collaborate.

Is this what having a social life is like?

I admit that it is a little easier these days because I don't have to see her. Despite being out of sight, I hear about Luka Megurine everyday, mostly thanks to Meiko Sakine who is still trying to figure out what really happened.

"She won't tell me anything. She's grounded but why?"

5th period is an episode of Gossip Girl. I swear.

"That fight," Gumi adds, "It must have been because of that fight."

"No way," Miako chimes, "There were no deans. No one reported it. Mr. Maury doesn't know shit."

"So then someone must have snitched."

"I'm telling you that Luka punched Lily."

"I heard Lily punched Luka."

"I heard Lily bit Luka and now she has slut rabies."

"Shut up, Al! This doesn't involve you!"

Apparently, it involves everyone. I hear about it everyday. If it isn't Meiko, it's Gumi. If it isn't Avanna, it's Maika. Even Mr. Kiyoteru talks about it. The teacher's lounge should really close its doors these days.

The worst part about it are the rumors. Meiko started the one with the slut rabies, of course. I roll my eyes just thinking about it. Doesn't she understand that Lily thrives from any type of attention? The blonde has been walking around with a smirk these days. It makes me sick.

"I don't know when she is coming back but it better be before prom," Gumi sighs, "Powderpuff is in, like, a few days."

"Kaito's gonna wear a skirt. Can't believe she is going to miss that."

It's true. Kaito does wear a skirt and it is evident that he does not skip leg day one bit. His ex-girlfriend struggles to keep her eyes off him and then threatens any girl who is caught gawking. I have no choice but to look. Afterall, I am the school photographer.

The game is 1 to 1. Seniors vs Juniors. The girls don't take the match too seriously. They spend more time taking selfies and filming themselves in the middle of the game. The only one taking it seriously is Avanna.

"Get your asses on the field! Move, princess!"

I hear a slap. Meiko is now yelling at Avanna for hitting her ass.

I hear a whistle. The boys are having way too much fun. I admit that it is entertaining to watch. Al pulls off some gymnast moves while Kaito flexes his muscles. The girls scream. I cringe as I take a shot of the scene before me.

The sun starts to go down and I adjust my white balance. I look up and the crowd suddenly cheers. Avanna scores another touchdown. Kaito cheers, calling out the brunette's name in excitement. I take another shot.

"Miku, hey,"

Ritsu smiles and plops on the seat next to me. I smile back.

"Oh, hey, Ritsu."

Last time we spoke, Ritsu was very eager to spend time with me but I turned her down. I just hope that she doesn't think that I don't like her. These days, I feel the urge to talk about Luka and the last thing I need is to say something impulsively.

"Any good shots yet?" the redhead asks.

"Some," I reply before aiming my camera at the field, "Are you having fun?"

Ritsu shrugs.

"I came with Teto but she left early. She's dating some junior. I forgot his name."

I frown.

"She just left you?"

Ritsu hums.

"Yeah, I guess she did."

I remember spending lunch with the redhead. We had a good time. I thought it was just me, maybe it was but when I mentioned her friends, she wasn't very comfortable speaking about them. It sort of reminds me of Luka in a way. She passes time with people she doesn't seem to trust. How one can do that, I don't know.

"Hey, Miku!" Kaito calls out.

The game ends. Thanks to Avanna, the score was 2 to 1. Seniors win. Kaito is beaming about the results.

"We're all going to Sweet Ann's after this. Want to come?" he asks.

I glance at the field, pretty sure that Meiko is glaring daggers at me somewhere.

"I mean, I don't know, I was going to go home and edit these pictures."

"Oh, c'mon, you can do that tomorrow."

I look over at Ritsu. She's watching the field, head resting on her hand, seemingly deep into thought.

"I'll go if Ritsu goes."

She blinks.

"What?"

"Okay," Kaito smiles, "How about it, Ritsu?"

The jock extends his hand.

"I'm Kaito."

Ritsu blushes.

"I know."

"Does Kaito like you?"

