Kurumu jerked in her sleep, lying on the powder blue couch in Mizore's suite. She shifted onto her other hip, hearing the raspy cries of her baby. As her dream dissipated into obscurity, Kurumu blinked her eyes slowly. She breathed in deep as her vision adjusted to the dark room.
Knowing the others would rouse if she dallied too long, Kurumu pushed the powder blue comforter aside. She swung her legs off the couch, shifting up into a seated position. Lifting her arms high over her head, she stretched as she yawned. Her tits ached within the confines of her tank top.
Mrs. Shirayuki was lying on the futon in the middle of the room where the table usually was. That table had been scooted under the bed which Mizore shared with Umizake. The white sheets were drawn over the couple though it was clearly Umizake's back facing the room.
Pushing up onto her feet, Kurumu padded over to the crib where Hatsue complained. Her heart melted at the sight of her baby squirming on top of the pink covers. She reached over the railing, easing her fingers beneath Hatsue's head. She wiggled her other hand beneath Hatsue's torso which was swathed in a pastel green onesie. The baby continued to bawl as she lifted Hatsue out of the crib.
"There, there. I got you."
She could immediately tell that Hatsue was soaked. Clutching the baby against her breasts, she backed away from the crib while looking at the floor. It took her a moment to spy the pink tote with the diapers and wipes. Hopefully someone had left a change of clothes in there or Kurumu would have to fetch one from Mizore's closet.
Kurumu cooed at Hatsue while scooting the tote across the floor with her foot. The baby switched to agitated grunts which were quieter. It was a brief shuffle to the bathroom door which was unfortunately closed. Kurumu carefully shifted Hatsue in her arm to free one hand to tug the door open.
"I'll fix you up right away."
Kurumu pushed the tote with her foot into the tiled room. Balancing Hatsue in her one arm, she pulled the door shut behind her. Turning on the light inspired Hatsue to resume her bawling.
"Aw, I'm sorry. But I don't want to change you in the dark."
Kurumu knelt on the tiles, reaching into the tote. She pulled out the changing pad, lying it on the floor. She eased Hatsue onto the pad whom was too busy bawling to open her eyes.
"I know, I know. Be patient, honey."
Kurumu felt relief when she pulled out a blue onesie with a snowflake pattern. Setting that aside, she retrieved a new diaper along with a pouch of wipes. Placing these on the tiles near the pad, Kurumu undid the snaps by the bulging diaper. The dark stain was all the way up to her baby's chest.
"I'm tempted to give you a bath. Would you want a bath with me?"
Hatsue was too busy protesting the cruelty of her situation. Chuckling softly, Kurumu wiggled the soiled garment up under Hatsue before doing the same in the front. She tugged Hatsue's pudgy arms through the short sleeves which caused Hatsue to settle down. Hatsue visibly shuddered as Kurumu worked the garment under Hatsue's neck to get it over her head.
"There you go. I'll clean you up."
Kurumu grabbed the sides of the swollen diaper, tearing the flaps holding it together. Pulling the diaper down revealed that it was not just wet. Kurumu grimaced, opening up the pouch. Tugging out several wipes, she started rubbing away that nasty goo caked against her baby's bottom.
"I hope you woke up to poop as I can't imagine sleeping in this."
Hatsue gurgled in response, regarding her with wide, lavender eyes.
"Oh? Are you happy that I'm cleaning your butt?"
Knowing she was not going to get an actual response, Kurumu resumed her task. She went through at least a dozen wipes, using one on Hatsue's tummy just because. Stowing all of the soiled wipes inside the nasty diaper, she balled the bloated thing up and put it off to the side.
"Feeling better?"
Hatsue stared at her with her balled hands at the sides of her hands. Her chest lifted with each breath.
"Well at least you're quiet now."
Kurumu shook out a diaper. Determining which side was the front, she lifted Hatsue up by her legs to lay the diaper beneath her rosy rump. Lowering her legs back down, Kurumu tugged the front of the diaper out from beneath Hatsue. She brought the hem up to Hatsue's tiny nipples, reaching around to free the sticky tabs. She pulled the tabs forward one at a time to secure it tightly about her baby.
"Almost three weeks old. Feels like I changed your first diaper just yesterday."
Kurumu grabbed up the blue onesie, undoing the bottom snaps. She bunched the onesie up into a big hole which she slipped over Hatsue's head. Adjusting the garment, Kurumu wiggled Hatsue's arms into the short sleeves.
"I wonder when you last had a bath."
Kurumu tugged the garment down around the diaper. She snapped the buttons at the bottom, adjusting the hem to completely hide the diaper.
"For that matter, I honestly don't remember the last time I had a bath. I usually shower which I probably can't do while holding you."
Kurumu slipped her hands beneath Hatsue whom continued staring at her. She eased Hatsue up off the changing pad, bringing the baby against her bosom.
"And mommy hasn't been showering regularly because she doesn't like being in her room."
Kurumu gathered her feet beneath her to stand up. Stepping over the pad, she turned about. She sat down on the tub's lip which was thick enough to not be too uncomfortable. It was also at the corner so there was even more surface beneath her. She glanced down at Hatsue whom silently stared at her.
"You are just wide awake. I hope that you aren't hungry."
Hatsue made a cute sound, making Kurumu sigh with adoration. Freeing a hand, she tugged the hem of her tank top down to bare her left breast. Her pink nipple was proudly erect.
"Koyomi better not have lied to me about this."
Kurumu shifted Hatsue's head, causing the baby's attention to shift focus. Hatsue made a slight clucking sound with her tongue before Kurumu guided those puffy lips to her nipple. The baby latched on firmly, causing her body to tingle for a moment. Firming her grip, she held Hatsue close as her baby suckled.
"Good girl. My tits wouldn't be aching for no reason, right?"
Kurumu caressed Hatsue's cheek, feeling the firm tugs on her nipple. If Hatsue was genuinely hungry, this would soon become frustrated whimpers. Kurumu could pacify the baby another minute or two by switching Hatsue to the other breast but she would have to wake up Mizore or fetch a bottle eventually. She smirked at the thought of only her left tit lactating since it received most of Hatsue's attention.
She could already tell this was not the case. The pulls on her nipple had already lost their gusto. Hatsue had closed her eyes and was suckling when she felt like it. Feeling warm with satisfaction, Kurumu took in a deep breath. Her free hand tugged down the annoying hem of her tank top so that both of her tits could hang free. She impulsively pinched her neglected nipple, thinking she should at least attempt to stimulate both. It was not the same as Hatsue's suckles but it was better than nothing.
Hatsue stilled in her arms. Hot breath from her baby's nostrils tickled Kurumu's breast. Hatsue would suckle for a moment and go still for several heartbeats before suckling again. Kurumu abandoned the silly nipple twisting, deciding that holding Hatsue with both arms was more worthy.