Ritsu asks while we walk through the empty hallway.

"I think so."

The redhead gasps.

"You say that so nonchalantly. You DO know who he is, right?"

"Of course I do," I reply, "He's a boy."

Ritsu gawks at me.

"He is the hottest guy in school," she says, "I was struggling back there. I couldn't even look at him without turning into a tomato."

"Yeah, I noticed that," I laugh.

Ritsu bursts into a crimson shade. I continue to laugh as she lightly fans at her face.

"Oh my god. Oh my god. It was obvious!"

As Ritsu attempts to cool herself down, faint voices start to near. I look across from us and see Meiko and her friends down the hallway.

"Shit," I mumble as I hurriedly grab my bag from my locker.

Ritsu glances and quickly turns away.

"What are you two doing here?" Meiko asks.

I slam the metal door shut. Ritsu jumps.

"We were just leaving," I say.

"I overheard that Kaito invited them," Maika says as she sucks on a lollipop.

"Where the fuck did you get that?" Avanna asks, "I want a lollipop."

Maika rolls her eyes. Meiko cocks an eyebrow, seemingly intrigued.

"I see. Oh, Ritsu, I am really sorry. Luka totally vouched for you though."

Ritsu smiles faintly.

"I know, Luka is nice. When is she coming back?"

Meiko shrugs.

"That's what I would like to know."

"That's what the whole school would like to know," Maika adds, "Mr. Kiyoteru even asked."

"I swear I think he has a crush on her."

"EVERYONE has a crush on Luka," Avanna laughs.

"Really? Not everyone," Meiko grimaces.

"Bitch, I mean like she is pretty." Avanna adds, "No for real, think about it, she is really fucking pretty. If I was, AND I'M NOT."

Avanna pauses and looks at each of us before continuing.

"It would be Luka."

Maika starts to coo.

"Oooh, is this you confessing?" she laughs.

"Bitch, I thought I just said-

"Enough," Meiko snaps, "Well, even if you were, Luka is not like that. She would never."

"What if she was?"

Ritsu inquires so suddenly.

Meiko dryly laughs.

"What if she was what?"

Ritsu swallows hard.

"What if she was…different?"

Meiko and her friends glance at each other, seemingly not understanding Ritsu's question. Luka's proclaimed best friend scoffs.

"She IS different."

Meiko looks back at her friends.

"She's Luka fucking Megurine."

Ritsu looks away. I sense that she is not getting the answer she would hope for. In fact, the girls are making a joke out of it and not understanding exactly what she meant. I do though. Meiko and her friends part from us, laughing obnoxiously as their voices echo across the hallway. As soon as they are gone, I do not hesitate to ask.

"What did you mean, Ritsu?"

The redhead shakes her head, seemingly defeated by Meiko's lack of awareness.

"It doesn't matter."

She plays with the metal lock next to her and aimlessly turns the knob. I watch her for a moment, curious and suspicious at the same time.

"Ritsu?"

She looks up and we lock eyes.

Ritsu always felt different to me somehow but also the same as well. I have a feeling that she doesn't really talk to anyone and judging from what Meiko said, it does not seem that Ritsu made it as captain.

"So, they chose Neru."

The redhead laughs, almost as if she isn't surprised.

"Luka encouraged me to be more active than Neru but it just so happens that she's just louder than I am…that's what it came down to."

"Of course Neru is loud. She is louder than anyone."

The redhead chuckles.

"To be honest, I am a bit relieved. I don't think I am ready to be in that type of position. I'll still be able to contribute to the formations and suggest any ideas but in the end, Neru has the say. After all, she is the captain."

I am bothered. I know that there is not much I can do. It isn't my say to choose who will take over after Luka. I just wish I could do something.

My phone pings and I glance at the screen.

"Kaito wants to know if we want a ride."

Despite the mention of the handsome boy's name, it's not enough to lighten the mood. Ritsu is deeply bothered.

"Ritsu?"

"Can we talk somewhere?" she asks.