A long moment passed before she was startled by the door pulling out. Umizake strolled into the tiled room, glancing at her with mild sexual interest. There was already a massive bulge in his black boxers. A faded blue tee shirt covered her upper torso.
"Your phone alarm went off."
Kurumu sounded her understanding as he strolled by her. He lifted up the lid of the toilet and turned about. To her astonishment, he tugged his boxers down. She quickly glanced away, trying not to think about his huge thing. It made her recall how Mizore had felt when she had given herself to him.
This was because of Tora's impulsive request to experience Mizore's pregnancy. The sphinx had already apologized afterwards, realizing it was probably cruel for Kurumu to experience something she could never have for herself. What Tora had not realized was that Kurumu had lived through a lot more of Mizore's memories than the ones she had shared.
The sound of water splashing cut through her momentary panic. She glanced at the open door, shaking her head. He was mildly aroused by her but he had no intentions of doing anything. Not wanting to disturb the others, she kept her voice low.
"You really shouldn't whip that out."
"I had to pee. Besides. Your breasts are hanging out."
Kurumu sighed heavily, easing Hatsue away from her breast. With her free hand, she tugged her straps back up onto her shoulders before bringing the hem back over her tits.
"For the record, breasts are for babies. I'm not flashing my coochie to you."
"It's still hard."
Kurumu frowned, glancing at him. He was holding himself while seated on the toilet. She grimaced, looking away. Her only consolation was that he had not been looking at her.
"Do you think we could have sex?"
Kurumu's eyes widened as she turned her attention back to him.
"Absolutely not!"
He frowned at her hissed protest while absently rubbing himself. His steel blue eyes suddenly lit up and he laughed softly, letting go of himself.
"I meant with Mizore."
Kurumu glanced at his thing before looking back to the open door.
"You should ask her."
There was a short moment of awkward silence following her hushed suggestion.
"Thanks for arguing for my request to sleep with her last night. I haven't felt much like a fiancé since her mother moved in with us."
"Well it's what Mizore wanted."
"I know. She was pressing her ass against me the whole time. She's not wearing panties."
Kurumu swallowed thickly, wondering what he was expecting her to say. The seconds dragged out for an eternity. The sound of her heartbeat and Hatsue's soft breaths mingled with the sliding of his hand. She could feel his hunger for her growing.
"Are you planning to go back to bed or masturbate on the toilet?"
He laughed softly with his lechery diminishing.
"I was wondering why you weren't leaving. Aren't you supposed to make Ms. Shuzen's breakfast?"
Kurumu paused, letting out a nervous laugh under her breath. She nodded, standing up.
"You're right. I'll put Hatsue in her crib and you can take care of this mess."
He sounded an affirmative as she stepped over the changing pad. She strolled out of the tiled room, approaching the crib which was revealed with the bathroom's light. Lifting up on her toes, she eased the snoozing baby back onto her pink sheets.
She felt his arousal behind her, prompting her to turn about. She scowled upon seeing him stroking himself in the doorway with no sign of his boxers. Shaking her head, she padded over to the couch.
"Put that away, dummy."
"I will in a moment."
Kurumu bent over, feeling his appreciation for that act as she unplugged her charger from the wall. She wrapped it about her phone as she straightened up. Clutching the phone to her breast, she gestured at the woman sleeping in the middle of the room.
"Mrs. Shirayuki will kill you if you walk around like that."
"I'll take my chances."
Kurumu smirked, stalking over to the entryway. She snatched up her keys from the half wall near the stove. Bending over, she slipped her feet into her sandals. She could feel his amorous approach and hesitated from standing up right away.
"What are you doing?"
"I have to lock the door behind you."
Scolding herself, she straightened up and sashayed over to the door. She turned the deadbolt before opening the door out. Flashing him a smile, she stepped outside.
"Be gentle with her."
Umizake leaned out to grab the door knob. He smirked, tugging the door towards him.
"She'll be noisy if I'm not."
The door shut with the sound of the deadbolt turning a moment later. Kurumu let out a huge sigh of relief, stalking over to the base of her stairs. Recalling what Ms. Ohno had said about the situation with Huang, Kurumu worried that her loneliness was causing Umizake's bold attraction to her. The guy had never shown that much interest in her before this school year.
Ascending the stairs, she continued to reflect upon this situation. It was not like she was deliberately seducing him so she had no idea how she could fix it without getting a boyfriend. While that would not be hard to do, she lacked any interest in dating a random guy. His inability to have sex with Mizore was probably fueling his fascination with her. Tsukune had quickly lost interest in pounding her once he had started having sex with Moka.
Kurumu grumbled, reaching the top of her stairs. She shuffled across the landing, slipping her key into the lock. It sucked to feel like guys only wanted her for sex. They should want to be with her for her personality. And she actually meant personality without the curving hand gestures over the chest.
Pushing open her door, she stepped over her threshold. She turned on the lights before closing the door behind her. Setting the deadbolt back in place, she left her keys on the half wall. She stepped out of her sandals before stalking across the room to her desk.
As she hunkered down by her desk to plug her charger into the wall, she noted that the sheets on her bed were undisturbed. Surmising that Moka must have spent the night with Yukari, she finished her task and set her phone underneath her desk lamp. Getting back up, she took in a deep breath and glanced about her room. The two hampers of fresh laundry were between the doors to her bathroom and closet. She would need to put on that other maid outfit which was in her closet. But if Yukari was awake, she could find out if her request to leave the barrier to call Kabuki was okay with Yukari's grandfather.
Deciding she could change clothes later, she pranced over to the foot of her bed. She felt up the wall, finding the device quickly. The air hummed as the wall parted to reveal the empty closet of Yukari's suite. Kurumu shivered as she stepped through the arcane opening. Knowing she would have to go back, she left the portal open as she pushed out the closet door.
"You're here early."
Kurumu laughed at Yukari's statement. The witch closed her refrigerator, holding a carton of eggs. The little girl was wearing a soft pink camisole which barely covered her derriere.
"Hatsue woke me up before my alarm."
Yukari grunted in response, setting the carton down on the counter by the stove.
"Morning, Kurumu."
The groggy greeting came from Moka whom was sitting on the floor by the table. The vampire's eyes were partially closed and she was wearing the racerback shirt and shorts from last night.
"Morning, Moka. Are you having breakfast here or downstairs?"
"My Moka shall be eating with me."
Kurumu chuckled softly, glancing about the room while still holding the closet door's knob. The sheets on Rubi's bed were drawn back but the witch was not in the room.
"Is Rubi in the bath?"
Yukari snorted, cracking eggs over a skillet.