It is so sudden. I look past the redhead. We are the only ones in the hallway for now but it isn't the ideal place for a private conversation.

"Yeah, okay," I reply.

I message Kaito to wait.

8:15 pm

Take your time :)

I won't rush the situation. I can tell that Ritsu has something very important to say. It makes me wonder what it is but I am grateful that she trusts me this much. Even so, I can tell that she is nervous, even scared.

She releases a shaky breath. We sit at a secluded spot in the parking lot away from any vehicles. Students cackle from a distance. Their laughter is faint but full of energy.

"I hate high school," Ritsu mumbles.

I sigh.

"Yeah, it can get very toxic."

"You're telling me," Ritsu adds, "I don't understand how some things are funny. I got tired of Teto's jokes today. That's probably why she ditched me. I told her to knock it off and she got mad."

The redhead huffs.

"LIke, I get it, but c'mon! It's not funny anymore!"

She sighs.

"I just can't do it anymore."

It's a statement that I have said before. To Miki, to Luka, to anyone that I hope cares.

"Are you tired?" I ask.

Ritsu understands what I really mean by that. She looks at me. Her eyes plead.

"Yes."

My hand itches with the need to pat her back. I clear my throat and awkwardly place it onto her shoulder. Ritsu is tense and I am sure it isn't helping that I can be so socially awkward at a time like this.

"I'm sorry."

I suddenly remember what Luka has said before. She hates sorry.

"I mean," I add, "I'm sorry that you are going through this alone but I'm here now. I'm not much help but I can listen."

"Can you though?" Ritsu asks.

Our eyes lock.

"Yes."

Ritsu faintly smiles.

"Thanks, Miku."

Ritsu Namine moved into town the summer before her freshman year at Vokal Lloyd High School. She was bullied for a long time before her parents decided that it would be best to change her environment.

Ritsu was excited to start school with a blank slate. She could be anyone she wanted to be and the first few days were easy. Boys were smitten with the redhead's hazel eyes and her bright red hair. Ritsu was a natural at gaining attention. In fact, her audition for the cheer squad was one of the best Luka and Coach Yowane had ever seen. They were so impressed that they highly encouraged her to become the next captain. Ritsu was a natural and she trained to be a gymnast at a very early age, even taking ballet. This contributed greatly to her skills. In fact, she can pull off a kick double full twist, one of the most difficult stunts in cheer.

Despite her marvelous abilities, her teammates described her as cocky because she didn't talk much. This was mistaken as pretentious. Truth was that Ritsu was struggling and in more ways than one. Trust is an important part of being a cheerleader. You rely on your teammates to catch you. You rely on them to help you balance.

Eventually, the girls did warm up to her but with that came crossing boundaries. Jokes about Ritsu's reluctance to show her underwear became common in the locker rooms. Some would say that Ritsu wore granny panties. Others would say that she wore nothing at all. Another would say that Ritsu was hiding something.

The last joke went too far.

During pep rallies and games, it helped that some girls wore shorts under their uniforms. Teto did most of the time. Others like Neru, were very comfortable with showing their ass cheeks in mid-air. Ritsu just wasn't comfortable showing much of herself at all. Her teammates teased her about this.

One day, Luka heard a girl crying in the locker rooms. It was Ritsu. The redhead confided in her with tears. Luka held her and offered her a key to use the locker rooms at her own convenience. It didn't stop the girls from teasing but it gave Ritsu a chance to have some privacy. *see chapter 13*

The thing is, people have an idea but Ritsu isn't open to just anyone.

"The senior girls don't bother me much because of Luka. It's the freshmen, Neru's friends, who I have trouble with."

"What about Teto?"

Ritsu groans.

"Ugh, she can be annoying sometimes. You know…don't tell anyone but we both got really drunk one night and she asked…"

Ritsu pauses, probably taking a moment to think if she should really share what she is about to share.

"Well, she asked to see it."

My face flushes.

"Oh."

"Yeah."

A moment of silence lingers between us.

"Well, how was it?"