"I haven't heard any water running. She's probably sleeping on the toilet again."
Kurumu snickered, absently swinging the door back and forth.
"Was Rubi with you at the dinner last night?"
"She was. Grandfather says that you can call your sister after school on Monday."
Kurumu grinned broadly.
"After school or after club?"
"I didn't think to ask. Are you having club on Monday?"
"Only on Monday. We're not bothering with the rest of the week because of exams."
Yukari made a thoughtful sound as she cracked another egg open.
"I can ask him at the student council meeting today. He does have an update for the class trip."
"Oh? Did Moka tell you about the letter from her father?"
"She did. I also expressed my desire to attend this trip and my grandfather said that he would allow it on the condition that Rubi was with me."
Kurumu's heart swelled up with joy.
"That's awesome. If only Mizore and Hatsue could come with us."
Yukari snorted, pushing the carton aside. She moved the skillet to the stove before fetching a spatula from a nearby drawer.
"That was never likely to happen."
Kurumu smiled softly, thinking about this mentioned update on the class trip. She watched Yukari retrieve a carton of milk from the refrigerator.
"I thought your grandfather said that he wouldn't have an update on the class trip before the exams."
Yukari shrugged, walking over to the stove.
"He didn't expect to have any news but Moka's father already made the reservations."
Kurumu frowned as Yukari poured some milk into the skillet.
"But they only got the permission forms yesterday."
"Her father just assumed the whole grade would go. Apparently he had that number."
Kurumu laughed in disbelief.
"That's insane."
"Yes. Don't you have your own breakfast to make?"
Guessing that was her cue to leave, Kurumu retreated to her own room.
"So this will be the Fairy Tale office?"
Kurumu grinned at Moka's query. The vampire was pointing at the warehouse on the far left corner of the upcoming intersection. She nodded emphatically.
"Mhm. They should be opening up the Monday after the exams."
Moka drawled out an affirmative, clutching her black tote against her side. The vampire was sporting a white tee shirt with a graphic of Minnie and Mickey Mouse holding hands. It was the exact same shirt she had bought for Tsukune at Tokyo Disneyland over spring break. Black denim jeans hugged her hips and legs down to her beige canvas sneakers.
Wanting to match, Kurumu had finally worn her Tokyo Disneyland tee shirt which was the exact same as the one Kokoa had worn last weekend. Having a bigger bosom, her gray shirt with the blue castle graphic bared much of her belly. She was also wearing black denim jeans and stood a little taller thanks to her white platform sneakers. Her lavender purse dangled by its strap upon her left shoulder.
"Not that we have any need of their services."
Kurumu stuck her tongue out at Yukari. Not wanting to be left out, the witch had donned her pink tee with the Minnie Mouse graphic that she had picked up in Hong Kong Disneyland. She was also wearing black denim jeans while her feet were nestled in a pair of black sneakers. She had decided to bring her clutch with the Minnie Mouse graphic instead of her yellow tote.
The last member of their group was Mizore. While the snow girl had picked up some apparel souvenirs from Tokyo Disneyland, she had not wanted to change out of her gray corduroy racerback top and black cargo shorts that she had already put on. Purple and white striped stockings covered her knees, leaving a tiny hint of bared leg beneath the hem of the loose shorts. Black flats graced her feet.
"You never know."
Yukari made a dismissive sound as they turned left at the intersection.
"When has Fairy Tale ever been useful to us?"
Kurumu paid no attention to these vacant buildings across from the new Fairy Tale office. She glanced at the new glass doors fitted in the corrugated steel, seeing no difference from how it was last weekend. She imagined there were men working inside, trying to meet the deadline.
"Tora!"
Moka waved energetically at the group standing near the entrance to the Skate On roller rink. Kurumu quickly spied the sphinx whom had her raven locks braided about her ears as usual. Tora was wearing a dark green, short sleeved blouse with a wide, pointed collar. Those skinny denim jeans looked like they would burst if the sphinx bent over.
Tora returned the wave, holding her purple clutch against the swell of her bosom. Several other girls called out greetings, prompting Kurumu and Yukari to respond.
It was no surprise that Asuka and Suzume were here, considering both were on the track team and shared the same lunch period as Nozomi. Asuka was sporting a dark blue shirt with a Pikachu graphic and a pair of black denim jeans. Suzume was also wearing black denim jeans with that yellow tee shirt with the black smiley face.
Nerume being present was unexpected. The tiny kirin had squeezed into a pair of yellow skinny jeans which she had matched with a white crew shirt with short red sleeves. She lurked in Chisa's shadow whom towered over every other girl present. The pale track girl was boldly sporting a short sleeved, pastel green dress which barely reached halfway down her thighs. Black leggings swept up from her shiny, black Mary Janes to prevent any accidental panty flashes.
The bigger question was why all these other girls were here with Ms. Umakuro. The new history teacher was sporting a short sleeved, pink satin blouse with a pair of khakis. Her rich black hair was pulled in a simple ponytail and she was holding the strap of a beige purse which dangled against her right hip.
The shortest girl of this group was Tategami whom had been in Kurumu's home economics class last year. Tategami was roughly Moka's height and had her ashen gray tresses pulled in a tail which favored her right side. The kirin from Watasora was dating a soccer player whom she had grown up with. She was sporting a short sleeved black blouse with a ruffled, cream skirt barely covering her knees.
The other familiar girl was Kagomure whom had been in Moka's homeroom last year. Kagomure was another kirin from Watasora. Her platinum blond hair was wavy and pleated down to her shoulders. She was sporting a yellow tee shirt with white sleeves and a pair of denim jeans which failed to cover her calves. Both of these girls were from the skiing club which Ms. Umakuro had become the advisor for.
These other three were first years. Kurumu had occasionally seen them in the cafeteria while heading to gym. The tallest had platinum blond hair just like Kagomure but this girl had braided hers in a tail with a sky blue bow tied at the end which rested on her rump. This girl was wearing a pair of black denim shorts with a white shirt bearing a rainbow graphic over her ample bosom. She was about the same height as Kagomure whom was taller than Ms. Umakuro but shorter than Chisa.
Another of these girls was slightly taller than Tategami. She had her rich black hair in a simple ponytail just like Ms. Umakuro. This girl was sporting a short sleeved brown frock which almost hid her knees. The last girl had a vibrant, cloudy gray mane which spilled down to the middle of her back. She was sporting a long sleeved, black turtleneck with a pair of olive slacks which flared out at her calves for her boots.
"Where is the birthday girl?"
Asuka grinned at their arrival.
"Not here yet. She's probably going to help the seniors bring the lunch."
Kurumu smirked, glancing at the Skate On's entrance. A black and white skate graphic had been tacked above the door at the corner of this old warehouse. Without that sign, there would have been no way of knowing that this place was a roller rink.