Ritsu suddenly bursts into laughter. This causes me to blush even harder.

"S-sorry! I didn't mean-

"No, no," Ritsu adds, "It's fine. Nothing happened. She wasn't impressed."

"Really?"

Ritsu shrugs.

"I'm like a twink in drag."

I nervously laugh as I imagine Kaito slim and feminine. Why I even thought of him, I do not know. Strangely enough, Ritsu brings up the jock.

"Is Kaito trying to get with you?"

The conversation switches so naturally. One minute we're talking seriously, the next, we are laughing and suddenly, we are talking about Kaito of all people.

"I think so."

"You think so?" Ritsu laughs, "He is all over you."

I roll my eyes.

"He is sweet but I feel like he just wants to get with me just because of the idea. I'm surprised that he is even attracted to me after dating Meiko."

"Miku, big tits and a fine ass aren't all that count in life. If anything, it's what you do rather than what you have that matters."

I laugh. Ritsu's funny. I am glad that she is feeling comfortable with me. I wonder…

"Ritsu."

"Hm?"

We lock eyes.

Ritsu's hazel eyes look even prettier under the light.

"I really, really like someone."

"Yeah?" she says so curiously.

"Yeah," I mumble, "It's a girl."

Ritsu grins. It's the first time that I've seen her look so excited.

"You're gay, Miku?"

I laugh. She sounds too happy about this. It's nice that someone is happy for me being me. I'm sure that Ritsu wants the same.

"Who is it?"

I think about Luka and imagine what she is doing right now.

I can't tell Ritsu that its Luka. I tell her that there is somebody and that things have gotten difficult. All Ritsu can really say is that she wishes me good luck. She is very mature for her age.

"My mom always told me that you can't tell people everything. Even your friends. You see, you may forgive her for the things that she has done but that doesn't mean your friends ever will."

I haven't been able to stop thinking about what she said. I've been quiet ever since the car ride to Sweet Ann's. Kaito and Ritsu don't mind. It seems like they are doing fine without me.

"No way! So, it's been you this whole time flying in the air like that."

Kaito laughs and rolls the knob to his stereo, lowering the volume to 'Dang!' by Mac Miller.

"I'm the best flyer," Ritsu adds, "Uh, don't tell Neru I said that!"

I laugh and the pair look back at me. Despite Kaito's crush, it feels like he forgot I was here. The jock suddenly blushes and coughs.

"Miku, so what about it?"

"What about what?" I ask.

The blue-haired boy shakes his head, seemingly disappointed.

"The beach, dancing, you and me?"

'We' by Mac Miller begins to play on the radio.

Kaito turns the volume up and smiles cockily. I roll my eyes. The jock groans.

"C'mon! How much longer do I have to wait for an answer, Miku Hatsune?"

I sigh. Ritsu chuckles. She moves her eyebrows suggestively at me. Kaito notices.

"Ritsu, talk to her, tell her how good I would be to her."

Despite her protests, I thought it would be best to let the redheaded cheerleader ride in the front with Kaito. Kaito seemed disappointed in this but after a few questions and curious glances, he warmed up to Ritsu in no time. In fact, they share a passion for football games and school spirit.

Although, I can sense the envy Ritsu has on me. During most of the ride, Kaito attempts to impress me. There is really no need to. Unbeknownst to him, it is the redhead beside him that he is actually impressing.

Suddenly, as 'God is Fair, Sexy Nasty' by Mac Miller begins to play. Ritsu gets hyped and raps Kendrick Lamar's part.

"Heart to my dying light! Bullet to your nose then I want you better fold! Don't you know your body been mine? I know you know! I know!"

This causes both Kaito and I to laugh hysterically. Ritsu settles down, a deep crimson shade overcomes her features.

"Ritsu, that was great! Why did you stop?" Kaito smiles.

The redhead smiles back sheepishly.