"How many more girls are we expecting here?"
Suzume giggled, gesturing beyond them.
"At least a dozen. Bikiyama is always with Uchikawa, Matsudera and Kiba. Then there are those four new first years whom are always hanging out with them during practice. I believe Ms. Ota is showing up along with three seniors from our lunch group."
"Did you break up with the student council vice president?"
Kurumu grimaced at Asuka's direct question. She glanced at Tora whom shrugged with an apologetic smile. Suzume laughed nervously, resting a hand on Asuka's shoulder.
"Maybe we shouldn't bring that up."
"It's fine. I'm sure that most people know about it by now."
"I always thought it was a bad match. Girls like you should be with dumb jocks."
Kurumu laughed, shaking her head in disbelief.
"What makes you think that?"
"Just how it should be. I hope my birthday party has a huge turnout next weekend!"
Kurumu smirked at Asuka's abrupt change of topic.
"What sort of plans do you have for this party?"
Asuka grinned with a sparkle in her electric blue eyes.
"We could play a soccer game!"
"That doesn't sound very fun."
Asuka frowned at Suzume.
"Of course it is. Who doesn't have fun playing soccer?"
Kurumu giggled, absently touching her aching bosom.
"People who can't jog comfortably."
"I don't want to hear about your big boobs."
Kurumu pouted at Suzume.
"It's a valid complaint."
"We could have a lunch brought to us like we did for Airi and Kiba's birthday."
Kurumu smirked, recalling that game of baseball back in late November.
"Baseball doesn't have as much running."
"Would you be too tired for a soccer game if we had it on Sunday afternoon?"
Suzume frowned at Asuka's query.
"Isn't your birthday on the first?"
"Yea but I want to do something else on Saturday."
"Like what?"
"I was hoping to visit Hinoko."
Kurumu grimaced at Asuka's desire.
"She's in Agano."
"I know but I figured that it would be easier for the headmaster to arrange a Saturday visit."
"I don't know about that."
"Could you ask him for me?"
"I believe that's a question for Yukari."
"I concur that she would have more success in persuading her grandfather to do such a favor."
Yukari huffed at Tora's remark.
"While that is true, Kurumu will probably see him before I do."
Kurumu laughed, supposing that was true. Yukari had already confirmed that her little trip outside the barrier would be after her choir's club meeting.
"I can ask but no promises."
Asuka clasped her hands together, shaking them.
"Please, Kurumu. We have to visit Hinoko. She can't be happy in there."
"Well obviously. She is in a prison cell."
"Don't remind me."
Suzume chuckled softly, wagging a finger at Kurumu's pout.
"If you hadn't guessed, we are flying tomorrow. Ms. Hanada agreed to meet us in the chapel parking lot at nine. I'm assuming that Ms. Toujou is still going to be our second escort."
"She doesn't have any plans for tomorrow."
Kurumu smiled at Yukari's contribution.
"Sounds like I should go to the soccer game tomorrow."
Suzume gasped, wagging a finger at Asuka.
"Are you sure that the soccer team doesn't have a game next Sunday?"
Asuka giggled, making a dismissive gesture.
"I checked with Tamaishi and he said they have a bye that weekend."
"Well okay. Let me ask the other girls if they want to fly and play a soccer game."
"I'm perfectly fine doing just one physical activity on Sunday."
Asuka snickered at Tora's sentiment.
"Aren't you in the PSC?"
"I am. The bigger question is if Ms. Hanada would be too busy to watch us that weekend. It is midterms."
Suzume nodded thoughtfully.
"You have a point but she teaches the computer course. We aren't taking exams for electives."
"That doesn't mean that she won't be asked to help grade other exams. We might not even have Ms. Toujou available that weekend."
Asuka shrugged nonchalantly.
"Well that's fine by me. I can't fly."
"Well I already know that Kiki won't want to do both. Maybe we should just stick with your soccer idea."
Asuka grinned at Suzume's conclusion.
"Told you it was perfect. Am I genius?"
"No. You're not."
Kurumu snickered at Yukari's immediate response.
"Are you busy tonight?"
Kurumu glanced at Nerume whom must have skulked over at some point to hug Mizore.
"Who are you asking?"
Nerume laughed softly, clinging to Mizore's side.
"You and Mizore."
Kurumu shrugged, glancing at Mizore.
"I don't have any particular plans."
"I shouldn't be away from Hatsue too long."
"I'm not asking for the whole night. Just a few hours. Since it's a full moon tonight, my club thought it would be a good idea to do some stargazing from the school roof."
"How long is this birthday party?"
Suzume giggled at Mizore's query, thumbing at the door.
"We have to leave by three. I'll probably head home after this."
"I'm staying for a movie!"
Suzume frowned at Asuka's declaration.
"Are there any good movies to watch?"
"Kurumu is the movie guru around here."
Kurumu frowned at Asuka's endorsement.
"Not really. Four of the movies are new this weekend so I don't have any information on them."
"Don't they only run eight titles a week?"
Kurumu nodded at Tora.
"Yea. I've heard nothing about the Da Vinci Code movie."
"That is a famous artist."
Kurumu shrugged at Yukari's input.
"That's more than what I knew. It's a foreign film, just like Angel A and Pink Panther which are also new this week. Native movies tend to be better so maybe Memories of Tomorrow is good."
"Which ones are returning?"
Kurumu snorted at Asuka's query.
"Detective Conan and Ice Age 2 are still playing."
"Those are for kids."
"You are a kid."
Asuka stuck her tongue out at Suzume.
"What about the other two?"
Kurumu breathed in deep, trying to remember the names.
"They're both local films but I didn't hear anything special about them."
"It was Limit of Love and Check it Out."
Kurumu grinned at Yukari's interjection.
"Yes. I've seen the posters. One was like a high school drama while the other is about a rescue team."
"Maybe I should, Check it Out."
Kurumu snorted, shaking her head at the bad joke.
"Why do you want to watch a movie?"
"I need to kill some time before visiting Yuu at her workplace."
Suzume let out a thoughtful sound.
"That might not be a bad idea. We could walk home with Hatoko and Taijin if the movie is long enough."
"That's what I'm talking about!"
Kurumu chuckled at Asuka's abundant enthusiasm.
"Um… about the stargazing."
Nerume smiled when attention shifted back to her.
"We were going to meet up at eight. It would be after dinner."
Kurumu absently caressed her aching bosom as she glanced at Mizore.
"I don't mind hanging out with you."
Mizore sighed heavily.
"I would rather be alone with Aoi."
Asuka snickered, wagging a finger at her.
"Is your mother cramping your style?"
The snow girl let out another dramatic sigh.
"Yes. I woke up on the brink of climax today with his head between my thighs."
Asuka cackled as Tora shook her head. Suzume chuckled nervously.
"I think that was too much information."
"It certainly was."
"Did you climax?"
Mizore cocked her head slightly as she absently caressed Nerume's shoulder.
"Yes, but I didn't get to return the favor. Mom woke up and scolded us thoroughly."
"As she should. Sex is not something to have while in the company of others."
"You could bring him with if you want."
Mizore smiled at Nerume's invitation.
"I will be there in that case."
Kurumu grinned, glancing at Chisa whom stood apart from the girls around Ms. Umakuro.
"How is Chisa doing with Kitamori?"
Nerume laughed softly, shivering for a moment.
"They've been exchanging letters. I think they'll meet up over summer break."
"The birthday girl approaches!"
Asuka's declaration prompted Kurumu to turn about. A large group was turning at the intersection and heading in their direction. Coach Kibashiro and Ms. Uchikawa were in the front, holding bags with the logo for Lunch Palace. The track coach was wearing a gray tee shirt with a circular blue graphic while her rump was covered in a loose pair of dark blue jeans.
Uchikawa Ikuki had dirty gray locks which threatened to hide her pale blue eyes. The biology teacher was wearing a green blouse with puffy short sleeves and a ruffled collar. Her black ruffled skirt fluttered about her ankles with each step.
Trailing behind the teachers were the track seniors whom also carried bags from the local restaurant. Ota Hatsuko was the one with her smoky black hair rolled in curls. She was an inugami from Ashikantai. Her bosom was held in a ribbed, black crop top while her legs were swathed in cream leggings.
The short girl was Miyake Yuniko. The poor girl always had a horn sticking out of her forehead which had been the inspiration for her name. Her silvery white hair was braided in a tail behind her. The petite girl was sporting a black tee shirt with the white graphic of the moon. Denim shorts graced her derriere. She was a kirin from Watasora like the other two track seniors.
Hayagawa Ai was the tall girl with her jet black hair pulled in a short tail. She was wearing an olive green tee shirt with yellow lettering. Black bellbottom jeans stretched down her long legs. The other girl with the chestnut locks was Ikegami. Kurumu vaguely recalled that she was dating one of the seniors on the basketball team. The kirin was wearing a pumpkin orange halter top with plum slacks.
"Is that Mizore?!"
Nozomi bounded ahead of the others, lacking a Lunch Palace bag. The birthday girl was sporting a dark green textured tee shirt with white denim jeans. She immediately zeroed in on Mizore whom accepted the hug to her other side.
"I came as promised."
"If you hadn't, I would have stopped over at your place for dinner!"
Kurumu glanced back at the approaching group whom were nearly upon them. The four first years were all carrying Lunch Palace bags but the three second years were not. Kiba was the only girl not carrying anything while Akari and Nikki had plastic tubs which probably had cakes or desserts.
Akari was dressed in a baby blue shirt which was crimped about the collar and the ends of the short sleeves. A tight pair of black jeans hugged her hips and rump. Nikki was wearing a carnation pink tee with a rainbow graphic across the swell of her bosom. Her faded denim jeans were torn and frayed about her calves. Kiba had also kept it simple, wearing a dark green tee shirt with a pair of black denim jeans.
Araya was the most familiar to Kurumu of the first years, being in her choir elective. The silver haired okami was sporting a black and white striped halter top with black shorts that were practically painted on. Beside Araya was Nishizawa whom had jet black, shoulder length curls. The shorter girl was sporting a short sleeved, mint dress with a broad collar. White leggings swept up over her knees, disappearing beneath the hem of the pleats.
Fumusuna Yoshiko had the same hair and eye color as her older brother whom had recently graduated. Her ashen gray tresses were styled in twin tails. Her peach sundress could not hide the thick straps of her black sports bra. Black leggings covered everything below the dress including her feet which were tucked into white sandals.
The last girl was Kyoukan. She had wavy, auburn locks which touched her shoulders. A short sleeved, plum crop top hugged her ample bosom while baring her tanned belly. That olive skirt barely covered any of the girl's thighs, making Kurumu wonder if the girl could safely bend over.
"Afternoon, everyone! We can go inside!"
Coach Kibashiro chuckled at Ms. Uchikawa's greeting.
"Good thing we bought thirty lunches."
"At least there won't be leftovers."
"Someone will need to hold the doors for us."
Numerous conversations struck up as the group shuffled to the entrance. Ms. Umakuro had taken up the role of holding the door, greeting girls as they passed into the receiving area. Kurumu followed Tora and Suzume inside whom were behind the tall girls whom had been around Ms. Umakuro.
There was no seating in this first room. The wall on the left had a huge window, revealing a dark haired lady whom was wearing the neon yellow polo with the black skate logo that all employees here would have on. This woman was sitting behind a counter butting up against the window. A semicircle was carved out of the glass to pass things through.
There was a heavy black door in the corner of the room near the window which was magnetically sealed. The woman at the counter would have to press a button to allow guests through. Lights dangled from black cords attached to the black structure high above them. The beige walls were painted black above the lights, stretching up into darkness. The floor was covered with a thin layer of black carpet.
This room was easily the same size as the first room in the new Fairy Tale office. It was probably bigger considering they were not having any issues getting everyone in here. Kurumu smirked upon seeing Mizore sandwiched between Nozomi and Nerume. Behind the trio in the corner of the room, Moka was holding Yukari's hand. The witch had never been fond of crowds.
"How big is the party?"
Coach Kibashiro chuckled at the employee's question.
"I know that we had twelve girls with us. How many were outside?"
"Well I had five girls with me. I didn't count the others."
Coach Kibashiro smirked at Ms. Umakuro whom had just allowed the door to close behind her.
"It better not be more than thirty."
"It's twenty nine."
Several girls giggled at Yukari's answer before murmuring in agreement.
"Twenty nine it is."
"That will be twenty six thousand one hundred yen."
"Oof. That's more than the Lunch Palace bill."
Ms. Uchikawa snickered, shifting her bag to one hand so she could rummage through her purse.
"Not by much. We're lucky that Ms. Umakuro pitched in or we'd both be broke next week."
"But only for a week. We get paid on Friday."
Ms. Uchikawa clucked her tongue, setting down several bills on the counter. The lady reached through the opening, pulling the bills to her side.
"I'm not a fan of eating instant ramen for a whole week."
"Food and drinks need to stay in the dining area. Hopefully you haven't brought any alcohol."
Coach Kibashiro chuckled with a shake of her head.
"Of course not. We're here with students."
"Just have to say it since alcohol isn't allowed on the premises. You can trade in these tickets for skates. This session ends at three but you will be encouraged to leave fifteen minutes prior so that our staff can clean up for the next session."