Vokal Llyod seniors and juniors crowd the tables at Sweet Anns. Everyone is so rowdy that the waiters have a difficult time hearing orders. Sweet Ann herself does not mind and enjoys the company of young people enjoying themselves at her establishment. That is, until an argument breaks out and a few students are forced out of the restaurant.

Kaito and Meiko are yelling in the parking lot.

I watch Kaito frustratingly attempt to calm his ex-girlfriend. Ritsu is shaken back from the whole ordeal. The sight of him arriving with us pulled a nerve in Meiko and as a result, a strawberry milkshake was wasted on Kaito's head.

I know this is bad, but I cannot help but laugh at the fact that a strawberry is still on Kaito's head as he argues with his ex.

"You are crazy! Crazy, I swear!"

"You make me this way! I know what you are trying to do!"

"Are they always like this?" Ritsu asks.

"Sadly, yes," I sigh.

I have to admit that this week is not so bad. In fact, it's been one of the best weeks ever. I didn't cry or argue with anyone. Miki and I enjoyed a day out, I got to see the PowderPuff game and witness the spectacle that is Kaito and Meiko. Ritsu and I got closer. All in all, I have to say that it's been good.

I do think about Luka. It's been slow between us with a few text messages here and there. I am not getting much from her these days but I cannot blame her. She is dealing with a lot for now, that's for sure.

When I think about it, it makes me wonder if her dad will allow her back in school for prom or graduation. For all I know, she may even be in Japan. With Luka, you never know.

Miki can tell that I am thinking about her. I was in the midst of telling her about SeeU. The light blonde DJ really wants to meet her and see her father's music collection. Miki is hesitant about it. She's looked at her IG and is not that impressed, even if she does have a lot of followers.

"She's not even that cute," she adds, "I don't get it."

I roll my eyes. I think she is just saying that. I can sense a little jealousy in her voice.

"Miki, she's a musician. I think the point is to judge her music, not her looks. Why are you staring at the screen so hard?"

"I'm trying to find something wrong with her."

I am not sure why Miki is being such a hater but I think it's because she is slightly crushing on the blonde. Lily really made her rethink her taste in people.

"She's cute. I don't know if she swings that way," I say.

"Why are you telling me this? I am not, like, into her."

"You've been looking at that photo of her in a bikini for ten minutes already."

The blush on Miki's face deepens.

"I know," she mutters.

"Any word from Luka?"

The question catches me off guard.

"No, not really."

Miki hums.

"You know, I am glad you two have some space to think about this. She's going to Japan in the summer and that means you probably won't ever have to see her again."

I know that Miki is trying to make me feel better but I don't like the thought of never seeing Luka Megurine again. I don't like it at all. In fact, it hurts.

"I don't…"

I cannot finish my sentence but Miki has an idea of what I want to say.

"Listen, I know that you like her but-

"I don't just like her, Miki."

Miki pauses and then clears her throat. Her auburn eyes keep a firm and stern stare on me.

"I know," she cautiously says, "I also know how much she has hurt you."

I purse my lips and struggle to respond. Miki is not wrong.

"I never felt like this. I don't understand."

I deeply exhale. I feel it in my heart and in my bones. I crave Luka.

"I just wish that she-

Suddenly, my phone goes off.

Miki and I both look at the lit screen. It vibrates continuously on the table. I get a familiar feeling, one that is scary and hopeful. I check and there is her name.

Luka.

Miki shakes her head. I hold my phone in my hand, contemplating if I should even answer. I want to but I am afraid. I also feel ashamed to do so in front of Miki, as if she is judging me. I turn apologetically and answer. My best friend scoffs.

"Hello?"

"Miku."

It sounds as if she is driving. Faint music plays in the back, Novacane by Frank Ocean.

"Can you come with me?"

I look at Miki who is staring intently at me, almost as if she is waiting for me to make the right decision.

'Blow her off, Miku.'

I grip my phone and struggle to answer.

"I'm going to Crimson Wave. I want you to be there."

Luka parks a sleek red Megurine Fox X4. It's a classic and is known for its rivalry against the Mazda Rx7 in the early 90s. One could say that they are both similar in design but car enthusiasts would beg to differ.