A loud buzz signaled the release of the door. Asuka immediately tugged it open.
"Please refrain from any inhuman feats of strength which might result in damaging the skates or the rink. We hope you enjoy your time at Skate On and that you will come again in the future."
Several girls snickered at the monotone delivery. Being closer to the door, Kurumu was one of the first girls leaving the reception room. The black carpet continued to cover the floor of the first bay of this building. The rest of the building to the left had varnished wood flooring to designate the skating area.
Immediately on her right was the black counter for the concessions stand. A stocky, dark haired man wearing the establishment's attire was standing near the register. Behind him was the mixing station for the different flavored drinks available here.
To the side of that station was a door to an unknown space. Kurumu figured it was either a storage room or a small prep room since all of the hot snacks sold here did not require a kitchen. Shelves stacked with sweets and snacks lined the wall on the other side of the drink station. The counter ended at the same point as the end of the wall. A small gate denied access to this man's work area.
There was a gap between the concession stand and the black counter where they would get their skates. Six arcade machines had been placed in that alcove with two against each wall. All of these games were not available at the arcade across the street from the music store.
The skate rental counter was being handled by the usual bald guy. He was uninterested in their arrival, flipping through the pages of a magazine. Black shelves were built into the wall behind him with each of the compartments bearing a silver placard with a black number designating the shoe size.
On the other side of that counter was a hallway to the restrooms. The girls' restroom was behind that wall with the shelves holding the skates while the guys' restroom went the other direction. She doubted that bathroom stretched to the far perimeter, assuming there were more storage or equipment rooms.
"Kurumu!"
Suzume beckoned to her. The tengu stood near one of the many booths lining the half wall which divided the dining area from the roller rink. Tora had already taken a seat in that booth while the next booth had been claimed by the four track seniors.
"We should distribute the lunches first. Do we want to do the cake or skating next?"
Coach Kibashiro shrugged at Ms. Uchikawa's query, setting her bag on a standalone table flanked by four black chairs. Akari and Nikki added their plastic tubs to the table's surface.
"That's a question for the birthday girl. Bikiyama! Do you want to skate or have cake?"
Attention shifted to Nozomi whom had settled into a nearby booth with Mizore still at her side. Nerume lingered by the booth, making no move to claim the opposing bench.
"Depends on how full I am."
"Welcome, Guests. I will be your host for the afternoon."
A shaggy haired man spoke into a microphone. He was standing in a space with half walls dividing him from the roller rink and dining area. Behind him was the perimeter wall while the last wall was shared with the main office. A section of the half wall facing the dining area could swing out on silver hinges.
"It is twelve fifteen which means it is time for our first song."
Kurumu smirked when the guy started up the Mongol song which was in Nagisa's CD collection. She glanced back at the group, noting that Ms. Umakuro had claimed the table near the one that the other teachers were hovering about. The new teacher was joined by the three first years while the other two girls had claimed the next table over.
"There are three boxed lunches a bag so start handing them out."
Several girls sounded an affirmative but only Ota stood up from her booth. The girl sauntered over to the adjacent booth, taking boxes out of her bag and handing them out to Tora and Suzume. Moka and Yukari had claimed the other side of the booth, meaning Kurumu would have to find somewhere else to sit.
"Nerume."
Chisa beckoned to her friend with her other hand on the back of a chair flanking the table that Tategami and Kagomure had claimed. Nerume offered a slight smile, asking Asuka to move so she could get out.
Suspecting that the four first year girls would take a booth for themselves, Kurumu drifted over to Ms. Umakuro's table. She gestured at the lady whom had already received a boxed lunch.
"I didn't expect to see you at this party."
The teacher laughed as the other girls at her table regarded Kurumu with mild interest.
"Well I am the homeroom teacher of the birthday girl. Nozomi also went to school with my little sister."
Kurumu nodded before realizing that this girl with the rich black ponytail had the same mahogany eyes as the history teacher.
"You're her sister."
The girls all giggled, nodding in unison.
"That's me. I'm Umakuro Kanmuri."
"And I'm Umakuro Shina. We haven't officially met but I know whom you are."
"Who doesn't?"
The girls giggled at the sentiment from the tall girl with the platinum blond braid.
"Kanmuri here is the youngest of four with her sister being the oldest."
Kurumu nodded at the remark, noting the blond had sky blue eyes.
"They must be closer to Ms. Umakuro's age."
"Not exactly. Toshio just graduated."
Kurumu frowned at the teacher's clarification.
"I don't recall hearing an Umakuro graduate last year."
"I meant from Mimori High. It is more convenient to go to high school there."
"But you graduated from Yokai Academy, right?"
Ms. Umakuro smiled politely.
"Yokai Academy is the prefectural school. It's also nice to not have to deal with pompous purebloods."
"And it is a better place to find a potential mate."
The teacher blushed at the remark from the girl wearing the turtleneck.
"That's also true. Mimori High doesn't allow kirin families outside of Watasora to attend their school."
The gray haired girl snickered, touching the swell of her bosom.
"I'm Homura Taya. I've known these three since primary school."
"And I'm Shizumaru Hayaka."
Kurumu grinned at the introductions.
"I've heard about you. You joined the track team."
"Because it's an active club. I don't know why these two joined the skiing club."
Ms. Umakuro pouted as the other two protested.
"We will do something this year. Even if I have to pay for it myself."
"Kurumu!"
Nozomi motioned to her. Sitting next to Asuka was Coach Kibashiro. In the next booth over was the four first year girls. All of them had boxed lunches.
"Bring a chair over."
Kurumu frowned, glancing to her right. She laughed upon realizing that all of the chairs at the cake table had been claimed. Ms. Uchikawa sat at one end with her niece across from her. The other two chairs had been taken by Nikki and Kiba. Shaking her head, Kurumu stalked over to an unused table, snatching up a chair. Hefting it up, she brought it over to Nozomi's booth.
"Sorry. I've never met those girls."
Nozomi grinned as Kurumu settled down in her chair.
"Fair warning. Taya is an imp."
Kurumu snickered, resting her hands on the table.
"Was there a lunch for me?"
Coach Kibashiro made a slight sound, leaning out the booth. She grabbed up a bag, setting it on the table in front of Kurumu.
"There are two in there if you're really hungry."
Kurumu smirked, tugging one box out.
"I'm not but I bet Nerume could make the other one disappear."
Asuka nodded with wide eyes.
"You aren't kidding. I can't get over how tiny she is with her eating so much."
Kurumu giggled, setting the bag on the floor by her chair. She opened up her box, revealing chicken fried rice with steamed carrots and pickled plums. It took her a moment to find the disposable chopsticks which she had to carefully break apart to use.
"So when are you getting married?"
Kurumu laughed at Asuka's question.
"What?!"
Coach Kibashiro sighed heavily, wagging her chopsticks at Mizore.
"We were talking about Ms. Shirayuki getting married over summer break."
"Mhm. And you're like thirty."
The gym teacher huffed at Asuka.
"I wish I was still thirty."
"You're only thirty one."
Coach Kibashiro sighed at Nozomi's clarification.
"Yes. And I'll be thirty two in the summer."
"You should get a boyfriend."
The gym teacher snorted, wagging her chopsticks at Asuka.
"You should worry about yourself."
"Mr. Fujita mentioned that you would be pestered into marrying someone in five or so years."
Coach Kibashiro smirked at Kurumu.
"That old man doesn't know anything about my family. Though he is right about Ikuki. Her three older sisters are married and several of her younger cousins are already making puppies."
Nozomi giggled, pointing at the gym teacher with her chopsticks.
"Only because Akari's family is huge. Elder Uchikawa could run the town if he wanted to."
The track coach sighed, retrieving a pickled plum from her box.
"We both have the same issue. As much as we would like to get married, neither of us want to retire."
"Would you have to retire?"
Coach Kibashiro snorted at Kurumu's question.
"I can't see any guy wanting to move here. This town is dead."
Kurumu forced a smile, having heard that sentiment dozens of times.
"It might liven up in a year or so. Fairy Tale is opening up an office next week."
"Fairy Tale does have a matchmaking service."
The gym teacher snickered at Asuka's input.
"I'm aware of that. Unless I'm snatching up a younger guy whom hasn't established himself, any suitors I find with that service would most likely be expecting me to quit my job and move in with them."
Kurumu smiled at a random thought.
"Well. Mr. Genshimei will be in charge of the new Fairy Tale office."
The track coach chuckled while chewing another morsel. She nodded, swallowing it down.
"I heard about that. It's hard to believe that little Hiroshi is all grown up now."
Nozomi snorted, shaking her head.
"The Genshimei Hiroshi I know was never little."
"Well he is five years older than you."
Coach Kibashiro paused, letting out a sigh.
"And ten years younger than me."
"Sounds like a younger guy whom hasn't established himself."
The track coach smirked at Asuka's grin.
"That boy is the grandson of our mayor. There is no way he would ever marry someone like me."
"Why not?"
"I don't have a strong family. Maybe Ikuki could, being an Uchikawa."
Kurumu nodded thoughtfully, chewing on her food.
"Do you have mixed blood?"
Coach Kibashiro laughed, waving her chopsticks dismissively.
"Nothing that bad. My dad married into the community. My mom was a few years older than him and not the brightest of her family. She passed away giving birth to my quintuplet brothers."
"Quintuplets?"
"Yes, Ms. Kurono. Five boys at once. That would be hard on any woman and my mother was forty one at the time. Maybe if she had made it to the hospital in Watasora, she could have survived."
Kurumu mulled that over as she munched on another mouthful.
"How old were you?"
The track coach smiled at Mizore's soft query.
"I was six. Too young to be of much help. Two of my brothers died in that first year because her family blamed Dad for Momma's death. They wouldn't help and it was too much for him. It's a small miracle that the other three survived."
"I'm sorry."
Coach Kibashiro shrugged as Asuka and Kurumu echoed Mizore's sentiment.
"It was a long time ago. Once the boys were four and could somewhat manage themselves, Dad was able to get a steady job again while I took care of the household. I was making the meals, cleaning the house and doing the laundry. You could say that I've already had my fill of being a mother."
"Coach almost didn't go to junior high."
The track coach smirked at Nozomi.
"It was easier than school. But Dad said I had to set a good example for my brothers. It was hard for me to focus on my studies or make friends because my thoughts would always be about my brothers. But the bus ride between Watasora and Morihochou was long enough for Ikuki to become my friend."
"And here I thought you two had been friends forever."
"Almost, Ms. Kurono. Almost. Ikuki didn't start visiting my home regularly until my last year of junior high. Occasionally Hiyori would stop by during the school breaks."
"Hiyori?"
"Ikuki's sister. She's three years older than us. She offered to help take care of the boys for me when I went to high school."
"She ended up doing more than that."
Coach Kibashiro stuck her tongue out at Nozomi.
"Yes. My dirty old man wormed his way into her panties, getting Hiyori pregnant in the winter of our second year of high school. He married her the following spring before she gave birth to twin girls."
"Which is funny that you have twin sisters the same age as Akari's twin brothers."
Coach Kibashiro pouted at Nozomi.
"My brothers didn't find it funny. They all moved out of town."
"That isn't unusual. Guys from Morihochou marry into the Ashikantai community often."
"Only Ichiro did that. Saburo joined Fairy Tale, working at a small office in the Gunma prefecture. None of us know what happened to Yonnan. Could be dead in a ditch somewhere for all I know."
Coach Kibashiro sighed, pushing aside her box.
"My old man pissed off a lot of people when he married Hiyori. Some folks hold that against me."
"That sucks. Is it time to get our skates?"
The gym teacher laughed at Asuka's query. The coach scooted off the bench, standing up.
"Sure. Ikuki has the tickets for your skates."
Kurumu chuckled, thinking she should finish up her meal.
"It's so pretty."
Andou Ayano stood against the railing of the school's roof, gazing up at the sky littered with stars. The girl had short, dark locks and was wearing a black blouse with puffy, short sleeves and a crimped midsection. A chocolate ruffled skirt almost reached her ankles. The president of the astronomy club was the perfect example of a plain, ordinary girl.
"It certainly is."
Kokutan Yuuta was not even looking at the sky. His yellow eyes were focused on the girl beside him. He had shadowy black locks which were wavy and touching his narrow shoulders. He was roughly Tsukune's height. A gray tee shirt with a square blue graphic and yellow lettering hung from his slender frame. His denim jeans hung loosely from his narrow hips.
Kurumu had no idea what Andou's true form was but Kokutan was a shade just like his cousin. He hailed from Machinise while his cousin was from Hisomuri. Andou was from the Yuzawa region.
"He isn't even trying to hide it."
Kurumu smirked at Nerume's whispered comment. Nerume had encouraged Kurumu to stick with her, giving the unofficial couple as much privacy as possible. The other three members of the astronomy club were lingering by the door which opened into the stair that gave access to the roof. Kokutan's cousin, Zanzou Miya, was the only senior of this club. The girl had onyx locks cut in a boyish manner and was wearing a silk, black shirt and textured gray slacks. Her lack of a bosom left her gender ambiguous.