Miki can't help but gawk at the sight of the vintage sports car in front of her house. Despite that she is impressed, she remains upset, especially with me as I slowly walk toward the source of my agony.

As soon as I open the passenger side of Luka's car, Miki embraces me and kisses me on the cheek. She holds me tight. I can tell that this is hurting her, almost as if I am walking into a death trap.

"Call me," she whispers.

She peers under the hood to get a better look at Luka in the driver's side. Miki makes a gagging sound before walking away.

As soon as I sit and close the door, Luka chuckles.

"Your friend does not like me."

"What do you expect her to do? Make you cookies?"

*suggested track Designs for You by Phantoms*

The drive to Crimson Wave is silent except for the music on the stereo. I watch the city view through the window. The nightlife in this town is rather vibrant but it does feel rather lonely to think about my future here. My mother moved out awhile back to live in a state far more peaceful than this one. There, she has a house and a family to care for.

I've lived with dad longer than I can remember. I do admit that sometimes I wonder if I even have a purpose here. I glance at Luka. She hasn't said much. I take it that she is enjoying the drive. There isn't much traffic on the freeway right now. I already know what to expect when we get there.

Luka wants to see her brother.

We may see Lily too.

As we enter the main part of the city, a tower stands out from the horizon. It is a music label that is known for signing various well-known artists. I read the bright neon lights above.

'Crypton Future Media'.

It makes me wonder if SeeU knows anything about it. I get the feeling that girl is going to blow up in the future. She's been wanting to sample my voice for a piece that she plans to share on her music channel. It would be funny if something were to come of it.

Miki's voice comes to mind.

'Miku Hatsune, pop idol, how does that sound?'

see chapter 24*

I laugh and Luka looks over.

"What's so funny?"

I shake my head and resume watching the skyline.

"Nothing."

I forgot that it's Friday night. I also forgot how crowded Crimson Wave gets around this time. Luka parks at the very front of the club. It is extremely rare to even get a spot like this, especially with the high volume of traffic in this area. We got lucky.

Passerbys glance at Luka's car. Some stare and take photos. The sports car is bright red, attracting a lot of attention. The clear wax coating allows it to greatly shine against the bright lights above us. Luka exits the car and I suck in a breath at the sight of her.

She's wearing a rather tight black, sleek dress that accentuates her well-endowed breasts with a V-neck. Her thigh-high heel boots make her look like a temptress. She is wearing rose-pink lipstick and a golden Rolex. The expensive jewelry is hard to miss. She's definitely flaunting her wealth tonight.

"Gotta put some coins in the meter," she mutters, "Fuckers tow and cite all night here."

"Hey, baby!"

Luka ignores a man who is ballsy enough to hit on the socialite in front of the crowd. She ignores him and reaches for my hand. I flush with embarrassment as I realize that compared to Luka, I look casual with a skirt and simple top. I am wearing white knee high socks and black slippers. I must look like a child next to her.

We walk over to the front of the bouncer gives Luka a once over. Under his shades, I can tell that he is impressed.

"What is it, mami?" he says suggestively.

He glances at me and I die a little inside. I feel so small next to Luka.

"Luki Megurine."

The bouncer pauses and signals a man waiting by the door to come. The man looks at Luka intently and then asks for her ID. I begin to worry as I am not legal enough to come in. Technically, neither is Luka but her name says a lot. I may have gotten in last time but that was out of pure luck and coincidence. *see chapter 20*

"Oh, yeah, it's her," the man adds with a chuckle, "Let her in."

"Okay, mami, have a good time," the bouncer says as he detaches the barrier rope between us.

"Who's this?" he asks, beckoning at me.

I gulp.

"My girlfriend," Luka answers casually.

"Damn! Okay, I see how it is, mami."

*suggested song 1:40 'All Of It' by Funk Tribu*

Luka does not let go of my hand. Her grip tightens as she leads us through a neon lit corridor. Crimson Wave is known for its red lit rooms, techno, and sexy dancers. It's packed tonight and Luka is getting much attention.