Arriving at the school with Umizake and Mizore, Kurumu had chatted a few minutes with Zanzou before they had come up here. Zanzou was still obsessed with becoming the manliest of men. Her mission was to take a girl's virginity before graduation. Having no idea how that would be possible, Kurumu had wished the strange girl the best of luck with that goal.
Kurumu leaned on the railing beside Nerume, regarding the first years with Zanzou. Arumoto Aoto was a tanuki from Aranoiji whom was friends with Hanadzura, one of the former seniors of this club. Like most tanuki, he had glossy black hair plagued with cowlicks. His name was probably due to his eyes being a bright sapphire blue. He was wearing a white polo with black slacks.
Takurami Ina was about the same height as Nerume. Kurumu had heard about her from Iko and Juri as the girl whom played with dead animals and talked with spirits. Her brother was not a pleasant guy to be around. She had the same wavy, ebony locks that he possessed which looked much better on a girl. Ina was wearing a black jumper dress over a long sleeved white blouse with a fancy collar. The conservative look felt natural for her.
"Mizore is taking a very long bathroom break."
Kurumu laughed softly, bumping against Nerume.
"They're probably making out in the bathroom."
Nerume sighed, leaning against her.
"Yea. I wonder when Mr. Kokutan will ask Ms. Andou out."
Kurumu took in a deep breath, regarding the couple. Andou was still fixated on the sky while Kokutan was molesting her with his eyes.
"He probably won't without some reassurance that her parents would be okay with it."
"You think so?"
"Nobody likes taking risks, Nerume. Even before the school enforced the rule against relationships, many guys were reluctant to ask a girl out without knowing her true form."
"I guess that makes sense."
Kurumu managed a smile, feeling Nerume's melancholy. She had noticed it during the birthday party which was why she had insisted on Mizore and Umizake to come to this outing.
"How is your family?"
Nerume laughed softly. After a moment, she shrugged.
"The same, I guess."
"Are you okay?"
"Just depressed. Most of my friends are getting married and starting families."
Kurumu chuckled, draping an arm over Nerume to pull the kirin against her side.
"Well not me. I just broke up with Nijiro."
"Yea. But you don't have to be single."
Kurumu pouted at the remark.
"I'm sure that you could have a boyfriend if you wanted one."
"It's not like I'm not trying."
"Have you asked anyone out?"
"Well no."
"How is that trying?"
"Tama's little sister didn't ask her boyfriend out."
Kurumu paused, thinking about Goto Tama of the fashion club whom was from Chisa's community. Goto's little sister had come to Yokai Academy with two other girls from their small town.
"Poni has a boyfriend?"
"Mhm. His name is Aserouku Taisei. He's in her homeroom."
Kurumu nodded thoughtfully.
"Tama said her little sister was a shameless flirt but I didn't expect her to get a boyfriend that fast."
"Why not? She's an out of prefecture kirin girl."
"So are you."
Nerume whimpered, snuggling against Kurumu's aching tit.
"I know. I shouldn't have the same problems that the kirin girls from Watasora have."
Kurumu sighed, wondering if Nerume's concerns were as silly as hers.
"You'll be fine, Nerume."
"I'm too short. That's why no guy is giving me a chance."
"That isn't true."
"Ms. Miyake has the same problem. No guy wants to put a baby in a little girl."
Kurumu held back her impulsive thoughts concerning the hopeless degenerates of the loli appreciation club. Being in fourth period gym, Nerume had been among the girls to catch Murakami's attention.
"Does this Aserouku have an older sibling? That name sounds familiar."
"His older brother is in band. He's on the basketball team."
"Are they actually dating or is this just flirting like those two are?"
Nerume groaned, pulling away from Kurumu. The kirin placed her hands on the railing.
"They are going on group dates to get around the ruling. Ikegami told me about it since she is dating Hashibata from the basketball team and Aserouku was looking for guys to pair up with the girls."
"Pair up?"
Nerume sighed dramatically.
"They wanted an even number of guys and girls. Both of Poni's friends and Tama don't have boyfriends so they were looking for guys. I'm going to be so mad if all of them get boyfriends before me."
Kurumu smiled softly.
"Why don't you join these group dates?"
Nerume whined, lowering her chin to the railing.
"From what Ikegami said, only senior guys were being recruited for this. She and Tategami went to one of these group dates with their boyfriends. The available guys whom tagged along were Aseouku's older brother, Shizumaru's older brother and Nishimura's older brother."
"Is that a problem?"
"I already know the older guys. If one of them wanted me, they would have said something by now."
Kurumu smirked at that protest.
"If that's true, then Tama won't get a boyfriend. She knows all of those guys."
Nerume sighed, lifting her head up.
"It's not like I want her to fail."
"Well. Maybe you could ask them to invite a younger guy?"
"That would just sound pathetic and be even worse if the younger guy wasn't interested."
Kurumu laughed softly.
"Okay. Bad idea."
Nerume groaned, grabbing the railing. She leaned back, stretching her arms.
"I even have all of the Watasora guys in my homeroom. None of them have shown any interest in me."
"I don't recall you being interested in any of the guys from our grade."
"I wasn't. But it's annoying to see Tategami and Nishimura making out between periods on a daily basis."
"It can't be that bad."
Nerume straightened up, offering a hopeless smile.
"They have their paperwork signed. They could start making babies if they wanted to."
"I'm sure that their parents will want them married before they do that."
Nerume grumbled, looking up at the stars.
"Ikegami is getting married to Hashibata over the summer. She invited us to her wedding though that was probably more for Chisa than me. Kitamori will be there and she could get familiar with the town she'll have her family in."
Kurumu stepped over, grabbing hold of the band keeping Nerume's hair in a ponytail which favored her left side. Kurumu tugged it off, letting Nerume's ebony hair freely spill down her shoulders.
"You have a loving heart. You'll get a husband eventually and have a beautiful family."
Nerume's breath became ragged as Kurumu stroked her fingers through Nerume's hair.
"I got a letter from Ameuma yesterday. It had pictures of her baby."
Kurumu felt a pang of sorrow. Ameuma was Nerume's friend whom had started dating Nerume's first love, Kagayaki. Nerume sniffled, clenching her fists about the railing.
"She had a little boy right before spring break. She wants me to see her baby over summer break."
Kurumu swallowed thickly, knowing that Nerume had stayed with Chisa over spring break.
"Do you want to see your friend's baby?"
Nerume let go of the railing to wipe her eyes with her left hand.
"Not really. I'd rather go to Mizore's wedding."
Kurumu smiled, continuing to run her fingers through Nerume's silken mane.
"You should spend some of your break with your family. You haven't seen them since winter break."
Nerume sniffled again, returning her hand to the railing.
"Yea. It really is a lovely night."
Looking up at the stars, Kurumu had to agree.