I don't blame strangers for taking their chances with her. She is very sexy tonight and her outfit is attracting a lot of attention. Men and women have been glancing at her, especially at the sight of her cleavage. One man actually looked as if he was in pain when he saw her.

"Oh my god," he groans.

He attempts to pull at Luka's arm as she passes by. By instinct, I immediately slap the man's hand away. Luka glances back at me and smiles, seemingly impressed by my actions. The music shifts to a new beat.

*El Columpio Asesino by Toro (I HATE MODELS remix)*

We enter the crowded dance room. Luka sways her hips with the music as she shifts past warm bodies. She turns back, making sure that I do not get lost in the sea of people. I lock eyes with her and notice a hungry look.

Is it me or does techno make people horny?

Before I can laugh at my own thoughts, I look up and see a familiar face above the dance floor.

Lily Masuda.

She's working, dancing magnificently with the music. This is my second time witnessing such a scene but it feels new. She is sensually rolling her hips, flipping her hair as she turns and sways to the music's tempo. Her tattoos and slim build look amazing in neon lights. I can see the contours of her abs and her venus dimples just above her short yellow and black skirt.

This big of a crowd makes it possible that we can go unnoticed by Lily tonight. I turn back to Luka and she's enjoying herself. I know that she is here to find her brother but the music in this club is really good. I myself start to sway to the fast beat. A guy hollers at me.

"I like your hair!"

"Huh?"

"I said I like your hair!"

"What?"

He gets closer to my ear. Suddenly, I feel a pull and I am standing closer to Luka. She gives the guy a death glare. He backs off.

She grabs me by the face and suddenly kisses me. The kiss is deep and I instantly moan. The euphoria shoots inside me like a bullet and my center throbs. Luka slowly pulls back and giggles. She is claiming her territory. It makes me so hot.

Luka resumes dancing beside me, enjoying the music and lights. It takes a moment for me to come back to earth after her bold actions. Her eyes dart above us and she hesitates for a moment. She notices Lily. I look back to see if the blonde has noticed us by now but it seems that she has not.

Lily is grinning as another dancer talks into her ear. A cigarette dangles between her fingers as she moves her hips side to side. She takes a drag and tilts her head up before releasing. Her eyes then trail to the space below her. She squints for a second and then she freezes. The cigarette falls.

I look over at Luka. She's running her hands through her hair as she sways to the music. A guy creeps up from behind. Luka turns and dangerously smirks. This doesn't make the guy go away, in fact, it encourages him.

I look up and Lily is gone. My eyes shift back to Luka. She sways against the stranger and watches me. I should probably punch the guy but I can't help but watch Luka. Her full lips, long hair and voluptuous body is a sight that I cannot tear my eyes away from. Suddenly, from the corner, a body pushes through. It's Lily. She grabs Luka by the arm. The stranger intervenes. Lily punches him square in the face, knocking him out. Luka attempts to leave but Lily grabs her next. She struggles against her and I hesitate to act.

Lily shouts but Luka seems unphased. The blonde angrily gestures toward me, pointing at her head and then throws her hands in the air. When Luka tries to leave again, Lily pulls her back. I take a step forward. Two dancers appear and attempt to calm the blonde down. Luka takes the opportunity to pull away. She reaches for me and we exit the dance floor in a rush.

*2:38 Werewolf Disco Club by I Hate Models*

We take a moment to breathe at the bar. Luka orders a shot of rum and asks if I would like something. I decline and glance over my shoulder, searching for the blonde.

"Don't worry," she says, "She'll leave us alone. There's nothing she can do. She already punched a guy. She's probably being sent home as we speak."

Suddenly, a man approaches Luka. He towers over her and looks down with a solemn expression. I cannot tell if he is sad or mad but the reunion is strange. Luka can feel his presence. She grips her drink and downs it in one go, slamming it on the counter before turning to the man.

He has pink hair, the same as Luka and his eyes are a dark turquoise blue.

Brother and sister lock eyes. Luka looks up seemingly unbothered, but then her mouth twitches before she tears her gaze away. She gets up from her seat.

"C'mon, Miku."

A strong arm grabs her shoulder. Luki Megurine turns his sister around. Luka cannot look at him. Her eyes stay on the floor.

"Luka."

Her eyes widen as she keeps her gaze away. Luki sighs and gently holds his sister's hand. He glances at me. A serious look graces his broad and rugged features.

"Are you her girlfriend?"

We enter Luki's office.

All this time, I believed that the older Megurine sibling was just a dancer at Crimson Wave. It turns out that he owns this establishment. I take in the contents of his private quarters. There's polaroids on the wall. I notice Lily and other attractive men and women staring straight into the camera. Some smile while some keep a straight face. Lily's trademark smirk shows.

Luki sits at this desk and stares at Luka, seemingly waiting for her to be the first to talk. Luka casually looks around with her arms crossed. She takes a framed photo from his desk, turning it around. It's a picture of her and Luki when they were kids.

She bites her lip and then, suddenly, she throws the picture at him. Luki catches it miraculously. The abrupt action causes him to stand. He shouts angrily at his sister.

"What do you think you are doing?"

"What am I doing? What the fuck have YOU been doing for the last ten fucking years?!"

She throws the chair in front out of the way.

"You have no idea how hard it's been living without you!"

Luka breaks. Luki can only watch. I flinch as she continues to scream and point aggressively at her brother.

"I was alone and YOU were never there!"

"Dad was-

"Dad is just like you! You two are the same goddamn person, I swear!"

"Luka!"

His voice strains.

"My god," he raises his arms and crosses them behind his neck. A soft laugh escapes his lips, one filled with joy yet sadness.

"You've grown up."

Luka pauses and stares silently at her brother.

"I heard you were here. Did Lily tell you?"

Luka scoffs at the mention of the blonde.

Luki smiles.

"Fighting like old times, huh? I always knew you two would eventually reunite. What did Lily do this time?"

"I don't want to talk about Lily."

"Okay, then," Luki adds, "What about her?"

He gestures to me. Luka turns and we lock eyes.

"She's…."

"Your girlfriend?"

Luka blushes. She looks adorable as she tries to hide it. It is rather nice to see her soften up a bit since we came in. She wants to be mad but I also feel that she is happy to see Luki.

"If she wants to be," she says.

Luka extends her hand to me. I hesitate to move but I eventually find the courage to stand next to her. Her hand wraps about mine. I bite back a smile. I feel so childish under her gaze and a bit embarrassed as I notice Luki smiling rather fondly at the sight of us.

He then sighs and sits back on this chair, adjusting the frame Luka carelessly threw moments ago. Suddenly, the door opens and a young, slim man enters. Judging from his rather exposed state, he is a dancer.

"Luki, daddy," he coos.

At the sight of Luka, his face morphs in disgust.

"Who the fuck is this?"

Luka grips my hand. She does not take being interrupted very lightly.

"Who the fuck am I? Who the fuck are you? Tosser!" she retorts.

"Excuse me?!"

Luki stands and walks over to the drama queen suddenly spewing insults at his baby sister.

"Girl, I don't know who you think you are but you are not all that," the man snaps his fingers and gives her a once over. "Them titties don't make you Mariah Carey!"

"Luki, please tell me that you are not fucking this twat," Luka mumbles.

Luki laughs and I can't help but stifle a chuckle of my own.

A/N:Thank you to my first reviewer for Chapter 29. I felt like Homer Simpson when I noticed a new review. I went all "ooooooh!" :D thank you haha I hope that I am providing enough depth to these characters. This particular chapter was not easy. My PM is available to anyone if they would like to message me. I would like to get to 300 reviews soon! ;D drop me a review, let me know what you think. I am very active here at this time :) Thank you for reading! Hope you come back for more!